Sunday marks 100 days since the United States and Israel launched war on Iran, a conflict that has triggered a global energy crisis and darkened the global economic outlook. The war, which Iran has called an 'unprovoked act of aggression', has expanded to Gulf nations as well as Lebanon. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 8, but Israel has continued its offensive in Lebanon, killing more than 3,000 people.
America's European allies did not condemn the US-Israeli attacks but declined to get involved in the war and expressed opposition to regime change. Gulf countries condemned Iranian attacks on their territories. Russia and China also pushed back against the war. Countries affected by rising oil prices and market volatility have called for a diplomatic solution, with Pakistan playing a major role in mediating talks.
Oman, a main mediator of US-Iran nuclear talks, expressed dismay when the war was launched. Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said the conflict would not serve US interests or global peace. Oman was dragged into the conflict when Iran launched retaliatory attacks on US military assets and energy infrastructure across the Gulf. The Duqm commercial port was struck by drones on March 1, and a fuel tank was hit two days later. The Salalah port was hit at least twice, and two foreigners were killed in a drone attack in Sohar province on March 13. Iran has denied involvement.
Qatar strongly condemned Iran for firing missiles targeting its territory, which hosts the Al Udeid airbase. Qatar expelled several Iranian military and diplomatic personnel after an attack on QatarEnergy's LNG facility at Ras Laffan. A US missile early-warning radar in Qatar was also damaged. Qatar has called for de-escalation and dialogue. Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani told US President Donald Trump of the need for political and diplomatic solutions.
The United Arab Emirates' Ministry of Defence condemned the attacks, and the country has been involved in diplomatic efforts. The conflict continues to evolve, with sporadic attacks and ongoing diplomacy to negotiate a deal between the warring parties.
