Iran and Israel have continued exchanging military strikes, while diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict collapsed ahead of a deadline issued by United States President Donald Trump for Tehran to accept US demands or face further action.
Tensions intensified after Iran rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal reportedly brokered by Pakistan, which included the lifting of restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz and a phased negotiation process toward a broader peace deal within 15 to 20 days. Iranian officials instead submitted a response outlining 10 conditions, including an end to regional hostilities, guarantees for safe maritime passage, sanctions relief, and reconstruction measures.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor, remains effectively restricted, raising concerns in international markets. Iran has maintained its position on controlling the waterway, which handles a significant share of global oil and gas shipments.
Military exchanges continued on Tuesday, with the Israeli military confirming a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian government infrastructure in Tehran and other locations, while also activating air defence systems to intercept incoming missiles.
Regional tensions widened further after Saudi Arabia reported intercepting ballistic missiles aimed at its eastern region, with debris falling near key energy facilities. Authorities in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain issued public safety alerts in response to the escalating threat.
The conflict has driven oil prices higher, with Brent crude hovering above $110 per barrel amid fears of prolonged disruption to global energy supplies.
Ahead of the deadline, Trump issued a series of stark warnings, stating that Iran could face severe destruction if it failed to comply. He also suggested that Iranian infrastructure, including power plants, could be targeted. When questioned about the legal implications of such actions, he dismissed concerns.
Iran’s envoy to the United Nations condemned the remarks, calling them incitement to terrorism and a violation of international law, while Iranian officials accused the US president of escalating tensions irresponsibly.
Inside Iran, officials and public figures have called for demonstrations of solidarity, while the military leadership dismissed Trump’s threats as “delusional.”
The ongoing conflict has reportedly resulted in thousands of casualties across the region, with heavy losses in Iran and Lebanon, according to international rights groups.
As diplomatic options narrow and military activity continues, global concern is growing over the potential for a broader regional escalation linked to the strategic Strait of Hormuz.