Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Nov 28) that Israel would do "everything" to stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon after Iran's top diplomat warned it could end its ban on developing one if Western sanctions are reimposed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Nov 28) that Israel would do "everything" to stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon after Iran's top diplomat warned it could end its ban on developing one if Western sanctions are reimposed. The renewed war of words between the Middle East foes came as Iran prepares to hold key nuclear talks with European governments on Friday which have been overshadowed by their joining with Washington to have Tehran censured by the UN atomic watchdog. "I will do everything to prevent it from becoming a nuclear (power), I will use all the resources that can be used," Netanyahu told Israeli broadcaster Channel 14 in an interview. Israel is the region's sole, if undeclared, nuclear-armed state. It has long made preventing any rival from matching it its top defence priority. Netanyahu said Tuesday that the ceasefire that went into effect in Lebanon the following day would allow Israel to focus on Iran. He did not elaborate on what action he envisaged. Iran launched two missile barrages at Israel over the past year in retaliation for the killing of leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as an Iranian general. Israel responded both times with limited attacks on Iran, most recently bombing several military sites on October 26. Last week's chiding at the International Atomic Energy Agency prompted a defiant response from Tehran, but its officials have since signalled a willingness to engage with others ahead of the return of US President-elect Donald Trump, whose last administration pursued a policy of "maximum pressure" against Iran. Current doctrine 'insufficient' Iran insists on its right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, but according to the IAEA, it is the only non-nuclear-weapon state enriching uranium to 60 per cent. In an interview with The Guardian newspaper, published on the eve of Iran's talks with Britain, France and Germany, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi it warned that frustration in Tehran over unmet commitments, such as lifting sanctions, was fuelling debate over whether the country should alter its nuclear policy. "We have no intention to go further than 60 per cent for the time being, and this is our determination right now," he told the British Daily. But, he added, "there is this debate going on in Iran, and mostly among the elites... whether we should change our nuclear doctrine" as so far it has proven to be "insufficient in practice". A 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers aimed to give Iran relief from crippling Western sanctions in exchange for limiting its nuclear programme to prevent it from developing a weapons capability. Tehran has consistently denied any such ambition. Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final authority in Iran's decision-making, has issued a religious decree, or fatwa, prohibiting atomic weapons. Tehran's willingness to sit down with the three European governments so soon after the censure comes just weeks before Trump is set to return to the White House. During his first term, Trump focused on reimposing heavy sanctions on Iran following his administration's unilateral withdrawal from the 2015 deal three years after it was agreed. In retaliation for the US withdrawal, Tehran reduced its compliance with the deal, raising its uranium enrichment levels to 60 per cent -- closer to the 90 per cent required for a nuclear bomb. 'Frank exchange' Under the 2015 accord -- which will expire in October 2025 -- Iran's enrichment was capped at 3.67 per cent. Iranian diplomat Majid Takht-Ravanchi, who serves as the political deputy to Araghchi, is scheduled to represent Iran in Friday's talks. On Thursday he and deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs Kazem Gharibabadi met with Enrique Mora, deputy secretary general of the European Union's foreign affairs arm. Mora said on X that they held a "frank exchange... on Iran's military support to Russia that has to stop, the nuclear issue that needs a diplomatic solution, regional tensions (important to avoid further escalation from all sides) and human rights". Last week, the 35-nation Board of Governors of the IAEA adopted a resolution proposed by Britain, France, Germany and the United States condemning Iran for its lack of cooperation on nuclear issues. Iran described the move as "politically motivated" and in response announced the launch of "new advanced centrifuges" designed to increase its stockpile of enriched uranium. For Tehran, the goal of the talks on Friday is to avoid a "double disaster" scenario, in which it would face renewed pressures from both Trump and European governments, according to political analyst Mostafa Shirmohammadi. He noted that Iran's support among European governments had been eroded by allegations it offered military assistance for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Iran has denied these accusations and hopes to mend relations with Europe, while also maintaining a firm stance. 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.

Will do everything to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power: Netanyahu

US President Joe Biden on Friday (Oct 18) signalled that he is aware of Israel’s expected response to the Oct 1 missile attack by Iran but refused to provide any details.

