Who wins and loses in the global energy crisis?

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by conflict in the Middle East as of March 13, 2026, is creating winners and losers as oil prices surge. The potential closure of strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz threatens global supply chains and raises the risk of inflation in Europe and Asia. The article states that finding alternative energy sources will be difficult if the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran continues. Russia is positioned to benefit significantly from rising oil prices, bolstering its economy despite Western sanctions. The crisis highlights the world's dependence on specific energy routes and the potential for a reshaped global energy landscape.

The US-Israeli war on Iran, beginning in March 2026, has triggered a global energy crisis due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for oil and gas shipments. India, heavily reliant on the Gulf for its energy needs, faces potential shortages as over 80% of its gas and 60% of its oil pass through this strait. The conflict also threatens the $50 billion in remittances sent by approximately nine million Indian expats working in the Gulf states. Rising crude prices and disrupted supplies are already impacting India, with potential closures of businesses and public concerns over LPG shortages. The situation is further complicated by increased shipping risks and attacks on vessels heading to India.

Following Mojtaba Khamenei's appointment as Iran's Supreme Leader, his first official address, a statement read on state TV, has sparked skepticism among Iranians. Many question his condition and ability to lead, citing his lack of public appearance since assuming the role. Some suspect the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) holds the true power. The message included a vow to avenge citizens killed since the war with the US and Israel began. Doubts persist about the message's authenticity and Khamenei's actual involvement. The reactions were gathered by BBC Persian despite a government-imposed internet blackout. Pro-establishment rallies occurred in Tehran on Quds Day.

On day 14 of the US-Israel conflict (March 13, 2026), tensions escalated as Israel launched heavy strikes on Tehran, Iran, following retaliatory attacks by Iranian allies across Gulf states. Iran's new Supreme Leader issued a warning demanding the closure of US bases in the region to halt further attacks. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil transport, is now closed, causing oil prices to surge. Iran claims control of the strait, banning US- and Israel-linked ships. Civilian casualties in Iran are reported to be over 1,300. Iran has also launched attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military assets, targeting oil tankers and facilities.

Chinese analysts believe the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, initiated with joint air strikes on February 28th, may be difficult to end quickly due to Israel's potential to escalate the conflict. The war, which has already surpassed Iran's previous conflict with Israel, involves retaliatory strikes across the region, with civilian and military casualties reported by both sides. Tehran reports over 1,300 civilian deaths, while Washington confirms injuries to approximately 140 US troops and the death of seven service members. Despite the high tensions and fighting spreading to neighboring countries, analysts doubt the conflict's long-term sustainability and reject the idea that it would benefit China. The conflict began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, including an oil storage facility in Tehran.

Iran significantly escalated attacks on civilian infrastructure and transport networks across the Gulf on Wednesday, targeting commercial ships and Dubai's international airport. These actions occurred as US and Israeli warplanes launched new strikes. The UAE, particularly Dubai, has borne the brunt of these attacks, facing an existential threat as foreigners flee. The escalation has caused oil prices to rise above $100 a barrel, with Iran threatening a long "war of attrition." Meanwhile, a review revealed the US defense secretary has voiced extreme antipathy towards Iran for years. A bill addressing the situation has passed the House, but lacks the necessary votes in the Senate due to filibuster rules.

In his first public statement since becoming Iran's Supreme Leader on March 8th, Mojtaba Khamenei vowed to continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping channel. The message, broadcast on Iranian state TV, also promised retaliation for Iranians killed in the war with the US and Israel, including his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a US-Israeli strike. Khamenei warned neighboring countries to close US bases, stating that Iran would continue targeting them. He claimed to have learned of his appointment as Supreme Leader via state TV. While reports suggest Khamenei was lightly injured in the strike that killed his father, he has not been seen publicly since assuming the role.

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by conflict in the Middle East as of March 12, 2026, is creating winners and losers worldwide. With strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz potentially closed, countries in Europe and Asia face increased supply risks and inflation. The conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran threatens to disrupt established energy routes, making alternatives difficult to secure. Russia is positioned to benefit significantly from rising oil prices, bolstering its economy despite existing Western sanctions. The longer the conflict persists, the more drastically the global energy landscape is expected to change.

