Democrats’ chances of regaining control of Congress in the upcoming US midterm elections have surged in prediction markets, raising questions about whether escalating geopolitical tensions with Iran are reshaping the political landscape. Data circulating on social media and political betting platforms shows Democrats now holding roughly an 85% probability of winning the House of Representatives, while their odds of capturing the Senate have climbed to about 47%, the highest level in recent months.<h2>What are the chances of Democrats winning the US Midterm elections?</h2>The shift in market expectations comes as tensions surrounding the ongoing Iran conflict dominate political debate in Washington and global headlines. Analysts say geopolitical crises often influence domestic political sentiment, particularly when national security and foreign policy take center stage. Prediction markets aggregate the views of traders who buy and sell contracts tied to real-world outcomes, effectively pricing in collective expectations about future events. These markets have increasingly been watched by political analysts as a complementary indicator alongside traditional polling and forecasting models.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-oil-is-not-well-g7-countries-japan-weigh-strategic-reserve-release-as-price-hovers-around-100-1773061681105">'Oil' is not well: G7 countries, Japan weigh strategic reserve release as price hovers around $100</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: The odds of the Democrats winning the Senate in midterm elections surge to a new high of 47%. Democrats also have a record 85% chance of winning the House of Representatives. Odds have surged since the Iran war began. <a href="https://t.co/D5pJ5ZVCta">pic.twitter.com/D5pJ5ZVCta</a>&mdash; The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2031003462918435249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While the reasons behind the shift remain debated, some observers argue that wartime dynamics, public scrutiny of foreign policy decisions, and potential economic spillovers can all influence voter attitudes ahead of major elections.Still, election forecasts remain fluid. Polling data, economic conditions, and developments in the Iran conflict could significantly alter the outlook before voters head to the polls.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-denies-attacks-on-turkiye-cyprus-azerbaijan-focused-on-retaliation-not-talks-1773066568673/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-denies-attacks-on-turkiye-cyprus-azerbaijan-focused-on-retaliation-not-talks-1773066568673/embed</a>&nbsp;For now, however, betting markets suggest growing expectations that Democrats could make significant gains in Congress as the midterm cycle approaches.&nbsp;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.

Is the Iran war boosting Democrats’ midterm chances? Here's what the prediction markets suggest

Democrats’ chances of regaining control of Congress in the upcoming US midterm elections have surged in prediction markets, raising questions about whether escalating geopolitical tensions with Iran are reshaping the political landscape. Data circulating on social media and political betting platforms shows Democrats now holding roughly an 85% probability of winning the House of Representatives, while their odds of capturing the Senate have climbed to about 47%, the highest level in recent months. What are the chances of Democrats winning the US Midterm elections? The shift in market expectations comes as tensions surrounding the ongoing Iran conflict dominate political debate in Washington and global headlines. Analysts say geopolitical crises often influence domestic political sentiment, particularly when national security and foreign policy take center stage. Prediction markets aggregate the views of traders who buy and sell contracts tied to real-world outcomes, effectively pricing in collective expectations about future events. These markets have increasingly been watched by political analysts as a complementary indicator alongside traditional polling and forecasting models. Also Read: 'Oil' is not well: G7 countries, Japan weigh strategic reserve release as price hovers around $100

Prediction markets show Democrats’ odds rising to 85% for the House and 47% for the Senate as the Iran war reshapes political sentiment ahead of 2026 midterm elections

A retired Air Force major general, considered an expert on UFOs, has been missing since February 28. An investigative journalist has warned that William Neil McCasland's disappearance is a "grave national security crisis". He left his Albuquerque, New Mexico, home on Saturday and has not been heard of ever since. McCasland did not take his cellphone with him and walked out of the home. The FBI has also gotten involved in the matter and has launched a search operation, The New York Post reported. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Silver Alert to locate him. The notice adds that law enforcement officials are concerned for his safety because of his medical issues. What has concerned others is the fact that he is rumoured to be in on most of the information that the US holds on extraterrestrials. He is an Air Force retiree who was assigned to the research wing at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Journalist Ross Coulthart said on his “Reality Check” podcast that the role had McCasland working on classified space weapons programs.Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-orders-release-of-files-on-ufos-aliens-after-accusing-obama-of-making-a-big-mistake-1771554725270"> Trump orders release of files on UFOs, aliens after accusing Obama of making a ‘big mistake’</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/epstein-files-distraction-trump-admin-reportedly-agrees-to-disclose-alleged-alien-secrets-at-us-bases-1770350889695">Anything to distract from Epstein files? Trump admin reportedly agrees to disclose alleged alien secrets at US bases</a><h2>Gen. Neil McCasland knew about alien information&nbsp;</h2>The US government is said to be hiding pieces of extraterrestrial vehicles at this base near Dayton, Ohio, that were collected from Roswell in New Mexico, a famous UFO hotspot. “The fact that Gen. Neil McCasland has disappeared off the face of the earth is a grave national security crisis for the United States of America. This is a man with some of the most sensitive secrets of the United States in his head," Coulthart said. His disappearance comes at a time when President Donald Trump has announced that all information gathered on alien visits to Earth will be released in the coming days. As per the order, the Pentagon will disclose anything related to "alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs)."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/files-on-secret-alien-and-ufo-programs-vanish-hours-after-trump-s-order-deletion-not-corruption-1771922604653">3.8bn Black Vault files on secret alien and UFO programmes vanish hours after Trump's order: 'Deletion not corruption'</a>&nbsp;Notably, this is the second time a suspicious event has happened since Trump's announcement. Last month, Black Vault, &nbsp;an archive containing declassified US government files on UFOS, was wiped clean overnight. The vault is an online location that anyone can access. It contains files on alien discoveries and conspiracy theories over the last 80 years gathered by ufologist John Greenewald Jr. He said that nearly 3.8 million files were removed from the database on February 20. They contained military base reports and witness testimonies on aliens. The website hosting provider told him that the files were deleted and were not corrupted. Since he had backed up all the data, everything was restored.

William Neil McCasland has gone missing days after Trump ordered the release of all files on extraterrestrial visits to Earth, aliens and UFOs. He is a retired Air Force major general who also worked on America's classified space weapons program.

A retired Air Force major general, considered an expert on UFOs, has been missing since February 28. An investigative journalist has warned that William Neil McCasland's disappearance is a "grave national security crisis". He left his Albuquerque, New Mexico, home on Saturday and has not been heard of ever since. McCasland did not take his cellphone with him and walked out of the home. The FBI has also gotten involved in the matter and has launched a search operation, The New York Post reported. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Silver Alert to locate him. The notice adds that law enforcement officials are concerned for his safety because of his medical issues. What has concerned others is the fact that he is rumoured to be in on most of the information that the US holds on extraterrestrials. He is an Air Force retiree who was assigned to the research wing at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Journalist Ross Coulthart said on his “Reality Check” podcast that the role had McCasland working on classified space weapons programs. Also Read: Trump orders release of files on UFOs, aliens after accusing Obama of making a ‘big mistake’ Also Read: Anything to distract from Epstein files? Trump admin reportedly agrees to disclose alleged alien secrets at US bases Gen. Neil McCasland knew about alien information The US government is said to be hiding pieces of extraterrestrial vehicles at this base near Dayton, Ohio, that were collected from Roswell in New Mexico, a famous UFO hotspot. “The fact that Gen. Neil McCasland has disappeared off the face of the earth is a grave national security crisis for the United States of America. This is a man with some of the most sensitive secrets of the United States in his head," Coulthart said. His disappearance comes at a time when President Donald Trump has announced that all information gathered on alien visits to Earth will be released in the coming days. As per the order, the Pentagon will disclose anything related to "alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs)." Also Read: 3.8bn Black Vault files on secret alien and UFO programmes vanish hours after Trump's order: 'Deletion not corruption' Notably, this is the second time a suspicious event has happened since Trump's announcement. Last month, Black Vault, an archive containing declassified US government files on UFOS, was wiped clean overnight. The vault is an online location that anyone can access. It contains files on alien discoveries and conspiracy theories over the last 80 years gathered by ufologist John Greenewald Jr. He said that nearly 3.8 million files were removed from the database on February 20. They contained military base reports and witness testimonies on aliens. The website hosting provider told him that the files were deleted and were not corrupted. Since he had backed up all the data, everything was restored.

William Neil McCasland has gone missing days after Trump ordered the release of all files on extraterrestrial visits to Earth, aliens and UFOs. He is a retired Air Force major general who also worked on America's classified space weapons program.

Man in charge of classified space weapons program who knew all about America's UFO secrets is missing

There’s intense debate over the endgame of the U.S.-Iran conflict under President Donald Trump, and it hasn’t been clearly defined even by the administration itself. Trump’s public statements have shifted over time - from degrading Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities to asserting that Iran must unconditionally surrender and suggesting that the war’s end will be a joint decision with Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu.


US-Iran War: What Is Trump's Endgame in Iran?

Iran’s clerical body, the Assembly of Experts, has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei — the son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — as the country’s new Supreme Leader amid the ongoing U.S.–Israel conflict. His appointment marks a controversial hereditary transition in Iran’s theocratic system, drawing international attention and widespread reaction.
U.S. President Donald Trump reacted cautiously to the news, saying he is “not happy” with the leadership change and has suggested that any new Iranian leader would need Washington’s approval to endure.

Iran: Mojtaba Khamenei To Succeed His Father Ali Khamenei as Supreme Leader

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the ongoing conflict with Iran will end only after the "mutual" decision with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump claimed that Iran was on the verge of destroying Israel before the current military intervention, according to a report by The Times of Israel. "Iran was going to destroy Israel and everything else around it. We've worked together. We've destroyed a country that wanted to destroy Israel," he asserted. "I think it's mutual, a little bit. We've been talking. I'll make a decision at the right time, but everything's going to be taken into account," he remarked and also indicated that he would keep the ultimate prerogative while considering suggestions from Netanyahu. Addressing the prospect of Israel continuing military operations on its own if the United States were to halt its strikes, Trump dismissed the likelihood of such a situation. According to The Times of Israel, the president declined to speculate on the hypothetical scenario, saying simply, "I don't think it's going to be necessary."<h3>No fixed timeline to stop the war</h3>Although the White House has indicated the conflict could last between four and six weeks, Trump has skipped committing to a fixed timeline. His comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. He also avoided a detailed explanation on the appointment of newly supreme leader of Iran, declaring only, "We'll see what happens." The cautious remark follows earlier comments made by the US president to ABC News, where he warned that Iran’s new leadership might not “last long” without support from the White House. Beyond the conflict, Trump also commented on Israeli domestic politics, renewing his call for legal relief for Netanyahu. He criticised Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Netanyahu, who is currently facing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. "Bibi Netanyahu should be given that pardon immediately. I think [Herzog is] doing a terrible thing by not giving it. We want Bibi to be focused on the war, not on a ridiculous pardon," Trump told The Times of Israel. Following the Trump comments, the office of Herzog maintained that Israel "is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law," underscoring that the pardon request is being treated through the Justice Ministry. Despite a rift between the leaders, Trump lauded his current bonding and partnership with Netanyahu, adding, “We've done a great job together, like what we've done with Iran.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-missile-strike-shuts-gulf-airspace-grounds-at-least-12-000-flights-strands-over-million-passengers-1773041375002">Iran war in numbers: 92 million passengers affected as flights, airspace disrupted in Gulf region; remittances take a hit</a>

US President Donald Trump's comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the ongoing conflict with Iran will end only after the "mutual" decision with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump claimed that Iran was on the verge of destroying Israel before the current military intervention, according to a report by The Times of Israel. "Iran was going to destroy Israel and everything else around it. We've worked together. We've destroyed a country that wanted to destroy Israel," he asserted. "I think it's mutual, a little bit. We've been talking. I'll make a decision at the right time, but everything's going to be taken into account," he remarked and also indicated that he would keep the ultimate prerogative while considering suggestions from Netanyahu. Addressing the prospect of Israel continuing military operations on its own if the United States were to halt its strikes, Trump dismissed the likelihood of such a situation. According to The Times of Israel, the president declined to speculate on the hypothetical scenario, saying simply, "I don't think it's going to be necessary." No fixed timeline to stop the war Although the White House has indicated the conflict could last between four and six weeks, Trump has skipped committing to a fixed timeline. His comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. He also avoided a detailed explanation on the appointment of newly supreme leader of Iran, declaring only, "We'll see what happens." The cautious remark follows earlier comments made by the US president to ABC News, where he warned that Iran’s new leadership might not “last long” without support from the White House. Beyond the conflict, Trump also commented on Israeli domestic politics, renewing his call for legal relief for Netanyahu. He criticised Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Netanyahu, who is currently facing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. "Bibi Netanyahu should be given that pardon immediately. I think [Herzog is] doing a terrible thing by not giving it. We want Bibi to be focused on the war, not on a ridiculous pardon," Trump told The Times of Israel. Following the Trump comments, the office of Herzog maintained that Israel "is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law," underscoring that the pardon request is being treated through the Justice Ministry. Despite a rift between the leaders, Trump lauded his current bonding and partnership with Netanyahu, adding, “We've done a great job together, like what we've done with Iran.” Also read: Iran war in numbers: 92 million passengers affected as flights, airspace disrupted in Gulf region; remittances take a hit

US President Donald Trump's comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.

