The US-Iran conflict has escalated into a severe regional crisis following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire. Air raid sirens blared across Bahrain and Jordan as air defense systems intercepted incoming Iranian missile and drone barrages targeting U.S. allies


US-Iran war: Missiles intercepted over Jordan, air raid sirens in Bahrain

Top Speed News:
A. West Asia & US-Iran Conflict

US continues fresh airstrikes on Iran for the fourth consecutive day.
Trump warns Iran of wider strikes on power plants and bridges.
Iran claims drone attacks on US bases across the Gulf.
Bahrain says Iranian attacks targeted US Fifth Fleet facilities.
Strait of Hormuz crisis fuels global oil market fears.

B. Russia-Ukraine War

Russia attacks merchant ships in Ukraine's Black Sea corridor.

C. FIFA World Cup 2026

Spain defeat France 2-0 to reach the FIFA World Cup Final.
England face Argentina for the final spot in the World Cup.

D. United States

US House passes bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent.
San Francisco boat fire leaves one dead and two missing.

E. Latin America

Cuba suffers a third nationwide blackout in less than 10 days.
Colombia rescues 39 hostages from ELN rebels.
Spanish man arrested with cocaine at a Colombia airport.

F. Health

WHO launches the first Ebola antiviral exposure trial in DR Congo.

G. Technology

UK study links social media limits to better teen mental health.
Switzerland probes Google over Android search engine changes.
White House launches AI cybersecurity coordination initiative.

H. Business & Economy

Asian markets rise as US inflation eases.

Trump expands Iran strikes | Hormuz crisis | Bahrain attack | Russia-Ukraine war | World Cup final

The conflict between the United States and Iran has reached a dangerous new turning point. In a significant retaliatory move, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Monday, that it has launched missile and drone strikes against U.S. military installations across the Gulf.  

Iran Says Struck US Military Bases in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait 

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply after the United States launched military strikes on Iran following attacks on three ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Washington says the operation was aimed at protecting global shipping and curbing Iran's ability to threaten vital oil routes.

 US-Iran war: Is the Middle East on the brink of a bigger war? 

The fragile peace between Washington and Tehran has shattered following a massive retaliatory strike by the IRGC. Early Sunday, Iran confirmed a joint missile and drone operation targeting key U.S. infrastructure at the Ali al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait and the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain.


US-Iran war: IRGC says it hit US airbase in Kuwait, fifth naval fleet in Bahrain

US Central Command (CENTCOM) has rejected Iranian claims that the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain was struck during recent hostilities. The denial comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with both sides exchanging accusations following drone and missile activity in the Gulf region.


US CENTCOM Denies Iranian Claim of Hitting US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain 

Iran has reportedly targeted US military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain amid rapidly escalating tensions in West Asia. The attacks came after US forces intercepted Iranian missiles and drones near the Strait of Hormuz and carried out strikes on Iranian radar installations. Gulf nations activated air defence systems as fears of a wider regional conflict continue to grow, with Washington and Tehran trading fresh accusations amid ongoing diplomatic deadlock.


US-Iran War: Iran Targets US Bases in Kuwait & Bahrain

Bahrain has reported aerial attack alerts despite the announcement of a temporary US-Iran ceasefire, raising concerns about the fragility of the truce across the Gulf region. Air-Defence systems were activated in several Gulf states as tensions persisted even after the ceasefire framework was unveiled.

US-Iran Ceasefire: Bahrain Faces Aerial Attacks Despite Ceasefire 

Overnight attacks on Saudi Arabia hit a petrochemical complex in a sprawling industrial area in the eastern city of Jubail, a source on the ground told AFP on Tuesday, hours after similar installations in Iran were struck.


Saudi Arabia: Petrochemical Complex Hit | Bridge Connecting Saudi, Bahrain Closed

Iran has issued an "ultimatum" to hotel owners in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, warning that hosting US military personnel could make their properties legitimate military targets, the semi-official Fars news agency reported.


US-Iran War: Iran's 'Ultimatum' to Bahrain, UAE Hotels Hosting US Troops

Amid escalating tensions in the US-Iran war, Tehran has reportedly issued a stern warning to hotels in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates allegedly hosting US military personnel, saying such locations could become potential targets if they continue accommodating troops. The warning marks a sharp escalation in the regional security environment as Gulf states remain on high alert.


US-Iran War: Iran's Ultimatum to Bahrain, UAE Hotels Hosting US Troops

As the US‑Iran war escalates, reports indicate that the United States may be launching missiles and rocket strikes at Iranian targets from military bases across the Gulf region, using assets in allied host nations to project force into Iran.


