The war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel has entered its fourth week, with no signs of de-escalation. While Washington is working to keep global energy supplies stable, Tehran has firmly rejected any diplomatic negotiations.
Officials and diplomats say Iran is intensifying its counterattacks, including strikes on neighboring countries. Analysts believe Tehran’s strategy is to inflict significant global economic damage—particularly in energy markets—before the U.S. can bring the situation under control militarily.
At the center of the crisis is the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Iran’s effective closure of this key route has created severe instability in global energy markets.
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a 48-hour ultimatum, warning that if the strait is not reopened, Iran’s power infrastructure could face massive strikes.
An Iranian diplomat, speaking anonymously, said the partial closure of the strait is intended to make the conflict extremely costly for its adversaries, adding that Iran is fighting alone against major global powers.
Mediation efforts by Qatar and Oman have so far failed. Iran has made it clear it will not enter talks unless attacks by the U.S. and Israel stop first. Unlike last year’s brief conflict, Tehran is now demanding compensation for war damages and guarantees against future attacks.
According to the Pentagon, U.S. and Israeli forces have struck more than 15,000 targets in Iran, damaging military infrastructure and killing several high-ranking officials, including Ali Larijani and Ali Mohammad Naeini.
Experts say the death of experienced figures like Larijani has made diplomatic resolution even more difficult.
Iran’s Health Ministry reports that more than 1,200 civilians have been killed, including 160 children in a school strike, highlighting the growing humanitarian crisis.
In a message marking Nowruz, Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that the new year would bring strong retaliation against enemies, expressing confidence that Iran would emerge stronger.
Meanwhile, Iran has faced criticism after executing three individuals during the holiday, including a 19-year-old wrestler. Human rights groups have condemned the trials.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly since the conflict began, issuing only a written statement. U.S. intelligence believes he may have been seriously injured in earlier attacks.
Analysts warn that even if the fighting stops, Iran could face serious internal challenges due to widespread destruction and public dissatisfaction. Prolonged conflict may also trigger renewed anti-government protests.
As the war continues, fears are growing over a wider regional escalation and a potential global economic crisis.
