Saturday, May 23, 2026


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Nagdeklara si Marcos ng state of national energy emergency, UPLIFT inilunsad

MAYNILA – Inanunsyo ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ang state of national energy emergency at inutusan ang pagpapatupad ng Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) upang suportahan ang mga sektor na apektado ng tumataas na presyo ng langis.

Sa ilalim ng Executive Order No. 110, pinasimulan ni Marcos ang whole-of-government response na naglalayong tiyakin ang katatagan ng suplay ng enerhiya, protektahan ang mga pangunahing sektor gaya ng transportasyon, agrikultura, at micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), at pangalagaan ang mamamayan mula sa epekto ng global oil supply disruptions sanhi ng kasalukuyang tensyon sa Middle East.

“A state of national energy emergency is hereby declared in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and the resulting imminent danger posed upon the availability and stability of the country’s energy supply,” ayon sa kautusan ni Marcos.

Ibinaba ang deklarasyon habang inaasahang tataas ang presyo ng diesel sa higit P130 kada litro at gasolina sa higit P100 kada litro, sa ikatlong linggo ng sunud-sunod na pagtaas ng presyo ng langis. Ayon kay Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, maaaring umabot sa double-digit inflation ang bansa kung tataas pa ang presyo ng diesel sa P162.50 kada litro pagsapit ng Mayo sa pinakamatinding senaryo ng crude oil na umaabot sa $200 kada bariles.

Inilatag ng EO ang UPLIFT bilang isang pinagsamang plano ng pamahalaan, na pangungunahan ng UPLIFT Committee, upang pamahalaan ang suplay ng enerhiya, suportahan ang mga apektadong sektor, at protektahan ang mga mamimili. Binubuo ang komite ng Pangulo, Secretary, Department of Energy (DOE), Secretary, Department of Transportation (DOTr), Secretary, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Secretary, Department of Agriculture (DA), Secretary, Department of Finance (DOF), Secretary, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), Secretary, Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Bibigyang-pansin ng komite ang suplay ng gasolina, pagkain, at iba pang pangunahing produkto; pagpapatuloy ng pampublikong transportasyon at serbisyo; pagpapanatili ng katatagang pang-ekonomiya; at pagpapadali ng proseso sa mga pampublikong serbisyo. Bubuo rin ito ng pangmatagalang strategy upang mabawasan ang paggamit ng petrolyo, itaguyod ang renewable energy, at suportahan ang pagbabago sa ugali sa pamamagitan ng public awareness campaigns.

“When warranted, the DA may procure fertilizer and other essential agricultural inputs from available sources to support food security and protect agricultural livelihoods,” ayon sa EO.

Mga Tungkulin ng Committee

  • Ang Department of Energy (DOE) ay magsasagawa ng hakbang upang tiyakin ang katatagan ng suplay ng enerhiya.
  • Ang Department of Transportation (DOTr) ay magbibigay ng suporta sa mga pasahero, palalawakin ang pampublikong transportasyon, at rerebyuhin ang mga bayarin upang mabawasan ang gastos.
  • Ang Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) ay magpapabilis ng Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) at magbibigay ng livelihood at social support sa mga apektadong sektor.
  • Ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) ay magbabantay sa presyo ng pangunahing bilihin at susuportahan ang MSMEs habang itinataguyod ang paggamit ng energy-efficient solutions at electric vehicles.
  • Ang Department of Agriculture (DA) ay titiyakin ang sapat na suplay ng agrikultural inputs at pagkain, magbibigay ng tulong sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda, at magpapanatili ng food security.

“It shall likewise implement support programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and promote the adoption and use of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and other energy-efficient solutions in the transportation, logistics, and manufacturing sectors to reduce dependence on petroleum products,” ayon pa rin sa kautusan.

Ang hakbang ni Marcos ay nagpapakita ng komprehensibong tugon ng pamahalaan upang mabawasan ang epekto ng oil crisis at matiyak ang patuloy na serbisyo habang pinoprotektahan ang mga apektadong mamamayan.


