U.S.-Iran Conflict: Israel Strikes Tehran Infrastructure Amid 24-Hour Withdrawal Ultimatum in Iraq

Military activity intensified across the Middle East in the last 24 hours as Israeli strikes on Tehran caused significant infrastructure damage and widespread blackouts. Simultaneously, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed precision strikes against U.S. F-15, F-16, and F-35 squadrons stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. While the U.S. and Israel have not confirmed casualties, the IRGC has characterized these operations as part of a broader psychological and kinetic campaign against Western assets in the region. In Iraq, a mediated 24-hour ceasefire has been established via the central government, providing U.S. and NATO forces a narrow window to evacuate the Victoria Base Complex in Baghdad. This development follows sustained pressure from drone and missile attacks by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq. President Trump has signaled a temporary pause in direct U.S. strikes on Iranian power infrastructure, asserting that negotiations to end the conflict are occurring on its 24th day, though Iranian officials have publicly denied these claims. The maritime situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains critical, prompting India to demand international intervention at the IMO to protect stranded commercial vessels and sailors. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has affirmed that the alliance is organizing operations to restore freedom of navigation, as concerns mount over the potential for prolonged oil price spikes and disruptions to the global energy supply.