Rising tensions in the Middle East are intensifying after Iran launched fresh drone and missile attacks across the Gulf region. The strikes have targeted energy infrastructure and military facilities while also disrupting shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict has expanded beyond direct clashes between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Gulf countries are now facing increasing security threats. Energy markets are also reacting as fears grow about a potential global oil supply crisis.
Oil tanker traffic has slowed significantly through the Strait of Hormuz. The narrow waterway carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. The disruption has pushed global fuel prices higher and raised concerns about long-term economic impacts.
Meanwhile, explosions were reported in multiple cities across the region. Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut and Tehran. A drone strike also forced a temporary shutdown at Dubai International Airport after a fuel tank caught fire.
Drone Attacks Hit Gulf Energy Facilities
Regional tensions escalated further after a drone struck a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport early Monday. The incident caused a large fire and forced airport authorities to suspend flights temporarily.
Firefighters quickly controlled the blaze and officials confirmed that no injuries were reported. Airport operations later resumed.
Since the conflict began, Iran has launched hundreds of drones and missiles toward Gulf states hosting US military assets. These attacks have targeted energy facilities and strategic infrastructure.
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates said most drones were intercepted by air defence systems. However, some debris and drones have landed inside the country.
Iranian officials have accused the UAE of allowing its territory to be used for attacks against Iran. Emirati authorities denied the allegations and described their actions as defensive.
At the same time, Saudi Arabia reported intercepting 61 drones aimed at its eastern region. This area hosts major oil production facilities that are vital to global energy supplies.
Missile attacks have also continued against Israel. Israeli military officials say Iran has launched cluster munitions that scatter smaller explosives across large areas, making them harder to intercept.
Israeli Strikes Intensify in Beirut and Tehran
The Israeli military has launched new attacks in both Lebanon and Iran as part of its ongoing campaign against Iranian-backed groups.
Powerful explosions shook Beirut before dawn on Monday. Israeli forces said the strikes targeted infrastructure linked to Hezbollah fighters operating in the city.
The military has issued evacuation warnings for several neighborhoods in Beirut and southern Lebanon. Authorities say more than 800,000 people have been displaced since Israeli air strikes began.
Lebanese officials report that at least 850 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. The victims include women and children as well as health workers.
Shortly after the Beirut strikes, explosions were also reported in Tehran. Israel said it targeted military infrastructure in and around the Iranian capital.
The humanitarian toll continues to rise. International organizations estimate that more than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran during the conflict.
Meanwhile, Iranian missile strikes have killed at least 12 people in Israel and injured several others. Casualties have also been reported among US troops stationed in the region.
Rising Oil Prices and Global Energy Pressure
The ongoing conflict is sending shockwaves through global energy markets.
Brent crude oil prices remained above $100 per barrel on Monday. Early trading showed prices around $104, nearly 45 percent higher since the conflict escalated in late February.
At some points during the fighting, oil prices surged close to $120 per barrel. The rapid increase has raised fears of a wider energy crisis.
The disruption of tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is a major factor behind the surge. Many countries depend heavily on oil shipments from the Persian Gulf.
US President Donald Trump has urged several countries to send warships to secure the strait and protect commercial vessels.
However, many nations have not yet committed to joining such a coalition. Trump said he expects countries benefiting from Gulf oil supplies to help safeguard the shipping route.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump warned that Washington would remember which allies refused to assist.
Meanwhile, Japan has started releasing oil from its national reserves to stabilize supply. Japanese leaders say the country relies heavily on Middle Eastern crude and must protect energy security.
Despite rising prices, Trump predicted the market will stabilize once the conflict ends. He said oil prices could fall quickly after hostilities stop.