Philippines says grounding planes is a ‘distinct possibility’ due to Iran war

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the grounding of some flights in the Philippines has become a “distinct possibility” as the ongoing conflict in Iran threatens global jet fuel supply.

Speaking in an interview on March 24, Marcos revealed that several countries have already informed Philippine airlines that they can no longer provide refueling services, forcing carriers to carry enough fuel for both outbound and return trips.

“Several countries have already told our airlines they cannot fuel their aircraft, so they have to carry fuel there and back,” the President said, noting that long-haul flights would be the most affected.

Asked whether aircraft may eventually be grounded, Marcos said: “We’re hoping not, but it’s a distinct possibility.”

Airlines across Asia are now preparing contingency measures as escalating tensions in the Middle East raise fears of a major oil shock, potentially the worst since the 1970s.

The Philippines remains particularly vulnerable, as it relies heavily on imported crude oil, much of it sourced from the Middle East, making it more exposed to supply disruptions and rising domestic fuel prices.

Budget carrier Cebu Air earlier announced plans to reduce flights starting April due to surging fuel costs linked to the Middle East crisis.

Elsewhere in the region, Vietnam Airlines has temporarily suspended some domestic routes, while VietJet Aviation JSC has cut flight frequencies. Bamboo Airways, meanwhile, said it would try to maintain operations during peak travel periods but warned of fewer flights if oil prices remain elevated.

However, the President’s remarks appear to contrast with earlier assurances from the Department of Energy. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said airlines have indicated they currently have sufficient fuel supply.

“We met them because we wanted to know if they need help in procuring, but they have assured us they’re okay,” Garin said.

Despite this, authorities and industry players continue to closely monitor the situation, as prolonged instability in the Middle East could significantly impact flight operations and travel in the coming months.

Discovering India through its people, families, and traditions

When I traveled to Delhi, I carried with me the images often seen on social media. These included crowded streets, pollution, and negative portrayals. What I experienced, however, was something far more meaningful, nuanced, and beautiful.

Yes, there was some trash, but not as much as I expected. What stood out more was the order within the chaos, the rhythm of daily life, and the warmth of the people. I did not encounter the scenes of drug addiction often exaggerated online. Instead, I saw families, communities, and traditions alive and thriving.

The weather itself was an experience. Nights were cold and mornings were foggy, creating a quiet and almost cinematic atmosphere. People dressed comfortably, often in cotton, adapting to the climate with simplicity and practicality.

One of the biggest surprises was the food. Many people follow a vegetarian lifestyle, yet the meals are rich, flavorful, and satisfying even without meat. The liberal use of spices enhances the flavors and aromas while also providing general health benefits, aiding digestion and supporting overall wellness. Indian cuisine reflects a culture that values not just nourishment, but also tradition, wellbeing, and spirituality.

Perhaps the most touching observation was the deep respect within families. Children, and even adults, greet their parents each morning with affection. They often kiss them or ask for their blessings. Even grown-up sons and daughters continue this practice, showing love and respect to their mother and father at the start of each day. It is a simple yet powerful gesture that reflects strong family values, humility, and closeness.

Families are tightly knit. Relatives stay connected, involved, and present in each other’s lives. There is a sense that no one stands alone. Everyone belongs.

What makes this even more remarkable is how relationships are deeply recognized and honored through language. In India, family members are not simply called “aunt,” “uncle,” or “brother.” Instead, each relationship has its own name, shaped by lineage, age, and connection.

A father’s older brother is called tau, while a younger brother is chacha. A mother’s brother is mama, and her sister is mausi. Siblings are addressed with affection and respect, such as bhaiya for an older brother and didi for an older sister, reflecting both closeness and a sense of family structure.

In-laws are also given distinct identities. A father-in-law is sasur, a mother-in-law is saas, a brother’s wife is bhabhi, and a sister’s husband is jiju. These are not just names. They are expressions of respect, familiarity, and belonging.

This rich vocabulary reveals something deeper about Indian culture. Relationships are not generalized. They are honored in detail. Each title carries meaning, responsibility, and emotional connection, reinforcing the idea that family is not just important. It is foundational.

