The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Aug 18) accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles towards the country, saying the weapons were aimed at maritime navigation in the Gulf. The UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran. According to the ministry, one missile fell outside the UAE's territorial waters while the second came down inside them.A later assessment by the UAE said the missiles appeared to have been targeting shipping. "Assessments carried out showed that the two ballistic missiles detected coming from Iran were targeting maritime navigation and fell into the sea," the ministry said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/within-30-days-trump-top-envoy-jared-kushner-gives-timeline-for-hamas-disarmament-in-gaza-1787014649346">'Within 30 days': Trump top envoy Jared Kushner gives timeline for Hamas disarmament in Gaza</a><h2>Iran rejects UAE allegations</h2>Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has categorically denied that Tehran had fired a missile at the UAE. Baqaei said the allegation could undermine efforts to build trust among countries in the region. "This behaviour is contrary to the principle of good neighbourliness and disrupts ongoing efforts to strengthen trust between regional countries and prevent the escalation of insecurity in the region," he said.He also urged regional governments to refrain from what he called "baseless accusations" against Iran.The UAE's initial announcement came shortly after authorities sent a phone alert warning residents about a potential missile threat. The warning was lifted soon afterwards.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-firm-joins-rescue-race-as-oil-spill-from-russian-shadow-fleet-tanker-spreads-along-oman-s-coast-1786690658895">'Extremely challenging situation': UK firm joins rescue race as oil spill from Russian shadow fleet tanker spreads along Oman's coast</a><h2>UAE suspends dealings with Iran</h2>Amid the escalating tensions, the UAE later on Tuesday also announced the suspension of all trade and financial dealings with Iran until further notice.The latest incident comes as the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation between Iran and the United States. Iran has warned that the waterway will remain closed until it reaches a peace agreement with Washington.

Two ballistic missiles launched from Iran triggered a security alert in the UAE, but the real question is where they were headed. Abu Dhabi says the weapons were targeting maritime navigation, while Tehran has categorically denied firing missiles at the country.

The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Aug 18) accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles towards the country, saying the weapons were aimed at maritime navigation in the Gulf. The UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran. According to the ministry, one missile fell outside the UAE's territorial waters while the second came down inside them. A later assessment by the UAE said the missiles appeared to have been targeting shipping. "Assessments carried out showed that the two ballistic missiles detected coming from Iran were targeting maritime navigation and fell into the sea," the ministry said. Also read | 'Within 30 days': Trump top envoy Jared Kushner gives timeline for Hamas disarmament in Gaza Iran rejects UAE allegations Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has categorically denied that Tehran had fired a missile at the UAE. Baqaei said the allegation could undermine efforts to build trust among countries in the region. "This behaviour is contrary to the principle of good neighbourliness and disrupts ongoing efforts to strengthen trust between regional countries and prevent the escalation of insecurity in the region," he said. He also urged regional governments to refrain from what he called "baseless accusations" against Iran. The UAE's initial announcement came shortly after authorities sent a phone alert warning residents about a potential missile threat. The warning was lifted soon afterwards. Also read | 'Extremely challenging situation': UK firm joins rescue race as oil spill from Russian shadow fleet tanker spreads along Oman's coast UAE suspends dealings with Iran Amid the escalating tensions, the UAE later on Tuesday also announced the suspension of all trade and financial dealings with Iran until further notice. The latest incident comes as the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation between Iran and the United States. Iran has warned that the waterway will remain closed until it reaches a peace agreement with Washington.

Two ballistic missiles launched from Iran triggered a security alert in the UAE, but the real question is where they were headed. Abu Dhabi says the weapons were targeting maritime navigation, while Tehran has categorically denied firing missiles at the country.

UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless

The United Arab Emirates issued a brief phone alert for "potential missile threats" with the ministry of defence confirming it had detected missiles "directed towards the country" for the first time in months. It was the first such alert since a false alarm in June and an alert in July for an attack that ultimately did not enter UAE territory. Before that, the last missile warning came in early May.


Breaking: Missile attack on UAE | Middle East tensions rise again

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that the US-Israeli war of aggression demonstrated Iran’s resilience and completely dispelled the global perception of the country being weak. Araghchi added that Tehran’s post-war foreign policy will be fundamentally different from the period before the conflict.&nbsp;In an interview aired on Iranian state TV, Araghchi said the war had fundamentally altered international perceptions of Iran and argued that the country had demonstrated resilience despite sustained pressure.“In my view, Iran’s foreign policy in the post-war period will be completely different from the period before the war. The perception of Iran as weak has been completely eliminated,” he said.&nbsp;Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-beg-pakistan-strictly-warns-its-umrah-pilgrims-tells-them-to-fully-comply-with-saudi-laws-1786991746961">‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws</a>&nbsp;“It was the second or third day of the war when Trump posted a tweet in two words: ‘Unconditional surrender’. And, well, they were seeking surrender. They became disappointed, then they pursued regime change; they became disappointed, then they pursued partition; they became disappointed, then they pursued internal unrest. Every plan that they could pursue, they pursued, and they were unsuccessful in bringing this war to a rapid conclusion.”&nbsp;Regarding negotiations with the US, Araqchi said President Masoud Pezeshkian had supported considering Washington’s request for talks as a possible way to find a path toward ending the war.&nbsp;<h2>‘We forced the enemy to accept our conditions’</h2>&nbsp;Araghchi said Iran had won both the war and diplomacy. “We won the war and we also won in diplomacy, and we forced the enemy to accept our conditions,” he said, adding that Iran’s military capabilities gave its diplomacy strength in the negotiations.&nbsp;Araghchi said Iran resisted for days against the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/14-of-28-cms-face-serious-criminal-charges-4-192-cases-pending-against-mps-and-mlas-supreme-court-told-1787055416892">14 of 28 CMs face serious criminal charges; 4,192 cases pending against MPs and MLAs, Supreme Court told</a>&nbsp;He said the memorandum of understanding signed with the US contained “13 provisions in our favour and one in theirs”.&nbsp;“America is now begging to negotiate with us according to our conditions,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Israel sabotaging ceasefire deal with US’</h2>&nbsp;Araghchi accused Israel of actively sabotaging diplomacy, calling the country “the biggest opponent and obstacle” to the implementation of a ceasefire understanding with the US.&nbsp;“The biggest opponent and obstacle to the implementation of the memorandum of understanding was and is the Zionist regime [Israel],” Araghchi said, adding, “They did their best to prevent such an understanding from happening, they did their best to make this understanding fail, and they did their best to prevent it from being implemented, and they are still continuing this effort.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Araghchi claimed that several ambassadors had told him that almost all clauses of the MoU were in Iran’s favour.&nbsp;“We fought with authority and negotiated with authority,” Araghchi said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-trump-s-renewed-appeal-to-block-e-jean-carroll-award-1786975184644">Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award</a>&nbsp;Araghchi’s statement comes as US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and envoy Jared Kushner has reiterated Washington’s firm stance on Iran, stating that the American leader remains clear that Tehran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the United States meets Tehran’s demands, including lifting a naval blockade.&nbsp;“I want to state clearly that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding are implemented,” Ghalibaf said in a speech broadcast on state television.&nbsp;

