NEW DELHI: The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran has come under severe strain after both countries exchanged fresh missile strikes for the first time since the April truce. The latest escalation saw Israeli forces target key energy and petrochemical infrastructure in Iran, including facilities in the Mahshahr region, while Iran responded with missile attacks on strategic and petrochemical sites in Israel, including targets near Haifa.

According to military and media reports, Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles toward Israel, prompting the activation of Israeli air defence systems and air raid sirens across several regions. In retaliation, Israel carried out strikes on military and industrial targets inside Iran, marking the most significant direct confrontation between the two sides since the ceasefire was brokered in April.

The renewed hostilities have heightened concerns about a broader conflict across the Middle East. Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have also threatened Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Sea, raising fears of disruptions to major global trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab corridor. The tensions have already pushed global oil prices higher as markets react to the possibility of supply disruptions.

The international community has urged restraint, with several countries calling for an immediate de-escalation to prevent the conflict from spreading further. Diplomatic efforts to preserve the ceasefire and restart negotiations remain under pressure as both sides continue to exchange threats and military actions.