US-Iran War: US May Be Firing Missiles & Rockets at Iran from Gulf Bases

A massive blaze has broken out at a government facility in Muharraq. Videos released by the ministry show thick smoke and flames engulfing the building, prompting emergency services to respond. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and no casualties have been reported so far.

Breaking: Huge Fire Engulfs Bahrain Government Facility in Muharraq

Iranian missiles and drones continue to target Gulf countries, with Bahrain’s state oil company declaring force majeure on Monday for its shipments after its refinery caught fire in an Iranian attack.



US-Iran War: Qatar, Bahrain Targeted By Waves of Missiles And Drones

King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain has strongly condemned recent Iranian missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and other Gulf Arab states, calling them “unjustifiable under any pretext” and expressing sorrow over what his nation and other Arab countries are facing amid ongoing regional conflict.

Breaking: Bahrain King Calls Iran Attacks ‘Unjustifiable’ | King Hamad Saddened by Arab Suffering

As the Iran–Israel–US war intensifies across the Middle East, regional governments are taking unprecedented steps in the information battle. Officials in Bahrain have issued strict warnings to residents against filming or sharing videos of strike sites — threatening arrests and penalties amid concerns over misinformation and national security.


US-Iran War: Iranian Drone Attack Targets Bahrain Desalination Facility 

The ongoing West Asia conflict has entered a dangerous new phase as Iran reportedly struck a desalination plant in Bahrain, a critical civilian facility that supplies freshwater in an arid region heavily reliant on desalinated water. Authorities in Bahrain say the drone attack caused material damage, prompting fears that water infrastructure could become a strategic target in the broader war involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Water: The New Weapon In West Asia? | Iran Hit Desalination Plant: Bahrain 

Explosions heard in Dubai and Bahrain’s capital Manama, one week into Iran’s retaliatory attacks on targets around the Gulf.

Two blasts are heard in Dubai and one in Manama, where a warning siren sounded.

“Citizens and residents are urged to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place,” Bahrain’s interior ministry posts on X.

US-Iran War: Blast Reported in Dubai And Bahrain's Capital Manama 

Amid the US‑Israel‑Iran war, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it launched a major drone and missile attack on the US air base in Bahrain’s Sheikh Isa area, reportedly hitting the main command headquarters and fuel tanks.

Israel-Iran War: New Waves of Attacks Devastates Key US Base in Bahrain

A U.S.-flagged oil tanker was struck near Bahrain in a deadly maritime attack that killed one shipyard worker, according to initial reports. The incident marks a serious escalation in Gulf waters, a region already on edge amid widening military confrontation across West Asia.

Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, is a critical hub for global energy transit and maritime operations. Security officials are investigating the cause of the strike, with early indications pointing to a hostile attack targeting commercial shipping.

Deadly Attack on U.S.-Flagged Tanker in Bahrain: One Worker Killed

The US 5th Fleet in Bahrain uses $4 million Patriot PAC-3 interceptors to shield its base. The system tracks 100 targets at once, defending against missiles and $35,000 drone swarms.

The US 5th Fleet in Bahrain uses $4 million Patriot PAC-3 interceptors to shield its base. The system tracks 100 targets at once, defending against missiles and $35,000 drone swarms.

'5th Fleet shielded': How Patriot PAC-3 protects US Navy headquarters in Bahrain

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to the King of Bahrain, Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Bin Salman, and condemned the attacks on both countries during the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Prime Minister Modi also discussed with them the well-being of the Indian community living in both countries.


Israel-Iran Conflict: PM Modi Speaks To Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain King