Iran has escalated attacks on energy infrastructure and transport in the Middle East, setting ablaze two tankers in Iraqi waters. This action is part of a broader campaign to disrupt energy markets, contributing to oil prices reaching $100 a barrel. Conflicting reports have emerged regarding Iran's stance on allowing India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil trade. While one Indian source indicated passage would be permitted, Reuters reported an Iranian source denying this. The attacks and uncertainty surrounding tanker passage are impacting global oil markets.

The ongoing war involving Iran has triggered an energy crisis in Asia, the world's top crude oil importing region, which relies heavily on Middle Eastern oil. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil and gas shipments, is effectively closed, disrupting supplies and leading some producers to reduce output. While the US has attempted to reassure markets with emergency reserves and sanctions waivers, concerns remain about depleting stockpiles and rising prices. Asian countries, including China, India, and Japan, are scrambling to secure alternative supplies, with India increasing Russian crude imports and China reportedly receiving oil from Iran. Experts warn that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a major global economic crisis.

Israeli security sources have stated that Israel's attack on Iran lacked a clear plan for regime change, with hopes of a popular uprising considered unrealistic. Despite nearly two weeks of bombing raids and the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's leadership remains. The success of the conflict may depend on the fate of 440kg of enriched uranium, enough for multiple nuclear warheads, buried under a mountain. Sources say that if the regime survives and retains the uranium, Iran may pursue nuclear weapons. The US is reportedly considering a high-risk mission to secure the uranium, and pre-war negotiations included proposals for Iran to surrender it.

Recent Iranian attacks in the Gulf have expanded beyond traditional oil and gas infrastructure to include data centers, signaling a shift in targeting strategic assets. On March 1st, drone attacks damaged three Amazon Web Services data centers in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. These attacks suggest a deliberate effort to undermine the Gulf's post-oil future, particularly its ambitions in artificial intelligence. The region's AI investments, supported by partnerships and cloud providers, rely on cheap and reliable power, which is now threatened. This new focus on data centers poses a risk to the Gulf's economic diversification efforts.

Reports of injury to Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, have surfaced following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. The son of the Iranian president, Yousef Pezeshkian, stated on Wednesday that Khamenei is "safe and sound," contradicting earlier reports. Khamenei assumed the role of Supreme Leader on Sunday after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28. The New York Times, citing unnamed Iranian officials, reported that Khamenei sustained injuries, possibly to his legs, and is currently in a secure location. The 56-year-old Khamenei, who has maintained a low public profile, has not yet addressed the nation since becoming Supreme Leader.

Chinese analysts believe the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new supreme leader will likely ensure continuity and stability in the country's policies, particularly regarding its relationship with China. Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was confirmed as the new supreme leader by Iran's Assembly of Experts on Monday. Analysts suggest Khamenei may maintain or even harden his father's hardline stance against the US and Israel, potentially driven by personal grievances stemming from the death of his wife during recent US-Israeli military strikes. This continuity is expected to stabilize ties between Beijing and Tehran, as Khamenei assumes ultimate authority over Iranian state affairs, including foreign policy and the nuclear program.

The article reports on the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, highlighting the Trump administration's inconsistent messaging regarding the war's timeline and objectives. Over the past 10 days, President Trump has given conflicting statements about the war's progress, potential end, and ultimate goals, causing market fluctuations. Initially, Trump suggested a swift conclusion, even hinting at a possible wrap-up, but later walked back those comments, indicating a willingness to intensify strikes if Iran continued to threaten oil tankers. He also stated the goal was to prevent Iran from developing weapons targeting the US, Israel, or allies. The mixed messages have created uncertainty surrounding the conflict's future and potential political ramifications for the Trump administration.

On day 11 of the US-Israel war on Iran, March 10, 2026, intense bombardments continue in Tehran, where hundreds of thousands rallied in support of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Despite ongoing attacks, including one on Arak that killed five, Iran vows to continue fighting, rejecting US President Trump's claim of a quick end to the war. Iran accuses the US of intending to partition the country and seize oil. Several nations, including China, Russia, and France, have contacted Iran regarding a ceasefire. Attacks on residential areas in Tehran have resulted in numerous casualties, with Iran reporting over 1,255 deaths and 10,000 injuries. The US is monitoring for potential activation of Iranian sleeper cells within the country.

Following US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, triggering a major regional crisis, BRICS has remained silent, failing to issue a joint statement. This silence, despite individual condemnations from members like China, Russia, and Brazil, highlights the bloc's struggle to unify its voice after recent expansion. The inclusion of Iran, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, intended to strengthen BRICS's position in a multipolar world, has instead created internal divisions. Iran's retaliatory strikes against US assets in the region, including in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, further complicate the situation, demonstrating the challenges BRICS faces in achieving consensus amidst conflicting member interests. The expansion, scheduled to take effect in January 2024, appears to have outpaced the bloc's ability to act cohesively.

Amidst an ongoing war with the United States and Israel, Iran's Assembly of Experts has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026. The 56-year-old, with strong ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is seen as a figure of continuity for the theocratic establishment. The IRGC, along with the Iranian army, police, Defence Council, and Intelligence Minister, have pledged their allegiance to the new leader. The IRGC stated its forces are ready to obey Khamenei's commands to uphold the values of the Islamic revolution. This transition occurs as Iran faces external conflict, signaling a potential continuation of existing policies.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has become Iran's new leader. Selected by the Assembly of Experts, Mojtaba assumes power as the Islamic Republic faces what is described as an existential battle. While supporters celebrated his appointment, some protesters voiced opposition, fearing an even harsher regime. Mojtaba, considered an ultraconservative, has worked within his father's government for decades and has close ties to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC, which holds significant security and economic power, reportedly supported his candidacy. The war is described as personal, as Mojtaba also lost his mother in the same Israeli strike that killed his father.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran's state media is showcasing pro-Mojtaba Khamenei rallies across the country, with citizens pledging loyalty to the new leader. These displays contrast sharply with earlier celebrations of Ali Khamenei's death, fueled by public anger over decades of repression. Despite an internet blackout, reports suggest some Iranians fear increased repression under Mojtaba, who has strong ties to the IRGC and Basij militia. Mojtaba's appointment follows the strike that killed his father and other family members. The prosecutor general has warned Iranians against cooperating with the US and Israel, signaling a potential crackdown amid the ongoing war.

Following the assassination of Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as Iran's new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts on March 9, 2026. US President Donald Trump, who had warned against this selection amidst escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran, expressed his disapproval and suggested the new leader's tenure may be short-lived, hinting at a similar fate to his father. Trump declined to reveal his plans for dealing with the new Iranian leader but stated his unhappiness with the appointment. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham echoed Trump's sentiment, suggesting a similar fate for Mojtaba Khamenei as his father. The US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28.

Fighting between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has entered its second week, raising significant questions about the conflict's duration, objectives, and economic impact. The war began on February 28th, and there are no signs of it ending soon. Iran is retaliating against Israel, U.S. assets, and neighboring Arab countries. Mediation efforts are reportedly underway, although details are scarce. A key unknown is the stance of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father after the war's initial strikes. Seen as more hard-line, his intentions regarding negotiations or continued conflict remain unclear. Iran's strategy of regional disruption persists, with attacks reported in Persian Gulf countries.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran's Assembly of Experts has reportedly reached a consensus on his successor. According to Assembly member Ayatollah Mohammad-Mahdi Mirbagheri, the selection process faces some remaining obstacles. The 88-member Assembly is constitutionally authorized to choose the Supreme Leader. Israeli military officials have threatened members of the Assembly of Experts against participating in the selection process. Another member of the body, Hojjatoleslam Jafari, expressed hope that the Iranian people will be satisfied with the decision, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid escalating conflict, Iran has signaled that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely to be named the new supreme leader. Ayatollah Hosseinali Eshkevari stated a vote had been cast, and another cleric indicated the announcement would be made by Hosseini Bushehri. Wartime conditions have prevented a public gathering to confirm the selection. The news comes as Israel reportedly struck fuel depots in Tehran, and Bahrain claimed an Iranian attack damaged a desalination plant. US President Donald Trump asserted that Washington should have a say in the selection process, implying potential consequences if the chosen leader doesn't receive US approval.

Iranian state TV announced on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, a son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been named his successor. Mojtaba Khamenei was considered a potential successor even before his father was killed in an Israeli strike at the start of the war. The strike, which targeted the supreme leader's offices, also killed Mojtaba's wife. Despite being a secretive figure, Mojtaba had long been viewed as a contender for the position. He assumes the role despite never having been elected or appointed to any government position.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, Iran has appointed his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader. The announcement was made by clerics, with support quickly pledged by the IRGC, armed forces, and key political figures. Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has been a highly influential figure within the Supreme Leader's inner circle for decades, cultivating strong ties to the IRGC. Analysts suggest his appointment indicates the continued power of hardline factions within the Iranian government. As the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei will lead Iran through a period of significant crisis amidst a growing regional war.

