Polymarket wagers are once again at the centre of a controversy amid America's war on Iran. On Monday, even before Donald Trump announced a halt to strikes on Iran, some accounts made big bets that the war would end as soon as this week. Ten accounts that were opened only recently bet thousands of dollars on Polymarket's "US x Iran cease-fire" market, which says a cease-fire would happen by March 31 or April 15. In total, they have wagered around $160,000 on the cease-fire, and if it happens, they could win $1 million. Some of these accounts are less than a week old, The Guardian reported. An account on X named Lirrato identified the Polymarket accounts. One of them is especially concerning since it has already won over $85,000 on two bets linked to Iran. The handle named "NOTHINGEVERFRICKINGHAPPENS" opened around the end of February. Its first bet was worth $7,600 on the US striking Iran by February 28. It next bet $11,283 on a strike by March 1.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/maduro-captured-a-new-polymarket-account-made-436-759-overnight-on-operation-absolute-resolve-1767586669789">Maduro captured: A new Polymarket account made $436,759 overnight on Operation Absolute Resolve. A wild guess?</a><h2>Same Polymarket account has bet on a ceasefire date</h2>This account has now bet $8,005 on a ceasefire by March 31, and $15,614 on a cease-fire by April 15. These two bets are already up by $30,000 in value. Following President Trump’s post on Monday, the paper profits for those ten prediction-market accounts surged by over $300,000. Most Polymarket users are wagering that a ceasefire will not occur by March 31, with only 17 per cent buying "Yes." The timing of these bets has once again triggered chatter of insider trading. Former CoinTelegraph researcher Ben Yorke told The Guardian that it definitely looks like "someone with some degree of inside info" owns those accounts. He said it is also possible that the other accounts have split from one main account, which means a single investor is placing these bets under different accounts.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/polymarket-bets-on-iran-attack-handed-half-a-million-dollars-in-profits-to-one-user-1772435412575">Polymarket bets on Iran attack handed half a million dollars in profits to one user</a><h2>Polymarket account made $400,000 betting on Venezuela operation</h2>Polymarket and the talk of insider trading gained momentum when one trader made over $400,000 by betting that the US would carry out a military operation in Venezuela. Shockingly, days later, the US announced that it had captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Meanwhile, Polymarket has updated its rules and announced on Monday that it explicitly prohibits "trading on stolen confidential information, trading on illegal tips, and trading when the Polymarket user has the ability to influence the outcome of the event." Meanwhile, Kalshi, its competitor, banned two traders for insider trading after publicly revealing for the first time investigations into insider trading. &nbsp;

At least 10 Polymarket accounts have bet that a cease-fire between the US and Iran would happen by March 31 or April 15. One of these accounts had also bet on an attack happening by February 28. An expert thinks all these accounts could be linked to one person.

Polymarket wagers are once again at the centre of a controversy amid America's war on Iran. On Monday, even before Donald Trump announced a halt to strikes on Iran, some accounts made big bets that the war would end as soon as this week. Ten accounts that were opened only recently bet thousands of dollars on Polymarket's "US x Iran cease-fire" market, which says a cease-fire would happen by March 31 or April 15. In total, they have wagered around $160,000 on the cease-fire, and if it happens, they could win $1 million. Some of these accounts are less than a week old, The Guardian reported. An account on X named Lirrato identified the Polymarket accounts. One of them is especially concerning since it has already won over $85,000 on two bets linked to Iran. The handle named "NOTHINGEVERFRICKINGHAPPENS" opened around the end of February. Its first bet was worth $7,600 on the US striking Iran by February 28. It next bet $11,283 on a strike by March 1. Also Read: Maduro captured: A new Polymarket account made $436,759 overnight on Operation Absolute Resolve. A wild guess? Same Polymarket account has bet on a ceasefire date This account has now bet $8,005 on a ceasefire by March 31, and $15,614 on a cease-fire by April 15. These two bets are already up by $30,000 in value. Following President Trump’s post on Monday, the paper profits for those ten prediction-market accounts surged by over $300,000. Most Polymarket users are wagering that a ceasefire will not occur by March 31, with only 17 per cent buying "Yes." The timing of these bets has once again triggered chatter of insider trading. Former CoinTelegraph researcher Ben Yorke told The Guardian that it definitely looks like "someone with some degree of inside info" owns those accounts. He said it is also possible that the other accounts have split from one main account, which means a single investor is placing these bets under different accounts. Also Read: Polymarket bets on Iran attack handed half a million dollars in profits to one user Polymarket account made $400,000 betting on Venezuela operation Polymarket and the talk of insider trading gained momentum when one trader made over $400,000 by betting that the US would carry out a military operation in Venezuela. Shockingly, days later, the US announced that it had captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Meanwhile, Polymarket has updated its rules and announced on Monday that it explicitly prohibits "trading on stolen confidential information, trading on illegal tips, and trading when the Polymarket user has the ability to influence the outcome of the event." Meanwhile, Kalshi, its competitor, banned two traders for insider trading after publicly revealing for the first time investigations into insider trading.

At least 10 Polymarket accounts have bet that a cease-fire between the US and Iran would happen by March 31 or April 15. One of these accounts had also bet on an attack happening by February 28. An expert thinks all these accounts could be linked to one person.

Polymarket account that bet US will attack Iran by Feb 28 has now bet on a ceasefire by March 31

Is the Iran war over? There are many conflicting reports on the status of the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict, hours after US President Donald Trump on Monday &nbsp;(Mar 23) announced a five-day pause on attacks on Iranian energy and power infrastructure. There is widespread scepticism about the war ending any time soon, as attacks and counterattacks continue, and little has changed regarding the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Here are eight reasons the war is far from over:<h2>1. US Marines continue to reach CENTCOM for Middle East deployment</h2>Reports indicate that thousands of additional US Marines, including from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard amphibious ships such as USS Tripoli, are continuing to deploy or arrive in the US Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. The build-up was ordered before Trump announced the pause, but its objectives include securing the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring maritime security, supporting evacuations, and potentially conducting limited ground missions to protect shipping lanes or strategic islands. This sustained mobilisation signals that Washington is preparing for escalation scenarios in the near future.<h2>2. Iran, US and Israel continue air strikes and missile attacks</h2>Reports following Trump's pause announcement indicate that Israel has carried out airstrikes on Tehran and other Iranian targets, including weapons sites and power infrastructure. Strikes by the US and Israel have reportedly targeted a natural gas pipeline linked to a power plant in Khorramshahr. Power outages were recorded in Tehran after the strikes. Iran, meanwhile, continued launching missiles and drones at Israel, hitting both southern and northern regions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly vowed to “keep striking” Iran and Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-countries-iran-conflict-saudi-uae-us-bases-hormuz-tensions-1774328297752">Saudi Arabia, UAE to join Iran war as ceasefire claims remain disputed</a><h2>3. Strait of Hormuz situation remains unchanged</h2>There is no indication that maritime traffic has normalised in the Strait of Hormuz, through some 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes. Shipping activity remains sharply reduced, with heightened risks for commercial vessels. At the time of writing, there is no clear pathway to reopening or stabilising this vital route, keeping global energy markets on edge.<h2>4. No confirmation from Iran on negotiations or talks, as Arab nations remain sceptical</h2>The Wall Street Journal reported that Arab mediators privately doubt that the US and Iran can reach a near-term agreement, citing deep strategic gaps between the two sides. Iranian officials, including representatives from the foreign ministry and parliament, denied any direct negotiations with Washington. They have dismissed Trump’s claims as “fake news” aimed at influencing oil markets and geopolitical narratives. Regional diplomatic channels appear active but inconclusive, with no verifiable breakthrough.<h2>5. Brent crude oil prices remain volatile and above $100 per barrel</h2>The sustained volatility in Brent crude oil prices—frequently crossing the $100 per barrel mark—reflects persistent uncertainty in global energy markets. Traders are reacting not only to physical supply risks but also to geopolitical signalling, including military deployments and unresolved tensions. The price movements suggest that markets do not yet believe the conflict is nearing resolution.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mojtaba-khamenei-advisor-says-war-will-continue-despite-trump-netanyahu-5-day-halt-how-iran-has-reacted-so-far-1774322779656">Khamenei's advisor says ‘war will continue’ despite Trump's '5-day halt' announcement — How Iran has reacted so far</a><h2>6. Only speculative reporting on diplomatic negotiations</h2>There are multiple, often conflicting, reports about backchannel diplomacy. Some US media outlets suggest that countries such as Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt are facilitating indirect communication between Washington and Tehran. There have also been unverified claims regarding potential high-level meetings and leadership-level outreach. Regional broadcasters like Al Arabiya have cited anonymous sources suggesting possible willingness to negotiate from Iranian supreme leader. However, none of these developments have been officially confirmed, limiting their credibility.<h2>7. Gulf states reassessing their strategic posture</h2>Reports suggest that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates may be recalibrating their positions in response to rising Iranian threats. Concerns over attacks on oil infrastructure and warnings from Iran regarding desalination plants and power facilities &nbsp;heightened regional security anxieties. While no formal entry into the conflict has been announced, even a limited shift in Gulf involvement could significantly widen the scope of the war.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israel-s-missile-defence-system-under-scrutiny-after-iranian-attack-1774337391652/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israel-s-missile-defence-system-under-scrutiny-after-iranian-attack-1774337391652/embed</a><h2>8. Core geopolitical issues remain unresolved</h2>Fundamental drivers of the conflict remain unaddressed. These include the future of Iran’s nuclear programme, regional power balance in the Middle East, sanctions, Irianian demand for reparations, and the security of key waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz. Questions around regime change and stability within Iran continue to be unsolved.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-sets-these-conditions-to-end-israel-us-war-after-trump-s-5-day-halt-closure-of-us-bases-to-hormuz-control-1774326659739">Iran sets THESE conditions to end war after Trump's 5-day halt: From closure of US bases to Hormuz control - Full list</a><h2>Perspective: It is not over till...but who will have to sing to end the Iran - US - Israel war?</h2>In summary, the US–Israel–Iran conflict has not ended. Despite the announcement of a temporary pause, ongoing military operations, unresolved disputes, disruption of energy markets, and the absence of verified diplomatic progress point towards an uneasy calm at best, and a highly volatile situation that could lead to another flare-up, at worst. Trump's five-day pause appears to be a tactical move rather than a definitive step towards peace, with the risk of further escalation still firmly present. &nbsp;

Despite Trump's temporary pause announcement, the Iran war tensions remain high with ongoing strikes and military build-ups. The disruption of Strait of Hormuz oil routes is not over, signalling continued instability and no clear path to de-escalation. Why it's not over till it's over

Is the Iran war over? There are many conflicting reports on the status of the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict, hours after US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 23) announced a five-day pause on attacks on Iranian energy and power infrastructure. There is widespread scepticism about the war ending any time soon, as attacks and counterattacks continue, and little has changed regarding the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Here are eight reasons the war is far from over: 1. US Marines continue to reach CENTCOM for Middle East deployment Reports indicate that thousands of additional US Marines, including from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard amphibious ships such as USS Tripoli, are continuing to deploy or arrive in the US Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. The build-up was ordered before Trump announced the pause, but its objectives include securing the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring maritime security, supporting evacuations, and potentially conducting limited ground missions to protect shipping lanes or strategic islands. This sustained mobilisation signals that Washington is preparing for escalation scenarios in the near future. 2. Iran, US and Israel continue air strikes and missile attacks Reports following Trump's pause announcement indicate that Israel has carried out airstrikes on Tehran and other Iranian targets, including weapons sites and power infrastructure. Strikes by the US and Israel have reportedly targeted a natural gas pipeline linked to a power plant in Khorramshahr. Power outages were recorded in Tehran after the strikes. Iran, meanwhile, continued launching missiles and drones at Israel, hitting both southern and northern regions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly vowed to “keep striking” Iran and Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. Also read: Saudi Arabia, UAE to join Iran war as ceasefire claims remain disputed 3. Strait of Hormuz situation remains unchanged There is no indication that maritime traffic has normalised in the Strait of Hormuz, through some 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes. Shipping activity remains sharply reduced, with heightened risks for commercial vessels. At the time of writing, there is no clear pathway to reopening or stabilising this vital route, keeping global energy markets on edge. 4. No confirmation from Iran on negotiations or talks, as Arab nations remain sceptical The Wall Street Journal reported that Arab mediators privately doubt that the US and Iran can reach a near-term agreement, citing deep strategic gaps between the two sides. Iranian officials, including representatives from the foreign ministry and parliament, denied any direct negotiations with Washington. They have dismissed Trump’s claims as “fake news” aimed at influencing oil markets and geopolitical narratives. Regional diplomatic channels appear active but inconclusive, with no verifiable breakthrough. 5. Brent crude oil prices remain volatile and above $100 per barrel The sustained volatility in Brent crude oil prices—frequently crossing the $100 per barrel mark—reflects persistent uncertainty in global energy markets. Traders are reacting not only to physical supply risks but also to geopolitical signalling, including military deployments and unresolved tensions. The price movements suggest that markets do not yet believe the conflict is nearing resolution. Also read: Khamenei's advisor says ‘war will continue’ despite Trump's '5-day halt' announcement — How Iran has reacted so far 6. Only speculative reporting on diplomatic negotiations There are multiple, often conflicting, reports about backchannel diplomacy. Some US media outlets suggest that countries such as Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt are facilitating indirect communication between Washington and Tehran. There have also been unverified claims regarding potential high-level meetings and leadership-level outreach. Regional broadcasters like Al Arabiya have cited anonymous sources suggesting possible willingness to negotiate from Iranian supreme leader. However, none of these developments have been officially confirmed, limiting their credibility. 7. Gulf states reassessing their strategic posture Reports suggest that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates may be recalibrating their positions in response to rising Iranian threats. Concerns over attacks on oil infrastructure and warnings from Iran regarding desalination plants and power facilities heightened regional security anxieties. While no formal entry into the conflict has been announced, even a limited shift in Gulf involvement could significantly widen the scope of the war. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israel-s-missile-defence-system-under-scrutiny-after-iranian-attack-1774337391652/embed 8. Core geopolitical issues remain unresolved Fundamental drivers of the conflict remain unaddressed. These include the future of Iran’s nuclear programme, regional power balance in the Middle East, sanctions, Irianian demand for reparations, and the security of key waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz. Questions around regime change and stability within Iran continue to be unsolved. Also read: Iran sets THESE conditions to end war after Trump's 5-day halt: From closure of US bases to Hormuz control - Full list Perspective: It is not over till...but who will have to sing to end the Iran - US - Israel war? In summary, the US–Israel–Iran conflict has not ended. Despite the announcement of a temporary pause, ongoing military operations, unresolved disputes, disruption of energy markets, and the absence of verified diplomatic progress point towards an uneasy calm at best, and a highly volatile situation that could lead to another flare-up, at worst. Trump's five-day pause appears to be a tactical move rather than a definitive step towards peace, with the risk of further escalation still firmly present.

