Iran launched missile attacks on Israel after US President Donald Trump threatened weeks of strikes, escalating a conflict that has rocked global energy markets.
JERUSALEM: Israel came under Iranian missile fire on Thursday.
The attack followed a televised address by US President Donald Trump where he threatened to bomb the Islamic republic into the “Stone Ages”.
Trump vowed “extremely hard” strikes against Iran over the next two to three weeks. He claimed America’s military objectives in the conflict, which began on February 28, were nearing completion.
The US-Israeli strikes that started the war killed senior Iranian officials including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son has since replaced him.
Trump indicated talks may be possible with Iran’s new leadership. He described it as “less radical and much more reasonable” than its predecessor.
Despite this, Israel’s military said Iran fired missiles at the country twice after Trump’s address. Four barrages were detected within six hours on Thursday.
Iran has dismissed Washington’s ceasefire overtures. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei called US demands “maximalist and irrational”.
Pro-government Iranians in Tehran remained defiant at a commander’s funeral. “We will resist until the end,” said 57-year-old pensioner Moussa Nowruzi.
Trump also assured regional allies Washington would protect them from Iranian attacks. He addressed Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain directly.
Air raid sirens sounded repeatedly in the Tel Aviv area as Israel prepared for Passover. The United Arab Emirates said its air defences responded to new missile and drone threats on Thursday.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards confirmed hitting an oil tanker in the Gulf they said belonged to Israel. A British maritime security agency reported the vessel was struck off Qatar.
In Lebanon, Hezbollah said its fighters launched drones and rockets at northern Israel. Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed more than 1,300 people since March 2.
Trump called for countries to show “courage” and seize the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has effectively blocked the key waterway, through which one-fifth of global oil normally passes.
Britain hosted a virtual meeting with about 35 countries on Thursday to discuss reopening the strait. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the group would assess diplomatic and political measures.
Oil prices surged following Trump’s remarks. Brent crude jumped more than 4% to over USD 105, while West Texas Intermediate climbed 3% to around USD 103.
Some Iranians privately long for political change after earlier anti-government demonstrations. “He betrayed the Iranians,” said one woman in her 30s, requesting anonymity for security reasons.