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives. Araghchi added that Iran successfully resisted the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that the US-Israeli war of aggression demonstrated Iran’s resilience and completely dispelled the global perception of the country being weak. Araghchi added that Tehran’s post-war foreign policy will be fundamentally different from the period before the conflict. In an interview aired on Iranian state TV, Araghchi said the war had fundamentally altered international perceptions of Iran and argued that the country had demonstrated resilience despite sustained pressure. “In my view, Iran’s foreign policy in the post-war period will be completely different from the period before the war. The perception of Iran as weak has been completely eliminated,” he said. Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives. Also Read: ‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws “It was the second or third day of the war when Trump posted a tweet in two words: ‘Unconditional surrender’. And, well, they were seeking surrender. They became disappointed, then they pursued regime change; they became disappointed, then they pursued partition; they became disappointed, then they pursued internal unrest. Every plan that they could pursue, they pursued, and they were unsuccessful in bringing this war to a rapid conclusion.” Regarding negotiations with the US, Araqchi said President Masoud Pezeshkian had supported considering Washington’s request for talks as a possible way to find a path toward ending the war. ‘We forced the enemy to accept our conditions’ Araghchi said Iran had won both the war and diplomacy. “We won the war and we also won in diplomacy, and we forced the enemy to accept our conditions,” he said, adding that Iran’s military capabilities gave its diplomacy strength in the negotiations. Araghchi said Iran resisted for days against the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power. Also Read: 14 of 28 CMs face serious criminal charges; 4,192 cases pending against MPs and MLAs, Supreme Court told He said the memorandum of understanding signed with the US contained “13 provisions in our favour and one in theirs”. “America is now begging to negotiate with us according to our conditions,” he said. ‘Israel sabotaging ceasefire deal with US’ Araghchi accused Israel of actively sabotaging diplomacy, calling the country “the biggest opponent and obstacle” to the implementation of a ceasefire understanding with the US. “The biggest opponent and obstacle to the implementation of the memorandum of understanding was and is the Zionist regime [Israel],” Araghchi said, adding, “They did their best to prevent such an understanding from happening, they did their best to make this understanding fail, and they did their best to prevent it from being implemented, and they are still continuing this effort.” Araghchi claimed that several ambassadors had told him that almost all clauses of the MoU were in Iran’s favour. “We fought with authority and negotiated with authority,” Araghchi said. Also Read: Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award Araghchi’s statement comes as US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and envoy Jared Kushner has reiterated Washington’s firm stance on Iran, stating that the American leader remains clear that Tehran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon. Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the United States meets Tehran’s demands, including lifting a naval blockade. “I want to state clearly that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding are implemented,” Ghalibaf said in a speech broadcast on state television.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives. Araghchi added that Iran successfully resisted the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power.

‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness

Oil prices rose sharply on Monday (Aug 17) after US President Donald Trump ruled out extending an interim ceasefire arrangement with Iran, deepening uncertainty over the conflict and the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.Brent crude, the international benchmark, settled at $90.87 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate rose to $84.50. The gains reflected renewed concern that stalled diplomacy could prolong disruptions to global energy supplies.President Trump said Monday that he did not want to extend the memorandum of understanding reached with Iran in June. The agreement had been intended to create a path toward a broader settlement, but negotiations have struggled over several issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz.Iran has also hardened its position. A senior Iranian official warned that Tehran could shift toward a more offensive military posture if diplomatic efforts fail.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-firm-joins-rescue-race-as-oil-spill-from-russian-shadow-fleet-tanker-spreads-along-oman-s-coast-1786690658895">'Extremely challenging situation': UK firm joins rescue race as oil spill from Russian shadow fleet tanker spreads along Oman's coast</a><h2>Why Hormuz matters</h2>The Strait of Hormuz remains the most important factor for oil markets. Before the conflict, around one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to international markets.Traffic remains heavily disrupted. Only five commodity vessels crossed the strait on Saturday, compared with 31 the previous weekend, while no crossings were recorded on Sunday, according to shipping data cited by Reuters.Even without a complete shutdown, reduced tanker traffic can increase shipping and insurance costs and restrict supplies from major Gulf producers.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-alleged-nuclear-arsenal-no-longer-top-concern-for-us-vance-says-cheap-oil-is-priority-no-1-in-iran-war-nuclear-threat-goal-number-two-1786669765626">Iran's alleged nuclear arsenal no longer top concern for US? Vance says cheap oil is priority No. 1 in Iran war, nuclear threat 'goal number two'</a><h2>What’s next?</h2>The immediate focus will be on whether Washington and Tehran can maintain diplomatic contacts despite increasingly confrontational rhetoric.Sustained increases in crude prices can feed into gasoline and transportation costs, making the conflict increasingly relevant to American consumers.For oil markets, Hormuz will remain the key indicator.Any agreement that restores significant tanker traffic could quickly ease some of the geopolitical premium built into crude prices. Further attacks or a deeper disruption of the strait could push prices higher.For now, markets are pricing in a conflict with no clear diplomatic exit and an energy supply route that remains vulnerable to the next political or military move.&nbsp;

Brent crude, the international benchmark, settled at $90.87 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate rose to $84.50. The gains reflected renewed concern that stalled diplomacy could prolong disruptions to global energy supplies.

Oil prices rose sharply on Monday (Aug 17) after US President Donald Trump ruled out extending an interim ceasefire arrangement with Iran, deepening uncertainty over the conflict and the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude, the international benchmark, settled at $90.87 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate rose to $84.50. The gains reflected renewed concern that stalled diplomacy could prolong disruptions to global energy supplies. President Trump said Monday that he did not want to extend the memorandum of understanding reached with Iran in June. The agreement had been intended to create a path toward a broader settlement, but negotiations have struggled over several issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has also hardened its position. A senior Iranian official warned that Tehran could shift toward a more offensive military posture if diplomatic efforts fail. Also read | 'Extremely challenging situation': UK firm joins rescue race as oil spill from Russian shadow fleet tanker spreads along Oman's coast Why Hormuz matters The Strait of Hormuz remains the most important factor for oil markets. Before the conflict, around one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to international markets. Traffic remains heavily disrupted. Only five commodity vessels crossed the strait on Saturday, compared with 31 the previous weekend, while no crossings were recorded on Sunday, according to shipping data cited by Reuters. Even without a complete shutdown, reduced tanker traffic can increase shipping and insurance costs and restrict supplies from major Gulf producers. Also read | Iran's alleged nuclear arsenal no longer top concern for US? Vance says cheap oil is priority No. 1 in Iran war, nuclear threat 'goal number two' What’s next? The immediate focus will be on whether Washington and Tehran can maintain diplomatic contacts despite increasingly confrontational rhetoric. Sustained increases in crude prices can feed into gasoline and transportation costs, making the conflict increasingly relevant to American consumers. For oil markets, Hormuz will remain the key indicator. Any agreement that restores significant tanker traffic could quickly ease some of the geopolitical premium built into crude prices. Further attacks or a deeper disruption of the strait could push prices higher. For now, markets are pricing in a conflict with no clear diplomatic exit and an energy supply route that remains vulnerable to the next political or military move.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, settled at $90.87 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate rose to $84.50. The gains reflected renewed concern that stalled diplomacy could prolong disruptions to global energy supplies.

Oil prices jump as Trump rules out extending Iran ceasefire. What comes next?

Can data from an app which people use every day for recording their fitness activities be weaponised during a conflict?&nbsp;A new report makes this precise assertion in the context of the West Asia war.&nbsp;According to Sky News, over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces.&nbsp;This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming.&nbsp;In May, US Senator Ron Wyden shared a letter in which CENTCOM admitted to having received multiple threat reports regarding exploitation of commercial location data to target US personnel.&nbsp;The Sky News report also claimed that many of those posting their activities did so under their real names, thereby becoming potential targets for attacks.&nbsp;Take a look at the example of Bahrain.&nbsp;This country hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Iran launched an attack on this base in retaliation, speculation was rife about the whereabouts of the US military personnel stationed there. According to Sky News, Strava data of a US Naval contractor gave away their possible location. A week before the war, his activities were confined to this BASE. After the Iranian attack, though, he recorded doing laps on Strava around the courtyard of the Crowne Plaza hotel. Subsequently, Iran also bombed this hotel, which reportedly led to multiple Pentagon employees getting injured. While it is not confirmed, the report indicated that Iran strategically used Strava data in this case. While Pentagon had banned soldiers from using this app's location-tracking features without permission during deployment in 2018 itself, experts have flagged lax enforcement of this order. Now, it is not just individual accounts, which could be an issue. According to this report, Iran may have figured out a pattern by collecting data from thousands of accounts. It gave the example of how 76% of Strava accounts at Jordan's Muwaffaq Salti air base were located at the barracks during the ceasefire. When fighting briefly resumed in July, Iran attacked those very barracks, killing three US military personnel in the process. Similarly, activities of three Strava users were also detected inside the nuclear research centre located in Israel's Dimona, which was also targeted by Iran. Now, the danger of fitness apps being misused in military operations dates back several years. In 2016, a US Defence contractor reportedly used commercially available location data to track special operations forces moving from American bases to a sensitive post in Syria. Two years later, Strava's public heatmap exposed the locations of secret US and allied military bases in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In 2024, media outlets analysed billions of location coordinates obtained from a data broker and reportedly tracked movements of around 11 US military and intelligence facilities in Germany. This is not all. In March this year, a French naval officer reportedly exposed the location of aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle after recording his jogging on Strava while exercising on the ship's deck. While the Pentagon is yet to comment on this, a Strava spokesperson told Sky News that the firm expects people working in sensitive professions to use privacy controls and appropriately limit their content.

