Israel on Saturday declared that its ongoing war against Iran had entered a “decisive phase,” as explosions and strikes swept across the region, including attacks on the US Embassy in Baghdad and a major energy facility in the United Arab Emirates.
AFP journalists reported seeing black smoke billowing over Washington’s embassy in Iraq, marking the second assault on the mission since February 28, when joint US–Israel strikes on Iran plunged the Gulf region into a deepening conflict with global economic repercussions.
The war has displaced millions and reportedly claimed over 1,200 lives in Iran alone, with little indication of a slowdown as the conflict entered its third week.
Clouds of dark smoke were also seen rising from Fujairah, home to a major oil storage and export hub, shortly after Iranian military officials warned civilians to avoid port areas.
Israel Katz stated that the conflict is entering a “decisive phase,” but cautioned that operations would “continue as long as necessary” to achieve strategic objectives.
Despite facing superior US and Israeli military power, Iran has remained resolute, launching missile and drone strikes across at least 10 neighbouring countries and disrupting traffic through the crucial Strait of Hormuz.
In northern Iran, Israel’s army issued an evacuation warning for residents of an industrial zone in Tabriz, indicating a potential imminent strike.
The attack on the US embassy in Baghdad followed earlier strikes against the Iran-backed Kataeb Hezbollah, reportedly killing two members, including a “key figure,” according to security sources.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump confirmed that US forces had struck Kharg Island, Iran’s largest oil export hub, claiming to have “obliterated every military target” while sparing energy facilities. Iranian media confirmed that the island’s oil terminals remained operational.
Iran had previously warned that any attack on US-linked oil or energy infrastructure would result in facilities being “turned into a pile of ashes,” highlighting the escalating stakes in the region.
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