Late Friday into early Saturday, the Middle East witnessed a dramatic escalation as Iran launched retaliatory air strikes against Israel, marking one of the most direct confrontations between the two nations in decades. Explosions reverberated through Jerusalem and Tel Aviv as missiles lit up the night sky, though Israeli authorities reported intercepting "most" of the projectiles. The attack followed Israel's earlier strike on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, which reportedly killed several high-ranking Iranian generals.
Analysts warn the exchange risks destabilizing an already volatile region. "This is a dangerous tit-for-tat cycle," said Middle East security expert Dr. Amina Farooq. "Global markets are watching closely, particularly oil prices, given the Strait of Hormuz's strategic importance." The Israeli military stated fewer than 100 missiles were fired, with minimal damage reported.
International leaders have called for restraint, while residents across the region brace for potential further hostilities. The conflict's ripple effects extend to Asian economies reliant on Middle Eastern energy supplies, with investors monitoring supply chain disruptions.
