Iran’s supreme leader opened the door Tuesday to renewed negotiations with the United States over his country’s rapidly advancing nuclear program. Watch in for more details!

Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei backs nuclear talks with US

<p>In a new string of developments in the ongoing conflict between Iran and its proxies, and Israel and its allies, the US military&nbsp;advertisement on the dating app Tinder has been surfacing in Lebanon, warning them not to take arms against America, and assuring that the US will protect its allies from the Iranian regime and its proxies. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The warning was seen last week on the US-based dating app, in Arabic beneath the pictures of US warplanes, stating, "Do not take up arms against the United States or its partners,” it said, noting that America “will protect its partners in the face of threats from the Iranian regime and its proxies.”</p>

<p>"Central Command is “fully prepared” and ready to employ F-16 and A-10 aircraft “currently in the region," the message added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The platform where the ad was surfacing, i.e. Tinder, has sparked conversations, about the US military's online information operations, aimed at influencing the views of global audiences and countering what the government perceives as misleading narratives from foreign adversaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-all-out-war-in-middle-east-lowered-after-israel-hezbollah-clash-top-us-general-reveals-753588"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Risk of all-out war in Middle East lowered after Israel-Hezbollah clash? Top US general reveals...</strong></a></p>

<p>According to one US official familiar with the matter, the ad which is believed to be a part of a broader campaign in what is commonly called psychological operations or military information supporting operations, belonged to Central Command (CENTCOM), The Washington Post reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>CENTCOM declines to comment</strong></h2>

<p>However, the Central Command declined to comment on the matter, saying it generally does not discuss information operations, as reported by The Washington Post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Broadly speaking and as a matter of policy, the Department of Defense does conduct military information operations in support of our national security priorities. These activities must be undertaken in compliance with US law and DOD policy, and we are committed to enforcing those safeguards," a defence official told the Washington Post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, Tinder removed the ad after The Post&nbsp;inquired about it.&nbsp;Company's spokesperson Philip Fry, said that it “violated our policies” on violent and political messaging.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reaction from Lebanon</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a freelance journalist from Lebanon, Séamus Malekafzali, said that he saw the ad when he opened Tinder. He posted screenshots of the ad on X, which made the post viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, “Who on earth approved this and how high was everyone in their chain of command?” Timothy Kaldas, the deputy director of the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy, posted on X.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US says Iran and its proxies can attack Israel 'any time'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-conflict-us-says-iran-and-its-proxies-can-attack-israel-any-time-753712/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>One of the US military psyops officers said, “On its face, I doubt it would be very effective,” said the officer, who has worked on information operations campaigns and was not authorized to speak on the record. “What message is it that they think will resonate here?” the officer said. “This is just an in-your-face ‘don’t mess with me."</p>

<p>According to a report by The Washington Post, the Tinder Ad was not a clandestine campaign, as CENTCOM's logo was clearly visible. Notably, all military psyops campaigns, whether overt or clandestine get approved by a policy set by the Pentagon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a new string of developments in the ongoing conflict between Iran and its proxies, and Israel and its allies, the US military advertisement on the dating app Tinder has been surfacing in Lebanon, warning them not to take arms against America, and assuring that the US will protect its allies from the Iranian regime and its proxies.

