US hits Iran for eighth night; Iran kills two US troops in Jordan
On Saturday night (July 18, 2026), the United States launched its eighth consecutive night of strikes on Iran, targeting coastal surveillance, air defence, maritime and missile-drone sites in Sirik, Qeshm Island and Shadegan in Khuzestan province, according to US Central Command. Iran responded with strikes on a US base in Jordan that killed two American soldiers, left one missing and injured four, and hit US assets in Kuwait – an ammunition depot at Al‑Adiri camp and a Patriot radar at Ali Al Salem base, as reported by Iranian media via Al Jazeera.
The escalation threatens shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a choke point for about a fifth of global oil trade. Any disruption could push oil prices higher, affecting Nigeria’s fuel costs and government revenue, while also raising safety concerns for Nigerians working or travelling in the Gulf region.
Monitor oil price trends, review any travel advisories for the Middle East, and consider how prolonged tension might affect your household budget or investments.