An Israeli strike on a Beirut hotel killed at least four people and wounded ten others on Sunday, according to Lebanon's health ministry. Israel stated the strike targeted commanders from Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The strike occurred in central Beirut, hitting a hotel room. This incident follows increased Israeli strikes across Lebanon and ground troop movements into border areas this week. Lebanon was drawn into the conflict after Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Israeli military announced additional strikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut's southern suburbs.

On March 6, 2026, the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran entered its seventh day, marked by continued attacks across Iran and the Gulf region. The US and Israel, under "Operation Epic Fury," claim to be crippling Iran's military, having conducted thousands of strikes and allegedly destroyed a significant portion of Iran's air defenses. The conflict has already cost billions of dollars, largely unbudgeted. Tensions are escalating, particularly regarding the succession of Iran's Supreme Leader after his reported death in a US-Israeli strike, with the US President expressing intentions to influence the selection. Iran has rejected negotiations with the US and warned against a potential ground invasion, while the US reports a significant decrease in Iranian missile and drone attacks.

Recent US and Israeli strikes in Iran target a broader range of sites than previous operations, aiming to weaken the Iranian military and government. The US Central Command reports hitting over 2,000 targets in less than a week, while Israel claims hundreds of strikes across the country, from Tehran to southeastern regions. Targets include Iranian leaders, military bases, weapons factories, state media, and security forces. The extent of the damage is unclear, but one monitoring group describes it as a significant blow, though the emergency leadership retains coercive abilities. Iranian government sources report at least 1,230 deaths, including many children killed in a school bombing. Independent verification of the death toll is difficult due to communication issues.

Intense Israeli strikes targeted Iran and Lebanon as the US warned of a dramatic surge in bombardment in the Middle East on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The US has been striking Iran for six consecutive days, escalating the conflict. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensified, with Israeli tanks moving to the Lebanese border. Azerbaijan accused Iran of a drone attack and threatened retaliation, signaling a potential expansion of the war. Governments worldwide are scrambling to evacuate citizens stranded across the region as the conflict disrupts travel, including at Dubai International Airport. The escalating conflict raises concerns about regional stability and potential internal destabilization within Iran.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced they dismantled an underground military bunker in Tehran, built by former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the IDF, the compound served as a base for advancing military activities against Israel and the West. The bunker, located beneath Tehran, contained multiple entrances and meeting rooms. Khamenei and other regime leaders were situated directly above the fortified compound when almost 50 of them were killed during Operation Epic Fury. Khamenei, who had ruled Iran for over 30 years, was killed on the first day of the operation. The strike followed an Israeli-American deception plan, which included misleading messaging to suggest no immediate action was planned.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a potential candidate to succeed his father as the country's paramount ruler. He was considered a contender even before his father's death in an Israeli strike last week. Despite this, Mojtaba has never held an elected or appointed government position. He is described as a secretive figure within the Islamic Republic. Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen publicly since the Israeli airstrike that killed his 86-year-old father. The circumstances surrounding the succession remain unclear.

In a 2026 episode of Al Jazeera's "The Take," the podcast examines the unfolding US-Israeli war with Iran, highlighting the accompanying information war. The episode focuses on how "major combat operations" were announced on Truth Social, drawing parallels to the Iraq war and analyzing claims of "threats" and "self-defense." It investigates the potential impact on the Iranian people following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Iran's subsequent retaliation. The podcast suggests the conflict could reshape the region for decades. The episode, published on March 5, 2026, features Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Imran Khan and was produced by Alexandra Locke and others.

On the sixth day of a US-Israeli offensive against Iran, tensions are escalating across the Middle East. Iran has threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, where maritime activity is at a standstill. The conflict has spread, with a US submarine sinking an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka. Iranian state media reports over 1,000 deaths and 6,000 wounded within Iran, where the US and Israel are accused of striking civilian infrastructure. Mojtaba Khamenei is a leading candidate to become Iran's next Supreme Leader. Kurdish-Iranian armed groups have launched a ground offensive in northwest Iran, and Iraqi Kurds may join the conflict. Spain has refused US access to its bases for the war, prompting a threat of trade sanctions from the US President.

