The United States military says it has destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying boats in the Strait of Hormuz. The action targeted vessels believed to be capable of deploying naval mines in the strategic waterway.

The U.S. military said the operation was aimed at protecting commercial shipping and preventing threats to maritime traffic passing through the strait. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, carrying a major share of global oil and LNG shipments.

The strikes come amid ongoing conflict with Iran that has disrupted shipping and raised concerns over global energy supplies.

US Military Attacks Iran's Minelaying Boats in Strait of Hormuz

As the conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel enters its 12th day, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a dire warning, declaring economic centres and banking facilities linked to American and Israeli interests in the region as legitimate military targets.&nbsp;The threat, issued by the IRGC-owned Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, follows a deadly incident in Tehran where an Iranian bank branch was struck. Iranian state media described the attack as "illegitimate and unusual," reporting that several employees were killed. In retaliation, the IRGC has warned civilians to remain at least one kilometre away from banks associated with the two nations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-ceo-pieter-elbers-resigns-with-immediate-effect-months-after-flight-disruption-crisis-1773150599171">IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers resigns with immediate effect, months after flight disruption crisis</a>&nbsp;The scope of the conflict is rapidly shifting toward an "infrastructure war." The IRGC-affiliated Tasnim news agency has published a list of corporate offices and cloud-based service infrastructures - including those operated by major technology firms like Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia, and Oracle, labelling them as new targets. These facilities are reportedly located across Israel and several Gulf countries, signalling an expansion of the battlefield.&nbsp;The warning comes on the heels of an Israeli strike on a facility in Beirut’s southern suburbs linked to the Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Qard Al-Hassan financial institution. Israel maintains that its military operations are aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s operational capacity, though the campaign has resulted in at least 570 deaths in Lebanon and displaced hundreds of thousands.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-safer-to-sink-more-fun-trump-explains-why-us-chose-to-sink-iranian-vessels-over-capturing-them-1773128758213">‘Safer to sink, more fun’: Trump explains why US chose to sink Iranian vessels over capturing them</a>&nbsp;The broader conflict, initiated on February 28, has seen heavy bombardment across Iranian territory. Tehran claims that nearly 10,000 civilian sites have been struck, with over 1,300 civilian fatalities. As the military pressure intensifies, Iran has threatened to halt regional oil exports entirely if US and Israeli strikes continue. With the strategic Strait of Hormuz already impacted, global energy markets remain highly volatile. Despite calls for de-escalation, all involved parties have thus far rejected ceasefire overtures, leaving the region on the precipice of a wider economic and security collapse.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that US- and Israeli-linked banks and economic infrastructure in the Gulf could become military targets as the conflict enters its 12th day. The threat signals a shift toward economic and infrastructure warfare amid escalating regional tensions.

As the conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel enters its 12th day, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a dire warning, declaring economic centres and banking facilities linked to American and Israeli interests in the region as legitimate military targets. The threat, issued by the IRGC-owned Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, follows a deadly incident in Tehran where an Iranian bank branch was struck. Iranian state media described the attack as "illegitimate and unusual," reporting that several employees were killed. In retaliation, the IRGC has warned civilians to remain at least one kilometre away from banks associated with the two nations. Also read: IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers resigns with immediate effect, months after flight disruption crisis The scope of the conflict is rapidly shifting toward an "infrastructure war." The IRGC-affiliated Tasnim news agency has published a list of corporate offices and cloud-based service infrastructures - including those operated by major technology firms like Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia, and Oracle, labelling them as new targets. These facilities are reportedly located across Israel and several Gulf countries, signalling an expansion of the battlefield. The warning comes on the heels of an Israeli strike on a facility in Beirut’s southern suburbs linked to the Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Qard Al-Hassan financial institution. Israel maintains that its military operations are aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s operational capacity, though the campaign has resulted in at least 570 deaths in Lebanon and displaced hundreds of thousands. Also read: ‘Safer to sink, more fun’: Trump explains why US chose to sink Iranian vessels over capturing them The broader conflict, initiated on February 28, has seen heavy bombardment across Iranian territory. Tehran claims that nearly 10,000 civilian sites have been struck, with over 1,300 civilian fatalities. As the military pressure intensifies, Iran has threatened to halt regional oil exports entirely if US and Israeli strikes continue. With the strategic Strait of Hormuz already impacted, global energy markets remain highly volatile. Despite calls for de-escalation, all involved parties have thus far rejected ceasefire overtures, leaving the region on the precipice of a wider economic and security collapse.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that US- and Israeli-linked banks and economic infrastructure in the Gulf could become military targets as the conflict enters its 12th day. The threat signals a shift toward economic and infrastructure warfare amid escalating regional tensions.

IRGC expands conflict targets to include US and Israeli financial infrastructure in Gulf. Details inside

Iran has deployed its elite counterterrorism unit, NOPO, to protect the newly appointed Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, after the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, say reports. The black-clad Counterterrorism Special Force, known as NOPO, was assigned to safeguard Mojtaba after a US-Israel strike on a Tehran compound on Feb. 28 killed the elder Khamenei. “With Khamenei gone, NOPO will likely now be protecting Mojtaba Khamenei,” reported Fox News Digital, quoting Ali Safavi, an official with the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Paris-based National Council of Resistance of Iran, or NCRI, said.&nbsp;“NOPO is the Farsi acronym for Nirouyeh Vijeh Pasdaran Velayat, which translates into the Special Force to Protect the Supreme Leader,” Safavi added while clarifying, “Velayat is not necessarily the supreme leader but the entirety of the regime.”NOPO, formed in 1991, has evolved into a highly specialised unit distinct from the broader Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the military branch established in 1979 to defend the Islamic Republic and its leadership from internal and external threats.&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><h2>‘Far more lethal, ruthless, and well-trained than IRGC’</h2>&nbsp;“The NOPO is composed of six brigades only. Four are stationed in Tehran, one in Mashhad, and one in Isfahan,” Safavi said.“They are far more lethal, ruthless, and well-trained than the IRGC. This force was used for the protection of Khamenei. They are very well-equipped. Khamenei did not trust any other security force for his protection,” he added.&nbsp;The unit has been deployed against internal security threats and has also often been called to suppress protests.Iran’s Assembly of Experts elected Mojtaba Khamenei on March 8, 2026, as the third supreme leader of the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hand-on-the-trigger-iran-vows-to-treat-anti-war-protesters-as-enemies-of-the-state-iran-war-us-israelhamenei-1773218587340">‘Hand on the trigger’: Iran vows to treat anti-war protesters as ‘enemies of the state’</a><h2>‘Now involved in suppressive and security measures regime’</h2>&nbsp;The Iranian state television is reported to have said that Mojtaba Khamenei was wounded in the ongoing war, but there has been no official confirmation.“They are now involved in the suppressive and security measures the regime has undertaken in recent days to prevent any outbreak of protests,” Safavi said.“In times of crisis, such as what happened during the January uprising, they were heavily involved in opening fire on the protesters,” he added.Reports also say that hundreds of NOPO personnel are deployed at prisons in Iran that are holding political detainees.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</a>&nbsp;“Hundreds of suppressive forces are widely deployed around the prison. In Ghezel Hesar Prison,” the NCRI said in a statement.&nbsp;On March 8, the Israeli military issued a warning saying it would continue pursuing Iran’s next supreme leader and other successors. The Israeli military said in a post on X in Farsi that it would also pursue every person who seeks to appoint a successor for the slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, referring to the clerical body charged with selecting Iran’s next supreme leader.&nbsp;There were reports that Mojtaba was injured in the February 28 strikes that killed his father, wife, and other family members.56-year-old Mojtaba, who has rarely appeared in public, is yet to address the nation or issue a written statement since being declared supreme leader.&nbsp;

NOPO has been deployed against internal security threats and has also often been called to suppress protests. On March 8, the Israeli military issued a warning saying it would continue pursuing Iran’s next supreme leader and other successors.

Iran has deployed its elite counterterrorism unit, NOPO, to protect the newly appointed Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, after the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, say reports. The black-clad Counterterrorism Special Force, known as NOPO, was assigned to safeguard Mojtaba after a US-Israel strike on a Tehran compound on Feb. 28 killed the elder Khamenei. “With Khamenei gone, NOPO will likely now be protecting Mojtaba Khamenei,” reported Fox News Digital, quoting Ali Safavi, an official with the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Paris-based National Council of Resistance of Iran, or NCRI, said. “NOPO is the Farsi acronym for Nirouyeh Vijeh Pasdaran Velayat, which translates into the Special Force to Protect the Supreme Leader,” Safavi added while clarifying, “Velayat is not necessarily the supreme leader but the entirety of the regime.” NOPO, formed in 1991, has evolved into a highly specialised unit distinct from the broader Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the military branch established in 1979 to defend the Islamic Republic and its leadership from internal and external threats. Also Read: ‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War ‘Far more lethal, ruthless, and well-trained than IRGC’ “The NOPO is composed of six brigades only. Four are stationed in Tehran, one in Mashhad, and one in Isfahan,” Safavi said. “They are far more lethal, ruthless, and well-trained than the IRGC. This force was used for the protection of Khamenei. They are very well-equipped. Khamenei did not trust any other security force for his protection,” he added. The unit has been deployed against internal security threats and has also often been called to suppress protests. Iran’s Assembly of Experts elected Mojtaba Khamenei on March 8, 2026, as the third supreme leader of the Islamic Republic. Also Read: ‘Hand on the trigger’: Iran vows to treat anti-war protesters as ‘enemies of the state’ ‘Now involved in suppressive and security measures regime’ The Iranian state television is reported to have said that Mojtaba Khamenei was wounded in the ongoing war, but there has been no official confirmation. “They are now involved in the suppressive and security measures the regime has undertaken in recent days to prevent any outbreak of protests,” Safavi said. “In times of crisis, such as what happened during the January uprising, they were heavily involved in opening fire on the protesters,” he added. Reports also say that hundreds of NOPO personnel are deployed at prisons in Iran that are holding political detainees. Also Read: Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son “Hundreds of suppressive forces are widely deployed around the prison. In Ghezel Hesar Prison,” the NCRI said in a statement. On March 8, the Israeli military issued a warning saying it would continue pursuing Iran’s next supreme leader and other successors. The Israeli military said in a post on X in Farsi that it would also pursue every person who seeks to appoint a successor for the slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, referring to the clerical body charged with selecting Iran’s next supreme leader. There were reports that Mojtaba was injured in the February 28 strikes that killed his father, wife, and other family members. 56-year-old Mojtaba, who has rarely appeared in public, is yet to address the nation or issue a written statement since being declared supreme leader.

