Even as the U.S. continues to pile on economic pressure on Iran, Tehran has refused to cave in. Amid a temporary pause in fighting, Iran held its first military training course for women as part of the 'Sacrifice for Iran' campaign.&nbsp;Dressed in the traditional chador, Iranian female volunteers were seen handling multiple weapons ranging from a gun to a rifle at a training centre in Tehran.&nbsp;According to Iranian state media, the training course also covered operating drones, first aid, guerrila tactics, survival techniques and preparedness for harsh conditions.&nbsp;Now, the training is a part of a broader nationwide volunteer mobilisation programme that includes military and emergency training to both men and women.&nbsp;Iran aims to form thousands of national resistance battalions in a push to increase civilian preparedness and participation in national defence.&nbsp;Last week, thousands of people took part in a 'Sacrifice for Iran' motorcycle rally in Tehran.&nbsp;The anti-U.S. sentiment looms large on the streets of Iran.&nbsp;Zolfaghar missiles and a Shahed drone have been displayed at Tehran's Baharestan Square besides a banner reading 'Kill Trump'.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran revealed that it has received an official U.S. response to its proposal to reopen Strait of Hormuz within 7 days.&nbsp;While suspense remains on America's response, Iran has reportedly demanded a ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, unfreezing of Iranian assets, lifting of sanctions on its oil exports and ending the U.S. naval blockade.&nbsp;This comes at a time when tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;According to a British maritime agency, unknown projectiles struck three ships, including a crude oil tanker and an LNG tanker, in this strategic waterway on Tuesday.&nbsp;While U.S. President Donald Trump continues to insist that Iran is doing very poorly, he remained less optimistic about Iran giving up anytime soon.&nbsp;Both sides have also started incentivising people to help gain an edge in this protracted war.&nbsp;For instance, the U.S. Department of State has offered a reward of up to 15 million U.S. dollars for information leading to disruption of economic lifelines that sustain IRGC.&nbsp;This includes information on IRGC's alleged illicit financial schemes, its front companies and entities helping it evade U.S. sanctions.&nbsp;On the other hand, Iran has reportedly offered a reward of around 20,000 U.S. dollars to any citizen who captures or kills an American soldier. According to reports, the reward would double to 40,000 U.S. dollars if the citizen is a woman.&nbsp;As the impasse continues over Iran's proposal, China stressed that it supports resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means.&nbsp;It also urged U.S. and Iran to return to negotiations and abide by the expired memorandum of understanding.&nbsp;With Iran revealing that it is designing new weapons to defend itself while upgrading and mass-producing its existing arms, it is amply clear that any kind of compromise to end the war appears to be a far-fetched scenario...

Iran aims to form thousands of national resistance battalions to increase civilian preparedness and participation in national defence. Last week, thousands of people took part in a 'Sacrifice for Iran' motorcycle rally in Tehran. The anti-U.S. sentiment looms large on the streets of Iran.

Even as the U.S. continues to pile on economic pressure on Iran, Tehran has refused to cave in. Amid a temporary pause in fighting, Iran held its first military training course for women as part of the 'Sacrifice for Iran' campaign. Dressed in the traditional chador, Iranian female volunteers were seen handling multiple weapons ranging from a gun to a rifle at a training centre in Tehran. According to Iranian state media, the training course also covered operating drones, first aid, guerrila tactics, survival techniques and preparedness for harsh conditions. Now, the training is a part of a broader nationwide volunteer mobilisation programme that includes military and emergency training to both men and women. Iran aims to form thousands of national resistance battalions in a push to increase civilian preparedness and participation in national defence. Last week, thousands of people took part in a 'Sacrifice for Iran' motorcycle rally in Tehran. The anti-U.S. sentiment looms large on the streets of Iran. Zolfaghar missiles and a Shahed drone have been displayed at Tehran's Baharestan Square besides a banner reading 'Kill Trump'. Meanwhile, Iran revealed that it has received an official U.S. response to its proposal to reopen Strait of Hormuz within 7 days. While suspense remains on America's response, Iran has reportedly demanded a ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, unfreezing of Iranian assets, lifting of sanctions on its oil exports and ending the U.S. naval blockade. This comes at a time when tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz. According to a British maritime agency, unknown projectiles struck three ships, including a crude oil tanker and an LNG tanker, in this strategic waterway on Tuesday. While U.S. President Donald Trump continues to insist that Iran is doing very poorly, he remained less optimistic about Iran giving up anytime soon. Both sides have also started incentivising people to help gain an edge in this protracted war. For instance, the U.S. Department of State has offered a reward of up to 15 million U.S. dollars for information leading to disruption of economic lifelines that sustain IRGC. This includes information on IRGC's alleged illicit financial schemes, its front companies and entities helping it evade U.S. sanctions. On the other hand, Iran has reportedly offered a reward of around 20,000 U.S. dollars to any citizen who captures or kills an American soldier. According to reports, the reward would double to 40,000 U.S. dollars if the citizen is a woman. As the impasse continues over Iran's proposal, China stressed that it supports resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means. It also urged U.S. and Iran to return to negotiations and abide by the expired memorandum of understanding. With Iran revealing that it is designing new weapons to defend itself while upgrading and mass-producing its existing arms, it is amply clear that any kind of compromise to end the war appears to be a far-fetched scenario...