Biden was speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport (BER) in Schoenefeld in Germany. When asked whether he had any information about Israel’s retaliatory strikes, the US leader said, "Yes and yes."

When pressed by reporters to share more information, Biden uttered, “No and no.”

Iran had fired more than 150 missiles on Israel on Oct 1 in what Tehran said was a response to the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israel in Beirut, and the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

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Following the attacks, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu had vowed to launch retaliatory strikes, raising concerns about potential expansion of the conflict in West Asia.

However, Netanyahu is believed to have assured Biden that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) won’t target Iranian oil and nuclear sites in its response but only military targets.

<h2>Tehran issued warning to US</h2>

Following Biden’s comments on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has now issued warning, saying the US would be held responsible for losses that Iran might incur during such an Israeli attack.

Taking to X, Araghchi wrote that anyone with knowledge of or involvement in facilitating such an attack by Israel would bear responsibility for any potential consequences in Iran.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjb5tG75ZmJAxXGW2wGHY0oCewQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-at-least-33-killed-by-israeli-strike-on-gazas-jabalia-camp-768855" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-at-least-33-killed-by-israeli-strike-on-gazas-jabalia-camp-768855&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjb5tG75ZmJAxXGW2wGHY0oCewQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Israel-Hamas War: At Least 33 Killed By Israeli Strike On Gaza's Jabalia Camp</a>

Earlier on Friday, Biden said he saw an opportunity to end the conflict in West Asia ‘for a while.’

"There's an opportunity in my view and my colleagues agree that we can probably deal with Israel and Iran in a way that ends the conflict for a while. That ends the conflict, in other words, that stops the back and forth," Biden said.

Biden acknowledged that reaching a peace deal in Lebanon was still a possibility but would be much harder in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Friday (Oct 18) signalled that he is aware of Israel’s expected response to the Oct 1 missile attack by Iran but refused to provide any details.

US President Joe Biden on Friday (Oct 18) signalled that he is aware of Israel’s expected response to the Oct 1 missile attack by Iran but refused to provide any details. Biden was speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport (BER) in Schoenefeld in Germany. When asked whether he had any information about Israel’s retaliatory strikes, the US leader said, "Yes and yes." When pressed by reporters to share more information, Biden uttered, “No and no.” Iran had fired more than 150 missiles on Israel on Oct 1 in what Tehran said was a response to the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israel in Beirut, and the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Also read: West Asia crisis: Hezbollah to escalate war with Israel after killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar Following the attacks, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu had vowed to launch retaliatory strikes, raising concerns about potential expansion of the conflict in West Asia. However, Netanyahu is believed to have assured Biden that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) won’t target Iranian oil and nuclear sites in its response but only military targets. Tehran issued warning to US Following Biden’s comments on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has now issued warning, saying the US would be held responsible for losses that Iran might incur during such an Israeli attack. Taking to X, Araghchi wrote that anyone with knowledge of or involvement in facilitating such an attack by Israel would bear responsibility for any potential consequences in Iran. Also read: Israel-Hamas War: At Least 33 Killed By Israeli Strike On Gaza's Jabalia Camp Earlier on Friday, Biden said he saw an opportunity to end the conflict in West Asia ‘for a while.’ "There's an opportunity in my view and my colleagues agree that we can probably deal with Israel and Iran in a way that ends the conflict for a while. That ends the conflict, in other words, that stops the back and forth," Biden said. Biden acknowledged that reaching a peace deal in Lebanon was still a possibility but would be much harder in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

‘US will be responsible...,’ Iran irked as Biden says he is aware of Israeli response to Oct 1 attacks

The US and its allies in the Gulf have launched covert talks with Iran to defuse tensions in West Asia, amid a looming threat of retaliatory Israeli strikes on the Shi'ite nation. Israel's Channel 12 news reported that the US and Arab states are in talks with Tehran to reach a comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts, including Gaza and Lebanon. According to the channel, Israel is not involved in the talks but senior Israeli officials have been informed. The report added Israel has not reacted to the initiative yet, without even making clear its position on the question of a ceasefire, especially in Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjIqNXTnICJAxWqxTgGHSkAH0YQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-americans-should-never-forget-hamas-oct-7-attack-on-israel-says-trump-765411" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-americans-should-never-forget-hamas-oct-7-attack-on-israel-says-trump-765411&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIqNXTnICJAxWqxTgGHSkAH0YQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Gaza war: Americans should never forget Hamas' Oct 7 attack on Israel, says Trump</a>

“We are currently in a position of power, a ceasefire will be on our terms, including a [Hezbollah] withdrawal beyond the Litani [River] and the dismantling of all military Hezbollah sites in areas near the border,” a senior Israeli official was quoted as saying.

