Iran-US tensions are rising once again on Thursday (Jul 9), with the last 24 hours seeing attacks and counter-attacks as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) appears to be unravelling. Iran claimed to have targeted US Patriot air defence systems in Kuwait, a satellite communications antenna in Qatar, and a US Army fuel storage facility in Bahrain using drones and missiles. The funeral ceremonies for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, culminating in his planned burial in Mashhad on Thursday, have been delayed by the renewed fighting. The latest escalation comes after US President Donald Trump declared the truce "over", while Iranian officials accused Washington of violating the MoU.<h2>US launches fresh strikes against Iran, as 14 killed</h2>US Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted a second wave of overnight strikes between late Wednesday and early Thursday near the Strait of Hormuz in response to earlier Iranian attacks on commercial shipping. Explosions were reported in Sirik, Bushehr, Konarak, Chabahar and Bandar Abbas, with around 90 additional Iranian military and transport-related targets reportedly struck, according to the Associated Press. Iran's Health Ministry said 14 people were killed and 78 wounded in US strikes across multiple provinces over the past two days. US officials said the strikes were intended to deter further attacks on international shipping.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-clouds-loom-over-iran-once-again-hegseth-cancels-israel-trip-oil-prices-rise-as-trump-says-peace-deal-is-over-1783504754014">War clouds loom over Iran once again? Hegseth cancels Israel trip, oil prices rise as Trump says peace deal is ‘over’</a><h2>Bahrain thwarts Iranian attacks on US military sites</h2>Bahrain's Defence Force reported thwarting Iranian missile and drone attacks on Thursday. Although some reports indicated damage to a residential building near Bahrain International Airport, no fatalities were reported. Air defence sirens sounded as Gulf states intercepted incoming projectiles. Iran also claimed attacks on US military facilities in Kuwait and Qatar.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-how-war-in-west-asia-hits-your-next-meal-explained-1783577552046/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-how-war-in-west-asia-hits-your-next-meal-explained-1783577552046/embed</a><h2>Khamenei funeral delayed</h2>The burial of slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been delayed amid the renewed hostilities. His coffin had been travelling through Najaf and Karbala in Iraq as part of a multi-day funeral procession before its planned burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad in north-eastern Iran. Funeral processions have drawn massive crowds across Iran and Iraq amid strong anti-US sentiment. Khamenei's burial had already been postponed from March because of the war, with the final burial originally scheduled for July 9.<h2>A dangerous escalation</h2>The renewed exchanges follow Iranian attacks on at least three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire was "over" while attending the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of violating the MoU and warned of further action, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said prospects for a lasting agreement would diminish if US military operations continued.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-really-benefitted-from-the-iran-war-1783058269342">Who really benefitted from the Iran war?</a>&nbsp;Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, condemned the attacks on their territory and called for restraint. The new tensions are once again putting at risk global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, oil markets and regional stability. Oil prices have risen sharply, shipping insurance costs are increasing and stock market volatility has continued amid fears of a broader regional conflict, according to international media reports.&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.)

Fresh strikes and counter-attacks across the Gulf are reported as Iran-US tensions have escalated again. CENTCOM targeted Iranian sites, while Iran claimed attacks on US bases.  Khamenei's funeral has been delayed amid renewed fighting.

Iran-US tensions are rising once again on Thursday (Jul 9), with the last 24 hours seeing attacks and counter-attacks as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) appears to be unravelling. Iran claimed to have targeted US Patriot air defence systems in Kuwait, a satellite communications antenna in Qatar, and a US Army fuel storage facility in Bahrain using drones and missiles. The funeral ceremonies for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, culminating in his planned burial in Mashhad on Thursday, have been delayed by the renewed fighting. The latest escalation comes after US President Donald Trump declared the truce "over", while Iranian officials accused Washington of violating the MoU. US launches fresh strikes against Iran, as 14 killed US Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted a second wave of overnight strikes between late Wednesday and early Thursday near the Strait of Hormuz in response to earlier Iranian attacks on commercial shipping. Explosions were reported in Sirik, Bushehr, Konarak, Chabahar and Bandar Abbas, with around 90 additional Iranian military and transport-related targets reportedly struck, according to the Associated Press. Iran's Health Ministry said 14 people were killed and 78 wounded in US strikes across multiple provinces over the past two days. US officials said the strikes were intended to deter further attacks on international shipping. Also read: War clouds loom over Iran once again? Hegseth cancels Israel trip, oil prices rise as Trump says peace deal is ‘over’ Bahrain thwarts Iranian attacks on US military sites Bahrain's Defence Force reported thwarting Iranian missile and drone attacks on Thursday. Although some reports indicated damage to a residential building near Bahrain International Airport, no fatalities were reported. Air defence sirens sounded as Gulf states intercepted incoming projectiles. Iran also claimed attacks on US military facilities in Kuwait and Qatar. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-how-war-in-west-asia-hits-your-next-meal-explained-1783577552046/embed Khamenei funeral delayed The burial of slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been delayed amid the renewed hostilities. His coffin had been travelling through Najaf and Karbala in Iraq as part of a multi-day funeral procession before its planned burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad in north-eastern Iran. Funeral processions have drawn massive crowds across Iran and Iraq amid strong anti-US sentiment. Khamenei's burial had already been postponed from March because of the war, with the final burial originally scheduled for July 9. A dangerous escalation The renewed exchanges follow Iranian attacks on at least three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire was "over" while attending the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of violating the MoU and warned of further action, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said prospects for a lasting agreement would diminish if US military operations continued. Also read: Who really benefitted from the Iran war? Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, condemned the attacks on their territory and called for restraint. The new tensions are once again putting at risk global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, oil markets and regional stability. Oil prices have risen sharply, shipping insurance costs are increasing and stock market volatility has continued amid fears of a broader regional conflict, according to international media reports. (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.)

Fresh strikes and counter-attacks across the Gulf are reported as Iran-US tensions have escalated again. CENTCOM targeted Iranian sites, while Iran claimed attacks on US bases. &nbsp;Khamenei's funeral has been delayed amid renewed fighting.

Iran targets US Patriot missile defence systems in Kuwait, US army fuel storage in Bahrain; Khamenei funeral delayed as US strikes kill 14 Iranians

Tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates spilled into open confrontation at a BRICS national security advisers’ meeting in New Delhi, echoing a similar clash at the group’s foreign ministers’ gathering last month. Iran’s Dr Ghadir Nezamipour, Deputy Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, directly accused the UAE of complicity in recent military actions against his country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-they-re-not-behaving-trump-issues-big-warning-to-iran-amid-disagreements-on-nuclear-inspection-hormuz-1782179991681">'If they’re not behaving...': Trump issues BIG warning to Iran amid disagreements on nuclear inspection, Hormuz</a>&nbsp;<h2>What happened in 16th BRICS NSA meeting?</h2>Speaking at the 16th BRICS NSA meeting chaired by India’s Ajit Doval, he said the US and Israel initiated aggression in the Strait of Hormuz, with “part of these attacks…launched from bases located on the territory of the United Arab Emirates.” “The entire world witnessed that the United States and Israel were the initiators of the aggression and the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz,”&nbsp;Nezamipour stated.&nbsp;“Nevertheless, instead of condemning these hostile actions, the UAE directly participated in the aggression and allowed its territory to be used as a platform for attacks against Iran’s civilian infrastructure, schools, and hospitals.” He urged Abu Dhabi to “respect the principles of good neighbourliness” and choose “the path of peace, stability, and regional cooperation”. To underscore the human cost, Nezamipour displayed an image of students killed in Minab on the first day of the conflict.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-hezbollah-s-defeat-not-so-easy-for-israel-shia-group-is-deeply-embedded-in-lebanon-the-big-question-analysis-commantary-1782193086073/amp">Why is Hezbollah's defeat not so easy for Israel? Shia group is deeply embedded in Lebanon | The Big Question</a>&nbsp;Similar friction at the May foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi prevented a full joint statement. During foreign ministers' meetings, the UAE has categorically rejected Iran’s allegations and said that the country has been attacked by Iran during the 40 day war. Back then, UAE Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar said, “the UAE’s categorical rejects Iran’s allegations". "UAE reserves its full sovereign, legal, diplomatic, and military rights to respond to any threat, allegation, or hostile act."&nbsp;The latest exchange highlights deep divisions within the expanded BRICS grouping, which now includes both Iran and the UAE alongside Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, over the West Asia crisis. New Delhi, which maintains ties with all parties, has called for safe maritime flows through key chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Repeated public spats underscore challenges for BRICS in forging unified positions on regional conflicts, even as the group positions itself as a voice for the Global South.

A BRICS security meeting in New Delhi witnessed a sharp exchange as Iran accused the UAE of allowing its territory to be used for attacks during the recent conflict. The public confrontation highlighted growing divisions within the expanded BRICS bloc 

Tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates spilled into open confrontation at a BRICS national security advisers’ meeting in New Delhi, echoing a similar clash at the group’s foreign ministers’ gathering last month. Iran’s Dr Ghadir Nezamipour, Deputy Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, directly accused the UAE of complicity in recent military actions against his country. Also Read: 'If they’re not behaving...': Trump issues BIG warning to Iran amid disagreements on nuclear inspection, Hormuz What happened in 16th BRICS NSA meeting? Speaking at the 16th BRICS NSA meeting chaired by India’s Ajit Doval, he said the US and Israel initiated aggression in the Strait of Hormuz, with “part of these attacks…launched from bases located on the territory of the United Arab Emirates.” “The entire world witnessed that the United States and Israel were the initiators of the aggression and the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz,” Nezamipour stated. “Nevertheless, instead of condemning these hostile actions, the UAE directly participated in the aggression and allowed its territory to be used as a platform for attacks against Iran’s civilian infrastructure, schools, and hospitals.” He urged Abu Dhabi to “respect the principles of good neighbourliness” and choose “the path of peace, stability, and regional cooperation”. To underscore the human cost, Nezamipour displayed an image of students killed in Minab on the first day of the conflict. Also Read: Why is Hezbollah's defeat not so easy for Israel? Shia group is deeply embedded in Lebanon | The Big Question Similar friction at the May foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi prevented a full joint statement. During foreign ministers' meetings, the UAE has categorically rejected Iran’s allegations and said that the country has been attacked by Iran during the 40 day war. Back then, UAE Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar said, “the UAE’s categorical rejects Iran’s allegations". "UAE reserves its full sovereign, legal, diplomatic, and military rights to respond to any threat, allegation, or hostile act." The latest exchange highlights deep divisions within the expanded BRICS grouping, which now includes both Iran and the UAE alongside Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, over the West Asia crisis. New Delhi, which maintains ties with all parties, has called for safe maritime flows through key chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Repeated public spats underscore challenges for BRICS in forging unified positions on regional conflicts, even as the group positions itself as a voice for the Global South.

A BRICS security meeting in New Delhi witnessed a sharp exchange as Iran accused the UAE of allowing its territory to be used for attacks during the recent conflict. The public confrontation highlighted growing divisions within the expanded BRICS bloc&nbsp;

Iran, UAE clash at BRICS NSAs meet in Delhi; Tehran accuses Abu Dhabi of allowing attacks from its soil

Iran's military declared victory over the United States and Israel on Monday (Jun 15), hours after Washington and Tehran announced an agreement to end more than three months of conflict that has shaken the Middle East and disrupted global energy markets. The warring nations, as per reports, are set to sign the long-awaited agreement on Friday (Jun 19).In a statement carried by Iranian state television, the country's armed forces said they had forced their adversaries to accept defeat. "Iranian forces have, through the imposition of their divine and iron will upon the humiliated American and Zionist enemies, demonstrated with strength that the enemy has no path other than accepting defeat and surrender," the military's general staff said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-deal-to-happen-in-the-next-few-hours-despite-israel-s-attack-on-beirut-says-trump-report-1781461049405">Iran deal to happen 'in the next few hours' despite Beirut strike, says Trump</a><h2>US, Iran agree to 'immediate and permanent' end to conflict</h2>The remarks came after the United States and Iran confirmed a peace agreement that would bring an "immediate and permanent" end to military operations across the region, including in Lebanon.The breakthrough was announced by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose government has been mediating talks between the two sides. Sharif said the agreement would be formally signed in Switzerland on June 19.US President Donald Trump also confirmed the deal, describing it as complete and authorising the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade on Iran.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-deports-iranians-afghans-and-turks-to-african-nation-it-has-alarming-travel-warning-for-do-not-for-any-reason-1781311948230">Trump administration deports Iranian migrants to nation US warns against visiting 'for any reason'</a>"I hereby fully authorise the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorise the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade," Trump wrote.

In another post, Trump noted that the “Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region”. Patting his own back, he added that “Many presidents have tried to make Peace with Iran, and all have failed before me. The Leaders of the Region have, for the first time, found a President who can help them achieve real Peace.”&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.

Iran's military claimed victory over the United States and Israel after a peace agreement ended more than three months of conflict. The deal, confirmed by Donald Trump and mediated by Pakistan, includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade.

Iran's military declared victory over the United States and Israel on Monday (Jun 15), hours after Washington and Tehran announced an agreement to end more than three months of conflict that has shaken the Middle East and disrupted global energy markets. The warring nations, as per reports, are set to sign the long-awaited agreement on Friday (Jun 19). In a statement carried by Iranian state television, the country's armed forces said they had forced their adversaries to accept defeat. "Iranian forces have, through the imposition of their divine and iron will upon the humiliated American and Zionist enemies, demonstrated with strength that the enemy has no path other than accepting defeat and surrender," the military's general staff said. Also read | Iran deal to happen 'in the next few hours' despite Beirut strike, says Trump US, Iran agree to 'immediate and permanent' end to conflict The remarks came after the United States and Iran confirmed a peace agreement that would bring an "immediate and permanent" end to military operations across the region, including in Lebanon. The breakthrough was announced by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose government has been mediating talks between the two sides. Sharif said the agreement would be formally signed in Switzerland on June 19. US President Donald Trump also confirmed the deal, describing it as complete and authorising the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade on Iran. Also read | Trump administration deports Iranian migrants to nation US warns against visiting 'for any reason' "I hereby fully authorise the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorise the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade," Trump wrote.

Iran's military claimed victory over the United States and Israel after a peace agreement ended more than three months of conflict. The deal, confirmed by Donald Trump and mediated by Pakistan, includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade.

'Enemy had no choice but surrender': Iran claims victory as US agrees to 'permanently' end war

US President Donald Trump has said that a deal to end the war with Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday (June 14). Iran has not finalised the date but has hinted that deal is confirmed. Pakistan, a key mediator, also confirmed the development and said that both parties were “preparing for the electronic signing.” Qatar and Kuwait expressed their “utmost satisfaction with the breakthrough.” However, not everyone is happy with the announcement of the signing of the deal. While Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu have had series of tensed conversation in the past week, Iran's IRGC has also expressed dissatisfaction over the deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ended-the-war-today-trump-s-big-declaration-after-halting-iran-strikes-what-s-really-happening-1781229576328">'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening</a><h2>Who are unhappy in Israel?</h2>Israel's Channel 12 quoted a very senior Israeli official saying that the probable US-Iran deal is “sh*t”. The official was not named in the report. This comes despite Trump telling Netanyahu in a phone call on June 11 that “it’s an excellent deal, and it’s time to end this war,” Channel 12 reported. Senior Israeli officials said that the emerging agreement indicated that Washington has agreed to Tehran’s “main conditions,” adding that “the Iranians are not agreeing to this for nothing.” The report also said Israeli officials and experts who have worked for decades on the Iran file consider that the terms of the MOU “endanger Israel’s security interests.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-new-pm-for-israel-us-president-calls-netanyahu-wartime-pm-but-does-not-endorse-him-1781056588263">Trump wants new PM for Israel? US president calls Netanyahu 'wartime PM', but does not endorse him</a>&nbsp;Adding to the statements by Israeli officials came a statement by former Prime Minister and opposition leader Yair Lapid, who said that Israel would fail to achieve any of its war objectives under the emerging agreement between the US and Iran. Lapid slammed Netanyahu and called the deal his "complete failure," saying it turned Israel into a satellite state that takes instructions on its national security. He added that "no press conference, media manipulation, or AI-generated video can hide this failure." Nevertheless, Netanyahu has still not issued his public remarks on the deal.<h2>Who are unhappy in Iran?</h2>Iran hardliners are against the deal too. Hardline Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian was quoted by UK based Iran International saying the latest text was more damaging than two earlier versions and involved greater Iranian concessions. “After seeing the text of the agreement, I must say that compared with the two previous versions, it is more damaging and Iran’s retreats have also increased,” Nabavian said. “An agreement cooked up by the architects of the disgraceful JCPOA is certainly pure loss,” Nabavian wrote. IRGC-affiliated Fars News criticized Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for what it called an “ambiguous” response to Trump’s rejection of Iranian media reports about the terms of a possible US-Iran memorandum of understanding. The outlet questioned whether Araghchi’s language amounted to a retreat or an alignment with Trump’s narrative. A protest was also held outside a Foreign Ministry office in the northeastern city of Mashhad against Araghchi. No statement by Iran Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has been released on the final deal.

