War tensions rock Gulf as oil soars past $100

Tensions across the Gulf region escalated further after a wave of drone attacks left dozens injured and raised fears of a broader regional conflict linked

Tensions across the Gulf region escalated further after a wave of drone attacks left dozens injured and raised fears of a broader regional conflict linked to the ongoing war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Authorities in Bahrain reported the highest number of casualties from a single strike since the conflict began. The country’s health ministry said a drone attack wounded at least 32 civilians, including four children. Among the injured was a two-month-old infant, highlighting the growing humanitarian concerns as the conflict spreads.

Across the Gulf region, at least 10 people have been killed so far, most of them security personnel and foreign workers. Overnight attacks were also reported in Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, signaling a widening security threat.

Officials in Riyadh said air defense systems intercepted and destroyed two waves of drones targeting a major oil field. In a separate incident, a drone strike hit the United States Embassy compound, prompting the United States Department of State to order the departure of non-essential government staff from the country.

Meanwhile, officials in Iran warned that attacks on regional infrastructure could expand if strikes by Israel and the United States against Iranian facilities continue.

Inside Tehran, residents are closely watching political developments following the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new supreme leader. Communication with people inside Iran has been difficult due to widespread internet disruptions, but some residents briefly managed to share their views.

Several residents expressed skepticism about any political change, saying the leadership transition suggests that current policies will likely continue. Others fear the tensions with Western countries could intensify further.

The development has also drawn international attention. According to remarks shared on Fox News, Donald Trump said he was “not happy” about the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, though he has not issued an official public statement.

As the conflict deepens, global energy markets are feeling the impact. Oil prices surged above $100 per barrel amid fears that shipments through the Strait of Hormuz could face prolonged disruption.

Benchmark Brent crude oil rose nearly 24 percent to about $114 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude oil climbed by more than 26 percent. Nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes through the Strait of Hormuz, but shipping traffic through the strategic waterway has slowed significantly since the conflict began.