<p>Let me give you both the most pessimistic and optimistic views of where the middle classes of countries like the US and India will end up if AI adoption does not go beyond merely asking ChatGPT for answers, or Grok for funny images and videos. Companies at the forefront of artificial intelligence are warning about how jobs across industries could be wiped out by AI. This could potentially lead to a middle-class collapse in these countries if action does not match the situation. How bad can it get? And what is the way out?</p><h2>A disturbing discussion led by AI leaders on the impending fall of jobs</h2><p>The starting point for this article is a disturbing series of discussions on a future fall in jobs, ironically led by AI leaders themselves. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei is ‘leading the charge’ in bluntly saying how traditional jobs, including ‘secure’ jobs in the legacy IT sector, are going to be wiped out. In recent interviews and public remarks, Amodei indicated that up to 50 per cent of entry-level work in fields such as law, consulting, and finance could be disrupted or replaced by AI systems within the next one to five years.</p><p>Reacting to this, Damian Player, CEO of the AI consulting firm Agent Integrator, recently posted on X: “This is f***ing insane! The CEO of Anthropic said what most C-suites only say behind closed doors… this is the head of one of the biggest AI companies alive telling ordinary people to wake up.”</p><h2>A dystopian scenario if India does not adapt to AI beyond current levels</h2><p>The situation being described below is only a simulation of the future, taking cues from the ongoing K-shaped growth in the US, underway since the Covid pandemic. K-shaped growth is when certain sections of society and the economy show exponential growth, while other sections race to the bottom, making the resultant image resemble the letter K. In a future scenario where AI eats up jobs, large sections of Indians could be pushed towards poverty. This could happen as early as the next five years in the absence of even foundational-level skills in AI.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anthropic-vows-court-battle-after-pentagon-flags-ai-firm-as-security-risk-wion-1772880262306/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/anthropic-vows-court-battle-after-pentagon-flags-ai-firm-as-security-risk-wion-1772880262306/embed</a></p><h2>What is the level of AI adoption in India? Identifying the problem</h2><p>It is quite possible that a large majority of Indians have never actively used AI tools in a meaningful way. Even among the digitally savvy population, many have little knowledge of AI apart from using the free version of ChatGPT and the like. Contrast this with the current world, where agentic and ‘copilot’ systems such as Anthropic’s Claude integrations and automated workflow tools are slowly entering enterprise environments.</p><p>Only a small fraction of users subscribe to paid AI platforms that typically cost around ₹2,000 per month or more. An even smaller proportion use coding interfaces, APIs, or automated workflows to interact with AI systems.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260309/image-1773050725928.jpg"></figure><p>An infographic showing the level of AI adoption in the world <i>(Image Courtesy: LinkedIn/ Benjamin T, co-Founder at Aiso)</i></p><h2>Why K-shaped growth in the US should be a wake-up call to India</h2><p>The K-shaped growth pattern is already visible in the US economy. In the current scenario, this is partly a function of AI adoption too. Many Americans are forcing themselves to learn AI use cases in order to remain competitive in the workplace. In terms of AI adoption, analysts often describe four levels of participation, known as AI maturity models: Elite, Augmented, Middle, and Struggling. It is projected that around 30 per cent of American citizens could remain in the Elite and Augmented categories, while 50 per cent could fall into the Middle group, and about 20 per cent may Struggle to keep up.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-end-of-ias-7-reasons-why-ai-will-make-upsc-exam-useless-in-2-years-1772938793987">'End of IAS': 7 reasons why AI will make UPSC exam useless in 2 years</a></p><h2>Indians are ‘consumers’ of AI, and that is prelude to potential digital colonisation</h2><p>There is a clear danger in Indians becoming consumers of international AI companies, essentially paying for subscription packages ranging anywhere from ₹2,000 or upwards to use their AI models. This is because India has yet to build globally competitive AI tools at scale, in spite of several initiatives at the government (India AI mission) and corporate (Infosys, TCS and others incoporating AI in workflows) levels. Even ‘localisation efforts’ are largely being driven by global technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI.&nbsp;</p><p>In several ways, this echoes patterns seen during colonial economic structures, when the British Raj turned large sections of the Indian population into consumers of value-added goods produced elsewhere.</p><p>If this trajectory continues, India could risk a form of neo-digital colonisation, where countries ahead of the AI curve — particularly the US and China — dominate the virtual and technological landscape.</p><p>Indians would, in effect, end up paying US or Chinese companies for AI services, revenue that could ultimately support these countries' domestic technology ecosystems and economic programmes.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/at-92-per-cent-india-s-ai-adoption-rate-highest-in-the-asia-pacific-region-key-figures-1762333628812">India AI Impact Summit: $300 billion worth of AI investments committed in India, say reports</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260309/image-1773051163876.jpeg"></figure><p><i>A three-year price drop of Nifty IT stocks</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Indian IT stocks crash, HNIs trickle out: A fever indicating worse possible outcomes in the near future</h2><p>Not too far away in the future, full-stack AI companies could enter India aggressively, resulting in a dramatic rise in layoffs and a stock market correction led by the decline of traditional IT service firms. And in some ways, the warning signs are already visible when it comes to IT stocks.</p><p>The Nifty IT index has already shown significant volatility when viewed across recent multi-year patterns. At one point, it fell around 30–34 per cent from its peak within a span of several months (see image above).</p><p>For some observers, this evokes memories of the early stages of the 2007 downturn that eventually led to the global financial crisis triggered by the US mortgage market collapse.</p><p>A prolonged slowdown could potentially spill over into banking and other industries.&nbsp;</p><p>Layoffs, which have already been seen periodically in the global technology sector, could hit traditional IT jobs in India particularly hard.</p><p>A major downturn could also affect the Indian rupee, which has gradually weakened against the US dollar over the past decade.</p><p>Another indicator often cited in this context is the growing number of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) exploring migration. According to various global wealth reports, several thousand millionaires are estimated to leave India annually, often relocating to countries such as the UK, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Australia, and Canada.</p><h2>So what is the way out? Adopt AI or die</h2><p>Damian Player’s post that I mentioned earlier, also offers a possible cure for the problem. To paraphrase him, the good news is that the playbook has not changed.</p><p>There is still a pathway for AI adoption for those who are currently ‘AI-illiterate’. As Player said, pick an industry, learn the workflows. Become the ‘AI person’ these companies need.</p><p>As Player puts it, you do not need a degree. “You sure as hell don’t need to be a McKinsey consultant. You need Claude, a vertical, and the hunger to learn a business better than anyone else. God speed! I’ll be rooting for ya,” Player wrote.</p><p>Godspeed is all I can say to those standing at the edge of the AI cliff — and staring downwards.</p>

AI company leaders are warning that generative AI could disrupt entry-level white-collar jobs, deepen inequality and cause economic collapse. If adoption lags, countries like India risk a widening AI divide shaping the future of work and the middle class. Here are the worst and best cases

Let me give you both the most pessimistic and optimistic views of where the middle classes of countries like the US and India will end up if AI adoption does not go beyond merely asking ChatGPT for answers, or Grok for funny images and videos. Companies at the forefront of artificial intelligence are warning about how jobs across industries could be wiped out by AI. This could potentially lead to a middle-class collapse in these countries if action does not match the situation. How bad can it get? And what is the way out? A disturbing discussion led by AI leaders on the impending fall of jobs The starting point for this article is a disturbing series of discussions on a future fall in jobs, ironically led by AI leaders themselves. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei is ‘leading the charge’ in bluntly saying how traditional jobs, including ‘secure’ jobs in the legacy IT sector, are going to be wiped out. In recent interviews and public remarks, Amodei indicated that up to 50 per cent of entry-level work in fields such as law, consulting, and finance could be disrupted or replaced by AI systems within the next one to five years. Reacting to this, Damian Player, CEO of the AI consulting firm Agent Integrator, recently posted on X: “This is f***ing insane! The CEO of Anthropic said what most C-suites only say behind closed doors… this is the head of one of the biggest AI companies alive telling ordinary people to wake up.” A dystopian scenario if India does not adapt to AI beyond current levels The situation being described below is only a simulation of the future, taking cues from the ongoing K-shaped growth in the US, underway since the Covid pandemic. K-shaped growth is when certain sections of society and the economy show exponential growth, while other sections race to the bottom, making the resultant image resemble the letter K. In a future scenario where AI eats up jobs, large sections of Indians could be pushed towards poverty. This could happen as early as the next five years in the absence of even foundational-level skills in AI. https://www.wionews.com/videos/anthropic-vows-court-battle-after-pentagon-flags-ai-firm-as-security-risk-wion-1772880262306/embed What is the level of AI adoption in India? Identifying the problem It is quite possible that a large majority of Indians have never actively used AI tools in a meaningful way. Even among the digitally savvy population, many have little knowledge of AI apart from using the free version of ChatGPT and the like. Contrast this with the current world, where agentic and ‘copilot’ systems such as Anthropic’s Claude integrations and automated workflow tools are slowly entering enterprise environments. Only a small fraction of users subscribe to paid AI platforms that typically cost around ₹2,000 per month or more. An even smaller proportion use coding interfaces, APIs, or automated workflows to interact with AI systems. An infographic showing the level of AI adoption in the world (Image Courtesy: LinkedIn/ Benjamin T, co-Founder at Aiso) Why K-shaped growth in the US should be a wake-up call to India The K-shaped growth pattern is already visible in the US economy. In the current scenario, this is partly a function of AI adoption too. Many Americans are forcing themselves to learn AI use cases in order to remain competitive in the workplace. In terms of AI adoption, analysts often describe four levels of participation, known as AI maturity models: Elite, Augmented, Middle, and Struggling. It is projected that around 30 per cent of American citizens could remain in the Elite and Augmented categories, while 50 per cent could fall into the Middle group, and about 20 per cent may Struggle to keep up. Also read: 'End of IAS': 7 reasons why AI will make UPSC exam useless in 2 years Indians are ‘consumers’ of AI, and that is prelude to potential digital colonisation There is a clear danger in Indians becoming consumers of international AI companies, essentially paying for subscription packages ranging anywhere from ₹2,000 or upwards to use their AI models. This is because India has yet to build globally competitive AI tools at scale, in spite of several initiatives at the government (India AI mission) and corporate (Infosys, TCS and others incoporating AI in workflows) levels. Even ‘localisation efforts’ are largely being driven by global technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI. In several ways, this echoes patterns seen during colonial economic structures, when the British Raj turned large sections of the Indian population into consumers of value-added goods produced elsewhere. If this trajectory continues, India could risk a form of neo-digital colonisation, where countries ahead of the AI curve — particularly the US and China — dominate the virtual and technological landscape. Indians would, in effect, end up paying US or Chinese companies for AI services, revenue that could ultimately support these countries' domestic technology ecosystems and economic programmes. Also read: India AI Impact Summit: $300 billion worth of AI investments committed in India, say reports A three-year price drop of Nifty IT stocks Indian IT stocks crash, HNIs trickle out: A fever indicating worse possible outcomes in the near future Not too far away in the future, full-stack AI companies could enter India aggressively, resulting in a dramatic rise in layoffs and a stock market correction led by the decline of traditional IT service firms. And in some ways, the warning signs are already visible when it comes to IT stocks. The Nifty IT index has already shown significant volatility when viewed across recent multi-year patterns. At one point, it fell around 30–34 per cent from its peak within a span of several months (see image above). For some observers, this evokes memories of the early stages of the 2007 downturn that eventually led to the global financial crisis triggered by the US mortgage market collapse. A prolonged slowdown could potentially spill over into banking and other industries. Layoffs, which have already been seen periodically in the global technology sector, could hit traditional IT jobs in India particularly hard. A major downturn could also affect the Indian rupee, which has gradually weakened against the US dollar over the past decade. Another indicator often cited in this context is the growing number of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) exploring migration. According to various global wealth reports, several thousand millionaires are estimated to leave India annually, often relocating to countries such as the UK, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Australia, and Canada. So what is the way out? Adopt AI or die Damian Player’s post that I mentioned earlier, also offers a possible cure for the problem. To paraphrase him, the good news is that the playbook has not changed. There is still a pathway for AI adoption for those who are currently ‘AI-illiterate’. As Player said, pick an industry, learn the workflows. Become the ‘AI person’ these companies need. As Player puts it, you do not need a degree. “You sure as hell don’t need to be a McKinsey consultant. You need Claude, a vertical, and the hunger to learn a business better than anyone else. God speed! I’ll be rooting for ya,” Player wrote. Godspeed is all I can say to those standing at the edge of the AI cliff — and staring downwards.

