US and Israel's joint military operation in Iran has been paused as per Donald Trump's claims. In a social media post he wrote, “I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.” He also pointed at “detailed, and constructive conversations”, while Tehran denies any such dialogue.The Foreign Ministry's spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, said no direct or indirect talks have taken place in the last 24 hours, and the parliament speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, reiterated.What began as a joint military strike in Iran on February 28 has spread across the region far and beyond. Following the attack which killed Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran conducted airstrikes on American bases in West Asia.The ripple effect: Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Lebanon have also been targets of drones and missiles. The Strait of Hormuz has been blocked, and that has led to a situation even back home in India. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in its briefing, said the LPG situation in the country is “a concern" though no official shortage has been mentioned. New Delhi has used a diversified set of channels to procure crude.The latest: Iran confirmed on Monday that Revolutionary Guards commander Alireza Tangsiri had been killed, days after Israel said it targeted him in an air strike.A statement carried by the Guards' Sepah News website said Tangsiri "succumbed to severe injuries" from the attack.Follow WION for the latest developments on the ongoing West Asia war(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, has warned that Israel’s new death penalty law instructing military courts to impose the death penalty on Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis in acts of “terror” applies only to non-Jews, describing it as “another step toward apartheid”. &nbsp;

Spain’s PM condemns Israel’s death penalty law, calls it step towards apartheid

Ten European countries, including France and the United Kingdom, Tuesday urged all sides to ensure the safety of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon after three peacekeepers were killed in recent days.

Ten European countries urge protection of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon

France 'surprised' by Trump criticism over US military overflights: Macron's office

Macron’s office says France ‘surprised’ by Trump remarks on US military overflights

Iran’s IRGC issued a warning against 18 American technology companies, including Microsoft, Apple, Google, Intel and Boeing, stating they would be considered legitimate targets in response to what it described as terrorist operations carried out by the US and Israel.

Iran’s IRGC warns US tech giants, says firms like Microsoft, Apple, Google ‘legitimate targets

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;I witnessed warriors. A brotherhood of men and women - warriors all. &lt;a href="https://t.co/S7cDcATpOI"&gt;pic.twitter.com/S7cDcATpOI&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/2038965468736716939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 31, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth shared images from his covert visit to US troops in Middle East on Tuesday

Gen Dan Caine said the US military has struck more than 11,000 targets over the past 29 days, as operations against Iran continue to intensify. He stated that forces are working to degrade and destroy Iran’s capabilities, with ongoing strikes targeting key manufacturing and research sites. Caine also said the US military has taken out over 150 ships in Iran’s navy, underscoring the scale of the campaign.

We struck more than 11,000 targets in Iran since the start of war: Gen Dan Caine

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of what he described as false-flag operations aimed at undermining regional ties during a call with his Turkish counterpart.

Iran warns of false-flag operations in call with Turkey

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he visited US Central Command over the weekend and met with troops, though he declined to share which bases he traveled to.

Hegseth visited US Central Command troops over the weekend

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States will ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open and warned NATO may need to be re-examined after some allies denied airspace and basing access.&nbsp;

Rubio says US will keep Strait of Hormuz open

Qatar said on Tuesday (March 31) that the future of the Strait of Hormuz is “primarily a regional” one that needs to be resolved by “regional consensus.”

Future of the Strait of Hormuz is mainly a "regional issue," Qatar says

US President Donald Trump urged countries facing jet fuel shortages due to disruption in the Strait of Hormuz to secure supplies themselves, while criticising the UK's stance on the conflict with Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump urges countries to secure own fuel supplies, criticizes UK stance

An Iranian lawmaker said Tehran is ready for a potential ground conflict with the US, according to Iranian media. Ahmad Bakhshayesh Ardestani said Iran has strong ground forces and is “waiting for a ground conflict to show the peak of our power.”

Iran lawmaker says ready for US ground conflict

At least 4,770 members of the IRGC, Basij, and police have been killed since the start of the war in attacks by Israel and the United States, Iran International has learned.