Bahrain and Kuwait, where the US has bases, prepared on Sunday for the chance that the Iran war could spill over onto its soil, with Bahrain calling on drivers to stay away from main streets and Kuwait setting up shelters in a complex of ministries following US attacks on Iran's nuclear sites. US troops hit Iran's three key nuclear facilities late on Saturday night, and President Donald Trump warned Iran it would be hit harder if it doesn't agree to peace.&nbsp;Iran had issued threats earlier that in case it was attacked by the United States, it might attack American interests in the region, including US bases. Bahrain is the site of the US Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters and there are multiple US bases in Kuwait. "In light of recent developments in the regional security situation, we urge citizens and residents to use main roads only when necessary, to maintain public safety and to allow the relevant authorities to use the roads efficiently," Bahrain's interior ministry said in a post on X. &nbsp;Bahrain has instructed 70% of its government workers to stay at home through an indefinite period, citing rising tensions, the Civil Service Bureau said. Meanwhile, Kuwait set up shelters in the country's ministries complex, a sprawling compound of structures that accommodates various government departments, including the justice and finance ministries, the finance ministry said. Bahraini officials last week reported that they had launched a national plan and a national civil emergency centre to prepare in the event of emergencies and went ahead to conduct tests for warning sirens nationwide.Regional media further reported the nation had established 33 shelters.<h2>US enters Iran-Israel war</h2>In a major escalation of tensions in West Asia, the US bombed three nuclear sites - Fordow, Natanz and Esfahan - in Iran and warned the Islamic Republic of more "precision strikes" if it did not end its conflict with Israel. This came days after the US president said that he would decide within ‘two weeks’ if he needs to bomb Iran. The US strike came on the ninth day of Operation Rising Lion, under which Israel hit several nuclear facilities inside Iran, killing top military officials and nuclear scientists. The Israel Defence Forces said that US strikes “were in coordination with the IDF” and it was a “crucial step stopping the Iranian regime's aggression.” As America entered the war, Donald Trump said that ‘there will either be peace or tragedy.’ "This cannot continue. There will either be peace or tragedy for Iran, far greater than what we have witnessed over the last eight days," Trump told a press briefing at the Oval Office. He also conveyed the goal of the US' strikes, saying, "Our Objective was the destruction of Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity, and a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world's number one state sponsor of terror. Tonight, I can report to the world that the strikes were a spectacular military success. Iran's key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated.”

US strikes Iran: Bahrain urges caution, Kuwait sets up shelters as Middle East conflict escalates

Bahrain and Kuwait, where the US has bases, prepared on Sunday for the chance that the Iran war could spill over onto its soil, with Bahrain calling on drivers to stay away from main streets and Kuwait setting up shelters in a complex of ministries following US attacks on Iran's nuclear sites. US troops hit Iran's three key nuclear facilities late on Saturday night, and President Donald Trump warned Iran it would be hit harder if it doesn't agree to peace. Iran had issued threats earlier that in case it was attacked by the United States, it might attack American interests in the region, including US bases. Bahrain is the site of the US Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters and there are multiple US bases in Kuwait. "In light of recent developments in the regional security situation, we urge citizens and residents to use main roads only when necessary, to maintain public safety and to allow the relevant authorities to use the roads efficiently," Bahrain's interior ministry said in a post on X. Bahrain has instructed 70% of its government workers to stay at home through an indefinite period, citing rising tensions, the Civil Service Bureau said. Meanwhile, Kuwait set up shelters in the country's ministries complex, a sprawling compound of structures that accommodates various government departments, including the justice and finance ministries, the finance ministry said. Bahraini officials last week reported that they had launched a national plan and a national civil emergency centre to prepare in the event of emergencies and went ahead to conduct tests for warning sirens nationwide. Regional media further reported the nation had established 33 shelters. US enters Iran-Israel war In a major escalation of tensions in West Asia, the US bombed three nuclear sites - Fordow, Natanz and Esfahan - in Iran and warned the Islamic Republic of more "precision strikes" if it did not end its conflict with Israel. This came days after the US president said that he would decide within ‘two weeks’ if he needs to bomb Iran. The US strike came on the ninth day of Operation Rising Lion, under which Israel hit several nuclear facilities inside Iran, killing top military officials and nuclear scientists. The Israel Defence Forces said that US strikes “were in coordination with the IDF” and it was a “crucial step stopping the Iranian regime's aggression.” As America entered the war, Donald Trump said that ‘there will either be peace or tragedy.’ "This cannot continue. There will either be peace or tragedy for Iran, far greater than what we have witnessed over the last eight days," Trump told a press briefing at the Oval Office. He also conveyed the goal of the US' strikes, saying, "Our Objective was the destruction of Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity, and a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world's number one state sponsor of terror. Tonight, I can report to the world that the strikes were a spectacular military success. Iran's key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated.”

Tehran had previously warned if it was attacked by the United States, it could target American assets in the region, including US military bases

With the acquisition of Bahrain's Aluminium smelter, Saudi Arabia is moving closer to its goal of making mining and metals the "third pillar" of its economy. The state-controlled Saudi mining company, known as Maaden, announced a series of deals this week involving Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C., or Alba.

