Iranian state television has aired a disturbing video appearing to threaten President Donald Trump's youngest son, Barron Trump. The nearly three-minute broadcast, reportedly aired by Iran's state broadcaster IRIB, was titled “Where to kill Barron Trump?” and showed purported locations linked to the 20-year-old. The video also suggested a $10 million reward, though the bounty claim has not been independently verified. The U.S. Secret Service confirmed it is aware of the footage and said it investigates anything perceived as a threat to its protectees. Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, without providing details.


US Secret Service acknowledges threat to Barron Trump, Netanyahu's son also on radar

Iran has dismissed the latest U.S. sanctions threat as a sign of desperation, insisting that Washington's pressure campaign will fail to change Tehran's policies. The response comes as the Trump administration prepares what officials describe as the toughest sanctions package yet, targeting Iran and countries that continue doing business with it. Iranian leaders argue that years of economic pressure have failed to achieve U.S. objectives, while Washington says tougher measures are needed to increase pressure on Tehran. As tensions escalate, the debate is shifting beyond sanctions: who is becoming more isolated on the global stage—Iran or the United States?


US-Iran war: will Iran capitulate to increased US economic pressure?

Iran's currency has plunged to a new record low, with the rial reportedly weakening beyond 2.02 million to the U.S. dollar on the open market. The slide comes as Iranian households grapple with soaring inflation, rising living costs and the economic fallout of conflict and sanctions. Despite mounting pressure, Tehran says it is implementing a two-year economic recovery plan aimed at stabilising markets, boosting production and reducing the impact of sanctions.


Iranian Rial hits record low as inflation and sanctions bite

China has warned Washington that it will safeguard its interests after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the widening of the sanctions campaign against Iran, and warned that nations financially partnering with Iran will be isolated. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that China was opposed to "illegal unilateral sanctions" and would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its rights.&nbsp;“China has made clear on many occasions its firm opposition to illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorisation of the UN Security Council,” said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson. “The pressing task is to facilitate de-escalation of the situation and return to dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.”&nbsp;Beijing has warned that these sanctions will "further intensify tensions” and that China’s cooperation with Iran should not be disrupted.“Economic warfare and maximum pressure will not help resolve the issue. They will only further intensify tensions and conflicts, create spillover risks,” said China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a regular press briefing. “China’s cooperation with Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be disrupted or undermined.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/piyush-goyal-jack-ma-china-remark-japan-investors-1787653168954">Piyush Goyal takes veiled dig at China, invokes Jack Ma while pitching India to Japanese investors</a><h2>US Treasury Secretary has warned countries against maintaining ties with Iran&nbsp;</h2>US Treasury Secretary called these new measures "the single greatest financial offensive ever" and warned of dire consequences for countries with economic ties to Iran. He warned that banks and businesses will share in Iran's isolation if they refuse to cut ties with Iran.&nbsp;“Every country has a defined timeline to shut down activities we have identified. If they do not take action, we will do so unilaterally through Treasury authorities,” said Bessent. Though he did not specifically name those countries, he hinted that Trump would be phoning world leaders "with specific requests to cease their interactions with the regime". The major nations that were going to be impacted are China, India, Egypt, UAE and Iraq, according to Daniel Tannebaum, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. China is the largest trading partner of Iran, and the success of the US economic sanctions campaign will be toothless without China.<h2>Iran said it is “fully prepared”</h2>Iran's Finance Minister Ali Madanizadeh told the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran News Network that Tehran is “fully prepared for the sanctions”, and said that they have been long expecting this. He added that Iran has a long "two-year plan" for this.“We know how to play this game. This time, they should not think our response will be purely defensive and that we will only defend ourselves. They should also expect us to go on the offensive,” said &nbsp;Ali Madanizadeh.&nbsp;

China warned Washington against unilateral sanctions on Iran as the US widened its sanctions campaign. Tehran said it was fully prepared to respond.

