US-Iran War Escalates into Week 3, Diego Garcia Base in Focus Amid Rising Tensions

The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has entered its third week, with rising tensions signaling a potential expansion beyond the Middle East. A reported missile attempt by Iran targeting the strategic Diego Garcia base has brought renewed global attention to the scale of the confrontation.
According to reports, Iran launched two intermediate-range ballistic missiles towards the US-UK military base. While one missile reportedly failed mid-flight, the other was intercepted by a US naval defense system, though confirmation of a successful interception remains unclear.
US President Donald Trump stated that he does not favor a ceasefire at this stage, indicating a continued hardline stance. He also suggested that the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz would eventually reopen and expressed hope for broader international involvement, including China.
Meanwhile, global oil markets reacted sharply, with Brent crude prices climbing to their highest levels since 2022, reflecting fears of prolonged instability in the region.
On the ground, Iran has expanded its strikes, targeting Israeli positions and energy infrastructure across Gulf countries, while warning of possible attacks on public spaces worldwide. In response, Israel intensified airstrikes in Tehran during Nowruz celebrations.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, in a message marking Eid and Nowruz, emphasized continued resistance, describing the conflict as extending beyond conventional warfare.
The United States has further reinforced its military presence, deploying additional warships and thousands of marines to the region, as the Pentagon seeks increased funding for the conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated a temporary halt to attacks on a key Iranian gas field following US intervention, though broader hostilities persist.
With casualties mounting across Iran, Israel, and neighboring regions and millions displaced, the conflict shows no immediate signs of de-escalation, raising concerns of a wider regional war.