U.S. and Israel escalate conflict with Iran amid new attacks
The United States and Israel launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iranian targets on March 14 following the recent crash that killed American personnel near Baghdad airport; meanwhile Tehran vowed never again to allow such an attack by threatening permanent closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran confirmed it hit five U.S.-owned aircraft tankers with missiles, while Israeli forces reportedly began a total invasion into Lebanon and intensified assaults in southern Israel after new attacks on its territory were reported this morning.
Key Points
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1The U.S. and Israel have been engaged in a two-week conflict with Iran, escalating to include attacks on Iranian assets.
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2Iran vowed not only that it will keep the Strait of Hormuz closed but also threatened severe retaliation following an attack by American forces against its oil infrastructure.
Developments
Two days ago President Trump confirmed U.S.-led airstrikes on Kharg Island and other military sites in Iran. In response, Tehran vowed retaliation against energy firms working with the United States while threatening to keep oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz closed indefinitely. Meanwhile, an unnamed Iraqi security official stated that a recent airstrike hit radar equipment at the American embassy's compound near Baghdad International Airport