By Momodu Favour

Fresh explosions struck Tehran on Wednesday, intensifying an already volatile regional conflict, as Donald Trump suggested the war involving Iran could end within “two or three weeks.”

The latest strikes come amid escalating hostilities that began after coordinated air raids by the United States and Israel reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The unprecedented development triggered a broader regional confrontation, sending shockwaves through global energy markets and raising fears of a wider economic fallout.

Despite the continuing violence, Trump struck a cautiously optimistic tone late Tuesday, saying the conflict could soon be brought under control. The White House also announced that the president would deliver a major address outlining Washington’s position and possible next steps.

However, officials in Tehran pushed back against suggestions of imminent diplomacy. Masoud Pezeshkian stated that while Iran possesses the “necessary will” to end the war, any resolution must come with firm guarantees to prevent future hostilities. He also denied reports that Iran had responded to a proposed 15-point peace framework from Washington.

Iranian state media reported that multiple areas in Tehran came under attack Wednesday, with explosions heard across the capital. An AFP journalist confirmed strikes near the former US embassy — now a museum known as the “Den of Spies,” a longstanding symbol of strained US-Iran relations.

Additional strikes reportedly targeted steel production facilities in central and southwestern Iran, causing significant damage. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed responsibility for the operations, describing them as part of ongoing efforts to weaken Iran’s military and industrial capabilities.

Israel also reported intercepting an Iranian missile barrage, with emergency services confirming at least 14 injuries, including an 11-year-old girl.

Meanwhile, tensions widened further as Israeli air defence systems responded to a missile launched from Yemen the third such attack attributed to Iran-backed Houthi forces since their entry into the conflict.

The humanitarian toll continues to mount across the region. Thousands have been killed, and millions displaced as the conflict spreads beyond Iran’s borders.

In Beirut, Lebanon’s health ministry confirmed that seven people were killed in airstrikes targeting southern parts of the city. The Israeli military said the operation eliminated a senior commander of Hezbollah.

With diplomatic channels appearing uncertain and military operations ongoing, analysts warn that the situation remains highly unpredictable. As one resident in Tehran reportedly put it, “nobody knows what’s happening,” reflecting the deep anxiety gripping populations caught in the crossfire.

Global leaders are now under increasing pressure to de-escalate tensions and prevent the conflict from spiraling into a prolonged and even more devastating regional war.