On Monday, March 23, 2026, the war entered its twenty-fourth day, and concerns about its future increased. Attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure and reciprocal threats against regional infrastructure have become a widespread concern.
Donald Trump stated that the talks have been “constructive” and that Tehran seeks an agreement, adding that a deal could be reached within a few days. He also announced a conditional five-day delay in attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure and emphasized that negotiations are ongoing.
This decision led to a drop in oil and gas prices; U.S. oil fell to about 89 dollars and Brent crude approached 100 dollars. Analysts attribute this decline to reduced tensions.
Trump also claimed that “regime change in Iran has effectively already happened” and, referring to the killing of some officials, spoke of changes in the power structure and the possibility of a model similar to Venezuela. He once again emphasized “peace through strength.”
In contrast, the Israeli military announced the start of a new wave of attacks on Tehran and related infrastructure and stated that it had targeted a force affiliated with the IRGC Quds Force in Beirut.
A report by The Washington Post indicates the uncertain status and isolation of Mojtaba Khamenei, described as the new leader of Iran’s regime and the son of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, and reports that he has been injured.
Overall, alongside the intensification of military clashes, signs of diplomatic activity are also visible. However, Iran’s regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have denied negotiations, and the situation remains complex and unclear. Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan are mediating between Tehran and Washington and have exchanged messages between the two sides. Sources report progress in this process.
Reiterating “peace through strength,” Trump warned that if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours, Iran’s power plants will be targeted. In response, the armed forces of Iran’s regime threatened retaliation.
The U.S. Department of State warned its citizens worldwide about flight disruptions and threats to American interests and is facilitating the evacuation of nationals from high-risk areas.
Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia group in Iraq, extended the suspension of attacks on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad for five days but warned it would respond if targeted.
Reports indicate widespread airstrikes on Tehran (districts one, four, 11, 13, and 21) as well as the cities of Tabriz, Khorramabad, Yazd, and Karaj, along with heavy explosions and the activation of air defense systems.
Iran’s missile and drone attacks against Israel and regional countries continue, while Gulf states report intercepting threats. In Jordan, the passage of a missile has been reported, and the release of images showing missile launches in Mashhad has sparked reactions.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Iran’s destabilizing capability has decreased and that 22 countries have coordinated to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the president of the United Arab Emirates, said Iran’s attacks carry geopolitical consequences and added that these actions have strengthened security cooperation between Gulf countries and the United States.
Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and described it as vital for energy market stability.
Gulf countries warned the United States that attacks on Iran’s infrastructure could trigger retaliatory responses and threaten regional facilities.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Iran’s attacks, expressed support for Saudi Arabia, and emphasized the security of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. officials stated that all options, including strikes on nuclear facilities, remain on the table and that operations against Iranian fortifications in the Strait of Hormuz are ongoing.
Reports of explosions in Tehran, Isfahan, and Khorramabad have been published, but independent verification is difficult due to media restrictions.
Lebanon’s prime minister stated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is directing Hezbollah’s operations and that Lebanon has been drawn into an unwanted war.