NOPO has been deployed against internal security threats and has also often been called to suppress protests. On March 8, the Israeli military issued a warning saying it would continue pursuing Iran’s next supreme leader and other successors.

Iran’s lethal ‘black-clad’ kill squad NOPO now guards new supreme leader Mojtaba

A Sri Lankan court has directed to hand over the bodies of 84 sailors to the embassy ‌of Iran, who were killed after an Iranian warship was attacked off the ​island nation's coast last week, local media reported on Wednesday. The death of these sailors occurred after the warship, IRIS Dena, was attacked by a torpedo from a US submarine while returning from a naval exercise organised by India.&nbsp;The court issued the order on Wednesday after a request from the Galle Harbour Police in the ​southern port city of Galle, the media reports said. Currently, the bodies are at the ​morgue in Galle's National Hospital.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has also issued 30-day entry visas to 208 crew members from a second Iranian vessel who were rushed in by the South Asian country after the vessel ​encountered with failure in the engine in the same region, Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekera told ​Reuters.<h3>Diplomatic mission between Sri Lankan &amp; Iran&nbsp;</h3>The Sri Lankan foreign ministry is coordinating with the Iranian embassy in Colombo regarding the crew, while the diplomatic mission is consulting authorities in Tehran, Jayasekera added. "We are expecting a response from Tehran over the next few days," he said.&nbsp;A cabinet spokesperson said on Tuesday that the vessel, IRIS Booshehr, was located about nine nautical miles off the coast and would eventually be relocated. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake had earlier stated that the ship would be moved to Trincomalee Harbour on the island’s eastern coast.&nbsp;United States officials have urged Colombo not to repatriate survivors from the two Iranian vessels, according to Reuters. Thirty-two people survived the attack on IRIS Dena. Both Washington and Tehran are important trading partners for Sri Lanka: the U.S. accounts for roughly 40 per cent of the country’s apparel exports, while Iran is among its key tea importers.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-so-fast-iran-war-reaches-12-days-and-tehran-is-not-losing-16-reasons-why-iran-us-israel-war-news-analysis-update-1773212607207">Not so fast: Iran war reaches 12 days, and Tehran is not losing - 16 reasons w</a>hy

The Sri Lankan court issued the order on Wednesday after a request from the Galle Harbour Police in the ​southern port city of Galle, the media reports said. Currently, the bodies are at the ​morgue in Galle's National Hospital.

A Sri Lankan court has directed to hand over the bodies of 84 sailors to the embassy ‌of Iran, who were killed after an Iranian warship was attacked off the island nation's coast last week, local media reported on Wednesday. The death of these sailors occurred after the warship, IRIS Dena, was attacked by a torpedo from a US submarine while returning from a naval exercise organised by India. The court issued the order on Wednesday after a request from the Galle Harbour Police in the southern port city of Galle, the media reports said. Currently, the bodies are at the morgue in Galle's National Hospital. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has also issued 30-day entry visas to 208 crew members from a second Iranian vessel who were rushed in by the South Asian country after the vessel encountered with failure in the engine in the same region, Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekera told Reuters. Diplomatic mission between Sri Lankan & Iran The Sri Lankan foreign ministry is coordinating with the Iranian embassy in Colombo regarding the crew, while the diplomatic mission is consulting authorities in Tehran, Jayasekera added. "We are expecting a response from Tehran over the next few days," he said. A cabinet spokesperson said on Tuesday that the vessel, IRIS Booshehr, was located about nine nautical miles off the coast and would eventually be relocated. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake had earlier stated that the ship would be moved to Trincomalee Harbour on the island’s eastern coast. United States officials have urged Colombo not to repatriate survivors from the two Iranian vessels, according to Reuters. Thirty-two people survived the attack on IRIS Dena. Both Washington and Tehran are important trading partners for Sri Lanka: the U.S. accounts for roughly 40 per cent of the country’s apparel exports, while Iran is among its key tea importers. Also read: Not so fast: Iran war reaches 12 days, and Tehran is not losing - 16 reasons why

The Sri Lankan court issued the order on Wednesday after a request from the Galle Harbour Police in the ​southern port city of Galle, the media reports said. Currently, the bodies are at the ​morgue in Galle's National Hospital.

Sri Lanka court orders handover of 84 Iranian sailors’ bodies to embassy after US attack Tehran warship

The Israeli military has announced that it has begun extensive waves of attacks on Beirut in Lebanon and Iran simultaneously. Lebanon is where Hezbollah is headquartered, and Beirut hosts many of their operation centres. The IDF claims that the Islamic Republic is firing missiles and drones from densely populated residential areas, endangering the people of Iran themselves. Israeli forces state that these actions are deliberate and directly expose Iranian civilians to danger, both during the use of these launches and during their destruction by the Israeli air force. This explanation comes as Israeli forces justify targeting what is being described as civilian areas. Earlier footage showed a projectile hitting a residential area in Beirut. The IDF also stated that due to the precision of their strikes, a bridge remains intact after the impact.


US-Iran War: Israel Launches Simultaneous Attacks on Iran, Lebanon

At least four people were ​killed when an Israeli strike hit an apartment ‌in the Ramada hotel building in central Beirut early on Sunday, with Israel saying it targeted Iranian commanders operating in the Lebanese capital.
The ​attack marked the first Israeli strike to hit ​the heart of Beirut since Israel-Hezbollah hostilities resumed last ⁠week.


US-Iran War: Iran Accuses Israel of Killing 4 Diplomats in 'Terrorist Attack'

The modern battlefield is undergoing a fundamental shift. Gone are the days when military supremacy was determined solely by the sheer number of stealth fighters or aircraft carriers in a nation’s inventory. Today, the balance of power is increasingly being dictated by a humble, buzzing, and deceptively simple piece of technology: the Iranian-designed Shahed series of loitering munitions.<h2>The economics of attrition</h2>At its core, the Shahed-136 is a marvel of tactical pragmatism. It is not an engineering masterpiece built for longevity, but rather a consumable, one-way projectile designed for a singular, explosive conclusion. By eschewing the sophisticated sensors, satellite links, and complex landing gear found on high-end Western drones, Iran has created a weapon that is remarkably inexpensive to manufacture. Estimates place the unit cost at approximately $20,000. This low price tag is the crux of its lethality.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bring-the-iranian-people-to-throw-off-the-yoke-of-tyranny-netanyahu-calls-for-regime-change-1773141471285">‘Bring the Iranian people to throw off the yoke of tyranny’: Netanyahu calls for regime change</a>&nbsp;When Tehran deploys these systems in large waves, they trigger a profound economic and strategic imbalance. Air defence systems like the Patriot or Israel’s Iron Dome are architectural wonders of modern engineering, yet they come with a staggering per-shot cost. When a multi-million-dollar interceptor missile is launched to neutralise a $20,000 drone, the attacker wins the exchange regardless of the physical outcome. The defender is forced into an unsustainable "cost exchange" ratio that can exhaust stockpiles and deplete budgets far faster than any conventional weapon could.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minab-school-bombing-list-of-evidence-that-indicate-us-was-responsible-1773132958138">Minab school bombing: List of evidence that indicate US was responsible</a><h2>Saturation tactics: Breaking the shield</h2>Moreover, the Shahed is a master of saturation. It is rarely intended to strike alone. Instead, these drones are launched in swarms designed to overwhelm radar cross-sections and human operators alike. By forcing defenders to focus their limited attention and resources on a multitude of incoming, slow-moving threats, the Shahed acts as a perfect precursor to more devastating attacks. It is, in effect, a blunt instrument used to crack the shield, clearing the path for ballistic or cruise missiles to penetrate the gaps. This tactic transforms the drone from a mere nuisance into a vital strategic enabler.<h2>A new pillar of asymmetric warfare</h2>For a nation like Iran, facing militaries with vastly superior technological and financial resources, the Shahed is the ultimate equaliser. It embraces the philosophy of asymmetric warfare - using lower-cost, irregular assets to challenge and disrupt conventional military dominance. The drone does not need to be the fastest or the smartest to be effective; it only needs to be persistent, numerous, and cheap.&nbsp;

Iran’s Shahed loitering drones are reshaping modern warfare by exploiting cost asymmetry. Cheap to produce and deployed in swarms, they force defenders to use expensive interceptor missiles. 

The modern battlefield is undergoing a fundamental shift. Gone are the days when military supremacy was determined solely by the sheer number of stealth fighters or aircraft carriers in a nation’s inventory. Today, the balance of power is increasingly being dictated by a humble, buzzing, and deceptively simple piece of technology: the Iranian-designed Shahed series of loitering munitions. The economics of attrition At its core, the Shahed-136 is a marvel of tactical pragmatism. It is not an engineering masterpiece built for longevity, but rather a consumable, one-way projectile designed for a singular, explosive conclusion. By eschewing the sophisticated sensors, satellite links, and complex landing gear found on high-end Western drones, Iran has created a weapon that is remarkably inexpensive to manufacture. Estimates place the unit cost at approximately $20,000. This low price tag is the crux of its lethality. Also read: ‘Bring the Iranian people to throw off the yoke of tyranny’: Netanyahu calls for regime change When Tehran deploys these systems in large waves, they trigger a profound economic and strategic imbalance. Air defence systems like the Patriot or Israel’s Iron Dome are architectural wonders of modern engineering, yet they come with a staggering per-shot cost. When a multi-million-dollar interceptor missile is launched to neutralise a $20,000 drone, the attacker wins the exchange regardless of the physical outcome. The defender is forced into an unsustainable "cost exchange" ratio that can exhaust stockpiles and deplete budgets far faster than any conventional weapon could. Also read: Minab school bombing: List of evidence that indicate US was responsible Saturation tactics: Breaking the shield Moreover, the Shahed is a master of saturation. It is rarely intended to strike alone. Instead, these drones are launched in swarms designed to overwhelm radar cross-sections and human operators alike. By forcing defenders to focus their limited attention and resources on a multitude of incoming, slow-moving threats, the Shahed acts as a perfect precursor to more devastating attacks. It is, in effect, a blunt instrument used to crack the shield, clearing the path for ballistic or cruise missiles to penetrate the gaps. This tactic transforms the drone from a mere nuisance into a vital strategic enabler. A new pillar of asymmetric warfare For a nation like Iran, facing militaries with vastly superior technological and financial resources, the Shahed is the ultimate equaliser. It embraces the philosophy of asymmetric warfare - using lower-cost, irregular assets to challenge and disrupt conventional military dominance. The drone does not need to be the fastest or the smartest to be effective; it only needs to be persistent, numerous, and cheap.

