President Donald Trump issued sweeping new threats Monday against Iran's civilian and energy infrastructure, warning he would order the destruction of power plants, oil wells, Kharg Island, and possibly desalination facilities if a deal to end the war is not reached "shortly" and if the Strait of Hormuz is not immediately reopened.

The Strait of Hormuz is the waterway through which approximately a fifth of the world's oil moves in peacetime. Iran has kept the strait contested since the conflict began Feb. 28, contributing to the elevated gas prices East County residents have seen in recent weeks.

On the ground, both sides escalated: Tehran struck a water and electrical plant in Kuwait, and an oil refinery in northern Israel came under attack. Israel and the U.S. launched a fresh wave of strikes on Iran, according to the Associated Press.

Diplomatic talks facilitated by Pakistan remain inconclusive. Iranian Foreign Ministry officials acknowledged receiving a 15-point proposal from Washington but denied any direct negotiations. Iran's parliament speaker dismissed the Pakistan channel as a cover for continued U.S. military buildup.

For the thousands of military families connected to bases across San Diego County, the conflict is entering its fifth week with no clear end in sight.