Saudi eyes Alba control to boost metals plan

Israeli jets and artillery hit targets in southern Lebanon on Friday after dozens of missiles were launched towards northern Israel, the military said as an escalation in cross-border strikes continued for a third day.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli jets strike targets in Lebanon after missile barrage hits northern areas

Xi Jinping will address the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in Beijing on Thursday with Heads of State from Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Tunisia among the attendees. Watch to know more.

China: Xi Jinping calls for peace conference to end war between Israel & Hamas

Other countries in West Asia are also facing similar weather conditions. Heavy rain fell in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Some of whom experienced flooding, and forecasts are expecting the rain to continue.

Unusual weather patterns cause flooding

More than 130 people have been killed in the neighbouring countries Afghanistan and Pakistan after flash floods and heavy rains swept the region over the past few days, according to officials from both countries. Meanwhile, people in Pakistan’s Balochistan are reportedly bracing for more rains in the upcoming days.&nbsp;

<h2>Situation in Pakistan&nbsp;</h2>

At least 14 more people were killed after lightning and heavy rain in Pakistan, said the country’s officials, on Wednesday (Apr 17), raising the death toll after four days of unseasonal rainfall and extreme weather to 63.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Rain kills at least 36 in Pakistan, PM Sharif orders authorities to provide aid

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-kills-at-least-36-in-pakistan-pm-sharif-orders-authorities-to-provide-aid-711674/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pakistan is witnessing the heaviest downpour in decades which has flooded villages on the country’s southwestern coast.&nbsp;

The death toll reported from the country’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was highest after collapsing buildings killed 32 people, including 15 children and five women, said Khursheed Anwar, a spokesman for the Disaster Management Authority, as per the Associated Press.

Around 1,370 houses were also damaged in the province, said Anwar. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Punjab province reported 21 lighting- and collapse-related deaths.&nbsp;

Balochistan, in the country’s southwest, declared a state of emergency following flash floods and is said to be bracing for more rains in the upcoming days amid the ongoing rescue and relief operations, on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/several-parts-of-pakistan-flooded-after-heavy-rain-dozens-killed-711664">Several parts of Pakistan flooded after heavy rain, dozens killed</a>

At least 10 people have been killed in the southwestern province, according to the local officials. Zaheer Ahmed Babar, a senior official at the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) told the AP that the country is witnessing more than usual rainfall in April, due to climate change.&nbsp;

According to Babar, Balochistan has witnessed 353 per cent more rainfall than normal, while the overall rainfall has been 99 per cent higher than the average across the country.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed 90 per cent more rain than usual this month, said the PMD official. According to Babar, it is also the wettest April that the country has witnessed in the past 30 years.&nbsp;

<h2>At least 70 killed in Afghanistan&nbsp;</h2>

The death toll in Afghanistan also rose to 70, on Wednesday, after extreme rainfall and&nbsp;devastating flash floods across 23 provinces in the country, as per media reports citing local officials.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-uaes-flash-floods-result-of-cloud-seeding-712244">Were UAE's flash floods result of cloud seeding?</a>

Mullah Janan Sayeq, a spokesman for the Ministry of Disaster Management, on Wednesday, said that at least 2,500 animals have died and more than 2,000 houses, three mosques, and four schools have been damaged, reported the AP.

This comes a day after the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Afghanistan, in a post on X said more than 1,200 families have been affected due to the floods and that the UN and its partners are “assessing the impact and related needs and providing assistance.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

More than 130 people have been killed in the neighbouring countries Afghanistan and Pakistan after flash floods and heavy rains swept the region over the past few days, according to officials from both countries.

