Iran Conflict Intensifies with Strikes on Gulf Hubs and U.S. Coalition Push

The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has escalated significantly over the last 24 hours, with Iranian missile and drone strikes hitting key regional hubs including Dubai and Doha. An Iranian projectile also struck the Al Minhad airbase in the UAE, causing damage to barracks housing Australian personnel. In response to the growing instability, President Trump has indicated plans to form a maritime coalition to protect the Strait of Hormuz—through which 20% of global oil trade passes—specifically reaching out to India for support. Tensions have further spiked following the confirmed death of Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmaeil Khatib in an Israeli strike. Iranian officials have warned of 'global retaliation,' while regional proxy threats have placed U.S. bases in Riyadh on high alert as drones were spotted over Saudi urban areas. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi defended the strikes on Gulf cities, alleging U.S. forces are using civilian infrastructure as 'human shields,' a claim President Trump has dismissed while asserting that U.S. forces are actively targeting Iran’s coastline to reopen vital shipping lanes. On the humanitarian front, oil prices have surged to $110 per barrel following an Israeli attack on the South Pars gas field, a move Qatar described as 'dangerous and irresponsible.' Meanwhile, in southern Lebanon, local Christian communities are reportedly refusing to evacuate despite ongoing ground operations against Hezbollah, citing a desire to prevent their villages from being used for militant infiltration.