Israel and Iran engaged in new military confrontations on Monday, jeopardizing a ceasefire agreement established on April 8 and heightening fears of a broader Middle Eastern conflict. The Israeli military initiated airstrikes on various Iranian locations following missile attacks from Iran aimed at northern Israel. These incidents marked the first direct military exchange between the nations since the ceasefire commenced.

Iranian reports indicated explosions in multiple cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj, and Tabriz. The Israeli forces claimed their strikes were aimed at military infrastructure and air defense systems across Iran, with a petrochemical facility among the targets. In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced missile strikes on two Israeli military bases, naming the operation “Nasr” or “Victory.” Israel reported intercepting several missiles, and explosions were heard near Jerusalem, resulting in damage to homes in a West Bank settlement, though no injuries were reported.

This surge in hostilities comes as tensions rise over attempts to secure a more comprehensive peace deal. Iranian officials accused the United States of either being aware of or supporting Israel’s military actions, cautioning that these attacks could adversely affect current diplomatic discussions.

Complicating the situation further, Yemen’s Houthi movement declared a missile attack on Israel and announced a prohibition on Israeli-affiliated shipping in the Red Sea. This move raises alarms about potential disruptions to one of the world’s key maritime trade passages.

The conflict’s escalation also reverberated through global markets. Brent crude oil prices climbed by $3.50, reaching $96.59 per barrel, while stock markets across Asia declined due to concerns about possible disturbances to energy supplies and regional stability.