<h2>Hezbollah drops major condition for ceasefire</h2>

Meanwhile, the militant group seems to have dropped a key demand for a ceasefire in Lebanon.&nbsp;Hezbollah has so far maintained it won't agree to a truce until peace is reached in the Gaza Strip. But on Tuesday (Oct 8),&nbsp;Naim Qassem, the deputy leader of Hezbollah, took a step backwards. He said he would support peace efforts by&nbsp;Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri.

“We support the political activity being led by Berri under the title of a ceasefire,” Qassem said. “If the enemy (Israel) continues its war, then the battlefield will decide.” Gaza was nowhere mentioned, signalling Hezbollah is not interested in tying its fate with Gaza.

<h2>IDF destroys major Hezbollah tunnel</h2>

The Israeli Defence Forces said Tuesday that have destroyed a major Hezbollah tunnel&nbsp;that crossed into Israeli territory from Lebanon.

The Israeli military said the 20-meter-long tunnel never threatened any town or village in the Jewish country. IDF said Hezbollah started constructing the tunnel two years ago and it was immediately identified by Israeli forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US and its allies in the Gulf have launched covert talks with Iran to defuse tensions in West Asia, amid a looming threat of retaliatory Israeli strikes on the Shi'ite nation.

The US and its allies in the Gulf have launched covert talks with Iran to defuse tensions in West Asia, amid a looming threat of retaliatory Israeli strikes on the Shi'ite nation. Israel's Channel 12 news reported that the US and Arab states are in talks with Tehran to reach a comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts, including Gaza and Lebanon. According to the channel, Israel is not involved in the talks but senior Israeli officials have been informed. The report added Israel has not reacted to the initiative yet, without even making clear its position on the question of a ceasefire, especially in Gaza. Also read: Gaza war: Americans should never forget Hamas' Oct 7 attack on Israel, says Trump “We are currently in a position of power, a ceasefire will be on our terms, including a [Hezbollah] withdrawal beyond the Litani [River] and the dismantling of all military Hezbollah sites in areas near the border,” a senior Israeli official was quoted as saying. Hezbollah drops major condition for ceasefire Meanwhile, the militant group seems to have dropped a key demand for a ceasefire in Lebanon. Hezbollah has so far maintained it won't agree to a truce until peace is reached in the Gaza Strip. But on Tuesday (Oct 8), Naim Qassem, the deputy leader of Hezbollah, took a step backwards. He said he would support peace efforts by Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri. “We support the political activity being led by Berri under the title of a ceasefire,” Qassem said. “If the enemy (Israel) continues its war, then the battlefield will decide.” Gaza was nowhere mentioned, signalling Hezbollah is not interested in tying its fate with Gaza. IDF destroys major Hezbollah tunnel The Israeli Defence Forces said Tuesday that have destroyed a major Hezbollah tunnel that crossed into Israeli territory from Lebanon. The Israeli military said the 20-meter-long tunnel never threatened any town or village in the Jewish country. IDF said Hezbollah started constructing the tunnel two years ago and it was immediately identified by Israeli forces. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US, Arab allies in covert talks with Iran for ceasefire on 'all fronts'

India's Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has expressed confidence in the country's ability to manage potential disruptions in oil supply stemming from escalating tensions in West Asia. This assurance comes as crude oil prices have surged to nearly $80 per barrel, driven by recent missile attacks on Israel attributed to Iran, raising concerns about a broader conflict that could jeopardise oil supplies from the region as detailed in a report by Reuters.

India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, imports about 85 per cent of its over 5 million barrels per day of oil needs, with a significant part of that coming from producers in West Asia.

