Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has vowed to destroy Gaza city if Hamas doesnt agree to disarm.

Israel begins 'full takeover' offensive in Gaza | Israel Katz vows to destroy cit

The Israeli military has launched targeted airstrikes on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, hitting what it claims were Houthi military facilities — including the presidential palace, fuel storage sites, and power plants. The move comes in retaliation for recent missile and drone attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels against Israeli territory. At least two people are confirmed dead, with several injured.

Houthi officials say the attacks won’t stop their support for Gaza, vowing to continue “no matter the sacrifices.” Is this a widening of the Gaza conflict into a broader regional war?

Israel launches airstrikes against Houthis in Yemen | 'Israeli aggression won't deter'

The UN special envoy for Syria said on Sunday that it was "extremely critical" to end the fighting in Lebanon and Gaza to avoid the country being pulled into a regional war.

The UN special envoy for Syria said on Sunday that it was "extremely critical" to end the fighting in Lebanon and Gaza to avoid the country being pulled into a regional war. "We need now to make sure that we have immediately a ceasefire in Gaza, that we have a ceasefire in Lebanon, and that we avoid Syria being dragged even further into the conflict," said Geir Pedersen ahead of a meeting with the Syrian foreign minister in Damascus. "We agree that it is extremely critical that we de-escalate so that Syria is not further dragged into this," he said. Also read: 'Shooting near Israeli embassy in Jordan was terror attack targeting forces' Since Syria's civil war erupted in 2011, Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in the country, mainly targeting the army and Iran-backed groups. The Israeli military has intensified its strikes on targets in Syria since its conflict with Iran-backed Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon escalated into full-scale war in late September after almost a year of cross-border hostilities. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said Israeli strikes on the city of Palmyra earlier in the week killed 105 people, the vast majority of them pro-Iran fighters, in the deadliest such attack on Tehran-backed groups to date. Also read: US SEC summons Gautam Adani, nephew Sagar Adani in $265 million bribery case Israel rarely comments on individual strikes in Syria but has repeatedly said it will not allow Iran to expand its presence in the country. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UN says ‘critical’ ceasefire needed to stop Syria from entering war zone

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities.

Israel has been reportedly planning a response to Iran after Tehran fired a volley of ballistic missiles at the Jewish nation on October 1&nbsp;following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon on 27 September in an Israeli intelligence-led operation.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran-Israel War: What Are Israel's Targets In Iran?

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The purportedly&nbsp;leaked documents shared on the messaging app Telegram were dated 15-16 October and are alleged to contain the assessment of the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on Israel's military plans.

The two documents were based on satellite imagery and other intelligence, with very specific details of Israeli preparations, according to reports.&nbsp;

The US is investigating how the alleged intelligence documents got leaked online, which in itself is a possible proof that those are genuine, at least partially.

There is speculation that the documents were leaked deliberately to thwart Israel's plans.

The highly classified documents, marked 'Top Secret', could have been obtained through hacking by Iran.

Noting that President Joe Biden was "deeply concerned" about the leak, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday (Oct 21) that it was not yet determined if they were a result of a hack or a leak.

The whole thing is an embarrassment for the US, as the documents, if true, showed how Washington spies on its allies as much as its enemies.

The documents are being seen as genuine by analysts due to the presence of a bunch of code words and acronyms such as FGI and TK.&nbsp;

FGI &nbsp;means Foreign Government Intelligence and TK stands for Talent Keyhole, denoting satellite-based Signals Intelligence or SIGINT and Imagery Intelligence or IMINT, the BBC said in a report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israeli-pm-netanyahu-asked-my-opinion-about-what-to-do-with-iran-trump-769302">Also read: West Asia crisis | Israeli PM Netanyahu asked my opinion about what to do with Iran: Trump</a> 
 
The documents were possibly meant for the Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

The plan's details were outed even as the US was trying to dissuade Israel from attacking oil facilities and nuclear installations of Iran, for fear of repercussions for global trade.

<h2>So, how will Israel's attack on Iran unfold as per alleged US intel documents?</h2>

The documents indicate that the Israeli Air Force would use long-range Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles or ABLMs on Iran.

These ABLMs were named in the documents as the Golden Horizon and Rocks systems.

Rocks system can be launched on targets both above and below ground.

Golden Horizon might be a reference to the Blue Sparrow missile system which has a range of around 2,000km, according to the BBC report.

The ABLMs may be chosen due to their capability to target Iran without having to fly over other countries in the region like Jordan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-dismantles-alleged-iran-spy-network-in-country-arrests-seven-citizens-769538">Also read: Israel dismantles Iran ‘spy network’ in country, arrests seven citizens</a> 
 
The attack might be a far greater version of its ABLM strike on Iran's radar site near Isfahan in April, as per analysts.

Contrary to the fears that Israel might hit oil facilities, the documents suggest it might strike Iran's military targets, though these targets were not named, nor the timing of the possible operation.

So if Tel Aviv will not target Iran's nuclear or energy facilities, the next possible option could be the military bases of the Iran &nbsp;Revolutionary Guards Corps or IRGC and its Basij militia.

IRGC and Basij are known to have trained and equipped Iran's proxies in West Asian countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi rebels, who target Israel.

<h2>When will Israel attack Iran?</h2>

The timing of Israel's possible strike on&nbsp;Iran is still up in the air.&nbsp;

Iran itself had waited nearly two weeks to respond to an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria, that killed some senior IRGC commanders in April.

There's fear in Washington that the Israeli strike any time before the US presidential election on November 5 would be damaging to the process. Israel could utilise the twilight zone between the two US presidencies to carry out the attack.

<h2>Will Iran- Israel conflict become a nuclear war?</h2>

The US documents do not mention any nuclear deterrent preparations from Israel.&nbsp;

This is significant as there's consternation in the US and international community that Iran may go nuclear on Israel.

Though officially still a non-nuclear nation that uses atomic energy for peaceful purposes, Iran has the capability to enrich uranium to weapons-grade as per Israeli assessments.&nbsp;

Israel is a nuclear power but does not publicly acknowledge it, and there's no certainty on the exact nature or number of its arsenal.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities.

