Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, urged other countries and regional neighbours to refrain from any action that could widen the scope of the war with the United States and Israel. In a telephonic conversation with his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, on Sunday (March 15), Araghchi called on other countries to "refrain from any action that could lead to escalation and expansion of the conflict," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on X.&nbsp;Tehran's top diplomat emphasised Iran's firm determination to defend its sovereignty, dignity, territorial integrity, and national security.Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries.&nbsp;"Iran's defensive actions are exclusively targeted at the military bases and facilities of the aggressors in the region and should in no way be construed as an attack by Iran on the countries of the region," the statement read.&nbsp;These statements from the Islamic Republic come after US President Donald Trump urged multiple countries, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others "affected by this artificial constraint," to send warships to the area "so that the Hormuz will no longer be a threat by a nation that has totally decapitated."&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-china-france-japan-and-uk-to-send-warships-to-open-strait-of-hormuz-1773500295310"> Trump urges China, France, Japan, and UK to send warships to open Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;The war in West Asia entered its third week after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted the top leadership of Iran, assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the opening day of the military campaign.&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases across the region. It announced the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipping. This led to a sharp rise in energy prices, with crude crossing $100 per barrel.Amid mounting pressure from rising oil prices, Trump on Friday ordered massive strikes on Kharg Island, Iran's critical oil export hub, to push Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;On the issue of shipping disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's foreign minister stressed the need to "decisively condemn the criminal actions of the aggressors in attacking Iran," adding that "the primary root of insecurity across the entire region, including Lebanon, lies in the Zionist regime's aggression and quest for dominance, and the return of calm to Lebanon is contingent upon the end of this regime's occupation and the cessation of its attacks and aggressions."&nbsp;&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.)&nbsp;

Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, urged other countries and regional neighbours to refrain from any action that could widen the scope of the war with the United States and Israel. In a telephonic conversation with his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, on Sunday (March 15), Araghchi called on other countries to "refrain from any action that could lead to escalation and expansion of the conflict," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on X. Tehran's top diplomat emphasised Iran's firm determination to defend its sovereignty, dignity, territorial integrity, and national security. Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries. "Iran's defensive actions are exclusively targeted at the military bases and facilities of the aggressors in the region and should in no way be construed as an attack by Iran on the countries of the region," the statement read. These statements from the Islamic Republic come after US President Donald Trump urged multiple countries, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others "affected by this artificial constraint," to send warships to the area "so that the Hormuz will no longer be a threat by a nation that has totally decapitated." Also Read: Trump urges China, France, Japan, and UK to send warships to open Strait of Hormuz The war in West Asia entered its third week after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted the top leadership of Iran, assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the opening day of the military campaign. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases across the region. It announced the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipping. This led to a sharp rise in energy prices, with crude crossing $100 per barrel. Amid mounting pressure from rising oil prices, Trump on Friday ordered massive strikes on Kharg Island, Iran's critical oil export hub, to push Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. On the issue of shipping disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's foreign minister stressed the need to "decisively condemn the criminal actions of the aggressors in attacking Iran," adding that "the primary root of insecurity across the entire region, including Lebanon, lies in the Zionist regime's aggression and quest for dominance, and the return of calm to Lebanon is contingent upon the end of this regime's occupation and the cessation of its attacks and aggressions." (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.)

Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries.

'Avoid action that could widen the war': Araghchi says Iran targeted US assets in regional strikes

In a stunning geopolitical twist amidst the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, Palestinian armed group Hamas has taken the unprecedented step of publicly urging its primary military backer, the Islamic Republic of Iran, to stand down. 



In a stunning geopolitical twist amidst the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, Palestinian armed group Hamas has taken the unprecedented step of publicly urging its primary military backer, the Islamic Republic of Iran, to stand down.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Netanyahu effect or Dubai Redline? Hamas publicly warns Iran, asks not to attack gulf countries and 'stand down'

As military strikes continue to echo across the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not just relying on intelligence briefings and tactical maps to justify the war against Iran. He is reaching for something far more powerful: biblical prophecy.



As military strikes continue to echo across the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not just relying on intelligence briefings and tactical maps to justify the war against Iran. He is reaching for something far more powerful: biblical prophecy.&nbsp;

'Purim Prophecy': Why Benjamin Netanyahu is framing Iran War as a religious crusade

With Tehran vowing severe retaliation, Trump has urgently called on allied nations to deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz to prevent a global energy collapse.

With Tehran vowing severe retaliation, Trump has urgently called on allied nations to deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz to prevent a global energy collapse.

'Secure the chokepoint': 7 countries that have ability to answer Trump’s call in Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied the claims made by US envoy Steve Witkoff that he ‘boasted’ about having enriched uranium to build nuclear bombs. Araghchi suggested US President Donald Trump's negotiators Witkoff and Jared Kushner had a "lack of enough knowledge" during the final round of peace talks before the war broke out. Araghchi said the US fabricated the claims to "justify an unjustifiable act of aggression" and to "make some excuses for themselves." He denied the reports of shouting and expressed his surprise over what was conveyed to the US president.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-raises-doubts-about-supreme-leader-mojtaba-s-wellbeing-rules-out-iran-war-deal-for-now-1773538495777">Trump raises doubts about Supreme Leader Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now</a><h2>What Abbas Araghchi&nbsp;said?</h2>Speaking to American channel MS Now, the Iranian minister said, “I don't know what they have conveyed to their boss. What I know is that on the 26th of February when we met in Geneva, we were able to make a good progress as (the) Omani Foreign Minister, the intermediator, said it was a significant progress. I do understand why they (Witkoff and Kushner) are saying those things. They want to justify an unjustifiable act of aggression. They are trying to make some excuses for themselves.” On the specific claim that he boasted about Iran's capability to make 11 nuclear bombs, he said, “ I never said that we are going to make bombs. I said that we have 440 kilos of 60 per cent enriched material, and that was not a secret. That is what is mentioned in the reports of the IAEA. So I said that, look, this is mentioned in the report. This if enriched more, can be good enough for ten bombs, as your own experts claims, so we are ready to give them up and to give them away.”&nbsp;Explaining his comment further, he said that he is not aware how the US envoys interpreted his remark. “Maybe because the lack of enough knowledge, maybe because of, you know, their intentions to justify the act of which cannot be justified. Ihope that the true story of what happened on the 26th of February in Geneva would, would become, you know, known to the people soon,” he added.<h2>What &nbsp;Steve Witkoff said?</h2>Days after the war began, US special envoy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-could-build-11-nuclear-bombs-witkoff-makes-massive-claims-about-iranian-nuclear-programme-1772510348021">Steve Witkoff</a> said that Iran’s top negotiators including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi during nuclear talks “boasted” about having enough highly enriched uranium to build “11 nuclear bombs.” Witkoff said that Iranian negotiators “were proud that they had evaded all sorts of oversight protocols to get to a place where they could deliver 11 nuclear bombs.” He added that envoy Jared Kushner and he were “flummoxed” on hearing when Iranian envoy said that they had “inalienable right” to enrich their nuclear fuel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-as-a-sincere-friend-china-responds-after-trump-urges-countries-to-send-warships-to-secure-strait-of-hormuz-amid-iran-threat-1773524775265">China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;“In that first meeting, both the Iranian negotiators said to us directly that they controlled 460 kilograms of 60% [enriched uranium] and that they’re aware that could make 11 nuclear bombs. We responded that the president feels we have the inalienable right to stop you dead in your tracks and I just sort of looked at ourselves flummoxed, and said, ‘We’re really in for it now,” Witkoff recalled. “We went in there and tried to make a fair deal with them, and it was very, very clear that it was going to be impossible — probably by the end of the second meeting, but we then went back for the third meeting just to give it the last college try. They wanted us to report positivity. It was not positive that meeting,” Witkoff added.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied claims that he threatened the US with nuclear weapons, accusing Washington of twisting his remarks to justify military action. He said Iran only referenced IAEA reports on enriched uranium while talking about concessions during Geneva meet

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied the claims made by US envoy Steve Witkoff that he ‘boasted’ about having enriched uranium to build nuclear bombs. Araghchi suggested US President Donald Trump's negotiators Witkoff and Jared Kushner had a "lack of enough knowledge" during the final round of peace talks before the war broke out. Araghchi said the US fabricated the claims to "justify an unjustifiable act of aggression" and to "make some excuses for themselves." He denied the reports of shouting and expressed his surprise over what was conveyed to the US president. Also Read: Trump raises doubts about Supreme Leader Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now What Abbas Araghchi said? Speaking to American channel MS Now, the Iranian minister said, “I don't know what they have conveyed to their boss. What I know is that on the 26th of February when we met in Geneva, we were able to make a good progress as (the) Omani Foreign Minister, the intermediator, said it was a significant progress. I do understand why they (Witkoff and Kushner) are saying those things. They want to justify an unjustifiable act of aggression. They are trying to make some excuses for themselves.” On the specific claim that he boasted about Iran's capability to make 11 nuclear bombs, he said, “ I never said that we are going to make bombs. I said that we have 440 kilos of 60 per cent enriched material, and that was not a secret. That is what is mentioned in the reports of the IAEA. So I said that, look, this is mentioned in the report. This if enriched more, can be good enough for ten bombs, as your own experts claims, so we are ready to give them up and to give them away.” Explaining his comment further, he said that he is not aware how the US envoys interpreted his remark. “Maybe because the lack of enough knowledge, maybe because of, you know, their intentions to justify the act of which cannot be justified. Ihope that the true story of what happened on the 26th of February in Geneva would, would become, you know, known to the people soon,” he added. What Steve Witkoff said? Days after the war began, US special envoy Steve Witkoff said that Iran’s top negotiators including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi during nuclear talks “boasted” about having enough highly enriched uranium to build “11 nuclear bombs.” Witkoff said that Iranian negotiators “were proud that they had evaded all sorts of oversight protocols to get to a place where they could deliver 11 nuclear bombs.” He added that envoy Jared Kushner and he were “flummoxed” on hearing when Iranian envoy said that they had “inalienable right” to enrich their nuclear fuel. Also Read: China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz “In that first meeting, both the Iranian negotiators said to us directly that they controlled 460 kilograms of 60% [enriched uranium] and that they’re aware that could make 11 nuclear bombs. We responded that the president feels we have the inalienable right to stop you dead in your tracks and I just sort of looked at ourselves flummoxed, and said, ‘We’re really in for it now,” Witkoff recalled. “We went in there and tried to make a fair deal with them, and it was very, very clear that it was going to be impossible — probably by the end of the second meeting, but we then went back for the third meeting just to give it the last college try. They wanted us to report positivity. It was not positive that meeting,” Witkoff added.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied claims that he threatened the US with nuclear weapons, accusing Washington of twisting his remarks to justify military action. He said Iran only referenced IAEA reports on enriched uranium while talking about concessions during Geneva meet

'Never said...': Iran’s FM denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs, slams US envoy’s 'lack of knowledge'

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Mar 14) said that the United States may carry out more strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island oil export hub “just for fun”. He made the statements while claiming once again that the US strikes had “totally demolished” most of Kharg Island. In a 30-minute telephonic interview to NBC News, he claimed that Tehran wants to make a deal to end the warbut he isn't ready as “the terms aren’t good enough yet.” About Kharg Island, he said, “we may hit it a few more times just for fun.” &nbsp;U.S. forces conducted a large-scale precision strike on Iran's Kharg Island on the night of March 13. Iran has threatened to reduce US-linked oil facilities in the region to a "pile of ashes." After the strike on Kharg Island, Trump said &nbsp;that the US had “totally obliterated every military target” on the island.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-says-hormuz-will-not-be-reopened-to-us-ships-1773541752565/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-says-hormuz-will-not-be-reopened-to-us-ships-1773541752565/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Where is Kharg Island and why is it important?</h2>Kharg Island is a small coral and rocky island, that falls under Iran's Bushehr Province. It is situated in the northern part of the Persian Gulf and functions as the country’s main oil export hub. Often referred to as Iran’s “crown jewel,” Kharg Island ships out roughly 90–95 per cent of the nation’s crude oil. The oil terminal here has the capacity to load around 7 million barrels per day and can service up to ten supertankers at once. The revenue generated from oil exported through Kharg Island is estimated at around $78 billion each year, making it a crucial financial pillar for the Iranian state.The island hosts facilities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including missile storage areas, naval mine depots, and air defence installations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-as-a-sincere-friend-china-responds-after-trump-urges-countries-to-send-warships-to-secure-strait-of-hormuz-amid-iran-threat-1773524775265">'As a sincere friend...': China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>Trump rules out possibility of deal for now</h2>In the same interview, the POTUS ruled out any possibility of talks with the Iranians after claiming that Iran wants to make a deal. He also raised doubts about the wellbeing of Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, while also saying that reports of his death is a rumour. Trump said, “Iran wants to make a deal, and I don’t want to make it because the terms aren’t good enough yet.” He explained that the agreement would need to be “very solid” for Americans to agree with it.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-raises-doubts-about-supreme-leader-mojtaba-s-wellbeing-rules-out-iran-war-deal-for-now-1773538495777">Trump raises doubts about Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now</a>&nbsp;About the health of new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said, “I don’t know if he’s even alive. So far, nobody’s been able to show him. I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender.” However, within minutes the US president described reports of his death as “a rumour.” Days after stating that he has three good options for the future ruler of Iran, he hinted the same on Saturday, but did not reveal any names. "We have people that are living that would be great leaders for the future of the country,” Trump said.&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 President Donald Trump said Washington may strike Iran’s Kharg Island again “just for fun,” while claiming earlier attacks had demolished targets there. In an telephonic interview, he also ruled out a deal with Tehran for now

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Mar 14) said that the United States may carry out more strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island oil export hub “just for fun”. He made the statements while claiming once again that the US strikes had “totally demolished” most of Kharg Island. In a 30-minute telephonic interview to NBC News, he claimed that Tehran wants to make a deal to end the warbut he isn't ready as “the terms aren’t good enough yet.” About Kharg Island, he said, “we may hit it a few more times just for fun.” U.S. forces conducted a large-scale precision strike on Iran's Kharg Island on the night of March 13. Iran has threatened to reduce US-linked oil facilities in the region to a "pile of ashes." After the strike on Kharg Island, Trump said that the US had “totally obliterated every military target” on the island. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-says-hormuz-will-not-be-reopened-to-us-ships-1773541752565/embed Where is Kharg Island and why is it important? Kharg Island is a small coral and rocky island, that falls under Iran's Bushehr Province. It is situated in the northern part of the Persian Gulf and functions as the country’s main oil export hub. Often referred to as Iran’s “crown jewel,” Kharg Island ships out roughly 90–95 per cent of the nation’s crude oil. The oil terminal here has the capacity to load around 7 million barrels per day and can service up to ten supertankers at once. The revenue generated from oil exported through Kharg Island is estimated at around $78 billion each year, making it a crucial financial pillar for the Iranian state. The island hosts facilities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including missile storage areas, naval mine depots, and air defence installations. Also Read: 'As a sincere friend...': China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz Trump rules out possibility of deal for now In the same interview, the POTUS ruled out any possibility of talks with the Iranians after claiming that Iran wants to make a deal. He also raised doubts about the wellbeing of Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, while also saying that reports of his death is a rumour. Trump said, “Iran wants to make a deal, and I don’t want to make it because the terms aren’t good enough yet.” He explained that the agreement would need to be “very solid” for Americans to agree with it. Also Read: Trump raises doubts about Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now About the health of new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said, “I don’t know if he’s even alive. So far, nobody’s been able to show him. I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender.” However, within minutes the US president described reports of his death as “a rumour.” Days after stating that he has three good options for the future ruler of Iran, he hinted the same on Saturday, but did not reveal any names. "We have people that are living that would be great leaders for the future of the country,” Trump said. (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 President Donald Trump said Washington may strike Iran’s Kharg Island again “just for fun,” while claiming earlier attacks had demolished targets there. In an telephonic interview, he also ruled out a deal with Tehran for now

'Just for fun...': Trump wants to hit Iran’s Kharg Island again despite 'totally obliterated target' claims

Most cyberattacks today involve ransomware, hackers lock a company's data and demand millions in Bitcoin in exchange for a decryption key. "Wiper" malware, however, is purely an act of digital terrorism. 

