West Asia war enters fifth day: Explosions hit Tehran amid US-Israel strikes

Explosions were reported in Tehran as fighting intensified between Iran and the Israel–United States alliance, signalling a further escalation in the rapidly expanding conflict in West Asia.

The war entered its fifth day on Wednesday, with Iranian state media confirming blasts around the capital, while Israel said its air defence systems were activated to intercept incoming Iranian missiles. The continued exchange of attacks marks one of the most intense phases of confrontation between the regional rivals.

Casualty figures continue to mount on both sides. Reports suggest that around 800 people have been killed in Iran since the hostilities escalated, while 11 deaths have been reported in Israel. The United States Department of Defence also confirmed that six US service members were killed in a drone strike in Kuwait City.

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Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that several leaders identified by Washington as potential successors to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei were killed in recent US strikes.

According to US officials, nearly 2,000 targets inside Iran have been struck so far. These reportedly include missile launch sites, military installations and facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear programme.

The conflict’s impact is now being felt far beyond the battlefield. Shipping activity through the crucial Strait of Hormuz has slowed significantly, raising concerns about global oil supplies. At the same time, airspace closures across parts of the region have left thousands of travellers stranded.

Supply chains for key commodities—including oil, pharmaceuticals, fertilisers and semiconductors—are also facing mounting pressure as the conflict continues.

With regional tensions rising and global markets reacting nervously, there remains no clear indication of when or how the escalating conflict might come to an end.