Iran Threatens Oil War & US Accusations | Italy & G7 Respond

The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its twelfth day, marked by a significant escalation in hostilities. Overnight strikes targeted areas within Iran’s capital and northern regions, while Tehran responded with what it described as its “most intense” operation yet, directing attacks towards Israel, Persian Gulf nations, and shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is rapidly evolving into a wider regional crisis, with growing concerns over a mounting humanitarian emergency.

The United Nations has issued warnings regarding the potential for “toxic black rain,” mass displacement of populations, and severe disruptions to supply chains for essential goods. The rising death toll underscores the gravity of the situation, though precise figures remain difficult to verify independently.

A key development involves the health of Mojtaba Khamenei, recently appointed as Iran’s latest supreme leader. Sources indicate he sustained a fractured foot and other minor injuries during the initial wave of US-Israeli strikes. His public appearances have been limited, and no official statement has been released regarding his condition since assuming the leadership role. Prior to his appointment, Israel had indicated it would target any successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have reached a critical point. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced attacks on two vessels traversing the strait, a vital artery for global oil supplies. The Thai-flagged bulk carrier “Mayuree Naree” was targeted after, according to the IRGC, it disregarded warnings and attempted an illegal passage. Three crew members from the vessel remain unaccounted for. Iran has effectively closed the strait, leading to a surge in oil prices.

The economic implications of the conflict are becoming increasingly apparent. According to reports, Iran has declared that “not a litre of oil” will pass through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening further disruption to global energy markets and potentially driving prices as high as $200 per barrel. This assertion was made alongside threats to target vessels belonging to the United States and Israel.

Further complicating the situation, the United States confirmed the use of “advanced AI tools” in its military operations against Iran. Details regarding the specific application of these technologies remain limited, but the announcement raises questions about the evolving nature of modern warfare and the role of artificial intelligence in conflict.

Evidence of direct strikes within Iran is emerging. Newly surfaced footage, published by Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency, appears to show a munition consistent with an American Tomahawk Land Attack Missile striking a base belonging to the IRGC in Minab. The footage depicts a significant smoke plume rising from the impact site.

The financial cost of the conflict is also becoming clear. The Trump administration disclosed to congressional committees that it expended $5.6 billion in munitions during the first two days of strikes against Iran, raising concerns about the depletion of advanced weapons stockpiles.

The conflict is not limited to direct military engagements. Drone attacks have been reported in the Gulf region, with authorities in Abu Dhabi confirming a fire at a facility within the Ruwais Industrial Complex. This marks the eleventh consecutive day of Iranian attacks on Gulf states.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, at the G7 summit, has proposed a meeting between the G7 nations and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to discuss the situation and seek a path towards regional stability. She also indicated a willingness to discuss the presence of US bases in Italy with parliament, should a formal request be made, though she stated no such request has been received to date. The Italian frigate Martinengo has arrived in the area of Cyprus to participate in a coordinated operation with Italy, Spain, France, and the Netherlands.

Former US President Donald Trump offered a somewhat ambiguous assessment of the situation, stating he did not believe Iran had placed mines in the Strait of Hormuz, while simultaneously asserting that “there will be a huge security” in the area. He remained vague on timelines for the conflict’s resolution.

Iran has accused the United States of conducting a double attack with Tomahawk missiles against a school in Minab, alleging the strike “massacred 168 small Iranian angels” on February 28th. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, described the alleged attack as an “unforgivable and serious war crime that must not go unpunished.”

The situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable. The combination of direct military strikes, threats to vital shipping lanes, and escalating rhetoric raises the specter of a prolonged and wider conflict in the Middle East. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation are ongoing, but the path towards a resolution remains uncertain.