Despite Trump's temporary pause announcement, the Iran war tensions remain high with ongoing strikes and military build-ups. The disruption of Strait of Hormuz oil routes is not over, signalling continued instability and no clear path to de-escalation. Why it's not over till it's over

Fog of war: Eight signs that Iran-US-Israel conflict is not over despite Trump's five-day pause announcement

In a big revelation, a new report has claimed that the Trump administration is weighing Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad ⁠Bagher Ghalibaf as a potential partner and a future leader. He has been touted as a “hot option” by two administration officials quoted in a report by Politico. The report claimed that the White House sees him as a “workable partner who could lead Iran and negotiate with the Trump administration in the war’s next phase.” It must be recalled that since the death of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Trump had mentioned several times that he has three “good options” on who could lead the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the Politico report, the administration officials said that the White House is not ready to commit to any one person. “He’s a hot option. He’s one of the highest…But we got to test them, and we can’t rush into it," unnamed officials in the report added. “It’s all about installing someone like a Delcy Rodriguez in Venezuela that we say, ‘We’re going to keep you there. We’re going to not take you out. You’re going to work with us. You’re going to give us a good deal, a first deal on the oil,’” the official was quoted as saying in the report.&nbsp;Notably, US President Donald Trump after announcing five-day halt on Iranian strikes said that there will be a "very serious form of regime change" in Iran, adding that the change had already begun since "everybody's been killed" from the previous leadership. "We're dealing with some people that I find to be very reasonable, very solid," he said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-direct-or-indirect-talks-iran-denies-conversation-with-trump-after-us-prez-claims-detailed-constructive-talks-1774268919778">Netanyahu issues first response after Trump announces 5-day halt on Iran strikes</a><h2>What Trump announced on Monday?</h2>In a surprise announcement, Trump on Monday (Mar 23) said that he has instructed US Department of War to halt strikes on Iran for five days because the US and Iran had "very good and constructive" talks that would continue through the week. This came ahead of a Monday night deadline imposed by Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane or see the US "obliterate" its power plants. He did not name any official with whom talks were held. After his Truth Social post, Trump spoke to CNBC and said that discussions had taken place with “representatives” of Iran and described the situation as tantamount to “regime change,” citing the killing and replacement of several Iranian leaders. However, he stopped short of identifying who exactly the US had engaged with, only adding that the talks involved a “respected” Iranian figure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mojtaba-khamenei-advisor-says-war-will-continue-despite-trump-netanyahu-5-day-halt-how-iran-has-reacted-so-far-1774322779656">Khamenei's advisor says ‘war will continue’ despite Trump's '5-day halt' announcement — How Iran has reacted so far</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260324/image-1774324330719.png"></figure><h2>How Iranian Parliament speaker reacted?</h2>Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in a post on X ruled out any talks with Washington. "No negotiations have been held with the US, and fake news is being used to manipulate the financial and oil markets and escape the quagmire in which the US and Israel are trapped. All Iranian officials stand firmly behind their supreme leader and people until this goal is achieved." In another post, he said that Iran is fighting for humanity. “The world is either with Gaza and against this colonial terror regime, or it stands with the Epstein class and child torturers. There is no middle ground,” he added.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260324/image-1774325553121.png"></figure><h2>Confusion over talks as Iran denies Trump's claims&nbsp;</h2>Iran has denied the claims by Trump and called it "fake news." Ibrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for Iran’s National Security Commission, said that &nbsp;Iran views the current US posture as coercive, arguing that "the enemy understands only the language of force and missiles." Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's military adviser Mohsen Rezaei also responded on the development and said that the war with Israel and the US will continue until Iran receives full compensation for damage it has sustained. clained that “the war was effectively over” more than a week ago and that “the United States was ready to stop and pursue a ceasefire.” He blamed Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu of pushing the US to continue. Highlighting that the US must legally accept international guarantees and prevent any interference in the country in the future.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

A report claims the Trump administration is considering Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as a potential future leader amid war. Trump hinted at regime change and talks, but Iran denied negotiations, exposing deep confusion over diplomacy and the country’s leadership future.

In a big revelation, a new report has claimed that the Trump administration is weighing Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad ⁠Bagher Ghalibaf as a potential partner and a future leader. He has been touted as a “hot option” by two administration officials quoted in a report by Politico. The report claimed that the White House sees him as a “workable partner who could lead Iran and negotiate with the Trump administration in the war’s next phase.” It must be recalled that since the death of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Trump had mentioned several times that he has three “good options” on who could lead the Islamic Republic. In the Politico report, the administration officials said that the White House is not ready to commit to any one person. “He’s a hot option. He’s one of the highest…But we got to test them, and we can’t rush into it," unnamed officials in the report added. “It’s all about installing someone like a Delcy Rodriguez in Venezuela that we say, ‘We’re going to keep you there. We’re going to not take you out. You’re going to work with us. You’re going to give us a good deal, a first deal on the oil,’” the official was quoted as saying in the report. Notably, US President Donald Trump after announcing five-day halt on Iranian strikes said that there will be a "very serious form of regime change" in Iran, adding that the change had already begun since "everybody's been killed" from the previous leadership. "We're dealing with some people that I find to be very reasonable, very solid," he said.

A report claims the Trump administration is considering Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as a potential future leader amid war. Trump hinted at regime change and talks, but Iran denied negotiations, exposing deep confusion over diplomacy and the country’s leadership future.

'He’s a hot option': Trump eyes Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf as Iran's future leader? New report says...

Issuing first response after the killing of Iran's top officials by Israel, China on Thursday (Mar 19) said that it is “unacceptable" and added it is it opposes “use of force.” Addressing a press conference, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian straightforwardly said, “We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable.”&nbsp;China's response came after Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu was seen talking on a call with Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz seated beside him. "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have authorised the IDF to eliminate any senior Iranian official for whom the intelligence and operational circle has been closed, without the need for additional approval," Katz said while sharing the image. Netanyahu also shared a video from the high-security 'Kirya' command centre and said that he was ordering the killing of two "terrorist chieftains" — Iran's security chief Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. In the video, he was flanked by the heads of Mossad and the Air Force. Iran questioned if the UN and other international organisations are allowing the killing of leaders openly.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-war-not-ours-but-cost-is-global-global-envoys-push-for-new-global-order-at-wion-world-pulse-1773821038409">'War not ours, but cost is global': Global envoys push for new global order at WION World PULSE</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">I&#39;m here with Israel&#39;s Defense Minister, our Chief of Staff, the head of the Mossad, the Chief of Air Force, our senior commanders. In the past 24 hours, we knocked out two of the terrorist chieftains, the top terrorist chieftains of this tyranny. Our aircraft are hitting the… <a href="https://t.co/lFJKEMvgxR">pic.twitter.com/lFJKEMvgxR</a>&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/2034021266861003258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;In this week alone, Israel killed three top Iranian officials — security chief Ali Larijani, Basij forces chief Gholamreza Soleimani, and Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib — marking some of the most high-profile deaths since the US-Israeli strikes began, following the earlier killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-major-nuclear-threat-to-us-besides-china-russia-and-n-korea-tulsi-gabbard-tells-senate-1773856393463">Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and N Korea, Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate</a><h2>China-US ties amid Iran war</h2>Last week, on Trump's request of help in Strait of Hormuz, Chinese Embassy in Washington said that Beijing “wants an immediate cession of hostilities,” and that “all parties have the responsibility to ensure stable and unimpeded energy supply.” “As a sincere friend and strategic partner of Middle Eastern countries, China will continue to strengthen communication with relevant parties, including parties to the conflict, and play a constructive role for de-escalation and restoration of peace," China said.&nbsp;&nbsp;China's stance in the Iran war may prove to be a deciding factor on Trump's Beijing visit scheduled for March last week. Trump has already hinted that it may be delayed for a month or so while expressing his desire to for Chinese help in securing the Strait of Hormuz. There's also an ongoing allegation that Beijing is secretly helping Iran by providing satellite technology. While the US president has maintained that he shares a good relationship with his Chinese counterpart, issues like Taiwan and now Iran have complicated ties between the two countries, at least for the time being.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.) &nbsp;

China condemned Israel’s killing of top Iranian officials, calling it “unacceptable” and opposing force. As Benjamin Netanyahu ramps up strikes, tensions grow, complicating US-China ties amid the ongoing Iran war.

Issuing first response after the killing of Iran's top officials by Israel, China on Thursday (Mar 19) said that it is “unacceptable" and added it is it opposes “use of force.” Addressing a press conference, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian straightforwardly said, “We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable.” China's response came after Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu was seen talking on a call with Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz seated beside him. "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have authorised the IDF to eliminate any senior Iranian official for whom the intelligence and operational circle has been closed, without the need for additional approval," Katz said while sharing the image. Netanyahu also shared a video from the high-security 'Kirya' command centre and said that he was ordering the killing of two "terrorist chieftains" — Iran's security chief Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. In the video, he was flanked by the heads of Mossad and the Air Force. Iran questioned if the UN and other international organisations are allowing the killing of leaders openly. Also Read: 'War not ours, but cost is global': Global envoys push for new global order at WION World PULSE

China condemned Israel’s killing of top Iranian officials, calling it “unacceptable” and opposing force. As Benjamin Netanyahu ramps up strikes, tensions grow, complicating US-China ties amid the ongoing Iran war.

'The acts of killing...': China issues first response after Israel kills top Iran officials including Ali Larijani

Iran on Tuesday (March 17) claimed that it launched a missile attack which struck near Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in Jerusalem, state-affiliated Press TV reported. The strikes come as Israel claimed that it killed Iran's national security chief, Ali Larijani, though Tehran has not confirmed his death.&nbsp;Israeli media reported that Iranian missile fragments fell across Jerusalem's Old City, landing near major religious sites. Sirens had sounded in the Jerusalem area and parts of central Israel. However, the Prime Minister's office has not sustained any damage.&nbsp;Iranian missile debris has struck the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity's holiest sites, located in Jerusalem. Shrapnel damage has also been reported near key religious landmarks, including the Temple Mount, NDTV reported.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu said that the killing of Tehran's national security chief Ali Larijani was part of efforts to give Iranians a chance to remove their rulers.&nbsp;"This morning we eliminated Ali Larijani, the boss of the Revolutionary Guards, which is the gang of gangsters that actually runs Iran," Netanyahu said in a televised statement.&nbsp;Also Read: ‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobody-thought-they-were-going-to-hit-trump-on-iran-s-strikes-on-gulf-nations-but-experts-clearly-warned-him-beforehand-1773757268350">Nobody thought they were going to hit’: Trump on Iran’s strikes on Gulf nations. But experts clearly warned him beforehand</a>&nbsp;He said the overthrow of the clerical authorities by Iranians "will not happen all at once, it will not happen easily. But if we persist in this -- we will give them a chance to take their fate into their own hands."&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) released a high-profile photograph showing Netanyahu in a military command centre, appearing to direct a fresh wave of strikes against Iran. The move comes as the government aggressively pushes back against viral social media claims suggesting the Prime Minister had been killed or incapacitated.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)&nbsp;

Israeli media reported that Iranian missile fragments fell across Jerusalem's Old City, landing near major religious sites.

