Another night of relentless US airstrikes in Yemen. At least 10 missile strikes have hit key Houthi-controlled areas, including the capital, Sanaa. Among the targets, a civilian steel plant in Hodeidah was hit. In response, the Houthis have warned of more attacks on Israeli-linked ships unless aid reaches Gaza.

US strikes Houthi strongholds in Yemen where leaders are hiding

Another night of relentless US airstrikes in Yemen. At least 10 missile strikes have hit key Houthi-controlled areas, including the capital, Sanaa. Among the targets, a civilian steel plant in Hodeidah was hit. In response, the Houthis have warned of more attacks on Israeli-linked ships unless aid reaches Gaza

US-Houthis conflict: Houthis claim 4th attack on us aircraft carrier

Millions of Iranians are celebrating 'Chaharshanbe Suri', the festival of fire and light, across the country ahead of the ancient Persian New Year.

Iran welcomes Nowruz with a spark of light and joy

US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, demanding an end to Houthi attacks on US warships or face consequences. This comes after the Houthis launched their third attack in 48 hours on a US aircraft carrier. As tensions rise, the UN has called for restraint while oil prices continue to climb. The situation in the Red Sea remains volatile.

Trump threatens Iran: stop Houthi attacks or face consequences

US-Houthis conflict: Houthis attack us aircraft carrier for 3rd time in 48 hours

US President Donald Trump on Monday (March 17) blamed Iran for the Houthi attacks on American ships, warning that any further aggression would be met with "great force."
He said that any assault by the Houthis would be treated as an act directed by Iran&rsquo;s leadership, warning Tehran of severe repercussions.
<h2>'IRAN will be held responsible'</h2>
"Let nobody be fooled! The hundreds of attacks being made by Houthi, the sinister mobsters and thugs based in Yemen, who are hated by the Yemeni people, all emanate from, and are created by, IRAN. Any further attack or retaliation by the &lsquo;Houthis&rsquo; will be met with great force, and there is no guarantee that that force will stop there," Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-ukraine-war-trumps-ukraine-peace-plan-isnt-about-peace-its-a-pr-stunt-8862762">Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine &lsquo;peace&rsquo; plan isn&rsquo;t about peace. It&rsquo;s a PR stunt</a>
He went on to say, "Iran has played &lsquo;the innocent victim&rsquo; of rogue terrorists from which they&rsquo;ve lost control, but they haven&rsquo;t lost control. They&rsquo;re dictating every move, giving them the weapons, supplying them with money and highly sophisticated Military equipment, and even, so-called, &lsquo;Intelligence.&rsquo;"
"Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!" he warned.
<h2>US-Houthi tensions on rise</h2>
Meanwhile, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed on Monday to have attacked an American aircraft carrier group twice within 24 hours. They described the assault as retaliation for US airstrikes that left dozens dead.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-us-aggression-yemens-huthis-attack-us-aircraft-carrier-after-deadly-trump-airstrikes-8859770">Yemen&rsquo;s Houthis attack US aircraft carrier after Trump airstrikes kill 53</a>
The Houthis initially stated they had fired 18 missiles and a drone at the USS Harry Truman and its accompanying warships in the Red Sea. A few hours later, they claimed to have launched a second attack.
A Houthi spokesperson, posting on Telegram, called the strikes a response to "the continued American aggression against our country."
The US has vowed to continue its strikes on Yemen until the Houthis stop their attacks on Red Sea shipping.
According to the Houthi health ministry, US strikes on Saturday killed 53 people, including women and children, and wounded 98 others.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump said that any assault by the Houthis would be treated as an act directed by Iran’s leadership, warning Tehran of severe repercussions.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (March 17) blamed Iran for the Houthi attacks on American ships, warning that any further aggression would be met with "great force." He said that any assault by the Houthis would be treated as an act directed by Iran’s leadership, warning Tehran of severe repercussions. 'IRAN will be held responsible' "Let nobody be fooled! The hundreds of attacks being made by Houthi, the sinister mobsters and thugs based in Yemen, who are hated by the Yemeni people, all emanate from, and are created by, IRAN. Any further attack or retaliation by the ‘Houthis’ will be met with great force, and there is no guarantee that that force will stop there," Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. Also read: Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt He went on to say, "Iran has played ‘the innocent victim’ of rogue terrorists from which they’ve lost control, but they haven’t lost control. They’re dictating every move, giving them the weapons, supplying them with money and highly sophisticated Military equipment, and even, so-called, ‘Intelligence.’" "Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!" he warned. US-Houthi tensions on rise Meanwhile, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed on Monday to have attacked an American aircraft carrier group twice within 24 hours. They described the assault as retaliation for US airstrikes that left dozens dead. Also read: Yemen’s Houthis attack US aircraft carrier after Trump airstrikes kill 53 The Houthis initially stated they had fired 18 missiles and a drone at the USS Harry Truman and its accompanying warships in the Red Sea. A few hours later, they claimed to have launched a second attack. A Houthi spokesperson, posting on Telegram, called the strikes a response to "the continued American aggression against our country." The US has vowed to continue its strikes on Yemen until the Houthis stop their attacks on Red Sea shipping. According to the Houthi health ministry, US strikes on Saturday killed 53 people, including women and children, and wounded 98 others. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says Iran ‘will be held responsible’ for Houthi strikes, warns of ‘dire consequences’

