Amid fears of prolonged disruptions to Middle Eastern oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG), Russia has offered to continue its energy supply to India. Diplomatic sources say, "Russia ready to full fill India's energy demands in case of continued disruption on energy supplies due to the West Asia crisis."&nbsp;But that comes with Trump's threats. Tariffs were imposed on India last year for importing Russian energy. In early 2026, Trump announced a trade deal framework slashing tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%, contingent on India halting or significantly reducing Russian oil purchases and shifting toward US energy sources. A US Supreme Court ruling striking down elements of Trump's tariff authority has left the deal in limbo, easing constraints on resuming Russian supplies.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India is undertaking up contingency measures to safeguard its economic security as escalating conflict in West Asia disrupts vital supply routes. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern over the intensification of the crisis, which has seen attacks on merchant shipping in the region. "Our trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography. Any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy," the MEA said. "As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. Already, some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days."&nbsp;The conflict, involving strikes in the Gulf region and threats to the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for roughly half of India's crude imports, has prompted swift domestic action. Trade Minister Piyush Goyal chaired a key meeting in Delhi, leading to emergency trade support measures. These include export flexibilities and the formation of an inter-ministerial group to monitor supply chains, aimed at mitigating the economic fallout from the West Asia war.

Meanwhile, India is undertaking up contingency measures to safeguard its economic security as escalating conflict in West Asia disrupts vital supply routes

Amid fears of prolonged disruptions to Middle Eastern oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG), Russia has offered to continue its energy supply to India. Diplomatic sources say, "Russia ready to full fill India's energy demands in case of continued disruption on energy supplies due to the West Asia crisis." But that comes with Trump's threats. Tariffs were imposed on India last year for importing Russian energy. In early 2026, Trump announced a trade deal framework slashing tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%, contingent on India halting or significantly reducing Russian oil purchases and shifting toward US energy sources. A US Supreme Court ruling striking down elements of Trump's tariff authority has left the deal in limbo, easing constraints on resuming Russian supplies. Meanwhile, India is undertaking up contingency measures to safeguard its economic security as escalating conflict in West Asia disrupts vital supply routes. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern over the intensification of the crisis, which has seen attacks on merchant shipping in the region. "Our trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography. Any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy," the MEA said. "As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. Already, some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days." The conflict, involving strikes in the Gulf region and threats to the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for roughly half of India's crude imports, has prompted swift domestic action. Trade Minister Piyush Goyal chaired a key meeting in Delhi, leading to emergency trade support measures. These include export flexibilities and the formation of an inter-ministerial group to monitor supply chains, aimed at mitigating the economic fallout from the West Asia war.

Meanwhile, India is undertaking up contingency measures to safeguard its economic security as escalating conflict in West Asia disrupts vital supply routes

Moscow ready to fulfil India's energy needs if West Asia war persists

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (March 3) said that Iranian leadership “wants to talk” amid joint US-Israel strikes on Tehran but added, “It’s too late.” He claimed that Iran’s “air defense, Air Force, Navy, and Leadership is gone.”This comes after Trump previously stated that the United States has “the capability to go far longer” than its projected four-to-five-week military operations against Iran.&nbsp;In an interview with the New York Post, Trump did not rule out sending United States troops on the ground, leaving open the possibility of a broader military campaign. “I don’t have the yips with respect to boots on the ground, like every president says, ‘There will be no boots on the ground.’ I don’t say it,” Trump said. “I say ‘probably don’t need them,’ (or) ‘if they were necessary.’”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-cnn-s-turkish-journalists-detained-in-israel-during-iran-war-coverage-1772543461921">WATCH | CNN's Turkish journalists detained in Israel during Iran war coverage</a>

United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Monday (March 2) that the administration would not engage in the “foolish” exercise of telegraphing “what we will or will not do.” Since Saturday afternoon (India time), US-Israel forces have launched ballistic missiles, including Tomahawks from warships in the Persian Gulf, and conducted air strikes using F-22 'Raptor' and F-35 stealth fighters. Iran retaliated with missile barrages and suicide UAV attacks, with Shahed drones targeting United States military bases, Israel, and civilian sites in neighboring Gulf nations.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-how-khamenei-was-tracked-killed-1772545478075/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-how-khamenei-was-tracked-killed-1772545478075/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

'TOO LATE for Iran to...': Trump says Tehran's military and leadership eliminated

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (March 3) said that Iranian leadership “wants to talk” amid joint US-Israel strikes on Tehran but added, “It’s too late.” He claimed that Iran’s “air defense, Air Force, Navy, and Leadership is gone.” This comes after Trump previously stated that the United States has “the capability to go far longer” than its projected four-to-five-week military operations against Iran. In an interview with the New York Post, Trump did not rule out sending United States troops on the ground, leaving open the possibility of a broader military campaign. “I don’t have the yips with respect to boots on the ground, like every president says, ‘There will be no boots on the ground.’ I don’t say it,” Trump said. “I say ‘probably don’t need them,’ (or) ‘if they were necessary.’” Also Read: WATCH | CNN's Turkish journalists detained in Israel during Iran war coverage

US president Trump says 'It’s too late” for Iran to talk as US-Israel strikes cripple Tehran’s military; leaves door open for ground operations amid escalating conflict

Two Turkish journalists reporting from Israel on the ongoing Iran war have been detained, officials and a media union said on Tuesday (March 3). According to the Journalists' Union of Turkey (TGS), Emrah Cakmak, a reporter with CNN Turk, and cameraman Halil Kahraman, who "were in Tel Aviv to follow the news, have been detained". Burhanettin Duran, communications chief at the Turkish presidency, criticised Israel over its "attacks on the press".&nbsp;"We are making the necessary efforts for the immediate release of our journalist colleagues and are following the matter with sensitivity," he said on X. The union said the journalists had travelled to Israel to report on the Iran strikes and provide updates to audiences in Turkey. "Blocking journalists who are responsible for informing the public, and failing to protect journalists in war zones, is a violation of press freedom," it said, urging Israel to release our colleagues.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-israel-iran-war-pm-modi-speaks-to-oman-kuwait-leaders-as-gulf-conflict-deepens-1772541860446">US-Israel-Iran war: PM Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait leaders as Gulf conflict deepens</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A CNN Türk crew was detained live on air in Tel Aviv near the Israeli military headquarters in the Kirya. <a href="https://t.co/qk9jdnJoLQ">pic.twitter.com/qk9jdnJoLQ</a>&mdash; Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) <a href="https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/2028794405763596780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>US embassy warns of imminent attack in eastern Saudi Arabia</h2>The US embassy in Riyadh on Tuesday (March 3) issued a warning of an imminent attack in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran, which hosts a large concentration of the kingdom’s energy facilities along the Gulf coast. "There is a threat of&nbsp;imminent missile and UAV attacks over Dhahran," the embassy wrote on its official X (formerly known as Twitter) account. 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.