Iran aims to form thousands of national resistance battalions to increase civilian preparedness and participation in national defence. Last week, thousands of people took part in a 'Sacrifice for Iran' motorcycle rally in Tehran. The anti-U.S. sentiment looms large on the streets of Iran.

Women in Iran take up arms for war as mass mobilisation campaign intensifies | Gravitas

Saudi Arabia has called on the international community to do more to protect key waterways in the Middle East, warning that attempts to disrupt shipping routes could threaten global energy security.&nbsp;Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan made the remarks at the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday. He called for international action against attacks by Yemen's Houthi militia on Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping.&nbsp;He also urged countries to protect navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab al Mandab Strait, which are important routes for oil and gas exports.<h3>Saudi Arabia calls for free navigation</h3>"The international community has been absent from assuming its responsibilities in confronting all that threatens international peace and security," bin Farhan told the UN General Assembly.&nbsp;He stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation across major international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.&nbsp;"The kingdom stresses the importance of guaranteeing the protection of freedom of navigation in all international waterways, foremost among them the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden," he said.&nbsp;Bin Farhan also called for the Strait of Hormuz to return to its pre-war status and said ships should not face any fees or taxes while using the waterway.&nbsp;"The Strait of Hormuz must return to its pre-war status, without the imposition of fees."&nbsp;He said no country should use important waterways to put pressure on other nations or threaten their interests.&nbsp;"The kingdom rejects any party's use of these vital passages as a tool for pressure, threat, or harm to the interests of states, in a manner consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions," he said.&nbsp;Bin Farhan spoke shortly after US President Donald Trump rejected an Iranian proposal linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also included a ceasefire in the Middle East and the release of frozen Iranian assets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-achieve-ukraine-war-aims-europe-doing-everything-to-block-peace-talks-lavrov-at-un-1790441169006">Russia will achieve Ukraine war aims; Europe doing everything to block peace talks: Lavrov at UN</a><h3>Saudi Arabia backs two-state solution</h3>The Saudi foreign minister also addressed the situation in the Palestinian territories. He rejected attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians or change the existing status quo.&nbsp;"We reject any attempt at forced displacement or changing the status quo in the Palestinian territories.&nbsp;A just peace can only be achieved through the implementation of the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The continued illegal expansion of settlements constitutes a grave violation of international and humanitarian law."

Saudi Arabia has urged global action against Houthi attacks on the Kingdom and commercial shipping, while calling for free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Bab al Mandab Strait.

Saudi Arabia has called on the international community to do more to protect key waterways in the Middle East, warning that attempts to disrupt shipping routes could threaten global energy security. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan made the remarks at the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday. He called for international action against attacks by Yemen's Houthi militia on Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping. He also urged countries to protect navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab al Mandab Strait, which are important routes for oil and gas exports. Saudi Arabia calls for free navigation "The international community has been absent from assuming its responsibilities in confronting all that threatens international peace and security," bin Farhan told the UN General Assembly. He stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation across major international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. "The kingdom stresses the importance of guaranteeing the protection of freedom of navigation in all international waterways, foremost among them the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden," he said. Bin Farhan also called for the Strait of Hormuz to return to its pre-war status and said ships should not face any fees or taxes while using the waterway. "The Strait of Hormuz must return to its pre-war status, without the imposition of fees." He said no country should use important waterways to put pressure on other nations or threaten their interests. "The kingdom rejects any party's use of these vital passages as a tool for pressure, threat, or harm to the interests of states, in a manner consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions," he said. Bin Farhan spoke shortly after US President Donald Trump rejected an Iranian proposal linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also included a ceasefire in the Middle East and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Also Read: Russia will achieve Ukraine war aims; Europe doing everything to block peace talks: Lavrov at UN Saudi Arabia backs two-state solution The Saudi foreign minister also addressed the situation in the Palestinian territories. He rejected attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians or change the existing status quo. "We reject any attempt at forced displacement or changing the status quo in the Palestinian territories. A just peace can only be achieved through the implementation of the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The continued illegal expansion of settlements constitutes a grave violation of international and humanitarian law."

