A senior Iranian military official warned on Wednesday (July 22) that Tehran would strike regional infrastructure, including energy facilities, if Washington targeted bridges and power plants in the Islamic Republic. The warning came after US President Donald Trump threatened to target civilian infrastructure in Iran if Tehran attacks commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;“If the Americans target an Iranian bridge or power plant, Iran will respond by striking infrastructure and bridges across the region, including energy facilities in which the United States has interests,” the unnamed official was reported as saying by the Iranian semi-official news agency Tasnim.&nbsp;“The Americans should by now, after these past ten days, be fully convinced that Iran strikes wherever it decides to strike. Therefore, any such gamble by Trump will once again end in his embarrassment,” the official added.&nbsp;Tehran will also “exercise its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz,” the Iranian military official said on Wednesday, adding that authorities “will not relinquish (their) firm resolve to control the Strait.”&nbsp;These statements came after US President Donald Trump renewed his threats to strike Iran's civilian infrastructure, including bridges and power plants located inside or near the capital Tehran, if it attacks any ship transiting the vital Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Trump, in his Truth Social post, wrote, "From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-bomb-bridge-power-plant-after-every-attack-on-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-trump-1784728449435">US will bomb Iran's bridge, power plant after every attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz: Trump</a>&nbsp;The US president's threat comes as the US military carried out its 11th consecutive night of strikes against the Islamic Republic over Tehran's attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>US and Iran tensions escalate over Strait of Hormuz</h2>Fighting over the strategic strait led to the collapse of a preliminary deal between the United States and Iran reached on June 17. However, top US diplomat Marco Rubio again reiterated Washington's stance that it was willing to find a negotiated agreement with Tehran.&nbsp;"We remain open to working it out in a negotiated way. But right now, they don't seem to be serious about that," Rubio said at a Southeast Asian ministers' meeting in Manila.&nbsp;He insisted that the US was right to strike Iran because it was attacking shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and planned to rebuild its missile and drone capabilities.

Iran warned it would strike regional infrastructure and energy facilities if the US targets bridges or power plants in the Islamic Republic, escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

A senior Iranian military official warned on Wednesday (July 22) that Tehran would strike regional infrastructure, including energy facilities, if Washington targeted bridges and power plants in the Islamic Republic. The warning came after US President Donald Trump threatened to target civilian infrastructure in Iran if Tehran attacks commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. “If the Americans target an Iranian bridge or power plant, Iran will respond by striking infrastructure and bridges across the region, including energy facilities in which the United States has interests,” the unnamed official was reported as saying by the Iranian semi-official news agency Tasnim. “The Americans should by now, after these past ten days, be fully convinced that Iran strikes wherever it decides to strike. Therefore, any such gamble by Trump will once again end in his embarrassment,” the official added. Tehran will also “exercise its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz,” the Iranian military official said on Wednesday, adding that authorities “will not relinquish (their) firm resolve to control the Strait.” These statements came after US President Donald Trump renewed his threats to strike Iran's civilian infrastructure, including bridges and power plants located inside or near the capital Tehran, if it attacks any ship transiting the vital Strait of Hormuz. Trump, in his Truth Social post, wrote, "From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran." Also Read: US will bomb Iran's bridge, power plant after every attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz: Trump The US president's threat comes as the US military carried out its 11th consecutive night of strikes against the Islamic Republic over Tehran's attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. US and Iran tensions escalate over Strait of Hormuz Fighting over the strategic strait led to the collapse of a preliminary deal between the United States and Iran reached on June 17. However, top US diplomat Marco Rubio again reiterated Washington's stance that it was willing to find a negotiated agreement with Tehran. "We remain open to working it out in a negotiated way. But right now, they don't seem to be serious about that," Rubio said at a Southeast Asian ministers' meeting in Manila. He insisted that the US was right to strike Iran because it was attacking shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and planned to rebuild its missile and drone capabilities.

Iran warned it would strike regional infrastructure and energy facilities if the US targets bridges or power plants in the Islamic Republic, escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran threatens regional infrastructure, energy facilities if US strikes bridges, power plants

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 22) renewed his threats of striking Iran's civilian infrastructure, including bridges and power plants located inside or near the capital Tehran, if it attacks any ship transiting the vital Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Trump, in his Truth Social post, wrote, "From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran."&nbsp;The US president's threat comes as the US military carried out its 11th consecutive night of strikes against the Islamic Republic over Tehran's attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.<h3>US-Iran tensions push oil prices higher</h3>Fighting over the strategic strait led to the collapse of a preliminary deal between the United States and Iran reached on June 17. However, top US diplomat Marco Rubio again reiterated Washington's stance that it was willing to find a negotiated agreement with Tehran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/152-paper-leaks-zero-convictions-rahul-gandhi-seeks-pm-apology-over-police-action-against-students-1784721200613">'152 paper leaks, zero convictions': Rahul Gandhi seeks PM apology over police action against students</a>&nbsp;"We remain open to working it out in a negotiated way. But right now, they don't seem to be serious about that," Rubio said at a Southeast Asian ministers' meeting in Manila.&nbsp;He insisted that the US was right to strike Iran because it was attacking shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and planned to rebuild its missile and drone capabilities.&nbsp;The United States has repeatedly maintained that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for commercial vessel transit. However, traffic has dipped significantly, leading to a surge in world oil prices.&nbsp;On Wednesday, with the main contract, Brent North Sea crude, surpassing $95 for the first time in nearly six weeks as the United States and Iran carried out more strikes, oil prices rose sharply.&nbsp;Brent oil jumped 4.4 per cent to $95.02 per barrel, while the key US contract, West Texas Intermediate, rallied 4.5 per cent to $88.16.