The United States has launched fresh airstrikes in Yemen after Houthi rebels targeted the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The Houthis claim 53 of their fighters were killed in the strikes. President Trump warned that "hell will rain down" if attacks on US naval assets continue. Tensions in the region are escalating as both sides intensify their actions.

US vs Houthis: Fresh US strikes in Yemen as Houthis target aircraft carrier

Iran&rsquo;s Revolutionary Guards have vowed a &ldquo;decisive&rdquo; reaction to any attack, following US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s air strikes against Yemen&rsquo;s Houthi rebels. Trump also warned Tehran to &ldquo;end immediately&rdquo; its backing of the group.
<h2>US strikes and Trump&rsquo;s warning</h2>
Trump on Saturday announced that the US had launched &ldquo;decisive and powerful military action&rdquo; to counter the Houthis&rsquo; threat to Red Sea shipping. A Houthi health official reported that the strikes resulted in 31 deaths.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-revive-his-travel-ban-43-nations-on-the-chopping-block-including-russia-and-iran-8856103" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran</a>
Trump also issued a direct warning to Tehran, stating, &ldquo;To Iran: Support for the Houthi terrorists must end IMMEDIATELY! Do NOT threaten the American People, their President, who has received one of the largest mandates in Presidential History, or Worldwide shipping lanes. If you do, BEWARE, because America will hold you fully accountable and, we won&rsquo;t be nice about it!&rdquo;
<h2>Iran&rsquo;s response</h2>
Iran&rsquo;s Revolutionary Guards chief, Hossein Salami, dismissed Trump&rsquo;s warnings in a televised speech on Sunday. He said, &ldquo;Iran will not wage war, but if anyone threatens, it will give appropriate, decisive and conclusive responses.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-orders-decisive-military-action-against-houthi-rebels-in-yemen-8857353" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump's 'decisive' military action against Houthi rebels in Yemen kills 31</a>
Salami also defended the Houthis, calling them &ldquo;the representative of the Yemenis&rdquo; and insisting they make their &ldquo;strategic and operational decisions&rdquo; independently.
Earlier on Sunday, Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, condemned the US air strikes, calling them a &ldquo;gross violation of the principles of the UN Charter.&rdquo; 
Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, also criticised Washington&rsquo;s actions, saying, &ldquo;The United States Government has no authority, or business, dictating Iranian foreign policy.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-urges-end-to-illegal-sanctions-on-iran-as-it-holds-constructive-nuclear-talks-in-beijing-8853550" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">China urges end to 'illegal sanctions' on Iran as it holds 'constructive' nuclear talks in Beijing</a>
He further urged the US to stop &ldquo;the killing of Yemeni people&rdquo;, adding that &ldquo;the time when Washington could dictate Tehran&rsquo;s foreign policy ended in 1979&rdquo;, referring to the Islamic Revolution that ousted the Western-backed Shah.
The Houthis, who have controlled much of Yemen for over a decade, are part of the &ldquo;axis of resistance&rdquo;, a network of pro-Iran groups opposed to both Israel and the United States. Throughout the Gaza war, they have launched attacks on Israel and targeted Red Sea shipping, claiming to act in solidarity with the Palestinians. Trump&rsquo;s latest military action marks the first US strikes on the Houthis since his return to office in January.
<h2>Trump-Iran tensions</h2>
The latest developments add to long-standing tensions between Trump and Tehran. In January 2020, during Trump&rsquo;s first term, the US killed Qassem Soleimani, the commander of Iran&rsquo;s elite Quds Force, in a drone strike in Baghdad.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-supreme-leader-khamenei-warns-us-president-donald-trump-against-making-unwise-threats-says-tehran-will-inflict-a-blow-8848103">&lsquo;Iran will retaliate&rsquo;: Khamenei warns Trump against making &lsquo;unwise&rsquo; threats, says &lsquo;will inflict a blow&rsquo;</a>
Iran retaliated days later by launching missiles at bases in Iraq hosting US and coalition forces. While no American personnel were killed, dozens suffered traumatic brain injuries, according to Washington.
