Outbreak: The US and Israel launched major airstrikes (Operation Epic Fury) on Iranian targets, including military sites, leadership, and infrastructure. This followed tensions over Iran's nuclear program, regional proxies, and other issues. Iran retaliated with missiles, drones, and attacks on US allies/bases, disrupting the Strait of Hormuz (a key global oil chokepoint) and escalating into broader regional fighting, including in Lebanon.7f1309 Casualties and Impact: Thousands killed (including Iranian civilians and officials, such as Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei), widespread damage in Iran, displacements, and economic disruption (e.g., fuel crises from Hormuz issues). US service members have also been killed.fdcc0f Ceasefire and Talks: A ceasefire was agreed in early April 2026 (mediated by Pakistan and others) and extended multiple times. A June 2026 memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed to formalize de-escalation, reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, address Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, and other issues. As of early July 2026, the situation is a tense stalemate: US naval blockade elements persist in some reports, sporadic exchanges occur, but major fighting has paused.2f62a3 Beloud