US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb a bridge or power plant in Iran after every attack on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions as Washington and Tehran continue their military confrontation.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 22) renewed his threats of striking Iran's civilian infrastructure, including bridges and power plants located inside or near the capital Tehran, if it attacks any ship transiting the vital Strait of Hormuz. Trump, in his Truth Social post, wrote, "From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran." The US president's threat comes as the US military carried out its 11th consecutive night of strikes against the Islamic Republic over Tehran's attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. US-Iran tensions push oil prices higher Fighting over the strategic strait led to the collapse of a preliminary deal between the United States and Iran reached on June 17. However, top US diplomat Marco Rubio again reiterated Washington's stance that it was willing to find a negotiated agreement with Tehran. Also Read: '152 paper leaks, zero convictions': Rahul Gandhi seeks PM apology over police action against students "We remain open to working it out in a negotiated way. But right now, they don't seem to be serious about that," Rubio said at a Southeast Asian ministers' meeting in Manila. He insisted that the US was right to strike Iran because it was attacking shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and planned to rebuild its missile and drone capabilities. The United States has repeatedly maintained that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for commercial vessel transit. However, traffic has dipped significantly, leading to a surge in world oil prices. On Wednesday, with the main contract, Brent North Sea crude, surpassing $95 for the first time in nearly six weeks as the United States and Iran carried out more strikes, oil prices rose sharply. Brent oil jumped 4.4 per cent to $95.02 per barrel, while the key US contract, West Texas Intermediate, rallied 4.5 per cent to $88.16.

US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb a bridge or power plant in Iran after every attack on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions as Washington and Tehran continue their military confrontation.

US will bomb Iran's bridge, power plant after every attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz: Trump

The US Department of Defense is reportedly seeking $80 billion to cover costs from the ​Iran war and other expenses. This comes as US President Donald Trump faces backlash over spending billions of taxpayer dollars on the Middle East conflict as oil prices and inflation reached soaring high in the country. This comes after the US and Iran virtually signed a memorandum of understanding to end the war and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz.According to a Wall Street Journal report, citing people familiar with the matter, Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg made the request to lawmakers seeking the fund. The newspaper added that the Pentagon has expressed concerns over running out of money for operations in the coming months unless a new wartime spending bill is passed by Congress. The situation may lead to the US military needing to make cuts in training and troop deployment along the US-Mexico border as part of a crackdown against illegal aliens.Last month, the Pentagon said that the cost of the Iran war has reached nearly $29 billion. However, Democrats and other critics have suggested that the actual cost, including the damage caused by Iranian attacks, may be much higher.AlMeanwhile, concerns about the shortage of US weapons stockpiles have also surfaced – a claim that the Trump administration has repeatedly denied. Doubts renewed after the US paused arms sales to Taiwan, with acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao citing the conflict in the Middle East as the reason behind the move.If approved, the proposed $80 billion funding package would be allocated to replenishing munitions, covering military personnel salaries, and supporting naval operations.<h2>Trump admin faces backlash over war</h2>Meanwhile, several lawmakers have warned that they will oppose any additional war funding unless Congress formally authorises the conflict. Democrats have accused Trump of violating the constitutional authorisation by launching military action without congressional approval.Under the War Powers Act, a US president must obtain congressional authorisation within 60 days of committing American forces to hostilities. Democrats argue that the deadline has already passed, putting the administration in violation of the law.

The Pentagon is reportedly seeking $80 billion for Iran war costs and military operations. The request faces opposition from lawmakers, who question rising expenses, stockpile concerns and Trump's legal authority.

