WASHINGTON — Israel launched fresh strikes on Tehran on Wednesday, escalating tensions with Iran even as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict gathered momentum.
The Israeli Defense Forces said the strikes targeted key infrastructure in the Iranian capital, while Iranian media reported damage in residential areas and ongoing rescue operations. The latest escalation comes amid an intensifying cycle of attacks between the two sides.
Read More: Israel and Iran exchange strikes amid rising tensions
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it responded with a new wave of strikes on Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Kiryat Shmona, as well as US military bases in the Gulf region.
Meanwhile, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia reported repelling drone attacks, with a fuel facility at Kuwait International Airport briefly catching fire without casualties.
Amid the escalation, Donald Trump said the United States was making progress in negotiations to end the war. Reports suggest Washington has sent a 15-point proposal to Tehran, potentially including a temporary ceasefire and broader terms addressing Iran’s nuclear programme and regional activities.
Iranian officials, including parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, dismissed reports of negotiations, calling them inaccurate.
The conflict, which began in late February, has severely disrupted global energy markets. The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz — through which a significant share of global oil passes — has triggered fuel shortages and market volatility worldwide.
Read More: Energy targets in crosshairs as Mideast war escalates
Adding to diplomatic efforts, Pakistan has offered to host talks between Washington and Tehran, while the US continues to expand its military presence in the region, raising concerns about a prolonged conflict.