Over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces. This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming.

Can data from an app which people use every day for recording their fitness activities be weaponised during a conflict? A new report makes this precise assertion in the context of the West Asia war. According to Sky News, over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces. This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming. In May, US Senator Ron Wyden shared a letter in which CENTCOM admitted to having received multiple threat reports regarding exploitation of commercial location data to target US personnel. The Sky News report also claimed that many of those posting their activities did so under their real names, thereby becoming potential targets for attacks. Take a look at the example of Bahrain. This country hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.

Over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces. This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming.

American nightmare: Iran tracked Strava data and launched precise strikes on US bases | Gravitas

The 60-day US-Iran memorandum aimed at ending the war has expired, with no clear sign that either side is ready to extend the agreement. Iran says it has not decided whether to resume direct negotiations with Washington, while messages continue to pass through mediators.
The Verdict with Shreya Upadhyaya: Should the world just wait for peace while US and Iran fight ego battles? 60 days wasted with no end to war. Both sides must stop this mindless war now.

US-Iran war: What did the last 60 days achieve?

President Donald Trump has again declared that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon is his top priority, as efforts to revive a stalled US-Iran deal shows little progress.  The nuclear question has intensified after former US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene claimed that high-level discussions were taking place over possible nuclear weapons use against Iran. She provided no evidence for the claim.  
At the same time, Trump has reportedly threatened Oman over its role in the Iran negotiations over Hormuz, adding another layer of tension around the stalled diplomacy. 

US-Iran war: Is Trump planning to nuke Iran? New claims as Trump vows to stop Iran's bomb 

India’s recent move to boost domestic production of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a step towards reducing dependence on imports of the critical cooking fuel. The maximum daily LPG production target has been set at 63,810 tonnes across state-run and private refineries, as well as upstream and gas-processing companies. This came after the Iran-US-Israel war and the Strait of Hormuz disruptions highlighted the fragility of India’s dependence on imported LPG. The government's plan is to maximise domestic LPG production so that India can cushion future supply shocks. Production targets will be reviewed in January and July.<h2>Ubiquitous, useful but unreliable? LPG is India’s main cooking fuel</h2>With more than 330 million active domestic connections, including over 100 million under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), India’s LPG consumption has grown over the past decade. Household users account for about 87 per cent of total LPG consumption, making stable LPG supplies critical for millions of Indian families. In FY 2025-26, India consumed around 33.2 million tonnes of LPG, which works out to around 91,000 tonnes per day.&nbsp;Domestic production was only about 13.1 million tonnes, or around 35,900-36,000 tonnes a day. This highlights India’s heavy import dependence: more than 64 per cent of the country’s requirements, or approximately 21.3 million tonnes, came from overseas sources.Clearly, LPG demand has grown faster than domestic production.&nbsp;Before the recent disruptions, up to &nbsp;92 per cent of India’s LPG imports came from the Middle East, mainly from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which accounted for around 40-41 per cent, and Qatar, at about 22 per cent. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait each accounted for around 15 per cent.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-turns-to-russia-for-gas-could-it-cut-costs-or-trigger-us-sanctions-wion-decodes-1786179581651">India turns to Russia for gas: Could it cut costs or trigger US sanctions? WION Decodes</a><h2>A major push for domestic LPG production: But will it succeed?</h2>India’s domestic LPG production stood at around 36,000 tonnes a day. The new maximum production target of 63,810 tonnes a day is more than double that level. If fully achieved, it would equal roughly 70 per cent of current daily consumption and could dramatically narrow the supply gap during a crisis. However, the target is a maximum or potential framework that can be used to boost supplies during shortages or disruptions, and not a permanent daily production requirement.Actual output will depend on the technical and economic feasibility of increasing LPG recovery at individual facilities. LPG production at refineries will have to be balanced against the production of other products, such as petrol and petrochemicals.&nbsp;Adequate storage, evacuation facilities, rail connectivity and road tanker capacity will also be essential to ensure that additional LPG reaches consumers.In recent months, refiners have already demonstrated that domestic production could be raised from pre-war levels of around 36,000 tonnes a day to approximately 55,000 tonnes a day. The new ceiling of 63,810 tonnes provides additional headroom.It is not an overnight solution. Imports will still be needed to meet India’s full daily requirement for LPG.If domestic production increases, it could reduce the risk of long queues, delayed cylinder deliveries and localised shortages. Households may also be less likely to shift temporarily to alternatives such as biomass or kerosene.Domestic LPG production is useful only if the additional volumes can be stored, transported and distributed efficiently.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-resumed-lng-imports-prompts-india-to-lift-emergency-natural-gas-supply-curbs-1783234632203/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-resumed-lng-imports-prompts-india-to-lift-emergency-natural-gas-supply-curbs-1783234632203/embed</a><h2>Who will help increase domestic LPG production?&nbsp;</h2>Reliance Industries has received the largest individual allocation under the framework. Its domestic-market-focused Jamnagar refinery has been assigned a maximum production target of 18,000 tonnes of LPG a day. Its export-oriented special economic zone unit is exempt from the allocation.Public-sector refineries collectively account for around 31,470 tonnes a day across 18 facilities.Upstream and gas-processing companies, including Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Oil India Limited (OIL) and GAIL (India) Limited, have been assigned a combined target of about 6,460 tonnes a day. These companies can contribute LPG recovered during natural gas processing and associated production.Other private refiners will contribute as well. Nayara Energy’s Vadinar refinery, for example, has an allocation of around 4,480 tonnes a day.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-fuel-security-to-grid-security-the-next-chapter-of-india-s-energy-transition-1784978960018">From fuel security to grid security: The next chapter of India's energy transition</a><h2>Can India reduce its Middle East dependence?</h2>Increasing domestic output can be only one part of the strategy.&nbsp;India is also diversifying its overseas suppliers to reduce its dependence on a single region. Sourcing LPG from the US and exploring supplies from countries such as Algeria, Norway and Oman can provide alternatives to traditional Gulf suppliers and reduce exposure to disruptions in the Middle East.Diversification can also broaden India’s pricing options. US LPG is linked to the Mont Belvieu benchmark, offering an alternative to the Gulf-linked pricing mechanisms that have traditionally influenced India’s import costs.<h2>Import dependence is likely to remain significant for years</h2>Even if the new maximum domestic production target is fully utilised, it would cover only around 70 per cent of present daily consumption. Demand is also continuing to grow, while additions to refining capacity do not necessarily translate into equivalent increases in LPG output.India is therefore not moving towards complete LPG import independence in the immediate future. Instead, the strategy is to reduce vulnerability by combining higher domestic production, stronger storage and transportation infrastructure, and a more geographically diversified import basket.For Indian households, the most immediate benefit could be greater protection against sudden supply shocks. The measures should make extreme shortages and prolonged delivery delays less likely during future disruptions, even as India continues to rely on imports to meet a substantial share of its LPG demand.

India’s 63,810-tonne LPG production target aims to strengthen domestic supplies, reduce import vulnerability and cushion households against Middle East and Strait of Hormuz disruptions. But is import dependence over?

