Latest Update on the US and Israel's War on Iran: NATO Involved – 1,000 Dead
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – The armed conflict between the United States (US) and Israel against Iran has entered its fifth day since it began on 28 February 2026. The escalation of the conflict has not only spread across the Middle East but has also impacted South Asia and global trading routes.
Here are the latest developments in the US-Israel versus Iran war, as compiled by CNBC Indonesia from various sources, on Thursday (5/3/2026).
- Iranian Missile Nearly Entered Turkey, NATO Intercepted
A ballistic missile launched from Iran, detected passing through Iraqi and Syrian airspace toward Turkish airspace, was intercepted in time by NATO air defences and missiles deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean and deactivated, according to the Turkish Ministry of National Defence on Wednesday (4/3/2026).
“A ballistic munition launched from Iran, detected passing through Iraqi and Syrian airspace toward Turkish airspace, was intercepted in time by NATO air and missile defence assets deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean and deactivated,” the ministry statement quoted by Al Jazeera said.
Turkish authorities said there were no casualties. Ankara asserted its right to respond to hostile actions while warning all sides to show restraint and not to widen the escalation.
NATO itself condemned the targeting of Turkey. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart said the alliance “stands firmly with all Allies, including Turkey”, adding that NATO’s deterrence and air-defence/missile posture remains strong.
- Over 1,000 Dead
IRNA, Iran’s official news agency, reported that the US-Israel strikes have killed at least 1,045 military personnel and civilians since the war began. This figure is cited by IRNA as coming from the Martyrs Foundation and the Veterans Affairs Foundation. AFP says the figure has not yet been independently verified.
- Trump Considers US Role in Iran Post-War
The White House said President Donald Trump is considering the United States’ role in Iran after the military operation in concert with Israel ends. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the idea is being actively discussed by the president with security advisers and the national security team. “I think this is something that is actively considered and discussed by the president with his advisers and the national security team,” Leavitt told reporters.
- US Pulls Staff from Karachi and Lahore
The United States has ordered non-emergency staff at its consulates in Karachi and Lahore to depart Pakistan. The US has also allowed staff in Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, and Oman to leave their posts.
This move follows anti-US and anti-Israel protests in Pakistan. According to AFP, at least 25 people were killed in weekend demonstrations, with hundreds of protesters attempting to storm the Karachi consulate.
- Israeli Attacks in Lebanon Kill 72
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have killed 72 people and forced more than 83,000 to flee, according to local officials. The escalation comes after Iran-backed Hezbollah issued rockets and drones into Israeli territory. Israel responded by bombing several areas in Lebanon in a new phase of cross-border fighting.
- China to Send Special Envoy
China announced it would send a special envoy to mediate the Middle East conflict. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing supports Iran in defending its sovereignty. However, China also urged the United States and Israel to halt their military attacks immediately.
- Qatar and Turkey Angry Over Iran
Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani criticised Iran in a phone call with Tehran officials, accusing Iran of attempting to draw neighbouring countries into the war. Meanwhile, Turkey summoned Iran’s ambassador after a missile believed to have targeted a military base in Cyprus landed in Turkish territory.
- Global Cargo Crisis Deepens
Danish shipping giant Maersk has suspended cargo bookings in the Gulf until further notice. Previously, Maersk halted sailings through the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route for the distribution of oil. Several other shipping companies have taken similar steps.
- Ship Crew in the Strait of Hormuz Rescued
Oman’s navy rescued 24 crew members from a container ship attacked by a missile in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred a day after Iran claimed it had taken “full control” of the strait. Iran’s claim contradicted remarks by Trump that the US Navy is ready to escort ships through the area.
- Sri Lanka Discovers 87 Bodies
The conflict’s impact has spread to South Asia. An Iranian warship was reported to have sunk off the coast of Sri Lanka after being struck by a submarine-launched torpedo from a US vessel. A Sri Lankan naval official told AFP that 87 bodies had been recovered, with others still missing. “We have collected 87 bodies, and the search continues for others who are missing,” the official said.
- Israel Plans Operation in Iran for Several Weeks
The Times of Israel reported that the Israeli military plans to continue operations in Iran for at least several weeks.
- Khamenei Funeral Postponed
The article notes that the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been postponed.