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities. Israel has been reportedly planning a response to Iran after Tehran fired a volley of ballistic missiles at the Jewish nation on October 1 following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon on 27 September in an Israeli intelligence-led operation. Watch: Iran-Israel War: What Are Israel's Targets In Iran? × The purportedly leaked documents shared on the messaging app Telegram were dated 15-16 October and are alleged to contain the assessment of the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on Israel's military plans. The two documents were based on satellite imagery and other intelligence, with very specific details of Israeli preparations, according to reports. The US is investigating how the alleged intelligence documents got leaked online, which in itself is a possible proof that those are genuine, at least partially. There is speculation that the documents were leaked deliberately to thwart Israel's plans. The highly classified documents, marked 'Top Secret', could have been obtained through hacking by Iran. Noting that President Joe Biden was "deeply concerned" about the leak, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday (Oct 21) that it was not yet determined if they were a result of a hack or a leak. The whole thing is an embarrassment for the US, as the documents, if true, showed how Washington spies on its allies as much as its enemies. The documents are being seen as genuine by analysts due to the presence of a bunch of code words and acronyms such as FGI and TK. FGI means Foreign Government Intelligence and TK stands for Talent Keyhole, denoting satellite-based Signals Intelligence or SIGINT and Imagery Intelligence or IMINT, the BBC said in a report. Also read: West Asia crisis | Israeli PM Netanyahu asked my opinion about what to do with Iran: Trump The documents were possibly meant for the Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The plan's details were outed even as the US was trying to dissuade Israel from attacking oil facilities and nuclear installations of Iran, for fear of repercussions for global trade. So, how will Israel's attack on Iran unfold as per alleged US intel documents? The documents indicate that the Israeli Air Force would use long-range Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles or ABLMs on Iran. These ABLMs were named in the documents as the Golden Horizon and Rocks systems. Rocks system can be launched on targets both above and below ground. Golden Horizon might be a reference to the Blue Sparrow missile system which has a range of around 2,000km, according to the BBC report. The ABLMs may be chosen due to their capability to target Iran without having to fly over other countries in the region like Jordan. Also read: Israel dismantles Iran ‘spy network’ in country, arrests seven citizens The attack might be a far greater version of its ABLM strike on Iran's radar site near Isfahan in April, as per analysts. Contrary to the fears that Israel might hit oil facilities, the documents suggest it might strike Iran's military targets, though these targets were not named, nor the timing of the possible operation. So if Tel Aviv will not target Iran's nuclear or energy facilities, the next possible option could be the military bases of the Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps or IRGC and its Basij militia. IRGC and Basij are known to have trained and equipped Iran's proxies in West Asian countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi rebels, who target Israel. When will Israel attack Iran? The timing of Israel's possible strike on Iran is still up in the air. Iran itself had waited nearly two weeks to respond to an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria, that killed some senior IRGC commanders in April. There's fear in Washington that the Israeli strike any time before the US presidential election on November 5 would be damaging to the process. Israel could utilise the twilight zone between the two US presidencies to carry out the attack. Will Iran- Israel conflict become a nuclear war? The US documents do not mention any nuclear deterrent preparations from Israel. This is significant as there's consternation in the US and international community that Iran may go nuclear on Israel. Though officially still a non-nuclear nation that uses atomic energy for peaceful purposes, Iran has the capability to enrich uranium to weapons-grade as per Israeli assessments. Israel is a nuclear power but does not publicly acknowledge it, and there's no certainty on the exact nature or number of its arsenal. (With inputs from agencies)

How will Israel attack Iran? Strike plan as revealed by documents leaked online

Israel's army chief&nbsp;on Wednesday (Aug 7) vowed&nbsp;to hunt down and eliminate Yahya Sinwar after he was named the new leader of Hamas, following the death of his predecessor in Tehran last week.

"We will strive to find him, attack him, and have them replace the head of the political bureau again," Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi told soldiers.

"We have carried out very important operations in recent weeks, we've killed the most senior commanders of our most dangerous enemies, and we are not stopping," he added, according to a statement issued by his spokesman.

As Tehran and Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group&nbsp;Hezbollah vow to retaliate, world leaders are calling for restraint to prevent a regional war.

<h2>Iran calls for emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</h2>

An emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was held on Wednesday in Saudi Arabia at Iran's request. The meeting reportedly discussed the alleged Israeli killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, as the world waits for Iran’s response.

<h2>Egypt urges airlines to avoid Iranian&nbsp;airspace for three hours on Thursday</h2>

Due to the fears of rising tensions in the Middle East, Egypt ordered its airlines to avoid Iranian airspace for three hours early Thursday amid the tension between Israel and Iran.

A safety advisory known as a NOTAM was issued to pilots, stating that the instruction would be active from 0100 to 0400 GMT.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-209-inmates-flee-during-violent-protest-at-kashimpur-jail-6-killed-748149">Bangladesh crisis: 209 inmates flee from high-security central jail during violent protest, 6 killed</a>

The notice read, "All Egyptian carriers shall avoid overflying Tehran (Flight Information Region) FIR. No flight plan will be accepted overflying such territory," referring to the specified three-hour timeframe.

Many airlines are following this suit and changing their schedules to avoid Iranian and Lebanese airspace and are also cancelling flights to Israel and Lebanon.

<h2>Turkey seeks to join South Africa’s genocide lawsuit against Israel</h2>

Turkey filed a request at the International Court of Justice to join South Africa’s lawsuit against Israel.

“We have just submitted our application to the International Court of Justice to intervene in the genocide case filed against Israel. Emboldened by the impunity for its crimes, Israel is killing more and more innocent Palestinians every day,” Turkey's&nbsp;Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan wrote on X

“The international community must do its part to stop the genocide; it must put the necessary pressure on Israel and its supporters,” he said. “Turkey will make every effort to do so.”

<h2>Medics report 13 Palestinians killed in Gaza City and near Khan Younis</h2>

Media reports citing medics&nbsp;said&nbsp;that 13 Palestinians were killed in Gaza City and near Khan Younis.

According to a report by Reuters, an airstrike hit a house in Gaza City's Al-Tuffah neighbourhood on Wednesday (Aug 7), killing three Palestinians. Additionally, 10 more Palestinians were reportedly killed in two separate Israeli airstrikes in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel's army chief on Wednesday (Aug 7) vowed to hunt down and eliminate Yahya Sinwar after he was named the new leader of Hamas, following the death of his predecessor in Tehran last week.

Israel's army chief on Wednesday (Aug 7) vowed to hunt down and eliminate Yahya Sinwar after he was named the new leader of Hamas, following the death of his predecessor in Tehran last week. "We will strive to find him, attack him, and have them replace the head of the political bureau again," Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi told soldiers. "We have carried out very important operations in recent weeks, we've killed the most senior commanders of our most dangerous enemies, and we are not stopping," he added, according to a statement issued by his spokesman. As Tehran and Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah vow to retaliate, world leaders are calling for restraint to prevent a regional war. Iran calls for emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation An emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was held on Wednesday in Saudi Arabia at Iran's request. The meeting reportedly discussed the alleged Israeli killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, as the world waits for Iran’s response. Egypt urges airlines to avoid Iranian airspace for three hours on Thursday Due to the fears of rising tensions in the Middle East, Egypt ordered its airlines to avoid Iranian airspace for three hours early Thursday amid the tension between Israel and Iran. A safety advisory known as a NOTAM was issued to pilots, stating that the instruction would be active from 0100 to 0400 GMT. Also read: Bangladesh crisis: 209 inmates flee from high-security central jail during violent protest, 6 killed The notice read, "All Egyptian carriers shall avoid overflying Tehran (Flight Information Region) FIR. No flight plan will be accepted overflying such territory," referring to the specified three-hour timeframe. Many airlines are following this suit and changing their schedules to avoid Iranian and Lebanese airspace and are also cancelling flights to Israel and Lebanon. Turkey seeks to join South Africa’s genocide lawsuit against Israel Turkey filed a request at the International Court of Justice to join South Africa’s lawsuit against Israel. “We have just submitted our application to the International Court of Justice to intervene in the genocide case filed against Israel. Emboldened by the impunity for its crimes, Israel is killing more and more innocent Palestinians every day,” Turkey's Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan wrote on X “The international community must do its part to stop the genocide; it must put the necessary pressure on Israel and its supporters,” he said. “Turkey will make every effort to do so.” Medics report 13 Palestinians killed in Gaza City and near Khan Younis Media reports citing medics said that 13 Palestinians were killed in Gaza City and near Khan Younis. According to a report by Reuters, an airstrike hit a house in Gaza City's Al-Tuffah neighbourhood on Wednesday (Aug 7), killing three Palestinians. Additionally, 10 more Palestinians were reportedly killed in two separate Israeli airstrikes in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel’s army chief promises to hunt down new Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar

A loud explosion shook a building in Tel Aviv on Friday morning, injuring at least two people. Police and bomb disposal experts are on the scene, working to understand what happened.

