27 March,2026 12:43 PM IST | Dubai | mid-day online correspondent
Pic/AFP
Israel launched a fresh wave of airstrikes on Iran early Friday, targeting sites reportedly located in the heart of Tehran. The escalation comes just hours before a scheduled meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss attacks on civilian infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict, reported news agency Associated Press.
Israeli officials had earlier signalled plans to intensify operations against Iran's weapons production facilities. However, there was no immediate confirmation regarding the specific targets struck in the latest offensive.
The conflict showed signs of widening across the region, with smoke reported over Beirut, although no official confirmation of strikes in the Lebanese capital was issued. Simultaneously, air raid sirens sounded across Israel as defence systems were activated to intercept incoming Iranian missiles.
Iran continued its offensive posture beyond its borders, with reports of drones and missile activity in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. The expanding theatre of conflict has heightened concerns of a broader regional war, reported Associated Press.
The United States has been attempting to broker a ceasefire, presenting a 15-point proposal aimed at de-escalation. The plan reportedly includes curbs on Iran's nuclear programme and reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route, reported Associated Press.
However, Tehran has rejected the proposal and instead offered its own five-point framework, demanding reparations and recognition of its authority over the strategic waterway. The diplomatic impasse has reduced hopes for a near-term resolution, reported Associated Press.
At the same time, Washington has significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying thousands of additional troops, including Marines and paratroopers, in what analysts see as preparation for potential escalation, reported Associated Press.
The intensifying conflict has sent shockwaves through global financial markets. Asian equities declined following heavy losses on Wall Street, reflecting growing uncertainty over the geopolitical situation.
Oil prices have surged sharply, with Brent crude rising to USD 107 per barrel - an increase of more than 45 per cent since the conflict began in late February. Iran's tightening grip over shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz has raised fears of a global energy crisis, with reports suggesting that vessels are now being charged for safe passage, reported Associated Press.
The United Nations Security Council is set to hold closed consultations in New York following a request from Russia to discuss the impact of ongoing strikes on civilian infrastructure in Iran. The United States, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the council, has scheduled the meeting, reported Associated Press.
Meanwhile, the human cost of the conflict continues to rise sharply. According to official figures, more than 1,900 people have been killed in Iran since the war began, while casualties have also been reported in Israel, Lebanon, Iraq, and other parts of the region.
In Lebanon alone, over 1,100 deaths have been recorded. Additional casualties include military personnel and civilians across multiple countries, underlining the widening and increasingly deadly nature of the conflict.
With no diplomatic breakthrough in sight and military activity intensifying, the situation remains highly volatile, raising fears of further escalation in the coming days.
(With inputs from Associated Press)
