Iranian Attacks Disrupt Gulf Airports; U.S. Lawmakers Demand Probe into Civilian Deaths

The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has escalated significantly over the last 24 hours, with Iranian drone and missile strikes targeting critical infrastructure across the Gulf. Significant damage was reported at international airports in Bahrain, Dubai, and Kuwait, while Omani oil terminals were forced to shut down following tanker attacks that resulted in at least one fatality. In Saudi Arabia, ballistic missiles targeted the Prince Sultan Air Base but were reportedly intercepted. These strikes have caused regional travel disruptions and sent global oil prices to $100 per barrel, a move President Trump suggested benefits the U.S. despite the ongoing hostility with Iran. On the diplomatic front, the UK government has accused Russia of aiding Iran's military capabilities by supplying components for drones used against Western bases. Domestically, 46 U.S. Senators have urged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to launch a public investigation into civilian casualties resulting from U.S. bombings in Iran. Reports indicate that approximately 1,350 Iranian civilians have died over the past 12 days. Additionally, new details emerged regarding the February 28 strike on the Iranian leadership, confirming that Mojtaba Khamenei survived with injuries to his arm and legs, while several family members, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, were killed. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen as U.S. and Israeli forces target Iranian maritime and ground assets. Despite U.S. claims of striking Iranian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister denied allegations that the military has been laying mines in the strategic waterway. The conflict's economic impact is also widening, with the Middle East tourism sector facing heavy losses and Wall Street experiencing volatility due to the energy price spike.