In March 2026, Iran's Assembly of Experts is responsible for selecting the nation's next Supreme Leader. The Assembly of Experts is a body within the Iranian government. This follows the precedent set in 1989, when the Assembly elected Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to the position. The selection process is significant because the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority in Iran's political system. The article highlights the Assembly's crucial role in determining the future leadership of Iran.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is being considered as a possible successor amidst ongoing conflict. The Israeli airstrike that killed his father and wife has elevated his profile, despite his lack of elected or appointed government positions. Mojtaba, a secretive figure, has not been seen publicly since the attack and is believed to be in hiding. His potential succession has been criticized as resembling a hereditary monarchy, a departure from the Islamic Republic's principles. The possibility of Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the role of Supreme Leader is circulating as American and Israeli airstrikes continue in Iran.

Iran postponed the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a US-Israeli airstrike, due to anticipated large crowds. The three-day ceremony was originally scheduled to begin at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla mosque in Tehran at 10pm local time on Wednesday. State television announced the delay, citing the "expected unprecedented presence of mourners," and indicated a new time would be announced later. The funeral is expected to draw supporters of the Islamic Republic who oppose US and Israeli actions, which have escalated into a regional war. Khamenei's death has been met with condemnation from Russia and China, but also celebrations from opponents of the Iranian regime.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in attacks by the US and Israel in March 2026, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has emerged as a leading contender to become the next Supreme Leader of Iran. Mojtaba, a hardline cleric with close ties to the IRGC, has been influential behind the scenes for decades, despite never holding public office or being publicly vetted. His potential succession signals the continued strength of hardline factions within the Iranian government. While he has maintained a low public profile, he has been accused of involvement in the violent suppression of protests. If appointed, it would create a dynastic succession reminiscent of the pre-revolution monarchy.

Recent US and Israeli airstrikes in Iran have resulted in significant damage, including to the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace in Tehran. The strikes, which began on Saturday, have targeted numerous government and military sites, reportedly killing nearly 800 people. Iranian media reports that the Golestan Palace sustained damage to windows, doors, and mirrors due to the reverberations from blasts targeting Arag Square. UNESCO confirmed the damage and stated that it had provided the coordinates of World Heritage sites to all parties involved to prevent such incidents. The US military claims to have hit nearly 2,000 targets inside Iran since the operation began.

On the fifth day of the war between Israel and Iran, Israel launched fresh strikes on Tehran and Beirut, while Iranian missiles targeted US bases in the Gulf. Israeli strikes on Tehran, including police stations and IRGC headquarters, resulted in a rising Iranian death toll, estimated between 800 and 1,500. The US and Israel expressed satisfaction with the war's progress, though their objectives remain unclear. Funerals for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed in earlier strikes, began in Tehran as senior clerics convened to select his successor, with Mojtaba Khamenei, Ali Khamenei's son and the IRGC's preferred candidate, being the frontrunner. Analysts suggest his appointment would signal a more authoritarian regime and a larger role for the IRGC.

The Israeli military has ordered civilians in a large area of southern Lebanon to evacuate north of the Litani River due to planned military action against Hezbollah. This order comes amidst escalating hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed group, with Israel initiating a wave of strikes in the south. Tens of thousands of Lebanese civilians have already been displaced since the recent surge in fighting. Displaced individuals are fleeing from southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Beirut, seeking refuge in shelters, roadsides, and parks, with concerns rising about the capacity to meet the growing demand for aid. The escalation follows Hezbollah's rocket and drone attacks on Israel, which were a response to US and Israeli strikes.

On March 1, 2026, Iranian missiles were observed over Tel Aviv and the occupied West Bank. According to reports, the missiles penetrated Israel's defense systems. Iran stated the missile strikes were targeting Israeli military facilities. The event marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. The extent of damage or casualties is currently unknown. Further details are awaited as the situation develops.

Following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire, escalating regional tensions. Hezbollah launched rockets and drones at Haifa, Israel, claiming it was retaliation for Khamenei's death and recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Israel responded by striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, with the Israeli defense minister vowing a "heavy price" and marking Hezbollah's leader as a target. The Lebanese government condemned Hezbollah's actions and banned their military activities. The exchange follows a wider conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the US, which began after a joint US-Israeli attack on Iranian leadership.

