Latest developments (as of March 13, 2026):
– Deadly US plane crash in Iraq — All six US service members aboard a refueling aircraft were killed when it crashed on Thursday. The Pentagon stated the incident was “not due to hostile fire,” but an Iranian proxy group claimed responsibility.
– Marine Expeditionary Unit deployment — The Pentagon is deploying a Marine Expeditionary Unit (approximately 2,500 Marines and sailors) to the Middle East as a rapid response force. The unit is typically used for evacuations, amphibious operations, raids, and other contingencies.
Iran’s new Supreme Leader wounded — US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Mojtaba Khamenei is “wounded and likely disfigured” from the US-Israeli campaign. President Trump earlier described him as “damaged” but “probably alive in some form.” Khamenei made his first public comments Thursday, threatening to open “other fronts” in the war.
– Oil market chaos — Global oil prices settled at their highest levels since July 2022, with Brent crude at $103.14/barrel (up 2.67%) and US crude at $98.71/barrel (up 3.11%). The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, disrupting 20% of world oil flows. Iran is reportedly considering allowing limited tanker passage only if cargo is traded in Chinese yuan.
– Tehran strikes and pollution — CNN analysis shows Israeli strikes on Tehran oil depots last weekend caused massive fires, oil spills, and toxic black smoke spreading up to 50 km. Air quality spiked dangerously, raising questions about proportionality under international law. Experts warn of long-term soil and water contamination.
– Lebanon family tragedy— An Israeli airstrike in Irkay, southern Lebanon, killed nine members of the Taqi family, including four young girls (ages 6–13). Mourners buried them Friday as the father searched rubble for a necklace one daughter had asked for.
– US reward for Iranian leaders — The State Department is offering up to $10 million for information on Mojtaba Khamenei and other key figures, including IRGC officials, accusing them of directing global terrorism.
– UN humanitarian warning— UN relief chief Tom Fletcher condemned the war’s $1 billion daily cost, contrasting it with the underfunded $23 billion appeal to help 87 million vulnerable people worldwide. He warned of rising food, energy, and fertilizer prices due to Strait disruptions affecting humanitarian supplies.
The war, now in its 14th day, has killed over 2,000 people (per estimates), with ongoing Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and Iranian missile responses causing widespread disruption across the region.
