In a dramatic escalation, the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear-linked targets early Saturday, marking one of the most serious Middle East confrontations in decades. U.S. officials called the operation necessary to stop “imminent threats,” while Israel described it as a preemptive defense move.
Iran responded within hours, firing missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. bases across the region. At the same time, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned commercial ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz — a critical oil route carrying nearly 20% of the world’s energy supply.
Shipping disruptions have already begun, with tankers rerouting and major energy companies pausing transit. Analysts warn oil prices could surge toward $100+ per barrel, raising global inflation risks and fears of economic slowdown.
While the strait is not officially closed, tensions remain extremely high as the world watches to see whether the crisis stabilizes — or escalates into a wider regional conflict.