The cause of the explosion is still unknown. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said, "Earlier tonight, an explosion was heard in the central Tel Aviv area, the suspicion that it was an aerial target is being investigated."

People living nearby reported that the blast shattered some objects in their homes, according to The Jerusalem Post.

This explosion came after the Israeli military killed Habib Maatouk, a senior commander of the Iran-backed Hezbollah, in southern Lebanon. This is part of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

The two sides have been firing at each other since October 7, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing at least 14 people and taking several as captives.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-first-speech-since-assassination-attempt-predicts-incredible-victory-in-november-election-742198">Trump's first speech since assassination attempt, predicts incredible victory in November election</a>

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah warned that his group would increase attacks if Israel hit more civilians. Following his warning, Hezbollah fired rockets and missiles at Israel, including an attack on the Filon base in Safed.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-quota-protest-why-are-bangladeshi-students-protesting-against-job-quotas-742191">Bangladesh Quota protest: Why are Bangladeshi students protesting against job quotas?</a>

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The conflict&nbsp;between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as the broader Israel-Hamas war, has led to many deaths and much suffering.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extremely-important-us-keeps-backing-ukraine-nato-chief-742176">'Extremely important' that US keeps backing Ukraine: NATO chief</a>

In Lebanon, over 100 civilians and 300 Hezbollah fighters have died. In Gaza, the war has killed more than 38,600 people and displaced most of the 2.3 million population.

(With inputs from agencies)

A loud explosion shook a building in Tel Aviv on Friday morning, injuring at least two people. Police and bomb disposal experts are on the scene, working to understand what happened.

A loud explosion shook a building in Tel Aviv on Friday morning, injuring at least two people. Police and bomb disposal experts are on the scene, working to understand what happened. The cause of the explosion is still unknown. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said, "Earlier tonight, an explosion was heard in the central Tel Aviv area, the suspicion that it was an aerial target is being investigated." People living nearby reported that the blast shattered some objects in their homes, according to The Jerusalem Post. This explosion came after the Israeli military killed Habib Maatouk, a senior commander of the Iran-backed Hezbollah, in southern Lebanon. This is part of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The two sides have been firing at each other since October 7, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing at least 14 people and taking several as captives. Also read: Trump's first speech since assassination attempt, predicts incredible victory in November election Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah warned that his group would increase attacks if Israel hit more civilians. Following his warning, Hezbollah fired rockets and missiles at Israel, including an attack on the Filon base in Safed. Watch | Bangladesh Quota protest: Why are Bangladeshi students protesting against job quotas? × The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as the broader Israel-Hamas war, has led to many deaths and much suffering. Also read: 'Extremely important' that US keeps backing Ukraine: NATO chief In Lebanon, over 100 civilians and 300 Hezbollah fighters have died. In Gaza, the war has killed more than 38,600 people and displaced most of the 2.3 million population. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel: Explosion rocks Tel Aviv amid rising tensions between Hezbollah and Hamas

Pakistan on Thursday (Jan 18) launched airstrikes in Iran against alleged militant hideouts, killing at least nine people. In the&nbsp;retaliatory action called&nbsp;operation "Marg Bar Sarmachar"&nbsp;several missiles hit a village in the Sistan-Baluchestan province that borders Pakistan, said&nbsp;Iranian state media.

The attack comes after Iran on Tuesday violated Pakistan's airspace and carried out strikes against "terrorist" targets in Pakistan which left at least two children dead. Iran said that the Jaish al-Adl group, which is an Iranian terrorist group, was targeted.

Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012. It is blacklisted by Iran as a terrorist group and has carried out several attacks on Iranian soil in recent years.&nbsp;

Pakistan denounced the strikes, calling it "illegal" and recalled its ambassador from Iran. Islamabad also blocked Tehran's envoy from returning to the South Asian nation.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan foreign ministry after the airstrikes on Thursday (Jan 18) said that "a series of highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes" on targets that were reportedly over 80 kilometres inside Iranian territory.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-why-did-iran-attack-pakistan-what-is-jaish-al-adl-680852">Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran?</a>&nbsp;

In a statement, it added: "This morning's action was taken in light of credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities. This action is a manifestation of Pakistan's unflinching resolve to protect and defend its national security against all threats."&nbsp;

Pakistan's military said that the main objective of the act was in pursuit of Pakistan's own "security and national interest".&nbsp;

Tehran strongly condemned the strikes. It summoned Pakistan's charge d'affaires, its most senior diplomat in Iran and asked for an explanation.

"The information received indicates that four children, three women and two men, who were foreign nationals, have been killed in the explosion that occurred in a village," Iran's Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi told state TV.

<h2>How exactly did the Pakistan army carry out airstrikes?&nbsp;</h2>

A Pakistani military statement said: "The precision strikes were carried out using killer drones, rockets, loitering munitions and stand-off weapons" and the targets were bases used by the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) and the associated Baloch Liberation Army.&nbsp;

Pakistan claims that the BLF has been waging an armed insurgency against the Pakistani state, including attacks against Chinese citizens and investments in Balochistan.&nbsp;

-Killer drones are small, palm-sized autonomous drones which use facial recognition and shaped explosives that can be programmed to seek out and eliminate known targets.&nbsp;

-Expert-based reports have noted that loitering munitions are typically smaller in size compared to traditional UAVs, which enables them to navigate through complex terrain and confined spaces easily. The munition can be optimised in terms of characteristics, such as keeping the life of the engine short, silence in the strike phase, speed of strike dive, and more.&nbsp;

-Standoff weapons are missiles fired from aircraft at a distance — likely meaning Pakistan’s fighter jets didn’t enter Iranian airspace.&nbsp;

A report by the EurAsian Times stated that Iran used Chinese-built fighter jets JF-17 'Thunder' and J-10C 'Vigorous Dragon'. Pakistan also deployed the Chinese Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Wing Loong II in its operation.&nbsp;

The report added that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fighters engaged the targets inside Iran with precision-guided air-to-ground munitions.&nbsp;

Pakistan said that seven locations were targeted after aerial reconnaissance carried out by UAVs confirmed the "presence of high-value terrorist targets". The primary precision-guided munition (PGM) used in airstrikes was the GIDS B-REK (Boosted Range Extension Kit), which is a rocket-boosted glide bomb and a precision-guided weapon with a range of 170 kilometres.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-iran-strikes-china-ready-to-play-constructive-role-in-de-escalating-conflict-681232">Pakistan-Iran strikes: China ready to play 'constructive role' in de-escalating conflict</a>&nbsp;

<h2>The security threat in Iran&nbsp;</h2>

The recent strikes were an escalation of tensions that have been long-simmering on both sides of the border but have rarely flared.&nbsp;

There have been attacks inside Iran in recent months by the Sunni militant separatist group Jaish al-Adl, which is blacklisted by Iran — also by its arch-foe the United States — as a terrorist organisation. In an attack claimed by the group in the town of Rask in December, 11 policemen were killed.&nbsp;

