Israel Targets Iran’s Top Security Official as War Enters 18th Day
Israeli forces claimed they struck Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani in a fresh operation, but his fate remains unclear, Reuters reported citing Israeli media. Iran has not yet commented. This development comes as the US-Israel campaign against Iran marks its 18th day with no signs of slowing down.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) also launched a “massive wave” of strikes on Tehran, Shiraz and Tabriz, hitting regime-linked infrastructure, missile sites and air defence systems. Multiple explosions rocked northern Tehran near the Saadabad Palace, while air defence systems in Tabriz were reportedly shelled.
Indian Tanker Brings Relief Amid Global Oil Crunch
In a positive development for India, the Indian LPG tanker MT Nanda Devi docked at Vadinar Port in Gujarat’s Jamnagar today carrying 46,500 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas. The ship-to-ship transfer to MT BW Birch is set to begin immediately.
Deendayal Port Authority Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh personally visited the vessel to ensure smooth operations. This arrival is crucial as global oil supplies face severe pressure from the ongoing conflict.
India has already deployed two warships near the Strait of Hormuz to protect merchant vessels and tankers carrying oil and gas to Indian ports. The move underlines New Delhi’s focus on securing energy routes.
Oil Prices Hit Record Highs Worldwide
Middle Eastern crude has become the world’s most expensive oil. Dubai crude soared to nearly $153 per barrel and Oman crude touched $148 – their highest levels ever. Analysts link the surge directly to fears of supply disruption through the Strait of Hormuz
Asian markets reacted quickly. West Texas Intermediate rose 1.95% to $95.32 and Brent gained 1.84% to $102.05 in early trade. Thailand is now in talks with Russia to buy oil, while Sri Lanka has cut government offices, schools and colleges to four days a week to save fuel.
China Steps In With Humanitarian Aid
China announced emergency humanitarian assistance to Iran, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the aid aims to ease suffering caused by the three-week conflict. Meanwhile, reports from Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) claim nearly 4,765 people killed or injured in Iran so far, including 205 children, with 3.2 million displaced.
What This Means for India and the Region
The conflict is directly affecting daily life far beyond the Middle East. Fuel prices are expected to rise in India in the coming weeks. Households and industries should prepare for possible shortages and higher costs.
Experts monitoring the situation say the next few days will be critical. Any further closure or threat to the Strait of Hormuz could push oil prices even higher.
As missiles continue to fly and diplomatic efforts remain limited, the world watches closely. The safe docking of Nanda Devi offers a small but important reassurance for India’s energy security in these uncertain times.
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