The conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran has intensified, with Israel declaring that the war is entering its “decisive phase” as cities across the Middle East came under attack on Saturday.
Explosions and black smoke were reported over Washington’s embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, marking the second time it has been targeted since February 28, when US and Israeli strikes against Iran escalated the Gulf conflict.
The war has displaced millions and claimed more than 1,200 lives in Iran, with no clear end in sight as the conflict enters its third week.
Shortly after Iran’s military warned UAE civilians to avoid port areas, black smoke was observed rising from Fujairah, home to a major oil storage and export terminal.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said the conflict would “continue as long as necessary” while signalling that decisive military action is underway.
Despite facing superior US and Israeli firepower, Iran continues its campaign, launching missile and drone attacks on at least 10 neighboring countries and disrupting traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
In northern Iran, Israel’s army warned residents of an industrial zone in Tabriz to evacuate ahead of a potential strike.
In Baghdad, the US embassy was attacked following operations against the Iran-backed group Kataeb Hezbollah, which reportedly killed two members, including a key figure.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated that US forces had struck Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s largest oil export hub, claiming that all military targets were “obliterated” while energy facilities remained unharmed. Iranian media confirmed that oil facilities were intact, despite prior threats from Tehran warning that US-linked oil and energy assets would be targeted if attacked.
The escalating conflict has sent shockwaves through global markets, particularly energy supplies, as tensions in the Gulf region continue to rise.