Jaish al-Adl was formed in the early years of the last decade following the breakup of a similar group, Jundallah, which had previously carried out assaults against Iranian security forces but was weakened after the capture and subsequent execution of its leader, Abdolmalek Rigi, in 2010.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan: Geo-Economic targets, neighbours and the region

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Iranian media reported that he was arrested in extraordinary circumstances in February 2010 when Iranian fighter jets forced a passenger plane he was travelling on to Kyrgyzstan to land in Iran. He was hanged in June of that year.&nbsp;

The recent escalation could get out of hand as several analysts have warned that Pakistan's reaction and official comments after its retaliatory strikes suggest that the nation wants to keep the row contained.&nbsp;

Asfandyar Mir, who is a senior expert on South Asia security at the US Institute of Peace, told the news agency Reuters: "Iran's motivation for attacking Pakistan remains opaque but in light of broader Iranian behaviour in the region it can escalate."&nbsp;

"What will cause anxiety in Tehran is that Pakistan has crossed a line by hitting inside Iranian territory, a threshold that even the U.S. and Israel have been careful to not breach," Mir added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pakistan on Thursday (Jan 18) launched airstrikes in Iran against alleged militant hideouts, killing at least nine people. In the retaliatory action called operation "Marg Bar Sarmachar" several missiles hit a village in the Sistan-Baluchestan province that borders Pakistan, said Iranian state media.

Pakistan on Thursday (Jan 18) launched airstrikes in Iran against alleged militant hideouts, killing at least nine people. In the retaliatory action called operation "Marg Bar Sarmachar" several missiles hit a village in the Sistan-Baluchestan province that borders Pakistan, said Iranian state media. The attack comes after Iran on Tuesday violated Pakistan's airspace and carried out strikes against "terrorist" targets in Pakistan which left at least two children dead. Iran said that the Jaish al-Adl group, which is an Iranian terrorist group, was targeted. Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012. It is blacklisted by Iran as a terrorist group and has carried out several attacks on Iranian soil in recent years. Pakistan denounced the strikes, calling it "illegal" and recalled its ambassador from Iran. Islamabad also blocked Tehran's envoy from returning to the South Asian nation. Meanwhile, the Pakistan foreign ministry after the airstrikes on Thursday (Jan 18) said that "a series of highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes" on targets that were reportedly over 80 kilometres inside Iranian territory. Also read: Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran? In a statement, it added: "This morning's action was taken in light of credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities. This action is a manifestation of Pakistan's unflinching resolve to protect and defend its national security against all threats." Pakistan's military said that the main objective of the act was in pursuit of Pakistan's own "security and national interest". Tehran strongly condemned the strikes. It summoned Pakistan's charge d'affaires, its most senior diplomat in Iran and asked for an explanation. "The information received indicates that four children, three women and two men, who were foreign nationals, have been killed in the explosion that occurred in a village," Iran's Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi told state TV. How exactly did the Pakistan army carry out airstrikes? A Pakistani military statement said: "The precision strikes were carried out using killer drones, rockets, loitering munitions and stand-off weapons" and the targets were bases used by the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) and the associated Baloch Liberation Army. Pakistan claims that the BLF has been waging an armed insurgency against the Pakistani state, including attacks against Chinese citizens and investments in Balochistan. -Killer drones are small, palm-sized autonomous drones which use facial recognition and shaped explosives that can be programmed to seek out and eliminate known targets. -Expert-based reports have noted that loitering munitions are typically smaller in size compared to traditional UAVs, which enables them to navigate through complex terrain and confined spaces easily. The munition can be optimised in terms of characteristics, such as keeping the life of the engine short, silence in the strike phase, speed of strike dive, and more. -Standoff weapons are missiles fired from aircraft at a distance — likely meaning Pakistan’s fighter jets didn’t enter Iranian airspace. A report by the EurAsian Times stated that Iran used Chinese-built fighter jets JF-17 'Thunder' and J-10C 'Vigorous Dragon'. Pakistan also deployed the Chinese Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Wing Loong II in its operation. The report added that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fighters engaged the targets inside Iran with precision-guided air-to-ground munitions. Pakistan said that seven locations were targeted after aerial reconnaissance carried out by UAVs confirmed the "presence of high-value terrorist targets". The primary precision-guided munition (PGM) used in airstrikes was the GIDS B-REK (Boosted Range Extension Kit), which is a rocket-boosted glide bomb and a precision-guided weapon with a range of 170 kilometres. Also read: Pakistan-Iran strikes: China ready to play 'constructive role' in de-escalating conflict The security threat in Iran The recent strikes were an escalation of tensions that have been long-simmering on both sides of the border but have rarely flared. There have been attacks inside Iran in recent months by the Sunni militant separatist group Jaish al-Adl, which is blacklisted by Iran — also by its arch-foe the United States — as a terrorist organisation. In an attack claimed by the group in the town of Rask in December, 11 policemen were killed. Jaish al-Adl was formed in the early years of the last decade following the breakup of a similar group, Jundallah, which had previously carried out assaults against Iranian security forces but was weakened after the capture and subsequent execution of its leader, Abdolmalek Rigi, in 2010. Watch: Pakistan: Geo-Economic targets, neighbours and the region × Iranian media reported that he was arrested in extraordinary circumstances in February 2010 when Iranian fighter jets forced a passenger plane he was travelling on to Kyrgyzstan to land in Iran. He was hanged in June of that year. The recent escalation could get out of hand as several analysts have warned that Pakistan's reaction and official comments after its retaliatory strikes suggest that the nation wants to keep the row contained. Asfandyar Mir, who is a senior expert on South Asia security at the US Institute of Peace, told the news agency Reuters: "Iran's motivation for attacking Pakistan remains opaque but in light of broader Iranian behaviour in the region it can escalate." "What will cause anxiety in Tehran is that Pakistan has crossed a line by hitting inside Iranian territory, a threshold that even the U.S. and Israel have been careful to not breach," Mir added. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Which weapons were used, how exactly did Pakistan carry out airstrikes in Iran?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-tumble-ahead-of-opec-meeting-global-stocks-fall-265363">Oil prices</a> traded at three-month highs on Monday, underpinned by optimism over an expected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-prices-steady-as-us-china-trade-deal-doubts-linger-263135">US-China trade deal</a>, while traders kept a close eye on the Middle East following a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-airstrike-kills-25-is-terrorists-in-afghanistan-32150">US&nbsp;airstrike</a>.

Markets showed little initial reaction to news of the US&nbsp;strikes in Iraq and Syria against an Iran-backed militia group, even as US&nbsp;officials warned "additional actions" may be taken.

West Texas Intermediate (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/crude-oil-prices-fall-1-on-fears-for-global-economy-233148">WTI</a>) crude futures edged up 5 cents to $61.77 a barrel by 0529 GMT. The US&nbsp;benchmark is up about 36&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;so far this year.

Brent crude futures were at $68.36 a barrel, up 20 cents, or 0.3 per cent. The international benchmark has risen around 27 per cent&nbsp;in 2019.

"(Trading) has been relatively flat due to lack of market participants in the holiday season," said market analyst Margaret Yang of CMC Markets.

"Oil prices have reached their highest level since the Saudi oil field attack in Mid Sep, and thus traders are also cautious about profit-taking possibilities," she added.