WATCH | CNN's Turkish journalists detained in Israel during Iran war coverage

Two Turkish journalists reporting from Israel on the ongoing Iran war have been detained, officials and a media union said on Tuesday (March 3). According to the Journalists' Union of Turkey (TGS), Emrah Cakmak, a reporter with CNN Turk, and cameraman Halil Kahraman, who "were in Tel Aviv to follow the news, have been detained". Burhanettin Duran, communications chief at the Turkish presidency, criticised Israel over its "attacks on the press". "We are making the necessary efforts for the immediate release of our journalist colleagues and are following the matter with sensitivity," he said on X. The union said the journalists had travelled to Israel to report on the Iran strikes and provide updates to audiences in Turkey. "Blocking journalists who are responsible for informing the public, and failing to protect journalists in war zones, is a violation of press freedom," it said, urging Israel to release our colleagues. Also Read: US-Israel-Iran war: PM Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait leaders as Gulf conflict deepens Watch the video here

Two Turkish journalists were detained in Israel while covering the ongoing war in Iran; Ankara condemns move, calls it a violation of press freedom

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (March 3) held separate telephonic conversations with Haitham bin Tarik of Oman and Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, continuing India’s diplomatic outreach as tensions intensify across West Asia. The calls came a day after Modi spoke with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, amid a widening conflict between Iran and the United States that has spread across the Gulf region. The escalation has led to airspace closures and raised concerns over oil supplies and energy infrastructure.&nbsp;During his conversations with the Omani Sultan and the Kuwaiti Crown Prince, Modi expressed concern over attacks in Gulf countries and discussed the safety of the Indian community residing there. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) voiced grave concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and the Gulf. It reiterated that the safety and well-being of nearly one crore Indian nationals in the Middle East remains a top priority.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-almost-1-crore-indian-citizens-who-live-and-work-in-gulf-india-voices-grave-concern-over-expanding-conflict-1772540711262">'There are almost 1 crore Indian citizens who live and work in Gulf': India voices ‘grave concern’ over expanding conflict</a>&nbsp;On Monday, Modi had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, backing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. He condemned attacks on both countries and stressed that the earliest restoration of regional stability was essential. Modi also thanked the Saudi Crown Prince for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community during what he described as “difficult times.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-at-war-with-iran-second-attack-on-the-omani-port-in-three-days-1772536495947/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-at-war-with-iran-second-attack-on-the-omani-port-in-three-days-1772536495947/embed</a>&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also reached out to his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, including Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He additionally held discussions with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. With more than 700 reported fatalities in Iran and continued strikes across Gulf nations and Israel, the conflict shows no signs of abating.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US-Israel-Iran war: PM Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait leaders as Gulf conflict deepens

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (March 3) held separate telephonic conversations with Haitham bin Tarik of Oman and Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, continuing India’s diplomatic outreach as tensions intensify across West Asia. The calls came a day after Modi spoke with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, amid a widening conflict between Iran and the United States that has spread across the Gulf region. The escalation has led to airspace closures and raised concerns over oil supplies and energy infrastructure. During his conversations with the Omani Sultan and the Kuwaiti Crown Prince, Modi expressed concern over attacks in Gulf countries and discussed the safety of the Indian community residing there. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) voiced grave concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and the Gulf. It reiterated that the safety and well-being of nearly one crore Indian nationals in the Middle East remains a top priority. Also Read: 'There are almost 1 crore Indian citizens who live and work in Gulf': India voices ‘grave concern’ over expanding conflict On Monday, Modi had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, backing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. He condemned attacks on both countries and stressed that the earliest restoration of regional stability was essential. Modi also thanked the Saudi Crown Prince for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community during what he described as “difficult times.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-at-war-with-iran-second-attack-on-the-omani-port-in-three-days-1772536495947/embed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also reached out to his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, including Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He additionally held discussions with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. With more than 700 reported fatalities in Iran and continued strikes across Gulf nations and Israel, the conflict shows no signs of abating. 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.

Indian PM Narendra Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait leaders as Iran–US conflict spreads, prioritising safety of one crore Indians and regional stability

India had earlier conveyed its deep concern when hostilities started in Iran and the Gulf region on February 28, 2026. At that time, all parties were urged to exercise restraint, prevent further escalation and ensure the protection of civilians. Regrettably, during the holy month of Ramadan, the situation has continued to worsen. In recent days, the conflict has intensified and expanded to additional countries, resulting in mounting casualties and widespread destruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;Economic activity and normal life across parts of the region have been severely disrupted. As a close neighbour with significant interests in regional peace and stability, India views these developments with grave concern. Nearly one crore Indian nationals reside and work in the Gulf region, and their safety and well-being remain paramount. India cannot remain unaffected by events that endanger its citizens. The region is also central to India’s trade and energy supply routes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missiles-over-the-gulf-the-war-that-changed-the-region-in-72-hours-and-who-actually-wins-this-conflict-1772535697737">Missiles over the Gulf: The war that changed the region in 72 hours and who actually wins this conflict?</a>&nbsp;Any prolonged disruption carries serious implications for the Indian economy. India strongly condemns attacks on merchant shipping, particularly as some Indian nationals have recently lost their lives or remain missing due to such incidents. In light of these circumstances, India firmly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy, and for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The loss of life thus far is deeply regrettable, and India expresses its condolences to those affected.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-confirms-iran-s-presidential-office-struck-down-1772538268401/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-confirms-iran-s-presidential-office-struck-down-1772538268401/embed</a>&nbsp;Indian Embassies and Consulates in the impacted countries remain in close contact with Indian nationals and community organisations. Regular advisories are being issued, and assistance is being extended to those stranded. Missions will continue to proactively address all consular matters arising from the crisis. India is also engaging with regional governments and key international partners. The Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister have held discussions with their counterparts. The government of India will continue to monitor the evolving situation closely and take all necessary decisions in the national interest.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

'There are almost 1 crore Indian citizens who live and work in Gulf': India voices ‘grave concern’ over expanding conflict

India had earlier conveyed its deep concern when hostilities started in Iran and the Gulf region on February 28, 2026. At that time, all parties were urged to exercise restraint, prevent further escalation and ensure the protection of civilians. Regrettably, during the holy month of Ramadan, the situation has continued to worsen. In recent days, the conflict has intensified and expanded to additional countries, resulting in mounting casualties and widespread destruction. Economic activity and normal life across parts of the region have been severely disrupted. As a close neighbour with significant interests in regional peace and stability, India views these developments with grave concern. Nearly one crore Indian nationals reside and work in the Gulf region, and their safety and well-being remain paramount. India cannot remain unaffected by events that endanger its citizens. The region is also central to India’s trade and energy supply routes. Also Read: Missiles over the Gulf: The war that changed the region in 72 hours and who actually wins this conflict? Any prolonged disruption carries serious implications for the Indian economy. India strongly condemns attacks on merchant shipping, particularly as some Indian nationals have recently lost their lives or remain missing due to such incidents. In light of these circumstances, India firmly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy, and for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The loss of life thus far is deeply regrettable, and India expresses its condolences to those affected. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-confirms-iran-s-presidential-office-struck-down-1772538268401/embed Indian Embassies and Consulates in the impacted countries remain in close contact with Indian nationals and community organisations. Regular advisories are being issued, and assistance is being extended to those stranded. Missions will continue to proactively address all consular matters arising from the crisis. India is also engaging with regional governments and key international partners. The Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister have held discussions with their counterparts. The government of India will continue to monitor the evolving situation closely and take all necessary decisions in the national interest. 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.

