President Donald Trump said on Friday the U.S. would soon begin escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz to protect them from Iranian attack, as his administration searches for ways to ease high oil prices fuelled by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

Trump issued a temporary waiver for some purchases of sanctioned Russian oil, a move that drew criticism from U.S. allies in Europe for potentially helping Russia fund its war with Ukraine.

US-Iran War: Trump Says US Will Escort Ships in Strait o Hormuz Soon

Iran struck and damaged five US Air Force refuelling planes on the ground at Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base, The Wall Street Journal reported, in what would mark a major escalation in the Middle East conflict involving the United States-Israel and the Islamic Republic.


US-Iran War | Reports: Iranian Strikes Damage Five US Planes in Saudi Arabia

Tensions are rising after Israel kept the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound closed, preventing worshippers from entering the sacred site in Jerusalem. The move has drawn strong condemnation from eight Muslim-majority nations, who say restricting access to one of Islam’s holiest sites is unacceptable.

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and several governments have raised concerns over religious freedom and the status of the compound. The closure comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing security operations around Jerusalem’s Old City.

US-Iran War: Israel Keeps Al-Aqsa Mosque Shut on Last Friday of Ramzan

Despite being part of Iran’s network of regional allies, the Houthis have not opened a major front in the conflict. Analysts suggest Iran could be calibrating the involvement of its partners to avoid triggering a wider regional war while keeping the option of escalation on the table.

The Houthis have previously launched attacks in the Red Sea and against regional targets, but experts say their role in the current conflict appears limited so far. Observers believe Tehran may be pacing how and when its allied groups escalate the confrontation.

US-Iran War: Why Are Houthis Staying Out? Are Houthis Awaiting For An Opportune Moment?

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Mar 14) posted a video of the United States carrying out a strike on Iran's ‘crown jewel’, Kharg Islands. Posting on social media, Trump said the strikes had destroyed military sites on the island. "The United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran's crown jewel, Kharg Island," Trump announced.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-trump-duped-by-netanyahu-into-launching-iran-war-iranian-parliament-speaker-makes-shocking-claim-1773450862372">Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into starting Iran war? Ghalibaf makes shocking claim</a>

<h2>US strikes Iran's Kharg Island</h2>On Friday (March 13), the US military carried out a heavy bombing campaign against targets on Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub. Trump warned that he would target the island’s oil infrastructure if tensions escalate and if Tehran did not allow passage for ships via the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump later posted a video of the strike. Watch video here:

He insisted that US will “NEVER” allow Tehran to have a nuclear weapon. “Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States of America, the Middle East or, for that matter, the World! Iran’s Military, and all others involved with this Terrorist Regime, would be wise to lay down their arms, and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much!” he wrote.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375">Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</a><h2>Iran threatens retaliation</h2>Iran's armed forces threatened on Saturday to destroy US-linked oil infrastructure after Trump announced that the United States had bombed Iran's oil hub Kharg Island. In a statement, the military's Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said that oil and energy infrastructure belonging to firms that cooperated with the United States would "immediately be destroyed and turned into a pile of ashes" if Iran's energy facilities were attacked.The announcement, reported by Iran's Fars and Tasnim news agencies, comes in "response to statements" made by the US president, who had earlier said in a social media post that strikes had "obliterated" military targets on Kharg Island.<h2>Why is Kharg Island important to Iran's economy?</h2>Kharg Island, located about 30 kilometres (19 miles) off the Iranian mainland, handles roughly 90 per cent of Iran's crude exports, according to a recent JP Morgan note.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Why did the US bomb Iran’s Kharg Island, its key oil export hub? President Donald Trump claims American forces “obliterated” military targets on Kharg Island, calling it one of the most powerful bombing raids in the region’s history. Why is this island so critical to Iran? Watch video here.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Mar 14) posted a video of the United States carrying out a strike on Iran's ‘crown jewel’, Kharg Islands. Posting on social media, Trump said the strikes had destroyed military sites on the island. "The United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran's crown jewel, Kharg Island," Trump announced. Also read | Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into starting Iran war? Ghalibaf makes shocking claim

Why did the US bomb Iran’s Kharg Island, its key oil export hub? President Donald Trump claims American forces “obliterated” military targets on Kharg Island, calling it one of the most powerful bombing raids in the region’s history. Why is this island so critical to Iran? Watch video here.

Watch | Trump shares video of massive strike on Iran’s ‘crown jewel’ Kharg Island amid Iran war

The United States is preparing to deploy additional Marines to help secure the Strait of Hormuz as tensions in the region continue to escalate.


US-Iran War: US Deploys More Marines To Hormuz Amid Attacks on Ships

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran no longer distinguishes between the United States and Israel following the outbreak of the war. In a post on X, Ghalibaf accused US President Donald Trump of being “duped” by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into launching the conflict. This comes as the US president on Friday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he insisted.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375">Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</a><h2>Trump ‘duped’ by Netanyahu?</h2>“Trump was duped by Netanyahu into starting the war and is now acting under his control,” wrote.Ghalibaf added that Iran would continue fighting until its adversaries change their approach. “The war will continue until the enemy's calculus is altered and they are driven to regret,” he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">2/ The war will continue until the enemy&#39;s calculus is altered and they are driven to regret.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://twitter.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2032558167398154527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The war in West Asia has entered its third week. In the 14 days of war, Brent contracts for a barrel of crude have soared more than 42 per cent. The soaring prices of crude oil have left markets and governments everywhere skittish about energy supply and higher inflation. On Friday, oil stayed above $100 a barrel.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-no-radar-trump-claims-iran-s-military-is-collapsing-says-iran-war-will-last-as-long-as-necessary-1773442127855">Trump claims Tehran is 'collapsing' says Iran war to last 'as long as necessary'</a><h2>13 Americans killed: The cost of war</h2>Since the war began, the US military has lost 13 personnel, including six who were onboard a refuelling aircraft that crashed in Iraq. Officials confirmed the crash was not caused by hostile fire.&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.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has asserted that the United States and Israel are now "indistinguishable" following the escalation of Iran war. In a scathing post on X, he claimed that Trump was "duped" by Netanyahu into starting the conflict.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran no longer distinguishes between the United States and Israel following the outbreak of the war. In a post on X, Ghalibaf accused US President Donald Trump of being “duped” by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into launching the conflict. This comes as the US president on Friday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he insisted. Also read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Trump ‘duped’ by Netanyahu? “Trump was duped by Netanyahu into starting the war and is now acting under his control,” wrote. Ghalibaf added that Iran would continue fighting until its adversaries change their approach. “The war will continue until the enemy's calculus is altered and they are driven to regret,” he said.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has asserted that the United States and Israel are now "indistinguishable" following the escalation of Iran war. In a scathing post on X, he claimed that Trump was "duped" by Netanyahu into starting the conflict.

Was Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into launching Iran war? Iranian parliament speaker makes shocking claim

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) said the United States will soon begin naval escorts for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate in the Gulf. Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. This comes amid reports of top Iranian officials joining a defiant pro-government rally in Tehran where they reportedly marched alongside demonstrators waving banners reading "Death to America" and "Death to Israel."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-no-radar-trump-claims-iran-s-military-is-collapsing-says-iran-war-will-last-as-long-as-necessary-1773442127855">Trump claims Tehran is 'collapsing' says Iran war to last 'as long as necessary'</a><h2>US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz</h2>With oil prices spiking, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;When will the Navy start escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;It&#39;ll happen soon — very soon.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/IzEpZ8zznz">pic.twitter.com/IzEpZ8zznz</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2032589623466029367?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375">Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</a><h2>Iran is collapsing, claims Trump</h2>Speaking at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility in Washington, the US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran now lacks functioning radar and anti-aircraft systems following ongoing US and Israeli strikes. “Iran have no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after being in “bad shape.”Trump also suggested that Iran’s government is weakening under pressure. “Iran is collapsing. I won’t give you a time, but we are way ahead,” he said. The president added that the conflict would continue "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-no-radar-trump-claims-iran-s-military-is-collapsing-says-iran-war-will-last-as-long-as-necessary-1773442127855">as long as necessary</a>."&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will soon begin naval escorts for commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a major move to break the maritime blockade as Operation Epic Fury enters its 14th day. Here's what he said.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) said the United States will soon begin naval escorts for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate in the Gulf. Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. This comes amid reports of top Iranian officials joining a defiant pro-government rally in Tehran where they reportedly marched alongside demonstrators waving banners reading "Death to America" and "Death to Israel." Also read | Trump claims Tehran is 'collapsing' says Iran war to last 'as long as necessary' US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz With oil prices spiking, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said.

President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will soon begin naval escorts for commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a major move to break the maritime blockade as Operation Epic Fury enters its 14th day. Here's what he said.

Trump says US Navy escorts in Strait of Hormuz ‘will happen soon’, claims Iran military weakened

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran ‘has no radar,’ while insisting that the Iran war will last as long as necessary. The POTUS effectively signalled that the US and Israel have achieved total air supremacy over Iran. Speaking to the press at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility Washington, the US President claimed that Iran's military capabilities have been severely weakened after 14 days of war with the United States and Israel.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375">Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</a><h2>Iran is ‘collapsing’, claims Trump</h2>Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. “I built our military, rebuilt it, it was all in bad shape,” he said.&nbsp;He also acknowledged that US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different."President Donald Trump on Friday said the US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different,”&nbsp;“Well, I think they might be a little different, I guess, they’re a different country than we are. But he (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) will tell you there’s never been a power like the power of the United States,” Trump told reporters.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-trump-duped-by-netanyahu-into-launching-iran-war-iranian-parliament-speaker-makes-shocking-claim-1773450862372">Was Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into launching Iran war? Iranian parliament speaker makes shocking claim</a><h2>US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz</h2>With oil prices spiking as the war enters its third week, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said. However, he did not share a timeline.&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.

Speaking from Joint Base Andrews on the 14th day of Operation Epic Fury, President Donald Trump asserted that Iran’s military has been "largely neutralized," claiming the regime now "has no radar" and "no navy." Here's what he said.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran ‘has no radar,’ while insisting that the Iran war will last as long as necessary. The POTUS effectively signalled that the US and Israel have achieved total air supremacy over Iran. Speaking to the press at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility Washington, the US President claimed that Iran's military capabilities have been severely weakened after 14 days of war with the United States and Israel. Also read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Iran is ‘collapsing’, claims Trump Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. “I built our military, rebuilt it, it was all in bad shape,” he said. He also acknowledged that US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different." President Donald Trump on Friday said the US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different,” “Well, I think they might be a little different, I guess, they’re a different country than we are. But he (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) will tell you there’s never been a power like the power of the United States,” Trump told reporters. Also read | Was Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into launching Iran war? Iranian parliament speaker makes shocking claim US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz With oil prices spiking as the war enters its third week, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said. However, he did not share a timeline. 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.

Speaking from Joint Base Andrews on the 14th day of Operation Epic Fury, President Donald Trump asserted that Iran’s military has been "largely neutralised," claiming the regime now "has no radar" and "no navy." Here's what he said.

