A US military aerial refuelling aircraft involved in operations linked to the conflict with Iran crashed in western Iraq on Thursday (Mar 12), according to several US officials. The aircraft, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, went down near the town of Turaibil along the Iraqi-Jordanian border. As per reports, another military plane was forced to declare an emergency and land. Even as one plane crashed and another was forced to make an emergency landing, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Iran, however, claims that its allied forces downed the aircraft, killing all crew aboard. Here's all we know.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>Second tanker damaged but lands safely</h2>Officials said a second KC-135 involved in the incident was damaged but landed safely. According to flight tracking service Flightradar24, one tanker declared an emergency before landing in Tel Aviv later on Thursday. The circumstances of the incident remain under investigation.It is unclear whether the crew of the first aircraft survived the crash. Further details awaited. Recovery operations are currently underway at the crash site. Purported videos of the crashed military plane show an inferno. Watch here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">💥 BREAKING: $65 million. 6 crew. Likely all dead. US CENTCOM confirms KC 135 tanker lost as hostile air defence hit in Iraq. The aircraft was refueling bombers hitting Iran. Now it&#39;s wreckage. Operation Epic Fury just claimed more American lives.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isra%C3%ABl?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israël</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IranWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranWar</a>… <a href="https://t.co/poWV42ABUE">pic.twitter.com/poWV42ABUE</a>&mdash; World conflicts Monitoring Center (@worldbestvideoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/worldbestvideoo/status/2032224013146341663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>CENTCOM rules out hostile attack</h2>Even as one plane crashed and another was forced to make an emergency landing, CENTCOM on X insisted that the crash was "not due to hostile fire or friendly fire".However, the US Central Command confirmed that the two aircraft were involved in the same incident. "The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing," it said, adding, “One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the second landed safely.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. Central Command is aware of the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft. The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing. Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the…&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2032211125882745265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This marks the fourth publicly acknowledged aircraft to crash during US President Donald Trump's war on Iran. Earlier in the week, the US military confirmed that three F-15E Strike Eagle jets were downed in a friendly fire incident involving forces in Kuwait. All six crew members ejected safely in that case.&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;

US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during 'Epic Fury' operations; Rescue mission underway

A US military aerial refuelling aircraft involved in operations linked to the conflict with Iran crashed in western Iraq on Thursday (Mar 12), according to several US officials. The aircraft, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, went down near the town of Turaibil along the Iraqi-Jordanian border. As per reports, another military plane was forced to declare an emergency and land. Even as one plane crashed and another was forced to make an emergency landing, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Iran, however, claims that its allied forces downed the aircraft, killing all crew aboard. Here's all we know. 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 Second tanker damaged but lands safely Officials said a second KC-135 involved in the incident was damaged but landed safely. According to flight tracking service Flightradar24, one tanker declared an emergency before landing in Tel Aviv later on Thursday. The circumstances of the incident remain under investigation. It is unclear whether the crew of the first aircraft survived the crash. Further details awaited. Recovery operations are currently underway at the crash site. Purported videos of the crashed military plane show an inferno. Watch here:

Why did a US military refuelling aircraft crash in Iraq during the Iran war? A Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker went down near the Iraqi-Jordanian border during Operation Epic Fury, and another was forced to make an emergency landing. What exactly happened? Scroll down to find out.

US KC-135 Stratotanker crashes near Iraq-Jordan border during operation Epic Fury; rescue mission underway

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi on Thursday denied that Iranian forces are laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz and said Tehran has allowed ships from some countries to cross the key waterway. Days after the US said it had struck Iranian vessels laying mines in the shipping channel, the deputy foreign minister said some countries had talked to Tehran about their ships crossing the strait and were allowed to do so.President Donald Trump had said that the US forces had struck 28 Iranian minelaying vessels in the waterway.“Not at all. This is not true,” he said when asked about reports of Iran laying mines in the strategic waterway.&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;“Some countries have already talked to us about passing the Strait, and we have cooperated with them,” Takht-Ravanchi told AFP news agency.However, the countries that joined the aggression against Iran should not benefit from safe passage, he added.“As far as Iran is concerned, we feel that those countries that joined the aggression should not benefit from safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.&nbsp;He also said that Iran wants to ensure that a war will not be imposed on it again in the future.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-to-pezeshkian-conveys-concerns-over-conflict-escalation-loss-of-lives-and-safety-of-indians-1773338727189">PM Modi speaks to Iran’s President Pezeshkian, conveys concerns over conflict escalation, loss of lives and safety of Indians</a>&nbsp;“We want to see that war is not going to be imposed again on Iran,” says Takht-Ravanchi. “When the war started last June, after 12 days there was so-called cessation of hostilities… but after eight or nine months, they regrouped and they did it again.”&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed during the war with the US and Israel.

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi  said that Iran wants to ensure that a war will not be imposed on it again in the future. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed during Iran’s ongoing war with the US and Israel.

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi on Thursday denied that Iranian forces are laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz and said Tehran has allowed ships from some countries to cross the key waterway. Days after the US said it had struck Iranian vessels laying mines in the shipping channel, the deputy foreign minister said some countries had talked to Tehran about their ships crossing the strait and were allowed to do so. President Donald Trump had said that the US forces had struck 28 Iranian minelaying vessels in the waterway. “Not at all. This is not true,” he said when asked about reports of Iran laying mines in the strategic waterway. Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai “Some countries have already talked to us about passing the Strait, and we have cooperated with them,” Takht-Ravanchi told AFP news agency. However, the countries that joined the aggression against Iran should not benefit from safe passage, he added. “As far as Iran is concerned, we feel that those countries that joined the aggression should not benefit from safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said. He also said that Iran wants to ensure that a war will not be imposed on it again in the future. Also Read: PM Modi speaks to Iran’s President Pezeshkian, conveys concerns over conflict escalation, loss of lives and safety of Indians “We want to see that war is not going to be imposed again on Iran,” says Takht-Ravanchi. “When the war started last June, after 12 days there was so-called cessation of hostilities… but after eight or nine months, they regrouped and they did it again.” The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed during the war with the US and Israel.

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi &nbsp;said that Iran wants to ensure that a war will not be imposed on it again in the future. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed during Iran’s ongoing war with the US and Israel.

‘Iran not laying mines, allowed ships from some countries to cross Strait of Hormuz’: Deputy FM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that the Indian government is working to diversify fuel sources and strengthen energy security amid global supply challenges. At the same time, domestic LPG cylinder prices have been hiked due to supply constraints and rising global fuel costs, prompting concern among consumers. 


PM Modi Assures on Diversifying on Fuel Source & Domestic LPG Cylinders Prices Hiked Amid Shortage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday and conveyed his deep concern over the escalating hostilities, damage to civilian infrastructure, and the loss of civilian lives amid the ongoing war in West Asia. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy.The Prime Minister also said that the safety and security of Indian nationals and the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy remain India’s top priority.“Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” Modi said on X.&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>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure. The safety and security of…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2032149596617785442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“The safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. Reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/193-opposition-mps-sign-notice-seeking-removal-of-cec-gyanesh-kumar-from-post-1773334604336">193 opposition MPs sign notice seeking removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar from post</a>&nbsp;The Indian government has been repeatedly stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions in West Asia, following US-Israeli joint strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks on US bases in Gulf countries having the Indian diaspora in considerable numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Nearly 9,000 Indian nationals in Iran’: Govt &nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, the Union government of India informed the Parliament on Thursday that there are nearly 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, businesspersons, factory workers, pilgrims, seafarers, and fishermen, in Iran at present.In a written response to a query in Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita said the Indian Embassy has advised Indian nationals in Iran to exercise utmost caution, maintain situational awareness, monitor local media for any developments, and stay in contact with the embassy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X that the safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday and conveyed his deep concern over the escalating hostilities, damage to civilian infrastructure, and the loss of civilian lives amid the ongoing war in West Asia. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy. The Prime Minister also said that the safety and security of Indian nationals and the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy remain India’s top priority. “Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” Modi said on X. Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X that the safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy.

PM Modi speaks to Iran’s President Pezeshkian, conveys concerns over conflict escalation, loss of lives and safety of Indians

Scenes of chaos unfolded in India’s Parliament as the Petroleum Minister issued an important statement during a heated session in the Lok Sabha. Opposition members raised strong objections, leading to loud protests and disruptions inside the House.

The minister addressed concerns related to fuel supply, global oil tensions, and India’s energy security amid the ongoing geopolitical crisis affecting global oil routes. The statement comes at a time when tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are impacting international oil shipments.

Ruckus In Parliament Over LPG Crisis: How Will India Navigate Through West Asia Conflict?

Iran is reportedly close to finalising a major deal with China to buy supersonic anti‑ship cruise missiles, specifically the CM‑302 export variant of the YJ‑12 missile, as tensions with the United States escalate in the West Asia conflict.


China, Iran Close Deal for YJ-12 Missiles That Can Sink U.S. Warships

The foundation of this conspiracy lies in the devastating February 28 US-Israeli airstrikes. The bombardment on the Supreme Leader's central Tehran compound didn't just kill his father. It also killed Mojtaba’s mother, his wife, one of his sons, and several other family members.

The foundation of this conspiracy lies in the devastating February 28 US-Israeli airstrikes. The bombardment on the Supreme Leader's central Tehran compound didn't just kill his father. It also killed Mojtaba’s mother, his wife, one of his sons, and several other family members.

