Iran’s latest strike wave is intensifying fears of a wider regional war, with the IRGC claiming hits on multiple U.S. bases across the Gulf. As missiles and drones trigger nonstop interceptions, new threats from Tehran are raising the stakes even further. The escalation comes just as U.S. Marines move into the region, fuelling concerns of an imminent ground conflict. Meanwhile, Washington insists talks are possible, even as rhetoric on both sides sharpens. With new fronts opening and deadlines issued, the conflict appears to be entering a far more volatile and dangerous phase.