'They have no radar': Trump claims Iran’s military is 'collapsing,' says Iran war will last 'as long as necessary'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed moving Iran's enriched uranium to his country, according to reports. This offer was made during his call with US President Donald Trump this week, reports Axios. Speaking to the publication, a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that this was not the first time Russia had made this offer. Notably, the ongoing war between the US, Israel and Iran started amid Washington's claims that Tehran had enriched uranium to weapon-grade. Why didn't Trump accept Putin's proposal even as the US insists that securing Iran's uranium stockpile remains a priority? Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-something-we-d-be-happy-with-us-warns-russia-against-getting-involved-in-iran-war-amid-intel-sharing-allegations-1773191720629">'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations</a><h2>Putin offers help securing Iranian uranium</h2>Reports suggest that Iran has around 450 kilogrammes of 60 per cent enriched uranium, which could be converted to weapons-grade uranium within weeks. This amount of radioactive material is enough for more than 10 bombs.Citing sources, Axios reports that Trump is yet to take up Putin on his offer to move the alleged nuclear-grade uranium to Russia. A source told the publication that, "This is not the first time it was offered," but added that, "it hasn't been accepted. The U.S. position is we need to see the uranium secured."Russia reportedly made a similar offer in May 2025, before the US and Israel launched strikes against Iranian facilities. The same was also proposed before the launch of the current "pre-emptive" strikes under the US's Operation Epic Fury and Israel's Operation Lion's Roar.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-scared-and-disfigured-us-claims-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-injured-in-chaotic-strike-1773438327145">'Scared and disfigured': US claims Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured in 'chaotic' strike</a><h2>Why hasn't Trump accepted the offer?</h2>The US official noted that the US President "talks to everyone — Xi, Putin, the Europeans — and he's always willing to make a deal". However, he added that it has to be a good deal, as the "president doesn't make bad deals".This comes amid reports that the US and Israel were considering putting boots on the ground in Iran. The two nations are believed to have discussed sending special forces into Iran to secure the nation's nuclear stockpile in the later stages of the US-Israel-Iran war in West Asia.On Friday, Trump's Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, insisted that US "has a range of options" to take control of Iran's highly enriched uranium. He said that one option was that Tehran submit the stockpile voluntarily. "They weren't willing to do that in negotiations. I would never tell this group or the world what we're willing to do or how far we're willing to go — but we have options, for sure," he added.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US President Donald Trump has turned down a proposal from Vladimir Putin to transfer Iran’s 450kg stockpile of 60% enriched uranium to Russia to end the ongoing conflict, suggest reports. All we know.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed moving Iran's enriched uranium to his country, according to reports. This offer was made during his call with US President Donald Trump this week, reports Axios. Speaking to the publication, a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that this was not the first time Russia had made this offer. Notably, the ongoing war between the US, Israel and Iran started amid Washington's claims that Tehran had enriched uranium to weapon-grade. Why didn't Trump accept Putin's proposal even as the US insists that securing Iran's uranium stockpile remains a priority? Here's all we know. Also read | 'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations Putin offers help securing Iranian uranium Reports suggest that Iran has around 450 kilogrammes of 60 per cent enriched uranium, which could be converted to weapons-grade uranium within weeks. This amount of radioactive material is enough for more than 10 bombs. Citing sources, Axios reports that Trump is yet to take up Putin on his offer to move the alleged nuclear-grade uranium to Russia. A source told the publication that, "This is not the first time it was offered," but added that, "it hasn't been accepted. The U.S. position is we need to see the uranium secured." Russia reportedly made a similar offer in May 2025, before the US and Israel launched strikes against Iranian facilities. The same was also proposed before the launch of the current "pre-emptive" strikes under the US's Operation Epic Fury and Israel's Operation Lion's Roar. Also read | 'Scared and disfigured': US claims Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured in 'chaotic' strike Why hasn't Trump accepted the offer? The US official noted that the US President "talks to everyone — Xi, Putin, the Europeans — and he's always willing to make a deal". However, he added that it has to be a good deal, as the "president doesn't make bad deals". This comes amid reports that the US and Israel were considering putting boots on the ground in Iran. The two nations are believed to have discussed sending special forces into Iran to secure the nation's nuclear stockpile in the later stages of the US-Israel-Iran war in West Asia. On Friday, Trump's Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, insisted that US "has a range of options" to take control of Iran's highly enriched uranium. He said that one option was that Tehran submit the stockpile voluntarily. "They weren't willing to do that in negotiations. I would never tell this group or the world what we're willing to do or how far we're willing to go — but we have options, for sure," he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US President Donald Trump has turned down a proposal from Vladimir Putin to transfer Iran’s 450kg stockpile of 60% enriched uranium to Russia to end the ongoing conflict, suggest reports. All we know.

Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest

Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Iranian Supreme Leader, was injured in a "chaotic environment" and is "likely disfigured", said the United States on Friday (Mar 13). However, speaking to the press, US Vice President JD Vance confessed that it was "not totally clear" if the new Ayatollah was injured by a US strike. Meanwhile, America's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, while questioning Ali Khamenei's son's ability to rule Iran, said that Mojtaba was "wounded and likely disfigured". This comes just two days after Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, confirmed that the newly appointed Supreme Leader had sustained injuries in the Iran war, but insisted that he was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">"safe and sound"</a>. Here's all we know about Mojtaba Khamenei's condition.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</a><h2>Iranian Supreme Leader "likely disfigured"?</h2>During a press briefing on Friday, US Defense Secretary noted that a statement released by Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday had "no voice and there was no video. It was a written statement."This, he said, was because the "new so-called, not so supreme, leader is wounded and likely disfigured." Hegseth said Khamenei lacks "legitimacy" and was running scared.&nbsp;“He put out a statement yesterday. A weak one, actually, but there was no voice, and there was no video. It was a written statement,” said Hegseth. "Iran has plenty of cameras and plenty of voice recorders. Why a written statement? I think you know why. His father — dead. He's scared, he's injured, he's on the run and he lacks legitimacy," he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-huge-mistake-was-the-north-korean-embassy-in-tehran-hit-by-an-israeli-missile-here-s-the-truth-fact-check-1773298739599">Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check</a><h2>How was Mojtaba Khamenei injured?</h2>According to US VP Vance, Iran's Supreme Leader had been injured in a "chaotic environment," but it remains unclear whether the wounds were caused by a US or an Israeli airstrike."It's not totally clear, actually," Vance told reporters. "You have the Israelis striking, you have obviously the United States striking a number of targets. So we know that he's hurt. We don't know exactly how bad, but we know that he's hurt."&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.

The US government has claimed that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is "likely disfigured" and currently in hiding. US Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that Khamenei’s recent address was a text-only statement with no audio or video proof of life.

Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Iranian Supreme Leader, was injured in a "chaotic environment" and is "likely disfigured", said the United States on Friday (Mar 13). However, speaking to the press, US Vice President JD Vance confessed that it was "not totally clear" if the new Ayatollah was injured by a US strike. Meanwhile, America's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, while questioning Ali Khamenei's son's ability to rule Iran, said that Mojtaba was "wounded and likely disfigured". This comes just two days after Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, confirmed that the newly appointed Supreme Leader had sustained injuries in the Iran war, but insisted that he was "safe and sound". Here's all we know about Mojtaba Khamenei's condition. Also read | Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son Iranian Supreme Leader "likely disfigured"? During a press briefing on Friday, US Defense Secretary noted that a statement released by Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday had "no voice and there was no video. It was a written statement." This, he said, was because the "new so-called, not so supreme, leader is wounded and likely disfigured." Hegseth said Khamenei lacks "legitimacy" and was running scared. “He put out a statement yesterday. A weak one, actually, but there was no voice, and there was no video. It was a written statement,” said Hegseth. "Iran has plenty of cameras and plenty of voice recorders. Why a written statement? I think you know why. His father — dead. He's scared, he's injured, he's on the run and he lacks legitimacy," he added. Also read | Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check How was Mojtaba Khamenei injured? According to US VP Vance, Iran's Supreme Leader had been injured in a "chaotic environment," but it remains unclear whether the wounds were caused by a US or an Israeli airstrike. "It's not totally clear, actually," Vance told reporters. "You have the Israelis striking, you have obviously the United States striking a number of targets. So we know that he's hurt. We don't know exactly how bad, but we know that he's hurt." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US government has claimed that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is "likely disfigured" and currently in hiding. US Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that Khamenei’s recent address was a text-only statement with no audio or video proof of life.

'Scared and disfigured': US claims Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured in 'chaotic' strike

The United States Department of State on Friday (Mar 13) offered a $10 million reward for information leading to Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and other top officials of the Islamic Republic, even as US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth earlier in the day claimed that the new Ayatollah Mojtaba was “wounded, likely disfigured” in American strikes.&nbsp;Iran's Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, and Minister of Intelligence and Security Esmail Khatib feature among the 10 individuals on the State Department list.&nbsp;“These individuals command and direct various elements of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which plans, organises and executes terrorism around the world,” the State Department said.&nbsp;Washington urged tipsters to convey information through Tor or Signal and said: “Your information could make you eligible for relocation and a reward.”&nbsp;The State Department’s Rewards for Justice Program offers cash for intelligence leading to the capture or prosecution of wanted individuals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-going-to-be-hitting-them-very-hard-over-the-next-week-trump-warns-iran-1773421896323">‘Going to be hitting them very hard over the next week’: Trump warns Iran</a>&nbsp;The list specifically seeks information on 10 individuals, including named high-ranking officials and key leadership positions currently filled by “shadow” figures in the wake of recent decapitation strikes.&nbsp;Mojtaba Khamenei: The new Supreme Leader. The US is specifically seeking proof of his physical condition following reports he was wounded on 28 February.&nbsp;Ali Asghar Hejazi: The late Ali Khamenei’s deputy chief of staff and a top security aide; considered the “shadow” power behind the new leadership.&nbsp;Ali Larijani: The Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) and a key member of the current governing council.&nbsp;Yahya Rahim Safavi: A senior Major General and the primary military adviser to the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;Eskandar Momeni: The Minister of the Interior.&nbsp;Esmail Khatib: The Minister of Intelligence and Security.<h2>The four “nameless” positions</h2>In an unprecedented move, the State Department has listed four titles without names, offering the full reward for anyone who can identify and locate the individuals currently holding these offices:&nbsp;Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC: Targeting whoever took over after the previous leadership was eliminated.&nbsp;Secretary of the Supreme Defence Council.&nbsp;Head of the Supreme Leader’s Military Office.&nbsp;Special Adviser to the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The list features Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, even as the US Secretary of War earlier claimed that Ayatollah Mojtaba was “wounded, likely disfigured” in US strikes.