India urges dialogue and de-escalation in West Asia conflict, prioritising safety of one crore citizens and safeguarding trade and energy routes

Four days into open war between the United States, Israel and Iran, the fighting has already widened beyond a bilateral confrontation. Tehran’s decision to strike Arab neighbours aligned with Washington has turned the clash into a broader regional war. The United Kingdom has stepped back from its earlier reluctance and now permits US forces to operate from its bases. Events are unfolding at dizzying speed. Reports of fresh missile launches arrive by the hour. In one alarming development, US Central Command confirmed that American F-15E jets were downed in what appears to be friendly fire involving Gulf air defences. The tempo suggests that by the time any analysis is finished, new strikes will have reshaped the battlefield yet again. Predicting the war’s conclusion at this stage is impossible. Once set in motion, wars rarely unfold according to plan. Still, each of the major players has a vision of what “winning” would look like.<h2>Donald Trump’s vision: Destruction and pressure</h2>In an address delivered from his Florida residence rather than the Oval Office, President Donald Trump projected certainty. He framed Iran as a long-standing menace dating back to the 1979 revolution and outlined a sweeping objective: dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities, neutralize its naval forces and cripple the regional proxy networks aligned with Tehran.&nbsp;He further suggested that sustained military pressure could create an opening for Iranians themselves to overturn their government. By encouraging popular uprising while stopping short of committing US ground forces, Trump leaves room to claim success without direct occupation. It is a strategy that places the burden of regime change on Iranian citizens, while simultaneously amplifying expectations that Washington will not abandon them midway.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-secret-beneath-the-robe-how-the-1981-bombing-paralysed-ali-khamenei-s-right-hand-1772531763982">The secret beneath the robe: How the 1981 bombing paralysed Ali Khamenei’s right hand</a>&nbsp;History, however, offers sobering lessons. Air campaigns alone have rarely toppled entrenched governments. The 2003 invasion of Iraq required ground troops to remove Saddam Hussein. In Libya, NATO’s air power aided rebels who ultimately overthrew Muammar Gaddafi. Betting that bombing alone will fracture Tehran’s power structure is a high-risk calculation. An internal coup is conceivable but improbable in the opening days of war. More likely, Iran’s leadership may endure by absorbing punishment and rallying loyalists around nationalist and religious narratives.<h2>Benjamin Netanyahu’s objective: Strategic elimination</h2>For Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran has long represented Israel’s most dangerous adversary. He argues that Tehran’s ultimate ambition is nuclear capability aimed at threatening the Jewish state. His stated goal in this conflict is decisive: permanently degrade Iran’s military infrastructure and eliminate its ability to rebuild proxy forces across the region.Like Trump, Netanyahu has urged Iranians to challenge their rulers. But if internal revolt fails to materialize, Israel’s priority remains security, ensuring that Iran cannot rearm in ways that endanger Israeli cities. Domestic politics also loom large. Netanyahu faces elections and lingering criticism over security lapses preceding the 7 October 2023 Hamas attacks. A conclusive blow against Iran could reshape his political standing at home.<h2>Tehran’s definition of victory: Survival</h2>While the death of Iran’s supreme leader would represent a profound shock, the Islamic Republic was engineered to withstand precisely such crises. Unlike regimes built solely around a ruling family, Iran’s system distributes authority across religious, military and political institutions designed to overlap and reinforce one another. At the heart of that structure stands the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), tasked with protecting the revolution at home and abroad. It commands vast manpower and economic resources. Alongside it operates the Basij militia, known for suppressing dissent.&nbsp;For Tehran, victory does not necessarily mean defeating the US or Israel outright. It means enduring. If the system survives intact, even badly damaged, it can claim resilience as triumph. The ideological dimension is also powerful. Concepts of martyrdom and resistance are deeply embedded in the regime’s narrative. External attack may consolidate, rather than fracture, its core support.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-russia-calls-to-defuse-west-asia-tensions-1772536493536/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-russia-calls-to-defuse-west-asia-tensions-1772536493536/embed</a><h2>The shadow of history</h2>The United States and its allies believe that overwhelming military force can alter the strategic balance without triggering prolonged chaos. Yet the examples of Iraq and Libya remain cautionary tales. Removing a government does not automatically produce stability. Iran’s scale compounds the risk. With a population exceeding 90 million and diverse ethnic communities, a power vacuum could unleash instability far beyond its borders. Civil conflict or fragmentation would reverberate across the Middle East, potentially eclipsing previous crises in scale.<h2>A gamble with regional consequences</h2>US and Israeli strikes are already reshaping the regional equation by degrading Iran’s military assets. Even if the regime holds on, its capacity to project force may be diminished. Many Iranians may yearn for political change. But replacing an entrenched system through external force is fraught with uncertainty. The assumption that this war will inevitably produce a safer Middle East is far from guaranteed.&nbsp;Three days in, the conflict has already altered the region’s trajectory. Whether it ends in regime collapse, negotiated settlement or prolonged instability will depend on calculations being made in Washington, Jerusalem and Tehran, and on how much punishment each side believes it can endure.

Missiles over the Gulf: The war that changed the region in 72 hours and who actually wins this conflict?

