Blasts and Crater Near Jerusalem Old City
Loud explosions were reported near Jerusalem’s Old City on Friday, leaving an impact crater close to the Jewish and Armenian quarters. Smoke was seen rising from the site as air raid sirens sounded across parts of West Asia, including Israel and Bahrain. Iran intensified attacks, marking the 21st day of the escalating conflict.
Iran Warns Enemies Worldwide
Tehran issued a global warning, stating that its “enemies” would not be safe in parks, tourist destinations, or recreational areas following the killings of senior Iranian leaders. The warning came after Iran targeted Gulf oil and gas facilities in retaliation for Israeli strikes on key Iranian gas fields.
US and Israeli Strikes on Iranian Assets
The United States and Israel reportedly struck 16 Iranian cargo vessels in port cities, while Israeli forces targeted infrastructure in Tehran following Iranian missile fire overnight. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Israel would hold off further attacks on offshore gas fields at the request of US President Donald Trump.
Gulf Attacks and Defense Responses
- Kuwait: Drone strikes hit Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery, causing fires but no casualties.
- Saudi Arabia: Air defenses intercepted more than a dozen drones.
- Bahrain: Shrapnel from Iranian aggression caused a minor warehouse fire, controlled without injuries.
- UAE: Missile and drone attacks were detected and countered by air defense systems.
Crude Oil Market Impact
Brent crude dropped to around $106 per barrel, while WTI fell to approximately $94. Saudi officials warn oil prices could spike past $180 per barrel if disruptions continue through late April. Brent crude has risen over 60% since the US and Israel initiated strikes on Iran.
Warnings from Global Leaders
- Donald Trump: Warned the US could “massively blow up the entirety” of Iran’s gas fields if attacks persist.
- Benjamin Netanyahu: Declared Iran can no longer enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles.
Meanwhile, Israel issued missile alerts from Haifa to the Sea of Galilee as tensions rise further.
Casualties and Regional Fallout
Renewed fighting in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah has pushed the death toll past 1,000. The Gulf region remains on high alert as missile and drone attacks continue, threatening civilian and energy infrastructure.