India’s recent move to boost domestic production of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a step towards reducing dependence on imports of the critical cooking fuel. The maximum daily LPG production target has been set at 63,810 tonnes across state-run and private refineries, as well as upstream and gas-processing companies. This came after the Iran-US-Israel war and the Strait of Hormuz disruptions highlighted the fragility of India’s dependence on imported LPG. The government's plan is to maximise domestic LPG production so that India can cushion future supply shocks. Production targets will be reviewed in January and July. Ubiquitous, useful but unreliable? LPG is India’s main cooking fuel With more than 330 million active domestic connections, including over 100 million under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), India’s LPG consumption has grown over the past decade. Household users account for about 87 per cent of total LPG consumption, making stable LPG supplies critical for millions of Indian families. In FY 2025-26, India consumed around 33.2 million tonnes of LPG, which works out to around 91,000 tonnes per day. Domestic production was only about 13.1 million tonnes, or around 35,900-36,000 tonnes a day. This highlights India’s heavy import dependence: more than 64 per cent of the country’s requirements, or approximately 21.3 million tonnes, came from overseas sources. Clearly, LPG demand has grown faster than domestic production. Before the recent disruptions, up to 92 per cent of India’s LPG imports came from the Middle East, mainly from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which accounted for around 40-41 per cent, and Qatar, at about 22 per cent. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait each accounted for around 15 per cent. Also read: India turns to Russia for gas: Could it cut costs or trigger US sanctions? WION Decodes A major push for domestic LPG production: But will it succeed? India’s domestic LPG production stood at around 36,000 tonnes a day. The new maximum production target of 63,810 tonnes a day is more than double that level. If fully achieved, it would equal roughly 70 per cent of current daily consumption and could dramatically narrow the supply gap during a crisis. However, the target is a maximum or potential framework that can be used to boost supplies during shortages or disruptions, and not a permanent daily production requirement. Actual output will depend on the technical and economic feasibility of increasing LPG recovery at individual facilities. LPG production at refineries will have to be balanced against the production of other products, such as petrol and petrochemicals. Adequate storage, evacuation facilities, rail connectivity and road tanker capacity will also be essential to ensure that additional LPG reaches consumers. In recent months, refiners have already demonstrated that domestic production could be raised from pre-war levels of around 36,000 tonnes a day to approximately 55,000 tonnes a day. The new ceiling of 63,810 tonnes provides additional headroom. It is not an overnight solution. Imports will still be needed to meet India’s full daily requirement for LPG. If domestic production increases, it could reduce the risk of long queues, delayed cylinder deliveries and localised shortages. Households may also be less likely to shift temporarily to alternatives such as biomass or kerosene. Domestic LPG production is useful only if the additional volumes can be stored, transported and distributed efficiently. https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-resumed-lng-imports-prompts-india-to-lift-emergency-natural-gas-supply-curbs-1783234632203/embed Who will help increase domestic LPG production? Reliance Industries has received the largest individual allocation under the framework. Its domestic-market-focused Jamnagar refinery has been assigned a maximum production target of 18,000 tonnes of LPG a day. Its export-oriented special economic zone unit is exempt from the allocation. Public-sector refineries collectively account for around 31,470 tonnes a day across 18 facilities. Upstream and gas-processing companies, including Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Oil India Limited (OIL) and GAIL (India) Limited, have been assigned a combined target of about 6,460 tonnes a day. These companies can contribute LPG recovered during natural gas processing and associated production. Other private refiners will contribute as well. Nayara Energy’s Vadinar refinery, for example, has an allocation of around 4,480 tonnes a day. Also read: From fuel security to grid security: The next chapter of India's energy transition Can India reduce its Middle East dependence? Increasing domestic output can be only one part of the strategy. India is also diversifying its overseas suppliers to reduce its dependence on a single region. Sourcing LPG from the US and exploring supplies from countries such as Algeria, Norway and Oman can provide alternatives to traditional Gulf suppliers and reduce exposure to disruptions in the Middle East. Diversification can also broaden India’s pricing options. US LPG is linked to the Mont Belvieu benchmark, offering an alternative to the Gulf-linked pricing mechanisms that have traditionally influenced India’s import costs. Import dependence is likely to remain significant for years Even if the new maximum domestic production target is fully utilised, it would cover only around 70 per cent of present daily consumption. Demand is also continuing to grow, while additions to refining capacity do not necessarily translate into equivalent increases in LPG output. India is therefore not moving towards complete LPG import independence in the immediate future. Instead, the strategy is to reduce vulnerability by combining higher domestic production, stronger storage and transportation infrastructure, and a more geographically diversified import basket. For Indian households, the most immediate benefit could be greater protection against sudden supply shocks. The measures should make extreme shortages and prolonged delivery delays less likely during future disruptions, even as India continues to rely on imports to meet a substantial share of its LPG demand.

India’s 63,810-tonne LPG production target aims to strengthen domestic supplies, reduce import vulnerability and cushion households against Middle East and Strait of Hormuz disruptions. But is import dependence over?

LPG domestic production mandates: Can it reduce India's dependence on volatile Middle East imports?

The US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding has expired, raising fresh uncertainty over the fragile ceasefire and the future of negotiations. Both Washington and Tehran have accused each other of violating the June agreement, while Iran says it has not decided whether to resume talks with the US. At the same time, the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a critical flashpoint, with discussions over shipping routes and control of the strategic waterway continuing through regional mediators. 

As Qatar, Pakistan and Oman remain involved in diplomatic efforts, the 
end of the MoU could determine whether the conflict moves toward renewed negotiations or another dangerous escalation. What happens next between Washington and Tehran?

Us-Iran MoU expires: What happens next as Trump, Tehran clash over Hormuz? 

War's impact is being felt far beyond battlefields and military targets in Iran, where months of conflict with the United States have deepened economic pressures on ordinary families. Rising prices, disrupted supply chains and growing uncertainty are forcing households to rethink everyday spending, from food and essentials to other basic purchases. As the economic fallout intensifies, Iranian consumers are facing a difficult new reality at the dinner table, with inflation and financial strain becoming part of daily life. This report looks at how the Iran-US conflict is hitting households, reshaping consumer behaviour and adding to the wider economic cost of war.

War is making food unaffordable in Iran

Former Iranian president Mohammad Khatami has said that Iran cannot continue living under war indefinitely despite having withstood external pressure and called for a cautious diplomatic approach towards the US and Israel. Khatami said the Islamic Republic had survived foreign aggression and remained resilient but argued that continued conflict would create serious challenges for the country and its people.&nbsp;The former president stressed that Iran could not indefinitely function under wartime conditions.“We cannot live with war. The people cannot, and it is not possible to continue daily life, meet people’s needs and govern society under such conditions,” he said.&nbsp;Khatami urged for diplomacy amid the risk of further military escalation remaining a major concern.&nbsp;“Although the United States cannot be trusted and Israel will stop at nothing to continue tensions and conflict, this obstacle must also be confronted with prudence and measured diplomacy,” Khatami said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-may-stalemate-did-us-manage-to-communicate-directly-with-irgc-top-commander-1786894585305">After May stalemate, US manoeuvred to communicate directly with IRGC top commander</a><h2> Split in Iranian leadership over war strategy?</h2>&nbsp;Iran’s leadership is showing unity in its determination to withstand the US and its allies, but differences are emerging over how the conflict should ultimately end.The main divide is between the ultra-hardline Paydari movement, which opposes negotiations and seeks total victory, and a more pragmatic camp aligned with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-may-stalemate-did-us-manage-to-communicate-directly-with-irgc-top-commander-1786894585305">After May stalemate, US manoeuvred to communicate directly with IRGC top commander</a> Paydari supporters argue that Iran must refuse any compromises and should continue to apply military pressure. They promote resistance and portray negotiations as a betrayal.&nbsp;However, in contrast, the pragmatists inTehran are pushing for a negotiated deal with the United States. Pezeshkian and Ghalibaf’s camp aims to use military action as leverage for negotiations.The pragmatists are also concerned about Iran’s worsening economic conditions, including a weakening currency, rising inflation and unemployment. They argue that prolonging the war would further alienate the public ultimately.

Former Iranian president Mohammad Khatami said the Islamic Republic had survived foreign aggression and remained resilient but argued that continued conflict would create serious challenges for the country and its people. He urged for diplomacy amid the risk of military escalation.

