Israel’s Haifa Oil Refinery Damaged In Strikes From Lebanon

Israeli media reported that Israel’s Haifa oil refinery has been hit in a missile strike launched from Lebanon, with a fire breaking out at the Bazan facility in the northern port city. The attack marks a further escalation in regional tensions, coming days after the site was previously targeted. The development coincides with fresh reports of casualties in Lebanon and continued diplomatic strain involving Iran and the United States, as cross-border exchanges intensify and the wider conflict shows no immediate signs of easing.

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Refinery Hit In Haifa

Israeli media said a missile strike sparked a fire at the Bazan oil refinery in Haifa, a key industrial site in northern Israel. The facility had previously been hit on March 19 during Iranian strikes, which were carried out in response to attacks on Tehran’s energy infrastructure.

The renewed strike highlights the vulnerability of strategic energy sites as hostilities continue to expand. Haifa, a major port and industrial hub, remains a critical location, making any damage there particularly significant.

Casualties Reported In Lebanon

In southern Lebanon, a Lebanese military official told Al Jazeera that five soldiers were wounded in an Israeli strike on a checkpoint in the town of al-Amiriyah. One of those injured is reported to be in critical condition.

Separately, the Israeli military confirmed that a 19-year-old soldier, identified as Ben Zion, has died from wounds sustained in fighting in southern Lebanon. He had been seriously injured before being taken to hospital. His death brings the number of Israeli soldiers killed in the area since March 2 to six.

Iran Rejects US Talks

Meanwhile, Iran has pushed back against reports of direct engagement with the United States. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran has not held direct talks with Washington, adding that only indirect messages have been exchanged.

He described the US position as inconsistent and criticised what he called “unreasonable” demands. Baghaei also stressed that Iran’s stance has remained clear, while questioning the credibility of American diplomacy.

He added that while regional countries are seeking ways to end the conflict, they should remain mindful of its origins, as tensions continue to rise across the region.