US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has praised the crew of a US aircraft carrier for their resilience following a demanding deployment. Hegseth highlighted the sailors’ endurance, professionalism and commitment during the challenging mission. His remarks come as the US military continues to maintain a strong operational presence amid heightened global tensions.


US Vs Iran: Pete Hegseth praises USS Abraham Lincoln carrier crew’s resilience 

Newly obtained videos show the impact of Iranian missile and drone attacks on a major US military base in Kuwait during the opening days of the American war with Iran, offering a rare look at the damage suffered by American forces. The footage from Camp Buehring, obtained exclusively by CBS News, was recorded by a person stationed at the base and captures explosions as Iranian weapons struck the installation. Damage to buildings and military equipment is also visible in the videos.CBS News confirmed that it has authenticated the footage using metadata embedded in the files and by comparing it with other photographs showing damage at the base.<h2>Iranian missiles, drones hit US base</h2>Camp Buehring, also known as CBKU, is located about 25 miles from Kuwait's border with Iraq and has served for more than two decades as a major staging ground for US forces deploying across the Middle East. During the opening phase of the war, Iranian attacks repeatedly threatened the base, with missiles and drones forcing American troops into bunkers.Three US service members told CBS News that Iranian F-5 fighter jets were also involved in the attacks, a detail previously reported by NBC News. “They ran so close to us I could see their helmets,” one eyewitness told CBS News. “They came in, they hit us, and then took off.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-military-us-hormuz-blockade-latest-warning-us-blockade-hormuz-1791338243077">Trump says Iran ‘decimated’, warns war could end the ‘nice way’ or ‘not-so-nice way’</a><h2>Most troops had already been moved</h2>The attacks reportedly came after the Pentagon had already begun moving most American troops away from Camp Buehring as part of what the military called its “get off the X” strategy. Most of the roughly 7,000 troops at the base had been moved elsewhere before the war began. More than 90 per cent of American troops stationed at US bases had been moved out of the range of Iranian fire, according to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's March comments. But more than 100 soldiers remained at Camp Buehring.Those who stayed behind faced repeated attacks and growing concerns about whether the isolated installation could cope with a mass-casualty event. “They hit us bad,” one service member told CBS News on condition of anonymity. “It was horrible. There were a lot of brave guys who stayed to fight there—and people at home don't know what happened. We had to abandon the base.”Watch video here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New footage obtained by CBS News shows Iranian missile and drone strikes on Camp Buehring, a major U.S. military base in Kuwait, during the opening days of the Iran war.

Most of the roughly 7,000 troops had been relocated before the war, but more than 100 remained. Following repeated attacks, the remaining soldiers abandoned the base and relocated to remote positions in the Kuwaiti desert.

One soldier described the base as “demolished,” saying, “They hit us bad. It was horrible,” and questioned why reinforcements never arrived.

No U.S. troops were killed by enemy fire at Camp Buehring, but several were injured, including two struck by lightning after relocating to the desert.

Source: CBS News&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2107960346845573124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Troops ran low on ammunition</h2>The attacks also exposed concerns about the availability of ammunition and other critical military equipment. Reportedly, the soldiers defending Camp Buehring experienced a critical shortage of .50-calibre ammunition as they were repositioned into the Udari Desert in Kuwait.A senior Army logistics official, who was managing operations from another location in Kuwait, confirmed there were concerns about supplies including .50-calibre ammunition and other high-value munitions such as Patriot missile batteries.The Pentagon ultimately decided to move the remaining troops away from the base. Soldiers packed equipment into vehicles and drove at night into remote areas of the Kuwaiti desert, where temporary forward operating bases, or FOBs, were established.<h2>‘CBKU got demolished’</h2>The service member who spoke anonymously questioned why reinforcements had not been sent to Camp Buehring as the attacks intensified. “CBKU got demolished,” one person told the publication, demanding, “They need to do an investigation. How come no one came to reinforce us?”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-iran-may-be-involved-in-flydubai-cockpit-attack-vows-to-hit-very-hard-if-link-found-1790912849893">Trump claims Iran may be involved in Flydubai cockpit attack, vows to 'hit very hard' if link found</a><h2>US military losses under review</h2>The Camp Buehring footage comes as the scale of US military losses from the conflict is coming under greater scrutiny. A Defence Department inspector general report released last month identified equipment losses worth as much as $3.7 billion, including nearly 60 aircraft.The Congressional Research Service subsequently reported that 81 fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, including drones, had been lost or damaged by Iran since February, citing news reports and Defence Department statements.The inspector general's report also said US Central Command had recorded Iranian strikes against American bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman and Jordan. Yet visual evidence from many of those attacks has remained scarce till now. Camp Buerhring's newly released footage now offers a close look at the challenges US troops faced early in the conflict, including decisions to spread out forces, leave exposed areas, and push deeper into the Kuwaiti desert. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Newly obtained videos show Iranian missile and drone attacks striking Camp Buehring in Kuwait during the opening days of the Iran war. The footage shows explosions and damage as US troops faced repeated attacks, ammunition shortages and the eventual evacuation of the base. Watch below.

Newly obtained videos show the impact of Iranian missile and drone attacks on a major US military base in Kuwait during the opening days of the American war with Iran, offering a rare look at the damage suffered by American forces. The footage from Camp Buehring, obtained exclusively by CBS News, was recorded by a person stationed at the base and captures explosions as Iranian weapons struck the installation. Damage to buildings and military equipment is also visible in the videos. CBS News confirmed that it has authenticated the footage using metadata embedded in the files and by comparing it with other photographs showing damage at the base. Iranian missiles, drones hit US base Camp Buehring, also known as CBKU, is located about 25 miles from Kuwait's border with Iraq and has served for more than two decades as a major staging ground for US forces deploying across the Middle East. During the opening phase of the war, Iranian attacks repeatedly threatened the base, with missiles and drones forcing American troops into bunkers. Three US service members told CBS News that Iranian F-5 fighter jets were also involved in the attacks, a detail previously reported by NBC News. “They ran so close to us I could see their helmets,” one eyewitness told CBS News. “They came in, they hit us, and then took off.” Also read | Trump says Iran ‘decimated’, warns war could end the ‘nice way’ or ‘not-so-nice way’ Most troops had already been moved The attacks reportedly came after the Pentagon had already begun moving most American troops away from Camp Buehring as part of what the military called its “get off the X” strategy. Most of the roughly 7,000 troops at the base had been moved elsewhere before the war began. More than 90 per cent of American troops stationed at US bases had been moved out of the range of Iranian fire, according to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's March comments. But more than 100 soldiers remained at Camp Buehring. Those who stayed behind faced repeated attacks and growing concerns about whether the isolated installation could cope with a mass-casualty event. “They hit us bad,” one service member told CBS News on condition of anonymity. “It was horrible. There were a lot of brave guys who stayed to fight there—and people at home don't know what happened. We had to abandon the base.” Watch video here:

Newly obtained videos show Iranian missile and drone attacks striking Camp Buehring in Kuwait during the opening days of the Iran war. The footage shows explosions and damage as US troops faced repeated attacks, ammunition shortages and the eventual evacuation of the base. Watch below.

'They came in, they hit us': New videos show Iranian attacks on US Camp Buehring in Kuwait | Watch

As the war in Iran drags on, America's military continues to pay a heavy cost.&nbsp;Whether it is its bases in West Asia, which have suffered damage running into billions of dollars, or warships, U.S. has borne the brunt of Iran's retaliation.&nbsp;A new report has now thrown more light on the extent of U.S. combat aircraft losses.&nbsp;According to the U.S. Congressional Research Service, at least 81 American aircraft, drones and helicopters have been damaged or destroyed since the beginning of the war against Iran in February.&nbsp;This tally is based on U.S. military statements as well as findings by the inspector general of the U.S. Department of War.&nbsp;The cost of replacing damaged equipment has been pegged at up to 3.3 billion U.S. dollars.&nbsp;U.S. has already lost at least 45 MQ-9 reaper drones, which account for 25% of its overall fleet.&nbsp;According to the report, three F-15 fighter jets were destroyed by friendly fire over Kuwait in March.&nbsp;A month later, Centcom reported that one more F-15 jet was destroyed over Iran.&nbsp;Last month, eight of these jets sustained light damage in an Iranian strike on Jordan's Muwaffaq Salti air base, but they returned to service subsequently.&nbsp;In mid-March, one KC-135 fuelling plane went down over Iraq, resulting in the death of all six crew members.&nbsp;Besides this, five more Stratotankers were reportedly damaged in an Iranian missile strike on Saudi Arabia's Prince Sultan air base.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-bleeds-american-military-81-aircraft-lost-ships-hit-bombers-pulled-gravitas-1791392761464/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-bleeds-american-military-81-aircraft-lost-ships-hit-bombers-pulled-gravitas-1791392761464/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The report also claimed that U.S. had intentionally destroyed four AH-6 Little Bird helicopters during a mission to evacuate a stranded U.S. airman.&nbsp;During the same mission, two MC-130J Commando II Special Operations Aircraft were destroyed.&nbsp;While Iran has claimed to have struck F-35 Lightning jets on multiple occasions, the report flagged that one such aircraft was struck by Iranian ground fire in March.&nbsp;This is not all.&nbsp;In another blow for U.S., Iran also claimed the downing of an E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control system aircraft, which can track drones, missiles and aircraft from hundreds of kilometres away.&nbsp;One Jolly Green II search-and-rescue helicopter also sustained damage during the Iran war.&nbsp;Iran has also claimed to have destroyed multiple THAAD and Patriot air defence systems at U.S. bases.&nbsp;Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that the war would be wrapped up soon, either the nice way or the not-so nice way.&nbsp;Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed that a deal would be acceptable to America only if it ensures that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;He also reiterated America's claim that Iran has lost control of the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;U.S. Vice President JD Vance went one step further.&nbsp;He said that Washington will require a meaningful reduction in Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity before any agreement is reached.&nbsp;He said, "If you don't want a nuclear weapon, then why do you need 60 per cent enriched fuel?"&nbsp;Earlier, U.S. pulled out all its 12 B-1 Air Force bombers from UK's RAF Fairford base.&nbsp;While Trump attributed this move to threats, reports suggest that U.S. specifically feared an Iranian attack aiming to kill many American troops and destroy planes.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a 22-year-old British national was arrested in connection with a terror plot pertaining to this base.&nbsp;While it is the seventh arrest in this case, all other suspects have been released on bail.&nbsp;Iran though has denied involvement in this matter.

U.S. has already lost at least 45 MQ-9 reaper drones, which account for 25% of its overall fleet. The report says three F-15 fighter jets were destroyed by friendly fire over Kuwait in March. A month later, Centcom reported that one more F-15 jet was destroyed over Iran.

As the war in Iran drags on, America's military continues to pay a heavy cost. Whether it is its bases in West Asia, which have suffered damage running into billions of dollars, or warships, U.S. has borne the brunt of Iran's retaliation. A new report has now thrown more light on the extent of U.S. combat aircraft losses. According to the U.S. Congressional Research Service, at least 81 American aircraft, drones and helicopters have been damaged or destroyed since the beginning of the war against Iran in February. This tally is based on U.S. military statements as well as findings by the inspector general of the U.S. Department of War. The cost of replacing damaged equipment has been pegged at up to 3.3 billion U.S. dollars. U.S. has already lost at least 45 MQ-9 reaper drones, which account for 25% of its overall fleet. According to the report, three F-15 fighter jets were destroyed by friendly fire over Kuwait in March. A month later, Centcom reported that one more F-15 jet was destroyed over Iran. Last month, eight of these jets sustained light damage in an Iranian strike on Jordan's Muwaffaq Salti air base, but they returned to service subsequently. In mid-March, one KC-135 fuelling plane went down over Iraq, resulting in the death of all six crew members. Besides this, five more Stratotankers were reportedly damaged in an Iranian missile strike on Saudi Arabia's Prince Sultan air base. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-bleeds-american-military-81-aircraft-lost-ships-hit-bombers-pulled-gravitas-1791392761464/embed The report also claimed that U.S. had intentionally destroyed four AH-6 Little Bird helicopters during a mission to evacuate a stranded U.S. airman. During the same mission, two MC-130J Commando II Special Operations Aircraft were destroyed. While Iran has claimed to have struck F-35 Lightning jets on multiple occasions, the report flagged that one such aircraft was struck by Iranian ground fire in March. This is not all. In another blow for U.S., Iran also claimed the downing of an E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control system aircraft, which can track drones, missiles and aircraft from hundreds of kilometres away. One Jolly Green II search-and-rescue helicopter also sustained damage during the Iran war. Iran has also claimed to have destroyed multiple THAAD and Patriot air defence systems at U.S. bases. Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that the war would be wrapped up soon, either the nice way or the not-so nice way. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed that a deal would be acceptable to America only if it ensures that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon. He also reiterated America's claim that Iran has lost control of the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Vice President JD Vance went one step further. He said that Washington will require a meaningful reduction in Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity before any agreement is reached. He said, "If you don't want a nuclear weapon, then why do you need 60 per cent enriched fuel?" Earlier, U.S. pulled out all its 12 B-1 Air Force bombers from UK's RAF Fairford base. While Trump attributed this move to threats, reports suggest that U.S. specifically feared an Iranian attack aiming to kill many American troops and destroy planes. Meanwhile, a 22-year-old British national was arrested in connection with a terror plot pertaining to this base. While it is the seventh arrest in this case, all other suspects have been released on bail. Iran though has denied involvement in this matter.

U.S. has already lost at least 45 MQ-9 reaper drones, which account for 25% of its overall fleet. The report says three F-15 fighter jets were destroyed by friendly fire over Kuwait in March. A month later, Centcom reported that one more F-15 jet was destroyed over Iran.

Iran bleeds American military: 81 aircraft lost, ships hit & bombers pulled | Gravitas

Iranian Army’s spokesman Brigadier-General Mohammad Akraminia has said that Iran has carried out “preemptive operations” against the “enemy” before and will do so again if necessary to prevent an attack.Akraminia told Fars news agency in an interview that the military has continued daily production of “equipment” throughout the war and is prepared to counter any aggression with its “large stockpile of weapons”.&nbsp;Akraminia said Iran’s military doctrine had shifted in recent months from a defensive to an offensive posture, with the transition progressing rapidly.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Today, in the war waged by the United States and the Zionist regime, we used this doctrine,” he said. It was part of this approach that a US base in Jordan was targeted with missiles and bases belonging to counter-revolutionary and separatist groups have been repeatedly targeted by Air Force fighter jets, Army drones, IRGC drones and missiles, he added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇮🇷🇺🇸⚡️ — Iranian Armed Forces spokesperson Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia announced that Tehran reserves the right to execute preemptive military operations if necessary to deter impending foreign aggression or hostile actions, signaling a potential shift toward a more aggressive posture amid escalating regional tensions. #Iran #USIran #MilitaryStrategy #OSINT&mdash; X-K (@ConflictRadarME) <a href="https://x.com/ConflictRadarME/status/2107804835701534957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-lost-complete-control-of-hormuz-us-able-to-provide-security-in-middle-east-says-rubio-1791370061661">Iran has lost ‘complete control’ of Hormuz, US able to ‘provide security’ in Middle East, says Rubio</a>&nbsp;The army spokesperson said Iran is prepared to conduct a “more crushing, broader, more decisive, and faster” response in the event of an attack, and if necessary, Iran would carry out preemptive operations in the future to deter the enemy from any aggression or attack.&nbsp;He added that the Iranian Army continued producing military equipment on a daily basis throughout the war and is now prepared to confront any aggression, with a large stockpile of weapons, greater experience, and higher personnel morale. “If the enemy attacks again, we will deliver a response that is more crushing, broader, more decisive and faster,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Hormuz fully controlled by Iran: IRGC Adviser</h2>&nbsp;IRGC adviser Mohammad Reza Naqdi said on Wednesday that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the US accedes to Iran’s demands.&nbsp;“The Strait of Hormuz is closed, and the armed forces have complete control over it, and this situation will continue until Iran’s legitimate demands are met,” Fars news agency cited him as saying.&nbsp;He added the volume of smuggled oil is “very small” with small vessels used to transfer oil onto tankers.However, maritime experts and trackers say oil exports from the Gulf have resumed significantly in recent weeks despite a surge in attacks on ships around Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-its-weapons-production-is-up-by-250-defence-cooperation-with-russia-and-china-reinforced-1791303071777">Iran claims its weapons production is up by 250%; defence cooperation with Russia and China reinforced</a>&nbsp;Maritime intelligence firm Kpler has reported that Gulf oil flows, excluding Iran, recovered to more than 81 per cent of pre-war levels in September, while crude exports from the wider Middle East exceeded pre-war levels on 14 days during last month.&nbsp;<h2>‘Illegal routes in Hormuz to soon be blocked’</h2>&nbsp;Mohammad Reza Naqdi further said that transit ⁠routes ⁠in the Strait of Hormuz deemed illegal ⁠by Iran will soon ⁠be completely shut down.The IRGC adviser said the transit corridors were created by blasting and ⁠damaging several of ⁠the rocky passages in the strategic waterway and ⁠have been used by ⁠small boats ⁠smuggling oil.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-agrees-to-examine-plea-seeking-recall-of-split-verdict-on-cec-selection-law-1791374567828">Supreme Court agrees to examine plea seeking recall of split verdict on CEC selection law</a>&nbsp;His comments to the semi-official ‌news agency challenge the narrative that Gulf oil ‌flows through the strait are regaining pre-war ‌levels.“Soon, a small number of the routes that violators have created by blasting and destroying some of the existing rocky paths in the Strait of Hormuz will be blocked,” Naqdi was quoted as saying.