No timeline to end Iran war? Trump signals decision will be only after ‘mutual’ decision with Netanyahu

Donald Trump has ordered attacks or issued terrifying ultimatums to at least eight countries in just two years of his tenure as US president. A cover of the TIME magazine is going viral for being a depiction of his brutal actions in foreign countries, some of which had never been attacked before. The cover of the upcoming issue of the magazine accompanies the feature story “Trump's War” and talks about how his MAGA slogan has extended to his foreign policy. The picture shows eight red MAGA caps, but with the names of eight countries, including Iran, Venezuela, Nigeria, Iraq and Syria. The report says that Trump has ordered more individual airstrikes in just 2025 than the past presidents did over four years. The other three countries named on the illustration of the caps include Yemen, Ecuador and Somalia. In his second term as president, Trump has authorised attacks in eight nations.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-tricked-iran-into-believing-idf-was-on-holiday-then-missiles-from-space-killed-khamenei-1772780247757">Israel tricked Iran into believing IDF was on holiday. Then missiles from space killed Khamenei</a><h2>Donald Trump's military action against foreign countries</h2>This includes airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen and joint military operations in Ecuador in the name of hitting "designated terrorist organisations". His biggest operation in 2025 came against Venezuela when he captured President Nicolas Maduro. He ordered Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025, as part of which Iran’s most critical nuclear sites - Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan - were targeted. On February 28, the US, together with Israel, launched attacks on Iran once again, this time killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump's policies have also targeted Somali immigrants, while the US conducted at least 111 airstrikes in Somalia. He also ordered aerial and naval strikes against Houthi radar systems, air defences, and launch sites in Yemen. In Syria, he authorised massive airstrikes comprising over 100 munitions in the first wave alone, targeting ISIS infrastructure. On December 25 and 26, 2025, the US military launched heavy airstrikes in northwest Nigeria, specifically targeting Sokoto State. Trump also authorised "selective military operations" against Iran-aligned militias within Iraq.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iran-war-could-go-on-till-september-just-like-nostradamus-prophesied-seven-months-great-war-1772777018935">Iran war could go on till September, report suggests, just like Nostradamus prophesied - ‘Seven months great war’</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-iraqi-oil-production-collapses-with-the-strait-of-hormuz-blocked-1773031485272/embed<h2>Trump's ‘no new wars’ promise</h2>The cover and the article are based on the premise that Trump based his presidential campaign on the promise of “no new wars” and then completely went against it. The TIME cover captures this duality. Meanwhile, the cover has been interpreted in a diametrically opposite manner by his followers and those against his actions. While MAGA supporters see it as a celebration of his accomplishments, others see his interference in eight foreign nations. A user wrote, "Trump delivers. Like him or not, you can’t say this about many other Presidents before him. Kudos to Trump." Another stated, "I love all of the MAGA Cult members who think TIME is praising him here."&nbsp;

Donald Trump has ordered military action against at least eight nations since returning as US president. This, after he promised that the country would not start any new wars under him. A magazine cover showing his duality has gone viral.

Donald Trump has ordered attacks or issued terrifying ultimatums to at least eight countries in just two years of his tenure as US president. A cover of the TIME magazine is going viral for being a depiction of his brutal actions in foreign countries, some of which had never been attacked before. The cover of the upcoming issue of the magazine accompanies the feature story “Trump's War” and talks about how his MAGA slogan has extended to his foreign policy. The picture shows eight red MAGA caps, but with the names of eight countries, including Iran, Venezuela, Nigeria, Iraq and Syria. The report says that Trump has ordered more individual airstrikes in just 2025 than the past presidents did over four years. The other three countries named on the illustration of the caps include Yemen, Ecuador and Somalia. In his second term as president, Trump has authorised attacks in eight nations. Also Read: Israel tricked Iran into believing IDF was on holiday. Then missiles from space killed Khamenei Donald Trump's military action against foreign countries This includes airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen and joint military operations in Ecuador in the name of hitting "designated terrorist organisations". His biggest operation in 2025 came against Venezuela when he captured President Nicolas Maduro. He ordered Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025, as part of which Iran’s most critical nuclear sites - Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan - were targeted. On February 28, the US, together with Israel, launched attacks on Iran once again, this time killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump's policies have also targeted Somali immigrants, while the US conducted at least 111 airstrikes in Somalia. He also ordered aerial and naval strikes against Houthi radar systems, air defences, and launch sites in Yemen. In Syria, he authorised massive airstrikes comprising over 100 munitions in the first wave alone, targeting ISIS infrastructure. On December 25 and 26, 2025, the US military launched heavy airstrikes in northwest Nigeria, specifically targeting Sokoto State. Trump also authorised "selective military operations" against Iran-aligned militias within Iraq. Also Read: Iran war could go on till September, report suggests, just like Nostradamus prophesied - ‘Seven months great war’ https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-iraqi-oil-production-collapses-with-the-strait-of-hormuz-blocked-1773031485272/embed Trump's ‘no new wars’ promise The cover and the article are based on the premise that Trump based his presidential campaign on the promise of “no new wars” and then completely went against it. The TIME cover captures this duality. Meanwhile, the cover has been interpreted in a diametrically opposite manner by his followers and those against his actions. While MAGA supporters see it as a celebration of his accomplishments, others see his interference in eight foreign nations. A user wrote, "Trump delivers. Like him or not, you can’t say this about many other Presidents before him. Kudos to Trump." Another stated, "I love all of the MAGA Cult members who think TIME is praising him here."

Donald Trump has ordered military action against at least eight nations since returning as US president. This, after he promised that the country would not start any new wars under him. A magazine cover showing his duality has gone viral.

After a 'no new wars' campaign, Donald Trump ordered strikes on 8 countries in just 2 years

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the next supreme leader of Iran “is not going to last long” if Tehran does not get his approval first. “He’s going to have to get approval from us,” Trump told ABC News.&nbsp;“If he doesn’t get approval from us he’s not going to last long,” Trump said, adding, “We want to make sure that we don’t have to go back every 10 years, when you don’t have a president like me that’s not going to do it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump’s comments came as the Iranian clerical body responsible for choosing the successor to slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reported to have selected a nominee and had to announce the name.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-will-not-target-iran-s-energy-sector-infrastructure-us-energy-secretary-chris-wright-1772985334423">‘We will not target Iran's energy sector, infrastructure’: US Energy Secretary Chris Wright</a>&nbsp;Trump further said, “I don’t want people to have to go back in five years and have to do the same thing again or worse let them have a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;When asked if he would be willing to approve someone with ties to the old regime, Trump replied, “I would, in order to choose a good leader, I would, yeah, I would. There are numerous people that could qualify.”Seeming to offer yet another justification for this war, Trump said Iran was planning to take over the entire Middle East, and suggested he stopped them from doing so.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-attacks-commanders-of-irgc-s-quds-force-in-beirut-claims-4-killed-1772977623803">IDF attacks commanders of IRGC’s Quds Force in Beirut, claims 4 killed</a>&nbsp;“They are a paper tiger. They weren’t a paper tiger a week ago, I’ll tell you. And they were going to attack,” he said. “Their plan was to attack the entire Middle East, to take over the entire Middle East.”The US president also did not rule out sending in special forces to seize Iran’s enriched uranium, saying, “Everything is on the table. Everything.”&nbsp;A senior Trump administration official told reporters last week that Iran has enriched enough uranium to get to weapons-grade material in 10 days or less.Much of the uranium is believed to be held at the sites bombed during Operation Midnight Hammer—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-military-warns-it-will-pursue-iran-s-next-supreme-leader-successors-1772972968321">Israel’s military warns it will ‘pursue’ Iran’s next supreme leader, successors</a>&nbsp;“In theory, if we had physical control of that territory, if we had physical control of those places where it’s located, we could send our people in and dilute it,” the official said.&nbsp;Trump said he wouldn’t predict how long the war would last when pressed on a timeline.“I don’t know. I never predict. All I can say is we are ahead of schedule both in terms of lethality and in terms of time,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-selects-its-new-supreme-leader-amid-raging-war-with-us-israel-1772961973135">Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;Iran was preparing to reveal its new supreme leader on Sunday.“The vote to appoint the leader has taken place, and the leader has been chosen,” said Ahmad Alamolhoda, a member of the Assembly of Experts, as quoted by Iran’s Mehr news agency.Alamolhoda said the secretariat of the body would announce the name later. Other assembly members confirmed a decision was made, with one suggesting the son of the late leader would take the post.

A senior Trump administration official told reporters that Iran has enriched enough uranium to get to weapons-grade material in 10 days or less. Much of the uranium is believed to be held at the sites bombed during Operation Midnight Hammer—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the next supreme leader of Iran “is not going to last long” if Tehran does not get his approval first. “He’s going to have to get approval from us,” Trump told ABC News. “If he doesn’t get approval from us he’s not going to last long,” Trump said, adding, “We want to make sure that we don’t have to go back every 10 years, when you don’t have a president like me that’s not going to do it.” Trump’s comments came as the Iranian clerical body responsible for choosing the successor to slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reported to have selected a nominee and had to announce the name. Also Read: ‘We will not target Iran's energy sector, infrastructure’: US Energy Secretary Chris Wright Trump further said, “I don’t want people to have to go back in five years and have to do the same thing again or worse let them have a nuclear weapon.” When asked if he would be willing to approve someone with ties to the old regime, Trump replied, “I would, in order to choose a good leader, I would, yeah, I would. There are numerous people that could qualify.” Seeming to offer yet another justification for this war, Trump said Iran was planning to take over the entire Middle East, and suggested he stopped them from doing so. Also Read: IDF attacks commanders of IRGC’s Quds Force in Beirut, claims 4 killed “They are a paper tiger. They weren’t a paper tiger a week ago, I’ll tell you. And they were going to attack,” he said. “Their plan was to attack the entire Middle East, to take over the entire Middle East.” The US president also did not rule out sending in special forces to seize Iran’s enriched uranium, saying, “Everything is on the table. Everything.” A senior Trump administration official told reporters last week that Iran has enriched enough uranium to get to weapons-grade material in 10 days or less. Much of the uranium is believed to be held at the sites bombed during Operation Midnight Hammer—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. Also Read: Israel’s military warns it will ‘pursue’ Iran’s next supreme leader, successors “In theory, if we had physical control of that territory, if we had physical control of those places where it’s located, we could send our people in and dilute it,” the official said. Trump said he wouldn’t predict how long the war would last when pressed on a timeline. “I don’t know. I never predict. All I can say is we are ahead of schedule both in terms of lethality and in terms of time,” he said. Also Read: Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel Iran was preparing to reveal its new supreme leader on Sunday. “The vote to appoint the leader has taken place, and the leader has been chosen,” said Ahmad Alamolhoda, a member of the Assembly of Experts, as quoted by Iran’s Mehr news agency. Alamolhoda said the secretariat of the body would announce the name later. Other assembly members confirmed a decision was made, with one suggesting the son of the late leader would take the post.

A senior Trump administration official told reporters that Iran has enriched enough uranium to get to weapons-grade material in 10 days or less. Much of the uranium is believed to be held at the sites bombed during Operation Midnight Hammer—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.

