Azerbaijan thwarts Iranian ‘terror’ plots; rockets hit in US-Israel-Iran conflict
The conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran is intensifying, with missile exchanges, naval strikes, and regional spillover escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran has launched new missiles at Israel, expanding strikes to Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Additionally, a US submarine has sunk an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, marking a significant escalation at sea. Casualties are rising, with over 1,000 reported dead in Iran and dozens killed in Lebanon and Israel as the violence continues.
Tehran is facing sustained bombardment, with thousands fleeing the capital amid mounting casualties. The search for a successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei adds further uncertainty to Iran’s political future. In Washington, Senate Republicans blocked an effort to limit President Trump’s war powers, showing strong backing for ongoing operations. While US ground troops are not currently involved, future options have not been ruled out.
This conflict is also impacting global trade and energy supplies. Missile attacks near the Strait of Hormuz have significantly reduced tanker traffic, leading to higher oil prices and financial market instability. Major shipping companies are suspending routes due to growing security risks.
Russian President Vladimir Putin called on Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to end hostilities, expressing condolences for Iran’s Supreme Leader’s death. He emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions, denouncing armed aggression. President Pezeshkian briefed Putin on the conflict’s current phase, appreciating Russia’s support for Iranian sovereignty.
An explosion at the Erbil Arjaan by Rotana hotel in Erbil, Iraq, raised concerns following a US warning of potential attacks on hotels in the region. Smoke was seen billowing from the hotel as firefighters responded to the incident. In another development, the ministry of civil aviation is monitoring the situation in West Asia, affecting air travel between India and the region. Airlines are adjusting operations to ensure passenger safety amidst the conflict.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Operation Epic Fury is expected to conclude in four to six weeks, with US forces successfully neutralizing the Iranian Navy. More than 30 vessels have been sunk, rendering the Iranian navy combat ineffective. Intelligence reports suggest Russia has shared information with Iran to target American ships and aircraft, although the White House downplayed this, emphasizing US forces’ strength in the ongoing campaign.
Amid warnings of potential hotel attacks, the US embassy in Baghdad urged American citizens to leave Iraqi Kurdistan due to the escalating conflict. As tensions rise and violence continues, the situation in the Middle East remains volatile, with international leaders calling for peaceful resolutions to the crisis.