Most cyberattacks today involve ransomware, hackers lock a company's data and demand millions in Bitcoin in exchange for a decryption key. "Wiper" malware, however, is purely an act of digital terrorism.&nbsp;

'Can't ignore Stryker hit': What is Wiper Malware and how iPhone is at risk if connected to MDM?

Iran war is causing the largest ever disruption of global oil supplies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned on Thursday (Mar 12). The IEA's dire projections came in its monthly Oil Market Report (OMR), which provides data on supply, demand, stocks, prices and refinery activity. The otherwise routine report is being watched closely this month, amid the unprecedented crisis in global oil markets. The ominous predictions came a day after the largest-ever release of global emergency oil stocks.<h2>What was the International Energy Agency warning on oil supply?</h2>In the report, the IEA cut its daily oil supply growth forecast sharply. It said the supply is likely to plunge by 8 million barrels a day in March. The Paris-based organisation, which includes several Western nations, now expects global supply to grow by 1.1 million barrels a day this year, the Wall Street Journal reported. This is a dramatic reduction from the earlier forecast of 2.4 million barrels a day.All supply growth is expected to come from outside the OPEC+ alliance, as the conflict forces major Gulf producers to curb output.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-s-largest-oil-company-ceo-warns-of-catastrophic-consequences-of-iran-war-as-nations-impose-emergency-measures-1773141477127">World’s largest oil company CEO warns of 'catastrophic consequences' of Iran war as nations impose emergency measures</a><h2>Oil prices surge after wild swings as war disrupts global flows</h2>After several wild swings, Brent crude has breached the $100 mark. Earlier, it had touched $120 a barrel.Further attacks on shipping and energy facilities, along with uncertainty over when the war will end, could push prices even higher.Oil trade flows have been severely affected since the February 28 US–Israel strike on Iran triggered the ongoing war, which is now entering its second week.Iran’s missile and drone attacks on oil sites in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, along with its threats to block tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, have dirsupted traffic through one of the world’s most critical energy routes.The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for around 20 per cent of global oil supply and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas. Attacks on ships, closures by major shipping companies, and reduced regional production and export capacity are creating shortages.Flows through the strait have fallen to less than 10 per cent of normal levels, amounting to a disruption of roughly 15 million barrels per day.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-crisis-india-first-approach-guides-decision-to-keep-oil-reserves-intact-1773138558351/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-crisis-india-first-approach-guides-decision-to-keep-oil-reserves-intact-1773138558351/embed</a><h2>IEA's report came hours after largest ever emergency oil stock release</h2>Just before the IEA report was released, its 32 member nations unanimously agreed on Wednesday (Mar 11) to release 400 million barrels from their emergency stockpiles.This marked the largest coordinated release in IEA history—more than double the 182 million barrels released in 2022 following the Russia–Ukraine war.The move is aimed at curbing oil price spikes and stabilising markets in the near term.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-hormuz-in-its-grip-iran-ships-more-oil-even-as-war-halts-others-1773255260129">With Hormuz in its grip, Iran ships more oil even as war halts others</a>&nbsp;<h2>But strategic stock release may not be enough</h2>However, the IEA warned that the strategic reserve release may not be sufficient if the war continues.The emergency stocks could cover only about 20 days of lost supply. If the conflict continues to disrupt production and the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened, the reserves could quickly prove inadequate.The war has already triggered one of the most severe oil market shocks in decades. Some industry observers have described it as the biggest disruption ever, while others say it could rank among the worst since the oil shocks of the 1970s.<h2>March IEA report more ominous than February</h2>IEA's March OMR paints a far darker picture than the February 12 report. The earlier report projected global oil demand growth of 850,000 barrels per day in 2026. It also forecast supply growth of around 2.4 million barrels per day and a surplus of roughly 3.73 million barrels per day.

In its latest monthly report, the International Energy Agency warned global oil supply could go down by 8 million barrels a day in March as the Iran war disrupts flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude is above $100 despite a record 400-million-barrel emergency release by IAE members.

Iran war is causing the largest ever disruption of global oil supplies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned on Thursday (Mar 12). The IEA's dire projections came in its monthly Oil Market Report (OMR), which provides data on supply, demand, stocks, prices and refinery activity. The otherwise routine report is being watched closely this month, amid the unprecedented crisis in global oil markets. The ominous predictions came a day after the largest-ever release of global emergency oil stocks. What was the International Energy Agency warning on oil supply? In the report, the IEA cut its daily oil supply growth forecast sharply. It said the supply is likely to plunge by 8 million barrels a day in March. The Paris-based organisation, which includes several Western nations, now expects global supply to grow by 1.1 million barrels a day this year, the Wall Street Journal reported. This is a dramatic reduction from the earlier forecast of 2.4 million barrels a day. All supply growth is expected to come from outside the OPEC+ alliance, as the conflict forces major Gulf producers to curb output. Also read: World’s largest oil company CEO warns of 'catastrophic consequences' of Iran war as nations impose emergency measures Oil prices surge after wild swings as war disrupts global flows After several wild swings, Brent crude has breached the $100 mark. Earlier, it had touched $120 a barrel. Further attacks on shipping and energy facilities, along with uncertainty over when the war will end, could push prices even higher. Oil trade flows have been severely affected since the February 28 US–Israel strike on Iran triggered the ongoing war, which is now entering its second week. Iran’s missile and drone attacks on oil sites in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, along with its threats to block tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, have dirsupted traffic through one of the world’s most critical energy routes. The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for around 20 per cent of global oil supply and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas. Attacks on ships, closures by major shipping companies, and reduced regional production and export capacity are creating shortages. Flows through the strait have fallen to less than 10 per cent of normal levels, amounting to a disruption of roughly 15 million barrels per day. https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-crisis-india-first-approach-guides-decision-to-keep-oil-reserves-intact-1773138558351/embed IEA's report came hours after largest ever emergency oil stock release Just before the IEA report was released, its 32 member nations unanimously agreed on Wednesday (Mar 11) to release 400 million barrels from their emergency stockpiles. This marked the largest coordinated release in IEA history—more than double the 182 million barrels released in 2022 following the Russia–Ukraine war. The move is aimed at curbing oil price spikes and stabilising markets in the near term. Also read: With Hormuz in its grip, Iran ships more oil even as war halts others But strategic stock release may not be enough However, the IEA warned that the strategic reserve release may not be sufficient if the war continues. The emergency stocks could cover only about 20 days of lost supply. If the conflict continues to disrupt production and the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened, the reserves could quickly prove inadequate. The war has already triggered one of the most severe oil market shocks in decades. Some industry observers have described it as the biggest disruption ever, while others say it could rank among the worst since the oil shocks of the 1970s. March IEA report more ominous than February IEA's March OMR paints a far darker picture than the February 12 report. The earlier report projected global oil demand growth of 850,000 barrels per day in 2026. It also forecast supply growth of around 2.4 million barrels per day and a surplus of roughly 3.73 million barrels per day.

In its latest monthly report, the International Energy Agency warned global oil supply could go down by 8 million barrels a day in March as the Iran war disrupts flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude is above $100 despite a record 400-million-barrel emergency release by IAE members.

Down by 8 million barrels a day: IEA issues ominous warning on oil supplies amid Iran war, hours after largest ever stock release

In urban drone strikes, the majority of civilian casualties are not caused by the direct explosion itself, but by the massive shockwave that shatters windows for blocks in every direction. 



In urban drone strikes, the majority of civilian casualties are not caused by the direct explosion itself, but by the massive shockwave that shatters windows for blocks in every direction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

'Brace for Impact': 7 ways to stay safe if Iran launches attack on California

In a tragic incident amid the ongoing war in West Asia, the Indian Embassy in Iraq on Thursday (Mar 12) announced that an Indian crew member who was a part of US-owned crude oil tanker that was attacked in Iraq lost his life. The Indian Embassy said that the tanker was named Safesea Vishnu and was sailing under the Marshall Islands flag. Safesea Vishnu, along with another Maltese-flagged Zefyros, was attacked near Basra, Iraq as it entered the Persian Gulf. Iran claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying an underwater drone attack "blew up two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf", according to Iranian state broadcaster IRIB.&nbsp;&nbsp;A total of 38 crew members were rescued, with the Indian embassy now adding that as many as 15 were Indian crew and they have been evacuated to a safe place. It also said that it is in regular contact with Iraqi authorities and rescued Indian sailors and is offering all possible assistance. “Embassy extends its deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased crew member,” it added in its statement. As per Vessel Tracker, the last updated position of the Safesea Vishnu was in Basrah Oil Terminal Anchorage in the Persian Gulf off the Iraq at midnight.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-sets-three-conditions-to-end-war-after-trump-declared-us-has-won-what-are-these-and-will-the-conflict-to-end-soon-1773290022027">Iran sets three conditions to end war after Trump declared 'US has won' — What are these and will the conflict to end soon?</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260312/image-1773295149939.png"></figure><h2>Has MEA reacted to the incident?</h2>The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not officially issued any statement on the incident. On Mar 11, it issued a statement condemning the attack on the Thai-flagged vessel Mayuree Naree, which was sailing toward Kandla Port through the Strait of Hormuz. The ship’s Thai-listed operator, Precious Shipping, confirmed the incident and said that three crew members were missing. “India deplores the fact that commercial shipping is being made a target of military attacks in the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Precious lives, including those of Indian citizens, have already been lost in multiple such attacks in the earlier phase of this conflict, and the intensity and lethality of the attacks only seem to be increasing,” MEA said.&nbsp;VIDEO OF THE INCIDENT:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Iraqi tanker, this video is real <a href="https://t.co/h83FGcmjSt">pic.twitter.com/h83FGcmjSt</a>&mdash; Open Source Intel (@Osint613) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osint613/status/2031856121208525170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-crude-vessel-reaches-mumbai-port-after-iran-s-nod-two-more-allowed-to-pass-strait-of-hormuz-1773292223873">India's crude vessel reaches Mumbai port after Iran's nod, two more ships allowed to pass Strait of Hormuz</a>

<h2>Indian-flagged vessel allowed to pass Strait of Hormuz?</h2>As the war in West Asia continues, at least three commercial vessels have been hit by "unknown projectiles" in the Strait of Hormuz. One ship was hit off the coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a second north of Oman had to be evacuated due to fire on board, and a third sustained damage north-west of Dubai, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).&nbsp;Meanwhile, in what is being termed as India's diplomatic win, Iran allowed India's crude vessel to pass through Strait of Hormuz and the tanker has reached Mumbai Port on Mar 12. Reports have said that it is the result of Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar's conversation with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, after the US and Israel launched pre-emptive attack on the Islamic Republic on Feb 28. It has declared that any vessel passing through the passage would require Iran's prior approval, with Iranian Revolutionary Guard stating that it would "not allow a single drop of oil to leave the region to the US" through the strait.&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.

An Indian crew member was killed after the US-owned tanker Safesea Vishnu was attacked near Basra, Iraq amid the West Asia war. Thirty-eight sailors were rescued, including 15 Indians. Tensions are growing in the Strait of Hormuz

In a tragic incident amid the ongoing war in West Asia, the Indian Embassy in Iraq on Thursday (Mar 12) announced that an Indian crew member who was a part of US-owned crude oil tanker that was attacked in Iraq lost his life. The Indian Embassy said that the tanker was named Safesea Vishnu and was sailing under the Marshall Islands flag. Safesea Vishnu, along with another Maltese-flagged Zefyros, was attacked near Basra, Iraq as it entered the Persian Gulf. Iran claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying an underwater drone attack "blew up two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf", according to Iranian state broadcaster IRIB. A total of 38 crew members were rescued, with the Indian embassy now adding that as many as 15 were Indian crew and they have been evacuated to a safe place. It also said that it is in regular contact with Iraqi authorities and rescued Indian sailors and is offering all possible assistance. “Embassy extends its deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased crew member,” it added in its statement. As per Vessel Tracker, the last updated position of the Safesea Vishnu was in Basrah Oil Terminal Anchorage in the Persian Gulf off the Iraq at midnight. Also Read: Iran sets three conditions to end war after Trump declared 'US has won' — What are these and will the conflict to end soon? Has MEA reacted to the incident? The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not officially issued any statement on the incident. On Mar 11, it issued a statement condemning the attack on the Thai-flagged vessel Mayuree Naree, which was sailing toward Kandla Port through the Strait of Hormuz. The ship’s Thai-listed operator, Precious Shipping, confirmed the incident and said that three crew members were missing. “India deplores the fact that commercial shipping is being made a target of military attacks in the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Precious lives, including those of Indian citizens, have already been lost in multiple such attacks in the earlier phase of this conflict, and the intensity and lethality of the attacks only seem to be increasing,” MEA said. VIDEO OF THE INCIDENT:

An Indian crew member was killed after the US-owned tanker Safesea Vishnu was attacked near Basra, Iraq amid the West Asia war. Thirty-eight sailors were rescued, including 15 Indians. Tensions are growing in the Strait of Hormuz

Indian sailor killed in Iranian underwater drone attack on US-owned oil tanker, 15 crew members evacuated

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed responsibility for blowing up two oil tankers near Iraq that killed at least one crew member. 38 people were rescued from the inferno. The attack came just hours after the US embassy in Baghdad warned that Iran and Tehran-backed Iraqi armed groups might target US-owned oil facilities in Iraq. Iran has previously vowed that no oil will leave the Gulf while its war with the United States and Israel continues. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that handles a fifth of the world's oil, remains closed to almost all oil tankers.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-oil-tanker-erupts-in-flames-near-basra-coast-in-northern-persian-gulf-as-middle-east-war-escalates-20-crew-members-rescued-1773268780779">WATCH | Oil tanker erupts in flames near Basra coast in Northern Persian Gulf</a><h2>Iran claims responsibility for twin oil tanker blasts</h2>According to the Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Iran claimed responsibility for the attack on the two oil tankers, believed to belong to the United States. The underwater drone attack "blew up two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf tonight," it said.State television channel al-Ikhbariya broadcast images of a ship at sea with plumes of smoke rising from a huge fire. Videos of the inferno are also being widely shared on social media. Watch here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Breaking: A US Oil Tanker turns into flame in Iraq <a href="https://t.co/PYBmFGvQmr">pic.twitter.com/PYBmFGvQmr</a>&mdash; Iran Updates 🚨 (@IranUpdatesNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/IranUpdatesNow/status/2031873296141320463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>At least one crew member killed, many remain missing</h2>Farhan Al-Fartousi of Iraq's General Company for Ports told state television that one crew member was killed in the attack. 38 people have been rescued, but many remain missing, with the search continuing for any survivors. The nationality of the deceased crew member is yet to be revealed.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-cannibal-khamenei-s-x-account-posts-ghastly-trump-cartoon-after-potus-floats-twisted-tomahawk-theory-on-minab-school-strike-1773194272348">'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike</a>He also revealed that one of the ships was registered under a Maltese flag. The other one, as per reports, may belong to the United States. Speaking to the national news agency INA, the Iraqi government's cell stated that the "two tankers were subject to sabotage."&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. &nbsp;

Did Iran just attack US-linked oil tankers in the Persian Gulf? Tehran has claimed responsibility for twin tanker explosions near Iraq after an underwater drone strike triggered a massive fire at sea. But what exactly happened, and why were these ships targeted? Scroll down to find out.

