Iran on Sunday (Aug 3) approved the establishment of a new defence council. This comes just weeks after the nation's 12-day war with Israel. The June war, as per reports, was Iran's most acute military challenge since the 1980s war with Iraq. The new defence body is called the "National Defence Council" and it will "review defence plans and enhance the capabilities of Iran's armed forces in a centralised manner," said the Supreme National Security Council's Secretariat, as reported by Iranian state media. The announcement comes as Amir Hatami, the commander-in-chief of Iran's military, on Sunday warned that threats from Israel persist and should not be underestimated. Here's all you need to know about Iran's new National Defence Council.<h2>Iran's new war body</h2>The new governmental boy will be responsible for managing Iran's affairs during wartime. The Iranian National Defence Council will be headed by President Masoud Pezeshkian. Chief Justice Mohsen Ejei, and the Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf are also slated to be a part of the new wartime body.It will also consist of the heads of the three government branches, senior armed forces commanders – Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC, Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour; Commander-in-Chief of Iran's Army, Major General Amir Hatami, and the Minister of Intelligence, Ismael Khateeb along with representatives of other relevant ministries. Reports suggest that the Khatam al-Anbiyaa Joint Headquarters will also be represented on the council, likely by Brigadier General Ali Aliabadi, though this has not been confirmed.Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei would also have representation in the new war council. Reports suggest he would be represented by two officials who are yet to be appointed to the council.<h2>Why has Iran established a National Defence Council?</h2>As per Fars News Agency, the decision was part of broader structural changes to Iran's security apparatus in the aftermath of the 12-day war. Tehran Times reports that "the newly established council will be responsible for evaluating defence strategies and enhancing the operational capabilities of Iran's armed forces in a centralised manner."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754275486039/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754275486039/embed</a>&nbsp;

The new defence body is called the "National Defence Council" and it will "review defence plans and enhance the capabilities of Iran's armed forces in a centralised manner," said the Supreme National Security Council's Secretariat.

Iran on Sunday (Aug 3) approved the establishment of a new defence council. This comes just weeks after the nation's 12-day war with Israel. The June war, as per reports, was Iran's most acute military challenge since the 1980s war with Iraq. The new defence body is called the "National Defence Council" and it will "review defence plans and enhance the capabilities of Iran's armed forces in a centralised manner," said the Supreme National Security Council's Secretariat, as reported by Iranian state media. The announcement comes as Amir Hatami, the commander-in-chief of Iran's military, on Sunday warned that threats from Israel persist and should not be underestimated. Here's all you need to know about Iran's new National Defence Council. Iran's new war body The new governmental boy will be responsible for managing Iran's affairs during wartime. The Iranian National Defence Council will be headed by President Masoud Pezeshkian. Chief Justice Mohsen Ejei, and the Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf are also slated to be a part of the new wartime body. It will also consist of the heads of the three government branches, senior armed forces commanders – Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC, Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour; Commander-in-Chief of Iran's Army, Major General Amir Hatami, and the Minister of Intelligence, Ismael Khateeb along with representatives of other relevant ministries. Reports suggest that the Khatam al-Anbiyaa Joint Headquarters will also be represented on the council, likely by Brigadier General Ali Aliabadi, though this has not been confirmed. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei would also have representation in the new war council. Reports suggest he would be represented by two officials who are yet to be appointed to the council. Why has Iran established a National Defence Council? As per Fars News Agency, the decision was part of broader structural changes to Iran's security apparatus in the aftermath of the 12-day war. Tehran Times reports that "the newly established council will be responsible for evaluating defence strategies and enhancing the operational capabilities of Iran's armed forces in a centralised manner." https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754275486039/embed

The new defence body is called the "National Defence Council" and it will "review defence plans and enhance the capabilities of Iran's armed forces in a centralised manner," said the Supreme National Security Council's Secretariat.

Iran sets up new wartime body: What is the National Defence Council, who’s in it, and why it matters

Iran has deported hundreds of thousands of Afghans in recent months, alleging national security concerns. This comes after the authorities in March gave a deadline to Afghans to return to their homeland by July. More than four million undocumented refugees from Afghanistan had been living in Iran after they fled conflict in their country. According to the United Nations, about 50,000 people were returning daily in early July.&nbsp;Iran’s immigration crackdown comes amid the widespread accusations suggesting that Afghans have links with the intelligence agency Mossad, with several individuals being arrested for espionage.&nbsp;Tehran may be “looking for scapegoats” for its shortcomings in the war against Israel, an expert told the BBC. “The Iranian government is very embarrassed by their security failures", which show Iran "was very thoroughly penetrated by Israeli intelligence,” said Barnett Rubin, who served as senior adviser to the US Department of State. “So they had to find someone to blame.”&nbsp;Some critics have also suggested that the Iranian government is seeking legitimacy by accusing undocumented Afghans of espionage to deport them.On June 13, when Israel launched an attack on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities, the government urged citizens to report any suspicious activities that could be linked to Israeli operatives. Following this, several people, including Afghans, were detained in alleged connection to the Israeli attacks.&nbsp;The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on June 18 said that 18 Afghans were arrested in Mashhad for building drones for Israel, according to Afghan Witness, an independent monitoring group. However, the provincial deputy security chief later said that the arrests had no connections to drone-making or Israeli links and were solely made for being in the country illegally.&nbsp;According to the UN Refugee Agency, more than 1.5 million Afghans have left Iran since January. Meanwhile, the Taliban’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation told the BBC that over 918,000 Afghans, some of whom had been in Iran for generations, returned between 22 June - 22 July.&nbsp;Since the 1970s, millions of Afghans have fled to Iran and Pakistan, most of whom did so at the time of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 and when the Taliban took over in 2021. Afghans also face hate crimes in Iran, which have been heightened by social media in recent years.&nbsp;Experts have warned that Afghanistan does not have the capacity to accommodate the growing number of nationals who are being forcibly returned from Iran and Pakistan during the time of economic crisis in the country.

