Iran targets Israel and Gulf states after denying Trump claim of talks

According to sources, Donald Trump approved a joint US-Israeli operation against Iran after a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reportedly urged Trump to authorize a "decapitation strike" targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his key lieutenants, who were believed to be meeting in Tehran. Netanyahu argued this was a unique opportunity to eliminate Khamenei and retaliate for alleged Iranian plots to assassinate Trump, including a 2024 murder-for-hire scheme. The intelligence suggesting the meeting had been moved forward prompted Netanyahu to push for the strike, despite Trump's previous opposition to such military interventions. The operation was approved less than 48 hours before its commencement.

Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran threatened on Monday to attack electrical plants across the region if the U.S. bombs Iranian power stations. This threat puts at risk electrical supplies and water in Gulf Arab states, which often combine power stations with desalination plants. Iran's Fars news agency published a list of potential targets, including the UAE's nuclear power plant. The warning follows Iranian missile strikes targeting Dimona in Israel over the weekend, near a facility suspected of being linked to Israel's atomic weapons program. The Israeli facility was not damaged in the attack.

Amidst an ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding Iran fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz to navigation or face attacks on its power plants. The threat, posted on Truth Social, aims to secure the vital waterway that Iran has closed to "enemy ships," causing economic disruption. Iran responded by threatening to target all US energy infrastructure in the region if its own energy infrastructure is attacked. Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and gas, has significantly decreased since the start of the conflict. Trump's ultimatum follows earlier comments about potentially winding down military efforts in the Middle East.

The United Arab Emirates is responding to incoming missile and drone attacks from Iran, intercepting and destroying three drones in its eastern region. More than 100 people were wounded in Israel after Iranian missile strikes hit two southern towns, with Israeli air defense systems failing to intercept the projectiles. Japan's foreign minister indicated that Japan might consider deploying its military for minesweeping in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire is reached in the US-Israeli war on Iran, particularly if naval mines become an obstacle to navigation. Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz during the war, impacting Japan, which relies on the strait for 90% of its oil shipments.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and Israel. Recently, Iranian missiles struck two communities in southern Israel, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in Dimona and Arad. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the international community to join the US and Israel against Iran. Israel has also targeted infrastructure in Lebanon, destroying a bridge over the Litani River amidst renewed conflict with Hezbollah. Amidst these events, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona, near a nuclear research center, wounding at least 180 people. Iran stated the attack was retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility. The incident marks a potentially more lethal phase in the ongoing Israeli-United States war on Iran, which began on February 28 and has already injured thousands in Israel. Analysts suggest the attack raises questions about whether Israel has underestimated Iran's military capabilities, particularly its extensive and varied missile program. Iran's missile arsenal includes short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles.

On March 21, 2026, Iran struck the Israeli cities of Dimona, home to a key nuclear facility, and nearby Arad, wounding at least 180 people. The Iranian government stated the missile strikes were retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear enrichment complex. Israeli officials reported that air defense systems were activated but failed to intercept all missiles. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which has been ongoing for four weeks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue attacking Iran in response.

On Saturday, an Iranian missile struck Dimona, an Israeli town housing a nuclear facility, while a second missile hit Arad. The Israeli military confirmed a direct hit on a building in Dimona, despite the use of air defense interceptors. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued strikes against Iran following what he described as a "very difficult evening," referencing the missile strikes that wounded scores of people. Iranian state television claimed the missile attack on Dimona was a retaliatory response to an earlier strike on Iran's nuclear site at Natanz. The extent of the damage in Dimona included a large crater, rubble, and damaged surrounding buildings.