In a new string of developments in the ongoing conflict between Iran and its proxies, and Israel and its allies, the US military advertisement on the dating app Tinder has been surfacing in Lebanon, warning them not to take arms against America, and assuring that the US will protect its allies from the Iranian regime and its proxies. The warning was seen last week on the US-based dating app, in Arabic beneath the pictures of US warplanes, stating, "Do not take up arms against the United States or its partners,” it said, noting that America “will protect its partners in the face of threats from the Iranian regime and its proxies.” "Central Command is “fully prepared” and ready to employ F-16 and A-10 aircraft “currently in the region," the message added. The platform where the ad was surfacing, i.e. Tinder, has sparked conversations, about the US military's online information operations, aimed at influencing the views of global audiences and countering what the government perceives as misleading narratives from foreign adversaries. Also read: Risk of all-out war in Middle East lowered after Israel-Hezbollah clash? Top US general reveals... According to one US official familiar with the matter, the ad which is believed to be a part of a broader campaign in what is commonly called psychological operations or military information supporting operations, belonged to Central Command (CENTCOM), The Washington Post reported. CENTCOM declines to comment However, the Central Command declined to comment on the matter, saying it generally does not discuss information operations, as reported by The Washington Post. "Broadly speaking and as a matter of policy, the Department of Defense does conduct military information operations in support of our national security priorities. These activities must be undertaken in compliance with US law and DOD policy, and we are committed to enforcing those safeguards," a defence official told the Washington Post. Later, Tinder removed the ad after The Post inquired about it. Company's spokesperson Philip Fry, said that it “violated our policies” on violent and political messaging. Reaction from Lebanon Meanwhile, a freelance journalist from Lebanon, Séamus Malekafzali, said that he saw the ad when he opened Tinder. He posted screenshots of the ad on X, which made the post viral. Moreover, “Who on earth approved this and how high was everyone in their chain of command?” Timothy Kaldas, the deputy director of the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy, posted on X. Watch: US says Iran and its proxies can attack Israel 'any time' × One of the US military psyops officers said, “On its face, I doubt it would be very effective,” said the officer, who has worked on information operations campaigns and was not authorized to speak on the record. “What message is it that they think will resonate here?” the officer said. “This is just an in-your-face ‘don’t mess with me." According to a report by The Washington Post, the Tinder Ad was not a clandestine campaign, as CENTCOM's logo was clearly visible. Notably, all military psyops campaigns, whether overt or clandestine get approved by a policy set by the Pentagon. (With inputs from agencies)

US' military Tinder ad warns Iran and its proxies in Lebanon

<p>Iran's former foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, on Tuesday announced that he was returning to his post as vice president to Masoud Pezeshkian after submitting his resignation earlier this month.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian had named Zarif as his vice president for strategic affairs on August 1, but the former top diplomat resigned less than two weeks later, citing his disappointment with the line-up in the 19-member cabinet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said he faced pressure because his children hold dual US citizenship.</p>

<p>Conservatives in Iran have criticised Pezeshkian for choosing Zarif, who became known on the international stage for his vital role in negotiating the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.</p>

<p>"After the follow-ups and consultations conducted by the president and with his written order, I will continue to exercise my duties as Strategic Vice President," Zarif said in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiD79ql2JWIAxVur1YBHUeANccQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bodies-of-28-pilgrims-killed-in-iran-bus-crash-arrive-in-pakistan-752933" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bodies-of-28-pilgrims-killed-in-iran-bus-crash-arrive-in-pakistan-752933&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiD79ql2JWIAxVur1YBHUeANccQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Bodies of 28 pilgrims killed in Iran bus crash, arrive in Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Zarif -- who attended the new cabinet's first meeting with Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday -- also praised the new cabinet in his post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, all the members of Iran's new cabinet were granted a full vote of confidence from parliament, marking the first time in over two decades a president got all his nominees through the body.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiD79ql2JWIAxVur1YBHUeANccQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/meta-reports-an-iranian-group-attempted-to-compromise-whatsapp-accounts-of-officials-linked-to-trump-and-biden-753114" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/meta-reports-an-iranian-group-attempted-to-compromise-whatsapp-accounts-of-officials-linked-to-trump-and-biden-753114&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiD79ql2JWIAxVur1YBHUeANccQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Meta reports an Iranian group attempted to compromise WhatsApp accounts of officials linked to Trump and Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>Zarif, who has represented Iran in the United Nations, served as the country's top diplomat between 2013 and 2021 under moderate president Hassan Rouhani.</p>

<p>The 2015 nuclear deal was effectively torpedoed three years later when the US unilaterally pulled out, but it helped cement Zarif's reputation as a combative negotiator who nonetheless opened Iran up to the West.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Iran's former foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, on Tuesday announced that he was returning to his post as vice president to Masoud Pezeshkian after submitting his resignation earlier this month.

