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As the West Asia war enters its third week, Iran's missile and drone attacks have expanded across the Gulf, leading to rising oil prices, trade disruptions, and increased military tensions. Diplomatic efforts struggle to contain the escalating conflict and its economic fallout.

Escalation of War and Iran's Offensive

As the West Asia war enters its third week, US and Israeli forces claim to have dismantled over 15,000 Iranian targets. In retaliation, Iran has launched ballistic missiles and cluster bombs against Israel and Gulf nations. Notably, Iran is deploying ballistic missiles weighing up to two tons and using cluster munitions that eject smaller submunitions, making them difficult to intercept. The Strait of Hormuz remains under Iranian dominance, and Gulf states are facing constant attacks.

Security Crisis in Gulf Nations and US Role Controversy

Bahrain has intercepted 125 missiles and 203 drones, while the UAE has intercepted over 294 ballistic missiles and 1,600 drones. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, and Iraq are also facing daily attacks. Iran has targeted a US base in Saudi Arabia's Al-Kharj and the UAE's Fujairah oil facility, with explosions also heard in Bahrain's Manama. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, claims the US is using its bases in the Gulf to launch attacks on Arab nations, further complicating the situation.

Iran has vowed to strike any energy infrastructure in the region belonging to American companies and warned that the US attack on Kharg Island, a key artery of Iran's oil trade, will further escalate the scope of retaliation. Araghchi stated that while no specific initiative has been proposed to end the war, Iran welcomes any regional initiative that leads to a just end. Meanwhile, protests are growing within Iran as its security apparatus weakens, despite state media attempts to suppress coverage of widespread public unrest.

*Source: YouTube: WION (2026-03-15)*

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