Saudi Arabia Launches Direct Strikes on Iran as Proxy Violence Escalates in Lebanon

Regional dynamics in the U.S.-Iran conflict shifted significantly on May 13, 2026, as Saudi Arabia reportedly bypassed traditional reliance on U.S. military support to conduct direct airstrikes inside Iran. The strikes were described by officials as a calculated move to deter Iranian proxy attacks originating from Iraq. While Riyadh reportedly notified Tehran of the actions via diplomatic channels to signal restraint, the move marks a pivotal evolution in Gulf security during the 75-day war, which began under the Trump administration's 'Operation Epic Fury' on February 28. On the diplomatic front, China has intensified efforts to stabilize the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for 20% of the world's oil. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani officials to encourage Islamabad to facilitate back-channel talks between the U.S. and Iran. This comes as humanitarian concerns mount in Lebanon, where an additional 13 deaths were reported following intensified Israeli strikes against Hezbollah targets, further straining the fragile regional security environment. Domestically, the efficacy of the U.S. military campaign is facing renewed scrutiny. Despite claims from the White House regarding the degradation of Iranian forces, a leaked U.S. intelligence report suggests that Iran still possesses approximately 70% of its mobile missile launchers and significant portions of its pre-war stockpiles. With war costs now exceeding $29 billion, the assessment has fueled a growing debate over the long-term sustainability of the current military strategy.