Explosions shook the Iranian capital Tehran overnight as the war involving Iran, Israel and the United States entered its second week, with President Donald Trump declaring that the only acceptable outcome for Tehran would be “unconditional surrender.”
Major strikes hit Tehran overnight
Large explosions were reported across several districts of Tehran early Saturday, sending dark plumes of smoke into the sky as Israeli airstrikes targeted military and government-related infrastructure in the capital. Video footage circulating on social media showed flashes across the skyline as air-defence systems attempted to intercept incoming strikes.
The attacks are part of an expanding campaign by Israel and the United States aimed at degrading Iran’s military capabilities, leadership structure and nuclear programme. Officials warned that the bombing campaign could intensify further in the coming days.
Iran responded by launching ballistic missiles toward Israel, triggering air-raid sirens and forcing residents in several cities to seek shelter in bomb shelters.
Trump demands ‘unconditional surrender’
Amid the escalating conflict, President Donald Trump has taken a hardline stance, stating that negotiations with Iran would only occur if Tehran accepts “unconditional surrender.”
The administration has also approved additional military support for Israel, including a new arms package worth roughly $151 million as the war intensifies.
Trump has indicated that any post-war settlement could involve the selection of new Iranian leadership and the dismantling of the country’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
Iranian officials have rejected the demand outright, insisting that the country will not accept foreign interference in its internal political system.
War spreads across the region
The conflict is increasingly spilling beyond Iran’s borders. Israeli forces have launched additional strikes in Lebanon against Hezbollah positions, while Iranian-aligned groups have intensified attacks against Israeli targets.
Meanwhile, Iranian missiles and drones have targeted locations in Israel and parts of the Gulf region hosting US forces, highlighting the widening geographic scope of the war.
Casualty figures continue to rise. Reports indicate that more than a thousand people have been killed in Iran since the start of the conflict, with additional deaths reported in Lebanon, Israel and among US military personnel.
Global repercussions intensify
Beyond the battlefield, the conflict is already having major economic consequences. Oil prices have surged amid fears that the war could disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy supplies.
Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict have begun in several capitals, but there is currently little indication that either side is prepared to halt military operations.
As the second week of the war begins, analysts warn that the conflict risks evolving into a prolonged regional confrontation with significant global implications.
Newshub Editorial in Middle East – March 7, 2026
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