The Middle East conflict entered a perilous new phase on Monday as Israel launched extensive aerial strikes against multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, Shiraz, and Tabriz. This escalation marks a significant intensification of the US-Israeli military campaign against the Islamic Republic, now entering its third week.
According to an AFP journalist, explosions rocked central Tehran amid the offensive. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared Tehran’s readiness to pursue the conflict “as far as necessary,” warning that Israel and the United States were dealing with “a nation that does not hesitate to defend itself.”
The strategic Strait of Hormuz emerged as a critical flashpoint, with international efforts underway to secure the vital waterway. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that London was collaborating with allies to develop a “viable” plan to reopen the shipping lane, while emphasizing Britain would not be “drawn into the wider war.” Simultaneously, EU foreign ministers contemplated extending the bloc’s Red Sea naval mission to address the Hormuz crisis.
Germany distanced itself from the conflict, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s spokesman stating the war had “nothing to do with NATO” and emphasizing that “NATO is an alliance for the defence of territory” without mandate for deployment in the current situation.
Maritime monitors reported a significant development as the Aframax tanker Karachi became the first non-Iranian vessel to transit the Strait of Hormuz with its automatic identification system activated, suggesting possible negotiated safe passage arrangements for select shipments.
The Israeli military announced expanding operations against Hezbollah, initiating “limited and targeted ground operations” against the group’s strongholds in southern Lebanon through its 91st division.
Gulf states felt the conflict’s impact directly as the UAE reported a drone attack on Fujairah’s oil infrastructure, sparking a major fire. Saudi Arabia intercepted 61 drones in its eastern region since midnight, while a missile strike in Abu Dhabi killed a Palestinian civilian.
Despite the violence, Dubai International Airport gradually resumed operations following a suspension caused by a “drone-related incident” that ignited a fuel tank fire nearby. The Emirati defense ministry reported intercepting waves of Iranian drones and missiles without specifying locations.
Regional diplomacy continued as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Emirati President Mohamed bin Zayed discussed Iran’s retaliatory strikes, emphasizing “the need for immediate cessation of military escalation” and prioritizing diplomatic solutions.
The economic ramifications intensified as Brent crude oil prices surged 3% to $106.50 per barrel amid the heightened tensions. Meanwhile, Iran’s national football team maintained plans to participate in the upcoming World Cup despite security concerns raised by former US President Donald Trump.