Is Mojtaba Khamenei also dead? 'Ghost tapes' and zero public appearances spark IRGC propaganda cover up rumours

The Israeli Defence Forces have said that they recently struck an Iranian nuclear facility where the regime worked on “critical capabilities in the development of nuclear weapons.” The site near Tehran, identified by the IDF as the Taleghan compound, was hit during waves of strikes the air force carried out in the area over the past few days, Times of Israel reported on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Israeli Air Force, acting on precise IDF intelligence, struck an additional Iranian nuclear programme site,” the military said, claiming the “Taleghan compound was utilized by the regime to advance critical capabilities for developing nuclear weapons.”&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;<h2>Taleghan compound earlier struck by Israel in October 2024</h2>&nbsp;The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month.The military said it recently detected that Iran had “taken steps to rehabilitate the compound” following those strikes.“The Iranian regime has continued efforts to advance and develop capabilities required for the development of a nuclear weapon,” the IDF said, adding that the recent strike is part of a “series of operations” aimed at “further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-threatens-to-strike-google-microsoft-nvidia-sites-banks-as-economic-infra-becomes-new-war-target-1773256316860">Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target</a>&nbsp;The Institute for Science and International Security, a US-based think tank that monitors Iran’s nuclear programme, recently claimed that Iran conducts covert military activities in the Taleghan compound, a facility in Parchin, southeast of Tehran.&nbsp;<h2>Israel targeted underground nuclear facility in Iran earlier</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this month, the Israeli military had announced that it targeted an underground nuclear facility in Iran where it claimed scientists were “covertly” developing a key component for nuclear weapons.“IDF intelligence continued to follow the scientists’ activities and located their new location at this site in a manner that enabled a precise strike,” the military said, while sharing a map showing the facility on the eastern outskirts of Tehran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-practically-nothing-left-to-target-in-iran-war-will-end-soon-says-trump-1773246460317">‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;Israel and Western powers have long accused Iran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran has kept denying, but it has continued to enrich uranium up to 60% purity, a level considered highly enriched and just below weapons-grade.&nbsp;Israel and the United States launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28 to eliminate “the existential threat” posed by the latter’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.Israeli officials say Iran intensified its pursuit of an atomic weapon after the end of the 12-day war in June 2025, which began with Israeli strikes and included US bombings of three nuclear facilities, including an enrichment plant.

The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month. The IDF said that the recent strike is part of a series of operations aimed at further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.

The Israeli Defence Forces have said that they recently struck an Iranian nuclear facility where the regime worked on “critical capabilities in the development of nuclear weapons.” The site near Tehran, identified by the IDF as the Taleghan compound, was hit during waves of strikes the air force carried out in the area over the past few days, Times of Israel reported on Thursday. “The Israeli Air Force, acting on precise IDF intelligence, struck an additional Iranian nuclear programme site,” the military said, claiming the “Taleghan compound was utilized by the regime to advance critical capabilities for developing nuclear weapons.” Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai Taleghan compound earlier struck by Israel in October 2024 The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month. The military said it recently detected that Iran had “taken steps to rehabilitate the compound” following those strikes. “The Iranian regime has continued efforts to advance and develop capabilities required for the development of a nuclear weapon,” the IDF said, adding that the recent strike is part of a “series of operations” aimed at “further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.” Also Read: Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target The Institute for Science and International Security, a US-based think tank that monitors Iran’s nuclear programme, recently claimed that Iran conducts covert military activities in the Taleghan compound, a facility in Parchin, southeast of Tehran. Israel targeted underground nuclear facility in Iran earlier Earlier this month, the Israeli military had announced that it targeted an underground nuclear facility in Iran where it claimed scientists were “covertly” developing a key component for nuclear weapons. “IDF intelligence continued to follow the scientists’ activities and located their new location at this site in a manner that enabled a precise strike,” the military said, while sharing a map showing the facility on the eastern outskirts of Tehran. Also Read: ‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump Israel and Western powers have long accused Iran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran has kept denying, but it has continued to enrich uranium up to 60% purity, a level considered highly enriched and just below weapons-grade. Israel and the United States launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28 to eliminate “the existential threat” posed by the latter’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Israeli officials say Iran intensified its pursuit of an atomic weapon after the end of the 12-day war in June 2025, which began with Israeli strikes and included US bombings of three nuclear facilities, including an enrichment plant.

The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month. The IDF said that the recent strike is part of a series of operations aimed at further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.

Israel says it struck Taleghan compound, where Iran ‘advanced’ its nuclear programme

Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. This comes as tensions continue to rise in West Asia as the US and Israel continue strikes on Iran, with Tehran targeting multiple American and Israeli targets across the Gulf and several ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.“Homeland or Death! Any aggression against soil of Iranian islands will shatter all restraint,” Ghalibaf wrote on X. "We will abandon all restraint and make the Persian Gulf run with the blood of invaders.The blood of American soldiers is Trump’s personal responsibility.”It was not immediately clear exactly which islands he was referring to. According to an Axios report, citing US officials, capturing Kharg was among the considerations as the Iran war expands in West Asia.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.On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned the United States and Israel that Iran will “abandon all restraint” if its Gulf islands are attacked, as the West Asia war intensifies.

Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. This comes as tensions continue to rise in West Asia as the US and Israel continue strikes on Iran, with Tehran targeting multiple American and Israeli targets across the Gulf and several ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. “Homeland or Death! Any aggression against soil of Iranian islands will shatter all restraint,” Ghalibaf wrote on X. "We will abandon all restraint and make the Persian Gulf run with the blood of invaders. The blood of American soldiers is Trump’s personal responsibility.” It was not immediately clear exactly which islands he was referring to. According to an Axios report, citing US officials, capturing Kharg was among the considerations as the Iran war expands in West Asia. 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. On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime & US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.” 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.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned the United States and Israel that Iran will “abandon all restraint” if its Gulf islands are attacked, as the West Asia war intensifies.

‘Blood of American soldiers...’: Iran issues chilling warning to US, Israel over Persian Gulf islands

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 12) issued a “Fake News Alert”, warning citizens against false information circulating on social media amid the Iran war. This comes amid the widespread fake news on social media amid the conflict that has expanded to West Asia. The MEA cautioned against “false and baseless” claims on social media, urging people to stay alert.“This is Fake News. Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims on social media!” the MEA wrote on X, sharing fake news social media posts.<h2>What did fake news claim?</h2>The MEA debunked fake news on X, claiming that there has been an attack followed by a massive fire on a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi that resulted in the deaths of workers. The posts also alleged that the Indian media is blaming Iran supporters for the incident.In a post on X, a verified account falsely claimed, “A massive fire broke out in a joint India-Israel defense facility in Delhi, resulting in the deaths of several workers from both countries. The Indian media is blaming supporters of Iran in India.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fake News Alert! This is Fake News. Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims on social media! <a href="https://t.co/vtqwmdj4nQ">pic.twitter.com/vtqwmdj4nQ</a>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAFactCheck/status/2031945809949077797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran war expands to West Asia</h2>On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”Following the supreme leader’s death, Iran’s Assembly of Experts has selected Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new Supreme Leader on Sunday (Mar 8), marking the first time the position passed from father to son in the Islamic Republic’s history. However, multiple reports suggested that his selection was forced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and was opposed by several clerics, who reportedly boycotted the meeting where his selection was made.Since the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which began on February 28, Mojtaba has not made an appearance or statement in public. Following speculations that he has been severely injured in the strikes, Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said on Wednesday (Mar 11) that Mojtaba is “safe and sound” despite injuries sustained during the ongoing war.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.

Amid the expanding West Asia conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs warned citizens about viral social media claims of a blaze at a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 12) issued a “Fake News Alert”, warning citizens against false information circulating on social media amid the Iran war. This comes amid the widespread fake news on social media amid the conflict that has expanded to West Asia. The MEA cautioned against “false and baseless” claims on social media, urging people to stay alert. “This is Fake News. Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims on social media!” the MEA wrote on X, sharing fake news social media posts. What did fake news claim? The MEA debunked fake news on X, claiming that there has been an attack followed by a massive fire on a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi that resulted in the deaths of workers. The posts also alleged that the Indian media is blaming Iran supporters for the incident. In a post on X, a verified account falsely claimed, “A massive fire broke out in a joint India-Israel defense facility in Delhi, resulting in the deaths of several workers from both countries. The Indian media is blaming supporters of Iran in India.”

Amid the expanding West Asia conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs warned citizens about viral social media claims of a blaze at a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi.

Was an Indian-Israeli facility in Delhi attacked? Fact-check on viral claim amid Iran war

As the Iran war rages, Dubai has been caught in the crosshairs as Tehran is retaliating with attacks in the Middle East. Visuals showing blazes in posh residential addresses and fragments falling from the air. Iranian drones have been struck near terminals at the airport, disrupting flights. Reports suggest that over 1,400 missiles and drones have been fired at the UAE in recent weeks. However, open social media and influencers living in Dubai will make you believe that all is fine in Dubai. Netizens are now trolling these influencers who are posting similar messages on their pages. TikTok has a viral "I know who protects us" trend going on, and several content creators have jumped onto it. People on social media claim that the UAE government is paying them to show that Dubai is safe. Influencers with hundreds of thousands of followers are posting a picture of Dubai leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum alongside the words, "I know who protects us". They start with the text "are you scared?" and cut to visuals of Al Maktoum waving to the people.<h2>Social media posts on Dubai with similar narratives, influencers issue denial</h2>Netizens are confused to see everyone posting similar messages, and this has led to speculations that they are being paid to post. Social media users have pointed out that all videos under the "I know who protects us" trend look similar, with some going as far as saying that they appear to be sponsored by the government. One particular video has received 7 million views. However, there is nothing to prove the claims. The influencers have categorically denied being paid for making the posts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-creek-harbour-strike-drone-hits-luxury-residential-building-sparking-major-fire-and-evacuations-amid-iran-war-watch-1773280236925">Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war</a><h2>Fire in a high-rise apartment building in Creek Harbour, Dubai</h2>People have pointed out that earlier photos and videos of Iranian drone and missile attacks have been removed and replaced by posts praising the regime. Reports suggest that content creators have been told not to share any information that triggers panic and to avoid mentioning the war. Notably, in the early days of the conflict, videos of a drone strike on the Palm Jumeirah were splashed across social media. The Dubai Media Office later claimed that they were "outdated images of past fire incidents" in Dubai. However, on Wednesday, a high-rise building in Dubai's Creek Harbour was hit by a drone set ablaze. Dubai's media office confirmed in an X post that authorities were “responding to an incident involving a drone that fell on a building in the vicinity of Dubai Creek Harbor.”&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;

Social media users are pointing out that videos by influencers in Dubai praising the government amid the Iran war look the same. The content creators have denied that they were paid for the posts. They have mentioned the "I know who protects us" trend in particular. 