Hardeep Puri further stated that, "We are watching the situation very, very carefully. Energy availability can get affected if there is an exacerbation - that goes without saying." He emphasised that India's energy security is a priority and that the nation is prepared to navigate any challenges that may arise.

The increase in global benchmark prices has also prompted Saudi Arabia, one of the largest oil producers, to slightly raise its supply rates for Asian customers. However, Puri reassured that there is no shortage of oil globally. "There is enough oil available, and we have enough choices to exercise," he noted. This statement reflects a broader optimism about the resilience of the global oil market amidst geopolitical uncertainties.

The minister highlighted the importance of cooperation among state and non-state actors in mitigating risks associated with potential conflicts. "I'm also counting on the goodwill of all the state actors and non-state actors to carefully weigh the consequences of any actions that might be contemplated," he added.

As India continues to monitor developments in West Asia closely, Puri's remarks underline a proactive approach towards energy management. The country remains one of the largest importers of crude oil, making it particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in global supply and pricing.

In light of these developments, industry analysts are keeping a close eye on how geopolitical tensions might influence not only oil prices but also broader economic conditions globally. The potential for increased volatility in energy markets could impact various sectors within India’s economy, particularly those reliant on stable energy supplies.

Therefore, while the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, stakeholders across industries will be watching closely to see how these dynamics unfold and what measures will be taken to safeguard India's energy interests.

India's Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has expressed confidence in the country's ability to manage potential disruptions in oil supply stemming from escalating tensions in West Asia.

India's Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has expressed confidence in the country's ability to manage potential disruptions in oil supply stemming from escalating tensions in West Asia. This assurance comes as crude oil prices have surged to nearly $80 per barrel, driven by recent missile attacks on Israel attributed to Iran, raising concerns about a broader conflict that could jeopardise oil supplies from the region as detailed in a report by Reuters. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, imports about 85 per cent of its over 5 million barrels per day of oil needs, with a significant part of that coming from producers in West Asia. Hardeep Puri further stated that, "We are watching the situation very, very carefully. Energy availability can get affected if there is an exacerbation - that goes without saying." He emphasised that India's energy security is a priority and that the nation is prepared to navigate any challenges that may arise. The increase in global benchmark prices has also prompted Saudi Arabia, one of the largest oil producers, to slightly raise its supply rates for Asian customers. However, Puri reassured that there is no shortage of oil globally. "There is enough oil available, and we have enough choices to exercise," he noted. This statement reflects a broader optimism about the resilience of the global oil market amidst geopolitical uncertainties. The minister highlighted the importance of cooperation among state and non-state actors in mitigating risks associated with potential conflicts. "I'm also counting on the goodwill of all the state actors and non-state actors to carefully weigh the consequences of any actions that might be contemplated," he added. As India continues to monitor developments in West Asia closely, Puri's remarks underline a proactive approach towards energy management. The country remains one of the largest importers of crude oil, making it particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in global supply and pricing. In light of these developments, industry analysts are keeping a close eye on how geopolitical tensions might influence not only oil prices but also broader economic conditions globally. The potential for increased volatility in energy markets could impact various sectors within India’s economy, particularly those reliant on stable energy supplies. Therefore, while the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, stakeholders across industries will be watching closely to see how these dynamics unfold and what measures will be taken to safeguard India's energy interests.

India poised to navigate West Asia tensions, says petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri

US President Joe Biden has said he doesn’t support potential retaliatory strikes by Israel on Iranian nuclear facilities. When reporters asked Biden Wednesday (Oct 2) whether he would support such an action, the US leader said, “The answer is no”. However, he added that the Jewish nation had a right to respond to the Oct 1 Iranian missile attack and it should be done proportionally.

He added that US would soon be rolling out new sanctions against Iran for the barrage.

This comes after US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday that Iran will face “severe consequences” for the attacks and that Washington DC and Tel Aviv would co-operate to decide the intensity of such retaliation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiUrKzeoPCIAxW5YPUHHQQ7MlMQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-shahab-3-fattah-2-missiles-that-iran-fired-at-israel-in-oct-1-attacks-763892" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-shahab-3-fattah-2-missiles-that-iran-fired-at-israel-in-oct-1-attacks-763892&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUrKzeoPCIAxW5YPUHHQQ7MlMQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">West Asia crisis: Shahab-3, Fattah-2 among missiles that Iran fired at Israel in Oct 1 attacks</a>

Media reports on Wednesday hinted that Israel was mulling targeting Iranian strategic infrastructure, such as gas and oil rigs, or Iran’s nuclear sites. Axios reported that the government of PM Benjamin Netanyahu was also considering targeted assassinations and attacks on Iran’s air defence systems.