Saudi Arabia has urged global action against Houthi attacks on the Kingdom and commercial shipping, while calling for free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Bab al Mandab Strait.

Global community 'absent' in Gulf crisis: Saudi at UN calls for freedom of navigation, pre war status for Hormuz

Can data from an app which people use every day for recording their fitness activities be weaponised during a conflict?&nbsp;A new report makes this precise assertion in the context of the West Asia war.&nbsp;According to Sky News, over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces.&nbsp;This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming.&nbsp;In May, US Senator Ron Wyden shared a letter in which CENTCOM admitted to having received multiple threat reports regarding exploitation of commercial location data to target US personnel.&nbsp;The Sky News report also claimed that many of those posting their activities did so under their real names, thereby becoming potential targets for attacks.&nbsp;Take a look at the example of Bahrain.&nbsp;This country hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Iran launched an attack on this base in retaliation, speculation was rife about the whereabouts of the US military personnel stationed there. According to Sky News, Strava data of a US Naval contractor gave away their possible location. A week before the war, his activities were confined to this BASE. After the Iranian attack, though, he recorded doing laps on Strava around the courtyard of the Crowne Plaza hotel. Subsequently, Iran also bombed this hotel, which reportedly led to multiple Pentagon employees getting injured. While it is not confirmed, the report indicated that Iran strategically used Strava data in this case. While Pentagon had banned soldiers from using this app's location-tracking features without permission during deployment in 2018 itself, experts have flagged lax enforcement of this order. Now, it is not just individual accounts, which could be an issue. According to this report, Iran may have figured out a pattern by collecting data from thousands of accounts. It gave the example of how 76% of Strava accounts at Jordan's Muwaffaq Salti air base were located at the barracks during the ceasefire. When fighting briefly resumed in July, Iran attacked those very barracks, killing three US military personnel in the process. Similarly, activities of three Strava users were also detected inside the nuclear research centre located in Israel's Dimona, which was also targeted by Iran. Now, the danger of fitness apps being misused in military operations dates back several years. In 2016, a US Defence contractor reportedly used commercially available location data to track special operations forces moving from American bases to a sensitive post in Syria. Two years later, Strava's public heatmap exposed the locations of secret US and allied military bases in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In 2024, media outlets analysed billions of location coordinates obtained from a data broker and reportedly tracked movements of around 11 US military and intelligence facilities in Germany. This is not all. In March this year, a French naval officer reportedly exposed the location of aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle after recording his jogging on Strava while exercising on the ship's deck. While the Pentagon is yet to comment on this, a Strava spokesperson told Sky News that the firm expects people working in sensitive professions to use privacy controls and appropriately limit their content.

Over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces. This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming.

Can data from an app which people use every day for recording their fitness activities be weaponised during a conflict? A new report makes this precise assertion in the context of the West Asia war. According to Sky News, over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces. This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming. In May, US Senator Ron Wyden shared a letter in which CENTCOM admitted to having received multiple threat reports regarding exploitation of commercial location data to target US personnel. The Sky News report also claimed that many of those posting their activities did so under their real names, thereby becoming potential targets for attacks. Take a look at the example of Bahrain. This country hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.

Over 1,300 Strava users on US military bases in West Asia have been sharing workout-related information which could have been used by Iran to target American forces. This app allows users to share exact routes and timings of activities like running, cycling and swimming.

American nightmare: Iran tracked Strava data and launched precise strikes on US bases | Gravitas