Iran’s immigration crackdown comes amid the widespread accusations suggesting that Afghans have links with the intelligence agency Mossad, with several individuals being arrested for espionage.

Iran has deported hundreds of thousands of Afghans in recent months, alleging national security concerns. This comes after the authorities in March gave a deadline to Afghans to return to their homeland by July. More than four million undocumented refugees from Afghanistan had been living in Iran after they fled conflict in their country. According to the United Nations, about 50,000 people were returning daily in early July. Iran’s immigration crackdown comes amid the widespread accusations suggesting that Afghans have links with the intelligence agency Mossad, with several individuals being arrested for espionage. Tehran may be “looking for scapegoats” for its shortcomings in the war against Israel, an expert told the BBC. “The Iranian government is very embarrassed by their security failures", which show Iran "was very thoroughly penetrated by Israeli intelligence,” said Barnett Rubin, who served as senior adviser to the US Department of State. “So they had to find someone to blame.” Some critics have also suggested that the Iranian government is seeking legitimacy by accusing undocumented Afghans of espionage to deport them. On June 13, when Israel launched an attack on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities, the government urged citizens to report any suspicious activities that could be linked to Israeli operatives. Following this, several people, including Afghans, were detained in alleged connection to the Israeli attacks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on June 18 said that 18 Afghans were arrested in Mashhad for building drones for Israel, according to Afghan Witness, an independent monitoring group. However, the provincial deputy security chief later said that the arrests had no connections to drone-making or Israeli links and were solely made for being in the country illegally. According to the UN Refugee Agency, more than 1.5 million Afghans have left Iran since January. Meanwhile, the Taliban’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation told the BBC that over 918,000 Afghans, some of whom had been in Iran for generations, returned between 22 June - 22 July. Since the 1970s, millions of Afghans have fled to Iran and Pakistan, most of whom did so at the time of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 and when the Taliban took over in 2021. Afghans also face hate crimes in Iran, which have been heightened by social media in recent years. Experts have warned that Afghanistan does not have the capacity to accommodate the growing number of nationals who are being forcibly returned from Iran and Pakistan during the time of economic crisis in the country.

Iran’s immigration crackdown comes amid the widespread accusations suggesting that Afghans have links with the intelligence agency Mossad, with several individuals being arrested for espionage.

Why is Iran deporting hundreds of thousands of Afghans, accusing them of being ‘Israeli spies’?

Iranian authorities on Saturday said that a political prisoner held at the Evin prison escaped, following the attack on June 23. Earlier reports suggested that at least 71 people were killed, including staff, soldiers, visiting members and people nearby. &nbsp;Iranian authorities confirm that at least five of them were prisoners.Iran's Pro Democracy and rights activists have claimed that it has left “repressive authorities” spread panic among families of the political prisoners, who were scrambling for their lives.&nbsp;A small number of prisoners managed to escape after the bombing almost three weeks ago, said judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir. He did not give an exact number. According to European diplomats, Iran is believed to hold &nbsp;20 European nationals in Evin Prison, which is believed to be their hostage taking strategy aimed at gaining concessions from Western countries.The Evin prison is widely regarded as the most notorious prison in Iran. It has long been used as a tool of political repression; opposition figures, pro-democracy activists, and human rights defenders are detained and subjected to psychological and physical torture, extended solitary confinement, forced confessions, and denied legal representation. It has been the site of riots, fire, and cyber attacks. Hackers in 2021 released footage of guards beating inmates.&nbsp;While the Iranian judiciary has launched an investigation, the truth may never emerge clearly. The explosion has severed any chances of those political prisoners of freedom. No proper identity of the deceased or escaping prisoner was disclosed, leaving the families of the political prisoner oblivious.&nbsp;

Iranian authorities confirm that at least five prisoners died and a small number of prisoners escaped from the Evin prison during the chaos that ensued in the June 23 attack by Israel. Israel described the attack as a symbolic blow against Iran's government.

