Attacks on Iraqi Tankers
One of the most high-profile events was the attack on oil tankers in Iraqi waters. According to Iraqi law enforcement, two vessels were attacked near the port of Basra, resulting in one sailor's death and several dozen crew members being rescued.This incident is part of a broader wave of attacks on commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf. Since the beginning of the current conflict, several attacks on tankers and cargo ships have already occurred, raising tensions in global energy markets.
Western media also report attacks on vessels occurring near the Strait of Hormuz, which is a crucial route for international oil trade.
Threats to the Strait of Hormuz
A key factor in the escalation of the conflict remains the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world's oil supplies pass.According to Western sources, navigation in the strait is complicated due to threats of attacks and mines. Tehran claims to control the strait and has warned of the possibility of further actions that could impact the global oil market.
The "Group of Seven" countries are discussing the possibility of military protection for commercial vessels in this region to ensure free navigation.
The Conflict Between the U.S. and Iran Continues
Washington and Tehran have made tough statements confirming the continuation of the conflict.U.S. President Donald Trump noted that American forces have destroyed numerous ships of the Iranian fleet, and operations will continue until the set objectives are achieved.
In turn, Iranian authorities warned that the consequences of war could negatively affect the global economy. According to them, oil prices could rise to $200 per barrel if the situation in the region does not improve.
The U.S. and Israel aim to deprive Iran of the ability to project military power beyond its territory and to destroy elements of its nuclear program.
Military Actions in the Region
Smoke over the southern suburbs of Beirut after an Israeli shelling. Photo Reuters / Mohamed Azakir.
On March 11, Israel was subjected to massive rocket attacks from multiple directions. According to Israeli and international news agencies, air raid sirens were triggered in central and northern parts of the country, including Tel Aviv and northern areas.
The Lebanese Shiite movement "Hezbollah" also conducted one of the largest bombardments since the beginning of the current conflict, firing about 100 rockets at northern Israel, including the use of drones. Although most rockets were intercepted by the air defense system, there were reports of injuries and damage to infrastructure.
Israeli authorities claim that the attacks were organized with the support of Iran, which provides financial and military assistance to "Hezbollah."
In response, the Israel Defense Forces launched extensive airstrikes on "Hezbollah" positions in Lebanon. On the night of March 12, Israeli aviation struck targets in southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut, including residential areas and infrastructure.
Lebanese media report that one of the strikes destroyed an apartment building in a suburb of Beirut. Israeli military officials claim that the targets were related to "Hezbollah's" rocket infrastructure.
An Israeli strike on a beach in Beirut resulted in the deaths of at least seven people, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. It is reported that internally displaced persons fleeing the escalation of conflict on the southern border were present at the site.
Additionally, the Israeli army is conducting limited operations in southern Lebanon aimed at destroying rocket positions and preventing further attacks.
Iran, for its part, continues its attacks on Israel, including launching ballistic missiles and drones, some of which were intercepted by the missile defense system.
Observers note that attacks from Iran and "Hezbollah" occurred synchronously, creating additional pressure on the Israeli air defense system.
Thus, the conflict is taking on regional dimensions, involving several countries and armed groups.
The U.S. has also warned of the possibility of attacks from Iranian or pro-Iranian groups on energy infrastructure and American facilities in Iraq.
Economy and Oil Crisis: Growing Threats
Amid escalating tensions in global energy markets, the risk of a global crisis is increasing. The U.S. has announced its intention to begin significant oil releases from the strategic reserve to curb rising prices. However, experts warn that even the use of reserves may only partially compensate for supply losses through the Strait of Hormuz.If the situation continues to worsen, the energy crisis could affect not only the Middle East but also the economies of Europe and Asia, which depend on oil and gas supplies from this region.