<p>AI company leaders are warning that generative AI could disrupt entry-level white-collar jobs, deepen inequality and cause economic collapse. If adoption lags, countries like India risk a widening AI divide shaping the future of work and the middle class. Here are the worst and best cases</p>

This is f***ing insane!: AI’s dystopian future is K-shaped, and could decimate the middle classes from India to the US

<p>Latin American nations are reportedly bracing for future impact as the US bulldozes its way through a counter-cartel alliance, for which the Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth led a conference recently. What exactly is the counter cartel alliance, and what is its scope of operation? Given the history of failed ‘wars on drug’, will it be different this time? Here is what you should know.</p><h2>What is Pete Hegseth-led Counter Cartel Coalition?</h2><p>The Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (ACCC) is a US-initiated and US-led ‘alliance’ for combating drug cartels and transnational crime groups across the Western Hemisphere. Spearheaded by Hegseth, the alliance is a pivot from traditional law enforcement to aggressive military action against drug cartels in the Americas, treating them as "narco-terrorists" similar to Islamic State or al-Qaeda terror groups.</p><p>Formally launched at the first Americas Counter Cartel Conference on March 5 at US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) headquarters in Doral, Florida, the initiative is the latest move in President Donald Trump's long-standing promises to dismantle cartels.</p><h2>How is the new US-led anti-cartel initiative different?</h2><p>The new initiative is an escalation from previous operations like US military strikes on alleged drug-carrying vessels in international waters, and joint actions in countries like Ecuador and Venezuela.</p><p>During his remarks at the conference, Hegseth positioned the counter cartel operation as a revival of the Monroe Doctrine. He described Western Hemisphere as "America's neighbourhood" that must be protected from external threats, including Chinese influence and drug flows poisoning American communities.</p><p>The Florida event brought together defence ministers and representatives from over a dozen Latin American and Caribbean nations. They were mainly from conservative, pro-Trump governments. Hegseth's keynote speech set the tone for what to expect from the coalition: A stress on American "hard power" and lethal force as opposed to criminal justice approaches. He warned bluntly that if the allies did not step up, the US would act unilaterally.</p><p>Speakers like Stephen Miller compared cartels to terrorist groups and called for ruthless treatment.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-southcom-ecuador-joint-operation-narco-terror-1772598897743">US SOUTHCOM conducts joint land operation with Ecuador against narco-terror groups</a></p><h2>Joint defence operations against drug cartels in the offing?</h2><p>A joint declaration of the conference, signed by 18 countries, made a commitment to intelligence sharing, joint military operations, border security enhancements, and offensive actions against cartels.&nbsp;</p><p>It talked about building "the most effective fighting force" to dismantle the drug networks. President Trump signed a proclamation endorsing the coalition on March 7.</p><p>The coalition is a step forward from earlier US moves like the Operation Southern Spear, which saw its military strike on alleged narco boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, killing dozens of people.</p><h2>Who is in, who is out of counter-cartel coalition will determine how it will pan out</h2><p>Hegseth firmed up the coalition after visits to countries like the Dominican Republic, making it almost a personal crusade and signature reform for him. &nbsp;</p><p>But a look at who is in, and who is outside the coalition could be an indication of the divisions in the region on how to tackle narcos.</p><p>The nearly 18 signatories of the joint declaration are mostly from right-wing governments that admire and support Trump's "iron fist" approach to organised crime and drug cartels. They include Argentina, Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Honduras, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago. Leaders like El Salvador's Nayib Bukele are vocal supporters, drawing parallels to their own anti-gang crackdowns at home.</p><p>But notable exclusions are mostly from left-leaning or adversarial governments. Most of them were reportedly deliberately left out, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Nicaragua.&nbsp;</p><p>This brings up a key question as these excluded countries are major cartel strongholds: Will the US-led coalition conduct military operations in their countries, &nbsp;threatening their sovereignty? A look at the tactics the coalition could use is an indication of future tensions.</p><h2>The counter cartel ops could include military attacks on cartel assets, international waters</h2><p>The ACCC's aim is to “crush the cartels, stop the poison, and keep America safe”. Its joint military operations could include US-led strikes on cartel assets like boats, labs and leaders. The operations could take place in international waters too. Much of this has already been done by the US in the past six months.</p><p>Intelligence and resource sharing is another major aspect. The coalition will engage in enhanced coordination via mechanisms like Joint Task Force Southern Spear, led by units such as the II Marine Expeditionary Force.</p><h2>Border security and ‘protecting christian civilizations’</h2><p>The coalition is seeking to make border protection an issue of national security. There were calls made to &nbsp;"defend Christian civilization" against transnational threats like narco-terrorism.</p><p>There is also talk about countering Chinese and Iranian influence in the region, as part of a "Donroe Doctrine" mentioned by Trump.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opium-to-precursor-chemicals-money-laundering-weapons-how-china-is-involved-in-mexico-drug-cartels-over-a-century-el-mencho-cjng-1771998850039">China is involved in Mexico drug trade for over a century: From opium to precursor chemicals to money laundering and cartel weapons</a></p><h2>Necessary escalation or agression?</h2><p>According to multiple reports, there's consternation and confusion in several national capitals. The supporters of the initiative, however, point to tens of thousands killed annually by cartels, both as a result of overdose from drugs like fentanyl and violence. They see that previous policies failed, even as cartels have developed their own armies, in some cases better-armed and trained than the national militaries.</p><p>For critics, &nbsp;the aggressive posturing is bound to worsen violence and tensions, and is an echo of the failed US interventions in Latin American drug trade in the 1980s and 1990s.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-six-killed-in-latest-strike-on-alleged-drug-boats-1773025171212/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-six-killed-in-latest-strike-on-alleged-drug-boats-1773025171212/embed</a></p><h2>Will the counter drug cartel ops drag Latin America into needless wars?</h2><p>From a survey of recent analyst opinions, that appears to be the case. ACCC could drag participating Latin American countries into escalated conflicts. Past US-backed anti-drug campaigns fueled violence, while failing to eradicate the problem. Hegseth's violent rhetoric explicitly called for ‘offense’ and unilateral US action. This might pressure the allies into hosting US troops or joining strikes, which in turn will make them targets of cartel counterattacks. The &nbsp;US operations in Ecuador already was a joint military action, &nbsp;setting a template for broader interventions.</p><p>Nations like Mexico - which host most of the violent of cartels - might resist external action, leading to cross-border tensions or proxy conflicts.</p><h2>Millions displaced, tens of thousands killed: How the past US-led drug wars panned out</h2><p>The 1980s Contra wars or Plan Colombia did not succeed fully. These mostly military initiatives displaced millions and intensified violence. Most failed to fully dismantle cartels. Since 1971, &nbsp;the so-called US War on Drugs cost more than $1 trillion, with Latin America bearing most of the brunt. Even after that failed war, Mexico alone saw more than 400,000 deaths from cartel violence since 2006.</p><p>The military focus of the counter cartel coaliton risks repeating the same mistakes. History shows that cartels usually adapt to the situation by arming up or shifting operations. Often, the attacks on cartels lead to civil unrest or insurgencies in fragile states like Honduras or Bolivia.</p><h2>Unilateral threats of counter cartel coalition risk backlash&nbsp;</h2><p>If the US strikes civilian areas or provokes retaliations like cartel attacks on allied governments, it could lead to an all-out, asymmetrical war. Such a war will be low-burning and prolonged, dragging smaller nations in the region and draining their resources. This is a war they can't afford. We already have examples of how American involvement in Afghanistan or Iraq spiralled into decades-long quagmires.<br>Hegseth and Trump allies are framing the coalition as an urgent national security issue, citing more than 100,000 annual deaths due to fentanyl and other drugs, linked to cartels.</p><p>If successful, the war could help bring about regional stability. Perhaps Bukele's El Salvador crackdown could be a model, in which heavy-handed tactics reduced homicide rates by 70 per cent.</p><h2>The real issue is US drug abuse</h2><p>Analysts noted that no drug war will be successful unless the demand side issues are resolved, namely the drug addiction in American cities and inner cities. If not, the counter cartel coalition could end up only as a costly, cosmetic operation without curing the underlying American drug problem. The militarised approach to counter narcotics operations could once again entangle Latin American nations into conflicts they did not sign up for.</p>

The US-led Americas Counter Cartel Coalition seeks to combat drug cartels through joint military action across Latin America. This is already raising fears of a new regional drug war that could escalate tensions. Violence, displacements and threats to sovereignty could follow

Latin American nations are reportedly bracing for future impact as the US bulldozes its way through a counter-cartel alliance, for which the Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth led a conference recently. What exactly is the counter cartel alliance, and what is its scope of operation? Given the history of failed ‘wars on drug’, will it be different this time? Here is what you should know. What is Pete Hegseth-led Counter Cartel Coalition? The Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (ACCC) is a US-initiated and US-led ‘alliance’ for combating drug cartels and transnational crime groups across the Western Hemisphere. Spearheaded by Hegseth, the alliance is a pivot from traditional law enforcement to aggressive military action against drug cartels in the Americas, treating them as "narco-terrorists" similar to Islamic State or al-Qaeda terror groups. Formally launched at the first Americas Counter Cartel Conference on March 5 at US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) headquarters in Doral, Florida, the initiative is the latest move in President Donald Trump's long-standing promises to dismantle cartels. How is the new US-led anti-cartel initiative different? The new initiative is an escalation from previous operations like US military strikes on alleged drug-carrying vessels in international waters, and joint actions in countries like Ecuador and Venezuela. During his remarks at the conference, Hegseth positioned the counter cartel operation as a revival of the Monroe Doctrine. He described Western Hemisphere as "America's neighbourhood" that must be protected from external threats, including Chinese influence and drug flows poisoning American communities. The Florida event brought together defence ministers and representatives from over a dozen Latin American and Caribbean nations. They were mainly from conservative, pro-Trump governments. Hegseth's keynote speech set the tone for what to expect from the coalition: A stress on American "hard power" and lethal force as opposed to criminal justice approaches. He warned bluntly that if the allies did not step up, the US would act unilaterally. Speakers like Stephen Miller compared cartels to terrorist groups and called for ruthless treatment. Also read: US SOUTHCOM conducts joint land operation with Ecuador against narco-terror groups Joint defence operations against drug cartels in the offing? A joint declaration of the conference, signed by 18 countries, made a commitment to intelligence sharing, joint military operations, border security enhancements, and offensive actions against cartels. It talked about building "the most effective fighting force" to dismantle the drug networks. President Trump signed a proclamation endorsing the coalition on March 7. The coalition is a step forward from earlier US moves like the Operation Southern Spear, which saw its military strike on alleged narco boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, killing dozens of people. Who is in, who is out of counter-cartel coalition will determine how it will pan out Hegseth firmed up the coalition after visits to countries like the Dominican Republic, making it almost a personal crusade and signature reform for him. But a look at who is in, and who is outside the coalition could be an indication of the divisions in the region on how to tackle narcos. The nearly 18 signatories of the joint declaration are mostly from right-wing governments that admire and support Trump's "iron fist" approach to organised crime and drug cartels. They include Argentina, Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Honduras, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago. Leaders like El Salvador's Nayib Bukele are vocal supporters, drawing parallels to their own anti-gang crackdowns at home. But notable exclusions are mostly from left-leaning or adversarial governments. Most of them were reportedly deliberately left out, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Nicaragua. This brings up a key question as these excluded countries are major cartel strongholds: Will the US-led coalition conduct military operations in their countries, threatening their sovereignty? A look at the tactics the coalition could use is an indication of future tensions. The counter cartel ops could include military attacks on cartel assets, international waters The ACCC's aim is to “crush the cartels, stop the poison, and keep America safe”. Its joint military operations could include US-led strikes on cartel assets like boats, labs and leaders. The operations could take place in international waters too. Much of this has already been done by the US in the past six months. Intelligence and resource sharing is another major aspect. The coalition will engage in enhanced coordination via mechanisms like Joint Task Force Southern Spear, led by units such as the II Marine Expeditionary Force. Border security and ‘protecting christian civilizations’ The coalition is seeking to make border protection an issue of national security. There were calls made to "defend Christian civilization" against transnational threats like narco-terrorism. There is also talk about countering Chinese and Iranian influence in the region, as part of a "Donroe Doctrine" mentioned by Trump. Also read: China is involved in Mexico drug trade for over a century: From opium to precursor chemicals to money laundering and cartel weapons Necessary escalation or agression? According to multiple reports, there's consternation and confusion in several national capitals. The supporters of the initiative, however, point to tens of thousands killed annually by cartels, both as a result of overdose from drugs like fentanyl and violence. They see that previous policies failed, even as cartels have developed their own armies, in some cases better-armed and trained than the national militaries. For critics, the aggressive posturing is bound to worsen violence and tensions, and is an echo of the failed US interventions in Latin American drug trade in the 1980s and 1990s. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-six-killed-in-latest-strike-on-alleged-drug-boats-1773025171212/embed Will the counter drug cartel ops drag Latin America into needless wars? From a survey of recent analyst opinions, that appears to be the case. ACCC could drag participating Latin American countries into escalated conflicts. Past US-backed anti-drug campaigns fueled violence, while failing to eradicate the problem. Hegseth's violent rhetoric explicitly called for ‘offense’ and unilateral US action. This might pressure the allies into hosting US troops or joining strikes, which in turn will make them targets of cartel counterattacks. The US operations in Ecuador already was a joint military action, setting a template for broader interventions. Nations like Mexico - which host most of the violent of cartels - might resist external action, leading to cross-border tensions or proxy conflicts. Millions displaced, tens of thousands killed: How the past US-led drug wars panned out The 1980s Contra wars or Plan Colombia did not succeed fully. These mostly military initiatives displaced millions and intensified violence. Most failed to fully dismantle cartels. Since 1971, the so-called US War on Drugs cost more than $1 trillion, with Latin America bearing most of the brunt. Even after that failed war, Mexico alone saw more than 400,000 deaths from cartel violence since 2006. The military focus of the counter cartel coaliton risks repeating the same mistakes. History shows that cartels usually adapt to the situation by arming up or shifting operations. Often, the attacks on cartels lead to civil unrest or insurgencies in fragile states like Honduras or Bolivia. Unilateral threats of counter cartel coalition risk backlash If the US strikes civilian areas or provokes retaliations like cartel attacks on allied governments, it could lead to an all-out, asymmetrical war. Such a war will be low-burning and prolonged, dragging smaller nations in the region and draining their resources. This is a war they can't afford. We already have examples of how American involvement in Afghanistan or Iraq spiralled into decades-long quagmires. Hegseth and Trump allies are framing the coalition as an urgent national security issue, citing more than 100,000 annual deaths due to fentanyl and other drugs, linked to cartels. If successful, the war could help bring about regional stability. Perhaps Bukele's El Salvador crackdown could be a model, in which heavy-handed tactics reduced homicide rates by 70 per cent. The real issue is US drug abuse Analysts noted that no drug war will be successful unless the demand side issues are resolved, namely the drug addiction in American cities and inner cities. If not, the counter cartel coalition could end up only as a costly, cosmetic operation without curing the underlying American drug problem. The militarised approach to counter narcotics operations could once again entangle Latin American nations into conflicts they did not sign up for.