The United States Department of State on Friday (Mar 13) offered a $10 million reward for information leading to Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and other top officials of the Islamic Republic, even as US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth earlier in the day claimed that the new Ayatollah Mojtaba was “wounded, likely disfigured” in American strikes. Iran's Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, and Minister of Intelligence and Security Esmail Khatib feature among the 10 individuals on the State Department list. “These individuals command and direct various elements of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which plans, organises and executes terrorism around the world,” the State Department said. Washington urged tipsters to convey information through Tor or Signal and said: “Your information could make you eligible for relocation and a reward.” The State Department’s Rewards for Justice Program offers cash for intelligence leading to the capture or prosecution of wanted individuals. Also Read: ‘Going to be hitting them very hard over the next week’: Trump warns Iran The list specifically seeks information on 10 individuals, including named high-ranking officials and key leadership positions currently filled by “shadow” figures in the wake of recent decapitation strikes. Mojtaba Khamenei: The new Supreme Leader. The US is specifically seeking proof of his physical condition following reports he was wounded on 28 February. Ali Asghar Hejazi: The late Ali Khamenei’s deputy chief of staff and a top security aide; considered the “shadow” power behind the new leadership. Ali Larijani: The Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) and a key member of the current governing council. Yahya Rahim Safavi: A senior Major General and the primary military adviser to the Supreme Leader. Eskandar Momeni: The Minister of the Interior. Esmail Khatib: The Minister of Intelligence and Security. The four “nameless” positions In an unprecedented move, the State Department has listed four titles without names, offering the full reward for anyone who can identify and locate the individuals currently holding these offices: Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC: Targeting whoever took over after the previous leadership was eliminated. Secretary of the Supreme Defence Council. Head of the Supreme Leader’s Military Office. Special Adviser to the Supreme Leader. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The list features Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, even as the US Secretary of War earlier claimed that Ayatollah Mojtaba was “wounded, likely disfigured” in US strikes.

US puts rewards on top 10 Iranian leaders; see who they are and amounts offered

In a powerful display of defiance, Iran's state media released footage of top leaders walking the streets and joining the Quds Day protest in Tehran moments after US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, in a press briefing, claimed that the Iranian leadership had “gone underground” and were “cowering like rats.”&nbsp;“Iranian leadership are desperate and hiding, gone underground, like that rat used to do,” Hegseth declared, adding that, “We know the new so-called, not-so-supreme leader (Mojtaba Khamenei) is wounded and likely disfigured.”&nbsp;The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership.&nbsp;The high-definition, real-time broadcast, refuting Hegseth’s assertion that the Iranian regime had lost the capability to communicate or coordinate, featured President Masoud Pezeshkian, the leading political figure of the country, seen greeting supporters and taking selfies on the rain-spattered streets in Tehran.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mr. Hegseth! Our leaders have been, and still are, among the people. But your leaders? On Epstein&#39;s island! <a href="https://t.co/iywavTegyv">https://t.co/iywavTegyv</a> <a href="https://t.co/rxFhzsWoq5">pic.twitter.com/rxFhzsWoq5</a>&mdash; Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alilarijani_ir/status/2032488143568425368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gholam‑Hossein Mohseni‑Ejei, Iran’s judiciary chief, was also seen giving media bites while a missile struck a nearby building close to his location. He refused to leave the area despite the attack. He also serves as a key member of the three-person leadership council currently governing the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;Also Read: Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-possible-assassination-attempt-missile-hit-building-near-location-of-iran-s-judiciary-chief-during-quds-day-rally-in-tehran-1773401556597">Possible assassination attempt? missile hit building near location of Iran's judiciary chief during Quds Day rally in Tehran</a> Iran’s security chief, Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), was seen marching and dismissed US-Israeli strikes as a sign of desperation.Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic, also participated in the Jerusalem Day rally.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Iranian leaders out on the streets today in a show of defiance and rallying support for the war. President Pezeshkian, Larijani, Araghchi, clerics. <a href="https://t.co/lw9Gck6UES">pic.twitter.com/lw9Gck6UES</a>&mdash; Yusuf Unjhawala 🇮🇳 (@YusufDFI) <a href="https://twitter.com/YusufDFI/status/2032413394482127202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Other prominent figures included Ahmad‑Reza Radan, the national police chief, and Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI).&nbsp;Notably, the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, did not appear in person, as Hegseth claimed that US strikes had severely wounded and likely disfigured him.&nbsp;The Quds Day rallies are political demonstrations organised in Iran and some other countries in support of the Palestinian cause and in opposition to Israel. The event was established in 1979 by Iran’s first Supreme Leader, Ruhollah Khomeini, after the Iranian Revolution.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Friday said American forces would strike Iranian targets “very hard” in the coming days, signalling an intensification of the US-Israeli campaign as the war in the Middle East approaches its third week.&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.)

The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership.

In a powerful display of defiance, Iran's state media released footage of top leaders walking the streets and joining the Quds Day protest in Tehran moments after US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, in a press briefing, claimed that the Iranian leadership had “gone underground” and were “cowering like rats.” “Iranian leadership are desperate and hiding, gone underground, like that rat used to do,” Hegseth declared, adding that, “We know the new so-called, not-so-supreme leader (Mojtaba Khamenei) is wounded and likely disfigured.” The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership. The high-definition, real-time broadcast, refuting Hegseth’s assertion that the Iranian regime had lost the capability to communicate or coordinate, featured President Masoud Pezeshkian, the leading political figure of the country, seen greeting supporters and taking selfies on the rain-spattered streets in Tehran.

The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership.

Watch | Iran releases videos showing top leaders on streets as US claims leadership ‘has gone underground’

President Donald Trump warned in an interview aired on Friday that the United States would strike Iran “very hard over the ⁠next week”. “We are going to be hitting them very hard over the next week,” he said in the interview ⁠with Fox News Radio’s ‘The Brian Kilmeade Show’. “We have already damaged them so badly it would take years for them to ever rebuild,” he added.&nbsp;Replying to a question on what message he would send to Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Trump said, “Well, they’ve been doing a lot of talking, so he’s going to have to put up. We’ll have to see because we are decimating them.”&nbsp;“We’ve knocked out most of their missiles. We’ve knocked out many of their drones. We knocked out a lot of the manufacturing areas where they manufacture the missiles and now the drones.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re hitting them harder than anybody’s been hit since World War II.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-us-close-to-critical-minerals-deal-announcement-likely-soon-ambassador-sergio-gor-1773409906075">‘India, US close to critical minerals deal, announcement likely soon:’ Ambassador Sergio Gor</a><h2>‘He’s damaged, but probably alive in some form’</h2>&nbsp;Speaking about Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who is yet to be seen in public, Trump said, “I think he’s damaged, but I think he’s probably alive in some form.”&nbsp;When asked when he will know the war is over, Trump replied, “When I feel it, okay? I feel it in my bones”&nbsp;On being asked when the Iranian government will fall, Trump said, “I really think that’s a big hurdle to climb for people that don’t have weapons. I think it’s a very big hurdle... It’ll happen, but it probably will be, maybe not immediately.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uavs-sighted-between-rawalpindi-and-islamabad-shot-down-pak-denies-airspace-closure-reports-1773419261615">UAVs sighted between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, shot down; Pak denies airspace closure reports</a>&nbsp;Trump also said that the US would escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz if needed.“We would do it if we needed to. But, you know, hopefully things are going to go very well. We’re going to see what happens.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Putin might be helping them a little bit’</h2>&nbsp;Trump also said that he suspects Russian leader Vladimir Putin was aiding Iran in the war against the United States and Israel.“I think he might be helping them a little bit, yeah, I guess. And he probably thinks we’re helping Ukraine, right?” Trump said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-with-indian-captain-went-dark-to-cross-high-risk-strait-of-hormuz-reach-mumbai-1773315721972">Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai</a>&nbsp;Several US media outlets have reported that Russia provided targeting information to Iran for attacking US forces in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;The US president also said that Washington is not currently focused on an operation to take Iran’s uranium but said it could become an option later.“Not focused on it, but at some point we might be,” Trump said in the interview with Fox News Radio.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump said that he suspects Russian leader Vladimir Putin was aiding Iran in the war against the United States and Israel. Several US media outlets have reported that Russia provided targeting information to Iran for attacking US forces in the ongoing conflict.

President Donald Trump warned in an interview aired on Friday that the United States would strike Iran “very hard over the ⁠next week”. “We are going to be hitting them very hard over the next week,” he said in the interview ⁠with Fox News Radio’s ‘The Brian Kilmeade Show’. “We have already damaged them so badly it would take years for them to ever rebuild,” he added. Replying to a question on what message he would send to Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Trump said, “Well, they’ve been doing a lot of talking, so he’s going to have to put up. We’ll have to see because we are decimating them.” “We’ve knocked out most of their missiles. We’ve knocked out many of their drones. We knocked out a lot of the manufacturing areas where they manufacture the missiles and now the drones.” “We’re hitting them harder than anybody’s been hit since World War II.” Also Read: ‘India, US close to critical minerals deal, announcement likely soon:’ Ambassador Sergio Gor ‘He’s damaged, but probably alive in some form’ Speaking about Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who is yet to be seen in public, Trump said, “I think he’s damaged, but I think he’s probably alive in some form.” When asked when he will know the war is over, Trump replied, “When I feel it, okay? I feel it in my bones” On being asked when the Iranian government will fall, Trump said, “I really think that’s a big hurdle to climb for people that don’t have weapons. I think it’s a very big hurdle... It’ll happen, but it probably will be, maybe not immediately.” Also Read: UAVs sighted between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, shot down; Pak denies airspace closure reports Trump also said that the US would escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz if needed. “We would do it if we needed to. But, you know, hopefully things are going to go very well. We’re going to see what happens.” ‘Putin might be helping them a little bit’ Trump also said that he suspects Russian leader Vladimir Putin was aiding Iran in the war against the United States and Israel. “I think he might be helping them a little bit, yeah, I guess. And he probably thinks we’re helping Ukraine, right?” Trump said. Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai Several US media outlets have reported that Russia provided targeting information to Iran for attacking US forces in the ongoing conflict. The US president also said that Washington is not currently focused on an operation to take Iran’s uranium but said it could become an option later. “Not focused on it, but at some point we might be,” Trump said in the interview with Fox News Radio.

President Donald Trump said that he suspects Russian leader Vladimir Putin was aiding Iran in the war against the United States and Israel. Several US media outlets have reported that Russia provided targeting information to Iran for attacking US forces in the ongoing conflict.