Iran on Tuesday (March 17) claimed that it launched a missile attack which struck near Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in Jerusalem, state-affiliated Press TV reported. The strikes come as Israel claimed that it killed Iran's national security chief, Ali Larijani, though Tehran has not confirmed his death. Israeli media reported that Iranian missile fragments fell across Jerusalem's Old City, landing near major religious sites. Sirens had sounded in the Jerusalem area and parts of central Israel. However, the Prime Minister's office has not sustained any damage. Iranian missile debris has struck the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity's holiest sites, located in Jerusalem. Shrapnel damage has also been reported near key religious landmarks, including the Temple Mount, NDTV reported. Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu said that the killing of Tehran's national security chief Ali Larijani was part of efforts to give Iranians a chance to remove their rulers. "This morning we eliminated Ali Larijani, the boss of the Revolutionary Guards, which is the gang of gangsters that actually runs Iran," Netanyahu said in a televised statement. Also Read: ‘Nobody thought they were going to hit’: Trump on Iran’s strikes on Gulf nations. But experts clearly warned him beforehand He said the overthrow of the clerical authorities by Iranians "will not happen all at once, it will not happen easily. But if we persist in this -- we will give them a chance to take their fate into their own hands." Earlier in the day, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) released a high-profile photograph showing Netanyahu in a military command centre, appearing to direct a fresh wave of strikes against Iran. The move comes as the government aggressively pushes back against viral social media claims suggesting the Prime Minister had been killed or incapacitated. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Israeli media reported that Iranian missile fragments fell across Jerusalem's Old City, landing near major religious sites.

Netanyahu's office hit? Iran claims launched strikes near Israel PMO

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) released a high-profile photograph on Tuesday (March 17) showing Benjamin Netanyahu in a military command centre, appearing to direct a fresh wave of strikes against Iran. The move comes as the government aggressively pushes back against viral social media claims suggesting the Prime Minister had been killed or incapacitated.&nbsp;The image, captioned "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering the elimination of senior Iranian regime officials," depicts the leader in an active operational role. It follows days of intense online speculation, dubbed the "death buzz", which peaked over the weekend with unverified reports from Iranian state media and conspiracy theories involving "deepfake" AI videos.&nbsp;The release of the photo coincided with a major claim from the Israeli Defence Ministry that Ali Larijani, a top Iranian security official and former Speaker of Parliament, was killed in a targeted strike. While Iranian sources initially disputed the report, the IDF later declared Larijani "eliminated," describing him as a central figure in directing recent crackdowns.<h2>Proof of life campaign</h2>Israeli PMO’s strategy to debunk rumours has involved a flurry of public activity:&nbsp;Cafe Video: On Sunday, Netanyahu posted a casual video from a cafe near Jerusalem, joking about the rumours by saying he was "dying for coffee." Nowruz Message: On Monday, he recorded a direct address to the Iranian people, wishing them a "year of freedom" for the Persian New Year.&nbsp;Command Centre Photo: Tuesday’s photo is seen as the "hardest" proof of life yet, placing him at the helm of Operation Roaring Lion.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Photo: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering the elimination of senior Iranian regime officials. <a href="https://t.co/av6rIqNOFt">pic.twitter.com/av6rIqNOFt</a>&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/2033836294145446128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Escalation in West Asia</h2>These developments come as several barrages of Iranian missiles and drones made it through Israel's famed air defence system, with analysts crediting Tehran's strategic launching of these strikes and the saturation of Israel's defence system.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-stands-firm-as-west-asia-conflict-fails-to-dent-trade-momentum-piyush-goyal-1773747201092">India stands firm as West Asia conflict fails to dent trade momentum: Piyush Goyal</a>&nbsp;The war in West Asia, sparked by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has entered its 18th day with no sign of either side being ready to back down.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the opening day of the military campaign, US-Israeli forces targeted the top leadership of the Islamic Republic, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a decapitation strike on a high-security compound in Tehran.&nbsp;In retaliation, Tehran resorted to launching missile and drone strikes on strategic locations, including US military bases in Gulf nations and key energy and financial centres in these countries, along with closing the Strait of Hormuz to put pressure on Washington.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The image, captioned "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering the elimination of senior Iranian regime officials," depicts the leader in an active operational role.

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) released a high-profile photograph on Tuesday (March 17) showing Benjamin Netanyahu in a military command centre, appearing to direct a fresh wave of strikes against Iran. The move comes as the government aggressively pushes back against viral social media claims suggesting the Prime Minister had been killed or incapacitated. The image, captioned "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering the elimination of senior Iranian regime officials," depicts the leader in an active operational role. It follows days of intense online speculation, dubbed the "death buzz", which peaked over the weekend with unverified reports from Iranian state media and conspiracy theories involving "deepfake" AI videos. The release of the photo coincided with a major claim from the Israeli Defence Ministry that Ali Larijani, a top Iranian security official and former Speaker of Parliament, was killed in a targeted strike. While Iranian sources initially disputed the report, the IDF later declared Larijani "eliminated," describing him as a central figure in directing recent crackdowns. Proof of life campaign Israeli PMO’s strategy to debunk rumours has involved a flurry of public activity: Cafe Video: On Sunday, Netanyahu posted a casual video from a cafe near Jerusalem, joking about the rumours by saying he was "dying for coffee." Nowruz Message: On Monday, he recorded a direct address to the Iranian people, wishing them a "year of freedom" for the Persian New Year. Command Centre Photo: Tuesday’s photo is seen as the "hardest" proof of life yet, placing him at the helm of Operation Roaring Lion.

The image, captioned "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering the elimination of senior Iranian regime officials," depicts the leader in an active operational role.

Netanyahu 'ordering' Iran strikes in new command centre photo as Israel fights death rumours

India has dismissed the media reports which claimed that Iran has allowed the safe passage of Indian-flagged vessels through strait of Hormuz in exchange for the release of three tankers seized by New Delhi. Iran has effectively closed the key Strait, which accounts for shipping of nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply.&nbsp;Reuters, citing three sources familiar with the development, reported on Monday that Indian authorities seized these tankers, alleging that they masked or altered their identities while carrying out illegal ship-to-ship transfers at sea. The report mentioned that Indian authorities seized the tankers Asphalt Star, Al Jafzia and Stellar Ruby.&nbsp;Describing the reports as "baseless," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified during an inter-ministerial briefing that no such discussion has taken place. He further noted that the three tankers currently held off the coast of Mumbai are not Iranian-owned.&nbsp;Jaiswal highlighted that India is in talks with Tehran and other nations to secure the safe transit of ships which remain stuck in the Strait.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-stands-firm-as-west-asia-conflict-fails-to-dent-trade-momentum-piyush-goyal-1773747201092">India stands firm as West Asia conflict fails to dent trade momentum: Piyush Goyal</a>&nbsp;“Many of our ships are still stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. We plan to have talks with Iran and other countries so that those vessels can be brought back home safely,” he added.&nbsp; &nbsp;India has ramped up its diplomatic efforts in the region, especially with Tehran, to secure the supply of gas and oil through the strait. Iran has allowed only selected countries, including India, China, and Russia, as it clarified that the waterway is only closed for enemies and those supporting their aggression.&nbsp;Earlier today, an Indian LPG carrier, Nanda Devi, arrived at Vadinar port in Gujarat's Jamnagar, carrying 46,500 metric tonnes of LPG for ship-to-ship transfer at the anchorage after successfully passing through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;On Monday evening, the Indian carrier LPG Shivalik, carrying a total of 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas, arrived at Mundra Port. Of this, 20,000 MT will be unloaded at Mundra, while the remaining 26,000 MT is scheduled for Mangalore.&nbsp;There are now 22 Indian-flagged vessels remaining in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 611 seafarers.

India has ramped up its diplomatic efforts in the region, especially with Tehran, to secure the supply of gas and oil through the strait. Iran has allowed only selected countries, including India, China, and Russia, to transit through the waterway.

India has dismissed the media reports which claimed that Iran has allowed the safe passage of Indian-flagged vessels through strait of Hormuz in exchange for the release of three tankers seized by New Delhi. Iran has effectively closed the key Strait, which accounts for shipping of nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply. Reuters, citing three sources familiar with the development, reported on Monday that Indian authorities seized these tankers, alleging that they masked or altered their identities while carrying out illegal ship-to-ship transfers at sea. The report mentioned that Indian authorities seized the tankers Asphalt Star, Al Jafzia and Stellar Ruby. Describing the reports as "baseless," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified during an inter-ministerial briefing that no such discussion has taken place. He further noted that the three tankers currently held off the coast of Mumbai are not Iranian-owned. Jaiswal highlighted that India is in talks with Tehran and other nations to secure the safe transit of ships which remain stuck in the Strait. Also Read: India stands firm as West Asia conflict fails to dent trade momentum: Piyush Goyal “Many of our ships are still stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. We plan to have talks with Iran and other countries so that those vessels can be brought back home safely,” he added. India has ramped up its diplomatic efforts in the region, especially with Tehran, to secure the supply of gas and oil through the strait. Iran has allowed only selected countries, including India, China, and Russia, as it clarified that the waterway is only closed for enemies and those supporting their aggression. Earlier today, an Indian LPG carrier, Nanda Devi, arrived at Vadinar port in Gujarat's Jamnagar, carrying 46,500 metric tonnes of LPG for ship-to-ship transfer at the anchorage after successfully passing through the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday evening, the Indian carrier LPG Shivalik, carrying a total of 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas, arrived at Mundra Port. Of this, 20,000 MT will be unloaded at Mundra, while the remaining 26,000 MT is scheduled for Mangalore. There are now 22 Indian-flagged vessels remaining in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 611 seafarers.

India has ramped up its diplomatic efforts in the region, especially with Tehran, to secure the supply of gas and oil through the strait. Iran has allowed only selected countries, including India, China, and Russia, to transit through the waterway.

