Tensions in the Middle East deepened on Monday as Israel launched a fresh wave of strikes on Iran, raising fears of a wider regional conflict and worsening a global energy crisis already shaking international markets.
Explosions were reported in Tehran, while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates confirmed they had intercepted incoming missiles and drones linked to the escalating confrontation.
According to Fatih Birol of the International Energy Agency, at least 40 major energy facilities across the region have been severely damaged since the conflict intensified. The war, now in its fourth week, has disrupted global oil supply chains and driven prices above 100 dollars per barrel.
Iran has responded to the s by launching missiles and drones at Israeli targets and across the Gulf, while also tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which about one fifth of the world’s crude oil passes. The disruption has significantly impacted global energy flows.
In response, Donald Trump issued a stark warning, threatening to destroy Iranian power infrastructure if Tehran does not reopen the vital shipping route within 48 hours. However, Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected the ultimatum, warning that key infrastructure across the region could become targets if the conflict escalates further.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled that military operations could continue for weeks, including extended actions against Hezbollah forces in Lebanon.
The ongoing conflict has already caused significant casualties and displacement across multiple countries, with global leaders warning that no economy will be immune if the crisis continues to intensify.
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