More than 130 people have been killed in the neighbouring countries Afghanistan and Pakistan after flash floods and heavy rains swept the region over the past few days, according to officials from both countries. Meanwhile, people in Pakistan’s Balochistan are reportedly bracing for more rains in the upcoming days. Situation in Pakistan At least 14 more people were killed after lightning and heavy rain in Pakistan, said the country’s officials, on Wednesday (Apr 17), raising the death toll after four days of unseasonal rainfall and extreme weather to 63. WATCH | Rain kills at least 36 in Pakistan, PM Sharif orders authorities to provide aid Pakistan is witnessing the heaviest downpour in decades which has flooded villages on the country’s southwestern coast. The death toll reported from the country’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was highest after collapsing buildings killed 32 people, including 15 children and five women, said Khursheed Anwar, a spokesman for the Disaster Management Authority, as per the Associated Press. Around 1,370 houses were also damaged in the province, said Anwar. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Punjab province reported 21 lighting- and collapse-related deaths. Balochistan, in the country’s southwest, declared a state of emergency following flash floods and is said to be bracing for more rains in the upcoming days amid the ongoing rescue and relief operations, on Wednesday. Also Read | Several parts of Pakistan flooded after heavy rain, dozens killed At least 10 people have been killed in the southwestern province, according to the local officials. Zaheer Ahmed Babar, a senior official at the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) told the AP that the country is witnessing more than usual rainfall in April, due to climate change. According to Babar, Balochistan has witnessed 353 per cent more rainfall than normal, while the overall rainfall has been 99 per cent higher than the average across the country. Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed 90 per cent more rain than usual this month, said the PMD official. According to Babar, it is also the wettest April that the country has witnessed in the past 30 years. At least 70 killed in Afghanistan The death toll in Afghanistan also rose to 70, on Wednesday, after extreme rainfall and devastating flash floods across 23 provinces in the country, as per media reports citing local officials. Also Read | Were UAE's flash floods result of cloud seeding? Mullah Janan Sayeq, a spokesman for the Ministry of Disaster Management, on Wednesday, said that at least 2,500 animals have died and more than 2,000 houses, three mosques, and four schools have been damaged, reported the AP. This comes a day after the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Afghanistan, in a post on X said more than 1,200 families have been affected due to the floods and that the UN and its partners are “assessing the impact and related needs and providing assistance.” (With inputs from agencies)

More than 130 people killed in Afghanistan and Pakistan flash floods after heavy rains

Max Verstappen won Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to give Red Bull a timely boost after a trying week for the world champions and team principal Christian Horner.

Verstappen shut out all the off-track speculation surrounding the Horner inquiry to lead home Sergio Perez for a crushing Red Bull 1-2.

Pole sitter Verstappen held off the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc to lead into the first corner, and it was business as usual for the Dutchman from there to the flag as he enjoyed the perfect start to his quest for a fourth consecutive world title.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-on-when-will-nca-clear-rishabh-pant-ahead-of-ipl-2024-695930">Sourav Ganguly on when will NCA clear Rishabh Pant ahead of IPL 2024</a>

In a statement of emphatic superiority, the 26-year-old Dutchman came home 22.5 seconds clear of Perez, who started from fifth, to ease some of the pressure on Horner and repeat his statement triumph last year.&nbsp;

By claiming the 33rd&nbsp;pole of his career, fastest lap and race win, Verstappen delivered the 12th&nbsp;‘hat-trick’ of his career leaving only the seven-time champions Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton ahead on 22 and 19 trebles respectively.

"That was simply lovely," Horner told his ace driver.

"To get pole, fastest lap, and a 1-2, a brilliant start to the year, thank you very much."&nbsp;

It was Verstappen’s 55th&nbsp;race victory and 99th&nbsp;podium finish as Red Bull dominated an uneventful race on a cold evening at Sakhir’s Bahrain International Circuit.

It also extended his run as championship leader to 40 races since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix.&nbsp;

Carlos Sainz, whose seat at Ferrari is to be taken by Hamilton next year, finished a pugnacious third ahead of team-mate Leclerc, who profited from a rare error by Mercedes' George Russell in the closing laps.

Russell finished fifth ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris, Hamilton in the second Mercedes, Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren and the Aston Martin duo two-time champion Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.&nbsp;

<h2>Horner show of unity</h2>

After days of speculation, Red Bull boss Horner arrived hand in hand with his wife, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell – a show of unity following the release on Thursday of a cache of alleged messages from him to a female member of staff.

On track, the team showed no apparent distraction as Verstappen topped qualifying to secure his 33rd&nbsp;pole position – and lead the pack when the lights went out in cold, dry conditions in the desert.&nbsp;

The Dutchman made a clean start and led Leclerc, Russell and Perez through Turn One while Stroll spun and dropped to the back of the field after contact with Hulkenberg, who pitted for a new front wing and hard tyres. The entire field started on softs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On lap three, Russell passed Leclerc on the outside of Turn Four to take second and Norris seized sixth from Alonso, but Verstappen stretched his lead to two seconds.&nbsp;

By lap six, it was 4.8 seconds and clear that the Red Bull were in a race of their own. Perez endorsed this as he swept past Leclerc inside turn 11 for second on lap seven.&nbsp;

Hamilton, ninth, appeared to be stuck behind Alonso before squeezing through on lap 10, as Verstappen stretched his lead to 6.9 seconds.