Iranian authorities on Saturday said that a political prisoner held at the Evin prison escaped, following the attack on June 23. Earlier reports suggested that at least 71 people were killed, including staff, soldiers, visiting members and people nearby. Iranian authorities confirm that at least five of them were prisoners. Iran's Pro Democracy and rights activists have claimed that it has left “repressive authorities” spread panic among families of the political prisoners, who were scrambling for their lives. A small number of prisoners managed to escape after the bombing almost three weeks ago, said judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir. He did not give an exact number. According to European diplomats, Iran is believed to hold 20 European nationals in Evin Prison, which is believed to be their hostage taking strategy aimed at gaining concessions from Western countries. The Evin prison is widely regarded as the most notorious prison in Iran. It has long been used as a tool of political repression; opposition figures, pro-democracy activists, and human rights defenders are detained and subjected to psychological and physical torture, extended solitary confinement, forced confessions, and denied legal representation. It has been the site of riots, fire, and cyber attacks. Hackers in 2021 released footage of guards beating inmates. While the Iranian judiciary has launched an investigation, the truth may never emerge clearly. The explosion has severed any chances of those political prisoners of freedom. No proper identity of the deceased or escaping prisoner was disclosed, leaving the families of the political prisoner oblivious.

Iranian authorities confirm that at least five prisoners died and a small number of prisoners escaped from the Evin prison during the chaos that ensued in the June 23 attack by Israel. Israel described the attack as a symbolic blow against Iran's government.

Chaos at Iran's Evin prison: Prisoners escaped during deadly blast of Israel attack

The United States is redrawing its military priorities. President Donald Trump has unveiled a nearly $893 billion defence and national security budget request for 2026, one that reflects a clear pivot towards next-generation warfare. The budget, flat in dollar terms from last year, offers a glimpse into Trump’s evolving vision: a leaner, tech-driven military force, heavy on drones and long-range missiles, but lighter on traditional fighter jets and warships.&nbsp;But the announcement does not exist in isolation. It comes at a time when the world is witnessing not one, but two active war zones, Russia’s grinding invasion of Ukraine and a dangerous escalation between Israel and Iran. And across the Atlantic, NATO is preparing for a historic increase in defence spending. So, what’s really driving Trump’s latest move?<h2>More missiles, fewer F-35s: Inside the 2026 budget shift</h2>According to documents reviewed by Reuters, Trump has proposed purchasing only 47 F-35 stealth jets, down from 68 approved in President Biden’s final defence budget. The cut has already sparked pushback on Capitol Hill, with the House Appropriations Committee recommending 69 fighter jets as part of its draft legislation. Instead of expanding airpower through fighter jets, the budget prioritises long-range strike capabilities. As per Reuters, the US Air Force plans to increase investment in the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile - Extended Range (JASSM-ER) and Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), systems designed to strike targets at a distance, particularly relevant to rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;Meanwhile, orders for the Precision Strike Missile, a successor to the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) used in Ukraine, are being scaled back, signalling a focus on fewer, more advanced platforms.In another major shift, the budget boosts funding for small tactical drones, a response to battlefield innovations seen in Ukraine, where cheap, unmanned aircraft have proven to be highly effective tools of modern warfare.<h2>Cuts and controversy: What’s being sacrificed?</h2>To offset these investments, the 2026 plan trims other corners of the Pentagon’s arsenal. As per Reuters, the US Navy will reduce its civilian workforce by more than 7,200 jobs, while only three new warships are scheduled for procurement under this budget. Large naval projects like the Virginia-class submarine, jointly built by General Dynamics and Huntington Ingalls Industries, will instead be funded through a separate appropriation.&nbsp;One of Trump’s most ambitious defence projects, the “Golden Dome” missile defence shield is mostly absent from this request. Instead, funding for the programme has been routed through a separate $25 billion allocation within a larger $150 billion Republican-led defence package dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, which has already passed the House.