Iran's military doctrine could shift from a primarily defensive posture towards a more proactive and potentially offensive approach, a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official has warned, saying the country's adversaries should expect "strategic surprises".IRGC Political Deputy Brigadier General Yadollah Javani told Iranian state media that Iran's military actions so far had been defensive because Tehran was responding to attacks initiated by its adversaries. However, he said the nature of Iran's response could change in the future."The enemy has been the initiator of the war, and Iran's actions are defensive, but they may take on an offensive aspect in the future," Javani said, according to Iranian media reports.Javani said Iran's armed forces would adopt what he described as "transformative approaches" and take necessary measures at the appropriate time to defend the country and neutralise threats.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-owns-and-rules-this-waterway-tehran-warns-us-it-will-never-control-strait-of-hormuz-amid-trump-s-threat-1786785833003">‘Iran owns and rules this waterway’: Tehran warns US it will never control Strait of Hormuz amid Trump’s threat</a>The remarks suggest a possible shift in how Tehran defines deterrence, with defensive operations potentially involving proactive action to neutralise perceived threats before they can directly target Iran.Javani also referred to the mandate given to Iran's new commander-in-chief, Major-General Ahmad Vahidi, saying the military leadership had emphasised achieving "maximum deterrence".Under such an approach, defensive action could take on an offensive character by seeking to neutralise threats proactively, Al Jazeera reported."The enemy should know that it cannot catch us off-guard," Javani said, adding that Iran's adversaries would instead have to "anticipate strategic surprises"."Whatever is necessary to defend this land, ensure security, and neutralise enemy threats will be executed at the appropriate time," he said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-new-infiltration-bill-could-turn-foreign-contacts-into-crimes-journalists-and-others-face-prison-under-proposed-law-details-inside-1786935582385">Iran’s new ‘infiltration’ bill could turn foreign contacts into crimes: Journalists and others face prison under proposed law. Details inside</a>The comments come amid heightened tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel following the recent conflict. Tehran has maintained that its military actions were responses to attacks, while US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that Iranian military infrastructure was destroyed during the conflict.Javani's remarks do not spell out what specific military measures Iran could adopt, but they signal that Tehran may be considering a broader interpretation of deterrence as it reassesses its military strategy following the latest confrontation.

Iran’s IRGC warned the US and Israel of a potential shift from a defensive military posture to proactive, offensive actions and strategic surprises to achieve maximum deterrence against future threats.

Iran's military doctrine could shift from a primarily defensive posture towards a more proactive and potentially offensive approach, a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official has warned, saying the country's adversaries should expect "strategic surprises". IRGC Political Deputy Brigadier General Yadollah Javani told Iranian state media that Iran's military actions so far had been defensive because Tehran was responding to attacks initiated by its adversaries. However, he said the nature of Iran's response could change in the future. "The enemy has been the initiator of the war, and Iran's actions are defensive, but they may take on an offensive aspect in the future," Javani said, according to Iranian media reports. Javani said Iran's armed forces would adopt what he described as "transformative approaches" and take necessary measures at the appropriate time to defend the country and neutralise threats. Also read: ‘Iran owns and rules this waterway’: Tehran warns US it will never control Strait of Hormuz amid Trump’s threat The remarks suggest a possible shift in how Tehran defines deterrence, with defensive operations potentially involving proactive action to neutralise perceived threats before they can directly target Iran. Javani also referred to the mandate given to Iran's new commander-in-chief, Major-General Ahmad Vahidi, saying the military leadership had emphasised achieving "maximum deterrence". Under such an approach, defensive action could take on an offensive character by seeking to neutralise threats proactively, Al Jazeera reported. "The enemy should know that it cannot catch us off-guard," Javani said, adding that Iran's adversaries would instead have to "anticipate strategic surprises". "Whatever is necessary to defend this land, ensure security, and neutralise enemy threats will be executed at the appropriate time," he said. Also read: Iran’s new ‘infiltration’ bill could turn foreign contacts into crimes: Journalists and others face prison under proposed law. Details inside The comments come amid heightened tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel following the recent conflict. Tehran has maintained that its military actions were responses to attacks, while US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that Iranian military infrastructure was destroyed during the conflict. Javani's remarks do not spell out what specific military measures Iran could adopt, but they signal that Tehran may be considering a broader interpretation of deterrence as it reassesses its military strategy following the latest confrontation.

Iran’s IRGC warned the US and Israel of a potential shift from a defensive military posture to proactive, offensive actions and strategic surprises to achieve maximum deterrence against future threats.

‘They can’t catch us off-guard’: Iran’s IRGC warns US, Israel of ‘strategic surprises’. What’s coming?

Hours after US president Donald Trump said that he is canceling a planned attack on Iran, provided a deal is struck "rapidly" with the country, Iran's Mehr news agency on Sunday (Aug 2) denied the claims made by Trump.&nbsp;The news agency citing military officials said the claim "was nothing but a new lie" and that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were "on high alert and ready for any eventuality".&nbsp;On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to "hold off" on any attack as the "perimeters" of a deal had been agreed.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-araghchi-agree-to-open-hormuz-to-stop-trump-s-planned-us-strikes-on-iran-1785657566859">Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know</a>&nbsp;"This would include the Immediate, Complete and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran's nuclear threat," Trump wrote further.&nbsp;Trump’s move comes after Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushed for a deescalation of tensions in the Middle East, according to the state media. Since the announcement no strikes were reported from either the Iranian or US side overnight into Sunday.&nbsp;<h2>"Potential for unforeseen escalation"</h2>&nbsp;On Saturday, US embassies in the Middle East had &nbsp;urged its citizens to avoid travel and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran.&nbsp;“Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” said the US Embassy in Jordan in a security alert.&nbsp;Similar versions of the alert were posted on social media by the US missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad too.&nbsp;The travel advisory had been issued after Trump reportedly ordered fresh military strikes on Iran. &nbsp;

On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to hold off on any attack.