'Baseless': India denies tankar swap deal with Iran for Strait of Hormuz passage

Don Quixote, a great literary character, is a cautionary tale of a self-proclaimed hero acting on flawed perceptions, often influenced by misleading advice. Actions similar to his— going into battle with perceived enemies like windmills — are called ‘quixotic’. With no immediate end in sight, the Iran war is slowly proving that President Donald Trump and his administration may have made a series of quixotic mistakes. These include not understanding Iran’s resilience, misjudging the speed of victory, not anticipating that Tehran would expand the war into the Gulf region, failing to secure allies' support, and not taking into account the global consequences of a war in which the world economy itself became a weapon. Here are 20 reasons why Trump is proving to be a new-age Don Quixote:<h2>1. Bad advice and overconfidence</h2>Trump and his team, led by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, appear to have relied on overly optimistic assessments that downplayed the risks of war. Shortly before the war escalated, Energy Secretary Chris Wright dismissed fears of oil market disruption. Advisers reportedly ignored warnings of sustained Iranian economic retaliation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is said to have portrayed Iran’s regime as a fragile “house of cards” likely to collapse quickly under sustained bombardment. Some military officials’ cautions about Iran’s unwillingness to yield quickly were sidelined.<h2>2. Lack of domestic or allied nations' support</h2>The US struggled to secure backing from key allies, including those in Europe and members of the NATO military alliance. Trump’s requests for naval support to secure the Strait of Hormuz—including minesweepers and warships—were either declined or limited by partners such as the UK and Japan. Trump publicly criticised allies for a lack of reciprocity after decades of US security commitments. As he faces a midterm elections, both the Democrats and much of the American media are not enthused about the war, either.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-don-t-need-oil-on-day-18-of-war-trump-says-he-attacked-iran-to-save-other-countries-1773713367047">'We don't need oil': On Day 18 of war, Trump says he attacked Iran to...</a><h2>3. Iran regime change assumptions fail in the face of reality</h2>The US-Israeli strategy assumed that decapitation strikes—targeting top leadership and killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei—would lead to sudden regime collapse or capitulation. Instead, Iran replaced its leadership with a younger, more hardline figure, Mojtaba Khamenei. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continued operating effectively, often appearing independent of any central command structure. The regime suppressed internal unrest. Weeks into the conflict, there was no meaningful shift in control or regime change.<h2>4. Operational strains and military incidents</h2>Reports surfaced of a refuelling aircraft crashing in Iraq, the warship USS Abraham Lincoln suffering technical issues, and USS Gerald R Ford experiencing a fire while deployed in the Red Sea. Though not combat-related, these incidents exposed US operational strain during wartime deployment.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-iran-being-framed-abbas-araghchi-claims-trump-is-using-lucas-drones-that-match-shahed-perfectly-to-attack-arab-nations-1773580911417">Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations</a><h2>5. Iran’s economic warfare via the Strait of Hormuz</h2>US planners underestimated Iran’s ability to retaliate asymmetrically using its control of the Strait of Hormuz as leverage. Iran threatened tankers, laid mines, and launched selective drone strikes on oil infrastructure in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Targets included the Shah gas field near Abu Dhabi, the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, Fujairah oil terminal, and Saudi Aramco facilities. Iran also warned civilians to evacuate ports and forced a halt in Gulf shipping, leading to a surge in oil prices of over 40 per cent. US gasoline costs rose, while global energy, food, fertiliser markets, and freight transport were disrupted.<h2>6. Too much time spent on build-up gave Iran time to prepare</h2>For weeks, the US carried out a military build-up before striking Iran on February 28, even as talks were ongoing for what Trump described as a ‘deal’, primarily centred on Iran giving up nuclear weapons ambitions. The prolonged build-up allowed Iran to harden defences, hide or reposition military assets, and prepare asymmetric responses such as drone attacks.&nbsp;<h2>7. Underestimating Iran’s resilience and pain tolerance</h2>Iran, which has prepared for decades for such a conflict, demonstrated a high tolerance for sustained war. Its multi-layered governance and defence systems allowed continuity despite leadership losses. Treating the war as existential, Iran used sustained missile and drone attacks to deplete US, Israeli, and allied air defence systems.<h2>8. Misjudging war duration and costs involved</h2>The US has already spent tens of billions of dollars on the war effort, with costs continuing to rise. Officials initially estimated the war would end within four to five weeks, but it has already entered the third week. Trump is alternating between claims of victory and appeals for international assistance.&nbsp;<h2>9. Iran’s quick regional escalation was unexpected</h2>Trump indicated he had not been advised that Iran would attack neighbouring US allies in the Gulf. Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait were targeted, along with attempted drone attacks on the US embassy in Baghdad. Iran also disrupted regional infrastructure, including airports and urban centres.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/saudi-arabia-s-mbs-speaks-with-trump-regularly-urges-harsh-actions-against-iran-report-1773651226374">Saudi Arabia’s MBS speaks with Trump regularly, urges harsh actions against Iran: Report</a><h2>10. A global war already</h2>The conflict quickly had global consequences. Economic fallout affected US and international markets, and Washington was forced to ease restrictions on Russian oil exports to stabilise global supply.&nbsp;<h2>11. Iran's proxies keep the war simmering</h2>Hezbollah is engaging Israeli forces in Lebanon, while the Houthis in Yemen have threatened to disrupt shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the Red Sea chokepoint. With no boots on the ground in Iran from either the US or Israel, decisive battlefield victory remains elusive. The war has become multi-front rather than single-theatre.<h2>12. Iranian power structures are more entrenched than anticipated</h2>The war has further consolidated the Islamic Republic’s internal power. Public displays of support, including large turnouts during Quds Day rallies, highlight internal cohesion. This reduces the likelihood that external military pressure alone can produce decisive outcomes.<h2>13. Mismatch between military success and real outcomes</h2>Trump frequently claimed that Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities have been largely destroyed. However, continued US attacks—including on strategic locations such as Kharg Island—suggest otherwise. Iran’s missile-launching capability may be degraded, but it continues to launch attacks, indicating the presence of hidden or dispersed assets.<h2>14. Nuclear disarmament or military degradation — unclear objective</h2>The US and Israel entered the war with the stated aim of eliminating Iran’s nuclear weapons capability and missile arsenal. Neither objective has been fully achieved. Iran continues to insist on retaining its civilian nuclear programme, complicating negotiations and prolonging the conflict.<h2>15. Iran turned US military presence in Gulf into a vulnerability</h2>Iran’s attacks on US military bases in Gulf countries—often using low-cost drones—have exposed vulnerabilities in these high-value installations. This has made the US presence a liability for host nations, many of which have remained defensive rather than actively joining the conflict.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-slams-allies-over-hormuz-mission-cites-no-enthusiasm-wion-1773733486200/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-slams-allies-over-hormuz-mission-cites-no-enthusiasm-wion-1773733486200/embed</a><h2>16. The trap of the escalation ladder</h2>Both sides appear locked in an escalation cycle, unwilling to de-escalate, yet unable to deliver a decisive blow. Iran has steadily increased the cost of war, while US-Israeli strikes have not achieved a breakthrough, creating a prolonged stalemate.<h2>17. Global supply chain strain as a weapon</h2>From the Strait of Hormuz to regional airports, Iran’s calculated targeting has created logistical disruptions. Missile and drone attacks have affected global supply chains, impacting everything from energy shipments to manufactured goods and food distribution.<h2>18. Cyberwar and non-traditional warfare opened new fronts</h2>Iran-linked groups have conducted cyberattacks on infrastructure and institutions, adding a significant cyber warfare dimension. Information warfare has also intensified, including control over domestic internet systems. These multiple fronts complicate the definition of victory.<h2>19. Economic interdependence limits decisive action</h2>Global oil market volatility, inflation risks, and energy supply disruptions have put pressure on all sides to avoid extreme escalation. As a result, neither side is pursuing total war, contributing to a prolonged stalemate.<h2>20. Iran’s ability to strike Israel over long distances</h2>Iran has demonstrated the capability to strike Israel from thousands of kilometres away. Some missile and drone attacks have penetrated Israeli air defence systems and landed within Israeli territory, exposing vulnerabilities despite the geographical distance.Don Quixote had an adviser, Sancho Panza, who often protected him—even by giving misleading information to prevent reckless actions. The question remains whether Trump received sound advice. Did his aides, including son-in-law Jared Kushner, mislead him on the Iran war? Whatever the case, Trump may ultimately need to rely on his dealmaking approach to end the conflict through negotiations rather than prolonged warfare.

The Iran war is slowly exposing US miscalculations—from overconfidence and weak allied backing to Iran’s resilience, proxy warfare and economic disruption. With no decisive victory in sight, is this turning out to be a quixotic excursion for Trump?

Don Quixote, a great literary character, is a cautionary tale of a self-proclaimed hero acting on flawed perceptions, often influenced by misleading advice. Actions similar to his— going into battle with perceived enemies like windmills — are called ‘quixotic’. With no immediate end in sight, the Iran war is slowly proving that President Donald Trump and his administration may have made a series of quixotic mistakes. These include not understanding Iran’s resilience, misjudging the speed of victory, not anticipating that Tehran would expand the war into the Gulf region, failing to secure allies' support, and not taking into account the global consequences of a war in which the world economy itself became a weapon. Here are 20 reasons why Trump is proving to be a new-age Don Quixote: 1. Bad advice and overconfidence Trump and his team, led by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, appear to have relied on overly optimistic assessments that downplayed the risks of war. Shortly before the war escalated, Energy Secretary Chris Wright dismissed fears of oil market disruption. Advisers reportedly ignored warnings of sustained Iranian economic retaliation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is said to have portrayed Iran’s regime as a fragile “house of cards” likely to collapse quickly under sustained bombardment. Some military officials’ cautions about Iran’s unwillingness to yield quickly were sidelined. 2. Lack of domestic or allied nations' support The US struggled to secure backing from key allies, including those in Europe and members of the NATO military alliance. Trump’s requests for naval support to secure the Strait of Hormuz—including minesweepers and warships—were either declined or limited by partners such as the UK and Japan. Trump publicly criticised allies for a lack of reciprocity after decades of US security commitments. As he faces a midterm elections, both the Democrats and much of the American media are not enthused about the war, either. Also read: 'We don't need oil': On Day 18 of war, Trump says he attacked Iran to... 3. Iran regime change assumptions fail in the face of reality The US-Israeli strategy assumed that decapitation strikes—targeting top leadership and killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei—would lead to sudden regime collapse or capitulation. Instead, Iran replaced its leadership with a younger, more hardline figure, Mojtaba Khamenei. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continued operating effectively, often appearing independent of any central command structure. The regime suppressed internal unrest. Weeks into the conflict, there was no meaningful shift in control or regime change. 4. Operational strains and military incidents Reports surfaced of a refuelling aircraft crashing in Iraq, the warship USS Abraham Lincoln suffering technical issues, and USS Gerald R Ford experiencing a fire while deployed in the Red Sea. Though not combat-related, these incidents exposed US operational strain during wartime deployment. Also read: Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations 5. Iran’s economic warfare via the Strait of Hormuz US planners underestimated Iran’s ability to retaliate asymmetrically using its control of the Strait of Hormuz as leverage. Iran threatened tankers, laid mines, and launched selective drone strikes on oil infrastructure in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Targets included the Shah gas field near Abu Dhabi, the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, Fujairah oil terminal, and Saudi Aramco facilities. Iran also warned civilians to evacuate ports and forced a halt in Gulf shipping, leading to a surge in oil prices of over 40 per cent. US gasoline costs rose, while global energy, food, fertiliser markets, and freight transport were disrupted. 6. Too much time spent on build-up gave Iran time to prepare For weeks, the US carried out a military build-up before striking Iran on February 28, even as talks were ongoing for what Trump described as a ‘deal’, primarily centred on Iran giving up nuclear weapons ambitions. The prolonged build-up allowed Iran to harden defences, hide or reposition military assets, and prepare asymmetric responses such as drone attacks. 7. Underestimating Iran’s resilience and pain tolerance Iran, which has prepared for decades for such a conflict, demonstrated a high tolerance for sustained war. Its multi-layered governance and defence systems allowed continuity despite leadership losses. Treating the war as existential, Iran used sustained missile and drone attacks to deplete US, Israeli, and allied air defence systems. 8. Misjudging war duration and costs involved The US has already spent tens of billions of dollars on the war effort, with costs continuing to rise. Officials initially estimated the war would end within four to five weeks, but it has already entered the third week. Trump is alternating between claims of victory and appeals for international assistance. 9. Iran’s quick regional escalation was unexpected Trump indicated he had not been advised that Iran would attack neighbouring US allies in the Gulf. Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait were targeted, along with attempted drone attacks on the US embassy in Baghdad. Iran also disrupted regional infrastructure, including airports and urban centres. Also read: Saudi Arabia’s MBS speaks with Trump regularly, urges harsh actions against Iran: Report 10. A global war already The conflict quickly had global consequences. Economic fallout affected US and international markets, and Washington was forced to ease restrictions on Russian oil exports to stabilise global supply. 11. Iran's proxies keep the war simmering Hezbollah is engaging Israeli forces in Lebanon, while the Houthis in Yemen have threatened to disrupt shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the Red Sea chokepoint. With no boots on the ground in Iran from either the US or Israel, decisive battlefield victory remains elusive. The war has become multi-front rather than single-theatre. 12. Iranian power structures are more entrenched than anticipated The war has further consolidated the Islamic Republic’s internal power. Public displays of support, including large turnouts during Quds Day rallies, highlight internal cohesion. This reduces the likelihood that external military pressure alone can produce decisive outcomes. 13. Mismatch between military success and real outcomes Trump frequently claimed that Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities have been largely destroyed. However, continued US attacks—including on strategic locations such as Kharg Island—suggest otherwise. Iran’s missile-launching capability may be degraded, but it continues to launch attacks, indicating the presence of hidden or dispersed assets. 14. Nuclear disarmament or military degradation — unclear objective The US and Israel entered the war with the stated aim of eliminating Iran’s nuclear weapons capability and missile arsenal. Neither objective has been fully achieved. Iran continues to insist on retaining its civilian nuclear programme, complicating negotiations and prolonging the conflict. 15. Iran turned US military presence in Gulf into a vulnerability Iran’s attacks on US military bases in Gulf countries—often using low-cost drones—have exposed vulnerabilities in these high-value installations. This has made the US presence a liability for host nations, many of which have remained defensive rather than actively joining the conflict. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-slams-allies-over-hormuz-mission-cites-no-enthusiasm-wion-1773733486200/embed 16. The trap of the escalation ladder Both sides appear locked in an escalation cycle, unwilling to de-escalate, yet unable to deliver a decisive blow. Iran has steadily increased the cost of war, while US-Israeli strikes have not achieved a breakthrough, creating a prolonged stalemate. 17. Global supply chain strain as a weapon From the Strait of Hormuz to regional airports, Iran’s calculated targeting has created logistical disruptions. Missile and drone attacks have affected global supply chains, impacting everything from energy shipments to manufactured goods and food distribution. 18. Cyberwar and non-traditional warfare opened new fronts Iran-linked groups have conducted cyberattacks on infrastructure and institutions, adding a significant cyber warfare dimension. Information warfare has also intensified, including control over domestic internet systems. These multiple fronts complicate the definition of victory. 19. Economic interdependence limits decisive action Global oil market volatility, inflation risks, and energy supply disruptions have put pressure on all sides to avoid extreme escalation. As a result, neither side is pursuing total war, contributing to a prolonged stalemate. 20. Iran’s ability to strike Israel over long distances Iran has demonstrated the capability to strike Israel from thousands of kilometres away. Some missile and drone attacks have penetrated Israeli air defence systems and landed within Israeli territory, exposing vulnerabilities despite the geographical distance. Don Quixote had an adviser, Sancho Panza, who often protected him—even by giving misleading information to prevent reckless actions. The question remains whether Trump received sound advice. Did his aides, including son-in-law Jared Kushner, mislead him on the Iran war? Whatever the case, Trump may ultimately need to rely on his dealmaking approach to end the conflict through negotiations rather than prolonged warfare.

The Iran war is slowly exposing US miscalculations—from overconfidence and weak allied backing to Iran’s resilience, proxy warfare and economic disruption. With no decisive victory in sight, is this turning out to be a quixotic excursion for Trump?

Donald Quixote? Iran is no windmill- 20 reasons why Trump may have been misled by advisors, allies about winning the war

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu shared a new video wishing Iranians on Nowruz, amid ongoing rumours about his death after alleged Iranian strikes. Despite official denials and verified appearances, speculation continues online, fuelled by AI claims, misinformation, and wartime narratives.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu shared a new video wishing Iranians on Nowruz, amid ongoing rumours about his death after alleged Iranian strikes. Despite official denials and verified appearances, speculation continues online, fuelled by AI claims, misinformation, and wartime narratives.

