The conflict in the Middle East reached a new peak on Saturday as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed targeted bombings of several Iranian fuel depots across Tehran. Massive pillars of fire and smoke were seen rising from the Shahran oil depot in northwestern Tehran and another facility in the south near the capital’s main refinery.
While the IDF stated these strikes were essential to “deepen the damage to the military infrastructure” of the Iranian regime, the human toll of the wider war continues to spark international outrage.
Key Developments in the Conflict:
- Fuel Depots Targeted: The IDF confirmed hits on multiple storage facilities, alleging they were used to power military operations. While the Shahran area saw significant explosions, Iranian state media claimed the main Tehran refinery remained undamaged.
- The Minab School Tragedy: President Donald Trump issued a “bombshell” remark regarding the devastating strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab last week, which killed over 150 people. Despite a New York Times report suggesting U.S. munitions were likely responsible, Trump blamed Iran, stating, “We think it was done by Iran… they have no accuracy whatsoever.”
- Retaliation on U.S. Bases: In response to the school strike, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) claimed they targeted the Al-Dhafra Air Base in the UAE with drones and precision missiles on Friday and Saturday, alleging it was the launchpad for the attack on the school.
- Rising Civilian Toll: The Iranian health ministry reported the civilian death toll has surpassed 900, with over 6,000 injured since the conflict escalated following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.