A proposed US-Iran agreement championed by Donald Trump is facing criticism from both Israel and Iran. Israeli officials fear the deal compromises security interests, while Iranian hardliners say Tehran has made excessive concessions, exposing deep opposition despite diplomatic progress.

US President Donald Trump has said that a deal to end the war with Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday (June 14). Iran has not finalised the date but has hinted that deal is confirmed. Pakistan, a key mediator, also confirmed the development and said that both parties were “preparing for the electronic signing.” Qatar and Kuwait expressed their “utmost satisfaction with the breakthrough.” However, not everyone is happy with the announcement of the signing of the deal. While Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu have had series of tensed conversation in the past week, Iran's IRGC has also expressed dissatisfaction over the deal. Also Read: 'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening Who are unhappy in Israel? Israel's Channel 12 quoted a very senior Israeli official saying that the probable US-Iran deal is “sh*t”. The official was not named in the report. This comes despite Trump telling Netanyahu in a phone call on June 11 that “it’s an excellent deal, and it’s time to end this war,” Channel 12 reported. Senior Israeli officials said that the emerging agreement indicated that Washington has agreed to Tehran’s “main conditions,” adding that “the Iranians are not agreeing to this for nothing.” The report also said Israeli officials and experts who have worked for decades on the Iran file consider that the terms of the MOU “endanger Israel’s security interests.” Also Read: Trump wants new PM for Israel? US president calls Netanyahu 'wartime PM', but does not endorse him Adding to the statements by Israeli officials came a statement by former Prime Minister and opposition leader Yair Lapid, who said that Israel would fail to achieve any of its war objectives under the emerging agreement between the US and Iran. Lapid slammed Netanyahu and called the deal his "complete failure," saying it turned Israel into a satellite state that takes instructions on its national security. He added that "no press conference, media manipulation, or AI-generated video can hide this failure." Nevertheless, Netanyahu has still not issued his public remarks on the deal. Who are unhappy in Iran? Iran hardliners are against the deal too. Hardline Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian was quoted by UK based Iran International saying the latest text was more damaging than two earlier versions and involved greater Iranian concessions. “After seeing the text of the agreement, I must say that compared with the two previous versions, it is more damaging and Iran’s retreats have also increased,” Nabavian said. “An agreement cooked up by the architects of the disgraceful JCPOA is certainly pure loss,” Nabavian wrote. IRGC-affiliated Fars News criticized Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for what it called an “ambiguous” response to Trump’s rejection of Iranian media reports about the terms of a possible US-Iran memorandum of understanding. The outlet questioned whether Araghchi’s language amounted to a retreat or an alignment with Trump’s narrative. A protest was also held outside a Foreign Ministry office in the northeastern city of Mashhad against Araghchi. No statement by Iran Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has been released on the final deal.

A proposed US-Iran agreement championed by Donald Trump is facing criticism from both Israel and Iran. Israeli officials fear the deal compromises security interests, while Iranian hardliners say Tehran has made excessive concessions, exposing deep opposition despite diplomatic progress.

'This is sh*t': Trump's probable Iran-US deal faces pushback from Israeli officials, IRGC hardliners

The United States said Iran launched multiple one-way attack drones targeting commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with US forces intercepting and destroying all of them.&nbsp;In a post on X, CENTCOM said, "Iran launched multiple one-way attack drones in an attempt to strike commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. forces have downed all of them in recent hours as traffic flow through the strait continues unimpeded".&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran launched multiple one-way attack drones in an attempt to strike commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. forces have downed all of them in recent hours as traffic flow through the strait continues unimpeded. The international trade corridor remains open for…&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2065608055790637301?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The US added that shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained unaffected despite the attempted attack.&nbsp;The development comes as President Donald Trump said he believes a deal with Iran could be finalised over the weekend or on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, the US president announced that he had cancelled planned strikes against Iran after talks with Tehran reached what he described as a crucial stage.&nbsp;"Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have... cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening," Trump posted on Truth Social.&nbsp;Meanwhile, on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that issues related to the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade against Iran were included in a proposed Memorandum of Understanding that could soon be signed.&nbsp;Araghchi also said the proposed agreement would bring an end to conflicts across several fronts, including in Lebanon.&nbsp;“The MoU will announce the end of the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon. We will never leave Lebanon alone,” the Iranian foreign minister said.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained unaffected despite the attempted attack.

The United States said Iran launched multiple one-way attack drones targeting commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with US forces intercepting and destroying all of them. In a post on X, CENTCOM said, "Iran launched multiple one-way attack drones in an attempt to strike commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. forces have downed all of them in recent hours as traffic flow through the strait continues unimpeded".

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained unaffected despite the attempted attack.

US says it thwarted Iranian drone attack on commercial ships in Strait of Hormuz

Iran on Saturday dismissed US President Donald Trump's allegation that Tehran had launched a drone attack on an Indian vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, calling the claim "baseless" and an attempt to divert attention from recent attacks on ships carrying Indian crew members.&nbsp;The response came after Trump accused Iran of targeting an Indian ship departing the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"Their (Iran's) totally rebuffed Drone attack last night against Indian Ships leaving the Hormuz Strait is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE," Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;Rejecting the accusation, the Iranian Embassy in India said Trump's remarks had no basis."The US president's accusation against Iran regarding an Indian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz is simply baseless," the embassy said in a social media post.&nbsp;"It is an attempt to divert public attention from the brutal fact that the US has attacked 3 Indian vessels in less than a week and killed 3 innocent Indian sailors. That's pathetic!" it added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The U.S. president&#39;s accusation against Iran regarding an Indian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz is simply baseless. It is an attempt to divert public attention from the brutal fact that the U.S. has attacked 3 Indian vessels in less than a week and killed 3 innocent Indian… <a href="https://t.co/2UiXWAMulM">https://t.co/2UiXWAMulM</a>&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://x.com/Iran_in_India/status/2065509494159991234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The statement came amid growing tensions over a series of incidents involving vessels carrying Indian crew members in the Gulf region. Three ships with Indian crew members came under attack off the coast of Oman this week. One of the incidents resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers.<h2>India protests attacks on merchant vessels</h2>Trump's remarks came shortly after India summoned the US Chargé d'Affaires in New Delhi to register its protest over attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian nationals near the Oman coast.&nbsp;New Delhi described the incidents as "deeply worrisome" and said it had strongly raised the issue with Washington.&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday and conveyed India's strong protest over the deaths of three Indian mariners in attacks involving US naval forces in the Gulf.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/such-lethal-actions-are-not-justified-jaishankar-lodges-strong-protest-with-rubio-over-killing-of-indian-mariners-1781294969698">'Such lethal actions are not justified': Jaishankar lodges 'strong protest' with Rubio over killing of Indian mariners</a><h2>Iran condemns attack on Indian vessels&nbsp;</h2>Earlier, Iran had condemned the strike on a commercial vessel near the Strait of Hormuz that killed three Indian nationals.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei described the incident as an act of "armed robbery and State piracy" and extended condolences to the families of the victims.&nbsp;"The brutal U.S. attacks on Indian commercial vessels, which have killed at least three Indian nationals, stand as clear evidence of America's ongoing policy of armed robbery and State piracy. We extend our sympathies to the families and friends of the slain Indian sailors and offer our sincere condolences to the Indian people and government," Baghaei said.&nbsp;The condemnation followed a US strike on the Palau-flagged oil tanker M/T Settebello in the Gulf of Oman near the Strait of Hormuz on June 9. The incident killed three Indian merchant mariners identified as Chief Engineer Patnala Suresh, Deck Cadet Aditya Sharma and Engine Fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya.

Trump accused Iran of carrying out a drone attack on Indian ships leaving the Strait of Hormuz and described the alleged incident as unacceptable.

Iran on Saturday dismissed US President Donald Trump's allegation that Tehran had launched a drone attack on an Indian vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, calling the claim "baseless" and an attempt to divert attention from recent attacks on ships carrying Indian crew members. The response came after Trump accused Iran of targeting an Indian ship departing the Strait of Hormuz. "Their (Iran's) totally rebuffed Drone attack last night against Indian Ships leaving the Hormuz Strait is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE," Trump wrote on Truth Social. Rejecting the accusation, the Iranian Embassy in India said Trump's remarks had no basis. "The US president's accusation against Iran regarding an Indian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz is simply baseless," the embassy said in a social media post. "It is an attempt to divert public attention from the brutal fact that the US has attacked 3 Indian vessels in less than a week and killed 3 innocent Indian sailors. That's pathetic!" it added.

Trump accused Iran of carrying out a drone attack on Indian ships leaving the Strait of Hormuz and described the alleged incident as unacceptable.

'Simply baseless': Iran denies Trump's allegation of attack on Indian ship in Hormuz

US President Donald Trump on Friday condemned Iran after Iranian state media reported extensively on the terms of a peace deal being hammered out and denied that they were what was discussed. Trump said these were not the terms agreed to between the two countries to stop the war. Trump also accused Iran of carrying out a failed drone attack against Indian ships departing the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday night but did not share any evidence to support the claim.&nbsp;“The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing,” Trump said on Truth Social.“What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth. Very dishonorable people to deal with. With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith,” he wrote further.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump further warned that Iran’s leaders “better get their act together, and FAST!”, and said that Tehran’s failed drone attack on Indian ships leaving Hormuz last night is unacceptable. “AMAZING! Also, their totally rebuffed Drone attack last night against Indian Ships leaving the Hormuz Strait is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE. They better get their act together, and FAST! Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-use-iran-s-frozen-funds-to-pay-for-damages-inflicted-on-gulf-allies-scott-bessent-1781205304888">‘US will use Iran’s frozen funds to pay for damages inflicted on Gulf allies’: Scott Bessent</a><h2>Deal would see Tehran ‘compensated’ for damage from US, Israeli strikes: Iran state media</h2> One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media on Friday was that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war.Iran’s official IRNA news agency said Tehran had “devised a practical mechanism for pursuing compensation and has secured guarantees from third parties regarding its implementation.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-nominates-former-sec-chairman-jay-clayton-to-replace-tulsi-gabbard-as-next-director-of-national-intelligence-1781201971661">Trump nominates former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton to replace Tulsi Gabbard as next director of national intelligence</a><h2>‘Tehran will negotiate to retain uranium enrichment’ </h2> Iran’s state news agency also reported that Iranian officials will negotiate with the US to retain the country’s uranium enrichment capabilities.The report by Iran’s official IRNA news agency said that a 60-day ceasefire period starting with the signing of the memorandum of understanding would be used to negotiate the future of Iran’s nuclear programme. IRNA cited unnamed Iranian officials as saying that during negotiations Tehran would maintain its current position on the country’s ‘right’ to uranium enrichment, and on keeping its enriched material in the country. A report by CBS News on Thursday, citing sources familiar with the negotiations, said that, in principle, Iran would commit to not enrich uranium for 15-20 years, during which time it would dismantle its nuclear sites.

One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media said that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war. It also reported that Iranian officials will negotiate to retain the country’s uranium enrichment capabilities.

US President Donald Trump on Friday condemned Iran after Iranian state media reported extensively on the terms of a peace deal being hammered out and denied that they were what was discussed. Trump said these were not the terms agreed to between the two countries to stop the war. Trump also accused Iran of carrying out a failed drone attack against Indian ships departing the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday night but did not share any evidence to support the claim. “The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing,” Trump said on Truth Social. “What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth. Very dishonorable people to deal with. With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith,” he wrote further.

One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media said that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war. It also reported that Iranian officials will negotiate to retain the country’s uranium enrichment capabilities.

‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media

US President Donald Trump once again cancelled a scheduled attack on Iran on Thursday night (Jun 11). This makes one wonder: Is Trump the one who's under pressure to reach a deal with Iran? He faces economic, political, and strategic pressures ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Despite leverage through sanctions, military threats, and economic pressure on Iran, the costs of a prolonged conflict are falling on his own political coalition and agenda.<h2>The midterms clock is ticking</h2>Republicans are entering the midterms defending a narrow House majority that is vulnerable to the traditional anti-incumbency. Morgan Stanley's policy team warned that the war's energy shock could cost Republicans their Senate majority and significantly worsen the national debt. Trump and Republicans were elected on promises to cut inflation. They now face an inflation surge tied to the war, and several opinion polls are against them.&nbsp;Democrats will make the rising cost of living a central campaign issue in the midterms. &nbsp;A prolonged war will disrupt Trump's legislative agenda and GOP control of Congress.Trump once said he "doesn't care about the midterms," but Iran war escalation can affect his party's prospects. He needs a face-saving deal before November.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ended-the-war-today-trump-s-big-declaration-after-halting-iran-strikes-what-s-really-happening-1781229576328">'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening</a><h2>Americans feel pinch at pump as Iran uses Strait of Hormuz as leverage</h2>Two weeks into the war, gasoline prices rose nearly 60 cents per gallon in the US, or about 19 per cent, while inflation reached 4.2 per cent in May, the highest since April 2023. A GOP strategist said, "You can't hide gas prices… there's a giant sign on every street corner saying how bad things are."&nbsp;Even if a deal is reached now, reopening the Strait of Hormuz won't normalise markets immediately. Iran has successfully used the strategic waterway as leverage. Tankers are trapped. Inventories are swelling. Infrastructure is damaged due to Operation Epic Fury, the US blockade of the strait, and Iran's counterstrikes. A full recovery will happen pretty close to the November 3 elections.&nbsp;Consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie estimated that even if the war is resolved, Brent crude would only fall to $80 by year-end.<h2>Trump is the one pushing for a deal, while Iran is softpeddaling&nbsp;</h2>Trump has asked Iran to reach a deal at least eight times through Truth Social rants or public remarks. He gave several deadlines to Tehran, while often saying the deal was "close," "largely negotiated," or could happen "this weekend." Nothing happened. He claimed Iran had "no choice" but to agree to the deal. But every time, Iran shrugged off the threats, refusing to budge on issues like its nuclear and missile programmes, and unfreezing of Iranian assets. It has now become predictable that Trump threatens military action and then postpones or cancels it. &nbsp;He explains the threat-pause-cancel cycles as arising from requests by Gulf allies, and even the mediator, Pakistan.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-deal-could-be-signed-very-soon-amid-ongoing-talks-1781246509761/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-deal-could-be-signed-very-soon-amid-ongoing-talks-1781246509761/embed</a><h2>What, or who, are putting pressure on Trump to reach a deal?</h2>Volatility and disruptions in the oil and energy markets are among the main pressures. Shipping and trans-shipment industries are dealing with trapped tankers, supply bottlenecks, and infrastructure damage. &nbsp;From businesses to national governments, the demand is for lower energy costs and market predictability. Supply chain disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz &nbsp;blockades are raising costs for food, fertilisers and shipping for the world. Gulf allies of the US - particularly UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia- appear to favour stability, lower energy volatility, and the reopening of shipping routes.&nbsp;<h2>Brand Trump is being affected badly</h2>Trump is known for the book ‘Art of the Deal’. But today, his personal brand and reputation as a dealmaker are under threat. Trump risks triggering a wider regional war, given the Iranian attacks on US bases and ally fatigue with prolonged conflict. He risks being associated with another ‘endless’ war, not lasting peace. &nbsp;Iran's ability to make any attack on it costly for the American interests in the Gulf region and global economy is a constraint on Trump from further escalating the issue.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-s-in-the-latest-iran-deal-trump-says-he-s-ready-to-sign-with-tehran-1781244692584">What's in the latest Iran deal Trump says he's ready to sign with Tehran</a><h2>What leverage does Trump have over Iran?</h2>The top one is the US sanctions and economic pain for Iran through the "maximum pressure" framework. Trump appears to be using military threats and deadlines as negotiating tools,raising the question: Is there a method to the madness? His alternating ‘deal talk’ and military threats could be a deliberate bargaining strategy designed to extract stronger concessions from Iran.Though Iran continues to fight, it is dealing with the effects of leadership decimation, economic deterioration, international isolation, and pressure to accept restrictions on its nuclear programme. Iran's crisis is existential, whereas Trump's is primarily political and economic.<h2>Several actors continue pushing against a rapid deal</h2>The main party opposing a US-Iran deal is Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Iran hawks in Trump's Republican party also object to allowing Tehran to continue uranium enrichment. Trump could be applying more pressure than he is absorbing, through sanctions and military power. &nbsp;Every time he threatens to attack and then holds back, Trump is possibly trying to extract better concessions from Iran, such as nuclear restrictions and performance-based sanctions relief. But he probably knows that it is time to finish off what he started on February 28.

Donald Trump appears to be under rising political and economic pressure to secure an Iran deal. The US inflation, gasoline prices and Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten Republican midterm prospects and his dealmaker image.