It is also common in many households for extended families to live together or remain closely connected, a system often referred to as the joint family structure. Grandparents, parents, children, and relatives share not just space, but responsibilities, traditions, and support.

It is also worth noting that separation or divorce is still relatively uncommon in India, with estimates showing only around 1 to 1.5 percent of marriages ending in divorce. Cultural values, family involvement, and the view of marriage as a lifelong commitment all contribute to this reality. While urban areas are seeing gradual changes, marriage remains a deeply respected institution across the country.

One thing that truly amazed me is how everyone seems to know how to dance and sing, and they do it well.

This is not by chance. Dance and music are deeply woven into Indian life and history. Indian classical dance dates back over 2,000 years and is rooted in ancient texts like the Natya Shastra, which describes dance, music, and drama as forms of storytelling and spirituality.

Across India, there are many traditional dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Kathakali. Each tells stories through movement, rhythm, and expression. These dances were originally performed in temples as acts of devotion and later became important parts of festivals, weddings, and celebrations.

Music is equally important. Indian classical music follows structured systems like ragas, which are melodic frameworks passed down through generations. This deep cultural foundation explains why even ordinary people move with rhythm and confidence. Dance and music are part of everyday life, not just performance.

From weddings to simple gatherings, singing and dancing are natural expressions of joy. It is not about perfection. It is about participation.

India, as I saw it, is not defined by the negative images often portrayed online. It is a country of contrast, but also of culture, discipline, family, and joy. It is a place where food nourishes both body and tradition, families remain at the heart of daily life, and music and dance are lived, not just performed.

Perhaps most importantly, it reminds us that what we see on social media is only a fraction of the truth.

Namaste!

One thing that truly amazed me is how everyone seems to know how to dance and sing, and they do it well.
Perhaps the most touching observation was the deep respect within families. Children, and even adults, greet their parents each morning with affection.

This rich vocabulary reveals something deeper about Indian culture. Relationships are not generalized. They are honored in detail.

Air Canada Express jet collides with fire truck at LaGuardia Airport, killing both pilots

NEW YORK — A regional Air Canada Express jetliner collided with a fire truck on a runway at New York’s LaGuardia Airport late Sunday, killing both pilots and injuring dozens of people, authorities confirmed Monday, prompting a major investigation and significant travel disruptions at one of the nation’s busiest airports.

The Bombardier CRJ‑900 aircraft, operated by Jazz Aviation on behalf of Air Canada, was arriving from Montreal with 72 passengers and four crew members when it struck a Port Authority aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle on Runway 4 shortly before 11:40 p.m. local time. Both the pilot and co‑pilot were pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials said at least 39 passengers and two emergency responders were hospitalized, with nine reported to have serious injuries. By Monday morning, 32 of the injured passengers had been released from hospitals, while others remained under care.

The fire truck had been responding to a separate emergency involving a United Airlines flight that reported an odor onboard when it was cleared to cross the runway just as the Air Canada Express jet was landing, according to air traffic control audio. Moments later, a controller can be heard urgently ordering the vehicle to “stop” before the collision occurred.

The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft’s nose and tipped the fire truck on its side. Passengers described scenes of shock and confusion as the aircraft came to a halt.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have dispatched teams to investigate the accident, which has raised fresh concerns about runway safety and communications between air traffic control and ground operations.

LaGuardia Airport remained closed into Monday afternoon, forcing the cancellation and diversion of hundreds of flights to nearby airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport, as crews worked to clear the scene.

The collision has intensified scrutiny of aviation safety procedures in the United States, coming amid broader concerns over air traffic control staffing challenges and operational pressures at major airports.

Canadian Transport Minister Steve MacKinnon said Ottawa is working closely with U.S. investigators as the investigation continues and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

US delays potential strikes on Iran for five days as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz

DUBAI — The United States has postponed planned attacks on Iranian power plants for five days, after Donald Trump extended his ultimatum for Iran to reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil trade.

