Iran War: Day 11 – US-Israel Attacks Intensify Amidst Global Energy Concerns
As the conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran enters its eleventh day, the repercussions are being felt globally, particularly in the energy sector. Intense bombardments continue across Iran, while Tehran vows to continue fighting “as long as necessary.” The situation is further complicated by the succession of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new supreme leader following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Escalation of Conflict and Leadership Transition
The war, initiated on February 28, 2026, with joint airstrikes by Israel and the United States, has led to a volatile situation in West Asia and the Indian Ocean. The assassination of Ali Khamenei triggered the establishment of a ruling triumvirate, ultimately leading to the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new supreme leader. This transition has been met with large rallies of support within Iran, seen as a defiant response to the ongoing attacks. However, US President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with the new leadership, suggesting the conflict could be over “pretty quickly.”
Humanitarian Impact and Casualties
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on all sides. According to reports from the US and Israel, at least 2 soldiers and 16 civilians have been killed in Israel, with 2,339 injured. 9 US military personnel have been killed or died, and around 150 wounded. Iran reports significantly higher casualties for the US forces, claiming 650 soldiers killed or wounded, though these figures remain unverified. Recent reports indicate at least 40 people were killed in an attack on residential buildings in eastern Tehran, and five people were killed and several injured in a US-Israeli air strike in Arak, western Iran. Al Jazeera reports these figures as of March 10, 2026.
Strait of Hormuz Closure and Global Energy Markets
A major consequence of the conflict is the virtual halt of activity in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital waterway through which approximately 20% of the world’s crude oil and a substantial amount of gas normally transit. Wikipedia highlights this disruption as a key factor impacting global energy markets. This closure has heightened concerns about energy supply and prices worldwide.
International Response and Ceasefire Efforts
Several countries, including China, Russia, and France, have reportedly contacted Iran regarding a potential ceasefire, according to Iranian state TV. However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that Iran will continue fighting until its objectives are met, casting doubt on the prospects for a swift resolution. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs alleges that the US intends to “partition [the] country” and “capture oil.”
Regional Implications
The conflict extends beyond Iran, with attacks and involvement from various regional actors. Azerbaijan, Bahrain, France, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates have all been attacked or are otherwise involved. Hezbollah strikes on Israel have triggered renewed Israeli strikes on Lebanon. Israel is also reportedly conducting attacks against Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Islamic Group.
Key Takeaways
- The US-Israel war on Iran is ongoing, entering its eleventh day on March 10, 2026.
- Mojtaba Khamenei has succeeded his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s supreme leader.
- The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
- The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is disrupting global energy markets.
- International efforts to mediate a ceasefire are underway, but face challenges.
Worth a look