US President Donald Trump once again cancelled a scheduled attack on Iran on Thursday night (Jun 11). This makes one wonder: Is Trump the one who's under pressure to reach a deal with Iran? He faces economic, political, and strategic pressures ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Despite leverage through sanctions, military threats, and economic pressure on Iran, the costs of a prolonged conflict are falling on his own political coalition and agenda. The midterms clock is ticking Republicans are entering the midterms defending a narrow House majority that is vulnerable to the traditional anti-incumbency. Morgan Stanley's policy team warned that the war's energy shock could cost Republicans their Senate majority and significantly worsen the national debt. Trump and Republicans were elected on promises to cut inflation. They now face an inflation surge tied to the war, and several opinion polls are against them. Democrats will make the rising cost of living a central campaign issue in the midterms. A prolonged war will disrupt Trump's legislative agenda and GOP control of Congress. Trump once said he "doesn't care about the midterms," but Iran war escalation can affect his party's prospects. He needs a face-saving deal before November. Also read: 'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening Americans feel pinch at pump as Iran uses Strait of Hormuz as leverage Two weeks into the war, gasoline prices rose nearly 60 cents per gallon in the US, or about 19 per cent, while inflation reached 4.2 per cent in May, the highest since April 2023. A GOP strategist said, "You can't hide gas prices… there's a giant sign on every street corner saying how bad things are." Even if a deal is reached now, reopening the Strait of Hormuz won't normalise markets immediately. Iran has successfully used the strategic waterway as leverage. Tankers are trapped. Inventories are swelling. Infrastructure is damaged due to Operation Epic Fury, the US blockade of the strait, and Iran's counterstrikes. A full recovery will happen pretty close to the November 3 elections. Consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie estimated that even if the war is resolved, Brent crude would only fall to $80 by year-end. Trump is the one pushing for a deal, while Iran is softpeddaling Trump has asked Iran to reach a deal at least eight times through Truth Social rants or public remarks. He gave several deadlines to Tehran, while often saying the deal was "close," "largely negotiated," or could happen "this weekend." Nothing happened. He claimed Iran had "no choice" but to agree to the deal. But every time, Iran shrugged off the threats, refusing to budge on issues like its nuclear and missile programmes, and unfreezing of Iranian assets. It has now become predictable that Trump threatens military action and then postpones or cancels it. He explains the threat-pause-cancel cycles as arising from requests by Gulf allies, and even the mediator, Pakistan. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-deal-could-be-signed-very-soon-amid-ongoing-talks-1781246509761/embed What, or who, are putting pressure on Trump to reach a deal? Volatility and disruptions in the oil and energy markets are among the main pressures. Shipping and trans-shipment industries are dealing with trapped tankers, supply bottlenecks, and infrastructure damage. From businesses to national governments, the demand is for lower energy costs and market predictability. Supply chain disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz blockades are raising costs for food, fertilisers and shipping for the world. Gulf allies of the US - particularly UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia- appear to favour stability, lower energy volatility, and the reopening of shipping routes. Brand Trump is being affected badly Trump is known for the book ‘Art of the Deal’. But today, his personal brand and reputation as a dealmaker are under threat. Trump risks triggering a wider regional war, given the Iranian attacks on US bases and ally fatigue with prolonged conflict. He risks being associated with another ‘endless’ war, not lasting peace. Iran's ability to make any attack on it costly for the American interests in the Gulf region and global economy is a constraint on Trump from further escalating the issue. Also read: What's in the latest Iran deal Trump says he's ready to sign with Tehran What leverage does Trump have over Iran? The top one is the US sanctions and economic pain for Iran through the "maximum pressure" framework. Trump appears to be using military threats and deadlines as negotiating tools, raising the question: Is there a method to the madness? His alternating ‘deal talk’ and military threats could be a deliberate bargaining strategy designed to extract stronger concessions from Iran. Though Iran continues to fight, it is dealing with the effects of leadership decimation, economic deterioration, international isolation, and pressure to accept restrictions on its nuclear programme. Iran's crisis is existential, whereas Trump's is primarily political and economic. Several actors continue pushing against a rapid deal The main party opposing a US-Iran deal is Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Iran hawks in Trump's Republican party also object to allowing Tehran to continue uranium enrichment. Trump could be applying more pressure than he is absorbing, through sanctions and military power. Every time he threatens to attack and then holds back, Trump is possibly trying to extract better concessions from Iran, such as nuclear restrictions and performance-based sanctions relief. But he probably knows that it is time to finish off what he started on February 28.

Donald Trump appears to be under rising political and economic pressure to secure an Iran deal. The US inflation, gasoline prices and Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten Republican midterm prospects and his dealmaker image.

'We ended the war today', really? Is Trump under more pressure than Iran to reach a deal? The Big Question

Twenty-two countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and several European nations, on Thursday jointly urged Iran to immediately stop what they described as attacks, intimidation campaigns and assassination plots carried out beyond its borders.&nbsp;In a joint statement, the countries accused Iranian security agencies of using both local and international criminal networks to target dissidents, journalists and Jewish and Israeli communities in Europe, North America and Australia.&nbsp;"Attempts to kill, kidnap, harass, intimidate, or otherwise attack people on our soil, undermine national sovereignty and international norms. These actions must stop immediately," the statement said.&nbsp;The countries said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intelligence services and the Quds Force had been involved in "lethal plotting and malign actions" against individuals and groups abroad.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-deeply-sorry-for-epstein-ties-here-s-what-he-revealed-to-lawmakers-during-closed-door-hearing-1781137395532">Bill Gates 'deeply sorry' for Epstein ties; Here's what he revealed to lawmakers during closed-door hearing</a><h2>Countries accuse the Iran-linked group of attacks</h2>The joint statement also accused Tehran of being linked to a series of attacks across Europe claimed by Harakat Ashab al Yamin al Islamiya (HAYI), a group that has targeted Jewish communities, Iranian journalists and US journalists.&nbsp;According to the statement, the group claimed responsibility for attacks on Jewish communities in the United Kingdom, Belgium and the Netherlands, including the stabbing of two Jewish men and several arson attacks on synagogues and community sites in north London.&nbsp;"We stand united in our determination to protect our countries and our people against these threats. The Islamic Republic of Iran must halt these actions now," the countries said.&nbsp;Australia was among the signatories and had previously accused Tehran of directing attacks on a synagogue in Melbourne and a kosher cafe in Sydney. Canberra later expelled Iran's ambassador, withdrew its own envoy from Tehran and suspended embassy operations.&nbsp;In November, Australia designated the Revolutionary Guards as a state sponsor of terrorism, describing the alleged incidents as "unprecedented and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil".&nbsp;Iran's foreign ministry rejected the move at the time, calling it an "insulting and unjustified act" that violated international rules and norms.&nbsp;The statement was issued by Albania, Australia, Belgium, Britain, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Sweden and the United States.

The countries said Iranian security agencies were using both local and international criminal networks to target dissidents, journalists, and Jewish and Israeli communities across Europe, North America, and Australia.

Twenty-two countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and several European nations, on Thursday jointly urged Iran to immediately stop what they described as attacks, intimidation campaigns and assassination plots carried out beyond its borders. In a joint statement, the countries accused Iranian security agencies of using both local and international criminal networks to target dissidents, journalists and Jewish and Israeli communities in Europe, North America and Australia. "Attempts to kill, kidnap, harass, intimidate, or otherwise attack people on our soil, undermine national sovereignty and international norms. These actions must stop immediately," the statement said. The countries said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intelligence services and the Quds Force had been involved in "lethal plotting and malign actions" against individuals and groups abroad. Also Read: Bill Gates 'deeply sorry' for Epstein ties; Here's what he revealed to lawmakers during closed-door hearing Countries accuse the Iran-linked group of attacks The joint statement also accused Tehran of being linked to a series of attacks across Europe claimed by Harakat Ashab al Yamin al Islamiya (HAYI), a group that has targeted Jewish communities, Iranian journalists and US journalists. According to the statement, the group claimed responsibility for attacks on Jewish communities in the United Kingdom, Belgium and the Netherlands, including the stabbing of two Jewish men and several arson attacks on synagogues and community sites in north London. "We stand united in our determination to protect our countries and our people against these threats. The Islamic Republic of Iran must halt these actions now," the countries said. Australia was among the signatories and had previously accused Tehran of directing attacks on a synagogue in Melbourne and a kosher cafe in Sydney. Canberra later expelled Iran's ambassador, withdrew its own envoy from Tehran and suspended embassy operations. In November, Australia designated the Revolutionary Guards as a state sponsor of terrorism, describing the alleged incidents as "unprecedented and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil". Iran's foreign ministry rejected the move at the time, calling it an "insulting and unjustified act" that violated international rules and norms. The statement was issued by Albania, Australia, Belgium, Britain, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Sweden and the United States.

The countries said Iranian security agencies were using both local and international criminal networks to target dissidents, journalists, and Jewish and Israeli communities across Europe, North America, and Australia.

'Lethal plotting and malign actions': US, UK and 20 other countries warn Iran to stop attacks on foreign soil

The US military said it completed a fresh round of strikes on multiple targets in Iran on June 10, describing the operation as a "self defence" response to Tehran's continued aggression.&nbsp;In a statement posted on X, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the strikes were carried out at the direction of President Donald Trump and targeted Iranian military surveillance capabilities, communication systems and air defence sites.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/06XEfevOgs">https://t.co/06XEfevOgs</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2064876360259043642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to CENTCOM, US Marine Corps, Air Force and Navy assets used precision munitions against targets that posed a threat to American forces and international commercial shipping in regional waters.&nbsp;"The strikes are in response to Iran's unwarranted and continued aggression," CENTCOM said, adding that US forces remain "vigilant, lethal, and ready."&nbsp;The halt came hours after Donald Trump said that Iranian leaders had called him directly and urged him to halt an ongoing bombing campaign, adding that Israel was not involved in the latest strikes on Iran, Fox News reported.&nbsp;Trump said the ongoing bombing campaign in Iran would end shortly; however, he warned that the strikes would resume on Friday night if Iran failed to reach a memorandum of understanding with Washington.&nbsp;<h2>US launches fresh strikes&nbsp;</h2>The development comes after the US military launched a fresh round of military strikes against Iran, with US Central Command saying that self-defence strikes were carried out in response to what it described as Iran's continued aggression.&nbsp;In a post on X, CENTCOM said American forces began additional "self-defence strikes" against multiple targets in Iran at 5:15 p.m. ET at the direction of President Donald Trump.&nbsp;"U.S. Central Command forces began launching additional self-defence strikes today at 5:15 p.m. ET against multiple targets in Iran at the Commander in Chief's direction. The strikes are in response to Iran's unwarranted and continued aggression," CENTCOM said.&nbsp;The latest military action came amid indications from senior US officials that operations against Iran could continue beyond a single day.&nbsp;US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth signalled that more strikes on Iran could follow, saying any future attacks would be "strong" and "clear."&nbsp;"Those strikes that'll happen tonight will be strong, they will be clear. If they happen to happen tomorrow night, they will be strong, and they will be clear," Hegseth told reporters.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Trump vowed to hit Iran "very hard" again, saying, "We hit them hard yesterday, and we're going to hit them again hard today," while accusing Tehran of delaying a peace deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;The latest strikes further escalate tensions between Washington and Tehran following the Apache helicopter incident in the Strait of Hormuz.<h3>Explosions reported near Strait of Hormuz</h3>Iranian media reported explosions in several southern areas of the country early Thursday, hours after the United States confirmed carrying out what it described as defensive strikes. Blasts were heard in the port city of Bandar Abbas, on Qeshm Island, and in the cities of Minab and Sirik.&nbsp;AFP, citing Iranian sources, also reported impacts from what they described as "enemy projectiles" in Qeshm, Kargan and Sirik, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;(This is a developing story; further details are awaited)

Trump said the ongoing US strikes in Iran would end shortly, but warned that military action could resume on Friday if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington to end the conflict.

The US military said it completed a fresh round of strikes on multiple targets in Iran on June 10, describing the operation as a "self defence" response to Tehran's continued aggression. In a statement posted on X, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the strikes were carried out at the direction of President Donald Trump and targeted Iranian military surveillance capabilities, communication systems and air defence sites.

Trump said the ongoing US strikes in Iran would end shortly, but warned that military action could resume on Friday if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington to end the conflict.

US 'completes' latest strikes in Iran after Trump claims Tehran asked him to stop bombing

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that Iran will now face the consequences for failing to reach an agreement with Washington and will ‘pay a price’ for it. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran’s military had been “completely defeated” and that much of its naval and air power “doesn’t even exist anymore”. “Iran is all talk and no action. The Bully of the Middle East is DEAD!!!,” he said.He warned Tehran that it would “have to pay the price” for failing to reach a deal with Washington.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump said Iran’s military is “a complete and total mess” and the country has been weakened significantly.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Much of it, like their Navy and Air Force, doesn’t even exist anymore – they have been completely defeated,” Trump wrote.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hope-pak-is-held-accountable-for-misdeeds-india-condemns-massacre-of-kashmiris-in-pok-1781008180684">‘Hope Pak is held accountable for misdeeds’: India condemns massacre of Kashmiris in PoK</a>&nbsp;The US president also accused Tehran of dragging on negotiations and said Tehran had missed the opportunity to secure a good agreement. “They’ve taken too long to negotiate a deal that would have been great for them, now they will have to pay the price!!!” he said.&nbsp;Trump also referred to Iran as “all talk and no action” and, referring to Tehran’s military losses, said, “The Bully of the Middle East is DEAD!!!”&nbsp;Earlier, Iran had said that it was reviewing the future of negotiations with Washington after the US strikes on Iranian targets. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused the US of undermining diplomacy through “contradictory positions” and repeated violations of ceasefire understandings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-names-four-astronauts-as-crew-members-of-artemis-iii-mission-ahead-of-moon-landing-1781030841736">NASA names four astronauts as crew members of Artemis III mission ahead of moon landing</a>&nbsp;The latest strikes by the US military on Iranian air defence and surveillance facilities came after Iran shot down an American Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;Subsequently, Iran launched retaliatory attacks targeting American facilities in Jordan and Bahrain.&nbsp;&nbsp;President Trump had been repeatedly maintaining that a comprehensive agreement with Iran is close. He claimed several times that talks were heading for a breakthrough.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump accused the Iranian leadership of dragging on negotiations for too long and said Tehran had missed the opportunity to secure a good agreement. He added that they took too long to negotiate a deal and would now have to pay the price. 

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that Iran will now face the consequences for failing to reach an agreement with Washington and will ‘pay a price’ for it. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran’s military had been “completely defeated” and that much of its naval and air power “doesn’t even exist anymore”. “Iran is all talk and no action. The Bully of the Middle East is DEAD!!!,” he said. He warned Tehran that it would “have to pay the price” for failing to reach a deal with Washington. Trump said Iran’s military is “a complete and total mess” and the country has been weakened significantly. “Much of it, like their Navy and Air Force, doesn’t even exist anymore – they have been completely defeated,” Trump wrote. Also Read: ‘Hope Pak is held accountable for misdeeds’: India condemns massacre of Kashmiris in PoK The US president also accused Tehran of dragging on negotiations and said Tehran had missed the opportunity to secure a good agreement. “They’ve taken too long to negotiate a deal that would have been great for them, now they will have to pay the price!!!” he said. Trump also referred to Iran as “all talk and no action” and, referring to Tehran’s military losses, said, “The Bully of the Middle East is DEAD!!!” Earlier, Iran had said that it was reviewing the future of negotiations with Washington after the US strikes on Iranian targets. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused the US of undermining diplomacy through “contradictory positions” and repeated violations of ceasefire understandings. Also Read: NASA names four astronauts as crew members of Artemis III mission ahead of moon landing The latest strikes by the US military on Iranian air defence and surveillance facilities came after Iran shot down an American Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. Subsequently, Iran launched retaliatory attacks targeting American facilities in Jordan and Bahrain. President Trump had been repeatedly maintaining that a comprehensive agreement with Iran is close. He claimed several times that talks were heading for a breakthrough.