‘Going to be hitting them very hard over the next week’: Trump warns Iran

Amid the escalating war in West Asia, with crude prices on tenterhooks, Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Friday (Mar 13) confirmed that Tehran will provide safe passage to vessels bound for India through the Strait of Hormuz, citing the long-standing friendship and shared interests between the two countries.&nbsp;Replying to a query in Delhi about whether Iran would allow ships headed to India safe transit through the Strait, Fathali stated, “Yes, because India and Iran are friends. You can see in the future, I think after two or three hours,” adding that, “We believe that Iran and India are friends. We have common interests; we have a common fate,” news agency ANI quoted him as saying.&nbsp;He further stated that Tehran has directed its embassy in India to facilitate the Indian government, ensuring smooth operations amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.&nbsp;These remarks come amid rising concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for shipping of nearly 25 per cent of the world’s oil supply and more than 40 per cent of India’s crude oil imports.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, said that his country never wanted the Strait to be blocked, but noted that “some ships are still passing”.&nbsp;“Iran has not closed the Strait. It remains open; however, due to current conditions and circumstances, ships are unable to pass through Hormuz. Otherwise, Iran never wanted the Strait to be closed or blocked. Some ships are still passing through,” he told reporters in Delhi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On giving safe passage to India, Iran&#39;s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, says, &quot;... Yes, because India is our friend. You will see it within two or three hours. We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/twTsE1Bjhv">pic.twitter.com/twTsE1Bjhv</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2032442928254316624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He called on global leaders to push US President Donald Trump to stop the war against his country, saying people across the world are suffering due to rising energy prices.&nbsp;“Those who initiated this war are the very ones who must stop it... Many people across the world are suffering due to this war. World leaders must unite and exert pressure on the President of the United States, urging him to put an immediate stop to this unjust war,” he added.&nbsp;The war in West Asia significantly escalated following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in joint US-Israeli strikes on the opening day of military operations against the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-economic-growth-falters-as-trump-s-tariffs-and-wars-hit-fourth-quarter-estimates-1773413013960">US economic growth falters as Trump’s tariffs and wars hit fourth quarter estimates</a>In retaliation, Tehran targeted US military bases across Gulf nations and launched missile and drone strikes on key installations, including refineries in these countries. Iran also effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a spike in oil prices across the world.Meanwhile, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday said Washington was ready to maintain freedom of navigation in the Strait.&nbsp;“As the world is seeing, they are exercising sheer desperation in the Strait of Hormuz—something we’re dealing with; we have been dealing with it. Don’t need to worry about it.”He blamed Tehran for disrupting shipping traffic, saying, “The only thing prohibiting transit in the Strait right now is Iran shooting at shipping.”&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Iran’s ambassador to India said that Tehran has directed its embassy in India to facilitate the Indian government, ensuring smooth operations amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Amid the escalating war in West Asia, with crude prices on tenterhooks, Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Friday (Mar 13) confirmed that Tehran will provide safe passage to vessels bound for India through the Strait of Hormuz, citing the long-standing friendship and shared interests between the two countries. Replying to a query in Delhi about whether Iran would allow ships headed to India safe transit through the Strait, Fathali stated, “Yes, because India and Iran are friends. You can see in the future, I think after two or three hours,” adding that, “We believe that Iran and India are friends. We have common interests; we have a common fate,” news agency ANI quoted him as saying. He further stated that Tehran has directed its embassy in India to facilitate the Indian government, ensuring smooth operations amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. These remarks come amid rising concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for shipping of nearly 25 per cent of the world’s oil supply and more than 40 per cent of India’s crude oil imports. Earlier in the day, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, said that his country never wanted the Strait to be blocked, but noted that “some ships are still passing”. “Iran has not closed the Strait. It remains open; however, due to current conditions and circumstances, ships are unable to pass through Hormuz. Otherwise, Iran never wanted the Strait to be closed or blocked. Some ships are still passing through,” he told reporters in Delhi.

Iran’s ambassador to India said that Tehran has directed its embassy in India to facilitate the Indian government, ensuring smooth operations amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

'Because India is our friend': Iran confirms safe passage to Indian ships thorugh Strait of Hormuz

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday (Mar 13) claimed, “USA is decimating the Iranian regime,” as the combination of two of the world’s most powerful air forces struck 15,000 enemy targets since the beginning of operations in West Asia.&nbsp;“Between our air force and that of the Israelis, over 15,000 enemy targets have been struck. That's well over 1,000 a day,” Hegseth told a news conference, adding that Friday would mark the highest volume of strikes yet in the campaign.&nbsp;Hegseth stated that “Iran has no air defences; their missiles and missile launchers are destroyed,” adding that “their missile power has been reduced by more than 90 per cent,” and that these strikes have destroyed Tehran’s “ability to develop or produce missiles.”&nbsp;“Iranian leadership are desperate and hiding, gone underground, like that rat used to do,” Hegseth declared, adding that “We know the new so-called, not-so-supreme leader (Mojtaba Khamenei) is wounded and likely disfigured.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-about-to-surrender-trump-claims-in-g7-call-as-us-death-toll-mounts-1773399603304">Iran 'about to surrender': Trump claimed in G7 call as US death toll mounts</a>&nbsp;Hegseth further claimed that “Trump holds the cards now,” while top US general Dan Caine, in the press briefing, asserted that after 13 days of operations, “today (Friday) will be the heaviest day of our attack,” as the US is targeting Iran’s “defence and industrial ability” and that Tehran’s combat power continues to decline.&nbsp;Iran still has the capability of harming friendly forces and commercial shipping, Caine said in the joint press conference, adding that "US forces are continuing to go after Tehran's mine-laying capabilities."&nbsp;&nbsp;Contrary to the claims of senior Trump officials, Iran's top leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Abbas Araghchi, the foreign minister, and Ahmad-Reza Radan, chief of police, participated in a mass gathering at the Quads Day rally in Tehran on Friday, echoing the defiant rhetoric of the new Supreme leader.&nbsp;Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a written statement on Thursday and vowed revenge against the United States in retaliation for those killed in the conflict, including his father, Ali Khamenei. However, he has remained in hiding since taking over the leadership, with Iranian officials confirming that the new leader is wounded but providing no further details.&nbsp;He also issued a stern warning to Gulf Arab countries hosting American forces to close the bases immediately, warning that Iran would continue to strike these installations if they were used for attacks against Iranian territory. &nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)&nbsp;

Hegseth stated that “Iran has no air defences; their missiles and missile launchers are destroyed,” adding that “their missile power has been reduced by more than 90 per cent.”

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday (Mar 13) claimed, “USA is decimating the Iranian regime,” as the combination of two of the world’s most powerful air forces struck 15,000 enemy targets since the beginning of operations in West Asia. “Between our air force and that of the Israelis, over 15,000 enemy targets have been struck. That's well over 1,000 a day,” Hegseth told a news conference, adding that Friday would mark the highest volume of strikes yet in the campaign. Hegseth stated that “Iran has no air defences; their missiles and missile launchers are destroyed,” adding that “their missile power has been reduced by more than 90 per cent,” and that these strikes have destroyed Tehran’s “ability to develop or produce missiles.” “Iranian leadership are desperate and hiding, gone underground, like that rat used to do,” Hegseth declared, adding that “We know the new so-called, not-so-supreme leader (Mojtaba Khamenei) is wounded and likely disfigured.” Also Read: Iran 'about to surrender': Trump claimed in G7 call as US death toll mounts Hegseth further claimed that “Trump holds the cards now,” while top US general Dan Caine, in the press briefing, asserted that after 13 days of operations, “today (Friday) will be the heaviest day of our attack,” as the US is targeting Iran’s “defence and industrial ability” and that Tehran’s combat power continues to decline. Iran still has the capability of harming friendly forces and commercial shipping, Caine said in the joint press conference, adding that "US forces are continuing to go after Tehran's mine-laying capabilities." Contrary to the claims of senior Trump officials, Iran's top leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Abbas Araghchi, the foreign minister, and Ahmad-Reza Radan, chief of police, participated in a mass gathering at the Quads Day rally in Tehran on Friday, echoing the defiant rhetoric of the new Supreme leader. Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a written statement on Thursday and vowed revenge against the United States in retaliation for those killed in the conflict, including his father, Ali Khamenei. However, he has remained in hiding since taking over the leadership, with Iranian officials confirming that the new leader is wounded but providing no further details. He also issued a stern warning to Gulf Arab countries hosting American forces to close the bases immediately, warning that Iran would continue to strike these installations if they were used for attacks against Iranian territory. (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.)

Hegseth stated that “Iran has no air defences; their missiles and missile launchers are destroyed,” adding that “their missile power has been reduced by more than 90 per cent.”

'Ayatollah Mojtaba is disfigured and hiding underground': Hegseth claims US struck 15,000 targets in Iran

How does an ISIS sympathizer earn "Good Conduct" release? By playing the part of a reformed man. During his sentencing, Jalloh actively convinced the court that he was deradicalised. 

How does an ISIS sympathizer earn "Good Conduct" release? By playing the part of a reformed man. During his sentencing, Jalloh actively convinced the court that he was deradicalised.&nbsp;

Old Dominion University: Why was ISIS plotter released on probation under Biden admin and which lawyer helped him?

White House on Thursday (Mar 12) released a shocking video on Instagram, showing US strikes on Iran in a Wii Sports game-themed clip. In the video, the iconic Wii Sports music is heard, and as the ‘Start’ button is pressed, the clips begin. Featuring several game wins, the video keeps cutting to actual footage of attacks by the United States in Iran amid the war.The clip has left social media users baffled, with some laughing over the ‘meme’ video, while some finding it sickening. “Lowkey this is the best meme account on ig,” one user wrote. Another called it “hilarious”.On the other hand, several others questioned White House’s actions and found the video insensitive. “War isn’t funny,” one person said in the comments. “This is extremely unprofessional. War is not a game,” said another. One user said, “This is so embarrassing,” another wrote, “This is actually disgusting.”Some even questioned the Trump administration for bombing a school in Iran’s Minab that killed over 150.

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On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-khamenei-is-back-dramatic-anime-style-video-of-iran-war-goes-viral-watch-1773396379948">‘Khamenei is back!’ Dramatic anime-style video of Iran war goes viral – WATCH</a>In a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said.Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday (Mar 12) issued his first statement since the start of the war in West Asia. In the statement, Mojtaba Khamenei honoured his father, vowed revenge against the US and Israel. He also expressed willingness to remain friends with the neighbouring nations, which Iran has been repeatedly attacking, but demanded that they “shut down” US bases in their territory that are being used to launch strikes on Iran. He suggested that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

A Wii Sports-themed war video posted by the White House showing US strikes on Iran has left the internet divided, with many calling it embarrassing and insensitive amid the ongoing conflict.

White House on Thursday (Mar 12) released a shocking video on Instagram, showing US strikes on Iran in a Wii Sports game-themed clip. In the video, the iconic Wii Sports music is heard, and as the ‘Start’ button is pressed, the clips begin. Featuring several game wins, the video keeps cutting to actual footage of attacks by the United States in Iran amid the war. The clip has left social media users baffled, with some laughing over the ‘meme’ video, while some finding it sickening. “Lowkey this is the best meme account on ig,” one user wrote. Another called it “hilarious”. On the other hand, several others questioned White House’s actions and found the video insensitive. “War isn’t funny,” one person said in the comments. “This is extremely unprofessional. War is not a game,” said another. One user said, “This is so embarrassing,” another wrote, “This is actually disgusting.” Some even questioned the Trump administration for bombing a school in Iran’s Minab that killed over 150.

A Wii Sports-themed war video posted by the White House showing US strikes on Iran has left the internet divided, with many calling it embarrassing and insensitive amid the ongoing conflict.