Iran’s Shahed loitering drones are reshaping modern warfare by exploiting cost asymmetry. Cheap to produce and deployed in swarms, they force defenders to use expensive interceptor missiles.&nbsp;

The 'poor man's cruise missile': Iran’s $20,000 drone strategy against US and Israel

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz hasn't just choked off India's cooking gas; it has fundamentally broken the Indian middle class's trust in the red LPG cylinder. We are currently witnessing the fastest, most aggressive pivot to electric cooking in Indian history.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz hasn't just choked off India's cooking gas; it has fundamentally broken the Indian middle class's trust in the red LPG cylinder. We are currently witnessing the fastest, most aggressive pivot to electric cooking in Indian history.

'LPG vs electric stove': How Iran War could lead to green energy revolution in Indian kitchens

Iranian parliament says no ceasefire with US and Israel; warns of 'eye for an eye' response Iran police chief warns against anti-regime protest Mohammad Bagher: Aggressor must be punished and taught a lesson.


Iran Says No Ceasefire With US & Israel; Warns Against Anti-Regime Protest

While the defense analysts are tracking Patriot missiles, the Indian middle class is tracking the delivery boy from the local gas agency. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has essentially choked off 60% of India's LPG imports.



While the defense analysts are tracking Patriot missiles, the Indian middle class is tracking the delivery boy from the local gas agency. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has essentially choked off 60% of India's LPG imports.&nbsp;

Iran War: What is the black market price of 'LPG cylinders' in India due to Strait of Hormuz closure?

The United States has reportedly begun relocating parts of its missile defence systems from South Korea to the Middle East as the conflict with Iran intensifies. The move includes components of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system that had been stationed on the Korean Peninsula.


US-Iran War: US Moves Missile Defences From South Korea, Seoul Claims Security Intact 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress party of politicising a major global crisis and acting irresponsibly by making “provocative and irresponsible statements” that could worsen the situation for Indians abroad. Speaking in Ernakulam, Kerala, the Prime Minister assured the safety and evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in the Middle East during the ongoing Iran war and said the country’s embassies and missions in Gulf countries were providing round-the-clock assistance and friendly governments in the region were taking care of Indians.&nbsp;“Congress is deliberately making provocative and irresponsible statements to worsen the situation so that our people stay stuck in that crisis, and then these people can start a campaign to make reels abusing Modi,” the PM said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hand-on-the-trigger-iran-vows-to-treat-anti-war-protesters-as-enemies-of-the-state-iran-war-us-israelhamenei-1773218587340">‘Hand on the trigger’: Iran vows to treat anti-war protesters as ‘enemies of the state’</a>&nbsp;He said the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to support Indians in Gulf states.“India of today does not leave its citizens stranded elsewhere. We are working to ensure that every possible help is provided to Indians in West Asia,” PM Modi said amid concerns for thousands of Indians working in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Ernakulam, Keralam: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;...It is natural for all of you to be concerned about what is happening in the Gulf and West Asia, where millions of our brothers and sisters work. But remember, today India has a BJP-NDA government. Whenever any of our… <a href="https://t.co/EFRqMJSdXX">pic.twitter.com/EFRqMJSdXX</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://twitter.com/ians_india/status/2031665008091017545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PM Modi launched several development projects in Ernakulam, Kerala and said the initiatives will promote industrial growth, boost tourism and improve the ease of living for people in Kerala.Modi said Kerala is among the states benefiting significantly from the Centre’s push for infrastructure expansion and stressed that India is receiving global praise for its large-scale investments in modern infrastructure. He said the Union Budget this year has allocated record funds for infrastructure development.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</a>&nbsp;The Prime Minister said expanding the petroleum sector is crucial for building an Atmanirbhar Bharat and strengthening the Make in India initiative. He noted that the foundation stone for a polypropylene unit at the Kochi Refinery was laid with the same objective.The PM also said that the ongoing crisis underlines the importance of India becoming energy secure and economically independent. “The Middle East crisis and the resulting energy shortage show how important it is for a nation to be atmanirbhar,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that the ongoing crisis underlines the importance of India becoming energy secure and economically independent. He said the Middle East crisis and the resulting energy shortage show how important it is for a nation to be self-reliant.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress party of politicising a major global crisis and acting irresponsibly by making “provocative and irresponsible statements” that could worsen the situation for Indians abroad. Speaking in Ernakulam, Kerala, the Prime Minister assured the safety and evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in the Middle East during the ongoing Iran war and said the country’s embassies and missions in Gulf countries were providing round-the-clock assistance and friendly governments in the region were taking care of Indians. “Congress is deliberately making provocative and irresponsible statements to worsen the situation so that our people stay stuck in that crisis, and then these people can start a campaign to make reels abusing Modi,” the PM said. Also Read: ‘Hand on the trigger’: Iran vows to treat anti-war protesters as ‘enemies of the state’ He said the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to support Indians in Gulf states. “India of today does not leave its citizens stranded elsewhere. We are working to ensure that every possible help is provided to Indians in West Asia,” PM Modi said amid concerns for thousands of Indians working in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that the ongoing crisis underlines the importance of India becoming energy secure and economically independent. He said the Middle East crisis and the resulting energy shortage show how important it is for a nation to be self-reliant.

‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War

The United States has warned Russia against sharing sensitive intelligence with Iran that could help Tehran target American forces or assets in the region. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington had strongly communicated its concerns to Moscow amid reports that Russia may have passed targeting information to Iran.
According to Witkoff, Russian officials told Donald Trump during a recent call that Moscow was not sharing intelligence about U.S. military assets with Iran. However, Washington indicated it would be deeply concerned if such cooperation were taking place.

US-Iran War: US Envoy Witkoff Urges Russia To Avoid Sharing Targeting Info With Iran

The Trump administration has not disclosed the cost of the Iran war, but a research institution in Washington says the US blew away $3.7 billion in the first few days itself. It analysed documents to estimate the expenses.

The Trump administration has not disclosed the cost of the Iran war, but a research institution in Washington says the US blew away $3.7 billion in the first few days itself. It analysed documents to estimate the expenses.

How much has the Iran war cost US? An analysis reveals monetary toll in first 100 hours

As the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran rages on in West Asia, Indians starting Thursday (Mar 12) would have to shell out extra money for Air India flight tickets as fuel prices rise. The flight operator in a press release said that since early March 2026, the price of aviation turbine fuel (ATF) has "escalated" due to "supply interruptions" and fliers will now face an added surcharge. How much extra would you have to pay for an Air India ticket? All you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</a><h2>Customers have to pay as ATF prices rise</h2>Air India said that the surcharge will be applicable for both domestic and international routes, and also on the flights operated on Air India Express routes. "Since early March 2026, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), which accounts for nearly 40% of an airline's operating costs, has seen significant price escalation due to supply interruptions. In India, this pressure is amplified by high Excise Duty and VAT on ATF in major metro cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, magnifying the impact and placing substantial strain on airline operating economics," said Air India in its Tuesday (Mar 10) release.<h2>How much extra would Air India fliers pay now?</h2>According to the press release, the price increase will be imposed in multiple phases. Here's a breakdown:<h3>Phase 1: Air India fuel surcharge hike</h3>In the first phase, starting March 12, 2026, domestic air travel and flights to SAARC countries, which were previously free of any additional levies, will now attract a surcharge of INR 399.Those flying to the Middle East will have to pay a $10 surcharge. Meanwhile, travellers to Southeast Asia, who earlier paid a $40 levy, will now face an additional $20 levy, bringing the total to $60. Travel to Africa will see the levy increase to $90 from $60.<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Route</th><th>New Surcharge</th><th>Previous Surcharge</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Domestic flights</td><td>₹399</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>SAARC countries</td><td>₹399</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Middle East</td><td>$10</td><td>Not specified</td></tr><tr><td>Southeast Asia</td><td>$60</td><td>$40</td></tr><tr><td>Africa</td><td>$90</td><td>$60</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>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><h3>Phase 2: Air India fuel surcharge hike</h3>The second phase, starting March 18, will introduce higher fuel surcharges for long-haul routes. Travel to Europe will include an additional $125 levy, up from the earlier $100. Passengers flying to Australia and North America will face a $200 surcharge, compared with the previous $150.<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Route</th><th>New Surcharge</th><th>Previous Surcharge</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Europe</td><td>$125</td><td>$100</td></tr><tr><td>North America</td><td>$200</td><td>$150</td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td><td>$200</td><td>$150</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2>Phase 3: Air India fuel surcharge hike</h2>A third phase, covering routes to Far East destinations such as Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea, will be announced later.<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Route</th><th>Status</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Hong Kong</td><td>To be announced</td></tr><tr><td>Japan</td><td>To be announced</td></tr><tr><td>South Korea</td><td>To be announced</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2>I have already booked my Air India tickets; will I also need to pay an additional surcharge?</h2>Air India clarified that tickets booked before the new surcharge dates will not be affected, unless passengers change their travel dates or itineraries, which would require the fare to be recalculated.

Indian fliers will face an immediate increase in Air India ticket costs starting Thursday (Mar 12). The airline has confirmed that escalating aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, exacerbated by supply interruptions from the Strait of Hormuz conflict, are forcing an increase in levy.