The pit-stops began on lap 11 with Russell and Leclerc, with brake problems, going first of the leading group, re-joining 12th&nbsp;and 14th. Perez and Hamilton soon followed, all going for hards.&nbsp;

When Verstappen finally pitted he had bulit up a 31 second lead.&nbsp;

For Horner and Red Bull, it was as good as it gets, the Dutchman in command by seven seconds ahead of team-mate Perez and the feisty Sainz with Russell fourth after the first round of stops. Crisis? What crisis?

For Mercedes, problems were piling up – overheating engines, power-unit issues and then, for Hamilton, a broken seat, with 28 laps remaining while Alex Albon’s Williams flashed a message “car too hot’.

Verstappen came in for a final set of new softs at the end of lap 37 and re-joined with a 17-second cushion ahead of Perez. It was a commanding performance from the champion, decorated with a fastest lap of 1:32.608 as he cruised through the final 16 laps: a lap that was fully 1.5 seconds quicker than any other.

Max Verstappen won Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to give Red Bull a timely boost after a trying week for the world champions and team principal Christian Horner.

Max Verstappen won Saturday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to give Red Bull a timely boost after a trying week for the world champions and team principal Christian Horner. Verstappen shut out all the off-track speculation surrounding the Horner inquiry to lead home Sergio Perez for a crushing Red Bull 1-2. Pole sitter Verstappen held off the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc to lead into the first corner, and it was business as usual for the Dutchman from there to the flag as he enjoyed the perfect start to his quest for a fourth consecutive world title. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly on when will NCA clear Rishabh Pant ahead of IPL 2024 In a statement of emphatic superiority, the 26-year-old Dutchman came home 22.5 seconds clear of Perez, who started from fifth, to ease some of the pressure on Horner and repeat his statement triumph last year. By claiming the 33rd pole of his career, fastest lap and race win, Verstappen delivered the 12th ‘hat-trick’ of his career leaving only the seven-time champions Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton ahead on 22 and 19 trebles respectively. "That was simply lovely," Horner told his ace driver. "To get pole, fastest lap, and a 1-2, a brilliant start to the year, thank you very much." It was Verstappen’s 55th race victory and 99th podium finish as Red Bull dominated an uneventful race on a cold evening at Sakhir’s Bahrain International Circuit. It also extended his run as championship leader to 40 races since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix. Carlos Sainz, whose seat at Ferrari is to be taken by Hamilton next year, finished a pugnacious third ahead of team-mate Leclerc, who profited from a rare error by Mercedes' George Russell in the closing laps. Russell finished fifth ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris, Hamilton in the second Mercedes, Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren and the Aston Martin duo two-time champion Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Horner show of unity After days of speculation, Red Bull boss Horner arrived hand in hand with his wife, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell – a show of unity following the release on Thursday of a cache of alleged messages from him to a female member of staff. On track, the team showed no apparent distraction as Verstappen topped qualifying to secure his 33rd pole position – and lead the pack when the lights went out in cold, dry conditions in the desert. The Dutchman made a clean start and led Leclerc, Russell and Perez through Turn One while Stroll spun and dropped to the back of the field after contact with Hulkenberg, who pitted for a new front wing and hard tyres. The entire field started on softs. On lap three, Russell passed Leclerc on the outside of Turn Four to take second and Norris seized sixth from Alonso, but Verstappen stretched his lead to two seconds. By lap six, it was 4.8 seconds and clear that the Red Bull were in a race of their own. Perez endorsed this as he swept past Leclerc inside turn 11 for second on lap seven. Hamilton, ninth, appeared to be stuck behind Alonso before squeezing through on lap 10, as Verstappen stretched his lead to 6.9 seconds. The pit-stops began on lap 11 with Russell and Leclerc, with brake problems, going first of the leading group, re-joining 12th and 14th. Perez and Hamilton soon followed, all going for hards. When Verstappen finally pitted he had bulit up a 31 second lead. For Horner and Red Bull, it was as good as it gets, the Dutchman in command by seven seconds ahead of team-mate Perez and the feisty Sainz with Russell fourth after the first round of stops. Crisis? What crisis? For Mercedes, problems were piling up – overheating engines, power-unit issues and then, for Hamilton, a broken seat, with 28 laps remaining while Alex Albon’s Williams flashed a message “car too hot’. Verstappen came in for a final set of new softs at the end of lap 37 and re-joined with a 17-second cushion ahead of Perez. It was a commanding performance from the champion, decorated with a fastest lap of 1:32.608 as he cruised through the final 16 laps: a lap that was fully 1.5 seconds quicker than any other.

Formula 1: Red Bull’s Max Verstappen begins title defence with comfortable win in Bahrain Grand Prix

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future. The dominant 2023 champions, with 21 wins in 22 races, launched their new RB20 car last week with some design features reminiscent of those tried and discarded by rivals Mercedes last season.