‘Next Iran supreme leader won’t last long without my approval,’ says Trump

US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning as tensions with Iran continue to escalate. Donald Trump stated that the United States is "not looking to settle," despite indications that Iran may be seeking negotiations.


US-Iran War | Trump: We Are Not Looking To Settle With Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump has accused Iran of bombing a school in the southern city of Minab, an attack he says killed at least 165 people. Trump claimed Tehran was responsible for the strike and rejected allegations that the United States was involved.

The incident refers to the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab, which was destroyed during the early stages of the Iran war, with Iranian authorities reporting that more than 160 people, mostly schoolchildren, were killed.

Trump also said there is no indication that Russia is assisting Iran in the conflict. The U.S. president added that Washington wants a future Iranian leader who will not lead the country into war.

The remarks come as the war between the United States, Israel and Iran continues to escalate across the region.

US-Iran War: Trump Blames Iran Over Minab School Strike

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (March 7) blamed Iran for a deadly strike on an elementary school in southern Iran that killed at least 168 children and 14 teachers, disputing reports and expert analyses suggesting the US military may have been responsible. “Based on what I’ve seen, that was done by Iran,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. He also said Iranian munitions are “very inaccurate.”&nbsp;Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the claim, telling reporters, “The only side that targets civilians is Iran.” The White House had previously not ruled out the possibility that US military personnel carried out the strike. Earlier reporting from CNN said satellite imagery, geolocated videos, statements from US officials and assessments by munitions experts suggest the Shajare Tayyiba elementary school in Minab was struck on February 28 around the same time as a US attack on a nearby Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps naval base.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-don-t-need-them-any-longer-but-we-will-remember-trump-tells-starmer-as-us-using-uk-bases-for-defensive-iran-operations-1772918512010">'We don’t need them any longer, but we will remember': Trump tells Starmer as US using UK bases for 'defensive' Iran operations</a>&nbsp;Later, speaking to reporters on Air Force One after attending the dignified transfer of six US service members killed this week in Kuwait, Trump acknowledged the loss, saying, “It’s a very sad day.” When asked if the ceremony made him reconsider the war, the president defended the military campaign, saying, “We’re winning the war by a lot.” He added that the parents of the fallen troops “were so proud” and described such deaths as “always a very sad thing.” Trump has previously warned that more US casualties could occur during the conflict with Iran. Asked whether he expected to attend more dignified transfers, he said, “I’m sure. I hate to … but it’s a part of war.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-uae-intercepts-missiles-and-drones-president-warns-nation-will-not-be-easy-prey-wion-1772919881309/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-uae-intercepts-missiles-and-drones-president-warns-nation-will-not-be-easy-prey-wion-1772919881309/embed</a>&nbsp;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.

Trump: Strike on girls school was 'done by Iran'; calls fallen troops’ return a 'very sad day', says US 'winning the war by a lot'

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (March 7) blamed Iran for a deadly strike on an elementary school in southern Iran that killed at least 168 children and 14 teachers, disputing reports and expert analyses suggesting the US military may have been responsible. “Based on what I’ve seen, that was done by Iran,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. He also said Iranian munitions are “very inaccurate.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the claim, telling reporters, “The only side that targets civilians is Iran.” The White House had previously not ruled out the possibility that US military personnel carried out the strike. Earlier reporting from CNN said satellite imagery, geolocated videos, statements from US officials and assessments by munitions experts suggest the Shajare Tayyiba elementary school in Minab was struck on February 28 around the same time as a US attack on a nearby Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps naval base. Also Read: 'We don’t need them any longer, but we will remember': Trump tells Starmer as US using UK bases for 'defensive' Iran operations Later, speaking to reporters on Air Force One after attending the dignified transfer of six US service members killed this week in Kuwait, Trump acknowledged the loss, saying, “It’s a very sad day.” When asked if the ceremony made him reconsider the war, the president defended the military campaign, saying, “We’re winning the war by a lot.” He added that the parents of the fallen troops “were so proud” and described such deaths as “always a very sad thing.” Trump has previously warned that more US casualties could occur during the conflict with Iran. Asked whether he expected to attend more dignified transfers, he said, “I’m sure. I hate to … but it’s a part of war.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-uae-intercepts-missiles-and-drones-president-warns-nation-will-not-be-easy-prey-wion-1772919881309/embed 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.

Trump blames Iran for strike on girls’ school in Minab despite reports suggesting US role; says ‘We’re winning the war by a lot’ after honouring troops killed in the war

Donald Trump posted a message addressed to Keir Starmer on his Truth Social account, commenting on reports that the UK is considering sending aircraft carriers to the Middle East. Trump said the UK was ‘finally giving serious thought’ to deploying two aircraft carriers to the region but suggested the move was unnecessary. "We don't need them any longer," he said. “We don't need people that join wars after we've already won!” His statement came after reports that Britain was preparing an aircraft carrier for possible deployment to the Middle East amid rising tensions linked to the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.&nbsp;Britain's defence ministry confirmed that the US had started using certain military sites for "specific defensive operations to prevent Iran firing missiles into the region". Prime Minister Starmer had initially declined to take part in the US-Israeli war with Iran, which reportedly began on February 28, a position that reportedly irritated Trump. Starmer later agreed to allow the US to use two British military bases for a "specific and limited defensive purpose".&nbsp;The bases include RAF Fairford in southwestern England and the joint UK-US base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.On Saturday, an AFP photographer observed a Rockwell B-1 Lancer landing at Fairford. A Lockheed C-5 Galaxy was also seen on the runway while anti-war protesters gathered outside the base. Earlier, Trump had said he was "not happy with the UK" and mocked Starmer, saying "this is not Winston Churchill that we're dealing with". Starmer, a former human rights lawyer, defended his initial reluctance to get involved, arguing that any UK military action "must always have a lawful basis and a viable, thought-through plan".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-moment-of-truth-is-approaching-for-iranian-people-war-will-continue-netanyahu-1772916339670">‘Moment of truth is approaching for Iranian people, war will continue’: Netanyahu</a>

However, he later said the decision changed after Iran launched retaliatory missiles and drones following US-Israeli strikes, which he said threatened British interests and allies in the region. Members of Starmer’s ruling Labour Party remain cautious about military involvement, partly due to memories of former prime minister Tony Blair supporting the US-led Iraq War.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-israel-warns-lebanon-of-heavy-price-as-strikes-pound-beirut-suburbs-wion-1772918992418/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-israel-warns-lebanon-of-heavy-price-as-strikes-pound-beirut-suburbs-wion-1772918992418/embed</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, thousands of protesters marched through central London to the United States Embassy London on Saturday to oppose the war. Many demonstrators waved Iranian flags and held placards reading "Stop Trump's Wars" and "Stop Arming Israel". UK media reports also suggested that HMS Prince of Wales could be deployed to the Mediterranean as Britain increases military readiness. However, officials said no final decision has been made.A defence ministry spokesperson said: "HMS Prince of Wales has always been on very high readiness and we are increasing the preparedness of the carrier, reducing the time it would take to set sail for any deployment."&nbsp;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.

'We don’t need them any longer, but we will remember': Trump tells Starmer as US using UK bases for 'defensive' Iran operations

Donald Trump posted a message addressed to Keir Starmer on his Truth Social account, commenting on reports that the UK is considering sending aircraft carriers to the Middle East. Trump said the UK was ‘finally giving serious thought’ to deploying two aircraft carriers to the region but suggested the move was unnecessary. "We don't need them any longer," he said. “We don't need people that join wars after we've already won!” His statement came after reports that Britain was preparing an aircraft carrier for possible deployment to the Middle East amid rising tensions linked to the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Britain's defence ministry confirmed that the US had started using certain military sites for "specific defensive operations to prevent Iran firing missiles into the region". Prime Minister Starmer had initially declined to take part in the US-Israeli war with Iran, which reportedly began on February 28, a position that reportedly irritated Trump. Starmer later agreed to allow the US to use two British military bases for a "specific and limited defensive purpose". The bases include RAF Fairford in southwestern England and the joint UK-US base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. On Saturday, an AFP photographer observed a Rockwell B-1 Lancer landing at Fairford. A Lockheed C-5 Galaxy was also seen on the runway while anti-war protesters gathered outside the base. Earlier, Trump had said he was "not happy with the UK" and mocked Starmer, saying "this is not Winston Churchill that we're dealing with". Starmer, a former human rights lawyer, defended his initial reluctance to get involved, arguing that any UK military action "must always have a lawful basis and a viable, thought-through plan". Also Read: ‘Moment of truth is approaching for Iranian people, war will continue’: Netanyahu

Trump rejects UK carrier help in Middle East war, mocking Starmer as Britain allows US use of military bases for ‘specific defensive operations’

The United States plans to significantly increase weapons production as the conflict involving Iran intensifies. US President Donald Trump said American defence companies will quadruple weapons manufacturing to meet rising military demands.

According to Trump, the expansion of US weapons production is already underway, with new plants for advanced weapon systems being built and existing facilities scaling up output. The move is aimed at ensuring a steady supply of munitions and military hardware during ongoing operations.

The announcement comes as Washington seeks to maintain military readiness and replenish stockpiles while the conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate.

US-Iran War: Trump Says Defence Firms to Ramp Up Production 'Exquisite Class Weapons'

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Mar 6) claimed that major US defence companies have agreed to quadruple production of ‘exquisite’ advanced weapons, amid the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran. Taking to Truth Social on the seventh day of his war against Tehran, the POTUS wrote, "The largest US Defense Manufacturing Companies" have "agreed to quadruple Production of the 'Exquisite Class' Weaponry." Here's what it means for the war in West Asia.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/america-s-deadliest-war-crime-investigation-finds-us-likely-responsible-for-devastating-school-strike-that-killed-150-iranian-girls-1772766411530">US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls</a><h2>'Exquisite Class' Weaponry'</h2>The US president said that he had a “very good meeting” with the biggest US Defense Manufacturing Companies and that Production and Production Schedules were discussed. The companies he met, as per the post, are BAE Systems, Boeing, Honeywell Aerospace, L3Harris Missile Solutions, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.

“They have agreed to quadruple production of the “Exquisite Class” weaponry in that we want to reach, as rapidly as possible, the highest levels of quantity,” he said. The term 'Exquisite Class Weaponry' apparently refers to advanced, high-precision military hardware. Trump said that the expansion actually began three months before the meeting, i.e., three months before the US and Israel launched joint "preemptive" strikes against Iran under what Washington calls Operation Epic Fury and Tel Aviv refers to as Operation Lion's Roar.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-a-question-of-time-trump-vows-to-turn-us-focus-to-cuba-once-iran-conflict-is-finished-israel-tehran-carribean-island-1772759431337">'It's a question of time': Trump vows to turn US focus to THIS neighbour once Iran war is 'finished'</a><h2>What is 'Exquisite Class' Weaponry?</h2>In the 2026 defence landscape, this refers to high-tier systems such as the LRASM (Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles), hypersonic glide vehicles, and Next-Gen Interceptors used to counter Iranian saturation strikes.<h2>How much ammo does the US have to fight a war against Iran?</h2>Amid reports and warnings from high-level military officials about the US's depleting ammunition stockpiles, Trump once again insisted that the nation has “virtually unlimited supply” of Medium and Upper Medium Grade Munitions. These, he said, were used in Washington's recent offensives against Iran and Venezuela.Even as he flaunted the “virtually unlimited” supplies, he said that America has “also increased Orders at these levels” and claimed that “States all over the Country are bidding for these new plants”. He also noted that he would meet the CEOs of the defence firms again in two months.

What is “exquisite class” weaponry and why does it matter in the Iran war?

Donald Trump says top defence firms like Lockheed Martin and Boeing will quadruple production of advanced weapons. How could this change the battlefield? Scroll down to read more.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Mar 6) claimed that major US defence companies have agreed to quadruple production of ‘exquisite’ advanced weapons, amid the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran. Taking to Truth Social on the seventh day of his war against Tehran, the POTUS wrote, "The largest US Defense Manufacturing Companies" have "agreed to quadruple Production of the 'Exquisite Class' Weaponry." Here's what it means for the war in West Asia. Also read | US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls 'Exquisite Class' Weaponry' The US president said that he had a “very good meeting” with the biggest US Defense Manufacturing Companies and that Production and Production Schedules were discussed. The companies he met, as per the post, are BAE Systems, Boeing, Honeywell Aerospace, L3Harris Missile Solutions, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.