As the Iran war rages, Dubai has been caught in the crosshairs as Tehran is retaliating with attacks in the Middle East. Visuals showing blazes in posh residential addresses and fragments falling from the air. Iranian drones have been struck near terminals at the airport, disrupting flights. Reports suggest that over 1,400 missiles and drones have been fired at the UAE in recent weeks. However, open social media and influencers living in Dubai will make you believe that all is fine in Dubai. Netizens are now trolling these influencers who are posting similar messages on their pages. TikTok has a viral "I know who protects us" trend going on, and several content creators have jumped onto it. People on social media claim that the UAE government is paying them to show that Dubai is safe. Influencers with hundreds of thousands of followers are posting a picture of Dubai leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum alongside the words, "I know who protects us". They start with the text "are you scared?" and cut to visuals of Al Maktoum waving to the people. Social media posts on Dubai with similar narratives, influencers issue denial Netizens are confused to see everyone posting similar messages, and this has led to speculations that they are being paid to post. Social media users have pointed out that all videos under the "I know who protects us" trend look similar, with some going as far as saying that they appear to be sponsored by the government. One particular video has received 7 million views. However, there is nothing to prove the claims. The influencers have categorically denied being paid for making the posts. Also Read: Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war Fire in a high-rise apartment building in Creek Harbour, Dubai People have pointed out that earlier photos and videos of Iranian drone and missile attacks have been removed and replaced by posts praising the regime. Reports suggest that content creators have been told not to share any information that triggers panic and to avoid mentioning the war. Notably, in the early days of the conflict, videos of a drone strike on the Palm Jumeirah were splashed across social media. The Dubai Media Office later claimed that they were "outdated images of past fire incidents" in Dubai. However, on Wednesday, a high-rise building in Dubai's Creek Harbour was hit by a drone set ablaze. Dubai's media office confirmed in an X post that authorities were “responding to an incident involving a drone that fell on a building in the vicinity of Dubai Creek Harbor.” 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.

Social media users are pointing out that videos by influencers in Dubai praising the government amid the Iran war look the same. The content creators have denied that they were paid for the posts. They have mentioned the "I know who protects us" trend in particular.&nbsp;

Netizens creeped out to see similar posts from Dubai influencers amid Iran war: 'Are you scared?

The Iran war has led to one of the worst oil shocks since the 1970s. Oil prices on Thursday rose sharply after three more cargo vessels were hit in the Gulf by Iranian forces. Crude oil in Asian trading was $100 ($74.79) a barrel before the price eased marginally to settle at about $97.50 in the afternoon.&nbsp;This comes despite the International Energy Agency saying on Wednesday that it will release a record 400 million barrels of oil in an effort to curb the rising price and it impact on the world economy.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for energy shipments is temporarily closed in the wake that they could be attacked.&nbsp;ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-is-a-tough-here-s-what-trump-said-on-tehran-s-resistance-in-the-ongoing-war-1773301153518"> Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance in the ongoing war</a>&nbsp;On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them.<h2>Oil prices could rise up to $200 per barrel</h2>&nbsp;An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson on Wednesday said that any vessel linked to the US, Israel or their allies will be targeted and that oil prices could hit &nbsp;$200 per barrel."You will not be able to artificially lower the price of oil. Expect oil at $200 per barrel," he said and added, "The price of oil depends on regional security, and you are the main source of insecurity in the region."<h2>“Severely weakened Iran's military capabilities”</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the 11-day-war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities.&nbsp;"Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," said while addressing a gathering in Kentucky.&nbsp;"Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further said.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Irans Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them.

The Iran war has led to one of the worst oil shocks since the 1970s. Oil prices on Thursday rose sharply after three more cargo vessels were hit in the Gulf by Iranian forces. Crude oil in Asian trading was $100 ($74.79) a barrel before the price eased marginally to settle at about $97.50 in the afternoon. This comes despite the International Energy Agency saying on Wednesday that it will release a record 400 million barrels of oil in an effort to curb the rising price and it impact on the world economy. The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for energy shipments is temporarily closed in the wake that they could be attacked. ALSO READ: Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance in the ongoing war On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them. Oil prices could rise up to $200 per barrel An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson on Wednesday said that any vessel linked to the US, Israel or their allies will be targeted and that oil prices could hit $200 per barrel. "You will not be able to artificially lower the price of oil. Expect oil at $200 per barrel," he said and added, "The price of oil depends on regional security, and you are the main source of insecurity in the region." “Severely weakened Iran's military capabilities” Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the 11-day-war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. "Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," said while addressing a gathering in Kentucky. "Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further said.

On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them.

Oil prices hit $100 per barrel after Iran attacks three more cargo vessels

Viral social media reports claiming that an Israeli missile strike destroyed the North Korean embassy in Tehran on Wednesday (Mar 11) are false. Despite widespread rumours on X and Instagram suggesting Kim Jong Un issued a "huge mistake" warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, there is no evidence of such an attack. Social media reports claim that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued an ominous warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's nation, saying, "Israel made a huge mistake". The reports are going viral on social media sites like X and Instagram, with a huge number of re-shares. But, how true are the claims? Here's all you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-creek-harbour-strike-drone-hits-luxury-residential-building-sparking-major-fire-and-evacuations-amid-iran-war-watch-1773280236925">Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war — Watch</a><h2>Israel's 'huge mistake': Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Iran?</h2>According to reports, North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un has slammed Israel, saying that the nation made a "huge mistake" by targeting his country's embassy in Iran. The reports come as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-how-much-iran-war-cost-us-in-first-week-pentagon-reveals-shocking-number-1773284909499">United States</a>, Israel, and Iran continue to be engaged in a war for the 13th day.While Tehran has attacked multiple nations, including its neighbours, during the course of the Iran war, there are no official reports that can back the claims of the North Korean embassy in Iran coming under attack.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>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: 🇮🇷🇰🇵🇮🇱 “Israel made Huge Mistake” — Israeli missiles ‘accidentally’ hits North Korean embassy in Tehran. Kim Joung Un is closely monitoring the situation of US-Israel—Iran war. <a href="https://t.co/R2jYbUYxtk">pic.twitter.com/R2jYbUYxtk</a>&mdash; Dr. Moyi (@UK_Moyi) <a href="https://twitter.com/UK_Moyi/status/2031153459982983445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Did North Korea slam Israel?</h2>Yes, but not for the purported strike on its embassy in Iran or elsewhere. North Korea has condemned the US-Israeli strikes on Iran as "illegal aggression" while expressing its support for Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's newly elected Supreme Leader. Mojtaba Khamenei's accession to the Supreme Leader post comes after the assassination of the previous Supreme Leader, and his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei."Regarding the recent official announcement that the Iranian Assembly of Experts has elected a new leader of the Islamic Revolution, we respect the right and choice of the Iranian people to elect their Supreme Leader," said North Korea's foreign ministry as per a report by state media KCNA."We express grave concern and strongly condemn the aggression of the United States and Israel, which, by launching an unlawful military attack against Iran, are undermining the foundations of regional peace and security and increasing instability in the international landscape," added the statement. &nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Did Israel destroy North Korea’s embassy in Tehran?

Viral posts claim Kim Jong Un warned Israel after an alleged strike on Pyongyang’s embassy in Iran. But is there any proof that the embassy was actually hit? Scroll down to find out what’s real and what’s fake.

Viral social media reports claiming that an Israeli missile strike destroyed the North Korean embassy in Tehran on Wednesday (Mar 11) are false. Despite widespread rumours on X and Instagram suggesting Kim Jong Un issued a "huge mistake" warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, there is no evidence of such an attack. Social media reports claim that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued an ominous warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's nation, saying, "Israel made a huge mistake". The reports are going viral on social media sites like X and Instagram, with a huge number of re-shares. But, how true are the claims? Here's all you need to know. Also read | Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war — Watch Israel's 'huge mistake': Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Iran? According to reports, North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un has slammed Israel, saying that the nation made a "huge mistake" by targeting his country's embassy in Iran. The reports come as the United States, Israel, and Iran continue to be engaged in a war for the 13th day. While Tehran has attacked multiple nations, including its neighbours, during the course of the Iran war, there are no official reports that can back the claims of the North Korean embassy in Iran coming under attack. Also read | 'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike

Did Israel destroy North Korea’s embassy in Tehran?Viral posts claim Kim Jong Un warned Israel after an alleged strike on Pyongyang’s embassy in Iran. But is there any proof that the embassy was actually hit? Scroll down to find out what’s real and what’s fake.

Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) once again threatened to cut trade with Spain over its stance on the Iran war. He accused Madrid of failing to cooperate with NATO after the Spanish government refused to allow the US military to use its jointly operated bases in the country for strikes against the Islamic Republic. This comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez distanced his administration from the conflict in the Middle East, saying that his government’s position could be summed up in three words: “No to war.”Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump said, “I think they're not cooperating at all. Spain. I think they've been very bad, very bad, not good at all. We may cut off trade with Spain.” He added,“They’ve been very bad to NATO,” Trump said, adding that Madrid gets “protected” but “they don’t want to pay their fair share, and they’ve been that way for many years.” This comes as the Iran war expands in West Asia after the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 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.On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”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.