'Is this fake too?' Netanyahu sends message to 'brave people of Iran' in new video amid AI and death rumours

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 16) said that the US did not attack Iran for oil, adding that he wants a secure Strait of Hormuz because of other countries. Speaking at a press conference, the POTUS said that he wants to save other countries as they get their oil from the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after Trump reached out to allies and several other nations to help the US in securing the strategic passage.&nbsp;“We don't need oil. We have all the oil we need for ourselves. Its one of the great asset that we have. We have doubled, more than double, what anybody else, in terms of oil production than any other country...so we don't need it. But, we did it because we have some good allies there...you can almost say we didn't, it happened. We have some great Middle Eastern countries there, Israel there, so we did it for a lot of reason but it always remains there that we did it. We never asked for reimbursement and we were really there to save other countries, not us.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-5-finger-cafe-video-to-quash-death-rumours-sparks-new-ai-claims-coffee-shop-shares-pics-1773634898670">Netanyahu’s '5 finger' cafe video to quash death rumours sparks new AI claims</a>&nbsp;Speaking about the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said that several major economies benefit from US actions because they rely on energy routes that pass through the passage. “China should be thanking us. Japan should be thanking us. South Korea as well. All these countries get 90 per cent of their energy through the Straits," Trump said while expressing disappointment with US allies, particularly members of NATO for not helping the country in securing the Hormuz. “Problem with NATO is we are always there for them, but they are never there for you," he added. An agitated Trump, holding a model of a Northrop Grumman B‑2 Spirit bomber, further added, &nbsp;the US doesn’t “need anybody” to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Before a meeting of the Kennedy Center board on Monday afternoon, Trump said “numerous countries have told me they’re on the way” to secure the strait, but declined to provide details, adding that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would let everyone know.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-something-will-happen-cuba-next-after-iran-war-trump-s-statement-sparks-speculations-1773632770257">'Something will happen...': Cuba next after Iran war? Trump's statement sparks speculations</a><h2>Trump's Strait of Hormuz request</h2>Trump had asked several countries including China, Japan and South Korea to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, that is world's strategic chokepoint for oil and energy passage. Despite Trump’s demands, no country has publicly committed to sending naval vessels to help protect shipping through the strait. Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced in the Parliament that she has not “made any decisions whatsoever about dispatching ​escort ships. We are continuing to examine...what can be done ⁠within the legal framework.” Australia's transport minister said that the country won't be sending a navy ship to the Strait of Hormuz. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told reporters he did not see a role for NATO in the matter. The EU’s foreign minister Kaja Kallas said that “for the time being, there was no appetite in changing the mandate of the operation.” In a separate press conference on Monday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his country will not be drawn into a “wider war." The US president told The Financial Times on Sunday that it would be "very bad for the future of NATO" if the allies refused to help.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Trump said the US did not attack Iran for oil, stressing the need to secure the Strait of Hormuz for allies dependent on the route. He urged countries like China and Japan to contribute, but key partners have not committed, raising questions over global cooperation.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 16) said that the US did not attack Iran for oil, adding that he wants a secure Strait of Hormuz because of other countries. Speaking at a press conference, the POTUS said that he wants to save other countries as they get their oil from the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after Trump reached out to allies and several other nations to help the US in securing the strategic passage. “We don't need oil. We have all the oil we need for ourselves. Its one of the great asset that we have. We have doubled, more than double, what anybody else, in terms of oil production than any other country...so we don't need it. But, we did it because we have some good allies there...you can almost say we didn't, it happened. We have some great Middle Eastern countries there, Israel there, so we did it for a lot of reason but it always remains there that we did it. We never asked for reimbursement and we were really there to save other countries, not us.” Also Read: Netanyahu’s '5 finger' cafe video to quash death rumours sparks new AI claims Speaking about the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said that several major economies benefit from US actions because they rely on energy routes that pass through the passage. “China should be thanking us. Japan should be thanking us. South Korea as well. All these countries get 90 per cent of their energy through the Straits," Trump said while expressing disappointment with US allies, particularly members of NATO for not helping the country in securing the Hormuz. “Problem with NATO is we are always there for them, but they are never there for you," he added. An agitated Trump, holding a model of a Northrop Grumman B‑2 Spirit bomber, further added, the US doesn’t “need anybody” to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Before a meeting of the Kennedy Center board on Monday afternoon, Trump said “numerous countries have told me they’re on the way” to secure the strait, but declined to provide details, adding that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would let everyone know. Also Read: 'Something will happen...': Cuba next after Iran war? Trump's statement sparks speculations Trump's Strait of Hormuz request Trump had asked several countries including China, Japan and South Korea to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, that is world's strategic chokepoint for oil and energy passage. Despite Trump’s demands, no country has publicly committed to sending naval vessels to help protect shipping through the strait. Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced in the Parliament that she has not “made any decisions whatsoever about dispatching escort ships. We are continuing to examine...what can be done ⁠within the legal framework.” Australia's transport minister said that the country won't be sending a navy ship to the Strait of Hormuz. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told reporters he did not see a role for NATO in the matter. The EU’s foreign minister Kaja Kallas said that “for the time being, there was no appetite in changing the mandate of the operation.” In a separate press conference on Monday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his country will not be drawn into a “wider war." The US president told The Financial Times on Sunday that it would be "very bad for the future of NATO" if the allies refused to help. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Trump said the US did not attack Iran for oil, stressing the need to secure the Strait of Hormuz for allies dependent on the route. He urged countries like China and Japan to contribute, but key partners have not committed, raising questions over global cooperation.

'We don't need oil': On Day 18 of war, Trump says he attacked Iran to...

Iran is probably winning the cost asymmetry of the current conflict with Israel and the US. One example is the claims that a suicide drone from Iran reportedly destroyed a billion-dollar radar in Qatar, operated by the US to help friendly Gulf states in intercepting incoming projectiles. Here is why it matters.<h2>When a $20,000 Shahed drone attacked a billion-dollar radar</h2>Now, let us take the reports with a pinch of salt. Some say a Shahed-series kamikaze drone from Iran, which costs as little as $20,000 per unit, struck the AN/FPS-132 Block 5 Upgraded Early Warning Radar (UEWR) at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Other reports say it was a costlier Iranian missile that hit the radar. There are also reports that it was a combined drone-missile attack.One thing is more or less certain: The UEWR did suffer severe damage.Operated by the US Space Force, this radar is a critical component for ballistic missile early warning and tracking across the Middle East. It feeds data into integrated US and allied interception systems such as THAAD and Patriot batteries, which are used by some Gulf nations to intercept incoming projectiles from Iran.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-israel-iran-war-live-updates-donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-ali-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-assembly-of-experts-march-2026-1772669756946">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Jaishankar speaks with Iranian FM Aragchi again, as West Asia war escalates</a><h2>How badly hit was the US radar in Qatar?</h2>Claims vary, as Iranian state media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed the radar was “completely destroyed”. However, American and independent assessments described it as ‘significantly damaged’. One or more phased-array panels of the radar were reportedly lost, making it inoperable or severely degraded without immediate repairs. Satellite imagery appeared to show visible impact damage.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-dismantles-iranian-spy-cells-amid-rising-gulf-tension-1772583273183/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-dismantles-iranian-spy-cells-amid-rising-gulf-tension-1772583273183/embed</a><h2>The operating cost of the Qatar radar was over $1 billion</h2>According to multiple reports, the AN/FPS-132 UEWR system is worth around $1.1 billion, including development, deployment, training and operational costs.This estimate is only for the radar component. Associated interception systems, such as THAAD missile batteries, can add $1–1.8 billion per unit when integrated with the radar.<h2>How was the Qatar radar being used by Gulf states for collective defence against Iran?</h2>The radar hosted by Qatar at Al Udeid Air Base provides early warning and tracking data for ballistic missiles over a range of up to 5,000 km, supporting US Central Command (CENTCOM) operations and allied defences in the Persian Gulf region.The radar helps Qatar and several other Gulf countries by integrating with their air defence networks, which in turn rely on it for direct early warning against Iranian threats to airspace and infrastructure.The United Arab Emirates (UAE) uses data from the radar for its THAAD and Patriot missile defence systems to intercept projectiles from Iran. In recent days, hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones targeting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and oil facilities of UAE have reportedly been intercepted with the help of this radar.The radar is critical for Saudi Arabia, helping it defend Riyadh, Jeddah, and eastern oil fields, integrating with US-supplied Patriot missiles to counter ballistic missiles.In Bahrain, the radar supports US Naval Forces Central Command and aids in intercepting threats to Manama and naval assets in the Gulf.To a lesser extent, the radar provides regional coverage for Kuwait and Oman, mainly for border defence and the security of oil export routes, primarily through data sharing.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-launches-fresh-retaliatory-strikes-on-israel-us-bases-in-dubai-qatar-iraq-bahrain-1772349293169">Iran launches fresh retaliatory strikes on Israel, US bases in Dubai, Qatar, Iraq, Bahrain, Oman</a><h2>The cost arbitrage of the war: Why the damage to US-supplied radar matters</h2>The cost asymmetry of this warfare - as seen in the radar attack - could eventually be a deciding factor in how long it drags on and who wins.&nbsp;Iran has essentially used cheap, mass-produced drones and missiles to overwhelm or bypass high-cost US defences. For instance, the Patriot missiles used by some Gulf states in their interceptor systems cost about $4 million each.&nbsp;There are already reports that many missile interceptors in the Gulf states— for which the Qatar radar is a crucial early warning system — have been depleted.&nbsp;This raises questions about how dependable current air defence networks are.The loss of the Qatar radar will reduce real-time detection capabilities for ballistic threats. This could embolden Iran and its proxies. Damage to or destruction of the radar also puts pressure on Gulf allies to seek an immediate ceasefire even as their interceptor stockpiles are depleting. At the current usage rate, Qatar’s Patriot missiles could last only a few more days, according to some reports.Doubts are now being raised about the effectiveness of US-supplied missile shields against 'saturation attacks' by Iran.The US has sold billions of dollars’ worth of these missile defence systems to Gulf states over the past decades. But it appears that it's a costly solution that can be breached by a cheap projectile such as an Iranian drone.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An Iranian strike damaged the $1.1 billion US radar at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. This is highlighting the cost asymmetry of the conflict, where cheap drones or missiles can threaten expensive missile defence systems.

Iran is probably winning the cost asymmetry of the current conflict with Israel and the US. One example is the claims that a suicide drone from Iran reportedly destroyed a billion-dollar radar in Qatar, operated by the US to help friendly Gulf states in intercepting incoming projectiles. Here is why it matters. When a $20,000 Shahed drone attacked a billion-dollar radar Now, let us take the reports with a pinch of salt. Some say a Shahed-series kamikaze drone from Iran, which costs as little as $20,000 per unit, struck the AN/FPS-132 Block 5 Upgraded Early Warning Radar (UEWR) at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Other reports say it was a costlier Iranian missile that hit the radar. There are also reports that it was a combined drone-missile attack. One thing is more or less certain: The UEWR did suffer severe damage. Operated by the US Space Force, this radar is a critical component for ballistic missile early warning and tracking across the Middle East. It feeds data into integrated US and allied interception systems such as THAAD and Patriot batteries, which are used by some Gulf nations to intercept incoming projectiles from Iran. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Jaishankar speaks with Iranian FM Aragchi again, as West Asia war escalates How badly hit was the US radar in Qatar? Claims vary, as Iranian state media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed the radar was “completely destroyed”. However, American and independent assessments described it as ‘significantly damaged’. One or more phased-array panels of the radar were reportedly lost, making it inoperable or severely degraded without immediate repairs. Satellite imagery appeared to show visible impact damage. https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-dismantles-iranian-spy-cells-amid-rising-gulf-tension-1772583273183/embed The operating cost of the Qatar radar was over $1 billion According to multiple reports, the AN/FPS-132 UEWR system is worth around $1.1 billion, including development, deployment, training and operational costs. This estimate is only for the radar component. Associated interception systems, such as THAAD missile batteries, can add $1–1.8 billion per unit when integrated with the radar. How was the Qatar radar being used by Gulf states for collective defence against Iran? The radar hosted by Qatar at Al Udeid Air Base provides early warning and tracking data for ballistic missiles over a range of up to 5,000 km, supporting US Central Command (CENTCOM) operations and allied defences in the Persian Gulf region. The radar helps Qatar and several other Gulf countries by integrating with their air defence networks, which in turn rely on it for direct early warning against Iranian threats to airspace and infrastructure. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) uses data from the radar for its THAAD and Patriot missile defence systems to intercept projectiles from Iran. In recent days, hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones targeting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and oil facilities of UAE have reportedly been intercepted with the help of this radar. The radar is critical for Saudi Arabia, helping it defend Riyadh, Jeddah, and eastern oil fields, integrating with US-supplied Patriot missiles to counter ballistic missiles. In Bahrain, the radar supports US Naval Forces Central Command and aids in intercepting threats to Manama and naval assets in the Gulf. To a lesser extent, the radar provides regional coverage for Kuwait and Oman, mainly for border defence and the security of oil export routes, primarily through data sharing. Also read: Iran launches fresh retaliatory strikes on Israel, US bases in Dubai, Qatar, Iraq, Bahrain, Oman The cost arbitrage of the war: Why the damage to US-supplied radar matters The cost asymmetry of this warfare - as seen in the radar attack - could eventually be a deciding factor in how long it drags on and who wins. Iran has essentially used cheap, mass-produced drones and missiles to overwhelm or bypass high-cost US defences. For instance, the Patriot missiles used by some Gulf states in their interceptor systems cost about $4 million each. There are already reports that many missile interceptors in the Gulf states— for which the Qatar radar is a crucial early warning system — have been depleted. This raises questions about how dependable current air defence networks are. The loss of the Qatar radar will reduce real-time detection capabilities for ballistic threats. This could embolden Iran and its proxies. Damage to or destruction of the radar also puts pressure on Gulf allies to seek an immediate ceasefire even as their interceptor stockpiles are depleting. At the current usage rate, Qatar’s Patriot missiles could last only a few more days, according to some reports. Doubts are now being raised about the effectiveness of US-supplied missile shields against 'saturation attacks' by Iran. The US has sold billions of dollars’ worth of these missile defence systems to Gulf states over the past decades. But it appears that it's a costly solution that can be breached by a cheap projectile such as an Iranian drone. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An Iranian strike damaged the $1.1 billion US radar at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. This is highlighting the cost asymmetry of the conflict, where cheap drones or missiles can threaten expensive missile defence systems.

