Airstrikes have pounded the Middle East after U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The conflict, which began February 28, has escalated into a regional war with thousands of targets hit across Iran, Lebanon, and the Persian Gulf. Iran and its allies have retaliated with attacks on Israel, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of global oil flows, has become a critical choke point threatening energy supplies. Oil prices have surged sharply higher than pre-war levels, roiling global markets and raising concerns about economic stability. American bases and civilian buildings throughout the region have also been targeted in the escalating violence.

Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militant group based in Lebanon, has been heavily involved in the fighting, with Israeli strikes targeting Beirut and other areas. The conflict has created a humanitarian crisis, forcing thousands to flee their homes and seek refuge in temporary shelters. As the war continues to spread, the international community faces mounting pressure to broker a ceasefire before the situation deteriorates further.