The United States has sought a massive $200 billion funding package to sustain its ongoing war efforts against Iran, reflecting the conflict’s rising scale. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its military operations, reportedly targeting Iran’s naval assets in the Caspian Sea. The escalation follows earlier strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field, which triggered retaliatory attacks by Tehran on key energy infrastructure across Gulf nations. Despite intensifying hostilities, President Donald Trump stated that no US ground troops will be deployed. Global concerns are mounting over energy security and maritime safety, especially around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. (PC: HT)

A US F-35 stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing at a military base in the Middle East after reportedly coming under Iranian fire during a combat mission over Iran. The pilot is safe and in stable condition, while the extent of damage to the aircraft remains unclear. US officials have confirmed the incident and launched an investigation, though details are limited. Reports suggest this could be one of the first instances of Iran successfully striking an advanced US fighter jet, highlighting rising risks and intensifying tensions in the ongoing conflict. (PC: NDTV)

European nations—Britain, France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands—along with Japan have pledged to help ensure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz following escalating tensions. In a joint statement, they strongly condemned Iran’s attacks on commercial ships and energy infrastructure, warning of severe disruptions to global oil and gas supplies. The countries expressed readiness to support coordinated maritime security efforts and stabilise energy markets. Iran’s actions, including drone and missile strikes, have significantly reduced shipping traffic, leaving vessels stranded and triggering supply concerns worldwide, including in India. (PC: X)

Russia warned the United States and Israel against striking the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in Iran, citing catastrophic radiation risks. Alexei Likhachev said any major incident would impact multiple countries, noting large quantities of nuclear material at the site. Rosatom has begun evacuating staff, leaving minimal personnel. A recent strike hit near the reactor but caused no damage or injuries, while the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed limited impact. Moscow condemned the attack, warning of regional disaster if escalation continues around critical nuclear infrastructure. (PC: Reuters)

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it struck oil refineries in Haifa and Ashdod amid escalating conflict with Israel. Reports confirm a missile attack hit Haifa’s refinery, causing limited damage and temporary disruptions but no casualties, with operations largely continuing. Shrapnel impact and smoke were also reported at the site. The strikes are part of Iran’s retaliation after Israeli attacks on its energy infrastructure, marking a widening focus on critical oil and gas facilities. The escalation heightens risks to regional energy security and adds pressure on already volatile global oil markets. (PC: Reuters)

Five European nations United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Netherlands along with Japan pledged coordinated action to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions involving Iran. In a joint statement, they condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure, warning of severe global energy disruptions. The crisis has halted shipping traffic, stranded vessels and triggered supply shortages in several countries, including India. The group also plans to work with energy producers to boost output and stabilise markets, urging Iran to halt attacks threatening global trade and security. (PC: Reuters)

Contradictions have emerged within the Trump administration over the Iran war. Donald Trump claimed Iran’s nuclear programme was “obliterated” after Operation Midnight Hammer, yet also described Tehran as an “imminent threat.” However, Tulsi Gabbard told lawmakers Iran had made no efforts to rebuild its programme, contradicting White House claims. Former counterterrorism director Joe Kent said Iran posed no immediate threat and resigned. Disagreements also surfaced over anticipated retaliation, with intelligence reportedly expecting Iran’s response despite Trump expressing surprise. The inconsistencies highlight confusion within US leadership over threat assessments and justification for the conflict. (PC: Bloomberg)

Iran is considering imposing tolls on ships passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, aiming to leverage its control over a route that carries nearly 20% of global oil and gas. The proposal comes amid the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, during which Iran has already disrupted maritime traffic and selectively restricted vessels linked to adversaries. Officials suggest the move could target countries that have imposed sanctions on Iran, using economic pressure as a geopolitical tool. The development raises concerns over higher shipping costs, further supply disruptions, and a potential spike in global energy prices. (PC: X)

The Middle East conflict has sharply escalated after Israel’s strike on Iran’s South Pars gas field triggered widespread retaliation across Gulf energy infrastructure. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed former President Donald Trump had “no prior knowledge” of the attack, though reports suggest otherwise. Iran responded with missile and drone strikes on key facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, intensifying regional tensions. The crisis has disrupted global energy markets, with oil prices surging above $115 per barrel and gas prices rising sharply amid fears of supply shortages and Strait of Hormuz disruptions. (PC: AP)

Iran launched missile attacks on Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City, one of the world’s largest LNG hubs, causing fires and extensive damage to critical energy infrastructure. The strike, seen as retaliation amid the escalating Iran–US–Israel conflict, has raised fears of major disruptions to global gas supplies, as Qatar contributes nearly 20% of global LNG. The attack has triggered a surge in oil and gas prices and heightened concerns over energy security worldwide. For India, which relies heavily on LNG imports from Qatar, the disruption could lead to higher energy costs, inflationary pressure, and potential supply challenges if the crisis deepens.