Four days into open war between the United States, Israel and Iran, the fighting has already widened beyond a bilateral confrontation. Tehran’s decision to strike Arab neighbours aligned with Washington has turned the clash into a broader regional war. The United Kingdom has stepped back from its earlier reluctance and now permits US forces to operate from its bases. Events are unfolding at dizzying speed. Reports of fresh missile launches arrive by the hour. In one alarming development, US Central Command confirmed that American F-15E jets were downed in what appears to be friendly fire involving Gulf air defences. The tempo suggests that by the time any analysis is finished, new strikes will have reshaped the battlefield yet again. Predicting the war’s conclusion at this stage is impossible. Once set in motion, wars rarely unfold according to plan. Still, each of the major players has a vision of what “winning” would look like. Donald Trump’s vision: Destruction and pressure In an address delivered from his Florida residence rather than the Oval Office, President Donald Trump projected certainty. He framed Iran as a long-standing menace dating back to the 1979 revolution and outlined a sweeping objective: dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities, neutralize its naval forces and cripple the regional proxy networks aligned with Tehran. He further suggested that sustained military pressure could create an opening for Iranians themselves to overturn their government. By encouraging popular uprising while stopping short of committing US ground forces, Trump leaves room to claim success without direct occupation. It is a strategy that places the burden of regime change on Iranian citizens, while simultaneously amplifying expectations that Washington will not abandon them midway. Also Read: The secret beneath the robe: How the 1981 bombing paralysed Ali Khamenei’s right hand History, however, offers sobering lessons. Air campaigns alone have rarely toppled entrenched governments. The 2003 invasion of Iraq required ground troops to remove Saddam Hussein. In Libya, NATO’s air power aided rebels who ultimately overthrew Muammar Gaddafi. Betting that bombing alone will fracture Tehran’s power structure is a high-risk calculation. An internal coup is conceivable but improbable in the opening days of war. More likely, Iran’s leadership may endure by absorbing punishment and rallying loyalists around nationalist and religious narratives. Benjamin Netanyahu’s objective: Strategic elimination For Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran has long represented Israel’s most dangerous adversary. He argues that Tehran’s ultimate ambition is nuclear capability aimed at threatening the Jewish state. His stated goal in this conflict is decisive: permanently degrade Iran’s military infrastructure and eliminate its ability to rebuild proxy forces across the region. Like Trump, Netanyahu has urged Iranians to challenge their rulers. But if internal revolt fails to materialize, Israel’s priority remains security, ensuring that Iran cannot rearm in ways that endanger Israeli cities. Domestic politics also loom large. Netanyahu faces elections and lingering criticism over security lapses preceding the 7 October 2023 Hamas attacks. A conclusive blow against Iran could reshape his political standing at home. Tehran’s definition of victory: Survival While the death of Iran’s supreme leader would represent a profound shock, the Islamic Republic was engineered to withstand precisely such crises. Unlike regimes built solely around a ruling family, Iran’s system distributes authority across religious, military and political institutions designed to overlap and reinforce one another. At the heart of that structure stands the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), tasked with protecting the revolution at home and abroad. It commands vast manpower and economic resources. Alongside it operates the Basij militia, known for suppressing dissent. For Tehran, victory does not necessarily mean defeating the US or Israel outright. It means enduring. If the system survives intact, even badly damaged, it can claim resilience as triumph. The ideological dimension is also powerful. Concepts of martyrdom and resistance are deeply embedded in the regime’s narrative. External attack may consolidate, rather than fracture, its core support. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-russia-calls-to-defuse-west-asia-tensions-1772536493536/embed The shadow of history The United States and its allies believe that overwhelming military force can alter the strategic balance without triggering prolonged chaos. Yet the examples of Iraq and Libya remain cautionary tales. Removing a government does not automatically produce stability. Iran’s scale compounds the risk. With a population exceeding 90 million and diverse ethnic communities, a power vacuum could unleash instability far beyond its borders. Civil conflict or fragmentation would reverberate across the Middle East, potentially eclipsing previous crises in scale. A gamble with regional consequences US and Israeli strikes are already reshaping the regional equation by degrading Iran’s military assets. Even if the regime holds on, its capacity to project force may be diminished. Many Iranians may yearn for political change. But replacing an entrenched system through external force is fraught with uncertainty. The assumption that this war will inevitably produce a safer Middle East is far from guaranteed. Three days in, the conflict has already altered the region’s trajectory. Whether it ends in regime collapse, negotiated settlement or prolonged instability will depend on calculations being made in Washington, Jerusalem and Tehran, and on how much punishment each side believes it can endure.

On day four of the US–Israel–Iran war, leaders define victory differently, regime change, security dominance, or simple survival.

On Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, the 86-year-old Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was eliminated in a near-simultaneous strike that took just 60 seconds to execute.

On Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, the 86-year-old Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was eliminated in a near-simultaneous strike that took just 60 seconds to execute.

‘Gone in 60 seconds’: How MOSSAD and CIA executed the assassination of Ali Khamenei

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in his office on Saturday (February 28) during a coordinated military strike conducted by the United States and Israel, in what is being described as one of the most consequential escalations in the long-running hostility between Tehran and its rivals. Iran’s state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) announced his death early on Sunday (March 1), declaring that the Supreme Leader had “reached martyrdom.” Khamenei, who held Iran’s highest authority for over three decades, had previously survived a dramatic assassination attempt years before assuming the role of Supreme Leader. The attack left him with lifelong physical damage that became closely associated with his public persona.&nbsp;On June 27, 1981, while serving as president during the Iran-Iraq War, Khamenei visited a mosque shortly after returning from the war front. After leading prayers and interacting with attendees, a man approached and placed a tape recorder on the desk in front of him. Witnesses described the individual as a young man with curly hair, a beard and a chequered coat. Roughly a minute after being set down, the device emitted a sharp whistling sound before detonating.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-entered-war-on-behalf-of-israel-iran-slams-rubio-s-justification-of-pre-emptive-attack-1772524933052">'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack'</a>&nbsp;Authorities later discovered a note hidden inside the recorder saying: “A gift of Furqan Group to the Islamic Republic.” The Furqan Group was known at the time for its opposition to Iran’s clerical establishment. The explosion left Khamenei severely wounded, causing extensive injuries to his right arm, vocal cords and lungs. Though he survived after months of medical care, his right arm was permanently paralysed.&nbsp;Undeterred, he pressed on with his political career. Reflecting his resilience, he once remarked that he did not require his hand as long as his mind and voice remained intact. He adapted by learning to write with his left hand and steadily consolidated influence within Iran’s political and religious hierarchy. In 1989, he rose to the position of Supreme Leader and went on to dominate Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for 35 years, becoming one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the country’s modern history.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed</a>&nbsp;Despite his authority, much about his private life remained shielded from public view. He is survived by his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, and their six children. While reports suggest some extended family members reside abroad, his immediate household has largely stayed in Iran. According to Axios, the 86-year-old cleric ranked among the world’s longest-serving rulers. His death is likely to trigger uncertainty within Iran’s leadership structure and intensify pressure on the ruling establishment as tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv persist.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The secret beneath the robe: How the 1981 bombing paralysed Ali Khamenei’s right hand