Following Iranian attacks on Qatari gas facilities amid the US-Israeli war on Iran, the EU is urging member states to begin storing gas for next winter earlier than planned. The attacks, which followed an Israeli strike on an Iranian gas field, have caused a surge in global gas prices and threaten EU storage projections. Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen has requested that member states aim for 80% storage capacity, a 10% reduction from the original target, to mitigate price pressures and avoid a rush to fill reserves later in the year. While Asia will be most affected by Qatar's reduced export capacity, Europe faces increased competition for LNG as the conflict disrupts Gulf energy supplies. Natural gas prices in the EU have already risen significantly since the start of the war.

The article discusses the international response to a war initiated by Donald Trump and Israel against Iran. It argues that Trump's actions have backfired, failing to garner support from allies and instead pushing them towards new alliances. Specifically, the Financial Times reported that allies rejected Trump's request for warships to open the Strait of Hormuz. The article suggests that Trump's approach, contrasting with advice from books like "How to Win Friends and Influence People," has alienated leaders and created incentives for major powers like China and Japan to unite against a potential global crisis. The war has strained US relations with these countries, particularly impacting Japan's relationship with both the US and China, as evidenced by the events surrounding Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to Washington.

On day 21 of the US-Israel attacks against Iran, tensions are escalating, with Iran warning of "zero restraint" if its energy facilities are targeted again after Israel struck the South Pars gasfield. Iran retaliated with attacks on Haifa, Israel, and Ras Laffan, Qatar, also launching missile and drone strikes on US bases and Israeli cities. The conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian toll in Iran, with thousands injured and over 1,400 deaths reported. Disruptions to energy supplies have caused global oil and gas prices to surge. France is seeking UN Security Council action to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil and gas chokepoint. The role of the US Ramstein Air Base in Germany is also under scrutiny by Iran.

Amid escalating tensions, a fire broke out at Kuwait's Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery on Friday following a drone attack, a day after Qatar's Ras Laffan facility was hit. These incidents occurred after Iran vowed retaliation for an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field on Wednesday. Despite calls from European leaders to cease targeting Gulf energy infrastructure, Iran has continued its strikes and asserted its missile production remains unaffected. The escalating damage to Gulf infrastructure has caused a spike in oil and gas prices, raising concerns about potential long-term disruptions to global supplies. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims Iran's missile manufacturing capabilities are diminished, Iran maintains otherwise.

Following an Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield, Iran has warned it will show "zero restraint" if its energy infrastructure is targeted again. This statement comes after Iran retaliated with a strike on Qatar, which reportedly impacted almost 20% of Qatar's liquefied natural gas export capacity. According to an Iranian official, the retaliatory strike employed only a fraction of Iran's power, and restraint was shown only due to requests for de-escalation. The official stated that any future attacks on Iranian infrastructure will be met without restraint. The news also highlights a forecast predicting record-breaking temperatures in numerous cities by the end of the week.

As the US-Israeli war on Iran escalates in March 2026, Gulf countries are increasingly targeted by Iranian strikes, including drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. While Gulf states maintain their defenses are sufficient, they also have military partnerships that could provide assistance. Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the region, Al Udeid, serving as the forward headquarters for US Central Command. Qatar is also the second-largest Foreign Military Sales partner to the US, having recently purchased missile systems, early warning systems, and attack helicopters. In September 2025, Israel struck a residential area in Qatar's capital, Doha, targeting Hamas leaders. The US has reaffirmed its support for Qatar, stating that an attack on its territory would be viewed as an attack on the US.

In a press conference on March 20, 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed both Israeli citizens and international media regarding the ongoing war with Iran. Netanyahu stated that substantial advancements had been achieved in the first 20 days of the conflict. While acknowledging these gains, he also suggested that further military action is anticipated. Al Jazeera's Rob McBride analyzed Netanyahu's statements, highlighting the Prime Minister's assertion that a "ground component" is necessary for the war effort. The purpose of the address was to update the public and international community on the progress and future direction of the war.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured US support for strikes against Iran, a long-sought goal. The attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Lebanon, with regional spillover effects. The conflict has triggered economic consequences, including rising oil prices, and political divisions within the US and between the US and its allies. Despite these global repercussions, the article suggests the war could benefit Netanyahu by addressing his long-standing concerns about the Iranian threat. Netanyahu has consistently portrayed Iran as an existential threat to Israel, and this conflict allows him to confront it with US backing, something he has sought for years. The ultimate outcome of the war remains uncertain.

