Israel says its air force has struck a nuclear-related facility inside Iran, while Tehran has intensified attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure across the Middle East, raising fears of a prolonged conflict that could destabilise global energy supplies.
Israeli strike targets nuclear development site
Israel’s military said its air force recently carried out strikes against a site in Iran believed to be connected to nuclear weapons development. According to Israeli defence officials, the target was a compound linked to the country’s historic AMAD programme, which intelligence agencies say previously researched nuclear weaponisation technologies.
The strike reportedly focused on the Taleghan facility within the Parchin military complex southeast of Tehran. Israeli officials claim the location was being restored after earlier damage and had resumed sensitive experiments related to explosives used in nuclear weapons design.
Iran has repeatedly denied that its nuclear programme has military ambitions, insisting that its activities are intended solely for civilian energy and scientific purposes. However, Israel and several Western governments maintain that Tehran retains the capability to revive weapons-related work.
The attack is part of a broader wave of Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iranian military and technological infrastructure as the war that erupted in late February continues to widen across the region.
Iran expands attacks on energy and shipping routes
In response, Iran and its regional allies have stepped up efforts to disrupt global energy markets by targeting shipping and oil infrastructure across the Persian Gulf and neighbouring waters.
Multiple commercial vessels have been struck in recent days, including two oil tankers that were set ablaze in Iraqi waters during attacks attributed to Iranian forces. The incident killed at least one crew member and further rattled maritime traffic through the Gulf.
The attacks come amid growing tension around the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow maritime corridor through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes. Iran has reportedly deployed naval mines and warned commercial shipping against using the route, effectively halting much of the traffic.
Energy analysts describe the disruption as one of the most severe shocks to oil supply since the 1970s energy crises. Tanker movements through the strait have collapsed, with many vessels waiting outside the Gulf for security guarantees.
Oil prices surge as markets react
The escalating attacks have already had a dramatic impact on global energy markets. Oil prices surged as much as seven percent in a single trading session amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions and continued attacks on shipping infrastructure.
Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 per barrel again as traders assessed the risk that the Strait of Hormuz could remain closed for weeks. Analysts warn that sustained disruption could push prices significantly higher and fuel inflation globally.
Governments have begun releasing strategic oil reserves in an attempt to stabilise markets, but traders remain cautious as the conflict continues to expand geographically.
Regional conflict widens beyond Israel and Iran
The war has already spread far beyond direct exchanges between Israel and Iran. Iranian drones and missiles have targeted ports and energy facilities across the Gulf, including strikes near Oman and attacks on tankers operating in regional waters.
At the same time, Hezbollah and other allied groups have launched rocket and missile attacks against Israel, while air strikes have expanded into Lebanon and other neighbouring theatres.
Western officials warn that the conflict risks evolving into a wider regional confrontation involving multiple states and non-state actors.
Strategic stakes grow as war enters second week
Military analysts say the latest developments highlight the dual strategy now shaping the conflict. Israel is focusing on degrading Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities, while Tehran is attempting to exert leverage through global energy markets and maritime choke points.
That dynamic has turned the war into both a military and economic confrontation. If energy supplies remain constrained and attacks on shipping continue, the consequences could extend far beyond the Middle East.
For now, the region remains on edge as both sides signal that their campaigns are far from over.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – March 12, 2026
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