‘Disgusting’: White House’s Wii Sports-themed Iran war video leaves internet in splits – WATCH

A dramatic anime-style video of the Iran war has gone viral on social media. The video depicts the US and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei. Following Khamenei’s death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen as the new supreme leader of the Islamic Republic. As the tensions escalate, the war has expanded to Iran’s neighbouring Gulf nations, which Tehran has accused of aiding the US and Israel in the strikes.The video opens with a title, ‘Khamenei is back’. It shows Ali Khamenei embracing a little girl, as US and Israeli warplanes head towards Iran. The jets fire missiles, devastating the building that the supreme leader had been in, killing him. In the next scene, US President Donald Trump gets the news that Khamenei has been killed.Meanwhile, Khamenei’s son is seen picking up his father’s ring from the debris and wearing it, symbolising his taking over power. In the next scene of the video, several drones and missiles are seen launching from Iran and heading towards Trump, who is sweating in fear.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">📹 بازگشتِ خامنه‌ای! انیمه جدید ژاپنی از لحظه شهادت رهبر شهید و آغازِ کابوس امریکا!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%AA%D9%82%D8%A7%D9%85_%D8%B3%D8%AE%D8%AA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#انتقام_سخت</a> <a href="https://t.co/zqjPtTCsuu">pic.twitter.com/zqjPtTCsuu</a>&mdash; خبرگزاری تسنیم (@Tasnimnews_Fa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tasnimnews_Fa/status/2032147448752193541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.In a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said.Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday (Mar 12) issued his first statement since the start of the war in West Asia. In the statement, Mojtaba Khamenei honoured his father, vowed revenge against the US and Israel. He also expressed willingness to remain friends with the neighbouring nations, which Iran has been repeatedly attacking, but demanded that they “shut down” US bases in their territory that are being used to launch strikes on Iran. He suggested that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An anime-style video depicting the Iran war and leadership change has gone viral online, drawing widespread attention and debate. The dramatic clip portrays key moments from the conflict.

A dramatic anime-style video of the Iran war has gone viral on social media. The video depicts the US and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei. Following Khamenei’s death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen as the new supreme leader of the Islamic Republic. As the tensions escalate, the war has expanded to Iran’s neighbouring Gulf nations, which Tehran has accused of aiding the US and Israel in the strikes. The video opens with a title, ‘Khamenei is back’. It shows Ali Khamenei embracing a little girl, as US and Israeli warplanes head towards Iran. The jets fire missiles, devastating the building that the supreme leader had been in, killing him. In the next scene, US President Donald Trump gets the news that Khamenei has been killed. Meanwhile, Khamenei’s son is seen picking up his father’s ring from the debris and wearing it, symbolising his taking over power. In the next scene of the video, several drones and missiles are seen launching from Iran and heading towards Trump, who is sweating in fear.

An anime-style video depicting the Iran war and leadership change has gone viral online, drawing widespread attention and debate. The dramatic clip portrays key moments from the conflict.

‘Khamenei is back!’ Dramatic anime-style video of Iran war goes viral – WATCH

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday (Mar 12) issued his first statement since the start of the war in West Asia. His remarks came amid conflicting reports on his health after he was injured in the strikes launched by the US and Israel that also killed his father, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, on February 28. However, his speech raised even more questions when the leader did not appear on camera himself, but his speech was read by a news anchor on Iranian state media, raising further doubts about his condition.In the statement, Mojtaba Khamenei honoured his father, vowed revenge against the US and Israel. He also expressed willingness to remain friends with the neighbouring nations, which Iran has been repeatedly attacking, but demanded that they “shut down” US bases in their territory that are being used to launch strikes on Iran. He suggested that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.<h2>‘Your servant’</h2>Mojtaba Khamenei, in his first speech, called himself a “servant” of Iranians. “I, Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, your servant, along with you and through the Islamic Republic Broadcasting, became aware of the result of the vote of the esteemed Assembly of Experts,” he said. “For me, leaning upon a place that has been the seat of two great leaders, the great Khomeini and the martyred Khamenei, is a difficult task.”Mojtaba was referring to Iran’s first supreme leader, Ruhollah Khomeini, who served from 1979 until his death in 1989, and his father Ali Khamenei, who had been the supreme leader since 1989 until his death in US-Israeli strikes.<h2>Death of Ali Khamenei</h2>On the death of the former supreme leader of Iran, Khamenei said, “I had the honour of visiting their body after martyrdom; what I saw was a mountain of steadfastness, and I heard that he had clenched the fist of his healthy hand.”“The insight and wisdom of the great Iranian nation in the recent event, along with its steadfastness, courage, and presence, compelled friends to admiration and foes to astonishment. It was you, the people, who led the country and guaranteed its authority,” Khamenei added. If that supreme blessing was taken from us, in its place, the Ammar-like presence of the Iranian nation was once again bestowed upon this system.”<h2>Strait of Hormuz</h2>Mojtaba Khamenei said that “the leverage of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must certainly continue to be used. Studies have been conducted regarding the opening of additional fronts in areas where the enemy has negligible experience and would be highly vulnerable, and their activation will be carried out if the state of war persists and in accordance with the observance of interests.”The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for ports located in the Persian Gulf. Its blockage has significantly affected global energy supply, triggering a sharp rise in oil prices. In recent days, several vessels have been targeted while passing through the strait. Iran has warned that any vessel attempting to pass could be targeted and set on fire, with several oil tankers being hit in recent days.<h2>Khamenei vows vengence</h2>“I assure everyone that we will not forgo vengeance for the blood of your martyrs. The vengeance we have in mind is not limited to the martyrdom of the great leader of the Revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy constitutes an independent subject in the file of vengeance,” Khamenei said.<h2>Minab school strike</h2>He also slammed the US over deadly strike that hit Minab school, saying, “Only a limited amount of blood revenge for the martyrs has so far taken concrete form, but until it is fully achieved, this case will remain on top of all other cases. The crime that the enemy has deliberately committed regarding the Minab Tayyibah Tree School and some similar cases holds a special status in this reckoning.”<h2>Warning to Gulf nations</h2>Khamenei warned Gulf nations that are aiding the United States and Israel for carrying out strikes against Iran. “The countries of the region must clarify their stance regarding the aggressors against our dear homeland and the killers of our people. I recommend that they shut down those bases as soon as possible, for they must surely have realised by now that America’s claim of establishing security and peace has been nothing but a lie,” he said.He reiterated that the Islamic republic is “fully prepared for unity and warm, cordial mutual relations with all its neighbors” despite the threats.<h2>Khamenei praises Hezbollah</h2>Mojtaba Khamenei also praised Hezbollah for supporting Iran and striking Israel and US targets. “The companionship of the components of the Resistance Front with one another shortens the path to deliverance from the Zionist affliction. Brave and faithful Yemen has not ceased defending the oppressed people of Gaza, Hezbollah the devoted has come to the aid of the Islamic Republic despite all obstacles, and the Iraqi resistance too has boldly pursued the same path,” he said.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei delivered a fiery first address amid the ongoing war, touching on several flashpoints shaping the conflict. Here are 7 key takeaways from his speech.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday (Mar 12) issued his first statement since the start of the war in West Asia. His remarks came amid conflicting reports on his health after he was injured in the strikes launched by the US and Israel that also killed his father, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, on February 28. However, his speech raised even more questions when the leader did not appear on camera himself, but his speech was read by a news anchor on Iranian state media, raising further doubts about his condition. In the statement, Mojtaba Khamenei honoured his father, vowed revenge against the US and Israel. He also expressed willingness to remain friends with the neighbouring nations, which Iran has been repeatedly attacking, but demanded that they “shut down” US bases in their territory that are being used to launch strikes on Iran. He suggested that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed. ‘Your servant’ Mojtaba Khamenei, in his first speech, called himself a “servant” of Iranians. “I, Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, your servant, along with you and through the Islamic Republic Broadcasting, became aware of the result of the vote of the esteemed Assembly of Experts,” he said. “For me, leaning upon a place that has been the seat of two great leaders, the great Khomeini and the martyred Khamenei, is a difficult task.” Mojtaba was referring to Iran’s first supreme leader, Ruhollah Khomeini, who served from 1979 until his death in 1989, and his father Ali Khamenei, who had been the supreme leader since 1989 until his death in US-Israeli strikes. Death of Ali Khamenei On the death of the former supreme leader of Iran, Khamenei said, “I had the honour of visiting their body after martyrdom; what I saw was a mountain of steadfastness, and I heard that he had clenched the fist of his healthy hand.” “The insight and wisdom of the great Iranian nation in the recent event, along with its steadfastness, courage, and presence, compelled friends to admiration and foes to astonishment. It was you, the people, who led the country and guaranteed its authority,” Khamenei added. If that supreme blessing was taken from us, in its place, the Ammar-like presence of the Iranian nation was once again bestowed upon this system.” Strait of Hormuz Mojtaba Khamenei said that “the leverage of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must certainly continue to be used. Studies have been conducted regarding the opening of additional fronts in areas where the enemy has negligible experience and would be highly vulnerable, and their activation will be carried out if the state of war persists and in accordance with the observance of interests.” The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for ports located in the Persian Gulf. Its blockage has significantly affected global energy supply, triggering a sharp rise in oil prices. In recent days, several vessels have been targeted while passing through the strait. Iran has warned that any vessel attempting to pass could be targeted and set on fire, with several oil tankers being hit in recent days. Khamenei vows vengence “I assure everyone that we will not forgo vengeance for the blood of your martyrs. The vengeance we have in mind is not limited to the martyrdom of the great leader of the Revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy constitutes an independent subject in the file of vengeance,” Khamenei said. Minab school strike He also slammed the US over deadly strike that hit Minab school, saying, “Only a limited amount of blood revenge for the martyrs has so far taken concrete form, but until it is fully achieved, this case will remain on top of all other cases. The crime that the enemy has deliberately committed regarding the Minab Tayyibah Tree School and some similar cases holds a special status in this reckoning.” Warning to Gulf nations Khamenei warned Gulf nations that are aiding the United States and Israel for carrying out strikes against Iran. “The countries of the region must clarify their stance regarding the aggressors against our dear homeland and the killers of our people. I recommend that they shut down those bases as soon as possible, for they must surely have realised by now that America’s claim of establishing security and peace has been nothing but a lie,” he said. He reiterated that the Islamic republic is “fully prepared for unity and warm, cordial mutual relations with all its neighbors” despite the threats. Khamenei praises Hezbollah Mojtaba Khamenei also praised Hezbollah for supporting Iran and striking Israel and US targets. “The companionship of the components of the Resistance Front with one another shortens the path to deliverance from the Zionist affliction. Brave and faithful Yemen has not ceased defending the oppressed people of Gaza, Hezbollah the devoted has come to the aid of the Islamic Republic despite all obstacles, and the Iraqi resistance too has boldly pursued the same path,” he said.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei delivered a fiery first address amid the ongoing war, touching on several flashpoints shaping the conflict. Here are 7 key takeaways from his speech.

