Damage to historical sites in Iran raises alarm about war’s impact on protected places

Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi has warned that a prolonged war with Iran could halt Gulf energy exports within weeks, affecting global economies. The warning comes as Qatar halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production in response to Iranian missile and drone attacks on the country and its neighbors. LNG production from Qatar accounts for about 20% of global supply and plays a key role in balancing Asian and European markets' demand. Al-Kaabi stated that if the war continues, GDP growth worldwide will be impacted, leading to higher energy prices, shortages, and chain reactions among factories. He also expects all Gulf exporters to call force majeure, freeing them from liability or obligations due to extraordinary events. The minister estimated it would take Qatar weeks to months to return to normal deliveries even if the war ended immediately.

A disruption to Qatar's LNG output, reportedly due to Iranian drone strikes and a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, has triggered a surge in Asian gas prices to a three-year high. Qatar, a major LNG exporter, halted production at its Ras Laffan plant on Monday, prompting Asian buyers to seek replacement cargoes and some industries to reduce consumption. The incident highlights Asia's vulnerability due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly from the Middle East. Analysts suggest this disruption underscores the need for the region to accelerate its transition to renewable energy sources. The rising spot LNG prices in Asia reached approximately US$23.80 per million British thermal units on Friday.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is publicly opposing US President Donald Trump's policies regarding Iran, refusing to allow the US military to use Spanish military bases for operations against Iran. Trump responded by threatening to cut off all trade with Spain. This disagreement escalated when Spain's foreign minister refuted the White House's claim that Spain was cooperating with the US military. Sanchez stated that Spain would not support a war against Iran, deeming it unjustified and against Spanish values, despite denouncing the Iranian government. While the US has military bases throughout Europe and the Middle East, and other European countries are cooperating, this dispute highlights a significant diplomatic rift between Spain and the United States.

In a televised address, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez openly rejected demands from U.S. President Donald Trump to use Spanish bases for potential military action against Iran, making him a rare European leader to publicly challenge Trump. Sánchez argued that another Middle East war would be devastating and that leaders should prioritize citizens' well-being over profiting from conflict. He criticized those who use war as a distraction and emphasized that blind obedience is not leadership. Sánchez stated Spain would not be complicit in actions harmful to the world, even if it meant facing repercussions. While his stance resonated with his base, it drew criticism from political opponents who accused him of jeopardizing Spain's relationship with the U.S.

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 war with Iran has disrupted global energy trade, particularly impacting Asia due to its reliance on imported oil and natural gas shipped through the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait is a critical passageway for a fifth of global crude oil and liquified natural gas (LNG) trade. In 2025, 13 million barrels of oil per day moved through the corridor. Since the war began, the price of Brent crude has risen 15% to $84 per barrel. The U.S. President has stated the U.S. will offer risk insurance to shippers and may deploy its navy to protect vessels.

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.

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.

Spain has denied claims made by the White House that it has agreed to cooperate militarily with the United States in the ongoing war with Iran. The denial follows a statement by White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt suggesting a change in Spain's position. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares refuted the claim, stating that Spain's stance remains unchanged. The disagreement comes after President Trump threatened to cut off trade with Spain due to its opposition to the war. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reiterated Spain's rejection of the war, citing the negative consequences of past military interventions in the Middle East and affirming its commitment to international law.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reiterated his opposition to military actions in Iran, despite trade threats from the U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to end trade with Spain after Sánchez refused to allow the U.S. to use joint military bases for attacks on Iran. Sánchez criticized the U.S. and Israeli attacks as unjustifiable and dangerous, stating that Spain would not be complicit in actions against its values. He expressed concern about the potential consequences of the conflict, calling it "playing Russian roulette" with millions of lives. The feasibility of Trump's trade threat is unclear, as the EU negotiates trade agreements for its member states.

Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares expressed "surprise" to Germany regarding comments made by Friedrich Merz after Merz met with Donald Trump at the White House. The comments appeared to support Trump's threats to cut trade with Spain. Albares conveyed that Spain expected solidarity from Germany, given their shared currency, trade policy, and market. He contrasted Merz's stance with that of previous German chancellors, Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz, suggesting a shift away from a pro-European spirit. The remarks follow Trump's threats to cut off trade with Spain.