Trump said the delay allows time for what he described as “very good and productive conversations” between the U.S. and Iran that could lead to “a complete and total resolution” of the conflict. However, he did not provide details on the discussions, while Iran denied that any direct negotiations with the U.S. have taken place.

The decision came hours before Trump’s original 48-hour deadline, in which he threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the strait was not reopened.

In response, Iran issued a strong warning, declaring it would strike oil fields and other energy infrastructure across the Middle East, including facilities linked to U.S. interests.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard said electricity and industrial facilities supplying U.S. bases in the region would be targeted. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf added that Iran considers vital infrastructure across the region, including energy and desalination plants critical to Gulf nations’ water supply, as legitimate targets.

Iran had previously closed the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation to U.S. and Israeli attacks. While a few ships have passed, Tehran insists the strait remains closed to the U.S., Israel, and their allies. The move has caused severe disruptions in global oil markets and heightened economic concerns worldwide.

Amid rising tensions, the United Arab Emirates reported attempts to intercept incoming Iranian attacks with its air defense systems. Iran also warned it could mine the Persian Gulf if further aggression occurs, posing a threat to both military and commercial vessels.

Now in its fourth week, the conflict has killed over 2,000 people and driven oil prices to around $113 per barrel, a roughly 55% increase since the war began. The fighting continues to destabilize energy markets and threatens broader economic impacts, particularly for countries dependent on imported energy.

Meanwhile, Israel has continued offensives against Iran and affiliated groups in the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, raising the risk of a wider war.

Despite the escalating rhetoric and mutual threats, the United Nations has stressed that there is no military solution to the crisis and urged immediate diplomatic engagement to prevent further humanitarian and economic consequences globally.

Sumuporta ang mga senador sa pag-aaral na ipagpaliban ang ASEAN Summit 2026

Nagpahayag ng suporta ang ilang lider ng Senado noong Lunes sa panawagang pag-aralan ang posibleng pagpapaliban ng pagho-host ng Pilipinas sa 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit at kaugnay na mga pulong, upang makatipid ng mahigit P17 bilyon sa gitna ng tumitinding pressure sa ekonomiya dulot ng labanan sa Middle East.

Ayon kay Senate President Vicente Sotto III, dapat ikonsidera ng pamahalaan ang mungkahi ni dating Finance Secretary Margarito Teves.

“The Executive department might consider that,” ani Sotto. “The times call for such a possible move.”

Sang-ayon din si Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, na naniniwalang mauunawaan ng mga karatig-bansa sa Southeast Asia kung sakaling ipagpaliban ng Pilipinas ang pagho-host ng ASEAN Summit.

“Former Secretary Gary Teves’ proposal merits at least serious study and possible reconsideration. I think our ASEAN neighbors would understand,” ani Lacson.

Nakatakdang pamunuan ng Pilipinas ang ASEAN sa 2026 kasunod ng termino ng Malaysia. Noong nakaraang taon, humiling ang administrasyon ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sa Kongreso ng aprubal para sa pondong aabot sa P17,495,734,000 para sa nasabing summit.

Ipinunto naman ni Senador Imee Marcos na hindi nararapat gumastos ng ganitong kalaking halaga sa kasalukuyang kalagayan ng bansa.

“Pwedeng simpleng meetings na lang at pati mga kapwa nating members sa ASEAN namomroblema rin,” aniya.

Dagdag pa niya, kung hindi maiiwasan ang pagho-host, maaari itong gawing mas simple at gamitin ang pagkakataon upang humingi ng suporta mula sa mga bansang may produksyon ng langis tulad ng Brunei, Indonesia, at Malaysia.

Samantala, iginiit ng Malacañang na nananatiling sapat ang suplay ng langis sa bansa, bagama’t kinilala ang umiiral na “price disruption.”

Nanawagan naman si Senador Bam Aquino na ideklara ang state of national emergency, dahil aniya ay nasa “emergency level” na ang kalagayan ng maraming pamilyang Pilipino.