Hours after US president Donald Trump said that he is canceling a planned attack on Iran, provided a deal is struck "rapidly" with the country, Iran's Mehr news agency on Sunday (Aug 2) denied the claims made by Trump. The news agency citing military officials said the claim "was nothing but a new lie" and that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were "on high alert and ready for any eventuality". On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to "hold off" on any attack as the "perimeters" of a deal had been agreed. ALSO READ: Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know "This would include the Immediate, Complete and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran's nuclear threat," Trump wrote further. Trump’s move comes after Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushed for a deescalation of tensions in the Middle East, according to the state media. Since the announcement no strikes were reported from either the Iranian or US side overnight into Sunday. "Potential for unforeseen escalation" On Saturday, US embassies in the Middle East had urged its citizens to avoid travel and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran. “Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” said the US Embassy in Jordan in a security alert. Similar versions of the alert were posted on social media by the US missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad too. The travel advisory had been issued after Trump reportedly ordered fresh military strikes on Iran.

On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to "hold off" on any attack.

Iran media denies Trump claim that Tehran urged US to halt attacks

Iran has announced that it is suspending all its ceasefire commitments under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between the two countries.&nbsp;Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran had suspended its commitments under the MoU as US military attacks continue, according to Iran's Fars news agency.&nbsp;“The US has violated and suspended all its commitments within the framework of the Islamabad MoU,” Gharibabadi said.&nbsp;He added that Iran had halted its obligations under the agreement because it is "busy defending the country."&nbsp;"We were in negotiations. Unfortunately, the Americans themselves took these aggressive actions, violating their commitments under the memorandum of understanding in this regard. Practically, America has trampled on all its commitments and suspended them all. We have also suspended all our commitments under that memorandum of understanding, known as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, and we are not currently fulfilling those obligations," he stated.&nbsp;He further described the ongoing Iranian action as "united and decisive defence." Asserting that the path chosen by Washington is irrational, the Deputy Foreign Minister reaffirmed Tehran's resolve to “teach a lesson to aggressors.” &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-refuses-intravenous-fluids-wife-says-he-will-continue-hunger-strike-1784374735872">Sonam Wangchuk refuses intravenous fluids; wife says he will continue hunger strike</a>&nbsp;The announcement marks the first time Tehran has explicitly declared the MoU effectively over after seven consecutive nights of US military strikes deep inside Iran, targeting military sites and critical energy infrastructure.&nbsp;The MoU, signed in June 2026, was intended to halt military operations and establish a framework for negotiations on the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear programme.&nbsp;The US military has maintained that its strikes were aimed at degrading Iran's ability to disrupt maritime traffic through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Iran, in retaliation, targeted US military bases in the region and facilities belonging to Washington's Gulf allies.&nbsp;On Saturday, Kuwait accused Iran of targeting desalination plants and civilian infrastructure, including oil facilities and power plants.&nbsp;"The repeated targeting of these vital facilities reveals a systematic hostile approach targeting civilian sites and vital infrastructure that endangers the lives and safety of civilians," Kuwait's foreign ministry said.&nbsp;The latest escalation began after US President Donald Trump declared the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding "over", accusing Iran of continued aggression in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;The United States subsequently launched repeated military strikes, while Trump renewed threats to target civilian infrastructure and seize Kharg Island.

Iran has suspended its commitments under the ceasefire Memorandum of Understanding with the United States, accusing Washington of violating the agreement as military hostilities between the two countries continue to escalate.