Former Iranian president Mohammad Khatami has said that Iran cannot continue living under war indefinitely despite having withstood external pressure and called for a cautious diplomatic approach towards the US and Israel. Khatami said the Islamic Republic had survived foreign aggression and remained resilient but argued that continued conflict would create serious challenges for the country and its people. The former president stressed that Iran could not indefinitely function under wartime conditions. “We cannot live with war. The people cannot, and it is not possible to continue daily life, meet people’s needs and govern society under such conditions,” he said. Khatami urged for diplomacy amid the risk of further military escalation remaining a major concern. “Although the United States cannot be trusted and Israel will stop at nothing to continue tensions and conflict, this obstacle must also be confronted with prudence and measured diplomacy,” Khatami said. Also Read: After May stalemate, US manoeuvred to communicate directly with IRGC top commander Split in Iranian leadership over war strategy? Iran’s leadership is showing unity in its determination to withstand the US and its allies, but differences are emerging over how the conflict should ultimately end. The main divide is between the ultra-hardline Paydari movement, which opposes negotiations and seeks total victory, and a more pragmatic camp aligned with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Also Read: After May stalemate, US manoeuvred to communicate directly with IRGC top commander Paydari supporters argue that Iran must refuse any compromises and should continue to apply military pressure. They promote resistance and portray negotiations as a betrayal. However, in contrast, the pragmatists inTehran are pushing for a negotiated deal with the United States. Pezeshkian and Ghalibaf’s camp aims to use military action as leverage for negotiations. The pragmatists are also concerned about Iran’s worsening economic conditions, including a weakening currency, rising inflation and unemployment. They argue that prolonging the war would further alienate the public ultimately.

Former Iranian president Mohammad Khatami said the Islamic Republic had survived foreign aggression and remained resilient but argued that continued conflict would create serious challenges for the country and its people. He urged for diplomacy amid the risk of military escalation.

‘We cannot live with war’: Former Iran president warns against prolonged conflict, urges diplomacy

Iran has offered a $30,000 reward for anyone who kills or captures a US soldier, according to state news agency IRNA, while women who carry out the act would receive twice that amount. The announcement, attributed to Army chief Amir Hatami, comes as fighting and diplomatic tensions remain focused on the Strait of Hormuz, with the wider US-Iran conflict continuing.


Iran: Capturing or killing US soldiers would be rewarded with $30k

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea oil shipments are increasingly disappearing from tracking systems as tanker operators reportedly switch off their Automatic Identification Systems amid growing fears of Houthi attacks.

The development comes as the Houthis intensify threats against Saudi-linked shipping and oil infrastructure, putting a key route for global energy supplies under mounting pressure.

Recent Houthi attacks have targeted commercial shipping in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, while the group has also claimed attacks involving Saudi oil infrastructure, including the Yanbu oil hub and Aramco facilities in Jazan.

The disruption is making it harder for traders and energy agencies to determine how much Saudi crude is actually being shipped. Estimates of recent Yanbu loadings have reportedly varied significantly between shipping-data providers.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia appears to be moving more crude north through the Red Sea, while risks around the Suez Canal, Bab al-Mandab and Strait of Hormuz continue to complicate global energy flows.

Saudi Oil Tankers Go Dark Amid Houthi Attacks | Houthi Attacks Shake Red Sea Energy Route

Tensions between Iran and the United States have taken another sharp turn after U.S. President Donald Trump made remarks about the Strait of Hormuz.

Senior Iranian parliament member Ibrahim Azizi mocked Trump over his comments, warning the U.S. president to focus on his own security and referring to Trump's reported secret plane switch in Ankara as he travelled after the NATO summit.

Trump had confirmed that he switched aircraft in Ankara in July after the U.S. Secret Service and military advised him to do so because of what officials described as an imminent threat from Iran.

The controversy intensified after Trump said he would soon declare the Strait of Hormuz part of the United States. Iran strongly rejected the claim, with its foreign ministry insisting that the strategic waterway is Iranian and will remain under Iranian control.

Iran also said that decisions over the opening or closure of the Strait of Hormuz would remain under Tehran's authority.

Trump's Strait of Hormuz Claim Sparks Iran Fury | Iranian Lawmaker Mocks Trump Over Secret Plane Switch

The prolonged Iran war is putting growing pressure on the US military’s weapons stockpile, with reports indicating significant losses of drones and the rapid use of key munitions.

According to the report cited in the segment, the US military has lost 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones, roughly a quarter of its fleet. The losses come alongside heavy expenditure of Tomahawk cruise missiles, Patriot interceptors and other long-range weapons.

The depletion is raising questions over US military readiness, future operations and Washington’s ability to sustain a prolonged conflict. Analysts are also warning that replenishing some advanced weapons could take considerable time.

Meanwhile, reports surrounding conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln have added another layer of pressure, although US military officials have disputed claims of deaths aboard the carrier.

As weapons stocks decline and public concerns grow, the Iran war is becoming an increasingly difficult test for the Trump administration.

 Gorkhas Rise Up in Nepal, Demand Return to Indian Army

Gorkhas Rise in Nepal, Demand Return to Indian Army  | GRAVITAS 

After months of conflict with Iran, Donald Trump is turning back to economic pressure, with sanctions emerging as Washington’s latest tool. As military options carry rising costs, the US faces a key question: can economic warfare force Tehran to change course, or will it deepen the standoff even further?

US-Iran war: Trump reverts to economic warfare after five months of war against Iran

The prolonged Iran war is putting growing pressure on the US military’s weapons stockpile, with reports indicating significant losses of drones and the rapid use of key munitions.

According to the report cited in the segment, the US military has lost 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones, roughly a quarter of its fleet. The losses come alongside heavy expenditure of Tomahawk cruise missiles, Patriot interceptors and other long-range weapons.

The depletion is raising questions over US military readiness, future operations and Washington’s ability to sustain a prolonged conflict. Analysts are also warning that replenishing some advanced weapons could take considerable time.

Meanwhile, reports surrounding conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln have added another layer of pressure, although US military officials have disputed claims of deaths aboard the carrier.

Iran War Drains US Weapons Stockpile | Trump Faces Growing Military Pressure | GRAVITAS

Reports say there had been multiple attempts by crew members onboard USS Abraham Lincoln to jump overboard. Pressure is mounting on Trump with despair growing amid the Iran war. Tune into Gravitas at 9 PM to find out more.

US Military Meltdown in Gulf Signals End of Trump Era | GRAVITAS

The International Energy Agency is warning of a sharp drop in global oil demand this year, as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts supplies and high fuel prices force consumers to cut back. The IEA now expects global oil demand to fall by 1.6 million barrels a day, significantly worse than its previous forecast.


IEA cuts oil demand forecast on war impact

A top adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday that Iran could “prolong” the war with the US until President Donald Trump is out of office. “We have to attain deterrence so that the enemy never dares to attack us, so we can live with security,” Mohammad Reza Naqdi told PBS in an interview.&nbsp;Naqdi served as coordinating deputy of the IRGC from 2019 to 2025, a senior position overlooking coordination across the organisation. He is now a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, a position that carries less command authority but still has access to the IRGC’s top leadership in the advisory role.&nbsp;“One way is to prolong this war until we get to the next term of the presidency and cause attrition so that if anyone else wants to attack Iran, they will know there is a cost,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-canal-fees-surge-container-ship-shells-out-4-million-to-jump-queue-1786558494375">Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue</a><h2>‘Certainly, victory is on our side’</h2>&nbsp;On being asked if he believes Iran is currently in control of the war, Naqdi said, “Certainly, victory is on our side.”&nbsp;Washington is conducting a “war without strategy,” he said. “Every two or three days, they announce a new objective,” including the invasion of Kharg Island and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,” Naqdi added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses</a>&nbsp;“The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain. We had never seen a real war to gain real experience to learn how to fight with America. In these five months, we have learned how,” Naqdi added.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘American military is weaker than what we perceived’</h2>&nbsp;“We have also seen how the American military is weaker than what we perceived.”&nbsp;Replying to why Iran was bombarding ships in the Strait of Hormuz, the IRGC adviser said if vessels are traveling through an area out of Iran’s control, “it could be that they’re transporting supplies for the enemy.”&nbsp;Questioned on Iran’s inventory of missiles, Naqdi said that Iran manufactures more of these weapons than it uses every day.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553">Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral</a>&nbsp;“If there comes a day when Iran has no more missiles left, that’s when we will be even more dangerous for America. Because America has thousands of economic interests throughout the world, and all of them can be easily destroyed,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Naqdi’s remarks seem to be response to Trump’s assertions</h2>&nbsp;Naqdi’s remarks came a day after Trump claimed that Iran’s economy was in severe distress and its situation was “not sustainable”.&nbsp;Trump said Iran was facing 300% inflation, its currency has “almost no value” and is facing difficulties in paying its soldiers. He also claimed Iranian troops were leaving, arguing that the situation was “not sustainable”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-leader-thanks-indian-media-announces-push-for-recognition-of-republic-of-balochistan-1786479617334">Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’</a>&nbsp;“They’ve got 300% inflation. They have no value. Their currency has almost no value. They are not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going. It’s not sustainable,” he said.&nbsp;He outlined three possible approaches for ending the conflict, including one of maintaining the current pressure and allowing Iran to fail economically.&nbsp;Naqdi’s attrition remarks seem to be a response to Trump’s assertions.