From Strait of Hormuz to Minab school strike: 7 Key takeaways from Mojtaba Khamenei’s vengeful first speech

Russia on Thursday (Mar 12) accused the United States and its Western allies of whipping up “hysteria” about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, as tensions flared at the United Nations over Washington’s military campaign Operation Epic Fury against Tehran. China also slammed the US, calling it the "instigator" of the ​Iranian nuclear crisis. US envoy to the United Nations Mike Waltz, meanwhile, accused Moscow and Beijing of seeking to "protect their partner, Iran". Here's all you need to know about the tense US showdown.<h2>Russia accuses America of ‘hysteria’ over Iran’s nuclear plans</h2>Speaking at a 15-member U.N. Security Council, Russia’s envoy Vasily Nebenzya said claims that Iran was close to building a nuclear weapon had not been confirmed by international inspectors.Nebenzya said that the "hysteria surrounding supposed plans Iran had to get a nuclear weapon" was not corroborated by reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He argued the allegations were being used to justify another Western military intervention in the Middle East. "This was done in order to undertake yet another military venture against Tehran and to ensure great escalation of the situation in the Middle East and beyond," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fm-seyed-abbas-araghchi-mocks-us-diplomacy-claims-no-nuclear-weapons-deal-failed-because-of-american-negotiators-technical-ignorance-1773384353579">Iran FM blames US' 'technical ignorance' for 'NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS' deal failure</a><h2>China blames Washington for the crisis</h2>China’s envoy Fu Cong also slammed Washington for US President Donald Trump's war on Iran, calling America the main driver of the current crisis. He said the United States had undermined diplomatic efforts by launching military strikes against Iran during negotiations.US "resorted to blatant use ⁠of force against Iran during the negotiation process, which rendered the diplomatic efforts futile," said the Chinese envoy.<h2>Sanctions debate sparks clash at UN</h2>The remarks came during a tense session of the 15-member council, currently chaired by the United States, where diplomats debated the future of UN sanctions linked to Iran’s nuclear programme.Russia and China attempted to block discussion about the body responsible for overseeing sanctions enforcement, known as the 1737 Committee.The move failed after council members voted 11 to 2 to proceed with the meeting, with two abstentions.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 mocks Trump' evil impulses over Minab school strike—Watch</a><h2>US accuses Moscow and Beijing of shielding Tehran</h2>Addressing the council, US envoy Mike Waltz accused Russia and China of trying to shield Iran from international scrutiny. He said both China and Russia did not want a functional sanctions committee "because they want to protect their partner, Iran, and continue to maintain defence cooperation that is now once again prohibited."He said all UN member states should be enforcing an arms embargo on Iran, preventing the transfer of missile technology and freezing financial assets linked to Tehran’s military programmes."All member states of the United Nations ⁠should be implementing an arms embargo against Iran, banning the transfer and trade of missile technology, and freezing relevant financial ​assets," Waltz said."The U.N. provisions to be re-imposed are not arbitrary, but instead, narrowly scoped to address the threat posed by Iran's ​nuclear, missile and conventional arms programs and Iran's ongoing support for terrorism," he said.The United States also pointed to recent findings by the International Atomic Energy Agency.According to Waltz, Iran remains the only country without nuclear weapons that has produced uranium enriched to 60 per cent. He also said Tehran had refused to provide inspectors with access to parts of its stockpile.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.

Tensions reached a breaking point at UNSC on Thursday (Mar 12) as Russia accused Washington of creating "nuclear hysteria" to justify Operation Epic Fury, while Washington accused Moscow and Beijing of "shielding" Tehran.

Russia on Thursday (Mar 12) accused the United States and its Western allies of whipping up “hysteria” about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, as tensions flared at the United Nations over Washington’s military campaign Operation Epic Fury against Tehran. China also slammed the US, calling it the "instigator" of the Iranian nuclear crisis. US envoy to the United Nations Mike Waltz, meanwhile, accused Moscow and Beijing of seeking to "protect their partner, Iran". Here's all you need to know about the tense US showdown. Russia accuses America of ‘hysteria’ over Iran’s nuclear plans Speaking at a 15-member U.N. Security Council, Russia’s envoy Vasily Nebenzya said claims that Iran was close to building a nuclear weapon had not been confirmed by international inspectors. Nebenzya said that the "hysteria surrounding supposed plans Iran had to get a nuclear weapon" was not corroborated by reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He argued the allegations were being used to justify another Western military intervention in the Middle East. "This was done in order to undertake yet another military venture against Tehran and to ensure great escalation of the situation in the Middle East and beyond," he said. Also read | Iran FM blames US' 'technical ignorance' for 'NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS' deal failure China blames Washington for the crisis China’s envoy Fu Cong also slammed Washington for US President Donald Trump's war on Iran, calling America the main driver of the current crisis. He said the United States had undermined diplomatic efforts by launching military strikes against Iran during negotiations. US "resorted to blatant use ⁠of force against Iran during the negotiation process, which rendered the diplomatic efforts futile," said the Chinese envoy. Sanctions debate sparks clash at UN The remarks came during a tense session of the 15-member council, currently chaired by the United States, where diplomats debated the future of UN sanctions linked to Iran’s nuclear programme. Russia and China attempted to block discussion about the body responsible for overseeing sanctions enforcement, known as the 1737 Committee. The move failed after council members voted 11 to 2 to proceed with the meeting, with two abstentions. Also read | 'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran mocks Trump' evil impulses over Minab school strike—Watch US accuses Moscow and Beijing of shielding Tehran Addressing the council, US envoy Mike Waltz accused Russia and China of trying to shield Iran from international scrutiny. He said both China and Russia did not want a functional sanctions committee "because they want to protect their partner, Iran, and continue to maintain defence cooperation that is now once again prohibited." He said all UN member states should be enforcing an arms embargo on Iran, preventing the transfer of missile technology and freezing financial assets linked to Tehran’s military programmes. "All member states of the United Nations ⁠should be implementing an arms embargo against Iran, banning the transfer and trade of missile technology, and freezing relevant financial assets," Waltz said. "The U.N. provisions to be re-imposed are not arbitrary, but instead, narrowly scoped to address the threat posed by Iran's nuclear, missile and conventional arms programs and Iran's ongoing support for terrorism," he said. The United States also pointed to recent findings by the International Atomic Energy Agency. According to Waltz, Iran remains the only country without nuclear weapons that has produced uranium enriched to 60 per cent. He also said Tehran had refused to provide inspectors with access to parts of its stockpile. 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.

Tensions reached a breaking point at UNSC on Thursday (Mar 12) as Russia accused Washington of creating "nuclear hysteria" to justify Operation Epic Fury, while Washington accused Moscow and Beijing of "shielding" Tehran.

US-Russia-China clash at UN: Moscow accuses Washington of ‘nuclear hysteria,’ Beijing calls Trump's nation 'instigator' of Iran war

India is set to repatriate the 183 crew members of the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Lavan as early as today, ending their stay in Kochi since the ship docked on 4 March amid escalating tensions in the region.The warship IRIS Lavan, part of Iran's naval contingent that participated in India's International Fleet Review and MILAN 2026 exercises in Visakhapatnam in February, developed technical issues while operating in the Indian Ocean. Iran requested docking permission for three vessels, IRIS Lavan, IRIS Bushehr, and IRIS Dena, on 28 February, the day US and Israeli strikes on Iran commenced.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-kc-135-stratotanker-crashes-near-iraq-jordan-during-epic-fury-operations-rescue-mission-underway-1773360986341">US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury; rescue mission underway</a>India approved the requests on 1 March. Only IRIS Lavan reached an Indian port, arriving in Kochi on 4 March. Its crew has since been accommodated at Indian naval facilities in the southern city.IRIS Bushehr docked in Sri Lanka, where its crew was also sheltered, while IRIS Dena was sunk by a US submarine in international waters off Sri Lanka's coast on the same day Lavan docked, resulting in significant loss of life.External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed Parliament that India viewed the docking of IRIS Lavan as "the right thing to do" on humanitarian grounds. "We believe that this was the right thing to do and the Iranian Foreign Minister has expressed his country’s thanks for this humane gesture," he said.New Delhi has maintained diplomatic engagement with Tehran since the war started. &nbsp;External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have held four conversations since the conflict began, focusing on de-escalation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-huge-mistake-was-the-north-korean-embassy-in-tehran-hit-by-an-israeli-missile-here-s-the-truth-fact-check-1773298739599">Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check</a>On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing deep concern over the escalation, civilian casualties, and damage to infrastructure. Indian PM urged dialogue and diplomacy, reiterating India's commitment to regional peace and stability, while highlighting concerns for Indian nationals' safety and energy supply routes.

Iran’s naval vessel IRIS Lavan has been stranded in Kochi since early March after developing technical problems amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. India is now preparing to repatriate 183 Iranian sailors. All you need to know.

India is set to repatriate the 183 crew members of the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Lavan as early as today, ending their stay in Kochi since the ship docked on 4 March amid escalating tensions in the region. The warship IRIS Lavan, part of Iran's naval contingent that participated in India's International Fleet Review and MILAN 2026 exercises in Visakhapatnam in February, developed technical issues while operating in the Indian Ocean. Iran requested docking permission for three vessels, IRIS Lavan, IRIS Bushehr, and IRIS Dena, on 28 February, the day US and Israeli strikes on Iran commenced. Also read | US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury; rescue mission underway India approved the requests on 1 March. Only IRIS Lavan reached an Indian port, arriving in Kochi on 4 March. Its crew has since been accommodated at Indian naval facilities in the southern city. IRIS Bushehr docked in Sri Lanka, where its crew was also sheltered, while IRIS Dena was sunk by a US submarine in international waters off Sri Lanka's coast on the same day Lavan docked, resulting in significant loss of life. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed Parliament that India viewed the docking of IRIS Lavan as "the right thing to do" on humanitarian grounds. "We believe that this was the right thing to do and the Iranian Foreign Minister has expressed his country’s thanks for this humane gesture," he said. New Delhi has maintained diplomatic engagement with Tehran since the war started. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have held four conversations since the conflict began, focusing on de-escalation. Also read | Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing deep concern over the escalation, civilian casualties, and damage to infrastructure. Indian PM urged dialogue and diplomacy, reiterating India's commitment to regional peace and stability, while highlighting concerns for Indian nationals' safety and energy supply routes.

Iran’s naval vessel IRIS Lavan has been stranded in Kochi since early March after developing technical problems amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. India is now preparing to repatriate 183 Iranian sailors. All you need to know.

India to repatriate 183 Iranian sailors from warship IRIS Lavan in Kochi

Iran has claimed that it has attacked the American warship USS Abraham Lincoln and that the vessel and its strike group are fleeing the Gulf waters. Washington has pushed back against the claim, saying that it is not true. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said that ballistic missiles and drones struck the aircraft carrier, and it is no longer operational. Meanwhile, the United States said an Iranian vessel came too close to the warship, and American troops fired shots at it. US officials said the strikes missed the Iranian ship multiple times. Iran’s Central Headquarters of the Holy Prophet said in a statement that advanced missiles and drones hit the carrier as part of a precision operation. The vessel was about 340 kilometres from Iran’s maritime borders in the Sea of Oman at the time. Iran’s state television reported that the USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group were seen “fleeing the area at high speed". However, the United States has dismissed the reports as false.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-kc-135-stratotanker-crashes-near-iraq-jordan-during-epic-fury-operations-rescue-mission-underway-1773360986341">US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury</a><h2>US says USS Abraham Lincoln is fine and operational</h2>To support the claim that the warship was still operational, the United States Central Command posted a photo and stated that the carrier strike group was still operational. "The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group continues to support Operation Epic Fury and project power from the sea," it wrote. CBS News reported that one Iranian vessel came close to USS Abraham Lincoln, and a US Navy ship tried to fire on the Iranian vessel using a 5-inch, 54-calibre Mark 45 gun, a fully automated naval cannon. The outlet quoted US officials as saying that the US strikes missed the Iranian ship multiple times. Whether the ship was hit or not is not known. The incident happened earlier this week. The IRGC had previously also claimed to have struck the aircraft carrier. The US forces refuted those claims as well, saying that the "missiles launched didn't even come close".&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-mojtaba-khamenei-vows-revenge-threatens-attacks-on-u-s-bases-in-region-1773381579202/embed<h2>American warships in Middle East</h2>Two US aircraft carriers - USS Gerald R Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln - are supporting war operations in the Middle East. USS Spruance and the USS Michael Murphy are providing additional support. Six other guided-missile destroyers are also stationed in the Arabian Sea. The US had earlier claimed that it had sunk 16 ships laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. American forces also destroyed the mothership Shahid Bagheri, a drone carrier. US Central Command released a video and wrote, “Two days ago, the Iranian regime had 11 ships in the Gulf of Oman; today, they have ZERO.”