Over 4,700 security forces killed in US-Israeli strikes on Iran

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday that US plans for regime change in Iran and Venezuela were aimed at gaining control over oil and gas resources.&nbsp;

Russia’s Lavrov says regime change plans in Iran, Venezuela tied to oil

Rome has denied US military aircraft bound for the Middle East permission to land at Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily, according to reports from Corriere della Sera. The refusal, reportedly due to a lack of prior coordination, has fueled a diplomatic crisis with Washington. Secretary of State Marco Rubio intensified the friction on Monday, warned that the US may "reassess" its NATO commitments once the war with Iran concludes, signaling a potential shift in the trans-Atlantic security architecture.

Italy blocks US military access to Sicily base amid escalating Iran conflict

UAE said its defence systems are dealing with missile and drone threats from Iran.

UAE says dealing with missile, drone threats from Iran

The average retail price of gasoline across the United States rose above $4 per gallon on Monday for the first time in over three years, according to data from GasBuddy. The increase comes as the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran continues to disrupt global energy markets.The last time fuel prices hit this level was in August 2022, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, and analysts often view the $4 mark as a psychological threshold for consumers. Rising costs of various goods, including crude oil used in gasoline production, have been driven in part by Iran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global trade route, according to a report in the Reuters.

US Gas Prices Surpass $4 Per Gallon Amid Global Energy Market Turmoil

A Kuwaiti oil tanker struck near Dubai on Tuesday was transporting around 2 million barrels of crude oil sourced from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, according to data from Lloyd’s and TankerTrackers, as reported by a news agency.

Oil Tanker Hit Near Dubai Was Carrying 2 Million Barrels of Crude

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has visited China as Islamabad intensifies its efforts to play a mediating role in the conflict. During the visit, Dar held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, focusing on regional tensions, the situation in Iran, and bilateral relations. According to China’s Foreign Ministry, both countries share aligned views on key international and regional matters.China expressed deep concern over the destruction of historical sites during the conflict and urged all parties, particularly the US and Israel, to immediately stop military actions. It also strongly opposed any attacks on nuclear facilities. Beijing stated it would continue working to ease tensions and promote peace, and it thanked concerned parties for assisting Chinese vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, noting that three of its ships have recently passed through the area, according to the report in the Al Jazeera.

China urges Israel and US to stop the war

Iran has executed two individuals accused of links to the opposition group Mujahideen-e Khalq Organisation (MKO). Officials said the two were involved in multiple operations in Tehran, according to the ISNA news agency.

Iran executes two members of MKO opposition group involved in multiple operations

One Palestinian has been killed in an Israeli strike in northern Gaza. According to the Wafa news agency, the attack targeted a group of civilians in Jabalia, leaving one person dead and several others injured.

Israeli attack on northern Gaza claims life of one Palestinian

Two container ships operated by COSCO Shipping have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz and exited the Gulf, according to ship tracking data.

Two Chinese container ships transited Strait of Hormuz on Monday

Iran’s ISNA news agency reported an attack on the city of Mahallat in the Markazi province last night, claiming that 11 people were killed and 15 others were injured. Three residential units in Mahallat city were “directly hit by projectiles”, causing significant damage, it said.&nbsp;

Attack on Iran’s Mahallat kills 11

Iran has arrested two people accused of sending information about sensitive locations to US-Israeli spy services, according to the Tasnim news agency.

Iran arrests two accused of sending information to US, Israel

After visuals showed massive explosion in Iran's Isfahan, multiple power outages in the capital Tehran was reported

Power outages reported in Tehran after blasts in Isfahan

The Pentagon is set to hold a press briefing about the war in Iran today at 6.30 pm (IST). Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine is slated to address the media

Pentagon to brief press on Iran today

The Saudi Ministry of Defense said that the drones were intercepted and destroyed over the past hours. Earlier, the ministry said it had intercepted eight ballistic missiles launched towards Riyadh and the Eastern Province

Saudi Arabia intercepts 10 drones

An Iranian aeroplane being readied for a humanitarian run to India was damaged Monday (Mar 30) in what officials are claiming was a US airstrike on Mashhad airport. In a post on X, the Iranian embassy in India slammed the attack as “a war crime and a clear violation of international law” <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-war-crime-iran-says-us-strike-hit-aid-plane-headed-for-india-what-we-know-1774928474110">READ MORE</a>

‘War crime’: Did US target an Iranian plane headed to India on humanitarian mission?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the conflict has crossed the halfway mark in terms of objectives. However, he stopped short of committing to any timeline for when the fighting might end. "It's definitely beyond the halfway point. But I don't want to put a schedule on it," Netanyahu told conservative US broadcaster Newsmax&nbsp;

Netanyahu sits down for interview claiming Iran war past halfway

US President Donald Trump has reportedly told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-willing-to-end-iran-war-without-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-1774923738453">Find out more here</a>

Trump willing to end Iran war without reopening Strait of Hormuz: New report claims

Massive explosions rocked the city of Isfahan in Iran in the early hours of Tuesday, according to media reports. Donald Trump shared a video showing a series of blasts triggering fires, turning the sky orange.. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-explosions-in-isfahan-send-shockwaves-and-fireballs-trump-shares-video-1774927795395">READ MORE</a>

2,000-pound bunker buster bomb strike in Iran's Isfahan

France requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council after three UN peacekeepers were killed in Lebanon over the past 24 hours.

UN Security Council issues response on UN peacekeepers death 

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II condemned Iranian attacks on regional civilian infrastructure during a summit in Jeddah.

Gulf leaders condemn attacks in the region

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a second attack on Israel’s largest oil refinery, Bazan, in Haifa, which sparked a fire.

Hezbollah Targets Israeli Refinery

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei denied engaging in talks with the US, stating that Tehran only received “requests for talks” via intermediaries.

Iran denies direct talks with US

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Al Jazeera that President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy but warned Iran of “real consequences” over the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

US Response on Strait of Hormuz

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation reported that an Iranian strike on the Al-Salmi oil tanker at Dubai Port caused a fire and warned of a potential oil spill.

Iranian Attack on Kuwaiti Tanker

Iranian state media has announced that the funeral for IRGC Navy Commander&nbsp;Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, who was killed in an Israeli attack, will take place on Monday. The chairman of the Iranian Assembly of Experts, Mohammad Ali Movahedi Kermani, has issued condolences for Tangsiri’s death, saying it marks “another page in the bravery of the brave men of Iran”.

Iran’s Assembly of Experts mourns Tangsiri’s killing

The Lebanese militant group Hezbollah reported that its fighters struck an Israeli air defense system in the Ma’alot-Tarshiha settlement at 3 a.m. (00:00 GMT) using a “swarm of attack drones.” This marks the third operation the group has claimed earlier today.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE | Hezbollah claims drone attack on Israeli air defence system

Tensions reach a breaking point as Tehran launches a massive missile and drone barrage across West Asia, targeting sites in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE. A Kuwaiti supertanker, the Al Salmi, was set ablaze in an Iranian drone strike at Dubai Port.

US and Israel's joint military operation in Iran has been paused as per Donald Trump's claims. In a social media post he wrote, “I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.” He also pointed at “detailed, and constructive conversations”, while Tehran denies any such dialogue.The Foreign Ministry's spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, said no direct or indirect talks have taken place in the last 24 hours, and the parliament speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, reiterated. What began as a joint military strike in Iran on February 28 has spread across the region far and beyond. Following the attack which killed Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran conducted airstrikes on American bases in West Asia. The ripple effect: Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Lebanon have also been targets of drones and missiles. The Strait of Hormuz has been blocked, and that has led to a situation even back home in India. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in its briefing, said the LPG situation in the country is “a concern" though no official shortage has been mentioned. New Delhi has used a diversified set of channels to procure crude. The latest: Iran confirmed on Monday that Revolutionary Guards commander Alireza Tangsiri had been killed, days after Israel said it targeted him in an air strike. A statement carried by the Guards' Sepah News website said Tangsiri "succumbed to severe injuries" from the attack. Follow WION for the latest developments on the ongoing West Asia war (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Tensions reach a breaking point as Tehran launches a massive missile and drone barrage across West Asia, targeting sites in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE. A Kuwaiti supertanker, the Al Salmi, was set ablaze in an Iranian drone strike at Dubai Port.

US-Israel-Iran war Highlights | Wall Street jumps as Iran expresses ‘will’ to end war

Massive explosions rocked the city of Isfahan in Iran in the early hours of Tuesday, according to media reports. Donald Trump shared a video showing a series of blasts triggering fires, turning the sky orange. The US President did not mention where the video was from, but reports suggest that the US and Israel jointly struck a major ammunition depot in Isfahan. It is home to 2.3 million and is where the Badr military airbase is located. The clip shared by Trump remains unverified. The Wall Street Journal quoted a US official as saying that forces hit the ammunition depot in Isfahan with 2,000-pound bunker buster bombs. "A high volume of bunker busters, or penetrator munitions, was used for the strike," the official said. The primary attack is said to have triggered multiple secondary explosions that were so powerful that fireballs soared into the sky and the ground shook.

Reports are doing the rounds that Iran may have moved around 540kg of highly enriched uranium stockpiles to an underground facility in Isfahan. WSJ earlier reported that Trump is considering a military operation to extract the uranium from Iran, according to US officials. It would mean the conflict will escalate as the mission would likely mean having American forces inside the country for several days or weeks. There have been reports of the US moving ahead with a ground invasion of the country. Trump has also threatened to "take the oil in Iran". He also warned that the US will destroy Iranian energy sites if a deal is not reached soon to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. &nbsp;Both the US and Israel have justified military action in Iran, claiming that it was close to building a nuclear bomb, a claim not backed by the UN nuclear watchdog.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-willing-to-end-iran-war-without-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-1774923738453">Trump willing to end Iran war without reopening Strait of Hormuz: New report makes EXPLOSIVE claims</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iranian-missiles-strike-israel-s-oil-hub-explosions-shake-haifa-oil-refinery-1774925961205/embed<h2>Iran hits Israel and Kuwait</h2>Meanwhile, Iran and its proxy forces, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, have also been launching missiles and drones at Israel and Persian Gulf states. Explosions were reported on Monday around Israeli oil infrastructure in Haifa. On Tuesday, an Iranian attack caused a fire on a Kuwaiti oil tanker at Dubai Port, state media reported. "The Kuwaiti giant crude oil tanker was subjected to a direct and malicious Iranian attack while in the anchorage area of Dubai Port in the UAE," official news agency KUNA reported. Kuwait's military confirmed on social media that its air defences were responding to "hostile missile and drone attacks."

Explosions were reported in the city of Isfahan in Iran at dawn on Tuesday, triggered by US-Israeli strikes. Reports suggest that the main strike was so powerful that it triggered secondary explosions which sent shockwaves and fireballs.

Massive explosions rocked the city of Isfahan in Iran in the early hours of Tuesday, according to media reports. Donald Trump shared a video showing a series of blasts triggering fires, turning the sky orange. The US President did not mention where the video was from, but reports suggest that the US and Israel jointly struck a major ammunition depot in Isfahan. It is home to 2.3 million and is where the Badr military airbase is located. The clip shared by Trump remains unverified. The Wall Street Journal quoted a US official as saying that forces hit the ammunition depot in Isfahan with 2,000-pound bunker buster bombs. "A high volume of bunker busters, or penetrator munitions, was used for the strike," the official said. The primary attack is said to have triggered multiple secondary explosions that were so powerful that fireballs soared into the sky and the ground shook.

Explosions were reported in the city of Isfahan in Iran at dawn on Tuesday, triggered by US-Israeli strikes. Reports suggest that the main strike was so powerful that it triggered secondary explosions, which sent shockwaves and fireballs.