US President Donald Trump accused the Iranian leadership of dragging on negotiations for too long and said Tehran had missed the opportunity to secure a good agreement. He added that they took too long to negotiate a deal and would now have to pay the price.&nbsp;

‘Iran will pay the price,’ warns Trump, says Tehran ‘missed the chance’ for deal

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said that it had completed “self-defence” strikes against Iran on June 9 following the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said its forces carried out precision strikes at the direction of the Commander in Chief.&nbsp;"CENTCOM forces struck Iranian air defence, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites near the Strait of Hormuz with precision munitions from U.S. Air Force and Navy fighter jets. The operation was a proportional response to recent attacks on U.S. forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters," the statement said.It added, "U.S. forces remain vigilant and postured to defend against unjustified Iranian aggression".&nbsp;The operation comes after the US launched multiple waves of strikes on Iran, which it described as "self-defence strikes" and a "proportional response to unjustified Iranian aggression" following the helicopter incident in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump blamed Tehran's military for the downing and vowed a "powerful response".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/nmeOOVXAcD">https://t.co/nmeOOVXAcD</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2064512017197941163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Axios journalist Barak Ravid, citing US officials, reported that a "Third wave of attack against the Islamic Republic" was underway during the escalation.<h2>Iran strikes on US bases in the Gulf</h2>In retaliation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they carried out multiple strikes targeting US military bases across the Gulf region, including Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan.&nbsp;The IRGC said US forces had earlier struck several locations in Iran, including Jask, Sirik and Qeshm, which it described as false pretexts for the escalation.&nbsp;"In response to the enemy's vicious move, the IRGC naval fighters launched a drone strike on the Bahraini 5th Navy at 2:30 am (2300 GMT Tuesday)," it added, warning of "heavier responses" if attacks continue.&nbsp;The IRGC also said it targeted four sites at a US base in Jordan, claiming it struck key installations in retaliation for renewed US strikes following the downing of an Apache helicopter. Iranian forces "targeted and destroyed four major targets, including F35 fighter nests at an air base and the US child-killing military control command centre in Al-Azraq, Jordan", the Guards said in a statement quoted by state-run IRNA, adding that the attack was carried out using "long-range missiles".&nbsp;Iranian media further reported that the IRGC targeted the Ali Al Salem base in Kuwait with drones.&nbsp;Confirming the attack, the Kuwait Army said on X that its air defence systems were intercepting hostile aerial targets. "The General Staff of the Kuwaiti Army announces that Kuwaiti air defence systems are currently intercepting hostile aerial targets in accordance with approved operational procedures," it said, urging the public to follow official safety instructions and rely only on authorised sources for updates.&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The US military said the attack was a proportional response to recent strikes on US forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said that it had completed “self-defence” strikes against Iran on June 9 following the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said its forces carried out precision strikes at the direction of the Commander in Chief. "CENTCOM forces struck Iranian air defence, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites near the Strait of Hormuz with precision munitions from U.S. Air Force and Navy fighter jets. The operation was a proportional response to recent attacks on U.S. forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters," the statement said. It added, "U.S. forces remain vigilant and postured to defend against unjustified Iranian aggression". The operation comes after the US launched multiple waves of strikes on Iran, which it described as "self-defence strikes" and a "proportional response to unjustified Iranian aggression" following the helicopter incident in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump blamed Tehran's military for the downing and vowed a "powerful response".

The US military said the attack was a proportional response to recent strikes on US forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters.

US completes 'self-defense strikes' on Iran; IRGC retaliates with attack on Gulf bases

The United States on Tuesday said its forces had launched what it described as "self-defence" strikes against Iran following the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;In a statement posted on X, the White House said US Central Command forces began military operations at 5 p.m. ET at the direction of President Donald Trump.&nbsp;"U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces began launching self-defence strikes against Iran at 5 p.m. ET today at the Commander in Chief's direction, in response to yesterday's downing of a U.S. Army Apache helicopter. The mission is a proportional response to unjustified Iranian aggression," the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces began launching self-defense strikes against Iran at 5 p.m. ET today at the Commander in Chief’s direction, in response to yesterday’s downing of a U.S. Army Apache helicopter. The mission is a proportional response to unjustified Iranian…&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2064457103134343170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;US military forces attacked several Iranian air defence batteries and radar systems around the Strait of Hormuz, Axios reported, citing senior officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;The development comes after Trump accused Iran of shooting down a US Army AH 64 Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz and vowed that Washington "must respond" to the incident.&nbsp;Speaking to ABC News moments before CENTCOM announced strikes, the US president said that he believes the response should be very strong, very powerful.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think it's very important to respond. They shot down a helicopter, and we are responding as we speak."&nbsp;&nbsp;"I believe in responding in a strong manner. I always have throughout my life. And we have a deal that was very good, and probably will [still be]," the president continued. "This is a response to what they did with our helicopter last night, and I believe the response should be very strong, very powerful, and that's what this one is," Trump quoted as saying by ABC.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. )

The US said it carried out self-defence strikes against Iran after the reported downing of a US Army Apache helicopter, calling the operation a proportional response to Iranian aggression.

The United States on Tuesday said its forces had launched what it described as "self-defence" strikes against Iran following the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran. In a statement posted on X, the White House said US Central Command forces began military operations at 5 p.m. ET at the direction of President Donald Trump. "U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces began launching self-defence strikes against Iran at 5 p.m. ET today at the Commander in Chief's direction, in response to yesterday's downing of a U.S. Army Apache helicopter. The mission is a proportional response to unjustified Iranian aggression," the statement said.

The US said it carried out self-defense strikes against Iran after the reported downing of a US Army Apache helicopter, calling the operation a proportional response to Iranian aggression.

US strikes Iran as Trump vows 'very powerful' response over Apache helicopter downing

Even as reports of tense exchanges between US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu emerge, Israel's Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter has brushed them aside terming it as “lover's spat.” In an interview he said that the “deep friendship” between Israel and the US go back to 40 years and the conversation can get heated sometimes. He insisted that both countries are working collaboratively on Iran. He went on to accuse journalists of playing a misleading narrative.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-100-days-of-iran-us-war-trump-revives-two-weeks-timeline-what-he-said-1780966729704/amp">After 100 days of Iran-US war, Trump revives 'two weeks' timeline - What he said</a>&nbsp;"They have a deep friendship that goes back some 40 years, and sometimes lovers have a spat, and sometimes the tension in the room and on the conversation can get a little heated," Leiter said while talking to Fox News. The Israeli diplomat claimed that while the Israeli leader "decided" to "lower the temperature" on military action against Iran at Trump's request, the US president understands "full well" Israel can't “absorb ballistic missiles into our country without responding.” "For the most part, we're dealing with a very, very close collaborative effort between the United States and Israel, and there's tremendous understanding," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-should-we-pick-a-fight-netanyahu-calls-off-massive-iran-strike-after-trump-s-warning-call-1780968052307/amp">'Why should we pick a fight...': Netanyahu calls off massive Iran strike after Trump's warning call</a>&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly called off a massive strike on Iran with fighter jets on the runway, after US President Donald Trump's call. When told by other Israeli leaders to not give in to US pressure over Iran, Netanyahu said that they shouldn't pick up a fight with the US president. Later, Netanyahu reportedly defended the coordination with Washington. “We are on the same page as Trump,” Netanyahu was quoted as saying. “He is not releasing Iran’s frozen funds, he is determined to secure the nuclear material, and he is maintaining the pressure. Why should we pick a fight with him?” He defended Israel’s strikes but announced that it is on hold “for now.” "After Iran attacked Israel, I directed the IDF to strike military and economic targets throughout Iran. At present, the fire on this front has been halted, because after the terrorist regime in Tehran was struck, it stopped attacking us,” he added, while warning that “if that terrorist regime makes the mistake of attacking us again, we will respond with force.”<h2>Tense exchanges between Trump and Netanyahu</h2>After Iran's attack, Trump called Netanyahu and asked him not to retaliate. However, soon after the warning, Israeli military said that it has attacked several locations inside Iran. Explosions were heard in Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj and Tabrej. Trump then called Netanyahu and told him that he would be isolated if he moves ahead with his Iran plans without paying heed to American negotiations. Trump had also asserted his authority and said on Sunday that it is he who “calls the shots and not the Israeli PM.” Last Monday, Axios reported that Trump's call with Netanyahu was expletive laden. He reportedly told the Israeli PM that he is “fucking crazy” and that everyone “hates Israel.” The Axios report this morning quotes the US president saying: “I said, 'Bibi, you better be careful, or you will be on your own very soon.”&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.

Israel's US Envoy Yechiel Leiter dismissed rumors of a rift between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, framing their tense talks over Iran as a temporary "lovers' spat." He noted that while Israel eased its military stance at Trump's request, it retains the absolute right to self-defense

Even as reports of tense exchanges between US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu emerge, Israel's Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter has brushed them aside terming it as “lover's spat.” In an interview he said that the “deep friendship” between Israel and the US go back to 40 years and the conversation can get heated sometimes. He insisted that both countries are working collaboratively on Iran. He went on to accuse journalists of playing a misleading narrative. Also Read: After 100 days of Iran-US war, Trump revives 'two weeks' timeline - What he said "They have a deep friendship that goes back some 40 years, and sometimes lovers have a spat, and sometimes the tension in the room and on the conversation can get a little heated," Leiter said while talking to Fox News. The Israeli diplomat claimed that while the Israeli leader "decided" to "lower the temperature" on military action against Iran at Trump's request, the US president understands "full well" Israel can't “absorb ballistic missiles into our country without responding.” "For the most part, we're dealing with a very, very close collaborative effort between the United States and Israel, and there's tremendous understanding," he added. Also Read: 'Why should we pick a fight...': Netanyahu calls off massive Iran strike after Trump's warning call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly called off a massive strike on Iran with fighter jets on the runway, after US President Donald Trump's call. When told by other Israeli leaders to not give in to US pressure over Iran, Netanyahu said that they shouldn't pick up a fight with the US president. Later, Netanyahu reportedly defended the coordination with Washington. “We are on the same page as Trump,” Netanyahu was quoted as saying. “He is not releasing Iran’s frozen funds, he is determined to secure the nuclear material, and he is maintaining the pressure. Why should we pick a fight with him?” He defended Israel’s strikes but announced that it is on hold “for now.” "After Iran attacked Israel, I directed the IDF to strike military and economic targets throughout Iran. At present, the fire on this front has been halted, because after the terrorist regime in Tehran was struck, it stopped attacking us,” he added, while warning that “if that terrorist regime makes the mistake of attacking us again, we will respond with force.” Tense exchanges between Trump and Netanyahu After Iran's attack, Trump called Netanyahu and asked him not to retaliate. However, soon after the warning, Israeli military said that it has attacked several locations inside Iran. Explosions were heard in Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj and Tabrej. Trump then called Netanyahu and told him that he would be isolated if he moves ahead with his Iran plans without paying heed to American negotiations. Trump had also asserted his authority and said on Sunday that it is he who “calls the shots and not the Israeli PM.” Last Monday, Axios reported that Trump's call with Netanyahu was expletive laden. He reportedly told the Israeli PM that he is “fucking crazy” and that everyone “hates Israel.” The Axios report this morning quotes the US president saying: “I said, 'Bibi, you better be careful, or you will be on your own very soon.” 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.

Israel's US Envoy Yechiel Leiter dismissed rumors of a rift between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, framing their tense talks over Iran as a temporary "lovers' spat." He noted that while Israel eased its military stance at Trump's request, it retains the absolute right to self-defense

Trump-Netanyahu having a 'lover's spat': Israel envoy defends tense exchanges between two leaders over Iran

Iran’s armed forces announced the end of military operations against Israel on Monday but warned of “harsher” attacks if Israel resumes strikes on Lebanon, reported Iran’ semi-official Fars news agency.&nbsp;“Following the aggressions and acts of mischief by the brutal Zionist regime in southern Lebanon and the Dahieh area, carried out with the support of criminal America, the powerful armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in support of the oppressed people of Lebanon, delivered a painful response to this regime,” Fars quoted the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters as saying.&nbsp;The announcement came after President Donald Trump demanded Israel and Iran “immediately stop shooting” after attacks and counterattacks threatened to wreck efforts to secure a peace deal for ending the war.There was no immediate response from Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ai-making-students-dumb-concerns-over-proper-learning-and-cognitive-skills-are-growing-1780758738457">Is AI making students dumb? Concerns grow over learning, development of cognitive skills</a>&nbsp;Iran’s armed forces said its attacks on Israel are a response from which the “Zionist regime and its supporters must learn a lesson”.“Accordingly, the operations of the armed forces are hereby declared halted,” it said in a statement carried by state media.“However, it is emphasised if the aggressions and acts of mischief continue – including in southern Lebanon – much more severe and crushing actions than before will follow,” the statement added.&nbsp;<h2>Iran has not abandoned war or negotiations: President Pezeshkian</h2>&nbsp;Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, meanwhile, said that Tehran’s priority is “national security and the peace of our people”.“We will defend the rights of the nation with authority and will not retreat in the face of any threat,” he said in a post on X.“Diplomacy and defence are the two wings of national power; we have neither abandoned the field nor the negotiating table.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-withdraws-z-plus-cover-of-lalu-yadav-rabri-devi-how-much-does-the-vip-protection-cost-taxpayers-1780746937908">Govt withdraws Z-plus cover of Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi. How much does the VIP protection cost taxpayers?</a><h2>Israel will halt strikes on Iran, keep fighting Hezbollah: Israeli official&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, an Israeli official later told Hebrew media outlets that the decision came at the request of US President Donald Trump but stressed that Israel will not stop its offensive against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. “The sense is that this round of fighting is behind us. We are awaiting a final decision from the political leadership,” the official said.&nbsp;Hebrew media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump spoke over the phone on Monday, ahead of Tehran’s announcement that it would cease attacks if Israel stopped its offensive against Hezbollah.

The announcement from Tehran came after US President Donald Trump demanded Israel and Iran “immediately stop shooting” after attacks and counterattacks threatened to wreck efforts to secure a peace deal for ending the war.

Iran’s armed forces announced the end of military operations against Israel on Monday but warned of “harsher” attacks if Israel resumes strikes on Lebanon, reported Iran’ semi-official Fars news agency. “Following the aggressions and acts of mischief by the brutal Zionist regime in southern Lebanon and the Dahieh area, carried out with the support of criminal America, the powerful armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in support of the oppressed people of Lebanon, delivered a painful response to this regime,” Fars quoted the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters as saying. The announcement came after President Donald Trump demanded Israel and Iran “immediately stop shooting” after attacks and counterattacks threatened to wreck efforts to secure a peace deal for ending the war. There was no immediate response from Israel. Also Read: Is AI making students dumb? Concerns grow over learning, development of cognitive skills Iran’s armed forces said its attacks on Israel are a response from which the “Zionist regime and its supporters must learn a lesson”. “Accordingly, the operations of the armed forces are hereby declared halted,” it said in a statement carried by state media. “However, it is emphasised if the aggressions and acts of mischief continue – including in southern Lebanon – much more severe and crushing actions than before will follow,” the statement added. Iran has not abandoned war or negotiations: President Pezeshkian Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, meanwhile, said that Tehran’s priority is “national security and the peace of our people”. “We will defend the rights of the nation with authority and will not retreat in the face of any threat,” he said in a post on X. “Diplomacy and defence are the two wings of national power; we have neither abandoned the field nor the negotiating table.” Also Read: Govt withdraws Z-plus cover of Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi. How much does the VIP protection cost taxpayers? Israel will halt strikes on Iran, keep fighting Hezbollah: Israeli official Meanwhile, an Israeli official later told Hebrew media outlets that the decision came at the request of US President Donald Trump but stressed that Israel will not stop its offensive against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. “The sense is that this round of fighting is behind us. We are awaiting a final decision from the political leadership,” the official said. Hebrew media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump spoke over the phone on Monday, ahead of Tehran’s announcement that it would cease attacks if Israel stopped its offensive against Hezbollah.

The announcement from Tehran came after US President Donald Trump demanded Israel and Iran “immediately stop shooting” after attacks and counterattacks threatened to wreck efforts to secure a peace deal for ending the war.

