Washington, 29 July (H.S.): The United States military said it intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by Iran on Tuesday, marking the first major escalation after several days of relative calm and raising fresh concerns over security in the Middle East.

According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the missiles were launched at approximately 5:45 p.m. Eastern Time by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in what it described as an attempted surprise attack on U.S. forces stationed in the Middle East. CENTCOM said all the incoming missiles were successfully intercepted and no casualties or damage were immediately reported.

The latest missile launch ended a brief lull in hostilities that had followed recent diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran. The renewed exchange has heightened concerns that the fragile calm could give way to a wider regional conflict.

The incident comes amid continuing tensions over regional security and the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime trade routes. Any escalation in the region is closely watched by global markets because of its potential impact on international shipping and energy supplies.

U.S. military officials said American forces in the region remain on high alert and are prepared to respond to any further threats against U.S. personnel or allied interests. No immediate response from Iranian authorities was reported following the interception.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar