AFP / Getty Images / File PhotoIsrael said on Monday it was carrying out strikes on military targets across Tehran, intensifying its offensive amid ongoing conflict with Iran.
The escalation comes a day after United States President Donald Trump indicated that a deal with Iran could be reached “soon,” while not ruling out further military action, including possible ground operations.
Rising tensions
Iran responded with fresh strikes targeting Israel as well as Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, following attacks on its electrical infrastructure that caused widespread power outages in Tehran and surrounding areas.
The conflict has triggered significant global economic disruption, with fuel shortages reported across parts of Asia, stock markets under pressure, and oil prices surging — with US crude rising above $100 per barrel and Brent nearing $117.
Regional spillover
As Israel expanded operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, Indonesia confirmed that one of its peacekeepers was killed after a projectile struck a United Nations position.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon said it had launched an investigation into the incident, though the source of the projectile remains unclear.
Trump’s position
President Trump reiterated his claim that the conflict has led to a leadership shift in Iran.
“We’ve had regime change,” he said. “We’re dealing with different people… It’s a whole different group of people.”
When asked about the possibility of a diplomatic breakthrough, he added: “I do see a deal in Iran. Could be soon.”
In an interview with the Financial Times, President Trump also suggested the United States could take control of Iran’s oil resources, including the strategic export hub at Kharg Island.
Diplomatic efforts
Amid the escalating conflict, Pakistan has stepped in as a potential mediator, hosting talks in Islamabad involving officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry said discussions focused on finding an early and lasting resolution to the war, with both Washington and Tehran expressing confidence in Islamabad’s role.
However, Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, accused the US of using diplomacy as a cover for potential military escalation.
“The enemy publicly sends messages of negotiation while secretly planning a ground attack,” he said.
Military buildup
Despite diplomatic overtures, the United States continues to reinforce its military presence in the region, including the deployment of the USS Tripoli, carrying thousands of Marines and sailors.
Reports indicate that contingency plans for extended ground operations are under consideration, particularly around strategic locations such as the Strait of Hormuz.
Human impact
The ongoing conflict has taken a heavy toll on civilians, with continuous airstrikes disrupting daily life in Tehran.
Residents report sleepless nights and widespread fear as bombardments continue, while infrastructure damage has led to electricity shortages and essential service disruptions.
The crisis has evolved into a broader regional confrontation, with Iran restricting access to the Strait of Hormuz — a critical artery for global oil and gas supply — further intensifying international concern.
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