On 28 February 2026 , the United States, at the behest of Israel , launched an unapproved military operation against Iran. Twenty days later, Iran has retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Israeli targets and on Gulf states that host U.S. bases, while closing the Strait of Hormuz . The conflict has disrupted oil, gas and fertilizer supplies, pushing global prices upward and raising concerns about a broader regional crisis. Key Developments (Bullet Points) U.S. airstrike on Iran’s Kharg Island energy export terminal after Iran rejected diplomatic talks. Israeli special‑operations unit assassinated Ali Larijani , Iran’s Intelligence Minister and the commander of the Basij paramilitary force. Israel bombed the South Pars gas field , prompting Iranian strikes on energy installations in Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. More than a dozen American soldiers killed, over a hundred wounded, and U.S. bases in the Gulf came under fire. On 17 March 2026 , Joe Kent resigned as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center , alleging the war was driven by Israeli pressure and a powerful lobby. Important Facts The conflict has two immediate strategic implications: (i) Iran’s ability to continue striking Gulf energy assets and U.S. installations, and (ii) the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz , which threatens global oil supply chains. Energy prices, especially for oil, gas and fertilizers, have surged, risking inflationary pressures worldwide. UPSC Relevance Geopolitics & International Relations (GS2) : The episode illustrates how bilateral alliances (U.S.–Israel) can trigger wider regional wars, highlighting the role of strategic chokepoints and proxy forces. Security & Defence (GS2/GS3) : Understanding the structure and influence of the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij is crucial for analysing Iran’s war‑fighting capacity. Energy Security (GS3) : The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on the South Pars gas field provide case studies on how geopolitical tensions affect global commodity markets. Domestic Politics (GS2) : The resignation of the National Counterterrorism Center chief underscores the impact of foreign policy decisions on bureaucratic morale and political accountability. Way Forward Given the high human and economic costs, diplomatic engagement is the only viable exit strategy. The United States should appoint a neutral mediator acceptable to Tehran, Israel and the Gulf states to negotiate a cease‑fire that includes: Re‑opening the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Guarantees against future unilateral strikes by the United States or Israel on Iranian territory. Frameworks for regional energy security, possibly involving joint monitoring of the South Pars installations. Such a negotiated settlement would curb the risk of a full‑scale regional war, stabilise global energy markets and align with India’s strategic interest in maintaining uninterrupted oil imports.