Published on March 20, 2026, the article focuses on Israel's political elite, characterizing them as "messianic" and unbound by limitations. The article suggests this group is operating without restraint, though the specific actions or policies driving this assessment are not detailed in the provided context. The article appears on a news platform that covers a range of global topics, including the Middle East, and is positioned alongside content related to US-Israel relations, Iran, and regional conflicts. The "why" behind this characterization is not explicitly stated but implied to be related to the political elite's actions and approach to governance.

Donald Trump has distanced the US from an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield in Bushehr province. Trump stated the US had "nothing to do" with the attack, which was followed by Iranian threats to strike energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Qatar's LNG export facility and UAE gas/oil facilities were subsequently damaged in missile attacks. Trump promised no further Israeli attacks on South Pars if Iran refrains from attacking Qatar, threatening massive retaliation against the gasfield if Iran does attack Qatar. Trump denied US knowledge of the Israeli plan, despite reports that he had approved it.

In a news conference on March 20, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles following 20 days of US-Israeli air strikes. He stated that the strikes are decimating Iran's missile and drone arsenal by destroying factories producing components for missiles and nuclear weapons. The US and Israel launched the air attacks on February 28 after mediated talks regarding Iran's nuclear program collapsed. Iran has retaliated by firing missiles at Israel and other Gulf countries and limiting tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu noted that it is too soon to determine if the conflict will lead to the overthrow of the Iranian government.

Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iran's South Pars gas field if Tehran retaliates against Qatar following Israeli strikes on the field. This threat marks a potential escalation in the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The conflict has already impacted global energy markets, with Brent crude rising 8% and European gas prices jumping 24%. The war has cost the US an estimated $18 billion within the first six days. Labor rights activist Dolores Huerta has spoken out about abuse within the UFW movement, alongside two women who allege they were victims of grooming and abuse as children.

QatarEnergy CEO Saad al-Kaabi reports that Iranian attacks have damaged Qatar's LNG infrastructure, eliminating 17% of its LNG export capacity. The attacks, occurring this week, damaged two LNG trains and a gas-to-liquids facility. Repairs are expected to take three to five years, resulting in a loss of 12.8 million tonnes of LNG production annually and an estimated $20 billion in lost revenue. The attacks followed Israeli military action and broader tensions, including Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz. QatarEnergy may need to declare force majeure on long-term contracts due to the damage. The strikes have been condemned by Arab Gulf neighbors as a violation of international law.

Qatar has accused Iran of attacking its natural gas facilities, following a strike on Iran's primary natural gas source the previous day. These incidents have heightened concerns about the stability of energy supplies in the region. As a result of this uncertainty surrounding the war's impact, the price of oil has risen sharply, reaching $114 a barrel. The attacks on energy infrastructure in both Qatar and Iran are contributing to increased volatility in global oil markets. The situation is being closely monitored for further developments and potential disruptions to energy production and distribution.

The South China Morning Post reports that escalating conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran is threatening global energy infrastructure and causing oil price volatility. Recent events include strikes on Iran's South Pars natural gas field and retaliation against Qatar's LNG facility, alongside threats to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy waterway, is reportedly closed. As a result, international oil prices have surged, with Brent futures reaching between $113 and $115. US officials warn of potential economic hardship for consumers due to rising oil prices. The article examines these developments and their potential impact on the global economy.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran no longer possesses the ability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles. The statement was made nearly three weeks into the US-Israeli war. Netanyahu also claimed that Israel is actively working to create divisions within Iran's leadership. The context of the statement is the ongoing US-Israeli war, although the specific reasons for making the claim at this time were not detailed in the article. The location of these alleged actions and capabilities is within Iran.