Such an attack on Iran would not only jeopardise the Iranian economy but also risk expanding the war further. Israel PM's office later said Netanyahu had convened a meeting with Israel’s security chiefs at the IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv.

Netanyahu said after the attack, “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it,” vowing, “whoever attacks us — we will attack them.”

A readout released by the White House on Wednesday said&nbsp;that President Joe Biden joined a call with the G7 leaders to discuss Iran’s unacceptable attack against Israel and to coordinate on a response to this attack, including new sanctions. 
 
President Biden and the G7 unequivocally condemned Iran’s attack against Israel.&nbsp;He expressed the United States’ full solidarity and support to Israel and its people, and reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, it added.

<h2>Iran not looking for war</h2>

Amid reports of imminent Israeli retaliatory strikes on Iran, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian struck a cautious note Wednesday and said his nation was not seeking a war.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiUrKzeoPCIAxW5YPUHHQQ7MlMQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-iran-will-pay-for-missile-attack-sends-more-troops-to-lebanon-763883" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-iran-will-pay-for-missile-attack-sends-more-troops-to-lebanon-763883&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUrKzeoPCIAxW5YPUHHQQ7MlMQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Israel vows to make Iran pay for missile attack, sends more troops to Lebanon</a>

Pezeshkian, however, added that his nation would respond strongly if such an attack takes place.

Pezeshkian made the remarks following his meeting with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during his official two-day visit, which aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and regional cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden has said he doesn’t support potential retaliatory strikes by Israel on Iranian nuclear facilities. When reporters asked Biden Wednesday (Oct 2) whether he would support such an action, the US leader said, “The answer is no”.

US President Joe Biden has said he doesn’t support potential retaliatory strikes by Israel on Iranian nuclear facilities. When reporters asked Biden Wednesday (Oct 2) whether he would support such an action, the US leader said, “The answer is no”. However, he added that the Jewish nation had a right to respond to the Oct 1 Iranian missile attack and it should be done proportionally. He added that US would soon be rolling out new sanctions against Iran for the barrage. This comes after US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday that Iran will face “severe consequences” for the attacks and that Washington DC and Tel Aviv would co-operate to decide the intensity of such retaliation. Also read: West Asia crisis: Shahab-3, Fattah-2 among missiles that Iran fired at Israel in Oct 1 attacks Media reports on Wednesday hinted that Israel was mulling targeting Iranian strategic infrastructure, such as gas and oil rigs, or Iran’s nuclear sites. Axios reported that the government of PM Benjamin Netanyahu was also considering targeted assassinations and attacks on Iran’s air defence systems. Such an attack on Iran would not only jeopardise the Iranian economy but also risk expanding the war further. Israel PM's office later said Netanyahu had convened a meeting with Israel’s security chiefs at the IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu said after the attack, “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it,” vowing, “whoever attacks us — we will attack them.” A readout released by the White House on Wednesday said that President Joe Biden joined a call with the G7 leaders to discuss Iran’s unacceptable attack against Israel and to coordinate on a response to this attack, including new sanctions. President Biden and the G7 unequivocally condemned Iran’s attack against Israel. He expressed the United States’ full solidarity and support to Israel and its people, and reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, it added. Iran not looking for war Amid reports of imminent Israeli retaliatory strikes on Iran, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian struck a cautious note Wednesday and said his nation was not seeking a war. Also read: Israel vows to make Iran pay for missile attack, sends more troops to Lebanon Pezeshkian, however, added that his nation would respond strongly if such an attack takes place. Pezeshkian made the remarks following his meeting with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during his official two-day visit, which aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and regional cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Attack should be proportional,’ Biden opposes Israel’s retaliatory strikes on Iranian nuclear sites

West Asia continues to simmer. According to reports an explosion occurred at a military base in Iraq early on Saturday causing a large fire. Watch in for more details!

