The scene in Tehran was grim on Sunday morning. Thick smoke choked the sky just hours after Israeli airstrikes targeted oil facilities in the capital. Residents woke up to a strange smell and dark clouds that even rain couldn’t wash away. Reports mentioned oily raindrops, raising alarms about the air quality.
Iran’s environmental officials advised people to stay indoors to avoid serious health issues. The Iranian Red Crescent warned that the explosions released a troubling mix of toxins, including sulfur and nitrogen oxides. They cautioned that rain might be acidic and could cause skin burns and lung damage.
The strikes hit multiple oil storage sites and an oil transfer center, resulting in the deaths of four tanker drivers, according to Fars news agency. Video footage captured flames shooting up into the night sky, marking one of the first attacks on a civil industrial facility in the ongoing conflict.
By late morning, the sun was obscured, causing confusion as drivers had to switch on their headlights. Many reported long lines at gas stations as fuel distribution took a hit. Tehran’s governor announced that each vehicle would be limited to just 20 liters of fuel.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that these facilities supported Iran’s military operations. This led to heightened tensions and concerns over military capabilities. The IDF called the strikes an important step in crippling the military infrastructure of what they referred to as the “Iranian terror regime.”
In response, Iranian officials expressed worries about rising oil prices, which have already surged since the conflict escalated. The price of Brent crude hit its highest since 2023, reflecting the broader economic implications of the ongoing war.
Recent estimates indicate that as military actions intensify, oil prices could keep climbing, affecting economies worldwide. Comments from Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf emphasized the global ramifications, arguing that continued hostilities under the direction of Israeli leadership only worsen the situation.
The situation escalated further on Sunday when Iran targeted infrastructure in the Gulf, including fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport and a desalination plant in Bahrain. Iranian forces indicated that these actions were retaliation for the strikes on their territory.
As the conflict unfolds, global attention is focused on the risks of further escalation and its impact on everyday life and the wider economy, especially with energy prices already on the rise.
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