Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said military operations against Iran are “definitely beyond the halfway point,” clarifying that the assessment refers to completed missions rather than the duration of the war.
Fresh strikes were reported across both Iran and Israel, with parts of Tehran temporarily losing power amid the escalating conflict.
In a major development, a Kuwaiti oil tanker carrying millions of barrels caught fire after being struck while docked in Dubai, in what officials described as an Iranian drone attack. All 24 crew members onboard were reported safe, and authorities said the blaze had been brought under control.
The incident adds to growing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran is advancing plans to impose tolls on ships passing through the critical global energy route.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump renewed threats against Iran, warning he could “obliterate” the country’s power plants, oil wells and “possibly” water desalination facilities if a deal is not reached soon. Despite claiming “serious” talks were underway, Iran’s foreign ministry denied any negotiations with Washington.
Trump also reiterated threats to seize Kharg Island, a major oil export hub, raising further concerns over a potential escalation in the Gulf.
The economic fallout is already rippling through global markets. Korean Air said it is implementing emergency cost-cutting measures as jet fuel prices surge. Vice chairman Woo Ki-hong told staff that energy costs have more than doubled compared to projections, creating a growing financial strain.
According to the International Air Transport Association, jet fuel prices climbed to nearly $200 per barrel on March 20 more than twice February levels while crude oil prices have risen over 50% since the conflict began.
On the military front, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed that four soldiers were killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon. Among those named were Capt. Noam Madmoni, Staff Sgt. Ben Cohen, and Staff Sgt. Maxsim Entis, while two others were injured, including one in critical condition.
Speaking on US television, Netanyahu declined to give a timeline for ending the war but said Israeli and US forces were “close to finishing the arms industry” of Iran, including targeting key production facilities and elements of its nuclear programme.
Although he maintained that regime change is not an official objective, Netanyahu expressed confidence that Iran’s leadership could “collapse internally” under sustained pressure.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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