Iran has announced that it is suspending all its ceasefire commitments under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States, marking a fresh escalation in tensions between the two countries. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran had suspended its commitments under the MoU as US military attacks continue, according to Iran's Fars news agency. “The US has violated and suspended all its commitments within the framework of the Islamabad MoU,” Gharibabadi said. He added that Iran had halted its obligations under the agreement because it is "busy defending the country." "We were in negotiations. Unfortunately, the Americans themselves took these aggressive actions, violating their commitments under the memorandum of understanding in this regard. Practically, America has trampled on all its commitments and suspended them all. We have also suspended all our commitments under that memorandum of understanding, known as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, and we are not currently fulfilling those obligations," he stated. He further described the ongoing Iranian action as "united and decisive defence." Asserting that the path chosen by Washington is irrational, the Deputy Foreign Minister reaffirmed Tehran's resolve to “teach a lesson to aggressors.” Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk refuses intravenous fluids; wife says he will continue hunger strike The announcement marks the first time Tehran has explicitly declared the MoU effectively over after seven consecutive nights of US military strikes deep inside Iran, targeting military sites and critical energy infrastructure. The MoU, signed in June 2026, was intended to halt military operations and establish a framework for negotiations on the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear programme. The US military has maintained that its strikes were aimed at degrading Iran's ability to disrupt maritime traffic through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Iran, in retaliation, targeted US military bases in the region and facilities belonging to Washington's Gulf allies. On Saturday, Kuwait accused Iran of targeting desalination plants and civilian infrastructure, including oil facilities and power plants. "The repeated targeting of these vital facilities reveals a systematic hostile approach targeting civilian sites and vital infrastructure that endangers the lives and safety of civilians," Kuwait's foreign ministry said. The latest escalation began after US President Donald Trump declared the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding "over", accusing Iran of continued aggression in the Strait of Hormuz. The United States subsequently launched repeated military strikes, while Trump renewed threats to target civilian infrastructure and seize Kharg Island.

Iran has suspended its commitments under the ceasefire Memorandum of Understanding with the United States, accusing Washington of violating the agreement as military hostilities between the two countries continue to escalate.

Iran suspends commitments under ceasefire MoU over 'US violations' as conflict escalates

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Saturday (July 18) that two oil tankers exploded and caught fire after entering what it described as a mined area south of the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Gulf continued to escalate.&nbsp;According to statements carried by several Iranian state media outlets, the IRGC Navy said the vessels entered the area after being "misled" by US intelligence agencies. The claims could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate confirmation from international maritime authorities or the countries linked to the vessels.&nbsp;In a statement, the IRGC said the two tankers "exploded and caught fire" after attempting to pass through the minefield.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-us-attacks-continue-khamenei-s-adviser-issued-stark-warning-for-trump-threatens-full-scale-offensive-1784319136676">‘If US attacks continue…’: Khamenei's adviser issued stark warning for Trump, threatens 'full-scale offensive'</a>&nbsp;"An hour ago, two oil tankers, which were trying to pass through the minefield south of the Strait of Hormuz by deceptive American intelligence agencies, exploded and caught fire," the statement said. Iran's state broadcaster IRIB reported that the vessels had ignored warnings issued by the Iranian Navy before entering the route, which it said resulted in the explosions and large fires.&nbsp;The IRGC repeated its accusation that the ships had been deceived by the United States."Earlier today, two oil tankers, which were deceived by US intelligence agencies into attempting to pass through a minefield in the southern Strait of Hormuz, exploded and caught fire," the force said. The IRGC also declared that the Strait of Hormuz remained "extremely unsafe" and effectively closed while US military operations against Iran continued.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-have-no-right-to-be-in-the-region-iran-warns-regional-infrastructure-could-be-targeted-if-its-own-is-attacked-1784238645378">‘US, Israel have no right to be in the region’: Iran warns regional infrastructure could be targeted if its own is attacked</a>&nbsp;"The IRGC Navy declares with certainty that the Strait of Hormuz is extremely unsafe and completely closed due to the crimes of the US child-killing army, and until the aggressions of the criminal America end, it is impossible to export any chemical fertilizers or even a single drop of oil and gas from this region," the statement said.&nbsp;There was no immediate response from the United States to the allegations. International maritime authorities have also not confirmed the reported explosions or the status of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy chokepoints, with a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through the narrow waterway. Any disruption to traffic in the area is closely watched by global energy markets and shipping companies.

Iran’s IRGC claimed two oil tankers exploded and caught fire south of the Strait of Hormuz after being "misled" by US intelligence into a minefield. The claims remain unverified.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Saturday (July 18) that two oil tankers exploded and caught fire after entering what it described as a mined area south of the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Gulf continued to escalate. According to statements carried by several Iranian state media outlets, the IRGC Navy said the vessels entered the area after being "misled" by US intelligence agencies. The claims could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate confirmation from international maritime authorities or the countries linked to the vessels. In a statement, the IRGC said the two tankers "exploded and caught fire" after attempting to pass through the minefield. Also read: ‘If US attacks continue…’: Khamenei's adviser issued stark warning for Trump, threatens 'full-scale offensive' "An hour ago, two oil tankers, which were trying to pass through the minefield south of the Strait of Hormuz by deceptive American intelligence agencies, exploded and caught fire," the statement said. Iran's state broadcaster IRIB reported that the vessels had ignored warnings issued by the Iranian Navy before entering the route, which it said resulted in the explosions and large fires. The IRGC repeated its accusation that the ships had been deceived by the United States. "Earlier today, two oil tankers, which were deceived by US intelligence agencies into attempting to pass through a minefield in the southern Strait of Hormuz, exploded and caught fire," the force said. The IRGC also declared that the Strait of Hormuz remained "extremely unsafe" and effectively closed while US military operations against Iran continued. Also read: ‘US, Israel have no right to be in the region’: Iran warns regional infrastructure could be targeted if its own is attacked "The IRGC Navy declares with certainty that the Strait of Hormuz is extremely unsafe and completely closed due to the crimes of the US child-killing army, and until the aggressions of the criminal America end, it is impossible to export any chemical fertilizers or even a single drop of oil and gas from this region," the statement said. There was no immediate response from the United States to the allegations. International maritime authorities have also not confirmed the reported explosions or the status of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy chokepoints, with a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through the narrow waterway. Any disruption to traffic in the area is closely watched by global energy markets and shipping companies.