<h2>How US defence spending in 2024–25</h2>Before Trump’s 2026 pitch, the US already led global military spending. As per Reuters, US defence outlays reached $997 billion in fiscal 2024, rising 5.7 per cent from 2023 and comprising 37 per cent of worldwide military expenditure. For fiscal 2025, Congress approved about $895 billion under the National Defense Authorization Act. This total included a $849.8 billion base budget and additional war-related, emergency funding, in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, which capped growth at just 0.9 per cent over the previous year .&nbsp;The $849.8 billion base defence budget for fiscal 2025 was divided into several major areas. According to the Department of Defense’s FY 2025 budget overview, around 39 per cent (approximately $330 billion) was dedicated to military personnel and benefits, including pay, housing and healthcare. A similar proportion was allocated to operations and maintenance, covering day-to-day military activities, logistics, training, facility upkeep and ongoing overseas commitments . The combined $300 billion allocated to procurement and research, development, test &amp; evaluation (RDT&amp;E) funded new weapons, advanced technologies, and the next generation of platforms which are vital for modernising the force. This structure reflects a strong focus on sustaining readiness while investing heavily in future capabilities.Altogether, defence spending comprised just over 50 per cent of the US discretionary budget, which totals around $1.8 trillion, making it the single largest area of government expenditure, as noted by Reuters.<h2>NATO’s 5 per cent pledge: A new arms race?</h2>Across the Atlantic, NATO allies are preparing for a dramatic increase in defence spending. At a summit in The Hague earlier this week, member states agreed to a new goal: defence spending equivalent to 5 per cent of national GDP by 2035, up from the current 2 per cent target set in 2014.The new benchmark includes 3.5 per cent for core military capability and 1.5 per cent for infrastructure, cyber defence, and supply chain resilience.&nbsp;But not all NATO members are willing to commit. Spain’s refusal to accept the 5 per cent goal drew a sharp rebuke from Trump, who called Madrid’s decision “terrible” and hinted at trade retaliation. As quoted by Politico, Trump stated that European nations should meet the 5 per cent target but insisted that the US should not be held to the same requirement, given it already spends around 3.4 per cent of GDP on defence. According to Washington Post, only a handful of countries, including Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Norway, are on track to meet the 5 per cent goal.<h2>Two wars, one nervous West</h2>The timing of Trump’s budget is deliberate. It arrives amid two major global crises.In Ukraine, Russia’s full-scale invasion has entered its third year. The US has been a key supplier of munitions and intelligence, but Trump has repeatedly called for Europe to “step up” and share more of the financial burden. As per Reuters, he remains critical of “blank cheque” approaches to Kyiv.In the West Asia, tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated rapidly. Israel has carried out targeted strikes on suspected Iranian nuclear infrastructure. In response, Tehran launched waves of drones and missiles, triggering fears of a broader regional war.&nbsp;These crises appear to have informed the Pentagon’s strategy. The focus on drones, missiles and unmanned platforms reflects an evolving battlefield where precision and distance are more valuable than conventional firepower.<h2>The bigger picture: From conventional to asymmetric warfare</h2>Trump’s 2026 defence budget reflects more than just financial priorities, it signals a shift in American military doctrine. The US is reportedly recalibrating away from high-maintenance legacy systems like the F-35 and large naval platforms, and moving towards rapid, asymmetric capabilities designed for unpredictable and tech-driven theatres of war.&nbsp;Meanwhile, NATO’s 5 per cent pledge suggests that Europe, too, is bracing for a long-term security challenge. But questions remain over implementation and whether political appetite will keep pace with rising military costs. As the US Congress prepares for heated debates over the budget, and as NATO allies scramble to realign spending, one thing is clear: the global defence landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation. In a world shaped by drones, missile shields and cyber weapons, Trump’s budget may be setting the tone for the wars of tomorrow. &nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies) &nbsp;