In early March 2026, the conflict escalated to include Iranian-backed militias as Israeli and American forces launched strikes within Iran. Israel released footage of an attack on Iranian leadership headquarters in Tehran following a large explosion in the capital. Iran retaliated by firing missiles at Jerusalem, wounding five people. Subsequently, Israel conducted strikes on Beirut, Lebanon, after Hezbollah fired missiles across the border. The U.S. military's Central Command confirmed its support of "Operation Epic Fury" with naval operations. The strikes resulted in damage to buildings in both Lebanon and Iran.

Oil prices surged after the reported death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli air strikes, escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, experienced near standstill, impacting tanker traffic. This disruption raised concerns about supply shortages and increased import costs, particularly for Asian economies like China, India, Japan, and South Korea, which heavily rely on oil imports. Benchmark Brent crude jumped significantly, reflecting market fears of sustained supply disruption. Iran retaliated with attacks on US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, further escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

On March 1, 2026, Iran launched missile strikes against Israel, including the town of Beit Shemesh, resulting in at least nine deaths and 28 injuries. These attacks are part of Iran's retaliation for the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an earlier Israel-US strike. Tel Aviv residents reported explosions, and Israeli emergency services confirmed casualties. Iran's parliamentary speaker stated the attacks were a response to Israel crossing a "red line." The US military reported minimal damage and no casualties from hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks, while Israel stated it intercepted many of the dozens of missiles launched toward its territory.

Following a previous military action against Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched another war less than a year later, which has been met with widespread support from Israeli politicians and the public. This support persists despite increasing casualties and damage within Israel from Iranian attacks. The conflict follows the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, an action showcasing Israeli military and espionage capabilities. While some Israelis express regret that the war wasn't initiated sooner, the article contrasts this militaristic approach with the less celebrated peace treaties with Jordan and Egypt, which provided crucial assistance during the conflict by offering safe passage for stranded Israelis. The article suggests a shift in Israeli sentiment towards embracing military solutions over diplomacy.

In March 2026, the U.S. and Israel launched a joint military attack on Iran, targeting locations in Tehran, including the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following the attack, Iranian state media confirmed Khamenei's death. U.S. President Donald Trump urged the Iranian people to overthrow their government. In response, Iran launched missile strikes against Israel, specifically in Beit Shemesh. Protests erupted in Pakistan condemning Khamenei's death, with police using tear gas to disperse demonstrators. The attacks mark an escalation of tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following his death after almost 37 years in power, a leadership council was formed on Sunday to govern the country. The council consists of Iran’s president, the head of the judiciary, and a member of the Guardian Council. Khamenei's death raises questions about Iran's future and the complex succession process. The article suggests Khamenei was killed in an airstrike campaign by the United States and Israel.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack in March 2026, Iran faces the critical task of selecting a new Supreme Leader. The Assembly of Experts, an 88-member clerical body, will convene to choose Khamenei's successor, a process they have undertaken only once before. The selection occurs amidst heightened tensions, with Iran retaliating against Gulf countries and the US threatening further strikes. The attacks, which also killed several senior Iranian leaders, occurred despite recent diplomatic efforts regarding Iran's nuclear program. The new Supreme Leader will assume power at a time when the US has pledged to dismantle Iran's ruling structure.

Upon the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the 88-member Assembly of Experts, a council of Shiite clerics, is responsible for selecting his replacement. This panel, elected every eight years and vetted by the Guardian Council, has the power to appoint and theoretically remove the Supreme Leader. Iranian law mandates a swift selection process; however, a temporary leadership council can assume duties in the interim. This council would consist of Iran's president, the head of the judiciary, and a member of the Guardian Council. The succession process is complex due to the structure of Iran's theocracy and the vetting process for the Assembly of Experts.

The CIA tracked the movements of Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, for months and shared this intelligence with Israeli officials. This intelligence sharing influenced the timing of recent strikes. These strikes, conducted by the US and Israel, resulted in the death of Khamenei and other senior Iranian leaders, prompting Iran to vow revenge. Iran retaliated with missile strikes against targets in Israel and Gulf Arab states. The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, including the first known American deaths, and has escalated tensions in the region, with Israel pledging continued strikes.