Capitals, March 31 (SANA) Military escalation linked to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli-Iranian conflict has intensified, with growing concern over restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and their impact on global energy markets.
More than a month after the conflict began, Iran has limited vessel movement through the strategic waterway, raising fears over supply disruptions, while international positions on the crisis remain unclear.
U.S. stance and strategic outlook
U.S. media reported that President Donald Trump has told aides he is prepared to end military operations against Iran even if the strait remains largely restricted. Officials said he believes efforts to fully reopen the route could prolong the conflict beyond a proposed four- to six-week timeframe.
According to officials, Washington aims to weaken Iran’s naval capabilities and reduce its missile stockpile before shifting toward diplomatic pressure to restore trade flows. If those efforts fail, the United States may push European and regional allies to take a more active role, while keeping further military options available.
Ongoing clashes and UN response
On the ground, strikes have continued in Tehran and other Iranian cities, with Israel announcing a new wave of attacks targeting military infrastructure. Israel also reported four soldiers killed and three wounded in southern Lebanon.
Iran, in turn, launched a new barrage of missiles toward Israel, causing injuries and damage, while interceptions triggered explosions in other areas.
The U.N. Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting at France’s request following reports of fatalities among members of the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Spillover into Gulf states
The conflict has also affected Gulf countries. In the United Arab Emirates, a fire in a residential building in the Al Badaa area left four people with minor injuries. In Kuwait, a drone strike hit an oil tanker, causing a fire that was later contained without casualties. In Saudi Arabia, authorities said several ballistic missiles were intercepted, with damage reported to homes in Al-Kharj.
Market impact and economic fallout
Global energy markets have shown sharp volatility, with oil prices rising for a fourth consecutive day. Brent crude is approaching one of its largest monthly gains on record, while U.S. crude is posting its strongest monthly performance since 2020.
Financial markets have also been unsettled, with gold and government bonds declining despite their traditional safe-haven status, while oil and the U.S. dollar strengthened.
In Europe, stock markets opened mixed amid political uncertainty, while Asian markets showed volatility as investors reacted to developments in the conflict.
F.J. /A.abdul
