Amid rising geopolitical tensions, top leadership in Iran is projecting a firm and unified front, dismissing claims of internal divisions made by Donald Trump. Officials are echoing a consistent message of national unity, even as analysts point to evolving power dynamics within the system. The growing role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has sparked debate over whether Iran’s internal balance of power is shifting.


Iran Top Leadership Amplifies The Voice Of Iran

Fresh reports have raised questions about the health of Mojtaba Khamenei, with claims suggesting he has been seriously wounded and undergone multiple surgeries. While these reports remain unconfirmed, they also indicate he may still be actively involved through intermediaries. The developments have sparked widespread speculation, as any uncertainty around Iran’s leadership can have significant political and regional implications.


Iran War: New Report Says Iran Supreme Leader Wounded, but Mentally Sharp

Pete Hegseth, speaking from the Pentagon, signalled increasing pressure on Iran as the US strengthens its naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. With another aircraft carrier set to join operations, Washington says time is running out for Tehran to agree to a deal. The briefing highlights rising military readiness alongside diplomatic urgency amid escalating tensions in West Asia.


BREAKING: Hegseth Confirms Another Aircraft Carrier Will Join Hormuz Blockade

Pete Hegseth Warns Iran: 'Clock Ticking' As US Tightens Hormuz Blockade

A new report suggests the ongoing Iran conflict is putting serious pressure on the United States’ military stockpiles, raising concerns over its ability to respond to other flashpoints like Taiwan. While the White House has pushed back against claims of shortages, reports indicate it could take years to rebuild missile reserves. The situation highlights how prolonged conflicts can stretch even the world’s most powerful military, impacting global strategic readiness.


Iran War Expenditures Leave US Struggling To Replenish Missiles 

A new front has opened in the US-Iran standoff: the battle of narratives. Iran has mocked Donald Trump after his controversial repost referring to countries like India as “hellholes,” even suggesting a “cultural detox.”
The sharp response, amplified on social media by Iranian missions, reflects how diplomacy is increasingly playing out online, with messaging, perception, and global opinion becoming key tools alongside military power.

US-Iran War: Tehran Using Social Media To Set Narrative Against US

Iran's Speaker of the Parliament, Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday denied the existence of any schism between the "moderate" and “radicals” within Iran. He denied that binary and asserted that within Iran everyone is "Iranian" and “revolutionary.” There were floating reports from Times of Israel suggesting an internal rift in Iran and that the Iranian speaker of the parliament, Ghalibaf, who participated in the first round of talks in Islamabad, will not take part in the negotiations in the second round. The report cited unnamed sources claiming he decided to back down from the negotiations following interference from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force.&nbsp;"In Iran, there are no radicals or moderates; &nbsp;we are all ‘Iranian’ and 'revolutionary,' and with the iron unity of the nation and government, with complete obedience to the Supreme Leader of the Revolution, we will make the aggressor criminal regret his actions," read a translated post from Ghalibaf in the social media platform X. “One God, one leader, one nation, and one path; that path being the path to victory for Iran, dearer than life."The persistent enmity between the IRGC and the US, which considers the US an existential enemy and a peace negotiation between the US and Iran appear incoherent to observers. However, the messaging from the Iranian side does not reflect any internal rift, and neither Ghalibaf nor any other top Iranian leadership have discussed it. Both Ghalibaf and Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, have been perceived by the US as closely aligned with the IRGC.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghislaine-maxwell-usb-doj-new-evidence-trump-pardon-1777007338246">Ghislaine Maxwell's mysterious USB drive to DOJ- Is commutation next?</a><h2>Esmail Baghei accused the US of “promoting terrorism”</h2>Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghei has accused the country, which is the “cradle of democracy”, of "promoting terrorism". US President Donald Trump shared a post of the Fox News contributor Marc Thiessen, who claimed that if “there are two factions in Iran, one that wants a deal and one that doesn’t, let’s kill the ones who don’t want a deal.” He called it a “moral faliure” of the US and wrote in post on X, “The United States, which once presented itself as a cradle of democracy, freedom, and human values, now appears to become a promoter of terrorism, murder, and mass violence.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid reports of internal divisions and IRGC interference, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has firmly denied any rift within Iran’s leadership, emphasising unity and loyalty to the country’s revolutionary path.