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed responsibility for blowing up two oil tankers near Iraq that killed at least one crew member. 38 people were rescued from the inferno. The attack came just hours after the US embassy in Baghdad warned that Iran and Tehran-backed Iraqi armed groups might target US-owned oil facilities in Iraq. Iran has previously vowed that no oil will leave the Gulf while its war with the United States and Israel continues. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that handles a fifth of the world's oil, remains closed to almost all oil tankers. Also read | WATCH | Oil tanker erupts in flames near Basra coast in Northern Persian Gulf Iran claims responsibility for twin oil tanker blasts According to the Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Iran claimed responsibility for the attack on the two oil tankers, believed to belong to the United States. The underwater drone attack "blew up two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf tonight," it said. State television channel al-Ikhbariya broadcast images of a ship at sea with plumes of smoke rising from a huge fire. Videos of the inferno are also being widely shared on social media. Watch here:

Did Iran just attack US-linked oil tankers in the Persian Gulf? Tehran has claimed responsibility for twin tanker explosions near Iraq after an underwater drone strike triggered a massive fire at sea. But what exactly happened, and why were these ships targeted? Scroll down to find out.

Iran claims responsibility for twin oil tanker blasts near Iraq; 1 dead, 38 rescued

Amid reports claiming that the Trump administration in the United States is not clear about the reasons and plans of the war it has initated in Iran along with Israel, now US Democratic Senator Chris Murphy has also made similar claims. Murphy claimed that he attended a two-hour briefing on the Iran War and went on to say that “Trump can't defend this war in public.” He stated that the Trump administration, including the US president himself say that primary focus of the war is not regime change or dismatling of nuclear weapons program.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a series of post on X, Murphy said, the Trump administration’s plans for the war appear “incoherent and incomplete.""So they are going to spend hundreds of billions of your taxpayer dollars, get a whole bunch of Americans killed, and a hardline regime - probably a MORE anti-American hardline regime - will still be in charge,” he said. Murphy also claimed that the briefing hinted that destroying Iran’s nuclear weapons program is not among the listed war goals. He also said regime change in Tehran is not part of the strategy, raising questions about what the administration ultimately hopes to achieve through the strikes. According to Murphy, the briefing indicated the primary focus is targeting Iranian missiles, boats and drone factories.“But the question that stumped them: what happens when you stop bombing and they restart production? They hinted at more bombing. Which is, of course, endless war,” he said. Murphy also warned that officials did not present a clear plan for reopening the Strait of Hormuz if Iran disrupts the key global oil shipping route.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260311/image-1773223424818.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war</a><h2>Trump's team issues contradicting statements</h2>This comes as Trump administration has been giving conflicting statements about the war. Trump even contradicted himself about the endgame of the war. On Monday (Mar 9), Trump claimed that the war with Iran is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In an interview with CBS News, Trump said that the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. He also went on to claim that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." However, in a speech to House Republicans in Florida, hours after his TV interview, Trump said that “We’ve already won in many ways, but we haven’t won enough. We go forward more determined than ever to achieve ultimate victory…"&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-blames-iran-for-minab-school-bombing-but-his-press-secretary-says-we-re-investigating-who-said-what-1773210974497">US hiding truth behind Minab school bombing? Trump blames Iran but his press secretary says 'we're investigating'</a>&nbsp;Moreover, Trump's stance is in contrast with his own team as around the same time when he made the statement on Mar 9, the Defense Department’s rapid response account posted on X, “We have Only Just Begun to Fight." Not only this, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in an interview to CBS’ “60 Minutes” said that “this is only just the beginning." When asked about the contradiction, Trump said, “both could be true as it’s the beginning of building a new country.”&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 Senator Chris Murphy said a briefing on the Iran war revealed unclear goals and an “incoherent” strategy by the Trump administration. He warned the conflict could become endless war. His remarks come as Trump and his team issue conflicting statements on the war’s endgame.

Amid reports claiming that the Trump administration in the United States is not clear about the reasons and plans of the war it has initated in Iran along with Israel, now US Democratic Senator Chris Murphy has also made similar claims. Murphy claimed that he attended a two-hour briefing on the Iran War and went on to say that “Trump can't defend this war in public.” He stated that the Trump administration, including the US president himself say that primary focus of the war is not regime change or dismatling of nuclear weapons program. In a series of post on X, Murphy said, the Trump administration’s plans for the war appear “incoherent and incomplete.""So they are going to spend hundreds of billions of your taxpayer dollars, get a whole bunch of Americans killed, and a hardline regime - probably a MORE anti-American hardline regime - will still be in charge,” he said. Murphy also claimed that the briefing hinted that destroying Iran’s nuclear weapons program is not among the listed war goals. He also said regime change in Tehran is not part of the strategy, raising questions about what the administration ultimately hopes to achieve through the strikes. According to Murphy, the briefing indicated the primary focus is targeting Iranian missiles, boats and drone factories. “But the question that stumped them: what happens when you stop bombing and they restart production? They hinted at more bombing. Which is, of course, endless war,” he said. Murphy also warned that officials did not present a clear plan for reopening the Strait of Hormuz if Iran disrupts the key global oil shipping route. Also Read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war Trump's team issues contradicting statements This comes as Trump administration has been giving conflicting statements about the war. Trump even contradicted himself about the endgame of the war. On Monday (Mar 9), Trump claimed that the war with Iran is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In an interview with CBS News, Trump said that the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. He also went on to claim that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." However, in a speech to House Republicans in Florida, hours after his TV interview, Trump said that “We’ve already won in many ways, but we haven’t won enough. We go forward more determined than ever to achieve ultimate victory…" Also Read: US hiding truth behind Minab school bombing? Trump blames Iran but his press secretary says 'we're investigating' Moreover, Trump's stance is in contrast with his own team as around the same time when he made the statement on Mar 9, the Defense Department’s rapid response account posted on X, “We have Only Just Begun to Fight." Not only this, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in an interview to CBS’ “60 Minutes” said that “this is only just the beginning." When asked about the contradiction, Trump said, “both could be true as it’s the beginning of building a new country.” 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 Senator Chris Murphy said a briefing on the Iran war revealed unclear goals and an “incoherent” strategy by the Trump administration. He warned the conflict could become endless war. His remarks come as Trump and his team issue conflicting statements on the war’s endgame.

'US goal in Iran war is NOT regime change, destroying nuclear program': BIG claims from Trump team's briefing surface

The Trump administration has not disclosed the cost of the Iran war, but a research institution in Washington says the US blew away $3.7 billion in the first few days itself. It analysed documents to estimate the expenses.

The Trump administration has not disclosed the cost of the Iran war, but a research institution in Washington says the US blew away $3.7 billion in the first few days itself. It analysed documents to estimate the expenses.

How much has the Iran war cost US? An analysis reveals monetary toll in first 100 hours

The Iran–Israel conflict of June 2025 lasted 12 days, ending after American B-2 bombers targeted alleged Iranian nuclear sites. The new US-Israel joint strikes on Iran started exactly 12 days ago, but there is no sign of it ending as fast as last time. Neither has the Islamic Republic regime fallen, nor is Iran waving the white flag, having declared a pause to all negotiations. Regime change and the capitulation of Iran were the supposed aims of the war. The US now seems to have changed the goalposts, suggesting that regime change was not the aim. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government will not let the regime be, with his officials suggesting that the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is a ‘legitimate’ target for assassination. If the US and Israel were thinking it would be an ‘in and out’ war, they are being proven wrong. Direct war was not the only card Iran had. It has used a number of tactics that could force the international community to pressure the US and Israel to end the war.<h2>16 ways in which Iran is still staying in the war</h2>The following are the key ways in which Iran’s war strategy is helping it not to lose. This goes beyond actual ground or air offensives, with Tehran incorporating regional expansion of the conflict and the choking of global energy supplies for strategic edge over adversaries.1. Iran attacked specific targets in regional countries, making them indirect ‘party to the conflict’: The UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Iraq were attacked with Iranian drones and missiles, bringing both their defence systems and economies under stress. This is putting pressure on the Gulf nations to bring back normalcy fast through diplomatic means as their defence systems slowly wear out.2. Iranian attacks targeted both oil and gas sites and military bases of the Gulf nations: The Iranian calculation was not off the mark, as the cascading effect is now felt in everything from oil and gas prices to food and living costs in the region and all the way to Europe and Asia.3. Iran made tactical use of the Strait of Hormuz: It had only threatened to block the global fuel trade chokepoint without much action, and yet shocks are being felt in fuel prices because big container carriers have partially or fully suspended operations through the waterway.4. Iran is making the best use of the asymmetry of cost in this war: Its thousands of cheap Shahed drones and missiles are slowly exhausting million-dollar defence systems of the Gulf nations.5. The Iranian regime has made sure that there are no large-scale street protests : The ostensible trigger point for the joint US–Israel decapitation strikes was the massive nationwide protests against the regime. But all of a sudden, the political opposition that many thought would replace the Islamic Republic is nowhere in sight.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-iran-us-israel-war-news-live-west-asia-crisis-uae-qatar-nahrain-gulf-trump-netanyahu-khamenei-mojtaba-hezbollah-hamas-china-russia-india-middle-east-1773196724144">US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Four injured after drones fall near Dubai airport</a>6. The Islamic Republic system is still intact : It stands in spite of the decapitation strike that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Day One of the war. A new Supreme Leader has now been named, and secondary leadership is still running the country.7. &nbsp;‘All systems running’ for Iran in spite of airstrikes: Iran's military bases, airports, oil installations, warships, nuclear and ballistic missile sites were targeted. But the Iranian regime continues to operate, and post propaganda on social media. It still has the on-and-off switch of the Iranian internet, which has gone dark for several days for everyone except the regime.8. Iran's military doctrine is designed to function despite leadership losses and disruption: Iran’s ‘mosaic defence’ has decentralised command and control structures. Local units of IRGC are capable of continued fighting even if senior leadership or communications are destroyed. The expectations was that the commanders would be killed and infrastructure bombed, but combat operations must continue.&nbsp;9. Terrain makes a decisive military victory against Iran extremely difficult: From a war analysis point of view, Iran is ‘blessed by geography’. It is a vast country with mountainous terrain, underground facilities, and dispersed military infrastructure. Missile sites, command bunkers, and storage depots are spread across a large territory rather than concentrated in a few locations, many of them underground, making it hard to destroy only through strikes from above. 10. Ground invasion of Iran is yet to happen: Large-scale ground operations would be needed to completely destroy Iran's nuclear, missile and drone sites. The US and Israel appear reluctant, given the troop commitments and potential casualties.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-iran-us-israel-war-news-live-west-asia-crisis-uae-qatar-nahrain-gulf-trump-netanyahu-khamenei-mojtaba-hezbollah-hamas-china-russia-india-middle-east-1773196724144">Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</a>&nbsp;11. Iran missile and drone arsenal can confront long-term pressure: Iran still possesses thousands of ballistic missiles and possibly tens of thousands of drones. Having one of the largest missile forces in the Middle East helps Iran strike intermittently for extended periods, preventing the conflict from ending quickly.12. Iranian regime is accustomed to operating under extreme sanctions and isolation: The US, the West and Israel used sanctions for decades against Iran as a ‘war by other means’. This meant Iran always functioned under economic siege conditions with its smuggling networks, informal trade channels, and state control mechanisms to cushion shocks. 13. War fatigue and political constraints in the attacking countries: There are domestic political limits on long wars, in a world that is worn out by continuing wars since the start of the new decade. Iran is deliberately making this conflict prolonged and costly for the other parties, even those who are not direct belligerents.14. Ambiguity around Iran’s nuclear capability is a deterrent: Iran insists it does not have a nuclear weapon, but not many are sure. Can it quickly develop and use a nuclear weapon? That doubt raises the stakes for adversaries, as a desperate Iran could accelerate nuclear weaponisation.15. Attackers not sure of the final desired outcome of the war: A military campaign can succeed only when objectives are defined. What do Israel and US want to achieve in Iran — territorial control, destruction of nuclear and missile capabilities, destruction of armed forces, or regime change? Their lack of clarity on this is helping Iran.&nbsp; 16. Survival itself is strategic victory for Iran: For all practical purposes, not losing fast can itself amount to winning for Iran. Iran is facing a test of survival against much stronger adversaries. The burden of expectations of victory is on US and Israel, not Iran.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-oil-markets-and-security-at-risk-did-us-iran-conflict-expose-economic-fault-lines-across-the-middle-east-1773151045233">'Oil, markets and security at risk': Did US–Iran conflict expose economic fault lines across the Middle East?</a><h2>Global realities are helping Iran not to lose, though not winning the war</h2>For much of the global community, including India, the Islamic Republic is still the government. The Indian external affairs minister, for instance, held at least three phone calls with his Iranian counterpart. Other global players like China and Russia consider it the legitimate government. Iranian ethnic factions like the Kurds are not having much of an impact in the actual war. European nations are yet to fully rally behind either the US or Israel and more worried about continued fuel supply from the region. The US-led military alliance NATO has not invoked the ‘one for all, all for one’ clause in its Article 5, which would have seen them enter the war militarily. Even the US is being forced to acknowledge the need for global energy flows to continue, exemplified in the de-sanctioning of Russian oil supplies to India. Globalisation is helping Iran in odd ways, as fuel supply disruptions caused by the war would affect economies, including that of the US.Iran, which is accused of raising proxies like Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah, does not seem to need them to stay in the war. Most of them are not even fully active in the war to support Iran, yet.<h2>Domestic concerns of Trump and Netanyahu may have led to the war. Now they don't know how to get out</h2>For the past three decades, Netanyahu has been talking about Iran being ‘very near to building a nuclear bomb’. But there is no sign of Iran detonating a bomb. Iran has threatened to target Israel’s nuclear facility. Many observers believe Israel probably has nuclear weapons, or at least the capability to develop them. Iran went ahead and threatened the main Dimona nuclear site, a message pretty similar to the gangsters’ phrase: ‘we know where you live’.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-midterms-2026-republicans-fear-iran-war-could-hurt-election-prospects-wion-1773192585039/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-midterms-2026-republicans-fear-iran-war-could-hurt-election-prospects-wion-1773192585039/embed</a>The war happened at pivotal points for the political survival of both Trump and Netanyahu. Trump was facing the fallout from the Epstein files, which could affect the Republican Party’s prospects in this year's US midterm elections. If his party loses its majority in the US Congress, he would become a ‘lame-duck’ president for the next two years, opening a Pandora’s box of further legal scrutiny of his actions. He is yet to get congressional approval for the war. He needs something to show as having been achieved through the Iran operation. He could go deeper into Iran, including even boots on the ground to ‘secure uranium’ and prevent Iran from acquiring the nuclear bomb. Even that could probably not lead to total regime change in Iran.Netanyahu is facing corruption cases, and Trump even publicly pleaded with the Israeli president to pardon him, which is yet to happen. He is currently leading a minority government, essentially clinging to power thanks to the war situation. In fact, the last elections did not give him a clear majority, but he managed to stay in office largely because most of his tenure has been about the war on Hamas and now on Iran. He is also facing the next general elections, scheduled this year. The elections could make both Trump and Netanyahu less powerful. But Iran’s own specific form of elections has no such burdens.Ultimately, both the US and Israel are realising that this war is not going to get over in 12 days, like the last one did.

