DUBAI, MAR 29: Iranian-backed Houthi rebels escalated the monthlong Middle East conflict Saturday, launching two missiles at Israel. Around 2,500 US Marines deployed to the region, while Pakistan announced a Sunday meeting of regional powers to seek an end to the fighting.
The war disrupts global oil, gas, and fertilizer supplies, cripples air travel, and rattles markets via Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz. US and Israel strikes on Iran continue, met by Tehran’s attacks on Israel and Gulf states—over 3,000 dead so far.
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy visited Gulf nations Saturday, offering drone aid. Houthi involvement threatens Bab el-Mandeb Strait shipping (12% of world trade), though Iran relented Friday on UN pleas, allowing humanitarian and farm shipments. US President Trump demands full Strait reopening by April 6.
Tehran saw heavy strikes late Saturday; Israel targets Iran’s naval arms production, vowing completion soon after hitting 11,000+ sites. Iran missiles hit Israel; Gulf defenses downed drones Sunday.
In Gaza, two Israeli strikes killed six Palestinians, including three police, per Nasser hospital. Israel’s military reported one soldier killed, three wounded in southern Lebanon—fifth death there since Hezbollah clashes reignited March 2.