Iran's Speaker of the Parliament, Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday denied the existence of any schism between the "moderate" and “radicals” within Iran. He denied that binary and asserted that within Iran everyone is "Iranian" and “revolutionary.” There were floating reports from Times of Israel suggesting an internal rift in Iran and that the Iranian speaker of the parliament, Ghalibaf, who participated in the first round of talks in Islamabad, will not take part in the negotiations in the second round. The report cited unnamed sources claiming he decided to back down from the negotiations following interference from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force. "In Iran, there are no radicals or moderates; we are all ‘Iranian’ and 'revolutionary,' and with the iron unity of the nation and government, with complete obedience to the Supreme Leader of the Revolution, we will make the aggressor criminal regret his actions," read a translated post from Ghalibaf in the social media platform X. “One God, one leader, one nation, and one path; that path being the path to victory for Iran, dearer than life." The persistent enmity between the IRGC and the US, which considers the US an existential enemy and a peace negotiation between the US and Iran appear incoherent to observers. However, the messaging from the Iranian side does not reflect any internal rift, and neither Ghalibaf nor any other top Iranian leadership have discussed it. Both Ghalibaf and Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, have been perceived by the US as closely aligned with the IRGC. Also Read: Ghislaine Maxwell's mysterious USB drive to DOJ- Is commutation next? Esmail Baghei accused the US of “promoting terrorism” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghei has accused the country, which is the “cradle of democracy”, of "promoting terrorism". US President Donald Trump shared a post of the Fox News contributor Marc Thiessen, who claimed that if “there are two factions in Iran, one that wants a deal and one that doesn’t, let’s kill the ones who don’t want a deal.” He called it a “moral faliure” of the US and wrote in post on X, “The United States, which once presented itself as a cradle of democracy, freedom, and human values, now appears to become a promoter of terrorism, murder, and mass violence.”

Amid reports of internal divisions and IRGC interference, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has firmly denied any rift within Iran’s leadership, emphasising unity and loyalty to the country’s revolutionary path.

Iran's Ghalibaf denies schism between 'moderate' and 'radicals', says Iran united in ‘revolutionary’ identity

Uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified following remarks by Donald Trump and Marco Rubio, who flagged potential security and entry concerns. Earlier, US special envoy Paolo Zampolli had suggested the idea of Italy stepping in as a replacement for Iran. Responding to the suggestion at the White House, Trump said he had not given it much thought but might consider it later.&nbsp;"I don't think about it too much... Let me gie that a little thought," Trump told the media at the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rubio, however, addressed the issue more directly and stated that the United States has not officially blocked Iran’s team from attending the tournament. According to him, the issue is less about the players and more about additional personnel, some of whom may have links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, potentially complicating entry approvals.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Nothing from the US has told them that they can't come. The problem with Iran would not be the athletes but some other people they would want to bring, some of whom have ties to the IRGC. We may not be able to let them in... They decide not to come on their own because they decided not to come, but they can't bring a bunch of IRGC terrorists into our country and pretend that they are journalists and athletic trainers," he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-we-should-have-batted-better-mi-skipper-hardik-pandya-on-103-run-loss-to-csk-1777003667033">IPL 2026 | ‘We should have batted better’: MI skipper Hardik Pandya on 103-run loss to CSK</a>&nbsp;These remarks add to growing doubts over Iran’s participation in the expanded 48-team tournament.&nbsp;The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, will be the largest in the competition’s history, featuring 104 matches. The opening game is planned for Mexico City, with the final scheduled in New Jersey.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/get-serious-about-tests-bcci-tells-team-india-indian-cricket-board-asks-bumrah-to-play-all-wtc-games-report-1776955485833">BCCI tells India to get serious about Tests; asks Bumrah to play all WTC games</a>&nbsp;Iran has already secured qualification and is currently placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt, with matches expected to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.&nbsp;Despite the uncertainty, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran remains part of the tournament lineup for now.

Iran have already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and are placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. Their group-stage matches are scheduled to be held in Los Angeles and Seattle.

Uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified following remarks by Donald Trump and Marco Rubio, who flagged potential security and entry concerns. Earlier, US special envoy Paolo Zampolli had suggested the idea of Italy stepping in as a replacement for Iran. Responding to the suggestion at the White House, Trump said he had not given it much thought but might consider it later. "I don't think about it too much... Let me gie that a little thought," Trump told the media at the White House. Rubio, however, addressed the issue more directly and stated that the United States has not officially blocked Iran’s team from attending the tournament. According to him, the issue is less about the players and more about additional personnel, some of whom may have links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, potentially complicating entry approvals. "Nothing from the US has told them that they can't come. The problem with Iran would not be the athletes but some other people they would want to bring, some of whom have ties to the IRGC. We may not be able to let them in... They decide not to come on their own because they decided not to come, but they can't bring a bunch of IRGC terrorists into our country and pretend that they are journalists and athletic trainers," he said. Also Read - IPL 2026 | ‘We should have batted better’: MI skipper Hardik Pandya on 103-run loss to CSK These remarks add to growing doubts over Iran’s participation in the expanded 48-team tournament. The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, will be the largest in the competition’s history, featuring 104 matches. The opening game is planned for Mexico City, with the final scheduled in New Jersey. Also Read - BCCI tells India to get serious about Tests; asks Bumrah to play all WTC games Iran has already secured qualification and is currently placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt, with matches expected to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle. Despite the uncertainty, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran remains part of the tournament lineup for now.

Iran have already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and are placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. Their group-stage matches are scheduled to be held in Los Angeles and Seattle.

'I don't think about it too much': Donald Trump on Iran's FIFA World Cup participation

The United States has ramped up its military presence in West Asia as the USS George H.W. Bush enters the Indian Ocean under U.S. Central Command. It joins the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln, marking a rare three-carrier deployment in the region. The move signals heightened readiness amid escalating tensions, with Washington reinforcing its strategic presence across key maritime zones.


BREAKING: Iran Activates Air Defence, Israel Denies Role 

Amid rising tensions with Iran, the White House has urged the public not to panic, reinforcing confidence in Donald Trump’s leadership. The message comes as military and diplomatic developments continue to unfold, with the administration maintaining that the situation is under control. However, the evolving crisis has sparked debate and uncertainty over the next steps in the region.


White House: “Trust Donald Trump” As Iran Tensions Escalate

BREAKING: Third US Aircraft Carrier Approaches West Asia

BREAKING: Third US Aircraft Carrier Under The Responsibility Of CENTCOM

The India government has advised its citizens to leave Iran as tensions escalate. Reports from Iranian media say air defence systems were activated in Tehran, with interceptions targeting suspected threats over the capital. The developments have raised concerns over safety and stability, prompting precautionary measures and travel advisories amid a rapidly evolving situation.


BREAKING: Iran Media Claims Air Defences Activated In Tehran 

Even as U.S. President Donald Trump has described the Hormuz blockade as a 'tremendous success', the ground reality paints a different picture. As per cargo tracking group 'Vortexa', at least 34 tankers linked to Iran have bypassed the U.S. blockade since it began. 


US President Donald Trump Issues Orders to Shoot and Kill Mine-Laying Iranian Boats

The India government has issued a fresh travel advisory asking its citizens to leave Iran and avoid non-essential travel. The move comes as escalating tensions in West Asia continue to disrupt flight operations to and from the country. Authorities are urging Indians in Iran to stay alert, follow official updates, and make arrangements to return home as a precaution.


BREAKING: India Issues Travel Advisory for Iran, Asks Its Citizens to Leave Iran

Fresh details reveal why the second round of talks between the US and Iran broke down. Reports suggest deep divisions within Iran’s leadership and a failure to submit a response before the ceasefire deadline derailed negotiations. As tensions escalated, Donald Trump swiftly moved to extend the ceasefire, even as military readiness remained high. The developments highlight the fragile state of diplomacy and the risks of renewed conflict.


US-Iran Ceasefire: Why Round 2 Of Iran-US Talks Fell Through

Oil prices stayed above $100 a barrel for the second straight day as the Hormuz deadlock weighed on sentiment despite an extension to the truce. Traffic through Hormuz is at a near standstill after the waterway’s brief and confused reopening, driving wild swings in crude markets.


Oil Near $100: Crude Prices Surge As Markets Brace For Supply Shock

Tensions between the US and Iran have intensified after the US military seized a second oil tanker, the Majestic-X, in the Indian Ocean between Sri Lanka and Indonesia. The move comes just a day after Iran reportedly seized two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The back-to-back actions signal rising maritime tensions, raising concerns over global oil supply routes and regional stability.