On Sunday, China's Commerce Ministry said it is in close touch with the United States on the signing of a long-awaited trade deal.

The two countries on December&nbsp;13 announced a "Phase one" agreement that reduces some US&nbsp;tariffs in exchange for what US&nbsp;officials said would be a big jump in Chinese purchases of American farm products and other goods.

Oil prices were also supported by declining US&nbsp;crude stocks which fell by 5.5 million barrels in the week to December&nbsp;20, far exceeding a 1.7-million-barrel drop forecast in a Reuters poll.

In the Middle East, the United States carried out air strikes on Sunday in Iraq and Syria against the Kataib Hezbollah militia group, while protesters in Iraq on Saturday forced the closure of its southern Nassiriya oilfield.

US&nbsp;officials said the air strikes in response to the killing of a US&nbsp;civilian contractor in a rocket attack on an Iraqi military base were successful but warned that "additional actions" may still be taken.

Iraq's oil ministry said the production halt at the Nassiriya oilfield will not affect the country's exports as it will use the additional output from southern oilfields in Basra.

Elsewhere, Libyan state oil firm NOC said it is considering the closure of its western Zawiya port and evacuating staff from the refinery located there due to clashes nearby.

However, the holiday season meant "oil will continue to struggle for meaningful moves," said Edward Moya, analyst at brokerage OANDA.

Oil prices traded at three-month highs on Monday, underpinned by optimism over an expected US-China trade deal, while traders kept a close eye on the Middle East following a US airstrike.

Oil prices traded at three-month highs on Monday, underpinned by optimism over an expected US-China trade deal, while traders kept a close eye on the Middle East following a US airstrike. Markets showed little initial reaction to news of the US strikes in Iraq and Syria against an Iran-backed militia group, even as US officials warned "additional actions" may be taken. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures edged up 5 cents to $61.77 a barrel by 0529 GMT. The US benchmark is up about 36 per cent so far this year. Brent crude futures were at $68.36 a barrel, up 20 cents, or 0.3 per cent. The international benchmark has risen around 27 per cent in 2019. "(Trading) has been relatively flat due to lack of market participants in the holiday season," said market analyst Margaret Yang of CMC Markets. "Oil prices have reached their highest level since the Saudi oil field attack in Mid Sep, and thus traders are also cautious about profit-taking possibilities," she added. On Sunday, China's Commerce Ministry said it is in close touch with the United States on the signing of a long-awaited trade deal. The two countries on December 13 announced a "Phase one" agreement that reduces some US tariffs in exchange for what US officials said would be a big jump in Chinese purchases of American farm products and other goods. Oil prices were also supported by declining US crude stocks which fell by 5.5 million barrels in the week to December 20, far exceeding a 1.7-million-barrel drop forecast in a Reuters poll. In the Middle East, the United States carried out air strikes on Sunday in Iraq and Syria against the Kataib Hezbollah militia group, while protesters in Iraq on Saturday forced the closure of its southern Nassiriya oilfield. US officials said the air strikes in response to the killing of a US civilian contractor in a rocket attack on an Iraqi military base were successful but warned that "additional actions" may still be taken. Iraq's oil ministry said the production halt at the Nassiriya oilfield will not affect the country's exports as it will use the additional output from southern oilfields in Basra. Elsewhere, Libyan state oil firm NOC said it is considering the closure of its western Zawiya port and evacuating staff from the refinery located there due to clashes nearby. However, the holiday season meant "oil will continue to struggle for meaningful moves," said Edward Moya, analyst at brokerage OANDA.

Oil edges up on trade optimism, eyes on Middle East tensions

Oil prices rose on Friday, with Brent crude heading for its first weekly gain in five weeks on tensions in the Middle East after Iran shot down a US military drone and on hopes for a drop in US interest rates that may stimulate global growth.

While US President Donald Trump played down the destruction of the drone, tensions remain high after the latest incident in the Gulf, which followed tanker attacks last week that raised concerns about crucial oil supplies being disrupted.

The demand-side picture has also improved, with expectations that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates at its next meeting and with plans by Beijing and Washington to resume talks to resolve a trade war that has hit economic growth prospects.

Brent crude was up 39 cents, or 0.6%, at $64.84 a barrel by 0034 GMT. The global benchmark rose 4.3% on Thursday and is heading for a weekly gain of more than 4% after four weeks of decline.

US West Texas Intermediate crude was up 32 cents, or 0.6%, at $57.39 a barrel. The US benchmark rose 5.4% on Thursday and is on track for a nearly 10% increase this week.

Potential supply "disruptions have boosted energy prices combined with the dollar weakness after the Fed signalled an interest rate is near," Alfonso Esparza, senior market analyst at OANDA, said in a note.

A weaker greenback tends to support oil prices because crude is usually priced in dollars.

"Trade anxiety has died down, pushing energy prices higher as global growth will not be pressured by a prolonged tariff war," Esparza said.

Concern about slowing economic growth and a US-China trade dispute had pulled oil lower in recent weeks. That came after Brent reached a 2019-high above $75 in April.

Trump said on Thursday he suspected the drone was shot down by mistake and that "it would have made a big difference" to him if the remotely-controlled aircraft had been piloted.

While the comments appeared to suggest Trump was not eager to escalate the latest in a series of incidents with Iran, he also warned that: "This country will not stand for it".

Tehran said the unarmed Global Hawk surveillance drone was on a spy mission over its territory, but Washington said it was shot down over international airspace.

Several top US House Republicans said on Thursday the United States must undertake a "measured response" to Iran.

Tension has been rising in the Middle East, home to over 20% of the world's oil output, after attacks on two tankers near the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for oil supplies.

Washington blamed Tehran for the tanker attacks. Iran denied any role.

A drop in US crude inventories has also supported prices.

Oil prices rose on Friday, with Brent crude heading for its first weekly gain in five weeks on tensions in the Middle East after Iran shot down a US military drone and on hopes for a drop in US interest rates that may stimulate global growth.

Oil prices rose on Friday, with Brent crude heading for its first weekly gain in five weeks on tensions in the Middle East after Iran shot down a US military drone and on hopes for a drop in US interest rates that may stimulate global growth. While US President Donald Trump played down the destruction of the drone, tensions remain high after the latest incident in the Gulf, which followed tanker attacks last week that raised concerns about crucial oil supplies being disrupted. The demand-side picture has also improved, with expectations that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates at its next meeting and with plans by Beijing and Washington to resume talks to resolve a trade war that has hit economic growth prospects. Brent crude was up 39 cents, or 0.6%, at $64.84 a barrel by 0034 GMT. The global benchmark rose 4.3% on Thursday and is heading for a weekly gain of more than 4% after four weeks of decline. US West Texas Intermediate crude was up 32 cents, or 0.6%, at $57.39 a barrel. The US benchmark rose 5.4% on Thursday and is on track for a nearly 10% increase this week. Potential supply "disruptions have boosted energy prices combined with the dollar weakness after the Fed signalled an interest rate is near," Alfonso Esparza, senior market analyst at OANDA, said in a note. A weaker greenback tends to support oil prices because crude is usually priced in dollars. "Trade anxiety has died down, pushing energy prices higher as global growth will not be pressured by a prolonged tariff war," Esparza said. Concern about slowing economic growth and a US-China trade dispute had pulled oil lower in recent weeks. That came after Brent reached a 2019-high above $75 in April. Trump said on Thursday he suspected the drone was shot down by mistake and that "it would have made a big difference" to him if the remotely-controlled aircraft had been piloted. While the comments appeared to suggest Trump was not eager to escalate the latest in a series of incidents with Iran, he also warned that: "This country will not stand for it". Tehran said the unarmed Global Hawk surveillance drone was on a spy mission over its territory, but Washington said it was shot down over international airspace. Several top US House Republicans said on Thursday the United States must undertake a "measured response" to Iran. Tension has been rising in the Middle East, home to over 20% of the world's oil output, after attacks on two tankers near the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for oil supplies. Washington blamed Tehran for the tanker attacks. Iran denied any role. A drop in US crude inventories has also supported prices.