Donald Trump threatens to cut trade with Spain after Pedro Sanchez refused US use of Spanish bases for strikes on Iran amid the widening war.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) once again threatened to cut trade with Spain over its stance on the Iran war. He accused Madrid of failing to cooperate with NATO after the Spanish government refused to allow the US military to use its jointly operated bases in the country for strikes against the Islamic Republic. This comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez distanced his administration from the conflict in the Middle East, saying that his government’s position could be summed up in three words: “No to war.” Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump said, “I think they're not cooperating at all. Spain. I think they've been very bad, very bad, not good at all. We may cut off trade with Spain.” He added, “They’ve been very bad to NATO,” Trump said, adding that Madrid gets “protected” but “they don’t want to pay their fair share, and they’ve been that way for many years.” This comes as the Iran war expands in West Asia after the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 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. On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime & US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.” 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.

Donald Trump threatens to cut trade with Spain after Pedro Sanchez refused US use of Spanish bases for strikes on Iran amid the widening war.

‘They’ve been very bad...’: Trump warns Spain of cutting trade ties over Iran war stance

US President Donald Trump while speaking in Kentucky on Wednesday claimed that the ongoing war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. He also said that US armed forces had "virtually destroyed" key elements of the country's defence infrastructure and that Tehran "no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment."&nbsp;But what caught everybody's attention is his surprise admission that Iran is a "tough country", but its core military systems had been "virtually destroyed".&nbsp;"Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," Trump said.&nbsp;"Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further added.&nbsp;<h2>Number of US troops wounded is far higher</h2>&nbsp;Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-china-slams-report-of-missile-deal-with-tehran-what-is-the-cm-302-anti-ship-cruise-missile-1773294745692">Iran war: China slams report of missile deal with Tehran. What is the CM-302 anti-ship cruise missile?</a>&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;

Tehrans resistance according to Trump has been unexpected. Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.

US President Donald Trump while speaking in Kentucky on Wednesday claimed that the ongoing war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. He also said that US armed forces had "virtually destroyed" key elements of the country's defence infrastructure and that Tehran "no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment." But what caught everybody's attention is his surprise admission that Iran is a "tough country", but its core military systems had been "virtually destroyed". "Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," Trump said. "Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further added. Number of US troops wounded is far higher Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested. ALSO READ: Iran war: China slams report of missile deal with Tehran. What is the CM-302 anti-ship cruise missile? 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.

Tehran's resistance according to Trump has been unexpected. Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.

Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance in the ongoing war

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on Thursday (Mar 12) said that an Italian base in the Iraqi Kurdish city of Erbil was “attacked” amid the ongoing war in West Asia. He added that all their soldiers were “well and safe” and took shelter in the bunker. No injuries were reported.“I strongly condemn the attack on the Italian base in Erbil,” Tajani said on X, without giving details. “I just spoke with the Italian ambassador to Iraq. Fortunately, all our soldiers are well and safe in the bunker,” he said.&nbsp;Italy has soldiers in Erbil training the Kurdistan security forces as part of an international coalition force.AFP reported, citing a Kurdish security source, that drones were intercepted on Wednesday (Mar 11) over Erbil by the US-led international forces, which are based at Erbil airport. No casualties were reported. Blasts were reported near the airport as air defences engaged drones.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.On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognizing Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”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.

Italy said its military base in Erbil, Iraq, was attacked amid the West Asia war. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed no injuries, adding that all Italian soldiers were safe after taking shelter in bunkers.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on Thursday (Mar 12) said that an Italian base in the Iraqi Kurdish city of Erbil was “attacked” amid the ongoing war in West Asia. He added that all their soldiers were “well and safe” and took shelter in the bunker. No injuries were reported. “I strongly condemn the attack on the Italian base in Erbil,” Tajani said on X, without giving details. “I just spoke with the Italian ambassador to Iraq. Fortunately, all our soldiers are well and safe in the bunker,” he said. Italy has soldiers in Erbil training the Kurdistan security forces as part of an international coalition force. AFP reported, citing a Kurdish security source, that drones were intercepted on Wednesday (Mar 11) over Erbil by the US-led international forces, which are based at Erbil airport. No casualties were reported. Blasts were reported near the airport as air defences engaged drones. 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. On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime & US—is recognizing Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.” 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.

Italy said its military base in Erbil, Iraq, was attacked amid the West Asia war. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed no injuries, adding that all Italian soldiers were safe after taking shelter in bunkers.

Italian base in Iraqi Kurdistan attacked as Iran war expands in West Asia

Pete Hegseth's team banned photographers from attending Pentagon briefings after they took some "unflattering" pictures of the Defense Secretary, according to American media reports. The Washington Post quoted sources as saying that his staff was not happy with the pictures they took of him during the hearing on March 2. It was the first briefing by Hegseth in eight months. But the photographers from news agencies like Reuters, Getty Images and the Associated Press were not allowed to attend the March 4 and March 10 briefings. It is not known which pictures they apparently objected to. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has dismissed all claims that they were not permitted in the briefings because of some pictures. Hegseth's staff says they were denied entry due to limited space. "In order to use space in the Pentagon Briefing Room effectively, we are allowing one representative per news outlet if uncredentialed, excluding pool," spokeswoman Kingsley Wilson said.&nbsp;He added that if it doesn't work out for some media houses, they should apply for "a Pentagon press credential." Notably, the Pentagon required all media houses to sign a new contract last year, but most of them refused due to the strict terms. However, since the Iran war broke out, arrangements have been made to allow some journalists to attend the briefings. The March 2 briefing by Hegseth and General Dan Caine was initially intended as a "Pentagon new media" affair, but to secure TV airtime, media outlets were allowed inside. But the photos the journalists took left the staff angry, which led them to block them out.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pentagon-was-told-to-use-or-lose-leftover-93bn-it-lavished-it-on-lobsters-steaks-ipads-and-some-weird-items-1773213350232">Pentagon was on a deadline. It had to use or lose $93bn. So it bought lobsters, crabs and a lot more</a><h2>White House calls blockade due to bad photos fake news</h2>WaPo also said that White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly refused to comment when asked if the photographer blackout was because of the pictures of Hegseth. But Kelly termed it "fake news", adding that "He just didn't like my comment because it exposes how little the Washington Post cares about access for photographers…" &nbsp;&nbsp;In October last year, under a new government policy, the press was largely banned from reporting some sensitive information and was told to show Pentagon officials a story before publishing. This angered the journalists who staged a walkout. The New York Times and journalist Julian Barnes sued the government, claiming a violation of First Amendment.

Pete Hegseth briefed the media on the situation in Iran on March 2. However, the bigger issue to come out of it was not what the US was doing and the future course of the military action, but the bad photos apparently taken by the journalists. 

Pete Hegseth's team banned photographers from attending Pentagon briefings after they took some "unflattering" pictures of the Defense Secretary, according to American media reports. The Washington Post quoted sources as saying that his staff was not happy with the pictures they took of him during the hearing on March 2. It was the first briefing by Hegseth in eight months. But the photographers from news agencies like Reuters, Getty Images and the Associated Press were not allowed to attend the March 4 and March 10 briefings. It is not known which pictures they apparently objected to. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has dismissed all claims that they were not permitted in the briefings because of some pictures. Hegseth's staff says they were denied entry due to limited space. "In order to use space in the Pentagon Briefing Room effectively, we are allowing one representative per news outlet if uncredentialed, excluding pool," spokeswoman Kingsley Wilson said. He added that if it doesn't work out for some media houses, they should apply for "a Pentagon press credential." Notably, the Pentagon required all media houses to sign a new contract last year, but most of them refused due to the strict terms. However, since the Iran war broke out, arrangements have been made to allow some journalists to attend the briefings. The March 2 briefing by Hegseth and General Dan Caine was initially intended as a "Pentagon new media" affair, but to secure TV airtime, media outlets were allowed inside. But the photos the journalists took left the staff angry, which led them to block them out. Also Read: Pentagon was on a deadline. It had to use or lose $93bn. So it bought lobsters, crabs and a lot more White House calls blockade due to bad photos fake news WaPo also said that White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly refused to comment when asked if the photographer blackout was because of the pictures of Hegseth. But Kelly termed it "fake news", adding that "He just didn't like my comment because it exposes how little the Washington Post cares about access for photographers…" In October last year, under a new government policy, the press was largely banned from reporting some sensitive information and was told to show Pentagon officials a story before publishing. This angered the journalists who staged a walkout. The New York Times and journalist Julian Barnes sued the government, claiming a violation of First Amendment.

Pete Hegseth briefed the media on the situation in Iran on March 2. However, the bigger issue to come out of it was not what the US was doing and the future course of the military action, but the bad photos apparently taken by the journalists.&nbsp;

Pete Hegseth briefed media on the burning Iran situation. His 'bad photos' made news

Amid the ongoing war with United States and Israel, Iran was reportedly on the verge of nearing a deal with China to purchase anti-ship cruise missiles. It was reported that the Chinese-made CM-302 missiles is near completion, though no delivery date was fixed for the delivery. However, the claims have now been denied by China.&nbsp;On Monday (March 9) &nbsp;Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, "The report is not true. As a responsible major country, China always abides by its international obligations. China opposes ill-intentioned association and the spread of disinformation, and hopes relevant sides will choose the course of action conducive to de-escalating the tense situation."&nbsp;China during the 1980s was one of the largest arms supplier of Iran but that slowly dwindled due to international pressure.<h2>About CM-302 Missiles</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>The CM-302 anti-ship cruise missiles has a distance of 290 kilometres</li><li>Its ability to fly low and fast helps it to evade shipborne defences</li><li>According to defence analysts, these missiles are very difficult to intercept</li><li>If the deal went through it would have been among the most advanced military hardware to be transferred to Iran by China</li><li>The deal would defy a United Nations weapons embargo that was first imposed in 2006</li></ul><h2>“Severely weakened Iran's military capabilities”</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the 11-day-war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities.&nbsp;"Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," said while addressing a gathering in Kentucky.&nbsp;"Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further said. &nbsp;

If the anti-ship cruise missile deal went through it would have been among the most advanced military hardware to be transferred to Iran by China.