Iran's former foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, on Tuesday announced that he was returning to his post as vice president to Masoud Pezeshkian after submitting his resignation earlier this month. Pezeshkian had named Zarif as his vice president for strategic affairs on August 1, but the former top diplomat resigned less than two weeks later, citing his disappointment with the line-up in the 19-member cabinet. He also said he faced pressure because his children hold dual US citizenship. Conservatives in Iran have criticised Pezeshkian for choosing Zarif, who became known on the international stage for his vital role in negotiating the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. "After the follow-ups and consultations conducted by the president and with his written order, I will continue to exercise my duties as Strategic Vice President," Zarif said in a post on X. Also read: Bodies of 28 pilgrims killed in Iran bus crash, arrive in Pakistan Zarif -- who attended the new cabinet's first meeting with Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday -- also praised the new cabinet in his post. Last week, all the members of Iran's new cabinet were granted a full vote of confidence from parliament, marking the first time in over two decades a president got all his nominees through the body. Also read: Meta reports an Iranian group attempted to compromise WhatsApp accounts of officials linked to Trump and Biden Zarif, who has represented Iran in the United Nations, served as the country's top diplomat between 2013 and 2021 under moderate president Hassan Rouhani. The 2015 nuclear deal was effectively torpedoed three years later when the US unilaterally pulled out, but it helped cement Zarif's reputation as a combative negotiator who nonetheless opened Iran up to the West. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iran’s former foreign minister Javad Zarif returns as vice president after quitting post

Days after Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah engaged in the heaviest exchange of fire since the start of the Gaza War, the United States said that it was keeping a close watch on the developments in West Asia. Watch WION for more on the story.

Israel-Iran Conflict: US says Iran and its proxies can attack Israel 'any time'

Israel and Hezbollah exchanged their heaviest exchange of missiles since the beginning of the Gaza War and the United States says it is keeping track of the situation and is working to avert any further escalation. Watch WION for more on the story. Watch in for more details!

Gaza ceasefire deal: Ceasefire efforts in Cairo collapse as Israel pounds Gaza

The Hamas delegation reportedly left Cairo on Sunday evening (local time) after meeting with mediators for the renewed talks.

Gaza ceasefire deal: Philadelphi Corridor becomes sticking point for ceasefire talks

Israel and Hezbollah exchanged their heaviest exchange of missiles since the beginning of the Gaza War and the United States says it is keeping track of the situation and is working to avert any further escalation. Watch WION for more on the story.

West Asia Crisis: Israel & Hezbollah don't want war, but ready to strike again

<p>Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, launched a large-scale missile attack on Israel on Sunday, retaliating for the assassination of their senior commander, Fuad Shukr in Beirut last month.</p>

<p>The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, ongoing since October 7, intensified after a missile strike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Although Hezbollah denied involvement in that attack, Israel responded with airstrikes that killed Fuad Shukr. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was also killed but Israel has not taken responsibility for the&nbsp;attack yet.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hezbollah-trade-missiles-as-latest-flare-up-throws-west-asia-on-edge-top-points-753176">Israel, Hezbollah launch strikes as latest flare-up puts West Asia on edge: Top points</a></p>

<p>Hezbollah has signalled that its recent missile and drone strikes are just the "initial response" to these events, hinting at the potential for further escalation.</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding Hezbollah: Origins and influence</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist militant group based in Lebanon, was founded in 1982 by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards during Lebanon’s civil war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the years, Hezbollah has grown from a shadowy militant faction into a powerful political and military force, exerting significant influence within Lebanon and across the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-escape-for-israel-hezbollah-planned-to-attack-idf-mossad-headquarters-in-central-areas-753134">Great escape for Israel? Hezbollah planned to attack IDF, Mossad headquarters in central region</a></p>

<p>However, its ties to Iran and its involvement in regional conflicts have led to its designation as a terrorist organization by Western governments, including the United States, and by Sunni Muslim Gulf Arab states such as Saudi Arabia.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Hassan Nasrallah?</strong></h2>

<p>Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah has been the leader of Hezbollah since 1992.&nbsp;Under his leadership, Hezbollah has transformed from a relatively small militant group into a powerful political and military force in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. Nasrallah is widely regarded as a central figure in the group's rise to prominence and its ongoing influence in regional affairs.</p>

<p>Born in 1960 in Beirut, Nasrallah became involved in political and militant activities at a young age. He joined Hezbollah shortly after its formation and quickly rose through the ranks due to his charisma, strategic thinking, and close ties with Iran, particularly with its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Nasrallah's leadership has been marked by his ability to maintain and strengthen Hezbollah's alliance with Iran, ensuring a steady flow of financial and military support.</p>

<p>Nasrallah remains a highly influential figure within Hezbollah, frequently addressing the group’s supporters through televised speeches. His leadership has been central to Hezbollah’s rise as a significant force in Middle Eastern geopolitics.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, launched a large-scale missile attack on Israel on Sunday, retaliating for the assassination of their senior commander, Fuad Shukr in Beirut last month.

Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, launched a large-scale missile attack on Israel on Sunday, retaliating for the assassination of their senior commander, Fuad Shukr in Beirut last month. The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, ongoing since October 7, intensified after a missile strike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Although Hezbollah denied involvement in that attack, Israel responded with airstrikes that killed Fuad Shukr. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was also killed but Israel has not taken responsibility for the attack yet. Also read | Israel, Hezbollah launch strikes as latest flare-up puts West Asia on edge: Top points Hezbollah has signalled that its recent missile and drone strikes are just the "initial response" to these events, hinting at the potential for further escalation. Understanding Hezbollah: Origins and influence Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist militant group based in Lebanon, was founded in 1982 by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards during Lebanon’s civil war. Over the years, Hezbollah has grown from a shadowy militant faction into a powerful political and military force, exerting significant influence within Lebanon and across the Middle East. Also read | Great escape for Israel? Hezbollah planned to attack IDF, Mossad headquarters in central region However, its ties to Iran and its involvement in regional conflicts have led to its designation as a terrorist organization by Western governments, including the United States, and by Sunni Muslim Gulf Arab states such as Saudi Arabia. Who is Hassan Nasrallah? Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah has been the leader of Hezbollah since 1992. Under his leadership, Hezbollah has transformed from a relatively small militant group into a powerful political and military force in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. Nasrallah is widely regarded as a central figure in the group's rise to prominence and its ongoing influence in regional affairs. Born in 1960 in Beirut, Nasrallah became involved in political and militant activities at a young age. He joined Hezbollah shortly after its formation and quickly rose through the ranks due to his charisma, strategic thinking, and close ties with Iran, particularly with its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Nasrallah's leadership has been marked by his ability to maintain and strengthen Hezbollah's alliance with Iran, ensuring a steady flow of financial and military support. Nasrallah remains a highly influential figure within Hezbollah, frequently addressing the group’s supporters through televised speeches. His leadership has been central to Hezbollah’s rise as a significant force in Middle Eastern geopolitics. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Hezbollah and how is it connected to Hassan Nasrallah? Understanding its origins and influence

Israel's longtime ally, the US is now repositioning its two destroyer warships in West Asia in anticipation of the Iranian attack on Israel. According to an US official one destroyer warship which has been repositioned was already there in the region while the other warship has been redirected there.

US moving naval forces closer to Israel: Report

Hezbollah launched hundreds of rockets and drones against Israel on Sunday in retaliation for the assassination of a senior commander in Beirut last month, the Iranian-backed movement said, as Israel's cabinet met to prepare a response.

Israel-Hezbollah tensions: IDF warns Israelis to expect drones, missile launched by Hezbollah

Israel-Hezbollah tensions: 48-hour state emergency declared across Israel

Israel-Hezbollah tensions: PM Netanyahu vows to 'do everything' to protect country

<p>The Israeli military on Sunday (Aug 25) launched pre-emptive strikes in Lebanon to prevent large-scale strikes from the Iranian-backed Hezbollah. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF)&nbsp;said they had detected preparations by Iran-backed Hezbollah to launch rockets and missiles.</p>

<p>The residents in areas of southern Lebanon where Hezbollah primarily operates were warned of the strikes and urged to "leave Immediately".&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fighter jets are now attacking targets of the Hezbollah terrorist organisation that posed an immediate threat to the Israeli home front," the IDF said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Following these attacks and in accordance with the assessment of the situation held by the Home Front Command, life-saving instructions will be distributed in some areas of the country," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Tel Aviv had launched the attacks in self-defence while anticipating that Hezbollah would soon fire "rockets, and possibly missiles and UAVs, towards Israeli territory". ‌</p>