As the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran rages on in West Asia, Indians starting Thursday (Mar 12) would have to shell out extra money for Air India flight tickets as fuel prices rise. The flight operator in a press release said that since early March 2026, the price of aviation turbine fuel (ATF) has "escalated" due to "supply interruptions" and fliers will now face an added surcharge. How much extra would you have to pay for an Air India ticket? All you need to know. Also read | Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son Customers have to pay as ATF prices rise Air India said that the surcharge will be applicable for both domestic and international routes, and also on the flights operated on Air India Express routes. "Since early March 2026, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), which accounts for nearly 40% of an airline's operating costs, has seen significant price escalation due to supply interruptions. In India, this pressure is amplified by high Excise Duty and VAT on ATF in major metro cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, magnifying the impact and placing substantial strain on airline operating economics," said Air India in its Tuesday (Mar 10) release. How much extra would Air India fliers pay now? According to the press release, the price increase will be imposed in multiple phases. Here's a breakdown: Phase 1: Air India fuel surcharge hike In the first phase, starting March 12, 2026, domestic air travel and flights to SAARC countries, which were previously free of any additional levies, will now attract a surcharge of INR 399. Those flying to the Middle East will have to pay a $10 surcharge. Meanwhile, travellers to Southeast Asia, who earlier paid a $40 levy, will now face an additional $20 levy, bringing the total to $60. Travel to Africa will see the levy increase to $90 from $60. Route New Surcharge Previous Surcharge Domestic flights ₹399 None SAARC countries ₹399 None Middle East $10 Not specified Southeast Asia $60 $40 Africa $90 $60 Also read | 'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike Phase 2: Air India fuel surcharge hike The second phase, starting March 18, will introduce higher fuel surcharges for long-haul routes. Travel to Europe will include an additional $125 levy, up from the earlier $100. Passengers flying to Australia and North America will face a $200 surcharge, compared with the previous $150. Route New Surcharge Previous Surcharge Europe $125 $100 North America $200 $150 Australia $200 $150 Phase 3: Air India fuel surcharge hike A third phase, covering routes to Far East destinations such as Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea, will be announced later. Route Status Hong Kong To be announced Japan To be announced South Korea To be announced I have already booked my Air India tickets; will I also need to pay an additional surcharge? Air India clarified that tickets booked before the new surcharge dates will not be affected, unless passengers change their travel dates or itineraries, which would require the fare to be recalculated.

Indian fliers will face an immediate increase in Air India ticket costs starting Thursday (Mar 12). The airline has confirmed that escalating aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, exacerbated by supply interruptions from the Strait of Hormuz conflict, are forcing an increase in levy.

Fliers to pay up to $200 extra for Air India flights amid ATF price hike during Iran war. All you need to know

Iran's top police commander has warned that demonstrators who support Tehran’s adversaries during the ongoing war will be treated as enemies of the state. The warning comes amid fears that the Iran war could reignite mass anti-government rallies.<h2>Protestors or enemies</h2>Iran's national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, in comments aired by state broadcaster IRIB late on Tuesday, said, "If anyone comes forward in line with the wishes of the enemy, we will no longer see them as merely a protester."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</a>"We will see them as an enemy," he said, adding, "We will deal with them in the same way we deal with enemies." Radan added that Iranian security forces were fully prepared to respond. "All our forces are also ready, with their hands on the trigger, prepared to defend their revolution."<h2>Warning amid fears of renewed unrest</h2>The statement comes as the conflict in the Middle East raises concerns within Iran’s leadership that large-scale anti-government protests could erupt again.Authorities carried out a sweeping crackdown earlier this year after demonstrations broke out in January over economic hardship in the sanctions-hit country. Iranian officials described those protests as riots and warned participants to surrender or face legal consequences.At the time, US President Donald Trump warned the Iranian government against a crackdown on protestors and told the citizens that help was coming.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>Disputed death toll from crackdown</h2>Iranian authorities say more than 3,000 people died during the unrest, including security personnel and civilians. Officials have blamed the violence on what they describe as "terrorist acts" supported by Iran's enemies.However, the Washington-based monitoring group Human Rights Activists News Agency has reported a far higher toll. According to the group, more than 7,000 people may have been killed during the crackdown, most of them protesters. It also says that more than 50,000 people were arrested.The warning from Iranian police comes amid a widening conflict with the United States and Israel. Washington and Israel launched strikes inside Iran on Feb. 28, targeting military and strategic sites. Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed in the joint strikes, with his death confirmed on March 1.Iran has since responded with missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory and US bases across the Gulf region.&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.

Will Iran treat anti-war protesters as enemies during the conflict with the US and Israel? Iran’s police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan warned that anyone supporting Tehran’s adversaries will be viewed as an “enemy of the state.”

Why is the regime issuing this warning now? Scroll down to read.

Iran's top police commander has warned that demonstrators who support Tehran’s adversaries during the ongoing war will be treated as enemies of the state. The warning comes amid fears that the Iran war could reignite mass anti-government rallies. Protestors or enemies Iran's national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, in comments aired by state broadcaster IRIB late on Tuesday, said, "If anyone comes forward in line with the wishes of the enemy, we will no longer see them as merely a protester." Also read | Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son "We will see them as an enemy," he said, adding, "We will deal with them in the same way we deal with enemies." Radan added that Iranian security forces were fully prepared to respond. "All our forces are also ready, with their hands on the trigger, prepared to defend their revolution." Warning amid fears of renewed unrest The statement comes as the conflict in the Middle East raises concerns within Iran’s leadership that large-scale anti-government protests could erupt again. Authorities carried out a sweeping crackdown earlier this year after demonstrations broke out in January over economic hardship in the sanctions-hit country. Iranian officials described those protests as riots and warned participants to surrender or face legal consequences. At the time, US President Donald Trump warned the Iranian government against a crackdown on protestors and told the citizens that help was coming. Also read | 'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike Disputed death toll from crackdown Iranian authorities say more than 3,000 people died during the unrest, including security personnel and civilians. Officials have blamed the violence on what they describe as "terrorist acts" supported by Iran's enemies. However, the Washington-based monitoring group Human Rights Activists News Agency has reported a far higher toll. According to the group, more than 7,000 people may have been killed during the crackdown, most of them protesters. It also says that more than 50,000 people were arrested. The warning from Iranian police comes amid a widening conflict with the United States and Israel. Washington and Israel launched strikes inside Iran on Feb. 28, targeting military and strategic sites. Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed in the joint strikes, with his death confirmed on March 1. Iran has since responded with missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory and US bases across the Gulf region. 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.

Will Iran treat anti-war protesters as enemies during the conflict with the US and Israel? Iran’s police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan warned that anyone supporting Tehran’s adversaries will be viewed as an “enemy of the state.”Why is the regime issuing this warning now? Scroll down to read.

‘Hand on the trigger’: Iran vows to treat anti-war protesters as ‘enemies of the state’

Air India has introduced a new fuel surcharge on international tickets as rising fuel costs and airspace disruptions linked to the Gulf conflict impact global aviation. The surcharge is expected to range between $10 and $200, depending on the route and distance.

Airlines are increasingly rerouting flights to avoid volatile airspace across parts of West Asia, leading to longer routes and higher operational costs. Aviation authorities have established safe air corridors to ensure that limited international flights can continue operating safely despite the crisis.

Iran War: Air India Adds Fuel Surcharge As Gulf Conflict Disrupts Global Flight Routes

The youngest victim of the deadly war in West Asia is a 4-month-old Iranian girl, who was injured in the attacks, and the youngest child to die is an 8-month-old girl, according to the Iranian government. In a post shared on X by the Iranian Embassy in India, citing the government spokesperson, 260 people have been killed in the first 10 days of the war. The statement added that 206 of them were women and children.“THE FIRST 10 DAYS OF THE WAR,” the post read. “260 MARTYRS, WOMEN AND CHILDREN.” It further added citing the government spokesperson: “During these attacks, we had 206 women and children killed. The youngest martyr was an 8-month-old girl. The youngest injured was a 4-month-old girl.”On March 8, Iran’s health ministry said that more than 1,200 people have been killed, including about 200 women and 200 children under the age of 12, while over 10,000 civilian injured. The Iranian Red Crescent earlier said on March 3 that 787 people have lost their lives since the US and Israeli strikes in Iran.Meanwhile, Israeli authorities have said that 14 people have been killed on the Israeli side, while seven US service personnel have been killed. Gulf States and the US Central Command (CENTCOM) have reported 24 deaths in the neighbouring states.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.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 says 260 people, including 206 women and children, were killed in the first 10 days of the West Asia war. The youngest victim was an 8-month-old girl, while a 4-month-old baby was among the injured.

The youngest victim of the deadly war in West Asia is a 4-month-old Iranian girl, who was injured in the attacks, and the youngest child to die is an 8-month-old girl, according to the Iranian government. In a post shared on X by the Iranian Embassy in India, citing the government spokesperson, 260 people have been killed in the first 10 days of the war. The statement added that 206 of them were women and children. “THE FIRST 10 DAYS OF THE WAR,” the post read. “260 MARTYRS, WOMEN AND CHILDREN.” It further added citing the government spokesperson: “During these attacks, we had 206 women and children killed. The youngest martyr was an 8-month-old girl. The youngest injured was a 4-month-old girl.” On March 8, Iran’s health ministry said that more than 1,200 people have been killed, including about 200 women and 200 children under the age of 12, while over 10,000 civilian injured. The Iranian Red Crescent earlier said on March 3 that 787 people have lost their lives since the US and Israeli strikes in Iran. Meanwhile, Israeli authorities have said that 14 people have been killed on the Israeli side, while seven US service personnel have been killed. Gulf States and the US Central Command (CENTCOM) have reported 24 deaths in the neighbouring states. 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. 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 says 260 people, including 206 women and children, were killed in the first 10 days of the West Asia war. The youngest victim was an 8-month-old girl, while a 4-month-old baby was among the injured.