Iran's $20,000 drone struck $1.1 billion US radar that helps Gulf nations intercept missiles? Why it matters

Russia on Thursday accused the United States and Israel of trying to drag Arab countries into a wider Middle East conflict by “provoking” Iran into striking at targets across the region. “They deliberately provoked Iran into retaliatory strikes against targets in some Arab countries, which led to human and material losses, which the Russian side deeply regrets,” said Russia’s Foreign Ministry.“In doing so, they are trying to drag the Arabs into a war for someone else’s interests,” the foreign ministry said in a statement issued on Thursday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-to-enter-war-iranian-drones-target-airport-govt-warns-of-retaliation-1772700456899">Azerbaijan to enter war? Iranian drones hit airport, govt warns of retaliation | VIDEO</a>&nbsp;The Russian foreign ministry further said that the only way to prevent the Middle East from being further destabilised is to stop the “aggression” of the US and Israel but added that there are no signs for now that the two “aggressors” will halt their strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>NATO now being drawn into war against Iran: Lavrov</h2>&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Thursday that NATO is now being drawn into the US-Israeli war with Iran and compared it to similar attempts made in Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-operation-epic-fury-a-desperation-move-by-trump-to-win-the-us-midterms-ex-us-commander-says-1772698348173">Is Operation Epic Fury a 'desperation move' by Trump to win the US midterms? Ex US commander says...</a>&nbsp;“It happened in Ukraine, and it’s happening now in the Middle East. It’s telling that NATO, just as it’s been drawn into Ukrainian affairs for a long time, is now being drawn into the war unleashed by the US and Israel against Iran,” Lavrov said Thursday during an ambassadorial roundtable on resolving the situation around Ukraine, reported the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-race-against-time-can-us-s-patriot-thaad-missiles-outlast-iran-s-shahed-drone-swarms-top-military-commander-warns-1772691101439">Can US' Patriot interceptors outlast Iran’ Shahed drones? Top Cmdr warns..</a>&nbsp;The US and Israel launched an operation against Iran on Saturday, killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the country’s top political and military leadership. Tel Aviv said that its goal is to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The United States called on the country’s citizens to overthrow the regime. Retaliating to the strikes, Iran has been striking US military facilities and consulates in Gulf countries besides targeting Israel.

The Russian foreign ministry alleged on Thursday that the US and Israel are trying to drag Arab nations into a war for someone else’s interests. It added that the only way to prevent the Middle East from being further destabilised is to stop the “aggression” of the US and Israel.

Russia on Thursday accused the United States and Israel of trying to drag Arab countries into a wider Middle East conflict by “provoking” Iran into striking at targets across the region. “They deliberately provoked Iran into retaliatory strikes against targets in some Arab countries, which led to human and material losses, which the Russian side deeply regrets,” said Russia’s Foreign Ministry. “In doing so, they are trying to drag the Arabs into a war for someone else’s interests,” the foreign ministry said in a statement issued on Thursday. Also Read: Azerbaijan to enter war? Iranian drones hit airport, govt warns of retaliation | VIDEO The Russian foreign ministry further said that the only way to prevent the Middle East from being further destabilised is to stop the “aggression” of the US and Israel but added that there are no signs for now that the two “aggressors” will halt their strikes. NATO now being drawn into war against Iran: Lavrov Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Thursday that NATO is now being drawn into the US-Israeli war with Iran and compared it to similar attempts made in Ukraine. Also Read: Is Operation Epic Fury a 'desperation move' by Trump to win the US midterms? Ex US commander says... “It happened in Ukraine, and it’s happening now in the Middle East. It’s telling that NATO, just as it’s been drawn into Ukrainian affairs for a long time, is now being drawn into the war unleashed by the US and Israel against Iran,” Lavrov said Thursday during an ambassadorial roundtable on resolving the situation around Ukraine, reported the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. Also read | Can US' Patriot interceptors outlast Iran’ Shahed drones? Top Cmdr warns.. The US and Israel launched an operation against Iran on Saturday, killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the country’s top political and military leadership. Tel Aviv said that its goal is to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The United States called on the country’s citizens to overthrow the regime. Retaliating to the strikes, Iran has been striking US military facilities and consulates in Gulf countries besides targeting Israel.

The Russian foreign ministry alleged on Thursday that the US and Israel are trying to drag Arab nations into a war for someone else’s interests. It added that the only way to prevent the Middle East from being further destabilised is to stop the “aggression” of the US and Israel.

Russia accuses US and Israel of trying to drag Arab countries into wider Middle East conflict

Israel had a firm backing of the US in its joint operation against Iran. US counterpart Pete Hegseth had strongly backed the joint campaign and urged Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz to continue the operation "to the end.” A statement released by the Israeli minister's office on Thursday after an overnight conversation between Hegseth and Katz said, &nbsp;"The Secretary of Defense said: 'Keep going to the end -- we are with you.'"&nbsp;Katz also took to X to warn Iran that its next supreme leader “will be a target for elimination” if he continues to threaten Israel, the US and others.&nbsp;While Iran on Wednesday (Mar 4) rubbished reports that Mojtaba Khamenei has been named as the nation's Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Khamenei's assassination in joint United States-Israel strikes. Issuing a statement via the Consulate General in Mumbai, the Iranian Government on X dismissed media reports on the supposed succession.&nbsp;Earlier, media reports suggested that Mojtaba Khamenei had been selected to succeed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, now the Iranian government, in an X post made via its Consulate General in Mumbai, rubbished the succession claims. It said that the "reports circulating on media regarding potential candidates for leadership selected by Iran's Assembly of Experts have no official source and are officially denied."&nbsp;WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 4) rubbished reports that Mojtaba Khamenei has been named as the nations Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Khameneis assassination in joint United States-Israel strikes.

Israel had a firm backing of the US in its joint operation against Iran. US counterpart Pete Hegseth had strongly backed the joint campaign and urged Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz to continue the operation "to the end.” A statement released by the Israeli minister's office on Thursday after an overnight conversation between Hegseth and Katz said, "The Secretary of Defense said: 'Keep going to the end -- we are with you.'" Katz also took to X to warn Iran that its next supreme leader “will be a target for elimination” if he continues to threaten Israel, the US and others. While Iran on Wednesday (Mar 4) rubbished reports that Mojtaba Khamenei has been named as the nation's Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Khamenei's assassination in joint United States-Israel strikes. Issuing a statement via the Consulate General in Mumbai, the Iranian Government on X dismissed media reports on the supposed succession. Earlier, media reports suggested that Mojtaba Khamenei had been selected to succeed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, now the Iranian government, in an X post made via its Consulate General in Mumbai, rubbished the succession claims. It said that the "reports circulating on media regarding potential candidates for leadership selected by Iran's Assembly of Experts have no official source and are officially denied." WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 4) rubbished reports that Mojtaba Khamenei has been named as the nation's Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Khamenei's assassination in joint United States-Israel strikes.

'Keep going to the end': US backed Israel for the joint strike against Iran

Iranian forces on Thursday (Mar 5) denied firing any missile towards Turkey, saying that it respects the sovereignty of its neighbouring and friendly country, according to a statement carried by state media. This comes after Turkish officials said on Wednesday that a ballistic missile launched from Iran towards its airspace via Iraq and Syria was destroyed by NATO air defence systems.In a call with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Iran was only targeting US and Israeli bases and facilities in the region “used to plan and execute aggressive operations against Iran,” according to IRIB, Iran’s state broadcaster.This comes after the Turkish defence ministry said on Wednesday that a missile fired by Iran towards the country had been “engaged and neutralised by NATO air-and-missile defence assets deployed in the eastern Mediterranean.”The fragments of the interceptor used to neutralise “the threat in the air” fell in the Dortyol district in southern Turkey, near the Syrian border, the officials said. No casualties were reported in the incident.A Turkish official told AFP that the missile had been “aimed at a base in Greek Cyprus but veered off course”.‘Unacceptable’Reacting to the incident, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a call with Fidan “that attacks on Turkey’s sovereign territory were unacceptable and pledged full support from the United States,” according to State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott.NATO also condemned the incident, saying, “NATO stands firmly with all allies, including Turkiye, as Iran continues its indiscriminate attacks across the region.”“Our deterrence and defence posture remains strong across all domains, including when it comes to air and missile defence,” NATO spokeswoman Allison Hart said.This comes after the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran on Saturday (Feb 28), killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.Khamenei’s death was confirmed on March 1, with Iran vowing strong revenge over the killing of its supreme leader and warning that US bases in the region would be treated as American territory. Gulf states have cautioned against further escalation, even as Washington and Tel Aviv signal that operations could continue for weeks.As the conflict escalates, Iran-aligned groups have joined the fight. International leaders have called for de-escalation as some condemned the US-led action, while most NATO allies voiced support for Washington.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran denied firing any missile towards Turkey after Ankara’s claim that a ballistic missile from Iran was intercepted by NATO air defences after crossing Iraq and Syria.

Iranian forces on Thursday (Mar 5) denied firing any missile towards Turkey, saying that it respects the sovereignty of its neighbouring and friendly country, according to a statement carried by state media. This comes after Turkish officials said on Wednesday that a ballistic missile launched from Iran towards its airspace via Iraq and Syria was destroyed by NATO air defence systems. In a call with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Iran was only targeting US and Israeli bases and facilities in the region “used to plan and execute aggressive operations against Iran,” according to IRIB, Iran’s state broadcaster. This comes after the Turkish defence ministry said on Wednesday that a missile fired by Iran towards the country had been “engaged and neutralised by NATO air-and-missile defence assets deployed in the eastern Mediterranean.” The fragments of the interceptor used to neutralise “the threat in the air” fell in the Dortyol district in southern Turkey, near the Syrian border, the officials said. No casualties were reported in the incident. A Turkish official told AFP that the missile had been “aimed at a base in Greek Cyprus but veered off course”. ‘Unacceptable’ Reacting to the incident, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a call with Fidan “that attacks on Turkey’s sovereign territory were unacceptable and pledged full support from the United States,” according to State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott. NATO also condemned the incident, saying, “NATO stands firmly with all allies, including Turkiye, as Iran continues its indiscriminate attacks across the region.” “Our deterrence and defence posture remains strong across all domains, including when it comes to air and missile defence,” NATO spokeswoman Allison Hart said. This comes after the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran on Saturday (Feb 28), killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. Khamenei’s death was confirmed on March 1, with Iran vowing strong revenge over the killing of its supreme leader and warning that US bases in the region would be treated as American territory. Gulf states have cautioned against further escalation, even as Washington and Tel Aviv signal that operations could continue for weeks. As the conflict escalates, Iran-aligned groups have joined the fight. International leaders have called for de-escalation as some condemned the US-led action, while most NATO allies voiced support for Washington. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran denied firing any missile towards Turkey after Ankara’s claim that a ballistic missile from Iran was intercepted by NATO air defences after crossing Iraq and Syria.