In March 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that the United States was achieving its goals regarding Iran, despite recent attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf region. These attacks, attributed to Iran, targeted Qatar's Ras Laffan gas facility, as well as energy sites in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The strikes caused a surge in oil prices, exceeding $100 per barrel. Hegseth's statement came amidst escalating tensions and followed the reported Iranian attacks on key Gulf energy facilities. The Defense Secretary's insistence on meeting objectives suggests a continued U.S. strategy despite the increased volatility in the region.

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating following a reported Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gas field, an action allegedly coordinated with the US. Iran confirmed the death of its intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, and threatened retaliation against Gulf energy facilities. The UAE and Qatar condemned the attack on the gas field. Simultaneously, fighting has intensified between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Despite earlier claims of closure, Iran continues to export millions of barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, with numerous tankers traversing the waterway since the start of the conflict.

Following an alleged Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield, Iran has threatened to retaliate by striking energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. Iranian authorities, via Tasnim news agency, identified specific targets including refineries and petrochemical complexes. The alleged Israeli strike reportedly damaged facilities at the South Pars field, the world's largest gasfield, located off Iran's coast. This escalation follows ongoing strikes by Israel and the US on Iranian targets since February 28, and retaliatory attacks by Iran in the Middle East, raising concerns about the conflict's impact on global energy markets. Qatar's foreign ministry has condemned the attack on the gasfield.

Iran's Pars gas field, a major energy infrastructure site in the Gulf, was struck on Wednesday, marking the first reported attack on Iranian energy infrastructure during the US-Israeli war. The attack, allegedly carried out by Israel with US consent, caused a fire and prompted evacuations. In response, Iran threatened to retaliate with attacks on oil and gas targets throughout the Gulf region. The incident led to a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude rising approximately 5%, and a decline in stock markets. The Pars gas field is the Iranian portion of the world's largest natural gas deposit, shared with Qatar.

Oil prices surged after an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield, the world's largest, located off the coast of Bushehr province. Brent crude rose 5% to $108.66 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 2.5% to $98.65. The attack prompted Iran to threaten retaliatory strikes on energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and Qatar reported a fire at its Ras Laffan gas facility after an Iranian missile attack. Disruptions to Middle Eastern oil and gas exports, including halted shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, have led to estimated output cuts of 7-10 million barrels per day. Experts fear prolonged elevated prices could trigger global inflation.

Saudi Arabia is activating its Red Sea contingency plan, diverting oil tankers through the port of Yanbu to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows Iran's closure of the strait in response to recent military strikes, disrupting global energy markets. A China-bound VLCC, New Vista, recently loaded crude oil at Yanbu after avoiding the Strait of Hormuz due to safety concerns. Saudi Aramco is redirecting a larger share of crude flows through its East-West Pipeline to the Red Sea. While the Yanbu route is open to all buyers, China-bound cargoes are expected to be significant due to China's status as a major customer of Saudi Aramco. Analysts caution that the Red Sea route has limited capacity.

Despite ongoing conflict, Iran continues to export millions of barrels of oil. Approximately 90 ships, including oil tankers, have traversed the Strait of Hormuz since the war began. The Associated Press reported the activity on March 12, 2026, with images showing ships in the Strait of Hormuz and at the Mumbai Port in India. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil transport, remains a key route for Iranian exports despite the ongoing war. The continued oil exports suggest Iran's efforts to maintain its economy amidst conflict.

Qatar's Foreign Ministry condemned an Iranian missile attack on the Ras Laffan Industrial City, a major gas facility, causing a fire and "extensive damage." The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, prompted a response from civil defense teams, though QatarEnergy reported no casualties. This incident follows Iran's threat to target Gulf region oil and gas facilities, including Ras Laffan, in retaliation for alleged Israeli attacks on Iranian gasfields. Qatar considers the attack a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to its national security. The incident also follows Qatar's suspension of LNG production on March 2 after attacks on the Ras Laffan facility and a power plant in Mesaieed Industrial City.