Iran’s IRGC claimed two oil tankers exploded and caught fire south of the Strait of Hormuz after being "misled" by US intelligence into a minefield. The claims remain unverified.

Iran says 2 oil tankers hit mines, catch fire near Hormuz

The United States used the ceasefire with Iran to replenish its military capabilities while continuing diplomatic engagement, a senior adviser to Iran's supreme leader claimed on Friday (July 17), accusing Washington of preparing for another round of conflict.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-us-attacks-continue-khamenei-s-adviser-issued-stark-warning-for-trump-threatens-full-scale-offensive-1784319136676">‘If US attacks continue…’: Khamenei's adviser issued stark warning for Trump, threatens 'full-scale offensive'</a>&nbsp;Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser to Iran's supreme leader and a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official, told Iranian state television that the US had used the truce to restock weapons and strengthen the deployment of its warships and aerial refuelling aircraft.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-have-no-right-to-be-in-the-region-iran-warns-regional-infrastructure-could-be-targeted-if-its-own-is-attacked-1784238645378">‘US, Israel have no right to be in the region’: Iran warns regional infrastructure could be targeted if its own is attacked</a>&nbsp;According to Rezaei, Washington simultaneously pursued negotiations with Tehran while reinforcing its military posture in the region. He also claimed that if negotiations resume, the US would seek to rewrite the existing Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by replacing the current text with a new agreement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-military-always-acts-in-good-faith-trump-denies-us-role-in-minab-school-attack-wh-defends-him-1784230811330">‘Our military always acts in good faith’: Trump denies US role in Minab school attack, WH defends him</a>&nbsp;Rezaei said Iran would not accept such changes, arguing that the circumstances had shifted since the original understanding was reached.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-re-going-to-knock-out-all-their-power-plants-trump-warns-iran-of-bigger-strikes-if-tehran-doesn-t-agree-for-negotiation-1784074218930">‘We’re going to knock out all their power plants’: Trump warns Iran of bigger strikes if Tehran doesn’t agree for negotiation</a>&nbsp;The adviser further alleged that the United States had linked the release of $12 billion in Iranian assets to conditions requiring the funds to be issued as loans and used exclusively to purchase goods and food from American companies. The US has not publicly responded to Rezaei's latest claims, and his allegations could not be independently verified.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-continue-to-aggressively-follow-the-money-us-freezes-over-130mn-in-iran-linked-crypto-wallets-1784075752403">'We will continue to aggressively follow the money': US freezes over $130mn in Iran-linked crypto wallets</a>

A senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader accused the US of using a ceasefire to restock weapons, reinforce its military posture, and attach unfair conditions to frozen assets.

The United States used the ceasefire with Iran to replenish its military capabilities while continuing diplomatic engagement, a senior adviser to Iran's supreme leader claimed on Friday (July 17), accusing Washington of preparing for another round of conflict. Also read: ‘If US attacks continue…’: Khamenei's adviser issued stark warning for Trump, threatens 'full-scale offensive' Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser to Iran's supreme leader and a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official, told Iranian state television that the US had used the truce to restock weapons and strengthen the deployment of its warships and aerial refuelling aircraft. Also read: ‘US, Israel have no right to be in the region’: Iran warns regional infrastructure could be targeted if its own is attacked According to Rezaei, Washington simultaneously pursued negotiations with Tehran while reinforcing its military posture in the region. He also claimed that if negotiations resume, the US would seek to rewrite the existing Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by replacing the current text with a new agreement. Also read: ‘Our military always acts in good faith’: Trump denies US role in Minab school attack, WH defends him Rezaei said Iran would not accept such changes, arguing that the circumstances had shifted since the original understanding was reached. Also read: ‘We’re going to knock out all their power plants’: Trump warns Iran of bigger strikes if Tehran doesn’t agree for negotiation The adviser further alleged that the United States had linked the release of $12 billion in Iranian assets to conditions requiring the funds to be issued as loans and used exclusively to purchase goods and food from American companies. The US has not publicly responded to Rezaei's latest claims, and his allegations could not be independently verified. Also read: 'We will continue to aggressively follow the money': US freezes over $130mn in Iran-linked crypto wallets

A senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader accused the US of using a ceasefire to restock weapons, reinforce its military posture, and attach unfair conditions to frozen assets.