“Unang-una, ‘pag may state of national emergency, pwede silang maglagay ng price ceiling sa mga essential goods. Pangalawa, iyong ayuda na nilaan namin sa 2026 budget, ilabas na at ibigay na sa transport workers at suporta sa mga MSMEs,” ani Aquino.

Nangako rin si Aquino na babantayan ang paggamit ng emergency powers na maaaring ibigay sa Pangulo, kabilang ang pagsuspinde o pagbabawas ng fuel excise taxes.

Nauna nang pinagtibay ng House of Representatives ang bersyon ng Senado ng panukalang batas upang tugunan ang tumataas na presyo ng langis.

Para naman kay Senador JV Ejercito, dapat bumuo ang pamahalaan ng isang inter-agency task force upang paghandaan ang posibleng epekto ng lumalalang tensyon sa Middle East sa ekonomiya at enerhiya ng bansa.

“Sana magtatag na ng force para mapag-usapan kung ano ang puwedeng gawin… kung ano ang plano sa pagtitipid o austerity measures,” aniya.

Naghain naman si Senador Francis Escudero ng panukala para magtayo ng government-owned crude oil storage facility upang matugunan ang problema sa tumataas na presyo ng produktong petrolyo.

Sa ilalim ng panukala, magtatayo ng crude oil tank farm na may kapasidad na mag-imbak ng suplay para sa 90 hanggang 180 araw na konsumo ng bansa, na may paunang pondo na P60 bilyon.

Ang Department of Energy, katuwang ang Philippine National Oil Company o mga subsidiary nito, ang mangangasiwa sa pagkuha at pamamahala ng fuel reserves.

“A strategic crude oil stockpile is our shield,” ani Escudero. “Every time tensions rise in the Middle East… our economy absorbs the shock within days. We need a national buffer that protects Filipino families and industries from crises happening thousands of miles away.”

Dagdag pa niya, makatutulong ang paglalabas ng reserbang krudo sa panahon ng kakulangan o matinding pagtaas ng presyo upang maprotektahan ang mahahalagang sektor tulad ng transportasyon, agrikultura, at power generation, gayundin upang mapalakas ang posisyon ng bansa sa gitna ng global market disruptions.

G7 pledges action to safeguard global energy supplies, backs security in Strait of Hormuz

PARIS — Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have signaled readiness to take coordinated action to protect global energy supplies, amid rising tensions in the Middle East that threaten key النفط shipping routes.

In a joint statement issued Saturday, ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the European Union’s top diplomat, emphasized the critical importance of maintaining secure maritime routes — particularly in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

The waterway, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, has increasingly become a focal point of geopolitical risk following a series of attacks and counterattacks linked to escalating hostilities involving Iran and its regional proxies.

“We express support to our partners in the region in the face of the unjustifiable attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies,” the G7 ministers said, reaffirming their alignment with allies in the Gulf.

The group also condemned what it described as “reckless attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure,” warning that such actions pose a direct threat not only to regional stability but also to global energy markets.

Recent weeks have seen heightened security concerns in and around the Gulf, with shipping companies and insurers raising alerts over potential disruptions. Analysts note that any prolonged instability in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger sharp spikes in global oil prices and disrupt supply chains, particularly affecting energy-importing economies in Asia and Europe.

While the G7 statement did not outline specific measures, diplomatic sources suggest options could include increased naval coordination, enhanced intelligence-sharing, and closer cooperation with regional partners to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels.

The developments come as global markets remain on edge over the potential for broader conflict in the Middle East, with energy security once again emerging as a central concern for major economies.

Fuel prices seen to surge further next week

Fuel prices are expected to rise sharply again next week, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that continue to disrupt global oil markets, according to an industry source.

Projected price adjustments indicate that diesel may increase by P16.50 to P17.50 per liter, while gasoline prices could climb by P7.50 to P8.50 per liter.

These anticipated hikes follow significant increases already implemented for the week of March 17 to 23, as reported by the Department of Energy (DOE). During that period, diesel prices rose by P20.40 to P23.90 per liter, gasoline by P12.90 to P16.60 per liter, and kerosene by P6.90 to P8.90 per liter.

