Dark haze over Tehran as US-Israeli forces bomb oil storage facilities

As of March 5, 2026, a war in Iran has sparked a global oil and gas crisis, potentially benefiting the United States and other Western exporters. The crisis stems from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and LNG, and attacks on energy infrastructure in Gulf countries. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared the Strait "closed" after several tankers were damaged, causing oil and gas prices to surge. Approximately 150 ships are stranded, and about 10% of the world's container ships are caught in backups, potentially leading to cargo pile-ups in Europe and Asia. Qatar's energy infrastructure has also been attacked, further exacerbating the crisis.

A UK government rescue flight scheduled to depart from Muscat, Oman on Wednesday to repatriate stranded British nationals was delayed due to operational issues related to boarding passengers. The chartered plane is now expected to leave on Thursday. This comes as 138,000 UK citizens have registered for assistance, with a majority located in the UAE, following escalating conflict in the Middle East, including missile strikes in Dubai. Approximately 1,000 Britons have already returned home on commercial flights. Two additional chartered flights are planned for this week. Many UK citizens were caught in the region during layovers or vacations as the conflict intensified, impacting travel and daily life.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump did not rule out deploying ground troops to Iran amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes. Military experts, however, believe a full-scale invasion is unlikely. Instead, they anticipate targeted special operations, such as sabotage or intelligence gathering missions, followed by rapid extraction. Analysts cite Iran's complex geopolitical environment, rugged terrain, and dense population as factors making a traditional invasion impractical. While Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth confirmed no US troops are currently in Iran, he also left the option for deployment open, suggesting a limited, targeted approach rather than a large-scale occupation.

In March 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio justified the US war against Iran by claiming Israel planned to strike Iran first, prompting a potential Iranian attack on US assets. This justification, despite being walked back by the Trump administration and Rubio himself, has sparked controversy across the political spectrum. President Trump offered a different rationale, stating the US launched the war because Iran was preparing to attack Israel and others. The administration has struggled to provide evidence of an imminent Iranian threat to US assets or that Iran's nuclear program posed an immediate danger. Critics suggest the war serves Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's interests more than Washington's, given the US's significant military aid to Israel.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the US is increasing its military presence in the Middle East as the US-Israeli war against Iran intensifies. Speaking at a Pentagon press conference on Wednesday, Hegseth stated the campaign was "just getting started" and that more US bombers and fighters were arriving. He emphasized the use of heavy bombs and vowed widespread destruction. The conflict, ongoing for five days, has reportedly resulted in over 1,000 deaths in Iran since Saturday. The US-Israeli offensive has faced criticism from legal experts for violating international law, and humanitarian groups have expressed concerns about the impact on civilians. Reports from Tehran indicate that civilians are bearing the brunt of the attacks, with many residents fleeing the city.

Attacks on energy facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, coupled with an Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, are causing a surge in global oil and gas prices. According to a March 4, 2026, Al Jazeera report, these disruptions are predicted to increase energy costs worldwide. The rising prices are expected to impact gasoline, electricity, and heating expenses for consumers. The events in the Middle East are the primary driver behind the anticipated global energy market instability. Analyst Marah Rayan examined the potential consequences of these events.

Experts are warning that Australian energy bills could significantly increase due to escalating conflict in Iran. The situation is drawing comparisons to 2022, when electricity prices surged over 40% following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Concerns stem from US-Israel strikes on Iran and reports that Qatar, a major liquefied natural gas exporter, halted production after an Iranian drone attack on its Ras Laffan complex. This disruption in gas supply could lead to higher energy costs for Australian consumers and businesses, potentially requiring government intervention through subsidies, similar to the response in 2022. The potential price surge is attributed to the interconnectedness of global gas markets and the impact of geopolitical instability on supply chains.

