By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Iran Death Toll Rises Amid US-Israel Attacks
The US and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28, escalating regional tensions. By March 8, 1,332 Iranians had died, along with 11 fatalities across the Gulf and 11 in Israel. The conflict stems from US concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, ballistic missiles, and long-term regional actions.
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi warned that the conflict threatens a “dangerous turning point” and undermines ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Trump Justifies War, Faces Criticism
President Donald Trump repeatedly cited Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence to justify military action. Critics, including many Democratic lawmakers, argue Trump has offered minimal evidence that Iran posed an immediate threat.
Trump stressed that any future Iranian supreme leader would require US approval, warning that failure to comply could lead to consequences.
Diplomatic Efforts Disrupted
Before the attacks, indirect US-Iran negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program showed progress. Albusaidi said initiatives for a “fair and honourable solution” were underway when the US and Israel struck.
Iranian officials continue to reject US influence in domestic politics. Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi said, “We will allow nobody to interfere in our domestic affairs.”
New Supreme Leader Selected in Iran
Iran’s Assembly of Experts chose Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the new supreme leader hours after the US-Israel attacks began. Iran maintains the decision was fully independent, with no US interference.
Trump’s administration did not immediately respond but reiterated that any future leader must gain US approval.
Widening Military Actions in the Gulf
The US and Israel struck oil storage and refining facilities in Tehran. Iran retaliated across the Gulf, including a drone attack damaging a desalination plant in Bahrain.
Reports indicate both countries are considering a ground operation to secure Iran’s enriched uranium. Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter confirmed that securing nuclear fuel is “on our radar screen.”
US Concerns Over Global Energy Prices
Rapidly rising oil and gas prices create political pressure for Trump as midterm elections approach. The Pentagon also confirmed the seventh US soldier’s death since the conflict began, highlighting the war’s domestic impact.