<p>The US-led Americas Counter Cartel Coalition seeks to combat drug cartels through joint military action across Latin America. This is already raising fears of a new regional drug war that could escalate tensions. Violence, displacements and threats to sovereignty could follow</p>

Americas Counter Cartel Coalition: Will the US drag Latin America into another needless ‘war on drugs’?

<p>Qatar has halted the liquefaction of natural gas and declared force majeure on exports after missile and drone strikes from Iran damaged key energy facilities amid the Islamic Republic’s ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. Qatar's gas production and supply shutdown coincides with disruptions to tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route handling about 20 per cent of global LNG trade, worsening the supply crunch.</p><h2>Qatar halts liquefaction of gas</h2><p>State-owned QatarEnergy shut down liquefaction operations on Wednesday (4 March) at Ras Laffan Industrial City, the world’s largest LNG export hub, and Mesaieed Industrial City following the Iranian attacks. Liquefaction is the industrial process of cooling natural gas to about -162 degrees Celsius to convert it into liquefied natural gas. LNG takes up about 1/600th the volume of gaseous natural gas, making it easier and more economical to store and transport using specialised ships to global markets.&nbsp;</p><p>Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG producers, relies heavily on the liquefaction process at facilities such as Ras Laffan Industrial City to export gas.</p><h2>Force majeure declared on Qatar gas supplies</h2><p>Force majeure is a standard mechanism in energy contracts used to handle “acts of God” or geopolitical crises. It is a legal clause that excuses a party from fulfilling its contractual obligations if an unforeseen and uncontrollable event such as war, natural disasters or strikes prevents it from doing so. QatarEnergy has formally notified buyers that it cannot deliver contracted LNG shipments due to external disruptions, without facing penalties or legal liability. Force majeure therefore allows the company to suspend LNG delivery obligations because of the extraordinary circumstances.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-qatar-begins-evacuating-residents-near-us-embassy-after-iranian-strikes-1772683204311/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-qatar-begins-evacuating-residents-near-us-embassy-after-iranian-strikes-1772683204311/embed</a></p><h2>Qatar gas supply halt will hit India, Pakistan and Bangladesh hard</h2><p>Qatar supplies nearly half of India’s annual LNG imports of around 27 million tonnes. India’s city gas distribution sector, which relies on LNG for compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped cooking gas, could face a crisis with supply cuts of up to 40 per cent if alternatives are not secured fast enough. India is seeking cargoes from the spot market, where prices have surged by up to 50 per cent and shipping rates have doubled to about $200,000 per tanker. If the situation persists, inflation and disruption to industrial output could follow.</p><p>Bangladesh depends on Qatar and the UAE for nearly 72 per cent of its LNG imports. Severe shortages could lead to prolonged power outages in the country and greater use of coal. Bangladesh may also need to import more electricity from India to mitigate the impact.</p><p>Nearly all of Pakistan’s LNG imports come from Qatar and the UAE, making it extremely vulnerable to supply disruptions from Gulf producers. Increasing domestic natural gas production and reducing regasification demand are possible responses. Greater use of solar energy could help prevent daytime power cuts, but overall shortages could still lead to outages and economic strain for Pakistan.</p><p>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meanwhile-us-oil-production-surpasses-saudi-russia-combined-natural-gas-output-crosses-total-of-russia-china-and-iran-1772641899332"> Meanwhile, US oil production surpasses Saudi, Russia combined; natural gas output crosses total of Russia, China and Iran</a></p><h2>How global LNG supplies will be hit by Qatar moves</h2><p>The shutdown will be a major shock to global energy markets as Qatar supplies roughly 20 per cent of the world’s LNG. The crisis has already pushed up gas prices in Europe and Asia by as much as 93 per cent.</p><p>Asia, which accounts for nearly 82 per cent of Qatar’s LNG exports, will be the hardest hit, particularly Japan, South Korea and China besides India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.</p><p>European buyers including the UK, Italy and Belgium also face supply pressure and higher prices.</p><p>Analysts said other major producers such as the US and Australia, have limited spare capacity to quickly replace Qatar’s lost exports.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-25-days-of-fuel-stock-japan-refiners-plead-to-open-strategic-reserves-oil-importing-nations-scramble-as-iran-conflict-causes-supply-woes-1772715167936">India has 25 days of fuel stock, Japan refiners plead to open strategic reserves: Oil-importing nations scramble as Iran conflict causes supply woes</a></p><h2>When is Qatar LNG supply likely to resume?</h2><p>The halt in liquefaction is intended to allow initial repairs and safety checks at the affected production facilities. Reports say this process is expected to take at least two weeks.&nbsp;</p><p>Another two weeks will likely be required to restore full production after liquefaction resumes. In total, the supply disruption could last around one month or longer.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</strong></i><br>&nbsp;</p>

Amid the Iran conflict, Qatar halted LNG production and declared force majeure on gas trade. The shutdown threatens global supply, sending prices soaring and hitting major importers in Asia and Europe. India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are among countries that would be hit hard

Qatar has halted the liquefaction of natural gas and declared force majeure on exports after missile and drone strikes from Iran damaged key energy facilities amid the Islamic Republic’s ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. Qatar's gas production and supply shutdown coincides with disruptions to tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route handling about 20 per cent of global LNG trade, worsening the supply crunch. Qatar halts liquefaction of gas State-owned QatarEnergy shut down liquefaction operations on Wednesday (4 March) at Ras Laffan Industrial City, the world’s largest LNG export hub, and Mesaieed Industrial City following the Iranian attacks. Liquefaction is the industrial process of cooling natural gas to about -162 degrees Celsius to convert it into liquefied natural gas. LNG takes up about 1/600th the volume of gaseous natural gas, making it easier and more economical to store and transport using specialised ships to global markets. Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG producers, relies heavily on the liquefaction process at facilities such as Ras Laffan Industrial City to export gas. Force majeure declared on Qatar gas supplies Force majeure is a standard mechanism in energy contracts used to handle “acts of God” or geopolitical crises. It is a legal clause that excuses a party from fulfilling its contractual obligations if an unforeseen and uncontrollable event such as war, natural disasters or strikes prevents it from doing so. QatarEnergy has formally notified buyers that it cannot deliver contracted LNG shipments due to external disruptions, without facing penalties or legal liability. Force majeure therefore allows the company to suspend LNG delivery obligations because of the extraordinary circumstances. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-qatar-begins-evacuating-residents-near-us-embassy-after-iranian-strikes-1772683204311/embed Qatar gas supply halt will hit India, Pakistan and Bangladesh hard Qatar supplies nearly half of India’s annual LNG imports of around 27 million tonnes. India’s city gas distribution sector, which relies on LNG for compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped cooking gas, could face a crisis with supply cuts of up to 40 per cent if alternatives are not secured fast enough. India is seeking cargoes from the spot market, where prices have surged by up to 50 per cent and shipping rates have doubled to about $200,000 per tanker. If the situation persists, inflation and disruption to industrial output could follow. Bangladesh depends on Qatar and the UAE for nearly 72 per cent of its LNG imports. Severe shortages could lead to prolonged power outages in the country and greater use of coal. Bangladesh may also need to import more electricity from India to mitigate the impact. Nearly all of Pakistan’s LNG imports come from Qatar and the UAE, making it extremely vulnerable to supply disruptions from Gulf producers. Increasing domestic natural gas production and reducing regasification demand are possible responses. Greater use of solar energy could help prevent daytime power cuts, but overall shortages could still lead to outages and economic strain for Pakistan. Also read: Meanwhile, US oil production surpasses Saudi, Russia combined; natural gas output crosses total of Russia, China and Iran How global LNG supplies will be hit by Qatar moves The shutdown will be a major shock to global energy markets as Qatar supplies roughly 20 per cent of the world’s LNG. The crisis has already pushed up gas prices in Europe and Asia by as much as 93 per cent. Asia, which accounts for nearly 82 per cent of Qatar’s LNG exports, will be the hardest hit, particularly Japan, South Korea and China besides India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. European buyers including the UK, Italy and Belgium also face supply pressure and higher prices. Analysts said other major producers such as the US and Australia, have limited spare capacity to quickly replace Qatar’s lost exports. Also read: India has 25 days of fuel stock, Japan refiners plead to open strategic reserves: Oil-importing nations scramble as Iran conflict causes supply woes When is Qatar LNG supply likely to resume? The halt in liquefaction is intended to allow initial repairs and safety checks at the affected production facilities. Reports say this process is expected to take at least two weeks. Another two weeks will likely be required to restore full production after liquefaction resumes. In total, the supply disruption could last around one month or longer. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>Amid the Iran conflict, Qatar halted LNG production and declared force majeure on gas trade. The shutdown threatens global supply, sending prices soaring and hitting major importers in Asia and Europe. India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are among countries that would be hit hard</p>

How India, Pakistan, Bangladesh will be affected as Qatar halts gas liquefaction and declares force majeure in LNG trade

<p>As the Iran-Israel-US conflict escalates, refiners across oil-importing nations in Asia are rushing to secure supplies and conserve fuel amid disruptions in supply through the Strait of Hormuz. China, the world’s largest crude importer, has moved swiftly to protect domestic supply with curbs on exports. Japanese refiners are pleading with the government to open the taps of strategic oil reserves. Indian refiners are knocking on Russian supplies. And the headwinds are also felt in the Gulf nations, the epicentre of the current conflict.</p><h2>China asks refiners to halt exports of diesel</h2><p>Chinese authorities ordered major refiners to halt exports of gasoline and diesel and avoid signing new export contracts. Some firms are trying to cancel shipments already committed.</p><p>Chinese refiners are also cutting refinery runs, with Zhejiang Petrochemical shutting a 200,000-barrel-per-day crude unit and cutting throughput by about 20 per cent. Fujian Refining and Petrochemical closed an 80,000-barrel-per-day unit, with reports saying more cuts are expected among plants heavily dependent on Middle Eastern crude.</p><p>China has large stockpiles of Iranian and Russian crude and maintains sizeable strategic reserves, but prolonged disruption could spell trouble.</p><h2>Middle East crude-dependent Japan is in a quandary&nbsp;</h2><p>Japan imports more than 90 per cent of its crude from the Middle East. Refiners are monitoring crude procurement and shifting toward alternative grades such as US WTI crude. At least one Japanese refiner has cancelled fuel exports to ensure domestic supply. Shipping companies like NYK Line and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines suspended voyages through the Strait of Hormuz due to safety concerns.</p><p>Japanese refiners are asking the government to release oil from strategic petroleum reserves, which currently has 254 days of supply combining government and private stocks, according to reports.&nbsp;</p><p>The government has no immediate plans to tap into the reserves, even as it has formed an energy task force to tackle the situation.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meanwhile-us-oil-production-surpasses-saudi-russia-combined-natural-gas-output-crosses-total-of-russia-china-and-iran-1772641899332">Meanwhile, US oil production surpasses Saudi, Russia combined; natural gas output crosses total of Russia, China and Iran</a></p><h2>Refiners in India looking for alternative supplies; strategic reserves can last 25 days</h2><p>Indian media reports said its refiners are scrambling for alternative supplies as Middle Eastern flows tighten by the day. Indian Oil Corporation has started drawing on stored Russian crude. About one million barrels have already been delivered to Paradip port, with another 700,000 barrels expected at Vadinar, said the reports. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals, meanwhile, halted fuel exports because of feedstock shortages linked to the conflict.</p><p>Some reports said that India’s strategic petroleum reserves cover only about 25 days of consumption. This makes it urgent to diversify supply. It is quite possible that Indian refiners would face direct competition with Chinese buyers for available cargoes.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meanwhile-us-oil-production-surpasses-saudi-russia-combined-natural-gas-output-crosses-total-of-russia-china-and-iran-1772641899332">Mumbai seafarer killed in missile strike on tanker in Strait of Hormuz</a></p><h2>Energy infrastructure across the Gulf hit&nbsp;</h2><p>Saudi Aramco shut operations at the 550,000-barrel-per-day Ras Tanura refinery after an Iranian drone strike triggered a fire. QatarEnergy suspended production at its Ras Laffan refinery after earlier disruptions to its LNG operations.</p><p>In Iraq, output at the Rumaila oil field was stopped because storage tanks are full. The closure of Strait of Hormuz blocked exports and Iraq cannot store any more of crude. Meanwhile, several Kurdish oil fields have been shut for security reasons.</p><p>The disruptions are tightening global supply and pushing oil prices higher. Refiners across Asia are now racing to secure cargoes, cut exports and conserve fuel. If the conflict does not end in a few days, there would be chaos at gas stations in many countries.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</strong></i></p>

Asian refiners are scrambling for crude as the Iran-Israel-US conflict disrupts Middle East oil flows. China is halting fuel exports, Japan weighing use of strategic reserves, and India - with 25 days of stocks - seeking Russian cargoes amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions

As the Iran-Israel-US conflict escalates, refiners across oil-importing nations in Asia are rushing to secure supplies and conserve fuel amid disruptions in supply through the Strait of Hormuz. China, the world’s largest crude importer, has moved swiftly to protect domestic supply with curbs on exports. Japanese refiners are pleading with the government to open the taps of strategic oil reserves. Indian refiners are knocking on Russian supplies. And the headwinds are also felt in the Gulf nations, the epicentre of the current conflict. China asks refiners to halt exports of diesel Chinese authorities ordered major refiners to halt exports of gasoline and diesel and avoid signing new export contracts. Some firms are trying to cancel shipments already committed. Chinese refiners are also cutting refinery runs, with Zhejiang Petrochemical shutting a 200,000-barrel-per-day crude unit and cutting throughput by about 20 per cent. Fujian Refining and Petrochemical closed an 80,000-barrel-per-day unit, with reports saying more cuts are expected among plants heavily dependent on Middle Eastern crude. China has large stockpiles of Iranian and Russian crude and maintains sizeable strategic reserves, but prolonged disruption could spell trouble. Middle East crude-dependent Japan is in a quandary Japan imports more than 90 per cent of its crude from the Middle East. Refiners are monitoring crude procurement and shifting toward alternative grades such as US WTI crude. At least one Japanese refiner has cancelled fuel exports to ensure domestic supply. Shipping companies like NYK Line and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines suspended voyages through the Strait of Hormuz due to safety concerns. Japanese refiners are asking the government to release oil from strategic petroleum reserves, which currently has 254 days of supply combining government and private stocks, according to reports. The government has no immediate plans to tap into the reserves, even as it has formed an energy task force to tackle the situation. Also read: Meanwhile, US oil production surpasses Saudi, Russia combined; natural gas output crosses total of Russia, China and Iran Refiners in India looking for alternative supplies; strategic reserves can last 25 days Indian media reports said its refiners are scrambling for alternative supplies as Middle Eastern flows tighten by the day. Indian Oil Corporation has started drawing on stored Russian crude. About one million barrels have already been delivered to Paradip port, with another 700,000 barrels expected at Vadinar, said the reports. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals, meanwhile, halted fuel exports because of feedstock shortages linked to the conflict. Some reports said that India’s strategic petroleum reserves cover only about 25 days of consumption. This makes it urgent to diversify supply. It is quite possible that Indian refiners would face direct competition with Chinese buyers for available cargoes. Also read: Mumbai seafarer killed in missile strike on tanker in Strait of Hormuz Energy infrastructure across the Gulf hit Saudi Aramco shut operations at the 550,000-barrel-per-day Ras Tanura refinery after an Iranian drone strike triggered a fire. QatarEnergy suspended production at its Ras Laffan refinery after earlier disruptions to its LNG operations. In Iraq, output at the Rumaila oil field was stopped because storage tanks are full. The closure of Strait of Hormuz blocked exports and Iraq cannot store any more of crude. Meanwhile, several Kurdish oil fields have been shut for security reasons. The disruptions are tightening global supply and pushing oil prices higher. Refiners across Asia are now racing to secure cargoes, cut exports and conserve fuel. If the conflict does not end in a few days, there would be chaos at gas stations in many countries. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>Asian refiners are scrambling for crude as the Iran-Israel-US conflict disrupts Middle East oil flows. China is halting fuel exports, Japan weighing use of strategic reserves, and India - with 25 days of stocks - seeking Russian cargoes amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions</p>

India has 25 days of fuel stock, Japan refiners plead to open strategic reserves: Oil-importing nations scramble as Iran conflict causes supply woes

<p>Iran is probably winning the cost asymmetry of the current conflict with Israel and the US. One example is the claims that a suicide drone from Iran reportedly destroyed a billion-dollar radar in Qatar, operated by the US to help friendly Gulf states in intercepting incoming projectiles. Here is why it matters.</p><h2>When a $20,000 Shahed drone attacked a billion-dollar radar</h2><p>Now, let us take the reports with a pinch of salt. Some say a Shahed-series kamikaze drone from Iran, which costs as little as $20,000 per unit, struck the AN/FPS-132 Block 5 Upgraded Early Warning Radar (UEWR) at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Other reports say it was a costlier Iranian missile that hit the radar. There are also reports that it was a combined drone-missile attack.</p><p>One thing is more or less certain: The UEWR did suffer severe damage.</p><p>Operated by the US Space Force, this radar is a critical component for ballistic missile early warning and tracking across the Middle East. It feeds data into integrated US and allied interception systems such as THAAD and Patriot batteries, which are used by some Gulf nations to intercept incoming projectiles from Iran.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-israel-iran-war-live-updates-donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-ali-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-assembly-of-experts-march-2026-1772669756946">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Jaishankar speaks with Iranian FM Aragchi again, as West Asia war escalates</a></p><h2>How badly hit was the US radar in Qatar?</h2><p>Claims vary, as Iranian state media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed the radar was “completely destroyed”. However, American and independent assessments described it as ‘significantly damaged’. One or more phased-array panels of the radar were reportedly lost, making it inoperable or severely degraded without immediate repairs. Satellite imagery appeared to show visible impact damage.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-dismantles-iranian-spy-cells-amid-rising-gulf-tension-1772583273183/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-dismantles-iranian-spy-cells-amid-rising-gulf-tension-1772583273183/embed</a></p><h2>The operating cost of the Qatar radar was over $1 billion</h2><p>According to multiple reports, the AN/FPS-132 UEWR system is worth around $1.1 billion, including development, deployment, training and operational costs.</p><p>This estimate is only for the radar component. Associated interception systems, such as THAAD missile batteries, can add $1–1.8 billion per unit when integrated with the radar.</p><h2>How was the Qatar radar being used by Gulf states for collective defence against Iran?</h2><p>The radar hosted by Qatar at Al Udeid Air Base provides early warning and tracking data for ballistic missiles over a range of up to 5,000 km, supporting US Central Command (CENTCOM) operations and allied defences in the Persian Gulf region.</p><p>The radar helps Qatar and several other Gulf countries by integrating with their air defence networks, which in turn rely on it for direct early warning against Iranian threats to airspace and infrastructure.</p><p>The United Arab Emirates (UAE) uses data from the radar for its THAAD and Patriot missile defence systems to intercept projectiles from Iran. In recent days, hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones targeting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and oil facilities of UAE have reportedly been intercepted with the help of this radar.</p><p>The radar is critical for Saudi Arabia, helping it defend Riyadh, Jeddah, and eastern oil fields, integrating with US-supplied Patriot missiles to counter ballistic missiles.</p><p>In Bahrain, the radar supports US Naval Forces Central Command and aids in intercepting threats to Manama and naval assets in the Gulf.</p><p>To a lesser extent, the radar provides regional coverage for Kuwait and Oman, mainly for border defence and the security of oil export routes, primarily through data sharing.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-launches-fresh-retaliatory-strikes-on-israel-us-bases-in-dubai-qatar-iraq-bahrain-1772349293169">Iran launches fresh retaliatory strikes on Israel, US bases in Dubai, Qatar, Iraq, Bahrain, Oman</a></p><h2>The cost arbitrage of the war: Why the damage to US-supplied radar matters</h2><p>The cost asymmetry of this warfare - as seen in the radar attack - could eventually be a deciding factor in how long it drags on and who wins.&nbsp;</p><p>Iran has essentially used cheap, mass-produced drones and missiles to overwhelm or bypass high-cost US defences. For instance, the Patriot missiles used by some Gulf states in their interceptor systems cost about $4 million each.&nbsp;</p><p>There are already reports that many missile interceptors in the Gulf states— for which the Qatar radar is a crucial early warning system — have been depleted.&nbsp;</p><p>This raises questions about how dependable current air defence networks are.</p><p>The loss of the Qatar radar will reduce real-time detection capabilities for ballistic threats. This could embolden Iran and its proxies. Damage to or destruction of the radar also puts pressure on Gulf allies to seek an immediate ceasefire even as their interceptor stockpiles are depleting. At the current usage rate, Qatar’s Patriot missiles could last only a few more days, according to some reports.</p><p>Doubts are now being raised about the effectiveness of US-supplied missile shields against 'saturation attacks' by Iran.</p><p>The US has sold billions of dollars’ worth of these missile defence systems to Gulf states over the past decades. But it appears that it's a costly solution that can be breached by a cheap projectile such as an Iranian drone.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</strong></i></p>

An Iranian strike damaged the $1.1 billion US radar at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. This is highlighting the cost asymmetry of the conflict, where cheap drones or missiles can threaten expensive missile defence systems.

Iran is probably winning the cost asymmetry of the current conflict with Israel and the US. One example is the claims that a suicide drone from Iran reportedly destroyed a billion-dollar radar in Qatar, operated by the US to help friendly Gulf states in intercepting incoming projectiles. Here is why it matters. When a $20,000 Shahed drone attacked a billion-dollar radar Now, let us take the reports with a pinch of salt. Some say a Shahed-series kamikaze drone from Iran, which costs as little as $20,000 per unit, struck the AN/FPS-132 Block 5 Upgraded Early Warning Radar (UEWR) at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Other reports say it was a costlier Iranian missile that hit the radar. There are also reports that it was a combined drone-missile attack. One thing is more or less certain: The UEWR did suffer severe damage. Operated by the US Space Force, this radar is a critical component for ballistic missile early warning and tracking across the Middle East. It feeds data into integrated US and allied interception systems such as THAAD and Patriot batteries, which are used by some Gulf nations to intercept incoming projectiles from Iran. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Jaishankar speaks with Iranian FM Aragchi again, as West Asia war escalates How badly hit was the US radar in Qatar? Claims vary, as Iranian state media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed the radar was “completely destroyed”. However, American and independent assessments described it as ‘significantly damaged’. One or more phased-array panels of the radar were reportedly lost, making it inoperable or severely degraded without immediate repairs. Satellite imagery appeared to show visible impact damage. https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-dismantles-iranian-spy-cells-amid-rising-gulf-tension-1772583273183/embed The operating cost of the Qatar radar was over $1 billion According to multiple reports, the AN/FPS-132 UEWR system is worth around $1.1 billion, including development, deployment, training and operational costs. This estimate is only for the radar component. Associated interception systems, such as THAAD missile batteries, can add $1–1.8 billion per unit when integrated with the radar. How was the Qatar radar being used by Gulf states for collective defence against Iran? The radar hosted by Qatar at Al Udeid Air Base provides early warning and tracking data for ballistic missiles over a range of up to 5,000 km, supporting US Central Command (CENTCOM) operations and allied defences in the Persian Gulf region. The radar helps Qatar and several other Gulf countries by integrating with their air defence networks, which in turn rely on it for direct early warning against Iranian threats to airspace and infrastructure. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) uses data from the radar for its THAAD and Patriot missile defence systems to intercept projectiles from Iran. In recent days, hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones targeting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and oil facilities of UAE have reportedly been intercepted with the help of this radar. The radar is critical for Saudi Arabia, helping it defend Riyadh, Jeddah, and eastern oil fields, integrating with US-supplied Patriot missiles to counter ballistic missiles. In Bahrain, the radar supports US Naval Forces Central Command and aids in intercepting threats to Manama and naval assets in the Gulf. To a lesser extent, the radar provides regional coverage for Kuwait and Oman, mainly for border defence and the security of oil export routes, primarily through data sharing. Also read: Iran launches fresh retaliatory strikes on Israel, US bases in Dubai, Qatar, Iraq, Bahrain, Oman The cost arbitrage of the war: Why the damage to US-supplied radar matters The cost asymmetry of this warfare - as seen in the radar attack - could eventually be a deciding factor in how long it drags on and who wins. Iran has essentially used cheap, mass-produced drones and missiles to overwhelm or bypass high-cost US defences. For instance, the Patriot missiles used by some Gulf states in their interceptor systems cost about $4 million each. There are already reports that many missile interceptors in the Gulf states— for which the Qatar radar is a crucial early warning system — have been depleted. This raises questions about how dependable current air defence networks are. The loss of the Qatar radar will reduce real-time detection capabilities for ballistic threats. This could embolden Iran and its proxies. Damage to or destruction of the radar also puts pressure on Gulf allies to seek an immediate ceasefire even as their interceptor stockpiles are depleting. At the current usage rate, Qatar’s Patriot missiles could last only a few more days, according to some reports. Doubts are now being raised about the effectiveness of US-supplied missile shields against 'saturation attacks' by Iran. The US has sold billions of dollars’ worth of these missile defence systems to Gulf states over the past decades. But it appears that it's a costly solution that can be breached by a cheap projectile such as an Iranian drone. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>An Iranian strike damaged the $1.1 billion US radar at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. This is highlighting the cost asymmetry of the conflict, where cheap drones or missiles can threaten expensive missile defence systems.</p>

Iran's $20,000 drone struck $1.1 billion US radar that helps Gulf nations intercept missiles? Why it matters