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.

In March 2026, the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran and Lebanon, while Iran conducted counterstrikes that disrupted Middle Eastern oil flows. The US embassy in Dubai was hit, and Israel struck Tehran and Beirut. US forces joined Israel's attacks based on President Trump's belief that Iran was preparing to strike first. Targets in Iran included the Assembly of Experts building in Qom. As of March 4th, the conflict had resulted in at least 787 deaths since the previous Saturday. The reasons provided for the attacks differed between President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio.

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-Iran war is threatening global energy markets, with China's oil supplies potentially disrupted by military interventions. Analysts say that geopolitical tensions could accelerate Beijing's transition away from fossil fuels. The current turmoil has reinforced China's emphasis on linking energy security to the green transition. China's energy system remains relatively resilient despite escalating tensions in the Middle East. The US-Israeli air strikes on Iran have led to Tehran closing the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane for global crude and LNG flows. This disruption, combined with Qatar's halted LNG production and Saudi Arabia's oil refinery shutdown, has sent prices soaring.

As of March 3, 2026, the Middle East is experiencing escalating violence following coordinated US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Key government and symbolic sites in Tehran have been damaged, resulting in over 600 deaths, including Supreme Leader Khamenei. The US has warned of further strikes intended to cripple Iran's military capabilities and halt its nuclear ambitions. In response, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, threatening any vessels attempting passage, and has launched attacks on US and allied targets across the region, including energy facilities. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to have significant global economic consequences.

Footage from across Iran has shown the scale of strikes in several cities as the conflict reaches its fourth day. The US and Israel launched attacks on Saturday, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Videos shared on social media, verified by the BBC and news agencies, depict multiple explosions and destruction across the country. The US has also released video footage showing military targets being hit. Iran has responded with a wave of attacks across the region. The attack is believed to be retaliation for the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei, but details on the motivations behind the strike are not yet clear.

The Middle East conflict intensified as Israel and the US launched strikes against Iran, targeting command facilities, state offices, and missile sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israel and US interests across the Gulf region. The escalating violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths and billions of dollars in damage, primarily in Iran, raising concerns about a global economic crisis due to soaring energy prices. US President Trump stated he rejected Iran's attempt to negotiate and claimed significant damage to Iranian infrastructure. Iran denied seeking negotiations and called on the UN Security Council to intervene, while threatening further retaliation against the US and Israel. The conflict expanded with attacks on key Iranian sites, including a building used by the committee that chooses the Supreme Leader's successor.

In March 2026, the United States relocated 15 aircraft from military bases in southern Spain after Spain refused to allow the US to use its bases for missions related to strikes on Iran. This followed US President Trump's threat to cut off all trade with Spain due to their stance. The Spanish government responded by stating that the US must comply with international law and EU-US trade agreements, asserting they have resources to manage a potential trade embargo. Spain's Prime Minister condemned the US-Israel attacks on Iran as a breach of international law, advocating for dialogue instead of military intervention. Spain's Foreign Minister affirmed that Spanish bases would not be used for attacks on Iran, adhering to agreements with the US and the UN Charter.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to halt all trade with Spain after the country barred the US from using its military bases as part of its operation in Iran. The threat was made at the White House, where Trump stated that Spain had been "terrible" and suggested cutting off all trade. It is unclear whether the administration will follow through on the threat. The move adds to existing tensions between the two countries, including over NATO defence spending. Spain has refused to increase its defence spending to 5% of its gross domestic product, a demand made by Trump. The US exported $26bn worth of goods to Spain in 2025 and imported $21bn from the country.

Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Khamenei, who consolidated theocratic power in Iran, led the country into confrontations with Israel and the United States over its nuclear program. The death follows reported US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Damage is visible at Khamenei's official residence in Tehran. Mourning gatherings have been held by government supporters in Tehran and in Beirut, Lebanon. A missile launched from Iran struck Jerusalem, causing damage.