China has warned Washington that it will safeguard its interests after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the widening of the sanctions campaign against Iran, and warned that nations financially partnering with Iran will be isolated. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that China was opposed to "illegal unilateral sanctions" and would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its rights. “China has made clear on many occasions its firm opposition to illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorisation of the UN Security Council,” said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson. “The pressing task is to facilitate de-escalation of the situation and return to dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.” Beijing has warned that these sanctions will "further intensify tensions” and that China’s cooperation with Iran should not be disrupted. “Economic warfare and maximum pressure will not help resolve the issue. They will only further intensify tensions and conflicts, create spillover risks,” said China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a regular press briefing. “China’s cooperation with Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be disrupted or undermined.” Also Read: Piyush Goyal takes veiled dig at China, invokes Jack Ma while pitching India to Japanese investors US Treasury Secretary has warned countries against maintaining ties with Iran US Treasury Secretary called these new measures "the single greatest financial offensive ever" and warned of dire consequences for countries with economic ties to Iran. He warned that banks and businesses will share in Iran's isolation if they refuse to cut ties with Iran. “Every country has a defined timeline to shut down activities we have identified. If they do not take action, we will do so unilaterally through Treasury authorities,” said Bessent. Though he did not specifically name those countries, he hinted that Trump would be phoning world leaders "with specific requests to cease their interactions with the regime". The major nations that were going to be impacted are China, India, Egypt, UAE and Iraq, according to Daniel Tannebaum, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. China is the largest trading partner of Iran, and the success of the US economic sanctions campaign will be toothless without China. Iran said it is “fully prepared” Iran's Finance Minister Ali Madanizadeh told the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran News Network that Tehran is “fully prepared for the sanctions”, and said that they have been long expecting this. He added that Iran has a long "two-year plan" for this. “We know how to play this game. This time, they should not think our response will be purely defensive and that we will only defend ourselves. They should also expect us to go on the offensive,” said Ali Madanizadeh.

China warned Washington against unilateral sanctions on Iran as the US widened its sanctions campaign. Tehran said it was fully prepared to respond.

China warns US as Iran sanctions widen; Tehran says it is 'fully prepared'

US-Iran war: Will Iran capitulate to increased US economic pressure? 

Iran says it is preparing to unveil what it describes as the world's largest missile city, even as the United States ramps up economic pressure with a sweeping new sanctions campaign. Tehran insists its military production remains uninterrupted and claims key military assets were relocated before the war, allowing missile and defense output to continue rising. Meanwhile, Washington has expanded sanctions targeting Iran's trade, financial and shipping networks, warning countries and companies against doing business with Tehran.


Iran to unveil world's largest missile city as US escalates economic pressure 

Iran's Mehr News has released a rare, undated 12-second video of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei showing him in discussion with advisers, amid widespread reports claiming he's in "critical condition" and possibly hospitalised. Since taking over after his father Ali Khamenei's death in a February airstrike, Mojtaba had made no public appearances, fueling months of speculation. The video's authenticity and actual recording date remain unverified.


Iran releases rare Mojtaba Khamenei footage amid reports of critical health

Iran has dismissed the latest U.S. sanctions threat as a sign of desperation, insisting that Washington's pressure campaign will fail to change Tehran's policies. The response comes as the Trump administration prepares what officials describe as the toughest sanctions package yet, targeting Iran and countries that continue doing business with it. Iranian leaders argue that years of economic pressure have failed to achieve U.S. objectives, while Washington says tougher measures are needed to increase pressure on Tehran. As tensions escalate, the debate is shifting beyond sanctions: who is becoming more isolated on the global stage—Iran or the United States?

Iran dismisses new U.S. Sanctions threat: IRGC warns of strikes on American interests

US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent has announced an economic pressure campaign against Iran, vowing to target Tehran’s financial interests across the world.

Bessent said on Monday that the US would target all of Iran’s sources of revenue, including oil, with the aim of preventing other countries and companies from doing business with Tehran.

US-Iran tensions: Bessent unveils 'economic D-day sanctions' on Iran

In an interview, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran had tried to assassinate one of his two sons. The remark appeared to justify the recent decision to extend security for his sons even if he loses the upcoming election.

Calling it "quite unbelievable," Netanyahu said Iran had targeted one of his sons and tried to kill him, but he did not name which son or give any further details.

Netanyahu claims Iran attempted to assassinate his son 

As the US and Iran trade threats and military actions, tensions are rising once again. With the Strait of Hormuz under pressure and Washington preparing fresh sanctions, is another major escalation between the two sides imminent?

As US & Iran spar with each other, is a fresh escalation in the offing 

Iran has announced the discovery of more than 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas in southern Fars province, months into a Middle East war that has damaged the country’s energy infrastructure. Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad said more than 160 billion cubic metres could be recoverable, with the field potentially producing around 280 million cubic metres of gas per day for 15 years.