Iraq military base explosion: 1 killed & 8 injured in blast at Iraqi military base

The US forces have secretly deployed a missile that can literally fry electronic components in Iranian nuclear sites using high-power microwaves. The missile, known as the Counter-Electronics High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project (CHAMP), was first tested in 2012 and is jointly developed by Boeing's Phantom Works for the US Air Force Research Laboratory. The missile is understood to have been operational since 2019.

<h2>How does CHAMP operate?</h2>

The CHAMP is fitted in an air-launched cruise missile and delivered by a B-52 bomber.

Once it enters enemy airspace, the missile stays low and emits high-powered microwave energy aimed at target devices. This ends up frying and destroying the enemy’s military capability without having to use explosives and causing causalities.

The missile is equipped with an electromagnetic pulse cannon. A super-powerful microwave oven is harnessed to generate a concentrated beam of energy that triggers voltage surge in electronic equipment, rendering them useless.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Iran vs Israel: West Asia on nuclear knife edge

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It is not clear where exactly the US has deployed this weapon or whether it has shared this technology with any other nation.

Mary Lou Robinson, former chief of the High Power Microwave Division of the Air Force Research Lab at Kirtland Air Force Base, was quoted as saying by DailyMail that at least 20 CHAMP missiles are currently in operation, capable of taking out any military target, including nuclear facilities.

<h2>West Asia crisis</h2>

The development comes amidst heightened tensions in West Asia as Israel and Iran trade missile and drone attacks over the last week.

US President Joe Biden has warned Iran that further attacks on Israel would plunge the Middle East further into conflict.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj53PngzNCFAxVWZ2wGHYutAvUQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj53PngzNCFAxVWZ2wGHYutAvUQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">West Asia crisis: Iran 'not planning' retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>

Iran over the weekend tried to shield its equipment against threats of an imminent Israeli strike, but US officials said that would not be effective against the high-power microwave (HPM) missiles.

Besides underground bunkers and command centres, HPM can quickly disable fighter planes, tanks, ships, and missile systems, according to US officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US forces have secretly deployed a missile that can literally fry electronic components in Iranian nuclear sites using high-power microwaves. The missile, known as the Counter-Electronics High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project (CHAMP), was first tested in 2012 and is jointly developed by Boeing's Phantom Works for the US Air Force Research Laboratory.

The US forces have secretly deployed a missile that can literally fry electronic components in Iranian nuclear sites using high-power microwaves. The missile, known as the Counter-Electronics High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project (CHAMP), was first tested in 2012 and is jointly developed by Boeing's Phantom Works for the US Air Force Research Laboratory. The missile is understood to have been operational since 2019. How does CHAMP operate? The CHAMP is fitted in an air-launched cruise missile and delivered by a B-52 bomber. Once it enters enemy airspace, the missile stays low and emits high-powered microwave energy aimed at target devices. This ends up frying and destroying the enemy’s military capability without having to use explosives and causing causalities. The missile is equipped with an electromagnetic pulse cannon. A super-powerful microwave oven is harnessed to generate a concentrated beam of energy that triggers voltage surge in electronic equipment, rendering them useless. Watch: Gravitas | Iran vs Israel: West Asia on nuclear knife edge × It is not clear where exactly the US has deployed this weapon or whether it has shared this technology with any other nation. Mary Lou Robinson, former chief of the High Power Microwave Division of the Air Force Research Lab at Kirtland Air Force Base, was quoted as saying by DailyMail that at least 20 CHAMP missiles are currently in operation, capable of taking out any military target, including nuclear facilities. West Asia crisis The development comes amidst heightened tensions in West Asia as Israel and Iran trade missile and drone attacks over the last week. US President Joe Biden has warned Iran that further attacks on Israel would plunge the Middle East further into conflict. Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran 'not planning' retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan Iran over the weekend tried to shield its equipment against threats of an imminent Israeli strike, but US officials said that would not be effective against the high-power microwave (HPM) missiles. Besides underground bunkers and command centres, HPM can quickly disable fighter planes, tanks, ships, and missile systems, according to US officials. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US deploys ‘CHAMP’ missile that can FRY Iranian nuclear equipment