As the war enters 12th day, Iran is not losing. Geography, decentralised military, missile and drone capabilities, resilience under sanctions, and political constraints on its adversaries are helping Tehran turn mere survival into a strategic advantage

The Iran–Israel conflict of June 2025 lasted 12 days, ending after American B-2 bombers targeted alleged Iranian nuclear sites. The new US-Israel joint strikes on Iran started exactly 12 days ago, but there is no sign of it ending as fast as last time. Neither has the Islamic Republic regime fallen, nor is Iran waving the white flag, having declared a pause to all negotiations. Regime change and the capitulation of Iran were the supposed aims of the war. The US now seems to have changed the goalposts, suggesting that regime change was not the aim. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government will not let the regime be, with his officials suggesting that the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is a ‘legitimate’ target for assassination. If the US and Israel were thinking it would be an ‘in and out’ war, they are being proven wrong. Direct war was not the only card Iran had. It has used a number of tactics that could force the international community to pressure the US and Israel to end the war. 16 ways in which Iran is still staying in the war The following are the key ways in which Iran’s war strategy is helping it not to lose. This goes beyond actual ground or air offensives, with Tehran incorporating regional expansion of the conflict and the choking of global energy supplies for strategic edge over adversaries. 1. Iran attacked specific targets in regional countries, making them indirect ‘party to the conflict’: The UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Iraq were attacked with Iranian drones and missiles, bringing both their defence systems and economies under stress. This is putting pressure on the Gulf nations to bring back normalcy fast through diplomatic means as their defence systems slowly wear out. 2. Iranian attacks targeted both oil and gas sites and military bases of the Gulf nations: The Iranian calculation was not off the mark, as the cascading effect is now felt in everything from oil and gas prices to food and living costs in the region and all the way to Europe and Asia. 3. Iran made tactical use of the Strait of Hormuz: It had only threatened to block the global fuel trade chokepoint without much action, and yet shocks are being felt in fuel prices because big container carriers have partially or fully suspended operations through the waterway. 4. Iran is making the best use of the asymmetry of cost in this war: Its thousands of cheap Shahed drones and missiles are slowly exhausting million-dollar defence systems of the Gulf nations. 5. The Iranian regime has made sure that there are no large-scale street protests : The ostensible trigger point for the joint US–Israel decapitation strikes was the massive nationwide protests against the regime. But all of a sudden, the political opposition that many thought would replace the Islamic Republic is nowhere in sight. Also read: US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Four injured after drones fall near Dubai airport 6. The Islamic Republic system is still intact : It stands in spite of the decapitation strike that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Day One of the war. A new Supreme Leader has now been named, and secondary leadership is still running the country. 7. ‘All systems running’ for Iran in spite of airstrikes: Iran's military bases, airports, oil installations, warships, nuclear and ballistic missile sites were targeted. But the Iranian regime continues to operate, and post propaganda on social media. It still has the on-and-off switch of the Iranian internet, which has gone dark for several days for everyone except the regime. 8. Iran's military doctrine is designed to function despite leadership losses and disruption: Iran’s ‘mosaic defence’ has decentralised command and control structures. Local units of IRGC are capable of continued fighting even if senior leadership or communications are destroyed. The expectations was that the commanders would be killed and infrastructure bombed, but combat operations must continue. 9. Terrain makes a decisive military victory against Iran extremely difficult: From a war analysis point of view, Iran is ‘blessed by geography’. It is a vast country with mountainous terrain, underground facilities, and dispersed military infrastructure. Missile sites, command bunkers, and storage depots are spread across a large territory rather than concentrated in a few locations, many of them underground, making it hard to destroy only through strikes from above. 10. Ground invasion of Iran is yet to happen: Large-scale ground operations would be needed to completely destroy Iran's nuclear, missile and drone sites. The US and Israel appear reluctant, given the troop commitments and potential casualties. Also read: Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son 11. Iran missile and drone arsenal can confront long-term pressure: Iran still possesses thousands of ballistic missiles and possibly tens of thousands of drones. Having one of the largest missile forces in the Middle East helps Iran strike intermittently for extended periods, preventing the conflict from ending quickly. 12. Iranian regime is accustomed to operating under extreme sanctions and isolation: The US, the West and Israel used sanctions for decades against Iran as a ‘war by other means’. This meant Iran always functioned under economic siege conditions with its smuggling networks, informal trade channels, and state control mechanisms to cushion shocks. 13. War fatigue and political constraints in the attacking countries: There are domestic political limits on long wars, in a world that is worn out by continuing wars since the start of the new decade. Iran is deliberately making this conflict prolonged and costly for the other parties, even those who are not direct belligerents. 14. Ambiguity around Iran’s nuclear capability is a deterrent: Iran insists it does not have a nuclear weapon, but not many are sure. Can it quickly develop and use a nuclear weapon? That doubt raises the stakes for adversaries, as a desperate Iran could accelerate nuclear weaponisation. 15. Attackers not sure of the final desired outcome of the war: A military campaign can succeed only when objectives are defined. What do Israel and US want to achieve in Iran — territorial control, destruction of nuclear and missile capabilities, destruction of armed forces, or regime change? Their lack of clarity on this is helping Iran. 16. Survival itself is strategic victory for Iran: For all practical purposes, not losing fast can itself amount to winning for Iran. Iran is facing a test of survival against much stronger adversaries. The burden of expectations of victory is on US and Israel, not Iran. Also read: 'Oil, markets and security at risk': Did US–Iran conflict expose economic fault lines across the Middle East? Global realities are helping Iran not to lose, though not winning the war For much of the global community, including India, the Islamic Republic is still the government. The Indian external affairs minister, for instance, held at least three phone calls with his Iranian counterpart. Other global players like China and Russia consider it the legitimate government. Iranian ethnic factions like the Kurds are not having much of an impact in the actual war. European nations are yet to fully rally behind either the US or Israel and more worried about continued fuel supply from the region. The US-led military alliance NATO has not invoked the ‘one for all, all for one’ clause in its Article 5, which would have seen them enter the war militarily. Even the US is being forced to acknowledge the need for global energy flows to continue, exemplified in the de-sanctioning of Russian oil supplies to India. Globalisation is helping Iran in odd ways, as fuel supply disruptions caused by the war would affect economies, including that of the US. Iran, which is accused of raising proxies like Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah, does not seem to need them to stay in the war. Most of them are not even fully active in the war to support Iran, yet. Domestic concerns of Trump and Netanyahu may have led to the war. Now they don't know how to get out For the past three decades, Netanyahu has been talking about Iran being ‘very near to building a nuclear bomb’. But there is no sign of Iran detonating a bomb. Iran has threatened to target Israel’s nuclear facility. Many observers believe Israel probably has nuclear weapons, or at least the capability to develop them. Iran went ahead and threatened the main Dimona nuclear site, a message pretty similar to the gangsters’ phrase: ‘we know where you live’. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-midterms-2026-republicans-fear-iran-war-could-hurt-election-prospects-wion-1773192585039/embed The war happened at pivotal points for the political survival of both Trump and Netanyahu. Trump was facing the fallout from the Epstein files, which could affect the Republican Party’s prospects in this year's US midterm elections. If his party loses its majority in the US Congress, he would become a ‘lame-duck’ president for the next two years, opening a Pandora’s box of further legal scrutiny of his actions. He is yet to get congressional approval for the war. He needs something to show as having been achieved through the Iran operation. He could go deeper into Iran, including even boots on the ground to ‘secure uranium’ and prevent Iran from acquiring the nuclear bomb. Even that could probably not lead to total regime change in Iran. Netanyahu is facing corruption cases, and Trump even publicly pleaded with the Israeli president to pardon him, which is yet to happen. He is currently leading a minority government, essentially clinging to power thanks to the war situation. In fact, the last elections did not give him a clear majority, but he managed to stay in office largely because most of his tenure has been about the war on Hamas and now on Iran. He is also facing the next general elections, scheduled this year. The elections could make both Trump and Netanyahu less powerful. But Iran’s own specific form of elections has no such burdens. Ultimately, both the US and Israel are realising that this war is not going to get over in 12 days, like the last one did.

As the war enters 12th day, Iran is not losing. Geography, decentralised military, missile and drone capabilities, resilience under sanctions, and political constraints on its adversaries are helping Tehran turn mere survival into a strategic advantage

Not so fast: Iran war reaches 12 days, and Tehran is not losing - 16 reasons why

US President Donald Trump has reportedly been advised to articulate an exit plan from Iran war. While the White House has quashed the reports stating that it is "full of crap", the report suggests that Trump's advisers have cautioned him that the war will eat into his support base. The advisors who were not named in the report, said that the White House should come up with an "aggressive" public messaging to sell the war."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war</a>&nbsp;The report was published by the Wall Street Journal stated that while US officials have at times offered varying lists for the war’s aims, they have generally been the destruction of Iran’s missile program, the destruction of its navy, a halt to Iran’s support for regional proxies and the blocking of Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. This comes amid contradicting claims by Trump about the endgame of the war. Trump has also differed from his team about the aim of the war, with Secretary of War Pete <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">Hegseth stating it has just started</a> and Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubio-contradicts-trump-on-why-us-entered-iran-war-backtracks-on-israeli-plans-remark-netanyahu-smirks-is-america-confused-1772615320319/1772615320323">Marco Rubio</a> saying that the war began after knowing Israeli plans.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-threatens-tehran-with-death-fire-and-fury-1773133183231/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-threatens-tehran-with-death-fire-and-fury-1773133183231/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>White House rejects the WSJ report</h2>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt slammed the story and said that those quoted in the story are not the ones who shares room with the US President Trump. "This story is full of crap from anonymous sources who, I can guarantee, are not in the room with President Trump. The president’s top aides are focused 24/7 on ensuring Operation Epic Fury continues to be a tremendous success, and the end of these operations will ultimately be determined by the commander in chief,” Leavitt said. “The vast majority of Americans support ending the threat posed by the Iranian regime and support killing terrorists, and that’s what President Trump is going to accomplish,” Leavitt said in a response to the story.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-israel-using-white-phosphorus-in-lebanon-hezbollah-amid-iran-war-alarming-allegations-surfaces-1773128944896">Is Israel using white phosphorus in Lebanon amid Iran war? Alarming allegations surfaces</a><h2>Iran-US-Israel war</h2>Ten days after the United States and Israel launched ‘pre-emptive’ attack on Iran and killed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in subsequent air strikes on Mar 1, Iran has chosen its new Supreme Leader to lead the country. Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen to lead the country. While Trump has said that the new leader of Iran won't last long without his approval, Israel has threatened that he is the “target.” Israel and the US say that peaceful transition from “terror regime” is their goal while Iranian leadership ahs clarified that they won't reach out to the Americans for talks. Both sides are relentlessly bombing each other, with Tehran bombing US assets in Gulf countries, and Israel expanding its offensive to target Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump had said that the operations in Iran will go on for “four weeks or so”, and also boasted about US munitions that are enough for “forever” war. Iran's Revolutionary Guards said that they can go on fighting for six months or so. The attack came amid nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran.

A report claims Trump’s advisers urged him to outline an exit plan for the Iran war and adopt stronger messaging to maintain public support. The White House dismissed the report as false, saying Operation Epic Fury will continue until the president decides the war’s objectives are achieved.

US President Donald Trump has reportedly been advised to articulate an exit plan from Iran war. While the White House has quashed the reports stating that it is "full of crap", the report suggests that Trump's advisers have cautioned him that the war will eat into his support base. The advisors who were not named in the report, said that the White House should come up with an "aggressive" public messaging to sell the war." Also Read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war The report was published by the Wall Street Journal stated that while US officials have at times offered varying lists for the war’s aims, they have generally been the destruction of Iran’s missile program, the destruction of its navy, a halt to Iran’s support for regional proxies and the blocking of Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. This comes amid contradicting claims by Trump about the endgame of the war. Trump has also differed from his team about the aim of the war, with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stating it has just started and Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying that the war began after knowing Israeli plans. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-threatens-tehran-with-death-fire-and-fury-1773133183231/embed White House rejects the WSJ report White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt slammed the story and said that those quoted in the story are not the ones who shares room with the US President Trump. "This story is full of crap from anonymous sources who, I can guarantee, are not in the room with President Trump. The president’s top aides are focused 24/7 on ensuring Operation Epic Fury continues to be a tremendous success, and the end of these operations will ultimately be determined by the commander in chief,” Leavitt said. “The vast majority of Americans support ending the threat posed by the Iranian regime and support killing terrorists, and that’s what President Trump is going to accomplish,” Leavitt said in a response to the story. Also Read: Is Israel using white phosphorus in Lebanon amid Iran war? Alarming allegations surfaces Iran-US-Israel war Ten days after the United States and Israel launched ‘pre-emptive’ attack on Iran and killed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in subsequent air strikes on Mar 1, Iran has chosen its new Supreme Leader to lead the country. Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen to lead the country. While Trump has said that the new leader of Iran won't last long without his approval, Israel has threatened that he is the “target.” Israel and the US say that peaceful transition from “terror regime” is their goal while Iranian leadership ahs clarified that they won't reach out to the Americans for talks. Both sides are relentlessly bombing each other, with Tehran bombing US assets in Gulf countries, and Israel expanding its offensive to target Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump had said that the operations in Iran will go on for “four weeks or so”, and also boasted about US munitions that are enough for “forever” war. Iran's Revolutionary Guards said that they can go on fighting for six months or so. The attack came amid nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran.

A report claims Trump’s advisers urged him to outline an exit plan for the Iran war and adopt stronger messaging to maintain public support. The White House dismissed the report as false, saying Operation Epic Fury will continue until the president decides the war’s objectives are achieved.

Trump advised to articulate exit plan from Iran war? White House says...

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 10) stepped up its anti-Trump rhetoric with a cartoon of the US President Donald Trump grinning monstrously while standing amid a pile of bloodied school bags. The cartoon was posted by the X account of former Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (assassination confirmed March 1) along with a cryptic message that when translated from Persian to English simply reads "Nobel Cannibal". This comes amid reports that a American fired Tomahawk cruise missile was responsible for the death and destruction at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-epic-fury-s-darkest-day-us-investigation-points-to-america-s-role-in-minab-girls-school-massacre-shajareh-tayyebeh-girls-school-iran-1772782378596">Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school</a> in Minab, on Feb 28, the first day of the ongoing Iran war. Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-also-has-tomahawks-trump-confronted-by-reporters-as-he-floats-wild-theory-on-minab-school-strike-contradicts-pentagon-on-missile-use-1773120388711">'Iran also has Tomahawks': Trump confronted by reporters as he floats wild theory on Minab school strike, contradicts Pentagon</a><h2>What does the ghastly Trump cartoon show?</h2>The cartoon depicts US President Donald Trump as a monstrous figure with pointed teeth, holding a Nobel Peace Prize medal, with a background of scattered school backpacks and rubble from the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab. It is black and white except for stark red blood splatters that seem to cover the school bags that lay at the US President's feet.The Graphic illustration also has a caption written at the bottom of the image which emphasises the civilian toll of Operation Epic Fury. Labelling Trump a “pedophile and terrorist” it calls the alleged US strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab an “unprecedented crime in contemporary history”. It states that “168 innocent girls from an elementary school in Minab, Hormozgan Province, were martyred by a direct missile fired by the pedophile and terrorist American President Donald Trump.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">'Expel US &amp; Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260311/image-1773197128915.png"></figure>

<h2>Trump's wild Tomahawk theory</h2>Just a day earlier, POTUS Trump floated a theory that Iran itself possesses Tomahawk cruise missiles suspected in the attack. Speaking at his Doral resort in Florida, Trump denied US responsibility for the Feb 28 tragedy at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-epic-fury-s-darkest-day-us-investigation-points-to-america-s-role-in-minab-girls-school-massacre-shajareh-tayyebeh-girls-school-iran-1772782378596">Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school</a> in Minab. He suggested that the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "Tomahawk, which is one of the most powerful weapons around, is sold and used by other countries," said Trump.“And whether it's Iran, who also has some Tomahawks, they wish they had more, but, whether it's Iran or somebody else, the fact that a Tomahawk -- a Tomahawk is very generic, it's sold to other countries. But that's being investigated right now,” he said. The attack reportedly killed at least 175 people, most of them aged 7 to 12 years. This marks the most devastating death toll of the US-Israel-Iran war.&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. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a chilling escalation of Day 12 information war, the official X account of Ali Khamenei has branded US President a "Nobel Cannibal." It features a monstrous Donald Trump amid ruins of Minab girls' school, a direct rhetorical strike following his wild Tomahawk Theory regarding Feb 28 massacre.