USS Abraham Lincoln hit by Iran? The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed that missiles and drones struck the warship. However, the US has disputed the claim, saying that the ship was operational and detailed a different incident. 

Iran has claimed that it has attacked the American warship USS Abraham Lincoln and that the vessel and its strike group are fleeing the Gulf waters. Washington has pushed back against the claim, saying that it is not true. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said that ballistic missiles and drones struck the aircraft carrier, and it is no longer operational. Meanwhile, the United States said an Iranian vessel came too close to the warship, and American troops fired shots at it. US officials said the strikes missed the Iranian ship multiple times. Iran’s Central Headquarters of the Holy Prophet said in a statement that advanced missiles and drones hit the carrier as part of a precision operation. The vessel was about 340 kilometres from Iran’s maritime borders in the Sea of Oman at the time. Iran’s state television reported that the USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group were seen “fleeing the area at high speed". However, the United States has dismissed the reports as false. Also Read: US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury US says USS Abraham Lincoln is fine and operational To support the claim that the warship was still operational, the United States Central Command posted a photo and stated that the carrier strike group was still operational. "The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group continues to support Operation Epic Fury and project power from the sea," it wrote. CBS News reported that one Iranian vessel came close to USS Abraham Lincoln, and a US Navy ship tried to fire on the Iranian vessel using a 5-inch, 54-calibre Mark 45 gun, a fully automated naval cannon. The outlet quoted US officials as saying that the US strikes missed the Iranian ship multiple times. Whether the ship was hit or not is not known. The incident happened earlier this week. The IRGC had previously also claimed to have struck the aircraft carrier. The US forces refuted those claims as well, saying that the "missiles launched didn't even come close". https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-mojtaba-khamenei-vows-revenge-threatens-attacks-on-u-s-bases-in-region-1773381579202/embed American warships in Middle East Two US aircraft carriers - USS Gerald R Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln - are supporting war operations in the Middle East. USS Spruance and the USS Michael Murphy are providing additional support. Six other guided-missile destroyers are also stationed in the Arabian Sea. The US had earlier claimed that it had sunk 16 ships laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. American forces also destroyed the mothership Shahid Bagheri, a drone carrier. US Central Command released a video and wrote, “Two days ago, the Iranian regime had 11 ships in the Gulf of Oman; today, they have ZERO.”

USS Abraham Lincoln hit by Iran? The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed that missiles and drones struck the warship. However, the US has disputed the claim, saying that the ship was operational and detailed a different incident.&nbsp;

USS Abraham Lincoln 'fleeing' after missile strike, Iran claims. US tells a different story

United states President Donald Trump on Friday (March 13) reiterated that US forces "are totally destroying the terrorist regime of Iran, militarily, economically, and otherwise." He went on to say that Iran's navy and air force have been decimated and its top leaders "wiped out from the face of the earth".&nbsp;"We are totally destroying the terrorist regime of Iran, militarily, economically, and otherwise, yet, if you read the Failing New York Times, you would incorrectly think that we are not winning. Iran’s Navy is gone, their Air Force is no longer, missiles, drones and everything else are being decimated, and their leaders have been wiped from the face of the earth," wrote Trump on Truth Social.&nbsp;He then went on to praise his regime and US defence for crushing Iranian forces.&nbsp;"We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time - Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today. They’ve been killing innocent people all over the world for 47 years, and now I, as the 47th President of the United States of America, am killing them. What a great honor it is to do so! Thank you for your attention to this matter," said Trump.<h2>Several US troops wounded in Iran war</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.&nbsp;Sean Parnell, a Pentagon spokesperson, said that at least 140 service members have been wounded by Iranian retaliation attacks so far. However, he pointed out that the "the vast majority of these injuries have been minor." and about 108 of them have returned to duty.&nbsp;"Eight service members remain listed as severely injured and are receiving the highest level of medical care," Parnell further said in the statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time - Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today,” said Trump on Truth Social.

United states President Donald Trump on Friday (March 13) reiterated that US forces "are totally destroying the terrorist regime of Iran, militarily, economically, and otherwise." He went on to say that Iran's navy and air force have been decimated and its top leaders "wiped out from the face of the earth". "We are totally destroying the terrorist regime of Iran, militarily, economically, and otherwise, yet, if you read the Failing New York Times, you would incorrectly think that we are not winning. Iran’s Navy is gone, their Air Force is no longer, missiles, drones and everything else are being decimated, and their leaders have been wiped from the face of the earth," wrote Trump on Truth Social. He then went on to praise his regime and US defence for crushing Iranian forces. "We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time - Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today. They’ve been killing innocent people all over the world for 47 years, and now I, as the 47th President of the United States of America, am killing them. What a great honor it is to do so! Thank you for your attention to this matter," said Trump. Several US troops wounded in Iran war Meanwhile, Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested. Sean Parnell, a Pentagon spokesperson, said that at least 140 service members have been wounded by Iranian retaliation attacks so far. However, he pointed out that the "the vast majority of these injuries have been minor." and about 108 of them have returned to duty. "Eight service members remain listed as severely injured and are receiving the highest level of medical care," Parnell further said in the statement.

“We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time - Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today,” said Trump on Truth Social.

'They’ve been killing innocent people, now I am killing them', says Trump on Iran

Escalating geopolitical tensions and energy market volatility are driving a sharp surge in global fertilizer prices, raising alarms about the future of food production. As fertilizer costs climb, farmers worldwide could face higher input expenses, threatening crop yields and pushing food prices higher.

Iran War: Energy Shock Triggers Global Fertiliser Crisis

The Iranian Embassy in The Hague has posted a Disney-style video slamming US President Donald Trump for his recent rhetoric on the alleged US strike at the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab. Iran's video, which comes days after Iran posted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-cannibal-khamenei-s-x-account-posts-ghastly-trump-cartoon-after-potus-floats-twisted-tomahawk-theory-on-minab-school-strike-1773194272348">ghastly "Nobel Cannibal"</a> cartoon portraying Trump as a monster, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing "Information War" between Tehran and Washington.<h2>'Inside Out' Trump's brain: Here's what the video shows</h2>Published on Thursday (Mar 12) by the Iranian Embassy in The Hague, The Netherlands, features an apparent AI-generated animation. The AI satire, made in the style of the popular Disney movie 'Inside Out', portrays Trump as a leader controlled by his "evil" internal impulses.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-cannibal-khamenei-s-x-account-posts-ghastly-trump-cartoon-after-potus-floats-twisted-tomahawk-theory-on-minab-school-strike-1773194272348">'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike</a>In the now viral video, Trump, who can be seen conducting a press conference where he exclaims, “We have no issue with civilians," prompting a female reporter to ask, “Why did you attack the Minab School?”. The scene shifts to the evil voices inside Trump's head, portrayed with monstrous figures, presumably greed, deceit, and malice, standing around a console labelled “Trump HQ”. The monsters start chanting “Go on, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie,” before pressing a button labelled “lie,” which has a memory orb titled “Epstein” lying next to it. The Trump character immediately changes the subject at the podium to a rambling tangent and insists, “We didn't hit the Minab School,” before claiming, “America doesn't have Tomahawk missiles at all.”“We care deeply about the Iranian people,” says the Trump character as menacing music plays in the background, before the video ends with a black screen and the words “INSIDE OUT Epstein's Client."&nbsp;Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In memory of the 168 innocent schoolchildren of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Minab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Minab</a> whose lives were cruelly taken by the most evil people on earth. Their names may fade from the headlines, but they must never fade from our conscience.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithIran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithIran</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WarCrime?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WarCrime</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%85%D8%AF%D8%B1%D8%B3%D9%87_%D9%85%DB%8C%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%A8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#مدرسه_میناب</a> <a href="https://t.co/sCG2kpfM71">pic.twitter.com/sCG2kpfM71</a>&mdash; ☫ Iran Embassy in The Hague, The Netherlands (@IRAN_in_NL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRAN_in_NL/status/2032008734445076877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Why did the Iranian Embassy link Trump to Epstein?</h2>The AI-generated videos repeated Epstein mentions are an apparent reference to Donald Trump's publicly known friendship with sex offender and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Even as Trump continues to claim that he kicked Epstein out of his Mar-a-Lago resort and broke off ties with the disgraced financier years before he was found guilty of horrific sex crimes against young girls, the uproar over the notorious Epstein Files continues to dominate headlines.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-also-has-tomahawks-trump-confronted-by-reporters-as-he-floats-wild-theory-on-minab-school-strike-contradicts-pentagon-on-missile-use-1773120388711">'Iran also has Tomahawks': Trump confronted by reporters as he floats wild theory on Minab school strike, contradicts Pentagon</a><h2>Minab school attack: US vs Iran claims</h2>On Feb 28, the first day of the US-Israel-Iran war, the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Iran's Minab was hit by a "double-tap" attack, i.e., two airstrikes over the course of a few minutes. According to Iran 168 young girls, most of them between the ages of seven and 12, were killed in the attack. This marked the most devastating death toll of the US-Israel-Iran war.Initially, the attack was blamed on Israel, but later reports revealed that a Tomahawk cruise missile was used in the attack. Notably, only the US, the United Kingdom and Australia possess the missiles, with Japan and the Netherlands awaiting handover.On Tuesday (Mar 9) POTUS Trump floated a theory that Iran itself possesses Tomahawk cruise missiles suspected in the attack. Speaking at his Doral resort in Florida, Trump denied US responsibility for the Feb 28 tragedy at the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab. He suggested that the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "Tomahawk, which is one of the most powerful weapons around, is sold and used by other countries," said Trump.“And whether it's Iran, who also has some Tomahawks, they wish they had more, but, whether it's Iran or somebody else, the fact that a Tomahawk -- a Tomahawk is very generic, it's sold to other countries. But that's being investigated right now,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran has released a viral AI-generated animation modelled after Disney’s Inside Out, portraying US President Donald Trump as being controlled by “evil impulses”. The 30-second satire mocks his claims about Tomahawk missiles used in the Minab school strike. Watch here!