<h2>Russia urges restraint</h2>
Meanwhile, Russia has called for de-escalation. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke with his US counterpart, Marco Rubio, on Saturday, urging all parties to engage in political dialogue. Moscow reported that Lavrov &ldquo;stressed the need for an immediate cessation of the use of force&rdquo; to avoid further bloodshed.
Russia has previously condemned US and UK strikes on Yemen and has maintained diplomatic ties with the Houthis.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump on Saturday announced that the US had launched “decisive and powerful military action” to counter the Houthis’ threat to Red Sea shipping. Middle East

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have vowed a “decisive” reaction to any attack, following US President Donald Trump’s air strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Trump also warned Tehran to “end immediately” its backing of the group. US strikes and Trump’s warning Trump on Saturday announced that the US had launched “decisive and powerful military action” to counter the Houthis’ threat to Red Sea shipping. A Houthi health official reported that the strikes resulted in 31 deaths. Also read: Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran Trump also issued a direct warning to Tehran, stating, “To Iran: Support for the Houthi terrorists must end IMMEDIATELY! Do NOT threaten the American People, their President, who has received one of the largest mandates in Presidential History, or Worldwide shipping lanes. If you do, BEWARE, because America will hold you fully accountable and, we won’t be nice about it!” Iran’s response Iran’s Revolutionary Guards chief, Hossein Salami, dismissed Trump’s warnings in a televised speech on Sunday. He said, “Iran will not wage war, but if anyone threatens, it will give appropriate, decisive and conclusive responses.” Also read: Donald Trump's 'decisive' military action against Houthi rebels in Yemen kills 31 Salami also defended the Houthis, calling them “the representative of the Yemenis” and insisting they make their “strategic and operational decisions” independently. Earlier on Sunday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, condemned the US air strikes, calling them a “gross violation of the principles of the UN Charter.” Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, also criticised Washington’s actions, saying, “The United States Government has no authority, or business, dictating Iranian foreign policy.” Also read: China urges end to 'illegal sanctions' on Iran as it holds 'constructive' nuclear talks in Beijing He further urged the US to stop “the killing of Yemeni people”, adding that “the time when Washington could dictate Tehran’s foreign policy ended in 1979”, referring to the Islamic Revolution that ousted the Western-backed Shah. The Houthis, who have controlled much of Yemen for over a decade, are part of the “axis of resistance”, a network of pro-Iran groups opposed to both Israel and the United States. Throughout the Gaza war, they have launched attacks on Israel and targeted Red Sea shipping, claiming to act in solidarity with the Palestinians. Trump’s latest military action marks the first US strikes on the Houthis since his return to office in January. Trump-Iran tensions The latest developments add to long-standing tensions between Trump and Tehran. In January 2020, during Trump’s first term, the US killed Qassem Soleimani, the commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force, in a drone strike in Baghdad. Also read: ‘Iran will retaliate’: Khamenei warns Trump against making ‘unwise’ threats, says ‘will inflict a blow’ Iran retaliated days later by launching missiles at bases in Iraq hosting US and coalition forces. While no American personnel were killed, dozens suffered traumatic brain injuries, according to Washington. Russia urges restraint Meanwhile, Russia has called for de-escalation. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke with his US counterpart, Marco Rubio, on Saturday, urging all parties to engage in political dialogue. Moscow reported that Lavrov “stressed the need for an immediate cessation of the use of force” to avoid further bloodshed. Russia has previously condemned US and UK strikes on Yemen and has maintained diplomatic ties with the Houthis. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran warns of ‘decisive’ response after Trump orders strikes on Houthis; Russia urges US to not use force in Yemen