What is “exquisite class” weaponry and why does it matter in the Iran war?Donald Trump says top defence firms like Lockheed Martin and Boeing will quadruple production of advanced weapons. How could this change the battlefield? Scroll down to read more.

Trump reveals US had secret 3-month head start on 'exquisite class' weapon production before Iran war

The United States says the ongoing war with Iran could last several weeks, with officials estimating the campaign may take around four to six weeks to achieve its objectives.

White House officials said Washington is making progress in the conflict and believes its operational goals, including gaining control of Iranian airspace, could be completed within that timeframe.

US President Donald Trump has also said the military campaign was initially projected to last four to five weeks, though he warned it could extend longer if necessary depending on developments on the ground.

US-Iran War: White House Claims Major Blow To US Navy

The US Army recently canceled a major training exercise involving the headquarters element of an elite paratrooper unit, according to officials, raising speculation within the Defense Department that troops could soon be deployed to the Middle East as tensions with Iran escalate. The 82nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, maintains a brigade combat team of roughly 4,000 to 5,000 soldiers capable of deploying within 18 hours. The unit is trained for a variety of missions, including capturing airfields and critical infrastructure, reinforcing US embassies, and supporting emergency evacuations. Its headquarters staff coordinates the planning and execution of such operations.&nbsp;Officials said no formal deployment orders had been issued as of Friday. They spoke anonymously because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the matter. However, the sudden cancellation of the training exercise, which was supposed to take place at Fort Polk, has led to increased speculation about possible operational plans. Instead of traveling to Louisiana for the exercise, the headquarters staff was instructed to remain in North Carolina. Because of the 82nd Airborne Division’s history of rapid deployments during global crises, the move has intensified expectations that its Immediate Response Force could soon be activated. “We’re all preparing for something, just in case,” said one official familiar with the situation.&nbsp;Army officials directed inquiries to the Pentagon, which declined to provide specifics. “Due to operations security we do not discuss future or hypothetical movements,” the statement said. Officials from United States Central Command also declined to comment. The growing speculation comes as President Donald Trump has offered varying explanations for launching the conflict with Iran. While he has said publicly that US ground forces “probably” will not be required, neither he nor his senior advisers have ruled out the possibility entirely. The Immediate Response Force has played key roles in several recent crises. It was deployed to reinforce security at the US Embassy in Baghdad shortly before the 2020 killing of Qasem Soleimani. The unit also participated in the 2021 evacuation of Afghanistan and was deployed to Eastern Europe in 2022 amid rising tensions before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brent-crude-crosses-90-mark-for-first-time-in-nearly-two-years-as-middle-east-war-jolts-markets-1772822808346">Brent crude crosses $90 mark for first time in nearly two years as Middle East war jolts markets</a>&nbsp;Since the conflict began nearly a week ago, US commanders have relied mainly on air and naval strikes to target Iranian military facilities, missile stockpiles, drones and naval assets. As Iranian defenses weaken, US aircraft are increasingly flying directly over Iranian territory to conduct strikes using fighter jets, bombers and other aircraft. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that sending American ground troops into Iran was “not part of the current plan, but I’m not going to remove an option for the president that is on the table.” During a Pentagon briefing earlier that day, Dan Caine declined to address questions about potential ground deployments. “I don’t make policy,” Caine said. “I execute policy.”&nbsp;Reports last week indicated that Caine had warned the White House about risks associated with a large-scale military campaign against Iran, including limited stockpiles of certain munitions and insufficient military backing from U.S. allies. The administration has attempted to minimize those concerns. Caine appeared at the briefing alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who also refused to rule out the possibility of deploying ground combat troops. Meanwhile, Charles “Brad” Cooper said that U.S. combat power in the region continues to grow while Iranian capabilities are declining. According to Cooper, Iran has launched fewer missiles and drones in recent days.&nbsp;He said US forces are now striking Iranian targets directly by flying over the country. By doing so, Cooper said, US forces are hitting Iran’s “center of gravity directly with overwhelming power and reach.” The campaign includes B-2 bombers dropping 2,000-pound bombs on underground ballistic missile launch sites. More than 50,000 American troops are currently involved in the operation. Six U.S. soldiers have been killed so far during Iranian retaliatory attacks targeting American positions and interests across the Middle East.&nbsp;Trump acknowledged the possibility of additional casualties. “There will likely be more,” he said. “That’s the way it is.”The administration has not provided a clear timeline for the campaign’s conclusion. Trump said it might last four to five weeks but added that the United States has the capability to continue much longer if necessary. One concern among military planners is the availability of certain precision weapons and air-defense interceptors. Some officials say the Pentagon has been rapidly using up those stockpiles. However, senior leaders have denied any shortages, arguing that the shift toward strikes by manned aircraft allows the use of more abundant munitions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-israel-says-iran-using-cluster-bomb-missiles-wion-1772832551868/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-israel-says-iran-using-cluster-bomb-missiles-wion-1772832551868/embed</a>&nbsp;“We’ve got no shortages of munitions,” Hegseth said. “Our stockpiles of defensive and offensive weapons allow us to sustain this campaign as long as we need to.” If the United States decides to deploy ground forces, analysts say one potential early objective could be Kharg Island. Located roughly 15 miles from Iran’s mainland, the island handles about 90 percent of the country’s oil exports. Capturing Kharg Island would give the United States control over a key part of Iran’s economy but could also expose American troops to significant attacks.&nbsp;Michael Rubin described the idea as a “no-brainer,” arguing that the administration appears to be realizing the scale of the challenge posed by Iran. Even though US forces could face incoming fire if deployed there, Rubin said capturing the island would provide major strategic leverage, including the potential to disrupt Iran’s ability to fund its military operations. Such a move would also align with Trump’s previous efforts to control strategic resources abroad, including actions related to Nicolás Maduro and interventions during his first term in Syria. However, sending ground troops into Iran carries significant political risk. Trump faces strong opposition from Democrats and from some members of his own Republican Party who oppose expanding the conflict. A recent poll by CNN found that only 12 percent of respondents support sending ground troops to Iran, while 60 per cent oppose the idea and 28 percent remain undecided.&nbsp;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.

US cancels 82nd airborne training, raising questions about possible Iran deployment

The US Army recently canceled a major training exercise involving the headquarters element of an elite paratrooper unit, according to officials, raising speculation within the Defense Department that troops could soon be deployed to the Middle East as tensions with Iran escalate. The 82nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, maintains a brigade combat team of roughly 4,000 to 5,000 soldiers capable of deploying within 18 hours. The unit is trained for a variety of missions, including capturing airfields and critical infrastructure, reinforcing US embassies, and supporting emergency evacuations. Its headquarters staff coordinates the planning and execution of such operations. Officials said no formal deployment orders had been issued as of Friday. They spoke anonymously because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the matter. However, the sudden cancellation of the training exercise, which was supposed to take place at Fort Polk, has led to increased speculation about possible operational plans. Instead of traveling to Louisiana for the exercise, the headquarters staff was instructed to remain in North Carolina. Because of the 82nd Airborne Division’s history of rapid deployments during global crises, the move has intensified expectations that its Immediate Response Force could soon be activated. “We’re all preparing for something, just in case,” said one official familiar with the situation. Army officials directed inquiries to the Pentagon, which declined to provide specifics. “Due to operations security we do not discuss future or hypothetical movements,” the statement said. Officials from United States Central Command also declined to comment. The growing speculation comes as President Donald Trump has offered varying explanations for launching the conflict with Iran. While he has said publicly that US ground forces “probably” will not be required, neither he nor his senior advisers have ruled out the possibility entirely. The Immediate Response Force has played key roles in several recent crises. It was deployed to reinforce security at the US Embassy in Baghdad shortly before the 2020 killing of Qasem Soleimani. The unit also participated in the 2021 evacuation of Afghanistan and was deployed to Eastern Europe in 2022 amid rising tensions before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Also Read: Brent crude crosses $90 mark for first time in nearly two years as Middle East war jolts markets Since the conflict began nearly a week ago, US commanders have relied mainly on air and naval strikes to target Iranian military facilities, missile stockpiles, drones and naval assets. As Iranian defenses weaken, US aircraft are increasingly flying directly over Iranian territory to conduct strikes using fighter jets, bombers and other aircraft. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that sending American ground troops into Iran was “not part of the current plan, but I’m not going to remove an option for the president that is on the table.” During a Pentagon briefing earlier that day, Dan Caine declined to address questions about potential ground deployments. “I don’t make policy,” Caine said. “I execute policy.” Reports last week indicated that Caine had warned the White House about risks associated with a large-scale military campaign against Iran, including limited stockpiles of certain munitions and insufficient military backing from U.S. allies. The administration has attempted to minimize those concerns. Caine appeared at the briefing alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who also refused to rule out the possibility of deploying ground combat troops. Meanwhile, Charles “Brad” Cooper said that U.S. combat power in the region continues to grow while Iranian capabilities are declining. According to Cooper, Iran has launched fewer missiles and drones in recent days. He said US forces are now striking Iranian targets directly by flying over the country. By doing so, Cooper said, US forces are hitting Iran’s “center of gravity directly with overwhelming power and reach.” The campaign includes B-2 bombers dropping 2,000-pound bombs on underground ballistic missile launch sites. More than 50,000 American troops are currently involved in the operation. Six U.S. soldiers have been killed so far during Iranian retaliatory attacks targeting American positions and interests across the Middle East. Trump acknowledged the possibility of additional casualties. “There will likely be more,” he said. “That’s the way it is.” The administration has not provided a clear timeline for the campaign’s conclusion. Trump said it might last four to five weeks but added that the United States has the capability to continue much longer if necessary. One concern among military planners is the availability of certain precision weapons and air-defense interceptors. Some officials say the Pentagon has been rapidly using up those stockpiles. However, senior leaders have denied any shortages, arguing that the shift toward strikes by manned aircraft allows the use of more abundant munitions. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-israel-says-iran-using-cluster-bomb-missiles-wion-1772832551868/embed “We’ve got no shortages of munitions,” Hegseth said. “Our stockpiles of defensive and offensive weapons allow us to sustain this campaign as long as we need to.” If the United States decides to deploy ground forces, analysts say one potential early objective could be Kharg Island. Located roughly 15 miles from Iran’s mainland, the island handles about 90 percent of the country’s oil exports. Capturing Kharg Island would give the United States control over a key part of Iran’s economy but could also expose American troops to significant attacks. Michael Rubin described the idea as a “no-brainer,” arguing that the administration appears to be realizing the scale of the challenge posed by Iran. Even though US forces could face incoming fire if deployed there, Rubin said capturing the island would provide major strategic leverage, including the potential to disrupt Iran’s ability to fund its military operations. Such a move would also align with Trump’s previous efforts to control strategic resources abroad, including actions related to Nicolás Maduro and interventions during his first term in Syria. However, sending ground troops into Iran carries significant political risk. Trump faces strong opposition from Democrats and from some members of his own Republican Party who oppose expanding the conflict. A recent poll by CNN found that only 12 percent of respondents support sending ground troops to Iran, while 60 per cent oppose the idea and 28 percent remain undecided. 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.