The Iranian Embassy in The Hague has posted a Disney-style video slamming US President Donald Trump for his recent rhetoric on the alleged US strike at the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab. Iran's video, which comes days after Iran posted the ghastly "Nobel Cannibal" cartoon portraying Trump as a monster, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing "Information War" between Tehran and Washington. 'Inside Out' Trump's brain: Here's what the video shows Published on Thursday (Mar 12) by the Iranian Embassy in The Hague, The Netherlands, features an apparent AI-generated animation. The AI satire, made in the style of the popular Disney movie 'Inside Out', portrays Trump as a leader controlled by his "evil" internal impulses. Also read | 'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike In the now viral video, Trump, who can be seen conducting a press conference where he exclaims, “We have no issue with civilians," prompting a female reporter to ask, “Why did you attack the Minab School?”. The scene shifts to the evil voices inside Trump's head, portrayed with monstrous figures, presumably greed, deceit, and malice, standing around a console labelled “Trump HQ”. The monsters start chanting “Go on, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie,” before pressing a button labelled “lie,” which has a memory orb titled “Epstein” lying next to it. The Trump character immediately changes the subject at the podium to a rambling tangent and insists, “We didn't hit the Minab School,” before claiming, “America doesn't have Tomahawk missiles at all.” “We care deeply about the Iranian people,” says the Trump character as menacing music plays in the background, before the video ends with a black screen and the words “INSIDE OUT Epstein's Client." Watch it here:

Iran has released a viral AI-generated animation modelled after Disney’s Inside Out, portraying US President Donald Trump as being controlled by “evil impulses”. The 30-second satire mocks his claims about Tomahawk missiles used in the Minab school strike. Watch here!

'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike & Epstein files controversies | Watch

One of Iran’s former top diplomats has been granted asylum in Australia, reported London-based news outlet Iran International, which has no association with the Islamic Republic’s regime. Mohammad Pournajaf, Tehran’s charge d’affaires in Canberra until at least 2023 had applied for asylum. While another Iranian diplomat had sought asylum in Denmark, revealed the report.&nbsp;The news came to light only this week after members of Iran’s women’s national football team, sought asylum abroad. They are being kept under tight security during a camp in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, reported Iran International.&nbsp;According to the Guardian, Pournajaf was staying in Australia since 2018 but sought asylum only in 2023.&nbsp;Pournajaf, as Iran embassy’s charge d’affaires until early 2023 hosted the 44th anniversary of Iran’s Islamic revolution and also praised the regime for its achievements.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-measuring-5-5-jolts-turkey-no-casualties-reported-so-far-1773376218111">Earthquake measuring 5.5 jolts Turkey, no casualties reported so far</a>&nbsp;He had earlier served as Iran’s ambassador to Zimbabwe and as a representative to the United Nations.<h2>Iranian diplomats abandon their post, seek asylum</h2>&nbsp;The recent national uprising in Iran has led to several cases of Iranian diplomats abandoning their posts and seeking asylum in other countries.&nbsp;According to Iran International Alireza Jeyrani Hakamabad, a senior diplomat at the Iranian mission to the UN Office in Geneva had applied for asylum in Switzerland.&nbsp;Another person to apply for asylum in Switzerland itself was Gholamreza Derikvand, the chargé d'affaires of the Islamic Republic’s embassy in Austria.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump had recently appealed with the diplomats of Islamic Republic to cut ties with the regime and seek asylum elsewhere.&nbsp;

The news came to light only this week after members of Iran’s women’s national football team, sought asylum and are kept under tight security in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

One of Iran’s former top diplomats has been granted asylum in Australia, reported London-based news outlet Iran International, which has no association with the Islamic Republic’s regime. Mohammad Pournajaf, Tehran’s charge d’affaires in Canberra until at least 2023 had applied for asylum. While another Iranian diplomat had sought asylum in Denmark, revealed the report. The news came to light only this week after members of Iran’s women’s national football team, sought asylum abroad. They are being kept under tight security during a camp in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, reported Iran International. According to the Guardian, Pournajaf was staying in Australia since 2018 but sought asylum only in 2023. Pournajaf, as Iran embassy’s charge d’affaires until early 2023 hosted the 44th anniversary of Iran’s Islamic revolution and also praised the regime for its achievements. ALSO READ: Earthquake measuring 5.5 jolts Turkey, no casualties reported so far He had earlier served as Iran’s ambassador to Zimbabwe and as a representative to the United Nations. Iranian diplomats abandon their post, seek asylum The recent national uprising in Iran has led to several cases of Iranian diplomats abandoning their posts and seeking asylum in other countries. According to Iran International Alireza Jeyrani Hakamabad, a senior diplomat at the Iranian mission to the UN Office in Geneva had applied for asylum in Switzerland. Another person to apply for asylum in Switzerland itself was Gholamreza Derikvand, the chargé d'affaires of the Islamic Republic’s embassy in Austria. US President Donald Trump had recently appealed with the diplomats of Islamic Republic to cut ties with the regime and seek asylum elsewhere.

The news came to light only this week after members of Iran’s women’s national football team, sought asylum and are kept under tight security in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Former Iranian diplomat defects from Tehran, granted asylum in Australia

The Iran war is being fought as much in the digital space as in the physical world. Stryker, a Michigan-based medical technology company, was earlier hit. But it won't end here. Iran has a ‘target list’, and many more establishments could be hit with cyber attacks.

The Iran war is being fought as much in the digital space as in the physical world. Stryker, a Michigan-based medical technology company, was earlier hit. But it won't end here. Iran has a ‘target list’, and many more establishments could be hit with cyber attacks.

After Stryker, pro-Iranian hacktivists targeting US data centres, Telegram conversations reveal

Explosions have rocked central Dubai amid the ongoing Gulf conflict following Iranian strikes. According to authorities and local media reports, blasts- including those caused by falling debris and intercepted aerial threats -shook buildings in downtown Dubai and black smoke was seen rising over the city, raising security concerns for residents and visitors. 


Iran War: Blasts Rock Central Dubai After Iranian Strike in Gulf Conflict

PM Narendra Modi expressed “deep concern” over the escalating West Asia conflict during a phone call with Masoud Pezeshkian, the President of Iran. The Indian prime minister stressed that protecting Indian nationals and ensuring stable global energy flows remain India’s top priorities.


US-Iran War: PM Modi Calls Iran’s President Amid War; India Prioritises Citizens & Energy Security 

The US Treasury Department on Thursday (Mar 12) announced a temporary 30-day waiver on sanctions for Russian oil currently at sea, a move aimed at stabilising global energy markets as prices hover near $100 per barrel amid the Iran war. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the exemption will remain in effect until April 11, 2026, allowing hundreds of millions of barrels of crude to reach buyers. This "emergency release" comes as the Donald Trump administration scrambles to offset the supply shock caused by the ongoing Iran War and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-kc-135-stratotanker-crashes-near-iraq-jordan-during-epic-fury-operations-rescue-mission-underway-1773360986341">US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury; rescue mission underway</a><h2>Russia lauds Trump admin waiver</h2>Soon after the US announced a sanctions waiver for Russian oil, Moscow's economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev on Friday (Mar 13) said that the global energy market "cannot remain stable" without his country's oil."The United States is effectively acknowledging the obvious: without Russian oil, the global energy market cannot remain stable," Dmitriev posted on Telegram.<h2>‘Set on fire’: Iran's threat as oil pushes $100 a barrel</h2>As Brent crude inched further above $100 a barrel and stocks fell in early Asian trade on Friday, Iran vowed to attack oil resources in the Middle East and keep choking the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to "set the region's oil and gas on fire". A spokesperson for Tehran's military central operational command, in a statement, vowed that they will "set the region's oil and gas on fire with the slightest attack on Iran's energy infrastructure and ports".The punishing sanctions by the US and the Group of 7 advanced economies on Russian oil have been in place since 2022. These sanctions included a price cap on Russian oil and a crackdown on Moscow's so-called "shadow fleet", i.e., unmarked vessels that oil exporters used to evade sanctions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-responsibility-for-twin-oil-tanker-blasts-near-iraq-1-dead-38-rescued-us-israel-iran-war-1773277311376">Iran claims responsibility for twin oil tanker blasts near Iraq; 1 dead, 38 rescued</a>Earlier, US President Trump had sought to blame Russian oil exports for the Ukraine war, which crossed the four-year mark on February 24, 2026. However, with Trump's war on Iran leading to economic turmoil with the price of crude oil rising to $100 and more, the US last week granted India a 30-day waiver to buy Russian oil.&nbsp; Bessent insisted that the temporary oil trade won't benefit Russia significantly. “To increase the global reach of existing supply, Treasury is providing a temporary authorisation to permit countries to purchase Russian oil currently stranded at sea,” he wrote in a social media post. “This narrowly tailored, short-term measure applies only to oil already in transit and will not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government, which derives the majority of its energy revenue from taxes assessed at the point of extraction.”

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump admin lifts sanctions on Russian oil to curb volatile crude prices amid Iran war

The US Treasury Department on Thursday (Mar 12) announced a temporary 30-day waiver on sanctions for Russian oil currently at sea, a move aimed at stabilising global energy markets as prices hover near $100 per barrel amid the Iran war. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the exemption will remain in effect until April 11, 2026, allowing hundreds of millions of barrels of crude to reach buyers. This "emergency release" comes as the Donald Trump administration scrambles to offset the supply shock caused by the ongoing Iran War and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Also read | US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury; rescue mission underway Russia lauds Trump admin waiver Soon after the US announced a sanctions waiver for Russian oil, Moscow's economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev on Friday (Mar 13) said that the global energy market "cannot remain stable" without his country's oil. "The United States is effectively acknowledging the obvious: without Russian oil, the global energy market cannot remain stable," Dmitriev posted on Telegram. ‘Set on fire’: Iran's threat as oil pushes $100 a barrel As Brent crude inched further above $100 a barrel and stocks fell in early Asian trade on Friday, Iran vowed to attack oil resources in the Middle East and keep choking the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to "set the region's oil and gas on fire". A spokesperson for Tehran's military central operational command, in a statement, vowed that they will "set the region's oil and gas on fire with the slightest attack on Iran's energy infrastructure and ports". The punishing sanctions by the US and the Group of 7 advanced economies on Russian oil have been in place since 2022. These sanctions included a price cap on Russian oil and a crackdown on Moscow's so-called "shadow fleet", i.e., unmarked vessels that oil exporters used to evade sanctions. Also read | Iran claims responsibility for twin oil tanker blasts near Iraq; 1 dead, 38 rescued Earlier, US President Trump had sought to blame Russian oil exports for the Ukraine war, which crossed the four-year mark on February 24, 2026. However, with Trump's war on Iran leading to economic turmoil with the price of crude oil rising to $100 and more, the US last week granted India a 30-day waiver to buy Russian oil. Bessent insisted that the temporary oil trade won't benefit Russia significantly. “To increase the global reach of existing supply, Treasury is providing a temporary authorisation to permit countries to purchase Russian oil currently stranded at sea,” he wrote in a social media post. “This narrowly tailored, short-term measure applies only to oil already in transit and will not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government, which derives the majority of its energy revenue from taxes assessed at the point of extraction.”

Trump admin lifts sanctions on Russian oil to curb volatile crude prices amid Iran war

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