<p>Meanwhile, residents of Golan Heights, the area where Hezbollah last fired rockets at a park and killed children, were also ordered by the IDF to stay near bomb shelters and avoid unnecessary movements.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">FIRST VISUALS: Missiles seen fired over Israel-Lebanon border as Israeli Defence Forces conduct preemptive strike against Hezbollah targets<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lebanon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lebanon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel</a><br />
<br />
READ MORE: <a href="https://t.co/Ur1X2rIU6R">https://t.co/Ur1X2rIU6R</a> <a href="https://t.co/8j4vXAUzD8">pic.twitter.com/8j4vXAUzD8</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1827553294627086589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to Lebanese media, around 40 Israeli strikes had been reported in the region as of the last update. Meanwhile, Hezbollah also announced that it had launched attacks in northern Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As part of the initial response to the brutal Zionist aggression on the southern suburbs of Beirut, which led to the death of the great Jihad leader, Mr Fuad Shukr, our forces began a large-scale air attack towards the Zionist entity and towards a specific Israeli military target to be announced in the future."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">מטוסי קרב תוקפים כעת מטרות של ארגון הטרור חיזבאללה שהיוו איום מיידי על העורף הישראלי.<br />
<br />
בעקבות תקיפות אלו ובהתאם להערכת המצב שהתקיימה בפיקוד העורף, יופצו הנחיות מצילות חיים בחלק מאזורי הארץ. תעקבו אחר ההנחיות המעודכנות בפלטפורמות של דובר צה"ל ופיקוד העורף <a href="https://t.co/LtbYA1odYM">pic.twitter.com/LtbYA1odYM</a></p>
— דובר צה״ל דניאל הגרי - Daniel Hagari (@IDFSpokesperson) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFSpokesperson/status/1827525115292123508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-tensions-israeli-airstrikes-in-southern-lebanon-kill-8-752965"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah tensions: Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon kill 8</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-tensions-israeli-airstrikes-in-southern-lebanon-kill-8-752965/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Israel vs Hezbollah</strong></h2>

<p>Tel Aviv has&nbsp;been trading fire with Hezbollah across the southern Lebanon border in parallel with the Gaza war as rising hostilities increase the threat of a full-scale regional war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 600 people in Lebanon have been killed since the start of the clashes last October, including more than 400 Hezbollah combatants and over 130 civilians, according to a Reuters toll.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israels-security-cabinet-faces-assassination-threat-from-iran-hezbollah-750716"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel's security cabinet faces assassination threat from Iran, Hezbollah</strong></a></p>

<p>Israel's pre-emptive strike on Sunday could further push Iran to launch its military campaign, especially after Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed on its soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tehran has vowed to avenge the loss of Haniyeh but refrained from launching an all-out attack against Israel with the likes of the US and other Western nations recommending caution to avoid a spillover effect in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli military on Sunday (Aug 25) launched pre-emptive strikes in Lebanon to prevent large-scale strikes from the Iranian-backed Hezbollah. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they had detected preparations by Iran-backed Hezbollah to launch rockets and missiles.

