Farmers across the United States are facing soaring costs this spring as fertiliser prices spike and potential shortages loom due to disruptions linked to the Iran conflict.

The surge comes on top of an already strained farm economy, raising concerns over crop planting and profitability in the months ahead.

Rising input costs are expected to put additional pressure on farmers and could impact agricultural output if the trend continues.

US-Iran War: Fertiliser Prices Spike Amid Iran Conflict | World Business Watch

The global energy crunch is deepening as disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for nearly a fifth of global oil and gas trade, tighten fuel supplies and push prices higher.

From Asia to Europe, governments are being forced into tough decisions, cutting energy use, tapping reserves, and trying to shield consumers as shortages begin to impact businesses and industries.

The crisis is unfolding beyond the region, with concerns growing over wider economic fallout and prolonged supply stress.

US-Iran War: Global Energy Crunch Deepens | World Business Watch

Iran has launched multiple missile salvos targeting Israel, marking another escalation in the ongoing conflict.

According to media reports, areas around Tel Aviv were hit, with some reports suggesting the use of cluster munitions in the strikes.

Iran Strikes Back: Iran Fires Missile Salvos At Israel, Reports Say Cluster Munitions Used |Breaking

US President Donald Trump has postponed his planned visit to China due to the ongoing war with Iran, shifting focus to the escalating conflict.

The trip, originally scheduled for late March, was aimed at easing tensions and advancing trade talks between the two countries. The delay has now pushed back key discussions on tariffs, semiconductors, agriculture and other major issues.

Officials say the visit could take place in five to six weeks, but the postponement has raised concerns over the pace of US-China engagement and trade negotiations.

US-Iran War: Iran War Forces Trump To Delay China Visit, Trade Talks Hit | WION

In a move that’s caught many in Washington by surprise, Donald Trump has been directly speaking to journalists during the ongoing conflict, often picking up calls himself instead of routing them through aides. Reports say he’s already spoken to more than 30 reporters, offering quick reactions and insights as events unfold. What’s unusual is that he’s believed to be using the same personal number from his first term, giving journalists a level of access rarely seen at the White House.

BREAKING: Trump Takes Reporters’ Calls During War, Gives Rare Direct Access | US-Iran War

India has stepped up food supplies to Gulf countries amid ongoing war-related disruptions, with over 5,000 metric tonnes of perishable goods reaching regional markets.

The move aims to stabilise supply chains and ensure the availability of essential food items as conflict impacts trade routes and logistics in the region.

Authorities say shipments include key perishables to support demand in Gulf markets during the crisis.

US-Iran War: India Sends 5,000 Tonnes Of Food To Gulf Amid War Disruptions | WION

Ukraine’s advanced drone defence systems are drawing international attention, with countries across Europe, the U.S., and West Asia seeking Kyiv’s expertise to counter aerial threats. Ukrainian air defence units have successfully intercepted up to 90% of incoming drones, showcasing their cutting-edge technology and battlefield experience.


Iran War: US, Gulf Nations Turn To Ukraine For Advanced Drone Defence Systems

The United Arab Emirates has hinted it could join efforts led by the United States to safeguard shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. A senior adviser to the UAE president said ensuring stability in the crucial waterway is a shared responsibility, pointing to the role of major economies across Asia, West Asia and Europe. The remarks come as concerns grow over disruptions to global oil supply routes amid rising tensions in the region.


US-Iran War: UAE Signals Possible Role In US-Led Efforts To Secure Hormuz Strait 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel killed senior Iranian official Ali Larijani in recent strikes.

The Israeli military also said Netanyahu ordered operations targeting Iranian leaders. The statements mark a direct acknowledgment of leadership-level targeting amid the ongoing conflict.


US-Israel Strike Iran | Netanyahu: Israel Killed Iran’s Larijani | WION 

Iran has confirmed the deaths of top security official Ali Larijani and IRGC Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed Larijani’s death, while state media also confirmed the killing of Soleimani, who headed the Basij paramilitary force.

Both were killed in strikes that Israel had earlier claimed responsibility for, targeting senior Iranian leadership.

The killings represent a significant blow to Iran’s security and military establishment amid the widening regional conflict.