Iran announces end of military operations against Israel, warns ‘harsher’ action if Lebanon attacked again

Iran's Mehr News agency on Monday (June 8) reported that several explosions were heard in capital Tehran as well as in cities of Tabriz, Karaj and Isfahan. Soon after, the Israel Defense Forces said that it has struck military targets in the western and central region of Iran. This comes after Iran launched massive ballistic missile strike on Ramat David air base in northern Israel in what it described as a response to attack in Beirut. The attack comes even as US President Donald Trump urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to not retaliate. The IDF had vowed to retaliate but Netanyahu, in a phone call with Trump, had agreed to hold the strikes, as per an Axios report. The IDF had also said that it intercepted all missiles fired from Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-give-painful-response-iran-promises-retaliation-against-israeli-strikes-in-beirut-1780847516848">'Will give painful response': Iran promises retaliation against Israeli strikes in Beirut</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">IDF: &#39;Israeli Air Force struck military targets belonging to terror regime in central and western Iran&#39;<a href="https://t.co/QSmxNc3CIl">https://t.co/QSmxNc3CIl</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q97YTbNnTB">pic.twitter.com/Q97YTbNnTB</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://x.com/RT_com/status/2063796928270512556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

IRGC also shared images of the attack:<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HKQcxMWbIAAymTn?format=jpg&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>

<h2>What we know about Iran's attack on Israel?</h2>Iran launched massive ballistic missile strike on Ramat David air base in northern Israel and military central command said that this was just a “warning.” Iran demanded end of Israel's campaign in Lebanon and said that Israel's latest strike on the southern Beirut suburbs had "crossed all red lines." General Ali Abdollahi, the head of the Khatam al-Anbiya command warned of “devastating and regrettable blows.” "If such aggressions are repeated, the responses will be broader and will cover all US-Zionist targets in the region," the force said. Iran closed its airspace over the west of the country and Tehran’s international airport suspended all incoming flights. Missiles breached Jordan’s airspace also, Minister of Government Communication Mohammad H Al-Momani said. The US Embassy in Jordan also issued a country-wide warning Sunday that “reports indicate missiles, drones, or rockets are in Jordanian airspace.” It wasn't clear from where the missiles came.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-ballistic-missiles-at-israel-idf-vows-retaliation-trump-netanyahu-react-what-we-know-1780877087164/amp">'Each of them had their fun': Iran fires ballistic missiles at Israel, IDF vows retaliation; Trump, Netanyahu react</a><h2>Did Netanyahu defy Trump?</h2>In a phone call reported by Axios and Times of Israel, Trump reportedly told Netnayahu to exercise restraint. "I am going to call Bibi right now and tell him not to retaliate. Each of them had their fun. Israel had its strike and Iran had its strike. We don't need another one," Trump told Axios in a telephonic interview before calling the Israeli PM. Axios also reported that Netanyahu tried to push back against the idea of not striking back but ultimately “pseudo-agreed” to the president’s request, an official was quoted saying. However, there has been no statement by Netanyahu yet. Last week, Trump lashed out at Netanyahu over Israel's escalation in Lebanon in an expletive-laden call. Trump called Netanyahu "crazy" and accused him of ingratitude, according to Axios.&nbsp;

Explosions were reported in Tehran after Iran launched missile strikes on Israel, escalating tensions in the Middle East. Tehran also warned it could block another key maritime chokepoint if Israel intensifies its attacks, raising concerns over regional security and global energy supplies.

Iran's Mehr News agency on Monday (June 8) reported that several explosions were heard in capital Tehran as well as in cities of Tabriz, Karaj and Isfahan. Soon after, the Israel Defense Forces said that it has struck military targets in the western and central region of Iran. This comes after Iran launched massive ballistic missile strike on Ramat David air base in northern Israel in what it described as a response to attack in Beirut. The attack comes even as US President Donald Trump urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to not retaliate. The IDF had vowed to retaliate but Netanyahu, in a phone call with Trump, had agreed to hold the strikes, as per an Axios report. The IDF had also said that it intercepted all missiles fired from Iran. Also Read: 'Will give painful response': Iran promises retaliation against Israeli strikes in Beirut

Explosions were reported in Tehran after Iran launched missile strikes on Israel, escalating tensions in the Middle East. Tehran also warned it could block another key maritime chokepoint if Israel intensifies its attacks, raising concerns over regional security and global energy supplies.

Israel attacks Iran despite Trump's plea for restraint: Is Netanyahu defying US president?

As talks between Iran and the US hit impasse, the fear of widening conflict in West Asia increased. On Saturday (June 6), Kuwait said that its air defence systems intercepted incoming missiles and drones and Bahrain reported that missile siren has been sounded. Urging people to not panic and move to nearest safe locations, both countries said that more updates would follow. It has not blamed Iran for the latest attack, but Iran's Revolutionary Guards, in a statement, said that it has targeted US bases in region with air-launched missiles in response to attack on the islands of Sirik and Qeshm. Hostilities have renewed in the region with Tehran resuming to strike US bases in the Gulf and Washington striking strategic locations inside Iran. Just two days ago, Kuwait airport was hit and it resulted into the death of one Indian national while several others were injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-iranian-radar-installations-after-intercepting-drones-bound-for-strait-of-hormuz-centcom-1780701129169">US strikes Iranian radar installations after intercepting drones</a>&nbsp;“Following the invasion by the child-killing and terrorist US army of Sirik and Qeshm islands, enemy bases in the area were hit by aerospace missiles,” IRGC said. “Kuwaiti air defenses are currently responding to hostile missile and drone attacks,” the military says on X, without specifying their origin. “The General Staff of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces confirms that any explosions that may be heard are the result of air defense systems intercepting hostile attacks,” the Kuwait Army added. “The siren has been sounded ..Citizens and residents are urged to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place.,” Bahrain interior ministry said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-still-have-capacity-trump-makes-big-claim-on-iran-s-missile-arsenal-as-talks-hit-impasse-insists-he-s-moving-very-fast-1780703950351">'They still have capacity': Trump makes big claim on Iran</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨🇰🇼 BREAKING: Fresh footage out of Kuwait captures the sirens wailing across the city as tonight&#39;s attack unfolds. By now the sound is sickeningly familiar. Source: Geopolitics Watch <a href="https://t.co/o3XvDnNQfL">https://t.co/o3XvDnNQfL</a> <a href="https://t.co/zBLr8FW6Be">pic.twitter.com/zBLr8FW6Be</a>&mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://x.com/MarioNawfal/status/2063067671239778425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Is the war resuming?</h2>The United States military on June 5 said that it attacked radar sites on Iran's southern coast. US Central Command said that its forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones launched toward the Strait of Hormuz, then attacked Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in the city of Goruk and on Qeshm Island. Meanwhile, Iran's military said that it had fired "warning missiles" at two US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman -- a claim promptly denied by the US military.&nbsp;Additionally, Iran claims talks have hit an impasse. According to Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the “ball is in Trump's court” and it is for him to take the first step to break the current deadlock. He said that Iran and the United States could move towards a possible agreement if Washington agrees to release $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets. Speaking to CNN, Rezaei warned that if the United States resumes strikes, it would “enter into a dark corridor." Meanwhile, Trump has hinted at the possibility of not reaching a deal with Iranian leaders, saying he’ll have to make a “determination.”&nbsp;

As Iran-US talks remain deadlocked, tensions in West Asia have escalated. Kuwait said its air defences intercepted incoming missiles and drones, while Bahrain activated missile sirens and urged residents to seek shelter. The developments come amid renewed hostilities

As talks between Iran and the US hit impasse, the fear of widening conflict in West Asia increased. On Saturday (June 6), Kuwait said that its air defence systems intercepted incoming missiles and drones and Bahrain reported that missile siren has been sounded. Urging people to not panic and move to nearest safe locations, both countries said that more updates would follow. It has not blamed Iran for the latest attack, but Iran's Revolutionary Guards, in a statement, said that it has targeted US bases in region with air-launched missiles in response to attack on the islands of Sirik and Qeshm. Hostilities have renewed in the region with Tehran resuming to strike US bases in the Gulf and Washington striking strategic locations inside Iran. Just two days ago, Kuwait airport was hit and it resulted into the death of one Indian national while several others were injured. Also Read: US strikes Iranian radar installations after intercepting drones “Following the invasion by the child-killing and terrorist US army of Sirik and Qeshm islands, enemy bases in the area were hit by aerospace missiles,” IRGC said. “Kuwaiti air defenses are currently responding to hostile missile and drone attacks,” the military says on X, without specifying their origin. “The General Staff of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces confirms that any explosions that may be heard are the result of air defense systems intercepting hostile attacks,” the Kuwait Army added. “The siren has been sounded ..Citizens and residents are urged to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place.,” Bahrain interior ministry said. Also Read: 'They still have capacity': Trump makes big claim on Iran

As Iran-US talks remain deadlocked, tensions in West Asia have escalated. Kuwait said its air defences intercepted incoming missiles and drones, while Bahrain activated missile sirens and urged residents to seek shelter. The developments come amid renewed hostilities

Iran targets US military bases with missile and drones as Kuwait, Bahrain intercepts attack: What's happening

US President Donald Trump claimed on Friday (June 6) that he is “moving very fast” with the Iran war, and pressed that Iran still has "21, 22 percent" of its missiles left. Once again, The US president compared the timeline of the Iran war that has now entered its third month to that of Vietnam war. He acknowledged that Iran still has war-fighting capacity. Despite initial timeline of four to six weeks, the Iran war is now nearing 100 days. Iran and the US has not been able to reach an agreement to end the war despite sharing several proposals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubio-clarifies-stupid-people-remark-on-wion-s-racism-question-says-trump-loves-india-amid-hellhole-comments-1779682553637">Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India' amid 'hellhole' comments</a>&nbsp;“I’m moving very fast. I’m into three months, you know. Vietnam lasted 19 years. I’m into my third month,” Trump said in an interview with NBC News. “It’s a very hard thing for them. They’ve had great independence, they’ve dealt with very weak and ineffective leadership on behalf of the United States and other countries, frankly," he added. In the same NBC interview, Trump said that the US has “totally destroyed their military." “Most of the drone factories have been knocked out, most of the launching pads have been knocked out, and most of the missile manufacturing areas have been knocked out. But they still have capacity. They have some missiles, they have some drones,” he said. “I would say percentagewise, maybe 21%-22% of their missiles. It’s a lot of missiles, but it’s not what it was when we first attacked.” However, in May, Trump had claimed that Iran's missile stockpile is higher than 18 percent. In June 2025, after hitting Iran's nuclear sites, Trump had claimed that their war capacity is completely destroyed and the sites are “obliterated.”&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><h2>What we know about Iran US war and peace talks?</h2>The United States military on June 5 said that it attacked radar sites on Iran's southern coast. US Central Command said that its forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones launched toward the Strait of Hormuz, then attacked Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in the city of Goruk and on Qeshm Island. Meanwhile, Iran's military said that it had fired "warning missiles" at two US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman -- a claim promptly denied by the US military. Additionally, Iran claims talks have hit an impasse. According to Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the “ball is in Trump's court” and it is for him to take the first step to break the current deadlock. He said that Iran and the United States could move towards a possible agreement if Washington agrees to release $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets. Speaking to CNN, Rezaei warned that if the United States resumes strikes, it would “enter into a dark corridor."

US President Donald Trump said he is “moving very fast” to end the Iran war nearly three months after strikes began, while warning Tehran still retains around 21-22% of its missile arsenal. His remarks came amid fresh Iranian drone and missile activity and stalled efforts to secure a deal.

US President Donald Trump claimed on Friday (June 6) that he is “moving very fast” with the Iran war, and pressed that Iran still has "21, 22 percent" of its missiles left. Once again, The US president compared the timeline of the Iran war that has now entered its third month to that of Vietnam war. He acknowledged that Iran still has war-fighting capacity. Despite initial timeline of four to six weeks, the Iran war is now nearing 100 days. Iran and the US has not been able to reach an agreement to end the war despite sharing several proposals. Also Read: Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India' amid 'hellhole' comments “I’m moving very fast. I’m into three months, you know. Vietnam lasted 19 years. I’m into my third month,” Trump said in an interview with NBC News. “It’s a very hard thing for them. They’ve had great independence, they’ve dealt with very weak and ineffective leadership on behalf of the United States and other countries, frankly," he added. In the same NBC interview, Trump said that the US has “totally destroyed their military." “Most of the drone factories have been knocked out, most of the launching pads have been knocked out, and most of the missile manufacturing areas have been knocked out. But they still have capacity. They have some missiles, they have some drones,” he said. “I would say percentagewise, maybe 21%-22% of their missiles. It’s a lot of missiles, but it’s not what it was when we first attacked.” However, in May, Trump had claimed that Iran's missile stockpile is higher than 18 percent. In June 2025, after hitting Iran's nuclear sites, Trump had claimed that their war capacity is completely destroyed and the sites are “obliterated.” Also Read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war What we know about Iran US war and peace talks? The United States military on June 5 said that it attacked radar sites on Iran's southern coast. US Central Command said that its forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones launched toward the Strait of Hormuz, then attacked Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in the city of Goruk and on Qeshm Island. Meanwhile, Iran's military said that it had fired "warning missiles" at two US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman -- a claim promptly denied by the US military. Additionally, Iran claims talks have hit an impasse. According to Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the “ball is in Trump's court” and it is for him to take the first step to break the current deadlock. He said that Iran and the United States could move towards a possible agreement if Washington agrees to release $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets. Speaking to CNN, Rezaei warned that if the United States resumes strikes, it would “enter into a dark corridor."

US President Donald Trump said he is “moving very fast” to end the Iran war nearly three months after strikes began, while warning Tehran still retains around 21-22% of its missile arsenal. His remarks came amid fresh Iranian drone and missile activity and stalled efforts to secure a deal.

'They still have capacity': Trump makes BIG claim on Iran's missile arsenal as talks hit impasse, insists he's 'moving very fast'

The conflict in West Asia escalated once again amid ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran after the US military said it struck surveillance radar sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island following the interception of four Iranian attack drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), "Moments ago, CENTCOM forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones that were launched toward the Strait of Hormuz. The attack drones posed an immediate threat to regional maritime traffic. U.S. forces subsequently struck Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island to defend against further attacks."&nbsp;"American forces remain vigilant and postured to respond to unjustified Iranian aggression in self-defence," it posted on X.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Moments ago, CENTCOM forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones that were launched toward the Strait of Hormuz. The attack drones posed an immediate threat to regional maritime traffic. U.S. forces subsequently struck Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in Goruk and…&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2063030319490744715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The latest escalation comes as US President Donald Trump said Iran still retains roughly "21, 22 per cent" of its missile arsenal, despite a fragile ceasefire and a week in which Tehran launched dozens of missiles towards regional neighbours.&nbsp;Speaking to NBC News on Friday, Trump said, "They still have capacity. They have some missiles, they have some drones. I would say, percentage-wise, maybe 21, 22 per cent of their missiles."&nbsp;The estimate is higher than the 18 per cent figure Trump cited in May. The US president has repeatedly maintained that American operations had effectively crippled Iran's military capabilities, but his latest remarks suggest Tehran continues to retain a portion of its missile and drone inventory.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The US military said it struck Iranian radar sites after intercepting four drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.

The conflict in West Asia escalated once again amid ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran after the US military said it struck surveillance radar sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island following the interception of four Iranian attack drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), "Moments ago, CENTCOM forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones that were launched toward the Strait of Hormuz. The attack drones posed an immediate threat to regional maritime traffic. U.S. forces subsequently struck Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island to defend against further attacks." "American forces remain vigilant and postured to respond to unjustified Iranian aggression in self-defence," it posted on X.

The US military said it struck Iranian radar sites after intercepting four drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.

US strikes Iranian radar installations after intercepting drones bound for Strait of Hormuz: CENTCOM

The US military said Tuesday (Jun 2) it had successfully intercepted a series of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf countries and civilian shipping, while also carrying out retaliatory strikes on an Iranian military facility on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Iran launched several ballistic missiles toward regional neighbours, but none reached their intended targets.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-intercepts-lebanon-projectiles-hours-after-trump-s-f-ing-crazy-call-with-netanyahu-israel-lebanon-war-iran-war-truce-1780360547603">Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu</a><h2>What happened?</h2>According to CENTCOM, two Iranian missiles fired toward Kuwait either fell short or broke apart before impact. Three other missiles aimed at Bahrain were intercepted by a joint effort involving US and Bahraini air-defence systems.The US military also said it shot down three Iranian attack drones that were headed toward civilian vessels transiting through regional waters. "Iran launched several ballistic missiles toward regional neighbours; however, all failed to hit their intended targets," CENTCOM said.The latest exchange comes amid heightened tensions across the Gulf following months of conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.<h2>US hits back at Iran</h2>In response to the attacks, US forces conducted what they described as self-defence strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island. CENTCOM said the operation targeted an Iranian military ground control station that was allegedly involved in directing hostile activities.The US military did not provide details about casualties or damage on the island but said no American personnel were injured during the attacks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-eternity-trump-says-israel-hezbollah-agreed-to-stop-fighting-but-fresh-projectiles-from-lebanon-raise-doubts-1780362414089">'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting, but fresh projectiles from Lebanon raise doubts</a><h2>Why Qeshm Island matters</h2>Qeshm Island sits near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints. Roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments typically pass through the narrow waterway.The area has become a focal point of the ongoing crisis after Tehran imposed significant restrictions on shipping movements following the outbreak of war with the United States and Israel in late February.Any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has the potential to affect global energy markets, shipping costs and fuel prices worldwide.The latest confrontation underscores the growing risk of a broader regional conflict as military exchanges continue despite diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.&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.

Tehran fired missiles and drones toward Gulf states, and the US says it intercepted every threat and struck back inside Iran. The latest clash unfolded near one of the world's most critical shipping routes. Scroll down for the full breakdown of what happened and why it matters.

