Jerusalem/Tehran: Israel launched fresh strikes on military targets in western and central Iran on Monday, escalating tensions in the region despite calls for restraint from US President Donald Trump.
The attacks came hours after Trump said ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran would not derail diplomatic efforts and suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not the sole decision-maker in matters related to the conflict.
According to reports, Trump had urged Netanyahu during a phone conversation to halt military operations to create space for negotiations with Iran. However, Israeli forces continued operations targeting locations in Iran and other areas linked to regional security concerns.
In response, Iran reportedly launched missiles toward Israeli targets, including areas near a major airport. Israeli authorities claimed that their air defence systems successfully intercepted the incoming projectiles before they could cause significant damage.
The latest exchange of attacks has heightened concerns about a broader regional conflict and its impact on global markets. Energy traders reacted sharply to the developments, with international crude oil prices rising by more than three per cent and moving above the $96-per-barrel mark.
Analysts said fears of disruptions to energy supplies and shipping routes in the Middle East contributed to the spike in oil prices.
The renewed hostilities have drawn international attention, with several countries urging both sides to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilise the region.
Diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions are expected to continue, although the latest military exchanges have raised doubts about the prospects for an immediate de-escalation.