US-Iran War: Iran Confirms Ali Larijani, Basij Chief Gholamreza Soleimani Killed | WION

US-Israel war with Iran: Latest Developments
- Iran Confirms Death Of Ali Larijani
- 2 Killed Near Tel Aviv In Iranian Missile Strike
- US Embassy In Bagdad Struck By Drone
- Jordan's air Defence Intercepts Missiles

US-Iran War: 2 Killed Near Tel Aviv In Iranian Missile Strike

A major controversy has erupted in Washington after former counterterrorism official Joe Kent stepped down amid the ongoing Iran war. Kent claimed the United States was drawn into the conflict under pressure from Israel and alleged that Donald Trump was influenced by a misinformation campaign. The Trump administration has strongly rejected these claims, calling them baseless.


US-Iran War: Who Is Joe Kent And Why Did He Quit As Trump’s Counterterror Chief?

An Iranian projectile landed near Al Minhad Air Base in the UAE, which hosts Australia’s Middle East military headquarters, according to officials.

Australia’s Prime Minister said the projectile struck a road near the base, causing minor damage and a fire. No Australian personnel were injured.

The incident comes amid escalating regional tensions, with military sites across the Gulf increasingly exposed to missile and drone activity.

US-Iran War: Iranian Projectile Hits Near Australian HQ At UAE Air Base | Breaking

Iran has confirmed the death of its security chief Ali Larijani, according to state media reports. The Supreme National Security Council said Larijani was killed in an attack, confirming earlier claims by Israel that he had been targeted in airstrikes.

In a statement, the council said Larijani died in service of Iran and the Islamic Revolution. His death marks a significant development amid ongoing tensions and escalating strikes targeting senior Iranian leadership.

US-Iran War: Iran Confirms Ali Larijani's Death, IRGC's Basij Commander Soleimani Also Killed 

Senior Iranian figure Ali Larijani was reportedly targeted in overnight strikes by Israel, according to Israeli media. Iran's National Security Council has confirmed Larijani's death. A key figure in Tehran’s power structure and a close ally of Ali Khamenei, Larijani has long played a central role in national security and nuclear negotiations.


US-Iran War: Ali Larijani Targeted, IDF Claims Netanyahu Ordered Leadership Strikes 

A fire aboard the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier raged for hours and took more than 30 hours to bring under control, according to a New York Times report.

The prolonged firefighting effort highlights the scale of the blaze on one of the US Navy’s most advanced warships. Further details on the cause of the fire and possible damage have not been disclosed.

US-Iran War: Fire On USS Gerald R Ford Rages For Hours, Took Over 30 Hours To Contain | WION

President Trump urged NATO allies-including Japan, South Korea, and Germany-to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz. Several nations reportedly resisted, citing risks and existing U.S. military presence on their soil. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized non-intervention until the conflict ends. Global tensions rise as diplomacy falters.

Iran War: NATO Allies Reject Trump’s Request for Hormuz Support in Iran War

Tensions in the Middle East escalate as Israel faces simultaneous missile and rocket attacks from Hezbollah and Iranian forces. Air raid sirens blare across Israeli cities, with military defenses activated. The conflict marks a dangerous intensification of regional hostilities, raising concerns about wider escalation in the ongoing Israel-Iran-Hezbollah crisis.

Israel Under Attack: Hezbollah Rockets and Iranian Missiles Strike Simultaneously 

Iran has launched multiple ballistic missiles at Israel as part of the ongoing war, triggering air raid sirens and missile defenses across Israeli territory. These strikes come amid continued escalation between Iran, Israel and their regional allies. 

Israel-Iran War: Iran Launches Ballistic Missiles at Israel | War Escalation Sparks Alarm

#Gravitas U.S. and Israel's war against Iran was aimed at breaking Tehran.  Instead, U.S. Intelligence now warns, it may have forged a far more dangerous Iran.  An outcome that was reportedly conveyed to U.S. President Donald Trump even before the first bombs were dropped. 

U.S.-Iran War: Trump Was Warned That War Would Strengthen Iran's Regime

The Israel Defense Forces claims it killed Iran’s top security chief Ali Larijani in an airstrike, a major escalation in the ongoing conflict. However, Tehran has not officially confirmed his death, leaving uncertainty over the report. This development heightens tensions across the Middle East as global leaders react.

Israel Claims It Killed Iran’s Security Chief Larijani | Tehran Yet to Confirm Death 

US President Donald Trump criticizes the UK, saying he’s “not happy” as Keir Starmer refuses deeper involvement in the Iran conflict. Starmer stresses reopening the Strait of Hormuz won’t be easy, pushing diplomacy amid rising tensions and global energy fears.