BREAKING: US Seizes Iran-Linked Tanker ‘Majestic-X’ In Indian Ocean

Iran on Thursday hit back at US President Donald Trump after he shared a post indirectly comparing India and China with a “hellhole”. Trump shared excerpts of a program hosted by conservative author and radio host Michael Savage, who was arguing against birthright citizenship, saying that it was a loophole which allows a baby citizenship just because of being born in the country after coming from countries like “India, China or some other hellhole”. The Iranian consulate in Hyderabad defended the two nations, calling them “Cradle of civilisation”.&nbsp;“China and India are the cradles of civilisation. In fact, the hellhole is where its war-criminal president threatened to decimate civilisation in Iran,” read the post from the Iranian Consulate in Hyderabad.The comment had references to US President Donald Trump's earlier ill-conceived threat to Iran to “destroy an entire civilisation”. In another such post, the consulate called Trump “racist”. “Every day, with a new post, Trump's inhumanity proves to be beyond infinity. This is the racism itself."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-hormuz-dry-run-us-china-conflict-balakrishnan-1776843695292">Singapore warns Hormuz crisis was a 'dry run' for US-China conflict</a><h2>MEA's muted reaction to “hellhole” comment</h2>The Ministry of External Affairs, however, gave a muted response, no formal protest, no scathing response, not even a condemnation. The reaction just registered the comment as a passing remark.&nbsp;The MEA spokesperson issued a restrained response on Thursday, &nbsp;"We have seen some reports. That’s where I will leave it,"&nbsp;Reacting to the remarks, Congress on Thursday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to register a strong diplomatic protest. It termed the post “deeply insulting” and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence. In a post, Congress called Narendra Modi a “weak Prime Minister”.“It cannot be expected that he will say anything in front of Trump. Trump has repeatedly made derogatory remarks about India, yet Modi has remained silent,” read the post from Congress.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Iran has criticised Donald Trump for calling India and China “hellhole,” defending both nations as “cradles of civilisation.” MEA issued a muted response while Congress demands action.

Iran on Thursday hit back at US President Donald Trump after he shared a post indirectly comparing India and China with a “hellhole”. Trump shared excerpts of a program hosted by conservative author and radio host Michael Savage, who was arguing against birthright citizenship, saying that it was a loophole which allows a baby citizenship just because of being born in the country after coming from countries like “India, China or some other hellhole”. The Iranian consulate in Hyderabad defended the two nations, calling them “Cradle of civilisation”. “China and India are the cradles of civilisation. In fact, the hellhole is where its war-criminal president threatened to decimate civilisation in Iran,” read the post from the Iranian Consulate in Hyderabad. The comment had references to US President Donald Trump's earlier ill-conceived threat to Iran to “destroy an entire civilisation”. In another such post, the consulate called Trump “racist”. “Every day, with a new post, Trump's inhumanity proves to be beyond infinity. This is the racism itself." Also Read: Singapore warns Hormuz crisis was a 'dry run' for US-China conflict MEA's muted reaction to “hellhole” comment The Ministry of External Affairs, however, gave a muted response, no formal protest, no scathing response, not even a condemnation. The reaction just registered the comment as a passing remark. The MEA spokesperson issued a restrained response on Thursday, "We have seen some reports. That’s where I will leave it," Reacting to the remarks, Congress on Thursday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to register a strong diplomatic protest. It termed the post “deeply insulting” and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence. In a post, Congress called Narendra Modi a “weak Prime Minister”. “It cannot be expected that he will say anything in front of Trump. Trump has repeatedly made derogatory remarks about India, yet Modi has remained silent,” read the post from Congress.

Iran has criticised Donald Trump for calling India and China “hellhole,” defending both nations as “cradles of civilisation.” MEA issued a muted response while Congress demands action.

'Cradle of civilisation'- Iran hits back at Trump over 'hellhole' remark on India and China

The UK Parliament has approved a landmark law to create a “smoke-free generation.”
Under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, anyone born on or after 1 January 2009 will never be legally allowed to buy tobacco products.

UK Bans Future Tobacco Sales in Landmark ‘Smoke-Free Generation’ Law 

Meta has reportedly introduced internal AI training tools on employee computers as part of its new Model Capability Initiative.
The system tracks activities like mouse movements, clicks, keystrokes, and may occasionally capture screenshots.