The Israeli military on Sunday (Aug 25) launched pre-emptive strikes in Lebanon to prevent large-scale strikes from the Iranian-backed Hezbollah. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they had detected preparations by Iran-backed Hezbollah to launch rockets and missiles. The residents in areas of southern Lebanon where Hezbollah primarily operates were warned of the strikes and urged to "leave Immediately". "Fighter jets are now attacking targets of the Hezbollah terrorist organisation that posed an immediate threat to the Israeli home front," the IDF said in a statement. "Following these attacks and in accordance with the assessment of the situation held by the Home Front Command, life-saving instructions will be distributed in some areas of the country," it added. IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Tel Aviv had launched the attacks in self-defence while anticipating that Hezbollah would soon fire "rockets, and possibly missiles and UAVs, towards Israeli territory". ‌ Meanwhile, residents of Golan Heights, the area where Hezbollah last fired rockets at a park and killed children, were also ordered by the IDF to stay near bomb shelters and avoid unnecessary movements. FIRST VISUALS: Missiles seen fired over Israel-Lebanon border as Israeli Defence Forces conduct preemptive strike against Hezbollah targets#Lebanon #Israel READ MORE: https://t.co/Ur1X2rIU6R pic.twitter.com/8j4vXAUzD8 — WION (@WIONews) August 25, 2024 × According to Lebanese media, around 40 Israeli strikes had been reported in the region as of the last update. Meanwhile, Hezbollah also announced that it had launched attacks in northern Israel. "As part of the initial response to the brutal Zionist aggression on the southern suburbs of Beirut, which led to the death of the great Jihad leader, Mr Fuad Shukr, our forces began a large-scale air attack towards the Zionist entity and towards a specific Israeli military target to be announced in the future." מטוסי קרב תוקפים כעת מטרות של ארגון הטרור חיזבאללה שהיוו איום מיידי על העורף הישראלי. בעקבות תקיפות אלו ובהתאם להערכת המצב שהתקיימה בפיקוד העורף, יופצו הנחיות מצילות חיים בחלק מאזורי הארץ. תעקבו אחר ההנחיות המעודכנות בפלטפורמות של דובר צה"ל ופיקוד העורף pic.twitter.com/LtbYA1odYM — דובר צה״ל דניאל הגרי - Daniel Hagari (@IDFSpokesperson) August 25, 2024 × Watch | Israel-Hezbollah tensions: Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon kill 8 × Israel vs Hezbollah Tel Aviv has been trading fire with Hezbollah across the southern Lebanon border in parallel with the Gaza war as rising hostilities increase the threat of a full-scale regional war. More than 600 people in Lebanon have been killed since the start of the clashes last October, including more than 400 Hezbollah combatants and over 130 civilians, according to a Reuters toll. Also read | Israel's security cabinet faces assassination threat from Iran, Hezbollah Israel's pre-emptive strike on Sunday could further push Iran to launch its military campaign, especially after Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed on its soil. Tehran has vowed to avenge the loss of Haniyeh but refrained from launching an all-out attack against Israel with the likes of the US and other Western nations recommending caution to avoid a spillover effect in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel launches pre-emptive strike in Lebanon to prevent large-scale Hezbollah attack

The White House said on Friday that cease-fire talks in Cairo have been constructive and will continue over the weekend as the US and Mideast allies continue to press Israel and Hamas to forge an agreement.

Israel-Hamas war: Talks on three-phase plan outlined by Biden

Israel-Hamas war: White House says progress made in truce talks

Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon on Friday killed at least eight fighters and one child, according to security sources, as armed group Hezbollah responded with artillery rounds and rockets across the border.

Israel-Hezbollah tensions: Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon kill 8

<p>The bodies of 28 pilgrims killed, when their bus crashed in central Iran while they were travelling to a major Shiite Muslim ritual, have been returned to Pakistan.</p>

<p>The bus was carrying 51 Pakistani pilgrims to Iraq for the Arbaeen commemoration, one of the biggest events of the Shiite calendar, when it overturned and caught fire in front of a checkpoint in Yazd province on Tuesday night, Iranian state TV reported.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bus-carrying-pilgrims-from-pakistan-to-iraq-crashed-in-iran-kills-28-people-751857"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Bus carrying pilgrims from Pakistan to Iraq crashes in Iran, 28 killed</strong></a></p>

<p>The bodies were transported from Yazd to an airfield in southern Pakistan, where most of the deceased were from and from where they had begun their journey.</p>

<p>The coffins, each draped with a Pakistani flag, arrived in the city of Jacobabad shortly before midnight on Friday, an AFP journalist witnessed.</p>

<p>A fleet of ambulances then took the bodies to their hometowns.</p>

<p>Other pilgrims injured in the crash, were moved to hospitals in Karachi.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bus carrying pilgrims from Pakistan to Iraq crashes in Iran</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bus-carrying-pilgrims-from-pakistan-to-iraq-crashes-in-iran-751941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Those killed included 11 women and 17 men, Yazd province crisis management chief Ali Malek-zadeh told the Iranian broadcaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Head of Iran traffic police, Teymour Hosseini, cited a brake failure and the steep road as the reasons for the crash.</p>

<p>Arbaeen marks the 40th day of mourning for Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Mohammed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some 22 million pilgrims attended the commemoration last year in the Iraqi shrine city of Karbala, where Hussein and his brother Abbas are buried, according to official figures.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


The bodies of 28 pilgrims killed, when their bus crashed in central Iran while they were travelling to a major Shiite Muslim ritual, have been returned to Pakistan.

