Top News

Tensions in the Middle East surged dramatically on Sunday as both Israel and Iran launched new rounds of deadly attacks, killing civilians and leaving many more wounded. With violence intensifying and diplomacy faltering, fears are growing that the region is on the brink of a broader, more devastating conflict.

On the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope that global leaders could work together to de-escalate the situation and prevent further bloodshed.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts appeared stalled. According to a source familiar with the discussions, Iran informed mediators in Qatar and Oman that it will not consider a ceasefire with the United States as long as Israeli airstrikes continue.

Israel, which began its offensive on Friday with the stated goal of crippling Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, has issued warnings to Iranian civilians living near suspected weapons facilities to evacuate immediately. In a fresh update early Monday, the Israeli military reported airstrikes targeting missile sites in central Iran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking from a devastated apartment block in Bat Yam where six civilians lost their lives, delivered a stern warning: “Iran will pay a heavy price for the murder of civilians, women, and children,” he declared, his voice echoing through the shattered remains of a residential complex.

In response, Iran’s armed forces urged Israeli civilians to steer clear of what it described as “vital areas,” suggesting more strikes could be imminent.

Global Markets Rattle as Oil Prices Spike

The conflict is already having a ripple effect on global markets. Flames lit up the night sky over Tehran as Israeli warplanes targeted critical fuel depots, escalating concerns over Iran’s oil infrastructure and the broader economic implications.
As investors reacted, Brent crude prices surged $2.14 to reach $76.37 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude jumped $2.03, settling at $75.01. Earlier in the session, both benchmarks had risen by more than $4.

Civilian Toll Rises on Both Sides

The human cost of the escalating conflict continues to mount. Iran’s health ministry reported that at least 224 people have been killed and over 1,200 injured since Israeli strikes began—nearly 90% of them civilians. Among the dead were 60 individuals, including many children, crushed when a 14-story building collapsed in Tehran.
On the Israeli side, the violence also claimed lives. Tel Aviv shook with explosions Sunday afternoon as Iran launched its first daylight missile barrage since the conflict reignited. At least 10 people, including children, were confirmed dead. A second wave of missiles struck Haifa after dark, injuring several more, including two people in southern Israel.
In Bat Yam, residents struggled to process the devastation. “It’s dreadful. People are losing their lives and their homes,” said 29-year-old Shem, who was jolted awake when a missile slammed into a neighboring tower.

U.S. Politics Enter the Fray

As the crisis deepens, political tensions have spilled into Washington. Two senior U.S. officials told Reuters that former President Donald Trump recently vetoed an Israeli plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

“Have the Iranians killed an American yet? No. Until they do, we’re not even talking about going after the political leadership,” one official said. Netanyahu, asked about the report during a Fox News interview, dismissed it: “There are so many false reports. I’m not going to get into that. We do what we need to do.” He added that regime change in Iran may ultimately result from Israel’s military campaign, though the official goal remains dismantling Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.

Since Friday’s surprise assault, Israel has claimed significant success, including the elimination of Iran’s top military brass and major damage to its nuclear infrastructure. On Sunday, Iranian media reported that the head of the Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence wing, Mohammad Kazemi, and his deputy were killed in strikes on Tehran. In retaliation, Iranian leaders vowed to “open the gates of hell,” signaling their intent to respond forcefully in what has become the most severe military confrontation between the two rivals to date.

Trump Issues Dire Warning to Iran

Despite denying any direct involvement, Trump praised Israel’s military campaign and warned Tehran against targeting American assets. “If we are attacked in any way, shape, or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before,” he posted on Truth Social. He added, “We can easily get a deal done between Iran and Israel and end this bloody conflict.”

U.S. forces have already stepped in to intercept Iranian missiles headed toward Israeli territory, according to two American officials. However, nuclear talks scheduled between the U.S. and Iran were abruptly canceled after Tehran announced it would not engage in negotiations while under attack.As he departed for the G7 summit, Trump reiterated his hope for a ceasefire—but acknowledged that sometimes, countries must "fight it out" before peace can prevail.