Iranian authorities have arrested dozens of individuals across multiple provinces, accusing them of spying for Israel. The arrests were reported by state media over the weekend, with the Ministry of Intelligence and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) affiliated news agencies announcing the operations. Suspects are accused of providing Israel with sensitive information, including the coordinates of Iranian military sites, economic infrastructure, public places, academic institutions, and research centers. The arrests included a 20-person group in Urmia, a 10-member group in Mazandaran province, and another 10-member network in Khorasan Razavi province. The Iranian government claims these individuals were "enemy operatives" working to undermine national security.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a death threat against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to statements published by Iranian news agencies on Sunday. The threat comes amid ongoing hostilities between Iran, Israel, and the United States, which escalated after a joint US-Israeli offensive against Iran began on February 28. Iran has retaliated with attacks against Israel and US-allied Gulf states. Despite the tensions, Iran's top diplomat stated that the country is open to proposals that would lead to a complete end to the US-Israel war on Iran.

As hopes for regime change in Iran fade, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a political test. Netanyahu, who has long positioned himself as Israel's defender against Iran, launched a direct war on the regime. Despite extravagant rhetoric about a "fateful campaign," the Iranian regime remains in place. Netanyahu now claims the war has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East in Israel's favor, even without regime change. Some interpret this as a sign Israel is preparing to end the war, amid concerns about rising oil prices. The war's outcome will likely impact Netanyahu's political standing, as his career is deeply tied to his stance against Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his desire to "create conditions" for regime change in Iran. He made this announcement during a press conference on March 13, 2026, his first since the start of the war two weeks prior. Netanyahu indicated that Israel's attacks on Iran are intended to contribute to this goal. The Prime Minister did not elaborate on the specific conditions he hoped to establish or the methods Israel would employ to achieve regime change. The press conference provided insight into Israel's strategic objectives regarding Iran amidst ongoing conflict.

In March 2026, despite political divisions, a large majority of the Israeli public supports the ongoing war with Iran. A poll by the Israel Democracy Institute indicated 93% of Jewish respondents back the attack. Opposition parties, excluding Palestinian parties, have largely united behind the war effort, halting motions of no confidence against the government. Attempts to protest the war have been met with police presence and right-wing counter-protesters, creating an atmosphere of intimidation. Activists highlight the similarity in public support for the war with Iran to the backing given to the war on Gaza following the October 7th attack.

In a news conference on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "stronger than ever" amidst its ongoing war with Iran, alongside the United States, which began on February 28. Netanyahu claimed the attacks have severely damaged Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects, killed top nuclear scientists, and inflicted damage on the IRGC and Basij forces. He asserted that the war has prevented Iran from moving its nuclear projects underground. Netanyahu also addressed Iranian protesters, expressing support while emphasizing their role in changing their government. He further stated that the war has enabled Israel to forge new alliances in the region, despite Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries.

In a recent press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following joint air strikes with the US. Netanyahu stated that Iran has suffered significant blows to its Revolutionary Guards Corps and Basij paramilitary force since the start of the war. He vowed continued attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon after they retaliated for Israel's killing of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. When questioned about potential actions against Mojtaba Khamenei and Hezbollah's chief, Netanyahu declined to provide specifics but suggested neither should feel secure. He described the new Supreme Leader as a "puppet of the Revolutionary Guards" who is unable to appear in public.

A key Israeli legal office has advised against pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at this time. The opinion comes in response to reported pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to consider a pardon. The office stated that a pardon would only be appropriate if Netanyahu resigns from his position, confesses to alleged crimes, or is formally convicted in court. Netanyahu is currently facing trial on corruption charges, which he denies. The legal office's stance effectively blocks any potential preemptive pardon, maintaining that due process must be followed before such action is considered.