US-Iran War: Trump ‘Not Happy’ With UK as Starmer Distances From Iran War

India has received its second LPG tanker through the Strait of Hormuz, with the vessel Nanda Devi arriving safely in Gujarat.

The shipment comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where concerns over disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz have raised alarms over global energy supplies.

US-Iran War: Second LPG Tanker Nanda Devi Reaches India Via Hormuz, Arrives In Gujarat | Breaking

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out joining the ongoing Iran war, stating that Britain will not be “dragged into a wider conflict.”

Starmer emphasised that the UK’s priority is to avoid escalation, even as tensions rise in the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. He said any involvement would depend on a coordinated international plan rather than unilateral military action.

While Britain is working with allies on efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Starmer acknowledged that doing so would not be easy and requires careful planning and cooperation.

The remarks come amid growing pressure from Washington on allies to contribute to securing the critical shipping route, as several countries remain hesitant to join military operations.

UK PM Rules Out Iran War, Says Britain ‘Won’t Be Dragged Into Wider Conflict’ | WION

The United States has repositioned two of its major aircraft carrier strike groups, USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln, amid escalating tensions with Iran.

The move signals a significant military shift as Washington increases its naval presence in the region during the ongoing conflict.

Officials say the deployments are aimed at strengthening deterrence and ensuring operational readiness as the situation continues to evolve.

The repositioning of multiple carrier strike groups underscores rising concerns over a wider regional escalation.

US Relocates USS Gerald R. Ford, USS Abraham Lincoln Amid Iran Tensions | WION

Global crude oil prices have surged to $137 per barrel, triggering alarm across energy markets as conflict intensifies in West Asia.

For India, one of the world’s largest oil importers, the spike presents a major economic challenge. Higher crude prices could drive up fuel costs, increase inflation, and strain government finances.

The surge is linked to supply disruptions and rising geopolitical tensions involving key oil-producing regions, raising fears of prolonged volatility in global energy markets.

Oil At $137: India's Big Test Amid West Asia Conflict

Multiple explosions have been reported in Doha, Qatar, amid escalating tensions linked to the ongoing Iran conflict.

An AFP journalist confirmed that several blasts were heard in the Qatari capital, a day after similar explosions were reported across the city.

The incidents come as Iran intensifies its retaliatory campaign across the Gulf region, with drones and missiles targeting multiple countries, including Qatar.

Explosions and loud blasts have also been reported in other Gulf cities, including Dubai and Bahrain, highlighting the widening impact of the conflict.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the explosions in Doha, and the situation remains fluid.

US-Iran War: Explosions Rock Doha Amid Regional Tensions, Multiple Blasts Reported | WION

Iran is increasingly relying on Shahed drones as a key part of its retaliation across West Asia amid the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.

These low-cost, one-way attack drones have been used in coordinated strikes targeting military and strategic infrastructure across the region. Reports indicate Iran has launched large waves of drones alongside missiles to overwhelm air defence systems.

Iranian drone and missile attacks have been reported across multiple countries, including the UAE, Bahrain and Jordan, highlighting the widening regional impact of the conflict.

The growing use of Shahed drones marks a shift towards sustained, high-volume strikes, as Tehran leverages cost-effective weapons to counter advanced defence systems.


US-Iran War: Iran Deploys Shahed Drones Across West Asia In Major Retaliation | WION

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has sharply criticised U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing Washington of undermining diplomacy amid the ongoing conflict.

Araghchi said Iran sees “no reason” to negotiate with the United States, adding that talks were ongoing when Washington launched attacks, effectively ending diplomatic efforts.

He also dismissed reports of recent contact with U.S. officials, stating that his last communication with Washington came before the outbreak of the current war.

Meanwhile, President Trump has claimed that Iran “badly wants a deal” with the United States, though he has indicated he is not ready to negotiate under current terms.

The conflicting statements highlight deep divisions between both sides, as military escalation continues and diplomatic channels remain uncertain.

Iran-US War: Iran Says ‘No Talks’, Slams Trump | Trump Insists Tehran Wants Deal | WION

U.S. President Donald Trump has said that several countries are not “enthusiastic” about helping reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions escalate following the Iran conflict.

Speaking at the White House, Trump called on allies to assist in securing the key global shipping route, which has been disrupted after Iran used drones, missiles and mines in response to U.S.-Israeli strikes.