As wars rage in Ukraine and West Asia, and NATO eyes a 5% defence GDP goal, the US pivots toward asymmetric warfare and tech-driven military dominance.

The United States is redrawing its military priorities. President Donald Trump has unveiled a nearly $893 billion defence and national security budget request for 2026, one that reflects a clear pivot towards next-generation warfare. The budget, flat in dollar terms from last year, offers a glimpse into Trump’s evolving vision: a leaner, tech-driven military force, heavy on drones and long-range missiles, but lighter on traditional fighter jets and warships. But the announcement does not exist in isolation. It comes at a time when the world is witnessing not one, but two active war zones, Russia’s grinding invasion of Ukraine and a dangerous escalation between Israel and Iran. And across the Atlantic, NATO is preparing for a historic increase in defence spending. So, what’s really driving Trump’s latest move? More missiles, fewer F-35s: Inside the 2026 budget shift According to documents reviewed by Reuters, Trump has proposed purchasing only 47 F-35 stealth jets, down from 68 approved in President Biden’s final defence budget. The cut has already sparked pushback on Capitol Hill, with the House Appropriations Committee recommending 69 fighter jets as part of its draft legislation. Instead of expanding airpower through fighter jets, the budget prioritises long-range strike capabilities. As per Reuters, the US Air Force plans to increase investment in the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile - Extended Range (JASSM-ER) and Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), systems designed to strike targets at a distance, particularly relevant to rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Meanwhile, orders for the Precision Strike Missile, a successor to the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) used in Ukraine, are being scaled back, signalling a focus on fewer, more advanced platforms. In another major shift, the budget boosts funding for small tactical drones, a response to battlefield innovations seen in Ukraine, where cheap, unmanned aircraft have proven to be highly effective tools of modern warfare. Cuts and controversy: What’s being sacrificed? To offset these investments, the 2026 plan trims other corners of the Pentagon’s arsenal. As per Reuters, the US Navy will reduce its civilian workforce by more than 7,200 jobs, while only three new warships are scheduled for procurement under this budget. Large naval projects like the Virginia-class submarine, jointly built by General Dynamics and Huntington Ingalls Industries, will instead be funded through a separate appropriation. One of Trump’s most ambitious defence projects, the “Golden Dome” missile defence shield is mostly absent from this request. Instead, funding for the programme has been routed through a separate $25 billion allocation within a larger $150 billion Republican-led defence package dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, which has already passed the House. How US defence spending in 2024–25 Before Trump’s 2026 pitch, the US already led global military spending. As per Reuters, US defence outlays reached $997 billion in fiscal 2024, rising 5.7 per cent from 2023 and comprising 37 per cent of worldwide military expenditure. For fiscal 2025, Congress approved about $895 billion under the National Defense Authorization Act. This total included a $849.8 billion base budget and additional war-related, emergency funding, in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, which capped growth at just 0.9 per cent over the previous year . The $849.8 billion base defence budget for fiscal 2025 was divided into several major areas. According to the Department of Defense’s FY 2025 budget overview, around 39 per cent (approximately $330 billion) was dedicated to military personnel and benefits, including pay, housing and healthcare. A similar proportion was allocated to operations and maintenance, covering day-to-day military activities, logistics, training, facility upkeep and ongoing overseas commitments . The combined $300 billion allocated to procurement and research, development, test & evaluation (RDT&E) funded new weapons, advanced technologies, and the next generation of platforms which are vital for modernising the force. This structure reflects a strong focus on sustaining readiness while investing heavily in future capabilities. Altogether, defence spending comprised just over 50 per cent of the US discretionary budget, which totals around $1.8 trillion, making it the single largest area of government expenditure, as noted by Reuters. NATO’s 5 per cent pledge: A new arms race? Across the Atlantic, NATO allies are preparing for a dramatic increase in defence spending. At a summit in The Hague earlier this week, member states agreed to a new goal: defence spending equivalent to 5 per cent of national GDP by 2035, up from the current 2 per cent target set in 2014. The new benchmark includes 3.5 per cent for core military capability and 1.5 per cent for infrastructure, cyber defence, and supply chain resilience. But not all NATO members are willing to commit. Spain’s refusal to accept the 5 per cent goal drew a sharp rebuke from Trump, who called Madrid’s decision “terrible” and hinted at trade retaliation. As quoted by Politico, Trump stated that European nations should meet the 5 per cent target but insisted that the US should not be held to the same requirement, given it already spends around 3.4 per cent of GDP on defence. According to Washington Post, only a handful of countries, including Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Norway, are on track to meet the 5 per cent goal. Two wars, one nervous West The timing of Trump’s budget is deliberate. It arrives amid two major global crises. In Ukraine, Russia’s full-scale invasion has entered its third year. The US has been a key supplier of munitions and intelligence, but Trump has repeatedly called for Europe to “step up” and share more of the financial burden. As per Reuters, he remains critical of “blank cheque” approaches to Kyiv. In the West Asia, tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated rapidly. Israel has carried out targeted strikes on suspected Iranian nuclear infrastructure. In response, Tehran launched waves of drones and missiles, triggering fears of a broader regional war. These crises appear to have informed the Pentagon’s strategy. The focus on drones, missiles and unmanned platforms reflects an evolving battlefield where precision and distance are more valuable than conventional firepower. The bigger picture: From conventional to asymmetric warfare Trump’s 2026 defence budget reflects more than just financial priorities, it signals a shift in American military doctrine. The US is reportedly recalibrating away from high-maintenance legacy systems like the F-35 and large naval platforms, and moving towards rapid, asymmetric capabilities designed for unpredictable and tech-driven theatres of war. Meanwhile, NATO’s 5 per cent pledge suggests that Europe, too, is bracing for a long-term security challenge. But questions remain over implementation and whether political appetite will keep pace with rising military costs. As the US Congress prepares for heated debates over the budget, and as NATO allies scramble to realign spending, one thing is clear: the global defence landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation. In a world shaped by drones, missile shields and cyber weapons, Trump’s budget may be setting the tone for the wars of tomorrow. (With inputs from the agencies)

Trump’s $893B defence budget slashes F-35 orders to fund drones, missiles and next-gen warfare tools.

Why Trump’s $893 Billion Military Budget Cuts F-35s and Boosts Drones, Missiles?