7.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas discovered in Iran amid war & sanctions 

Amid U.S. unveiling its major economic sanctions on Iran, China expressed its displeasure and called for a return to talks. While Trump claimed that Iran is 'completely collapsing', Tehran has threatened to shut down all oil exports from West Asia.

US-Iran war: China 'Trumps' Trump on Iran Sanctions, Calls for Return to Talks

In a few minutes from now, the so-called economic D-Day for Iran will kick in, with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent set to unveil major economic sanctions on Iran. Trump claims that Iran is “completely collapsing”. But Tehran has asserted that this tactic will fail and threatened to shut down all oil exports from West Asia.Without detailing specific measures, Bessent has signalled that the US would also target nations that practise appeasement by engaging with Iran’s economy and financial system.China, though, drew the red line. Opposing the imposition of fresh sanctions against Iran, Beijing argued that they would escalate tensions and called upon all parties to exercise restraint and return to talks.Now, why is China’s stance so crucial?According to reports, Beijing helped push Tehran to the negotiating table for a ceasefire in April. Being Iran’s largest trading partner, which purchases roughly 90 per cent of its crude oil, China has high stakes in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.Another key question arises: Can Trump bypass China’s opposition and go ahead with the economic sanctions? Since his visit to Beijing in May, the US President has been keen on China buying American soybeans, oil as well as Boeing jets. For America, China’s supply of critical minerals is also vital, as they are essential components in the production of weapons, which have been depleted by the war.Going against Beijing at this juncture might put all this at risk. It is also worth noting that Xi is set to meet Trump at the White House in September.Ahead of America’s announcement, mediation efforts continue.Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir arrived in Tehran, where he met Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. According to Reuters, Trump spoke to Munir last week, with the US seeking Pakistan’s influence to bring Iran back to talks.Tensions persisted in West Asia, though. For instance, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for firing a ballistic missile at a Saudi Arabia-flagged tanker in the Red Sea. This led to a fire breaking out on the vessel. The Houthis declared a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia last month.On its part, Iran blacklisted 45 tankers for breaking its rules while crossing the Strait of Hormuz and warned other vessels not to transit this strategic waterway without its permission. It stressed that these vessels could be fined and have their cargo confiscated as well. Additionally, Iran threatened other countries against joining new US efforts to squeeze Tehran’s economy.Meanwhile, Iran clarified that it was yet to receive a formal invitation to join the Makkah Defence Pact signed by Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia. However, Tehran did not rule out negotiations with these countries for the overall security of the region.America’s fresh threat of economic sanctions also comes at a time when the Iranian rial has fallen to a historic low, crossing two million rials against the US dollar. This has raised fresh concerns about inflation, purchasing power and the Iranian government’s ability to stabilise the economy.Food has become very expensive, with the price of rice up by 60 per cent since the war began.Now, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also acknowledged the issues arising from the current impasse. He linked the MOU with the US to Iran’s economic prospects, saying that his country was not able to attract investment at present.People on the streets of Iran also expressed their anguish over the current state of affairs.With both the US and Iran unwilling to budge from their positions, West Asia continues to remain on edge.

Iran faces fresh US sanctions as Washington threatens economic pressure and China urges restraint, while Tehran warns of retaliation and tensions persist over the Strait of Hormuz.