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 10) stepped up its anti-Trump rhetoric with a cartoon of the US President Donald Trump grinning monstrously while standing amid a pile of bloodied school bags. The cartoon was posted by the X account of former Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (assassination confirmed March 1) along with a cryptic message that when translated from Persian to English simply reads "Nobel Cannibal". This comes amid reports that a American fired Tomahawk cruise missile was responsible for the death and destruction at the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab, on Feb 28, the first day of the ongoing Iran war. Here's all we know. Also read | 'Iran also has Tomahawks': Trump confronted by reporters as he floats wild theory on Minab school strike, contradicts Pentagon What does the ghastly Trump cartoon show? The cartoon depicts US President Donald Trump as a monstrous figure with pointed teeth, holding a Nobel Peace Prize medal, with a background of scattered school backpacks and rubble from the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab. It is black and white except for stark red blood splatters that seem to cover the school bags that lay at the US President's feet. The Graphic illustration also has a caption written at the bottom of the image which emphasises the civilian toll of Operation Epic Fury. Labelling Trump a “pedophile and terrorist” it calls the alleged US strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab an “unprecedented crime in contemporary history”. It states that “168 innocent girls from an elementary school in Minab, Hormozgan Province, were martyred by a direct missile fired by the pedophile and terrorist American President Donald Trump.” Also read | 'Expel US & Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition

Why did Iran post a cartoon of Donald Trump labelled “Nobel Cannibal”?The image shows the US president smiling amid bloodied school bags after reports linked a Tomahawk missile to deadly strike on an Iranian girls’ school. What message is Tehran trying to send? Scroll down to find out.

'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike

US President Donald Trump's war secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday (Mar 10) warned Russia that it "should not be involved" in the Iran war. This comes as reports suggest that Moscow may be aiding Tehran by providing intel about US military assets in the Gulf. Russian officials have meanwhile insisted in a call with Trump on Monday that they "have not been sharing" intelligence with Tehran amid the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran.<h2>Russia 'should not be involved'</h2>While speaking to the press, Hegseth was asked about Trump's recent call with Russian President Vladmir Putin. The War Secretary said that, "The president maintains strong relationships with world leaders, which creates opportunities and options for us in very dynamic ways".When asked about how the call related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, he ominously said, Russia "should not be involved".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">'Expel US &amp; Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition</a><h2>What intelligence is Russia providing to Iran?</h2>Reports suggest that Russia has been providing Iran intelligence about the locations and the movement of US troops, ships and aircraft.America, as per White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has "sent a message to Russia that if that was taking place, it’s not something they would be happy with, and they hope that it is not taking place."Meanwhile, Iran's &nbsp;foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi over the weekend acknowledged Russian help in "many different directions," but said he didn't "have any detailed information".<h2>Russian consulate in Iran damaged</h2>Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Tuesday revealed that the Russian Consulate General in Isfahan, Iran was damaged on Sunday. She said that the damage happened as a nearby provincial government building was attacked.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-and-diesel-prices-in-india-unlikely-to-rise-for-now-but-can-increase-if-oil-prices-cross-this-mark-1773111685796">India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost can increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark. Details inside</a>While several employees reported being pushed backwards by the force of the blast, no casualties or serious injuries were reported. The attack broke the windows of the consulate and nearby residential buildings.Calling attacks on diplomatic and consular buildings a violation of international law, she said "We demand that all parties strictly respect the inviolability of diplomatic premises and refrain from any attacks on the safety, life, and health of their personnel."&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. &nbsp;

Why did the US warn Russia to stay out of the Iran war? US War Secretary Pete Hegseth says Moscow “should not be involved” amid reports Russia may be sharing intelligence with Tehran.

What exactly is Russia accused of doing and how did the Kremlin respond? Scroll down to find out.

US President Donald Trump's war secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday (Mar 10) warned Russia that it "should not be involved" in the Iran war. This comes as reports suggest that Moscow may be aiding Tehran by providing intel about US military assets in the Gulf. Russian officials have meanwhile insisted in a call with Trump on Monday that they "have not been sharing" intelligence with Tehran amid the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran. Russia 'should not be involved' While speaking to the press, Hegseth was asked about Trump's recent call with Russian President Vladmir Putin. The War Secretary said that, "The president maintains strong relationships with world leaders, which creates opportunities and options for us in very dynamic ways". When asked about how the call related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, he ominously said, Russia "should not be involved". Also read | 'Expel US & Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition What intelligence is Russia providing to Iran? Reports suggest that Russia has been providing Iran intelligence about the locations and the movement of US troops, ships and aircraft. America, as per White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has "sent a message to Russia that if that was taking place, it’s not something they would be happy with, and they hope that it is not taking place." Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi over the weekend acknowledged Russian help in "many different directions," but said he didn't "have any detailed information". Russian consulate in Iran damaged Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Tuesday revealed that the Russian Consulate General in Isfahan, Iran was damaged on Sunday. She said that the damage happened as a nearby provincial government building was attacked. Also read | India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost can increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark. Details inside While several employees reported being pushed backwards by the force of the blast, no casualties or serious injuries were reported. The attack broke the windows of the consulate and nearby residential buildings. Calling attacks on diplomatic and consular buildings a violation of international law, she said "We demand that all parties strictly respect the inviolability of diplomatic premises and refrain from any attacks on the safety, life, and health of their personnel." 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.

Why did the US warn Russia to stay out of the Iran war? US War Secretary Pete Hegseth says Moscow “should not be involved” amid reports Russia may be sharing intelligence with Tehran.What exactly is Russia accused of doing and how did the Kremlin respond? Scroll down to find out.

'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations

This war has exposed a humiliating mechanical truth: European NATO doesn't just lack the political will; they lack the actual military hardware. 

This war has exposed a humiliating mechanical truth: European NATO doesn't just lack the political will; they lack the actual military hardware.&nbsp;

'Trump was RIGHT': How Iran War proved that Europe was using US as a 'watchman' in the name of NATO military alliance

The chief of the world's largest oil corporation warned that the war in West Asia could be disastrous for oil markets and said it is paramount to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed to shipments of key commodities, disrupting nearly 20 per cent of the world's energy supply.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There would be catastrophic consequences for the world’s oil markets the longer the disruption goes on, and the more drastic the consequences for the global economy,” Saudi Aramco’s CEO and President Amin H. Nasser said on Tuesday.&nbsp;“It’s absolutely critical that shipping resumes in the Strait of Hormuz,” Nasser added.&nbsp;Nasser’s comments came after crude oil prices surged past $100 per barrel on March 9, while analysts cautioned that a sustained blockage could push prices towards a record-breaking $150 per barrel.&nbsp;Similarly, gas prices in Europe nearly doubled in the first week of March, peaking above €60/MWh before stabilising slightly at €48/MWh. Asian LNG prices climbed even higher, as the region relies heavily on West Asia for nearly 90 per cent of its LNG requirements.The energy crisis prompted several countries to take drastic measures, including&nbsp;Pakistan, which implemented the steepest fuel price hike in its history at around Rs 55 per litre and ordered the shutting of schools and colleges across the country, while enforcing work-from-home policies for both government and private offices.&nbsp;Likewise, India on Tuesday invoked the Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955, effective March 2026, to address potential energy supply disruptions by ordering oil refining companies to maximise the production of LPG and make it available primarily to domestic consumers.&nbsp;Several countries in Europe and East Asia also announced similar measures. Japan, which relies on imports for about 87 per cent of its energy needs, and South Korea have activated emergency response protocols.&nbsp;These developments come after global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28.&nbsp;The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. The strikes resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign.&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. In response, major producers such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with limited export routes.&nbsp;&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.)

These developments come after global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28.

The chief of the world's largest oil corporation warned that the war in West Asia could be disastrous for oil markets and said it is paramount to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed to shipments of key commodities, disrupting nearly 20 per cent of the world's energy supply. “There would be catastrophic consequences for the world’s oil markets the longer the disruption goes on, and the more drastic the consequences for the global economy,” Saudi Aramco’s CEO and President Amin H. Nasser said on Tuesday. “It’s absolutely critical that shipping resumes in the Strait of Hormuz,” Nasser added. Nasser’s comments came after crude oil prices surged past $100 per barrel on March 9, while analysts cautioned that a sustained blockage could push prices towards a record-breaking $150 per barrel. Similarly, gas prices in Europe nearly doubled in the first week of March, peaking above €60/MWh before stabilising slightly at €48/MWh. Asian LNG prices climbed even higher, as the region relies heavily on West Asia for nearly 90 per cent of its LNG requirements. The energy crisis prompted several countries to take drastic measures, including Pakistan, which implemented the steepest fuel price hike in its history at around Rs 55 per litre and ordered the shutting of schools and colleges across the country, while enforcing work-from-home policies for both government and private offices. Likewise, India on Tuesday invoked the Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955, effective March 2026, to address potential energy supply disruptions by ordering oil refining companies to maximise the production of LPG and make it available primarily to domestic consumers. Several countries in Europe and East Asia also announced similar measures. Japan, which relies on imports for about 87 per cent of its energy needs, and South Korea have activated emergency response protocols. These developments come after global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28. The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. The strikes resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign. In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. In response, major producers such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with limited export routes. (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.)

These developments come after global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28.

World’s largest oil company CEO warns of 'catastrophic consequences' of Iran war as nations impose emergency measures

Iran-affiliated media is floating videos of Lego-style movies showing the war with the United States and Israel. The clips show Iran winning against its enemies as it takes down their ships and bases, striking places like Dubai and Cyprus. Similar propaganda videos were shared in June last year when the US struck Iran's nuclear sites and during the 12-day war with Israel. The latest video starts with Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump sitting together, looking at the Epstein Files. In the clip, Trump can be seen with the paedophile. Trump gets angry at seeing this, and so, with the "devil" by his side, launches a missile towards Iran, a reference to rumours that the US president attacked Iran to divert attention from the Epstein Files. The video then shows a missile and a shot of a teacher at a school, before cutting to visuals of ruin. The US-Israeli strikes killed 168 students and staff at the Shajarah Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab on the first day of the strikes.<h2>Lego-style Iranian propaganda video</h2>A soldier holds a bag and cries, as the movie shows Iran avenging the attack. Missiles can be seen crashing into British bases in Cyprus, a fighter crashing, people running in the streets, and a missile hitting the Burj al-Arab in Dubai. An Iranian general can be seen planning attacks on Tel Aviv and missiles being prepared. The clip shows a missile attack in Israel and an attack in Saudi Arabia. Sirens sound in Israel as people run around, and a figure resembling Netanyahu takes shelter in a bunker. More missiles are then seen falling into the US bases in Bahrain and Erbil.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/after-a-no-new-wars-campaign-donald-trump-ordered-strikes-on-8-countries-in-just-2-years-1773033428492">After a 'no new wars' campaign, Donald Trump ordered strikes on 8 countries in just 2 years</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A miscalculation from Israel 🇮🇱 towards Iran 🇮🇷— Lego movie An unofficial short movie made by some friends. <a href="https://t.co/epeZUieHot">pic.twitter.com/epeZUieHot</a>&mdash; Arya Yadeghaar (@AryJeay) <a href="https://twitter.com/AryJeay/status/1935715770983415933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">L&#39;Iran utilisant des Lego pour communiquer ne figurait pas sur ma grille de bingo 2026 ! <a href="https://t.co/qcVRS98nNL">pic.twitter.com/qcVRS98nNL</a>&mdash; Maitre Hiruzen 🐘 🇨🇮 (@Famouss26) <a href="https://twitter.com/Famouss26/status/2030614098363183409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

It goes on to show Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a rise in oil prices. It shows more missiles, some hitting American warships, and US soldiers killed in the strikes. It ends with an Iranian soldier standing with a bag of a school girl and the words, "In remembrance of the students from Minab who were martyred at the hands of Zionist and American terrorists."&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-announces-war-with-iran-is-going-to-end-very-soon-1773126909340/embed<h2>Pro-Iran videos were also released in 2025&nbsp;</h2>This is not the first time that a Lego-style pro-Iran video has been made and circulated on social media. A similar clip was doing the rounds in June last year. The Iran war has been ongoing since February 28, when Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed when a barrage of missiles struck his palace compound. Trump has been changing statements on how long the war could last, with initial statement being 4-5 weeks, to now changing to "it is almost over". Iran has claimed that it has an arsenal enough to fight for 10 years, while Trump has claimed that all their weapons are almost over. The social media propaganda video shows that the war is being fought with words and on social media as much as on the ground.

A Lego-movie-style Iranian propaganda video is doing the rounds on social media. It shows Iran taking revenge for the attack on girl's elementary school in Minab. It also accused Trump of starting the war to take the heat off the Epstein Files.

Iran-affiliated media is floating videos of Lego-style movies showing the war with the United States and Israel. The clips show Iran winning against its enemies as it takes down their ships and bases, striking places like Dubai and Cyprus. Similar propaganda videos were shared in June last year when the US struck Iran's nuclear sites and during the 12-day war with Israel. The latest video starts with Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump sitting together, looking at the Epstein Files. In the clip, Trump can be seen with the paedophile. Trump gets angry at seeing this, and so, with the "devil" by his side, launches a missile towards Iran, a reference to rumours that the US president attacked Iran to divert attention from the Epstein Files. The video then shows a missile and a shot of a teacher at a school, before cutting to visuals of ruin. The US-Israeli strikes killed 168 students and staff at the Shajarah Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab on the first day of the strikes. Lego-style Iranian propaganda video A soldier holds a bag and cries, as the movie shows Iran avenging the attack. Missiles can be seen crashing into British bases in Cyprus, a fighter crashing, people running in the streets, and a missile hitting the Burj al-Arab in Dubai. An Iranian general can be seen planning attacks on Tel Aviv and missiles being prepared. The clip shows a missile attack in Israel and an attack in Saudi Arabia. Sirens sound in Israel as people run around, and a figure resembling Netanyahu takes shelter in a bunker. More missiles are then seen falling into the US bases in Bahrain and Erbil. Also Read: After a 'no new wars' campaign, Donald Trump ordered strikes on 8 countries in just 2 years

A Lego-movie-style Iranian propaganda video is doing the rounds on social media. It shows Iran taking revenge for the attack on girl's elementary school in Minab. It also accused Trump of starting the war to take the heat off the Epstein Files.

Lego-movie-style clip accuses Trump of starting Iran war to divert attention from Epstein Files

The Government of India has invoked the Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955, effective March 2026, to address potential energy supply disruptions caused by raging war in West Asia after Israel and the US attacked Iran on Feb 28. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued specific directives to regulate the production and distribution of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and natural gas to ensure their availability for domestic and critical sectors. This simply means the oil refining&nbsp;companies have been ordered to maximise production of LPG and make&nbsp;it&nbsp;available to domestic consumers only. The order invokes clauses 3 and 5 of the&nbsp;ECA&nbsp;which also&nbsp;sets&nbsp;supply limits for Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260310/image-1773131873280.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-will-determine-iran-rejects-trump-s-war-very-much-complete-claims-says-this-about-oil-export-to-us-1773110587663">'We will determine...': Iran rejects Trump's 'war very much complete' claims, says THIS about oil export to US</a><h2>What is Essential Commodities Act (ECA)?</h2>The Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955 is a central legislation designed to ensure the delivery of specific goods whose supply, if obstructed by hoarding or black marketing or any other external factor. In 2020, the Indian Parliament amended the Act, restricting the Centre’s authority to regulate cereals, pulses, potatoes, onions, edible oilseeds and oils only during situations like war, famine, or severe natural calamities.&nbsp;The Act empowers the government to regulate the production, supply, distribution, and pricing of these commodities to ensure they are available to consumers at fair prices in crucial times as well. The Central Government can add or remove items from the "Schedule" of the Act based on public interest. Since 2020, the Centre has invoked the ECA five times citing the need to control food prices and safeguard domestic supply.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war</a>&nbsp;As the Act has been invoked now, all oil refining companies must maximise production of LPG using available propane and butane streams. Refiners are prohibited from diverting propane or butane for manufacturing petrochemical products or other downstream derivatives. Public sector OMCs — IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL— must supply the procured LPG exclusively to domestic households. A new Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026 prioritises gas allocation to domestic PNG, CNG, and fertiliser plants. To prevent hoarding, government has mandated a 25-days window for fresh cylinder bookings.

