Iran-Israel War Day 29 Updates: Trump says Iran ‘decimated’, Tehran steps up attacks on Gulf as West Asia conflict rages
From direct attacks on Tehran to missile interceptions across the Gulf, the situation remains fluid, with parallel efforts at diplomacy struggling to gain traction.
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Israel strikes Tehran, Iran vows retaliation
Israel’s military said it launched fresh strikes on Iranian “regime targets” early Saturday, marking one of the most direct escalations in recent days. An AFP journalist in Tehran reported hearing around 10 intense blasts and seeing plumes of black smoke rising over the capital.
Iran responded with a sharp warning. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would exact a “HEAVY price for Israeli crimes”, referring to attacks that have included strikes on two of Iran’s largest steel factories and nuclear-related sites.
The targeting of strategic infrastructure, including facilities linked to nuclear processing, has raised international alarm over the risk of a wider and potentially catastrophic escalation.
Civilian toll rises as missile exchanges intensify
The continued exchange of fire has led to casualties across multiple fronts:
- In Israel, emergency responders reported that a man was killed in Tel Aviv after missile strikes from Iran.
- Several others were wounded across the country.
- A Home Front Command official said a cluster bomb — which disperses smaller explosives over a wide area — was used in the attack.
Beyond Israel, the ripple effects of the conflict were felt in the Gulf:
Regional flashpoints widen: Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Houthis
The conflict continues to expand across multiple theatres:
- Israel struck Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting the Iran-backed group Hezbollah.
- Hezbollah said its fighters clashed with Israeli forces in south Lebanon using “light and medium weapons.”
- Saudi Arabia said it “intercepted and destroyed” a missile aimed at Riyadh.
Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthi rebels issued a fresh warning:
- The group said it would join the war if attacks on Iran continue or if additional countries enter the conflict.
- Though they have previously targeted Red Sea shipping, they have not yet directly intervened in this war.
US role deepens amid tensions with allies
The United States remains deeply involved, both militarily and diplomatically:
- More than 300 American troops have been wounded since the war began on February 28, according to US Central Command.
- A US official said 10 soldiers remain seriously injured.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signalled a limited timeline for Washington’s objectives, saying:
- “When we are done with them here in the next couple weeks, they will be weaker than they’ve been in recent history.”
He also revealed ongoing indirect communication:
- “We’ve had an exchange of messages and indications from the Iranian system… about a willingness to talk about certain things.”
However, Iran has yet to formally respond to a US-proposed peace plan.
At the same time, President Donald Trump publicly criticised NATO allies for not supporting efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz:
- “They just weren’t there,” he said, adding:
- “Why would we be there for them if they’re not there for us?”
Diplomatic efforts gather pace, but uncertainty remains
Despite ongoing hostilities, diplomatic channels remain active:
- US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope that talks with Iran could take place “this week.”
- He said a “15-point plan” had been presented and “could solve it all” if accepted.
Parallel mediation efforts are also underway:
- Turkey indicated that talks involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey could be held on Pakistani soil.
- Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary, facilitating message exchanges between Washington and Tehran.
However, scepticism persists over long-term outcomes:
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the conflict is unlikely to result in regime change in Iran, warning:
- “If that’s the goal, I don’t think you’ll achieve it. It’s mostly gone wrong.”
Nuclear concerns trigger global alarm
The targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities has drawn concern from international watchdogs:
- The International Atomic Energy Agency urged “restraint” following Israeli strikes on two nuclear sites, including a uranium processing plant.
- Director General Rafael Grossi warned against military actions that could risk a nuclear accident.