<p>Massive aviation disruptions caused by the conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel have led to more than 23,000 global flight cancellations and costs exceeding $1 billion, including fuel, rerouting and revenue impacts. Indian airlines that are heavily reliant on Gulf routes for passenger traffic have also been significantly affected. In the initial days of the conflict, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had directed airlines to avoid airspace over Tehran, Tel Aviv, Beirut, Jeddah, Bahrain, Muscat, Baghdad, Amman, Kuwait, the UAE and Doha until early March, leading to widespread suspensions. Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation figures cite 1,221 Indian flights cancelled as of early March. Hundreds of flights are being impacted daily on major routes, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the UAE; Doha in Qatar; Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam in Saudi Arabia; Muscat in Oman; and Tel Aviv in Israel.</p><h2>How Indian airlines are coping with Gulf aviation disruptions</h2><p>Air India suspended all flights to and from the UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi), Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam), Qatar (Doha) and Israel (Tel Aviv) initially until March 2–3, with extensions in phases to March 5. The flag carrier cancelled up to 125 flights on peak days. It is also operating limited repatriation or special flights from cities such as Dubai and Jeddah to bring stranded passengers home. The airline is offering free rescheduling or full refunds for bookings made on or before 28 February for travel up to 5 March. Some Europe routes, such as London and Amsterdam, are also affected or rerouted.</p><p>The largest Indian carrier, IndiGo, has been the hardest hit, as it normally operates around 65 daily round trips on Gulf routes. The airline cancelled over 500 Middle East and select international flights from February 28 to March 3, reportedly up to 162 on March 3 alone. Services to the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia were suspended, and flexibility and waivers have been extended to March 7 for affected bookings.&nbsp;</p><p>It is also operating some relief flights, including from Jeddah to Ahmedabad, for stranded Indians and on other routes. Routes from Indian cities to Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are heavily impacted.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-israel-wion-speaks-to-indian-stuck-in-tel-aviv-major-airlines-halt-services-wion-1772283569270/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-israel-wion-speaks-to-indian-stuck-in-tel-aviv-major-airlines-halt-services-wion-1772283569270/embed</a></p><p>Air India Express suspended its entire Gulf schedule until around March 1, including services to Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Around 55 flights were cancelled, which is nearly half of its approximately 110 daily Gulf flights. It is also offering free rescheduling or full refunds for bookings made up to February 28 for travel up to March 5. At the time of writing, it has resumed some limited operations, for example to Muscat.</p><p>SpiceJet has cancelled flights to the UAE and other Gulf hubs.</p><p>Tens of thousands of passengers, many of them Indian workers in the Gulf, have been affected. Airport congestion was seen in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai, with over 250 international flights cancelled.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-shuts-its-air-space-several-airlines-cancel-flights-to-the-middle-east-1772271923845">Iran shuts its air space, several airlines cancel flights to the Middle East</a></p><h2>Global aviation chaos due to the Iran–Israel–US conflict</h2><p>When it comes to international operators, more than half of the 36,000 scheduled flights in the region have been affected, according to Cirium analytics. Revenue losses in the initial days could reach up to $2.6 billion.</p><p>Airspace closures or restrictions have primarily affected Iran, Iraq, Israel and Jordan.</p><p>Flight cancellations in Bahrain reached 97 per cent on some initial days of the conflict, while in Qatar they were as high as 86 per cent and in Kuwait 81 per cent. The United Arab Emirates saw cancellation rates of up to 81 per cent on some days, with major global aviation hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi among the hardest hit.</p><p>Partial restrictions were imposed on Saudi Arabia, Oman, Syria and Lebanon.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-dubai-tel-aviv-all-closed-apocalyptic-flight-radar-shows-10-countries-bracing-for-armageddon-after-assassination-of-ali-khamenei-1772367667109">'Dubai, Tel Aviv all closed': Apocalyptic flight radar shows 10 countries bracing for armageddon after assassination of Ali Khamenei</a></p><h2>Major global airlines affected by disruptions</h2><p>The UAE’s Emirates has extended the full suspension of scheduled flights to and from Dubai through at least 7 March. It is mostly operating limited repatriation and cargo flights. Emirates is among the most affected airlines, with hundreds of daily cancellations, including at least 338 on one recent day.</p><p>Qatar Airways has suspended services to and from Doha, extending the halt into early March, with high cancellation rates in Qatari airspace. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has suspended all scheduled commercial flights until at least 6 March, with only some repatriation flights operating.</p><p>The UAE low-cost carrier flydubai has also been affected by suspensions, while smaller carriers such as Flynas have cancelled routes to affected hubs, including Dubai and Riyadh.</p><p>United Airlines has cancelled US–Tel Aviv–Dubai routes, while Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong halted services to Dubai and Riyadh until 14 March.</p><p>Air France has suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh through early March.</p><p>British Airways has cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain, and affected Gulf routes such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi for several days.</p><p>Japan Airlines has suspended Tokyo–Doha routes through mid-March, and various European and Asian carriers have issued similar suspensions or waivers.</p>

Global aviation has been hit hard by the Middle East conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel. Over 23,000 flights were cancelled worldwide. Indian airlines and Gulf routes face major suspensions and passenger chaos

Massive aviation disruptions caused by the conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel have led to more than 23,000 global flight cancellations and costs exceeding $1 billion, including fuel, rerouting and revenue impacts. Indian airlines that are heavily reliant on Gulf routes for passenger traffic have also been significantly affected. In the initial days of the conflict, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had directed airlines to avoid airspace over Tehran, Tel Aviv, Beirut, Jeddah, Bahrain, Muscat, Baghdad, Amman, Kuwait, the UAE and Doha until early March, leading to widespread suspensions. Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation figures cite 1,221 Indian flights cancelled as of early March. Hundreds of flights are being impacted daily on major routes, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the UAE; Doha in Qatar; Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam in Saudi Arabia; Muscat in Oman; and Tel Aviv in Israel. How Indian airlines are coping with Gulf aviation disruptions Air India suspended all flights to and from the UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi), Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam), Qatar (Doha) and Israel (Tel Aviv) initially until March 2–3, with extensions in phases to March 5. The flag carrier cancelled up to 125 flights on peak days. It is also operating limited repatriation or special flights from cities such as Dubai and Jeddah to bring stranded passengers home. The airline is offering free rescheduling or full refunds for bookings made on or before 28 February for travel up to 5 March. Some Europe routes, such as London and Amsterdam, are also affected or rerouted. The largest Indian carrier, IndiGo, has been the hardest hit, as it normally operates around 65 daily round trips on Gulf routes. The airline cancelled over 500 Middle East and select international flights from February 28 to March 3, reportedly up to 162 on March 3 alone. Services to the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia were suspended, and flexibility and waivers have been extended to March 7 for affected bookings. It is also operating some relief flights, including from Jeddah to Ahmedabad, for stranded Indians and on other routes. Routes from Indian cities to Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are heavily impacted. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-israel-wion-speaks-to-indian-stuck-in-tel-aviv-major-airlines-halt-services-wion-1772283569270/embed Air India Express suspended its entire Gulf schedule until around March 1, including services to Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Around 55 flights were cancelled, which is nearly half of its approximately 110 daily Gulf flights. It is also offering free rescheduling or full refunds for bookings made up to February 28 for travel up to March 5. At the time of writing, it has resumed some limited operations, for example to Muscat. SpiceJet has cancelled flights to the UAE and other Gulf hubs. Tens of thousands of passengers, many of them Indian workers in the Gulf, have been affected. Airport congestion was seen in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai, with over 250 international flights cancelled. Also read: Iran shuts its air space, several airlines cancel flights to the Middle East Global aviation chaos due to the Iran–Israel–US conflict When it comes to international operators, more than half of the 36,000 scheduled flights in the region have been affected, according to Cirium analytics. Revenue losses in the initial days could reach up to $2.6 billion. Airspace closures or restrictions have primarily affected Iran, Iraq, Israel and Jordan. Flight cancellations in Bahrain reached 97 per cent on some initial days of the conflict, while in Qatar they were as high as 86 per cent and in Kuwait 81 per cent. The United Arab Emirates saw cancellation rates of up to 81 per cent on some days, with major global aviation hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi among the hardest hit. Partial restrictions were imposed on Saudi Arabia, Oman, Syria and Lebanon. Also read: 'Dubai, Tel Aviv all closed': Apocalyptic flight radar shows 10 countries bracing for armageddon after assassination of Ali Khamenei Major global airlines affected by disruptions The UAE’s Emirates has extended the full suspension of scheduled flights to and from Dubai through at least 7 March. It is mostly operating limited repatriation and cargo flights. Emirates is among the most affected airlines, with hundreds of daily cancellations, including at least 338 on one recent day. Qatar Airways has suspended services to and from Doha, extending the halt into early March, with high cancellation rates in Qatari airspace. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has suspended all scheduled commercial flights until at least 6 March, with only some repatriation flights operating. The UAE low-cost carrier flydubai has also been affected by suspensions, while smaller carriers such as Flynas have cancelled routes to affected hubs, including Dubai and Riyadh. United Airlines has cancelled US–Tel Aviv–Dubai routes, while Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong halted services to Dubai and Riyadh until 14 March. Air France has suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh through early March. British Airways has cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain, and affected Gulf routes such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi for several days. Japan Airlines has suspended Tokyo–Doha routes through mid-March, and various European and Asian carriers have issued similar suspensions or waivers.

<p>Global aviation has been hit hard by the Middle East conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel. Over 23,000 flights were cancelled worldwide. Indian airlines and Gulf routes face major suspensions and passenger chaos</p>

23,000 flights cancelled, losses cross $1 billion: Indian airlines hit hard as Middle East conflict grounds global aviation

<p>Artificial intelligence firm Anthropic’s CEO Dario Amodei has criticised his former colleague and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman for being beholden to the Trump administration on issues related to the use of AI in defence and personal security. Amodei suggested that the firm behind popular AI models such as Claude is receiving little support because it did not donate as much money to Donald Trump as OpenAI did. The allegations were made in an internal memo to staff, according to the website The Information.</p><h2>Political donations and AI policy disputes: Leaked memo reveals rift between Anthropic and US government</h2><p>Amodei claimed that tensions between his company and the Trump administration stem partly from the firm’s refusal to financially support Trump and its approach to AI regulation and safety issues. His roughly 1,600-word message was sent on 27 February to around 2,000 employees, explaining what he described as the “real reasons” the Department of Defence and the Trump administration were hostile towards Anthropic. The memo came as the Pentagon suspended an earlier contract for using Anthropic’s Claude and other AI models in its systems. Trump himself posted about the issue on social media, with Anthropic declared a “supply chain risk”.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/anthropic-resumes-pentagon-talks-after-dispute-over-ai-use-by-the-us-military-reports-1772698977750">Anthropic resumes Pentagon talks after dispute over AI use by the US military: Reports</a></p><h2>‘Anthropic didn’t do dictator-style praise of Trump while OpenAI donated to him’</h2><p>In Amodei’s view, the reasons for the US government’s hostility towards Anthropic included its refusal to donate to Trump and the lack of what he called “dictator-style praise” for the US president. Other reasons included Anthropic’s support for AI regulation and its willingness to speak openly about the risks of AI, such as job displacement.&nbsp;</p><p>Amodei said Anthropic maintained ethical “red lines”. He claimed that OpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman, chose to cooperate with the government and accused it of appeasing employees and regulators.</p><p>Amodei noted that OpenAI President Greg Brockman and his wife reportedly donated $25 million to the pro-Trump MAGA Inc super PAC, while OpenAI CEO Sam Altman contributed $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund and has publicly praised the president.</p><p>Amodei accused OpenAI of compromising principles, calling the rival company’s recent Pentagon agreement “mendacious” and a form of “safety theatre”. He also criticised OpenAI employees as being easily swayed by leadership narratives.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-agencies-drop-anthropic-amid-ai-surveillance-and-defense-access-dispute-1772526570603/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-agencies-drop-anthropic-amid-ai-surveillance-and-defense-access-dispute-1772526570603/embed</a></p><h2>Pentagon dispute with Anthropic: Mass surveillance and autonomous weapons were key issues</h2><p>Anthropic and the US government came to loggerheads after the Pentagon sought to modify existing contracts with AI firms to remove restrictions on the use of AI for domestic mass surveillance and fully autonomous weapons.</p><p>Anthropic refused these changes, saying the limits it placed on military use of AI reflected American values and the company’s ethical commitments. President Trump reportedly directed federal agencies to stop using Anthropic’s technology, cancelling more than $200 million in government contracts.</p><p>Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth labelled Anthropic a “supply chain risk to national security”, which could restrict partners like Amazon Web Services from collaborating with the AI firm.</p><p>Anthropic plans to challenge the decision in court, calling it retaliatory and punitive.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-us-use-anthropic-ai-in-iran-s-strikes-despite-trump-s-ban-what-we-know-1772356637161">Did US use Anthropic AI in Iran’s strikes despite Trump’s ban? What we know</a></p><h2>OpenAI’s Pentagon deal vs Anthropic's call for AI oversight</h2><p>Shortly after the government vs Athropic dispute escalated, OpenAI announced a deal with the Pentagon to provide AI tools in classified environments, accepting terms similar to those rejected by Anthropic.&nbsp;</p><p>Anthropic has advocated stronger oversight of artificial intelligence. It donated $20 million to Public First Action, a political action committee supporting AI guardrails and opposing deregulation efforts favoured by the Trump administration.</p><p>OpenAI, meanwhile, has taken a more flexible approach to regulation. OpenAI avoided a public conflict with the government.</p><p>Amodei has repeatedly warned about the societal risks of AI, including large-scale job displacement, and has criticised hands-off policy approaches.</p>

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei hinted that the Trump administration targeted the company after it refused political donations and opposed changes to Pentagon AI contracts involving mass surveillance and autonomous weapons. Here are his allegations, according to reports

Artificial intelligence firm Anthropic’s CEO Dario Amodei has criticised his former colleague and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman for being beholden to the Trump administration on issues related to the use of AI in defence and personal security. Amodei suggested that the firm behind popular AI models such as Claude is receiving little support because it did not donate as much money to Donald Trump as OpenAI did. The allegations were made in an internal memo to staff, according to the website The Information. Political donations and AI policy disputes: Leaked memo reveals rift between Anthropic and US government Amodei claimed that tensions between his company and the Trump administration stem partly from the firm’s refusal to financially support Trump and its approach to AI regulation and safety issues. His roughly 1,600-word message was sent on 27 February to around 2,000 employees, explaining what he described as the “real reasons” the Department of Defence and the Trump administration were hostile towards Anthropic. The memo came as the Pentagon suspended an earlier contract for using Anthropic’s Claude and other AI models in its systems. Trump himself posted about the issue on social media, with Anthropic declared a “supply chain risk”. Also read: Anthropic resumes Pentagon talks after dispute over AI use by the US military: Reports ‘Anthropic didn’t do dictator-style praise of Trump while OpenAI donated to him’ In Amodei’s view, the reasons for the US government’s hostility towards Anthropic included its refusal to donate to Trump and the lack of what he called “dictator-style praise” for the US president. Other reasons included Anthropic’s support for AI regulation and its willingness to speak openly about the risks of AI, such as job displacement. Amodei said Anthropic maintained ethical “red lines”. He claimed that OpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman, chose to cooperate with the government and accused it of appeasing employees and regulators. Amodei noted that OpenAI President Greg Brockman and his wife reportedly donated $25 million to the pro-Trump MAGA Inc super PAC, while OpenAI CEO Sam Altman contributed $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund and has publicly praised the president. Amodei accused OpenAI of compromising principles, calling the rival company’s recent Pentagon agreement “mendacious” and a form of “safety theatre”. He also criticised OpenAI employees as being easily swayed by leadership narratives. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-agencies-drop-anthropic-amid-ai-surveillance-and-defense-access-dispute-1772526570603/embed Pentagon dispute with Anthropic: Mass surveillance and autonomous weapons were key issues Anthropic and the US government came to loggerheads after the Pentagon sought to modify existing contracts with AI firms to remove restrictions on the use of AI for domestic mass surveillance and fully autonomous weapons. Anthropic refused these changes, saying the limits it placed on military use of AI reflected American values and the company’s ethical commitments. President Trump reportedly directed federal agencies to stop using Anthropic’s technology, cancelling more than $200 million in government contracts. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth labelled Anthropic a “supply chain risk to national security”, which could restrict partners like Amazon Web Services from collaborating with the AI firm. Anthropic plans to challenge the decision in court, calling it retaliatory and punitive. Also read: Did US use Anthropic AI in Iran’s strikes despite Trump’s ban? What we know OpenAI’s Pentagon deal vs Anthropic's call for AI oversight Shortly after the government vs Athropic dispute escalated, OpenAI announced a deal with the Pentagon to provide AI tools in classified environments, accepting terms similar to those rejected by Anthropic. Anthropic has advocated stronger oversight of artificial intelligence. It donated $20 million to Public First Action, a political action committee supporting AI guardrails and opposing deregulation efforts favoured by the Trump administration. OpenAI, meanwhile, has taken a more flexible approach to regulation. OpenAI avoided a public conflict with the government. Amodei has repeatedly warned about the societal risks of AI, including large-scale job displacement, and has criticised hands-off policy approaches.