India has invoked the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 to safeguard LPG and natural gas supplies amid fears of energy disruptions due to the West Asia war. Refiners have been ordered to maximise LPG output, while OMCs must prioritise domestic consumers 

The Government of India has invoked the Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955, effective March 2026, to address potential energy supply disruptions caused by raging war in West Asia after Israel and the US attacked Iran on Feb 28. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued specific directives to regulate the production and distribution of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and natural gas to ensure their availability for domestic and critical sectors. This simply means the oil refining companies have been ordered to maximise production of LPG and make it available to domestic consumers only. The order invokes clauses 3 and 5 of the ECA which also sets supply limits for Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). Also Read: 'We will determine...': Iran rejects Trump's 'war very much complete' claims, says THIS about oil export to US What is Essential Commodities Act (ECA)? The Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955 is a central legislation designed to ensure the delivery of specific goods whose supply, if obstructed by hoarding or black marketing or any other external factor. In 2020, the Indian Parliament amended the Act, restricting the Centre’s authority to regulate cereals, pulses, potatoes, onions, edible oilseeds and oils only during situations like war, famine, or severe natural calamities. The Act empowers the government to regulate the production, supply, distribution, and pricing of these commodities to ensure they are available to consumers at fair prices in crucial times as well. The Central Government can add or remove items from the "Schedule" of the Act based on public interest. Since 2020, the Centre has invoked the ECA five times citing the need to control food prices and safeguard domestic supply. Also Read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war As the Act has been invoked now, all oil refining companies must maximise production of LPG using available propane and butane streams. Refiners are prohibited from diverting propane or butane for manufacturing petrochemical products or other downstream derivatives. Public sector OMCs — IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL— must supply the procured LPG exclusively to domestic households. A new Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026 prioritises gas allocation to domestic PNG, CNG, and fertiliser plants. To prevent hoarding, government has mandated a 25-days window for fresh cylinder bookings.

India has invoked the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 to safeguard LPG and natural gas supplies amid fears of energy disruptions due to the West Asia war. Refiners have been ordered to maximise LPG output, while OMCs must prioritise domestic consumers&nbsp;

Indian govt invokes Essential Commodities Act to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply amid West Asia war: What this means

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in Lebanon’s Yohmor town amid the escalating West Asia war. Israel said it cannot confirm the claims. The allegations come as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in Lebanon’s Yohmor town amid the escalating West Asia war. Israel said it cannot confirm the claims. The allegations come as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies

Is Israel using white phosphorus in Lebanon amid Iran war? Alarming allegation surfaces

Before the US and Israel started bombarding Iran in late February, European leaders were often vocal critics of the Islamic Republic regime's alleged human rights violations and protest suppressions. But there has been a conspicuous absence of united rhetoric or action on the ground to change the regime since the war began. What accounts for Europe's muted response, particularly stark when compared with the high-pitched rhetoric during the Russia–Ukraine war? How did European leaders respond to the war, essentially started by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu? Is Europe only worried about the continuous flow of heating oil, crude oil products and gas, and not so much about democracy or human rights in Iran?<h2>Europe's cautious, balanced language on the Iran war</h2>Official statements from the European Union or specific European leaders condemned Iranian actions such as retaliatory strikes on Gulf states. The statements mostly urged de-escalation and restraint without either endorsing or directly criticising the US–Israeli airstrikes. They paid lip service to democracy and human rights in Iran while expressing solidarity with the Iranian people. European leaders called for a “credible transition” or peaceful change rather than offering any justification for US-Israel military action.<h2>Europe engages in diplomatic hedging on Iran war</h2>Europe's response is best described as diplomatic hedging. Many of its 27 member states are also part of the security alliance NATO, of which the US is the main partner. European leaders do not want to alienate the Trump administration, which could affect ongoing Russia–Ukraine negotiations and broader security cooperation. At the same time, they are worried about how trade flows could be affected, for instance if Iran blocks ships carrying goods to Europe via the Strait of Hormuz — something Tehran has repeatedly threatened to do.The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, described Iran as an “exporter of war” and accused it of seeking to escalate the conflict by attacking regional neighbours. But Kallas stopped short of supporting the US–Israeli strikes, instead stressing the need for de-escalation.A European Union joint statement on March 1 urged Iran to end its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and stop repression against its citizens. But again, the emphasis was on “maximum restraint” from all parties, without naming the US or Israel as aggressors.EU Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a videoconference with Middle Eastern leaders on Monday (Mar 9) in which they condemned “indiscriminate attacks by Iran” and expressed solidarity with affected Gulf states. There too, they stressed diplomatic solutions without endorsing the war launched by the US and Israel.This is a sharp contrast with Europe’s collective fury over Russia’s actions in Ukraine, where terms like “unprovoked aggression” were regularly used.<h2>Mixed message from the European Union on Iran war?</h2>Analysts also pointed to internal leadership tussles and turf wars between Kallas and von der Leyen, which could be contributing to mixed messaging from Europe on the Iran war.&nbsp;Von der Leyen, in a post on X, said: “Europe stands with the people of Iran in their legitimate fight for freedom,” and called for a “credible transition in Iran.”Kallas appeared to explicitly oppose another war, saying Europe should use Iran’s “weakest point” to pursue a “diplomatic solution”.Overall, the tone of EU statements has been one of supporting the Iranian people’s “right to determine their own future” and condemning regime violence. But European leaders appear reluctant to endorse the use of force for regime change, which Israel and the US are widely believed to be attempting.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/centcom-5000-targets-iran-operation-epic-fury-strike-video-1773119657977">CENTCOM claims 5,000 targets hit in Iran during first 10 days of ‘Operation Epic Fury’, releases strike video</a><h2>No major European leader openly supported US–Israel attacks on Iran</h2>No top European leaders spoke in favour of the war or endorsed the US–Israeli strikes as a means to promote democracy or human rights in Iran. The statements were carefully calculated, choreographed and deliberately neutral. French President Emmanuel Macron called the strikes an “outbreak of war” with serious consequences for international peace. He sought an urgent UN Security Council meeting while urging negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. He also offered French military assistance to Middle Eastern partners. However, he did not praise the US–Israel offensive.German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who before the war had predicted that the regime in Iran would fall soon, made statements such as “international law is no longer respected” and said Germany must prioritise its own interests. This implied a reluctance to openly support the Israel–US offensive, as Merz also expressed hope that the war would “end quickly”.In a joint statement with France and Germany, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned Iran against missile attacks. But there too the call was for intensive diplomacy and military coordination in a defensive context rather than support for offensive action.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself on endgame of Iran war</a><h2>Some European leaders openly opposed the war</h2>Contrary to the general expectation that the West would stand united with the US, some European leaders openly opposed the war. They warned that it could cause global instability, trigger more migration and disrupt energy supplies.Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, one of the most vocal critics of the war, rejected the US–Israel strikes on Iran outright. “The world has seen this type of conflict before when the US attacked Iraq, promising democracy and stability. The conflict only led to a rise in jihadist terrorism, a migration crisis in Europe and higher energy prices,” he said.Sánchez went one step further, accusing Trump and Netanyahu of using the war to “hide their own failures” domestically, even as he rejected US requests for assistance.&nbsp;Reportedly, Italy, the UK, Germany and France excluded Sánchez from some discussions because of his stance.Europe’s stress appears to be on de-escalation. While von der Leyen and Costa jointly urged “maximum restraint” to avoid undermining global nuclear non-proliferation efforts, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, in talks with China, agreed to work towards de-escalation and a political solution while respecting Iranian aspirations.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-irgc-warns-gulf-states-of-200-oil-if-attacks-continue-wion-1773102593952/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-irgc-warns-gulf-states-of-200-oil-if-attacks-continue-wion-1773102593952/embed</a><h2>So what is Europe’s worry — gas and oil, or more?</h2>It would not be far off the mark to say Europe appears to be more worried about uninterrupted gas and oil supplies than spreading Western ideas of human rights and democracy in Iran. Energy security for Europe has become a central concern in discussions because of the continent’s vulnerability if supplies are disrupted.The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments pass. Any disruption there immediately affects global markets, including Europe. Oil prices have been hovering around $100 per barrel after jumping sharply during the escalation, while European natural gas prices have also risen significantly.Disruptions to Qatar’s LNG exports are affecting Europe at a time when gas storage levels remain relatively low.All this could lead to a cascading effect in Europe, including stagflation, higher inflation and economic slowdown — especially in gas-dependent economies such as Germany.<h2>If the war continues, food costs would rise for Europe</h2>Western ideas such as freedom for Iranians have now become secondary to more pragmatic concerns about energy shocks, new waves of migration and broader economic fragility. Europe is already dealing with the economic consequences of the Ukraine war. Energy-import-dependent economies in Europe cannot easily afford to endorse yet another war in the Middle East.Europe is vulnerable to high energy prices and is not well placed to cushion a major shock, according to analysts. The best course for Europe, therefore, may be a more pragmatic rather than ideological approach to the situation. That is why the entire region now appears cautious and largely silent about any bolder approach towards “regime change” in Iran.

European leaders responded cautiously to the US–Israel war on Iran, urging restraint and diplomacy. But why? Their own energy security, trade risks and geopolitical calculations seem to have outweighed usual paeans to democracy or regime change

Before the US and Israel started bombarding Iran in late February, European leaders were often vocal critics of the Islamic Republic regime's alleged human rights violations and protest suppressions. But there has been a conspicuous absence of united rhetoric or action on the ground to change the regime since the war began. What accounts for Europe's muted response, particularly stark when compared with the high-pitched rhetoric during the Russia–Ukraine war? How did European leaders respond to the war, essentially started by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu? Is Europe only worried about the continuous flow of heating oil, crude oil products and gas, and not so much about democracy or human rights in Iran? Europe's cautious, balanced language on the Iran war Official statements from the European Union or specific European leaders condemned Iranian actions such as retaliatory strikes on Gulf states. The statements mostly urged de-escalation and restraint without either endorsing or directly criticising the US–Israeli airstrikes. They paid lip service to democracy and human rights in Iran while expressing solidarity with the Iranian people. European leaders called for a “credible transition” or peaceful change rather than offering any justification for US-Israel military action. Europe engages in diplomatic hedging on Iran war Europe's response is best described as diplomatic hedging. Many of its 27 member states are also part of the security alliance NATO, of which the US is the main partner. European leaders do not want to alienate the Trump administration, which could affect ongoing Russia–Ukraine negotiations and broader security cooperation. At the same time, they are worried about how trade flows could be affected, for instance if Iran blocks ships carrying goods to Europe via the Strait of Hormuz — something Tehran has repeatedly threatened to do. The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, described Iran as an “exporter of war” and accused it of seeking to escalate the conflict by attacking regional neighbours. But Kallas stopped short of supporting the US–Israeli strikes, instead stressing the need for de-escalation. A European Union joint statement on March 1 urged Iran to end its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and stop repression against its citizens. But again, the emphasis was on “maximum restraint” from all parties, without naming the US or Israel as aggressors. EU Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a videoconference with Middle Eastern leaders on Monday (Mar 9) in which they condemned “indiscriminate attacks by Iran” and expressed solidarity with affected Gulf states. There too, they stressed diplomatic solutions without endorsing the war launched by the US and Israel. This is a sharp contrast with Europe’s collective fury over Russia’s actions in Ukraine, where terms like “unprovoked aggression” were regularly used. Mixed message from the European Union on Iran war? Analysts also pointed to internal leadership tussles and turf wars between Kallas and von der Leyen, which could be contributing to mixed messaging from Europe on the Iran war. Von der Leyen, in a post on X, said: “Europe stands with the people of Iran in their legitimate fight for freedom,” and called for a “credible transition in Iran.” Kallas appeared to explicitly oppose another war, saying Europe should use Iran’s “weakest point” to pursue a “diplomatic solution”. Overall, the tone of EU statements has been one of supporting the Iranian people’s “right to determine their own future” and condemning regime violence. But European leaders appear reluctant to endorse the use of force for regime change, which Israel and the US are widely believed to be attempting. Also read: CENTCOM claims 5,000 targets hit in Iran during first 10 days of ‘Operation Epic Fury’, releases strike video No major European leader openly supported US–Israel attacks on Iran No top European leaders spoke in favour of the war or endorsed the US–Israeli strikes as a means to promote democracy or human rights in Iran. The statements were carefully calculated, choreographed and deliberately neutral. French President Emmanuel Macron called the strikes an “outbreak of war” with serious consequences for international peace. He sought an urgent UN Security Council meeting while urging negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. He also offered French military assistance to Middle Eastern partners. However, he did not praise the US–Israel offensive. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who before the war had predicted that the regime in Iran would fall soon, made statements such as “international law is no longer respected” and said Germany must prioritise its own interests. This implied a reluctance to openly support the Israel–US offensive, as Merz also expressed hope that the war would “end quickly”. In a joint statement with France and Germany, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned Iran against missile attacks. But there too the call was for intensive diplomacy and military coordination in a defensive context rather than support for offensive action. Also read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself on endgame of Iran war Some European leaders openly opposed the war Contrary to the general expectation that the West would stand united with the US, some European leaders openly opposed the war. They warned that it could cause global instability, trigger more migration and disrupt energy supplies. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, one of the most vocal critics of the war, rejected the US–Israel strikes on Iran outright. “The world has seen this type of conflict before when the US attacked Iraq, promising democracy and stability. The conflict only led to a rise in jihadist terrorism, a migration crisis in Europe and higher energy prices,” he said. Sánchez went one step further, accusing Trump and Netanyahu of using the war to “hide their own failures” domestically, even as he rejected US requests for assistance. Reportedly, Italy, the UK, Germany and France excluded Sánchez from some discussions because of his stance. Europe’s stress appears to be on de-escalation. While von der Leyen and Costa jointly urged “maximum restraint” to avoid undermining global nuclear non-proliferation efforts, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, in talks with China, agreed to work towards de-escalation and a political solution while respecting Iranian aspirations. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-irgc-warns-gulf-states-of-200-oil-if-attacks-continue-wion-1773102593952/embed So what is Europe’s worry — gas and oil, or more? It would not be far off the mark to say Europe appears to be more worried about uninterrupted gas and oil supplies than spreading Western ideas of human rights and democracy in Iran. Energy security for Europe has become a central concern in discussions because of the continent’s vulnerability if supplies are disrupted. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments pass. Any disruption there immediately affects global markets, including Europe. Oil prices have been hovering around $100 per barrel after jumping sharply during the escalation, while European natural gas prices have also risen significantly. Disruptions to Qatar’s LNG exports are affecting Europe at a time when gas storage levels remain relatively low. All this could lead to a cascading effect in Europe, including stagflation, higher inflation and economic slowdown — especially in gas-dependent economies such as Germany. If the war continues, food costs would rise for Europe Western ideas such as freedom for Iranians have now become secondary to more pragmatic concerns about energy shocks, new waves of migration and broader economic fragility. Europe is already dealing with the economic consequences of the Ukraine war. Energy-import-dependent economies in Europe cannot easily afford to endorse yet another war in the Middle East. Europe is vulnerable to high energy prices and is not well placed to cushion a major shock, according to analysts. The best course for Europe, therefore, may be a more pragmatic rather than ideological approach to the situation. That is why the entire region now appears cautious and largely silent about any bolder approach towards “regime change” in Iran.