Iran launched a missile attack on a US air base in Qatar on Monday night (June 24), just hours before President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Tehran and Israel. The Iranian attack, in response to the bombardment of its nuclear facilities by Israel and the US, suddenly threw the small nation of Qatar into focus. The constitutional monarchy with a large Indian population, Qatar, reportedly played a role in bringing about the latest ceasefire. However, it's nothing new for the Arab nation, which has been a regional peace broker for years now. Here is what you should know about Qatar, and why it has such significant influence in the region, far above its size.<h2>Where is Qatar?</h2>Qatar is a small country in West Asia on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Located in the Qatar Peninsula, Qatar's only land border is with Saudi Arabia, the larger nation which held influence over its tiny neighbour till much of 20th century before relations soured. Qatar is only 11,571 square kilometres in size, slightly less than the US state of Connecticut. Sandwiched between the arid Arab desert and a shoreline of beaches and dunes, Qatar is a country rich in resources, particularly natural gas. In terms of per capita income, Qatar is often listed among the wealthiest countries. It is one of the biggest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG).<h2>88 per cent of people in Qatar are foreigners, most from India</h2>Qatar, a Sunni-majority nation, has a population of just over 3.1 million, much smaller compared to the largest in the region, Saudi Arabia, which has 36 million people. Nearly 88 per cent of the Qatari population is of foreign origin. Indians are the largest expat population, comprising of nearly 22 per cent of the foreigners. There are some 830,000 Indians, working as doctors, engineers, teachers, businesspeople and blue-collar workers.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-launches-annunciation-of-victory-operation-iran-strikes-us-al-udeid-air-base-in-qatar-1750740709101/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-launches-annunciation-of-victory-operation-iran-strikes-us-al-udeid-air-base-in-qatar-1750740709101/embed</a><h2>How Qatar's influence grew as a mediator in conflicts</h2>Qatar had an important, albeit understated, role in global affairs since the late 20th century under former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Qatar had close relations with the US, which built the Al Udeid Air Base in the Arab country in 1996. The base, attacked by Iran on Monday (June 24), is the forward headquarters for US Central Command or CENTCOM, which directs American military operations in the region that includes Egypt in the west to Kazakhstan in the east.&nbsp; Under the current emir, Sheikh Tamim ibn Hamad Al Thani, who assumed the throne in 2013, Qatar emerged as a key nation for mediating global conflicts. In the past two decades, Qatar has mediated in, or hosted mediations of, several high-profile wars. These include the long-standing US-Taliban conflict that ended in the American troop exit from the South Asian nation after the Taliban takeover in 2021. Qatar was a key player in hostage and prisoner swap mediations between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war. Even before the 2023 October 7 terror attack that led to the Israel-Hamas war, Qatar has been mediating between the Jewish nation and the Palestinian militant organisation, which had its political headquarters in Doha, the Qatari capital. Qatar also mediated in releasing several of the Israeli hostages taken to Gaza by Hamas after the 2023 attack. &nbsp;Qatar was a mediator in conflicts and crises in Sudan, Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq too.<h2>But, clout-building also had its cost for Qatar</h2>But exerting such outsized influence had its cost for Qatar, particularly in the form of diplomatic tussles and even a boycott by fellow Arab nations, led by Saudi Arabia. Qatar was influenced by Saudi Arabia till 1990s, which often treated it like a vassal state. &nbsp;But mediation in conflicts improved its global standing. It was also a strategy to protect the country from foreign interventions, particularly from larger neighbours Saudi and UAE. This race for influence led to a crisis in 2017, when fellow Arab nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council announced a boycott of Qatar. That boycott, wherein Saudi, Bahrain, Egypt and the UAE accused Qatar of supporting terrorism, went on till 2021. Qatari aircraft and ships were blocked from the territory of these countries, and Saudi Arabia closed the only land border between the two nations. Many exports into the country from these neighbours were halted, including even essential goods.<h2>Al Jazeera network: A multiplier of Qatari influence that fell out of favour in the region</h2>The Al Jazeera TV network, founded in 1996 with funding from the state of Qatar, was one major step in the nation's path towards building its influence in the region and the world. Ten years later, it launched Al Jazeera English, which spoke to a global audience. Oddly enough, the channel, unlike the reality of Qatar as an absolute constitutional monarchy, became the voice of democracy in many countries in the region and outside. Of particular importance was how its journalism supported many anti-establishment movements during the Arab Spring of 2010-2012.&nbsp; Qatar faced allegations of supporting what many in the region felt were US intelligence-supported, orchestrated regime changes. &nbsp;The diplomatic boycott was among the results of those tensions. Qatar was accused of interfering in the internal affairs of other nations, often using Al Jazeera as a tool to amplify its views. It was also criticised for maintaining relations with Iran, the Shia power of the region. In Egypt, Qatar supported the elected government of Muslim Brotherhood in the wake of the Arab Spring, but UAE backed the regime led by military leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. That became one of the immediate triggers for the diplomatic boycott.&nbsp;&nbsp;The attack on the US air base hosted by Qatar is the first instance of Qatar directly coming under fire in a raging war in the region. It possibly reflects the reality that the nation may not be immune to future conflicts even if it has the military presence of the most powerful nation in the world.

Exerting an outsized influence had its cost for Qatar, particularly in the form of diplomatic tussles and even a boycott by fellow Arab nations, led by Saudi Arabia. Iran attack on the US air base hosted by it is the latest instance.