The US Department of Defense is reportedly seeking $80 billion to cover costs from the Iran war and other expenses. This comes as US President Donald Trump faces backlash over spending billions of taxpayer dollars on the Middle East conflict as oil prices and inflation reached soaring high in the country. This comes after the US and Iran virtually signed a memorandum of understanding to end the war and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz. According to a Wall Street Journal report, citing people familiar with the matter, Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg made the request to lawmakers seeking the fund. The newspaper added that the Pentagon has expressed concerns over running out of money for operations in the coming months unless a new wartime spending bill is passed by Congress. The situation may lead to the US military needing to make cuts in training and troop deployment along the US-Mexico border as part of a crackdown against illegal aliens. Last month, the Pentagon said that the cost of the Iran war has reached nearly $29 billion. However, Democrats and other critics have suggested that the actual cost, including the damage caused by Iranian attacks, may be much higher. Al Meanwhile, concerns about the shortage of US weapons stockpiles have also surfaced – a claim that the Trump administration has repeatedly denied. Doubts renewed after the US paused arms sales to Taiwan, with acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao citing the conflict in the Middle East as the reason behind the move. If approved, the proposed $80 billion funding package would be allocated to replenishing munitions, covering military personnel salaries, and supporting naval operations. Trump admin faces backlash over war Meanwhile, several lawmakers have warned that they will oppose any additional war funding unless Congress formally authorises the conflict. Democrats have accused Trump of violating the constitutional authorisation by launching military action without congressional approval. Under the War Powers Act, a US president must obtain congressional authorisation within 60 days of committing American forces to hostilities. Democrats argue that the deadline has already passed, putting the administration in violation of the law.

The Pentagon is reportedly seeking $80 billion for Iran war costs and military operations. The request faces opposition from lawmakers, who question rising expenses, stockpile concerns and Trump's legal authority.

Pentagon running out of money? Trump admin seeks $80 billion for Iran war costs

The US war against Iran has already cost nearly $29 billion, according to the Pentagon, but independent experts warn that the final price tag could eventually climb to as much as $1 trillion once long-term military and veterans’ costs are fully accounted for. On Tuesday (May 12), Jay Hurst, who is performing the duties of Pentagon Comptroller, told a House Appropriations Committee hearing that the ongoing military campaign against Iran had cost “closer to $29 billion”, revising upwards an earlier estimate of $25 billion presented to Congress just two weeks ago.&nbsp;According to CNN, the revised assessment reflects updated operational expenses and the growing cost of repairing and replacing military equipment used in the conflict.“So, at the time of testimony from the House Armed Services Committee, it was $25 billion, but the joint staff team and the comptroller team are constantly looking at that estimate, and so now we think it is closer to 29. That is because of updated repair and replacement of equipment costs and also just general operational costs to keep people in theatre,” Hurst said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-marco-rubio-who-s-under-sanction-by-beijing-get-permission-to-travel-to-china-for-the-first-time-1778647018316">How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time?</a>&nbsp;Hurst later told a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing that the latest estimate still excluded the cost of damage sustained by US military bases across the Middle East. “We just do not have a good estimate at this time,” he added.&nbsp;CNN reported that previous internal assessments had suggested the true financial burden could rise substantially higher once damaged infrastructure and depleted military assets are fully replaced. One source cited by the broadcaster estimated the total could eventually reach between $40 billion and $50 billion.&nbsp;However, war budgeting expert Linda Bilmes of Harvard Kennedy School believes even those figures dramatically understate the long-term financial impact of the conflict. In a research paper released last week, Bilmes argued that the total cost of the Iran war could ultimately hit $1 trillion when future military expansion, veterans’ healthcare obligations and defence spending are included. “I am certain we will spend one trillion dollars on the Iran war. Perhaps we have already racked up that amount,” Bilmes stated.&nbsp;According to the research, the initial days of the conflict alone cost the US at least $16 billion because of the rapid depletion of expensive missile systems and intense operational activity.&nbsp;Bilmes estimated that the US is currently spending close to $2 billion per day on short-term operational costs, including missiles, interceptor systems, aircraft carrier deployments, combat pay, maintenance and replacement of damaged assets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-jinping-meeting-highs-and-lows-of-us-china-relations-in-trump-era-1778651255403">Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era</a>“We are spending down munitions at an extraordinarily fast pace,” she said, noting that the US had fired more Patriot missiles in the first four days of the Iran conflict than it had supplied to Ukraine during the previous four years. Bilmes also warned that Pentagon inventory valuations fail to reflect the significantly higher cost of replacing modern weapons systems.&nbsp;“For example, the Tomahawk missiles being used are valued at around $2 million each in inventory, but replacing them today costs $3 to $3.5 million. Patriot missiles in the inventory were valued at $1 to $2 million, but newer versions cost $4 to $5 million each,” she said.

The Pentagon estimates the Iran war cost at $29 billion, but experts like Linda Bilmes warn long-term expenses for munitions, equipment replacement, and veterans’ care could reach $1 trillion.

