Explosions flashed and smoke rose over western Tehran as Israel said it had begun a broad wave of strikes. S. and Israel have battered Iran with strikes, targeting its military capabilities, leadership and nuclear program.
In response, intense Iranian fire targeted the Gulf Arab states early Saturday. Loud booms sounded in Jerusalem and incoming missiles from Iran had people heading to bomb shelters across Israel early Saturday. There were no immediate reports of casualties by Israel’s emergency services.
Attacks involving drones and missiles have also been reported in several Gulf states, causing casualties. Sirens sounded early Saturday in Bahrain as Iranian attacks targeted the island kingdom. S.
forces. S. facility in Iraq.
Airstrikes have been reported in Lebanon, targeting positions associated with a movement supported by Iran. S. intelligence, Russia has provided Iran with information that could help Tehran strike American warships, aircraft and other assets in the region.
S. intelligence has not uncovered that Russia is directing Iran on what to do with the information. Officials said it’s the first indication that Moscow has sought to get involved in the war.
S. officials warned of a forthcoming bombing campaign they said would be the most intense yet in the weeklong conflict. S.
approved a new $151 million arms sale to Israel. S. has at times suggested it seeks to topple Iran’s government or elevate new leadership from within.
Iran has responded with defiant rhetoric and strategic threats. S. statements about a near end to hostilities.
Tehran has proclaimed its intention to ban all oil exports from the Middle East. An Iranian military official indicated that the armed forces would prevent the shipment of any cargo to what he called the opposing camp and its allies. They intend to exert their influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for hydrocarbon transit.
A spokesperson emphasized that the security of commercial exchanges now depends entirely on the strategic situation in the area. Additional threats had been made in case of an attempt to block the strait. These statements strongly contrast with the discourse held across the Atlantic, where it had been claimed that military operations were nearing their end.
Iranian authorities have simultaneously ruled out any resumption of talks with Washington, considering that chapter closed. The economic impact has been significant but volatile. S.
crude rose above $90 on Friday for the first time in more than two years. However, despite this intensification of operations, financial markets have shown signs of easing after the strong tensions of the previous day. Oil and gas prices recorded notable declines, while European and Asian stock markets regained ground.
Announcements concerning a relaxation of oil sanctions had been formulated, without details being provided. Observers anticipate a period of volatility, reflecting persistent uncertainties about the evolution of the conflict and the balance of power between the parties.