Tehran/Riyadh/Tel Aviv (Monitoring Desk) — Tensions between Iran and the U.S. and Israel have escalated sharply. According to Saudi authorities, the U.S. embassy in Riyadh was hit by two drone attacks, causing minor fires and limited damage.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guards have announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that ships passing through could be targeted. Approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through this strategic waterway.
Israeli forces have continued strikes on Tehran and Beirut, including targeting Iranian state broadcasting facilities. The total death toll in Iran and Lebanon has now surpassed 600.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that military operations against Iran could continue for up to four weeks and that Washington will take all necessary measures to destroy Tehran’s missile and nuclear programs.
The heightened regional tensions have driven up global oil and gas prices, while QatarEnergy has temporarily suspended production at two facilities. At least 10 people were killed in Israel last week.
The U.S. has instructed its citizens to leave 14 Middle Eastern countries immediately, while Canada has advised its citizens to depart from Dubai without delay. Rising global tensions have prompted multiple countries to direct their citizens to relocate to safe locations.