Meta Installs AI Training Tools On Staff Pcs

The United States military is facing growing concerns over depleted missile stockpiles following the recent conflict with Iran.
According to assessments, including those by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, nearly 45% of Precision Strike Missiles have been used, along with around 50% of THAAD and Patriot air defense interceptors. Other long-range systems, including cruise missiles, have also seen significant drawdowns.
Experts warn this creates a “near-term risk” for US military readiness—especially if another major conflict emerges, particularly involving China.
The situation highlights the strain of modern high-intensity warfare on advanced weapons systems and raises urgent questions about production capacity, defense planning, and global deterrence.

US-IRAN War: US At Risk of Running Out of Missiles; Stockpile Not Enough To Confront China

Global markets are on edge as uncertainty around Iran–United States ceasefire talks fuels fears of a major oil supply shock.

Crude prices have surged close to $100 per barrel amid stalled negotiations and ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—a route that carries a significant share of the world’s oil supply.

Recent attacks on vessels and continued naval tensions have further complicated diplomacy, with energy flows severely disrupted and markets reacting sharply

Iran-US Ceasefire Talks: Global Markets Brace For Oil Supply Shock

Tensions between Iran and the United States have taken a sharp turn as Tehran refuses to join a second round of talks, citing the ongoing blockade and rising pressure. While Donald Trump insists Washington has offered a “fair deal,” thousands rallied in Iran backing the government’s stance. Meanwhile, fresh incidents at sea and diplomatic outreach, including a call between Pakistan and Iran, show the crisis is far from easing.

Why Did Iran Reject Second Round Of Talks With US? 

Iran has issued a strong warning to Gulf nations, cautioning them against supporting any military action led by the United States.

Officials, including commanders from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have warned that allowing US forces to use regional territory or bases could trigger serious consequences—including threats to oil production and key infrastructure across the Gulf.

Iran Warns Gulf States Against Supporting US Action

Tensions flared at Domodedovo Airport as Russian authorities detained and questioned around 40 Israeli passengers arriving from Tel Aviv.

Reports say the travelers were held for several hours—some for up to five hours—while security officials conducted interrogations linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Passengers were reportedly questioned individually, with some asked to unlock their phones or switch them off. Officials allegedly told detainees that Iran is an ally of Russia and that “any enemy of Iran is our enemy too.

Dozens Of Israelis Detained In Russia: Holds 40 Israeli Passengers For Hours 

The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains under intense strain as Washington continues its naval blockade of Iranian ports despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.

US forces have intercepted vessels, seized tankers, and turned back dozens of ships as part of a broader strategy to pressure Tehran during negotiations.

Iran-US Ceasefire: Blockade Of Iranian Ports To Continue

Questions are rising over the direction of the US-Iran standoff as signals from both sides grow increasingly mixed. While Donald Trump had earlier issued stark warnings, uncertainty now surrounds the next round of talks, with Iran claiming no delegation has left for Pakistan. Disputes over the Strait of Hormuz and war reparations continue to stall progress. Meanwhile, reports suggest more than 20 Iranian “shadow vessels” have moved past the US blockade, adding a new twist to the ongoing crisis.


US Positive On Iran Deal But Talks Uncertain

U.S. President Donald Trump stressed that he is unwilling to extend the ceasefire and he is ready to go back to war. Amid the growing uncertainty, neither the JD Vance-led U.S. delegation nor Iranian negotiators have arrived in Islamabad yet. This comes as the two-week ceasefire expires by Wednesday evening. Meanwhile, Tehran is unwilling to negotiate citing threats issued by U.S.


US-Iran Talks: Trump & Tehran Threaten War in Dangerous Game of Brinkmanship 

As per reports, U.S. Navy has found dual-use items that could be used by Iranian military on seized vessel 'Touska'. The list of items includes metals, pipes and electronic components. Touska has already been sanctioned by the U.S. government.


US 'Finds' Dual-Use Items Used By Iranian Military On Seized Vessel 'Touska'

Uncertainty is growing around the future of Iran-US talks as the ceasefire deadline approaches. President Donald Trump has said he does not want to extend the truce and warned of possible bombing if negotiations fail, even as he remains optimistic about securing a “great deal.” A high-level US delegation, including JD Vance, Jared Kushner, and Steve Witkoff, is expected to arrive in Islamabad for crucial talks. With tensions rising, the world is watching closely.


Iran-US Talks On Edge As Ceasefire Nears End, Trump Ready To Bomb Iran If Talks Fail

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