Oil prices extend gains amid Middle East tensions, rate cut hopes

Oil prices extended gains on Wednesday after rising in the previous session on rekindled hopes for a US-China trade deal and on the potential for conflict between the US and Iran in the Middle East after tanker attacks there last week.

Brent crude futures were up 3 cents at $62.17 a barrel by 0330 GMT. They rose 2% on Tuesday.

US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 12 cents to $54.02 a barrel. The US benchmark surged 3.8% in the last session.

In a post on Twitter, US President Donald Trump said preparations were starting for him to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan, next week.

That comes after talks to reach a broad deal on trade between the United States and China broke down last month after Washington accused the Chinese of backing away from previously agreed commitments.

Interaction between the two sides since then has been limited, and Trump has threatened, repeatedly, to slap more tariffs on Chinese products in an escalation that businesses in both countries want to avoid.

"Global demand for crude got a boost on expectations that trade talks are showing some positive signs following President Trump's tweets," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA in New York.

Both oil benchmarks gave up earlier gains in the Asian session after data showed that Japan's exports fell for a sixth straight month in May as China-bound shipments weakened, underlining the impact of the trade war.

Tensions in the Middle East after last week's tanker attacks remain high, with Trump saying he was prepared to take military action to stop Iran having a nuclear bomb but leaving open whether he would sanction the use of force to protect Gulf oil supplies.

Fears of a confrontation between Iran and the United States have mounted since last Thursday's attacks, which Washington has blamed on Tehran. Iran has denied involvement.

Iran said this week it would breach internationally agreed curbs on its stock of low-enriched uranium within 10 days, possibly paving the way for the country to develop a nuclear weapon, adding that European nations still had time to save a landmark nuclear deal.

The US is deploying about 1,000 more troops to the Middle East for what Washington said were defensive purposes, citing concerns about a threat from Iran.

Market participants are also waiting for a meeting between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other producers including Russia, a group known as OPEC+, to decide whether to extend a supply reduction pact that ends this month.

OPEC and non-OPEC states are discussing holding meetings on July 10-12 in Vienna, a date range proposed by Iran, OPEC sources said on Tuesday. OPEC itself, however, is considering meeting on July 1-2 though it is still saying meeting will be held on June 25-26 on its website.

US crude stocks also fell by 812,000 barrels last week to 482 million, industry group the American Petroleum Institute said on Tuesday.

The report from the government's Energy Information Administration are due later on Wednesday.

Oil prices extended gains on Wednesday after rising in the previous session on rekindled hopes for a US-China trade deal and on the potential for conflict between the US and Iran in the Middle East after tanker attacks there last week.

Oil prices extended gains on Wednesday after rising in the previous session on rekindled hopes for a US-China trade deal and on the potential for conflict between the US and Iran in the Middle East after tanker attacks there last week. Brent crude futures were up 3 cents at $62.17 a barrel by 0330 GMT. They rose 2% on Tuesday. US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 12 cents to $54.02 a barrel. The US benchmark surged 3.8% in the last session. In a post on Twitter, US President Donald Trump said preparations were starting for him to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan, next week. That comes after talks to reach a broad deal on trade between the United States and China broke down last month after Washington accused the Chinese of backing away from previously agreed commitments. Interaction between the two sides since then has been limited, and Trump has threatened, repeatedly, to slap more tariffs on Chinese products in an escalation that businesses in both countries want to avoid. "Global demand for crude got a boost on expectations that trade talks are showing some positive signs following President Trump's tweets," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA in New York. Both oil benchmarks gave up earlier gains in the Asian session after data showed that Japan's exports fell for a sixth straight month in May as China-bound shipments weakened, underlining the impact of the trade war. Tensions in the Middle East after last week's tanker attacks remain high, with Trump saying he was prepared to take military action to stop Iran having a nuclear bomb but leaving open whether he would sanction the use of force to protect Gulf oil supplies. Fears of a confrontation between Iran and the United States have mounted since last Thursday's attacks, which Washington has blamed on Tehran. Iran has denied involvement. Iran said this week it would breach internationally agreed curbs on its stock of low-enriched uranium within 10 days, possibly paving the way for the country to develop a nuclear weapon, adding that European nations still had time to save a landmark nuclear deal. The US is deploying about 1,000 more troops to the Middle East for what Washington said were defensive purposes, citing concerns about a threat from Iran. Market participants are also waiting for a meeting between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other producers including Russia, a group known as OPEC+, to decide whether to extend a supply reduction pact that ends this month. OPEC and non-OPEC states are discussing holding meetings on July 10-12 in Vienna, a date range proposed by Iran, OPEC sources said on Tuesday. OPEC itself, however, is considering meeting on July 1-2 though it is still saying meeting will be held on June 25-26 on its website. US crude stocks also fell by 812,000 barrels last week to 482 million, industry group the American Petroleum Institute said on Tuesday. The report from the government's Energy Information Administration are due later on Wednesday.

Oil gains amid Middle East tensions, US-China trade deal hopes

Oil prices rose on Monday after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington will take all actions necessary to guarantee safe navigation in the Middle East, as tensions mounted following attacks on tankers last week.

Brent futures had climbed 26 cents, or 0.4%, to $62.27 a barrel by 0314 GMT. They gained 1.1% on Friday.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up 17 cents, or 0.3%, at $52.68 a barrel. They rose 0.4% in the previous session.

Prices had jumped as much as 4.5% on Thursday after the attacks on two oil tankers near Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.

It was the second time in a month tankers have been attacked in the world's most important zone for oil supplies as tensions increase between the United States and Iran. Washington blamed Iran for Thursday's attacks, prompting a denial and criticism from Tehran.

"We don't want war. We've done what we can to deter this," Pompeo said in an interview with Fox News Sunday, adding: "The Iranians should understand very clearly that we will continue to take actions that deter Iran from engaging in this kind of behaviour".

Tensions between Iran and the United States have risen since US President Donald Trump pulled out of a deal last year between Iran and global powers that aimed to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief.

Iran has repeatedly warned it would block the Strait of Hormuz if it cannot sell its oil because of US sanctions.

"Growing tensions in the Middle East remain a cause for concern as traders fear supply disruptions over an escalation towards militaristic conflicts," said Benjamin Lu, an analyst at Phillip Futures in Singapore.

Also supporting prices were comments over the weekend by the Saudi energy minister, Khalid al-Falih, that OPEC would probably meet in the first week of July and he hoped it would reach an agreement on extending oil output curbs.

