The United States launched airstrikes on Iranian territory following Israel’s widespread bombardment that severely degraded Iran’s missile infrastructure and military leadership.

In response, Iran retaliated with missile attacks and issued stark warnings, including threats of “irreparable damage” should the U.S. intervene further.

As tensions escalate, concerns are mounting over a potential attempt by Iran to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas shipments.

On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks to Shahram Akbarzadeh, Director of the Middle East Studies Forum at Deakin University, to unpack the latest developments in the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.