Strikes Intensify: The Israeli military said it launched a fresh wave of airstrikes targeting Iranian government infrastructure, including facilities linked to missile production. At the same time, Iranian missiles were detected heading toward Israel, signaling continued retaliation.
In neighboring Gulf states, the situation remains volatile. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting multiple drones and ballistic missiles, with debris falling near energy infrastructure. The United Arab Emirates also confirmed it was responding to incoming missile and drone threats.
Meanwhile, Iran warned civilians to avoid railway lines after Israeli threats targeting transport infrastructure, highlighting the widening scope of potential targets.
Trump Deadline: President Trump has warned that if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by the deadline, the United States could launch large-scale strikes on bridges, power plants and other critical infrastructure.
He said entire networks could be “decimated,” a statement that has drawn concern from legal experts who warn that attacks on civilian infrastructure may violate international law.
Iran has responded with equally strong warnings. A military spokesman said any such attacks would trigger “crushing and extensive” retaliation, potentially expanding the conflict beyond current battle zones.
Diplomatic Efforts: Behind the scenes, negotiations continue through Pakistan and other regional mediators. A proposed ceasefire framework, including a temporary pause in fighting, has been discussed but not accepted.
Iran has instead pushed its own conditions, including a full end to hostilities, sanctions relief and guarantees that attacks will not resume.
Officials say the lack of direct communication between Washington and Tehran remains a major obstacle, with mediation channels struggling to bridge key differences.
Central Flashpoint: The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, remains at the heart of the crisis.
Iran has signaled it could reopen the route under certain conditions, while some proposals have suggested joint management frameworks involving regional players.
Any disruption to the strait has immediate global consequences, affecting oil supply chains, shipping routes and energy security worldwide.
Oil Prices: Global energy markets have already reacted sharply. Brent crude climbed to around $111 per barrel, while US benchmark oil rose to approximately $115.
Gasoline prices in the United States have surged to about $4.14 per gallon, reflecting the broader economic impact of the conflict.
Stock markets across Asia and the Gulf showed mixed or cautious movement, as investors weighed the risk of escalation against the possibility of a last-minute diplomatic solution.
Expanding Conflict: The human toll continues to grow. Reports indicate over 1,600 civilians have been killed in Iran, including hundreds of children, while casualties have also been reported in Lebanon, Israel and Gulf nations.
Recent strikes have targeted residential areas and infrastructure, with additional casualties reported near Tehran and surrounding provinces.
The conflict has now entered a phase where both military operations and civilian impacts are expanding simultaneously.
Final Hours Before a Critical Decision
Despite multiple deadline extensions in recent weeks, the current ultimatum appears to be the most serious test yet.
Diplomatic channels remain active, but with no agreement in sight, the situation is approaching a decisive moment.
Whether the coming hours lead to a breakthrough or a broader regional escalation could determine not only the course of the war, but also the stability of global energy markets and international security.