The United States Army cancels 82nd Airborne training, sparking speculation of possible Middle East deployment as the conflict with Iran escalates

US President Donald Trump on Friday (March 6) said there will be ‘no deal’ with Iran unless it agrees to ‘unconditional surrender’, hardening his stance as tensions escalate after joint strikes by the United States and Israel. The attacks triggered retaliatory missile and drone strikes from Tehran, widening the conflict and putting several Gulf states at risk of being drawn further into the war. Donald Trump on his Truth Social post wrote, “There will be no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER! After that, and the selection of a GREAT &amp; ACCEPTABLE Leader(s), we, and many of our wonderful and very brave allies and partners, will work tirelessly to bring Iran back from the brink of destruction, making it economically bigger, better, and stronger than ever before. IRAN WILL HAVE A GREAT FUTURE. “MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN (MIGA!).” Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

On Thursday (March 5), Trump said that the United States military is progressing “far ahead of schedule” in the war against Iran. “The United States military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy, far ahead of schedule and at levels that people have never seen before,” the president said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-called-and-asked-we-want-to-talk-i-said-trump-s-big-statement-on-iran-1772746335248">'THEY CALLED AND ASKED WE WANT TO TALK, I SAID...': Trump's BIG statement on Iran</a>&nbsp;Trump’s remarks came as Israel’s military chief stated that the country is moving into the “next phase” of the war with Iran after carrying out 2,500 strikes and deploying more than 6,000 weapons. He said, “The US military continues to demolish the enemy ahead of schedule. They are tough, and they wanna fight. They called and asked, we wanna talk, I said you are a bit late. I call on the IRGC, Police, and all to lay down their arms or get killed. Let's shape a new Iran, a great country with a great future. The US will ensure whoever leads the country will not threaten the US.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-can-russian-oil-shield-india-from-iran-war-shock-us-grants-temporary-waiver-1772804654639/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-can-russian-oil-shield-india-from-iran-war-shock-us-grants-temporary-waiver-1772804654639/embed</a>&nbsp;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.

'Unconditional surrender': Trump's warning for Iran as conflict widens

US President Donald Trump on Friday (March 6) said there will be ‘no deal’ with Iran unless it agrees to ‘unconditional surrender’, hardening his stance as tensions escalate after joint strikes by the United States and Israel. The attacks triggered retaliatory missile and drone strikes from Tehran, widening the conflict and putting several Gulf states at risk of being drawn further into the war. Donald Trump on his Truth Social post wrote, “There will be no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER! After that, and the selection of a GREAT & ACCEPTABLE Leader(s), we, and many of our wonderful and very brave allies and partners, will work tirelessly to bring Iran back from the brink of destruction, making it economically bigger, better, and stronger than ever before. IRAN WILL HAVE A GREAT FUTURE. “MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN (MIGA!).” Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

Donald Trump demands Iran’s ‘unconditional surrender’ after US-Israel strikes ignite retaliatory attacks, raising fears of a wider Middle East war

US President Donald Trump has denied any possibility of a ground invasion by the US and Israeli forces in Iran, a "waste of time". This was in reaction to the comment by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who, in an interview with NBC News, said that “we are waiting for them”. Trump declared that Iran has lost “everything”. The US is interested in a diplomatic solution and "wants to clean out everything".“It’s a waste of time. They’ve lost everything. They’ve lost their navy. They’ve lost everything they can lose." Trump added that the pace and intensity of strikes will continue; he wants to clean out everything. Trump called Araghchi's remark a "wasted" comment.&nbsp;Separately, while hosting the U.S. club Inter Miami at the White House on Thursday, Trump called on members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), the military, and the police to “lay down” their arms, warning of “guaranteed death” if they continue to resist. Trump offered complete immunity and urged them to assist in reclaiming the country. Trump also encouraged Iranian diplomats everywhere to seek asylum. Trump dismissed the frontrunner, Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the dead Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, &nbsp;as a lightweight and said his Venezuela playbook will work.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armageddon-rhetoric-us-israel-iran-war-biblical-prophecy-1772796972379">Is the US-Iran war a religious war? US troops were briefed on Armageddon, return of Jesus</a>On March 2, Trump told The New York Post he would not rule out boots on the ground. "I don't have the yips with respect to boots on the ground -- like every president says, 'There will be no boots on the ground.' I don't say it," said Trump to the Post.The US-Israel operation on Iran has entered its seventh day. According to the Iran Red Crescent Society, at least 1,230 people in Iran have been killed since the strikes began on Saturday. But the Iranian leadership, even after a significant loss of life, remains defiant. &nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that it would be a disaster for the US to launch a ground invasion.&nbsp;

Donald Trump says a US ground invasion of Iran would be “a waste of time” but signals Washington wants to remove Iran’s leadership amid escalating war.

US President Donald Trump has denied any possibility of a ground invasion by the US and Israeli forces in Iran, a "waste of time". This was in reaction to the comment by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who, in an interview with NBC News, said that “we are waiting for them”. Trump declared that Iran has lost “everything”. The US is interested in a diplomatic solution and "wants to clean out everything". “It’s a waste of time. They’ve lost everything. They’ve lost their navy. They’ve lost everything they can lose." Trump added that the pace and intensity of strikes will continue; he wants to clean out everything. Trump called Araghchi's remark a "wasted" comment. Separately, while hosting the U.S. club Inter Miami at the White House on Thursday, Trump called on members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), the military, and the police to “lay down” their arms, warning of “guaranteed death” if they continue to resist. Trump offered complete immunity and urged them to assist in reclaiming the country. Trump also encouraged Iranian diplomats everywhere to seek asylum. Trump dismissed the frontrunner, Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the dead Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as a lightweight and said his Venezuela playbook will work. Also Read: Is the US-Iran war a religious war? US troops were briefed on Armageddon, return of Jesus On March 2, Trump told The New York Post he would not rule out boots on the ground. "I don't have the yips with respect to boots on the ground -- like every president says, 'There will be no boots on the ground.' I don't say it," said Trump to the Post. The US-Israel operation on Iran has entered its seventh day. According to the Iran Red Crescent Society, at least 1,230 people in Iran have been killed since the strikes began on Saturday. But the Iranian leadership, even after a significant loss of life, remains defiant. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that it would be a disaster for the US to launch a ground invasion.

Donald Trump says a US ground invasion of Iran would be “a waste of time” but signals Washington wants to remove Iran’s leadership amid escalating war.

Donald Trump says US ground invasion of Iran would be “a waste of time”

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 5) indicated that he wanted to start from scratch in Iran and "clean out" the leadership. He hinted that he had some names in mind for a "good leader" who could take over from the Iranian leadership. Who does the POTUS want to lead Tehran? Here's what we know.<h2>Step 1: "clean out everything"</h2>In a telephonic interview with NBC News, Trump revealed US plans for Iran and said, "We want to go in and clean out everything". The US president said that they "don’t want someone who would rebuild over a 10-year period".He described the leader as "good" and said that they "have some people who I think would do a good job".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/america-s-deadliest-war-crime-investigation-finds-us-likely-responsible-for-devastating-school-strike-that-killed-150-iranian-girls-1772766411530">US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls</a><h2>But who does Trump want in power in Iran?</h2>Trump coyly refused to take any names but said that he was making sure that the people he had in mind survive the ongoing war between US-Israel and Iran. "We are watching them, yeah," he said.Previously, he told NBC that while he doesn't know who would lead Iran next, "but at some point they’ll be calling me to ask who I’d like".A power vacuum in IranIran faces a power vacuum since the death of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint strike by Israel and the US. Khamenei's assassination was part of the coordinated airstrikes by Washington and Tel Aviv, with Israel calling the campaign Operation Lion’s Roar and Washington naming it Operation Epic Fury.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-matter-where-he-hides-israeli-defence-minister-threatens-to-assassinate-any-successor-to-iran-s-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-1772613368778">'No matter where he hides': Israeli Defence Minister threatens to 'assassinate' any successor to Iran's Khamenei</a>Khamenei's death was confirmed on March 1. The joint strikes which took him out also killed several senior Iranian figures.Recent reports suggested that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been elected as the next Supreme Leader by Iran's Assembly of Experts. However, Iran on Mar 4 rubbished the reports. In a post shared via the Consulate General in Mumbai X account, Iran said that the "reports circulating on media regarding potential candidates for leadership selected by Iran's Assembly of Experts have no official source and are officially denied."

Is the US planning a regime change in Iran after the war? Donald Trump says he wants to “clean out” Iran’s leadership and hinted he already has people in mind to lead the country after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. But who could replace him? Scroll down to read more.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 5) indicated that he wanted to start from scratch in Iran and "clean out" the leadership. He hinted that he had some names in mind for a "good leader" who could take over from the Iranian leadership. Who does the POTUS want to lead Tehran? Here's what we know. Step 1: "clean out everything" In a telephonic interview with NBC News, Trump revealed US plans for Iran and said, "We want to go in and clean out everything". The US president said that they "don’t want someone who would rebuild over a 10-year period". He described the leader as "good" and said that they "have some people who I think would do a good job". Also read | US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls But who does Trump want in power in Iran? Trump coyly refused to take any names but said that he was making sure that the people he had in mind survive the ongoing war between US-Israel and Iran. "We are watching them, yeah," he said. Previously, he told NBC that while he doesn't know who would lead Iran next, "but at some point they’ll be calling me to ask who I’d like". A power vacuum in Iran Iran faces a power vacuum since the death of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint strike by Israel and the US. Khamenei's assassination was part of the coordinated airstrikes by Washington and Tel Aviv, with Israel calling the campaign Operation Lion’s Roar and Washington naming it Operation Epic Fury. Also read | 'No matter where he hides': Israeli Defence Minister threatens to 'assassinate' any successor to Iran's Khamenei Khamenei's death was confirmed on March 1. The joint strikes which took him out also killed several senior Iranian figures. Recent reports suggested that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been elected as the next Supreme Leader by Iran's Assembly of Experts. However, Iran on Mar 4 rubbished the reports. In a post shared via the Consulate General in Mumbai X account, Iran said that the "reports circulating on media regarding potential candidates for leadership selected by Iran's Assembly of Experts have no official source and are officially denied."

Is the US planning a regime change in Iran after the war? Donald Trump says he wants to “clean out” Iran’s leadership and hinted he already has people in mind to lead the country after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. But who could replace him? Scroll down to read more.

'Clean out': Trump wants Iran’s leadership removed, says THIS is his Khamenei successor pick. Find out who!

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly pressured Israeli President Isaac Herzog to immediately pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, arguing that Netanyahu needs to be fully focused on Israel’s conflict with Iran rather than his ongoing corruption trial. Trump labeled Herzog “a disgrace,” claiming the Israeli president previously promised a pardon multiple times - a claim Herzog’s office denies. Herzog responded that Israel is a sovereign democracy governed by the rule of law, and any pardon request is being reviewed through formal legal procedures.


Israel-Iran War: US President Demands Herzog to Pardon Netanyahu Immediately

U.S. President Donald Trump told Reuters that the United States must be involved in choosing Iran’s next leader following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the ongoing conflict. Trump said it is very early in the selection process, but Washington should help shape Iran’s political future rather than leave the decision solely to Tehran’s clerical bodies.


US-Iran War: President Trump Says US Will Have a Role on Next Iranian Leader

US President Donald Trump, in the latest interview for the cover story of The Times, responding to correspondent Eric Cortellessa about the details of the Iran war and if there was a possibility of the US being attacked on its own soil, Trump responded: “I guess”. The US-Iran war has the possibility to spill over to its own territory. Trump's admission contradicts the confident updates about the war by his administration. Trump further added that ‘some people will die’.“But I think they’re worried about that all the time. We think about it all the time. We plan for it. But yeah, you know, we expect some things," said Trump, responding to questions about possible attacks on US soil. "Like I said, some people will die," the president added. "When you go to war, some people will die."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-pm-modi-silence-iran-warship-iris-dena-1772717379666">Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of surrendering strategic autonomy after torpedo attack on IRIS Dena</a>These comments were unsettling for many US citizens as the US engaged in an unpopular war of choice with Iran, completely unprovoked, on the pretence of changing a terrorist regime. The war is unpopular because, according to a Reuters poll, only 27 per cent of US citizens approve of this war, 43 per cent are against it, and 29 per cent are unsure about it. Similary another CBS survey of 1400 people shows approximately 60 per cent of US adults did not think the Trump administration has provided a clear rationale or goal for the war. The rationale of the Trump administration is like a moving goalpost. At first it was Iran's nuclear weapon program, then it was about the regime killing its own people, then it was about the threat of an imminent attack when the US had already mobilised one third of its troops to mediteranean.&nbsp;Since the beginning of the wat the statements of the Trump administration were incoherent, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, the US was forced to act because of Israel, then Trump denied saying Iran would have attacked if the US did not. The Time Cover Story comes 4 days after a 52-year-old Ndiaga Diagne opened fire at Buford’s bar on West 6th Street in Austin, March 1, killing 3 and injuring another 4. The man, as reported by multiple platforms, was wearing a t-shirt with markings “property or Allah” and “Iranian flag” on it. Though many have questioned the timing and the overt denotation of Iran just within a day of the attack on Iran as an operation to change public opinion in support of the war. The authorities are investigating the matter, and no clear motive has been established.&nbsp;

Donald Trump admits “some people will die” in the US-Iran war as polls show low public support, and critics question the administration’s shifting rationale.