Amid the ongoing war with United States and Israel, Iran was reportedly on the verge of nearing a deal with China to purchase anti-ship cruise missiles. It was reported that the Chinese-made CM-302 missiles is near completion, though no delivery date was fixed for the delivery. However, the claims have now been denied by China. On Monday (March 9) Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, "The report is not true. As a responsible major country, China always abides by its international obligations. China opposes ill-intentioned association and the spread of disinformation, and hopes relevant sides will choose the course of action conducive to de-escalating the tense situation." China during the 1980s was one of the largest arms supplier of Iran but that slowly dwindled due to international pressure. About CM-302 Missiles The CM-302 anti-ship cruise missiles has a distance of 290 kilometres Its ability to fly low and fast helps it to evade shipborne defences According to defence analysts, these missiles are very difficult to intercept If the deal went through it would have been among the most advanced military hardware to be transferred to Iran by China The deal would defy a United Nations weapons embargo that was first imposed in 2006 “Severely weakened Iran's military capabilities” Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the 11-day-war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. "Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," said while addressing a gathering in Kentucky. "Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further said.

If the anti-ship cruise missile deal went through it would have been among the most advanced military hardware to be transferred to Iran by China.

Iran war: China slams report of missile deal with Tehran. What is the CM-302 anti-ship cruise missile?

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution demanding that Iran immediately halt attacks on Gulf states, calling the strikes a breach of international law. The resolution, led by Bahrain and co-sponsored by India, was adopted with 13 votes in favour and two abstentions.

The council urged Tehran to cease hostilities against countries in the Persian Gulf, warning that continued escalation could threaten regional stability and global energy security.

UN Security Council Condemns Iran Strikes On Gulf States, Demands Immediate Halt 

For the first time since the beginning of the war on Feb 28, Iran has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a post on X, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12), after speaking to leaders of Russia and Pakistan, said that the war will only end after three conditions will be met - namely - recognition of Islamic Republic's legitimate rights, payment of reparations and firm international guarantees against future aggression. This comes after US President Donald Trump called Iran a “tough country” and declared victory in the war but provided no evidence of the claims. The statement by Pezeshkian is also a first as several Iranian diplomats including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, saying that Iran was betrayed as the attack came in the middle of nuclear negotiations with the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-govt-won-t-leave-indians-stranded-says-pm-modi-slams-congress-for-politicising-iran-war-1773224945175">‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260312/image-1773290728527.png"></figure>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-aggressive-action-and-crimes-by-us-israel-what-iran-fm-araghchi-told-india-s-jaishankar-in-phone-call-amid-war-1773203421596">'Aggressive action and crimes by US, Israel...': What Iran FM Araghchi told</a><h2>Trump claims victory in the war?</h2>Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed that the US has “won” the war, saying Tehran “didn’t expect anything like this.” This came after Trump claimed that the war with Iran is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In an interview with CBS News, Trump said that the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. He also went on to claim that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." However, in a speech to House Republicans in Florida, hours after his TV interview, Trump said that “We’ve already won in many ways, but we haven’t won enough. We go forward more determined than ever to achieve ultimate victory…"&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">Read more about Trump's conflicting statements HERE</a>&nbsp;Trump administration has been giving conflicting statements about the war and Trump seems to be not knowing the endgame of the war. While his team asserted that the war has just began, he said that the decision to end the war will be taken “mutually” with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Meanwhile, US Democratic Senator Chris Murphy claimed that he attended a two-hour briefing on the Iran War by Trump administration and went on to say that “Trump can't defend this war in public.” He stated that the Trump administration, including the US president himself say that primary focus of the war is not regime change or dismantling of nuclear weapons program.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.&nbsp;

Iran has outlined three conditions to end the war—recognition of its legitimate rights, payment of reparations and international guarantees against future attacks. President Masoud Pezeshkian announced the demands amid US claims of victory in the conflict.

For the first time since the beginning of the war on Feb 28, Iran has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a post on X, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12), after speaking to leaders of Russia and Pakistan, said that the war will only end after three conditions will be met - namely - recognition of Islamic Republic's legitimate rights, payment of reparations and firm international guarantees against future aggression. This comes after US President Donald Trump called Iran a “tough country” and declared victory in the war but provided no evidence of the claims. The statement by Pezeshkian is also a first as several Iranian diplomats including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, saying that Iran was betrayed as the attack came in the middle of nuclear negotiations with the US. Also Read: ‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi Also Read: 'Aggressive action and crimes by US, Israel...': What Iran FM Araghchi told Trump claims victory in the war? Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed that the US has “won” the war, saying Tehran “didn’t expect anything like this.” This came after Trump claimed that the war with Iran is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In an interview with CBS News, Trump said that the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. He also went on to claim that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." However, in a speech to House Republicans in Florida, hours after his TV interview, Trump said that “We’ve already won in many ways, but we haven’t won enough. We go forward more determined than ever to achieve ultimate victory…" Read more about Trump's conflicting statements HERE Trump administration has been giving conflicting statements about the war and Trump seems to be not knowing the endgame of the war. While his team asserted that the war has just began, he said that the decision to end the war will be taken “mutually” with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Meanwhile, US Democratic Senator Chris Murphy claimed that he attended a two-hour briefing on the Iran War by Trump administration and went on to say that “Trump can't defend this war in public.” He stated that the Trump administration, including the US president himself say that primary focus of the war is not regime change or dismantling of nuclear weapons program. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran has outlined three conditions to end the war—recognition of its legitimate rights, payment of reparations and international guarantees against future attacks. President Masoud Pezeshkian announced the demands amid US claims of victory in the conflict.

Iran sets three conditions to end war even as Trump declared 'US has won' — What are these and will the conflict end soon?

As the war continues in West Asia, the United States Central Command on Wednesday (Mar 11) said that Iran is “losing air capability” against the US forces. It added that the American military is not just defending against Iranian threats but is “methodically dismantling them.”“The Iranian regime is losing air capability day by day. US forces aren’t just defending against Iranian threats, we are methodically dismantling them,” CENTCOM said on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Iranian regime is losing air capability day by day. U.S. forces aren’t just defending against Iranian threats, we are methodically dismantling them. <a href="https://t.co/CrJj2nFtHB">pic.twitter.com/CrJj2nFtHB</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2031884186231926928?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.On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognizing Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”Following the supreme leader’s death, Iran’s Assembly of Experts has selected Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new Supreme Leader on Sunday (Mar 8), marking the first time the position passed from father to son in the Islamic Republic’s history. However, multiple reports suggested that his selection was forced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and was opposed by several clerics, who reportedly boycotted the meeting where his selection was made.Since the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which began on February 28, Mojtaba has not made an appearance or statement in public. Following speculations that he has been severely injured in the strikes, Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said on Wednesday (Mar 11) that Mojtaba is “safe and sound” despite injuries sustained during the ongoing war.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.

CENTCOM said Iran is “losing air capability” as US forces continue operations in the West Asia conflict. The command stated that American troops are not only defending but also systematically dismantling Iranian threats.

As the war continues in West Asia, the United States Central Command on Wednesday (Mar 11) said that Iran is “losing air capability” against the US forces. It added that the American military is not just defending against Iranian threats but is “methodically dismantling them.” “The Iranian regime is losing air capability day by day. US forces aren’t just defending against Iranian threats, we are methodically dismantling them,” CENTCOM said on X.

CENTCOM said Iran is “losing air capability” as US forces continue operations in the West Asia conflict. The command stated that American troops are not only defending but also systematically dismantling Iranian threats.

‘Methodically dismantling them’: US CENTCOM claims Iran ‘losing air capability’ amid West Asia war – WATCH

The Pentagon, in a briefing earlier this week, revealed a shocking estimate of what President Donald Trump's war on Iran is costing the United States. According to reports, America spent at least US $11.3 billion over the first week of the war that started on February 28, with the US and Israel launching "pre-emptive" strikes against Iran under Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar, respectively. The latest US war spending figure comes after it was reported that the US had spent $5 billion on munitions alone over the first weekend of the war in West Asia.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-creek-harbour-strike-drone-hits-luxury-residential-building-sparking-major-fire-and-evacuations-amid-iran-war-watch-1773280236925">Dubai Creek Harbour: High-rise ablaze after drone strike amid Iran war — Video</a><h2>Operation Epic Fury cost: $11.3 billion in one week</h2>The 11.3 billion figure, as per an AP News report citing a person familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity, was provided to ​lawmakers&nbsp;during a closed-door briefing. Notably, the figure did not include the entire cost of the war, and was only given as US lawmakers clamoured for more information about the conflict that on Thursday (Mar 12) entered its 13th day. 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><h2>White House to ask Congress for additional funds for the Iran war?</h2>Citing congressional aides, Reuters reports that the White House is expected to soon submit a request ​to Congress for additional funding for the war. Senior Trump administration officials had previously indicated that a supplemental funding request could be made soon. Some officials have reportedly said the request ​could be for $50 billion, while others have said that estimate seems low. &nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation, and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

How much is Donald Trump’s war on Iran costing the United States?

A Pentagon briefing suggests the US spent $11.3 billion in just the first week of Operation Epic Fury, including billions on munitions alone. What exactly is driving these staggering war costs? Scroll down to find out.