2,000-pound bunker buster bomb strike in Iran's Isfahan triggers shockwaves and fireballs, Trump shares video

As the Iran-US war enters its second month, US President Donald Trump has reportedly told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. This comes in sharp contrast with Trump's public statement on Mar 29, when he told the press that the US could reopen the Strait of Hormuz in minutes. He also claimed that Iran is at the verge of accepting his 15-point peace plan, that includes opening of Hormuz. While the Trump administration has said that negotiations with Iran are ongoing with the help of regional partners as well as Pakistan, Iran has categorically denied it, stating that only messages were exchanged, but nothing was negotiated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-contradicts-don-t-need-iran-oil-stance-hints-at-seizing-kharg-island-1774836464859">'Favorite thing is to take oil…': Trump contradicts 'don’t need Iran oil' stance, hints at seizing Kharg Island</a><h3>Trump to end war without opening of Hormuz?</h3>According to a report by The Washington Post on Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump and his advisers concluded that an operation to force open the strategic chokepoint would likely extend the conflict beyond their expected four- to six-week timeframe. Instead, he opted for the United States to focus on weakening Iran’s naval capabilities and missile reserves. If the report is to be believed, the US may would pressure its European and Gulf allies to take primary responsibility for reopening the strait. While the report quoting unnamed US officials did not rule out military options, it said that it is not his immediate priority.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-regime-change-happened-after-a-month-of-war-hints-at-peace-deal-soon-1774830991167">‘Iran has undergone regime change’: Trump's BIG statement after a month of war</a>&nbsp;However, Trump’s push for a swift end to the conflict appears to contradict with other steps he is taking. Over the weekend, the USS Tripoli and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit were deployed to the region. He has also directed elements of the 82nd Airborne Division to mobilize and is reportedly weighing the deployment of an additional 10,000 ground troops to the West Asia, according to The Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;It must be understood that the prolonged closure of the strait is expected to disrupt the global economy further and drive up gas prices. The US is facing domestic and global pressure as several nations, including US allies, are already grappling with reduced energy supplies that once moved freely through the route. Key industries dependent on resources like fertilizer for agriculture and helium for semiconductor production are facing significant shortages. Experts warn that unless safe passage is quickly restored, Tehran will continue to pose a risk to global trade.<h2>Trump hints at seizing Kharg Island</h2>Meanwhile, Trump has already hinted at overtaking Iran's Kharg Island “very easily” stating that it is his favourite thing to take oil from Iran. Speaking to Financial Times in an interview on Sunday (Mar 29), Trump said, "To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people.”Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options. It would also mean we had to be there [in Kharg Island] for a while. Asked about Iran’s defensive capabilities on the island, Trump said: "I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily.” Reports also indicate possible ground operations by the US that would include raids in Strait of Hormuz and seizure of Kharg Island.&nbsp;

As the Iran–US conflict enters its second month, Donald Trump may end military operations without reopening the Strait of Hormuz, despite rising global energy concerns and hints at targeting Kharg Island.