Army spokesperson Brigadier-General Mohammad Akraminia said Iran is prepared for a “more crushing, broader, more decisive, and faster” response in the event of an attack, and if necessary, it would carry out preemptive strikes in the future to deter the enemy from any aggression or attack.

Iranian Army’s spokesman Brigadier-General Mohammad Akraminia has said that Iran has carried out “preemptive operations” against the “enemy” before and will do so again if necessary to prevent an attack. Akraminia told Fars news agency in an interview that the military has continued daily production of “equipment” throughout the war and is prepared to counter any aggression with its “large stockpile of weapons”. Akraminia said Iran’s military doctrine had shifted in recent months from a defensive to an offensive posture, with the transition progressing rapidly. “Today, in the war waged by the United States and the Zionist regime, we used this doctrine,” he said. It was part of this approach that a US base in Jordan was targeted with missiles and bases belonging to counter-revolutionary and separatist groups have been repeatedly targeted by Air Force fighter jets, Army drones, IRGC drones and missiles, he added.

Army spokesperson Brigadier-General Mohammad Akraminia said Iran is prepared for a “more crushing, broader, more decisive, and faster” response in the event of an attack, and if necessary, it would carry out preemptive strikes in the future to deter the enemy from any aggression or attack.

Iran Army vows ‘preemptive strikes’ to deter ‘the enemy’ from any aggression

Donald Trump’s remarks suggesting that Iran could ‘take out’ Los Angeles and San Diego have triggered a sharp political backlash in California, with state leaders condemning the comments and the White House strongly defending the president’s meaning. California Governor Gavin Newsom called Trump’s comments ‘deranged and dangerous’, while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said they amounted to threats and could ‘encourage attacks on American lives’.&nbsp;The White House, however, rejected that interpretation. Officials said Trump was referring to the potential threat American cities would have faced from Iran if the US had not taken military action against Tehran earlier this year.Both Los Angeles and San Diego are home to significant US military facilities, including major naval and air-force installations. Speaking at a campaign rally in Nebraska on Monday while discussing the Iran conflict, Trump said, “It's a small price to pay for keeping the world safe, keeping our country safe. They can take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles, let them take out San Diego.”&nbsp;Some members of the crowd cheered after Trump mentioned the two California cities. The following morning, Newsom said the comments had prompted him to instruct California’s State Threat Assessment Center to monitor the situation. He described the remarks as ‘dangerous, if not treasonous’ and said officials needed to watch for any possibility that foreign actors could interpret them as an invitation to target California.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/penpa-tsering-says-us-support-for-tibet-remains-strong-despite-dalai-lama-ladakh-meeting-snub-1791311356739">Penpa Tsering says US support for Tibet remains strong despite Dalai Lama-Ladakh meeting not happening</a>&nbsp;The State Threat Assessment Center is responsible for identifying and helping prevent potential security threats across the state. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also pushed back against Trump’s remarks, saying the city was not collateral damage and urging the president to keep San Diego out of his ‘reckless war talk’. Trump has not publicly responded to the criticism from California’s political leaders.&nbsp;The White House, meanwhile, maintained that the president’s comments had been misunderstood. White House Communications Director Stephen Cheung dismissed what he called the ‘media freakout’ and said the reaction was ‘not rooted in reality’. “He was clearly stating US cities would have been threatened if a nuclear Iran hadn't been stopped,” Cheung wrote. “America is safer because of the President. Iran has no nuclear, no navy, no air force, and no money”. The Trump administration has repeatedly argued that military action against Iran’s nuclear programme was necessary to protect US national security. Officials have also maintained that the consequences of the conflict were justified by the broader security threat.&nbsp;The White House rapid response account separately attacked coverage of Trump’s remarks by the Los Angeles Times, referring to its journalists as ‘buffoons’. The account again argued that Trump had been describing what Iran could have done if it had developed a nuclear weapon. “He was saying the US is fighting to STOP Iran from having the ability to take out LA and San Diego with a nuclear weapon, which they would if they had the chance,” the account added.<h2>Why San Diego was mentioned</h2>San Diego sits around 17 miles (27km) from the US-Mexico border and is the country’s eighth-largest city. It is home to Naval Base San Diego, the Pacific Fleet’s principal home port, as well as Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, a major West Coast training centre for Navy SEALs. The region also includes Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where approximately 70,000 military personnel, civilians and others work. Los Angeles, roughly 120 miles (193km) north of San Diego, is the second-largest city in the United States. The city and surrounding region have major links to the US military and aerospace sectors, including the Space Systems Command headquarters and Los Angeles Air Force Base.<h2>Trump-Newsom tensions</h2>Trump’s latest clash with Newsom is part of a long-running political confrontation between the president and California governor, who has been discussed as a potential Democratic presidential contender in 2028. Trump previously accused Newsom of incompetence over his response to violent incidents during protests against immigration enforcement in Los Angeles. Newsom, in turn, accused Trump of a ‘brazen abuse of power’ after military personnel were deployed to protect federal buildings during the unrest. Earlier this year, Trump also mocked Newsom’s dyslexia, saying presidents should not have learning disabilities. The remarks drew criticism from dyslexia advocacy organisations.

Donald Trump’s Iran remarks about Los Angeles and San Diego trigger backlash from Gavin Newsom and California leaders as the White House defends his comments

Donald Trump’s remarks suggesting that Iran could ‘take out’ Los Angeles and San Diego have triggered a sharp political backlash in California, with state leaders condemning the comments and the White House strongly defending the president’s meaning. California Governor Gavin Newsom called Trump’s comments ‘deranged and dangerous’, while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said they amounted to threats and could ‘encourage attacks on American lives’. The White House, however, rejected that interpretation. Officials said Trump was referring to the potential threat American cities would have faced from Iran if the US had not taken military action against Tehran earlier this year. Both Los Angeles and San Diego are home to significant US military facilities, including major naval and air-force installations. Speaking at a campaign rally in Nebraska on Monday while discussing the Iran conflict, Trump said, “It's a small price to pay for keeping the world safe, keeping our country safe. They can take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles, let them take out San Diego.” Some members of the crowd cheered after Trump mentioned the two California cities. The following morning, Newsom said the comments had prompted him to instruct California’s State Threat Assessment Center to monitor the situation. He described the remarks as ‘dangerous, if not treasonous’ and said officials needed to watch for any possibility that foreign actors could interpret them as an invitation to target California. Also Read: Penpa Tsering says US support for Tibet remains strong despite Dalai Lama-Ladakh meeting not happening The State Threat Assessment Center is responsible for identifying and helping prevent potential security threats across the state. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also pushed back against Trump’s remarks, saying the city was not collateral damage and urging the president to keep San Diego out of his ‘reckless war talk’. Trump has not publicly responded to the criticism from California’s political leaders. The White House, meanwhile, maintained that the president’s comments had been misunderstood. White House Communications Director Stephen Cheung dismissed what he called the ‘media freakout’ and said the reaction was ‘not rooted in reality’. “He was clearly stating US cities would have been threatened if a nuclear Iran hadn't been stopped,” Cheung wrote. “America is safer because of the President. Iran has no nuclear, no navy, no air force, and no money”. The Trump administration has repeatedly argued that military action against Iran’s nuclear programme was necessary to protect US national security. Officials have also maintained that the consequences of the conflict were justified by the broader security threat. The White House rapid response account separately attacked coverage of Trump’s remarks by the Los Angeles Times, referring to its journalists as ‘buffoons’. The account again argued that Trump had been describing what Iran could have done if it had developed a nuclear weapon. “He was saying the US is fighting to STOP Iran from having the ability to take out LA and San Diego with a nuclear weapon, which they would if they had the chance,” the account added. Why San Diego was mentioned San Diego sits around 17 miles (27km) from the US-Mexico border and is the country’s eighth-largest city. It is home to Naval Base San Diego, the Pacific Fleet’s principal home port, as well as Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, a major West Coast training centre for Navy SEALs. The region also includes Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where approximately 70,000 military personnel, civilians and others work. Los Angeles, roughly 120 miles (193km) north of San Diego, is the second-largest city in the United States. The city and surrounding region have major links to the US military and aerospace sectors, including the Space Systems Command headquarters and Los Angeles Air Force Base. Trump-Newsom tensions Trump’s latest clash with Newsom is part of a long-running political confrontation between the president and California governor, who has been discussed as a potential Democratic presidential contender in 2028. Trump previously accused Newsom of incompetence over his response to violent incidents during protests against immigration enforcement in Los Angeles. Newsom, in turn, accused Trump of a ‘brazen abuse of power’ after military personnel were deployed to protect federal buildings during the unrest. Earlier this year, Trump also mocked Newsom’s dyslexia, saying presidents should not have learning disabilities. The remarks drew criticism from dyslexia advocacy organisations.

Donald Trump's remarks about Iran targeting Los Angeles and San Diego spark backlash from Newsom and California leaders as the White House defends him

White House responds after Trump's ‘take out’ LA, San Diego Iran remarks spark backlash

Qatar said on Tuesday that indirect talks between the United States and Iran were still underway, despite growing differences between Washington and Tehran over how to end the seven-month-old Middle East war.&nbsp;Qatari Foreign Ministry official Ibrahim Al-Hashmi said messages were continuing to pass between the two sides through Qatar and its regional partners. He said the talks were taking into account the concerns of all parties involved.&nbsp;"I can confirm that the talks are continuing and the exchange of messages between different parties is continuing via Qatar and its regional partners," Al-Hashmi said.&nbsp;He added that the scale of the conflict and its impact on the world made it necessary to find a negotiated solution and bring the fighting to an end.<h3>Hormuz remains a key sticking point</h3>The latest diplomatic efforts come despite a series of attempts to ease tensions. The United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire in April, followed by a memorandum of understanding in June. The two sides also held talks on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly last month.&nbsp;However, they remain divided over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key issue in the ongoing negotiations.&nbsp;Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday that talks with Washington were "meaningless" and had only been followed by renewed attacks, according to Iranian state media.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/earthquake-tremors-felt-across-delhi-ncr-after-4-9-magnitude-quake-hits-uttarakhand-1791306947777">Earthquake tremors felt across Delhi-NCR after 4.9-magnitude quake hits Uttarakhand</a><h3>Iran’s interior minister visits Doha</h3>Against this backdrop, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni travelled to Doha on Monday, October 5, for talks with senior Qatari officials on regional security and tensions.&nbsp;Momeni met Qatar's Interior Minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and Minister of State for Interior Affairs Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Faisal bin Mohammed Al Thani.&nbsp;The discussions covered security cooperation, organised crime, coast guard coordination, drug-related crimes and other security issues. Momeni said expert-level meetings between the two countries would continue after his visit.&nbsp;According to Iran's Mehr News Agency, the officials also discussed developments in the region and ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and strengthen regional and international stability.&nbsp;Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani also met Momeni in Doha on Tuesday, according to a statement from the royal palace.&nbsp;Qatar's Interior Minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who also commands the country's Internal Security Force, and Chief of the Amiri Diwan Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Khulaifi attended the meeting.

Qatar says indirect US-Iran talks are continuing despite differences over the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran’s interior minister holds security discussions with senior Qatari officials in Doha.

Qatar said on Tuesday that indirect talks between the United States and Iran were still underway, despite growing differences between Washington and Tehran over how to end the seven-month-old Middle East war. Qatari Foreign Ministry official Ibrahim Al-Hashmi said messages were continuing to pass between the two sides through Qatar and its regional partners. He said the talks were taking into account the concerns of all parties involved. "I can confirm that the talks are continuing and the exchange of messages between different parties is continuing via Qatar and its regional partners," Al-Hashmi said. He added that the scale of the conflict and its impact on the world made it necessary to find a negotiated solution and bring the fighting to an end. Hormuz remains a key sticking point The latest diplomatic efforts come despite a series of attempts to ease tensions. The United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire in April, followed by a memorandum of understanding in June. The two sides also held talks on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly last month. However, they remain divided over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key issue in the ongoing negotiations. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday that talks with Washington were "meaningless" and had only been followed by renewed attacks, according to Iranian state media. Also Read: Earthquake tremors felt across Delhi-NCR after 4.9-magnitude quake hits Uttarakhand Iran’s interior minister visits Doha Against this backdrop, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni travelled to Doha on Monday, October 5, for talks with senior Qatari officials on regional security and tensions. Momeni met Qatar's Interior Minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and Minister of State for Interior Affairs Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Faisal bin Mohammed Al Thani. The discussions covered security cooperation, organised crime, coast guard coordination, drug-related crimes and other security issues. Momeni said expert-level meetings between the two countries would continue after his visit. According to Iran's Mehr News Agency, the officials also discussed developments in the region and ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and strengthen regional and international stability. Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani also met Momeni in Doha on Tuesday, according to a statement from the royal palace. Qatar's Interior Minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who also commands the country's Internal Security Force, and Chief of the Amiri Diwan Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Khulaifi attended the meeting.

Qatar says indirect US-Iran talks are continuing despite differences over the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran’s interior minister holds security discussions with senior Qatari officials in Doha.

US-Iran talks to end war still on, Qatar says, despite differences over Hormuz

Iranian women took part in a firearms training on Sunday amid the increasing tension between the US, Iran and Israel. It was the first military training course for selected women taking part in the volunteer campaign “Janfada,” meaning “Sacrifice for Iran”, as reported by Mehr News Agency. The training took place at Imam Hossein Square in Tehran, as Iran expands a nationwide volunteer mobilisation campaign, in preparation for a potential ground invasion by the US."At Imam Hossein Square, there are individuals present who are US citizens," Sasan Zare, a spokesman for the Sacrificial Volunteers campaign, told the crowd."They have come to Iran and are willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Iranian people and fight against the United States. Today, we are receiving many requests from foreign nationals residing in the country, asking to be allowed to undergo training, take up arms, and fight against the enemies of this land.”This was the first military training course specifically organised for women. Officials and instructors were trying to teach how to handle and fire weapons, including rifles and handguns, as well as training for responding to emergencies and crisis situations.Raheleh Ghadiri, a 45-year-old participant, said learning how to defend her family and neighbourhood “whether it is about weapons or any other area and have mental preparedness” during wartime would help ease her fears.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-cji-surya-kant-eci-modified-form-6-sir-1791194930792">CJI Surya Kant says Supreme Court never approved modified Form 6 for SIR</a>The civilian training programme follows an early mobilisation campaign in which Iran called on volunteers to prepare for national defence. It comes a day after Iran opened another civilian military training centre at Haft-e Tir Square. In September, hundreds of thousands of people participated in a government-organised rally in Tehran linked to the "Janfada-ye Iran" campaign.Meanwhile, a third US aircraft carrier, the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group, left its San Diego base last week and is expected to reach the Persian Gulf in late October or early November. US President Donald Trump has said that he could make a decision on Iran “very soon”."Iran's been decimated. So the only question is, it'll either be the easy way or the hard way," Trump told reporters before leaving the White House for Ohio.&nbsp;Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces and Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters Major General Ali Abdollahi warned that if a new war is launched against Iran, its consequences will spread across the entire region.

Iranian women have undergone firearms and emergency-response training in Tehran as part of a volunteer mobilisation campaign amid rising tensions with the US and Israel.

Iranian women took part in a firearms training on Sunday amid the increasing tension between the US, Iran and Israel. It was the first military training course for selected women taking part in the volunteer campaign “Janfada,” meaning “Sacrifice for Iran”, as reported by Mehr News Agency. The training took place at Imam Hossein Square in Tehran, as Iran expands a nationwide volunteer mobilisation campaign, in preparation for a potential ground invasion by the US. "At Imam Hossein Square, there are individuals present who are US citizens," Sasan Zare, a spokesman for the Sacrificial Volunteers campaign, told the crowd. "They have come to Iran and are willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Iranian people and fight against the United States. Today, we are receiving many requests from foreign nationals residing in the country, asking to be allowed to undergo training, take up arms, and fight against the enemies of this land.” This was the first military training course specifically organised for women. Officials and instructors were trying to teach how to handle and fire weapons, including rifles and handguns, as well as training for responding to emergencies and crisis situations. Raheleh Ghadiri, a 45-year-old participant, said learning how to defend her family and neighbourhood “whether it is about weapons or any other area and have mental preparedness” during wartime would help ease her fears. Also Read: CJI Surya Kant says Supreme Court never approved modified Form 6 for SIR The civilian training programme follows an early mobilisation campaign in which Iran called on volunteers to prepare for national defence. It comes a day after Iran opened another civilian military training centre at Haft-e Tir Square. In September, hundreds of thousands of people participated in a government-organised rally in Tehran linked to the "Janfada-ye Iran" campaign. Meanwhile, a third US aircraft carrier, the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group, left its San Diego base last week and is expected to reach the Persian Gulf in late October or early November. US President Donald Trump has said that he could make a decision on Iran “very soon”. "Iran's been decimated. So the only question is, it'll either be the easy way or the hard way," Trump told reporters before leaving the White House for Ohio. Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces and Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters Major General Ali Abdollahi warned that if a new war is launched against Iran, its consequences will spread across the entire region.

Iranian women have undergone firearms and emergency-response training in Tehran as part of a volunteer mobilisation campaign amid rising tensions with the US and Israel.