The US military said Tuesday (Jun 2) it had successfully intercepted a series of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf countries and civilian shipping, while also carrying out retaliatory strikes on an Iranian military facility on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Iran launched several ballistic missiles toward regional neighbours, but none reached their intended targets. Also read | Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu What happened? According to CENTCOM, two Iranian missiles fired toward Kuwait either fell short or broke apart before impact. Three other missiles aimed at Bahrain were intercepted by a joint effort involving US and Bahraini air-defence systems. The US military also said it shot down three Iranian attack drones that were headed toward civilian vessels transiting through regional waters. "Iran launched several ballistic missiles toward regional neighbours; however, all failed to hit their intended targets," CENTCOM said. The latest exchange comes amid heightened tensions across the Gulf following months of conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. US hits back at Iran In response to the attacks, US forces conducted what they described as self-defence strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island. CENTCOM said the operation targeted an Iranian military ground control station that was allegedly involved in directing hostile activities. The US military did not provide details about casualties or damage on the island but said no American personnel were injured during the attacks. Also read | 'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting, but fresh projectiles from Lebanon raise doubts Why Qeshm Island matters Qeshm Island sits near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints. Roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments typically pass through the narrow waterway. The area has become a focal point of the ongoing crisis after Tehran imposed significant restrictions on shipping movements following the outbreak of war with the United States and Israel in late February. Any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has the potential to affect global energy markets, shipping costs and fuel prices worldwide. The latest confrontation underscores the growing risk of a broader regional conflict as military exchanges continue despite diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions. 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.

Tehran fired missiles and drones toward Gulf states, and the US says it intercepted every threat and struck back inside Iran. The latest clash unfolded near one of the world's most critical shipping routes. Scroll down for the full breakdown of what happened and why it matters.

Tehran attacked Gulf countries, but 'failed to hit targets' claims US; America strikes Iran's Qeshm Island

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf spoke to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on Tuesday (June 2) about continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon and said that it could affect the ongoing peace process with Washington. This comes two days after Ghalibaf said that Tehran will not agree to any deal with the United States that fails to secure the rights of Iranians. Terming the attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon as ceasefire violation, Iran on Monday said that it has stopped exchanging messages with the US through intermediaries, its state-affiliated outlet Tasnim News Agency reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-eternity-trump-says-israel-hezbollah-agreed-to-stop-fighting-but-fresh-projectiles-from-lebanon-raise-doubts-1780362414089">'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting</a>&nbsp;In a post on X after conversation with Lebanese Parliament Speaker, Ghalibaf said, “I emphasised that if the crimes of the Zionist regime in Lebanon continue, we will not only halt the dialogue process but also stand firmly against them.” He concluded the message by declaring: “Long live the resistance! Long live the defence of the motherland! Long live the brotherhood of the Iranian and Lebanese peoples!” Ghalibaf in a video broadcast on state television, said, “We will not approve any agreement until we are certain that the rights of the Iranian people have been upheld. Iranian negotiators neither trust the enemy's words nor its promises.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">بحديثي مع أخي دولة الرئيس نبيه برّي، أكّدت إنّه إذا استمرّ العدوان الإسرائيلي على لبنان، مش بس رح نوقّف مسار التفاوض، بل رح نكون بمواجهة مباشرة مع العدو. عاشت المقاومة. عاش الدفاع عن الأرض. وعاشت الأخوّة بين الشعبين اللبناني والإیراني.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2061570660871073850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-are-continuing-at-rapid-pace-with-iran-says-trump-amid-fragile-peace-talks-1780344771829">'Talks are continuing at rapid pace with Iran', says Trump amid fragile peace talks</a><h2>The Lebanon issue</h2>Explaining its stance on Lebanon, Iran said that an Israeli ceasefire in Lebanon was a precondition for the ceasefire between Iran and the US. It must be noted that when ceasefire deal was finalised between the two sides after talks in Pakistan, Israel claimed that Lebanon was not included and Tehran pressed that it was very much a part of the deal. This led to further blockage of Strait of Hormuz and complicated the situation. After Israel stepped up attack in Lebanon this week, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in a post on X emphasized that Lebanon is included in the ceasefire with the US and that any violation on one front “shall be considered a violation of it across all fronts." “The United States and Israel bear responsibility for the consequences of any breach of the truce,” he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-opens-succession-debate-as-health-report-leaves-questions-unanswered-1780343842468/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-opens-succession-debate-as-health-report-leaves-questions-unanswered-1780343842468/embed</a>&nbsp;Iran finds itself shielding Hezbollah ​in Lebanon as the group was founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982 and is widely seen to be working as Tehran's proxy in the region. In its previous proposal, the Trump administration reportedly mentioned that ending Iran's proxy activities and disarmament of Hezbollah as key points to achieve a peace agreement.&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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran warned that continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon could derail ongoing talks with the US. Chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran may halt dialogue, while Iran accused Washington and Israel of violating the ceasefire and threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf spoke to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on Tuesday (June 2) about continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon and said that it could affect the ongoing peace process with Washington. This comes two days after Ghalibaf said that Tehran will not agree to any deal with the United States that fails to secure the rights of Iranians. Terming the attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon as ceasefire violation, Iran on Monday said that it has stopped exchanging messages with the US through intermediaries, its state-affiliated outlet Tasnim News Agency reported. Also Read: 'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting In a post on X after conversation with Lebanese Parliament Speaker, Ghalibaf said, “I emphasised that if the crimes of the Zionist regime in Lebanon continue, we will not only halt the dialogue process but also stand firmly against them.” He concluded the message by declaring: “Long live the resistance! Long live the defence of the motherland! Long live the brotherhood of the Iranian and Lebanese peoples!” Ghalibaf in a video broadcast on state television, said, “We will not approve any agreement until we are certain that the rights of the Iranian people have been upheld. Iranian negotiators neither trust the enemy's words nor its promises.”

Iran warned that continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon could derail ongoing talks with the US. Chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran may halt dialogue, while Iran accused Washington and Israel of violating the ceasefire and threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

'We stand firmly...': Iran warns of 'direct confrontation' if Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue

US President Donald Trump has lashed out on US media and said that they would sing in glory of Iran even if it surrenders to United States. Calling the news organisations “fake news media”, Trump, in what seemed to be an angry post, said that they have “gone absolutely crazy.” He specifically called US media names - “the Failing New York Times, The China Street Journal (WSJ!), Corrupt and now Irrelevant CNN.” This comes after Trump blasted Netanyahu in a phone call for his action on Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-eternity-trump-says-israel-hezbollah-agreed-to-stop-fighting-but-fresh-projectiles-from-lebanon-raise-doubts-1780362414089">'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting</a>&nbsp;In a Truth Social post, he said, “If Iran surrenders, admits their Navy is gone and resting at the bottom of the sea, and their Air Force is no longer with us, and if their entire Military walks out of Tehran, weapons dropped and hands held high, each shouting “I surrender, I surrender” while wildly waving the representative White Flag, and if their entire remaining Leadership signs all necessary “Documents of Surrender,” and admit their defeat to the great power and force of the magnificent U.S.A., The Failing New York Times, The China Street Journal (WSJ!), Corrupt and now Irrelevant CNN, and all other members of the Fake News Media, will headline that Iran had a Masterful and Brilliant Victory over The United States of America, it wasn’t even close." He added, "The Dumacrats and Media have totally lost their way. They have gone absolutely CRAZY!!!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-are-continuing-at-rapid-pace-with-iran-says-trump-amid-fragile-peace-talks-1780344771829">'Talks are continuing at rapid pace with Iran', says Trump amid fragile peace talks</a>&nbsp;<h2>What we know about Iran-US peace deal?</h2>US President Donald Trump is hopeful that deal with Iran will be made next week. However, Iran has halted negotiations from their end over Israel's action on Hezbollah. Eight days ago, Trump had declared that a deal was largely negotiated. In an interview with ABC News, Trump said there had been "a little glitch" in the negotiations but claimed he had resolved it quickly. He was referring to Iran's anger over Israeli strikes against Hezbollah and Tehran's demand that Lebanon be included in the Iran ceasefire arrangement. Trump said he had communicated through Hezbollah's representatives and also spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging both sides to stop firing. According to Trump, the exchanges helped de-escalate tensions. He further expressed confidence that a peace agreement with Iran could be reached within a week and argued that such a deal would be even better than a military victory.

US President Donald Trump slammed major media outlets, claiming they would portray Iran as the winner even after a complete surrender to the US. Trump also said he expects an agreement with Iran within a week, adding that a peace deal could prove more valuable than a military victory.

US President Donald Trump has lashed out on US media and said that they would sing in glory of Iran even if it surrenders to United States. Calling the news organisations “fake news media”, Trump, in what seemed to be an angry post, said that they have “gone absolutely crazy.” He specifically called US media names - “the Failing New York Times, The China Street Journal (WSJ!), Corrupt and now Irrelevant CNN.” This comes after Trump blasted Netanyahu in a phone call for his action on Lebanon. Also Read: 'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting In a Truth Social post, he said, “If Iran surrenders, admits their Navy is gone and resting at the bottom of the sea, and their Air Force is no longer with us, and if their entire Military walks out of Tehran, weapons dropped and hands held high, each shouting “I surrender, I surrender” while wildly waving the representative White Flag, and if their entire remaining Leadership signs all necessary “Documents of Surrender,” and admit their defeat to the great power and force of the magnificent U.S.A., The Failing New York Times, The China Street Journal (WSJ!), Corrupt and now Irrelevant CNN, and all other members of the Fake News Media, will headline that Iran had a Masterful and Brilliant Victory over The United States of America, it wasn’t even close." He added, "The Dumacrats and Media have totally lost their way. They have gone absolutely CRAZY!!!” Also Read: 'Talks are continuing at rapid pace with Iran', says Trump amid fragile peace talks What we know about Iran-US peace deal? US President Donald Trump is hopeful that deal with Iran will be made next week. However, Iran has halted negotiations from their end over Israel's action on Hezbollah. Eight days ago, Trump had declared that a deal was largely negotiated. In an interview with ABC News, Trump said there had been "a little glitch" in the negotiations but claimed he had resolved it quickly. He was referring to Iran's anger over Israeli strikes against Hezbollah and Tehran's demand that Lebanon be included in the Iran ceasefire arrangement. Trump said he had communicated through Hezbollah's representatives and also spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging both sides to stop firing. According to Trump, the exchanges helped de-escalate tensions. He further expressed confidence that a peace agreement with Iran could be reached within a week and argued that such a deal would be even better than a military victory.

US President Donald Trump slammed major media outlets, claiming they would portray Iran as the winner even after a complete surrender to the US. Trump also said he expects an agreement with Iran within a week, adding that a peace deal could prove more valuable than a military victory.

'If Iran surrenders...': Trump blasts 'absolutely crazy' US media after Tehran halts peace talks

Amid reports indicating that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has submitted his resignation from the post to Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, a social media post by him has sparked intense rumours about cracks in the Iranian government. On Sunday, the Iranian president shared a cryptic message on his official X account, in which he wrote that hardships can end “through public awareness and cooperation.” He also wrote that it is important for people to know the “existing realities."&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-to-down-us-mq-1-drone-that-entered-iranian-territory-what-are-its-features-and-how-powerful-is-it-wion-decodes-1780194125610">Iran claims to down US MQ-1 drone that 'entered Iranian territory'</a>&nbsp;Pezeshkian wrote, “Confronting major challenges without enduring hardships is impossible. Crossing this rugged and winding path is only possible through public awareness and cooperation. We must explain the existing realities to the people so that all segments of society participate in solving problems. This shared pain will never be healed separately.” &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260601/image-1780293736451.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-must-explain-iran-president-masoud-pezeshkian-resigns-citing-irgc-control-what-s-the-truth-1780273497991">'We must explain...': Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian resigns citing IRGC control? What's the truth</a><h2>Did Pezeshkian submit his resignation?</h2>A report by Iran International quoted a source on Sunday (May 31) saying that Pezeshkian has sent resignation letter to country's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. The report calimed that the reason for Pezeshkian's resignation was the overarching power of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). However, Presidential Office Deputy Head of Communications Mehdi Tabatabaei dismissed it as false in a post on X. There has been no reaction from Pezeshkian or any other senior leader about the same. The report surfaced hours after Pezeshkian 's cryptic post on X. Director of Government Information Council Elias Hazrati also posted on X saying that Pezeshkian is “fully engaged with all his might in pursuing the affairs of the country and serving the people.” He slammed foreign media outlets and networks aligned with them for spreading rumour that has “no relation to reality.” “These reports are more intent on sowing despair, discord, and division in national unity than on providing information—though they will, of course, fail in their efforts. The dream of fracturing this nation's unity and severing the bond between government and people will, just as in the past, remain unfulfilled,” he wrote in the X post.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-refuses-to-give-up-uranium-as-nuclear-talks-hit-breaking-point-1780240584298/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-refuses-to-give-up-uranium-as-nuclear-talks-hit-breaking-point-1780240584298/embed</a>&nbsp;&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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rumours that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian resigned over growing IRGC influence spread after a cryptic social media post. However, Iranian officials swiftly denied the reports, calling them false and politically motivated, as Tehran continues negotiations with the US amid regional tensions.

Amid reports indicating that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has submitted his resignation from the post to Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, a social media post by him has sparked intense rumours about cracks in the Iranian government. On Sunday, the Iranian president shared a cryptic message on his official X account, in which he wrote that hardships can end “through public awareness and cooperation.” He also wrote that it is important for people to know the “existing realities." Also Read: Iran claims to down US MQ-1 drone that 'entered Iranian territory' Pezeshkian wrote, “Confronting major challenges without enduring hardships is impossible. Crossing this rugged and winding path is only possible through public awareness and cooperation. We must explain the existing realities to the people so that all segments of society participate in solving problems. This shared pain will never be healed separately.” Also Read: 'We must explain...': Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian resigns citing IRGC control? What's the truth Did Pezeshkian submit his resignation? A report by Iran International quoted a source on Sunday (May 31) saying that Pezeshkian has sent resignation letter to country's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. The report calimed that the reason for Pezeshkian's resignation was the overarching power of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). However, Presidential Office Deputy Head of Communications Mehdi Tabatabaei dismissed it as false in a post on X. There has been no reaction from Pezeshkian or any other senior leader about the same. The report surfaced hours after Pezeshkian 's cryptic post on X. Director of Government Information Council Elias Hazrati also posted on X saying that Pezeshkian is “fully engaged with all his might in pursuing the affairs of the country and serving the people.” He slammed foreign media outlets and networks aligned with them for spreading rumour that has “no relation to reality.” “These reports are more intent on sowing despair, discord, and division in national unity than on providing information—though they will, of course, fail in their efforts. The dream of fracturing this nation's unity and severing the bond between government and people will, just as in the past, remain unfulfilled,” he wrote in the X post. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-refuses-to-give-up-uranium-as-nuclear-talks-hit-breaking-point-1780240584298/embed 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.

Pezeshkian resigned over growing IRGC influence spread after a cryptic social media post. However, Iranian officials swiftly denied the reports, calling them false and politically motivated, as Tehran continues negotiations with the US amid regional tensions.

'This shared pain...': Pezeshkian's cryptic post sparks rumours amid reports of resignation

Amid proposed peace deal between Iran and the US, it was reported on Sunday (May 31) that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has resigned from his post and sent letter of resgination to country's Supreme Leader Mojataba Khamenei. It was also reported that cited the overarching power of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a reason for his exit. The report quoted a source and appeared in the Iran International. However, as soon as the report was picked by various media outlets worldwide, Presidential Office Deputy Head of Communications Mehdi Tabatabaei dismissed it as false in a post on X. There has been no reaction from Pezeshkian or any other senior leader about the same. The report surfaced hours after Pezeshkian 's cryptic post on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-trust-enemy-iran-s-top-negotiator-says-no-deal-with-us-until-rights-are-secured-1780227278322">'Don't trust enemy': Iran's top negotiator says no deal with US</a><h2>What the report claimed?</h2>Citing a source, Iran International report claimed that Pezeshkian in his letter to Mojtaba highlighted that he was excluded from major and crucial decision-making processes in the Islamic Republic, and there is an overarching control of IRGC enabled by hardline factions. He reportedly said that he was unable to run the government and carry the responsibilities. The report did not reveal if Mojtaba accpeted the resgination. The report did not include any official statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-refuses-to-give-up-uranium-as-nuclear-talks-hit-breaking-point-1780240584298/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-refuses-to-give-up-uranium-as-nuclear-talks-hit-breaking-point-1780240584298/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Iran dismisses the report&nbsp;</h2>In a post X, Presidential Office Deputy Head of Communications Mehdi Tabatabaei dismissed the reports as “false,” calling them a continuation of "media games" of certain foreign outlets. He added that those seeking to undermine Iran's national unity would once again "take that wish to the grave," rejecting speculation about divisions within the country. “Pezeshkian would not back down from serving the Iranian people,” he said, stressing that Iran “would not retreat from the path of unity and solidarity.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-to-down-us-mq-1-drone-that-entered-iranian-territory-what-are-its-features-and-how-powerful-is-it-wion-decodes-1780194125610">Iran claims to down US MQ-1 drone that 'entered Iranian territory'</a>&nbsp;Director of Government Information Council Elias Hazrati also posted on X saying that Pezeshkian is “fully engaged with all his might in pursuing the affairs of the country and serving the people.” He slammed foreign media outlets and networks aligned with them for spreading rumour that has “no relation to reality.” “These reports are more intent on sowing despair, discord, and division in national unity than on providing information—though they will, of course, fail in their efforts. The dream of fracturing this nation's unity and severing the bond between government and people will, just as in the past, remain unfulfilled,” he wrote in the X post.&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. &nbsp;

Reports claimed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian resigned, citing exclusion from key decisions and growing IRGC influence. However, Tehran denied the reports, calling them false. The controversy comes amid Iran-US peace negotiations, internal power struggles, and heightened regional tensions.