The US has launched powerful airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen. President Donald Trump has vowed to "rain hell" on the group, warning Iran to halt its support. The military action comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with reports of multiple casualties.

US airstrikes in Yemen: Houthi targets in Yemen attacked, 22 killed so far

A UN report has exposed Iran’s growing use of electronic surveillance, including drones and facial recognition, to track hijab violations. Thousands of vehicles have been seized as authorities intensify enforcement. Mobile apps and public informants are also playing a role in the crackdown.

Iran uses drones & AI for hijab surveillance, thousands penalised

A United Nations report has warned that Iran is using drones, facial recognition, and public informants to enforce its mandatory hijab law. Watch in for more details!

UN says Iran using surveillance, violence to enforce hijab rule

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected talks with US, calling it deception. From rejecting US nuclear talks to accepting China's invitation to host nuclear talks, a lot revolves around Iran's uranium. Why is China hosting these nuclear talks?

Iran rejects US accepts China's invite for nuclear talks

China urged an end to "illegal" sanctions on Iran as it hosted Iranian and Russian diplomats on Friday for talks Beijing hopes will restart long-stalled negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme.
The United States withdrew from a landmark 2015 deal, which imposed curbs on Tehran's nuclear development in return for sanctions relief, during US President Donald Trump's first term.
The Republican president has called for a new nuclear deal with Iran since his return to the White House in January but Tehran says no such agreement is possible so long as punishing sanctions remain in place.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-inspects-nuclear-powered-submarine-project-what-do-we-know-about-north-koreas-sea-defence-capability-8836048">Kim inspects 'nuclear-powered submarine' project. What do we know about North Korea's sea defence capability?</a>
The effort to secure a pact was given new urgency last month when the UN nuclear watchdog said Iran had significantly increased its stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
Beijing hosted Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov for talks on Friday it said it hoped would help "resume dialogue and negotiation at an early time".
Meeting the diplomats, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed "the comprehensive agreement on the Iranian nuclear issue is an important achievement achieved through dialogue and negotiation".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-china-breaks-speed-barriers-with-revolutionary-rocket-sled-8853040">Watch | China breaks speed barriers with revolutionary rocket sled</a>
"Now the situation has reached a critical juncture again. We must buy time for peace, resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means, and oppose the use of force and illegal sanctions," he said.
And the US should demonstrate "political sincerity and return to talks at an early date", said a statement from Beijing's foreign ministry, which outlined propositions from China on the Iranian nuclear issue.
"All parties should... refrain from actions that might escalate the situation," the statement added.
<h2><hl2>'Peaceful' nuclear programme&nbsp;</hl2></h2>
Gharibabadi, in turn, hailed the "constructive" talks in Beijing and said Iran's nuclear programme "is peaceful in nature".
"Our nuclear programme has never been diverted to non-peaceful purposes," Gharibabadi said.
"But unfortunately, some countries are trying to create an unnecessary crisis in this regard."
"The main root cause of the current situation is the unilateral withdrawal of the United States," Gharibabadi said.
The Russian and Iranian officials met China's Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu earlier on Friday and "exchanged views on the Iran nuclear issue and other issues of common concern", Chinese state media said.
Ma reiterated after that meeting China's support for "political and diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on mutual respect".
"We emphasised the necessity of ending all illegal, unilateral sanctions," Ma told reporters.
"The relevant parties should work to eliminate the root causes of the current situation and abandon sanctions, pressure, and threats of the use of force."
Iran's ambassador to China said later on social media platform X the meeting was a "complete success".
The talks resulted in important agreements on "trilateral cooperation on important international issues, including the need for the three countries to cooperate in confronting" US sanctions, he said.
The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday that "it is necessary to further continue diplomatic efforts" on Iran's nuclear programme, and condemned "illegal" sanctions against Tehran.
<h2><hl2>'Maximum pressure'&nbsp;</hl2></h2>
Trump has reinstated his "maximum pressure" policy of sanctions against Iran, mirroring his approach during his first term.
He sent a letter to Tehran this week urging nuclear talks and warning of possible military action if it refuses.
Tehran said the letter, which Trump said was addressed to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was currently "being reviewed".
"Ultimately, the United States should lift the sanctions," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview published by the government's official newspaper on Thursday.
Washington upped its pressure campaign the same day by imposing sanctions on Iranian Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad.
The US Treasury Department also blacklisted the owners or operators of vessels it said were engaged in transporting Iranian oil to China.
A report by the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in February said Iran had significantly increased its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to 60 percent purity -- a short step from the 90 percent needed for a nuclear weapon.
Khamenei said this week Iran "does not have nuclear weapons" and was "not seeking" them. Tehran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The US withdrew from a landmark 2015 deal, which imposed curbs on Tehran's nuclear development in return for sanctions relief, during US President Donald Trump's first term.