In a few minutes from now, the so-called economic D-Day for Iran will kick in, with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent set to unveil major economic sanctions on Iran. Trump claims that Iran is “completely collapsing”. But Tehran has asserted that this tactic will fail and threatened to shut down all oil exports from West Asia. Without detailing specific measures, Bessent has signalled that the US would also target nations that practise appeasement by engaging with Iran’s economy and financial system. China, though, drew the red line. Opposing the imposition of fresh sanctions against Iran, Beijing argued that they would escalate tensions and called upon all parties to exercise restraint and return to talks. Now, why is China’s stance so crucial? According to reports, Beijing helped push Tehran to the negotiating table for a ceasefire in April. Being Iran’s largest trading partner, which purchases roughly 90 per cent of its crude oil, China has high stakes in reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Another key question arises: Can Trump bypass China’s opposition and go ahead with the economic sanctions? Since his visit to Beijing in May, the US President has been keen on China buying American soybeans, oil as well as Boeing jets. For America, China’s supply of critical minerals is also vital, as they are essential components in the production of weapons, which have been depleted by the war. Going against Beijing at this juncture might put all this at risk. It is also worth noting that Xi is set to meet Trump at the White House in September. Ahead of America’s announcement, mediation efforts continue. Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir arrived in Tehran, where he met Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. According to Reuters, Trump spoke to Munir last week, with the US seeking Pakistan’s influence to bring Iran back to talks. Tensions persisted in West Asia, though. For instance, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for firing a ballistic missile at a Saudi Arabia-flagged tanker in the Red Sea. This led to a fire breaking out on the vessel. The Houthis declared a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia last month. On its part, Iran blacklisted 45 tankers for breaking its rules while crossing the Strait of Hormuz and warned other vessels not to transit this strategic waterway without its permission. It stressed that these vessels could be fined and have their cargo confiscated as well. Additionally, Iran threatened other countries against joining new US efforts to squeeze Tehran’s economy. Meanwhile, Iran clarified that it was yet to receive a formal invitation to join the Makkah Defence Pact signed by Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia. However, Tehran did not rule out negotiations with these countries for the overall security of the region. America’s fresh threat of economic sanctions also comes at a time when the Iranian rial has fallen to a historic low, crossing two million rials against the US dollar. This has raised fresh concerns about inflation, purchasing power and the Iranian government’s ability to stabilise the economy. Food has become very expensive, with the price of rice up by 60 per cent since the war began. Now, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also acknowledged the issues arising from the current impasse. He linked the MOU with the US to Iran’s economic prospects, saying that his country was not able to attract investment at present. People on the streets of Iran also expressed their anguish over the current state of affairs. With both the US and Iran unwilling to budge from their positions, West Asia continues to remain on edge.

Iran faces fresh US sanctions as Washington threatens economic pressure and China urges restraint, while Tehran warns of retaliation and tensions persist over the Strait of Hormuz.

China 'trumps' Trump on Iran sanctions, calls for return to talks | Gravitas

Iran has issued a fresh warning to countries cooperating with sanctions against Tehran, as China and Russia come under increasing pressure from Washington. The United States is treading carefully with Beijing, aware of the wider implications of escalating economic tensions. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to meet again in Washington in September. The developments come as the Iran crisis, sanctions pressure and U.S.-China rivalry increasingly intersect, creating a complex geopolitical challenge for all sides.


Iran warns sanctions cooperators as Trump and Xi prepare for September summit 

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to visit Kyiv, where Britain is expected to deepen its military support for Ukraine. The UK plans to share the blueprint for its SCALP cruise missile, potentially allowing Ukraine to strengthen its domestic weapons production capabilities. Russia has accused Britain of escalating the conflict and “adding fuel to the fire.” The move comes as the war enters another tense phase, with Western allies weighing greater military support for Kyiv.


Russia-Ukraine war: UK to share SCALP missile blueprint with Ukraine during Kyiv visit 

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has mocked US President Donald Trump’s economic sanction campaign. In response to Trump's reposting an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf’s remarks about Iran’s economic situation. In a social media post, he restyled Trump's famous Make America Great Again catchphrase to “Make America Hungry Again”.Ghalibaf shared a picture claiming that 47 million people in the United States face hunger and 16 million US children are among those affected by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis. Ghalibaf stressed that Trump can not cover up “defeats” using false claims.This reaction came in response to Trump sharing an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf's remark during a meeting with Iranian and Iraqi businesspeople, with Ghalibaf saying: “We are hungry and we do not have the ability to resist.”According to Iranian media, Ghalibaf was not describing hunger as the current condition of the Iranian people. Rather, he was emphasising the need to strengthen the economy. Both security and economic strength must be maintained simultaneously. He said that the US has failed militarily and is now engaging in psychological and economic warfare.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/revanth-reddy-returns-hyderabad-mea-denies-us-visit-clearance-1787578195030">'Insult' to 4 crore people of Telangana: Why CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance was denied</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MAKE AMERICA HUNGRY AGAIN! You can’t cover up defeats with false claims. <a href="https://t.co/LBclafRt3B">pic.twitter.com/LBclafRt3B</a>&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2091846882876145880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran will strike on US energy chokepoints and vital interests: IRGC</h2>Hossein Mohebbi, spokesperson for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said that the country's missile capability remains intact and any attack at Iran's infrastructure will result in “heavy strikes” on US energy chokepoints and vital interests. He further added that Iran's missile production continues and the US plan for new economic sanctions against Tehran amounts to "an implicit admission" of Washington's failure on the military front.&nbsp;"We can easily establish economic relations with countries. There is no concern regarding the economic situation," said Mohebbi, according to Iranian state broadcaster IRIB.“Today, the US understands very well that if it carries out its threats against Iran’s infrastructure, it will face heavy strategic strikes on energy chokepoints and its vital interests.” He continued, “The most important achievement of this war was transferring vulnerability to the enemy’s vital infrastructure and affiliated centres."