Iran war’s youngest victim a mere 4-month-old baby, claims govt

The military conflict between the US, Israel and Iran has taken over the Gulf states as well. Iran has struck multiple sites in Israel in retaliation for its war in the Islamic Republic. Amid this chaos, the Israeli government has introduced the concept of "bomb shelter dating". As the name suggests, the system, which will be available as an app, will provide details about who is single among the people hiding in the shelters.&nbsp;Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced it via a post on the social media platform X detailing multiple "creative tools" being used during "missile fire". The ministry said the tools include a dating app that will show “who’s single even under fire”, a bomb shelter tracker and a shower risk protector that helps people choose safer times to take a shower. The app “shows who's single because even under fire, love goes on,” the ministry wrote in the post.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-safer-to-sink-more-fun-trump-explains-why-us-chose-to-sink-iranian-vessels-over-capturing-them-1773128758213">‘Safer to sink, more fun’: Trump explains why US chose to sink Iranian vessels over capturing them</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Only in Israel 🫶🏽 Missile sirens generate tech innovation 🇮🇱 💥Bomb shelter dating 💥Plan safe shower time 💥Sleep lost to sirens Because even with chaos comes creativity✨ <a href="https://t.co/9XO3eQDVt6">pic.twitter.com/9XO3eQDVt6</a>&mdash; Israel ישראל (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/2030972748747444374?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

People inside a shelter place a QR code at the entrance. Singles who scan it can then check who else in the same bunker shares the same relationship status, The Times of Israel reported. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee applauded the concept, and he wrote on X, “Someday they will tell their kids, ‘we met on a dating app in a shelter while dodging ballistic missiles.’”&nbsp;There is also a concept of "shower risk predictor" that will tell recent siren alerts to estimate the chance of another missile warning, "so you're not caught with shampoo in your hair".<h2>How did the internet react?</h2>Netizens did not sound quite pleased about the concept, as one X user wrote, “Man, there’s something deeply, fundamentally sick about you lot." Meanwhile, another wrote, “This is gross. People are dying. People are mourning. Don’t do this.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With the entire country on &quot;shelter in place&quot; mode, we should have expected something like this! They call Israel &quot;Start Up Nation&quot; for a reason. Someday they will tell their kids &quot;we met on a dating app in a shelter while dodging ballastic missiles.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Ce4txZlBbC">https://t.co/Ce4txZlBbC</a>&mdash; Ambassador Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeHuckabee/status/2028327249087185017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Israeli government’s "bomb shelter dating" app and shower risk predictor have sparked intense internet backlash. While meant to show "love goes on," critics have slammed the initiative as insensitive and "deeply sick" amid conflict.

The military conflict between the US, Israel and Iran has taken over the Gulf states as well. Iran has struck multiple sites in Israel in retaliation for its war in the Islamic Republic. Amid this chaos, the Israeli government has introduced the concept of "bomb shelter dating". As the name suggests, the system, which will be available as an app, will provide details about who is single among the people hiding in the shelters. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced it via a post on the social media platform X detailing multiple "creative tools" being used during "missile fire". The ministry said the tools include a dating app that will show “who’s single even under fire”, a bomb shelter tracker and a shower risk protector that helps people choose safer times to take a shower. The app “shows who's single because even under fire, love goes on,” the ministry wrote in the post. Also read: ‘Safer to sink, more fun’: Trump explains why US chose to sink Iranian vessels over capturing them

The Israeli government’s "bomb shelter dating" app and shower risk predictor have sparked intense internet backlash. While meant to show "love goes on," critics have slammed the initiative as insensitive and "deeply sick" amid conflict.

Israel launches ‘bomb shelter dating’ app to introduce singles hiding during airstrikes amid Iran war

Pardon the pun, but it is time for India’s diplomats to fire on all cylinders – especially keeping in mind an emerging shortage of cooking gas for hotels, restaurants and homes that threatens the everyday eating habits of hundreds of millions of Indians.The crisis that has arisen from the militarisation of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf offers an opportunity for India in its own interest to tell both the United States and Iran to allow legitimate Indian interests to prevail – and that is also lawful opportunity to move in coordination with other leading economies of the world, especially its Gulf friends and BRICS partners (Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa) to exercise collective leverage to end what for most analysts looks like a pointless war threatening the world economy and peace.The United States has said it took out more than a dozen mine-laying vessels from Iran, even as Tehran’s Islamic Republic regime said it would block the region’s exports, but with a helpful caveat that it would not allow things to be shipped to its “enemies”. India most certainly is not an enemy of Iran, nor is the US. But either country, indirectly or directly affecting the well-being of its citizens, is not something Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government should accept without demur. If anything, the Ministry of External Affairs has now crossed the “none of our business” threshold on the issue.Apart from the fact that the Strait of Hormuz is critical because about 20% of the world’s oil is shipped through it, it is extra important for India because about 50% of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies to India pass through the strait, mostly from Qatar, which is a peninsula that juts into the Persian Gulf in which the Hormuz waterway is like a bottleneck.The strait is as much a diplomatic minefield as it is a zone for military mines. About 5,800 km in area, but one that has a width of about only 37 km at its narrowest waterway, it is a choke point that needs nuanced discussion – but offers ample scope for both trade under international law and diplomatic space that India can navigate without unsolicited services from a supercop like President Donald Trump’s US.Iran controls a few islands, including Abu Musa, Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb in the Hormuz area allowing it de facto control but these three islands are disputed by the United Arab Emirates, which is a reasonably trusted friend of India. The problem for India gets acute only if Qatar is seen by Iran as an enemy state in view of the US military facilities there. By all indications, Tehran’s Islamic rulers are using Qatar’s status in West Asia as a lever to pressure the US to stop its reckless bombings. Officially, Iran and Qatar have cordial relations, including shared interests in the oil economy.India has every right to police its own goods and services in the Hormuz area if it involves shipments from Qatar to India, from India to the UAE and other Gulf states.Authoritative legal guides say the Strait of Hormuz must be viewed under transit passage rules governed by the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). We are now understandably in a Trumpist world in which international law and UN conventions have been thrown to the sea winds, but the law does allow ships and aircraft uninterrupted and continuous rights to freely navigate the strait even when there is a security crisis, as long as the transit is legitimate which in the current context means oil and LNG supplies meant for commercial, not military use, in India.In a sense, India can become both an international interlocutor and a party legitimately pursuing the interests of bilateral trade for its own citizens in the Hormuz tangle. If played well, this can be a card of utmost geopolitical significance for India, offering an opportunity for course correction in its autonomous diplomacy in which ties with Israel and, indeed, the US, are becoming an albatross around its neck. Surely we need partners who listen to our interests, and where they are not, the much-touted term, “strategic autonomy,” has to be unequivocally invoked. Hormuz thus offers a multilateral opportunity in a bilateral package.Only defined zones near islands and exclusive economic zones are exempt from transit rights in the high seas enjoyed by trading ships. Most certainly, Iran does not have rights to plant dangerous mines in the legitimate navigation zones, nor does that allow the US to impede trade by India or other legitimately entitled states and step up its military presence in the area.Militarily and geographically, the Strait of Hormuz remains a narrow area, but diplomatically, there is enough for India to assert itself, if not as an emerging power concerned about peace and stability in Asia, at least as a country that owes its citizens some energy security for homes and hearths.

India most certainly is not an enemy of Iran, nor is the US. But either country, indirectly or directly affecting the well-being of its citizens, is not something Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government should accept without demur.

Pardon the pun, but it is time for India’s diplomats to fire on all cylinders – especially keeping in mind an emerging shortage of cooking gas for hotels, restaurants and homes that threatens the everyday eating habits of hundreds of millions of Indians. The crisis that has arisen from the militarisation of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf offers an opportunity for India in its own interest to tell both the United States and Iran to allow legitimate Indian interests to prevail – and that is also lawful opportunity to move in coordination with other leading economies of the world, especially its Gulf friends and BRICS partners (Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa) to exercise collective leverage to end what for most analysts looks like a pointless war threatening the world economy and peace. The United States has said it took out more than a dozen mine-laying vessels from Iran, even as Tehran’s Islamic Republic regime said it would block the region’s exports, but with a helpful caveat that it would not allow things to be shipped to its “enemies”. India most certainly is not an enemy of Iran, nor is the US. But either country, indirectly or directly affecting the well-being of its citizens, is not something Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government should accept without demur. If anything, the Ministry of External Affairs has now crossed the “none of our business” threshold on the issue. Apart from the fact that the Strait of Hormuz is critical because about 20% of the world’s oil is shipped through it, it is extra important for India because about 50% of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies to India pass through the strait, mostly from Qatar, which is a peninsula that juts into the Persian Gulf in which the Hormuz waterway is like a bottleneck. The strait is as much a diplomatic minefield as it is a zone for military mines. About 5,800 km in area, but one that has a width of about only 37 km at its narrowest waterway, it is a choke point that needs nuanced discussion – but offers ample scope for both trade under international law and diplomatic space that India can navigate without unsolicited services from a supercop like President Donald Trump’s US. Iran controls a few islands, including Abu Musa, Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb in the Hormuz area allowing it de facto control but these three islands are disputed by the United Arab Emirates, which is a reasonably trusted friend of India. The problem for India gets acute only if Qatar is seen by Iran as an enemy state in view of the US military facilities there. By all indications, Tehran’s Islamic rulers are using Qatar’s status in West Asia as a lever to pressure the US to stop its reckless bombings. Officially, Iran and Qatar have cordial relations, including shared interests in the oil economy. India has every right to police its own goods and services in the Hormuz area if it involves shipments from Qatar to India, from India to the UAE and other Gulf states. Authoritative legal guides say the Strait of Hormuz must be viewed under transit passage rules governed by the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). We are now understandably in a Trumpist world in which international law and UN conventions have been thrown to the sea winds, but the law does allow ships and aircraft uninterrupted and continuous rights to freely navigate the strait even when there is a security crisis, as long as the transit is legitimate which in the current context means oil and LNG supplies meant for commercial, not military use, in India. In a sense, India can become both an international interlocutor and a party legitimately pursuing the interests of bilateral trade for its own citizens in the Hormuz tangle. If played well, this can be a card of utmost geopolitical significance for India, offering an opportunity for course correction in its autonomous diplomacy in which ties with Israel and, indeed, the US, are becoming an albatross around its neck. Surely we need partners who listen to our interests, and where they are not, the much-touted term, “strategic autonomy,” has to be unequivocally invoked. Hormuz thus offers a multilateral opportunity in a bilateral package. Only defined zones near islands and exclusive economic zones are exempt from transit rights in the high seas enjoyed by trading ships. Most certainly, Iran does not have rights to plant dangerous mines in the legitimate navigation zones, nor does that allow the US to impede trade by India or other legitimately entitled states and step up its military presence in the area. Militarily and geographically, the Strait of Hormuz remains a narrow area, but diplomatically, there is enough for India to assert itself, if not as an emerging power concerned about peace and stability in Asia, at least as a country that owes its citizens some energy security for homes and hearths.

India most certainly is not an enemy of Iran, nor is the US. But either country, indirectly or directly affecting the well-being of its citizens, is not something Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government should accept without demur.

