Iran Conflict: What’s Unfolding on Day 22 of US-Israel Strikes?

Escalation of the US-Israel-Iran Conflict

The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its fourth week, with over 1,400 reported fatalities in Iran. The war has intensified as Iran retaliates against Israeli and US targets, issuing warnings to Western nations and Gulf states that global shipping and energy infrastructure could be at risk. Millions of Iranians are observing Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz under the shadow of ongoing hostilities.

Casualties and Attacks in Iran

The war has resulted in the deaths of 1,444 people in Iran, including at least 204 children. Air defenses were activated in Tehran and surrounding areas after reports of explosions during the first day of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. In a separate development, Iran launched two ballistic missiles at the US-UK military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, according to a semi-official news agency. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that British lives were in danger following the UK’s decision to allow the US to use its bases for strikes on Iranian targets.

Iran has announced its 70th wave of attacks, launching missiles and drones toward Israel and US bases in the Gulf. This escalation comes as Iran intensifies attacks on energy sites across Gulf Arab states in response to an Israeli strike on Iran’s South Pars natural gasfield.

Holidays Amid War

Millions of Iranians have marked a rare alignment of Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz under the threat of bombardment. Large crowds gathered at holy sites like the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, with many gatherings turning into anti-Western protests.

Threats in the Gulf

Iran has issued direct threats to the United Arab Emirates, warning it will deliver “crushing blows” to the port city of Ras al-Khaimah if there is any further aggression from UAE territory against disputed Gulf islands. Bahrain’s defense forces have intercepted and destroyed two more missiles fired from Iran, bringing the total number of destroyed missiles and drones since February 28 to 143 and 242, respectively.

Saudi Arabia reported intercepting and destroying a large barrage of drones over its eastern region, with at least 47 drones shot down, including a concentrated barrage of 38 drones within three hours. Kuwait’s Ministry of Defense confirmed it is actively dealing with hostile missile and drone attacks. Two waves of Iranian drones hit Kuwait’s Mina al-Ahmadi refinery, sparking a fire at one of the Middle East’s largest facilities.

Qatar condemned an Israeli attack on military facilities in southern Syria, calling it a violation of sovereignty and international law.

Developments in the United States

US President Donald Trump hinted at considering a “winding down” of military operations against Iran, while ruling out a ceasefire agreement. He emphasized the need for other countries to guard and police the Strait of Hormuz. According to Axios, Washington is considering plans to blockade or occupy Iran’s Kharg Island, a strategic oil hub, which could cripple Iran’s economy but risk major escalation.

The US is reportedly deploying an additional 2,200 to 2,500 Marines to the Middle East. Al Jazeera correspondent Kimberly Halkett suggested that recent US military movements could lead to potential US boots on the ground in Iran to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Damage in Israel

Israeli authorities reported that Iran fired nine separate salvoes of missiles at Israel. While Israeli air defenses are working to intercept the incoming fire, falling debris and cluster munitions have caused widespread damage across central and northern Israel, as well as the western Dead Sea area. Palestinian citizens of Israel are demanding better protection against incoming missiles and drones, highlighting disparities in shelter access.

Impact in Occupied Palestine

Missile fragments fell near the Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem, causing extensive damage to the religiously significant site.

Conflicts in Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria

Lebanon has reported at least 1,001 deaths since Israel renewed attacks, including 118 children. A US logistics support camp near Baghdad’s international airport was attacked by rockets. Israel has ordered evacuations in several southern suburbs of Beirut ahead of attacks on Hezbollah infrastructure. Israel also claimed to have hit military infrastructure in southern Syria in response to alleged attacks on Druze civilians, prompting condemnation from Qatar, Jordan, and Egypt.

Economic Fallout

Disruptions in the Gulf have caused oil prices to surge, with Brent crude hitting $112.19 per barrel. This has raised concerns about prolonged supply disruptions and a potential global economic downturn. The Panama Canal is operating at full capacity, with increased demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers due to the war.

The US lifted sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded on tankers to boost global supply, but Iran dismissed the move as an attempt to give false hope to buyers. Al Jazeera’s John Hendren described the decision as potentially counterproductive, given Washington’s efforts to curb oil prices while being at war with Iran.

Maritime Threats

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has declared the threat level in the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman as “critical.” There have been 21 confirmed attacks on commercial vessels and offshore infrastructure since March 1, indicating a broad campaign of maritime disruption.