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked Donald Trump with a “Make America Hungry Again” remark after the US president shared an edited clip of his comments indicating that Iran was hungry.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has mocked US President Donald Trump’s economic sanction campaign. In response to Trump's reposting an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf’s remarks about Iran’s economic situation. In a social media post, he restyled Trump's famous Make America Great Again catchphrase to “Make America Hungry Again”. Ghalibaf shared a picture claiming that 47 million people in the United States face hunger and 16 million US children are among those affected by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis. Ghalibaf stressed that Trump can not cover up “defeats” using false claims. This reaction came in response to Trump sharing an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf's remark during a meeting with Iranian and Iraqi businesspeople, with Ghalibaf saying: “We are hungry and we do not have the ability to resist.” According to Iranian media, Ghalibaf was not describing hunger as the current condition of the Iranian people. Rather, he was emphasising the need to strengthen the economy. Both security and economic strength must be maintained simultaneously. He said that the US has failed militarily and is now engaging in psychological and economic warfare. Also Read: 'Insult' to 4 crore people of Telangana: Why CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance was denied

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked Donald Trump with a “Make America Hungry Again” remark after the US president shared an edited clip of his comments indicating that Iran was hungry.

Iran’s Ghalibaf mocks Trump's economic sanction campaign: ‘Make America Hungry Again’

US-Iran war: Trump turns to economic warfare, pressures world to isolate Iran

The US-Iran conflict enters a new phase as Washington prepares sweeping “D-Day” sanctions targeting Iran’s economy. With the rial already under pressure and the Strait of Hormuz disrupted, the big question is how far the new sanctions will impact Tehran and ordinary Iranians.


US-Iran war: with the D-day sanctions, all eyes are on how Iran is impacted 

US-Iran war: 'Tehran will stand firm,' Iran threatens total oil halt 

Iranian women continue to defy strict hijab laws amid ongoing protests for personal freedom and gender equality. As the new year begins, activists highlight the struggle for basic rights and the risks faced by women challenging conservative regulations. The movement has drawn international attention, sparking debates on human rights and women’s empowerment in Iran.

Iran’s hijab battle returns: Women defy hardliners amid renewed crackdown 

Iran is facing a worsening economic crisis as the Iranian rial has plunged beyond the historic 2 million mark against the U.S. dollar on the open market. The sharp currency collapse comes amid renewed international pressure, escalating sanctions, and growing concerns over inflation and economic instability. President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged the hardships facing ordinary Iranians, describing the situation as a full-scale economic and security war. As businesses and households struggle with rising prices and a weakening currency, questions are mounting over Iran's economic future and its ability to withstand mounting external pressure.

Iranian Rial hits historic low: Pezeshkian admits Iran faces 'many problems' 

