DUBAI/TEHRAN/BEIRUT/ISLAMABAD: Fighting between Israel and Iran intensified on Monday with fresh strikes, rising casualties, and growing regional spillover, as diplomatic efforts struggled to keep pace with escalating military action across the Middle East.
The latest developments highlight a widening conflict stretching from Iran and the Gulf to Lebanon, with global energy markets rattled and international mediation efforts gaining urgency.
Trading blows
The Israeli military said it carried out strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure across Tehran, marking another escalation in direct attacks on the capital.
Shortly afterwards, Israel said it was intercepting missiles launched from Iran, underscoring the ongoing exchange of fire between the two sides.
Peacekeeper killed
Indonesia confirmed that one of its peacekeepers was killed in southern Lebanon after a projectile struck a United Nations position.
The incident, which also wounded three others, occurred near the town of Adchit al Qusayr, with the UN force saying it was investigating the origin of the fire.
Kharg Island threat
US President Donald Trump said the United States could take control of Iran’s Kharg Island “very easily,” describing the strategic oil hub as poorly defended.
The island hosts a critical oil export terminal, making it a key economic asset for Tehran.
Saudi missile interceptions
Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry said it intercepted five ballistic missiles targeting the kingdom’s Eastern Province. The incident reflects growing regional spillover.
‘Regime change’ claim
Trump said the ongoing war had effectively resulted in regime change in Iran, citing the killing of key figures and the emergence of new leadership.
“We’re dealing with different people… it’s a whole different group,” he said.
Deadly Kuwait strike
An Iranian strike on a power station in Kuwait killed one Indian worker and caused structural damage, according to Kuwaiti authorities.
Israel boosts defence spending
Israel’s parliament approved a 2026 budget that significantly increases military spending, raising the defence budget to around $45 billion.
The move reflects preparations for a prolonged conflict.
Power cuts in Iran
Iran reported widespread electricity outages in Tehran and surrounding areas following attacks on energy infrastructure.
Authorities said the disruptions were caused by strikes on key facilities.
Nuclear facility damage
The International Atomic Energy Agency said Iran’s heavy water plant in Khondab had been severely damaged and was no longer operational following an Israeli strike.
Israel described the site as a key component of Iran’s potential plutonium production capability.
Pakistan talks push
Pakistan said it is ready to host and facilitate talks between the United States and Iran, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar citing support from global powers including China and the United Nations.
A quadrilateral meeting in Islamabad involving Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt focused on efforts to end the conflict.
Diplomatic tensions in Lebanon
Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon has refused to leave the country despite being declared persona non grata.
Lebanese authorities accused him of interfering in domestic affairs, adding another layer of diplomatic strain.
University hit
A university in Iran’s central city of Isfahan reported being struck by US-Israeli airstrikes for the second time since the conflict began.
Kuwait military casualties
Kuwait said 10 service members were injured in an attack on a military installation, further signalling the spread of hostilities.
Lebanon toll rises
Lebanon’s health ministry said Israeli strikes have killed more than 1,200 people since the escalation with Iran-backed Hezbollah earlier this month.
Israeli expansion in Lebanon
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered an expansion of a security zone in southern Lebanon.
Internet blackout in Iran
Iran’s nationwide internet shutdown has now entered its 30th day, leaving millions cut off from communication and information.
Missile facility targeted
Israel said it struck a key production facility in Tehran linked to Iran’s ballistic missile programme.
Outlook
The conflict shows no immediate signs of easing, with military escalation continuing alongside fragile diplomatic efforts.
While Pakistan’s mediation push offers a potential pathway to dialogue, the pace and scale of ongoing attacks suggest the region remains on a knife-edge, with risks of further escalation and broader economic fallout.