US President Donald Trump, in the latest interview for the cover story of The Times, responding to correspondent Eric Cortellessa about the details of the Iran war and if there was a possibility of the US being attacked on its own soil, Trump responded: “I guess”. The US-Iran war has the possibility to spill over to its own territory. Trump's admission contradicts the confident updates about the war by his administration. Trump further added that ‘some people will die’. “But I think they’re worried about that all the time. We think about it all the time. We plan for it. But yeah, you know, we expect some things," said Trump, responding to questions about possible attacks on US soil. "Like I said, some people will die," the president added. "When you go to war, some people will die." Also Read: Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of surrendering strategic autonomy after torpedo attack on IRIS Dena These comments were unsettling for many US citizens as the US engaged in an unpopular war of choice with Iran, completely unprovoked, on the pretence of changing a terrorist regime. The war is unpopular because, according to a Reuters poll, only 27 per cent of US citizens approve of this war, 43 per cent are against it, and 29 per cent are unsure about it. Similary another CBS survey of 1400 people shows approximately 60 per cent of US adults did not think the Trump administration has provided a clear rationale or goal for the war. The rationale of the Trump administration is like a moving goalpost. At first it was Iran's nuclear weapon program, then it was about the regime killing its own people, then it was about the threat of an imminent attack when the US had already mobilised one third of its troops to mediteranean. Since the beginning of the wat the statements of the Trump administration were incoherent, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, the US was forced to act because of Israel, then Trump denied saying Iran would have attacked if the US did not. The Time Cover Story comes 4 days after a 52-year-old Ndiaga Diagne opened fire at Buford’s bar on West 6th Street in Austin, March 1, killing 3 and injuring another 4. The man, as reported by multiple platforms, was wearing a t-shirt with markings “property or Allah” and “Iranian flag” on it. Though many have questioned the timing and the overt denotation of Iran just within a day of the attack on Iran as an operation to change public opinion in support of the war. The authorities are investigating the matter, and no clear motive has been established.

Donald Trump admits “some people will die” in the US-Iran war as polls show low public support and critics question the administration’s shifting rationale.

Trump admits there are chances of Iran retaliating on US soil- 'Some people will die'

More than 30 US senators have urged the Donald Trump administration to launch an independent investigation into the killing of a 19-year-old American in the occupied West Bank, warning that a growing number of similar cases have passed without accountability. In a letter sent Wednesday (Mar 4), lawmakers asked the administration to examine the February killing of Nasrallah Abu Siyam, a Philadelphia-born teenager who was shot in the West Bank village of Mukhmas.<h2>Lawmakers flag "consistent pattern"</h2>The letter, led by Maryland senator Chris Van Hollen, is addressed to the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio; the US Attorney General, Pam Bondi; and the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee. It demands a US-led investigation into Nasrallah Abu Siyam's death and a full accounting of nine cases in which American citizens have been killed in the West Bank since 2022. They also requested that lawmakers be briefed in Congress by April 5.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/america-s-deadliest-war-crime-investigation-finds-us-likely-responsible-for-devastating-school-strike-that-killed-150-iranian-girls-1772766411530">US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls</a>“This has now become a consistent pattern in which Americans are being killed in the West Bank by settlers or the [Israel Defense Forces (IDF)] without justice or accountability, despite promises from US officials,” the senators wrote.<h2>The killing in Mukhmas</h2>Nasrallah Abu Siyam, an American by birth, was shot on February 18 in the West Bank village of Mukhmas during an attack on Palestinian farmers, according to witness accounts. Residents said a group of masked Israeli settlers confronted farmers in the village. Israeli soldiers were reportedly present at the scene but did not intervene, provide medical assistance or make arrests.The US State Department confirmed the death of an American citizen at the time and said it expected “a full, thorough and transparent investigation.” Officials added that the US embassy in Jerusalem had been in contact with the family.“We condemn criminal violence by any party in the West Bank,” a department spokesperson said, “and take particular interest in this case due to our duty to protect American citizens”. The statement, however, did not indicate whether Washington would conduct its own probe.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-a-question-of-time-trump-vows-to-turn-us-focus-to-cuba-once-iran-conflict-is-finished-israel-tehran-carribean-island-1772759431337">'It's a question of time': Trump vows to turn US focus to THIS neighbour once Iran war is 'finished'</a><h2>At least 9 Americans killed by Israelis in West Bank: A pattern of unresolved cases</h2>Thursday’s letter was signed by 31 Democratic and independent senators, including senior figures such as Patty Murray, Dick Durbin, Jack Reed and Bernie Sanders.None of the nine killings of US citizens in the West Bank since 2022 has led to a criminal conviction, the senators noted. “For all nine of these killings, no one has yet been held accountable by the Netanyahu government,” they wrote, “nor has the US government upheld its duty to protect Americans and secure justice and accountability for their deaths.”<h2>The 9 Americans killed in the West Bank</h2>Among the victims was Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, who was shot dead while covering an Israeli military operation in 2022. Others are: Omar Assad, an elderly Palestinian American who died following his detention by Israeli soldiers; Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, 26, from Seattle, was also shot in the head during a West Bank protest in 2024; Khamis al-Ayyada, 40, died of smoke inhalation in August after a fire was set by Israeli settlers in his village. Out of the nine individuals, three were underage: a 14-year-old from New Jersey and two 17-year-olds who died in distinct occurrences. &nbsp;

Why are US senators demanding an investigation into the killing of an American teen in the West Bank?

Over 30 lawmakers allege that the death of Nasrallah Abu Siyam could be part of a troubling pattern of Americans killed without accountability. Scroll down to read more.

More than 30 US senators have urged the Donald Trump administration to launch an independent investigation into the killing of a 19-year-old American in the occupied West Bank, warning that a growing number of similar cases have passed without accountability. In a letter sent Wednesday (Mar 4), lawmakers asked the administration to examine the February killing of Nasrallah Abu Siyam, a Philadelphia-born teenager who was shot in the West Bank village of Mukhmas. Lawmakers flag "consistent pattern" The letter, led by Maryland senator Chris Van Hollen, is addressed to the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio; the US Attorney General, Pam Bondi; and the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee. It demands a US-led investigation into Nasrallah Abu Siyam's death and a full accounting of nine cases in which American citizens have been killed in the West Bank since 2022. They also requested that lawmakers be briefed in Congress by April 5. Also read | US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls “This has now become a consistent pattern in which Americans are being killed in the West Bank by settlers or the [Israel Defense Forces (IDF)] without justice or accountability, despite promises from US officials,” the senators wrote. The killing in Mukhmas Nasrallah Abu Siyam, an American by birth, was shot on February 18 in the West Bank village of Mukhmas during an attack on Palestinian farmers, according to witness accounts. Residents said a group of masked Israeli settlers confronted farmers in the village. Israeli soldiers were reportedly present at the scene but did not intervene, provide medical assistance or make arrests. The US State Department confirmed the death of an American citizen at the time and said it expected “a full, thorough and transparent investigation.” Officials added that the US embassy in Jerusalem had been in contact with the family. “We condemn criminal violence by any party in the West Bank,” a department spokesperson said, “and take particular interest in this case due to our duty to protect American citizens”. The statement, however, did not indicate whether Washington would conduct its own probe. Also read | 'It's a question of time': Trump vows to turn US focus to THIS neighbour once Iran war is 'finished' At least 9 Americans killed by Israelis in West Bank: A pattern of unresolved cases Thursday’s letter was signed by 31 Democratic and independent senators, including senior figures such as Patty Murray, Dick Durbin, Jack Reed and Bernie Sanders. None of the nine killings of US citizens in the West Bank since 2022 has led to a criminal conviction, the senators noted. “For all nine of these killings, no one has yet been held accountable by the Netanyahu government,” they wrote, “nor has the US government upheld its duty to protect Americans and secure justice and accountability for their deaths.” The 9 Americans killed in the West Bank Among the victims was Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, who was shot dead while covering an Israeli military operation in 2022. Others are: Omar Assad, an elderly Palestinian American who died following his detention by Israeli soldiers; Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, 26, from Seattle, was also shot in the head during a West Bank protest in 2024; Khamis al-Ayyada, 40, died of smoke inhalation in August after a fire was set by Israeli settlers in his village. Out of the nine individuals, three were underage: a 14-year-old from New Jersey and two 17-year-olds who died in distinct occurrences.

Why are US senators demanding an investigation into the killing of an American teen in the West Bank?Over 30 lawmakers allege that the death of Nasrallah Abu Siyam could be part of a troubling pattern of Americans killed without accountability. Scroll down to read more.

At least 9 Americans killed by Israelis in West Bank, senators demand probe into killing of Nasrallah Abu Siyam and others

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly defended his decision not to join the United States and Israel in offensive military strikes against Iran, calling it a choice made in the national interest and rooted in law, principles, and a desire to avoid a wider war. Starmer said the UK’s longstanding position is that the best solution is a negotiated settlement with Tehran, and that Britain should use military and diplomatic strength to protect its citizens and allies while pushing for de‑escalation.


US-Iran War: UK PM Starmer Against Joining Iran War, Decision in National Interest 

Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates were feted by President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday in honor of their 2025 MLS Cup championship. Messi was at the forefront as Miami players, coach Javier Mascherano and team co-owner Jorge Mas flanked Trump, who opened proceedings with comments on military action in the Middle East. But he soon got down to the team's 2025 exploits and rememiniscences of Brazilian icon Pele's 1970s stint with the New York Cosmos and its electrifying effect on soccer in the United States.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-2026-risk-of-permanent-nerve-damage-aston-martin-drivers-alonson-and-stroll-won-t-be-completing-melbourne-gp-1772696224725">F1 | 'Risk of nerve damage': Aston Martin drivers won't be finishing AUS GP</a>"I shouldn't say this because I'm old, but I watched Pele play," Trump said. "I don't know, you (Messi) may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good."The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president.From Trump there were shout-outs to Miami's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, rising star Tadeo Allende, and Rodrigo De Paul -- and a subtle dig at former president Joe Biden."It's my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel," Trump said, an oblique reference to the fact Messi did not attend the ceremony when Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025."I've seen a lot of great players come into the world of sports," Trump said. "They come to the Yankees or they come to the Dodgers... and there's such a clamor."Everything's great, but they don't win. This guy won," he said with a gesture toward Messi."Leo, you came in and you won. There's a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know because you're sort of expected to win," Trump added.Trump's rundown of Miami's 2025 achievements included not only their 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final but also their 2-1 victory over Portuguese side Porto in the Club World Cup, which marked the first time a North American team beat a European one in official competition.In accepting Trump's congratulations, Mas -- the son of Cuban immigrants -- said Miami's rise since its 2020 inaugural season was based on the philosophy that "if you work hard and you sacrifice and you dream, it can be possible."Inter Miami's global success is "not only because of Lionel Messi, but these men standing behind you have changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever," Mas said. "We can play with the big boys."

The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president.

Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates were feted by President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday in honor of their 2025 MLS Cup championship. Messi was at the forefront as Miami players, coach Javier Mascherano and team co-owner Jorge Mas flanked Trump, who opened proceedings with comments on military action in the Middle East. But he soon got down to the team's 2025 exploits and rememiniscences of Brazilian icon Pele's 1970s stint with the New York Cosmos and its electrifying effect on soccer in the United States. Also Read - F1 | 'Risk of nerve damage': Aston Martin drivers won't be finishing AUS GP "I shouldn't say this because I'm old, but I watched Pele play," Trump said. "I don't know, you (Messi) may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good." The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president. From Trump there were shout-outs to Miami's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, rising star Tadeo Allende, and Rodrigo De Paul -- and a subtle dig at former president Joe Biden. "It's my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel," Trump said, an oblique reference to the fact Messi did not attend the ceremony when Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025. "I've seen a lot of great players come into the world of sports," Trump said. "They come to the Yankees or they come to the Dodgers... and there's such a clamor. "Everything's great, but they don't win. This guy won," he said with a gesture toward Messi. "Leo, you came in and you won. There's a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know because you're sort of expected to win," Trump added. Trump's rundown of Miami's 2025 achievements included not only their 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final but also their 2-1 victory over Portuguese side Porto in the Club World Cup, which marked the first time a North American team beat a European one in official competition. In accepting Trump's congratulations, Mas -- the son of Cuban immigrants -- said Miami's rise since its 2020 inaugural season was based on the philosophy that "if you work hard and you sacrifice and you dream, it can be possible." Inter Miami's global success is "not only because of Lionel Messi, but these men standing behind you have changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever," Mas said. "We can play with the big boys."

