Israel detected a missile launched from Yemen on Saturday-the first since the US-Israel strikes on Iran began a month ago-signaling potential expansion of the conflict.
The Iranian-aligned Houthis warned they would act if attacks on Iran continued, threatening critical Red Sea shipping lanes they previously disrupted during the Gaza war.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said military operations are “on or ahead of schedule” and expected to conclude in “weeks, not months.” Washington has deployed thousands of Marines and elite airborne troops to the region, fueling concerns of a prolonged ground war.
Stock markets plunged Friday as Brent crude surged past $112 a barrel-up over 50% since the conflict began. Diesel prices in California hit a record $7.17 per gallon, pressuring President Trump politically.
Despite Trump’s claims of “productive negotiations,” Tehran denies talks have started. He extended a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz but continued airstrikes struck Iranian infrastructure, including a university and steel plants.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemned the attacks as contradicting US diplomatic overtures and vowed retaliation. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain reported new missile strikes, with casualties in Abu Dhabi and Zanjan.