Here's what's happening as the U.S.–Israel–Iran conflict rolls into its seventeenth day.

On Sunday, President Donald Trump made a direct appeal to countries that depend on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil. He wants them to pitch in militarily—think minesweepers and other assets—to help secure this crucial shipping chokepoint. The subtext, of course, is the recent tanker attacks and escalating tensions. He also had a warning for NATO allies: there could be consequences if they don't step up to help.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to social media to address some rather grim rumors. In a video posted on X, he joked about claims he had been killed in an Iranian strike. The clip showed him at a café, dismissing the reports while praising the Israeli public's resilience.

Japan Starts Drawing Down Oil Reserves

With the war disrupting tanker routes in the Middle East, Japan has begun releasing oil from private-sector reserves to keep supply stable. This initial release equals about 15 days of the country's consumption. Companies still have roughly 70 days of reserves on hand. According to reports, the government might also dip into its national stockpile later in March for an additional month's worth of oil.

Drone Strike Causes Fire at Dubai Airport

A drone strike hit a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport on Monday, sparking a fire and causing a brief halt to flights. Emergency crews responded quickly, and authorities reported no injuries. Dubai Airports confirmed the incident was a drone attack and said some flights were diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Jebel Ali.

Pahlavi Calls for Global Embassy Protests

Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran, is urging Iranians around the world to mark Chaharshanbe Suri on March 18—a pre-Navroz ritual—with protests outside Iranian embassies. He's framing the celebration as a defiant tribute to anti-regime victims and a call to end the Islamic Republic.

Iran: No Truce, Strikes Will Continue

Don't expect peace talks anytime soon. Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Syed Abbas Araghchi told CBS News that Iran has not sought a truce or negotiations, dismissing such claims as false. He warned that its armed forces will continue strikes until the U.S. recognizes the war as illegal and compensates victims.

Oil CEOs Warn the Crisis Could Get Worse

Top executives from the oil majors are sounding the alarm. According to a report, leaders from ExxonMobil (XOM), Chevron Corporation (CVX), and ConocoPhillips (COP) have warned U.S. officials that the war involving Iran could worsen the energy crisis. The big worry? Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are likely to keep global oil markets on a rollercoaster of volatility.