<p>Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei hinted that the Trump administration targeted the company after it refused political donations and opposed changes to Pentagon AI contracts involving mass surveillance and autonomous weapons. Here are his allegations, according to reports</p>

'No dictator-style praise': Anthropic CEO says US govt hostility linked to Trump donations; slams OpenAI's Altman in internal memo - Report

<p>US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has said that a torpedo from a US submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday (Mar 3). This is a signal that the US would neutralise Iranian naval threats beyond the Persian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran and Israel. Here is why the sinking is significant.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-everything-has-been-knocked-out-in-iran-donald-trump-1772557096000">'EVERYTHING HAS BEEN KNOCKED OUT IN IRAN': Donald Trump</a></p><h2>What happened to IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean?</h2><p>IRIS Dena, a Moudge-class frigate of the Iranian Navy, sank nearly 40 nautical miles (74 kilometres) south of Galle off the coast of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean.<br>The sinking followed a distress call and a massive explosion leading to rapid flooding of the ship, which disappeared from radar within minutes. Sri Lankan Navy and defence sources described it as a “classic submarine torpedo attack”.</p><p>At the time of writing this, at least 80 bodies have been recovered by Sri Lanka and some 100 are missing and presumed dead, according to reports.</p><p>The ship had recently participated in India’s naval exercise, MILAN 2026. It was reportedly returning to Iran when the incident occurred.&nbsp;</p><p>It is being reported that there were two other Iranian warships in the area. Another warship has taken refuge at the Colombo port.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-hits-china-hard-strait-of-hormuz-crisis-disrupts-oil-trade-1772634564917/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-hits-china-hard-strait-of-hormuz-crisis-disrupts-oil-trade-1772634564917/embed</a></p><h2>What did US defence secretary say about the submarine sinking of the Iranian ship?</h2><p>Hegseth said: “An American submarine sank an Iranian warship that thought it was safe in international waters. Instead it was sunk by a torpedo, a quiet death – the first sinking of an enemy ship by a torpedo since the Second World War.&nbsp;</p><p>"Like in that war, back when we were still the War Department, we are fighting to win.”&nbsp;</p><p>The US defence secretary said the Iranian navy “rests at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” and is “ineffective, decimated, destroyed… pick your adjective, it is no more”.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-to-pick-iran-s-new-leader-after-khamenei-death-us-president-says-he-has-3-good-choices-reza-pahlavi-mojtaba-ali-larijani-abbas-aragchi-1772430896517">'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 'good choices'</a></p><h2>US submarine-launched torpedoes make a comeback</h2><p>US submarine-launched torpedoes include Mark 48 torpedo ADCAP variants. These are wire-guided, homing torpedoes designed for stealthy, quiet operation with acoustic homing.</p><p>They can carry large warheads of around 295 kgs of explosives. Their range exceeds 20 to 30 nautical miles (37 to 56 kms), depending on speed settings.</p><p>The torpedoes are deployed from US attack submarines, including Virginia-class submarine and Los Angeles-class submarines worldwide. The submarines operate in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions as part of routine patrols and deterrence.</p><h2>US torpedoes were used extensively in the Second World War</h2><p>During World War 2, the Mark 14 torpedo and Mark 15 torpedo sank millions of tonnes of shipping.</p><p>Hegseth highlighted the attack on Iranian ship as the first confirmed enemy surface ship sinking by torpedo since the Second World War.&nbsp;</p><h2>Why the sinking of the Iranian ship matters</h2><p>This is the first major naval casualty in the Indian Ocean amid the broader war. Such attacks can disrupt freedom of navigation. The sinking also brings back submarine warfare after decades of dominance by anti-ship missiles and air power in wars. The attack underscores the vulnerability of even modern frigates to stealthy submarine strikes, reviving memories of World War II era submarine campaigns.</p><p>The attack is a rare modern instance of a submarine torpedo attack successfully sinking a surface warship in open ocean waters.</p><p>It also marks the first time the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict has spilled over into the Indian Ocean, which is also India’s maritime backyard.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</strong></i></p>

A torpedo from a US submarine sank Iranian warship IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean. This is a rare strike marking the first confirmed enemy ship sinking by torpedo since WWII.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has said that a torpedo from a US submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday (Mar 3). This is a signal that the US would neutralise Iranian naval threats beyond the Persian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran and Israel. Here is why the sinking is significant. Also read: 'EVERYTHING HAS BEEN KNOCKED OUT IN IRAN': Donald Trump What happened to IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean? IRIS Dena, a Moudge-class frigate of the Iranian Navy, sank nearly 40 nautical miles (74 kilometres) south of Galle off the coast of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. The sinking followed a distress call and a massive explosion leading to rapid flooding of the ship, which disappeared from radar within minutes. Sri Lankan Navy and defence sources described it as a “classic submarine torpedo attack”. At the time of writing this, at least 80 bodies have been recovered by Sri Lanka and some 100 are missing and presumed dead, according to reports. The ship had recently participated in India’s naval exercise, MILAN 2026. It was reportedly returning to Iran when the incident occurred. It is being reported that there were two other Iranian warships in the area. Another warship has taken refuge at the Colombo port. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-hits-china-hard-strait-of-hormuz-crisis-disrupts-oil-trade-1772634564917/embed What did US defence secretary say about the submarine sinking of the Iranian ship? Hegseth said: “An American submarine sank an Iranian warship that thought it was safe in international waters. Instead it was sunk by a torpedo, a quiet death – the first sinking of an enemy ship by a torpedo since the Second World War. "Like in that war, back when we were still the War Department, we are fighting to win.” The US defence secretary said the Iranian navy “rests at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” and is “ineffective, decimated, destroyed… pick your adjective, it is no more”. Also read: 'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 'good choices' US submarine-launched torpedoes make a comeback US submarine-launched torpedoes include Mark 48 torpedo ADCAP variants. These are wire-guided, homing torpedoes designed for stealthy, quiet operation with acoustic homing. They can carry large warheads of around 295 kgs of explosives. Their range exceeds 20 to 30 nautical miles (37 to 56 kms), depending on speed settings. The torpedoes are deployed from US attack submarines, including Virginia-class submarine and Los Angeles-class submarines worldwide. The submarines operate in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions as part of routine patrols and deterrence. US torpedoes were used extensively in the Second World War During World War 2, the Mark 14 torpedo and Mark 15 torpedo sank millions of tonnes of shipping. Hegseth highlighted the attack on Iranian ship as the first confirmed enemy surface ship sinking by torpedo since the Second World War. Why the sinking of the Iranian ship matters This is the first major naval casualty in the Indian Ocean amid the broader war. Such attacks can disrupt freedom of navigation. The sinking also brings back submarine warfare after decades of dominance by anti-ship missiles and air power in wars. The attack underscores the vulnerability of even modern frigates to stealthy submarine strikes, reviving memories of World War II era submarine campaigns. The attack is a rare modern instance of a submarine torpedo attack successfully sinking a surface warship in open ocean waters. It also marks the first time the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict has spilled over into the Indian Ocean, which is also India’s maritime backyard. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>A torpedo from a US submarine sank Iranian warship IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean. This is a rare strike marking the first confirmed enemy ship sinking by torpedo since WWII.</p>

'Quiet death': Why a torpedo destroying Iranian warship, the first such US sinking since World War 2, is significant

<p>It is very clear that Iran of 2026 is not Iraq of 2003. No large groups of protesters against the regime have gathered in Tehran's Azadi Square with claims to form the next government, five days after US-Israeli bombing. There is no sign of a new government, other than the Islamic Republic. At best, people are confused, afraid and keeping a low profile. &nbsp;As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, the US and Israel have bombed out the entire negotiating table, leaving nobody to take charge of the nation. The US is appealing to ethnic groups such as the Kurds to take the fight forward in their respective regions against the still-entrenched Iranian forces to help complete the transition into a new regime. But how good is that idea?&nbsp;</p><h2>Best alternatives to current Iranian leadership are already gone in Israeli strikes</h2><p>US President Donald Trump himself said that the second and third options for leadership transition are gone. This is because, the first day of the current conflict saw Israel “take out” much of the leadership of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This could frustrate any future efforts to bring in a semblance of security, safety and stability. Added to this is the Israeli threat that any new Supreme Leader would also be a target for assassination.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed</a></p><h2>Iran is not a simple puzzle to crack, it's a vast nation&nbsp;</h2><p>Iran is a vast nation with huge resources, including oil. With its control over much of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has long played a key role in global commerce. Surprisingly, Iran is still standing in spite of the decapitation strikes by the US and Israel. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, repeatedly said he is ready to take Iran into a new phase of transition, but neither Trump nor Israel appears interested in backing him. Even the last Shah’s widow urged caution and warned against plunging the country into chaos, saying Iran must not be allowed to descend into bloodshed and fragmentation.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-arming-militias-to-overthrow-iran-regime-wants-somebody-from-within-report-1772599622355">Trump’s 'Operation Epic Fury' targets Tehran: Is a US-backed militia the key to ending the Iran war?</a></p><h2>Iran today is not like Iraq in 2003: Not many cheering for the US or Israel or the fall of a regime</h2><p>When the US invaded Saddam Hussein’s Iraq in 2003, many people there rejoiced. But in Iran today, there is no comparable atmosphere. The large, sustained protest movements of late 2025 did draw millions into the streets initially. However, before the February 27 bombardment, the Iranian system had already brutally suppressed the protests, with killings, mass arrests and an internet blackout. This may be why, after the US–Israel strike, there is no unified rival government claiming authority or occupying major Iranian cities. Perhaps the discontent, though serious, was not nationwide as projected in some sections of the media earlier; it was concentrated in pockets of Iranian society.</p><p>Thousands of protesters were reportedly killed amid curfews, arrests and show trials. Tehran residents might be too fearful now to suddenly come out and attempt a physical overthrow of the government or its officials.</p><p>In short, there is no revolution.</p><p>Iran’s permanent UN envoy has said that Tehran has not contacted Washington about peace talks and is sceptical about resuming official negotiations after the hostilities. With possible intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman and the UAE also drawn into the conflict by Iranian retaliatory strikes, even indirect talks have been disrupted.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-israel-iran-war-live-updates-donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-ali-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-assembly-of-experts-march-2026-1772584866186">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV</a></p><h2>From Kurds to Baluchs to Arabs and others: What are the US options for a proxy takeover?</h2><p>Reports say that the US has been in discussions with Iranian Kurdish militia leaders about potential military operations in western Iran. The idea is for Kurdish forces to weaken Iranian security forces in border regions. The US appears ready to arm the Kurds and provide intelligence cooperation.</p><p>Long fighting the Islamic Republic, the Kurds are battle-hardened and familiar with the territory in western Iran that have seen opposition to Tehran. Kurdish groups have formed alliances and articulated political aims beyond simply supporting protests too.</p><p>But there are downsides. If they are entertained too much, the Kurds may push for secession. Many Kurdish groups have long sought autonomy or self-determination rather than reintegration into a centralised Iranian state.</p><p>US engagement with Kurdish forces could inflame ethnic tensions, trigger wider regional conflict and draw in neighbours such as Turkey, which hosts a volatile Kurdish community that has only recently scaled down armed attacks on Turkish state targets.&nbsp;</p><p>US arming of Kurdish groups could lead to a never-ending civil war situation, similar to what Syria experienced for over a decade after the so-called Arab Spring revolutions.</p><p>This could, in essence, lead to the Balkanisation of Iran into ethnic strongholds and pockets.&nbsp;</p><h2>Other than the Kurds, what options does the US have in Iran?</h2><p>The Baluch minority in south-eastern Iran is another group the US is believed to be in contact with, according to intelligence reports. These are largely Sunni groups that have long sought greater autonomy or independence and have a history of armed resistance against the Iranian state.</p><p>The Arab minority in Khuzestan province is another group in Iran’s south-west that has engaged in protests and clashes with security forces in past years and remains politically significant.&nbsp;</p><p>Feelers have also been sent to moderate regime officials and dissidents inside Iran. The US may be talking to ‘friendly figures’ within Iran’s military and government, offering conditional support to those willing to break with hardliners.</p><p>US strategists are also said to be engaging civil society actors, local leaders and influencers inside Iran who might provide political legitimacy or leadership in a transition period, not necessarily as armed groups.</p><h2>Can exile groups run Iran?</h2><p>There is a multitude of Iranian opposition groups in exile, such as the Iran National Council, which bring together secular and pro-democracy factions, including supporters of Reza Pahlavi. However, there has been no direct high-level US coordination with them in the context of the current crisis.</p><p>Iran-focused opposition organisations based in the West or the US are part of the broader opposition ecosystem and often influence Washington policy debates. The Organisation of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), an advocacy group that supports ending the Islamic Republic’s rule and a democratic transition, is one such, with historical links to the People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK).</p><p>However, none of these groups appears capable of handling a wholesale political or governmental transition inside Iran at present.</p><p>In short, there is no consolidated internal interim government or group capable of providing broad national leadership to Iranians.</p><p>In essence, if continuity is not ensured, the US and Isreael run the risk of leaving behind a major power vacuum in Iran.&nbsp;</p><p>Continuity of governance, at present, can only come from remnants of the Islamic Republic.</p><p>US leveraging of any other group, without a cohesive and broadly supported governance plan, risks internal fragmentation, ethnic conflict, Balkanisation and possible civil war, rather than a smooth transition.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</i></p>

After US–Israel decapitatation of Iran’s leadership, there's no sign of an alternative form of government emerging. Former anti-regime protesters are not cheering on the streets for a revolution. The US is talking with Kurds, Baluch, Arab groups and dissidents. Has Iran's fragmentation begun?