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in his office on Saturday (February 28) during a coordinated military strike conducted by the United States and Israel, in what is being described as one of the most consequential escalations in the long-running hostility between Tehran and its rivals. Iran’s state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) announced his death early on Sunday (March 1), declaring that the Supreme Leader had “reached martyrdom.” Khamenei, who held Iran’s highest authority for over three decades, had previously survived a dramatic assassination attempt years before assuming the role of Supreme Leader. The attack left him with lifelong physical damage that became closely associated with his public persona. On June 27, 1981, while serving as president during the Iran-Iraq War, Khamenei visited a mosque shortly after returning from the war front. After leading prayers and interacting with attendees, a man approached and placed a tape recorder on the desk in front of him. Witnesses described the individual as a young man with curly hair, a beard and a chequered coat. Roughly a minute after being set down, the device emitted a sharp whistling sound before detonating. Also Read: 'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack' Authorities later discovered a note hidden inside the recorder saying: “A gift of Furqan Group to the Islamic Republic.” The Furqan Group was known at the time for its opposition to Iran’s clerical establishment. The explosion left Khamenei severely wounded, causing extensive injuries to his right arm, vocal cords and lungs. Though he survived after months of medical care, his right arm was permanently paralysed. Undeterred, he pressed on with his political career. Reflecting his resilience, he once remarked that he did not require his hand as long as his mind and voice remained intact. He adapted by learning to write with his left hand and steadily consolidated influence within Iran’s political and religious hierarchy. In 1989, he rose to the position of Supreme Leader and went on to dominate Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for 35 years, becoming one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the country’s modern history. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed Despite his authority, much about his private life remained shielded from public view. He is survived by his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, and their six children. While reports suggest some extended family members reside abroad, his immediate household has largely stayed in Iran. According to Axios, the 86-year-old cleric ranked among the world’s longest-serving rulers. His death is likely to trigger uncertainty within Iran’s leadership structure and intensify pressure on the ruling establishment as tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv persist. 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.

Long before leading Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei survived a 1981 bomb attack that left his right arm permanently paralysed

As the anthem of the Islamic Republic echoed through the Cbus Super Stadium on Australia's Gold Coast, the eleven players of Team Melli Banovan stood in a somber line. In a move that immediately went viral, not a single player, nor their head coach, Marziyeh Jafari, opened their mouth to sing.



As the anthem of the Islamic Republic echoed through the Cbus Super Stadium on Australia's Gold Coast, the eleven players of Team Melli Banovan stood in a somber line. In a move that immediately went viral, not a single player, nor their head coach, Marziyeh Jafari, opened their mouth to sing.&nbsp;

'When silence speaks': Iran's women’s football team refuses to sing national anthem at Asian Cup opening match

FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem said "safety and wellbeing" will guide decision-making with Formula One's calendar plunged into uncertainty by the war in the Middle East. This weekend's season-opening Australian Grand Prix has been hit by travel chaos but is not under threat. After Melbourne, Formula One heads to China then Japan, which are not expected to be affected.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-us-israel-war-forces-stranded-pv-sindhu-out-of-all-england-open-2026-first-reserve-k-srikanth-could-earn-main-draw-entry-1772467561674">Stranded in Dubai: Israel-Iran war forces PV Sindhu out of All England Open</a>However, concerns are mounting over whether next month's Bahrain race from April 10-12 and Saudi Arabia a week later will be able to go ahead.US President Donald Trump on Monday said the assault on Iran could go "far longer" than his initial estimates of about a month.In response, Iran and its allies have launched retaliatory strikes on Israel as well as US military bases and other areas in a host of Mideast nations, including Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.Ben Sulayem, president of global motorsport governing body, the International Automobile Federation (FIA), said he was closely monitoring the situation."At this moment of uncertainty, we hope for calm and a swift return to stability. Dialogue and the protection of civilians must remain priorities," he said in his first statement on the matter late Monday."We are in close contact with our member clubs, championship promoters, teams, and colleagues on the ground as we monitor developments carefully and responsibly."Safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions as we assess the forthcoming events scheduled for the World Endurance Championship and the Formula 1 World Championship."The Endurance Championship is a leading sportscar event due to open its season in Qatar at the end of March.While freight, including the cars, is safely in Melbourne for the Grand Prix this weekend, the closure of airspace and airports in the Middle East has caused chaos to travel plans for team personnel.Dubai and Doha are major flight hubs on the path to Melbourne and around 1,000 race staff have had to scramble and change flights.Australian Formula One chief Travis Auld on Monday said he was confident "everyone will be here ready for the race"."We're in a space where we're really confident there will be no impact," he added.McLaren world champion Lando Norris will kickstart his title defence in Melbourne, which will be the first race for new team Cadillac -- with experienced pair Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez in the cockpit.

Concerns are mounting over whether next month's Bahrain race from April 10-12 and Saudi Arabia a week later will be able to go ahead. US President Donald Trump on Monday said the assault on Iran could go "far longer" than his initial estimates of about a month.

FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem said "safety and wellbeing" will guide decision-making with Formula One's calendar plunged into uncertainty by the war in the Middle East. This weekend's season-opening Australian Grand Prix has been hit by travel chaos but is not under threat. After Melbourne, Formula One heads to China then Japan, which are not expected to be affected. Also Read - Stranded in Dubai: Israel-Iran war forces PV Sindhu out of All England Open However, concerns are mounting over whether next month's Bahrain race from April 10-12 and Saudi Arabia a week later will be able to go ahead. US President Donald Trump on Monday said the assault on Iran could go "far longer" than his initial estimates of about a month. In response, Iran and its allies have launched retaliatory strikes on Israel as well as US military bases and other areas in a host of Mideast nations, including Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Ben Sulayem, president of global motorsport governing body, the International Automobile Federation (FIA), said he was closely monitoring the situation. "At this moment of uncertainty, we hope for calm and a swift return to stability. Dialogue and the protection of civilians must remain priorities," he said in his first statement on the matter late Monday. "We are in close contact with our member clubs, championship promoters, teams, and colleagues on the ground as we monitor developments carefully and responsibly. "Safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions as we assess the forthcoming events scheduled for the World Endurance Championship and the Formula 1 World Championship." The Endurance Championship is a leading sportscar event due to open its season in Qatar at the end of March. While freight, including the cars, is safely in Melbourne for the Grand Prix this weekend, the closure of airspace and airports in the Middle East has caused chaos to travel plans for team personnel. Dubai and Doha are major flight hubs on the path to Melbourne and around 1,000 race staff have had to scramble and change flights. Australian Formula One chief Travis Auld on Monday said he was confident "everyone will be here ready for the race". "We're in a space where we're really confident there will be no impact," he added. McLaren world champion Lando Norris will kickstart his title defence in Melbourne, which will be the first race for new team Cadillac -- with experienced pair Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez in the cockpit.