Iranian women undergo firearms training amid rising tensions with US, Israel

The United States is deploying a third aircraft carrier and an additional 9,000 to 10,000 troops in the Middle East as tensions remain between the US and Iran. This comes as the American military is ramping up its military presence in the region as US President Donald Trump weighs the possibility of renewed strikes on Iran after the midterm elections in November. Reportedly, USS Theodore Roosevelt and its strike group “quietly” left San Diego on Sunday (Sep 27) and are expected to reach the region by mid-November.Third US carrier group to join Middle East deploymentAccording to an Axios report, citing a US official, the Roosevelt will join the two other carrier groups which are already deployed in the Middle East. While USS George H.W. Bush has been in the region since March this year, USS George Washington was sent from Japan during the summer and replaced USS Abraham Lincoln about a month ago following scrutiny over its extended deployment and conditions of sailors.The move would mark a significant US military presence in the region with three aircraft carrier strike groups.“This means the Middle East region could potentially have up to three aircraft carrier strike groups. This is much more firepower,” the official was quoted as saying by Axios.9,000 to 10,000 additional US troopsAccording to a Wall Street Journal report, the Pentagon is also deploying the USS Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, carrying Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The report added that the new deployments are expected to bring an additional 9,000 to 10,000 US soldiers to the region. Currently, more than 50,000 American troops are stationed in the Middle East.Trump weighs renewed strikes on IranThe military buildup comes days after Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal for a seven-day ceasefire and amid uncertainty over stalled diplomatic efforts. Trump has also suggested that the US renewing strikes on Iran following the midterm elections was “possible”.On Thursday (Oct 1), Trump threatened that Iran will be “hit very hard” if it is found to be linked to the Flydubai incident. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was asked whether Iran was involved in the incident.“I would say the answer, based on what I’m hearing, is yes but we’re working on it right now,” Trump responded.When asked whether the US would retaliate against Iran if it was found responsible, Trump said, “Oh, they’ll be hit very hard, don’t worry.” &nbsp;

The US is sending a third aircraft carrier and up to 10,000 troops to the Middle East as Trump weighs renewed strikes on Iran after November’s midterm elections amid rising tensions with Tehran.

The United States is deploying a third aircraft carrier and an additional 9,000 to 10,000 troops in the Middle East as tensions remain between the US and Iran. This comes as the American military is ramping up its military presence in the region as US President Donald Trump weighs the possibility of renewed strikes on Iran after the midterm elections in November. Reportedly, USS Theodore Roosevelt and its strike group “quietly” left San Diego on Sunday (Sep 27) and are expected to reach the region by mid-November. Third US carrier group to join Middle East deployment According to an Axios report, citing a US official, the Roosevelt will join the two other carrier groups which are already deployed in the Middle East. While USS George H.W. Bush has been in the region since March this year, USS George Washington was sent from Japan during the summer and replaced USS Abraham Lincoln about a month ago following scrutiny over its extended deployment and conditions of sailors. The move would mark a significant US military presence in the region with three aircraft carrier strike groups. “This means the Middle East region could potentially have up to three aircraft carrier strike groups. This is much more firepower,” the official was quoted as saying by Axios. 9,000 to 10,000 additional US troops According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Pentagon is also deploying the USS Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, carrying Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The report added that the new deployments are expected to bring an additional 9,000 to 10,000 US soldiers to the region. Currently, more than 50,000 American troops are stationed in the Middle East. Trump weighs renewed strikes on Iran The military buildup comes days after Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal for a seven-day ceasefire and amid uncertainty over stalled diplomatic efforts. Trump has also suggested that the US renewing strikes on Iran following the midterm elections was “possible”. On Thursday (Oct 1), Trump threatened that Iran will be “hit very hard” if it is found to be linked to the Flydubai incident. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was asked whether Iran was involved in the incident. “I would say the answer, based on what I’m hearing, is yes but we’re working on it right now,” Trump responded. When asked whether the US would retaliate against Iran if it was found responsible, Trump said, “Oh, they’ll be hit very hard, don’t worry.”

The US is sending a third aircraft carrier and up to 10,000 troops to the Middle East as Trump weighs renewed strikes on Iran after November’s midterm elections amid rising tensions with Tehran.

Trump to resume Iran bombing after midterms? US sends third aircraft carrier, 10,000 troops to Middle East

European countries have agreed to release diesel stocks after pressure from the United States, President Donald Trump said on Friday, as governments seek to contain a sharp rise in fuel prices linked to the Iran war. "Europe has just agreed to release a massive amount of their heavily stocked Diesel Oil. The process will begin immediately," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. Trump’s announcement came after EU governments held discussions on Friday over a French proposal for European countries to release 50 million barrels of diesel. The proposal also called for members of the International Energy Agency to release another 50 million barrels of crude oil, according to three sources familiar with the talks cited by Reuters.&nbsp;Under the proposal discussed by European governments, part of Europe’s diesel stocks would be released over a 20-day period. Two sources said the measure was intended to meet Trump’s demand for a rapid drawdown of fuel reserves. French President Emmanuel Macron also chaired a videoconference with G7 leaders on Friday afternoon to discuss the global energy situation, according to the Elysee Palace. It remained unclear whether the G7 countries had agreed to the proposed fuel release volumes.<h2>Diesel prices fall after stock release reports</h2>US diesel futures extended their losses following reports of the potential stock release. Prices were down more than 4% on Friday at $4.4491 a gallon. European benchmark diesel futures also fell, dropping by more than $100 per metric ton, according to LSEG data. The discussions come as pressure grows on European governments while Trump considers a possible ban on US diesel exports. Such a move could be aimed at lowering fuel prices in the United States ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.&nbsp;European governments face a difficult balancing act: releasing emergency fuel reserves could help bring down prices, but drawing down stocks could reduce their ability to respond to further disruptions in global supplies. The Iran war has already affected fuel flows from Gulf producers, adding to uncertainty over future supplies. France’s finance and energy ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Macron spoke with Trump overnight and stressed the importance of cooperation to address rising fuel prices and maintain global supplies of refined petroleum products, the Elysee Palace said. France currently holds the rotating G7 presidency.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-left-stranded-in-uae-after-tel-aviv-s-el-al-flights-lose-landing-clearance-1790950186392">Thousands left stranded in UAE after Tel Aviv's El Al flights lose landing clearance</a>

<h2>US pressures Europe to release emergency diesel reserves</h2>Reuters reported on Thursday that the Trump administration had urged Germany and France to draw down emergency diesel inventories or risk a potential US ban on diesel exports, citing three people familiar with the discussions. Two sources said on Friday that Washington had called on major European countries, including France and Germany, to release as much as 100 million barrels of diesel within a 20-day period. Global diesel supplies have been under pressure from multiple disruptions.&nbsp;The Iran war has affected global oil markets, while a Russian ban on exports has further tightened supplies after Ukrainian attacks damaged several Russian refineries. Chinese refiners have also suspended October fuel exports as they seek to strengthen domestic inventories, according to sources. A proposed European release of 50 million barrels would represent about 17% of the EU’s total emergency diesel and gasoil stocks, based on Eurostat data available as of May 2025. The volume would also equal roughly 3% of the bloc’s annual diesel consumption, according to Eurostat figures. Europe has historically relied heavily on diesel imports from Russia and the Middle East. In recent years, however, the United States has become an increasingly important supplier.<h2>Europe weighs fuel security against US export threat</h2>Europe relied on the United States and Saudi Arabia to meet its diesel demand during the first part of 2026, highlighting the bloc’s growing dependence on non-European supplies. "Having been caught dragging their feet on promised strategic stock releases earlier this year and now jarred by possible US ​export restrictions, European countries ⁠will likely release more diesel and possibly crude from their stocks," said Bob McNally, president of Rapidan Energy Group.&nbsp;During Friday’s discussions, EU countries considered making any agreement to release diesel stocks conditional on a US commitment not to impose a unilateral diesel export ban, according to one source. The talks come after the International Energy Agency’s 32 members agreed in March to coordinate the release of 400 million barrels from strategic oil reserves in response to the Iran war. The move was described as the largest coordinated release of strategic reserves in history. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said this week that member countries had already released about two-thirds of those volumes.

Europe agrees to release diesel reserves after US pressure as the Iran war disrupts fuel supplies, drives prices higher and raises energy concerns

European countries have agreed to release diesel stocks after pressure from the United States, President Donald Trump said on Friday, as governments seek to contain a sharp rise in fuel prices linked to the Iran war. "Europe has just agreed to release a massive amount of their heavily stocked Diesel Oil. The process will begin immediately," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. Trump’s announcement came after EU governments held discussions on Friday over a French proposal for European countries to release 50 million barrels of diesel. The proposal also called for members of the International Energy Agency to release another 50 million barrels of crude oil, according to three sources familiar with the talks cited by Reuters. Under the proposal discussed by European governments, part of Europe’s diesel stocks would be released over a 20-day period. Two sources said the measure was intended to meet Trump’s demand for a rapid drawdown of fuel reserves. French President Emmanuel Macron also chaired a videoconference with G7 leaders on Friday afternoon to discuss the global energy situation, according to the Elysee Palace. It remained unclear whether the G7 countries had agreed to the proposed fuel release volumes. Diesel prices fall after stock release reports US diesel futures extended their losses following reports of the potential stock release. Prices were down more than 4% on Friday at $4.4491 a gallon. European benchmark diesel futures also fell, dropping by more than $100 per metric ton, according to LSEG data. The discussions come as pressure grows on European governments while Trump considers a possible ban on US diesel exports. Such a move could be aimed at lowering fuel prices in the United States ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. European governments face a difficult balancing act: releasing emergency fuel reserves could help bring down prices, but drawing down stocks could reduce their ability to respond to further disruptions in global supplies. The Iran war has already affected fuel flows from Gulf producers, adding to uncertainty over future supplies. France’s finance and energy ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Macron spoke with Trump overnight and stressed the importance of cooperation to address rising fuel prices and maintain global supplies of refined petroleum products, the Elysee Palace said. France currently holds the rotating G7 presidency. Also Read: Thousands left stranded in UAE after Tel Aviv's El Al flights lose landing clearance

Europe agrees to release diesel stocks after US pressure as Iran war disruptions push fuel prices higher and threaten global energy supplies

'Europe has agreed to release massive amount of diesel', says Trump as fuel prices surge amid Iran war

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has received feedback from the United States on a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The feedback was reportedly sent via Qatari mediators in Doha on Tuesday (Sep 29). Last week, US President Donald Trump rejected the Iranian proposal, claiming that Iranians want to make a deal “immediately” because they were losing the war “so badly”. After this, Araghchi said that Tehran was “fully prepared” for the war to be resumed, even if it came to a “doomsday war”, but added that Iran was ready for diplomacy.After receiving an official response from the US, Araghchi is expected to discuss it in Tehran on Wednesday (Sep 30), Reuters reported, citing an official who was not Iranian but was familiar with the talks. The official added that the Qatari mediators met Araghchi and his team on their way back from the US and conveyed the feedback ​they had received from Washington on Monday (Sep 28).<h2>Why did US reject Iran’s proposal?</h2>The official said that the disagreement was not over the components of the plan but rather the sequencing of the steps. Trump rejected the proposal on Saturday (Sep 26), calling it “unacceptable”. The US rejection prompted further Qatari mediation.“They have made a proposal and I rejected it,” Trump told reporters at the White House. Iran’s plan includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resumption of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. It also demands lifting of the US naval blockade and ending of sanctions.“They want to make a deal where they open the strait immediately because they’re losing so badly,” he added. “They want to make a deal, and I think that’s fine. I like making a deal too, but that deal would not be acceptable.”Araghchi said that the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened and maritime passage could be restored if the necessary conditions were met under the plan. The document proposes a seven-day confidence-building period designed to bring both sides back to an enhanced version of the memorandum of understanding reached in June, including specific measures concerning Iran’s nuclear programme, the official said, without providing further details.Qatar has been acting as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran as efforts continue to end the conflict and restore traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The memorandum of understanding reached in June resulted in a short-lived ceasefire and covered issues related to the strait and Iran’s nuclear programme.

Iran received US response to seven-day proposal via Qatar, with Abbas Araghchi set to discuss Washington’s feedback in Tehran amid efforts to revive talks.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has received feedback from the United States on a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The feedback was reportedly sent via Qatari mediators in Doha on Tuesday (Sep 29). Last week, US President Donald Trump rejected the Iranian proposal, claiming that Iranians want to make a deal “immediately” because they were losing the war “so badly”. After this, Araghchi said that Tehran was “fully prepared” for the war to be resumed, even if it came to a “doomsday war”, but added that Iran was ready for diplomacy. After receiving an official response from the US, Araghchi is expected to discuss it in Tehran on Wednesday (Sep 30), Reuters reported, citing an official who was not Iranian but was familiar with the talks. The official added that the Qatari mediators met Araghchi and his team on their way back from the US and conveyed the feedback they had received from Washington on Monday (Sep 28). Why did US reject Iran’s proposal? The official said that the disagreement was not over the components of the plan but rather the sequencing of the steps. Trump rejected the proposal on Saturday (Sep 26), calling it “unacceptable”. The US rejection prompted further Qatari mediation. “They have made a proposal and I rejected it,” Trump told reporters at the White House. Iran’s plan includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resumption of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. It also demands lifting of the US naval blockade and ending of sanctions. “They want to make a deal where they open the strait immediately because they’re losing so badly,” he added. “They want to make a deal, and I think that’s fine. I like making a deal too, but that deal would not be acceptable.” Araghchi said that the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened and maritime passage could be restored if the necessary conditions were met under the plan. The document proposes a seven-day confidence-building period designed to bring both sides back to an enhanced version of the memorandum of understanding reached in June, including specific measures concerning Iran’s nuclear programme, the official said, without providing further details. Qatar has been acting as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran as efforts continue to end the conflict and restore traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The memorandum of understanding reached in June resulted in a short-lived ceasefire and covered issues related to the strait and Iran’s nuclear programme.

Iran received US response to seven-day proposal via Qatar, with Abbas Araghchi set to discuss Washington’s feedback in Tehran amid efforts to revive talks.

Why did Trump reject Iran’s latest proposal? Araghchi receives US feedback

Qatar says diplomatic mediation efforts are continuing to narrow differences between Iran and the United States amid the ongoing conflict. Doha is seeking to help bridge gaps between the two sides and support diplomatic efforts toward de-escalation and a possible resolution.

US-Iran war: Qatar says mediation efforts continue to bridge Iran-US gaps 

A diplomatic scramble is underway to find a way out of the US-Iran war, but despite renewed talks through mediators, Washington and Tehran still remain at loggerheads.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been meeting Qatari mediators in New York, while American officials are also talking separately with them.The immediate objective is to stop the fighting, reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and get the two sides back to negotiations. But there is one issue standing at the centre of the dispute, and that is Iran's nuclear programme.The latest diplomatic push comes after months of war and two previous ceasefire attempts that collapsed.Iran had put forward a seven-day proposal, under which hostilities would end, the United States would lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports, some Iranian assets would be unfrozen, and sanctions on Iranian oil would be eased. In return, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume negotiations over its nuclear programme.But President Donald Trump rejected Iran's proposal publicly over the weekend.Even so, Washington has continued talking through mediators.So essentially, the talks have not stopped. Instead, Qatar and other intermediaries are trying to narrow the gap between two fundamentally different positions.Washington says there can be no comprehensive agreement unless Iran's nuclear programme is addressed. US officials say they want concrete assurances and restrictions designed to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.Tehran, however, says it is not seeking a nuclear bomb and insists on its right to a civilian nuclear programme. Iranian officials are making clear that they do not intend to simply surrender their nuclear position as the price for reopening Hormuz.Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that there has been no change in Iran's position and no compromise on the nuclear issue. He says Tehran has already submitted its proposal and is waiting for Washington's formal response through Qatar.Iran's Revolutionary Guard said that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons and accused President Trump of misrepresenting Tehran's nuclear ambitions.So where does the situation stand?There are essentially three negotiations taking place at the same time.First, the war itself. Iran wants an end to US military pressure. Washington wants an agreement that, in its view, prevents Iran from rebuilding a nuclear capability.Second is the Strait of Hormuz. For Iran, reopening the waterway is leverage. But for the United States, restoring unrestricted shipping is a major strategic and economic objective.The third negotiation taking place is on nuclear arms. Iran says its nuclear rights cannot simply be negotiated away, while America insists nuclear restrictions must be part of any final settlement.Meanwhile, reports suggest that President Trump was prepared to consider sanctions relief and access to frozen Iranian funds in exchange for concrete nuclear concessions. But Trump himself rejected those reports, saying he had offered Iran nothing.President Trump entered this conflict promising that American pressure would prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and repeatedly presenting military pressure as a path towards a decisive outcome. But seven months into the conflict, Washington is once again relying heavily on diplomacy.Donald Trump has, at different points, declared the US had effectively won, threatened further military action, rejected Iran's ceasefire proposal, and at the same time signalled that negotiations could continue.For the moment, however, there is no final deal and no confirmed permanent ceasefire. Qatar and other mediators are shuttling messages between Washington and Tehran.The next critical test is whether the mediators can turn these indirect conversations into an agreed sequence of steps.

Qatar is mediating between Washington and Tehran as the US-Iran war, Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme remain unresolved.