"We are hoping that we will reach consensus to extend our agreement when we meet in two weeks time in Vienna," Falih told reporters while attending a G20 energy and environment ministerial meeting in Karuizawa, northwest of Tokyo.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus Russia and other producers, an alliance known as OPEC+, have a deal to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) from January 1. The pact ends this month and the group meets in coming weeks to decide the next move.

US energy companies also cut the number of oil rigs operating for a second week in a row, with production growth expected to slow as crude prices fell to near their lowest levels of the year.

Oil prices rose on Monday after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington will take all actions necessary to guarantee safe navigation in the Middle East, as tensions mounted following attacks on tankers last week.

Oil prices rose on Monday after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington will take all actions necessary to guarantee safe navigation in the Middle East, as tensions mounted following attacks on tankers last week. Brent futures had climbed 26 cents, or 0.4%, to $62.27 a barrel by 0314 GMT. They gained 1.1% on Friday. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up 17 cents, or 0.3%, at $52.68 a barrel. They rose 0.4% in the previous session. Prices had jumped as much as 4.5% on Thursday after the attacks on two oil tankers near Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. It was the second time in a month tankers have been attacked in the world's most important zone for oil supplies as tensions increase between the United States and Iran. Washington blamed Iran for Thursday's attacks, prompting a denial and criticism from Tehran. "We don't want war. We've done what we can to deter this," Pompeo said in an interview with Fox News Sunday, adding: "The Iranians should understand very clearly that we will continue to take actions that deter Iran from engaging in this kind of behaviour". Tensions between Iran and the United States have risen since US President Donald Trump pulled out of a deal last year between Iran and global powers that aimed to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief. Iran has repeatedly warned it would block the Strait of Hormuz if it cannot sell its oil because of US sanctions. "Growing tensions in the Middle East remain a cause for concern as traders fear supply disruptions over an escalation towards militaristic conflicts," said Benjamin Lu, an analyst at Phillip Futures in Singapore. Also supporting prices were comments over the weekend by the Saudi energy minister, Khalid al-Falih, that OPEC would probably meet in the first week of July and he hoped it would reach an agreement on extending oil output curbs. "We are hoping that we will reach consensus to extend our agreement when we meet in two weeks time in Vienna," Falih told reporters while attending a G20 energy and environment ministerial meeting in Karuizawa, northwest of Tokyo. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus Russia and other producers, an alliance known as OPEC+, have a deal to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) from January 1. The pact ends this month and the group meets in coming weeks to decide the next move. US energy companies also cut the number of oil rigs operating for a second week in a row, with production growth expected to slow as crude prices fell to near their lowest levels of the year.

Oil prices rise after tanker attacks stoke Middle East tensions

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran.

A government official told that Tokyo was still arranging details, including who Abe will meet, but local media have said he will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abe-to-meet-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-to-mediate-with-us-report-223544">hold talks </a>with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani.

As tensions intensify between Iran and Japan's key ally the United States, Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a go-between by directly holding talks with Iran's key leaders.

"We believe it is extremely important that, at the leadership level, we call on Iran as a major regional power to ease tension, to adhere to the nuclear agreement and to play a constructive role for the region's stability," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular press briefing.

The visit, from June 12-14, will be the first by a Japanese leader in 41 years, Suga said.

During his state visit to Tokyo in late May, US President Donald Trump said he remained open to talks with Tehran, appearing to give the green light to Abe's plan.

Abe told a news conference with Trump: "By closely cooperating between Japan and the US, I would like to help ease the current tension surrounding the Iranian situation."

Japan and Iran have maintained a good relationship as resource-poor Japan relies heavily on imports of oil from the Middle East, though crude from Iran accounted for just 5.3 per cent of the country's total imports last year.

On the other hand, Iranian and US leaders have ratcheted up barbs and insults ever since Trump was elected as president in 2016.

Living up to his campaign promises, Trump withdrew the US in May 2018 from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major world powers, and reimposed sanctions.

The war of words intensified after Iran's revolutionary guards were designated a "terrorist organisation", with Tehran hitting back by declaring the US a "state sponsor of terrorism" and Washington's forces in the region "terrorist groups".

Fears the war of words could flare into a military clash escalated when Washington dispatched the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group, an amphibious assault ship, a Patriot missile battery and B-52 bombers to the region.&nbsp;

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran.

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran. A government official told that Tokyo was still arranging details, including who Abe will meet, but local media have said he will hold talks with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani. As tensions intensify between Iran and Japan's key ally the United States, Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a go-between by directly holding talks with Iran's key leaders. "We believe it is extremely important that, at the leadership level, we call on Iran as a major regional power to ease tension, to adhere to the nuclear agreement and to play a constructive role for the region's stability," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular press briefing. The visit, from June 12-14, will be the first by a Japanese leader in 41 years, Suga said. During his state visit to Tokyo in late May, US President Donald Trump said he remained open to talks with Tehran, appearing to give the green light to Abe's plan. Abe told a news conference with Trump: "By closely cooperating between Japan and the US, I would like to help ease the current tension surrounding the Iranian situation." Japan and Iran have maintained a good relationship as resource-poor Japan relies heavily on imports of oil from the Middle East, though crude from Iran accounted for just 5.3 per cent of the country's total imports last year. On the other hand, Iranian and US leaders have ratcheted up barbs and insults ever since Trump was elected as president in 2016. Living up to his campaign promises, Trump withdrew the US in May 2018 from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major world powers, and reimposed sanctions. The war of words intensified after Iran's revolutionary guards were designated a "terrorist organisation", with Tehran hitting back by declaring the US a "state sponsor of terrorism" and Washington's forces in the region "terrorist groups". Fears the war of words could flare into a military clash escalated when Washington dispatched the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group, an amphibious assault ship, a Patriot missile battery and B-52 bombers to the region.

Japanese Prime Minister Abe set for mediation mission to Iran

The United States does not seek "regime change" in Iran despite mounting Middle East tensions, President Donald Trump said Monday, in dovish comments also praising North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un as a "very smart guy."

Speaking after summit talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump seemed at pains to dial down tensions in the world's two most pressing flashpoints as the US faces increasingly bellicose regimes in Tehran and Pyongyang.

Iran "has a chance to be a great country, with the same leadership. We're not looking for regime change, I want to make that clear. We're looking for no nuclear weapons," said the president.

"I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal. I think that's very smart of them and I think there's a possibility for that to happen also."

He had earlier opened the door to negotiations with Tehran, saying: "if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also."

Washington has decided to deploy 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East amid growing friction with Iran after Trump pulled out of a landmark nuclear deal and later re-instated tough sanctions.

Trump also appeared to give backing to his host Abe to mediate, amid reports the Japanese prime minister is considering a trip to Tehran to negotiate.

"I know for a fact that the prime minister (Abe) is very close with the leadership of Iran... nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me," Trump said before the summit.

'Tremendous economic potential'&nbsp;

Addressing the other hot-button issue in international diplomacy, Trump doubled down on his backing for Kim despite two short-range missile tests that sparked renewed concern in the region after a period of relative calm.

Asked about the missile tests, Trump said: "My people think it could have been a violation... I view it as a man who perhaps wants to get attention."

This appeared to be a second put-down of his hawkish National Security Advisor John Bolton, who said Saturday the launches contravened UN Security Council resolutions.