China urged an end to "illegal" sanctions on Iran as it hosted Iranian and Russian diplomats on Friday for talks Beijing hopes will restart long-stalled negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme. The United States withdrew from a landmark 2015 deal, which imposed curbs on Tehran's nuclear development in return for sanctions relief, during US President Donald Trump's first term. The Republican president has called for a new nuclear deal with Iran since his return to the White House in January but Tehran says no such agreement is possible so long as punishing sanctions remain in place. Also read: Kim inspects 'nuclear-powered submarine' project. What do we know about North Korea's sea defence capability? The effort to secure a pact was given new urgency last month when the UN nuclear watchdog said Iran had significantly increased its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Beijing hosted Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov for talks on Friday it said it hoped would help "resume dialogue and negotiation at an early time". Meeting the diplomats, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed "the comprehensive agreement on the Iranian nuclear issue is an important achievement achieved through dialogue and negotiation". Also read: Watch | China breaks speed barriers with revolutionary rocket sled "Now the situation has reached a critical juncture again. We must buy time for peace, resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means, and oppose the use of force and illegal sanctions," he said. And the US should demonstrate "political sincerity and return to talks at an early date", said a statement from Beijing's foreign ministry, which outlined propositions from China on the Iranian nuclear issue. "All parties should... refrain from actions that might escalate the situation," the statement added. 'Peaceful' nuclear programme Gharibabadi, in turn, hailed the "constructive" talks in Beijing and said Iran's nuclear programme "is peaceful in nature". "Our nuclear programme has never been diverted to non-peaceful purposes," Gharibabadi said. "But unfortunately, some countries are trying to create an unnecessary crisis in this regard." "The main root cause of the current situation is the unilateral withdrawal of the United States," Gharibabadi said. The Russian and Iranian officials met China's Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu earlier on Friday and "exchanged views on the Iran nuclear issue and other issues of common concern", Chinese state media said. Ma reiterated after that meeting China's support for "political and diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on mutual respect". "We emphasised the necessity of ending all illegal, unilateral sanctions," Ma told reporters. "The relevant parties should work to eliminate the root causes of the current situation and abandon sanctions, pressure, and threats of the use of force." Iran's ambassador to China said later on social media platform X the meeting was a "complete success". The talks resulted in important agreements on "trilateral cooperation on important international issues, including the need for the three countries to cooperate in confronting" US sanctions, he said. The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday that "it is necessary to further continue diplomatic efforts" on Iran's nuclear programme, and condemned "illegal" sanctions against Tehran. 'Maximum pressure' Trump has reinstated his "maximum pressure" policy of sanctions against Iran, mirroring his approach during his first term. He sent a letter to Tehran this week urging nuclear talks and warning of possible military action if it refuses. Tehran said the letter, which Trump said was addressed to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was currently "being reviewed". "Ultimately, the United States should lift the sanctions," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview published by the government's official newspaper on Thursday. Washington upped its pressure campaign the same day by imposing sanctions on Iranian Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad. The US Treasury Department also blacklisted the owners or operators of vessels it said were engaged in transporting Iranian oil to China. A report by the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in February said Iran had significantly increased its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to 60 percent purity -- a short step from the 90 percent needed for a nuclear weapon. Khamenei said this week Iran "does not have nuclear weapons" and was "not seeking" them. Tehran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China urges end to 'illegal sanctions' on Iran as it holds 'constructive' nuclear talks in Beijing

