Escalating tensions in the Middle East reached a critical point on Saturday, March 1, 2026, as Iran launched retaliatory attacks against countries in the Gulf region and bases belonging to the United States, following a joint strike by the U.S. And Israel on Iranian territory. The series of events has prompted widespread international concern and calls for de-escalation.
According to early reports, Iranian missiles struck locations in several Gulf nations, resulting in at least four deaths. RFI reported that the attacks targeted wealthy monarchies in the region.
The initial U.S. And Israeli strikes, which began shortly after 8 a.m. Israel time, targeted Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, as well as military and intelligence targets across Iran. The Times of Israel reported that several senior Revolutionary Guards commanders and political officials were killed, including the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, and Iranian defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the beginning of “major combat operations in Iran,” stating the campaign aimed to prevent the country from threatening U.S. National security interests.
The escalating conflict prompted an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council, where U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the military escalation and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. According to the AP, Guterres warned that failure to de-escalate risks a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians and regional stability.
Saudi Arabia condemned Iran’s attacks on Gulf countries and indicated its willingness to join a coalition against Tehran. Infobae reported that the country is prepared to participate in a coalition to counter Iran’s actions.
Amidst the escalating violence, a church in the Gulf region has called for prayer and calm. Vatican News reported on the call for peace.
The developments underscore growing regional instability and raise concerns about the potential for a broader conflict in the Middle East. The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected in the coming days.