Amid proposed peace deal between Iran and the US, it was reported on Sunday (May 31) that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has resigned from his post and sent letter of resgination to country's Supreme Leader Mojataba Khamenei. It was also reported that cited the overarching power of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a reason for his exit. The report quoted a source and appeared in the Iran International. However, as soon as the report was picked by various media outlets worldwide, Presidential Office Deputy Head of Communications Mehdi Tabatabaei dismissed it as false in a post on X. There has been no reaction from Pezeshkian or any other senior leader about the same. The report surfaced hours after Pezeshkian 's cryptic post on X. Also Read: 'Don't trust enemy': Iran's top negotiator says no deal with US What the report claimed? Citing a source, Iran International report claimed that Pezeshkian in his letter to Mojtaba highlighted that he was excluded from major and crucial decision-making processes in the Islamic Republic, and there is an overarching control of IRGC enabled by hardline factions. He reportedly said that he was unable to run the government and carry the responsibilities. The report did not reveal if Mojtaba accpeted the resgination. The report did not include any official statement. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-refuses-to-give-up-uranium-as-nuclear-talks-hit-breaking-point-1780240584298/embed Iran dismisses the report In a post X, Presidential Office Deputy Head of Communications Mehdi Tabatabaei dismissed the reports as “false,” calling them a continuation of "media games" of certain foreign outlets. He added that those seeking to undermine Iran's national unity would once again "take that wish to the grave," rejecting speculation about divisions within the country. “Pezeshkian would not back down from serving the Iranian people,” he said, stressing that Iran “would not retreat from the path of unity and solidarity.” Also Read: Iran claims to down US MQ-1 drone that 'entered Iranian territory' Director of Government Information Council Elias Hazrati also posted on X saying that Pezeshkian is “fully engaged with all his might in pursuing the affairs of the country and serving the people.” He slammed foreign media outlets and networks aligned with them for spreading rumour that has “no relation to reality.” “These reports are more intent on sowing despair, discord, and division in national unity than on providing information—though they will, of course, fail in their efforts. The dream of fracturing this nation's unity and severing the bond between government and people will, just as in the past, remain unfulfilled,” he wrote in the X post. 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.

Reports claimed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian resigned, citing exclusion from key decisions and growing IRGC influence. However, Tehran denied the reports, calling them false. The controversy comes amid Iran-US peace negotiations

'We must explain...': Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian resigns citing IRGC control? What's the truth

Iran on Sunday (May 31) claimed to have shot down a US drone that entered Iran’s territorial waters. Iran’s IRIB broadcaster, carried a statement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in which it said that the MQ1 drone “attempted to carry out a hostile operation but was immediately detected and targeted.” The statement added that the drone was shot down by “Revolutionary Guard’s modern defense missiles.” IRGC also issued additional warning saying that “any aggression will be dealt with decisively.” Earlier, the IRGC declared that it retained the "legitimate and definite" right to respond to any violation of the ceasefire by the United States. This comes after US forces conducted self-defence strikes in southern Iran to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Till now, Iran and the US has not been able to strike a deal to end the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-used-a-shoulder-fired-chinese-missile-to-shoot-down-us-fighter-jet-report-1780173318236">Iran likely used a shoulder-fired Chinese missile to shoot down US fighter jet: Report</a><h2>What is MQ1 drone?</h2>The US MQ-1 Predator is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. It is one of the world's first widely recognised military drones capable of both long-endurance surveillance and precision strikes. It is capable of airborne for more than 24 hours and was adapted to carry two AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. It requires a ground crew for takeoff and landing via a line-of-sight signal. Once airborne, control is handed over to a remote pilot and two sensor operators in a stateside ground control station via satellite data links.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-iran-linked-network-allegedly-tricked-american-companies-into-supplying-military-tech-1780132726681">How Iran-linked network allegedly tricked American companies into supplying military tech</a>&nbsp;Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Predator transitioned the role of drones from mere observation to active engagement. It saw extensive combat in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen, allowing the US to track and engage time-sensitive targets without risking a pilot's life. While the US Air Force officially retired the MQ-1 Predator in favor of the heavier, faster, and more heavily armed MQ-9 Reaper in 2018, the aircraft remains in limited international service.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-irib-5-americans-hurt-in-iran-s-attack-on-us-base-in-kuwait-1780193787584/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-irib-5-americans-hurt-in-iran-s-attack-on-us-base-in-kuwait-1780193787584/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Iran's IRGC claims it shot down a US MQ-1 drone after it entered Iranian territorial waters on a hostile mission. The incident follows recent US strikes on Iranian targets and Tehran's warning of a firm response to any ceasefire violations, escalating tensions in the region.

Iran on Sunday (May 31) claimed to have shot down a US drone that entered Iran’s territorial waters. Iran’s IRIB broadcaster, carried a statement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in which it said that the MQ1 drone “attempted to carry out a hostile operation but was immediately detected and targeted.” The statement added that the drone was shot down by “Revolutionary Guard’s modern defense missiles.” IRGC also issued additional warning saying that “any aggression will be dealt with decisively.” Earlier, the IRGC declared that it retained the "legitimate and definite" right to respond to any violation of the ceasefire by the United States. This comes after US forces conducted self-defence strikes in southern Iran to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Till now, Iran and the US has not been able to strike a deal to end the war. Also Read: Iran likely used a shoulder-fired Chinese missile to shoot down US fighter jet: Report What is MQ1 drone? The US MQ-1 Predator is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. It is one of the world's first widely recognised military drones capable of both long-endurance surveillance and precision strikes. It is capable of airborne for more than 24 hours and was adapted to carry two AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. It requires a ground crew for takeoff and landing via a line-of-sight signal. Once airborne, control is handed over to a remote pilot and two sensor operators in a stateside ground control station via satellite data links. Also Read: How Iran-linked network allegedly tricked American companies into supplying military tech Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Predator transitioned the role of drones from mere observation to active engagement. It saw extensive combat in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen, allowing the US to track and engage time-sensitive targets without risking a pilot's life. While the US Air Force officially retired the MQ-1 Predator in favor of the heavier, faster, and more heavily armed MQ-9 Reaper in 2018, the aircraft remains in limited international service. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-irib-5-americans-hurt-in-iran-s-attack-on-us-base-in-kuwait-1780193787584/embed

Iran's IRGC claims it shot down a US MQ-1 drone after it entered Iranian territorial waters on a hostile mission. The incident follows recent US strikes on Iranian targets and Tehran's warning of a firm response to any ceasefire violations, escalating tensions in the region.

Iran claims to down US MQ-1 drone that 'entered Iranian territory': What are its features and how powerful is it | WION Decodes

Hours after striking Iran yet again after failing to sign a deal, the Trump administration placed additional sanctions on Iran to put economic pressure on the Islamic Republic, AP reported. The sanctions were announced on Wednesday (May 27) after US military carried out new strikes on Iran, targeting a military site in Bandar Abbas, a strategic port city. The sanctions have been imposed on Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority and any person or entity cooperating with the agency, that approves transit in the strait and charges tolls.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-pakistan-s-except-israel-passport-rule-in-spotlight-amid-trump-s-israel-recognition-call-1779867974082/amp">What is Pakistan’s 'except Israel' passport rule in spotlight amid Trump’s Israel recognition call?</a><h3>What is Persian Gulf Strait Authority ?</h3>A week ago, Iran set up a new maritime regulatory mechanism called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority and declared that "Iranian armed forces oversight" controls more than 22,000 sq km (8,800 sq miles), extending into the territorial waters of Oman and the UAE. The new authority added that all transit through the strait "requires coordination with and authorization from the Persian Gulf Strait Authority". It said that it aims to tighten control over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz by regulating vessel movement, enforcing permit-based transit rules, and requiring ships to share detailed cargo and crew information. Tehran has also hinted at transit fees and warned that unauthorized passage could be treated as illegal. Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard defended the new oversight system, warning that ships must use the designated transit corridor through the strategic waterway. Tehran warned that vessels deviating from the route could face attacks and other risks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubio-clarifies-stupid-people-remark-on-wion-s-racism-question-says-trump-loves-india-amid-hellhole-comments-1779682553637">Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India' amid 'hellhole' comments</a><h2>What Trump said about a deal with Iran?</h2>Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Trump claimed Iran was “negotiating on fumes” and suggested a deal could be close despite rising tensions. “They want very much to make a deal,” he said, adding that the US was still dissatisfied with the current negotiations and warning that Washington may “finish the job” if talks fail. Hours after the cabinet meeting, US Central Command (Centcom) said that its forces also shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones "that posed a threat around the Strait of Hormuz". The site in Bandar Abbas was struck as it was about to launch a fifth drone, Centcom said. Iranian media reported that explosions were heard to the east of the city. A viral note of Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent shows that it is Operation Economic Fury.&nbsp;

Trump administration imposed fresh sanctions on Iran targeting its new Strait Authority overseeing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The move followed recent US strikes as tensions continue to disrupt global energy markets.

Hours after striking Iran yet again after failing to sign a deal, the Trump administration placed additional sanctions on Iran to put economic pressure on the Islamic Republic, AP reported. The sanctions were announced on Wednesday (May 27) after US military carried out new strikes on Iran, targeting a military site in Bandar Abbas, a strategic port city. The sanctions have been imposed on Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority and any person or entity cooperating with the agency, that approves transit in the strait and charges tolls. Also Read: What is Pakistan’s 'except Israel' passport rule in spotlight amid Trump’s Israel recognition call? What is Persian Gulf Strait Authority ? A week ago, Iran set up a new maritime regulatory mechanism called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority and declared that "Iranian armed forces oversight" controls more than 22,000 sq km (8,800 sq miles), extending into the territorial waters of Oman and the UAE. The new authority added that all transit through the strait "requires coordination with and authorization from the Persian Gulf Strait Authority". It said that it aims to tighten control over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz by regulating vessel movement, enforcing permit-based transit rules, and requiring ships to share detailed cargo and crew information. Tehran has also hinted at transit fees and warned that unauthorized passage could be treated as illegal. Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard defended the new oversight system, warning that ships must use the designated transit corridor through the strategic waterway. Tehran warned that vessels deviating from the route could face attacks and other risks. Also Read: Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India' amid 'hellhole' comments What Trump said about a deal with Iran? Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Trump claimed Iran was “negotiating on fumes” and suggested a deal could be close despite rising tensions. “They want very much to make a deal,” he said, adding that the US was still dissatisfied with the current negotiations and warning that Washington may “finish the job” if talks fail. Hours after the cabinet meeting, US Central Command (Centcom) said that its forces also shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones "that posed a threat around the Strait of Hormuz". The site in Bandar Abbas was struck as it was about to launch a fifth drone, Centcom said. Iranian media reported that explosions were heard to the east of the city. A viral note of Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent shows that it is Operation Economic Fury.

The administration of Trump imposed fresh sanctions on Iran targeting its new Strait Authority overseeing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The move followed recent US strikes as tensions continue to disrupt global energy markets.

US imposes sanctions on Iran’s new Hormuz toll agency after strikes near Bandar Abbas: What is Persian Gulf Strait Authority

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Iran would not get any sanctions relief in exchange for giving up its highly enriched uranium, nor would its frozen funds be released. Trump’s comments came during an interview with PBS News over the phone and at a time when the United States and Iran are trying to strike a deal to end the conflict in the Middle East, which is now impacting the global economy with the disruption of energy supplies.&nbsp;&nbsp;“No, no, not at all. Not sanctions relief, no,” Trump told PBS News during a short phone call when asked if the current deal would mean that Iran would give up their highly enriched uranium in exchange for sanctions relief.&nbsp;He added, “They’re gonna give up their highly enriched uranium, not for sanctions relief. No, no, not at all.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ready-to-resume-military-action-if-iran-peace-negotiations-fail-says-pete-hegseth-1779907588337">US ready to resume military action if Iran peace negotiations fail, says Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“No, we’re not talking about any easing of sanctions or giving money. No sanctions, no money, no nothing,” he said.Trump said Washington controls funds that Iran says belong to it and would keep control of them for now.“When they behave properly and when they do what’s right, we’ll let them have their money. But right now, we’re not doing that, and one thing is not contingent on the other,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-pull-back-forces-from-iran-s-vicinity-lift-naval-blockade-claims-iran-s-state-media-1779889541135">US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media</a>&nbsp;Later, during the cabinet meeting in the White House, Trump said Iran appeared to be giving the United States some of what Washington is demanding, but warned that failure to do so could trigger renewed military action.“I think they’re starting to give us the things that they have to give us, and if they do, that’s great, and if they won’t, then the man on my left is going to finish them off,” Trump said, apparently referring to War Secretary Pete Hegseth.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-push-for-muslim-nations-joining-abraham-accords-puts-pakistan-in-a-fix-1779729876943">Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix</a>&nbsp;On being asked about a timeframe, Trump said developments could move quickly but pushed back against pressure to set deadlines, comparing the current conflict with longer US wars in Vietnam, Korea and Afghanistan.

During the cabinet meeting in the White House, President Donald Trump said Iran appeared to be giving the United States some of what Washington is demanding, but warned that failure to do so could trigger renewed military action.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Iran would not get any sanctions relief in exchange for giving up its highly enriched uranium, nor would its frozen funds be released. Trump’s comments came during an interview with PBS News over the phone and at a time when the United States and Iran are trying to strike a deal to end the conflict in the Middle East, which is now impacting the global economy with the disruption of energy supplies. “No, no, not at all. Not sanctions relief, no,” Trump told PBS News during a short phone call when asked if the current deal would mean that Iran would give up their highly enriched uranium in exchange for sanctions relief. He added, “They’re gonna give up their highly enriched uranium, not for sanctions relief. No, no, not at all.” Also Read: US ready to resume military action if Iran peace negotiations fail, says Pete Hegseth “No, we’re not talking about any easing of sanctions or giving money. No sanctions, no money, no nothing,” he said. Trump said Washington controls funds that Iran says belong to it and would keep control of them for now. “When they behave properly and when they do what’s right, we’ll let them have their money. But right now, we’re not doing that, and one thing is not contingent on the other,” he said. Also Read: US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media Later, during the cabinet meeting in the White House, Trump said Iran appeared to be giving the United States some of what Washington is demanding, but warned that failure to do so could trigger renewed military action. “I think they’re starting to give us the things that they have to give us, and if they do, that’s great, and if they won’t, then the man on my left is going to finish them off,” Trump said, apparently referring to War Secretary Pete Hegseth. Also Read: Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix On being asked about a timeframe, Trump said developments could move quickly but pushed back against pressure to set deadlines, comparing the current conflict with longer US wars in Vietnam, Korea and Afghanistan.

During the cabinet meeting in the White House, President Donald Trump said Iran appeared to be giving the United States some of what Washington is demanding, but warned that failure to do so could trigger renewed military action.