European leaders responded cautiously to the US–Israel war on Iran, urging restraint and diplomacy. But why? Their own energy security, trade risks and geopolitical calculations seem to have outweighed usual paeans to democracy or regime change

Europe's reluctance to support US-Israel military operations on Iran. What about democracy, human rights, etc.?

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 9) expressed his disappointment on Iran's decision to choose Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader. A day ago, he had said that he is not happy with Mojtaba's appointment. He had also previously warned that any new leader in Iran “won't last long” without his approval. The POTUS had also hinted that he had three “very good choices” in mind who could lead Iran. But, he didn't reveal the name, stating that job must be finished first. Trump's statement on Mojtaba came even as he claimed that entire leadership of the Iranian regime has “gone.” He explained why he is opposing Mojtaba's appointment as the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-strike-iran-trump-iran-war-will-end-soon-wion-1773111605451/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-strike-iran-trump-iran-war-will-end-soon-wion-1773111605451/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“Everything they have is gone, including their leadership, they have no leadership,” Trump said while addressing a news conference. Minutes later, he contradicted himself and said that “two levels of leadership are gone,” and that “most people have never even heard about the leaders that they’re talking about.” Referring to Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the recently killed supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Trump explained, “I was disappointed, because we think it’s going to lead to just more of the same problem for the country. So I was disappointed to see their choice.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-s-first-reaction-after-iran-appoints-mojtaba-khamenei-as-new-supreme-leader-iran-us-israel-war-1773028077192/1773028077198">'I am not...': Trump's first reaction after Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader</a>&nbsp;Trump's initial warning about the next Supreme Leader came hours ahead of Iran's official announcement. “He’s going to have to get approval from us…If he doesn’t get approval from us he’s not going to last long. We want to make sure that we don’t have to go back every 10 years…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,” Trump said. 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.” Even after Trump's threat, Iran announced the new Supreme Leader and Russia, China came out with a statement backing him. Iran insisted that the matter of the selection of the Supreme Leader is its “internal affair.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231/1773117026232">Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war</a>&nbsp;Though, the US president did not name his three choices, he also seemingly snubbed Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi calling him a “nice guy” but ruling him out for the top post in the Islamic Republic. "Someone from within Iran” should rule the country," Trump had said. Meanwhile, Israel not only said that new Supreme Leader would be its target, but also warned those participating in the successor selection meeting.&nbsp;&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 expressed disappointment after Iran appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader, warning the new leader “won’t last long” without US approval. Trump claimed Iran’s leadership was “gone” 

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 9) expressed his disappointment on Iran's decision to choose Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader. A day ago, he had said that he is not happy with Mojtaba's appointment. He had also previously warned that any new leader in Iran “won't last long” without his approval. The POTUS had also hinted that he had three “very good choices” in mind who could lead Iran. But, he didn't reveal the name, stating that job must be finished first. Trump's statement on Mojtaba came even as he claimed that entire leadership of the Iranian regime has “gone.” He explained why he is opposing Mojtaba's appointment as the Supreme Leader. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-strike-iran-trump-iran-war-will-end-soon-wion-1773111605451/embed “Everything they have is gone, including their leadership, they have no leadership,” Trump said while addressing a news conference. Minutes later, he contradicted himself and said that “two levels of leadership are gone,” and that “most people have never even heard about the leaders that they’re talking about.” Referring to Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the recently killed supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Trump explained, “I was disappointed, because we think it’s going to lead to just more of the same problem for the country. So I was disappointed to see their choice.” Also Read: 'I am not...': Trump's first reaction after Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader Trump's initial warning about the next Supreme Leader came hours ahead of Iran's official announcement. “He’s going to have to get approval from us…If he doesn’t get approval from us he’s not going to last long. We want to make sure that we don’t have to go back every 10 years…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,” Trump said. 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.” Even after Trump's threat, Iran announced the new Supreme Leader and Russia, China came out with a statement backing him. Iran insisted that the matter of the selection of the Supreme Leader is its “internal affair.” Also Read: Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war Though, the US president did not name his three choices, he also seemingly snubbed Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi calling him a “nice guy” but ruling him out for the top post in the Islamic Republic. "Someone from within Iran” should rule the country," Trump had said. Meanwhile, Israel not only said that new Supreme Leader would be its target, but also warned those participating in the successor selection meeting. 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 expressed disappointment after Iran appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader, warning the new leader “won’t last long” without US approval. Trump claimed Iran’s leadership was “gone”&nbsp;

'Same problem...': Trump explains his 'disappointment' on selection of Mojtaba as new Supreme Leader

Conflicting messages from Donald Trump and US officials have created confusion over the Iran war. While Trump said the conflict is nearly finished, he later vowed to continue fighting until total victory, even as Pentagon leaders signalled the campaign has only just begun.

Conflicting messages from Donald Trump and US officials have created confusion over the Iran war. While Trump said the conflict is nearly finished, he later vowed to continue fighting until total victory, even as Pentagon leaders signalled the campaign has only just begun.

From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself on endgame of Iran war

A Tomahawk missile hit a girls' school in Iran in the initial days of the attack, killing 168. The United States refused to take the blame, as did Israel. Donald Trump even stated at one point that it was Iran who misfired and killed the innocent victims. He later tried to pin the blame on Israel. However, he has now changed his stance, neither admitting nor dismissing reports that it was a US Tomahawk that murdered the Iranian girls. He told reporters on Monday night that the Tomahawk is "sold and used by other countries" and Iran "also has some Tomahawks." The president said, "Whether it's Iran or somebody else ... a Tomahawk is very generic." But is Tomahawk that common?&nbsp;The missile is primarily owned and operated by the United States Navy, with the US Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps also occasionally using it. The United Kingdom is an ally that uses Tomahawk missiles, but is not a part of the war. Raytheon manufactures and sells the missile to allied countries like Japan and Australia. However, there is no evidence that Iran has access to the missile.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/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-1772920275441">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'</a><h2>Fact checker shows the US is the only one in the Iran war that owns Tomahawk missiles</h2>Newly released videos suggest that apparently it was a US Tomahawk that crashed into the school. A conflict researcher with Dutch fact-checking group Bellingcat shared previously unseen footage of the missile hitting a building in the Revolutionary Guard Corps compound in Minab. Trevor Ball wrote in the X post, with footage from Iran's Mehr News showing "for the first time, that the United States (had) struck the area". &nbsp;&nbsp;What Trump said on Tomahawk missiles

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RAJU: Footage shows an American missile likely destroyed the Iranian girls&#39; school. Will the US accept any respons-- TRUMP: Well, I haven&#39;t seen it. I will say that the Tomahawk, which is one of the most powerful weapons around, is sold and used by other countries. Iran has some… <a href="https://t.co/03NLQ8flhO">pic.twitter.com/03NLQ8flhO</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/2031131823049216084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bell pointed out, "The US is the only participant in the war that is known to have Tomahawk missiles. Israel is not known to have Tomahawk missiles." The video also compared the missile that struck the building in the IRGC compound with a closer view of another Tomahawk. What further adds weight to the video is that it had been geolocated, which means the location has been digitally corroborated. The video shows the missile hitting the building in the IRGC compound, with smoke rising in the back from the girls' school struck moments earlier.&nbsp;Video of Tomahawk missiles

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New video footage shows a US Tomahawk missile hitting an IRGC facility in Minab, Iran, on Feb 28, showing for the first time that the US struck the area. The footage also shows smoke already rising from the vicinity of the girls’ school, where 175 people were reportedly killed. <a href="https://t.co/4jBXrNcRJO">pic.twitter.com/4jBXrNcRJO</a>&mdash; Trevor Ball (@Easybakeovensz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Easybakeovensz/status/2030700313267540435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-strike-iran-trump-iran-war-will-end-soon-wion-1773111605451/embed<h2>US blamed Iran for missile attack on girls school in Minab</h2>On February 28, Israel launched an attack on Iran, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hundreds of missiles rained down, and Minab was one area that was targeted. Here, a missile exploded near the Shajarah Tayyebeh Elementary School, killing innocent students. &nbsp;US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said a few days later, "All I can say is that we're investigating that. We, of course, never target civilian targets. But we're taking a look and investigating that." Trump blamed Iran while talking to reporters on Air Force One. "We think it was done by Iran. Because they are very inaccurate, as you know, with their munitions. They have no accuracy whatsoever." The school strikes have received widespread criticism from human rights groups, the United Nations and general public across the world.&nbsp;

Donald Trump has said that the Tomahawk missiles are “very generic”. However, this claim is not true, and the US is the primary country that manufactures, owns and operates these missiles. Israel does not have Tomahawk, a fact-checking website has stated. 

A Tomahawk missile hit a girls' school in Iran in the initial days of the attack, killing 168. The United States refused to take the blame, as did Israel. Donald Trump even stated at one point that it was Iran who misfired and killed the innocent victims. He later tried to pin the blame on Israel. However, he has now changed his stance, neither admitting nor dismissing reports that it was a US Tomahawk that murdered the Iranian girls. He told reporters on Monday night that the Tomahawk is "sold and used by other countries" and Iran "also has some Tomahawks." The president said, "Whether it's Iran or somebody else ... a Tomahawk is very generic." But is Tomahawk that common? The missile is primarily owned and operated by the United States Navy, with the US Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps also occasionally using it. The United Kingdom is an ally that uses Tomahawk missiles, but is not a part of the war. Raytheon manufactures and sells the missile to allied countries like Japan and Australia. However, there is no evidence that Iran has access to the missile. Also Read: 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' Fact checker shows the US is the only one in the Iran war that owns Tomahawk missiles Newly released videos suggest that apparently it was a US Tomahawk that crashed into the school. A conflict researcher with Dutch fact-checking group Bellingcat shared previously unseen footage of the missile hitting a building in the Revolutionary Guard Corps compound in Minab. Trevor Ball wrote in the X post, with footage from Iran's Mehr News showing "for the first time, that the United States (had) struck the area". What Trump said on Tomahawk missiles

Donald Trump has said that the Tomahawk missiles are “very generic” and even “Iran has some”. However, this claim is not true, and the US is the primary country that manufactures, owns and operates these missiles. Israel does not have Tomahawk, a fact-checking website has stated.&nbsp;

Fact Check: Trump says Tomahawk missile is 'very generic' and even 'Iran has some'. Is it really?

Hours after US President Donald Trump said that the war is “very complete” and hinted that it might end soon, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement stating otherwise. The IRGC said that it will “determine the end of the war” in West Asia, adding that the future status of the region are now in the hands of Iranian armed forces and not the Americans. The IRGC also said that Tehran will not allow “one litre of oil” to be exported from the region if US and Israeli attacks continue. The response comes after Trump in a Truth Social post said that Iran will be hit “twenty times harder” if flow of oil stops within the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-s-first-reaction-after-iran-appoints-mojtaba-khamenei-as-new-supreme-leader-iran-us-israel-war-1773028077192">'I am not...': Trump's first reaction after Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader</a>&nbsp;“It is we who will determine the end of the war. The equations and future status of the region are now in the hands of our armed forces; American forces will not end the war,” the IRGC said in a statement. &nbsp;This comes after US President Donald Trump claimed that the war is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In a statement, during an interview with CBS News, Trump on Monday (March 9) said the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. He also went on to claim that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." “They have no navy, no communications, they've got no air force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mojtaba-khamenei-iran-s-next-supreme-leader-pro-nuclear-hardliner-wealth-100-million-infertility-treatment-irgc-trump-sanction-1773012834582">Pro-nuclear hardliner to infertility treatment: What we know about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's next Supreme Leader</a>&nbsp;Trump wrote on Truth Social, “If Iran does anything that stops the flow of oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America twenty times harder than they have been hit thus far.” Trump also claimed that the US and Israeli forces have “wiped every single force in Iran out very completely.” On the hovering oil crisis, Trump had earlier claimed that it is a ”small price" for the war. However, later in the day, the White House said that Trump is reviewing "all credible options" for controlling oil prices, and insisted that the current spike was “short-term.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-iran-destroys-key-us-thaad-radar-targets-american-air-defence-network-wion-1773109798489/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-iran-destroys-key-us-thaad-radar-targets-american-air-defence-network-wion-1773109798489/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran's statement comes a day after the Islamic Republic appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as its Supreme Leader. It has been ten days since the United States and Israel launched ‘pre-emptive’ attack on Iran and killed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in subsequent air strikes on Mar 1. The West Asia region has been destablised since then amid Iran's retaliation on Gulf nations for allowing the US to use their territory to launch attacks on Tehran. Israel has expanded its offensive to target Hezbollah in Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Trump has said that the new leader of Iran won't last long without his approval, Israel has threatened that he is the “target.” Israel and the US say that peaceful transition from “terror regime” is their goal while Iranian leadership has clarified that they won't reach out to the Americans for talks. &nbsp;The attack came amid nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran.&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. &nbsp;

Iran’s IRGC rejected Trump’s claim that the war is “very complete,” saying Tehran—not the US—will decide how it ends. It warned oil exports from the region could halt if attacks continue. Trump threatened Iran would be hit “20 times harder” if shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted.

Hours after US President Donald Trump said that the war is “very complete” and hinted that it might end soon, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement stating otherwise. The IRGC said that it will “determine the end of the war” in West Asia, adding that the future status of the region are now in the hands of Iranian armed forces and not the Americans. The IRGC also said that Tehran will not allow “one litre of oil” to be exported from the region if US and Israeli attacks continue. The response comes after Trump in a Truth Social post said that Iran will be hit “twenty times harder” if flow of oil stops within the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: 'I am not...': Trump's first reaction after Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader “It is we who will determine the end of the war. The equations and future status of the region are now in the hands of our armed forces; American forces will not end the war,” the IRGC said in a statement. This comes after US President Donald Trump claimed that the war is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In a statement, during an interview with CBS News, Trump on Monday (March 9) said the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. He also went on to claim that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." “They have no navy, no communications, they've got no air force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones.” Also Read: Pro-nuclear hardliner to infertility treatment: What we know about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's next Supreme Leader Trump wrote on Truth Social, “If Iran does anything that stops the flow of oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America twenty times harder than they have been hit thus far.” Trump also claimed that the US and Israeli forces have “wiped every single force in Iran out very completely.” On the hovering oil crisis, Trump had earlier claimed that it is a ”small price" for the war. However, later in the day, the White House said that Trump is reviewing "all credible options" for controlling oil prices, and insisted that the current spike was “short-term.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-iran-destroys-key-us-thaad-radar-targets-american-air-defence-network-wion-1773109798489/embed Iran's statement comes a day after the Islamic Republic appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as its Supreme Leader. It has been ten days since the United States and Israel launched ‘pre-emptive’ attack on Iran and killed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in subsequent air strikes on Mar 1. The West Asia region has been destablised since then amid Iran's retaliation on Gulf nations for allowing the US to use their territory to launch attacks on Tehran. Israel has expanded its offensive to target Hezbollah in Lebanon. While Trump has said that the new leader of Iran won't last long without his approval, Israel has threatened that he is the “target.” Israel and the US say that peaceful transition from “terror regime” is their goal while Iranian leadership has clarified that they won't reach out to the Americans for talks. The attack came amid nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran. 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.

Iran’s IRGC rejected Trump’s claim that the war is “very complete,” saying Tehran—not the US—will decide how it ends. It warned oil exports from the region could halt if attacks continue. Trump threatened Iran would be hit “20 times harder” if shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted.