Concerns are mounting over whether next month's Bahrain race from April 10-12 and Saudi Arabia a week later will be able to go ahead. US President Donald Trump on Monday said the assault on Iran could go "far longer" than his initial estimates of about a month.

F1 2026: FIA chief asserts 'safety and wellbeing' to determine Middle East races

The CIA uncovered intelligence about a secret meeting involving Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that was to be held on Saturday (February 28), which led to Donald Trump launching "Operation Epic Fury." The New York Times reported that the agency and Israeli intelligence officials had been watching his movement for months, and learned that a group of senior Iranian officials were scheduled to meet the ayatollah at his palace on Saturday morning. This led to the US and Israel moving the attack up, catching the Islamic regime by surprise. The strike killed 86-year-old Ayatollah Khaemenei. The prior intelligence on his location is what primarily led the US and Israel to eliminate Khamenei, who ruled for almost four decades. His death has triggered a wider conflict with Tehran retaliating and hitting US bases in other Middle East countries. Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have been hit by Iranian missiles and drones.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-millions-of-iranians-are-calling-my-name-prince-in-exile-reza-pahlavi-ready-to-be-transitional-leader-1772430210028">'Millions of Iranians are calling my name': Prince in exile Reza Pahlavi ready to be transitional leader</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/act-immediately-against-illegal-acts-of-force-iran-s-foreign-minister-appeals-in-letter-to-un-1772431124227">Act immediately against 'illegal acts of force', Iran's foreign minister appeals in letter to UN</a><h2>US and Israel accelerated plans to attack Iran</h2>According to reports, the US and Israeli governments had planned on launching the attack during the night. However, knowing that Khamenei and several other senior officials would gather at the palace in the morning, fighter jets armed with long-range missiles and precision munitions took off from military bases in Israel at 6 am. Missiles blasted into the palace a few hours later. At the time, the Iranian officials were in another part of the building. The US and Israel closely coordinated to hit Iran at the right time. The attack also took out &nbsp;Rear Adm. Ali Shamkhani, the commander of the IRGC Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, two high-ranking military officers. Khamenei's daughter, granddaughter, daughter-in-law and son-in-law were also killed in the strikes.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-at-least-10-dead-in-israeli-strikes-on-beirut-amid-escalating-tensions-1772428494765/embed&nbsp;Tehran carried out retaliatory strikes, triggering chaos in the Middle East. Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed that they had struck USS Abraham Lincoln, a US aircraft carrier that had been stationed in the Arabian Sea. Pentagon denied that the warship was hit or endured any damage, although it said that missiles were fired, but none came close. Iran has been targeting the UAE, Qatar, Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Hezbollah launched missiles towards Israel on Sunday, after which the Israeli Defence Forces struck Beirut in Lebanon to dismantle the terror group's infrastructure. &nbsp;

Donald Trump and Netanyahu decided to accelerate the timeline of the attack on Iran following CIA intelligence on Khamenei. While the operation was initially supposed to happen in the dead of night, jets took off early Saturday morning. 

The CIA uncovered intelligence about a secret meeting involving Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that was to be held on Saturday (February 28), which led to Donald Trump launching "Operation Epic Fury." The New York Times reported that the agency and Israeli intelligence officials had been watching his movement for months, and learned that a group of senior Iranian officials were scheduled to meet the ayatollah at his palace on Saturday morning. This led to the US and Israel moving the attack up, catching the Islamic regime by surprise. The strike killed 86-year-old Ayatollah Khaemenei. The prior intelligence on his location is what primarily led the US and Israel to eliminate Khamenei, who ruled for almost four decades. His death has triggered a wider conflict with Tehran retaliating and hitting US bases in other Middle East countries. Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have been hit by Iranian missiles and drones. Also Read: 'Millions of Iranians are calling my name': Prince in exile Reza Pahlavi ready to be transitional leader Also Read: Act immediately against 'illegal acts of force', Iran's foreign minister appeals in letter to UN US and Israel accelerated plans to attack Iran According to reports, the US and Israeli governments had planned on launching the attack during the night. However, knowing that Khamenei and several other senior officials would gather at the palace in the morning, fighter jets armed with long-range missiles and precision munitions took off from military bases in Israel at 6 am. Missiles blasted into the palace a few hours later. At the time, the Iranian officials were in another part of the building. The US and Israel closely coordinated to hit Iran at the right time. The attack also took out Rear Adm. Ali Shamkhani, the commander of the IRGC Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, two high-ranking military officers. Khamenei's daughter, granddaughter, daughter-in-law and son-in-law were also killed in the strikes. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-at-least-10-dead-in-israeli-strikes-on-beirut-amid-escalating-tensions-1772428494765/embed Tehran carried out retaliatory strikes, triggering chaos in the Middle East. Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed that they had struck USS Abraham Lincoln, a US aircraft carrier that had been stationed in the Arabian Sea. Pentagon denied that the warship was hit or endured any damage, although it said that missiles were fired, but none came close. Iran has been targeting the UAE, Qatar, Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Hezbollah launched missiles towards Israel on Sunday, after which the Israeli Defence Forces struck Beirut in Lebanon to dismantle the terror group's infrastructure.

Donald Trump and Netanyahu decided to accelerate the timeline of the attack on Iran following CIA intelligence on Khamenei. While the operation was initially supposed to happen in the dead of night, jets took off early Saturday morning.&nbsp;

US prepared for a night attack, but struck Iran in the morning. Here is what led to change of plans

Formula 1 is the latest event to be hit amid ongoing conflict between US-Israel and Iran. The development comes as fligth operations are hit across the world because of the escalating tensions in the Middel East. It all started with US-Israel launching joint strikes against Iran on Saturday (Mar 1) and killing the Shia-muslim majority country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Since then, Iran has launched strikes against US allies in the region including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Baharin - the venue of pre season testing. The Formula 1 season starts Sunday (Mar 8) in Melbourne, Australia and nearly a 1,000 pesonnel from 10 teams have been forced to make last-minute changes to thier flight plan in order to reach for the opening weekend which starts Friday (Feb 6) with testing.<h2>Formula 1 opening weekend hit by US-Israel-Iran conflict</h2>The Formula 1 cars have made it to Australia for the oepning weekend after being put on for transportation last month following the pre-season testing in Baharin - one of the countries inlvolved in the conflict. It is, however, the personnel, who found themselves stuck while trying to get to Melbourne.“You’re talking about teams, drivers, Formula One personnel, I’m guessing there’d be close to a thousand people that would have already booked their flights and would be landing somewhere between today, tomorrow, Wednesday – they had to all be changed," Travis Auld, chief executive of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, told Channel Nine on Monday (Mar 2).“But a lot of people around the world are doing the same thing and so you’re competing obviously with that increase in demand, but they’ve been able to sort it out.”<h2>Formula 1 in Middle East</h2>The Middle Eastern countries have long been a venue for the Formula 1 races. In the upcoming season, which starts Sunday (Mar 8), there are as many as five races scheduled in the region. The first F1 race in the Middle Eastern region is Baharin GP on April 12, followed by Saudi Arabia GP on April 19 - both the countries are currently involved in the conflict.The remaining three races are towards the end of the season - Azerbaijan GP on September 26, Qatar GP on November 29, and Abu Dhabi GP on December 6

The Formula 1 season starts Sunday (Mar 8) in Melbourne, Australia and nearly a 1,000 pesonnel from 10 teams have been forced to make last-minute changes to thier flight plan in order to reach for the opening weekend which starts Friday (Feb 6) with testing.