Iran launched a missile attack on a US air base in Qatar on Monday night (June 24), just hours before President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Tehran and Israel. The Iranian attack, in response to the bombardment of its nuclear facilities by Israel and the US, suddenly threw the small nation of Qatar into focus. The constitutional monarchy with a large Indian population, Qatar, reportedly played a role in bringing about the latest ceasefire. However, it's nothing new for the Arab nation, which has been a regional peace broker for years now. Here is what you should know about Qatar, and why it has such significant influence in the region, far above its size. Where is Qatar? Qatar is a small country in West Asia on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Located in the Qatar Peninsula, Qatar's only land border is with Saudi Arabia, the larger nation which held influence over its tiny neighbour till much of 20th century before relations soured. Qatar is only 11,571 square kilometres in size, slightly less than the US state of Connecticut. Sandwiched between the arid Arab desert and a shoreline of beaches and dunes, Qatar is a country rich in resources, particularly natural gas. In terms of per capita income, Qatar is often listed among the wealthiest countries. It is one of the biggest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG). 88 per cent of people in Qatar are foreigners, most from India Qatar, a Sunni-majority nation, has a population of just over 3.1 million, much smaller compared to the largest in the region, Saudi Arabia, which has 36 million people. Nearly 88 per cent of the Qatari population is of foreign origin. Indians are the largest expat population, comprising of nearly 22 per cent of the foreigners. There are some 830,000 Indians, working as doctors, engineers, teachers, businesspeople and blue-collar workers. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-launches-annunciation-of-victory-operation-iran-strikes-us-al-udeid-air-base-in-qatar-1750740709101/embed How Qatar's influence grew as a mediator in conflicts Qatar had an important, albeit understated, role in global affairs since the late 20th century under former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Qatar had close relations with the US, which built the Al Udeid Air Base in the Arab country in 1996. The base, attacked by Iran on Monday (June 24), is the forward headquarters for US Central Command or CENTCOM, which directs American military operations in the region that includes Egypt in the west to Kazakhstan in the east. Under the current emir, Sheikh Tamim ibn Hamad Al Thani, who assumed the throne in 2013, Qatar emerged as a key nation for mediating global conflicts. In the past two decades, Qatar has mediated in, or hosted mediations of, several high-profile wars. These include the long-standing US-Taliban conflict that ended in the American troop exit from the South Asian nation after the Taliban takeover in 2021. Qatar was a key player in hostage and prisoner swap mediations between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war. Even before the 2023 October 7 terror attack that led to the Israel-Hamas war, Qatar has been mediating between the Jewish nation and the Palestinian militant organisation, which had its political headquarters in Doha, the Qatari capital. Qatar also mediated in releasing several of the Israeli hostages taken to Gaza by Hamas after the 2023 attack. Qatar was a mediator in conflicts and crises in Sudan, Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq too. But, clout-building also had its cost for Qatar But exerting such outsized influence had its cost for Qatar, particularly in the form of diplomatic tussles and even a boycott by fellow Arab nations, led by Saudi Arabia. Qatar was influenced by Saudi Arabia till 1990s, which often treated it like a vassal state. But mediation in conflicts improved its global standing. It was also a strategy to protect the country from foreign interventions, particularly from larger neighbours Saudi and UAE. This race for influence led to a crisis in 2017, when fellow Arab nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council announced a boycott of Qatar. That boycott, wherein Saudi, Bahrain, Egypt and the UAE accused Qatar of supporting terrorism, went on till 2021. Qatari aircraft and ships were blocked from the territory of these countries, and Saudi Arabia closed the only land border between the two nations. Many exports into the country from these neighbours were halted, including even essential goods. Al Jazeera network: A multiplier of Qatari influence that fell out of favour in the region The Al Jazeera TV network, founded in 1996 with funding from the state of Qatar, was one major step in the nation's path towards building its influence in the region and the world. Ten years later, it launched Al Jazeera English, which spoke to a global audience. Oddly enough, the channel, unlike the reality of Qatar as an absolute constitutional monarchy, became the voice of democracy in many countries in the region and outside. Of particular importance was how its journalism supported many anti-establishment movements during the Arab Spring of 2010-2012. Qatar faced allegations of supporting what many in the region felt were US intelligence-supported, orchestrated regime changes. The diplomatic boycott was among the results of those tensions. Qatar was accused of interfering in the internal affairs of other nations, often using Al Jazeera as a tool to amplify its views. It was also criticised for maintaining relations with Iran, the Shia power of the region. In Egypt, Qatar supported the elected government of Muslim Brotherhood in the wake of the Arab Spring, but UAE backed the regime led by military leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. That became one of the immediate triggers for the diplomatic boycott. The attack on the US air base hosted by Qatar is the first instance of Qatar directly coming under fire in a raging war in the region. It possibly reflects the reality that the nation may not be immune to future conflicts even if it has the military presence of the most powerful nation in the world.

Qatar has been a regional peace broker for years now, but its clout is not well-liked by bigger neighours. The attack on the US air base hosted by Qatar is the first instance of Qatar directly coming under fire in a raging war in the region.

Where is Qatar? How tiny Arab nation went from a clout builder to target of Iranian attack