The United States and Israel have launched a military campaign against Iran, leading to escalating strikes and retaliation. These actions have resulted in casualties, a spike in oil prices, and significant geopolitical shocks. China has strongly condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event that has destabilized Tehran. Financial markets have reacted negatively, with futures and Asian shares experiencing a sharp sell-off as the conflict continues. The situation is causing turmoil in the Middle East and raising concerns about a major regional escalation.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack, Pakistan has deployed its military and imposed a three-day curfew in parts of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. At least 24 people were killed and dozens injured on Sunday in clashes between protesters and security forces nationwide, prompting increased security around US diplomatic facilities. The curfew affects the districts of Gilgit, Skardu, and Shigar, where significant casualties occurred. Protesters also attacked UN offices in Skardu, including the UNMOGIP and UNDP, as well as a police station, school, and charity in Gilgit. The UN has stated that the safety of its personnel is a top priority.

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.

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.

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.

In March 2026, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned what he described as a US-Israel war on Iran. Sanchez stated that the conflict constituted a breach of international law. The condemnation positions him as one of the few Western leaders to publicly denounce the attacks. The news originated from Spain, highlighting the country's stance on the international conflict. The specific reasons behind the US-Israel military action against Iran were not detailed in the provided information.

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.

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.

Reports indicate that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may be dead following a potential US or Israeli military strike. The news follows a period of escalating tensions between Iran and the US, marked by US military buildup in the region due to concerns over Iran's nuclear program. Khamenei, who was 86 years old, had previously warned that a US strike would trigger a regional war, while also engaging in nuclear program negotiations with the US. Prior to the reported strike, Khamenei faced increasing internal pressure due to economic hardship, corruption, and widespread protests against his rule, which were met with a violent crackdown. As of Saturday, there has been no official comment from Iran regarding Khamenei's status.

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.

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.

In a video posted on March 1, 2026, US President Donald Trump vowed to continue military attacks on Iran until "all objectives are achieved," framing the conflict as a response to an existential threat to the US. Trump stated that Iran, if armed with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons, would pose a dire threat, though no evidence has been presented to support Iran's development of such weapons. The attacks, launched alongside Israel, followed the deaths of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials. Trump acknowledged the deaths of three US military personnel amid Iranian retaliation and predicted more casualties, promising to avenge their deaths. This statement contrasts with earlier interviews where Trump appeared open to diplomatic solutions.

Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in U.S. and Israeli strikes on Sunday, March 1, 2026, some Iranians celebrated openly in the streets. However, many also expressed fear and uncertainty about the country's future. State media showed large crowds mourning Khamenei, while some who participated in past anti-government protests said the security presence was too strong for new demonstrations. The Basij paramilitary was heavily present in Tehran, suppressing public displays of celebration. The strikes, which also killed top military leaders, have stirred complex emotions within a divided Iranian society, leaving people living "between hope and fear."

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.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes. Israeli officials supported this claim, citing "growing signs" of Khamenei's death. However, Iranian state media refuted the report, asserting that Khamenei remained in command. The alleged strikes and subsequent events led to reported retaliation from Iran, resulting in at least 201 deaths. The exact location of the strikes was not specified in the report. The motivation behind the alleged US-Israeli strikes was not stated.

According to reports, the Israeli military conducted coordinated strikes in Tehran, Iran, on Saturday, killing dozens of high-ranking Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The IDF stated the strikes targeted locations where senior members of the Iranian defense establishment were meeting. Among those reportedly killed were key figures in Iran's security and military apparatus, including Ali Shamkhani, Mohammad Pakpour, and several individuals involved in Iran's nuclear and weapons programs. Former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Khamenei's death and praised the operation. The strikes, described as a "decapitation operation," were reportedly expedited due to a "target of opportunity" and were enabled by Israeli intelligence infiltration.

In February 2026, the U.S. and Israel launched an attack on Iran, with initial strikes reported near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's offices. Iranian media reported strikes nationwide, with smoke visible in the capital. U.S. President Donald Trump announced in a video that the U.S. had begun "major combat operations in Iran." Trump stated the objective was to defend Americans by eliminating threats from the Iranian regime, citing their continued nuclear program development and alleged plans to develop missiles capable of reaching the U.S. He claimed Iran has been chanting "Death to America" for 47 years. Trump appealed to the Iranian people to overthrow their government.