Gas diplomacy ahoy! Hormuz crisis offers opportunity for India to play mediator and help its homes

Former Trump security adviser John Bolton has claimed that Iran could have got hold of a nuclear weapon days before the US and Israel launched an attack. Talking to The Sun, he said that Pyongyang could have shipped the weapon within 72 hours of the request, following a quick wire transfer and loading the nuke on an aeroplane, transporting it to Iran via Russia. Bolton warned that the Iran-North Korea relationship should not be ignored. "Let's face it, in the China-Russia axis that's forming right now, Iran and North Korea are two outriders, and so the cooperation between them is very threatening," he told the outlet. Last year, US hit three nuclear enrichment facilities in Iran - Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan - which is believed to have set its nuclear programmed back. Bolton says that this does not mean that Tehran can't still access a nuke, as it is possible it reached out to an ally. He says this itself is enough to justify a regime change. Bolton backed the military action in Iran, saying that whichever kind of government comes next - military or democracy - it would be better than the current one.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-re-just-getting-started-iran-issues-big-warning-to-netanyahu-rejects-us-allegations-of-pre-emptive-attack-as-utter-lie-1773199611170">Iran issues BIG warning to Netanyahu, rejects US allegations of pre-emptive attack as ‘utter lie’</a><h2>Mojtaba Khameini named new Supreme Leader of Iran</h2>"It could be a military government, it could be a democracy. At least it's not run by a bunch of theocratic extremists and militarists that want nuclear weapons – that is the big change," he said. Meanwhile, Operation Epic Fury continues with the US and Israel carrying out more strikes in Tehran, while the latter is responding by hitting bases in Gulf countries. On the first day of the strikes, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed along with several of his family members. Iran has named his son, Mojtaba Khameini, as the new Supreme Leader, who is said to be a "hardliner" who is "as bad as his father". The 56-year-old is an influential cleric and was long touted to take over the position after his father. A Foreign Office minister warned that things will not change under him, and his appointment shows that Iran is not ready to shift paths. Iranians are also unhappy with Mojtaba being named the new leader and chanted "death to Mojtaba" from their houses. Donald Trump stated that his appointment is just going to create more of the same.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-something-we-d-be-happy-with-us-warns-russia-against-getting-involved-in-iran-war-amid-intel-sharing-allegations-1773191720629">US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-unleashes-monster-missiles-israel-launches-massive-strikes-on-tehran-1773207896271/embed<h2>Iran war: Ships hit in Strait of Hormuz</h2>Mojtaba is said to own properties worth Rs 2,500 crore in London, besides many more across the world. He used frontmen to acquire them, and the money came from the sale of Iranian oil as the regime used methods to evade sanctions. Meanwhile, the Iran war continues with the US saying it has sunk 16 ships that were laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has closed the waterway and warned that any ship that attempts to cross it will be set on fire.

Could Iran have got hold of a nuclear weapon? John Bolton, who was Trump's security adviser in his first term, said it is possible Tehran acquired one from North Korea, all within 72 hours. He also justified the war, saying that this way it would at least lose a theocratic regime.

Former Trump security adviser John Bolton has claimed that Iran could have got hold of a nuclear weapon days before the US and Israel launched an attack. Talking to The Sun, he said that Pyongyang could have shipped the weapon within 72 hours of the request, following a quick wire transfer and loading the nuke on an aeroplane, transporting it to Iran via Russia. Bolton warned that the Iran-North Korea relationship should not be ignored. "Let's face it, in the China-Russia axis that's forming right now, Iran and North Korea are two outriders, and so the cooperation between them is very threatening," he told the outlet. Last year, US hit three nuclear enrichment facilities in Iran - Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan - which is believed to have set its nuclear programmed back. Bolton says that this does not mean that Tehran can't still access a nuke, as it is possible it reached out to an ally. He says this itself is enough to justify a regime change. Bolton backed the military action in Iran, saying that whichever kind of government comes next - military or democracy - it would be better than the current one. Also Read: Iran issues BIG warning to Netanyahu, rejects US allegations of pre-emptive attack as ‘utter lie’ Mojtaba Khameini named new Supreme Leader of Iran "It could be a military government, it could be a democracy. At least it's not run by a bunch of theocratic extremists and militarists that want nuclear weapons – that is the big change," he said. Meanwhile, Operation Epic Fury continues with the US and Israel carrying out more strikes in Tehran, while the latter is responding by hitting bases in Gulf countries. On the first day of the strikes, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed along with several of his family members. Iran has named his son, Mojtaba Khameini, as the new Supreme Leader, who is said to be a "hardliner" who is "as bad as his father". The 56-year-old is an influential cleric and was long touted to take over the position after his father. A Foreign Office minister warned that things will not change under him, and his appointment shows that Iran is not ready to shift paths. Iranians are also unhappy with Mojtaba being named the new leader and chanted "death to Mojtaba" from their houses. Donald Trump stated that his appointment is just going to create more of the same. Also Read: US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-unleashes-monster-missiles-israel-launches-massive-strikes-on-tehran-1773207896271/embed Iran war: Ships hit in Strait of Hormuz Mojtaba is said to own properties worth Rs 2,500 crore in London, besides many more across the world. He used frontmen to acquire them, and the money came from the sale of Iranian oil as the regime used methods to evade sanctions. Meanwhile, the Iran war continues with the US saying it has sunk 16 ships that were laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has closed the waterway and warned that any ship that attempts to cross it will be set on fire.

Could Iran have got hold of a nuclear weapon? John Bolton, who was Trump's security adviser in his first term, said it is possible Tehran acquired one from North Korea, all within 72 hours. He also justified the war, saying that this way it would at least lose a theocratic regime.

Iran could have acquired a nuclear weapon from North Korea in just 72 hours, former Trump adviser warns

The Donald Trump administration on Tuesday (Mar 10) said India being a "good actor" was the reason behind Washington's temporary waiver granting New Delhi permission to &nbsp;purchase Russian oil. Talking to the press, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said "The President and the Secretary of the Treasury and the whole national security team came to this decision because our allies in India have been good actors and have previously stopped buying sanctioned Russian oil." This comes amid reports that the US was mulling further easing the sanctions on Russian oil to combat rising energy prices amid Iran war.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-something-we-d-be-happy-with-us-warns-russia-against-getting-involved-in-iran-war-amid-intel-sharing-allegations-1773191720629">'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations</a><h2>What did the US say about India?</h2>During a press conference, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the US decided to grant New Delhi a temporary waiver to buy Russian oil “because our allies in India have been good actors and have previously stopped buying sanctioned Russian oil.”She added that US allowed India to purchase Russian crude already out at sea amid rising fuel prices. "As we work to appease this temporary gap of oil supply around the world because of the Iranians, we have temporarily permitted them to accept that Russian oil," she said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says, &quot;...The President and the Secretary of the Treasury and the whole national security team came to this decision because our allies in India have been good actors and have previously stopped buying sanctioned Russian oil.… <a href="https://t.co/1BALpbnfV6">https://t.co/1BALpbnfV6</a> <a href="https://t.co/vv20AQT0Zl">pic.twitter.com/vv20AQT0Zl</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2031444698733359320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>American U-turn on Russian oil</h2>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-making-a-u-turn-india-gets-30-day-waiver-to-purchase-russian-oil-amid-iran-war-1772764844258#goog_rewarded">30-day waiver</a> announced on Thursday (Mar 5) marks a U-turn in US's stance on revenue from Russian oil and its effect on the Ukraine war that has already lasted four years.Addressing the apparent U-turn, Leavitt added, "This short-term measure, we don’t believe it will provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government at this time".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 twisted Tomahawk theory on Minab school strike</a><h2>Trump mulling easing sanction on Russian oil</h2>According to a CNN report, the Trump administration is discussing further easing sanctions on Russian oil. This step, it reports, is part of an urgent effort to combat rising energy prices amid the ongoing West Asia war between the United States, Israel and Iran. Alluding to the possibility of easing sanctions, Trump on Monday said, "we have sanctions on some countries...we are going to take those sanctions off until this straightens out."&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;&nbsp;

Why did the US give India a waiver to buy Russian oil despite sanctions? The Trump administration says New Delhi is a “good actor”. But what does that mean?Scroll down to read more.

The Donald Trump administration on Tuesday (Mar 10) said India being a "good actor" was the reason behind Washington's temporary waiver granting New Delhi permission to purchase Russian oil. Talking to the press, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said "The President and the Secretary of the Treasury and the whole national security team came to this decision because our allies in India have been good actors and have previously stopped buying sanctioned Russian oil." This comes amid reports that the US was mulling further easing the sanctions on Russian oil to combat rising energy prices amid Iran war. Also read | 'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations What did the US say about India? During a press conference, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the US decided to grant New Delhi a temporary waiver to buy Russian oil “because our allies in India have been good actors and have previously stopped buying sanctioned Russian oil.” She added that US allowed India to purchase Russian crude already out at sea amid rising fuel prices. "As we work to appease this temporary gap of oil supply around the world because of the Iranians, we have temporarily permitted them to accept that Russian oil," she said.

Why did the US give India a waiver to buy Russian oil despite sanctions? The Trump administration says New Delhi is a “good actor”. But what does that mean?&nbsp;Scroll down to read more.

US calls India 'good actor' REVEALS reason behind temporary Russian oil purchase waiver amid Iran war

Sixteen Iranian ships that were laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz have been destroyed. Donald Trump and the US Central Command informed about the sinkings on social media. Iran has held the point hostage, leading to a rise in oil prices. 

Sixteen Iranian ships that were laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz have been destroyed. Donald Trump and the US Central Command informed about the sinkings on social media. Iran has held the point hostage, leading to a rise in oil prices.&nbsp;

16 Iranian ships planting mines near Strait of Hormuz sink after missile strikes

#Gravitas Since the war, more than 2,000 Iranian missiles and drones have been reportedly launched across the region. Yet despite this barrage, Gulf governments are largely holding their fire.


US-Iran War: Why Gulf Nations Aren’t Hitting Back at Iran

The war in West Asia has entered its 11th day, with fighting spreading across multiple countries. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed responsibility for a missile strike on a U.S. base in Iraq, while Israel has launched airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Missile and drone attacks have also targeted Gulf countries, with Qatar intercepting several Iranian missiles over its airspace. The UAE has condemned a drone attack on its consulate in Erbil. Meanwhile, Iran says it is preparing to deploy “monster missiles” with one-ton warheads, as Israel warns that its attacks on Iranian targets will intensify. The death toll continues to rise across the region, raising fears that the conflict could spread further across West Asia. 


