US-Israel vs Iran War News Live Updates: US warns its citizens to leave Iraq as Trump urges allies to help secure Strait of Hormuz
US-Israel vs Iran War Live News Updates: The US embassy in Baghdad has urged American citizens to leave Iraq immediately after a missile struck the diplomatic mission’s building early Saturday. This comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with the US President Donald Trump calling on allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping lane. The Strait of Hormuz is vital for global energy trade, with about 20 million barrels of oil passing through it daily, accounting for roughly a fifth of global consumption
However, the US and Israel continue their attacks on Iran, with missiles striking multiple sites across the central Isfahan province. At least 15 people have been killed.
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Trump has urged countries receiving oil through the Strait of Hormuz to secure the passage, saying “the countries of the world that receive oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage, and we will help”. He also warned Iran, stating the US may hit Kharg Island “a few more times just for fun” if terms aren’t met. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized the strait is closed to Tehran’s enemies. The conflict has led to escalating strikes across the Middle East, including a drone attack on Fujairah port in the UAE
On the ground, the chaos is mounting. A missile strike hit a helipad within the US Embassy compound in Baghdad, while intercepted drone debris sparked fires at an oil facility in the UAE. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is doubling down on its regional footprint; an additional 2,500 Marines and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli are now steaming toward the Middle East, joining the largest American naval buildup in decades.
5 key developments:
Kharg Island raid: President Trump confirmed US Central Command destroyed naval mine storage and missile bunkers on Iran’s “crown jewel” export hub. Tehran claims the oil facilities remain functional despite 15 massive explosions.
Threats to global trade: Iran has warned it will strike any regional energy infrastructure with “American shares,” specifically naming Dubai’s Jebel Ali, the Middle East’s busiest port, as a potential target.
Baghdad embassy strike: A helipad inside the massive US diplomatic compound in Iraq was struck Saturday. While no group has claimed responsibility, Washington has blamed Iran-aligned militias.
15,000 target milestone: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed that over 15,000 targets have been struck inside Iran since the war began, averaging more than 1,000 strikes per day under Operation Epic Fury.
Lebanon’s humanitarian toll: Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah continue to pummel Beirut and the south. Health officials report the displacement of 850,000 people as the “Axis of Resistance” braces for a long war of attrition.
The Indian Express Global Desk remains committed to rigorous verification. Follow our live blog below for real-time tracking of Operation Epic Fury, regional airspace status, and diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation.
Live Updates