Trump says no sanctions relief to Iran for handing over its enriched uranium

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday that Washington is prepared to return to military action if negotiations with Iran fail to ensure that the Islamic Republic never acquires a nuclear weapon.Speaking at a White House Cabinet meeting, Hegseth said President Donald Trump had created the conditions to protect Americans and the wider world from what he called a generational threat from Iran.&nbsp;“There’s only one man over the course of both presidencies who has stood up and said they will never get a nuclear weapon,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump.&nbsp;<h2>‘US avoided old approach of Iraq and Afghanistan wars’</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth cited the killing of Qasem Soleimani, withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear deal, the 12-day war and subsequent US military operations against Iran as part of a broader pressure campaign aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.He said the US had avoided the “old approach” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-pull-back-forces-from-iran-s-vicinity-lift-naval-blockade-claims-iran-s-state-media-1779889541135">US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media</a>&nbsp;“Instead, you said, we’re going to do this smart. We’re going to do it overwhelming. We’re going to use maximum lethality. And we’re going to bring them to their knees,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump.He said Iran’s navy was “at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” and that its air force, air defences and defence industrial base had been heavily damaged.&nbsp;“They may have missiles, but they can’t build more right now. And they can’t build more drones right now. And they can’t build more ships,” he said.Hegseth said it was those losses that made Tehran come to talks with US envoys, including Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and Vice President JD Vance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-push-for-muslim-nations-joining-abraham-accords-puts-pakistan-in-a-fix-1779729876943">Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix</a><h2>‘US imposed a world-class blockade, their economy is hurting big time’</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth further said that the US had imposed a “world-class blockade” on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy.“We know from the intel that their economy is hurting big time because that is their lifeblood,” he said.The US defence secretary added that Washington had expanded pressure on Iran’s shadow tanker fleet.“No Iranian tanker around the globe is safe,” he said, pointing to seizures that he said had further choked off Tehran’s economic lifeline.Hegseth added that the goal remained to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon, either through negotiations or, if necessary, by returning to military action.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/undeclared-chemical-weapons-from-former-president-assad-era-found-in-syria-1779829277892">Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria</a><h2>‘Iran negotiating on fumes, will blow up Oman if…’</h2>&nbsp;Speaking in the cabinet meeting earlier, Trump said that Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and needs to make a deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “Nobody's going to control it. We're going to watch over it. We'll watch over it. But nobody's going to control it. That's part of the negotiation that we have. They would like to control it. Nobody's going to control it. It's international waters. And Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we'll have to blow them up. They understand that. They'll be fine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,’ says Bessent</h2>&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that oil prices will be lower than before the Iran war when the conflict ends.“Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/skill-chance-irrelevant-if-money-staked-sc-upholds-retrospective-28-gst-levy-on-online-gaming-companies-1779884645944">‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies</a><h2>‘Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon’: Rubio</h2>&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump prefers a negotiated diplomatic path with Iran and that talks have made some progress, but warned that Washington has other options if diplomacy fails.“The bottom line is Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon,” Rubio said, adding that the recent events had reinforced Washington’s view that Tehran should never be allowed to obtain one.“If there’s an agreement to be made, we want that to be made,” Rubio said.He said there has been “some progress and some interest” in the talks, and that Washington would see “over the next few hours and days” whether further progress could be made.Rubio said the United States would give diplomacy “every chance to succeed,” but added that Trump had other options available if negotiations failed.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said the US had imposed a world-class blockade on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy. He added that intel reports show that Iran’s economy is hurting big time.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday that Washington is prepared to return to military action if negotiations with Iran fail to ensure that the Islamic Republic never acquires a nuclear weapon. Speaking at a White House Cabinet meeting, Hegseth said President Donald Trump had created the conditions to protect Americans and the wider world from what he called a generational threat from Iran. “There’s only one man over the course of both presidencies who has stood up and said they will never get a nuclear weapon,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump. ‘US avoided old approach of Iraq and Afghanistan wars’ Hegseth cited the killing of Qasem Soleimani, withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear deal, the 12-day war and subsequent US military operations against Iran as part of a broader pressure campaign aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. He said the US had avoided the “old approach” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Also Read: US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media “Instead, you said, we’re going to do this smart. We’re going to do it overwhelming. We’re going to use maximum lethality. And we’re going to bring them to their knees,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump. He said Iran’s navy was “at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” and that its air force, air defences and defence industrial base had been heavily damaged. “They may have missiles, but they can’t build more right now. And they can’t build more drones right now. And they can’t build more ships,” he said. Hegseth said it was those losses that made Tehran come to talks with US envoys, including Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and Vice President JD Vance. Also Read: Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix ‘US imposed a world-class blockade, their economy is hurting big time’ Hegseth further said that the US had imposed a “world-class blockade” on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy. “We know from the intel that their economy is hurting big time because that is their lifeblood,” he said. The US defence secretary added that Washington had expanded pressure on Iran’s shadow tanker fleet. “No Iranian tanker around the globe is safe,” he said, pointing to seizures that he said had further choked off Tehran’s economic lifeline. Hegseth added that the goal remained to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon, either through negotiations or, if necessary, by returning to military action. Also Read: Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria ‘Iran negotiating on fumes, will blow up Oman if…’ Speaking in the cabinet meeting earlier, Trump said that Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and needs to make a deal. Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “Nobody's going to control it. We're going to watch over it. We'll watch over it. But nobody's going to control it. That's part of the negotiation that we have. They would like to control it. Nobody's going to control it. It's international waters. And Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we'll have to blow them up. They understand that. They'll be fine.” ‘Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,’ says Bessent Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that oil prices will be lower than before the Iran war when the conflict ends. “Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,” he said. Also Read: ‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies ‘Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon’: Rubio US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump prefers a negotiated diplomatic path with Iran and that talks have made some progress, but warned that Washington has other options if diplomacy fails. “The bottom line is Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon,” Rubio said, adding that the recent events had reinforced Washington’s view that Tehran should never be allowed to obtain one. “If there’s an agreement to be made, we want that to be made,” Rubio said. He said there has been “some progress and some interest” in the talks, and that Washington would see “over the next few hours and days” whether further progress could be made. Rubio said the United States would give diplomacy “every chance to succeed,” but added that Trump had other options available if negotiations failed.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said the US had imposed a world-class blockade on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy. He added that intel reports show that Iran’s economy is hurting big time.

US ready to resume military action if Iran peace negotiations fail, says Pete Hegseth

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 27) said Iran appeared determined to reach an agreement with Washington as negotiations continued over ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, while also warning that military action remained an option if talks failed.&nbsp;Speaking during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump said discussions with Tehran were continuing but stressed that the United States was still not fully satisfied with the progress made so far.&nbsp;“So far, they haven't gotten there; we're not satisfied with it, but we will be,” Trump said. “We will be. Either that or we'll have to just finish the job. Their navy is gone, their air force is gone, everything's gone.”&nbsp;The US president also claimed that Iran was eager to finalise an agreement. “Iran is intent on making a deal. We are not content. If we don't make a deal, we may have to go back and finish the job,” Trump said.&nbsp;He added, “Looks like Iran wants to make a deal; they don't have a choice.”&nbsp;Turning to Hormuz, the US President said, “Nobody is going to control it, it’s an international water,” while adding that “Iran will have to behave like everybody else.” Trump also said fuel, gas and oil prices would come down once a deal is reached.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump also praised his envoys involved in the negotiations, saying, “Witkoff, Kushner are doing a good job. We are getting great support from other countries, but we don't need that.”&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also indicated that there had been movement in the talks and said Washington still preferred a diplomatic solution. “Made some progress on Iran, we'll see in the next few hours or days as to whether more progress will be made,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-pull-back-forces-from-iran-s-vicinity-lift-naval-blockade-claims-iran-s-state-media-1779889541135">US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media</a>&nbsp;“We'd prefer the negotiated diplomatic route,” Rubio said, adding, “We’ll see over the next hours and days.”&nbsp;The remarks came hours after the White House strongly denied an Iranian state television report claiming that a draft framework agreement had been reached between Tehran and Washington.&nbsp;The Iranian report said that the proposed memorandum of understanding included a US commitment to lift the naval blockade on Iran and withdraw American forces from the Gulf region.&nbsp;Reacting to the report, the White House dismissed the claims as false.&nbsp;“This report from Iranian-controlled media is not true, and the MOU they 'released' is a complete fabrication. Nobody should believe what the Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER,” the White House said in a post on X.&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.)

Trump said no country would be allowed to control the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as “an international water,” and added that “Iran will have to behave like everybody else.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 27) said Iran appeared determined to reach an agreement with Washington as negotiations continued over ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, while also warning that military action remained an option if talks failed. Speaking during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump said discussions with Tehran were continuing but stressed that the United States was still not fully satisfied with the progress made so far. “So far, they haven't gotten there; we're not satisfied with it, but we will be,” Trump said. “We will be. Either that or we'll have to just finish the job. Their navy is gone, their air force is gone, everything's gone.” The US president also claimed that Iran was eager to finalise an agreement. “Iran is intent on making a deal. We are not content. If we don't make a deal, we may have to go back and finish the job,” Trump said. He added, “Looks like Iran wants to make a deal; they don't have a choice.” Turning to Hormuz, the US President said, “Nobody is going to control it, it’s an international water,” while adding that “Iran will have to behave like everybody else.” Trump also said fuel, gas and oil prices would come down once a deal is reached. Trump also praised his envoys involved in the negotiations, saying, “Witkoff, Kushner are doing a good job. We are getting great support from other countries, but we don't need that.” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also indicated that there had been movement in the talks and said Washington still preferred a diplomatic solution. “Made some progress on Iran, we'll see in the next few hours or days as to whether more progress will be made,” he said. Also Read: US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media “We'd prefer the negotiated diplomatic route,” Rubio said, adding, “We’ll see over the next hours and days.” The remarks came hours after the White House strongly denied an Iranian state television report claiming that a draft framework agreement had been reached between Tehran and Washington. The Iranian report said that the proposed memorandum of understanding included a US commitment to lift the naval blockade on Iran and withdraw American forces from the Gulf region. Reacting to the report, the White House dismissed the claims as false. “This report from Iranian-controlled media is not true, and the MOU they 'released' is a complete fabrication. Nobody should believe what the Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER,” the White House said in a post on X. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Trump said no country would be allowed to control the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as “an international water,” and added that “Iran will have to behave like everybody else.

‘Iran intent on making deal’: Trump says nobody will control Hormuz, it's international waters

Iran’s state television claimed on Wednesday that the US military forces would withdraw from areas around Iran and will lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports, and in return Tehran will restore commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels within a month. However, military vessels would be outside the scope of the proposed arrangement as per the draft memorandum of understanding under discussion.&nbsp;The report also said that Iran and Oman would jointly oversee shipping routes and traffic management through the critical waterway, which handles nearly a fifth of global oil and LNG flows.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the United States denied the Iranian state TV report, and called it a ‘complete fabrication’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-push-for-muslim-nations-joining-abraham-accords-puts-pakistan-in-a-fix-1779729876943">Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix</a>&nbsp;Multiple earlier reports said that negotiators from both sides were working on a broader 14-point understanding aimed at ending hostilities and reopening shipping lanes. The framework discussions reportedly include issues like sanctions relief, release of frozen Iranian assets and freedom for Iran to resume oil exports.&nbsp;Iran’s state TV further said that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU signing, this agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/undeclared-chemical-weapons-from-former-president-assad-era-found-in-syria-1779829277892">Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria</a>&nbsp;The memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a “tangible verification” by Iran, it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The report by Iranian state TV indicates that Iran and the United States are moving to a potential framework agreement that could ease tensions in West Asia and bring relief to the global economy, which is sagging amid growing concerns over energy supply disruptions and elevated crude prices.The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical energy chokepoints, and hence the ongoing negotiations are being closely watched by global markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/skill-chance-irrelevant-if-money-staked-sc-upholds-retrospective-28-gst-levy-on-online-gaming-companies-1779884645944">‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies</a>&nbsp;An agreement that leads to normalisation of traffic via Hormuz would ease concerns over supply disruptions and crude price volatility and bring relief to major energy importers like India.&nbsp;The Hormuz Strait has remained the key point in the negotiations, as hundreds of vessels were stranded in the Gulf. However, the contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, remain unresolved.&nbsp;<h2>‘Complete fabrication’: US says report from Iranian-controlled media not true</h2>&nbsp;The United States refuted the Iranian state television report on the terms of agreement and said, “This report from Iranian controlled media is not true and the MOU they ‘released’ is a complete fabrication. Nobody should believe what Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER.”

Iran’s state TV said that the memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a tangible verification by Iran. It added that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU, the agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution.

Iran’s state television claimed on Wednesday that the US military forces would withdraw from areas around Iran and will lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports, and in return Tehran will restore commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels within a month. However, military vessels would be outside the scope of the proposed arrangement as per the draft memorandum of understanding under discussion. The report also said that Iran and Oman would jointly oversee shipping routes and traffic management through the critical waterway, which handles nearly a fifth of global oil and LNG flows. However, the United States denied the Iranian state TV report, and called it a ‘complete fabrication’. Also Read: Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix Multiple earlier reports said that negotiators from both sides were working on a broader 14-point understanding aimed at ending hostilities and reopening shipping lanes. The framework discussions reportedly include issues like sanctions relief, release of frozen Iranian assets and freedom for Iran to resume oil exports. Iran’s state TV further said that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU signing, this agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution. Also Read: Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria The memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a “tangible verification” by Iran, it said. The report by Iranian state TV indicates that Iran and the United States are moving to a potential framework agreement that could ease tensions in West Asia and bring relief to the global economy, which is sagging amid growing concerns over energy supply disruptions and elevated crude prices. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical energy chokepoints, and hence the ongoing negotiations are being closely watched by global markets. Also Read: ‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies An agreement that leads to normalisation of traffic via Hormuz would ease concerns over supply disruptions and crude price volatility and bring relief to major energy importers like India. The Hormuz Strait has remained the key point in the negotiations, as hundreds of vessels were stranded in the Gulf. However, the contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, remain unresolved. ‘Complete fabrication’: US says report from Iranian-controlled media not true The United States refuted the Iranian state television report on the terms of agreement and said, “This report from Iranian controlled media is not true and the MOU they ‘released’ is a complete fabrication. Nobody should believe what Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER.”

Iran’s state TV said that the memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a tangible verification by Iran. It added that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU, the agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution.

US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media; White House denies

As prospects of a truce between Tehran and Washington gained momentum amid ongoing negotiations, Iran on Wednesday (May 27) accused the United States and Israel of continuing efforts to overthrow the Islamic Republic and destabilise the country.&nbsp;“The enemy is now pursuing through other means the objective of overthrowing and partitioning the country, which it openly declared at the beginning of the recent war but failed to achieve through military attack,” the Islamic Republic's intelligence ministry said in a statement carried by Iranian Media.&nbsp;The remarks came as Tehran and Washington continued discussions aimed at reaching an agreement to end the war that began on February 28 and expanded across West Asia.&nbsp;According to the statement, Iranian intelligence had received information suggesting that the United States and Israel planned to increase economic pressure on Iran, fuel divisions among religious and ethnic communities and carry out sabotage operations and other “terrorist operations”.&nbsp;The ministry further alleged that such efforts would include the large-scale smuggling of weapons, ammunition and illegal communication equipment, particularly Starlink satellite internet devices.&nbsp;For decades, Iran and Israel have remained engaged in a shadow conflict involving covert operations, attacks on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and assassinations of nuclear scientists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-board-of-peace-fund-has-zero-deposits-despite-billion-dollar-pledges-report-1779880257134">Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ fund has zero deposits despite billion-dollar pledges: Report</a>&nbsp;The latest statement from Tehran reflects continuing mistrust despite diplomatic exchanges aimed at ending the conflict.<h2>Revolutionary Guards say return to war unlikely</h2>Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Wednesday said that a return to direct conflict with the United States was unlikely, while also warning that the country remained fully prepared to respond to any military action.&nbsp;The remarks came a day after Iran accused Washington of violating the ceasefire that has been in effect since April. Tehran had also warned that it was ready to retaliate following what it described as the most serious strikes since the truce came into force.&nbsp;The ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington are being closely watched across the region as efforts continue to prevent a renewed escalation in the Middle East.&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.)

Iran alleged regime change efforts would involve increasing economic pressure, smuggling weapons and ammunition on a large scale, and bringing in illegal communication equipment, particularly Starlink satellite internet devices.

As prospects of a truce between Tehran and Washington gained momentum amid ongoing negotiations, Iran on Wednesday (May 27) accused the United States and Israel of continuing efforts to overthrow the Islamic Republic and destabilise the country. “The enemy is now pursuing through other means the objective of overthrowing and partitioning the country, which it openly declared at the beginning of the recent war but failed to achieve through military attack,” the Islamic Republic's intelligence ministry said in a statement carried by Iranian Media. The remarks came as Tehran and Washington continued discussions aimed at reaching an agreement to end the war that began on February 28 and expanded across West Asia. According to the statement, Iranian intelligence had received information suggesting that the United States and Israel planned to increase economic pressure on Iran, fuel divisions among religious and ethnic communities and carry out sabotage operations and other “terrorist operations”. The ministry further alleged that such efforts would include the large-scale smuggling of weapons, ammunition and illegal communication equipment, particularly Starlink satellite internet devices. For decades, Iran and Israel have remained engaged in a shadow conflict involving covert operations, attacks on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and assassinations of nuclear scientists. Also Read: Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ fund has zero deposits despite billion-dollar pledges: Report The latest statement from Tehran reflects continuing mistrust despite diplomatic exchanges aimed at ending the conflict. Revolutionary Guards say return to war unlikely Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Wednesday said that a return to direct conflict with the United States was unlikely, while also warning that the country remained fully prepared to respond to any military action. The remarks came a day after Iran accused Washington of violating the ceasefire that has been in effect since April. Tehran had also warned that it was ready to retaliate following what it described as the most serious strikes since the truce came into force. The ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington are being closely watched across the region as efforts continue to prevent a renewed escalation in the Middle East. (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.)

Iran alleged regime change efforts would involve increasing economic pressure, smuggling weapons and ammunition on a large scale, and bringing in illegal communication equipment, particularly Starlink satellite internet devices.

‘Enemy is now pursuing other means’: Iran says US, Israel still seek to overthrow Islamic Republic

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