Tensions Rise Between U.S. and Israel Over Strikes on Iranian Energy Infrastructure

A diplomatic rift has emerged between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the 21st day of the conflict. President Trump stated via Truth Social that the U.S. was not notified prior to Israel's strike on Iran's South Pars gas field. While Netanyahu initially maintained that Israel acted independently to neutralize missile threats, he confirmed late Thursday that Israel would honor a U.S. request to halt further attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure to avoid global supply disruptions. On the ground, military operations continue to escalate. Israel announced the elimination of IRGC spokesperson Ali Mohammed Naini, marking the fourth high-ranking Iranian official killed this week. Meanwhile, Iranian drone strikes targeted Kuwait's Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery, causing fires, and UAE air defenses intercepted threats over Dubai during Eid celebrations. Analysts suggest the U.S. has entered a new phase of 'Operation Epic Fury,' shifting focus toward Iranian small boats and coastal targets along the Gulf. The U.S. is further bolstering its regional presence with the deployment of additional Marines via the USS Tripoli group from Japan. While Central Command has declined to comment on specific troop numbers, President Trump has denied making new ground commitments. Netanyahu suggested that the war could conclude soon if Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities are successfully neutralized, though regional energy markets remain volatile due to the ongoing drone campaigns.