Jerusalem (Rajeev Sharma): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that the expanding confrontation with Iran will be swift and purposeful, dismissing fears of a protracted war in the Middle East.
In a televised appearance on Hannity, Netanyahu said the joint efforts of Israel and the United States are aimed at delivering a decisive shift in regional security dynamics. “We are not entering an endless cycle of conflict,” he stated, framing the operation as a strategic move intended to create conditions for longer-term stability.
The remarks come amid sustained military exchanges between Israeli and Iranian forces, with Washington playing a direct role in the campaign. U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that operations could continue for several weeks, even as officials underscore that objectives remain clearly defined.
On Capitol Hill, Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged mounting concerns over oil market volatility triggered by the fighting. He said the administration is preparing measures to cushion American households from rising fuel costs. According to Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Energy Secretary Chris Wright are set to outline steps aimed at calming energy markets and preventing sharp price increases.
The conflict’s ripple effects have been felt across the Gulf. Saudi officials confirmed that two drones struck the U.S. Embassy compound in Riyadh, causing a small fire and limited structural damage. No injuries were immediately reported. The U.S. Embassy complex in Kuwait was also targeted earlier.
Retaliatory strikes have extended beyond Israel, with Iranian-backed forces launching attacks on strategic sites in several Gulf states, including energy infrastructure in Qatar. Airlines have rerouted flights, leaving thousands of travelers stranded, while global oil prices have climbed sharply in response to supply fears.
Adding to the volatility is the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. The development has intensified speculation about Iran’s political future and the potential direction of its military response.
Despite the escalating exchanges and economic tremors, Netanyahu continues to argue that the campaign is designed to be limited in scope and duration. Whether the region moves toward de-escalation or deeper instability in the coming weeks remains an open question.