A diplomatic scramble is underway to find a way out of the US-Iran war, but despite renewed talks through mediators, Washington and Tehran still remain at loggerheads. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been meeting Qatari mediators in New York, while American officials are also talking separately with them. The immediate objective is to stop the fighting, reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and get the two sides back to negotiations. But there is one issue standing at the centre of the dispute, and that is Iran's nuclear programme. The latest diplomatic push comes after months of war and two previous ceasefire attempts that collapsed. Iran had put forward a seven-day proposal, under which hostilities would end, the United States would lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports, some Iranian assets would be unfrozen, and sanctions on Iranian oil would be eased. In return, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume negotiations over its nuclear programme. But President Donald Trump rejected Iran's proposal publicly over the weekend. Even so, Washington has continued talking through mediators. So essentially, the talks have not stopped. Instead, Qatar and other intermediaries are trying to narrow the gap between two fundamentally different positions. Washington says there can be no comprehensive agreement unless Iran's nuclear programme is addressed. US officials say they want concrete assurances and restrictions designed to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Tehran, however, says it is not seeking a nuclear bomb and insists on its right to a civilian nuclear programme. Iranian officials are making clear that they do not intend to simply surrender their nuclear position as the price for reopening Hormuz. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that there has been no change in Iran's position and no compromise on the nuclear issue. He says Tehran has already submitted its proposal and is waiting for Washington's formal response through Qatar. Iran's Revolutionary Guard said that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons and accused President Trump of misrepresenting Tehran's nuclear ambitions. So where does the situation stand? There are essentially three negotiations taking place at the same time. First, the war itself. Iran wants an end to US military pressure. Washington wants an agreement that, in its view, prevents Iran from rebuilding a nuclear capability. Second is the Strait of Hormuz. For Iran, reopening the waterway is leverage. But for the United States, restoring unrestricted shipping is a major strategic and economic objective. The third negotiation taking place is on nuclear arms. Iran says its nuclear rights cannot simply be negotiated away, while America insists nuclear restrictions must be part of any final settlement. Meanwhile, reports suggest that President Trump was prepared to consider sanctions relief and access to frozen Iranian funds in exchange for concrete nuclear concessions. But Trump himself rejected those reports, saying he had offered Iran nothing. President Trump entered this conflict promising that American pressure would prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and repeatedly presenting military pressure as a path towards a decisive outcome. But seven months into the conflict, Washington is once again relying heavily on diplomacy. Donald Trump has, at different points, declared the US had effectively won, threatened further military action, rejected Iran's ceasefire proposal, and at the same time signalled that negotiations could continue. For the moment, however, there is no final deal and no confirmed permanent ceasefire. Qatar and other mediators are shuttling messages between Washington and Tehran. The next critical test is whether the mediators can turn these indirect conversations into an agreed sequence of steps.

Qatar is mediating between Washington and Tehran as the US-Iran war, the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme remain unresolved.

Race To Power | Can Qatar bridge the gap as US-Iran talks face diplomatic scramble

US forces are set to leave their remaining bases in Iraq by Wednesday, bringing an end to their military presence in the country after more than two decades. Iran and its allies have described the withdrawal as a victory, while Iraqi officials have raised concerns about the possible security consequences.&nbsp;The departure could strengthen Iran's position in Iraq and give other US adversaries, including Islamic State, an opportunity to rebuild their presence, Iraqi security experts said.&nbsp;Jasim al-Bahadli, an Iraqi security analyst specialising in armed Shi'ite groups linked to Iran, said Tehran could gain from the end of the US military presence.&nbsp;"Iran stands to benefit strategically from the coalition's departure because it removes a military presence that for years acted as a counterweight to Tehran's influence in Iraq," he was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;The withdrawal was agreed in 2024 under then-US President Joe Biden. Donald Trump's administration is now carrying it out even as the United States is fighting a war against Iran. Around 4,500 Americans died during more than two decades of US military involvement in Iraq.<h2>From Saddam's fall to the fight against Islamic State</h2>The United States, with its allies, invaded Iraq in 2003 in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in New York to remove Saddam Hussein. US forces occupied the country, helped establish a Shi'ite-led government and fought a long counterinsurgency campaign.&nbsp;American troops left Iraq at the end of 2011. However, they returned less than three years later after Islamic State captured large areas of the country. US forces then helped Iraqi troops fight the group between 2014 and 2017.&nbsp;Islamic State once controlled around a third of Iraq and killed thousands of people. Hundreds were also filmed being shot at a former base used by the US military.&nbsp;The Iraq War cost the United States heavily in terms of lives. Around twice as many Americans died in “Operation Iraqi Freedom” as in the parallel war in Afghanistan, which ended with the US withdrawal in 2021.&nbsp;Washington's military presence also brought it into conflict with Tehran and Iran-backed groups. In 2020, the United States killed senior Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in a strike at Baghdad Airport.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-no-infrastructure-will-remain-safe-if-its-security-is-not-guaranteed-as-it-awaits-us-response-on-hormuz-plan-1790679122753">Iran warns ‘no infrastructure will remain safe’ if its security is not guaranteed as it awaits US response on Hormuz plan</a><h2>Islamic State sleeper cells raise concerns</h2>Iraqi security officials have warned that the US departure could create an opening for Islamic State. Officials from Iraq's federal government and the semi-autonomous Kurdish region said the group continues to maintain sleeper cells despite losing its self-declared caliphate nearly a decade ago.&nbsp;Iraqi security forces also said a suspected Islamic State cell was preparing suicide attacks to coincide with the withdrawal.&nbsp;Iran has presented the US departure as a victory for its “axis of resistance”, made up of allied armed groups across the region. Tehran has repeatedly demanded that US forces leave the Middle East and that American bases in Gulf countries be closed.&nbsp;During the ongoing war, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on US bases in these countries, causing significant damage and destroying American military equipment.

US troops are set to leave their last bases in Iraq after more than two decades, a move Iran sees as a strategic victory while Iraqi officials warn of increased Iranian influence and a possible Islamic State resurgence.

US forces are set to leave their remaining bases in Iraq by Wednesday, bringing an end to their military presence in the country after more than two decades. Iran and its allies have described the withdrawal as a victory, while Iraqi officials have raised concerns about the possible security consequences. The departure could strengthen Iran's position in Iraq and give other US adversaries, including Islamic State, an opportunity to rebuild their presence, Iraqi security experts said. Jasim al-Bahadli, an Iraqi security analyst specialising in armed Shi'ite groups linked to Iran, said Tehran could gain from the end of the US military presence. "Iran stands to benefit strategically from the coalition's departure because it removes a military presence that for years acted as a counterweight to Tehran's influence in Iraq," he was quoted as saying by Reuters. The withdrawal was agreed in 2024 under then-US President Joe Biden. Donald Trump's administration is now carrying it out even as the United States is fighting a war against Iran. Around 4,500 Americans died during more than two decades of US military involvement in Iraq. From Saddam's fall to the fight against Islamic State The United States, with its allies, invaded Iraq in 2003 in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in New York to remove Saddam Hussein. US forces occupied the country, helped establish a Shi'ite-led government and fought a long counterinsurgency campaign. American troops left Iraq at the end of 2011. However, they returned less than three years later after Islamic State captured large areas of the country. US forces then helped Iraqi troops fight the group between 2014 and 2017. Islamic State once controlled around a third of Iraq and killed thousands of people. Hundreds were also filmed being shot at a former base used by the US military. The Iraq War cost the United States heavily in terms of lives. Around twice as many Americans died in “Operation Iraqi Freedom” as in the parallel war in Afghanistan, which ended with the US withdrawal in 2021. Washington's military presence also brought it into conflict with Tehran and Iran-backed groups. In 2020, the United States killed senior Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in a strike at Baghdad Airport. Also Read: Iran warns ‘no infrastructure will remain safe’ if its security is not guaranteed as it awaits US response on Hormuz plan Islamic State sleeper cells raise concerns Iraqi security officials have warned that the US departure could create an opening for Islamic State. Officials from Iraq's federal government and the semi-autonomous Kurdish region said the group continues to maintain sleeper cells despite losing its self-declared caliphate nearly a decade ago. Iraqi security forces also said a suspected Islamic State cell was preparing suicide attacks to coincide with the withdrawal. Iran has presented the US departure as a victory for its “axis of resistance”, made up of allied armed groups across the region. Tehran has repeatedly demanded that US forces leave the Middle East and that American bases in Gulf countries be closed. During the ongoing war, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on US bases in these countries, causing significant damage and destroying American military equipment.

US troops are set to leave their last bases in Iraq after more than two decades, a move Iran sees as a strategic victory while Iraqi officials warn of increased Iranian influence and a possible Islamic State resurgence.

US troops end Iraq presence after two decades; Iran sees strategic gain

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi explained the rationale behind the comprehensive, dozens-of-pages-long letter addressed directly to the American public. He said that Iran was “speaking directly to the American people” and is trying to create "familiarity with Iran’s logic.”&nbsp;According to him, the American people are not aware of the “crimes” that the American military is committing. He claimed that the US has a unilateral flow of information with televisions and radios round the clock, enabling communication with different nations, but Iran's capabilities are limited in this regard.&nbsp;“For this reason, choosing a letter as a tool to convey our message directly and clearly is a solution that was selected based on the realities that exist.”&nbsp;He said the US is geographically fortified by oceans and has countries surrounding it which do not have the military and security capabilities to pose a threat to it.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-30-for-30-trade-framework-goods-lower-tariffs-1790618292280">US, China unveil ‘30-for-30’ trade framework: Which goods could get lower tariffs?</a>“Given this reality, the question arises: What is the purpose of deploying 800 US military bases around the world? And on what basis is the economic and logical justification for spending $1.1 trillion on the US military budget founded?” he asked.“I am speaking directly to the American people: You must confront the reality of these numerous attacks and the consequences arising from them over the decades,” Mohebbi said.He urged citizens in the US not to overlook historical realities of how the US have carried out attacks against several nations across different continents. Mohebbi urged people to read the letter once. The IRGC believes the current situation in Iran is affecting the image of the United States across the globe. So this is a call from the IRGC to have a platform for dialogue directly with the Iranian people.

Iran’s IRGC spokesperson says Tehran is addressing Americans directly to explain its rationale and question US military actions and military spending.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi explained the rationale behind the comprehensive, dozens-of-pages-long letter addressed directly to the American public. He said that Iran was “speaking directly to the American people” and is trying to create "familiarity with Iran’s logic.” According to him, the American people are not aware of the “crimes” that the American military is committing. He claimed that the US has a unilateral flow of information with televisions and radios round the clock, enabling communication with different nations, but Iran's capabilities are limited in this regard. “For this reason, choosing a letter as a tool to convey our message directly and clearly is a solution that was selected based on the realities that exist.” He said the US is geographically fortified by oceans and has countries surrounding it which do not have the military and security capabilities to pose a threat to it. Also Read: US, China unveil ‘30-for-30’ trade framework: Which goods could get lower tariffs? “Given this reality, the question arises: What is the purpose of deploying 800 US military bases around the world? And on what basis is the economic and logical justification for spending $1.1 trillion on the US military budget founded?” he asked. “I am speaking directly to the American people: You must confront the reality of these numerous attacks and the consequences arising from them over the decades,” Mohebbi said. He urged citizens in the US not to overlook historical realities of how the US have carried out attacks against several nations across different continents. Mohebbi urged people to read the letter once. The IRGC believes the current situation in Iran is affecting the image of the United States across the globe. So this is a call from the IRGC to have a platform for dialogue directly with the Iranian people.

Iran’s IRGC spokesperson says Tehran is addressing Americans directly to explain its rationale and question US military actions and military spending.

Iran’s IRGC appeals directly to Americans in a letter, questions US militarism and historical 'crimes'

US President Donald Trump said American officials held discussions with mediators on Iran on Monday, as diplomatic efforts continue amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office, Trump confirmed that the discussions had taken place but declined to provide further details about the talks. Meanwhile, Iranian state media, cited by Al Jazeera, reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was scheduled to meet mediators in New York.&nbsp;&nbsp;The discussions were expected to focus on the latest proposals and developments in the standoff between Tehran and Washington. The diplomatic activity comes days after Trump rejected an Iranian proposal concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway that has become a major focus of the ongoing conflict in West Asia.<h2>Trump denies offering Iran sanctions relief</h2>Trump on Monday denied an Axios report claiming that he had offered Iran sanctions relief and the release of frozen Iranian funds as part of efforts to advance negotiations. "Axios just released a story that ‘Trump’ offered Sanctions Relief and Frozen Funds to Iran. This is untrue. I offered them NOTHING!," Trump said on his Truth Social platform.&nbsp;Axios reported that Trump is willing to give Iran sanctions relief and release Iranian frozen funds in return for concrete Iranian steps regarding the nuclear program. The report cited unnamed US officials. Trump described the report as "a HOAX" and called for the news outlet to withdraw the story. His comments came as Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was expected to meet Qatari mediators in New York on Monday. US and Iranian officials had also met the previous week in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. However, Iran's state news agency IRNA reported on Monday that Tehran had no further direct talks scheduled with Washington.<h2>Trump's Truth Social post</h2>

<h2>Strait of Hormuz remains key issue</h2>The latest diplomatic developments follow Trump's rejection on Saturday of a proposal from Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. On Sunday, Trump told Axios that he expected talks between the two sides to resume in the coming days. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the broader dispute because the narrow waterway normally handles about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.&nbsp;The route has been effectively blockaded by Tehran since the conflict startedwith US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, according to the report. The disruption has also affected energy and consumer prices in the United States. Gas and other product prices have risen sharply since the conflict began, adding to domestic political pressure on the Trump administration ahead of the US midterm elections in November.

Donald Trump confirms US officials held talks with Iran mediators as tensions rise over the Strait of Hormuz, while denying reports of sanctions relief

US President Donald Trump said American officials held discussions with mediators on Iran on Monday, as diplomatic efforts continue amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office, Trump confirmed that the discussions had taken place but declined to provide further details about the talks. Meanwhile, Iranian state media, cited by Al Jazeera, reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was scheduled to meet mediators in New York. The discussions were expected to focus on the latest proposals and developments in the standoff between Tehran and Washington. The diplomatic activity comes days after Trump rejected an Iranian proposal concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway that has become a major focus of the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Trump denies offering Iran sanctions relief Trump on Monday denied an Axios report claiming that he had offered Iran sanctions relief and the release of frozen Iranian funds as part of efforts to advance negotiations. "Axios just released a story that ‘Trump’ offered Sanctions Relief and Frozen Funds to Iran. This is untrue. I offered them NOTHING!," Trump said on his Truth Social platform. Axios reported that Trump is willing to give Iran sanctions relief and release Iranian frozen funds in return for concrete Iranian steps regarding the nuclear program. The report cited unnamed US officials. Trump described the report as "a HOAX" and called for the news outlet to withdraw the story. His comments came as Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was expected to meet Qatari mediators in New York on Monday. US and Iranian officials had also met the previous week in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. However, Iran's state news agency IRNA reported on Monday that Tehran had no further direct talks scheduled with Washington. Trump's Truth Social post

Donald Trump confirms US officials held talks with Iran mediators as Tehran-Washington tensions continue, while denying reports of sanctions relief

'I offered them NOTHING': Trump rejects claims of sanctions relief for Iran, confirms US talks with Tehran mediators

US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran's latest truce proposal aimed at restarting negotiations to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz saying Tehran demanded too many concessions before returning to the negotiating table. Speaking to NBC News, Waltz said Iranian negotiators sought the lifting of the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, sanctions relief and other measures upfront as conditions for resuming talks. According to Waltz, Trump does not trust Tehran to honour its commitments based on previous negotiations.&nbsp;"This was, I think, a pretty cynical attempt to put something on the table that they knew was unacceptable. To ask for the release of the blockade, the sanctions, international sanctions, and access to billions in assets, just to talk," he said. Trump rejected the proposal and argued that Iranian leaders were seeking a deal because ‘they are losing so badly’.&nbsp;Waltz said the US president remains focused on reaching an eventual arrangement but intends to maintain pressure on Iran. "I think it's kind of common sense that the president doesn't have a lot of confidence this time after we just tried a few months ago, but at the end of the day, of course, the president, this has to end in some type of arrangement," Waltz said. "But he's going to leave all options on the table to get there."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-soon-trump-says-us-will-win-iran-war-refuses-to-rule-out-further-strikes-1790562856761">'Very soon': Trump says US will win Iran war, refuses to rule out further strikes</a><h2>Iran responds to US rejection</h2>Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Tehran's truce proposal at the United Nations last week. The plan calls for the release of frozen Iranian assets, the lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil and an end to the US naval blockade. The proposal also seeks the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy shipping chokepoints. The strategic waterway has become a central issue in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;According to the account provided, the conflict started nearly seven months ago after the United States and Israel launched a wave of strikes against Iran. Following the US rejection of the proposal, Araghchi criticised the claims made by the American diplomat and said Tehran's demands were based on what it considers existing rights. "We are ready to open the strait if certain things are done by the US, and these certain things are not new and have not come from the space," he said.&nbsp;"These are our rights that we want to be respected," Araghchi added, taking a pessimistic tone regarding the prospect of a deal.Araghchi also expressed doubts about the possibility of renewed negotiations with the Trump administration, while leaving open the possibility of diplomacy. "There is also always hope for diplomacy, but we have no reason, to be honest with you, we have no reason to come back to diplomacy and engage with this administration once again because of their behaviour in the past two years," he told NBC.

Trump rejects Iran's truce plan as Tehran demands sanctions relief, frozen assets and an end to the US naval blockade before talks resume

US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran's latest truce proposal aimed at restarting negotiations to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz saying Tehran demanded too many concessions before returning to the negotiating table. Speaking to NBC News, Waltz said Iranian negotiators sought the lifting of the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, sanctions relief and other measures upfront as conditions for resuming talks. According to Waltz, Trump does not trust Tehran to honour its commitments based on previous negotiations. "This was, I think, a pretty cynical attempt to put something on the table that they knew was unacceptable. To ask for the release of the blockade, the sanctions, international sanctions, and access to billions in assets, just to talk," he said. Trump rejected the proposal and argued that Iranian leaders were seeking a deal because ‘they are losing so badly’. Waltz said the US president remains focused on reaching an eventual arrangement but intends to maintain pressure on Iran. "I think it's kind of common sense that the president doesn't have a lot of confidence this time after we just tried a few months ago, but at the end of the day, of course, the president, this has to end in some type of arrangement," Waltz said. "But he's going to leave all options on the table to get there." Also Read: 'Very soon': Trump says US will win Iran war, refuses to rule out further strikes Iran responds to US rejection Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Tehran's truce proposal at the United Nations last week. The plan calls for the release of frozen Iranian assets, the lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil and an end to the US naval blockade. The proposal also seeks the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy shipping chokepoints. The strategic waterway has become a central issue in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran. According to the account provided, the conflict started nearly seven months ago after the United States and Israel launched a wave of strikes against Iran. Following the US rejection of the proposal, Araghchi criticised the claims made by the American diplomat and said Tehran's demands were based on what it considers existing rights. "We are ready to open the strait if certain things are done by the US, and these certain things are not new and have not come from the space," he said. "These are our rights that we want to be respected," Araghchi added, taking a pessimistic tone regarding the prospect of a deal. Araghchi also expressed doubts about the possibility of renewed negotiations with the Trump administration, while leaving open the possibility of diplomacy. "There is also always hope for diplomacy, but we have no reason, to be honest with you, we have no reason to come back to diplomacy and engage with this administration once again because of their behaviour in the past two years," he told NBC.

