Iran Launches Mass Drone and Missile Strikes Across Gulf States; Pezeshkian Sets Peace Terms

In a major escalation of the 13-day conflict, Iran launched extensive missile and drone barrages targeting Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These strikes hit seaports, hotels, and oil refineries, resulting in the closure of regional airports and widespread flight cancellations. Simultaneously, Hezbollah launched additional barrages from Lebanon, forcing millions in Israel to seek cover in bomb shelters. The IRGC has stated it is prepared for at least six months of high-intensity warfare, recently deploying one-ton warhead missiles for the first time. Diplomatically, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined three non-negotiable "red lines" for a ceasefire: formal recognition of Iran's sovereign rights, unprecedented financial reparations, and binding international security guarantees. These demands follow consultations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Tehran also issued a direct warning to U.S. President Donald Trump, threatening 'everlasting consequences' should the U.S. continue military strikes. In response, the IDF conducted precision strikes on IRGC headquarters and missile sites in central and western Iran. Domestically, U.S. lawmakers are beginning to scrutinize the financial and strategic cost of the war. Representative Adam Smith (D-WA) noted that the U.S. has made 'no progress' in permanently altering Iranian behavior. Financial reports indicate the U.S. has spent $11.3 billion in the first six days of operations, with over $5.6 billion spent on munitions alone. This spending pace may necessitate a $50 billion congressional supplemental funding request to sustain the current military posture.