The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president.

US President Donald Trump hosts Messi, Inter Miami players at White House for winning 2025 MLS Cup championship

President Donald Trump on Thursday said (March 5) that the United States military is progressing ‘far ahead of schedule’ in the war against Iran. “The United States military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy, far ahead of schedule and at levels that people have never seen before,” the president said.Trump’s statement came as Israel’s military chief said that the country is moving into the ‘next phase’ of the war with Iran after conducting 2,500 strikes and deploying more than 6,000 weapons.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said, “The US military continues to demolish the enemy ahead of schedule. They are tough, and they wanna fight. They called and asked, we wanna talk, I said you are a bit late. I call on the IRGC, Police, and all to lay down their arms or get killed. Let's shape a new Iran, a great country with a great future. The US will ensure whoever leads the country will not threaten the US.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-missile-math-problem-why-iran-s-cheap-drones-are-costing-america-millions-1772735797430">The missile math problem: Why Iran’s cheap drones are costing America millions</a>&nbsp;Trump also claimed that Iran has reached out seeking a deal to end the war. “They’re calling, they’re saying, ‘How do we make a deal?” Trump said at the White House. “I said, ‘You’re being a little bit late, and we want to fight now more than they do.” His comments came as he touted what he described as US military progress, saying the armed forces “continue to demolish the enemy.” Trump did not identify who on the Iranian side had made contact or indicate whether the outreach had led to any serious efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.&nbsp;Trump said Iran’s naval and air capabilities have been eliminated, claiming the United States destroyed significant military assets during the conflict. “Their navy is gone,” Trump said, adding that the US had wiped out “24 ships in three days." He also said that Iran’s anti-aircraft weapons and aircraft “are gone.” Trump made the brief remarks while opening an event honouring the Major League Soccer champions, Inter Miami. He did not provide further details about the operations, making it difficult to immediately verify the accuracy of his claims. "They have no air force, they have no air defense,” the president said.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

'THEY CALLED AND ASKED WE WANT TO TALK, I SAID...': Trump's BIG statement on Iran

President Donald Trump on Thursday said (March 5) that the United States military is progressing ‘far ahead of schedule’ in the war against Iran. “The United States military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy, far ahead of schedule and at levels that people have never seen before,” the president said. Trump’s statement came as Israel’s military chief said that the country is moving into the ‘next phase’ of the war with Iran after conducting 2,500 strikes and deploying more than 6,000 weapons. He said, “The US military continues to demolish the enemy ahead of schedule. They are tough, and they wanna fight. They called and asked, we wanna talk, I said you are a bit late. I call on the IRGC, Police, and all to lay down their arms or get killed. Let's shape a new Iran, a great country with a great future. The US will ensure whoever leads the country will not threaten the US.” Also Read: The missile math problem: Why Iran’s cheap drones are costing America millions Trump also claimed that Iran has reached out seeking a deal to end the war. “They’re calling, they’re saying, ‘How do we make a deal?” Trump said at the White House. “I said, ‘You’re being a little bit late, and we want to fight now more than they do.” His comments came as he touted what he described as US military progress, saying the armed forces “continue to demolish the enemy.” Trump did not identify who on the Iranian side had made contact or indicate whether the outreach had led to any serious efforts to negotiate a ceasefire. Trump said Iran’s naval and air capabilities have been eliminated, claiming the United States destroyed significant military assets during the conflict. “Their navy is gone,” Trump said, adding that the US had wiped out “24 ships in three days." He also said that Iran’s anti-aircraft weapons and aircraft “are gone.” Trump made the brief remarks while opening an event honouring the Major League Soccer champions, Inter Miami. He did not provide further details about the operations, making it difficult to immediately verify the accuracy of his claims. "They have no air force, they have no air defense,” the president said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (March 5), speaking at a White House event, said that the US military continues to demolish the enemy ahead of schedule&nbsp;

The skies over West Asia have turned into a raging battlefield. Waves of Iranian drones and missiles are streaking across the night, while the United States and Israel scramble to shoot them down in what is fast becoming one of the most intense aerial confrontations in the region’s recent history. Across Iran, Israel, and the Gulf, the night sky is lit by fire trails, explosions, and interceptor launches. Iranian retaliation has targeted American bases, Israeli cities, and strategic locations across the region. In response, US and Israeli air defense systems have been firing almost continuously, trying to neutralise incoming threats before they strike.&nbsp;But behind this dramatic battlefield spectacle lies a growing strategic concern: the United States could soon begin running dangerously low on the very missiles needed to defend the region. The air war unfolding over West Asia is relentless. Iran has adopted a strategy of overwhelming air defenses by launching waves of kamikaze drones and missiles. These attacks are designed not just to penetrate defenses but also to force defenders to fire expensive interceptor missiles repeatedly.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-khamenei-s-son-is-unacceptable-to-me-trump-calls-for-role-in-iran-s-leader-selection-1772730646289">'Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me': Trump calls for role in Iran's leader selection</a>&nbsp;Pentagon officials have acknowledged the challenge. American air defenses cannot intercept every incoming drone, particularly when many of Iran’s weapons fly low and slow, slipping beneath radar coverage. This forces defensive systems to fire multiple interceptors in quick succession, draining stockpiles. Despite these concerns, Washington insists it retains the upper hand. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has argued that Iran cannot outlast the United States in a prolonged conflict. According to him, America retains the capacity to dictate the tempo of the war and possesses vast ammunition reserves capable of sustaining operations for as long as necessary.&nbsp;Iran’s strategy, however, is based on a simple calculation: cost and numbers. A typical Iranian Shahed drone reportedly costs between $30,000 and $40,000 to produce. By contrast, advanced interceptor missiles such as Patriot air defense missiles or AMRAAM interceptors can cost millions of dollars each. Every successful interception saves lives and protects critical infrastructure. But it also burns through valuable missile stocks.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> | Cheap Iranian drones vs expensive interceptors Iran&#39;s strategy: Use drones to quickly deplete US missile stockpile This as the Shahed drones emerge as a big headache for US military<a href="https://twitter.com/MollyGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MollyGambhir</a> has further details <a href="https://t.co/rhycxkW8yS">pic.twitter.com/rhycxkW8yS</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2029612065288245594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a prolonged war of attrition, this imbalance in cost could become decisive. The side that exhausts its arsenal first risks losing its defensive advantage. The pressure is already mounting in Washington. Retired Admiral Sandy Winnefeld, the former vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has warned that the United States could face a serious shortage of key missile defense systems if the conflict with Iran continues at its current pace.&nbsp;According to US Central Command estimates, Iran has launched more than 500 missiles and over 2,000 drones since the fighting escalated. The scale of the barrage has raised concerns about sustainability on both sides. Reports also suggest that top US military General Dan Caine had privately warned President Donald Trump about potential shortages in interceptor stockpiles shortly before the strikes that triggered the latest escalation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-fires-heavy-destruction-ballistic-missile-towards-israel-1772729061441/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-fires-heavy-destruction-ballistic-missile-towards-israel-1772729061441/embed</a>&nbsp;As the skies over West Asia continue to burn, the battle is no longer just about missiles in the air. It is also about industrial capacity, supply chains, and the brutal mathematics of modern warfare. The question now looming over the conflict is simple yet critical: how long can the US continue repelling Iran’s relentless drone and missile barrage?&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

The missile math problem: Why Iran’s cheap drones are costing America millions

The skies over West Asia have turned into a raging battlefield. Waves of Iranian drones and missiles are streaking across the night, while the United States and Israel scramble to shoot them down in what is fast becoming one of the most intense aerial confrontations in the region’s recent history. Across Iran, Israel, and the Gulf, the night sky is lit by fire trails, explosions, and interceptor launches. Iranian retaliation has targeted American bases, Israeli cities, and strategic locations across the region. In response, US and Israeli air defense systems have been firing almost continuously, trying to neutralise incoming threats before they strike. But behind this dramatic battlefield spectacle lies a growing strategic concern: the United States could soon begin running dangerously low on the very missiles needed to defend the region. The air war unfolding over West Asia is relentless. Iran has adopted a strategy of overwhelming air defenses by launching waves of kamikaze drones and missiles. These attacks are designed not just to penetrate defenses but also to force defenders to fire expensive interceptor missiles repeatedly. Also Read: 'Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me': Trump calls for role in Iran's leader selection Pentagon officials have acknowledged the challenge. American air defenses cannot intercept every incoming drone, particularly when many of Iran’s weapons fly low and slow, slipping beneath radar coverage. This forces defensive systems to fire multiple interceptors in quick succession, draining stockpiles. Despite these concerns, Washington insists it retains the upper hand. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has argued that Iran cannot outlast the United States in a prolonged conflict. According to him, America retains the capacity to dictate the tempo of the war and possesses vast ammunition reserves capable of sustaining operations for as long as necessary. Iran’s strategy, however, is based on a simple calculation: cost and numbers. A typical Iranian Shahed drone reportedly costs between $30,000 and $40,000 to produce. By contrast, advanced interceptor missiles such as Patriot air defense missiles or AMRAAM interceptors can cost millions of dollars each. Every successful interception saves lives and protects critical infrastructure. But it also burns through valuable missile stocks.

Iran’s drone swarms are forcing the US and Israel to fire costly interceptors, raising fears that American missile defenses could face shortages in a prolonged war

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (March 5) that he believes the United States should have a role in selecting Iran’s next supreme leader following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while dismissing the possibility of Khamenei’s son taking over the position. Speaking in an interview with Axios, Trump criticised Mojtaba Khamenei, who is widely considered one of the potential successors to his father, and suggested Washington should be involved in the leadership transition.&nbsp;"Khamenei's son is a lightweight. I have to be involved in the appointment, like with Delcy," Trump told Axios in an interview, drawing a comparison to Venezuela, where interim president Delcy Rodriguez has cooperated with him under threat of violence after the United States ousted her boss, Nicolas Maduro. Trump also warned that the United States could be pulled back into conflict in the coming years if Iran ends up with leadership that is hostile toward Washington."Khamenei's son is unacceptable to me. We want someone who will bring harmony and peace to Iran," Trump was quoted as saying by the news outlet.&nbsp;It remains unclear how the United States could influence the selection process. Under Iran’s political system, the country’s supreme leader is chosen by the Assembly of Experts, a body of senior Shiite Muslim clerics who are largely opposed to US involvement in Iranian affairs. However, Trump’s remarks suggest he may prefer dealing with a figure within Iran’s existing political system rather than pursuing the complete removal of the Islamic Republic’s government.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reaches-out-to-kurdish-groups-as-us-explores-strategy-to-challenge-iran-s-regime-1772728888889">Trump reaches out to Kurdish groups as US explores strategy to challenge Iran’s regime</a>&nbsp;Iran has remained a staunch adversary of the United States since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which overthrew the pro-Western monarchy and brought the current Islamic Republic to power. Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah, has proposed serving as a temporary transitional leader while the country drafts a new constitution aimed at establishing a secular democratic system. Earlier on Thursday, Pahlavi said any new supreme leader chosen under the Islamic Republic’s framework would lack legitimacy.&nbsp;Ali Khamenei, who had led Iran since 1989 and was known for his hardline stance both domestically and internationally, was killed last Saturday in an Israeli strike during an escalating conflict involving Israel and the United States. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has emerged as one of the possible candidates to succeed him. Ali Khamenei himself became Iran’s second supreme leader after revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/azerbaijan-summons-iranian-ambassador-over-alleged-drone-attack-1772729097943/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/azerbaijan-summons-iranian-ambassador-over-alleged-drone-attack-1772729097943/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump also pointed to Venezuela as an example of his approach to foreign leadership disputes. Earlier this year, US forces carried out a deadly operation that captured longtime American adversary Nicolas Maduro. Instead of backing the opposition long supported by Washington, Trump has expressed satisfaction with Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president, who has since cooperated with the United States on several key demands, particularly those related to access for US oil companies. According to Trump, that cooperation has come under the implicit threat of further military action if Washington’s conditions, especially those concerning natural resources, are not met.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

'Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me': Trump calls for role in Iran's leader selection

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (March 5) that he believes the United States should have a role in selecting Iran’s next supreme leader following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while dismissing the possibility of Khamenei’s son taking over the position. Speaking in an interview with Axios, Trump criticised Mojtaba Khamenei, who is widely considered one of the potential successors to his father, and suggested Washington should be involved in the leadership transition. "Khamenei's son is a lightweight. I have to be involved in the appointment, like with Delcy," Trump told Axios in an interview, drawing a comparison to Venezuela, where interim president Delcy Rodriguez has cooperated with him under threat of violence after the United States ousted her boss, Nicolas Maduro. Trump also warned that the United States could be pulled back into conflict in the coming years if Iran ends up with leadership that is hostile toward Washington. "Khamenei's son is unacceptable to me. We want someone who will bring harmony and peace to Iran," Trump was quoted as saying by the news outlet. It remains unclear how the United States could influence the selection process. Under Iran’s political system, the country’s supreme leader is chosen by the Assembly of Experts, a body of senior Shiite Muslim clerics who are largely opposed to US involvement in Iranian affairs. However, Trump’s remarks suggest he may prefer dealing with a figure within Iran’s existing political system rather than pursuing the complete removal of the Islamic Republic’s government. Also Read: Trump reaches out to Kurdish groups as US explores strategy to challenge Iran’s regime Iran has remained a staunch adversary of the United States since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which overthrew the pro-Western monarchy and brought the current Islamic Republic to power. Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah, has proposed serving as a temporary transitional leader while the country drafts a new constitution aimed at establishing a secular democratic system. Earlier on Thursday, Pahlavi said any new supreme leader chosen under the Islamic Republic’s framework would lack legitimacy. Ali Khamenei, who had led Iran since 1989 and was known for his hardline stance both domestically and internationally, was killed last Saturday in an Israeli strike during an escalating conflict involving Israel and the United States. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has emerged as one of the possible candidates to succeed him. Ali Khamenei himself became Iran’s second supreme leader after revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. https://www.wionews.com/videos/azerbaijan-summons-iranian-ambassador-over-alleged-drone-attack-1772729097943/embed Trump also pointed to Venezuela as an example of his approach to foreign leadership disputes. Earlier this year, US forces carried out a deadly operation that captured longtime American adversary Nicolas Maduro. Instead of backing the opposition long supported by Washington, Trump has expressed satisfaction with Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president, who has since cooperated with the United States on several key demands, particularly those related to access for US oil companies. According to Trump, that cooperation has come under the implicit threat of further military action if Washington’s conditions, especially those concerning natural resources, are not met. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Trump says he should be involved in selecting Iran’s next supreme leader after Khamenei’s killing, rejecting the possibility of his son taking power

The Trump administration, preparing for the possibility of additional American casualties and weighing whether to deploy US troops inside Iran, has begun contacting Iranian opposition groups as potential partners in efforts to destabilize Tehran’s leadership. According to several people familiar with the discussions, US President Donald Trump recently held phone conversations with Kurdish leaders in both Iran and Iraq. During those calls, he reportedly proposed that Kurdish forces could move into parts of western Iran with the backing of extensive American air support.&nbsp;A senior figure from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), one of the two dominant parties governing Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region, said Washington asked Iraqi Kurdish authorities not to block Iranian Kurdish militants operating from Iraqi territory. The request also included providing logistical assistance to those groups if they mobilize against Iran. The same official said Trump made it clear during a call with PUK leader Bafel Talabani that Kurdish leaders must decide whether to align themselves with the United States and Israel or with Iran in the current conflict.&nbsp;Another official from the Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP), led by Masoud Barzani, confirmed the conversation took place but suggested the real challenge is not the number of armed militias available. Instead, he said success would depend on how much support Kurdish forces can attract from inside Iran. Trump also reportedly spoke with Mustafa Hijri, who heads the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI), the oldest Iranian Kurdish opposition organization. The PDKI is part of a newly formed coalition of six anti-government Kurdish groups that announced their alliance last week from Iraqi Kurdistan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-india-pakistan-bangladesh-will-be-affected-as-qatar-halts-gas-liquefaction-and-declares-force-majeure-in-lng-trade-1772718946386">How India, Pakistan, Bangladesh will be affected as Qatar halts gas liquefaction and declares force majeure in LNG trade</a>&nbsp;In a statement released on Wednesday, the party called on Iranian soldiers and security personnel, particularly those stationed in Kurdish areas, to abandon their posts and stop supporting Iran’s ruling system. However, Iraqi Kurdish authorities face significant risks if they allow their territory to become a staging ground against Iran. For years, they have sheltered Iranian Kurdish groups under the condition that they do not organize attacks on Tehran from Iraqi soil. If they break that understanding and U.S.-Israeli efforts fail, they could face retaliation from Iran.&nbsp;Compared with their Iranian counterparts, Iraqi Kurdish groups are more structured and powerful, controlling their own regional administration and economy despite internal rivalries and tensions with Iraq’s central government in Baghdad.Historically, Iranian Kurdish movements have primarily pushed for regional autonomy rather than outright independence or regime change. Rumors spread rapidly on Wednesday night, claiming Kurdish groups had already begun entering Iran from Iraq. Kurdish coalition representatives denied the claims. Iranian state media nevertheless reported that Tehran launched a “preemptive” strike against targets in Iraq’s Kurdish region.&nbsp;On Thursday, Peshawa Hawramani, a spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), said the regional administration does not want to be involved in actions that escalate the conflict. Although Trump has publicly encouraged Iranians to overthrow their government, he has also hinted that parts of the existing political structure could remain after the current leadership is removed. Such an approach would resemble the US strategy used in Venezuela after the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.&nbsp;White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump had spoken with Kurdish leaders regarding a US military base in northern Iraq. However, she denied reports that Washington had agreed to arm Iranian Kurdish groups.The CIA declined to comment on the issue. The White House also did not respond to questions about potential outreach to other Iranian opposition factions, including Baluchi groups or the exiled organization Mojahedin-e-Khalq (MEK). &nbsp;Kurds make up about 10 million people in Iran across five western provinces. They are also a major minority in Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. In each country, Kurdish communities have struggled politically and sometimes militarily for greater rights and self-governance, occasionally with US backing.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-fires-heavy-destruction-ballistic-missile-towards-israel-1772729061441/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-fires-heavy-destruction-ballistic-missile-towards-israel-1772729061441/embed</a>&nbsp;Yet Kurdish movements have frequently felt abandoned by Washington. Most recently, the US ended its support for the Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led force that had been a key partner against the Islamic State, as the Trump administration sought closer ties with Syria’s new government. Even among themselves, Iranian Kurdish groups have long been divided, which raises doubts about whether they could unite politically if the current Iranian government were replaced. Among these groups, only the Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK) is believed to possess a meaningful armed capability, largely because of its links with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a militant Kurdish organization operating in parts of Turkey, Syria, and Iraq.&nbsp;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.

Trump reaches out to Kurdish groups as US explores strategy to challenge Iran’s regime

The Trump administration, preparing for the possibility of additional American casualties and weighing whether to deploy US troops inside Iran, has begun contacting Iranian opposition groups as potential partners in efforts to destabilize Tehran’s leadership. According to several people familiar with the discussions, US President Donald Trump recently held phone conversations with Kurdish leaders in both Iran and Iraq. During those calls, he reportedly proposed that Kurdish forces could move into parts of western Iran with the backing of extensive American air support. A senior figure from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), one of the two dominant parties governing Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region, said Washington asked Iraqi Kurdish authorities not to block Iranian Kurdish militants operating from Iraqi territory. The request also included providing logistical assistance to those groups if they mobilize against Iran. The same official said Trump made it clear during a call with PUK leader Bafel Talabani that Kurdish leaders must decide whether to align themselves with the United States and Israel or with Iran in the current conflict. Another official from the Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP), led by Masoud Barzani, confirmed the conversation took place but suggested the real challenge is not the number of armed militias available. Instead, he said success would depend on how much support Kurdish forces can attract from inside Iran. Trump also reportedly spoke with Mustafa Hijri, who heads the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI), the oldest Iranian Kurdish opposition organization. The PDKI is part of a newly formed coalition of six anti-government Kurdish groups that announced their alliance last week from Iraqi Kurdistan. Also Read: How India, Pakistan, Bangladesh will be affected as Qatar halts gas liquefaction and declares force majeure in LNG trade In a statement released on Wednesday, the party called on Iranian soldiers and security personnel, particularly those stationed in Kurdish areas, to abandon their posts and stop supporting Iran’s ruling system. However, Iraqi Kurdish authorities face significant risks if they allow their territory to become a staging ground against Iran. For years, they have sheltered Iranian Kurdish groups under the condition that they do not organize attacks on Tehran from Iraqi soil. If they break that understanding and U.S.-Israeli efforts fail, they could face retaliation from Iran. Compared with their Iranian counterparts, Iraqi Kurdish groups are more structured and powerful, controlling their own regional administration and economy despite internal rivalries and tensions with Iraq’s central government in Baghdad. Historically, Iranian Kurdish movements have primarily pushed for regional autonomy rather than outright independence or regime change. Rumors spread rapidly on Wednesday night, claiming Kurdish groups had already begun entering Iran from Iraq. Kurdish coalition representatives denied the claims. Iranian state media nevertheless reported that Tehran launched a “preemptive” strike against targets in Iraq’s Kurdish region. On Thursday, Peshawa Hawramani, a spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), said the regional administration does not want to be involved in actions that escalate the conflict. Although Trump has publicly encouraged Iranians to overthrow their government, he has also hinted that parts of the existing political structure could remain after the current leadership is removed. Such an approach would resemble the US strategy used in Venezuela after the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump had spoken with Kurdish leaders regarding a US military base in northern Iraq. However, she denied reports that Washington had agreed to arm Iranian Kurdish groups. The CIA declined to comment on the issue. The White House also did not respond to questions about potential outreach to other Iranian opposition factions, including Baluchi groups or the exiled organization Mojahedin-e-Khalq (MEK). Kurds make up about 10 million people in Iran across five western provinces. They are also a major minority in Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. In each country, Kurdish communities have struggled politically and sometimes militarily for greater rights and self-governance, occasionally with US backing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-fires-heavy-destruction-ballistic-missile-towards-israel-1772729061441/embed Yet Kurdish movements have frequently felt abandoned by Washington. Most recently, the US ended its support for the Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led force that had been a key partner against the Islamic State, as the Trump administration sought closer ties with Syria’s new government. Even among themselves, Iranian Kurdish groups have long been divided, which raises doubts about whether they could unite politically if the current Iranian government were replaced. Among these groups, only the Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK) is believed to possess a meaningful armed capability, largely because of its links with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a militant Kurdish organization operating in parts of Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. 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.

Trump’s outreach to Kurdish leaders signals a potential strategy to spark unrest in Iran, but Kurdish groups fear retaliation and question the US commitment

An Iranian naval vessel sank near Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean after a U.S. submarine strike, marking an escalation of the widening Iran war beyond the Middle East. Sri Lanka responded to a distress call and rescued 32 sailors while many others remain missing. Another Iranian ship later approached Sri Lankan waters seeking assistance, raising regional security concerns for both Sri Lanka and India as the conflict begins to spill into South Asian waters.


US-Iran War: What US Strikes In South Asia Mean For Sri Lanka & India

A majority of U.S. Senate Republicans have expressed their support for President Donald Trump’s military campaign against Iran by voting down a bipartisan war powers resolution that would have limited his authority to continue military action without explicit congressional approval. In a 53–47 vote, most Republican senators opposed advancing the measure, effectively backing the president’s ongoing air and naval strikes amid the widening conflict in the Middle East.


Senate Republicans Back Trump's Military Action Against Iran

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'THEY CALLED & ASKED WE WANT TO TALK, I SAID...': Trump's BIG statement on Iran