Formula 1 is the latest event to be hit amid ongoing conflict between US-Israel and Iran. The development comes as fligth operations are hit across the world because of the escalating tensions in the Middel East. It all started with US-Israel launching joint strikes against Iran on Saturday (Mar 1) and killing the Shia-muslim majority country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Since then, Iran has launched strikes against US allies in the region including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Baharin - the venue of pre season testing. The Formula 1 season starts Sunday (Mar 8) in Melbourne, Australia and nearly a 1,000 pesonnel from 10 teams have been forced to make last-minute changes to thier flight plan in order to reach for the opening weekend which starts Friday (Feb 6) with testing. Formula 1 opening weekend hit by US-Israel-Iran conflict The Formula 1 cars have made it to Australia for the oepning weekend after being put on for transportation last month following the pre-season testing in Baharin - one of the countries inlvolved in the conflict. It is, however, the personnel, who found themselves stuck while trying to get to Melbourne. “You’re talking about teams, drivers, Formula One personnel, I’m guessing there’d be close to a thousand people that would have already booked their flights and would be landing somewhere between today, tomorrow, Wednesday – they had to all be changed," Travis Auld, chief executive of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, told Channel Nine on Monday (Mar 2). “But a lot of people around the world are doing the same thing and so you’re competing obviously with that increase in demand, but they’ve been able to sort it out.” Formula 1 in Middle East The Middle Eastern countries have long been a venue for the Formula 1 races. In the upcoming season, which starts Sunday (Mar 8), there are as many as five races scheduled in the region. The first F1 race in the Middle Eastern region is Baharin GP on April 12, followed by Saudi Arabia GP on April 19 - both the countries are currently involved in the conflict. The remaining three races are towards the end of the season - Azerbaijan GP on September 26, Qatar GP on November 29, and Abu Dhabi GP on December 6

The Formula 1 season starts Sunday (Mar 8) in Melbourne, Australia and nearly a 1,000 pesonnel from 10 teams have been forced to make last-minute changes to thier flight plan in order to reach for the opening weekend which starts Friday (Feb 6) with testing.

US-Israel attack Iran | Formula 1 2026 opening weekend preparations in Australia hit amid Middle East conflict

Iran-US war: Military officials in the United States have been warned of active threats against them, as conflict with Iran continues. Three mobile applications have also been flagged as compromised, and that could pose a security risk.

Iran-US war: Military officials in the United States have been warned of active threats against them, as conflict with Iran continues. Three mobile applications have also been flagged as compromised, and that could pose a security risk.

'Turn off your...': Pentagon warns of 'credible' threats inside US, flags 3 apps as 'compromised' amid Iran conflict

Amid ongoing conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel, Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, in a statement on Monday (Mar 2) has said that his country won't negotiate with America. His response comes over a report by Wall Street Journal claiming that Larijani's initiatives to resume talks has been sent to Washington through intermediaries from Oman. However, Larijani dismissed the claims, while slamming US President Donald Trump. He said that US president has pushed the region into chaos with his "delusional fantasies." He claimed that Trump transformed his "America First" slogan into "Israel First" and sacrificed American soldiers for “Israel's power-hungry ambitions.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260302/image-1772426542716.png"></figure>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-declares-4-weeks-of-iran-war-warns-there-could-be-more-casualties-1772421248798/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-declares-4-weeks-of-iran-war-warns-there-could-be-more-casualties-1772421248798/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The statement by Ali Larijani is important at the current juncture as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an interview with Al Jazeera said that Iran “has always been open to diplomacy.” "This is the second time that we negotiated with Americans, and they decided to attack us right in the middle of the negotiation," Araqchi said while criticising the timing of the strikes. Moreover, US President Trump also hinted at resumption of talks by saying he was prepared for negotiations. However, he also said that operation would continue.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-will-be-talking-to-them-trump-says-iran-s-new-leaders-want-to-talk-after-killing-of-khamenei-1772386394614">'I will be talking to them': Trump says Iran's new leaders want to talk after killing of Khamenei</a><h2>What we know about Israel-US war with Iran?</h2>The United States and Israel bombed Iran on Feb 28, in an operation that was named Operation Lion's Roar by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the US. The Western powers described the attack as “preemptive”. The attack came in midst of nuclear talks between Iran and the US. The attack also came eight months after Israel launched a 12-day war against Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-iranian-military-to-side-with-trump-after-immunity-offer-what-we-know-iran-israel-us-tensions-1772346382075">IRGC, Iranian military to side with Trump after 'immunity' offer? What we know</a>&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran launched missiles towards Israel and then attacked several US bases in Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain. On March 1, it was confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attack by US and Israel. Iran retaliated with more force as several top leaders were killed in subsequent attacks. Iran said that US bases in neighbourhood are being seen as “American territory”, while Gulf nations warned Tehran against the attacks. As regional stability and peace vanished in thin air, Israel and the US said that attacks will continue for weeks.&nbsp;The bombings are still continuing, with Iran's Axis of Resistance also having joined the fight. International community is reacting sharply with Russia, China and North Korea calling out America for its pre-emtive attack. US allies in Europe has extended help to America. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf including Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and urged peace. The UN has appealed for immediate ceasefire.