US-Iran War: Trump Slams Allies Over Hormuz Mission, Cites ‘No Enthusiasm’ | WION

US President Donald Trump claimed twice on Monday that he had spoken to former US presidents about the war in Iran and that an unnamed President supposedly approved his attacks on Iran. Howevere all four living former US Presidents have outrightly denied having any conversation with the US President Donald Trump about the attack, according to reports from various US media outlets.&nbsp;“Every president knew- I’ve spoken to a certain president, who I like actually, a past president, former president, he said, ‘I wish I did it, I wish I did,’ but they didn’t do it. I’m doing it,” said Trump. However, later on Monday at an event at the Oval Office, Trump was being pressed by a Fox News reporter, Peter Doocy, whether he spoke to George W Bush. Trump responded “no”; he also did not want to explicitly mention whether he spoke to Barack Obama or Bill Clinton.&nbsp;“I can’t tell you that. It would be very bad for his career, even though he’s got no career left,” said TrumpIn a fact check by CNN's Jeff Zeleny and Samantha Waldenberg, who reached out to “all four living former presidents.” A spokesperson for Clinton told CNN that no spokesperson for Clinton said that a conversation between Trump and Clinton had not taken place. Similarly, aides close to Bush, Obama and Biden also suggested that no conversation happened with Trump.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strike-khamenei-aircraft-mehrabad-airport-iran-1773664685159">Israel claims strike on aircraft linked to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at Tehran’s Mehrabad airport</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: &quot;I spoke to one of the former presidents who I actually like. I actually speak to some, I do like some people, it&#39;d be shocking. And he said, &#39;I wish I did what you did.&#39; Other presidents, somebody should&#39;ve done it. 47 years this went on.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/OELNsYSt1D">pic.twitter.com/OELNsYSt1D</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/2033645461261750612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump, who had very little domestic support for his Iran war, is desperate as the mid-term elections are fast approaching. His claim that former Presidents come to his aid is far-fetched, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had long been mobilising for a war with Iran, and every other Presidents have somehow managed to dodge a war with Iran, infact Barack Obama in 2015 managed to sign a nuclear deal also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran which limited Iran's stockpile of enriched Uranium, in exchange of sanction relief. But Trump abruptly walked out of the JCPOA in his first term in office.&nbsp;Trump now finds himself in a dilemma, as his stated objective of regime change seems increasingly unlikely "without boots on the ground," and deploying troops in Iran will at least be damaging to Trump's political career, and at most result in a civil war within MAGA and probably within the US. Trump earlier admitted that he was “shocked” by Iranian retaliation, which almost every analyst in the world had predicted. Trump is now calling the war a “very high-level chess game”. “These are really smart people and violent people and vicious people. And some very nice people. And some are very nice but violent; they turned violent."

Donald Trump claimed former US presidents backed his Iran strikes, but Clinton, Obama, Bush and Biden have denied any such conversations, reports say.

US President Donald Trump claimed twice on Monday that he had spoken to former US presidents about the war in Iran and that an unnamed President supposedly approved his attacks on Iran. Howevere all four living former US Presidents have outrightly denied having any conversation with the US President Donald Trump about the attack, according to reports from various US media outlets. “Every president knew- I’ve spoken to a certain president, who I like actually, a past president, former president, he said, ‘I wish I did it, I wish I did,’ but they didn’t do it. I’m doing it,” said Trump. However, later on Monday at an event at the Oval Office, Trump was being pressed by a Fox News reporter, Peter Doocy, whether he spoke to George W Bush. Trump responded “no”; he also did not want to explicitly mention whether he spoke to Barack Obama or Bill Clinton. “I can’t tell you that. It would be very bad for his career, even though he’s got no career left,” said Trump In a fact check by CNN's Jeff Zeleny and Samantha Waldenberg, who reached out to “all four living former presidents.” A spokesperson for Clinton told CNN that no spokesperson for Clinton said that a conversation between Trump and Clinton had not taken place. Similarly, aides close to Bush, Obama and Biden also suggested that no conversation happened with Trump. Also Read: Israel claims strike on aircraft linked to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at Tehran’s Mehrabad airport

Donald Trump claimed former US presidents backed his Iran strikes, but Clinton, Obama, Bush and Biden have denied any such conversations, reports say.

No talks with Trump on Iran attack, say Clinton, Obama, Bush and Biden

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