Did Iran fire missile at Turkey? Tehran responds after NATO shoots down ‘air threat’

It is very clear that Iran of 2026 is not Iraq of 2003. No large groups of protesters against the regime have gathered in Tehran's Azadi Square with claims to form the next government, five days after US-Israeli bombing. There is no sign of a new government, other than the Islamic Republic. At best, people are confused, afraid and keeping a low profile. &nbsp;As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, the US and Israel have bombed out the entire negotiating table, leaving nobody to take charge of the nation. The US is appealing to ethnic groups such as the Kurds to take the fight forward in their respective regions against the still-entrenched Iranian forces to help complete the transition into a new regime. But how good is that idea?&nbsp;<h2>Best alternatives to current Iranian leadership are already gone in Israeli strikes</h2>US President Donald Trump himself said that the second and third options for leadership transition are gone. This is because, the first day of the current conflict saw Israel “take out” much of the leadership of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This could frustrate any future efforts to bring in a semblance of security, safety and stability. Added to this is the Israeli threat that any new Supreme Leader would also be a target for assassination.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed</a><h2>Iran is not a simple puzzle to crack, it's a vast nation&nbsp;</h2>Iran is a vast nation with huge resources, including oil. With its control over much of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has long played a key role in global commerce. Surprisingly, Iran is still standing in spite of the decapitation strikes by the US and Israel. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, repeatedly said he is ready to take Iran into a new phase of transition, but neither Trump nor Israel appears interested in backing him. Even the last Shah’s widow urged caution and warned against plunging the country into chaos, saying Iran must not be allowed to descend into bloodshed and fragmentation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-arming-militias-to-overthrow-iran-regime-wants-somebody-from-within-report-1772599622355">Trump’s 'Operation Epic Fury' targets Tehran: Is a US-backed militia the key to ending the Iran war?</a><h2>Iran today is not like Iraq in 2003: Not many cheering for the US or Israel or the fall of a regime</h2>When the US invaded Saddam Hussein’s Iraq in 2003, many people there rejoiced. But in Iran today, there is no comparable atmosphere. The large, sustained protest movements of late 2025 did draw millions into the streets initially. However, before the February 27 bombardment, the Iranian system had already brutally suppressed the protests, with killings, mass arrests and an internet blackout. This may be why, after the US–Israel strike, there is no unified rival government claiming authority or occupying major Iranian cities. Perhaps the discontent, though serious, was not nationwide as projected in some sections of the media earlier; it was concentrated in pockets of Iranian society.Thousands of protesters were reportedly killed amid curfews, arrests and show trials. Tehran residents might be too fearful now to suddenly come out and attempt a physical overthrow of the government or its officials.In short, there is no revolution.Iran’s permanent UN envoy has said that Tehran has not contacted Washington about peace talks and is sceptical about resuming official negotiations after the hostilities. With possible intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman and the UAE also drawn into the conflict by Iranian retaliatory strikes, even indirect talks have been disrupted.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-israel-iran-war-live-updates-donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-ali-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-assembly-of-experts-march-2026-1772584866186">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV</a><h2>From Kurds to Baluchs to Arabs and others: What are the US options for a proxy takeover?</h2>Reports say that the US has been in discussions with Iranian Kurdish militia leaders about potential military operations in western Iran. The idea is for Kurdish forces to weaken Iranian security forces in border regions. The US appears ready to arm the Kurds and provide intelligence cooperation.Long fighting the Islamic Republic, the Kurds are battle-hardened and familiar with the territory in western Iran that have seen opposition to Tehran. Kurdish groups have formed alliances and articulated political aims beyond simply supporting protests too.But there are downsides. If they are entertained too much, the Kurds may push for secession. Many Kurdish groups have long sought autonomy or self-determination rather than reintegration into a centralised Iranian state.US engagement with Kurdish forces could inflame ethnic tensions, trigger wider regional conflict and draw in neighbours such as Turkey, which hosts a volatile Kurdish community that has only recently scaled down armed attacks on Turkish state targets.&nbsp;US arming of Kurdish groups could lead to a never-ending civil war situation, similar to what Syria experienced for over a decade after the so-called Arab Spring revolutions.This could, in essence, lead to the Balkanisation of Iran into ethnic strongholds and pockets.&nbsp;<h2>Other than the Kurds, what options does the US have in Iran?</h2>The Baluch minority in south-eastern Iran is another group the US is believed to be in contact with, according to intelligence reports. These are largely Sunni groups that have long sought greater autonomy or independence and have a history of armed resistance against the Iranian state.The Arab minority in Khuzestan province is another group in Iran’s south-west that has engaged in protests and clashes with security forces in past years and remains politically significant.&nbsp;Feelers have also been sent to moderate regime officials and dissidents inside Iran. The US may be talking to ‘friendly figures’ within Iran’s military and government, offering conditional support to those willing to break with hardliners.US strategists are also said to be engaging civil society actors, local leaders and influencers inside Iran who might provide political legitimacy or leadership in a transition period, not necessarily as armed groups.<h2>Can exile groups run Iran?</h2>There is a multitude of Iranian opposition groups in exile, such as the Iran National Council, which bring together secular and pro-democracy factions, including supporters of Reza Pahlavi. However, there has been no direct high-level US coordination with them in the context of the current crisis.Iran-focused opposition organisations based in the West or the US are part of the broader opposition ecosystem and often influence Washington policy debates. The Organisation of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), an advocacy group that supports ending the Islamic Republic’s rule and a democratic transition, is one such, with historical links to the People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK).However, none of these groups appears capable of handling a wholesale political or governmental transition inside Iran at present.In short, there is no consolidated internal interim government or group capable of providing broad national leadership to Iranians.In essence, if continuity is not ensured, the US and Isreael run the risk of leaving behind a major power vacuum in Iran.&nbsp;Continuity of governance, at present, can only come from remnants of the Islamic Republic.US leveraging of any other group, without a cohesive and broadly supported governance plan, risks internal fragmentation, ethnic conflict, Balkanisation and possible civil war, rather than a smooth transition.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

After US–Israel decapitatation of Iran’s leadership, there's no sign of an alternative form of government emerging. Former anti-regime protesters are not cheering on the streets for a revolution. The US is talking with Kurds, Baluch, Arab groups and dissidents. Has Iran's fragmentation begun?

It is very clear that Iran of 2026 is not Iraq of 2003. No large groups of protesters against the regime have gathered in Tehran's Azadi Square with claims to form the next government, five days after US-Israeli bombing. There is no sign of a new government, other than the Islamic Republic. At best, people are confused, afraid and keeping a low profile. As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, the US and Israel have bombed out the entire negotiating table, leaving nobody to take charge of the nation. The US is appealing to ethnic groups such as the Kurds to take the fight forward in their respective regions against the still-entrenched Iranian forces to help complete the transition into a new regime. But how good is that idea? Best alternatives to current Iranian leadership are already gone in Israeli strikes US President Donald Trump himself said that the second and third options for leadership transition are gone. This is because, the first day of the current conflict saw Israel “take out” much of the leadership of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This could frustrate any future efforts to bring in a semblance of security, safety and stability. Added to this is the Israeli threat that any new Supreme Leader would also be a target for assassination. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed Iran is not a simple puzzle to crack, it's a vast nation Iran is a vast nation with huge resources, including oil. With its control over much of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has long played a key role in global commerce. Surprisingly, Iran is still standing in spite of the decapitation strikes by the US and Israel. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, repeatedly said he is ready to take Iran into a new phase of transition, but neither Trump nor Israel appears interested in backing him. Even the last Shah’s widow urged caution and warned against plunging the country into chaos, saying Iran must not be allowed to descend into bloodshed and fragmentation. Also read: Trump’s 'Operation Epic Fury' targets Tehran: Is a US-backed militia the key to ending the Iran war? Iran today is not like Iraq in 2003: Not many cheering for the US or Israel or the fall of a regime When the US invaded Saddam Hussein’s Iraq in 2003, many people there rejoiced. But in Iran today, there is no comparable atmosphere. The large, sustained protest movements of late 2025 did draw millions into the streets initially. However, before the February 27 bombardment, the Iranian system had already brutally suppressed the protests, with killings, mass arrests and an internet blackout. This may be why, after the US–Israel strike, there is no unified rival government claiming authority or occupying major Iranian cities. Perhaps the discontent, though serious, was not nationwide as projected in some sections of the media earlier; it was concentrated in pockets of Iranian society. Thousands of protesters were reportedly killed amid curfews, arrests and show trials. Tehran residents might be too fearful now to suddenly come out and attempt a physical overthrow of the government or its officials. In short, there is no revolution. Iran’s permanent UN envoy has said that Tehran has not contacted Washington about peace talks and is sceptical about resuming official negotiations after the hostilities. With possible intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman and the UAE also drawn into the conflict by Iranian retaliatory strikes, even indirect talks have been disrupted. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV From Kurds to Baluchs to Arabs and others: What are the US options for a proxy takeover? Reports say that the US has been in discussions with Iranian Kurdish militia leaders about potential military operations in western Iran. The idea is for Kurdish forces to weaken Iranian security forces in border regions. The US appears ready to arm the Kurds and provide intelligence cooperation. Long fighting the Islamic Republic, the Kurds are battle-hardened and familiar with the territory in western Iran that have seen opposition to Tehran. Kurdish groups have formed alliances and articulated political aims beyond simply supporting protests too. But there are downsides. If they are entertained too much, the Kurds may push for secession. Many Kurdish groups have long sought autonomy or self-determination rather than reintegration into a centralised Iranian state. US engagement with Kurdish forces could inflame ethnic tensions, trigger wider regional conflict and draw in neighbours such as Turkey, which hosts a volatile Kurdish community that has only recently scaled down armed attacks on Turkish state targets. US arming of Kurdish groups could lead to a never-ending civil war situation, similar to what Syria experienced for over a decade after the so-called Arab Spring revolutions. This could, in essence, lead to the Balkanisation of Iran into ethnic strongholds and pockets. Other than the Kurds, what options does the US have in Iran? The Baluch minority in south-eastern Iran is another group the US is believed to be in contact with, according to intelligence reports. These are largely Sunni groups that have long sought greater autonomy or independence and have a history of armed resistance against the Iranian state. The Arab minority in Khuzestan province is another group in Iran’s south-west that has engaged in protests and clashes with security forces in past years and remains politically significant. Feelers have also been sent to moderate regime officials and dissidents inside Iran. The US may be talking to ‘friendly figures’ within Iran’s military and government, offering conditional support to those willing to break with hardliners. US strategists are also said to be engaging civil society actors, local leaders and influencers inside Iran who might provide political legitimacy or leadership in a transition period, not necessarily as armed groups. Can exile groups run Iran? There is a multitude of Iranian opposition groups in exile, such as the Iran National Council, which bring together secular and pro-democracy factions, including supporters of Reza Pahlavi. However, there has been no direct high-level US coordination with them in the context of the current crisis. Iran-focused opposition organisations based in the West or the US are part of the broader opposition ecosystem and often influence Washington policy debates. The Organisation of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), an advocacy group that supports ending the Islamic Republic’s rule and a democratic transition, is one such, with historical links to the People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK). However, none of these groups appears capable of handling a wholesale political or governmental transition inside Iran at present. In short, there is no consolidated internal interim government or group capable of providing broad national leadership to Iranians. In essence, if continuity is not ensured, the US and Isreael run the risk of leaving behind a major power vacuum in Iran. Continuity of governance, at present, can only come from remnants of the Islamic Republic. US leveraging of any other group, without a cohesive and broadly supported governance plan, risks internal fragmentation, ethnic conflict, Balkanisation and possible civil war, rather than a smooth transition. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

After US–Israel decapitatation of Iran’s leadership, there's no sign of an alternative form of government emerging. Former anti-regime protesters are not cheering on the streets for a revolution. The US is talking with Kurds, Baluch, Arab groups and dissidents. Has Iran's fragmentation begun?

Iran 2026 is not Iraq 2003: With top leaders gone, US talks to Kurds and other ethnic groups, but who will run Tehran?

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday (Mar 4) threatened to assassinate ant Iranian leader that may be picked to succeed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Tehran. Katz's threat comes amid reports that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of former Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected to assume the leadership left vacant after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-matter-where-he-hides-israeli-defence-minister-threatens-to-assassinate-any-successor-to-iran-s-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-1772613368778">'No matter where he hides': Katz threatens to 'assassinate' Khamenei's successor</a><h2>What did Israel Katz say?</h2>In a post on X, the Israeli Defence Minister warned that any leader "appointed by the Iranian terror regime to continue and lead the plan to destroy Israel, to threaten the United States and the free world and the countries of the region, and to suppress the Iranian people" will be assassinated. He said that any potential leader will find themselves “an unequivocal target for elimination. It does not matter what his name is or the place where he hides.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-arming-militias-to-overthrow-iran-regime-wants-somebody-from-within-report-1772599622355">Is Trump betting on armed militia to end war, overthrow Iran regime? All we know</a>"The Prime Minister and I have instructed the IDF to prepare and act by all means to carry out the mission as an integral part of the objectives of Operation 'Lion's Roar',” he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">כל מנהיג שימונה ע&quot;י משטר הטרור האיראני כדי להמשיך ולהוביל את התוכנית להשמדת ישראל, לאיים על ארה&quot;ב והעולם החופשי ומדינות האזור, ולדכא את העם האירני - יהיה יעד חד משמעי לחיסול. לא חשוב מה שמו והמקום בו יסתתר. רה&quot;מ ואני הנחינו את צה&quot;ל להיערך ולפעול בכל האמצעים למימוש המשימה כחלק…&mdash; ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/2029080566872580134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Who will be Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's successor?</h2>According to an Iran International report, citing sources in the know, Iran's Assembly of Experts had elected the 56-year-old cleric to assume the leadership left vacant after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination. His succession, as per the report, was pushed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "The IRGC heavily pressured the assembled group of clerics to select Mojtaba as the regime’s new leader," the outlet reported. There has been no immediate confirmation from Iranian state authorities.56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei is the second-eldest son of the late leader and has for years been viewed by observers as a potential successor, despite holding no formal public office. However, he is believed to have effectively managed much of the Office of the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;

Israel has issued a chilling warning after reports that Iran may soon name a new supreme leader. Defence Minister Israel Katz said any successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would become a “certain target for assassination.”

Who is the likely successor? Scroll down to read more.

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday (Mar 4) threatened to assassinate ant Iranian leader that may be picked to succeed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Tehran. Katz's threat comes amid reports that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of former Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected to assume the leadership left vacant after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination. Also read | 'No matter where he hides': Katz threatens to 'assassinate' Khamenei's successor What did Israel Katz say? In a post on X, the Israeli Defence Minister warned that any leader "appointed by the Iranian terror regime to continue and lead the plan to destroy Israel, to threaten the United States and the free world and the countries of the region, and to suppress the Iranian people" will be assassinated. He said that any potential leader will find themselves “an unequivocal target for elimination. It does not matter what his name is or the place where he hides.” Also read | Is Trump betting on armed militia to end war, overthrow Iran regime? All we know "The Prime Minister and I have instructed the IDF to prepare and act by all means to carry out the mission as an integral part of the objectives of Operation 'Lion's Roar',” he said.

Israel has issued a chilling warning after reports that Iran may soon name a new supreme leader. Defence Minister Israel Katz said any successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would become a “certain target for assassination.”Who is the likely successor? Scroll down to read more.