Iran has been invited to join the Makkah Defence Pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan on August 7. The development was reported by Lebanon-based Al Mayadeen, and it is being considered by Tehran reported Pakistan’s SAMAA TV. Iran's Foreign Ministry is yet to confirm that it has received an invitation to join the mutual defence agreement.&nbsp;"Iran has received an invitation to join the Mecca Agreement, and the matter is under review," said Mehdi Rahimi, head of the Iranian parliament's Khaneh Mellat news agency. He added that the countries in the region are moving towards seeking "a regional security umbrella," and "a victory for Iran, because it has been calling for this for a long time."However, the details of the invitation remain foggy, as Rahimi did not mention which country had extended the invitation, and no country has officially confirmed the development. The Makkah Defence Pact signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had a NATO-like mutual defense stipualtion and, under which an attack on one country will be considered an attack on all. Turkey has previously publicly expressed that it wants Egypt to join the agreement. Pakistan has also maintained that it does not want the Defence Pact to be an “exclusive club”. But the pact does not establish a NATO-style integrated military command and contains very few specific military commitments.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-850-million-payment-outstanding-un-dues-1787478462717">US to make $850mn payment out of its $4bn+ outstanding UN dues</a>Tehran had been cautious in responding to the coalition, and it seeks a regional security umbrella outside of Washington's influence. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on August 10 that Tehran had "no reason for concern" over the establishment of the alliance.While the pact is born out of the chaos of the US-Iran war, regional analysts and Israeli security officials perceive the primary objective of the alliance as working as a deterrent against Israel's aggression. The pact is effectively the polar opposite of the pre-war vision of a US-brokered "New Middle East" where normalisation with Israel was the central requirement.&nbsp;Houthis are preparing to seize land along the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which would allow them to threaten the vital shipping artery. Saudi Arabia relies entirely on Red Sea ports to export its oil amid the Hormuz crisis. So Iran’s reported invitation to the pact is highly paradoxical, as the Houthis represent the most immediate test to the alliance. It is unclear how comfortable a Sunni monarch will be with a Shia militant group on its border. For such an inclusion to work, both Riyadh and Tehran would have to reach a compromise on Yemen and the Houthis and trade concrete concessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran has reportedly been invited to join the Makkah Defence Pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, as Tehran considers a regional security framework.

Iran has been invited to join the Makkah Defence Pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan on August 7. The development was reported by Lebanon-based Al Mayadeen, and it is being considered by Tehran reported Pakistan’s SAMAA TV. Iran's Foreign Ministry is yet to confirm that it has received an invitation to join the mutual defence agreement. "Iran has received an invitation to join the Mecca Agreement, and the matter is under review," said Mehdi Rahimi, head of the Iranian parliament's Khaneh Mellat news agency. He added that the countries in the region are moving towards seeking "a regional security umbrella," and "a victory for Iran, because it has been calling for this for a long time." However, the details of the invitation remain foggy, as Rahimi did not mention which country had extended the invitation, and no country has officially confirmed the development. The Makkah Defence Pact signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had a NATO-like mutual defense stipualtion and, under which an attack on one country will be considered an attack on all. Turkey has previously publicly expressed that it wants Egypt to join the agreement. Pakistan has also maintained that it does not want the Defence Pact to be an “exclusive club”. But the pact does not establish a NATO-style integrated military command and contains very few specific military commitments. Also Read: US to make $850mn payment out of its $4bn+ outstanding UN dues Tehran had been cautious in responding to the coalition, and it seeks a regional security umbrella outside of Washington's influence. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on August 10 that Tehran had "no reason for concern" over the establishment of the alliance. While the pact is born out of the chaos of the US-Iran war, regional analysts and Israeli security officials perceive the primary objective of the alliance as working as a deterrent against Israel's aggression. The pact is effectively the polar opposite of the pre-war vision of a US-brokered "New Middle East" where normalisation with Israel was the central requirement. Houthis are preparing to seize land along the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which would allow them to threaten the vital shipping artery. Saudi Arabia relies entirely on Red Sea ports to export its oil amid the Hormuz crisis. So Iran’s reported invitation to the pact is highly paradoxical, as the Houthis represent the most immediate test to the alliance. It is unclear how comfortable a Sunni monarch will be with a Shia militant group on its border. For such an inclusion to work, both Riyadh and Tehran would have to reach a compromise on Yemen and the Houthis and trade concrete concessions.

Iran has reportedly been invited to join the Makkah Defence Pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, as Tehran considers a regional security framework.

Iran reportedly invited to join Makkah Defence Pact amid Saudi-Houthi tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Iran, warning countries against providing Tehran with any economic lifeline. The threat has put allies and trading partners on edge as Washington seeks to tighten economic pressure on the Islamic Republic. At the center of the debate is Iran's trade network, with China remaining the largest buyer of Iranian oil despite years of U.S. sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The developments are reigniting questions over the effectiveness of sanctions, global energy security and the future of Iran's economic ties.

Trump warns nations giving any economic lifeline to Iran

On Gravitas, We decode Trump's great retreat: from bombing Iran to stone age to porous sanctions, the US President is caught in a trap of his own making.