Based on DOE data covering March 10 to 16, combined with the latest adjustments, prevailing retail prices of petroleum products in the National Capital Region currently range as follows: diesel from P91.35 to P114.90 per liter, gasoline from P86.40 to P100.30 per liter, and kerosene from P91.90 to P143.79 per liter.

Despite the continued surge in fuel costs, the DOE assured the public that the country maintains sufficient supply. However, officials raised concerns over potential hoarding, which could worsen the situation and disproportionately affect public transport operators.

“What is unpredictable is the hoarding part. Kung mag-hoard ang isa, maapektuhan ang iba, especially ang PUVs. We need to curtail hoarding and not cause more panic among our people,” said Sharon Garin.

US deploys Marines and warships to Middle East as Iran threatens tourism sites

WASHINGTON/DUBAI – The United States is sending thousands of additional Marines and an amphibious assault ship to the Middle East, officials said Friday, as the conflict involving Iran continues to widen and threaten global energy supplies.

According to U.S. officials, around 2,500 Marines will be deployed alongside the USS Boxer and accompanying warships, though their exact mission has not been disclosed. Two officials said no decision has been made on whether to commit ground troops inside Iran.

The deployment comes as the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes, remains largely closed to shipping following the outbreak of war nearly three weeks ago between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

The conflict has already killed more than 2,000 people, mostly in Iran and Lebanon, and triggered widespread attacks on energy infrastructure across the region. Oil prices have surged by about 50% since February 28, raising fears of a global economic shock.

In an effort to stabilize markets, the Trump administration said it would temporarily waive sanctions on Iran to allow the sale of 140 million barrels of oil stranded on tankers. Similar steps had earlier been taken to ease restrictions on Russian oil exports.

On the ground, hostilities continued to intensify. Israel said it carried out two major waves of airstrikes targeting weapons production sites and ballistic missile infrastructure in Tehran and central Iran. In response, Iran launched multiple missile attacks, setting off air raid sirens in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Israeli police said fragments from an Iranian missile landed just outside Jerusalem’s Old City, a site sacred to Christians, Jews, and Muslims. No casualties were reported.

Elsewhere in the region, Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery was hit by drone attacks that ignited fires in parts of the facility, marking the latest in a series of strikes on Gulf energy infrastructure.

Amid the escalation, Iran has also issued a broader warning beyond the battlefield, threatening to target tourist and recreational sites globally in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli actions. Iranian military officials said parks, resorts, and other public leisure areas could become unsafe for their adversaries, raising fresh international security concerns.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington was nearing its military objectives, including weakening Iran’s armed capabilities and preventing it from developing nuclear weapons. He also criticized NATO allies, calling them “cowards” for refusing to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz while the conflict continues.

Several U.S. allies have expressed willingness to support efforts to secure maritime routes, but countries such as Germany and France have said any involvement would depend on a cessation of hostilities. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to discuss the issue with Trump.

The United Kingdom has authorized the United States to use its bases for strikes on Iranian missile sites targeting shipping in the strait.

Meanwhile, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a defiant message during the Nowruz celebrations, praising what he described as the country’s unity and resistance. His absence from public view since the start of the conflict has raised questions among intelligence officials about his condition and leadership.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they had launched missile strikes on Israeli cities including Haifa and Tel Aviv, and carried out drone attacks on U.S. military bases in the region. There was no immediate confirmation from U.S. forces.

The semi-official Tasnim news agency also reported that Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmail Ahmadi, had been killed, adding to a growing list of high-ranking officials reportedly targeted in Israeli operations.

Despite weeks of sustained attacks, U.S. and Israeli officials acknowledge that Iran retains the capacity to retaliate, even as its military resources have been significantly degraded.

Global energy markets remain under pressure. Brent crude hovered near $110 per barrel on Friday after sharp gains a day earlier, as supply disruptions continue to mount. An estimated 12 million barrels per day, about 12% of global demand, have been cut due to halted exports and reduced output from Gulf producers.