Trump rejects Iran's truce proposal after Tehran seeks sanctions relief, asset access and an end to the US blockade before resuming talks

US diplomat reveals the reason behind Trump's rejection of Iran's ceasefire proposal. Here's what he said

US President Donald Trump has said he expects the conflict with Iran to be won ‘very soon’, while refusing to rule out the possibility of further US military strikes before the American midterm elections. Speaking to Fox News on the sidelines of the PGA Tour Presidents Cup on Sunday, Trump said the main US objective was to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also predicted that global oil prices would fall sharply once the conflict ends.&nbsp;“I think what's going to happen is we're going to win this war very soon, and as soon as we win it, the oil will go down, way down to what it was before the war,” Trump said. Asked whether the United States could launch additional military strikes against Iran before the midterm elections, Trump declined to rule out the possibility. “I don't want to say that. I don't want to say that. I mean, it's possible, but I just don't want to say that,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-demands-apology-from-ukraine-over-north-korean-prisoners-transfer-1790561538229">South Korea demands apology from Ukraine over North Korean prisoners' transfer</a>&nbsp;Trump reiterated that preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon remained central to US policy. “And the key is, Iran will not have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, adding that nuclear deterrence was “key to the whole thing.” Trump was also asked whether the US was making progress through military action or economic sanctions under what he called ‘Operation Economic Outcast’. He said Washington was succeeding on both fronts.&nbsp;“I think both. I think we'll win it both ways. We've already won it really from a military standpoint,” he said, adding, “But that doesn't mean we've stopped that.” Trump also claimed that US pressure had severely damaged Iran's economy, pointing to inflation and a decline in the value of the Iranian currency. “We're certainly winning it very big. If you look at their economy, it's gone. They have no economy,” he said.&nbsp;He further claimed that Iran was experiencing extremely high inflation and a sharp collapse in the value of its currency. “The value of their money is, as they say, valueless. We have inflation. They have inflation now of close to 300%. I heard 318% as of this morning. 300, meaning their money is shot, their economy is shot, their military is shot. They're in trouble.”

Donald Trump says the US could win the Iran conflict soon, refuses to rule out further strikes before midterms and predicts lower oil prices

US President Donald Trump has said he expects the conflict with Iran to be won ‘very soon’, while refusing to rule out the possibility of further US military strikes before the American midterm elections. Speaking to Fox News on the sidelines of the PGA Tour Presidents Cup on Sunday, Trump said the main US objective was to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also predicted that global oil prices would fall sharply once the conflict ends. “I think what's going to happen is we're going to win this war very soon, and as soon as we win it, the oil will go down, way down to what it was before the war,” Trump said. Asked whether the United States could launch additional military strikes against Iran before the midterm elections, Trump declined to rule out the possibility. “I don't want to say that. I don't want to say that. I mean, it's possible, but I just don't want to say that,” he said. Also Read: South Korea demands apology from Ukraine over North Korean prisoners' transfer Trump reiterated that preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon remained central to US policy. “And the key is, Iran will not have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, adding that nuclear deterrence was “key to the whole thing.” Trump was also asked whether the US was making progress through military action or economic sanctions under what he called ‘Operation Economic Outcast’. He said Washington was succeeding on both fronts. “I think both. I think we'll win it both ways. We've already won it really from a military standpoint,” he said, adding, “But that doesn't mean we've stopped that.” Trump also claimed that US pressure had severely damaged Iran's economy, pointing to inflation and a decline in the value of the Iranian currency. “We're certainly winning it very big. If you look at their economy, it's gone. They have no economy,” he said. He further claimed that Iran was experiencing extremely high inflation and a sharp collapse in the value of its currency. “The value of their money is, as they say, valueless. We have inflation. They have inflation now of close to 300%. I heard 318% as of this morning. 300, meaning their money is shot, their economy is shot, their military is shot. They're in trouble.”

President Donald Trump says the US expects to win the Iran conflict soon, refuses to rule out further strikes, and predicts oil prices will fall after the war

'Very soon': Trump says US will win Iran war, refuses to rule out further strikes

Despite two different summits, US President Donald Trump had failed to secure any concrete commitment from Chinese President Xi Jinping that could significantly tip the balance of power in favour of Washington in the US-Iran war. Trump pressed Xi to get China to help end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, curb support for Tehran, but did not score any bargain in that regard.&nbsp;China had earlier in May stated that it had clear incentives in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as China, being an export-oriented economy, wanted to maintain uninterrupted maritime trade. But it remained unclear whether China would do anything to pressure Iran. This time in September, Xi backed renewed US-Iran talks but still did not commit to pressuring Tehran. Iran did not feature in any of the leaders' public remarks on Thursday, though Xi has expressed hope that US and Iran “will return to the track of resolving issues through dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.” The meeting gave no public indication that Beijing had agreed to curb any of the specific support US officials wanted stopped, whether it was satellite imagery, targeting support, missile and drone components, or sanctioned oil purchases.US Treasury Secretary Bessent launched Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, 2026, a global secondary-sanctions campaign meant to cut off any country or entity doing business with Iran from the dollar system. Bessent called it an "economic D-Day" and warned the sanctions campaign came with a promise to "sever every economic lifeline" sustaining Tehran.Bessent claimed that China would not be exempted, claiming that it was not “above the reach of" US sanctions. China's response was defiance, not cooperation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that “China has made clear on many occasions its firm opposition to illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorisation of the UN Security Council". China and Russia have already vetoed a US-drafted UN Security Council resolution that would have mandated experts monitoring compliance with UN sanctions on Iran for a year.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-envoy-denis-alipov-us-contain-india-landau-freudian-slip-graham-act-1790528466750">Russian envoy claims US tactics to contain India were revealed in ‘Freudian slip’</a><h2>Why does China have little incentive to assist Washington?</h2>Beijing has significant leverage over Tehran but has little incentive to use it, and it has already demonstrated it will restrict rare-earth exports in retaliation; it ran this script in April last year against Trump's tariffs, and within weeks American and European automakers were idling assembly lines. China accounted for more than 90 per cent of Iranian oil revenue in 2025, while Chinese imports have dropped this year to manage the scarce supply of Crude oil in global markets to 534,000 barrels per day in August, compared to 1.4 million bpd in 2025; it has not stopped. China also continued air links with Iran despite the Trump-Xi summit; a Mahan Air flight from Tehran landed in Guangzhou last Wednesday.Washington has so far avoided sanctioning China's major state-owned banks, hitting only smaller shipping and refining firms because a full break would risk destabilising global finance and trigger a trade war Washington doesn't want either.China has already initiated its Belt and Road Initiative, and Russia has its trans-Caspian sea corridor to bypass the US and Western-sanctioned trade route. China's southern corridor connects Xi'an and Urumqi through Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to dry ports near Tehran; trains on this route jumped from 7 total over seven years to roughly 40-65 a year. Together, these two can not help Iran win the war, but create a trade bloc independent of the US, keeping Tehran alive long enough to make this war economically painful for Washington, so it seems perfectly plausible for China to buy more time, as the US economy continues to lose fiscal stability, while it continues building alternative payment infrastructure that reduces its own dollar dependency over time.&nbsp;

Trump failed to secure a commitment from Xi to pressure Iran or reopen Hormuz, as China weighs its economic interests against Washington’s demands.

Despite two different summits, US President Donald Trump had failed to secure any concrete commitment from Chinese President Xi Jinping that could significantly tip the balance of power in favour of Washington in the US-Iran war. Trump pressed Xi to get China to help end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, curb support for Tehran, but did not score any bargain in that regard. China had earlier in May stated that it had clear incentives in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as China, being an export-oriented economy, wanted to maintain uninterrupted maritime trade. But it remained unclear whether China would do anything to pressure Iran. This time in September, Xi backed renewed US-Iran talks but still did not commit to pressuring Tehran. Iran did not feature in any of the leaders' public remarks on Thursday, though Xi has expressed hope that US and Iran “will return to the track of resolving issues through dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.” The meeting gave no public indication that Beijing had agreed to curb any of the specific support US officials wanted stopped, whether it was satellite imagery, targeting support, missile and drone components, or sanctioned oil purchases. US Treasury Secretary Bessent launched Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, 2026, a global secondary-sanctions campaign meant to cut off any country or entity doing business with Iran from the dollar system. Bessent called it an "economic D-Day" and warned the sanctions campaign came with a promise to "sever every economic lifeline" sustaining Tehran. Bessent claimed that China would not be exempted, claiming that it was not “above the reach of" US sanctions. China's response was defiance, not cooperation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that “China has made clear on many occasions its firm opposition to illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorisation of the UN Security Council". China and Russia have already vetoed a US-drafted UN Security Council resolution that would have mandated experts monitoring compliance with UN sanctions on Iran for a year. Also Read: Russian envoy claims US tactics to contain India were revealed in ‘Freudian slip’ Why does China have little incentive to assist Washington? Beijing has significant leverage over Tehran but has little incentive to use it, and it has already demonstrated it will restrict rare-earth exports in retaliation; it ran this script in April last year against Trump's tariffs, and within weeks American and European automakers were idling assembly lines. China accounted for more than 90 per cent of Iranian oil revenue in 2025, while Chinese imports have dropped this year to manage the scarce supply of Crude oil in global markets to 534,000 barrels per day in August, compared to 1.4 million bpd in 2025; it has not stopped. China also continued air links with Iran despite the Trump-Xi summit; a Mahan Air flight from Tehran landed in Guangzhou last Wednesday. Washington has so far avoided sanctioning China's major state-owned banks, hitting only smaller shipping and refining firms because a full break would risk destabilising global finance and trigger a trade war Washington doesn't want either. China has already initiated its Belt and Road Initiative, and Russia has its trans-Caspian sea corridor to bypass the US and Western-sanctioned trade route. China's southern corridor connects Xi'an and Urumqi through Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to dry ports near Tehran; trains on this route jumped from 7 total over seven years to roughly 40-65 a year. Together, these two can not help Iran win the war, but create a trade bloc independent of the US, keeping Tehran alive long enough to make this war economically painful for Washington, so it seems perfectly plausible for China to buy more time, as the US economy continues to lose fiscal stability, while it continues building alternative payment infrastructure that reduces its own dollar dependency over time.

Trump failed to secure a commitment from Xi to pressure Iran or reopen Hormuz, as China weighs its economic interests against Washington’s demands.

Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (Sep 27) said that Tehran was “fully prepared” for the war to be resumed, even if it came to a “doomsday war”. While he said that Iran is ready for diplomacy, he said that it is up to US President Donald Trump to choose. This comes a day after Trump said that he is rejecting a seven-day peace proposal sent by Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway has remained under blockade, disrupting maritime transit and sending oil prices to record highs across the world.“We are fully prepared for the war to be resumed. And I repeat, we stand firm in the face of any new aggression, even if it comes to a doomsday war,” Araghchi told NBC in an interview on Sunday (Sep 27).“But at the same time, we are ready; we stand ready for diplomacy,” he added. “It is up to President Trump to choose. He wanted unconditional surrender in the previous war in two days. And now it’s been eight months that they are fighting with no results. A new aggression would be certainly the same.”<h2>‘Always hope for diplomacy’</h2>The Iranian minister said that while “there is always hope for diplomacy”, Iranians have “no reason” to engage with the Trump administration once again due to their actions for the last two years.“You know, in 2025 they offered negotiations. We accepted, and we engaged in the negotiation. And then in the middle of negotiations, they attacked us,” Araghchi said. “Eight months later, in 2026, February, again they offered negotiation. Again we accepted, and again they attacked us right in the middle of negotiations.”He further continued that the US offered negotiations for a deal again, which Iran accepted. “We had three months of negotiations. And it took only two weeks for them to violate a deal, which they had signed themselves. So if you ask us, there is no reason why we should go back to diplomacy. But I’m still trying diplomacy because I think we shouldn’t miss any chance for peace,” he said.<h2>Iran’s seven-day Hormuz proposal</h2>Araghchi described the latest seven-day proposal sent by Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as “a very reasonable plan on the table.” A day earlier, Trump told reporters at the White House that he rejects the proposal, adding that Iranians want to immediately make a deal because they were losing the war “badly”.Speaking on Trump’s rejection of the plan, Araghchi said, “If they reject it with no reason, this is their fault. And I have to say that although we heard from President Trump that he’s rejecting this deal, but we are still waiting for an official response through the mediators.”“If they are serious that they want a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, now there is the possibility. We have offered this seven-day plan,” Araghchi said.When asked whether he trusts Trump, Araghchi responded, “Well, we trust ourselves. We are ready for diplomacy. We are ready for war at the same time. They had tested us in both cases.”

Iran says it is ready for renewed war but remains open to diplomacy as Trump rejects Tehran’s seven-day Hormuz proposal, leaving the strategic waterway’s reopening uncertain amid rising tensions.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (Sep 27) said that Tehran was “fully prepared” for the war to be resumed, even if it came to a “doomsday war”. While he said that Iran is ready for diplomacy, he said that it is up to US President Donald Trump to choose. This comes a day after Trump said that he is rejecting a seven-day peace proposal sent by Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway has remained under blockade, disrupting maritime transit and sending oil prices to record highs across the world. “We are fully prepared for the war to be resumed. And I repeat, we stand firm in the face of any new aggression, even if it comes to a doomsday war,” Araghchi told NBC in an interview on Sunday (Sep 27). “But at the same time, we are ready; we stand ready for diplomacy,” he added. “It is up to President Trump to choose. He wanted unconditional surrender in the previous war in two days. And now it’s been eight months that they are fighting with no results. A new aggression would be certainly the same.” ‘Always hope for diplomacy’ The Iranian minister said that while “there is always hope for diplomacy”, Iranians have “no reason” to engage with the Trump administration once again due to their actions for the last two years. “You know, in 2025 they offered negotiations. We accepted, and we engaged in the negotiation. And then in the middle of negotiations, they attacked us,” Araghchi said. “Eight months later, in 2026, February, again they offered negotiation. Again we accepted, and again they attacked us right in the middle of negotiations.” He further continued that the US offered negotiations for a deal again, which Iran accepted. “We had three months of negotiations. And it took only two weeks for them to violate a deal, which they had signed themselves. So if you ask us, there is no reason why we should go back to diplomacy. But I’m still trying diplomacy because I think we shouldn’t miss any chance for peace,” he said. Iran’s seven-day Hormuz proposal Araghchi described the latest seven-day proposal sent by Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as “a very reasonable plan on the table.” A day earlier, Trump told reporters at the White House that he rejects the proposal, adding that Iranians want to immediately make a deal because they were losing the war “badly”. Speaking on Trump’s rejection of the plan, Araghchi said, “If they reject it with no reason, this is their fault. And I have to say that although we heard from President Trump that he’s rejecting this deal, but we are still waiting for an official response through the mediators.” “If they are serious that they want a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, now there is the possibility. We have offered this seven-day plan,” Araghchi said. When asked whether he trusts Trump, Araghchi responded, “Well, we trust ourselves. We are ready for diplomacy. We are ready for war at the same time. They had tested us in both cases.”

Iran says it is ready for renewed war but remains open to diplomacy as Trump rejects Tehran’s seven-day Hormuz proposal, leaving the strategic waterway’s reopening uncertain amid rising tensions.

Iran ready for ‘doomsday war’ if US resumes attacks, but open to diplomacy: Araghchi

US President Donald Trump told Axios on Sunday that he was expecting negotiations with Iran this week, only a day after rejecting proposals to end the war. According to two anonymous sources quoted by Axios, an indirect dialogue is expected between the US and Iran as early as Monday.&nbsp;“I expect more talks with Iran [this week]. They want to make a deal, but it is not the deal that I want to make. It is what we would have maybe agreed to a year ago. They overplayed their hand,” Trump told Axios in a phone interview on Sunday. He also added that he is “always thinking about” resuming strikes against Iran.Trump also claimed that the US military is facilitating a lot of oil, “more than 20 million barrels” out of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump noted that this volume marked the highest single-day transit level since the war with Iran began on February 28, 2026. A US defence official later verified his comments, specifically confirming that 22 million barrels of oil were exported through the strategic waterway on Friday night alone.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-us-greater-damage-surprise-weapons-hormuz-1790504033051">Iran warns US of greater damage, hints at ‘surprise’ weapons if attacked again</a>US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held new negotiations with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York last Tuesday. Qatari officials also participated in the talks. Iran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resuming nuclear talks if the US agreed to lift its naval blockade, remove sanctions on oil sales and reinstate a ceasefire across the region. Trump rejected those proposals on Sunday.Despite Trump's rejection, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told NBC they are seeking diplomatic solutions. "We only care about our national interests. We are ready for negotiations," he said. "Although we heard from President Trump that he's rejecting this deal ... we are still waiting for an official response through the mediators," Araghchi added.According to Axios, Qatari mediators are expected to meet Araghchi and Witkoff as early as Monday. They have also reportedly discussed the original Iranian proposals with both parties to reach a compromise proposal for both sides to review.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump said he expects talks with Iran this week despite rejecting Tehran’s proposal, as Qatari mediators reportedly seek to revive indirect negotiations.