The bodies of 28 pilgrims killed, when their bus crashed in central Iran while they were travelling to a major Shiite Muslim ritual, have been returned to Pakistan. The bus was carrying 51 Pakistani pilgrims to Iraq for the Arbaeen commemoration, one of the biggest events of the Shiite calendar, when it overturned and caught fire in front of a checkpoint in Yazd province on Tuesday night, Iranian state TV reported. Also read | Bus carrying pilgrims from Pakistan to Iraq crashes in Iran, 28 killed The bodies were transported from Yazd to an airfield in southern Pakistan, where most of the deceased were from and from where they had begun their journey. The coffins, each draped with a Pakistani flag, arrived in the city of Jacobabad shortly before midnight on Friday, an AFP journalist witnessed. A fleet of ambulances then took the bodies to their hometowns. Other pilgrims injured in the crash, were moved to hospitals in Karachi. Watch | Bus carrying pilgrims from Pakistan to Iraq crashes in Iran × Those killed included 11 women and 17 men, Yazd province crisis management chief Ali Malek-zadeh told the Iranian broadcaster. Head of Iran traffic police, Teymour Hosseini, cited a brake failure and the steep road as the reasons for the crash. Arbaeen marks the 40th day of mourning for Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Mohammed. Some 22 million pilgrims attended the commemoration last year in the Iraqi shrine city of Karbala, where Hussein and his brother Abbas are buried, according to official figures. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bodies of 28 pilgrims killed in Iran bus crash, arrive in Pakistan

Urging the UN Security Council to press Hamas to accept a bridging proposal agreed to by Israel, the US Envoy in the United Nations has told the council's members that a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal is now in sight. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise in West Asia as Israel and Hezbollah carried out drone strikes and counter strikes on each other. Watch in for more details!

West Asia tensions: Israel-Hezbollah carry out drone strikes & counterstrikes

An arms-selling network, allegedly linked to Houthi rebels, has been openly trading weapons on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. The group is accused of carrying out attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Arms dealers based in Houthi-controlled Yemen have reportedly been using the social media site to buy and sell weapons, including rifles, handguns, and grenade launchers. Dozens of arms dealers, based in the Yemeni capital Sanaa, which is controlled by the Houthi rebels, are effectively using X as a storefront.

Houthi-linked Weapons Openly Sold on X, Formerly Twitter

While the world is fixated on the increasing Iran-Israel tensions, Yemen is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

Yemen's rebels threaten to restart war

Israel and Hamas have blamed each other for not agreeing on a ceasefire deal. Is a ceasefire in Gaza really in sight, as US Claims?

Why is Israel demanding control over 2 Gaza corridors?

Iran says Gaza ceasefire has nothing to do with its reprisal against Israel. Meanwhile, Iran's parliament has all candidates of Masoud Pezeshkian's unity cabinet.

Iran: Revenge attack on Israel might take time

Iran’s parliament has approved all 19 ministers of President Masoud Pezeshkian, the first time in more than two decades a leader has been able to get all of his officials through the body.

Iran parliament approves 19 ministers in Pezeshkian's new cabinet

As per reports, the conflict in West Asia has intensified, with Hezbollah firing over 50 rockets into Israel's Golan Heights following an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon. This escalation raises concerns about a broader regional conflict, potentially involving Iran’s strategic interests. As the U.S. positions military assets in the region to deter further aggression, questions linger about the Gaza ceasefire. Meanwhile, the conflict’s impact may have expanded to North America, with bomb threats emailed to around 125 Jewish Institutions in Canada.

Will Iran-Israel Conflict Spread Beyond West Asia?

America's carrier strike group three has arrived in the West Asian region it is being led by the feared USS Abraham Lincoln which is set to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt operating in the region currently, since July 2024. here's all you need to know about the mighty warship USS Abraham Lincoln.

USS Abraham Lincoln leads strike group

With the chances of a ceasefire deal on Gaza hanging in balance US President Joe Biden has pushed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal with Hamas. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Latest round of truce talks a 'do or die' for peace?

The Israeli Army has released a video showing strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon as fears of an all-out war grew. The US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln entered West Asia waters as tensions remain high over Iran's threat to retaliate against Israel. Watch in for more details!

