US-Israel-Iran War Updates: Modi to Review Energy Situation as Conflict Escalates

The war between the US, Israel, and Iran has entered its fourth week, marked by escalating attacks and growing global concerns about energy security. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to chair a high-level meeting on Sunday evening to assess the situation, particularly regarding fuel and power supplies, according to sources cited by PTI.

Recent Developments

• Iranian Missile Strikes: Iranian missile strikes hit southern Israeli towns, including Arad and Dimona, causing extensive damage and injuring over 100 people, including children. Authorities in Tel Aviv reported that air defense systems failed to intercept some of the incoming missiles.
• Long-Range Missile Launches: Iran launched two long-range ballistic missiles towards the U.S.-British military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir noted these missiles have a range of 4,000 km (2,500 miles) and could potentially reach European capitals like Berlin, Paris, and Rome.
• Strait of Hormuz: Iran stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all shipping except vessels linked to “Iran’s enemies,” following a threat from U.S. President Donald Trump to target Iranian power plants if the waterway was not “fully open” within 48 hours.
• Escalating Conflict: The conflict began on February 28 and has already resulted in thousands of deaths in Iran and hundreds on the US-Israeli side.

Modi’s Recent Visit to Israel

The timing of Prime Minister Modi’s recent state visit to Israel, where he addressed the Knesset and affirmed India’s support for Israel, has drawn criticism from the Congress party. Jairam Ramesh, a Congress spokesperson, accused Modi of “the highest moral cowardice” given the subsequent launch of joint military operations by the US and Israel against Iran. Modi was conferred with the maiden ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ during his visit.

Global Implications

The IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) highlighted the global threat posed by Iran, stating that the country has carried out attacks against 12 countries in the region and is developing capabilities that could pose a broader threat. The United States has temporarily lifted sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded onto tankers, allowing sales until April 19, in an effort to ease pressure on global energy markets.

Statements from Leaders

• Benjamin Netanyahu (Israeli Prime Minister): “This is a particularly difficult evening.”
• Eyal Zamir (Israeli Army Chief): “The war is not close to ending.”
• Donald Trump (U.S. President): Issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz or face the destruction of its energy infrastructure.

The situation remains highly volatile, with ongoing attacks and heightened tensions in the Middle East.