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has rejected holding negotiations with the US over a nuclear deal. This comes after Iranian media reported that a letter from US President Donald Trump was received, offering talks. Watch in for more details!

Iran’s Khamenei warns nuclear talks with US will ‘tighten knot of sanctions’ amid Trump's threat

Khamenei dismisses Trump over alleged 'sinister' nuclear warning, rejects talks with US

Khamenei says negotiations with US won't lift sanctions on Iran

Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khamenei-condemns-bullying-after-us-president-donald-trumps-military-action-threat-against-iran-8835094">Khamenei</a>, dismissed recent threats from the United States as "unwise" following a letter from US President Donald Trump urging negotiations and warning of possible military action if Iran refuses.
Speaking during a meeting with students on Wednesday (March 12), Khamenei criticised the US, saying, "The US is threatening militarism. In my opinion, this threat is unwise. Iran is capable of retaliating and will definitely inflict a blow."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khamenei-condemns-bullying-after-us-president-donald-trumps-military-action-threat-against-iran-8835094">&lsquo;They aim at domination&rsquo;: Khamenei condemns &lsquo;bullying&rsquo; after Trump&rsquo;s military action threat against Iran</a>
<h2>'Not seeking nuclear weapons'</h2>
Khamenei also spoke on concerns about Iran&rsquo;s nuclear ambitions, saying that the country neither possesses nor seeks nuclear weapons.
"Regarding nuclear weapons, it is said that we will not let Iran obtain nuclear weapons. If we wanted to make nuclear weapons, America could not stop us. The fact that we do not have nuclear weapons and are not seeking nuclear weapons is because we ourselves do not want them," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-strokes-trump-hints-at-final-moments-with-iran-after-his-letter-to-khamenei-gets-lost-in-mail-8832335">'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail'</a>
<h2>'No benefit in negotiations'</h2>
The Iranian leader voiced scepticism about negotiations with the US, arguing that talks would not lead to the lifting of sanctions.
"If the goal of the negotiation is to lift sanctions, negotiating with this American government will not lift sanctions, meaning it will not remove sanctions and will make the sanctions knot tighter," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-ukraine-is-yesterdays-afghan-did-irans-khamenei-predict-us-treatment-of-zelensky-3-years-back-8769497">'Today&rsquo;s Ukraine is yesterday&rsquo;s Afghan': Did Iran's Khamenei predict US' treatment of Zelensky&nbsp;3&nbsp;years&nbsp;back?</a>
Khamenei's comments came as Tehran confirmed receiving the letter from US President Donald Trump given by Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the president of the United Arab Emirates.
Trump last Friday said that he had sent a letter to Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging the country to enter negotiations over its nuclear programme.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-warns-his-government-against-negotiating-with-us-says-it-would-be-unwise-8698844">Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise'</a>
"I've written them a letter, saying I hope you're going to negotiate because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them," he said. "You can't let them have a nuclear weapon."
But Iran's mission to the United Nations told AFP that they did not receive such a letter.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Khamenei criticised the US, saying, "The US is threatening militarism. In my opinion, this threat is unwise. Iran is capable of retaliating and will definitely inflict a blow."