The US war against Iran has already cost nearly $29 billion, according to the Pentagon, but independent experts warn that the final price tag could eventually climb to as much as $1 trillion once long-term military and veterans’ costs are fully accounted for. On Tuesday (May 12), Jay Hurst, who is performing the duties of Pentagon Comptroller, told a House Appropriations Committee hearing that the ongoing military campaign against Iran had cost “closer to $29 billion”, revising upwards an earlier estimate of $25 billion presented to Congress just two weeks ago. According to CNN, the revised assessment reflects updated operational expenses and the growing cost of repairing and replacing military equipment used in the conflict. “So, at the time of testimony from the House Armed Services Committee, it was $25 billion, but the joint staff team and the comptroller team are constantly looking at that estimate, and so now we think it is closer to 29. That is because of updated repair and replacement of equipment costs and also just general operational costs to keep people in theatre,” Hurst said. Also read: How did Marco Rubio, who’s under sanction by Beijing, get permission to travel to China for the first time? Hurst later told a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing that the latest estimate still excluded the cost of damage sustained by US military bases across the Middle East. “We just do not have a good estimate at this time,” he added. CNN reported that previous internal assessments had suggested the true financial burden could rise substantially higher once damaged infrastructure and depleted military assets are fully replaced. One source cited by the broadcaster estimated the total could eventually reach between $40 billion and $50 billion. However, war budgeting expert Linda Bilmes of Harvard Kennedy School believes even those figures dramatically understate the long-term financial impact of the conflict. In a research paper released last week, Bilmes argued that the total cost of the Iran war could ultimately hit $1 trillion when future military expansion, veterans’ healthcare obligations and defence spending are included. “I am certain we will spend one trillion dollars on the Iran war. Perhaps we have already racked up that amount,” Bilmes stated. According to the research, the initial days of the conflict alone cost the US at least $16 billion because of the rapid depletion of expensive missile systems and intense operational activity. Bilmes estimated that the US is currently spending close to $2 billion per day on short-term operational costs, including missiles, interceptor systems, aircraft carrier deployments, combat pay, maintenance and replacement of damaged assets. Also read: Trump -Xi Jinping meeting: Highs and lows of US-China relations in Trump era “We are spending down munitions at an extraordinarily fast pace,” she said, noting that the US had fired more Patriot missiles in the first four days of the Iran conflict than it had supplied to Ukraine during the previous four years. Bilmes also warned that Pentagon inventory valuations fail to reflect the significantly higher cost of replacing modern weapons systems. “For example, the Tomahawk missiles being used are valued at around $2 million each in inventory, but replacing them today costs $3 to $3.5 million. Patriot missiles in the inventory were valued at $1 to $2 million, but newer versions cost $4 to $5 million each,” she said.

The Pentagon estimates the Iran war cost at $29 billion, but experts like Linda Bilmes warn long-term expenses for munitions, equipment replacement, and veterans’ care could reach $1 trillion.

Is Iran war costing Americans $29 billion or $1 trillion? Here’s what we know

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The military conflict in West Asia has entered its third week as of March 20, 2026. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations.Key Developments at a Glance:- A day after the pre-emptive strikes, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Following his death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader.- Total Rejection of Talks: Tehran has ruled out a ceasefire, labelling US actions a "betrayal" of nuclear negotiations.- The Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran is targeting vessels in the strategic chokepoint, causing a global energy supply shock.- Expanding Fronts: Israel has officially expanded operations into Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure while rejecting diplomatic overtures from the Lebanese government.- In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders, including the country's security chief Ali Larijani, have been killed.While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the campaign will continue until the Iranian regime collapses, the international community remains divided. Russia and China have formally condemned the strikes as violations of national sovereignty, whereas India continues to push for an immediate return to dialogue to stabilise energy markets.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well.<h2>Follow WION for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war</h2>

Israel's foreign ministry on Friday accused Iran of an attack on the “holy sites of Jerusalem” after an impact near the walls of the Old City following a missile warning.“The Iranian attack on the holy sites sacred to all three religions reveals the madness of the Iranian regime, which claims to be religious,” Israel's foreign ministry wrote on X, calling it an “Iranian gift” for the Muslim holiday Eid al-Fitr.

Israel decries Iran's 'madness' after strikes near Jerusalem holy sites

Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said on Friday that the enemies of the Islamic Republic were being defeated in the war against the US and Israel in a written message for the Persian New Year, Nowruz.“At the moment, due to the particular unity that has been created between you, our compatriots, despite all the differences in religious, intellectual, cultural, and political origins, the enemy has been defeated,” said Khamenei, who is yet to appear in public after being named to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an airstrike at the start of the war.

‘Enemy being defeated,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in Nowruz message

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said on Friday that the country considers “our eastern neighbors to be very close to us”. Khamenei said Iran values the relationship with these countries despite the attacks, which he said is fostered by shared culture and religion. “Each of these elements can strengthen good relations, and we are eager for this,” he said.Khamenei also blamed Israel for recent attacks on Oman and Turkey without providing any evidence.

Neighboring countries are ‘very close’ to us, says Iran's Supreme Leader

President Donald Trump has lashed out at NATO again, condemning alliance members for not wanting “to help open” the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has effectively closed the strait with periodic attacks on oil tankers and other shipping. Trump has criticised Nato members for failing to offer warships to help patrol the strategic waterway.Trump wrote in a social media post, “Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER! They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a Nuclear Powered Iran. Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”

Trump calls Nato members ‘cowards’ for not helping secure Strait of Hormuz

US stocks fell on Friday as traders kept monitoring the Iran war. The Nasdaq Composite lost 1.2%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average traded 163 points lower, or 0.4%, while the S&amp;P 500 fell 0.8% amid reports that the Pentagon was sending thousands of additional Marines to the Middle East.The market wobbled after Iran and Israel exchanged strikes overnight, while Tehran also launched new attacks against energy sites in the Gulf. On top of that, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials, that the Pentagon was sending thousands of additional Marines to the Middle East.

