Iran strikes Gulf oil sites, disrupts Hormuz shipping

Iran intensified attacks on oil infrastructure in the Gulf and continued to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, raising concerns about global energy supplies as the Middle East conflict shows no sign of easing.

The strategic waterway, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil normally passes, has effectively been blocked to cargo traffic. Iranian strikes have also targeted oil fields and refineries in several Gulf Arab states.

Early Wednesday, a projectile struck a container ship off the coast of Oman, setting the vessel on fire and forcing its crew to abandon it. Kuwait and Saudi Arabia said their air defence systems intercepted Iranian drones and missiles aimed at strategic facilities.

Israel, which began military operations against Iran with the United States on February 28, carried out fresh strikes on Tehran and targets linked to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group in Lebanon.

Explosions in Beirut and southern Lebanon killed at least seven people, including a Red Cross worker. Nearly 500 people have died in Lebanon since the latest phase of the conflict began, according to reports.

Meanwhile, the UN Security Council is preparing to vote on a Gulf Cooperation Council-backed resolution calling on Iran to halt attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.

Energy markets remain tense amid fears of prolonged disruption. Oil prices have stayed elevated as some tankers attempt to pass through the Strait of Hormuz using so-called “dark” transits with tracking systems switched off. Iran has also resumed oil exports through its Jask terminal.

Amid the escalating conflict, foreign nationals are continuing to leave the region in large numbers. The United Kingdom said it had evacuated more than 45,000 citizens, while about 40,000 Americans have returned home.

The United States has also reported seven military fatalities and eight serious injuries since the conflict began.