US strikes China-Iran rail corridor in Golestan; Tehran bombards American bases

The conflict between the United States and Iran has escalated after overnight American air strikes targeted a key railway bridge in the Golestan province of northern Iran. This bridge is a critical part of the multi-nation China-Iran rail corridor, which serves as a major land trade route connecting Tehran with China and Russia. The route has gained significance following a US blockade of Iran's Gulf ports. In response to the strikes, Iran has started bombarding American military bases across the Gulf region. Meanwhile, China has remained cautious, criticising US military actions and appointing Ambassador Chai Jun as President Xi Jinping's special envoy for the West Asia peace process to engage with regional stakeholders.