Al Jazeera is reporting that the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran is expanding. It said the United States intercepted ballistic missiles launched by Iran at U.S. targets in the region. Saudi Arabia and the U.S. also carried out attacks on Iran-backed militias in Iraq. Al Jazeera said Iran struck three ships in the Strait of Hormuz and rejected Oman’s proposal for managing the waterway.
The latest escalation raises new questions about Iran's economy, which has weathered years of sanctions and months of conflict. Millions of people continue to feel the impact, with analysts questioning why the economy has not collapsed under U.S. pressure.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent visit to the White House drew attention, with analysts asking if his once-close relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump still provides him the influence in Washington that has been a political strength.
Separately, Al Jazeera reported a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan’s Kyushu island, causing building collapses, fires and widespread damage.