Mohammad Reza Naqdi, a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, said the US is conducting a war without strategy, as Washington announces a new objective every two or three days. He also claimed that Iran manufactures more missiles than it uses every day.

A top adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday that Iran could “prolong” the war with the US until President Donald Trump is out of office. “We have to attain deterrence so that the enemy never dares to attack us, so we can live with security,” Mohammad Reza Naqdi told PBS in an interview. Naqdi served as coordinating deputy of the IRGC from 2019 to 2025, a senior position overlooking coordination across the organisation. He is now a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, a position that carries less command authority but still has access to the IRGC’s top leadership in the advisory role. “One way is to prolong this war until we get to the next term of the presidency and cause attrition so that if anyone else wants to attack Iran, they will know there is a cost,” he said. Also Read: Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue ‘Certainly, victory is on our side’ On being asked if he believes Iran is currently in control of the war, Naqdi said, “Certainly, victory is on our side.” Washington is conducting a “war without strategy,” he said. “Every two or three days, they announce a new objective,” including the invasion of Kharg Island and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,” Naqdi added. Also Read: Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain. We had never seen a real war to gain real experience to learn how to fight with America. In these five months, we have learned how,” Naqdi added. ‘American military is weaker than what we perceived’ “We have also seen how the American military is weaker than what we perceived.” Replying to why Iran was bombarding ships in the Strait of Hormuz, the IRGC adviser said if vessels are traveling through an area out of Iran’s control, “it could be that they’re transporting supplies for the enemy.” Questioned on Iran’s inventory of missiles, Naqdi said that Iran manufactures more of these weapons than it uses every day. Also Read: Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral “If there comes a day when Iran has no more missiles left, that’s when we will be even more dangerous for America. Because America has thousands of economic interests throughout the world, and all of them can be easily destroyed,” he said. Naqdi’s remarks seem to be response to Trump’s assertions Naqdi’s remarks came a day after Trump claimed that Iran’s economy was in severe distress and its situation was “not sustainable”. Trump said Iran was facing 300% inflation, its currency has “almost no value” and is facing difficulties in paying its soldiers. He also claimed Iranian troops were leaving, arguing that the situation was “not sustainable”. Also Read: Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’ “They’ve got 300% inflation. They have no value. Their currency has almost no value. They are not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going. It’s not sustainable,” he said. He outlined three possible approaches for ending the conflict, including one of maintaining the current pressure and allowing Iran to fail economically. Naqdi’s attrition remarks seem to be a response to Trump’s assertions.

Mohammad Reza Naqdi, a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, said the US is conducting a war without strategy, as Washington announces a new objective every two or three days. He also claimed that Iran manufactures more missiles than it uses every day.

Iran could ‘prolong war’ until Trump is out of office, says IRGC adviser

Iran claims its latest missiles can change trajectory while in flight, potentially making them harder to intercept. As Iranian missile salvos grow more complex, the US is also pushing defence companies to accelerate weapons production amid concerns over dwindling Patriot missile stockpiles.


US-Iran war: Iran claims missiles can change course mid-flight

Commercial ships travelling through the Panama Canal are facing a surge in costs as they seek alternative routes because of maritime travel disruption due to the Iran war and falling water levels linked to the intense El Niño weather system.&nbsp;As per reports, a container ship paid $4 million to skip the queue at the Panama Canal, where wait times are now stretching more than a week to pass through the vital maritime choke point.&nbsp;The near-record high auction figure was reportedly paid by the owner of the vessel, the Seaspan Benefactor. The owner could not be identified because the auction data is private.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses</a>&nbsp;Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.&nbsp;<h2>Panama Canal Authority runs daily auctions for shipowners</h2>&nbsp;While shipping companies pay a flat fee to reserve a slot for transit through the canal, the Panama Canal Authority also runs daily auctions that allow shipowners to place bids to skip the queue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting bids open at about $15,000 for smaller cargo vessels and $55,000 for the largest ships, but these prices can shoot up during times of heavy congestion or high demand.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553">Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral</a>&nbsp;The $4 million transit fee was paid for Seaspan Benefactor, a 10,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel.&nbsp;Shipowners are willing to pay significantly higher prices at auction to avoid queues, as more vessels stay away from the Gulf and the Red Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;The military conflict in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, the narrow waterway between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa.&nbsp;<h2>Falling water levels amid El Niño a big concern</h2>&nbsp;Prices for travelling through the Panama Canal’s busiest shipping lanes have hit record highs at a time when water levels are falling amid the rapidly developing El Niño weather system.&nbsp;The Panama Canal Authority has said that it would impose limits in late August and early September on how low vessels can travel through the water, known as a ship’s draft, in an effort to keep traffic flowing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-leader-thanks-indian-media-announces-push-for-recognition-of-republic-of-balochistan-1786479617334">Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’</a>&nbsp;The Panama Canal is not the only crucial trade route affected by low water levels, amid growing international concern over the economic consequences of the climate emergency.&nbsp;Prolonged dry weather across Europe has led to record low water levels in the Rhine, with traders warning that it was not possible to book some cargo shipments on the river, forcing them to pay higher costs to transport goods by road and rail instead.The Rhine is one of Europe’s main arteries for transporting grain, fuel, minerals, and goods.&nbsp;

Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.

Commercial ships travelling through the Panama Canal are facing a surge in costs as they seek alternative routes because of maritime travel disruption due to the Iran war and falling water levels linked to the intense El Niño weather system. As per reports, a container ship paid $4 million to skip the queue at the Panama Canal, where wait times are now stretching more than a week to pass through the vital maritime choke point. The near-record high auction figure was reportedly paid by the owner of the vessel, the Seaspan Benefactor. The owner could not be identified because the auction data is private. Also Read: Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US. Panama Canal Authority runs daily auctions for shipowners While shipping companies pay a flat fee to reserve a slot for transit through the canal, the Panama Canal Authority also runs daily auctions that allow shipowners to place bids to skip the queue. Starting bids open at about $15,000 for smaller cargo vessels and $55,000 for the largest ships, but these prices can shoot up during times of heavy congestion or high demand. Also Read: Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral The $4 million transit fee was paid for Seaspan Benefactor, a 10,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel. Shipowners are willing to pay significantly higher prices at auction to avoid queues, as more vessels stay away from the Gulf and the Red Sea. The military conflict in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, the narrow waterway between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. Falling water levels amid El Niño a big concern Prices for travelling through the Panama Canal’s busiest shipping lanes have hit record highs at a time when water levels are falling amid the rapidly developing El Niño weather system. The Panama Canal Authority has said that it would impose limits in late August and early September on how low vessels can travel through the water, known as a ship’s draft, in an effort to keep traffic flowing. Also Read: Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’ The Panama Canal is not the only crucial trade route affected by low water levels, amid growing international concern over the economic consequences of the climate emergency. Prolonged dry weather across Europe has led to record low water levels in the Rhine, with traders warning that it was not possible to book some cargo shipments on the river, forcing them to pay higher costs to transport goods by road and rail instead. The Rhine is one of Europe’s main arteries for transporting grain, fuel, minerals, and goods.

Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.

Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue

Donald Trump’s foreign policy and economic agenda are facing growing challenges as tariffs, the Iran conflict and stalled Russia-Ukraine peace efforts reshape the global political landscape.

From sweeping tariff policies and their impact on global trade to the escalating Iran conflict, Trump’s approach to international affairs is facing intense scrutiny. At the same time, efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war have struggled to produce a lasting breakthrough, raising questions over Washington’s ability to deliver a negotiated settlement.

The developments come as allies, rivals and financial markets closely watch the Trump administration’s next moves. Tariffs have created uncertainty for businesses and economies, while conflicts in the Middle East and Europe continue to test US diplomatic influence.

Is Trump losing momentum on some of his biggest foreign-policy promises? Or could his administration still turn these challenges into political and diplomatic victories?

Watch the full analysis for a closer look at Trump, tariffs, Iran, the Russia-Ukraine war, peace talks and the wider geopolitical fallout.

Trump's Fall: Tariffs, Iran War, Failed Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks & More...

At least six people—including four crew members and two rescue workers—were killed in a ruthless "double-tap" missile strike by Iran-backed Houthi rebels targeting the Tanzania-flagged cargo ship Tihamah in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.


Iran backed Houthis hit vessel Tihamah, Yemeni coast guard team

WASHINGTON – For much of Israel’s turbulent history, most Americans viewed the Jewish state as a force for good, deserving to be the largest recipient of U.S. economic and military assistance in the world. That attitude is becoming history, according to public opinion surveys.&nbsp;One of the most striking came from Gallup, one of the world’s most respected polling firms, which tracked American sympathies for the main players in the Middle East conflict since 1921. Earlier this year, it found that for the first time, more Americans sympathise more with Palestinians than with Israelis – 41% to 38%. &nbsp;&nbsp;Other surveys have come to similar results, and experts agree that this shift points to a profound generational divide. Americans aged between 18 and 34 hold significantly more negative views than older generations. The figures: 53 percent sympathise more with Palestinians, 23 percent more with Israelis. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Washington-based Pew Research Center describes this as a record low for Israel support for this age group. This contrasts with 49 percent of older Americans (55 and older) favouring Israel and 31 percent for Palestinians. The pollsters note that this means that for the first time in decades, less than half of older Americans side with Israel.&nbsp;Those numbers stand in stark contrast with decades of a relationship so close that unquestioned support for Israel was one of the few issues in divided America on which, with very few exceptions, Democrats and Republicans agreed.&nbsp;The relationship had an auspicious start: U.S. President Harry Truman was the first foreign leader to recognise Israel when it declared independence on May 14, 1948. Truman issued a statement granting U.S. recognition of the new state just 11 minutes after its proclamation in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;Although the “special relationship” the two countries established proved durable for decades, much to the frustration of its hostile Arab neighbours, it now seems truly over.&nbsp;The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting. &nbsp;&nbsp;Mayor Zohran Mamdami, who took office in January, cited an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2024 on charges of war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. Mamdami first issued the arrest threat when he was still campaigning to become mayor. He backed off 19 months later, saying the city had no legal authority to execute the arrest.&nbsp;A YouGov poll published in July found that 49 percent of Americans (68 percent Democrats, 55 percent Independents, and 24 percent Republicans) showed support for Mamdami’s arrest threat.&nbsp;More dissatisfaction with U.S. policies on Israel became apparent in Democratic primary races in advance of mid-term elections in November for the 435 seats in the House of Representatives. The one that made most headlines was in Michigan, where Abdul El-Sayed beat the pro-Israel Haley Stevens, who outspent her challenger by a 12-to1 margin.&nbsp;More than $31 million of her war chest came from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the powerful pro-Israel lobby which has played a major role in past elections. &nbsp;&nbsp;What is the reason for the deep generational gap in views of Israel? Older Americans grew up with memories of the Holocaust still fresh. Israel was perceived as a beleaguered nation surrounded by hostile Arabs whose superior armies attacked the country twice, in the 1967 six-day war an again in 1973. &nbsp;&nbsp;Outgunned and outmanned, Israel won. Moshe Dayan, the eye-patched defence chief, became an internationally acclaimed hero for leading the David vs Goliath fight that ensured Israel’s survival and eventual role as the Middle East’s dominant military and economic power. &nbsp;&nbsp;Younger generations came of age during Israel’s occupation of land that had been slated to become a sovereign Palestinian state under a 1947 partition plan developed by the United Nations. But the “two-state” solution never became reality. The prolonged peace process of the 1990s failed, and the system Israel developed drew comparisons with South Africa’s Apartheid.&nbsp;An agreement to bring peace looks even more remote after the October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israeli communities by militants of Hamas, a Sunni Islamist group based in Gaza. The attackers broke through the border fence, killed 1,200 people, including hundreds attending a music festival, in an orgy of stomach-turning violence. Another 250 were abducted and taken as hostages to Gaza.&nbsp;Shifts in American public opinion were underway before the Hamas attack, but they sharpened when Israel struck back with a ferocious bombing campaign U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres described as collective punishment. It killed more than 73,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities.&nbsp;Much of Gaza has been turned into fields of rubble, and the misery inflicted on civilians, livestreamed over social media for more than two years, has helped change perceptions even among committed backers of Israel.&nbsp;An anti-Israeli backlash has become a feature of U.S. domestic politics and will play a role in the mid-term elections. For years, calls for downgrading the relationships have come mainly from the political left, but recently prominent figures in the MAGA (Make America Great Again) sphere have spoken up, too.&nbsp;Once unthinkable for right-wingers like Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Marjory Taylor-Green, their arguments mirror those of the left – Israel is dragging the United States into foreign wars that suck up resources America should use at home.&nbsp;Dissent on the right also comes from citizens who feel U.S. President Donald Trump broke most of the promises that helped him win a second term at the White House. They included “No more foreign wars”. Instead, Trump started a war against Iran. No end to that conflict, now in its sixth month, is in sight.

The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting.  


WASHINGTON – For much of Israel’s turbulent history, most Americans viewed the Jewish state as a force for good, deserving to be the largest recipient of U.S. economic and military assistance in the world. That attitude is becoming history, according to public opinion surveys. One of the most striking came from Gallup, one of the world’s most respected polling firms, which tracked American sympathies for the main players in the Middle East conflict since 1921. Earlier this year, it found that for the first time, more Americans sympathise more with Palestinians than with Israelis – 41% to 38%. Other surveys have come to similar results, and experts agree that this shift points to a profound generational divide. Americans aged between 18 and 34 hold significantly more negative views than older generations. The figures: 53 percent sympathise more with Palestinians, 23 percent more with Israelis. The Washington-based Pew Research Center describes this as a record low for Israel support for this age group. This contrasts with 49 percent of older Americans (55 and older) favouring Israel and 31 percent for Palestinians. The pollsters note that this means that for the first time in decades, less than half of older Americans side with Israel. Those numbers stand in stark contrast with decades of a relationship so close that unquestioned support for Israel was one of the few issues in divided America on which, with very few exceptions, Democrats and Republicans agreed. The relationship had an auspicious start: U.S. President Harry Truman was the first foreign leader to recognise Israel when it declared independence on May 14, 1948. Truman issued a statement granting U.S. recognition of the new state just 11 minutes after its proclamation in Tel Aviv. Although the “special relationship” the two countries established proved durable for decades, much to the frustration of its hostile Arab neighbours, it now seems truly over. The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting. Mayor Zohran Mamdami, who took office in January, cited an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2024 on charges of war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. Mamdami first issued the arrest threat when he was still campaigning to become mayor. He backed off 19 months later, saying the city had no legal authority to execute the arrest. A YouGov poll published in July found that 49 percent of Americans (68 percent Democrats, 55 percent Independents, and 24 percent Republicans) showed support for Mamdami’s arrest threat. More dissatisfaction with U.S. policies on Israel became apparent in Democratic primary races in advance of mid-term elections in November for the 435 seats in the House of Representatives. The one that made most headlines was in Michigan, where Abdul El-Sayed beat the pro-Israel Haley Stevens, who outspent her challenger by a 12-to1 margin. More than $31 million of her war chest came from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the powerful pro-Israel lobby which has played a major role in past elections. What is the reason for the deep generational gap in views of Israel? Older Americans grew up with memories of the Holocaust still fresh. Israel was perceived as a beleaguered nation surrounded by hostile Arabs whose superior armies attacked the country twice, in the 1967 six-day war an again in 1973. Outgunned and outmanned, Israel won. Moshe Dayan, the eye-patched defence chief, became an internationally acclaimed hero for leading the David vs Goliath fight that ensured Israel’s survival and eventual role as the Middle East’s dominant military and economic power. Younger generations came of age during Israel’s occupation of land that had been slated to become a sovereign Palestinian state under a 1947 partition plan developed by the United Nations. But the “two-state” solution never became reality. The prolonged peace process of the 1990s failed, and the system Israel developed drew comparisons with South Africa’s Apartheid. An agreement to bring peace looks even more remote after the October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israeli communities by militants of Hamas, a Sunni Islamist group based in Gaza. The attackers broke through the border fence, killed 1,200 people, including hundreds attending a music festival, in an orgy of stomach-turning violence. Another 250 were abducted and taken as hostages to Gaza. Shifts in American public opinion were underway before the Hamas attack, but they sharpened when Israel struck back with a ferocious bombing campaign U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres described as collective punishment. It killed more than 73,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. Much of Gaza has been turned into fields of rubble, and the misery inflicted on civilians, livestreamed over social media for more than two years, has helped change perceptions even among committed backers of Israel. An anti-Israeli backlash has become a feature of U.S. domestic politics and will play a role in the mid-term elections. For years, calls for downgrading the relationships have come mainly from the political left, but recently prominent figures in the MAGA (Make America Great Again) sphere have spoken up, too. Once unthinkable for right-wingers like Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Marjory Taylor-Green, their arguments mirror those of the left – Israel is dragging the United States into foreign wars that suck up resources America should use at home. Dissent on the right also comes from citizens who feel U.S. President Donald Trump broke most of the promises that helped him win a second term at the White House. They included “No more foreign wars”. Instead, Trump started a war against Iran. No end to that conflict, now in its sixth month, is in sight.