It is very clear that Iran of 2026 is not Iraq of 2003. No large groups of protesters against the regime have gathered in Tehran's Azadi Square with claims to form the next government, five days after US-Israeli bombing. There is no sign of a new government, other than the Islamic Republic. At best, people are confused, afraid and keeping a low profile. As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, the US and Israel have bombed out the entire negotiating table, leaving nobody to take charge of the nation. The US is appealing to ethnic groups such as the Kurds to take the fight forward in their respective regions against the still-entrenched Iranian forces to help complete the transition into a new regime. But how good is that idea? Best alternatives to current Iranian leadership are already gone in Israeli strikes US President Donald Trump himself said that the second and third options for leadership transition are gone. This is because, the first day of the current conflict saw Israel “take out” much of the leadership of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This could frustrate any future efforts to bring in a semblance of security, safety and stability. Added to this is the Israeli threat that any new Supreme Leader would also be a target for assassination. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed Iran is not a simple puzzle to crack, it's a vast nation Iran is a vast nation with huge resources, including oil. With its control over much of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has long played a key role in global commerce. Surprisingly, Iran is still standing in spite of the decapitation strikes by the US and Israel. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, repeatedly said he is ready to take Iran into a new phase of transition, but neither Trump nor Israel appears interested in backing him. Even the last Shah’s widow urged caution and warned against plunging the country into chaos, saying Iran must not be allowed to descend into bloodshed and fragmentation. Also read: Trump’s 'Operation Epic Fury' targets Tehran: Is a US-backed militia the key to ending the Iran war? Iran today is not like Iraq in 2003: Not many cheering for the US or Israel or the fall of a regime When the US invaded Saddam Hussein’s Iraq in 2003, many people there rejoiced. But in Iran today, there is no comparable atmosphere. The large, sustained protest movements of late 2025 did draw millions into the streets initially. However, before the February 27 bombardment, the Iranian system had already brutally suppressed the protests, with killings, mass arrests and an internet blackout. This may be why, after the US–Israel strike, there is no unified rival government claiming authority or occupying major Iranian cities. Perhaps the discontent, though serious, was not nationwide as projected in some sections of the media earlier; it was concentrated in pockets of Iranian society. Thousands of protesters were reportedly killed amid curfews, arrests and show trials. Tehran residents might be too fearful now to suddenly come out and attempt a physical overthrow of the government or its officials. In short, there is no revolution. Iran’s permanent UN envoy has said that Tehran has not contacted Washington about peace talks and is sceptical about resuming official negotiations after the hostilities. With possible intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman and the UAE also drawn into the conflict by Iranian retaliatory strikes, even indirect talks have been disrupted. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV From Kurds to Baluchs to Arabs and others: What are the US options for a proxy takeover? Reports say that the US has been in discussions with Iranian Kurdish militia leaders about potential military operations in western Iran. The idea is for Kurdish forces to weaken Iranian security forces in border regions. The US appears ready to arm the Kurds and provide intelligence cooperation. Long fighting the Islamic Republic, the Kurds are battle-hardened and familiar with the territory in western Iran that have seen opposition to Tehran. Kurdish groups have formed alliances and articulated political aims beyond simply supporting protests too. But there are downsides. If they are entertained too much, the Kurds may push for secession. Many Kurdish groups have long sought autonomy or self-determination rather than reintegration into a centralised Iranian state. US engagement with Kurdish forces could inflame ethnic tensions, trigger wider regional conflict and draw in neighbours such as Turkey, which hosts a volatile Kurdish community that has only recently scaled down armed attacks on Turkish state targets. US arming of Kurdish groups could lead to a never-ending civil war situation, similar to what Syria experienced for over a decade after the so-called Arab Spring revolutions. This could, in essence, lead to the Balkanisation of Iran into ethnic strongholds and pockets. Other than the Kurds, what options does the US have in Iran? The Baluch minority in south-eastern Iran is another group the US is believed to be in contact with, according to intelligence reports. These are largely Sunni groups that have long sought greater autonomy or independence and have a history of armed resistance against the Iranian state. The Arab minority in Khuzestan province is another group in Iran’s south-west that has engaged in protests and clashes with security forces in past years and remains politically significant. Feelers have also been sent to moderate regime officials and dissidents inside Iran. The US may be talking to ‘friendly figures’ within Iran’s military and government, offering conditional support to those willing to break with hardliners. US strategists are also said to be engaging civil society actors, local leaders and influencers inside Iran who might provide political legitimacy or leadership in a transition period, not necessarily as armed groups. Can exile groups run Iran? There is a multitude of Iranian opposition groups in exile, such as the Iran National Council, which bring together secular and pro-democracy factions, including supporters of Reza Pahlavi. However, there has been no direct high-level US coordination with them in the context of the current crisis. Iran-focused opposition organisations based in the West or the US are part of the broader opposition ecosystem and often influence Washington policy debates. The Organisation of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), an advocacy group that supports ending the Islamic Republic’s rule and a democratic transition, is one such, with historical links to the People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK). However, none of these groups appears capable of handling a wholesale political or governmental transition inside Iran at present. In short, there is no consolidated internal interim government or group capable of providing broad national leadership to Iranians. In essence, if continuity is not ensured, the US and Isreael run the risk of leaving behind a major power vacuum in Iran. Continuity of governance, at present, can only come from remnants of the Islamic Republic. US leveraging of any other group, without a cohesive and broadly supported governance plan, risks internal fragmentation, ethnic conflict, Balkanisation and possible civil war, rather than a smooth transition. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>After US–Israel decapitatation of Iran’s leadership, there's no sign of an alternative form of government emerging. Former anti-regime protesters are not cheering on the streets for a revolution. The US is talking with Kurds, Baluch, Arab groups and dissidents. Has Iran's fragmentation begun?</p>

Iran 2026 is not Iraq 2003: With top leaders gone, US talks to Kurds and other ethnic groups, but who will run Tehran?

<p>Media reports from Iran and Israel appeared to suggest that the US and Israel bombed a building which houses the Assembly of Experts, the body tasked with electing the nation's Supreme Leader. The reports claimed that the bombing of the building in Qom occurred on Tuesday (Mar 2), two days after Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in an air strike in a joint US-Israel operation. That strike had killed dozens of other leaders in the clerical and military echelons of Iran.</p><h2>Assembly of Experts building attacked</h2><p>The semi-official Tasnim news agency of Iran said in a report: “The American-Zionist criminals attacked the Assembly of Experts building in Qom.” Tasnim news agency is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Footage circulated on Iranian state channels and social platforms showed the building, which houses the Assembly of Experts secretariat, &nbsp;severely damaged.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-fresh-wave-of-strikes-across-iran-key-sites-in-tehran-hit-1772552675534/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-fresh-wave-of-strikes-across-iran-key-sites-in-tehran-hit-1772552675534/embed</a></p><h2>If the Assembly of Experts building was destroyed, what does that mean?</h2><p>If the US and Israel indeed bombed and destroyed the Qom building, the message is clear: they would not allow the selection of another Supreme Leader of Iran after Ali Khamenei.</p><p>Sources cited in Israeli media claimed that the strike targeted the building while members were meeting to discuss or begin the successor selection process, aiming to disrupt it.</p><p>At the time of writing, there is no Iranian confirmation as to whether clerics of the Assembly of Experts were actually present or gathering for a session when the attack happened.</p><p>Some Israeli officials speaking to outlets such as Axios, and some Telegram channels like Zed TV, claimed this to be the case, with potential casualties among members.</p><p>Iran's Mehr News Agency and Fars News downplayed the reports, saying the Qom site is an "old, secondary structure" no longer used for meetings.</p><p>Casualties could not be immediately confirmed, with no verified reports of mass deaths among Assembly members.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-live-blog-us-israel-attack-iran-live-updates-trump-khamenei-hezbollah-attack-us-idf-lebanon-india-russia-china-netanyahu-hamas-nkorea-middleeast-oman-1772505411085">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE | Netanyahu says continuing to strike Iran 'with force'</a></p><h2>Why the Assembly of Experts is important</h2><p>The Assembly of Experts, or the Majles-e Khobregan-e Rahbari, is a deliberative body of the Islamic Republic consisting of 88 senior mujtahids, or Shia Islamic jurists. They are all approved by the Guardian Council before being elected by direct public vote for eight-year terms.</p><p>Filled mainly with principlists and conservative figures loyal to the regime, the clerics are experts in Islamic jurisprudence, or fiqh.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/photos-from-iran-satellite-image-shows-damage-at-natanz-nuclear-facility-1772521792737">Satellite image shows damage at Natanz nuclear facility | Photos from Iran</a></p><p><br>The most recent election to the Assembly of Experts was in 2024 for its sixth term, set to end in 2032.</p><p>The body has convened to elect Iran's Supreme Leader only once in its history, in 1989, when it selected Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to succeed Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini after Khomeini's death.</p><p>For the rest of the time, it has functioned in a supervisory role, theoretically having the power to dismiss or replace the Leader.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</i></p>

US and Israel reportedly bombed Iran's Assembly of Experts building in Qom, days after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in their joint strike. If it happened, this could have been aimed as a disruption of the election of the next Supreme Leader. Here is what reports say

Media reports from Iran and Israel appeared to suggest that the US and Israel bombed a building which houses the Assembly of Experts, the body tasked with electing the nation's Supreme Leader. The reports claimed that the bombing of the building in Qom occurred on Tuesday (Mar 2), two days after Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in an air strike in a joint US-Israel operation. That strike had killed dozens of other leaders in the clerical and military echelons of Iran. Assembly of Experts building attacked The semi-official Tasnim news agency of Iran said in a report: “The American-Zionist criminals attacked the Assembly of Experts building in Qom.” Tasnim news agency is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Footage circulated on Iranian state channels and social platforms showed the building, which houses the Assembly of Experts secretariat, severely damaged. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-fresh-wave-of-strikes-across-iran-key-sites-in-tehran-hit-1772552675534/embed If the Assembly of Experts building was destroyed, what does that mean? If the US and Israel indeed bombed and destroyed the Qom building, the message is clear: they would not allow the selection of another Supreme Leader of Iran after Ali Khamenei. Sources cited in Israeli media claimed that the strike targeted the building while members were meeting to discuss or begin the successor selection process, aiming to disrupt it. At the time of writing, there is no Iranian confirmation as to whether clerics of the Assembly of Experts were actually present or gathering for a session when the attack happened. Some Israeli officials speaking to outlets such as Axios, and some Telegram channels like Zed TV, claimed this to be the case, with potential casualties among members. Iran's Mehr News Agency and Fars News downplayed the reports, saying the Qom site is an "old, secondary structure" no longer used for meetings. Casualties could not be immediately confirmed, with no verified reports of mass deaths among Assembly members. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE | Netanyahu says continuing to strike Iran 'with force' Why the Assembly of Experts is important The Assembly of Experts, or the Majles-e Khobregan-e Rahbari, is a deliberative body of the Islamic Republic consisting of 88 senior mujtahids, or Shia Islamic jurists. They are all approved by the Guardian Council before being elected by direct public vote for eight-year terms. Filled mainly with principlists and conservative figures loyal to the regime, the clerics are experts in Islamic jurisprudence, or fiqh. Also read: Satellite image shows damage at Natanz nuclear facility | Photos from Iran The most recent election to the Assembly of Experts was in 2024 for its sixth term, set to end in 2032. The body has convened to elect Iran's Supreme Leader only once in its history, in 1989, when it selected Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to succeed Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini after Khomeini's death. For the rest of the time, it has functioned in a supervisory role, theoretically having the power to dismiss or replace the Leader. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>US and Israel reportedly bombed Iran's Assembly of Experts building in Qom, days after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in their joint strike. If it happened, this could have been aimed as a disruption of the election of the next Supreme Leader. Here is what reports say</p>

Did the US, Israel bomb Assembly of Experts building, where Iran's new Supreme Leader is selected? Reports claim…

