Iran Fires Long-Range Missiles, Strikes Near Israeli Nuclear Site
Iranian forces have escalated their conflict with Israel and the United States by firing long-range missiles for the first time, marking a dangerous expansion of the Middle East crisis that could affect global security and energy markets.
Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir confirmed that Iran launched two 4,000-kilometer-range ballistic missiles at the US-UK military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean on Saturday. This represents the first time Iran has used such long-range weaponry in the ongoing conflict that began when the United States and Israel started attacking Iran on February 28.
European Capitals Within Range
"These missiles are not intended to strike Israel. Their range reaches European capitals, Berlin, Paris, and Rome are all within direct threat range," Zamir warned in his statement, highlighting the global implications of Iran's expanded military capabilities.
The missile strikes came as Iranian forces also targeted southern Israeli cities, with missiles hitting Dimona and Arad late Saturday, injuring dozens of people including children. The strikes occurred dangerously close to Israel's secretive nuclear reactor, located about 13 kilometers southeast of Dimona.
Nuclear Facility Concerns
Iranian media reported that US-Israeli forces had attacked the Shahid Ahmadi-Roshan Natanz enrichment complex on Saturday morning. Technical experts found no radioactive leaks occurred and nearby residents were not at risk, though the International Atomic Energy Agency said it was investigating the incident.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the evening as "very difficult" in the battle for Israel's future, vowing to "continue striking our enemies on all fronts."
Global Energy Crisis Deepens
The conflict has created severe disruptions to global energy supplies, with natural gas prices in Europe surging as much as 35% this week. The Strait of Hormuz, which carries around a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, has been effectively closed to most shipping.
For the Philippines and other Asian nations dependent on energy imports, these developments pose significant economic risks. India has managed to secure limited passage for cooking gas shipments, while Japan seeks similar arrangements for its oil imports, which are 90% dependent on the strait.
Trump Considers Military Drawdown
US President Donald Trump posted on Friday that Washington was considering "winding down" its military operation against Iran, though mixed messages from his administration have left traditional allies uncertain about American intentions.
"We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran," Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The war, now entering its fourth week, has killed more than 2,000 people in Iran and 15 in Israel. Energy price shocks are fueling inflation globally, creating political challenges for leaders worldwide as the conflict threatens to expand beyond the Middle East.
Regional Spillover Effects
The conflict has drawn in multiple regional players, with Hezbollah firing on Israel in support of Tehran, while Saudi Arabia expelled Iranian diplomats. Iran has also targeted US bases in the UAE and Kuwait, and struck energy infrastructure in neighboring countries.
For the Philippines, which maintains strong ties with both the United States and seeks stability in global shipping lanes, the crisis underscores the interconnected nature of modern conflicts and their potential to disrupt trade routes vital to the archipelago's economy.