The Pentagon, in a briefing earlier this week, revealed a shocking estimate of what President Donald Trump's war on Iran is costing the United States. According to reports, America spent at least US $11.3 billion over the first week of the war that started on February 28, with the US and Israel launching "pre-emptive" strikes against Iran under Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar, respectively. The latest US war spending figure comes after it was reported that the US had spent $5 billion on munitions alone over the first weekend of the war in West Asia. Also read | Dubai Creek Harbour: High-rise ablaze after drone strike amid Iran war — Video Operation Epic Fury cost: $11.3 billion in one week The 11.3 billion figure, as per an AP News report citing a person familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity, was provided to lawmakers during a closed-door briefing. Notably, the figure did not include the entire cost of the war, and was only given as US lawmakers clamoured for more information about the conflict that on Thursday (Mar 12) entered its 13th day. Also read | 'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike White House to ask Congress for additional funds for the Iran war? Citing congressional aides, Reuters reports that the White House is expected to soon submit a request to Congress for additional funding for the war. Senior Trump administration officials had previously indicated that a supplemental funding request could be made soon. Some officials have reportedly said the request could be for $50 billion, while others have said that estimate seems low. 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.

How much is Donald Trump’s war on Iran costing the United States?A Pentagon briefing suggests the US spent $11.3 billion in just the first week of Operation Epic Fury, including billions on munitions alone. What exactly is driving these staggering war costs? Scroll down to find out.

THIS is how much Iran war cost US in first week: Pentagon reveals shocking number

Dubai's Creek Harbour neighbourhood on Wednesday (Mar 11) suffered a drone attack, which caused a fire in a high-rise residential building there. Dramatic videos shared on social media platforms, including X, show the blaze. The incident was confirmed by the Dubai Media Office, which said evacuations were carried out to ensure the safety of people in the building. The drone is believed to be of Iranian origin. Amid the war in West Asia, Dubai is one of the Gulf nations that Iran's forces have targeted in their retaliatory attacks after the United States and Israel started a war with their "pre-emptive" strikes under Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar.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 that killed 1</a><h2>Attack in Dubai</h2>On X, Dubai's media office confirmed that authorities were “responding to an incident involving a drone that fell on a building in the vicinity of Dubai Creek Harbor.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">فرق الدفاع المدني تسيطر على حريق محدود في المبنى ولم يتم تسجيل إصابات حتى الآن. <a href="https://t.co/zUsatsOQ6M">pic.twitter.com/zUsatsOQ6M</a>&mdash; Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DXBMediaOffice/status/2031871412521374063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Videos of the burning building are being widely shared on social media and are going viral. Watch here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">⚡️Scenes from Dubai tonight after a drone attack <a href="https://t.co/gHHJUqjKGJ">pic.twitter.com/gHHJUqjKGJ</a>&mdash; The Global Monitor (@theglobal4u) <a href="https://twitter.com/theglobal4u/status/2031863674705756670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Creek Harbor is a posh neighbourhood in Dubai. It features apartments, penthouses, and luxury hotels like the Vida Creek Harbor, Address Harbor Point, and Palace Residences, among others. In addition to the drone attack on Creek Harbor, a fire was reported at Jumeirah Palm, and the Dubai airport also sustained damage.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-creek-harbour-strike-drone-hits-luxury-residential-building-sparking-major-fire-and-evacuations-amid-iran-war-watch-1773280236925">Dubai Creek Harbour: High-rise ablaze after drone strike amid Iran war — Video</a><h2>UNSC condemns Iran's attacks on neighbours</h2>The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday (March 11) adopted a resolution urging Iran to stop its attacks on Gulf nations, but the text avoided mentioning recent US or Israeli strikes on Iran, which drew sharp criticism from Tehran.The resolution passed with 13 votes in favour, while veto-holding members China and Russia abstained. It “demands the immediate cessation of all attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran against Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan.” The measure also “condemns any actions or threats by the Islamic Republic of Iran aimed at closing, obstructing, or otherwise interfering with international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.”&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.

A luxury residential high-rise in the Dubai Creek Harbour district was struck by a drone on Wednesday (Mar 11), sparking a blaze that triggered emergency evacuations across the waterfront neighbourhood. Scroll down for video and more.

Dubai's Creek Harbour neighbourhood on Wednesday (Mar 11) suffered a drone attack, which caused a fire in a high-rise residential building there. Dramatic videos shared on social media platforms, including X, show the blaze. The incident was confirmed by the Dubai Media Office, which said evacuations were carried out to ensure the safety of people in the building. The drone is believed to be of Iranian origin. Amid the war in West Asia, Dubai is one of the Gulf nations that Iran's forces have targeted in their retaliatory attacks after the United States and Israel started a war with their "pre-emptive" strikes under Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar. Also read | Iran claims responsibility for twin oil tanker blasts near Iraq that killed 1 Attack in Dubai On X, Dubai's media office confirmed that authorities were “responding to an incident involving a drone that fell on a building in the vicinity of Dubai Creek Harbor.”

A luxury residential high-rise in the Dubai Creek Harbour district was struck by a drone on Wednesday (Mar 11), sparking a blaze that triggered emergency evacuations across the waterfront neighbourhood. Scroll down for video and more.

Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war — Watch

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

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

<h2>At least one crew member killed, many remain missing</h2>Farhan Al-Fartousi of Iraq's General Company for Ports told state television that one crew member was killed in the attack. 38 people have been rescued, but many remain missing, with the search continuing for any survivors. The nationality of the deceased crew member is yet to be revealed.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-cannibal-khamenei-s-x-account-posts-ghastly-trump-cartoon-after-potus-floats-twisted-tomahawk-theory-on-minab-school-strike-1773194272348">'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike</a>He also revealed that one of the ships was registered under a Maltese flag. The other one, as per reports, may belong to the United States. Speaking to the national news agency INA, the Iraqi government's cell stated that the "two tankers were subject to sabotage."&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. &nbsp;

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

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

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

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

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (March 11) that the United States had already won the war with Iran, though he did not present clear evidence to support the claim. “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,” the president said. Trump’s description of the conflict’s timeline has shifted in recent days. At different points, he has suggested the war was ahead of schedule, could take four to six weeks, or had effectively already been won but still required further action. He has also referred to the strikes as both a war and a “short excursion.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-hezbollah-fires-100-rockets-toward-northern-israel-as-tel-aviv-carries-out-strike-in-lebanon-1773261979579">WATCH | Hezbollah fires 100 rockets toward northern Israel as Tel Aviv carries out strike in Lebanon</a><h2>Trump explains how the name ‘Operation Epic Fury’ was selected</h2>During a speech in Kentucky, Trump also explained how he selected the name Operation Epic Fury for the campaign.“They gave me, like, 20 names. And I’m like, falling asleep. I didn’t like any of them. Then I see Epic Fury. I said, ‘I like that name," the president said.&nbsp;<h2>Trump turns to oil reserves in bid to cool energy price surge</h2>Trump also highlighted an agreement among members of the International Energy Agency to release large quantities of stored oil to ease pressure on global energy markets. The deal would release an additional 400 million barrels of oil, a move Trump said would help stabilize prices during the conflict. “The pact by the International Energy Agency’s member countries to pump an extra 400 million barrels into the market will substantially reduce the oil prices as we end this threat to America and this threat to the world,” Trump said during the Kentucky speech.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-war-will-end-anytime-i-want-as-he-claims-nothing-left-to-target-wion-1773256482710/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-war-will-end-anytime-i-want-as-he-claims-nothing-left-to-target-wion-1773256482710/embed</a>&nbsp;In a separate interview with a local news outlet, Trump said the US could also draw from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to manage supply disruptions following a halt in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The White House did not immediately respond to questions about whether the reserve release would be part of the IEA agreement or handled through a separate action.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Donald Trump claims early victory in Iran conflict, touts global oil reserve release to stabilise prices as uncertainty remains over war’s timeline

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (March 11) that the United States had already won the war with Iran, though he did not present clear evidence to support the claim. “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,” the president said. Trump’s description of the conflict’s timeline has shifted in recent days. At different points, he has suggested the war was ahead of schedule, could take four to six weeks, or had effectively already been won but still required further action. He has also referred to the strikes as both a war and a “short excursion.” Also Read: WATCH | Hezbollah fires 100 rockets toward northern Israel as Tel Aviv carries out strike in Lebanon Trump explains how the name ‘Operation Epic Fury’ was selected During a speech in Kentucky, Trump also explained how he selected the name Operation Epic Fury for the campaign. “They gave me, like, 20 names. And I’m like, falling asleep. I didn’t like any of them. Then I see Epic Fury. I said, ‘I like that name," the president said. Trump turns to oil reserves in bid to cool energy price surge Trump also highlighted an agreement among members of the International Energy Agency to release large quantities of stored oil to ease pressure on global energy markets. The deal would release an additional 400 million barrels of oil, a move Trump said would help stabilize prices during the conflict. “The pact by the International Energy Agency’s member countries to pump an extra 400 million barrels into the market will substantially reduce the oil prices as we end this threat to America and this threat to the world,” Trump said during the Kentucky speech. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-war-will-end-anytime-i-want-as-he-claims-nothing-left-to-target-wion-1773256482710/embed In a separate interview with a local news outlet, Trump said the US could also draw from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to manage supply disruptions following a halt in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The White House did not immediately respond to questions about whether the reserve release would be part of the IEA agreement or handled through a separate action. 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.