West Asia Crisis: Hezbollah launches drone attack after Israel air strikes

According to reports in the Israeli media, in a meeting with the families of those held hostage by Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there is unlikely to be a hostage deal. Netanyahu’s comments put the fate of the Gaza ceasefire deal in serious doubt as well as the lives of over 100 Israeli hostages.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu abandons hostages for PM post

<p>At least 28 people died after a bus carrying Pakistani Shiite pilgrims overturned in central Iran on Tuesday night (Aug 20).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pilgrims were travelling from Pakistan to Iraq, when the bus caught fire in front of the Dehshir-Taft checkpoint in Iran, around 681km (423 miles) south of Iran's capital Tehran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, another 23 people were injured in the crash, with 14 severely injured, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pilgrims were on their way to Karbala city in Iraq to commemorate one of their biggest events according to the Shia calendar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the time of the crash, there were 53 people on board, including pilgrims from Pakistan's Sindh, Ghotki and Larkana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the crash, rescuers stepped in through the broken glass of the bus to save the passengers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;&nbsp;Iraq-Iran war ends after nearly 8 years of fighting</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-recall-iraq-iran-war-ends-after-nearly-8-years-of-fighting-751795/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to an Iranian state TV report, Malekzadeh said that the bus brakes failed and blamed the driver's lack of attention.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Pakistan reacts to accident in Iran</h2>

<p>Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed his condolences over the deaths of the pilgrims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are deeply saddened by the loss of precious human lives in the bus accident in Iran,” he said.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-attack-may-come-soon-and-with-no-warning-us-warns-750508">Also read:&nbsp;Iran attack may come soon and with no warning, US warns&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The pilgrimage, Arbaeen, marks the end of a period of 40 days of mourning for Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed, who died at the hands of the Muslim Umayyad forces in the battle of Karbala during the tumultuous first century of Islam's history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Iran has one of the world's worst traffic safety records and has been reporting nearly 20,000 deaths annually. The disregard for traffic laws, unsafe vehicles and insufficient emergency services in the vast rural areas, have been blamed for these deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least 28 people died after a bus carrying Pakistani Shiite pilgrims overturned in central Iran on Tuesday night (Aug 20). The pilgrims were travelling from Pakistan to Iraq, when the bus caught fire in front of the Dehshir-Taft checkpoint in Iran, around 681km (423 miles) south of Iran's capital Tehran.

At least 28 people died after a bus carrying Pakistani Shiite pilgrims overturned in central Iran on Tuesday night (Aug 20). The pilgrims were travelling from Pakistan to Iraq, when the bus caught fire in front of the Dehshir-Taft checkpoint in Iran, around 681km (423 miles) south of Iran's capital Tehran. Moreover, another 23 people were injured in the crash, with 14 severely injured, he added. The pilgrims were on their way to Karbala city in Iraq to commemorate one of their biggest events according to the Shia calendar. During the time of the crash, there were 53 people on board, including pilgrims from Pakistan's Sindh, Ghotki and Larkana. Following the crash, rescuers stepped in through the broken glass of the bus to save the passengers. Watch | Iraq-Iran war ends after nearly 8 years of fighting × According to an Iranian state TV report, Malekzadeh said that the bus brakes failed and blamed the driver's lack of attention. Pakistan reacts to accident in Iran Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed his condolences over the deaths of the pilgrims. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of precious human lives in the bus accident in Iran,” he said. Also read: Iran attack may come soon and with no warning, US warns The pilgrimage, Arbaeen, marks the end of a period of 40 days of mourning for Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed, who died at the hands of the Muslim Umayyad forces in the battle of Karbala during the tumultuous first century of Islam's history. Notably, Iran has one of the world's worst traffic safety records and has been reporting nearly 20,000 deaths annually. The disregard for traffic laws, unsafe vehicles and insufficient emergency services in the vast rural areas, have been blamed for these deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Bus carrying pilgrims from Pakistan to Iraq crashes in Iran, 28 killed

Lebanon’s Hezbollah has launched more than 50 rockets, hitting several private homes in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights. The attack on Wednesday came a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with fellow mediators Egypt and Qatar as he pressed ahead with the latest diplomatic mission to secure a cease-fire in the war in Gaza, even as Hamas and Israel signalled that challenges remain.

Israel-Hezbollah war: Hezbollah fires over 50 rockets towards Golan Heights

iran

Iran, News on Iran, stories on Iran, articles on Iran, Iran stories at Wion, Iran news, Iran latest news