US President Donald Trump told Axios on Sunday that he was expecting negotiations with Iran this week, only a day after rejecting proposals to end the war. According to two anonymous sources quoted by Axios, an indirect dialogue is expected between the US and Iran as early as Monday. “I expect more talks with Iran [this week]. They want to make a deal, but it is not the deal that I want to make. It is what we would have maybe agreed to a year ago. They overplayed their hand,” Trump told Axios in a phone interview on Sunday. He also added that he is “always thinking about” resuming strikes against Iran. Trump also claimed that the US military is facilitating a lot of oil, “more than 20 million barrels” out of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump noted that this volume marked the highest single-day transit level since the war with Iran began on February 28, 2026. A US defence official later verified his comments, specifically confirming that 22 million barrels of oil were exported through the strategic waterway on Friday night alone. Also Read: Iran warns US of greater damage, hints at ‘surprise’ weapons if attacked again US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held new negotiations with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York last Tuesday. Qatari officials also participated in the talks. Iran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resuming nuclear talks if the US agreed to lift its naval blockade, remove sanctions on oil sales and reinstate a ceasefire across the region. Trump rejected those proposals on Sunday. Despite Trump's rejection, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told NBC they are seeking diplomatic solutions. "We only care about our national interests. We are ready for negotiations," he said. "Although we heard from President Trump that he's rejecting this deal ... we are still waiting for an official response through the mediators," Araghchi added. According to Axios, Qatari mediators are expected to meet Araghchi and Witkoff as early as Monday. They have also reportedly discussed the original Iranian proposals with both parties to reach a compromise proposal for both sides to review.

Trump said he expects talks with Iran this week despite rejecting Tehran’s proposal, as Qatari mediators reportedly seek to revive indirect negotiations.

Trump expects Iran talks this week despite rejecting Tehran’s proposal: Report

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Sep 27) claimed that they have seized an American underwater drone in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most strategic shipping route that has been disrupted since the war began in the Middle East. The IRGC claimed that the submarine drone was being used for “espionage purposes”. The incident comes weeks after Iran said that it captured another US unmanned vehicle in the strait.“Through a coordinated, complex operation involving intelligence oversight and electronic warfare, IRGC naval forces' personnel successfully captured an advanced unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) belonging to the terrorist US military,” the IRGC naval forces said in a statement, according to state TV.The IRGC added that the drone was “operating in the Strait of Hormuz for espionage purposes”. It identified the model as a Remus 600 autonomous underwater vehicle. The underwater drone was “now in the hands of the force’s specialists for data recovery,” they added.“The IRGC Navy firmly declares that the Strait of Hormuz is a restricted zone; we are taking decisive and unceasing action against dangerous manoeuvres and unauthorised transit within the strait,” the IRGC said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">First Footage Iran has captured a second US unmanned underwater vehicle intact in the Strait of Hormuz. <a href="https://t.co/XP343uFzoU">pic.twitter.com/XP343uFzoU</a>&mdash; IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) (@iribnews_irib) <a href="https://x.com/iribnews_irib/status/2104159747788206347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier this month, the Iranian Guards said that they captured another US submarine drone in the Srait of Hormuz, calling it one of the most advanced systems operated by the US military. Iranian state media had identified the vessel as the Dive-LD, an autonomous underwater vehicle manufactured by California-based defence technology company Anduril Industries. The IRGC Navy described the submarine as a “prize” now in Iranian possession.The US military, however, had disputed the significance of the incident that happened on September 8. A Pentagon spokesperson said the underwater drone had malfunctioned more than a day before Iran announced the seizure and had been surveying regional waters as part of ongoing US operations.The defective vehicle was an older Dive-LD model and “neither collected sensitive data nor carried any classified sonar or radar equipment”, the spokesperson said.

Iran’s IRGC says it seized a US Remus 600 submarine drone in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it was conducting espionage and recovering its data.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Sep 27) claimed that they have seized an American underwater drone in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most strategic shipping route that has been disrupted since the war began in the Middle East. The IRGC claimed that the submarine drone was being used for “espionage purposes”. The incident comes weeks after Iran said that it captured another US unmanned vehicle in the strait. “Through a coordinated, complex operation involving intelligence oversight and electronic warfare, IRGC naval forces' personnel successfully captured an advanced unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) belonging to the terrorist US military,” the IRGC naval forces said in a statement, according to state TV. The IRGC added that the drone was “operating in the Strait of Hormuz for espionage purposes”. It identified the model as a Remus 600 autonomous underwater vehicle. The underwater drone was “now in the hands of the force’s specialists for data recovery,” they added. “The IRGC Navy firmly declares that the Strait of Hormuz is a restricted zone; we are taking decisive and unceasing action against dangerous manoeuvres and unauthorised transit within the strait,” the IRGC said.

Iran’s IRGC says it seized a US Remus 600 submarine drone in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it was conducting espionage and recovering its data.

Iran claims capture of second US underwater drone in Hormuz, releases footage | WATCH

Iran's Armed Forces spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia said on Sunday that Iran is prepared for a confrontation, and warned that it would inflict greater damage on the US army if it launches an attack on the country. Akraminia's comments follow a public rejection by the US President Donald Trump of an Iranian proposal for a seven-day peace and roadmap to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.Separately, Iranian Army Commander-in-Chief Amir Hatami said the war was at a critical and decisive stage, adding that Iran would not agree to any conditions where it could not trade and live freely while foreign powers use the region's strategic waterway."If Iran cannot trade, if ​Iran cannot ​live, ⁠no one will be able to trade or live. The Strait ​of Hormuz is the strait ​of ⁠our dignity and honour, and it will not be allowed for the country's enemies ⁠to ​use this major logistical chokepoint ​while the Iranian people are deprived.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-us-china-mutual-respect-trade-ai-security-state-visit-1790261968733">Trump hails ‘mutual respect’ in US-China ties while welcoming Xi for second state visit</a><h2>Iran will respond to aggression with new technologies</h2>Iran's Armed Forces Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi said that Iran’s missiles and drones have become more advanced and powerful, and it has a surprise in store for any new attacks. He emphasised that conventional warfare has many vulnerabilities, specifically to asymmetric warfare.“Asymmetric warfare means standing up to the enemy’s expensive heavy weapons and achieving victory with lower costs and simpler but more effective and practical defence equipment,” Shekarchi explained, as quoted by Iran's state media Tasnim News Agency. He added that Iran’s asymmetric warfare tactics are based on “self-sacrifice, faith and spirituality".While Shekarchi did not mention the details of the secret weapon, in early to mid-September Iran has confirmed the development, testing and upgrading of anti-carrier "secret" missile systems, submunition-capable ballistic missiles, and miniaturised electronic warfare and drone jammers.&nbsp;

Iranian commanders warn of heavier losses for US forces in any fresh attack, while Tehran hints at advanced missiles, drones and electronic warfare systems.

Iran's Armed Forces spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia said on Sunday that Iran is prepared for a confrontation, and warned that it would inflict greater damage on the US army if it launches an attack on the country. Akraminia's comments follow a public rejection by the US President Donald Trump of an Iranian proposal for a seven-day peace and roadmap to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Separately, Iranian Army Commander-in-Chief Amir Hatami said the war was at a critical and decisive stage, adding that Iran would not agree to any conditions where it could not trade and live freely while foreign powers use the region's strategic waterway. "If Iran cannot trade, if Iran cannot live, ⁠no one will be able to trade or live. The Strait of Hormuz is the strait of ⁠our dignity and honour, and it will not be allowed for the country's enemies ⁠to use this major logistical chokepoint while the Iranian people are deprived.” Also Read: Trump hails ‘mutual respect’ in US-China ties while welcoming Xi for second state visit Iran will respond to aggression with new technologies Iran's Armed Forces Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi said that Iran’s missiles and drones have become more advanced and powerful, and it has a surprise in store for any new attacks. He emphasised that conventional warfare has many vulnerabilities, specifically to asymmetric warfare. “Asymmetric warfare means standing up to the enemy’s expensive heavy weapons and achieving victory with lower costs and simpler but more effective and practical defence equipment,” Shekarchi explained, as quoted by Iran's state media Tasnim News Agency. He added that Iran’s asymmetric warfare tactics are based on “self-sacrifice, faith and spirituality". While Shekarchi did not mention the details of the secret weapon, in early to mid-September Iran has confirmed the development, testing and upgrading of anti-carrier "secret" missile systems, submunition-capable ballistic missiles, and miniaturised electronic warfare and drone jammers.

Iranian commanders warn of heavier losses for US forces in any fresh attack, while Tehran hints at advanced missiles, drones and electronic warfare systems.

Iran warns US of greater damage, hints at ‘surprise’ weapons if attacked again

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 26) confirmed that he is rejecting Iran’s latest proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which had been disrupted since the war began in February this year. Calling the proposal “unacceptable”, Trump claimed that Iranians wants to make a deal “immediately” because they were losing the war “so badly”. This comes after reports suggested that the US president has rejected a seven-day ceasefire proposal.“They have made a proposal and I rejected it,” Trump told reporters at the White House. Iran’s plan includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resumption of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. It also demands lifting of the US naval blockade and ending of sanctions.“They want to make a deal where they open the strait immediately because they’re losing so badly,” he added. “They want a make a deal, and I think that’s fine. I like making a deal too, but that deal would not be acceptable.”The proposal had been conveyed to Washington through Qatari mediators during the UN General Assembly in New York. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had put forward a concrete seven-day roadmap to restore maritime traffic and restart negotiations.<h2>What did Iran offer?</h2>Under Tehran’s plan, the US would need to meet several conditions, including lifting its naval blockade, easing sanctions on Iranian oil and observing a wider cessation of hostilities.Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the proposal had been developed in coordination with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Araghchi said the Strait would be reopened on the seventh day after Washington accepted the plan.“Iran has conveyed to the United States, through Qatar, a concrete seven-day plan,” Araghchi said. “If the necessary conditions are met, the strait can be reopened, and normal maritime passage restored within seven days.”He added: “The choice now rests with the United States.”<h2>Hormuz remains key flashpoint</h2>The Strait of Hormuz has become one of the central pressure points in the conflict because of its importance to global energy shipments. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan urged countries to ensure that the waterway and Bab al-Mandab remain open, warning against their use as tools of pressure.Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow was ready to contribute to stabilising the region.Trump’s rejection leaves the diplomatic track uncertain, with The Wall Street Journal reporting that he remains sceptical about Tehran meeting US demands and expects military action to resume.

Trump said he rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, calling it unacceptable and claiming Tehran wants a deal because it is losing the war badly.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 26) confirmed that he is rejecting Iran’s latest proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which had been disrupted since the war began in February this year. Calling the proposal “unacceptable”, Trump claimed that Iranians wants to make a deal “immediately” because they were losing the war “so badly”. This comes after reports suggested that the US president has rejected a seven-day ceasefire proposal. “They have made a proposal and I rejected it,” Trump told reporters at the White House. Iran’s plan includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resumption of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. It also demands lifting of the US naval blockade and ending of sanctions. “They want to make a deal where they open the strait immediately because they’re losing so badly,” he added. “They want a make a deal, and I think that’s fine. I like making a deal too, but that deal would not be acceptable.” The proposal had been conveyed to Washington through Qatari mediators during the UN General Assembly in New York. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had put forward a concrete seven-day roadmap to restore maritime traffic and restart negotiations. What did Iran offer? Under Tehran’s plan, the US would need to meet several conditions, including lifting its naval blockade, easing sanctions on Iranian oil and observing a wider cessation of hostilities. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the proposal had been developed in coordination with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Araghchi said the Strait would be reopened on the seventh day after Washington accepted the plan. “Iran has conveyed to the United States, through Qatar, a concrete seven-day plan,” Araghchi said. “If the necessary conditions are met, the strait can be reopened, and normal maritime passage restored within seven days.” He added: “The choice now rests with the United States.” Hormuz remains key flashpoint The Strait of Hormuz has become one of the central pressure points in the conflict because of its importance to global energy shipments. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan urged countries to ensure that the waterway and Bab al-Mandab remain open, warning against their use as tools of pressure. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow was ready to contribute to stabilising the region. Trump’s rejection leaves the diplomatic track uncertain, with The Wall Street Journal reporting that he remains sceptical about Tehran meeting US demands and expects military action to resume.

Trump said he rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, calling it unacceptable and claiming Tehran wants a deal because it is losing the war badly.

‘I rejected it’: Trump confirms turning down Iran’s proposal to reopen Hormuz, claims Tehran is losing ‘badly’

US President Donald Trump has rejected an Iranian proposal for a seven-day ceasefire and has told aides that he expects the United States could resume bombing Iran after the November midterm elections, according to US officials familiar with the discussions. Tehran's proposal would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz and restarting negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for Washington lifting its blockade of Iranian ports. The blockade has placed additional pressure on Iran's already strained economy.&nbsp;Trump has publicly argued that Iran is seeking a deal after the midterms that would dismantle its nuclear programme. Privately, however, officials said the president remains doubtful that Tehran would agree to his demands. Trump has therefore told his advisers that renewed US bombing is a possibility, although the scale of any future military action remains unclear.<h2>US-Iran conflict remains between war and diplomacy</h2>Trump's position leaves the conflict in an uncertain phase between renewed military confrontation and diplomatic negotiations.The president has repeatedly declared victory since the fighting began while alternating between diplomatic efforts, airstrikes and increased economic pressure on Iran. US officials cautioned that Trump's position could change as the conflict continues and could also be influenced by developments surrounding the November midterm elections.&nbsp;The extent of any potential future bombing campaign has not been determined. Officials said Trump is reluctant to launch another major combat operation in part because the US wants to preserve limited munitions for other potential military contingencies. At the same time, Trump has previously threatened large-scale military action when negotiations with Tehran reached deadlocks. Some of those threats were carried out, while others were subsequently scaled back.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-deploys-over-20-000-security-personnel-as-pti-vows-march-for-imran-khan-s-release-1790379263284">Pakistan deploys over 20,000 security personnel as PTI vows march for Imran Khan's release</a><h2>Trump rejects election influence on Iran policy</h2>Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week, Trump said domestic politics would not influence his approach to Iran's nuclear programme. “The Republican Party is running, and I’ll be helping them, but I am not running. I gave absolutely no credence and will not give credence through the election when it comes to Iran,” he told world leaders during the annual General Assembly in New York. “The only thing that does is that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.”<h2>Washington and Tehran continue indirect talks</h2>Despite the rejection of the seven-day proposal, a US official said Washington and Tehran continue to communicate through intermediaries, including on the nuclear issue. An American-led effort to keep oil tankers moving through the Strait of Hormuz despite Iranian threats has reduced the immediate pressure for a diplomatic agreement, the official said.&nbsp;Qatar and other regional mediators have been working to revive negotiations around the United Nations General Assembly. During a meeting in Qatar on Sunday, Iranian representatives proposed a seven-day pause in hostilities that could potentially lead to an end to attacks on shipping. People familiar with the discussions said the proposal would link the suspension of attacks on shipping to the lifting of the US blockade.<h2>What Iran proposed in ceasefire proposal?</h2>Under the Iranian proposal, the United States would lift its naval blockade, release some frozen Iranian assets and ease sanctions affecting Iranian oil exports. In return, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and begin negotiations over its nuclear programme.However, US officials familiar with the discussions said Washington had informed Tehran and the mediators that Trump was not prepared to lift the maritime blockade.

Trump rejects Iran’s seven-day ceasefire proposal as Washington and Tehran continue indirect nuclear talks amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has rejected an Iranian proposal for a seven-day ceasefire and has told aides that he expects the United States could resume bombing Iran after the November midterm elections, according to US officials familiar with the discussions. Tehran's proposal would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz and restarting negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for Washington lifting its blockade of Iranian ports. The blockade has placed additional pressure on Iran's already strained economy. Trump has publicly argued that Iran is seeking a deal after the midterms that would dismantle its nuclear programme. Privately, however, officials said the president remains doubtful that Tehran would agree to his demands. Trump has therefore told his advisers that renewed US bombing is a possibility, although the scale of any future military action remains unclear. US-Iran conflict remains between war and diplomacy Trump's position leaves the conflict in an uncertain phase between renewed military confrontation and diplomatic negotiations. The president has repeatedly declared victory since the fighting began while alternating between diplomatic efforts, airstrikes and increased economic pressure on Iran. US officials cautioned that Trump's position could change as the conflict continues and could also be influenced by developments surrounding the November midterm elections. The extent of any potential future bombing campaign has not been determined. Officials said Trump is reluctant to launch another major combat operation in part because the US wants to preserve limited munitions for other potential military contingencies. At the same time, Trump has previously threatened large-scale military action when negotiations with Tehran reached deadlocks. Some of those threats were carried out, while others were subsequently scaled back. Also Read: Pakistan deploys over 20,000 security personnel as PTI vows march for Imran Khan's release Trump rejects election influence on Iran policy Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week, Trump said domestic politics would not influence his approach to Iran's nuclear programme. “The Republican Party is running, and I’ll be helping them, but I am not running. I gave absolutely no credence and will not give credence through the election when it comes to Iran,” he told world leaders during the annual General Assembly in New York. “The only thing that does is that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.” Washington and Tehran continue indirect talks Despite the rejection of the seven-day proposal, a US official said Washington and Tehran continue to communicate through intermediaries, including on the nuclear issue. An American-led effort to keep oil tankers moving through the Strait of Hormuz despite Iranian threats has reduced the immediate pressure for a diplomatic agreement, the official said. Qatar and other regional mediators have been working to revive negotiations around the United Nations General Assembly. During a meeting in Qatar on Sunday, Iranian representatives proposed a seven-day pause in hostilities that could potentially lead to an end to attacks on shipping. People familiar with the discussions said the proposal would link the suspension of attacks on shipping to the lifting of the US blockade. What Iran proposed in ceasefire proposal? Under the Iranian proposal, the United States would lift its naval blockade, release some frozen Iranian assets and ease sanctions affecting Iranian oil exports. In return, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and begin negotiations over its nuclear programme. However, US officials familiar with the discussions said Washington had informed Tehran and the mediators that Trump was not prepared to lift the maritime blockade.