As the Iran-US war enters its second month, US President Donald Trump has reportedly told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. This comes in sharp contrast with Trump's public statement on Mar 29, when he told the press that the US could reopen the Strait of Hormuz in minutes. He also claimed that Iran is at the verge of accepting his 15-point peace plan, that includes opening of Hormuz. While the Trump administration has said that negotiations with Iran are ongoing with the help of regional partners as well as Pakistan, Iran has categorically denied it, stating that only messages were exchanged, but nothing was negotiated. Also Read: 'Favorite thing is to take oil…': Trump contradicts 'don’t need Iran oil' stance, hints at seizing Kharg Island Trump to end war without opening of Hormuz? According to a report by The Washington Post on Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump and his advisers concluded that an operation to force open the strategic chokepoint would likely extend the conflict beyond their expected four- to six-week timeframe. Instead, he opted for the United States to focus on weakening Iran’s naval capabilities and missile reserves. If the report is to be believed, the US may would pressure its European and Gulf allies to take primary responsibility for reopening the strait. While the report quoting unnamed US officials did not rule out military options, it said that it is not his immediate priority. Also Read: ‘Iran has undergone regime change’: Trump's BIG statement after a month of war However, Trump’s push for a swift end to the conflict appears to contradict with other steps he is taking. Over the weekend, the USS Tripoli and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit were deployed to the region. He has also directed elements of the 82nd Airborne Division to mobilize and is reportedly weighing the deployment of an additional 10,000 ground troops to the West Asia, according to The Wall Street Journal. It must be understood that the prolonged closure of the strait is expected to disrupt the global economy further and drive up gas prices. The US is facing domestic and global pressure as several nations, including US allies, are already grappling with reduced energy supplies that once moved freely through the route. Key industries dependent on resources like fertilizer for agriculture and helium for semiconductor production are facing significant shortages. Experts warn that unless safe passage is quickly restored, Tehran will continue to pose a risk to global trade. Trump hints at seizing Kharg Island Meanwhile, Trump has already hinted at overtaking Iran's Kharg Island “very easily” stating that it is his favourite thing to take oil from Iran. Speaking to Financial Times in an interview on Sunday (Mar 29), Trump said, "To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people.”Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options. It would also mean we had to be there [in Kharg Island] for a while. Asked about Iran’s defensive capabilities on the island, Trump said: "I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily.” Reports also indicate possible ground operations by the US that would include raids in Strait of Hormuz and seizure of Kharg Island.

As the Iran–US conflict enters its second month, Donald Trump may end military operations without reopening the Strait of Hormuz, despite rising global energy concerns and hints at targeting Kharg Island.

Trump willing to end Iran war without reopening Strait of Hormuz: New report makes EXPLOSIVE claims

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that US talks with Iran were continuing and progressing well, with public statements from Tehran differing to what Iranian officials were telling the US in private.“Despite all of the public posturing you hear from the regime and false reporting, talks are continuing and going well. What is said publicly is, of course, much different than what’s being communicated to us privately,” said Leavitt.

Iran talks progressing despite Tehran’s ‘public posturing’, says White House

Karoline Leavitt on Monday said the US has destroyed more than 150 Iranian naval vessels. She also claimed that talks with Iran are continuing and going well.

We have destroyed more than 150 Iranian naval vessels: White House

Germany’s annual inflation rate rose to 2.7% in March, its highest level since January 2024, the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) said on Monday.Energy prices surged 7.2% year-on-year in March, marking their first increase since December 2023, according to preliminary data from Destatis.&nbsp;

German inflation hits 2.7% on energy price rises

NATO said Monday its forces had intercepted an Iranian missile heading towards Turkey, confirming an earlier announcement by the Turkish defence ministry."On Monday, 30 March, NATO again successfully intercepted an Iranian ballistic missile heading to" Turkey, alliance spokeswoman Allison Hart said.

NATO intercepts Iranian missile bound for Turkey

Germany's Chancellor Merz says the effect of the Iran War on Germany and Europe will be as serious as the COVID-19 pandemic if it expands

Effect of Iran war on Germany as serious as COVID-19 pandemic: Merz

Iran's military on Monday claimed that Israel was behind an attack on a desalination plant in Kuwait. "The brutal aggression by the Israeli regime against Kuwait's desalination plant, carried out in recent hours under the pretext of accusing the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a sign of the vileness and depravity of the Zionist occupiers," said the military's operational command Khatam Al-Anbiya in a statement carried by state TV.

Iran military claims Israel behind attack on Kuwait desalination plant

A Mahan Airlines (Iran Airlines) aircraft at Iran's Mashhad International Airport was hit by US strikes. The plane was scheduled to fly to Delhi to collect humanitarian aid later this week.

US-Israel-Iran war | Plane hit by US ahead of trip to India for humanitarian aid

The border between Iran and northern Iraq's Kurdish region has long been porous, alive with family ties, trade and smuggling. Now families are cut off from loved ones, and traders hesitate to cross. Iranian forces have built up their presence to prevent incursions by Iranian Kurdish militant groups.