The US military's approach to a potential war with Iran is unlikely to be successful due to its reliance on conventional tactics against an adversary employing asymmetric warfare. The US has consistently struggled to defeat opponents using unconventional methods, as seen in conflicts such as Vietnam and Afghanistan. In 2002, a war game simulation known as Millennium Challenge found that the US military was vulnerable to low-tech attacks, with a lieutenant general's team able to sink a US aircraft carrier within 10 minutes of starting the exercise. Iran has now used similar tactics, including ballistic missiles and drones, to undermine air defense systems in the Persian Gulf. The US underestimated Iran's capabilities before launching its military buildup, which is now paying off. This approach may repeat past American vulnerabilities.

After years of caution shaped by the experiences in Afghanistan and Iraq, former President Trump appears to be signaling a shift in U.S. foreign policy. The article suggests that the perceived limitations of military force, learned from prolonged engagements in the Middle East, may be receding. This shift is indicated by the Iran attacks, which suggest a departure from the post-war wariness that characterized previous administrations. The article highlights a potential transition towards a more assertive demonstration of U.S. military power on the global stage.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on March 3, 2026, that US forces destroyed Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) command and control facilities, air defense installations, and missile/drone launch sites in Iran, as US-Israeli attacks continued for a fourth day. CENTCOM claims US forces struck over 1,250 targets in Iran and destroyed 11 Iranian ships. Iran has retaliated, with CENTCOM confirming six US service members killed in attacks on Kuwait, where three US fighter jets were mistakenly shot down. ISNA reports five IRGC members killed in US-Israeli attacks in Bushehr province. The conflict's duration remains uncertain, with President Trump stating the US is prepared for a longer engagement.

The US has ordered non-emergency personnel and their families to leave Bahrain, Jordan, and Iraq due to security concerns following a series of escalations in the Middle East. The decision comes after Iran retaliated to US-Israeli strikes on its air base in Bahrain and command facilities in Iraq. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the war against Iran may take "some time" but not years. The US embassy in Riyadh was hit by a drone strike, causing a fire to break out. The State Department has also warned of risks related to ongoing escalations in several Middle Eastern countries, including Qatar and Kuwait. The situation is unfolding rapidly, with multiple countries affected by the conflict.

On March 2, 2026, Iran's retaliatory strikes against US assets in the Gulf region entered their third day, escalating fears of a prolonged conflict. Explosions were reported in Dubai, Doha, and Kuwait, with Kuwaiti air defenses intercepting drones near residential areas. Iran stated the attacks were in response to ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran, targeting US military assets and impacting civilian areas across Gulf cities. Bahrain activated air raid alerts and closed a major bridge. Casualties have been reported in Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, while US-Israeli attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Israel. The US, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE jointly condemned Iran's attacks and affirmed their right to self-defense.

The US and Israel launched a military strike on Iran, killing hundreds of people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 27. In response, Iran attacked several countries, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Senior diplomats from China and India met in New Delhi in February for strategic dialogue, aiming to view each other as partners rather than competitors. However, a persistent gap in their relationship was revealed in the readouts of the meeting. Canada's former deputy prime minister emphasized the need for countries to maintain constructive engagement with China while reducing economic dependency on the country. The global relations landscape is marked by tensions and shifting dynamics between major powers.

Several Gulf states, including Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, reported intercepting hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones over the past 24 hours. These interceptions occurred as regional tensions escalated following U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran. The UAE also announced the closure of its embassy in Tehran. In response to the attacks, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and the United States issued a joint statement condemning Iran's missile and drone strikes as indiscriminate and reckless, endangering civilians and violating sovereignty. The countries reaffirmed their commitment to regional security and their right to self-defense.

In March 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that a planned Israeli attack on Iran influenced the timing of the US military's assault on Tehran. Rubio explained that the US was aware of Israel's impending action and anticipated Iranian retaliation against US interests. To preemptively mitigate potential casualties, the US launched its own strikes. This revelation came as the US military confirmed six service members had died in the conflict following Iranian retaliation, which included drone and missile attacks on US bases. Rubio defended the US-Israeli joint action, arguing it was necessary to thwart an imminent threat, as Iran would have retaliated against the US following the Israeli strike.

Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli outlined a U.S.-Israeli mission in Iran with two main goals: removing existential threats and creating conditions for regime change. The immediate threat includes destroying Iranian ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israeli cities. While the IDF and U.S. Army won't replace the regime, the mission aims to empower the Iranian people to "regain their freedom." Former President Trump encouraged Iranians to take over their government after U.S. and Israeli military operations conclude. A U.S. official confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in an Israeli strike in Tehran as part of "Operation Epic Fury." Chikli envisions an Iran aligned with the West, potentially becoming an ally to Israel, the U.S., and other nations in the region.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes in Iran, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated the US aims to destroy Iran's navy, ballistic missile production, and nuclear weapon capabilities. Hegseth indicated the US does not plan to pursue a democratic transition in Iran and avoided providing a timeline for the operation, while emphasizing the US would not get "bogged down." President Trump stated he wouldn't rule out sending ground troops "if they were necessary." General Dan Caine, Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the US has established air superiority over Iran, but expects additional losses and that the operation will not be quick. These remarks are the first from US officials since the strikes began, which killed Iran's Supreme Leader.

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 2, 2026, QatarEnergy halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production following drone attacks on its facilities in Ras Laffan Industrial City and Mesaieed Industrial City, Qatar. The Qatari Defence Ministry attributed the attacks to Iran, stating that two drones targeted a water tank and an energy facility. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia temporarily shut down units at the Ras Tanura oil refinery after a drone attack caused a fire. The Saudi Ministry of Defence reported that two drones attempted to attack the refinery, resulting in limited damage and no casualties. As a result of the production halt in Qatar, natural gas prices in Europe soared by almost 50 percent.

Escalating conflict involving Iran and the US/Israeli attacks is disrupting oil and gas supplies in the Middle East, driving up global prices. Iran has launched strikes against oil facilities and shipping in the region, particularly impacting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for approximately 20% of the world's oil supply. Shipping traffic through the strait has significantly decreased due to safety concerns, with several tankers damaged and at least one fatality reported. Consequently, the price of oil initially surged by over 10%, and experts predict further increases if the conflict continues, potentially reaching $100 per barrel.

On Saturday, the US and Israel launched attacks across Iran, reportedly resulting in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the destruction of his compound in Tehran. US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the strikes. In response, Iran launched missiles and drones towards Israel and four Gulf Arab countries – Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE – which host US military bases. Iranian state media confirmed Khamenei's death following the US-Israel attack. The reasons behind the initial US-Israel strikes were not explicitly stated in the provided article.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, died at age 86 following a US-Israeli strike on his compound in Tehran. The strike, confirmed by satellite imagery showing heavy damage, occurred on Saturday and was announced by US President Donald Trump. Khamenei's daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were also reportedly killed in the attack. Iran has declared 40 days of mourning. Khamenei, who ruled for 36 years after succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, was a polarizing figure, both revered and feared for his role in maintaining the Islamic Republic and building Iran into a powerful anti-US force. Reports indicate that some Iranians grieved while others celebrated his death.

Following a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran in February 2026, US politicians reacted along party lines. Republicans largely supported President Trump's strikes, which he justified as a defense against Iranian threats. In contrast, Democrats failed to present a unified message of opposition. The attacks, which resulted in significant casualties including civilians, prompted retaliatory strikes by Iran against Israel and US bases in the Middle East. Initial polling indicated that a minority of Americans approved of the US attack, with strong Republican support contrasting with disapproval from most Democrats and Independents. The situation has raised concerns about escalating regional violence.

Iranian missiles struck multiple locations across the Arab Gulf states, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, marking a significant escalation of regional conflict. The attacks damaged infrastructure, including airports and hotels in Dubai, demonstrating Iran's capability to strike US allies in the region. These strikes, according to analysts, aim to deter Gulf states from supporting potential US or Israeli actions against Iran. The attacks highlight the vulnerability of Gulf nations and underscore Iran's willingness to "internationalize the battlefield," bringing the conflict directly to its neighbors. This development is likely to strengthen Arab rulers' support for potential US-Israeli strikes.

