By Staff Reporter
The conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has now reached Day 13, and the situation across the Middle East—particularly the Gulf region—remains tense and rapidly evolving. Statements from leaders suggest a possible push to end the war, yet military activity across several countries indicates that hostilities are still very active.
Trump signals desire to end the war
Donald Trump stated that Iran is nearing defeat, but he also warned that the United States could intensify strikes if necessary. He suggested that American forces have the capability to hit key parts of Tehran so severely that reconstruction would become extremely difficult. At the same time, he indicated that the U.S. prefers not to take that step, implying that Washington may be seeking a pathway to end the conflict rather than escalate it further.
Gulf region under drone and missile threats
Several Gulf countries experienced aerial threats overnight:
- The United Arab Emirates issued mobile missile-threat alerts after air defence systems responded to drones and missiles launched from Iran.
- In Dubai, a drone fell near a building in Dubai Creek Harbour, causing a small fire that was quickly contained with no injuries reported. Authorities later issued an all-clear notice.
- Saudi Arabia intercepted multiple drones, including one headed toward an embassy district and others targeting oil facilities.
- Kuwait reported that a drone struck a residential building, injuring two people.
- Qatar said its air defences intercepted nine ballistic missiles and several drones.
These incidents show how the conflict has expanded beyond the main combatants and now affects regional security across the Gulf.
Attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure
The war is also disrupting global energy markets and maritime routes:
- A Thai cargo ship was struck in the Strait of Hormuz, leaving three crew members missing and possibly trapped.
- Tanker attacks near Basra in Iraq killed one crew member and forced authorities to shut down oil terminals.
- The price of Brent crude oil surged above $100 per barrel, reflecting fears that the war could disrupt global oil supply.
Israel-Hezbollah escalation in Lebanon
Meanwhile, fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah intensified in Lebanon.
An Israeli strike on central Beirut killed at least seven people and wounded more than twenty, while Hezbollah continued launching missiles toward Israel.
International reaction
The United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 2817, condemning Iran’s attacks on Gulf states including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.
Overall, the conflict now spans military strikes, drone warfare, attacks on oil infrastructure, and maritime disruptions across the Middle East. While Trump’s remarks hint at the possibility of ending the war, the continuing attacks suggest that the region remains in a highly volatile and uncertain phase.