Nasdaq 100 falls over 1% as US announces sending 2,500 Marines to Middle East

A senior official in the Iranian armed forces has warned that the country's enemies won't be safe in tourist centres around the world.&nbsp;Gen. Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesman for Iran’s armed forces, said that the high numbers of Iranian officials being killed in American and Israeli strikes “is not a sign of the enemy’s strength; rather, it stems from desperation, helplessness, and malice.”Iranian officials “live with the people and among the people,” he said.

Enemies won't be safe in tourist centres around the world, warns Iran’s military

NATO said Friday it was "adjusting" its mission in Iraq, after officials in the country said the non-combat force had been temporarily withdrawn due to the war in the Middle East.

NATO announces ‘adjustments’ to Iraq mission

Iran's military threatens to hunt down US and Israeli officials even on vacation, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Iran military threatens to hunt down US, Israeli officials even on vacation

Switzerland decided Friday it will not authorise the export of war materiel to the United States during the Middle East conflict, in line with its long-standing principle of military neutrality.

Switzerland halts war materiel exports to US amid Iran war

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="ar" dir="rtl"&gt;الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع 4 صواريخ باليستية و 26 طائرة مسيرة.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;تعاملت الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية (20 مارس 2026) مع 4 صواريخ باليستية، و 26 طائرة مسيرة قادمة من إيران. &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;ومنذ بدء الاعتداءات الإيرانية السافرة تعاملت الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية مع 338 صاروخاً باليستياً، و… &lt;a href="https://t.co/ItXnv8CKvh"&gt;pic.twitter.com/ItXnv8CKvh&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/modgovae/status/2034938599423320229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 20, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

UAE air defences intercept 4 ballistic missiles and 26 drones 

Israel launched a new wave of heavy airstrikes on Tehran on Friday, as Iranians mark Nowruz (the Persian New Year) amidst the ongoing conflict.

Israel hits Tehran with air strikes as Iranians mark Persian new year

The United States and Israel struck 16 Iranian cargo vessels in port towns on the Gulf on Friday, local media reported, saying the ships were burnt.

US, Israel strike 16 Iranian cargo vessels in Gulf port towns: Iran media

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar greets his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot ahead of a meeting in Jerusalem. France's foreign minister arrived in Israel after visiting Lebanon.

Israeli FM greets French counterpart ahead of meeting in Jerusalem

CCTV images show flashes of light and smoke rising from the area of an oil refinery in the northern port city of Haifa on Thursday (Mar 19). Israeli media reported Thursday that the refinery had been hit following a military warning of incoming missiles launched from Iran

West Asia war LIVE | CCTV images show flashes and smoke rising in area of Haifa oil refinery

Special non-scheduled commercial flights for people from Kuwait to resume today. Flights to six Indian cities will take off from Saudi Arabia's Qaisumah Airport as Kuwait's airspace remains closed: Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf). &nbsp;

West Asia war LIVE | Special non-scheduled commercial flights for people from Kuwait to resume today

PM spoke to 5 world leaders yesterday: Oman, Malayisa, France, Jordan, and Qatar. PM put India's position and priority to dialogue, he condemned attacks on energy structure: MEA

West Asia war LIVE | PM Modi condemned attacks on energy infrastructure: MEA

Maritime security firm Ambrey says the US-Israeli strike targeted Bandar Lengeh port in Iran. No casualties or damage to merchant vessels has been reported.

West Asia war LIVE | US-Israeli strike targeted Bandar Lengeh port in Iran: Maritime security firm 

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa says he is working to keep his country out of the regional conflict raging across the West Asia. In a statement following the Eid prayers marking the end of Ramadan, Sharaa said "we are trying to keep Syria as far as possible from any conflict."

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Al-Sharaa says working to keep Syria out of West Asia conflict

Most production facilities are operating; the remainder are in the process of being restarted. An Iranian strike on the Haifa refinery damaged external infrastructure owned by a third party that is essential to operations; it is expected to return to operations within a few days.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Iranian missile hits Israel's oil refineries 

In the latest attack on Iran,Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini, was killed, as announced by Iranian state TV on Friday (Mar 20). The news broke shortly after news agency Fars quoted him saying that the country'smissile production continues despite the war with Israel and the US.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Iran confirms IRGC spokesperson Brig Gen Ali Mohammad Naeini killed in US-Israeli airstrikes

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told his British counterpart Yvette Cooper in a phone call that any US use of British bases would be seen as "participation in aggression" against the Islamic republic.It was not clear when the call with Cooper took place."These actions will certainly be regarded as participation in aggression and will be recorded in the history of relations between the two countries," said Araghchi, according to a statement released Friday by the foreign ministry.

Iran FM told British counterpart UK complicit in US, Israel 'aggression'

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday that US-Israeli strikes had killed their spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini.Naini "was martyred in the criminal cowardly terrorist attack by the American-Zionist side at dawn", the Guards said in a statement on their Sepah News website.