<p>The global shipping industry is facing tens of billions of dollars in estimated costs and losses per day after just three days of regional conflict arising from the US-Israel attack on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory strikes on Gulf nations, coupled with disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz. Freight charges have surged given security risks, with some reports citing increases of up to $400,000 per day. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne oil, approximately 20–21 million barrels per day before the conflict began. It also handles a similar share of LNG exports, primarily from Qatar.</p><h2>At least 750 ships hit by congestion</h2><p>As Iran effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, nearly 750 ships are reportedly impacted by congestion in and around the waterway,. Only a few tankers were transiting compared with the normal 130 per day, as ship traffic through the strait plunged by about 86 per cent. Hundreds of vessels are queued on either side.</p><p>Some 100 container ships, representing about 10 per cent of the global container fleet, are caught in the backups and unable to transit normally because insurers have withdrawn war-risk coverage and carriers are avoiding the area.</p><h2>Maersk and other major carriers suspend operations</h2><p>Maersk, one of the world’s largest container carriers, suspended acceptance of new bookings on key routes in and out of the Middle East, including Gulf states like UAE and Oman, and has paused some operations to safeguard cargo and crews. Other major carriers such as MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, and COSCO have also stopped transits through the Strait of Hormuz or rerouted services to avoid the affected waters.</p><h2>From freight rates to war-risk premiums, shipping costs shoot through the roof</h2><p>Freight rates for oil tankers have surged to record highs, reportedly up to $400,000 per day in the case of Very Large Crude Carriers or VLCCs transporting crude from the Middle East to China due to route disruptions and elevated risk. LNG tanker rates have surged more than 40 per cent, with some routes reaching $41,000–$61,500 per day according to reports.</p><p>Shipping companies have introduced emergency conflict surcharges of up to $4,000 per container to offset added risks and expenses. War-risk insurance premiums have risen sharply or been cancelled entirely for vessels in the region, forcing carriers to either pay much higher insurance or avoid the strait altogether.</p><h2>Ripple effect: A sharp rise in oil and gas prices</h2><p>The fuel transit disruption, along with Iran’s attacks on oil and gas facilities in producer nations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, has contributed to sharply rising oil and gas prices, which in turn increase operating costs for ships worldwide. Brent crude futures spiked nearly 10–13 per cent in direct response to the conflict, trading nearly $77–$85 per barrel, with fears of $100 or even $200 per barrel in prolonged disruption scenarios.</p><p>Indirect costs include higher freight rates, insurance surcharges, longer detour routes, and idle vessels, potentially amounting to tens of billions of dollars.&nbsp;</p><p>All these factors point to mounting economic stress across the shipping and freight industry.</p><p>More than 150 oil and LNG tankers and other vessels are currently stranded or forced to anchor outside the strait due to the escalating conflict and safety concerns. Idling loaded LNG vessels also incur significant boil-off losses, which could be up to 100 tonnes per day per large vessel, impacting fuel and cargo value.</p><h2>Longer routes bleed the shipping industry</h2><p>There is a de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz despite no official full blockade by Iran. Direct attacks on vessels, threats to close the strait, and GPS jamming have led to the rerouting of vessels, often around the Cape of Good Hope, or anchoring in safer waters. These developments have contributed to a near-total halt in commercial traffic, with tanker and bulk traffic dropping by 80 per cent or more.</p><h2>A dire prognosis: Strait of Hormuz could be disrupted for weeks. Another oil shock in the making?</h2><p>Analysts warn that if the strait remains disrupted for weeks, costs to global goods and energy markets could grow larger. Some estimates suggest global oil supply disruptions equivalent to 20 per cent of daily world consumption. A one-day full blockade of Hormuz could spike potentially double the oil prices in extreme scenarios, translating to billions in daily global economic costs. Clearly, the clock is ticking as stranded ships, surcharges, higher insurance and rate spikes are leading to mouting costs<br>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</strong></i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Global shipping costs have gone up since the US-Israel attacks on Iran, its retaliatory strikes on Gulf nations and the Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Maersk and other carriers suspended operations, freight rates are soaring, war-risk insurance spiking, and vessels stranded.

The global shipping industry is facing tens of billions of dollars in estimated costs and losses per day after just three days of regional conflict arising from the US-Israel attack on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory strikes on Gulf nations, coupled with disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz. Freight charges have surged given security risks, with some reports citing increases of up to $400,000 per day. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne oil, approximately 20–21 million barrels per day before the conflict began. It also handles a similar share of LNG exports, primarily from Qatar. At least 750 ships hit by congestion As Iran effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, nearly 750 ships are reportedly impacted by congestion in and around the waterway,. Only a few tankers were transiting compared with the normal 130 per day, as ship traffic through the strait plunged by about 86 per cent. Hundreds of vessels are queued on either side. Some 100 container ships, representing about 10 per cent of the global container fleet, are caught in the backups and unable to transit normally because insurers have withdrawn war-risk coverage and carriers are avoiding the area. Maersk and other major carriers suspend operations Maersk, one of the world’s largest container carriers, suspended acceptance of new bookings on key routes in and out of the Middle East, including Gulf states like UAE and Oman, and has paused some operations to safeguard cargo and crews. Other major carriers such as MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, and COSCO have also stopped transits through the Strait of Hormuz or rerouted services to avoid the affected waters. From freight rates to war-risk premiums, shipping costs shoot through the roof Freight rates for oil tankers have surged to record highs, reportedly up to $400,000 per day in the case of Very Large Crude Carriers or VLCCs transporting crude from the Middle East to China due to route disruptions and elevated risk. LNG tanker rates have surged more than 40 per cent, with some routes reaching $41,000–$61,500 per day according to reports. Shipping companies have introduced emergency conflict surcharges of up to $4,000 per container to offset added risks and expenses. War-risk insurance premiums have risen sharply or been cancelled entirely for vessels in the region, forcing carriers to either pay much higher insurance or avoid the strait altogether. Ripple effect: A sharp rise in oil and gas prices The fuel transit disruption, along with Iran’s attacks on oil and gas facilities in producer nations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, has contributed to sharply rising oil and gas prices, which in turn increase operating costs for ships worldwide. Brent crude futures spiked nearly 10–13 per cent in direct response to the conflict, trading nearly $77–$85 per barrel, with fears of $100 or even $200 per barrel in prolonged disruption scenarios. Indirect costs include higher freight rates, insurance surcharges, longer detour routes, and idle vessels, potentially amounting to tens of billions of dollars. All these factors point to mounting economic stress across the shipping and freight industry. More than 150 oil and LNG tankers and other vessels are currently stranded or forced to anchor outside the strait due to the escalating conflict and safety concerns. Idling loaded LNG vessels also incur significant boil-off losses, which could be up to 100 tonnes per day per large vessel, impacting fuel and cargo value. Longer routes bleed the shipping industry There is a de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz despite no official full blockade by Iran. Direct attacks on vessels, threats to close the strait, and GPS jamming have led to the rerouting of vessels, often around the Cape of Good Hope, or anchoring in safer waters. These developments have contributed to a near-total halt in commercial traffic, with tanker and bulk traffic dropping by 80 per cent or more. A dire prognosis: Strait of Hormuz could be disrupted for weeks. Another oil shock in the making? Analysts warn that if the strait remains disrupted for weeks, costs to global goods and energy markets could grow larger. Some estimates suggest global oil supply disruptions equivalent to 20 per cent of daily world consumption. A one-day full blockade of Hormuz could spike potentially double the oil prices in extreme scenarios, translating to billions in daily global economic costs. Clearly, the clock is ticking as stranded ships, surcharges, higher insurance and rate spikes are leading to mouting costs Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>Global shipping costs have gone up since the US-Israel attacks on Iran, its retaliatory strikes on Gulf nations and the Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Maersk and other carriers suspended operations, freight rates are soaring, war-risk insurance spiking, and vessels stranded.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

$400,000 freight rate for large vessels, hundreds of ships stranded: Shipping, freight industries face rude shock from Israel-US vs Iran conflict

<p>In a stark warning to Americans trying to exit Israel amid the escalating conflict with Iran, the US Embassy said on Tuesday (Mar 3) it is “not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist” them. In a post on X and an earlier message on the embassy website, the US effectively urged Americans stuck in Israel to make their own arrangements to leave if they so choose. The embassy said it cannot provide evacuation flights, transportation or guarantees of safety to US citizens, urging them instead to plan independently for their departure. Commercial flights are limited or non-operational, and broader travel warnings are in effect, leaving few options for those who decide to leave.</p><h2>Shuttle option through Israeli authorities</h2><p>The security notice pointed to an initiative by Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, which began operating shuttles to the Taba border crossing on 2 March. Americans wishing to use this service were asked to register through the ministry’s evacuation form. However, US officials explicitly declined to recommend for or against this option, stressing that the US government cannot guarantee the safety of those who choose it.</p><p>It said that from Eilat, passengers may then proceed on their own, typically by taxi, to the Yitzhak Rabin (Wadi Araba) crossing into Jordan, offering one of the few available overland exit routes. The land crossing at Taba into Egypt is operating 24 hours a day, though travellers may be subject to visa fees depending on their plans. US citizens who remain within the Sinai region and do not travel onwards into mainland Egypt are not required to pay the fee, the notice said.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fact-check-benjamin-netanyahu-assassinated-in-iranian-strike-truth-behind-massive-claim-1772420690844">FACT CHECK: Benjamin Netanyahu assassinated in Iranian strike? Truth behind massive claim</a></p><h2>'Security conditions can change without warning'</h2><p>The notice warned that any border crossing could close at short notice. The southern Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba crossing into Jordan was accepting its last passengers at 7.00 pm on Monday. Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan was open, with limited flights available, including services operated by Royal Jordanian Airlines, the advisory said. Limited flight options were also available from airports in Taba and Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt, it added.</p><p>Buses organised by Israeli authorities are stationed at meeting points across the country, including Herzliya, Haifa, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, to transport passengers to the southern border area, it said.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-entered-war-on-behalf-of-israel-iran-slams-rubio-s-justification-of-pre-emptive-attack-1772524933052">'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack'</a></p><h2>Shelter-in-place order for US personnel</h2><p>The embassy has directed all US government employees and their families to continue sheltering in place in and near their residences until further notice. The notice warned that the security environment is complex and can change quickly, with incidents such as rocket and missile fire, mortar attacks and unmanned aircraft intrusions occurring with little or no warning.</p><p>The embassy reminded American citizens to know the location of the nearest bomb shelter or protected space and to treat all red alert sirens as real.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-confirms-iran-s-presidential-office-struck-down-1772538268401/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-confirms-iran-s-presidential-office-struck-down-1772538268401/embed</a></p><h2>What Americans in Israel were told to do</h2><p>Americans were urged to monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, steer clear of areas with a heavy police presence, and follow instructions from local authorities.</p><p>They were also encouraged to enrol in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme to receive security updates and facilitate contact in an emergency. The State Department’s travel advisory for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza remains in effect, with officials warning that further restrictions on US government personnel travel, including to parts of Jerusalem and the West Bank, could be imposed without advance notice.</p><p>The embassy’s repeated emphasis that it cannot evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel marks a sobering moment for Americans in the region, leaving many to weigh difficult choices amid an increasingly unpredictable security landscape.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</strong></i></p>

In what appears to be a moment of helplessness, the US Embassy has said it cannot evacuate Americans from Israel amid escalating conflict with Iran. It is urging citizens to make their own exit plans as flights remain limited and border crossings are uncertain

In a stark warning to Americans trying to exit Israel amid the escalating conflict with Iran, the US Embassy said on Tuesday (Mar 3) it is “not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist” them. In a post on X and an earlier message on the embassy website, the US effectively urged Americans stuck in Israel to make their own arrangements to leave if they so choose. The embassy said it cannot provide evacuation flights, transportation or guarantees of safety to US citizens, urging them instead to plan independently for their departure. Commercial flights are limited or non-operational, and broader travel warnings are in effect, leaving few options for those who decide to leave. Shuttle option through Israeli authorities The security notice pointed to an initiative by Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, which began operating shuttles to the Taba border crossing on 2 March. Americans wishing to use this service were asked to register through the ministry’s evacuation form. However, US officials explicitly declined to recommend for or against this option, stressing that the US government cannot guarantee the safety of those who choose it. It said that from Eilat, passengers may then proceed on their own, typically by taxi, to the Yitzhak Rabin (Wadi Araba) crossing into Jordan, offering one of the few available overland exit routes. The land crossing at Taba into Egypt is operating 24 hours a day, though travellers may be subject to visa fees depending on their plans. US citizens who remain within the Sinai region and do not travel onwards into mainland Egypt are not required to pay the fee, the notice said. Also read: FACT CHECK: Benjamin Netanyahu assassinated in Iranian strike? Truth behind massive claim 'Security conditions can change without warning' The notice warned that any border crossing could close at short notice. The southern Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba crossing into Jordan was accepting its last passengers at 7.00 pm on Monday. Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan was open, with limited flights available, including services operated by Royal Jordanian Airlines, the advisory said. Limited flight options were also available from airports in Taba and Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt, it added. Buses organised by Israeli authorities are stationed at meeting points across the country, including Herzliya, Haifa, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, to transport passengers to the southern border area, it said. Also read: 'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack' Shelter-in-place order for US personnel The embassy has directed all US government employees and their families to continue sheltering in place in and near their residences until further notice. The notice warned that the security environment is complex and can change quickly, with incidents such as rocket and missile fire, mortar attacks and unmanned aircraft intrusions occurring with little or no warning. The embassy reminded American citizens to know the location of the nearest bomb shelter or protected space and to treat all red alert sirens as real. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-confirms-iran-s-presidential-office-struck-down-1772538268401/embed What Americans in Israel were told to do Americans were urged to monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, steer clear of areas with a heavy police presence, and follow instructions from local authorities. They were also encouraged to enrol in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme to receive security updates and facilitate contact in an emergency. The State Department’s travel advisory for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza remains in effect, with officials warning that further restrictions on US government personnel travel, including to parts of Jerusalem and the West Bank, could be imposed without advance notice. The embassy’s repeated emphasis that it cannot evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel marks a sobering moment for Americans in the region, leaving many to weigh difficult choices amid an increasingly unpredictable security landscape. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>In what appears to be a moment of helplessness, the US Embassy has said it cannot evacuate Americans from Israel amid escalating conflict with Iran. It is urging citizens to make their own exit plans as flights remain limited and border crossings are uncertain</p>

Did the US just ask Americans in Israel to find their own way out? Embassy issues stark warning on exiting

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