US-Israel-Iran war | Iran war cuts family ties and shuts down routes across Iraqi- Iranian borders 

Syria's military said a large-scale drone attack targeted its bases near the border with Iraq on Monday, the latest such incident since the outbreak of the Middle East war.In a statement, the army reported "a large-scale attack by a number of drones targeting several army bases near the Iraqi border at dawn today", adding that most of the drones were intercepted."We are studying our options and will respond appropriately to neutralise any threat and prevent any aggression against Syrian territory."

US-Israel-Iran war | Syrian army reports 'large-scale' drone attack on bases near Iraq border

US President Donald Trump on Sunday night aboard Air Force One said that, the Iran has allowed almost 20 cargo ships of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, starting on Monday, March 30. He called this a “tribute” and a “sign of respect” to the US. He also implied that Tehran's decision was a sign that the negotiations are underway and the war was coming to an end. However, it was not clear where these 20 ships were headed. China and India are the major buyers of Iranian oil. The ship could also belong to the Gulf nations.“As you know, they agreed to send eight boats two days ago, and they added another two. So, that’s 10 boats. So, today they gave us as a tribute…I don’t know, I can’t describe it exactly…I think out of a sign of respect, 20 boats of oil, big, big boats of oil going through the Hormuz Strait. That’s taking place starting tomorrow morning over the next couple of days. I would only say that we are doing extremely well in negotiations,” said Trump to the reporters aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-20-oil-ships-strait-of-hormuz-pakistan-claim-1774847850141">Read more</a>

US-Israel-Iran war | Trump claims Iran cleared 20 ships as a 'sign of respect'; Pakistan says vessels are theirs

US President Donald Trump, in his Truth Social post, claimed that March 30 was the “big day” for Iran. In his Truth Social Post Trump claimed that the US has already taken out "many long-sought-after targets". This post comes after Trump's claim that Iran has already achieved its objective of regime change in Iran.“Big day in Iran. Many long-sought-after targets have been taken out and destroyed by our GREAT MILITARY, the finest and most lethal in the World. God bless you all!” wrote Trump in his latest Truth Social Post.Trump had earlier suggested that a deal with Iran is close and claimed that they have already changed the earlier group of leaders. “It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change,” said US President Donald Trump while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-big-day-iran-strikes-war-oil-hormuz-escalation-1774853787077">Read more</a>

US-Israel-Iran war | Donald Trump says ‘big day in Iran’ claims key targets destroyed amid talks of diplomacy

Spain on Monday (Mar 30) summoned Israel's top envoy to Madrid in protest over Israeli police blocking the Latin Patriarch from Christianity's holiest site in Jerusalem, the foreign minister said."This cannot happen again, Catholic worship must be able to be celebrated normally," Jose Manuel Albares told RAC1 radio after Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa was prevented from holding Palm Sunday mass at the Holy Sepulchre church.Israel has said the cardinal will regain access to the site, and had cited security concerns for the measure as the country bans gatherings in synagogues, churches and mosques during the ongoing war with Iran.

US-Israel-Iran war | Spain summons Israeli envoy over Latin Patriarch's church access

Iran confirmed on Monday (Mar 30) that Revolutionary Guards commander Alireza Tangsiri had been killed, days after Israel said it targeted him in an air strike.A statement carried by the Guards' Sepah News website said Tangsiri "succumbed to severe injuries" from the attack.

US-Israel-Iran war | Iran confirms killing of Guards navy commander Alireza Tangsiri

Tehran has officially confirmed the death of Alireza Tangsiri, the Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, on March 30. The high-ranking naval chief succumbed to injuries following a precision Israeli airstrike in the port city of Bandar Abbas.

Tehran has officially confirmed the death of Alireza Tangsiri, the Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, on March 30. The high-ranking naval chief succumbed to injuries following a precision Israeli airstrike in the port city of Bandar Abbas.