Donald Trump claims early victory in Iran conflict, touts global oil reserve release to stabilise prices as uncertainty remains over war’s timeline

'We have won in Iran': Trump claims victory but offers no evidence

Iran has now threatened to target banks and other economic sites like the premises of Google, Microsoft, and Nvidia linked to the US and Israel in the Gulf region, said an Al Jazeera report on Wednesday. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, which the UN describes as being owned by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, issued the warning. He said, “The enemy left our hands open to targeting economic centres and banks belonging to the United States and the Zionist regime in the region.”&nbsp;The spokesperson also warned that “people of the region should not be within a one-kilometre radius of banks.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-practically-nothing-left-to-target-in-iran-war-will-end-soon-says-trump-1773246460317">‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump</a><h2>‘The scope of Iran’s legitimate targets expands…’</h2>&nbsp;The Tasnim news agency, an outlet affiliated with the IRGC, also published a list of offices and infrastructure tied to major US technology companies with Israeli links. It described them as “Iran’s new targets.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The report includes Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia, and Oracle.The list of locations includes offices and cloud infrastructure in several Israeli cities and in some Gulf countries.&nbsp;Tasnim further wrote that “as the scope of the regional war expands to infrastructure war, the scope of Iran’s legitimate targets expands.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-lethal-black-clad-kill-squad-nopo-now-guards-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-1773232310910">Iran’s lethal ‘black-clad’ kill squad NOPO now guards new supreme leader Mojtaba</a><h2>PwC closes offices in several Gulf countries; Deloitte evacuates Dubai office staff&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;After the warning, PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), a leading global professional services network recognised as one of the ‘Big Four’ accounting firms, on Wednesday closed its offices in several Gulf countries for the remainder of the week as a ‘precaution,’ reported AFP, citing a source.&nbsp;The offices of the British consulting group will be closed in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait, the source said, seeking anonymity, as Iran threatened to hit US- and Israel-linked economic targets in the Middle East.&nbsp;Another ‘Big Four’ firm, Deloitte, also evacuated staff at its Dubai office after Iran’s threat.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-govt-won-t-leave-indians-stranded-says-pm-modi-slams-congress-for-politicising-iran-war-1773224945175">‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War</a>&nbsp;Deloitte told its staff on Wednesday to vacate their offices in the Dubai International Financial Centre, a source told AFP.&nbsp;Standard Chartered, headquartered in London, maintains a significant presence in the United Arab Emirates, with offices located in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a financial center that hosts numerous major international banks and law firms.&nbsp;Iran has already attempted to threaten the global economy by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit that enables the transportation of almost 20% of the world's oil.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-confidence-motion-against-speaker-om-birla-defeated-by-voice-vote-in-lok-sabha-1773238380651">No-confidence motion against speaker Om Birla defeated by voice vote in Lok Sabha</a><h2>Iran cites attack on Bank Sepah linked to its military as trigger</h2>&nbsp;US-Israeli forces allegedly attacked Bank Sepah, an Iranian bank with ties to the military, in Tehran.&nbsp;The central military command of the Islamic Republic said, “Following their failed campaign, the terrorist US army and cruel Zionist regime have targeted one of the country’s banks.”&nbsp;“With this illegitimate and uncommon action, the enemy is forcing our hand to target economic centres and banks linked to the US and Zionist regime in the region.”&nbsp;According to Iranian state media, multiple bank employees lost their lives in the assault on a bank located in northern Tehran.&nbsp;After the warning, all HSBC branches were shut in Qatar until further notice, while Citi also evacuated Dubai employees after Iran’s threat.

A list of offices and infrastructure tied to major US technology companies with Israeli links was published describing them as Iran’s new targets. The list includes Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia, and Oracle premises besides banks in several Gulf countries.

Iran has now threatened to target banks and other economic sites like the premises of Google, Microsoft, and Nvidia linked to the US and Israel in the Gulf region, said an Al Jazeera report on Wednesday. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, which the UN describes as being owned by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, issued the warning. He said, “The enemy left our hands open to targeting economic centres and banks belonging to the United States and the Zionist regime in the region.” The spokesperson also warned that “people of the region should not be within a one-kilometre radius of banks.” Also Read: ‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump ‘The scope of Iran’s legitimate targets expands…’ The Tasnim news agency, an outlet affiliated with the IRGC, also published a list of offices and infrastructure tied to major US technology companies with Israeli links. It described them as “Iran’s new targets.” The report includes Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia, and Oracle. The list of locations includes offices and cloud infrastructure in several Israeli cities and in some Gulf countries. Tasnim further wrote that “as the scope of the regional war expands to infrastructure war, the scope of Iran’s legitimate targets expands.” Also Read: Iran’s lethal ‘black-clad’ kill squad NOPO now guards new supreme leader Mojtaba PwC closes offices in several Gulf countries; Deloitte evacuates Dubai office staff After the warning, PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), a leading global professional services network recognised as one of the ‘Big Four’ accounting firms, on Wednesday closed its offices in several Gulf countries for the remainder of the week as a ‘precaution,’ reported AFP, citing a source. The offices of the British consulting group will be closed in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait, the source said, seeking anonymity, as Iran threatened to hit US- and Israel-linked economic targets in the Middle East. Another ‘Big Four’ firm, Deloitte, also evacuated staff at its Dubai office after Iran’s threat. Also Read: ‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War Deloitte told its staff on Wednesday to vacate their offices in the Dubai International Financial Centre, a source told AFP. Standard Chartered, headquartered in London, maintains a significant presence in the United Arab Emirates, with offices located in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a financial center that hosts numerous major international banks and law firms. Iran has already attempted to threaten the global economy by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit that enables the transportation of almost 20% of the world's oil. Also Read: No-confidence motion against speaker Om Birla defeated by voice vote in Lok Sabha Iran cites attack on Bank Sepah linked to its military as trigger US-Israeli forces allegedly attacked Bank Sepah, an Iranian bank with ties to the military, in Tehran. The central military command of the Islamic Republic said, “Following their failed campaign, the terrorist US army and cruel Zionist regime have targeted one of the country’s banks.” “With this illegitimate and uncommon action, the enemy is forcing our hand to target economic centres and banks linked to the US and Zionist regime in the region.” According to Iranian state media, multiple bank employees lost their lives in the assault on a bank located in northern Tehran. After the warning, all HSBC branches were shut in Qatar until further notice, while Citi also evacuated Dubai employees after Iran’s threat.

A list of offices and infrastructure tied to major US technology companies with Israeli links was published describing them as Iran’s new targets. The list includes Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia, and Oracle premises besides banks in several Gulf countries.

Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target

There’s intense debate over the endgame of the U.S.-Iran conflict under President Donald Trump, and it hasn’t been clearly defined even by the administration itself. Trump’s public statements have shifted over time - from degrading Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities to asserting that Iran must unconditionally surrender and suggesting that the war’s end will be a joint decision with Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu.


US-Iran War: Is The US-Israeli War on Iran Prez Trump's 'War of Choice'?

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the ongoing war with Iran will end “soon” because there is “practically nothing left to target.” “Little this and that... Any time I want it to end, it will end,” Trump told US publication Axios in an interview.&nbsp;“The war is going great. We are way ahead of the timetable. We have done more damage than we thought possible, even in the original six-week period,” Trump told Axios.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-lethal-black-clad-kill-squad-nopo-now-guards-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-1773232310910">Iran’s lethal ‘black-clad’ kill squad NOPO now guards new supreme leader Mojtaba</a>&nbsp;He said Iran’s hostility extended beyond Israel and the US to Gulf states across the region. “They were after the rest of the Middle East. They are paying for 47 years of death and destruction they caused. This is payback. They will not get off that easy,” Trump said.&nbsp;Trump’s comments on the war assume significance as they signal that his operation has largely accomplished its objectives, but US and Israeli officials say there has been no internal directive on when the fighting might stop.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-govt-won-t-leave-indians-stranded-says-pm-modi-slams-congress-for-politicising-iran-war-1773224945175">‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War</a>&nbsp;Speaking a different tune, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that the war will continue “without any time limit, for as long as necessary, until we achieve all the objectives and decisively win the campaign.”Meanwhile, Israeli and US officials said that they are preparing for at least two more weeks of strikes in Iran. Trump himself declined to specify a timeline for when the war will end.On Tuesday, the US received intelligence that suggested Iran has started laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for oil supply.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-confidence-motion-against-speaker-om-birla-defeated-by-voice-vote-in-lok-sabha-1773238380651">No-confidence motion against speaker Om Birla defeated by voice vote in Lok Sabha</a>&nbsp;Officials say it’s unclear how many mines Iran has deployed, but the assessment is that the number is very small.Trump confirmed to Axios that US strikes on Tuesday destroyed 16 mine-laying boats and disrupted Iranian plans.CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper said in a video message that the US military’s mission is to eliminate Iran’s ability to project power and harass shipping in the strait.&nbsp;“US forces continue delivering devastating combat power against the Iranian regime. US combat power is building, Iran’s combat power is declining,” Cooper said on Wednesday, adding that Iranian missile and drone attacks have declined drastically.&nbsp;In his February 28 speech announcing the first strikes on Iran, Trump had mentioned the objectives as destroying Iranian missiles and razing its missile industry to the ground, annihilating the Iranian navy, ensuring that Iran’s terrorist proxies can no longer destabilize the region or the world, and ensuring that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;<h2>Oil companies should use Strait of Hormuz, says Trump</h2>&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that oil companies should use the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the US military had taken out Iran’s ability to lay mines.“I think they should. We took out just about all of their mine ships in one night,” Trump said when asked by a reporter if he was talking with oil executives about the passageway. Pressed on whether there are any mines, Trump said, “We don’t think so.” US Central Command said it eliminated 16 Iranian mine-laying boats and other vessels on Tuesday.“We’re up to boat number 60… just about all of their navy is gone at the bottom of the sea,” he added.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz has effectively been shut down since the outbreak of the conflict.&nbsp;Asked about the military progress, Trump stated, “Right now, they’ve lost their Navy, they’ve lost their Air Force, they have no anti-aircraft apparatus at all. Their leaders are gone.” He added that military actions could escalate further if necessary. “If we take them out... they literally would never be able to build that country back.”&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump’s comments on the ongoing war assume significance as they signal that his operation has largely accomplished its objectives, but US and Israeli officials say there has been no internal directive on when the fighting might stop.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the ongoing war with Iran will end “soon” because there is “practically nothing left to target.” “Little this and that... Any time I want it to end, it will end,” Trump told US publication Axios in an interview. “The war is going great. We are way ahead of the timetable. We have done more damage than we thought possible, even in the original six-week period,” Trump told Axios. Also Read: Iran’s lethal ‘black-clad’ kill squad NOPO now guards new supreme leader Mojtaba He said Iran’s hostility extended beyond Israel and the US to Gulf states across the region. “They were after the rest of the Middle East. They are paying for 47 years of death and destruction they caused. This is payback. They will not get off that easy,” Trump said. Trump’s comments on the war assume significance as they signal that his operation has largely accomplished its objectives, but US and Israeli officials say there has been no internal directive on when the fighting might stop. Also Read: ‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War Speaking a different tune, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that the war will continue “without any time limit, for as long as necessary, until we achieve all the objectives and decisively win the campaign.” Meanwhile, Israeli and US officials said that they are preparing for at least two more weeks of strikes in Iran. Trump himself declined to specify a timeline for when the war will end. On Tuesday, the US received intelligence that suggested Iran has started laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for oil supply. Also Read: No-confidence motion against speaker Om Birla defeated by voice vote in Lok Sabha Officials say it’s unclear how many mines Iran has deployed, but the assessment is that the number is very small. Trump confirmed to Axios that US strikes on Tuesday destroyed 16 mine-laying boats and disrupted Iranian plans. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper said in a video message that the US military’s mission is to eliminate Iran’s ability to project power and harass shipping in the strait. “US forces continue delivering devastating combat power against the Iranian regime. US combat power is building, Iran’s combat power is declining,” Cooper said on Wednesday, adding that Iranian missile and drone attacks have declined drastically. In his February 28 speech announcing the first strikes on Iran, Trump had mentioned the objectives as destroying Iranian missiles and razing its missile industry to the ground, annihilating the Iranian navy, ensuring that Iran’s terrorist proxies can no longer destabilize the region or the world, and ensuring that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.” Oil companies should use Strait of Hormuz, says Trump President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that oil companies should use the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the US military had taken out Iran’s ability to lay mines. “I think they should. We took out just about all of their mine ships in one night,” Trump said when asked by a reporter if he was talking with oil executives about the passageway. Pressed on whether there are any mines, Trump said, “We don’t think so.” US Central Command said it eliminated 16 Iranian mine-laying boats and other vessels on Tuesday. “We’re up to boat number 60… just about all of their navy is gone at the bottom of the sea,” he added. The Strait of Hormuz has effectively been shut down since the outbreak of the conflict. Asked about the military progress, Trump stated, “Right now, they’ve lost their Navy, they’ve lost their Air Force, they have no anti-aircraft apparatus at all. Their leaders are gone.” He added that military actions could escalate further if necessary. “If we take them out... they literally would never be able to build that country back.”