'No matter where he hides': Israeli Defence Minister threatens to 'assassinate' any successor to Iran's Khamenei

Israel has carried out several air strikes in Lebanon, including a hotel in Hazmieh near Beirut and a residential complex in the eastern city of Baalbek. The Israeli military has claimed that it has intercepted several projectiles from Hezbollah. At least 4 people are killed, and 6 others are injured in the attack at Baalbek, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency. Many others are trapped under the rubble. The targeted complex was in the Al Matraba neighbourhood of the city. Footage from the scenes shows a multistorey building collapsing as rescue workers scour through the debris.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">عدد كبير من الأشخاص عالقين تحت الأنقاض وتسمع صرخات استغاثة في غارة بعلبك. الي عندو الية او جرافة ل رفع الانقاض يتوجه على المجمع فوراا المجمع ماهول بالكامل ويوجد بداخله أكثر من ٦٠ شخصٱ <a href="https://t.co/iMW7ckTg0q">pic.twitter.com/iMW7ckTg0q</a>&mdash; مصدر مسؤول (@fouadkhreiss) <a href="https://twitter.com/fouadkhreiss/status/2029016253570896256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The attack at the port city of Hazmieh near Beirut was targeting the Comfort Hotel. The casualties of the attack have not been mentioned by the Lebanese Health Ministry. Media reports suggest these attacks were carried out without any prior warning. There have been no clear indications from the Israeli military of who or what it was targeting. In seperate incident, explosions were also reported in Beirut's Haret Hreik neighbourhood, in another residential building in Aramoun in the south of Beirut and another one in a village further south called Sadiyath. The Lebanese Health Ministry has confirmed that 6 people were killed and 8 others were injured. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-israel-expand-west-asia-war-doubts-us-talks-1772544524387">Iran accuses Israel of trying to expand the scope of war</a><h2>Israel issues fresh evacuation order in Lebanon</h2>Israel has issued an evacuation order in 13 villages and towns in southern Lebanon. This comes just after the bombing in hotels and residential complex of Beirut. These 13 villages include Qana, Kfar Kila and Majdal Zoun. Ahead of the bombing in Beirut, Israel had issued a similar evacuation notice to 16 villages and towns and more than 50 settlements to leave. These villages and towns will permit Israel to establish a larger buffer zone there. These are in addition to the 5 zones already occupied by Israel since the war between Hezbollah and Israel in 2024. Israel was supposed to withdraw from these five positions, and Hezbollah was supposed to disarm in the South of the Litani River; neither side has lived up to the bargain. Hezbollah has launched fresh strikes on Israel following the death of Khamenei, despite a ban from the Lebanese authority. This was the first time Hezbollah attacked since the 2024 ceasefire agreement, though the IDF regularly violates it.&nbsp;&nbsp;WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israel launches airstrikes in Beirut, Baalbek and southern Lebanon, killing 10. Fresh evacuation orders issued amid rising tensions with Hezbollah.

Israel has carried out several air strikes in Lebanon, including a hotel in Hazmieh near Beirut and a residential complex in the eastern city of Baalbek. The Israeli military has claimed that it has intercepted several projectiles from Hezbollah. At least 4 people are killed, and 6 others are injured in the attack at Baalbek, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency. Many others are trapped under the rubble. The targeted complex was in the Al Matraba neighbourhood of the city. Footage from the scenes shows a multistorey building collapsing as rescue workers scour through the debris.

Israel launches airstrikes in Beirut, Baalbek and southern Lebanon, killing 10. Fresh evacuation orders issued amid rising tensions with Hezbollah.

Israel bombs Beirut hotel, residential complex, issues new evacuation orders

In a post on X this Tuesday, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif alleged that Zionist interests are driving the conflict involving Iran. He claimed the war is part of a strategic "agenda" to extend Israeli influence directly toward Pakistan’s borders. Asif further asserted that although Iran was open to reaching an agreement, the conflict was "imposed upon them" to facilitate this regional expansion. Khawaja Asif further intensified his rhetoric by attributing every major conflict in the Islamic world since 1948 to "Zionist ideology." Additionally, he accused neighbouring nations Afghanistan, Iran, and India of coordinating a "joint single point agenda" specifically designed to destabilise Pakistan. “From the establishment of Israel on the land of Palestine until today, every catastrophe that has befallen the Islamic world, every war imposed upon it, will show the direct or indirect hand of Zionist ideology and the state.” Asif emphasised that Afghanistan, Iran, and India were sharing a “joint single point agenda” of enmity towards Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The joint single point agenda of Afghanistan, Iran, and India will then be enmity towards Pakistan, making our borders insecure, surrounding us with enemies from all sides, and turning Pakistan into a vassal state,” he added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/if-you-cannot-english-pakistan-mp-zartaj-gul-slams-defence-minister-khwaja-asif-9062905">'If you can't speak English...': Pakistan MP Zartaj Gul slams Defence Minister Khawaja Asif</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asif called for national unity, urging Pakistanis to set aside political and religious differences to recognise what he described as a "conspiracy" by “eternal enemies.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pahalgam-terror-attack-mock-drills-in-india-pakistan-defence-minister-khwaja-asif-raises-nuclear-bogey-9042149">Pak Defence Minister Khwaja Asif raises nuke bogey, says 'nobody will exist if...'</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;These remarks surface during a period of intense regional instability. Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have deteriorated following recent border skirmishes, while Kabul has simultaneously increased its diplomatic ties with India. Furthermore, the Middle East has entered a period of significant escalation following major US and Israeli strikes on Iran that resulted in the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event that has sparked heavy Iranian reprisals across the region. &nbsp;

Asif called for national unity, urging Pakistanis to set aside political and religious differences to recognise what he described as a "conspiracy" by “eternal enemies.”

In a post on X this Tuesday, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif alleged that Zionist interests are driving the conflict involving Iran. He claimed the war is part of a strategic "agenda" to extend Israeli influence directly toward Pakistan’s borders. Asif further asserted that although Iran was open to reaching an agreement, the conflict was "imposed upon them" to facilitate this regional expansion. Khawaja Asif further intensified his rhetoric by attributing every major conflict in the Islamic world since 1948 to "Zionist ideology." Additionally, he accused neighbouring nations Afghanistan, Iran, and India of coordinating a "joint single point agenda" specifically designed to destabilise Pakistan. “From the establishment of Israel on the land of Palestine until today, every catastrophe that has befallen the Islamic world, every war imposed upon it, will show the direct or indirect hand of Zionist ideology and the state.” Asif emphasised that Afghanistan, Iran, and India were sharing a “joint single point agenda” of enmity towards Pakistan. “The joint single point agenda of Afghanistan, Iran, and India will then be enmity towards Pakistan, making our borders insecure, surrounding us with enemies from all sides, and turning Pakistan into a vassal state,” he added. Also read: 'If you can't speak English...': Pakistan MP Zartaj Gul slams Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Asif called for national unity, urging Pakistanis to set aside political and religious differences to recognise what he described as a "conspiracy" by “eternal enemies.” Also read: Pak Defence Minister Khwaja Asif raises nuke bogey, says 'nobody will exist if...' These remarks surface during a period of intense regional instability. Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have deteriorated following recent border skirmishes, while Kabul has simultaneously increased its diplomatic ties with India. Furthermore, the Middle East has entered a period of significant escalation following major US and Israeli strikes on Iran that resulted in the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event that has sparked heavy Iranian reprisals across the region.

Asif called for national unity, urging Pakistanis to set aside political and religious differences to recognise what he described as a "conspiracy" by “eternal enemies.”

'Israel turning Pakistan into a vassal state': Khwaja Asif alleges Afghanistan, Iran, and India align on enmity towards Islamabad

Amid Iran's criticism that the US might be dragged into the war on Israel's insistence, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Mar 3) denied all such claims and suggested that if anything, the opposite could be true and that he felt Iran was going to attack first. Speaking at a press conference in the Oval Office alongside visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump said that the US was negotiating with “lunatics” and he might have “forced” Israel into this war. Israel and the US ‘pre-emptively’ launched strikes on Iran on Feb 28, and killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-signals-tougher-stance-while-israel-steps-up-airstrikes-on-iran-1772598580494/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-signals-tougher-stance-while-israel-steps-up-airstrikes-on-iran-1772598580494/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“No, I might have forced their hands. You see, we were having negotiations with these lunatics, and it was my opinion that they [the Iranians] were going to attack first,” Trump claimed. It must be noted that Trump's remark is not in line with what his Secretary of State said just a day ago, thus adding to the twist of why the US administration is confused about the reason why they attacked Iran. Moreover, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu defended pre-emptive strikes on Iran, saying Tehran was months away from securing its nuclear program but Trump administration has not yet issued any statements regarding his claims. When asked to Netanyahu if he dragged US into the war, he laughed off saying, “That’s ridiculous. Donald Trump is the strongest leader in the world. He does what he thinks is right for America. He does also what he thinks is right for future generations.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-struck-covert-underground-nuclear-site-in-iran-used-for-secret-weapons-development-says-israel-1772573229766">'Struck ‘covert underground’ nuclear site in Iran used for secret weapons-development', says Israel</a><h2>What Rubio said?</h2>US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday (Mar 3) that America attacked Iran “preemptively” after knowing about Israel's plans. “Obviously, we were aware of Israeli intentions and understood what that would mean for us, and we had to be prepared to act as a result of it. But this had to happen no matter what," he said. "We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," Rubio added. Rubio said that Iran had told field commanders to respond automatically against US forces if there was an attack. "If we stood and waited for that attack to come first before we hit them, we would suffer much higher casualties. And so the president made the very wise decision" to hit alongside Israel, Rubio said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-everything-has-been-knocked-out-in-iran-donald-trump-1772557096000">'EVERYTHING HAS BEEN KNOCKED OUT IN IRAN': Donald Trump</a><h2>Iran slams US for starting Israel's war</h2>After Rubio's statement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that it is now proven that America is fighting Israel's war. Slamming his American counterpart Marco Rubio’s justification for attacking Tehran, Araghchi said that there was never anything called the “Iranian threat.” In a post on X, Araghchi said, “Mr. Rubio admitted what we all knew: US has entered a war of choice on behalf of Israel. There was never any so-called Iranian ‘threat'. Shedding of both American and Iranian blood is thus on Israel Firsters. American people deserve better and should take back their country.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump suggested he may have “forced” Israel’s hand, claiming Iran was about to strike first, while Marco Rubio said the US acted preemptively knowing Israel’s plans. Iran accused Washington of entering a war on Israel’s behalf, deepening confusion over who initiated the conflict.

Amid Iran's criticism that the US might be dragged into the war on Israel's insistence, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Mar 3) denied all such claims and suggested that if anything, the opposite could be true and that he felt Iran was going to attack first. Speaking at a press conference in the Oval Office alongside visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump said that the US was negotiating with “lunatics” and he might have “forced” Israel into this war. Israel and the US ‘pre-emptively’ launched strikes on Iran on Feb 28, and killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-signals-tougher-stance-while-israel-steps-up-airstrikes-on-iran-1772598580494/embed “No, I might have forced their hands. You see, we were having negotiations with these lunatics, and it was my opinion that they [the Iranians] were going to attack first,” Trump claimed. It must be noted that Trump's remark is not in line with what his Secretary of State said just a day ago, thus adding to the twist of why the US administration is confused about the reason why they attacked Iran. Moreover, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu defended pre-emptive strikes on Iran, saying Tehran was months away from securing its nuclear program but Trump administration has not yet issued any statements regarding his claims. When asked to Netanyahu if he dragged US into the war, he laughed off saying, “That’s ridiculous. Donald Trump is the strongest leader in the world. He does what he thinks is right for America. He does also what he thinks is right for future generations.” Also Read: 'Struck ‘covert underground’ nuclear site in Iran used for secret weapons-development', says Israel What Rubio said? US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday (Mar 3) that America attacked Iran “preemptively” after knowing about Israel's plans. “Obviously, we were aware of Israeli intentions and understood what that would mean for us, and we had to be prepared to act as a result of it. But this had to happen no matter what," he said. "We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," Rubio added. Rubio said that Iran had told field commanders to respond automatically against US forces if there was an attack. "If we stood and waited for that attack to come first before we hit them, we would suffer much higher casualties. And so the president made the very wise decision" to hit alongside Israel, Rubio said. Also Read: 'EVERYTHING HAS BEEN KNOCKED OUT IN IRAN': Donald Trump Iran slams US for starting Israel's war After Rubio's statement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that it is now proven that America is fighting Israel's war. Slamming his American counterpart Marco Rubio’s justification for attacking Tehran, Araghchi said that there was never anything called the “Iranian threat.” In a post on X, Araghchi said, “Mr. Rubio admitted what we all knew: US has entered a war of choice on behalf of Israel. There was never any so-called Iranian ‘threat'. Shedding of both American and Iranian blood is thus on Israel Firsters. American people deserve better and should take back their country.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Donald Trump suggested he may have “forced” Israel’s hand, claiming Iran was about to strike first, while Marco Rubio said the US acted preemptively knowing Israel’s plans. Iran accused Washington of entering a war on Israel’s behalf, deepening confusion over who initiated the conflict.

'Forced Israel into war with Iranian lunatics': Trump contradicts Rubio's 'we knew Israeli plans' remark: Why is US confused?