The impact is expected to be prolonged, with analysts warning that lost supply could take months or even years to fully replace.

As the conflict drags on, the risks of further escalation, including threats extending beyond military and energy targets, continue to grow.

Israel launches fresh attacks on Iran as regional crisis deepens

DOHA/WASHINGTON/JERUSALEM -Israel launched a new wave of attacks on Iran on Friday, intensifying a conflict that has already killed thousands, spread across neighboring countries, and rattled global energy markets.

The latest strikes came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said he had urged Israel not to repeat attacks on Iranian natural gas infrastructure, warning against further escalation in a war that has increasingly destabilized the Middle East.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the military had begun “a wave of strikes against the infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime in the heart of Tehran,” though no further details were immediately disclosed.

The conflict began after the United States and Israel launched attacks on February 28 following the collapse of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. Since then, hostilities have widened beyond Iran and Israel, with Gulf states now facing direct fallout from the fighting.

Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates reported missile attacks early Friday, following a series of Iranian strikes on regional energy infrastructure that have unsettled global markets.

Energy prices surged on Thursday after Iran responded to an Israeli strike on a major gas field by attacking Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City, one of the world’s most critical liquefied natural gas processing hubs. The facility handles about a fifth of global LNG supply, and damage from the attack could take years to repair.

Saudi Arabia’s main Red Sea port was also struck on Thursday. The port had served as an alternative export route as Iran moved to restrict access through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway that carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Despite the mounting attacks, oil prices fell on Friday after major European nations and Japan signaled readiness to help secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the United States outlined steps to increase oil production.

The attacks on energy infrastructure highlighted Iran’s ability to inflict significant economic damage despite the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign, while also exposing the limits of regional air defense systems in protecting critical assets.

Trump, facing political pressure over rising fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections, said he had personally urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to strike Iranian energy infrastructure again.

“I told him, ‘Don’t do that,’ and he won’t do that,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday.

Netanyahu later said Israel had acted alone in the bombing of Iran’s South Pars gas field and confirmed that Trump had asked Israel to refrain from similar attacks. He added that while Iran had been “decimated” and no longer possessed the capacity to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles, any revolution inside the country would require a “ground component,” without elaborating further.

With no end to the conflict in sight and fears of a global oil shock growing, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan issued a joint statement expressing readiness to support efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The countries also pledged to explore additional measures to stabilize energy markets, including coordination with oil-producing nations to boost output. Still, there was little sign of immediate intervention. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said any role in securing the strait would only be considered after active hostilities had ceased.

The cautious response from Washington’s allies reflects deep skepticism about a war many European leaders say has unclear goals and was not a conflict they sought.

Confusion has also emerged over coordination between the United States and Israel. While Trump said Washington had no prior knowledge of Israel’s bombing of Iran’s South Pars gas field, three Israeli officials said the operation had been conducted in consultation with the United States, though they suggested it was unlikely to be repeated.

U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told the House intelligence committee that Washington and Tel Aviv were pursuing different objectives in the conflict.

She said the Israeli government was focused on crippling the Iranian leadership, while Trump’s stated goals were to destroy Iran’s ballistic missile launch capability, missile production capacity, and naval strength.

Iran, meanwhile, warned that strikes on its energy facilities had pushed the war into a “new stage.” Iranian military spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaqari said Tehran had begun targeting energy assets linked to the United States and warned that any renewed attacks on Iran’s energy sector would trigger further retaliation against U.S. and allied infrastructure.

QatarEnergy chief executive Saad al-Kaabi told Reuters that the Iranian strike had knocked out about one-sixth of Qatar’s LNG export capacity, estimated at $20 billion annually, and said repairs could take between three and five years.

Israeli media also reported that an Iranian strike hit oil facilities in the port city of Haifa, causing damage but no reported casualties.

As the conflict deepens, concerns are mounting that the war could further destabilize the region and trigger prolonged disruption to global energy supplies.