Tensions between Iran and the US have sharply escalated after Iran’s IRGC shot down a US MQ-9 drone and fired at an F-35 fighter jet and RQ-4 drone in retaliation to American strikes, terming them ceasefire violations. Supreme Leader Khamenei warned that Gulf countries will no longer shield US bases, while Brent crude oil prices surged over 3% amid fears of wider conflict in West Asia.