Trump has reportedly rejected Iran’s seven-day ceasefire proposal as Washington and Tehran continue indirect nuclear talks amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz

Trump rejects Iran's 7-day ceasefire proposal as US weighs renewed bombing after midterms: Report

The Pentagon's public tally of US troops wounded during the Iran conflict increased by 37 this week, without an explanation from the Defense Department about when or how the injuries occurred. The increase includes 29 Navy sailors and eight Marines, according to a review of the Pentagon's Defense Casualty Analysis System, or DCAS, a public database tracking US military personnel killed and wounded during overseas conflicts and operations.&nbsp;As of Wednesday, DCAS listed 861 US troops as wounded during the Iran conflict. More than half of those cases are categorized in the database under ‘Overseas Operations’ following the start of a July ceasefire between Washington and Tehran that subsequently collapsed. Earlier casualties were recorded under ‘Operation Epic Fury’, the name used by the Trump administration for the Iran conflict.<h2>Pentagon database gives no details on 37 injuries</h2>The DCAS database does not specify when or how the 37 newly listed service members were wounded. A Navy official said all 29 sailors had returned to duty following the unspecified injuries. The Pentagon has previously acknowledged that entries into the DCAS database can be delayed for days or longer. Officials have cited several reasons, including delays in reporting concussions and traumatic brain injuries because symptoms may not appear immediately.&nbsp;The Navy and Marine Corps directed questions to US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East. A Central Command spokesman declined to comment. Military officials have not publicly identified recent attacks or other incidents involving US forces that would explain the addition of the 37 wounded personnel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-backs-trump-administration-s-use-of-save-database-to-check-voter-citizenship-1790372827887">US Supreme Court backs Trump administration's use of SAVE database to check voter citizenship</a><h2>Trump administration disputes war description</h2>The casualty update comes amid continued debate over how the Trump administration describes the conflict with Iran. President Donald Trump and other senior officials have repeatedly argued since the ceasefire that the confrontation should not be characterized as a war. Vice President JD Vance told reporters on September 3, “Right now, there is no active shooting.” The latest DCAS update nevertheless adds to the publicly recorded number of US military personnel who have been wounded in connection with operations involving Iran.<h2>Pentagon casualty reporting under scrutiny</h2>The administration's handling of military casualty figures has faced increased scrutiny since earlier this year. Four US service members who died as a result of the Iran conflict were briefly absent from the Pentagon's official casualty tally. The Washington Post subsequently reported that more American service members had died in the Middle East during the conflict than had been publicly disclosed by the Pentagon.&nbsp;According to officials cited in that report, as many as five military fatalities were not reflected in the DCAS database. The discrepancy has not been resolved publicly. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected the report and called it ‘disgusting’. At the time, DCAS listed 18 US personnel as having died from hostile and nonhostile causes since February 28, when the Trump administration, working with Israel, launched the military campaign against Iran.&nbsp;Not all of the deaths were directly attributed to the Iran conflict. Some involved US personnel stationed in the region while hostilities were underway. The Pentagon's fatality tally increased to 19 this week following the death of an Army officer who experienced a medical emergency on September 18 while traveling to the Middle East.<h2>What the DCAS data includes?</h2>Historically, the Pentagon's casualty database has included both hostile and nonhostile deaths. Nonhostile fatalities can include deaths resulting from accidents, sudden medical emergencies and self-inflicted injuries, including suicides. Such reporting has traditionally been intended to provide the public with a comprehensive record of the human cost borne by US service members and their families during military operations. The latest increase in the wounded tally comes as questions continue over the completeness and timing of the Pentagon's public casualty disclosures.

Pentagon data shows 37 more US troops wounded in the Iran conflict, raising the tally to 861 as questions grow over casualty reporting and disclosures

The Pentagon's public tally of US troops wounded during the Iran conflict increased by 37 this week, without an explanation from the Defense Department about when or how the injuries occurred. The increase includes 29 Navy sailors and eight Marines, according to a review of the Pentagon's Defense Casualty Analysis System, or DCAS, a public database tracking US military personnel killed and wounded during overseas conflicts and operations. As of Wednesday, DCAS listed 861 US troops as wounded during the Iran conflict. More than half of those cases are categorized in the database under ‘Overseas Operations’ following the start of a July ceasefire between Washington and Tehran that subsequently collapsed. Earlier casualties were recorded under ‘Operation Epic Fury’, the name used by the Trump administration for the Iran conflict. Pentagon database gives no details on 37 injuries The DCAS database does not specify when or how the 37 newly listed service members were wounded. A Navy official said all 29 sailors had returned to duty following the unspecified injuries. The Pentagon has previously acknowledged that entries into the DCAS database can be delayed for days or longer. Officials have cited several reasons, including delays in reporting concussions and traumatic brain injuries because symptoms may not appear immediately. The Navy and Marine Corps directed questions to US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East. A Central Command spokesman declined to comment. Military officials have not publicly identified recent attacks or other incidents involving US forces that would explain the addition of the 37 wounded personnel. Also Read: US Supreme Court backs Trump administration's use of SAVE database to check voter citizenship Trump administration disputes war description The casualty update comes amid continued debate over how the Trump administration describes the conflict with Iran. President Donald Trump and other senior officials have repeatedly argued since the ceasefire that the confrontation should not be characterized as a war. Vice President JD Vance told reporters on September 3, “Right now, there is no active shooting.” The latest DCAS update nevertheless adds to the publicly recorded number of US military personnel who have been wounded in connection with operations involving Iran. Pentagon casualty reporting under scrutiny The administration's handling of military casualty figures has faced increased scrutiny since earlier this year. Four US service members who died as a result of the Iran conflict were briefly absent from the Pentagon's official casualty tally. The Washington Post subsequently reported that more American service members had died in the Middle East during the conflict than had been publicly disclosed by the Pentagon. According to officials cited in that report, as many as five military fatalities were not reflected in the DCAS database. The discrepancy has not been resolved publicly. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected the report and called it ‘disgusting’. At the time, DCAS listed 18 US personnel as having died from hostile and nonhostile causes since February 28, when the Trump administration, working with Israel, launched the military campaign against Iran. Not all of the deaths were directly attributed to the Iran conflict. Some involved US personnel stationed in the region while hostilities were underway. The Pentagon's fatality tally increased to 19 this week following the death of an Army officer who experienced a medical emergency on September 18 while traveling to the Middle East. What the DCAS data includes? Historically, the Pentagon's casualty database has included both hostile and nonhostile deaths. Nonhostile fatalities can include deaths resulting from accidents, sudden medical emergencies and self-inflicted injuries, including suicides. Such reporting has traditionally been intended to provide the public with a comprehensive record of the human cost borne by US service members and their families during military operations. The latest increase in the wounded tally comes as questions continue over the completeness and timing of the Pentagon's public casualty disclosures.

Pentagon casualty data shows 37 more US troops wounded in the Iran conflict, taking the total to 861, without explaining the new injuries

Pentagon quietly adds 37 wounded troops to Iran war tally without explaining when or how

Iran has proposed a seven-day plan to the United States that would halt hostilities, reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and pave the way for comprehensive talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced the proposal on Thursday during a press briefing on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Araghchi said the plan had been delivered to Washington through intermediaries and closely follows commitments outlined in a memorandum of understanding reached between Iran and the United States in June before the agreement unraveled.&nbsp;He said Tehran was prepared to begin implementing the proposal as soon as Washington accepted its conditions. “We have introduced a plan to the United States through the intermediators that if certain conditions are met, the Strait of Hormuz would be open on the end of the seventh day and talks would restart,” Araghchi said. Araghchi also said it would be better, if an agreement could be reached before the US midterm elections.&nbsp;A US official familiar with the discussions said Washington was engaged in positive and constructive talks through intermediaries but was not prepared to rush into an agreement. The proposal came as US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered sharply contrasting speeches at the UN. Trump threatened Iran with ‘annihilation’ if Tehran failed to reach a deal, while Pezeshkian rejected pressure from Washington and said Iran would not be bullied.<h2>Iran’s conditions for reopening Hormuz</h2>Under the conditions outlined by Araghchi, all hostilities would stop during the seven-day period, including fighting in Lebanon.Tehran is also seeking the release of frozen Iranian assets, estimated at more than $12 billion, a waiver of sanctions on Iranian oil and the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iran. On the seventh day, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened.&nbsp;After that, Araghchi said, comprehensive negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program would begin immediately. The Strait of Hormuz has become a central issue in the diplomatic efforts because of its importance to global energy and shipping. Recent Iranian proposals have similarly tied reopening the waterway to US steps to ease military and economic pressure. Trump has repeatedly said his principal objective is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and that he would pursue that goal either through negotiations or further military action.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-do-not-wish-to-continue-it-s-america-that-must-choose-iran-president-pezeshkian-calls-on-us-to-end-war-1790298430033">'We do not wish to continue. It's America that must choose': Iran president Pezeshkian calls on US to end war</a><h2>US-Iran talks continue in New York</h2>The proposal came as US officials continued efforts to revive diplomacy with Tehran on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a three-hour meeting involving US and Iranian officials, mediated by Qatar, did not produce a breakthrough. Araghchi had also met US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, earlier in the week. Qatar acted as an intermediary by passing messages between the two sides. Araghchi described the discussions as ‘productive’ and said the exchange of messages was continuing. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismaeil Baghaei said additional mediated meetings could take place in the coming days.<h2>Iran’s economy under pressure</h2>The diplomatic effort comes as Iran's economy faces severe pressure. Inflation has pushed up the cost of basic food items, while shortages of medicines and disruptions to trade have added to the strain on ordinary Iranians. Analysts have said Trump faces competing considerations over whether to reach an agreement before the US midterm elections or maintain economic pressure on Tehran in an effort to extract further concessions. The proposed seven-day roadmap now places the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and nuclear negotiations at the center of the latest US-Iran diplomatic effort.

Iran proposes a seven-day plan to end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart nuclear talks with the US amid UN diplomacy

Iran has proposed a seven-day plan to the United States that would halt hostilities, reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and pave the way for comprehensive talks over Tehran’s nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced the proposal on Thursday during a press briefing on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Araghchi said the plan had been delivered to Washington through intermediaries and closely follows commitments outlined in a memorandum of understanding reached between Iran and the United States in June before the agreement unraveled. He said Tehran was prepared to begin implementing the proposal as soon as Washington accepted its conditions. “We have introduced a plan to the United States through the intermediators that if certain conditions are met, the Strait of Hormuz would be open on the end of the seventh day and talks would restart,” Araghchi said. Araghchi also said it would be better, if an agreement could be reached before the US midterm elections. A US official familiar with the discussions said Washington was engaged in positive and constructive talks through intermediaries but was not prepared to rush into an agreement. The proposal came as US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered sharply contrasting speeches at the UN. Trump threatened Iran with ‘annihilation’ if Tehran failed to reach a deal, while Pezeshkian rejected pressure from Washington and said Iran would not be bullied. Iran’s conditions for reopening Hormuz Under the conditions outlined by Araghchi, all hostilities would stop during the seven-day period, including fighting in Lebanon. Tehran is also seeking the release of frozen Iranian assets, estimated at more than $12 billion, a waiver of sanctions on Iranian oil and the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iran. On the seventh day, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened. After that, Araghchi said, comprehensive negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program would begin immediately. The Strait of Hormuz has become a central issue in the diplomatic efforts because of its importance to global energy and shipping. Recent Iranian proposals have similarly tied reopening the waterway to US steps to ease military and economic pressure. Trump has repeatedly said his principal objective is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and that he would pursue that goal either through negotiations or further military action. Also Read: 'We do not wish to continue. It's America that must choose': Iran president Pezeshkian calls on US to end war US-Iran talks continue in New York The proposal came as US officials continued efforts to revive diplomacy with Tehran on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a three-hour meeting involving US and Iranian officials, mediated by Qatar, did not produce a breakthrough. Araghchi had also met US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, earlier in the week. Qatar acted as an intermediary by passing messages between the two sides. Araghchi described the discussions as ‘productive’ and said the exchange of messages was continuing. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismaeil Baghaei said additional mediated meetings could take place in the coming days. Iran’s economy under pressure The diplomatic effort comes as Iran's economy faces severe pressure. Inflation has pushed up the cost of basic food items, while shortages of medicines and disruptions to trade have added to the strain on ordinary Iranians. Analysts have said Trump faces competing considerations over whether to reach an agreement before the US midterm elections or maintain economic pressure on Tehran in an effort to extract further concessions. The proposed seven-day roadmap now places the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and nuclear negotiations at the center of the latest US-Iran diplomatic effort.

Iran proposes a seven-day plan to halt hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart nuclear talks with the United States

A seven-day roadmap? Iran proposes plan to end war, reopen Strait of Hormuz and resume nuclear talks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Thursday that Tehran does not want to continue fighting the United States, arguing that Washington must decide whether to bring the conflict to an end. In an interview with Fox News aired on Thursday, Pezeshkian said Iran remained open to resolving disputes through negotiations, despite taking a defiant stance at the United Nations a day earlier. "When we can resolve issues through dialog, we shouldn't resort to killing one another. But with the instigations conducted by Israel, they have imposed this war on us," he said in remarks translated by the broadcaster.&nbsp;“But we do not wish to continue. It's America that must choose whether it wants to end this or not.” Pezeshkian also said Iran was prepared to reach an agreement with US President Donald Trump to end the conflict. He questioned why a previous agreement had collapsed shortly after being signed. "Why is it that within two weeks after the signing of an agreement, they chose to blow it up?" he said of the collapse of a shaky ceasefire.&nbsp;The Iranian president said Tehran would be willing to negotiate if Washington pursued an agreement within international legal frameworks. “If the current American government, within international legal frameworks, wishes to reach an agreement, fine. If not, before the (US midterm) elections or after the elections, what difference does it make for us?” Pezeshkian's comments came as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks in New York with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The discussions did not immediately produce a breakthrough.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/making-history-xi-jinping-praises-trump-as-us-china-leaders-dine-at-white-house-1790297342133">'Making history': Xi Jinping praises Trump as US-China leaders dine at White House</a><h2>Iran and the Houthis</h2>Pezeshkian also addressed the conflict involving Yemen's Houthi movement, which Washington and its allies have accused Tehran of supporting. He rejected the suggestion that the Houthis take direct instructions from Iran, saying the group makes its own decisions. "The Houthis are responsible for their own actions. They don't take directions from us as those who are resisting in the region, based on the situations that have been imposed on them," Pezeshkian said, according to the broadcaster's translation. "We have contacts with them. There is no systematic relationship," he added.

Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian says Tehran does not want to continue the war and urges the US to choose whether to end the conflict through talks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Thursday that Tehran does not want to continue fighting the United States, arguing that Washington must decide whether to bring the conflict to an end. In an interview with Fox News aired on Thursday, Pezeshkian said Iran remained open to resolving disputes through negotiations, despite taking a defiant stance at the United Nations a day earlier. "When we can resolve issues through dialog, we shouldn't resort to killing one another. But with the instigations conducted by Israel, they have imposed this war on us," he said in remarks translated by the broadcaster. “But we do not wish to continue. It's America that must choose whether it wants to end this or not.” Pezeshkian also said Iran was prepared to reach an agreement with US President Donald Trump to end the conflict. He questioned why a previous agreement had collapsed shortly after being signed. "Why is it that within two weeks after the signing of an agreement, they chose to blow it up?" he said of the collapse of a shaky ceasefire. The Iranian president said Tehran would be willing to negotiate if Washington pursued an agreement within international legal frameworks. “If the current American government, within international legal frameworks, wishes to reach an agreement, fine. If not, before the (US midterm) elections or after the elections, what difference does it make for us?” Pezeshkian's comments came as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks in New York with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The discussions did not immediately produce a breakthrough. Also Read: 'Making history': Xi Jinping praises Trump as US-China leaders dine at White House Iran and the Houthis Pezeshkian also addressed the conflict involving Yemen's Houthi movement, which Washington and its allies have accused Tehran of supporting. He rejected the suggestion that the Houthis take direct instructions from Iran, saying the group makes its own decisions. "The Houthis are responsible for their own actions. They don't take directions from us as those who are resisting in the region, based on the situations that have been imposed on them," Pezeshkian said, according to the broadcaster's translation. "We have contacts with them. There is no systematic relationship," he added.