Trump's great retreat from bombing Iran to stone age to porous sanctions 

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Iran, warning countries against providing Tehran with any economic lifeline. The threat has put allies and trading partners on edge as Washington seeks to tighten economic pressure on the Islamic Republic. At the center of the debate is Iran's trade network, with China remaining the largest buyer of Iranian oil despite years of U.S. sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The developments are reigniting questions over the effectiveness of sanctions, global energy security and the future of Iran's economic ties.


Trump's 'economic d-day' warning for Iran raises stakes for global trade partners 

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced what he called the “most crushing economic operation ever” against Iran, warning of severe consequences for any country helping Tehran economically. The move comes amid continuing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, where Trump insists shipping is moving and “lots of boats” are crossing despite ongoing disputes over access and security in the vital waterway. The latest escalation signals a shift from military pressure to economic warfare.


US-Iran war: Mounting debt in the US, but Trump's focus remains on hurting Iran  

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (August 20) said Washington's plan to intensify economic sanctions on Iran could reduce the need for another large-scale military operation against Tehran.&nbsp;"If we are doing the maximum economic pressure, then that means that likely there will not be a large-scale kinetic restart, but I will emphasise that is for now," Bessent was quoted as saying by CNBC.&nbsp;Bessent said the US wants to sharply increase economic pressure on Iran with the aim of collapsing its government. He described the planned sanctions as an unprecedented campaign of economic isolation.&nbsp;"It is going to work in Iran, and we are going to collapse this regime," he told CNBC. "This is going to be the greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world."<h2>US urges China and allies to back sanctions</h2>Bessent also addressed the possibility of Washington putting pressure on China over its dealings with Iran. He said "many conversations are best to have in private," while urging Beijing "to get with the program." The Treasury Secretary also called on other countries to support the US measures and warned them about the consequences of failing to do so.&nbsp;"So it is time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision, and we are going to squash the economy of this murderous regime, which, that will curtail their ability to project power through their proxies," he said.&nbsp;Washington has imposed a series of new economic sanctions since US President Donald Trump launched the war with Tehran in late February. However, the Iranian government has continued to operate despite the measures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-approves-high-court-bench-in-ladakh-shah-hails-move-to-ease-justice-access-1787235249621">Centre approves High Court bench in Ladakh, Shah hails move to ease justice access</a><h2>Iran rejects US sanctions as 'economic terrorism'</h2>Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly rejected the latest US sanctions and described them as a crime against humanity. According to ISNA, Tehran said the measures reflected decades of US hostility towards the Iranian people.&nbsp;"The US administration, on the anniversary of the shameful coup of 19 Mordad 1953, claimed to impose extensive economic and trade sanctions against the Iranian nation. This action is not only another sign of the continuation of 73 years of American policymakers' animosity and hostility towards the Iranian people, but also proves the anti-human, law-breaking, and arrogant nature of the US administration.&nbsp;"Without a doubt, the US economic sanctions against Iran, which have targeted the fundamental human rights of every Iranian citizen, are an example of "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity," and the instigators and perpetrators of these sanctions deserve to be tried and punished for committing such heinous crimes," the semi-official news agency quoted Tehran's foreign ministry as saying.&nbsp;The Iranian ministry also described the sanctions as inhumane measures against the Iranian people. It said the Islamic Republic remains determined to defend its security and national interests while confronting US military, economic, political and psychological pressure.

The US said tougher economic sanctions could reduce the risk of renewed large-scale military action against Iran, while Tehran condemned the measures as "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity".

