The United States has warned that Iran may be preparing an imminent strike on Dhahran, a major oil hub in eastern Saudi Arabia that hosts critical energy infrastructure and a US consulate.
The alert comes as tensions intensify following days of coordinated American and Israeli military action against Iranian targets.
US President Donald Trump said the window for diplomacy has closed, declaring that it is “too late” for negotiations with Tehran.
Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump asserted that Iran’s military command structure and key defense capabilities had been severely degraded in recent joint operations.
Rising Death Toll in Iran
The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported that at least 787 people have been killed since the strikes began on Saturday.
Iranian authorities say several high-level facilities in Tehran were hit, including what Israel described as a “leadership compound” that houses government offices.
In retaliation, Iran has launched waves of missiles and drones across the Gulf region. Several neighboring states have reported intercepting projectiles.
The United Arab Emirates said its air defenses have downed a large number of incoming missiles and drones since hostilities escalated.
Ali Bahreini, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, questioned the value of renewed diplomacy, saying Tehran is unconvinced that negotiations with Washington would produce meaningful results under current circumstances.
Israeli Campaign Expands
The Israel Defense Forces announced that it completed a major round of airstrikes targeting military infrastructure in Tehran and the central city of Isfahan.
According to Israeli officials, the operation focused on missile production facilities and launch systems allegedly intended for attacks against Israel.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also signaled an expansion of ground activity near Lebanon’s border, describing the move as necessary to secure strategic areas and protect Israeli communities.
Britain Reinforces Cyprus Base
Amid growing regional instability, the United Kingdom has increased defensive measures at its base in Cyprus.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the deployment of counter-drone helicopters and the dispatch of the Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon to the eastern Mediterranean.
The RAF base at RAF Akrotiri was reportedly targeted by drones in recent days, though British officials described the damage as limited.
Starmer Breaks with Washington on Strategy
Addressing Parliament, Starmer distanced the UK from the broader offensive campaign. He stated that Britain “does not believe in regime change from the skies,” marking a clear difference in tone from Washington.
While acknowledging US frustration over Britain’s refusal to allow its bases to be used in the initial strikes, Starmer said his government would only authorize defensive use of UK facilities. He emphasized that London’s priority remains the protection of British citizens, military personnel and national interests.
Global Economic Ripples
The conflict has rattled international markets, pushing oil and gas prices higher and triggering declines in global stock exchanges.
Concerns are mounting over the stability of energy supply routes and the broader economic consequences if fighting spreads further.
The current crisis erupted after US and Israeli forces carried out strikes that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Iran has since retaliated with attacks affecting multiple Gulf states and key shipping corridors.
With diplomatic channels strained and military activity ongoing, the risk of further escalation across the Middle East remains high.
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