Israel Launches Another Wave Of Strikes On Iran

According to Ireporter Online, Israel launched a fresh wave of strikes on Iran on Monday, further intensifying a conflict that analysts warn is driving the worst global energy crisis in decades. Explosions were reported in Tehran, while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates intercepted missiles and drones amid rising regional tensions.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) stated that at least 40 key oil and gas facilities across the region have sustained severe damage since the onset of hostilities. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol warned that the disruption could have widespread economic repercussions, emphasizing that “no country will be immune to the effects of this crisis if it continues in this direction” and calling for coordinated global efforts. He added that approximately 11 million barrels of oil per day have been lost, surpassing the losses experienced during the oil crises of the 1970s. Oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel as markets react to potential prolonged supply interruptions.

Iran has retaliated with missiles and drone strikes on Israeli and Gulf targets, including energy infrastructure and US diplomatic missions. Tehran has also imposed restrictions on traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude supply. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, warned that vital regional infrastructure could become legitimate targets if threats against the country persist, and the parliament is considering imposing tolls on vessels passing through the strait, signaling further disruption to global trade.

US President Donald Trump issued a stark ultimatum, warning that Iranian power plants could be “obliterated” if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours. The deadline, communicated via social media, coincides with early Tuesday in Iran. Earlier, Trump had hinted at potentially de-escalating the conflict, but his latest warning marks a potential intensification of US involvement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the military campaign against Iran may be prolonged. Brigadier General Effie Defrin, an Israeli military spokesman, cautioned citizens to prepare for continued fighting. Israeli forces have also stepped up operations against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, including the destruction of bridges near the Litani River alleged to be used by the group. Lebanese authorities expressed concern over the strikes, with President Joseph Aoun describing them as a “dangerous escalation and flagrant violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty,” while Prime Minister Nawaf Salam blamed Hezbollah for provoking the conflict.

Reports indicate that over 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon, with more than one million displaced since the escalation. Despite Israel’s advanced air defense systems, Iranian missiles struck southern towns, including Dimon near Israel’s nuclear facility, injuring dozens. In Iran, casualties continue to rise, with at least 3,230 deaths reported, including 1,406 civilians, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, though these figures have not been independently verified.