Some observers sensed all might not be as it seemed but Wednesday should provide an immediate answer to those doubts, even if the lap times may not mean much as teams work through various programmes.

"Lets see the car that rocks out on day&nbsp;one&nbsp;at Bahrain because I'm not sure it's going to be that (launch) car," former McLaren performance engineer and Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins said in a Sky Sports F1 podcast. "This could be 'Oh, we were just having a joke'. So I'm highly suspicious.

"If they do rock up with that car it's a brave, brave move because they could have easily continued to develop the car they had and that would have been the safer bet," she said. "If they go with it they've clearly seen something that means they think they can beat their previous developed car."

Questions about Horner, who will be in Bahrain, will remain unanswered until the energy drink company completes an investigation into allegations made against him by a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-red-bull-team-boss-christian-horner-declares-business-as-normal-despite-allegations-691692">F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct</a>

PECKING ORDER

Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Aston Martin are all hoping to be closer to Verstappen, chasing his fourth title in a row this season, but the real pecking order may not be apparent for some time. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton will meet the media for the first time since his switch to Ferrari in 2025 was announced and will also have a clearer idea of how competitive his Mercedes will be.

There will be plenty of interest in Visa Cash App RB, the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, who now have closer ties to the main Red Bull team and could also have a more competitive car. Teams have only three days of testing, with&nbsp;one&nbsp;car each, with the track time reduced as the championship expands to a record 24 races.

That means drivers have only a day and a half each on track before the opener on March 2, with the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia held on Saturdays to fit in with the start of Ramadan on March 10.

Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso said at the launch of his team's car that there should be more time available for testing and more cars on track.

"I don’t know why we don’t go with two cars because we are already in Bahrain and we’re racing the following week," said the Spaniard.

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when Formula One testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future.

Red Bull will have plenty of questions hanging over them when Formula One testing starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with rivals eager to see how their cars stack up against Max Verstappen's and team boss Christian Horner fighting for his future. The dominant 2023 champions, with 21 wins in 22 races, launched their new RB20 car last week with some design features reminiscent of those tried and discarded by rivals Mercedes last season. Some observers sensed all might not be as it seemed but Wednesday should provide an immediate answer to those doubts, even if the lap times may not mean much as teams work through various programmes. "Lets see the car that rocks out on day one at Bahrain because I'm not sure it's going to be that (launch) car," former McLaren performance engineer and Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins said in a Sky Sports F1 podcast. "This could be 'Oh, we were just having a joke'. So I'm highly suspicious. "If they do rock up with that car it's a brave, brave move because they could have easily continued to develop the car they had and that would have been the safer bet," she said. "If they go with it they've clearly seen something that means they think they can beat their previous developed car." Questions about Horner, who will be in Bahrain, will remain unanswered until the energy drink company completes an investigation into allegations made against him by a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing. Also read: F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct PECKING ORDER Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Aston Martin are all hoping to be closer to Verstappen, chasing his fourth title in a row this season, but the real pecking order may not be apparent for some time. Seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton will meet the media for the first time since his switch to Ferrari in 2025 was announced and will also have a clearer idea of how competitive his Mercedes will be. There will be plenty of interest in Visa Cash App RB, the renamed Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team, who now have closer ties to the main Red Bull team and could also have a more competitive car. Teams have only three days of testing, with one car each, with the track time reduced as the championship expands to a record 24 races. That means drivers have only a day and a half each on track before the opener on March 2, with the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia held on Saturdays to fit in with the start of Ramadan on March 10. Aston Martin's double world champion Fernando Alonso said at the launch of his team's car that there should be more time available for testing and more cars on track. "I don’t know why we don’t go with two cars because we are already in Bahrain and we’re racing the following week," said the Spaniard.