Iranian state media announced the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei following attacks across Iran by the US and Israel, which began on Saturday morning local time. The confirmation was delivered via a statement from Iran's Supreme National Security Council, broadcast on state television. The announcement followed claims by US President Donald Trump that Khamenei was dead and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Khamenei's Tehran compound had been struck. The attacks and subsequent announcement mark a significant escalation in tensions in the region. The reasons behind the attacks were not disclosed in the article.

In February 2026, President Trump ordered a military operation against Iran, including targeted strikes on Iranian leadership, a significant shift from his stance just months prior. The decision, made in conjunction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, involved strikes on key Iranian nuclear sites and the targeting of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This marked a change in Trump's risk tolerance regarding the use of American military force against Iran. Previously, in June during Israel's war with Iran, Trump had agreed to bomb nuclear sites but rejected a plan to kill Khamenei. The military operation took place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, and was followed by Trump announcing Khamenei's death on social media.

Following strikes against Iran and rumors of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death, Iranian expatriates in London and Manchester celebrated on Saturday. The celebrations, particularly concentrated in London's "Little Tehran," involved waving pre-revolutionary Iranian flags. However, the mood shifted to a more muted tone as news emerged of hundreds of Iranian deaths, including children, resulting from the strikes. While some members of the Iranian diaspora expressed happiness and support for the events, others acknowledged the uncertain future of Iran and the potential for devastating turmoil. Academics noted the expected yet devastating nature of the strikes, highlighting concerns about the consequences for the country.

On Saturday morning, the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, targeting Iranian leaders and military sites. In response, Iran's IRGC fired missiles at US military bases in the Gulf, with explosions reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, resulting in one death in the UAE. Explosions also occurred in Tehran, near the presidential palace. Iran launched missiles at Israel, triggering air defense systems over Jerusalem. The US President vowed to crush Iran's military and eliminate its nuclear program, citing the need to defend Americans. The Israeli Prime Minister stated the operation aimed to remove an existential threat. These events followed inconclusive nuclear talks between the US and Iran.

On February 28, 2026, explosions were reported in Tehran, the capital of Iran. The explosions occurred as Israel launched an attack against Iran. Video footage shows smoke rising in Tehran following the reported Israeli attack. The specific targets and the extent of the damage caused by the attack are not detailed in this brief report. The reasons behind the attack are not mentioned in the article.

The article outlines the escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. It notes that former US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatened Iran and urged them to negotiate. Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu has long considered Iran's nuclear program and regional activities a threat, advocating for regime change. The article then pivots to reporting that the US and Israel have launched major strikes on Iran. The article promises to detail key events in recent months related to these developments.

Following reported strikes in Iran by the US and Israel, Australia's National Security Committee is convening. Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated Australia was not informed in advance of the strikes and has updated travel advice for Israel, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. A crisis center has been activated to provide consular support to Australians in the region, and a registration portal has opened for Australians in Iran and Israel. Wong emphasized Iran's destabilizing role in the region and stated that Australia did not participate in the strikes. The Australian government advises Australians in the affected region to follow travel advice and seek safety, acknowledging potential difficulties with repatriation due to airspace closures.

In February 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the United States and Israel jointly attacked Iran to eliminate an "existential threat." Netanyahu praised the joint operation, claiming it would empower the Iranian people to determine their own future. He also commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his leadership in the action. The location of the strikes within Iran was not specified in the report. The stated reason for the attack was to remove a perceived threat to the U.S. and Israel.

Following Israeli and US airstrikes on Iran, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs (Dfat) has warned Australians of potential "reprisal attacks and further escalation" across the Middle East. Dfat updated its Smartraveller website, advising against travel to Iran and urging those in the country to leave if safe, citing the risk of military conflict and potential airspace closures impacting global flights. Australians remaining in Iran are advised to prepare to shelter in place with adequate supplies. The Australian embassy's operations in Iran are suspended. Prior to the attacks, Australia had already advised citizens in Israel and Lebanon to consider leaving and withdrew dependents of officials from Israel and Lebanon due to the deteriorating security situation.