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, dismissed recent threats from the United States as "unwise" following a letter from US President Donald Trump urging negotiations and warning of possible military action if Iran refuses. Speaking during a meeting with students on Wednesday (March 12), Khamenei criticised the US, saying, "The US is threatening militarism. In my opinion, this threat is unwise. Iran is capable of retaliating and will definitely inflict a blow." Also read: ‘They aim at domination’: Khamenei condemns ‘bullying’ after Trump’s military action threat against Iran 'Not seeking nuclear weapons' Khamenei also spoke on concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, saying that the country neither possesses nor seeks nuclear weapons. "Regarding nuclear weapons, it is said that we will not let Iran obtain nuclear weapons. If we wanted to make nuclear weapons, America could not stop us. The fact that we do not have nuclear weapons and are not seeking nuclear weapons is because we ourselves do not want them," he said. Also read: 'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail' 'No benefit in negotiations' The Iranian leader voiced scepticism about negotiations with the US, arguing that talks would not lead to the lifting of sanctions. "If the goal of the negotiation is to lift sanctions, negotiating with this American government will not lift sanctions, meaning it will not remove sanctions and will make the sanctions knot tighter," he added. Also read: 'Today’s Ukraine is yesterday’s Afghan': Did Iran's Khamenei predict US' treatment of Zelensky 3 years back? Khamenei's comments came as Tehran confirmed receiving the letter from US President Donald Trump given by Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the president of the United Arab Emirates. Trump last Friday said that he had sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging the country to enter negotiations over its nuclear programme. Also read: Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise' "I've written them a letter, saying I hope you're going to negotiate because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them," he said. "You can't let them have a nuclear weapon." But Iran's mission to the United Nations told AFP that they did not receive such a letter. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Iran will retaliate’: Khamenei warns Trump against making ‘unwise’ threats, says ‘will inflict a blow’

#Gravitas Beijing is set to host a critical meeting on Friday, bringing together senior diplomats from Moscow and Tehran to discuss Iran's nuclear program.

Russia, China, Iran triumvirate takes on US

Iran has confirmed nuclear talks with China and Russia in Beijing on March 14, following its rejection of US President Donald Trump's offer for negotiations. While Trump remains open to a deal, he has reinstated the "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran.

After holding joint military drills, Tehran, Moscow & Beijing to engage in nuclear talks

