Iran has launched strikes on US military bases across the Gulf region, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict, while Israel announced it is expanding its buffer zone in southern Lebanon. The developments come as oil prices dropped sharply following reports of progress in US-led peace negotiations.
According to military sources, Iranian forces targeted multiple US installations overnight, though specific damage assessments remain unclear. The strikes represent Tehran’s most direct confrontation with American forces since the conflict began, raising fears of a broader regional war. The Reuters news agency reported that US defense officials are monitoring the situation closely.
Simultaneously, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed his country is expanding its occupation of southern Lebanon, establishing what he called a “security buffer zone” to prevent cross-border attacks. This move follows weeks of intensified clashes with Hezbollah forces along the Israel-Lebanon border. The BBC reported that UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned against replicating the “Gaza model” in Lebanon, expressing concern about civilian casualties.
In a potentially positive development, global oil prices fell by approximately 3% after former US President Donald Trump claimed significant progress in peace negotiations with Iran. Market analysts suggested traders were responding to optimism that diplomatic efforts might de-escalate tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil passes.
However, confusion surrounds Iran’s actual position. While Trump asserted that Iran “wants a deal so badly,” Iranian state media reported that Tehran had rejected the US proposal as “excessive.” Iranian Foreign Ministry officials maintained that no direct negotiations with the United States are currently taking place.
The conflict has already taken a heavy toll. Israeli health authorities reported more than 5,000 military casualties since hostilities began, while humanitarian organizations warn of growing civilian suffering across the region. Western intelligence sources allege Russia has been supplying drones to Iran, further complicating the international dimensions of the crisis.
As tensions mount, the United Nations Security Council is scheduled to hold an urgent debate on Friday regarding strikes near nuclear facilities. Meanwhile, the UK has announced it will host talks about reopening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, a critical concern for global trade.
Source: The Guardian