US-Israel War on Iran Enters Second Week Amidst Apologies and Escalating Tensions
The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its second week, marked by continued attacks and a surprising apology from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to neighboring Gulf states. Despite the gesture aimed at de-escalation, tensions remain high, with US President Donald Trump threatening further escalation and Iran vowing a firm response to any aggression.
Trump Signals Escalation, Iran Responds
President Trump, in a post on Truth Social on Saturday, March 6, 2026, warned that Iran would be “hit incredibly hard,” indicating a potential widening of targets and the risk of “complete destruction and certain death” for some individuals and groups within Iran. CNN reports that a senior Iranian official responded by stating Iran is seeking new US assets to target.
Iranian President’s Apology and Domestic Backlash
President Pezeshkian delivered a televised address apologizing to neighboring Gulf nations and promising not to strike them unless their territories are used to launch attacks against Iran. However, this move sparked criticism from hardliners within Iran. CNN notes that Pezeshkian’s office later reiterated Iran’s commitment to a “decisive” response to any aggression from US bases in the region.
Hardline cleric and lawmaker Hamid Rasai criticized Pezeshkian’s stance as “unprofessional, weak and unacceptable” on X (formerly Twitter). A former Revolutionary Guards commander as well denounced the apology on social media.
Attacks on Gulf States and US Bases
Despite the apology, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for drone strikes targeting Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates and a US base in Bahrain, according to ABC News. Blasts were also reported in Doha, Qatar. Dubai authorities reported minor incidents caused by falling debris from intercepted aerial objects, including one incident resulting in the death of an Asian man. Emirates airline briefly suspended flights to and from Dubai.
Escalation in Lebanon
Israel has intensified its strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, with reports of at least 294 deaths since Monday, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. ABC News reports heavy Israeli bombardment following an evacuation order for civilians in the region.
Casualties and Economic Impact
Iran’s UN ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, stated that at least 1,332 Iranian civilians have been killed and thousands wounded in the US-Israeli attacks. Ten people have died in Israel, and at least six US service members have been killed. The conflict has disrupted global markets, driving up oil prices and impacting business and logistics links. Kuwait’s national oil company has begun cutting output, adding to earlier cuts from Iraq and Qatar. Times Now News reports the Strait of Hormuz is effectively shut down.
Iran Rejects US Involvement in Leadership Selection
President Trump has demanded a say in selecting Iran’s new supreme leader, a notion rejected by Iravani. Hardline clerics have called for the swift selection of a new leader, with the Assembly of Experts potentially meeting within 24 hours, according to Iranian media.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that Pezeshkian’s attempt at de-escalation was misinterpreted by Trump and that Iran’s armed forces are prepared for further escalation.