US-Iran War: Iran Vows to Fight Till the End as Trump Says War Can End Soon

U.S. President Donald Trump has said the war with Iran is likely to end “very soon,” claiming American forces are far ahead of schedule in achieving their military objectives.


US Opening Backchannel Talks To End War? Battlefield Reality Behind Change in Tone?

A top Iranian security official has threatened US President Donald Trump, telling him, "Be careful not to get eliminated." Reacting to Trump's statement that Iran would be hit "TWENTY TIMES HARDER” if Tehran stopped oil coming through the Strait of Hormuz, Ali Larijani wrote, “The sacrificial nation of Iran doesn’t fear your empty threats. Even those bigger than you couldn’t eliminate Iran. Be careful not to get eliminated yourself.” Larijani is Iran's Supreme National Security Council chief and is assumed to have taken a central role after Ali Khamenei's death. The American president has in the past accused Iran of plotting to assassinate him. The Iran war started with the US and Israel launching missiles on the country on February 28, which killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Iran has been responding with strikes on US bases in Middle East countries, hitting countries like Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait.<h2>See the post below &nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ملت عاشورایی ایران، از تهدیدات پوشالی شما نمی‌ترسند. بزرگتر از شما هم نتوانستند ملت ایران را حذف کنند. مراقب خود باشید حذف نشوید! <a href="https://t.co/v1aWLoJk7K">pic.twitter.com/v1aWLoJk7K</a>&mdash; Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alilarijani_ir/status/2031323351952568569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Monday, Trump gave a confusing message about the end of the war, saying the war will be a “short-term excursion” and end "very soon". However, he went on to warn Iran with bigger attacks if it continued to block shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Notably, the move has caused a major spike in oil prices as Brent crude, the international benchmark, topped out at $119 a barrel. “I will not allow a terrorist regime to hold the world hostage and attempt to stop the globe’s oil supply. And if Iran does anything to do that, they’ll get hit at a much, much harder level,” the US president said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-calls-it-most-intense-day-of-strikes-as-iran-records-lowest-attack-in-24-hours-1773144919915">Pete Hegseth calls it 'most intense day of strikes' as Iran records lowest attack in 24 hours</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-video-indicates-us-missile-hit-girls-school-in-minab-1773147554177/embed<h2>Death toll and latest on Iran war</h2>US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also threatened to hit Iran “harder than ever” if it keeps blocking oil flow through the strait. He also said that “today will be the most intense day” of the US war on Iran. "Today will be yet again our most intense day of strikes inside Iran. The most fighters, the most bombers, the most strikes. Intelligence more refined, and better than ever." The BBC reported more strikes in the Iranian city of Karaj. Two explosions were reported in Tehran following a warning by the Israeli military that it had started a fresh wave of strikes. The number of people killed in Iran since the start of the war stands at 1,332, including 206 women and children, according to Iranian government officials.

Ali Larijani, an Iranian security official, has warned Trump to watch out and "be careful not to get eliminated." He threatened the US president, responding to his fear tactic to get the Strait of Hormuz reopened, a closure that has sent oil prices soaring.

A top Iranian security official has threatened US President Donald Trump, telling him, "Be careful not to get eliminated." Reacting to Trump's statement that Iran would be hit "TWENTY TIMES HARDER” if Tehran stopped oil coming through the Strait of Hormuz, Ali Larijani wrote, “The sacrificial nation of Iran doesn’t fear your empty threats. Even those bigger than you couldn’t eliminate Iran. Be careful not to get eliminated yourself.” Larijani is Iran's Supreme National Security Council chief and is assumed to have taken a central role after Ali Khamenei's death. The American president has in the past accused Iran of plotting to assassinate him. The Iran war started with the US and Israel launching missiles on the country on February 28, which killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Iran has been responding with strikes on US bases in Middle East countries, hitting countries like Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait. See the post below

Ali Larijani, an Iranian security official, has warned Trump to watch out and "be careful not to get eliminated." He threatened the US president, responding to his fear tactic to get the Strait of Hormuz reopened, a closure that has sent oil prices soaring.

'Be careful not to...': Iranian official responds to Trump's 'TWENTY TIMES HARDER' threat

U.S. President Donald Trump continues to blam Iran for the deadly school strike that happened during the early phase of the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran.

The strike, which occurred near a school in Minab, Iran, killed more than 160 people after a missile hit a military facility located next to the school. The attack reportedly took place when U.S. forces launched strikes against Iranian targets during the opening stages of the war.

However, Trump continues to insist that Iran was responsible for the tragedy, claiming Iranian weapons are inaccurate and may have caused the blast.

US-Iran War: Video Indicates US Missile Hit Girls' School in Minab 

NATO, the top military alliance of the West led by the US, is not helping Washington’s military interests in its ongoing joint operations with Israel against Iran. This is a sharp contrast with how the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was eager to help Ukraine against Russia, even though Kyiv is not even a member of the military alliance. What explains the dichotomy? Here is what you should know.<h2>NATO only gives political support, but avoids joining the military campaign led by US</h2>So far, NATO appears to have limited its role to defensive measures, rhetorical backing and possible logistical support. Forces of the 32-member alliance are not directly participating in airstrikes on Iran.NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said many European leaders ‘support the goals’ of the operation.“I feel widespread support in Europe,” Rutte said, while expressing backing for taking out Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities.But Rutte spoke mainly about defending Nato territory, not about direct military help. He described Iran as "an exporter of chaos that posed far-reaching danger" and warned the alliance would protect its members if needed.Noting that Iran is ‘an exporter of chaos that posed far-reaching danger’, he stressed that NATO’s focus remains defensive, and vowed to defend ‘every inch of NATO territory if needed.’"NATO is well-postured to defend Allied populations against ballistic threats," he added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-s-reluctance-to-support-us-israel-military-operations-on-iran-what-about-democracy-human-rights-etc-iran-war-analysis-1773124922550">Europe's reluctance to support US-Israel military operations on Iran. What about democracy, human rights, etc.?</a><h2>The Turkey question: How NATO defended its member's airspace</h2>Interestingly, when it comes to ‘NATO territory’, one must remember that Turkey, which borders the Middle East, is also a NATO member.Some ballistic missiles launched from Iran entered Turkish airspace and were intercepted by NATO defence systems. However, most of the incidents are being viewed as unintended spillover, even as Turkish officials warned Iran against violating their airspace.Debris from intercepted missiles fell in southern Turkey. It is unclear whether Iran was directly targeting Turkey to provoke a NATO response. Some analysts believe the ballistic missiles were intended for the Incirlik Air Base in southern Turkey or targets near Gaziantep.Iran officially denied targeting Turkey. NATO condemned the actions, and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan warned Tehran that violations of Turkish sovereignty would not be tolerated."Turkey does not want to be dragged into this war," Erdoğan said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-spillover-us-orders-evacuation-of-adana-consulate-as-iran-conflict-hits-turkey-1773077400350">Middle East spillover: US orders evacuation of Adana Consulate as Iran conflict hits Turkey</a><h2>NATO has not invoked Article 5, the collective defence clause of “one for all, all for one”</h2>Rutte has made it clear that “nobody's talking about Article 5.” &nbsp;Article 5 is Nato’s collective defence clause, under which an armed attack on one member is considered an attack on all.One reason it has not been invoked so far in the Iran war is that Article 5 requires a direct armed attack on a NATO member in Europe or North America.&nbsp;One could stretch that argument to Turkey, but missile interceptions over Turkish airspace did not trigger collective defence discussions. Most Iranian strikes so far have targeted US facilities in the Middle East, not NATO territory.Some analysts and officials say invoking Article 5 would require a ‘large-scale attack or invasion of a NATO member,’ which has not happened.<h2>Trump is not too keen to take help from NATO</h2>The UK, Italy and France have reportedly allowed the use of some bases and equipment. The UK also deployed four additional Typhoon fighter jets to Qatar for regional defence.However, this support came after initial hesitation. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at first restricted US access to some bases, including facilities linked to Cyprus. He called for diplomacy and questioned the legality of the conflict."The conflict could continue for some time... the best way forward for Iran would be a negotiated settlement," Starmer said earlier.Later, the UK allowed limited use of its facilities by American forces.US President Donald Trump criticised the delay. In a post on Truth Social, he wrote: "We don’t need your help if you’re going to hesitate and then claim credit later."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-iran-but-european-allies-choose-defence-over-war-nato-split-over-tehran-1772984675816/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-iran-but-european-allies-choose-defence-over-war-nato-split-over-tehran-1772984675816/embed</a><h2>NATO member Spain openly resisted military involvement</h2>What also stood out like a sore thumb on the presumed NATO unity was Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s refusal to allow the US access to Spanish bases. Calling the US actions in Iran illegal under international law, he reiterated Spain’s position of "No to war."Another NATO member Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned about the lack of a clear exit strategy.&nbsp;<h2>Trump has been openly critical of the NATO stance</h2>"Some traditional US allies are hemming and hawing about the use of force," he said. He also said he was unhappy with Starmer, saying the British leader "took far too much time to reverse course" on base access.Trump also attacked Spain’s position. "Spain has been terrible... cut off all dealings with Spain," he said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-to-enter-iran-war-alliance-adjusts-force-posture-eu-chief-affirms-unity-after-cyprus-attack-1772457342134">NATO to enter Iran war? Alliance adjusts force posture, EU slams attack on Cyprus base</a><h2>NATO double standards? How it supported non-NATO member Ukraine to the hilt</h2>NATO member countries strongly supported Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022, even though Kyiv is not a member of the alliance. The alliance helped arm Ukraine heavily despite its military asymmetry with Russia. NATO countries — including the US, mainly under President Joe Biden — supplied Ukraine with billions of dollars and euros in weapons, training, intelligence and air-defence systems. The power acquired through military and financial aid helped Ukraine prolong its resistance to the Russian invasion for more than four years.The argument is that Ukraine had the right to self-defence against what the alliance called Russia’s "brutal and unprovoked war of aggression."NATO also sees Russia as the most significant and direct threat to Allied security. The Russian invasion was viewed by many European NATO members as a direct and potentially existential threat, making Ukraine’s defence central to European stability.The cautious NATO stance in the Iran war, by contrast, stems partly from the fact that the US-Israel campaign is viewed by many allies as an offensive operation launched outside NATO territory.That distinction limits NATO’s legal mandate under Article 5. There has also been no formal request from the US for NATO military intervention. Trump has occasionally said the US can finish the job in Iran on its own.Rutte described the situation as an “and-and” approach: enabling US actions in the Middle East while ensuring Ukraine "has what it needs to stay strong in the fight."The difference reflects NATO’s doctrine: strong support for defensive wars that directly affect European security, but far greater caution about joining offensive conflicts abroad. NATO nations in Europe are already worn out by the Russia-Ukraine war. They just cannot afford to get drawn into another conflict, happening away from its core area of operation.

