New Delhi: Three weeks have now passed since the outbreak of the war involving the US, Israel, and Iran. This fierce conflict, which began on February 28, has wreaked massive havoc so far, claiming the lives of thousands in Iran and hundreds on the US-Israel side. Consequently, global gas and oil supply networks have been severely disrupted. Meanwhile, a massive counterattack by Iran threatens to further escalate the conflict.
What is happening in Middle East War?
The Iran-Israel war has now entered its 24th day; however, far from showing any signs of a peaceful resolution, the conflict has taken a catastrophic turn. The world remains stunned following the fierce missile attacks launched by Iran against the Israeli cities of Arad and Dimona. Given the extreme strategic sensitivity of these locations, the war now poses a direct threat to the security of nuclear installations. The most devastating impact of the war has been felt in the energy sector.
With maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz grinding to a halt, the global oil and gas supply chain has been thrown into complete disarray. Dozens of cargo vessels and tankers remain stranded at sea, raising the looming threat of a massive surge in fuel prices worldwide. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has issued a blunt ultimatum to Iran, demanding that it clear the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours; failing to do so, he warned, would prompt the US military to begin targeting Iran’s power plants. Read on for every latest update regarding the war—
What has Iran said?
Iran has categorically stated that the Strait of Hormuz will not revert to its pre-war status quo. According to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, volatility in global energy markets is likely to persist. The report also states that, currently, no talks are underway between Iran and the United States. Citing Iranian officials, the news agency claimed that Donald Trump has decided to back down from his plan to target Iranian infrastructure due to the pressure he is facing.
Amidst rising tensions in the Middle East, Iran has expressed support for efforts aimed at calming the situation. Citing the Foreign Ministry, Iran’s Mehr News Agency stated that efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region are ongoing. However, Tehran clarified that the United States must play a leading role in any potential negotiations. Iran asserts that it did not initiate this conflict; therefore, the onus of initiating dialogue lies with the United States.
Iran’s Defense Council has issued a warning to the US and Israel. It stated that in the event of an attack on Iran’s coastline or islands, maritime routes and communication lines within the Gulf would be disrupted; in retaliation, naval mines would be laid in various locations, including along the Iranian coast. Iran’s Tasnim News Agency has reported that the US and Israel launched two attacks on the Weather Department building in the city of Bushehr. This city is considered one of Iran’s most sensitive locations.
What has China said?
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a direct and stern warning regarding the conflict in the Middle East. China stated, “If this war continues to spread, the entire region will become trapped in a cycle from which it will be difficult to escape. The use of force will result only in destruction.”
