"The Refinery War": Conflict Shifts to Energy Veins; Israel Hits Tehran, IRGC Strikes Haifa

The major confrontation between the U.S.-Israeli alliance and Iran entered a harsher "new phase" this Sunday, as military operations shifted from neutralizing air defenses to crippling the energy and fuel sector deep within Iranian territory. This strategic shift aims to throttle the regime logistically and deprive it of the ability to provide basic necessities to its citizens and military forces, placing the Iranian home front under unprecedented strain.

1. Targeting Tehran's Oil Heart

For the first time since the war began on February 28, Israeli jets conducted precision strikes on oil storage depots and refining facilities in Tehran and Alborz province. An Israeli security source told Channel 12 that "pressure is mounting, and soon the regime will be unable to provide basic supplies to citizens," emphasizing that the target list still includes vital facilities yet to be struck.

2. IRGC Retaliation: Haifa Refinery in Sight

The Iranian response was swift, with the IRGC announcing via Fars News a missile strike on the Haifa refinery in Israel. This move attempts to establish a new deterrence equation based on mutual economic targeting. These missile volleys confirm that despite losing top leaders, including Ali Khamenei, Iran still retains the capability to inflict damage within Israel.

3. Regional and Economic Fallout

Targeting energy facilities has paralyzed navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, causing a historic spike in global oil prices. Regional tensions have also expanded to include vital facilities in neighboring countries, as Iran launched drones and missiles at energy plants and desalination stations in retaliation for the logistical support provided to the alliance.