US President Donald Trump’s comments on the ongoing war assume significance as they signal that his operation has largely accomplished its objectives, but US and Israeli officials say there has been no internal directive on when the fighting might stop.

‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump

The real gross domestic product (GDP) growth of India may slow down to 7.1 per cent in fiscal 2027, compared with 7.6 per cent in the previous year, according to a report by Crisil Intelligence. The outlook, shared during the 10th India Outlook Conclave, suggests that growth will remain strong even as the global environment faces challenges such as geopolitical tensions and increasing protectionist policies. In addition, domestic demand is expected to remain the main driver of expansion, supported by solid consumption and a gradually strengthening cycle of private investment. The forecast is based on four key assumptions: a normal monsoon, manageable food inflation despite a low-base effect, Brent crude prices hovering around $75–$80 per barrel, and stable global economic growth. While government spending on infrastructure, estimated at around 3.1 per cent of GDP, continues to play a major role, private investment is also gaining traction, particularly in emerging sectors such as electronics, semiconductors and electric vehicles. Amish Mehta, Managing Director and CEO, Crisil, told news agency ANI, "India has grown steadily in an environment buffeted by exogenous uncertainties. Our fiscal 2027 forecast reflects its strong domestic counterweights, especially consumption, infrastructure capex, an uptick in the private investment cycle led by emerging sectors, and gradually improving trade competitiveness. However, continuing geopolitical conflicts, the proliferation of technology-driven disruptions, public debt levels and climate vagaries will need close monitoring."<h3>Private consumption remains the main pillar of the economy</h3>Private consumption, which makes up nearly 57 per cent of India’s GDP, remains the main pillar supporting the economy, although its growth may slow as temporary tax benefits begin to fade. Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation is expected to rise to about 4.3 per cent as food prices stabilise, but the reduced share of food items in the new 2024 base-year inflation index is likely to keep overall price pressures under control. Industries such as automobiles, consumer durables, and hospitality are projected to perform strongly, driven by improved affordability and long-term structural shifts, including rising incomes and greater participation of women in the workforce. Dharmakirti Joshi, Chief Economist, Crisil, said, "Domestic demand is expected to stay supportive in fiscal 2027, with fiscal measures lifting disposable incomes and private investment seeing a mild pick-up. That said, risks remain tilted to the downside, given renewed geopolitical flare-ups and lingering trade-related uncertainty that can transmit through commodity prices, trade and capital flows." Meanwhile, industrial capital expenditure is expected to increase significantly, with annual investments projected to reach around Rs 9.1 lakh crore between fiscals 2027 and 2031, marking roughly a 1.5-times jump. Much of this expansion will come from emerging sectors: semiconductor and electronics manufacturing could grow 4.7 times, while electric vehicle production and charging infrastructure may expand by about 3.1 times.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-expands-conflict-targets-to-include-us-and-israeli-financial-infrastructure-in-gulf-details-inside-1773232808446">IRGC expands conflict targets to include US and Israeli financial infrastructure in Gulf. Details inside</a>

The forecast of India's GDP is based on four key assumptions: a normal monsoon, manageable food inflation despite a low-base effect, Brent crude prices hovering around $75–$80 per barrel, and stable global economic growth. 

The real gross domestic product (GDP) growth of India may slow down to 7.1 per cent in fiscal 2027, compared with 7.6 per cent in the previous year, according to a report by Crisil Intelligence. The outlook, shared during the 10th India Outlook Conclave, suggests that growth will remain strong even as the global environment faces challenges such as geopolitical tensions and increasing protectionist policies. In addition, domestic demand is expected to remain the main driver of expansion, supported by solid consumption and a gradually strengthening cycle of private investment. The forecast is based on four key assumptions: a normal monsoon, manageable food inflation despite a low-base effect, Brent crude prices hovering around $75–$80 per barrel, and stable global economic growth. While government spending on infrastructure, estimated at around 3.1 per cent of GDP, continues to play a major role, private investment is also gaining traction, particularly in emerging sectors such as electronics, semiconductors and electric vehicles. Amish Mehta, Managing Director and CEO, Crisil, told news agency ANI, "India has grown steadily in an environment buffeted by exogenous uncertainties. Our fiscal 2027 forecast reflects its strong domestic counterweights, especially consumption, infrastructure capex, an uptick in the private investment cycle led by emerging sectors, and gradually improving trade competitiveness. However, continuing geopolitical conflicts, the proliferation of technology-driven disruptions, public debt levels and climate vagaries will need close monitoring." Private consumption remains the main pillar of the economy Private consumption, which makes up nearly 57 per cent of India’s GDP, remains the main pillar supporting the economy, although its growth may slow as temporary tax benefits begin to fade. Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation is expected to rise to about 4.3 per cent as food prices stabilise, but the reduced share of food items in the new 2024 base-year inflation index is likely to keep overall price pressures under control. Industries such as automobiles, consumer durables, and hospitality are projected to perform strongly, driven by improved affordability and long-term structural shifts, including rising incomes and greater participation of women in the workforce. Dharmakirti Joshi, Chief Economist, Crisil, said, "Domestic demand is expected to stay supportive in fiscal 2027, with fiscal measures lifting disposable incomes and private investment seeing a mild pick-up. That said, risks remain tilted to the downside, given renewed geopolitical flare-ups and lingering trade-related uncertainty that can transmit through commodity prices, trade and capital flows." Meanwhile, industrial capital expenditure is expected to increase significantly, with annual investments projected to reach around Rs 9.1 lakh crore between fiscals 2027 and 2031, marking roughly a 1.5-times jump. Much of this expansion will come from emerging sectors: semiconductor and electronics manufacturing could grow 4.7 times, while electric vehicle production and charging infrastructure may expand by about 3.1 times. Also read: IRGC expands conflict targets to include US and Israeli financial infrastructure in Gulf. Details inside

The forecast of India's GDP is based on four key assumptions: a normal monsoon, manageable food inflation despite a low-base effect, Brent crude prices hovering around $75–$80 per barrel, and stable global economic growth.&nbsp;

India's GDP growth projected to ease to 7.1% in FY27 amid global uncertainty: CRISIL

The secondary shockwave of this cyberattack will be felt for years. Even if Stryker, working alongside Microsoft, manages to restore its global systems next week, the damage is already done. 

The secondary shockwave of this cyberattack will be felt for years. Even if Stryker, working alongside Microsoft, manages to restore its global systems next week, the damage is already done.&nbsp;

'Medical nightmare': What Stryker hit by Iran-linked cyberattack means for millions of Americans?

When Handala paralysed Stryker, they didn't just hit a corporate boardroom; they effectively bottlenecked the exact supply chain the US Armed Forces relies on to treat wounded soldiers and aging veterans.

When Handala paralysed Stryker, they didn't just hit a corporate boardroom; they effectively bottlenecked the exact supply chain the US Armed Forces relies on to treat wounded soldiers and aging veterans.

'Pentagon's soft target': How Stryker hack is hitting US military hospitals

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