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (August 20) said Washington's plan to intensify economic sanctions on Iran could reduce the need for another large-scale military operation against Tehran. "If we are doing the maximum economic pressure, then that means that likely there will not be a large-scale kinetic restart, but I will emphasise that is for now," Bessent was quoted as saying by CNBC. Bessent said the US wants to sharply increase economic pressure on Iran with the aim of collapsing its government. He described the planned sanctions as an unprecedented campaign of economic isolation. "It is going to work in Iran, and we are going to collapse this regime," he told CNBC. "This is going to be the greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world." US urges China and allies to back sanctions Bessent also addressed the possibility of Washington putting pressure on China over its dealings with Iran. He said "many conversations are best to have in private," while urging Beijing "to get with the program." The Treasury Secretary also called on other countries to support the US measures and warned them about the consequences of failing to do so. "So it is time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision, and we are going to squash the economy of this murderous regime, which, that will curtail their ability to project power through their proxies," he said. Washington has imposed a series of new economic sanctions since US President Donald Trump launched the war with Tehran in late February. However, the Iranian government has continued to operate despite the measures. Also Read: Centre approves High Court bench in Ladakh, Shah hails move to ease justice access Iran rejects US sanctions as 'economic terrorism' Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly rejected the latest US sanctions and described them as a crime against humanity. According to ISNA, Tehran said the measures reflected decades of US hostility towards the Iranian people. "The US administration, on the anniversary of the shameful coup of 19 Mordad 1953, claimed to impose extensive economic and trade sanctions against the Iranian nation. This action is not only another sign of the continuation of 73 years of American policymakers' animosity and hostility towards the Iranian people, but also proves the anti-human, law-breaking, and arrogant nature of the US administration. "Without a doubt, the US economic sanctions against Iran, which have targeted the fundamental human rights of every Iranian citizen, are an example of "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity," and the instigators and perpetrators of these sanctions deserve to be tried and punished for committing such heinous crimes," the semi-official news agency quoted Tehran's foreign ministry as saying. The Iranian ministry also described the sanctions as inhumane measures against the Iranian people. It said the Islamic Republic remains determined to defend its security and national interests while confronting US military, economic, political and psychological pressure.

The US said tougher economic sanctions could reduce the risk of renewed large-scale military action against Iran, while Tehran condemned the measures as "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity".

US says tougher Iran sanctions make large-scale war less likely; Tehran condemns 'economic terrorism'

Iran is seeking deeper strategic and security cooperation with Iraq as Tehran pushes for a regional security framework without outside powers. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf is in Baghdad for talks focused on security, economic cooperation and the future of the region.


Tehran seeks a regional order without foreign interference 

Iran is furious after Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz 'new US territory'. With Tehran threatening to 'correct Trump's delusion' and Trump ruling out any immediate talks with Iran, is West Asia hurtling towards yet another escalation? 


Trump angers Iran with conquest map of Hormuz, Tehran threatens to 'correct his delusion'

President Trump says the Strait of Hormuz is open and operating normally, but global shipping markets appear unconvinced. While oil exports have begun to recover, commercial shipping traffic remains below normal levels, reflecting lingering concerns over security risks in one of the world's most important energy corridors. As oil prices approach $92 a barrel, traders continue to price in a Hormuz risk premium despite claims that the crisis has eased.


Hormuz crisis: Oil markets defy ‘open’ claim as shipping lags

iran

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

iran

US Secret Service acknowledges threat to Barron Trump, Netanyahu's son also on radar

US-Iran war: will Iran capitulate to increased US economic pressure?

Iranian Rial hits record low as inflation and sanctions bite

China warns US as Iran sanctions widen; Tehran says it is 'fully prepared'

US-Iran war: Will Iran capitulate to increased US economic pressure?

Iran to unveil world's largest missile city as US escalates economic pressure

Iran releases rare Mojtaba Khamenei footage amid reports of critical health

Iran dismisses new U.S. Sanctions threat: IRGC warns of strikes on American interests

US-Iran tensions: Bessent unveils 'economic D-day sanctions' on Iran

Netanyahu claims Iran attempted to assassinate his son

As US & Iran spar with each other, is a fresh escalation in the offing

7.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas discovered in Iran amid war & sanctions

US-Iran war: China 'Trumps' Trump on Iran Sanctions, Calls for Return to Talks

China 'trumps' Trump on Iran sanctions, calls for return to talks | Gravitas

Iran warns sanctions cooperators as Trump and Xi prepare for September summit

Russia-Ukraine war: UK to share SCALP missile blueprint with Ukraine during Kyiv visit

Iran’s Ghalibaf mocks Trump with ‘Make America Hungry Again’

US-Iran war: Trump turns to economic warfare, pressures world to isolate Iran

US-Iran war: with the D-day sanctions, all eyes are on how Iran is impacted

US-Iran war: 'Tehran will stand firm,' Iran threatens total oil halt

Iran’s hijab battle returns: Women defy hardliners amid renewed crackdown

Iranian Rial hits historic low: Pezeshkian admits Iran faces 'many problems'

Iran reportedly invited to join Makkah Defence Pact amid Saudi-Houthi tensions

Trump warns nations giving any economic lifeline to Iran

Trump's great retreat from bombing Iran to stone age to porous sanctions

Trump's 'economic d-day' warning for Iran raises stakes for global trade partners