NATO supported US goals in the Iran war politically but has so far avoided a combat role. The alliance’s restraint contrasts with its strong support for non-member Ukraine against Russia. Why? Because, priorities…

NATO, the top military alliance of the West led by the US, is not helping Washington’s military interests in its ongoing joint operations with Israel against Iran. This is a sharp contrast with how the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was eager to help Ukraine against Russia, even though Kyiv is not even a member of the military alliance. What explains the dichotomy? Here is what you should know. NATO only gives political support, but avoids joining the military campaign led by US So far, NATO appears to have limited its role to defensive measures, rhetorical backing and possible logistical support. Forces of the 32-member alliance are not directly participating in airstrikes on Iran. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said many European leaders ‘support the goals’ of the operation. “I feel widespread support in Europe,” Rutte said, while expressing backing for taking out Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. But Rutte spoke mainly about defending Nato territory, not about direct military help. He described Iran as "an exporter of chaos that posed far-reaching danger" and warned the alliance would protect its members if needed. Noting that Iran is ‘an exporter of chaos that posed far-reaching danger’, he stressed that NATO’s focus remains defensive, and vowed to defend ‘every inch of NATO territory if needed.’ "NATO is well-postured to defend Allied populations against ballistic threats," he added. Also read: Europe's reluctance to support US-Israel military operations on Iran. What about democracy, human rights, etc.? The Turkey question: How NATO defended its member's airspace Interestingly, when it comes to ‘NATO territory’, one must remember that Turkey, which borders the Middle East, is also a NATO member. Some ballistic missiles launched from Iran entered Turkish airspace and were intercepted by NATO defence systems. However, most of the incidents are being viewed as unintended spillover, even as Turkish officials warned Iran against violating their airspace. Debris from intercepted missiles fell in southern Turkey. It is unclear whether Iran was directly targeting Turkey to provoke a NATO response. Some analysts believe the ballistic missiles were intended for the Incirlik Air Base in southern Turkey or targets near Gaziantep. Iran officially denied targeting Turkey. NATO condemned the actions, and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan warned Tehran that violations of Turkish sovereignty would not be tolerated. "Turkey does not want to be dragged into this war," Erdoğan said. Also read: Middle East spillover: US orders evacuation of Adana Consulate as Iran conflict hits Turkey NATO has not invoked Article 5, the collective defence clause of “one for all, all for one” Rutte has made it clear that “nobody's talking about Article 5.” Article 5 is Nato’s collective defence clause, under which an armed attack on one member is considered an attack on all. One reason it has not been invoked so far in the Iran war is that Article 5 requires a direct armed attack on a NATO member in Europe or North America. One could stretch that argument to Turkey, but missile interceptions over Turkish airspace did not trigger collective defence discussions. Most Iranian strikes so far have targeted US facilities in the Middle East, not NATO territory. Some analysts and officials say invoking Article 5 would require a ‘large-scale attack or invasion of a NATO member,’ which has not happened. Trump is not too keen to take help from NATO The UK, Italy and France have reportedly allowed the use of some bases and equipment. The UK also deployed four additional Typhoon fighter jets to Qatar for regional defence. However, this support came after initial hesitation. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at first restricted US access to some bases, including facilities linked to Cyprus. He called for diplomacy and questioned the legality of the conflict. "The conflict could continue for some time... the best way forward for Iran would be a negotiated settlement," Starmer said earlier. Later, the UK allowed limited use of its facilities by American forces. US President Donald Trump criticised the delay. In a post on Truth Social, he wrote: "We don’t need your help if you’re going to hesitate and then claim credit later." https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-iran-but-european-allies-choose-defence-over-war-nato-split-over-tehran-1772984675816/embed NATO member Spain openly resisted military involvement What also stood out like a sore thumb on the presumed NATO unity was Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s refusal to allow the US access to Spanish bases. Calling the US actions in Iran illegal under international law, he reiterated Spain’s position of "No to war." Another NATO member Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned about the lack of a clear exit strategy. Trump has been openly critical of the NATO stance "Some traditional US allies are hemming and hawing about the use of force," he said. He also said he was unhappy with Starmer, saying the British leader "took far too much time to reverse course" on base access. Trump also attacked Spain’s position. "Spain has been terrible... cut off all dealings with Spain," he said. Also read: NATO to enter Iran war? Alliance adjusts force posture, EU slams attack on Cyprus base NATO double standards? How it supported non-NATO member Ukraine to the hilt NATO member countries strongly supported Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022, even though Kyiv is not a member of the alliance. The alliance helped arm Ukraine heavily despite its military asymmetry with Russia. NATO countries — including the US, mainly under President Joe Biden — supplied Ukraine with billions of dollars and euros in weapons, training, intelligence and air-defence systems. The power acquired through military and financial aid helped Ukraine prolong its resistance to the Russian invasion for more than four years. The argument is that Ukraine had the right to self-defence against what the alliance called Russia’s "brutal and unprovoked war of aggression." NATO also sees Russia as the most significant and direct threat to Allied security. The Russian invasion was viewed by many European NATO members as a direct and potentially existential threat, making Ukraine’s defence central to European stability. The cautious NATO stance in the Iran war, by contrast, stems partly from the fact that the US-Israel campaign is viewed by many allies as an offensive operation launched outside NATO territory. That distinction limits NATO’s legal mandate under Article 5. There has also been no formal request from the US for NATO military intervention. Trump has occasionally said the US can finish the job in Iran on its own. Rutte described the situation as an “and-and” approach: enabling US actions in the Middle East while ensuring Ukraine "has what it needs to stay strong in the fight." The difference reflects NATO’s doctrine: strong support for defensive wars that directly affect European security, but far greater caution about joining offensive conflicts abroad. NATO nations in Europe are already worn out by the Russia-Ukraine war. They just cannot afford to get drawn into another conflict, happening away from its core area of operation.

NATO supported US goals in the Iran war politically but has so far avoided a combat role. The alliance’s restraint contrasts with its strong support for non-member Ukraine against Russia. Why? Because, priorities…

Iran war and NATO: ‘One for all, all for one’, really? Why alliance is not eager to help top ally US as much as non-member Ukraine

Senator Lindsey Graham on Monday questioned whether the United States should honor a long-sought defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, saying the kingdom’s refusal to join military operations against Iran made the partnership difficult to justify given that Americans were dying in a war Graham himself helped push the Trump administration to start.



US-Iran War: US Senator Warns Saudi of Consequences For Not Joining War

Amid the escalated military conflict in Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the end of the Iranian regime is in the hands of the Iranian people. “Our aspiration is to bring the Iranian people to throw off the yoke of tyranny,” said Netanyahu during a visit late last night to the National Health Emergency Operations Centre.&nbsp;He said that throwing off the regime depends on the Iranians. But, he said, there was no doubt that Israel is "breaking their bones". “If we succeed together with the Iranian people, we will bring about a permanent end, if such things exist in the life of nations, and we will bring about change,” the Israeli PM said. The Israeli PM also said that Israel’s war on Iran is "not done yet".&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that with the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Israel's goal of regime change has failed. During an interview with the PBS News Hour on Monday (March 9), the FM said he did not think that the US and Israel have a realistic endgame and are now just sowing chaos.<h2>Mojtaba Khamenei - the new supreme leader</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-attack-mojtaba-khamenei-ex-ambassador-warns-says-duty-bound-to-eliminate-1773058915216">Israel to attack Mojtaba Khamenei? Ex-ambassador warns, says ‘duty-bound to eliminate...’</a> &nbsp;Mojtaba Khamenei became the new Supreme Leader of Iran following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed on February 28 during the opening phase of the ongoing war involving Iran, Israel, and the US. The decision was taken by Iran’s powerful Assembly of Experts, which oversees the selection of the country’s highest authority.&nbsp;Mojtaba Khamenei, a 56-year-old cleric known for his close ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, had long been considered a possible successor to his father despite never holding an elected government position.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran’s regime change ultimately depends on the Iranian people, though Israel is “breaking their bones” militarily. Iran’s foreign minister rejected the claim, saying Israel’s goal has failed after Mojtaba Khamenei became the new supreme leader.

Amid the escalated military conflict in Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the end of the Iranian regime is in the hands of the Iranian people. “Our aspiration is to bring the Iranian people to throw off the yoke of tyranny,” said Netanyahu during a visit late last night to the National Health Emergency Operations Centre. He said that throwing off the regime depends on the Iranians. But, he said, there was no doubt that Israel is "breaking their bones". “If we succeed together with the Iranian people, we will bring about a permanent end, if such things exist in the life of nations, and we will bring about change,” the Israeli PM said. The Israeli PM also said that Israel’s war on Iran is "not done yet". Earlier, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that with the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Israel's goal of regime change has failed. During an interview with the PBS News Hour on Monday (March 9), the FM said he did not think that the US and Israel have a realistic endgame and are now just sowing chaos. Mojtaba Khamenei - the new supreme leader Also read: Israel to attack Mojtaba Khamenei? Ex-ambassador warns, says ‘duty-bound to eliminate...’ Mojtaba Khamenei became the new Supreme Leader of Iran following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed on February 28 during the opening phase of the ongoing war involving Iran, Israel, and the US. The decision was taken by Iran’s powerful Assembly of Experts, which oversees the selection of the country’s highest authority. Mojtaba Khamenei, a 56-year-old cleric known for his close ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, had long been considered a possible successor to his father despite never holding an elected government position.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran’s regime change ultimately depends on the Iranian people, though Israel is “breaking their bones” militarily. Iran’s foreign minister rejected the claim, saying Israel’s goal has failed after Mojtaba Khamenei became the new supreme leader.

‘Bring the Iranian people to throw off the yoke of tyranny’: Netanyahu calls for regime change

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