The United States launched a fresh round of airstrikes against Iran early Thursday, prompting Tehran to retaliate with missile attacks targeting several U.S.-allied countries in the Middle East, escalating tensions and placing a fragile ceasefire agreement under renewed strain.

The latest exchange marked one of the most significant escalations since the interim agreement aimed at ending the conflict, following several days of intermittent attacks that had already tested the truce.

Air raid sirens sounded multiple times across Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters, as missiles were also launched toward Kuwait and Qatar.

Warning sirens were also activated in Jordan, where the United States maintains military personnel and air assets.

Iranian officials accused Washington of carrying out another airstrike later Thursday near the country’s only nuclear power plant, while additional explosions were reported in several other parts of Iran.

The renewed hostilities have intensified concerns that the interim ceasefire could unravel before negotiators reach a comprehensive peace agreement.

Meanwhile, early Friday, Iran laid to rest its late Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, following several days of nationwide mourning.

Khamenei, who was killed during the opening phase of the conflict, was buried in his hometown of Mashhad, where large crowds gathered to pay their final respects.

The latest military exchanges underscore the continued volatility of the region despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting end to the conflict and stabilize the Middle East.