U.S.-Iran Conflict Day 13: Regional Infrastructure Hit and Tankers Explode in Persian Gulf

The conflict between the United States and Iran has entered its 13th day with a massive expansion of hostilities across the Middle East. Over the last 24 hours, Iran launched drones and missiles at critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Iraq. These attacks targeted oil refineries, seaports, and airports—including Dubai International—resulting in widespread flight cancellations and significant damage to fuel storage sites. At sea, three oil tankers were struck in the Persian Gulf and off the UAE coast, leading to one confirmed death and sparking massive fires that threaten global energy transit through the Strait of Hormuz. In response, U.S. and Israeli forces conducted air strikes against Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) command centers and air defense systems in central and western Iran. U.S. Central Command confirmed the use of new low-cost 'LUCAS' drones alongside Tomahawk missiles launched from Navy destroyers. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has set three conditions for peace, including wartime reparations and recognition of sovereign rights, as his government reports nearly 1,350 civilian deaths since the start of the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign. The conflict continues to widen via proxy fronts, with Hezbollah launching heavy barrages from Lebanon into Israel, forcing millions of civilians into shelters. Within the U.S., President Trump has denied responsibility for certain strikes as a group of 46 Democratic and independent senators formally questioned the Pentagon regarding the rising civilian death toll in Iran. Regional leaders in the Gulf remain on high alert as energy facilities and residential areas continue to take direct hits.