U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that American military operations against Iran could last four to five weeks but that the U.S. is prepared for a longer duration, as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies. Since the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday, the U.S. and Israel have conducted extensive strikes, while Iran and its allies have retaliated against Israel, Gulf states, and global energy infrastructure. The war's objectives and endgame remain unclear, with significant casualties reported on both sides: 555 killed in Iran, 11 in Israel, 31 in Lebanon, and six U.S. service members. Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut, targeting Hezbollah facilities, while Hezbollah launched drones at an Israeli air base. Japan has advised its shipowners to avoid the Persian Gulf due to safety concerns. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the war, claiming Iran was rebuilding its nuclear program, though satellite imagery showed limited activity at two sites. Iran's Foreign Minister accused the U.S. of entering a "war of choice on behalf of Israel." Sirens sounded in Bahrain, and the Sunni Muslim institution Al-Azhar al-Sharif called for an immediate halt to the war. The conflict's targeting of the energy sector is seen as a dangerous escalation with global economic implications.