• Trump states the US military operation in Iran could last beyond the projected four to five weeks.
• The offensive aims to dismantle Iran's missile and naval capabilities.
• Casualties include over 555 deaths in Iran and several US service members.
• Oil prices surge as military actions affect tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Regional airports gradually resume operations following temporary shut-downs.

US President Donald Trump declared on Monday that the military operation in Iran, named "Operation Epic Fury," could extend beyond the projected timeline of four to five weeks if deemed necessary. The President emphasized that the military has “the capability to go far longer than that,” highlighting the urgency of dismantling what he termed Iran's growing ballistic missile threat, which he described as an “intolerable threat” to the US and its allies according to SCMP, AA, and Al Jazeera.

During a White House ceremony, Trump outlined the operation’s objectives, which include destroying Iran's missile capabilities and naval forces. He noted, “We’ve knocked out already 10 ships. They’re at the bottom of the sea,” reinforcing the notion that this military action is critical for US national security. Furthermore, the US President stated that the “world's number one sponsor of terror” must be prevented from obtaining nuclear weapons, signaling a decisive approach to the ongoing conflict according to SCMP and AA.

The conflict has escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes that resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and key military officials, intensifying retaliatory actions from Iran. Reports indicate at least **555 casualties in Iran** and **four US service members** have been confirmed dead. Additionally, the region has faced significant disruptions, with **military operations impacting air travel** and causing heightened oil prices due to fears about supply chain disruptions through the critical Strait of Hormuz, where approximately 20% of the world's oil passes through SCMP, AA, and Al Jazeera.

The Israeli airspace has been partially reopened, though operations remain limited as airlines cautiously resume their services. The conflict has forced several carriers to cancel or reroute flights, causing disruptions in global air travel, further complicating the regional security situation as the conflict evolves according to SCMP and AA.