Israeli strikes hit Tehran and Beirut as Middle East conflict escalates and impacts global oil supply
Global leaders have intensified diplomatic pressure on Iran to de-escalate tensions and return to negotiations as a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East edges closer to collapse.
The renewed urgency follows a fresh exchange of fire between Iran and the United States near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.
The situation escalated further after the United Arab Emirates reported that Iranian missile and drone attacks struck its territory for the first time since a truce was declared nearly a month ago.
European leaders have called for restraint and renewed diplomacy. Friedrich Merz, Emmanuel Macron, and Keir Starmer urged Iran to return to the negotiating table and avoid further destabilisation of the region. Saudi Arabia also backed calls for immediate diplomatic engagement to restore peace.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran have continued to rise. The United States reported engagements with Iranian vessels in the Gulf, while Iran denied the claims and accused the US of causing civilian casualties.
Attacks on energy infrastructure in the UAE, particularly in Fujairah, have heightened fears over the security of global oil supply chains.
Iran has maintained its position on controlling the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime chokepoint for global oil transport. Donald Trump has pushed for the reopening of the route and proposed “Project Freedom,” a plan to escort commercial vessels, though details remain unclear and Iran has rejected the initiative.
Global oil markets have reacted sharply, with prices rising by more than five percent, raising concerns over economic pressure worldwide and increasing political tension ahead of elections in the United States.
Beyond the Gulf, tensions have also escalated in Lebanon, where renewed clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah threaten another fragile ceasefire, deepening regional instability.
With diplomatic efforts stalled and hostilities increasing, world leaders warn that time is running out to prevent a wider regional conflict.
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