Questions hang over Red Bull before F1 testing in Bahrain

Two British Royal Navy mine-hunter vessels sustained some damage after being involved in a collision at a port in Bahrain, the Royal Navy confirmed. The footage of the incident which took place on Friday (Jan 19) has since been widely shared on social media.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The video of the incident appears to show HMS Chiddingfold reversing into HMS Bangor which was moored, at Bahrain Harbour. The United Kingdom officials confirming the incident said no one was injured in the accident and they have since launched an investigation.&nbsp;

The UK’s Ministry of Defence declined to comment on the nature of the collision amid the ongoing investigation. However, the British Royal Navy said, “some damage was sustained”.&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Two Royal Navy minehunters collide in Bahrain. H.M.S. Chiddingfold managed to reverse into H.M.S. Bangor in Bahrain, ripping a huge hole in Bangor’s hull. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MineCounterMeasureVessels?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MineCounterMeasureVessels</a> <a href="https://t.co/MGcnvW5Bv8">pic.twitter.com/MGcnvW5Bv8</a>
— Ian Fraser (@Ian_Fraser) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ian_Fraser/status/1748698769464365451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“I assure you that a full and thorough investigation is already under way and any changes in procedure that could prevent further incidents will be rapidly implemented,” Rear Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the Royal Navy’s Commander Operations, said in a post on X.&nbsp;

He added, “Why this happened is still to be established.”

“In the meantime the UK will continue to play a key part in ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the region,” said the Royal Navy official.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-personnel-injured-after-ballistic-missile-attack-by-iran-backed-militants-on-airbase-in-iraq-681950">US military personnel injured after ballistic missile attack by Iran-backed militants on airbase in Iraq</a>

Ahlgren also told news agency PA, “We train our people to the highest standards and rigorously enforce machinery safety standards, but unfortunately incidents of this nature can still happen.”

However, this is not the first time that HMS Chiddingfold has been involved in such an incident. Something similar happened in 2021 when it struck HMS Penzance. Notably, the previous incident also took place off the coast of Bahrain.&nbsp;

<h2>Royal Navy ship in Bahrain</h2>

The two mine hunters of the British Navy are said to have been working with the United States Navy in the Gulf region to ensure the safe flow of commercial shipping amid attacks by Iran-backed Yemen-based Houthis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-continues-to-expand-beyond-gaza-amid-calls-for-palestinian-statehood-681945">Israel-Hamas war continues to expand beyond Gaza with conflict against regional proxies</a>

The militant group has said that it is acting in solidarity with the Palestinian militant group Hamas amid its ongoing war with Israel in Gaza and has attacked dozens of ships in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two British Royal Navy mine-hunter vessels sustained some damage after being involved in a collision at a port in Bahrain, the Royal Navy confirmed. The footage of the incident which took place on Friday (Jan 19) has since been widely shared on social media.

Two British Royal Navy mine-hunter vessels sustained some damage after being involved in a collision at a port in Bahrain, the Royal Navy confirmed. The footage of the incident which took place on Friday (Jan 19) has since been widely shared on social media. What happened? The video of the incident appears to show HMS Chiddingfold reversing into HMS Bangor which was moored, at Bahrain Harbour. The United Kingdom officials confirming the incident said no one was injured in the accident and they have since launched an investigation. The UK’s Ministry of Defence declined to comment on the nature of the collision amid the ongoing investigation. However, the British Royal Navy said, “some damage was sustained”. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. Two Royal Navy minehunters collide in Bahrain. H.M.S. Chiddingfold managed to reverse into H.M.S. Bangor in Bahrain, ripping a huge hole in Bangor’s hull. #MineCounterMeasureVessels pic.twitter.com/MGcnvW5Bv8 — Ian Fraser (@Ian_Fraser) January 20, 2024 × “I assure you that a full and thorough investigation is already under way and any changes in procedure that could prevent further incidents will be rapidly implemented,” Rear Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the Royal Navy’s Commander Operations, said in a post on X. He added, “Why this happened is still to be established.” “In the meantime the UK will continue to play a key part in ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the region,” said the Royal Navy official. ALSO READ | US military personnel injured after ballistic missile attack by Iran-backed militants on airbase in Iraq Ahlgren also told news agency PA, “We train our people to the highest standards and rigorously enforce machinery safety standards, but unfortunately incidents of this nature can still happen.” However, this is not the first time that HMS Chiddingfold has been involved in such an incident. Something similar happened in 2021 when it struck HMS Penzance. Notably, the previous incident also took place off the coast of Bahrain. Royal Navy ship in Bahrain The two mine hunters of the British Navy are said to have been working with the United States Navy in the Gulf region to ensure the safe flow of commercial shipping amid attacks by Iran-backed Yemen-based Houthis. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war continues to expand beyond Gaza with conflict against regional proxies The militant group has said that it is acting in solidarity with the Palestinian militant group Hamas amid its ongoing war with Israel in Gaza and has attacked dozens of ships in the Red Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Two British Navy ships collide off Bahrain, sustain ‘damage’

bahrain

Bahrain, News on Bahrain, stories on Bahrain, articles on Bahrain, Bahrain stories at Wion, Bahrain news, Bahrain latest news