Kim "is looking to create a nation that has great strength economically," said Trump, repeating his oft-held view there was "tremendous economic potential" in North Korea.

"He knows that with nuclear, that's never going to happen. Only bad can happen. He is a very smart man, he gets it well," said the president, who even sided with the North Korean leader in criticising Joe Biden, who could be his main rival in next year's presidential election.

"Kim Jong-un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record, I think I agree with him on that," said the president.

For his part, Abe stated the launches were a violation of UN resolutions and reiterated Tokyo's stance that they were "very regrettable".

Abe said he had won Trump's blessing to hold face-to-face talks "without preconditions" with Kim in a bid to resolve the issue of Japanese citizens kidnapped by North Korea decades ago -- a burning domestic political issue.

'Great time'&nbsp;

Trump was in Japan as the first foreign leader to visit the country's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito, which he described as a "great honour".

In the morning, Trump, dressed in a dark suit and red tie, reviewed the Japanese honour guard and greeted dozens of Japanese and visiting US officials as a military band played.

Naruhito, wearing a light blue tie, and his wife Empress Masako, who was in a white hat and jacket, accompanied Trump and his wife Melania, who wore a summery white dress and tall red high heels.

Monday marked the start of the official programme for the two leaders after a fun-filled weekend of sumo, golf and meals out. Trump said Sunday he was having a "great time" with his friend and close ally Abe.

Abe was hoping that their diplomatic bromance would act to his advantage in delicate trade talks between the world's number-one and number-three economies.

And this seemed to have had some effect, with Trump saying that "much" of that deal would wait until Abe faces upper house elections likely in July -- as rumours swirl that the popular prime minister will combine that vote with a snap general election.

On the even tougher trade negotiations with China, Trump suggested there was a "very good chance" for a "very good deal" with China.

In the evening, Trump and his wife Melania will be back at the palace for a banquet.

That will mark the lavish high point in a Japan visit laden with feel-good moments aimed at celebrating US-Japanese ties at a time of growing regional uncertainty due to US trade policies, a rising China and nuclear-armed North Korea.

The United States does not seek "regime change" in Iran despite mounting Middle East tensions, President Donald Trump said Monday, in dovish comments also praising North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un as a "very smart guy.

The United States does not seek "regime change" in Iran despite mounting Middle East tensions, President Donald Trump said Monday, in dovish comments also praising North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un as a "very smart guy." Speaking after summit talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump seemed at pains to dial down tensions in the world's two most pressing flashpoints as the US faces increasingly bellicose regimes in Tehran and Pyongyang. Iran "has a chance to be a great country, with the same leadership. We're not looking for regime change, I want to make that clear. We're looking for no nuclear weapons," said the president. "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal. I think that's very smart of them and I think there's a possibility for that to happen also." He had earlier opened the door to negotiations with Tehran, saying: "if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also." Washington has decided to deploy 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East amid growing friction with Iran after Trump pulled out of a landmark nuclear deal and later re-instated tough sanctions. Trump also appeared to give backing to his host Abe to mediate, amid reports the Japanese prime minister is considering a trip to Tehran to negotiate. "I know for a fact that the prime minister (Abe) is very close with the leadership of Iran... nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me," Trump said before the summit. 'Tremendous economic potential' Addressing the other hot-button issue in international diplomacy, Trump doubled down on his backing for Kim despite two short-range missile tests that sparked renewed concern in the region after a period of relative calm. Asked about the missile tests, Trump said: "My people think it could have been a violation... I view it as a man who perhaps wants to get attention." This appeared to be a second put-down of his hawkish National Security Advisor John Bolton, who said Saturday the launches contravened UN Security Council resolutions. Kim "is looking to create a nation that has great strength economically," said Trump, repeating his oft-held view there was "tremendous economic potential" in North Korea. "He knows that with nuclear, that's never going to happen. Only bad can happen. He is a very smart man, he gets it well," said the president, who even sided with the North Korean leader in criticising Joe Biden, who could be his main rival in next year's presidential election. "Kim Jong-un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record, I think I agree with him on that," said the president. For his part, Abe stated the launches were a violation of UN resolutions and reiterated Tokyo's stance that they were "very regrettable". Abe said he had won Trump's blessing to hold face-to-face talks "without preconditions" with Kim in a bid to resolve the issue of Japanese citizens kidnapped by North Korea decades ago -- a burning domestic political issue. 'Great time' Trump was in Japan as the first foreign leader to visit the country's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito, which he described as a "great honour". In the morning, Trump, dressed in a dark suit and red tie, reviewed the Japanese honour guard and greeted dozens of Japanese and visiting US officials as a military band played. Naruhito, wearing a light blue tie, and his wife Empress Masako, who was in a white hat and jacket, accompanied Trump and his wife Melania, who wore a summery white dress and tall red high heels. Monday marked the start of the official programme for the two leaders after a fun-filled weekend of sumo, golf and meals out. Trump said Sunday he was having a "great time" with his friend and close ally Abe. Abe was hoping that their diplomatic bromance would act to his advantage in delicate trade talks between the world's number-one and number-three economies. And this seemed to have had some effect, with Trump saying that "much" of that deal would wait until Abe faces upper house elections likely in July -- as rumours swirl that the popular prime minister will combine that vote with a snap general election. On the even tougher trade negotiations with China, Trump suggested there was a "very good chance" for a "very good deal" with China. In the evening, Trump and his wife Melania will be back at the palace for a banquet. That will mark the lavish high point in a Japan visit laden with feel-good moments aimed at celebrating US-Japanese ties at a time of growing regional uncertainty due to US trade policies, a rising China and nuclear-armed North Korea.

Not looking for 'regime change' in Iran despite Middle East tensions: Trump  

Amid the shift of the United States embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, the Kremlin has said that it feared that opening could fuel tensions in the Middle East.

The move of shifting US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem is being followed after the United States president Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The announcement was well received by Israel but was criticised by international media.&nbsp

News agency Reuters reported Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov saying that "Yes, we have such fears," when he was asked if the Kremlin was concerned the move could increase tensions in the wider region.

Meanwhile, President Trump's daughter Ivanka reached yesterday to inaugurate the US embassy on Monday evening amid high security.

Around 1,000 police officers will be positioned around the embassy for the inauguration, said spokesman Micky Rosenfeld.

The inauguration will be attended by nearly 800 guests which will be led by US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan.

Sullivan called the embassy "a long overdue recognition of reality."

May 14th also marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of Israel.

Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov said that 'Yes, we have such fears,' when he was asked if the Kremlin was concerned the move could increase tensions in the wider region

Amid the shift of the United States embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, the Kremlin has said that it feared that opening could fuel tensions in the Middle East. The move of shifting US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem is being followed after the United States president Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The announcement was well received by Israel but was criticised by international media. News agency Reuters reported Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov saying that "Yes, we have such fears," when he was asked if the Kremlin was concerned the move could increase tensions in the wider region. Meanwhile, President Trump's daughter Ivanka reached yesterday to inaugurate the US embassy on Monday evening amid high security. Around 1,000 police officers will be positioned around the embassy for the inauguration, said spokesman Micky Rosenfeld. The inauguration will be attended by nearly 800 guests which will be led by US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan. Sullivan called the embassy "a long overdue recognition of reality." May 14th also marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of Israel.

US Jerusalem embassy opening could fuel Middle East tensions: Kremlin