'We will determine...': Iran rejects Trump's 'war very much complete' claims, says THIS about oil export to US

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday (Mar 9) announced a series of austerity measures designed to save fuel amid a raging “energy emergency”, as oil prices surged to record levels following a serious escalation in the US-Israeli war on Iran. The measures aim to cut fuel consumption by 30 per cent immediately and mandate a four-day work week for federal government offices, along with a work-from-home policy for both government and private organisations to save electricity and fuel.&nbsp;The Pakistan government ordered the closure of schools across the country for two weeks starting March 16, while universities are required to hold classes online.&nbsp;Sharif also announced a 50 per cent cut in fuel allowances for government departments and restrictions on the use of official vehicles for the next two months. The federal cabinet will forgo their salaries for the next two months, while parliamentarians will see a 25 per cent pay cut, and senior officials will contribute two days’ salaries to the government fund.&nbsp;Islamabad has also enforced a complete ban on the purchase of new vehicles, furniture, and air conditioners. Official dinners and Iftar parties funded by the government are also prohibited. In a televised address to the nation, Sharif said that due to the situation, the global price of oil had jumped to more than $100 per barrel. “If things keep progressing in this manner, then the prices will get out of hand,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-many-surprises-in-store-warns-iran-as-it-blames-trump-s-operation-epic-mistake-for-doubling-oil-prices-1773077274673">‘Many surprises in store,’ warns Iran as it blames Trump’s ‘Operation Epic Mistake’ for surging oil prices</a>&nbsp;“We are in a state of war-driven economic necessity. Every drop of fuel saved is a cent of foreign exchange preserved for the nation’s survival. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has created a physical supply vacuum that we cannot ignore. Our monthly oil import bill is projected to surge to $600 million, and we must act now to stretch our existing 28-day reserves,” Pakistan’s Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said in a press briefing.&nbsp;The moves come after global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28.&nbsp;The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. The strikes resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign.&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. In response, major producers such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with limited export routes.&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.)

After a record increase of Rs 55 per litre, petrol prices reached Rs 321.17 on March 7, Pakistan introduced a series of austerity measures citing pressure on the forex as its oil import bill is projected to reach $600 million amid war in West Asia.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday (Mar 9) announced a series of austerity measures designed to save fuel amid a raging “energy emergency”, as oil prices surged to record levels following a serious escalation in the US-Israeli war on Iran. The measures aim to cut fuel consumption by 30 per cent immediately and mandate a four-day work week for federal government offices, along with a work-from-home policy for both government and private organisations to save electricity and fuel. The Pakistan government ordered the closure of schools across the country for two weeks starting March 16, while universities are required to hold classes online. Sharif also announced a 50 per cent cut in fuel allowances for government departments and restrictions on the use of official vehicles for the next two months. The federal cabinet will forgo their salaries for the next two months, while parliamentarians will see a 25 per cent pay cut, and senior officials will contribute two days’ salaries to the government fund. Islamabad has also enforced a complete ban on the purchase of new vehicles, furniture, and air conditioners. Official dinners and Iftar parties funded by the government are also prohibited. In a televised address to the nation, Sharif said that due to the situation, the global price of oil had jumped to more than $100 per barrel. “If things keep progressing in this manner, then the prices will get out of hand,” he said. Also Read: ‘Many surprises in store,’ warns Iran as it blames Trump’s ‘Operation Epic Mistake’ for surging oil prices “We are in a state of war-driven economic necessity. Every drop of fuel saved is a cent of foreign exchange preserved for the nation’s survival. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has created a physical supply vacuum that we cannot ignore. Our monthly oil import bill is projected to surge to $600 million, and we must act now to stretch our existing 28-day reserves,” Pakistan’s Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said in a press briefing. The moves come after global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28. The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. The strikes resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign. In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. In response, major producers such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with limited export routes. (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.)

After a record increase of Rs 55 per litre, petrol prices reached Rs 321.17 on March 7, Pakistan introduced a series of austerity measures citing pressure on the forex as its oil import bill is projected to reach $600 million amid war in West Asia.

Pakistan shuts schools, colleges; introduces 4-day work week amid energy emergency

Describing United States military strikes against Tehran as "Operation Epic Mistake," Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday (Mar 09) said just 9 days into the conflict ", oil prices have doubled while all commodities are skyrocketing." He added that "We (Iran) know that the US is plotting against our oil and nuclear sites in hopes of containing huge inflationary shock" and warned that the Islamic Republic "is fully prepared" have "many surprises in store."&nbsp;These comments from Araghchi came as the WTI crude prices surged to $119.48 in a single trading session on Monday to finally settle near $103.32 per barrel, while Brent crude also traded above $100, marking over 50 per cent increase since the beginning of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28. The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming specifically to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. The strikes resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign. In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for 20% of the world's oil. In response, major producers like Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with no way to export.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-deploys-doomsday-nuclear-command-planes-to-west-asia-amid-ww3-fears-1773071562944">Trump deploys ‘Doomsday’ nuclear command planes to West Asia amid WW3 fears</a>&nbsp;In response to the $100+ price tag, the G7 finance ministers are reportedly holding emergency talks today to discuss a coordinated release of petroleum reserves. While President Trump posted on Truth Social that the spike is a "very small price to pay for world safety," the International Monetary Fund warned that every sustained 10% rise in oil prices could slash 0.15% off global economic growth, threatening a "stagflation" crisis for import-dependent nations.&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.) &nbsp;

In response to the $100+ price tag, the G7 finance ministers are reportedly holding emergency talks today to discuss a coordinated release of petroleum reserves. While President Trump posted on Truth Social that the spike is a "very small price to pay for world safety."

Describing United States military strikes against Tehran as "Operation Epic Mistake," Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday (Mar 09) said just 9 days into the conflict ", oil prices have doubled while all commodities are skyrocketing." He added that "We (Iran) know that the US is plotting against our oil and nuclear sites in hopes of containing huge inflationary shock" and warned that the Islamic Republic "is fully prepared" have "many surprises in store." These comments from Araghchi came as the WTI crude prices surged to $119.48 in a single trading session on Monday to finally settle near $103.32 per barrel, while Brent crude also traded above $100, marking over 50 per cent increase since the beginning of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28. The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming specifically to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. The strikes resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign. In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for 20% of the world's oil. In response, major producers like Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with no way to export. Also Read: Trump deploys ‘Doomsday’ nuclear command planes to West Asia amid WW3 fears In response to the $100+ price tag, the G7 finance ministers are reportedly holding emergency talks today to discuss a coordinated release of petroleum reserves. While President Trump posted on Truth Social that the spike is a "very small price to pay for world safety," the International Monetary Fund warned that every sustained 10% rise in oil prices could slash 0.15% off global economic growth, threatening a "stagflation" crisis for import-dependent nations. (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.)

In response to the $100+ price tag, the G7 finance ministers are reportedly holding emergency talks today to discuss a coordinated release of petroleum reserves. While President Trump posted on Truth Social that the spike is a "very small price to pay for world safety."

‘Many surprises in store,’ warns Iran as it blames Trump’s ‘Operation Epic Mistake’ for surging oil prices

As Iran's Assembly of experts officially appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the country's third Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike on 28 February, the Israeli military on Monday (Feb 09) launched a "wide-scale" strikes on Tehran, Isfahan and southern Iran, shortly after one man was killed in Israel following missile launches from Iran.&nbsp;"The IDF has just begun a wide-scale wave of strikes against the infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran, Isfahan, and southern Iran," the military said in a statement.&nbsp;Amid the strikes, thousands of people gathered at Tehran's Enghelab Square to pledge allegiance to the Islamic Republic's new leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, AFP reported, citing journalists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-attack-mojtaba-khamenei-ex-ambassador-warns-says-duty-bound-to-eliminate-1773058915216">Israel to attack Mojtaba Khamenei? Ex-ambassador warns, says ‘duty-bound to eliminate...’</a>&nbsp;The crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. The Islamic Republic on Sunday night named hardline Mojabata as its new leader amid a US-Israeli campaign to trigger regime change in Iran through military strikes. He is known to have close ties with the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and wielded significant influence in Israeli politics despite never holding any political office. The move comes after a deadly war in West Asia triggered by the launch of a joint military operation by the US-Israeli forces on February 28, targeting top leadership of Iran, including late Supreme Leader Khamenei and multiple sensitive military locations across the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;In retaliation, the Revolutionary Guards struck US bases and other key locations in the Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait.&nbsp;The wave of strikes and counterstrikes turned the West Asia region into a warzone and sparked Brent crude prices to $90-$100 per barrel owing to production interruptions and shipping disruptions caused by the closure of Starit of Hormuz.&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.)&nbsp;

The crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans.

As Iran's Assembly of experts officially appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the country's third Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike on 28 February, the Israeli military on Monday (Feb 09) launched a "wide-scale" strikes on Tehran, Isfahan and southern Iran, shortly after one man was killed in Israel following missile launches from Iran. "The IDF has just begun a wide-scale wave of strikes against the infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran, Isfahan, and southern Iran," the military said in a statement. Amid the strikes, thousands of people gathered at Tehran's Enghelab Square to pledge allegiance to the Islamic Republic's new leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, AFP reported, citing journalists. Also Read: Israel to attack Mojtaba Khamenei? Ex-ambassador warns, says ‘duty-bound to eliminate...’ The crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. The Islamic Republic on Sunday night named hardline Mojabata as its new leader amid a US-Israeli campaign to trigger regime change in Iran through military strikes. He is known to have close ties with the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and wielded significant influence in Israeli politics despite never holding any political office. The move comes after a deadly war in West Asia triggered by the launch of a joint military operation by the US-Israeli forces on February 28, targeting top leadership of Iran, including late Supreme Leader Khamenei and multiple sensitive military locations across the Islamic Republic. In retaliation, the Revolutionary Guards struck US bases and other key locations in the Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait. The wave of strikes and counterstrikes turned the West Asia region into a warzone and sparked Brent crude prices to $90-$100 per barrel owing to production interruptions and shipping disruptions caused by the closure of Starit of Hormuz. (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 crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans.

Israel launches ‘wide-scale’ strikes across Iran as thousands in Tehran pledge allegiance to new supreme leader

Amid raging war in West Asia, Iraq’s top Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, who is one of the topmost leader in the community after Khamenei's death, issued a ‘fatwa’ on Sunday (Mar 8) declaring that it is “collective duty” to support Iran. Ali al-Sistani is considered as the highest Shiite religious authority for millions of followers in Iraq and across the world and is regarded with same honour as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In the fatwa, al-Sistani urged Muslims to gather in the streets and public squares in support of backing Iran and the Islamic laws. Calling out “division conspiracies”, he opined that there is a need for “broad public presence and popular solidarity in the public squares,” as it is also a collective religious obligation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sistani's impact is massive in Iraq. In 2014, hundreds of thousands of Iraqi youths responded to his fatwa calling for a fight against the ISIS (Daesh) terrorist group. That call eventually led to the formation of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which supported the Iraqi army in battling the terror group. The current ruling has been circulated by media and social channels linked to Shia groups. It must be noted that Sistani's remark is significant as he opposes Iran's Wilayat al-Faqih system that was developed by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini under which a single "Supreme Leader" has absolute authority over all state matters. Despite fundamental differences, this remark is seen as a sign of firm solidarity amid external intervention.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-s-first-reaction-after-iran-appoints-mojtaba-khamenei-as-new-supreme-leader-iran-us-israel-war-1773028077192">'I am not...': Trump's first reaction after Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader</a>&nbsp;The fatwa came after Sistani was asked about the religious view on people gathering in public places and mosques to respond to what were described as acts of sabotage and attempts to weaken the institutions of the Islamic system. The gatherings were seen as a way to counter despair, prevent damage to public property and moral decline, frustrate enemies, support the values of the Islamic Revolution, and maintain order during a sensitive time.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-launches-first-attack-after-new-supreme-leader-s-appointment-1773033286825/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-launches-first-attack-after-new-supreme-leader-s-appointment-1773033286825/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Iran-Israel-US war</h2>The war with Iran has reached day tenth with both sides relentlessly targeting each other. It all started when on Feb 28 Israel and the United States launched “pre-emptive” attack on Iran, and killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in subsequent airstrikes. Iran retaliated with drone attacks on Israel and on Gulf nations that host US bases. While US President Donald Trump has said that the operations in Iran will go on for “four weeks or so”, he has also boasted about US munitions that are enough for “forever” war, Israel has expanded its operations and has launched attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon, while also continuing its strikes on Tehran. Iran has ruled out any negotiations with the US after criticising the attacks that came amid nuclear talks between two sides. The bombings in West Asia is continuing, with US issuing unprecedented advise to all its citizens to leave the region, including Israel. Iranian regime has vowed to avenge the death of Khamenei.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mojtaba-khamenei-iran-s-next-supreme-leader-pro-nuclear-hardliner-wealth-100-million-infertility-treatment-irgc-trump-sanction-1773012834582">Pro-nuclear hardliner to infertility treatment: What we know about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's next Supreme Leader</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.

Iraq’s top Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani issued a fatwa calling support for Iran a “collective duty” amid the US-Israel war on Tehran. Urging public demonstrations, the influential leader’s statement signals Shia solidarity despite his long-standing differences with Iran’s system.

Amid raging war in West Asia, Iraq’s top Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, who is one of the topmost leader in the community after Khamenei's death, issued a ‘fatwa’ on Sunday (Mar 8) declaring that it is “collective duty” to support Iran. Ali al-Sistani is considered as the highest Shiite religious authority for millions of followers in Iraq and across the world and is regarded with same honour as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In the fatwa, al-Sistani urged Muslims to gather in the streets and public squares in support of backing Iran and the Islamic laws. Calling out “division conspiracies”, he opined that there is a need for “broad public presence and popular solidarity in the public squares,” as it is also a collective religious obligation. Sistani's impact is massive in Iraq. In 2014, hundreds of thousands of Iraqi youths responded to his fatwa calling for a fight against the ISIS (Daesh) terrorist group. That call eventually led to the formation of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which supported the Iraqi army in battling the terror group. The current ruling has been circulated by media and social channels linked to Shia groups. It must be noted that Sistani's remark is significant as he opposes Iran's Wilayat al-Faqih system that was developed by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini under which a single "Supreme Leader" has absolute authority over all state matters. Despite fundamental differences, this remark is seen as a sign of firm solidarity amid external intervention. Also Read: 'I am not...': Trump's first reaction after Iran appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader The fatwa came after Sistani was asked about the religious view on people gathering in public places and mosques to respond to what were described as acts of sabotage and attempts to weaken the institutions of the Islamic system. The gatherings were seen as a way to counter despair, prevent damage to public property and moral decline, frustrate enemies, support the values of the Islamic Revolution, and maintain order during a sensitive time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-launches-first-attack-after-new-supreme-leader-s-appointment-1773033286825/embed Iran-Israel-US war The war with Iran has reached day tenth with both sides relentlessly targeting each other. It all started when on Feb 28 Israel and the United States launched “pre-emptive” attack on Iran, and killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in subsequent airstrikes. Iran retaliated with drone attacks on Israel and on Gulf nations that host US bases. While US President Donald Trump has said that the operations in Iran will go on for “four weeks or so”, he has also boasted about US munitions that are enough for “forever” war, Israel has expanded its operations and has launched attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon, while also continuing its strikes on Tehran. Iran has ruled out any negotiations with the US after criticising the attacks that came amid nuclear talks between two sides. The bombings in West Asia is continuing, with US issuing unprecedented advise to all its citizens to leave the region, including Israel. Iranian regime has vowed to avenge the death of Khamenei. Also Read: Pro-nuclear hardliner to infertility treatment: What we know about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's next Supreme Leader Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iraq’s top Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani issued a fatwa calling support for Iran a “collective duty” amid the US-Israel war on Tehran. Urging public demonstrations, the influential leader’s statement signals Shia solidarity despite his long-standing differences with Iran’s system.

'Muslims take to streets...': Iraq’s top Shia cleric Sistani supports Iran, makes BIG appeal amid raging war with Israel, US