Overview

• Iran’s deployment of hypersonic missiles against Israeli cities marks its most significant escalation in the five-day conflict.
• Israel has broadened its air offensive to strike Iranian nuclear and military facilities in retaliation.
• Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have held intensive talks with Tehran and Washington but have been unable to secure a truce.
• Oil prices jumped by $10 per barrel on concerns that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could be disrupted by the military escalation.
• President Trump’s demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender has heightened fears in Washington of direct US military involvement.