Iran Revolutionary Guards say US-Israel strikes kill spokesman

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei called Friday for the enemies of his nations to have their “security” taken away, in his latest message to the public.Khamenei made the remarks in a statement issued on his behalf and sent to President Masoud Pezeshkian, after Israel killed Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib.Khamenei hasn’t been seen since he was named as supreme leader, succeeding his father, the 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the first day of the war on Feb. 28.American and Israeli officials have suggested that Mojtaba Khamenei was hurt in the war.

Iran’s supreme leader says enemies’ ‘security must be taken away’ after intelligence minister’s killing

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday that the Islamic republic has continued to produce missiles despite the war with Israel and the United States."Our missile industry deserves a perfect score... and there is no concern in this regard, because even under wartime conditions we continue missile production," Guards spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini said, quoted by the Fars news agency.On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that "Iran no longer has the capacity to enrich uranium and manufacture ballistic missiles".

Iran Guards say missile production continues despite war

Sri Lanka refused permission to the United States to station two of its warplanes at an airport in the island's south in early March, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake told parliament on Friday."They wanted to bring two warplanes armed with eight anti-ship missiles from a base in Djibouti to the Mattala International Airport from March 4 to 8 and we said 'no'," Dissanayake said.Sri Lanka maintains close ties with the United States, its biggest export market, and Iran which is a key buyer of tea, its main export commodity.

Sri Lanka refused ground access to US warplanes

Israel carried out strikes on towns in southern Lebanon, causing multiple injuries, state media reported on Friday."Israeli enemy fighter jets struck at dawn, targeting the towns of Bafliyeh and Hanine in the Tyre and Bint Jbeil districts," the official National News Agency (NNA) reported, adding that Israeli forces had hit five other towns in the south of the country.

Lebanon state media says Israeli jets struck southern towns

Iran's Revolutionary Guards say missile production continue during war.

No stockpile shortage, says Iran

According to Kuwaits KPC, Mina AL-Ahmedi refinery has been hit by drone attack. Some units shut down to ensure safety.

Refinery in Kuwait hit in drone attack

At least 16 US military aircraft have been lost since the start of the war with Iran.

US Aircraft Losses Mount

A missile alert sounded in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates early Friday morning.

Explosions heard in Dubai in the UAE

The Islamic Republic of Iran said that the video of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei was published for the first time.

Iranian state media releases undated video of Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

The war has severely disrupted air traffic over Gulf countries, which have carved out a niche as a stopover for long flights between the United States, Europe, Asia and Oceania.Many European travellers have found themselves stranded in Asia, unable to pass through the key hubs of Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi -- the respective headquarters of Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad."It is a bit of a wake-up call to show how dependent the European continent is on Gulf carriers," the chief executive of Air France-KLM, Benjamin Smith, told a press conference of the Airlines for Europe (A4E) association.

Air traffic severely disrupted over Gulf countries

The European Central Bank cut its growth forecast and raised inflation forecasts for this year as it warned of the energy price shock from the Mideast war.ECB staff now see eurozone GDP growth reduced to 0.9 percent in 2026, and raised inflation projections to 2.6 percent for the year.

ECB cuts 2026 growth forecast

With the Iran war entering its third week, the Trump administration is in hot water for reportedly requesting a staggering $200 billion in emergency funding. Amid concerns about the staggering bill of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 20) sought to downplay the costs, dismissing the bill as a "small price" to keep the US military "tippy top."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-takes-money-to-kill-bad-guys-hegseth-defends-iran-war-bill-as-trump-eyes-200bn-to-keep-us-military-tippy-top-1773970092030">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260320/image-1773971810117.jpg?rect=(0,68,1065,799)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘Tippy top’ defence vs taxpayers money? Trump shrugs off $200B Iran war bill as US burns $2B a day"></figure>

‘Tippy top’ defence vs taxpayers money? Trump shrugs off $200B Iran war bill as US burns $2B a day

The UN's maritime body called for the creation of a safe shipping "corridor" in the Gulf to evacuate stranded vessels and seafarers, after an emergency meeting that also condemned Iran.Following two days of urgent talks in London, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) said the "safe maritime corridor" should be established as "a provisional and urgent measure".Six Western allies, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, earlier stated they were ready "to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz". Paris, Rome and Berlin later stressed any initiative would take place only after a ceasefire was reached.

UN urges safe shipping 'corridor' 

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All Gulf Air flights at Goa International Airport Dabolim cancelled till March 26

Crude prices fell more than two per cent on Friday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war with Iran could finish sooner than many feared.Traders also welcomed US President Donald Trump's remarks that Israeli forces would not target any more of Tehran's energy infrastructure.Both main oil contracts sank, though Brent remains at about $105 and West Texas Intermediate at about $93.On Thursday, Brent jumped almost six per cent to hit $119 a barrel before falling back to around $109.Gold and silver prices shed more than six per cent and 13 per cent, respectively, as rising inflation fears dampened expectations for near-term interest rate cuts.