Amid the developing situation in West Asia, Air India on Monday night suspended all its operations to the region, along with Europe and the east coast of North America, until further notice. The announcement came after Iran launched a missile targeting an American military base in Qatar, resulting in Asian nations shutting down their airspace.Amid the situation, several flights en route to key airports such as Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi were diverted to other airports. In addition to Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo were also affected, according to flight tracking data.Countries including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait have shut their respective airspaces, which leads to significant disruption of the services. However, Qatar opened its airspace later. Meanwhile, the closure duration of the most of the airspace in the region remains unclear. Some experts indicated that suspensions would be for short durations, with flights resuming in the affected airspaces within a few hours.After Air India had suspended its services to several destinations west of India, as those routes involve flying over West Asian airspace, other Indian carriers have also issued advisories alerting passengers to potential delays or diversions on flights operating in the region.<h3>Air India offers direct flights to Europe and North America</h3>The West Asian air corridors are vital for air travel between India and Europe, as well as parts of North America. Currently, Air India is the only Indian airline offering direct connections to Europe and North America. Most other Indian airlines primarily operate short-haul international flights, particularly within West Asia.“Amid the developing situation in the Middle East, Air India has ceased all operations to the region as well as to and from the East Coast of North America and Europe with immediate effect, until further notice. Our India-bound flights from North America are diverting back to their respective origins, and others are being diverted back to India or rerouted away from the closed airspace. We request the understanding of all passengers who may be affected by this disruption that’s beyond an airline’s control. Air India is in continuous consultation with its external security advisors and is vigilantly monitoring the evolving situation. We will keep our passengers informed of any updates. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our number one priority,” an Air India spokesperson said.“As a result of the ongoing situation in the Middle East and suspension of Qatar airspace, Air India Express has diverted our Doha-bound flight from Kochi to Muscat and returned our flight bound from Kannur. We have no other flights bound for Qatar. Air India Express has no aircraft on the ground in Qatar. We are monitoring the situation closely and will take all necessary precautions for the safety and security of our guests and crew, with inputs from the relevant authorities,” an Air India Express spokesperson said Monday night.Air India Express, for instance, runs 25 weekly flights to Doha, Qatar’s capital, with direct connections from cities including Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tiruchchirappalli.“In light of the recent developments in the Middle East, flight arrivals and departures from Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Dammam, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Ras Al-Khaimah and Tbilisi are impacted. We are actively monitoring the situation and adjusting our operations to ensure the highest level of safety for our customers and crew. We understand that diversions/delays disrupt travel plans, and we sincerely regret the inconvenience caused. Impacted customers are advised to check their flight status on our website or app and may explore alternate travel options available online,” IndiGo said in an advisory to passengers on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter)SpiceJet also said in its advisory on X, “Due to airspace closure in the Middle East, some of our flights may be affected. Passengers are advised to check their flight status.”Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel; however, 'agreement' on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations has not been concluded. After the Trump announcement of a ceasefire, the Israeli army confirmed that Iranian missiles had been fired at Israel.&nbsp;

After Air India had suspended its services to several destinations west of India, as those routes involve flying over West Asian airspace, other Indian carriers have also issued advisories alerting passengers to potential delays or diversions on flights operating in the region.

Amid the developing situation in West Asia, Air India on Monday night suspended all its operations to the region, along with Europe and the east coast of North America, until further notice. The announcement came after Iran launched a missile targeting an American military base in Qatar, resulting in Asian nations shutting down their airspace. Amid the situation, several flights en route to key airports such as Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi were diverted to other airports. In addition to Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo were also affected, according to flight tracking data. Countries including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait have shut their respective airspaces, which leads to significant disruption of the services. However, Qatar opened its airspace later. Meanwhile, the closure duration of the most of the airspace in the region remains unclear. Some experts indicated that suspensions would be for short durations, with flights resuming in the affected airspaces within a few hours. After Air India had suspended its services to several destinations west of India, as those routes involve flying over West Asian airspace, other Indian carriers have also issued advisories alerting passengers to potential delays or diversions on flights operating in the region. Air India offers direct flights to Europe and North America The West Asian air corridors are vital for air travel between India and Europe, as well as parts of North America. Currently, Air India is the only Indian airline offering direct connections to Europe and North America. Most other Indian airlines primarily operate short-haul international flights, particularly within West Asia. “Amid the developing situation in the Middle East, Air India has ceased all operations to the region as well as to and from the East Coast of North America and Europe with immediate effect, until further notice. Our India-bound flights from North America are diverting back to their respective origins, and others are being diverted back to India or rerouted away from the closed airspace. We request the understanding of all passengers who may be affected by this disruption that’s beyond an airline’s control. Air India is in continuous consultation with its external security advisors and is vigilantly monitoring the evolving situation. We will keep our passengers informed of any updates. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our number one priority,” an Air India spokesperson said. “As a result of the ongoing situation in the Middle East and suspension of Qatar airspace, Air India Express has diverted our Doha-bound flight from Kochi to Muscat and returned our flight bound from Kannur. We have no other flights bound for Qatar. Air India Express has no aircraft on the ground in Qatar. We are monitoring the situation closely and will take all necessary precautions for the safety and security of our guests and crew, with inputs from the relevant authorities,” an Air India Express spokesperson said Monday night. Air India Express, for instance, runs 25 weekly flights to Doha, Qatar’s capital, with direct connections from cities including Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tiruchchirappalli. “In light of the recent developments in the Middle East, flight arrivals and departures from Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Dammam, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Ras Al-Khaimah and Tbilisi are impacted. We are actively monitoring the situation and adjusting our operations to ensure the highest level of safety for our customers and crew. We understand that diversions/delays disrupt travel plans, and we sincerely regret the inconvenience caused. Impacted customers are advised to check their flight status on our website or app and may explore alternate travel options available online,” IndiGo said in an advisory to passengers on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) SpiceJet also said in its advisory on X, “Due to airspace closure in the Middle East, some of our flights may be affected. Passengers are advised to check their flight status.” Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel; however, 'agreement' on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations has not been concluded. After the Trump announcement of a ceasefire, the Israeli army confirmed that Iranian missiles had been fired at Israel.

After Air India had suspended its services to several destinations west of India, as those routes involve flying over West Asian airspace, other Indian carriers have also issued advisories alerting passengers to potential delays or diversions on flights operating in the region.

Air India suspends flights to West Asia, Europe, US East Coast till further notice amid Iran-Israel war

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Air India suspends flights to West Asia, Europe, US East Coast