The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting. &nbsp;

Americans are falling out of love with Israel

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that his country had “astonished the whole world” in the war against the United States and Israel and has proved that it is a “tough and invincible” power.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters, Araghchi said, “Our armed forces made tremendous sacrifices and managed to incapacitate and defeat what was ostensibly the largest army in the world. This is not a slogan; it is a reality that the entire world is acknowledging.”&nbsp;The foreign minister said that Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict.&nbsp;&nbsp;“In the recent war, it was the Islamic Republic of Iran that proved itself to the world and demonstrated that it is a resilient and invincible power,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-their-banker-trump-says-us-controls-tehran-s-frozen-assets-claims-iran-s-economy-in-severe-distress-1786471915812">‘I’m their banker’: Trump says US controls Tehran’s frozen assets, claims Iran’s economy in severe distress</a><h2>‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary’</h2>&nbsp;“I have heard this repeatedly from foreign ministers and officials from other countries: ‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary. You astonished the entire world.’ Those are their exact words,” Araghchi added.&nbsp;Iran has refused to back down on demands that the US end its blockade of Iranian ports, lift sanctions on the Islamic Republic, and fulfill other conditions before Tehran will consider reopening the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-helicopter-opens-fire-on-panama-flagged-ship-breaking-blockade-of-iran-1786456732550">: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’</a>&nbsp;Iran effectively closed the strait after Israel and the US attacked the country on Feb. 28. The closure of the vital waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil supplies passed before the war, and uncertainty around its future have kept energy prices a major focus of US politics ahead of the midterm elections in November.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistani interior minister meets Araghchi in Tehran</h2>&nbsp;Pakistan’s Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran on Tuesday afternoon for talks.He also spoke to Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, state broadcaster IRIB reported.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-around-iran-s-demand-for-compensation-back-on-it-says-tehran-must-pay-for-those-killed-wounded-1786381999140">Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded</a>&nbsp;Naqvi arrived in Tehran for talks with Iranian officials, as Pakistan has been mediating between the US and Iran alongside Oman and Qatar to try to bring the two sides to some sort of lasting peace agreement.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif told Bloomberg in Islamabad on Tuesday that the US and Iran are close to “some sort of an arrangement.”“Things are shaping up again in favour of a peace arrangement or a deal,” he said. “The signals in the last two three days are that we are close to some sort of an arrangement.”

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict and has demonstrated to the world that it is a resilient and invincible power. He added that foreign ministers and officials from other countries tell him that Tehran has astonished the world.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that his country had “astonished the whole world” in the war against the United States and Israel and has proved that it is a “tough and invincible” power. Speaking to reporters, Araghchi said, “Our armed forces made tremendous sacrifices and managed to incapacitate and defeat what was ostensibly the largest army in the world. This is not a slogan; it is a reality that the entire world is acknowledging.” The foreign minister said that Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict. “In the recent war, it was the Islamic Republic of Iran that proved itself to the world and demonstrated that it is a resilient and invincible power,” he said. Also Read: ‘I’m their banker’: Trump says US controls Tehran’s frozen assets, claims Iran’s economy in severe distress ‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary’ “I have heard this repeatedly from foreign ministers and officials from other countries: ‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary. You astonished the entire world.’ Those are their exact words,” Araghchi added. Iran has refused to back down on demands that the US end its blockade of Iranian ports, lift sanctions on the Islamic Republic, and fulfill other conditions before Tehran will consider reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’ Iran effectively closed the strait after Israel and the US attacked the country on Feb. 28. The closure of the vital waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil supplies passed before the war, and uncertainty around its future have kept energy prices a major focus of US politics ahead of the midterm elections in November. Pakistani interior minister meets Araghchi in Tehran Pakistan’s Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran on Tuesday afternoon for talks. He also spoke to Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, state broadcaster IRIB reported. Also Read: Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded Naqvi arrived in Tehran for talks with Iranian officials, as Pakistan has been mediating between the US and Iran alongside Oman and Qatar to try to bring the two sides to some sort of lasting peace agreement. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif told Bloomberg in Islamabad on Tuesday that the US and Iran are close to “some sort of an arrangement.” “Things are shaping up again in favour of a peace arrangement or a deal,” he said. “The signals in the last two three days are that we are close to some sort of an arrangement.”

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict and has demonstrated to the world that it is a resilient and invincible power. He added that foreign ministers and officials from other countries tell him that Tehran has astonished the world.

‘Astonished the world’: Iran proved it’s tough and invincible, says Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions by demanding that Iran pay billions in war reparations and compensation for damages caused over the past 50 years. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump asserted that the US Navy maintains "100 percent control" and an infallible blockade over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.


US president seeks reparations, Iran mocks Trump's surprise demand

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has consolidated the power of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by appointing veteran hardliners to key security roles, including former IRGC chief Mohsen Rezaei as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, amid ongoing regional conflict and delicate maritime talks.


Iran supreme leader's loyalists solidify IRGC position amid war & talks

The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of intense regional diplomacy as Iran reportedly outlines six key conditions tied to any future agreement on the strategic waterway. The narrow maritime corridor carries a significant share of the world's oil and gas shipments, making its future a critical issue for global energy markets and regional security.

The reported conditions come amid ongoing discussions involving Gulf states and broader efforts to stabilize maritime traffic following months of heightened tensions. Analysts say the outcome of the negotiations could influence shipping routes, energy prices, and the balance of power across the Middle East.

Mecca trilateral pact: No impact on Iran? Trump's chess game

Donald Trump's military strategy is facing renewed scrutiny as concerns grow over U.S. weapons stockpiles and defense production. Questions are mounting over whether Washington can simultaneously support Ukraine, maintain pressure on Iran, deter China, and reassure allies without overstretching its military resources. As debates intensify over Patriot missile supplies, logistics, and industrial capacity, analysts warn that inventory shortages could become a major strategic challenge for the United States.

Trump's War Strategy Under Fire | U.S. Weapons Shortage Raises Questions Over Ukraine, Iran & China

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