Crude price falls by 2%

French President Emmanuel Macron said his country planned to talk with permanent members of the UN Security Council about establishing a UN framework -- once the ongoing exchange of fire had ended -- to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz."We have initiated an exploratory process, and we will see in the coming days whether it stands a chance of succeeding," he told reporters in Brussels following a European summit.

Macron says eyeing UN action on Hormuz

The Israeli military said it launched a wave of strikes on Tehran, following Iranian missile fire at Israel overnight.A military statement said Israeli forces had "begun a wave of strikes targeting infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran."

Israel launches fresh wave of strikes against Iran

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency that they had targeted US forces in the UAE's Al-Dhafra air base as well as sites in Israel with missiles and drones.There were no immediate reports of any casualties.Saudi Arabia's defence ministry said that within less than two hours, its forces had "intercepted and destroyed" 10 drones in the country's east and another in the north.

IRGS targets US forces at UAE's Al-Dhafra air base

Emirati and Kuwaiti air defences were responding to missile fire early Friday, authorities in the Gulf states said, while Saudi Arabia intercepted drone attacks.Elsewhere in the Gulf, Bahrain's interior ministry said that shrapnel from an "Iranian aggression" caused a fire at a warehouse, which was brought under control and resulted in no injuries.The ministry earlier said air raid sirens were activated.In Kuwait, an army statement said air defences were "responding to hostile missile and drone threats", while the UAE state media reported "incoming missile and drone threats from Iran".

Gulf states say responding to missile, drone attacks

UAE authorities have arrested at least five members of a "terrorist network" linked to Iran and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, state media said Friday.The alleged network had "sought to infiltrate the national economy and carry out external schemes threatening the country's financial stability" as part of "a pre-established strategic plan in coordination with external parties linked to Hezbollah and Iran", the official WAM news agency said, citing the UAE State Security Apparatus. The report included mug shots of five detained suspects.

UAE arrests members of Iran-linked 'terrorist network': state media

The US-Iran-Israel war enters Day 21 with no ceasefire in sight. Scroll down for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The military conflict in West Asia has entered its third week as of March 20, 2026. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations. Key Developments at a Glance: - A day after the pre-emptive strikes, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Following his death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader. - Total Rejection of Talks: Tehran has ruled out a ceasefire, labelling US actions a "betrayal" of nuclear negotiations. - The Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran is targeting vessels in the strategic chokepoint, causing a global energy supply shock. - Expanding Fronts: Israel has officially expanded operations into Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure while rejecting diplomatic overtures from the Lebanese government. - In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders, including the country's security chief Ali Larijani, have been killed. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the campaign will continue until the Iranian regime collapses, the international community remains divided. Russia and China have formally condemned the strikes as violations of national sovereignty, whereas India continues to push for an immediate return to dialogue to stabilise energy markets. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well. Follow WION for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war

The US-Iran-Israel war enters Day 21 with no ceasefire in sight. Scroll down for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war.

US-Israel-Iran war Day 21 highlights | ‘Enemy being defeated,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in Nowruz message

WASHINGTON: With the Iran war entering its third week, the Trump administration is in hot water for reportedly requesting a staggering $200 billion in emergency funding. Amid concerns about the staggering bill of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 20) sought to downplay the costs, dismissing the bill as a "small price" to keep the US military "tippy top." Meanwhile, as soaring costs, combined with the Strait of Hormuz energy crisis, fuel economic troubles at home, Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has sparked controversy by saying it "takes money to kill bad guys." The Trump aide said this when asked by a reporter about the $200bn request. Internal reports suggest, in just the first six days of the conflict, the US burned through $11.3 billion—a nearly $2 billion-a-day price tag driven by dual carrier strike groups and a rain of "standoff" cruise missiles. While President TrumpAlso read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-how-much-iran-war-cost-us-in-first-week-pentagon-reveals-shocking-number-1773284909499">THIS is how much Iran war cost US in first week: Pentagon reveals shocking number</a><h2>'Tippy Top' Defense: Trump’s Plan to Refill the US Ammunition 'Locker.'</h2>Trump seemed to confirm the figure. When asked about the money and what it would be used for, the POTUS reasoned that even beyond Iran, it was a "volatile world"."We're asking for a lot of reasons, beyond even what we're talking about in Iran. This is a very volatile world," he said.Trump said that the US wants and needs "right now" vast amounts of ammunition, and the $200 billion was a small price to stay "tippy top". Speaking during an event in the oval office, the president said "We want to have vast amounts of ammunition, which we have right now...It's a small price to pay to make sure that we stay tippy top."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-lie-lie-lie-iran-uses-inside-out-ai-satire-to-mock-trump-s-evil-impulses-amid-minab-school-strike-and-epstein-files-controversies-watch-1773374313730">'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike &amp; Epstein files controversies | Watch</a><h2>Where is the $200 Billion Going? Breaking Down the Iran War 'Bill'</h2>While the White House is yet to confirm or deny reports of the $200 billion funding request to Congress, Hegseth on Thursday all but confirmed it. Alarmingly, he said that the $200 billion number could actually go up as the US tries to "refill" ammunition. &nbsp;"As far as $200 billion, I think that number could move," he told reporters. "We're going back to Congress and our folks there to ensure that we're properly funded for what's been done, for what we may have to do in the future, ensure that our ammunition is, everything's refilled," Hegseth added.<h2>$1.8 Billion Per Day: Why the Iran Conflict is the 'Costliest' US Intervention</h2>While lawmakers were told that Trump's war against Iran cost US taxpayers $11.3 billion in the first six days, exactly how much the war cost so far has yet to be publicly disclosed. Friday (Mar 20) will be Day 21 of the war.Experts believe that the cost of war is substantial. "The amount of precision munitions and interceptors used, the number of air sorties, fuel expended, and cost of operation of two carrier strike groups all factored in, would lead to a very large bill," Daniel Schneiderman, director of global policy programs at Penn Washington told AFP.He noted that in military operations like these, the most crucial items happen to be the most expensive. "Standoff weapons like cruise missiles, THAAD interceptors and batteries, bombs and missiles fired from aircraft, the fuel and maintenance that supports those aircraft and the carriers they fly off of, and not to mention the skilled labor that operates them."Schneiderman added that it is "very expensive to run a war" and said that the Iran War "has to be up there with the costliest interventions the US has undertaken from a financial perspective."&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.