Iran has received the letter given by US President Donald Trump by Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the president of the United Arab Emirates, Iran&rsquo;s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.&nbsp;
Earlier in the day, Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that an Arab intermediary will deliver Trump's letter to Tehran.&nbsp;
The letter was given to Gargash by Trump&rsquo;s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff, who was in Abu Dhabi yesterday, Axios reported.
Gargash met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi today, Iranian state media said. However, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei did not give further details about their meeting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-tells-trump-do-whatever-damn-thing-you-want-rejects-negotiations-if-conducted-under-orders-or-threats-8845447">Iran President tells Trump 'do whatever damn thing you want,' rejects negotiations conducted under orders or threats</a>
Trump last Friday said that he had sent a letter to Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging the country to enter negotiations over its nuclear programme.&nbsp;
"I've written them a letter, saying I hope you're going to negotiate because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them," he said. "You can't let them have a nuclear weapon."
But Iran's mission to the United Nations told AFP that they did not receive such a letter.&nbsp;
A day after Trump informed about his letter, Khamenei in a speech, said that Iran would not negotiate with "bullying powers".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-wont-negotiate-under-intimidation-as-donald-trump-ramps-up-pressure-8839146">Iran won't negotiate under 'intimidation' as Donald Trump ramps up pressure</a>
<h2>Closed-door UNSC meeting</h2>
Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that a closed-door meeting of the UN Security Council has been requested, "which is a completely new procedure and surprising, and questions the goodwill of the countries requesting this meeting."
The meeting had been requested by France, Greece, Panama, South Korea, Britain, and the US as Tehran's nuclear programme edges close to weapons-grade uranium.
"We have always been ready to negotiate on the nuclear issue from an equal position, and we have also negotiated on the JCPOA, and negotiations are ongoing," Araghchi added.
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<h2>'Something going to happen very soon'</h2>
Moreover, after revealing the letter, Trump also said that action against Iran could be imminent, suggesting that "something is going to happen very soon."
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, "There will be some interesting days ahead, that's all I can tell you." He did not provide specific details.
"We&rsquo;re down to final strokes with Iran. That&rsquo;s going to be an interesting time, and we&rsquo;ll see what happens," he said.
Repeating his stance on Iran&rsquo;s nuclear ambitions, Trump added, "We&rsquo;re down to final moments. We&rsquo;re at the final moments. We can&rsquo;t let them have a nuclear weapon."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-strokes-trump-hints-at-final-moments-with-iran-after-his-letter-to-khamenei-gets-lost-in-mail-8832335">'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi did not specify which Arab country would act as the intermediary or provide details about what is there in the letter.

Iran has received the letter given by US President Donald Trump by Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the president of the United Arab Emirates, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that an Arab intermediary will deliver Trump's letter to Tehran. The letter was given to Gargash by Trump’s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff, who was in Abu Dhabi yesterday, Axios reported. Gargash met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi today, Iranian state media said. However, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei did not give further details about their meeting. Also read: Iran President tells Trump 'do whatever damn thing you want,' rejects negotiations conducted under orders or threats Trump last Friday said that he had sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging the country to enter negotiations over its nuclear programme. "I've written them a letter, saying I hope you're going to negotiate because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them," he said. "You can't let them have a nuclear weapon." But Iran's mission to the United Nations told AFP that they did not receive such a letter. A day after Trump informed about his letter, Khamenei in a speech, said that Iran would not negotiate with "bullying powers". Also read: Iran won't negotiate under 'intimidation' as Donald Trump ramps up pressure Closed-door UNSC meeting Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that a closed-door meeting of the UN Security Council has been requested, "which is a completely new procedure and surprising, and questions the goodwill of the countries requesting this meeting." The meeting had been requested by France, Greece, Panama, South Korea, Britain, and the US as Tehran's nuclear programme edges close to weapons-grade uranium. "We have always been ready to negotiate on the nuclear issue from an equal position, and we have also negotiated on the JCPOA, and negotiations are ongoing," Araghchi added. Also read: Trump's reverses course on Canada tariffs, markets react 'Something going to happen very soon' Moreover, after revealing the letter, Trump also said that action against Iran could be imminent, suggesting that "something is going to happen very soon." Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, "There will be some interesting days ahead, that's all I can tell you." He did not provide specific details. "We’re down to final strokes with Iran. That’s going to be an interesting time, and we’ll see what happens," he said. Repeating his stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Trump added, "We’re down to final moments. We’re at the final moments. We can’t let them have a nuclear weapon." Also read: 'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail' (With inputs from agencies)

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