Iranian President Pezeshkian says Tehran does not want war and insists the US must decide whether to end the conflict, while Iran remains open to talks

'We do not wish to continue. It's America that must choose': Iran president Pezeshkian calls on US to end war

The US economy is facing renewed pressure from rising housing and energy costs, with mortgage rates climbing above 7 per cent as oil prices surged past $107 a barrel following fresh attacks linked to the Iran war. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate, the most common home loan in the United States, rose to 7.03 per cent this week, up from 6.3 per cent a year ago, according to Freddie Mac. The rate crossed the 7 per cent threshold for the first time since January 2025, adding another hurdle for prospective homebuyers.&nbsp;Mortgage rates had fallen below 6 per cent in late February, raising hopes that the US housing market could begin recovering from its prolonged slowdown. But rates subsequently moved higher after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28. The increase has come as Americans are also dealing with elevated energy costs and broader economic uncertainty linked to the war in the Middle East. Since the conflict began, disruptions to oil shipments through the Persian Gulf have pushed up the cost of gasoline, diesel and heating oil.&nbsp;&nbsp;Economists have warned that sustained energy-price increases could eventually feed into prices across the wider US economy.The pressure is also visible in the bond market, which plays a key role in determining mortgage rates. The 10-year US Treasury yield has moved above 5 per cent, increasing borrowing costs for consumers and businesses. Inflation remains elevated as well. Consumer prices rose at an annual rate of 3.4 per cent in August, adding to concerns over how much longer interest rates will need to remain restrictive.&nbsp;Higher borrowing costs are already weighing on the housing market. Existing-home sales fell 2 percent in August from July, reaching their lowest level since June last year. At the same time, home prices continued to rise, increasing 1.5 percent annually in June, according to Cotality. The current housing environment is a sharp contrast to the pandemic-era boom. Mortgage rates fell as low as 2.65 percent in January 2021, triggering a wave of home buying, bidding wars and rapid price increases. As rates subsequently climbed, homeowners increasingly became reluctant to sell and give up historically low mortgage rates.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/netanyahu-at-un-mass-walkout-attack-on-mamdani-and-iran-threats-in-pics-1790284630014">Netanyahu at UN: Mass walkout, attack on Mamdani and Iran threats | In Pics</a><h2>Oil prices surge above $107</h2>The housing pressure comes as energy markets face another bout of volatility. Brent crude traded near $107 a barrel on Thursday, after earlier climbing above $108, as fresh attacks by Iran-aligned Houthi militants in Yemen against Saudi Arabia raised concerns about further disruption to oil supplies. US West Texas Intermediate crude also moved back above $95 a barrel.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia said it intercepted six ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis toward areas including Taif and the Yanbu region. Yanbu is home to a major oil export terminal on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast. Oil prices had initially eased earlier in the week on reports that Washington and Tehran could be exploring a diplomatic path to restore exports through the Persian Gulf. But renewed attacks and uncertainty surrounding the talks quickly pushed prices higher.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the supply outlook. Saudi Arabia has been seeking alternative routes for exports, but those routes have also faced higher war-risk insurance costs. Only 10 commodity vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, below the 10-day moving average of 17, according to the information provided.<h2>Natural gas adds to energy pressure</h2>US natural gas prices have also moved sharply higher, adding another layer to the energy squeeze. Natural gas prices surged more than 6 percent following a pipeline-related disruption, taking prices roughly 28 per cent above their April 2026 low. The move comes at a sensitive time for energy markets, with investors already watching the impact of the Middle East conflict on global fuel supplies. Natural gas is particularly important for the US power sector, heating demand and industrial users.

US mortgage rates hit 7% as Brent crude tops $107 and natural gas prices surge, adding to housing, energy and inflation pressures on Americans

The US economy is facing renewed pressure from rising housing and energy costs, with mortgage rates climbing above 7 per cent as oil prices surged past $107 a barrel following fresh attacks linked to the Iran war. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate, the most common home loan in the United States, rose to 7.03 per cent this week, up from 6.3 per cent a year ago, according to Freddie Mac. The rate crossed the 7 per cent threshold for the first time since January 2025, adding another hurdle for prospective homebuyers. Mortgage rates had fallen below 6 per cent in late February, raising hopes that the US housing market could begin recovering from its prolonged slowdown. But rates subsequently moved higher after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28. The increase has come as Americans are also dealing with elevated energy costs and broader economic uncertainty linked to the war in the Middle East. Since the conflict began, disruptions to oil shipments through the Persian Gulf have pushed up the cost of gasoline, diesel and heating oil. Economists have warned that sustained energy-price increases could eventually feed into prices across the wider US economy. The pressure is also visible in the bond market, which plays a key role in determining mortgage rates. The 10-year US Treasury yield has moved above 5 per cent, increasing borrowing costs for consumers and businesses. Inflation remains elevated as well. Consumer prices rose at an annual rate of 3.4 per cent in August, adding to concerns over how much longer interest rates will need to remain restrictive. Higher borrowing costs are already weighing on the housing market. Existing-home sales fell 2 percent in August from July, reaching their lowest level since June last year. At the same time, home prices continued to rise, increasing 1.5 percent annually in June, according to Cotality. The current housing environment is a sharp contrast to the pandemic-era boom. Mortgage rates fell as low as 2.65 percent in January 2021, triggering a wave of home buying, bidding wars and rapid price increases. As rates subsequently climbed, homeowners increasingly became reluctant to sell and give up historically low mortgage rates. Also Read: Netanyahu at UN: Mass walkout, attack on Mamdani and Iran threats | In Pics Oil prices surge above $107 The housing pressure comes as energy markets face another bout of volatility. Brent crude traded near $107 a barrel on Thursday, after earlier climbing above $108, as fresh attacks by Iran-aligned Houthi militants in Yemen against Saudi Arabia raised concerns about further disruption to oil supplies. US West Texas Intermediate crude also moved back above $95 a barrel. Saudi Arabia said it intercepted six ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis toward areas including Taif and the Yanbu region. Yanbu is home to a major oil export terminal on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast. Oil prices had initially eased earlier in the week on reports that Washington and Tehran could be exploring a diplomatic path to restore exports through the Persian Gulf. But renewed attacks and uncertainty surrounding the talks quickly pushed prices higher. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the supply outlook. Saudi Arabia has been seeking alternative routes for exports, but those routes have also faced higher war-risk insurance costs. Only 10 commodity vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, below the 10-day moving average of 17, according to the information provided. Natural gas adds to energy pressure US natural gas prices have also moved sharply higher, adding another layer to the energy squeeze. Natural gas prices surged more than 6 percent following a pipeline-related disruption, taking prices roughly 28 per cent above their April 2026 low. The move comes at a sensitive time for energy markets, with investors already watching the impact of the Middle East conflict on global fuel supplies. Natural gas is particularly important for the US power sector, heating demand and industrial users.

US faces a fresh cost squeeze as mortgage rates top 7%, Brent crude surges above $107 and natural gas prices jump amid energy disruptions

US faces fresh cost crunch as mortgage rates hit 7%, oil tops $107 and gas prices surge

Over the last few months, concerns were raised over the prolonged deployment of sailors aboard US USS Abraham Lincoln. While US President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth had dismissed these concerns, the US Navy has now admitted that eight sailors aboard this warship attempted to commit suicide since the beginning of the Iran war.USS Abraham Lincoln spent 286 days at sea at a stretch, including a lengthy stint in West Asia for the Iran war, before having a brief layover at Thailand. The living conditions of Navy personnel aboard this warship have been under scrutiny, with sailors reportedly running out of something as basic as food, toothpaste and soap. Complaints also surfaced that they are working very long shifts, and some are rarely even getting a day off.Now, this is the first time US has formally acknowledged suicide attempts by military personnel during the Iran war. This disclosure was made in US Navy Secretary Hung Cao's letter to Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who had raised questions about the well-being of sailors.While Cao maintained that the warship has adequate food supply, he admitted that some meal options were reduced for a 'short time'. He also acknowledged problems with the ship's problems with R-O desalination units. The vessel’s expected U.S. arrival timeline remains a secret.Gillibrand, who is a member of the US Senate’s Armed Forces Committee, hit out at Trump and Hegseth for downplaying these concerns earlier.She said, “Our troops and their families make immense sacrifices every single day, yet the president dismissed them, with open disrespect”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> | US admits sailors attempted suicide: 8 suicide attempts aboard USS Abraham Lincoln Warship spent 286 days at sea at a stretch; US Navy Secretary concedes that some meal options were reduced<a href="https://x.com/MollyGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MollyGambhir</a> has more <a href="https://t.co/UObZXS7Cwy">pic.twitter.com/UObZXS7Cwy</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2103175677776408716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While the US Navy Secretary had stated in August that a small number of health issues were treated with no loss of life, Trump went to the extent of saying that USS Abraham Lincoln’s deployment was not long enough.Initially, Hegseth had dubbed reports of poor living conditions and suicide attempts aboard this warship as completely misrepresented. He said, “We make sure every ship, every crew, every captain has everything we can provide ​them at every single moment.”While the US Navy remains silent on whether disciplinary action was taken against the sailors who attempted suicide, American news portal MS NOW had reported one such case. According to the report, a Navy personnel who attempted suicide by jumping from this warship on August 3, due to mental stress, was charged for intentionally hurting himself to avoid service. He could reportedly end up losing half of his normal pay.Now, the Pentagon has also been accused of hiding US troop casualties during the Iran war. Last week, a Washington Post report claimed that 22 to 23 US personnel have died during the war, which is more than the official records. While Hegseth described this as a ‘complete lie’, the Pentagon quietly added a new fatality to its database on Monday, taking the official death toll of US soldiers to 19.As the Iran war drags on, the suicide attempts by US military personnel are also seen as a reflection of the sheer fatigue within the US military and the prevailing sentiment.

This is the first time US has formally acknowledged suicide attempts by military personnel during the Iran war. This disclosure was made in US Navy Secretary Hung Cao's letter to Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who had raised questions about the well-being of sailors.

Over the last few months, concerns were raised over the prolonged deployment of sailors aboard US USS Abraham Lincoln. While US President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth had dismissed these concerns, the US Navy has now admitted that eight sailors aboard this warship attempted to commit suicide since the beginning of the Iran war. USS Abraham Lincoln spent 286 days at sea at a stretch, including a lengthy stint in West Asia for the Iran war, before having a brief layover at Thailand. The living conditions of Navy personnel aboard this warship have been under scrutiny, with sailors reportedly running out of something as basic as food, toothpaste and soap. Complaints also surfaced that they are working very long shifts, and some are rarely even getting a day off. Now, this is the first time US has formally acknowledged suicide attempts by military personnel during the Iran war. This disclosure was made in US Navy Secretary Hung Cao's letter to Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who had raised questions about the well-being of sailors. While Cao maintained that the warship has adequate food supply, he admitted that some meal options were reduced for a 'short time'. He also acknowledged problems with the ship's problems with R-O desalination units. The vessel’s expected U.S. arrival timeline remains a secret. Gillibrand, who is a member of the US Senate’s Armed Forces Committee, hit out at Trump and Hegseth for downplaying these concerns earlier. She said, “Our troops and their families make immense sacrifices every single day, yet the president dismissed them, with open disrespect”.

This is the first time US has formally acknowledged suicide attempts by military personnel during the Iran war. This disclosure was made in US Navy Secretary Hung Cao's letter to Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who had raised questions about the well-being of sailors.

US admits 8 suicide attempts aboard USS Abraham Lincoln amid Iran war | GRAVITAS

White House on Tuesday said that US President Donald Trump is “courageously” fighting against the Iranian regime, responding to a question about Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who remained unflustered in his United Nations General Assembly speech as Trump said that he could "annihilate" Iran if necessary.&nbsp;“The Iranian regime has murdered thousands of its own people, killed Americans overseas, executed acts of terrorism in the Strait of Hormuz, and launched indiscriminate attacks against its neighbours in the region," said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly. "The President is courageously ensuring that such an evil country never possesses a nuclear weapon, which will make the entire world safer and more stable.”US President Donald Trump at the United Nations General Assembly heavily focused on Iran and aggressively showcased the transactional nature of the America First foreign policy. He said that he was cosidering "annihilate the Islamic Republic" and "drive them into hell with no chance of survival", at the same time he said he was offering Iran economic cooperation and the opportunity to rebuild into a "far greater country" in exchange of dismantling it's nuclear programme, and the opportunity to rebuild into a “far greater country”.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvey-weinstein-sentenced-15-years-miriam-haley-sexual-assault-1790182424219">Harvey Weinstein gets 15-year prison sentence over Miriam Haley assault</a>Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian responded by saying that Iran would not be bullied, while he expressed willingness to dialogue and diplomacy with the US. Iran portrayed itself as a “victim of terrorism”. &nbsp;He said that Iran was defending itself.&nbsp;“Our innocent people have been the targets of cowardly attacks and aggressions imposed upon our country. And we defended ourselves with utmost strength. America and Israel attacked us.” &nbsp;He argued that Israel has nuclear weapons without ever disclosing it to the IAEA, but the IAEA inspectors are in Iran.&nbsp;The oil market spiked once again, with Brent remaining up over 2%, selling at over $105 per barrel before markets opened in the US, as the United Nations summit failed to show any signs of peace. Iran has already warned that any renewed attack will draw retalliation with expanded targeting of energy infrastructure and shipping in the Red Sea and possibly even the Indian Ocean.

The White House defended Trump’s Iran policy after his UN ‘annihilate’ threat as Pezeshkian called for diplomacy and rejected US pressure.

White House on Tuesday said that US President Donald Trump is “courageously” fighting against the Iranian regime, responding to a question about Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who remained unflustered in his United Nations General Assembly speech as Trump said that he could "annihilate" Iran if necessary. “The Iranian regime has murdered thousands of its own people, killed Americans overseas, executed acts of terrorism in the Strait of Hormuz, and launched indiscriminate attacks against its neighbours in the region," said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly. "The President is courageously ensuring that such an evil country never possesses a nuclear weapon, which will make the entire world safer and more stable.” US President Donald Trump at the United Nations General Assembly heavily focused on Iran and aggressively showcased the transactional nature of the America First foreign policy. He said that he was cosidering "annihilate the Islamic Republic" and "drive them into hell with no chance of survival", at the same time he said he was offering Iran economic cooperation and the opportunity to rebuild into a "far greater country" in exchange of dismantling it's nuclear programme, and the opportunity to rebuild into a “far greater country”. Also Read: Harvey Weinstein gets 15-year prison sentence over Miriam Haley assault Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian responded by saying that Iran would not be bullied, while he expressed willingness to dialogue and diplomacy with the US. Iran portrayed itself as a “victim of terrorism”. He said that Iran was defending itself. “Our innocent people have been the targets of cowardly attacks and aggressions imposed upon our country. And we defended ourselves with utmost strength. America and Israel attacked us.” He argued that Israel has nuclear weapons without ever disclosing it to the IAEA, but the IAEA inspectors are in Iran. The oil market spiked once again, with Brent remaining up over 2%, selling at over $105 per barrel before markets opened in the US, as the United Nations summit failed to show any signs of peace. Iran has already warned that any renewed attack will draw retalliation with expanded targeting of energy infrastructure and shipping in the Red Sea and possibly even the Indian Ocean.

The White House defended Trump’s Iran policy after his UN ‘annihilate’ threat as Pezeshkian called for diplomacy and rejected US pressure.

Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat

Iran has warned that the ongoing Middle East war could spread into the Indian Ocean if the United States launches further attacks, marking the clearest threat yet from Tehran about widening the conflict beyond the region. Yahya Rahim Safavi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, issued the warning on Thursday (Sep 24) in a video released by Iran’s Fars news agency.“Since the conflict has spread from the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in response to more war, the front will expand even further, reaching the Indian Ocean and perhaps beyond,” Safavi said.<h2>Iran points to Red Sea, Hormuz</h2>The warning comes as tensions have already spread across several critical waterways. Yemen’s Houthis have recently taken control of parts of the Red Sea coastline while fighting Saudi-backed government forces, strengthening their position around the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait.Iran has provided military support to the Houthis but denies being directly involved in the Yemen conflict.Tehran has also imposed a lockdown on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies, following US-Israeli strikes that triggered the war at the end of February. Iranian and US forces are now locked in a confrontation over the strategic waterway, through which a major share of the world’s oil and gas previously passed.<h2>Diego Garcia in focus</h2>Thursday’s warning was notable because it directly named the Indian Ocean for the first time in such terms by an adviser to Iran's supreme leader. The region is home to the US-British military base at Diego Garcia, located nearly 4,000 kilometres from Iran.The warning came as Iranian and US officials held talks in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, seeking a possible path towards ending the conflict.Iran has demanded sanctions relief and the unconditional release of frozen Iranian assets as part of its conditions for ending the war.A Revolutionary Guards spokesman also told AFP on Tuesday that ending the war in Yemen was among the issues being discussed.

Iran has warned that the Middle East war could spread to the Indian Ocean if the US attacks again, raising tensions around Hormuz, the Red Sea and the strategic Diego Garcia base.

Iran has warned that the ongoing Middle East war could spread into the Indian Ocean if the United States launches further attacks, marking the clearest threat yet from Tehran about widening the conflict beyond the region. Yahya Rahim Safavi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, issued the warning on Thursday (Sep 24) in a video released by Iran’s Fars news agency. “Since the conflict has spread from the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in response to more war, the front will expand even further, reaching the Indian Ocean and perhaps beyond,” Safavi said. Iran points to Red Sea, Hormuz The warning comes as tensions have already spread across several critical waterways. Yemen’s Houthis have recently taken control of parts of the Red Sea coastline while fighting Saudi-backed government forces, strengthening their position around the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait. Iran has provided military support to the Houthis but denies being directly involved in the Yemen conflict. Tehran has also imposed a lockdown on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies, following US-Israeli strikes that triggered the war at the end of February. Iranian and US forces are now locked in a confrontation over the strategic waterway, through which a major share of the world’s oil and gas previously passed. Diego Garcia in focus Thursday’s warning was notable because it directly named the Indian Ocean for the first time in such terms by an adviser to Iran's supreme leader. The region is home to the US-British military base at Diego Garcia, located nearly 4,000 kilometres from Iran. The warning came as Iranian and US officials held talks in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, seeking a possible path towards ending the conflict. Iran has demanded sanctions relief and the unconditional release of frozen Iranian assets as part of its conditions for ending the war. A Revolutionary Guards spokesman also told AFP on Tuesday that ending the war in Yemen was among the issues being discussed.

Iran has warned that the Middle East war could spread to the Indian Ocean if the US attacks again, raising tensions around Hormuz, the Red Sea and the strategic Diego Garcia base.

Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US

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