‘US used Iran ceasefire to prepare for renewed war’: Khamenei’s aide

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Friday (July 17) claimed they struck US military aircraft stationed in Jordan with ballistic missiles and drones. The attack, IRGC said was in response to the overnight US strikes on multiple places in Iran that claimed the lives of at least eight people.&nbsp;Several US refueling aircraft and fighter jets were destroyed in the attack, according to IRGC, while many more were “seriously damaged".&nbsp;They also called on Jordanians to target “the interests of the aggressive and anti-Islamic Americans” in their country.&nbsp;Iran also attacked military sites in Kuwait, Syria, Oman, &nbsp;Bahrain, Qatar, and Iraq.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rohingya-boat-tragedy-over-500-feared-dead-after-boats-carrying-refugees-capsize-off-myanmar-1784278344720">Rohingya boat tragedy: Over 500 feared dead after boats carrying refugees capsize off Myanmar</a> In a statement carried by Iranian state TV, Iran said that it had deployed drones in Kuwait, targeting “the deployment sites of US forces and the logistical support centers of the ‘terrorist’ and ‘child-killing’ US military.&nbsp;<h2>Iran urges citizens to cut electricity use</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s energy ministry urged its citizens to reduce electricity use after US struck energy infrastructure in the south and the power grid came under strain.&nbsp;The power ministry in a statement urged people to switch off air conditioners during extreme heat “to help ensure a stable electricity supply in the southern provinces, which are currently facing extreme heat and attacks on electricity supply facilities.”&nbsp;<h2>Several killed in US Strikes</h2>&nbsp;Iran’s health ministry on Friday (Jul 17) reported that at least 38 people were killed while more than 400 were injured in US strikes on the Islamic Republic since fighting resumed between the two countries on June 22.&nbsp;“The number of injured from US attacks has exceeded 400, and 38 compatriots have been martyred” since June 22, ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour posted on X. “Among them are 22 injured women, three martyred women, nine injured under the age of 18, and one martyr under 18.”

Iran’s energy ministry urged its citizens to reduce electricity use after US struck energy infrastructure in the south and the power grid came under strain.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Friday (July 17) claimed they struck US military aircraft stationed in Jordan with ballistic missiles and drones. The attack, IRGC said was in response to the overnight US strikes on multiple places in Iran that claimed the lives of at least eight people. Several US refueling aircraft and fighter jets were destroyed in the attack, according to IRGC, while many more were “seriously damaged". They also called on Jordanians to target “the interests of the aggressive and anti-Islamic Americans” in their country. Iran also attacked military sites in Kuwait, Syria, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and Iraq. ALSO READ: Rohingya boat tragedy: Over 500 feared dead after boats carrying refugees capsize off Myanmar In a statement carried by Iranian state TV, Iran said that it had deployed drones in Kuwait, targeting “the deployment sites of US forces and the logistical support centers of the ‘terrorist’ and ‘child-killing’ US military. Iran urges citizens to cut electricity use Meanwhile, Iran’s energy ministry urged its citizens to reduce electricity use after US struck energy infrastructure in the south and the power grid came under strain. The power ministry in a statement urged people to switch off air conditioners during extreme heat “to help ensure a stable electricity supply in the southern provinces, which are currently facing extreme heat and attacks on electricity supply facilities.” Several killed in US Strikes Iran’s health ministry on Friday (Jul 17) reported that at least 38 people were killed while more than 400 were injured in US strikes on the Islamic Republic since fighting resumed between the two countries on June 22. “The number of injured from US attacks has exceeded 400, and 38 compatriots have been martyred” since June 22, ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour posted on X. “Among them are 22 injured women, three martyred women, nine injured under the age of 18, and one martyr under 18.”

Iran’s energy ministry urged its citizens to reduce electricity use after US struck energy infrastructure in the south and the power grid came under strain.

'Several US refueling aircraft and fighter jets destroyed', claims Iran amid escalating tensions

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'Several US refueling aircraft and fighter jets destroyed', claims Iran