US-Israel-Iran war Highlights | Talks with Iran continuing and going well: White House

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (March 30) proposed an agreement to mutually pause strikes on energy facilities in Ukraine and Russia to mitigate the global energy crisis triggered by the war in West Asia.&nbsp;"If Russia is ready to stop hitting Ukrainian energy facilities, we will not respond against their energy sector," Zelensky told journalists.&nbsp;The proposal from Kyiv came as the war in West Asia crossed one month with no end in sight, triggering a spike in energy prices, with Brent crude reaching $115 on Monday.The war, triggered by a US-Israeli bombing campaign against Iran on February 28, has spiralled into a regional conflict, as Tehran targeted US bases, energy sites, and key infrastructure across the Gulf region in retaliation.&nbsp;Despite decapitation strikes against the Islamic Republic's top leadership, killing key figures including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran remains defiant and announced a halt to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which nearly 20 per cent of global oil transits.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mohamad-safa-un-resignation-nuclear-threat-iran-allegations-1774872383427">‘Nuclear winter’ warning: UN diplomat steps down, cites safety concerns</a>&nbsp; However, President Trump on Monday claimed that the US is in serious discussions with the new Iranian regime to end military operations in the Islamic Republic. He also reiterated his warning to hit "electric generating plants, oil wells and Kharg Island" if the Strait of Hormuz does not "open for business".&nbsp;Zelensky, since the start of the war, fearing a loss of US support, has repositioned Ukraine as a provider of key defence support to Gulf nations, including the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, using the expertise it gained during its war with Russia to boost their defence against Tehran's missile and drone attacks.&nbsp;Ukraine has deployed 228 counter-drone specialists to the region (including Jordan and Kuwait). Kyiv is offering its low-cost interceptor drones—which cost roughly USD 2,000 per interception—in exchange for high-end Patriot PAC-3 missiles that Gulf nations possess.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the White House lifted sanctions on Russian oil, terming it a temporary 30-day waiver to stabilise global energy markets and curb soaring fuel prices caused by the ongoing war.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The proposal from Kyiv came as the war in West Asia completed one month with no end in sight, driving a surge in energy prices, with Brent crude hitting $115 on Monday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (March 30) proposed an agreement to mutually pause strikes on energy facilities in Ukraine and Russia to mitigate the global energy crisis triggered by the war in West Asia. "If Russia is ready to stop hitting Ukrainian energy facilities, we will not respond against their energy sector," Zelensky told journalists. The proposal from Kyiv came as the war in West Asia crossed one month with no end in sight, triggering a spike in energy prices, with Brent crude reaching $115 on Monday. The war, triggered by a US-Israeli bombing campaign against Iran on February 28, has spiralled into a regional conflict, as Tehran targeted US bases, energy sites, and key infrastructure across the Gulf region in retaliation. Despite decapitation strikes against the Islamic Republic's top leadership, killing key figures including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran remains defiant and announced a halt to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which nearly 20 per cent of global oil transits. Also Read: ‘Nuclear winter’ warning: UN diplomat steps down, cites safety concerns However, President Trump on Monday claimed that the US is in serious discussions with the new Iranian regime to end military operations in the Islamic Republic. He also reiterated his warning to hit "electric generating plants, oil wells and Kharg Island" if the Strait of Hormuz does not "open for business". Zelensky, since the start of the war, fearing a loss of US support, has repositioned Ukraine as a provider of key defence support to Gulf nations, including the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, using the expertise it gained during its war with Russia to boost their defence against Tehran's missile and drone attacks. Ukraine has deployed 228 counter-drone specialists to the region (including Jordan and Kuwait). Kyiv is offering its low-cost interceptor drones—which cost roughly USD 2,000 per interception—in exchange for high-end Patriot PAC-3 missiles that Gulf nations possess. Meanwhile, the White House lifted sanctions on Russian oil, terming it a temporary 30-day waiver to stabilise global energy markets and curb soaring fuel prices caused by the ongoing war. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The proposal from Kyiv came as the war in West Asia completed one month with no end in sight, driving a surge in energy prices, with Brent crude hitting $115 on Monday.

Zelensky proposes energy ceasefire with Russia as West Asia conflict fuels oil surge

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