$200B for war? Trump admin faces heat as Pentagon says “it takes money to kill bad guys.” With $11.3B burned in just the first 6 days, the Iran war is turning into one of America’s costliest conflicts yet. How big is the real bill? Scroll to find out

WASHINGTON: With the Iran war entering its third week, the Trump administration is in hot water for reportedly requesting a staggering $200 billion in emergency funding. Amid concerns about the staggering bill of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 20) sought to downplay the costs, dismissing the bill as a "small price" to keep the US military "tippy top." Meanwhile, as soaring costs, combined with the Strait of Hormuz energy crisis, fuel economic troubles at home, Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has sparked controversy by saying it "takes money to kill bad guys." The Trump aide said this when asked by a reporter about the $200bn request. Internal reports suggest, in just the first six days of the conflict, the US burned through $11.3 billion—a nearly $2 billion-a-day price tag driven by dual carrier strike groups and a rain of "standoff" cruise missiles. While President Trump Also read | THIS is how much Iran war cost US in first week: Pentagon reveals shocking number 'Tippy Top' Defense: Trump’s Plan to Refill the US Ammunition 'Locker.' Trump seemed to confirm the figure. When asked about the money and what it would be used for, the POTUS reasoned that even beyond Iran, it was a "volatile world". "We're asking for a lot of reasons, beyond even what we're talking about in Iran. This is a very volatile world," he said. Trump said that the US wants and needs "right now" vast amounts of ammunition, and the $200 billion was a small price to stay "tippy top". Speaking during an event in the oval office, the president said "We want to have vast amounts of ammunition, which we have right now...It's a small price to pay to make sure that we stay tippy top." Also read | 'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike & Epstein files controversies | Watch Where is the $200 Billion Going? Breaking Down the Iran War 'Bill' While the White House is yet to confirm or deny reports of the $200 billion funding request to Congress, Hegseth on Thursday all but confirmed it. Alarmingly, he said that the $200 billion number could actually go up as the US tries to "refill" ammunition. "As far as $200 billion, I think that number could move," he told reporters. "We're going back to Congress and our folks there to ensure that we're properly funded for what's been done, for what we may have to do in the future, ensure that our ammunition is, everything's refilled," Hegseth added. $1.8 Billion Per Day: Why the Iran Conflict is the 'Costliest' US Intervention While lawmakers were told that Trump's war against Iran cost US taxpayers $11.3 billion in the first six days, exactly how much the war cost so far has yet to be publicly disclosed. Friday (Mar 20) will be Day 21 of the war. Experts believe that the cost of war is substantial. "The amount of precision munitions and interceptors used, the number of air sorties, fuel expended, and cost of operation of two carrier strike groups all factored in, would lead to a very large bill," Daniel Schneiderman, director of global policy programs at Penn Washington told AFP. He noted that in military operations like these, the most crucial items happen to be the most expensive. "Standoff weapons like cruise missiles, THAAD interceptors and batteries, bombs and missiles fired from aircraft, the fuel and maintenance that supports those aircraft and the carriers they fly off of, and not to mention the skilled labor that operates them." Schneiderman added that it is "very expensive to run a war" and said that the Iran War "has to be up there with the costliest interventions the US has undertaken from a financial perspective." 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.

$200B for war? Trump admin faces heat as Pentagon says “it takes money to kill bad guys.” With $11.3B burned in just the first 6 days, the Iran war is turning into one of America’s costliest conflicts yet. How big is the real bill? Scroll to find out

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‘Tippy top’ defence? Trump shrugs off $200B Iran war bill as US burns $2B a day