Amid the escalating Iran-US-Israel war, Ali Larijani rejected reports of renewed talks with Washington, criticising Trump’s policies. While Iran’s FM signalled openness to diplomacy, fighting continues after US-Israel strikes killed Khamenei

Amid ongoing conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel, Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, in a statement on Monday (Mar 2) has said that his country won't negotiate with America. His response comes over a report by Wall Street Journal claiming that Larijani's initiatives to resume talks has been sent to Washington through intermediaries from Oman. However, Larijani dismissed the claims, while slamming US President Donald Trump. He said that US president has pushed the region into chaos with his "delusional fantasies." He claimed that Trump transformed his "America First" slogan into "Israel First" and sacrificed American soldiers for “Israel's power-hungry ambitions.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-declares-4-weeks-of-iran-war-warns-there-could-be-more-casualties-1772421248798/embed The statement by Ali Larijani is important at the current juncture as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an interview with Al Jazeera said that Iran “has always been open to diplomacy.” "This is the second time that we negotiated with Americans, and they decided to attack us right in the middle of the negotiation," Araqchi said while criticising the timing of the strikes. Moreover, US President Trump also hinted at resumption of talks by saying he was prepared for negotiations. However, he also said that operation would continue. Also Read: 'I will be talking to them': Trump says Iran's new leaders want to talk after killing of Khamenei What we know about Israel-US war with Iran? The United States and Israel bombed Iran on Feb 28, in an operation that was named Operation Lion's Roar by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the US. The Western powers described the attack as “preemptive”. The attack came in midst of nuclear talks between Iran and the US. The attack also came eight months after Israel launched a 12-day war against Iran. Also Read: IRGC, Iranian military to side with Trump after 'immunity' offer? What we know In retaliation, Iran launched missiles towards Israel and then attacked several US bases in Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain. On March 1, it was confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attack by US and Israel. Iran retaliated with more force as several top leaders were killed in subsequent attacks. Iran said that US bases in neighbourhood are being seen as “American territory”, while Gulf nations warned Tehran against the attacks. As regional stability and peace vanished in thin air, Israel and the US said that attacks will continue for weeks. The bombings are still continuing, with Iran's Axis of Resistance also having joined the fight. International community is reacting sharply with Russia, China and North Korea calling out America for its pre-emtive attack. US allies in Europe has extended help to America. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf including Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and urged peace. The UN has appealed for immediate ceasefire.

Amid the escalating Iran-US-Israel war, Ali Larijani rejected reports of renewed talks with Washington, criticising Trump’s policies. While Iran’s FM signalled openness to diplomacy, fighting continues after US-Israel strikes killed Khamenei

Khamenei's top aide Larijani rules out negotiations with US after Trump says 'I have agreed to talk' — What's next for Iran

The US and Israel attacked Iran on Saturday (Feb 28), killing the Middle Eastern country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. The attack has put Iran's particiaption in upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in doubt. The tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran has qualified for the quadrennial tournament through Asian qualifiers but amid the current situation, it is not confirmed if the Shia-muslim majority country will take part in the tournament. Iran's matches in the FIFA World Cup are against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, then Egypt in Seattle - both the venues being in the USA. The two countries last played in the FIFA World Cup in 2022 in Qatar.<h2>Will Iran play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>The coutnry, ever since the attack by the USA and Israel, has been facing constant strikes. Iran has also retaliated by launching missiles at various US bases across middle east &nbsp;- in UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, etc. The ongoing conflict has given the flame to already tense relations between Iran and the US - putting their World Cup participation in doubt.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-postpones-first-leg-knockout-matches-after-us-israel-strikes-1772355152125">AFC postpones first-leg knockout matches after US, Israel strikes</a>"With what happened... and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the World Cup, but the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that," said Mehdi Taj, head of Iran's football federation, to Iranian media as reported by the BBC.With Supreme Leader Khamenei dead, there's no clarity over Iran's political system will work to ensure the FIFA World Cup participation, that is, if the country decides to send the team to the USA - which looks highly unlikely as of now.<h2>What happens if Iran does not participate in FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>In case Iran decides not to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Iraq, which failed to qualify for the tournament, might get a bump for a place in the tournament. With the whole picture being blurred amid the smoke rising because of bomb explosions in various countries including Iran, there's nothing to do but wait and watch for the developments on Iran's participation.

With Supreme Leader Khamenei dead, there's no clarity over Iran's political system will work to ensure the FIFA World Cup 2026 participation, that is, if the country decides to send the team to the USA - which looks highly unlikely as of now.

The US and Israel attacked Iran on Saturday (Feb 28), killing the Middle Eastern country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. The attack has put Iran's particiaption in upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in doubt. The tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran has qualified for the quadrennial tournament through Asian qualifiers but amid the current situation, it is not confirmed if the Shia-muslim majority country will take part in the tournament. Iran's matches in the FIFA World Cup are against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, then Egypt in Seattle - both the venues being in the USA. The two countries last played in the FIFA World Cup in 2022 in Qatar. Will Iran play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026? The coutnry, ever since the attack by the USA and Israel, has been facing constant strikes. Iran has also retaliated by launching missiles at various US bases across middle east - in UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, etc. The ongoing conflict has given the flame to already tense relations between Iran and the US - putting their World Cup participation in doubt. Also Read - AFC postpones first-leg knockout matches after US, Israel strikes "With what happened... and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the World Cup, but the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that," said Mehdi Taj, head of Iran's football federation, to Iranian media as reported by the BBC. With Supreme Leader Khamenei dead, there's no clarity over Iran's political system will work to ensure the FIFA World Cup participation, that is, if the country decides to send the team to the USA - which looks highly unlikely as of now. What happens if Iran does not participate in FIFA World Cup 2026? In case Iran decides not to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Iraq, which failed to qualify for the tournament, might get a bump for a place in the tournament. With the whole picture being blurred amid the smoke rising because of bomb explosions in various countries including Iran, there's nothing to do but wait and watch for the developments on Iran's participation.

Iran's matches in the FIFA World Cup are against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, then Egypt in Seattle - both the venues being in the USA. The two countries (Iran and USA) last played in the FIFA World Cup in 2022 in Qatar.

FIFA World Cup 2026 | 'Unlikely to look forward:' Iran's participation in doubt after US-Israel attacks

Amid escalated tensions with Iran, Israel said its military launched strikes targeting senior figures of Hezbollah in Beirut on Monday (March 2). The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) added that it also hit another “central” person from the Lebanese armed group in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;Moreover, the Israeli military called for evacuation in dozens of southern Lebanese villages, including the town of Bint Jbeil. The residents have been directed to stay at least 1 km away from the buildings. Footage shared on social media showed heavy traffic on the roads of Beirut and residents fleeing the region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-what-happened-at-raf-akrotiri-base-in-cyprus-uk-issues-security-alert-amid-us-iran-war-1772411029975">WATCH: What happened at RAF Akrotiri Base in Cyprus? UK issues ‘security alert’ amid US-Iran war</a>&nbsp;“A large-scale displacement from Beirut’s southern suburbs (Dahiyeh) and the south of Lebanon is underway following a series of Israeli airstrikes,” Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported.&nbsp;The Israeli military took to the X and wrote, "IDF struck a short time ago in a targeted manner, senior terrorists from the Hezbollah terror organisation in the Beirut area. In parallel, the IDF struck a central terrorist from the Hezbollah terror organisation in southern Lebanon."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-large-scale-strikes-on-iran-after-5-people-injured-in-jerusalem-details-inside-1772411906735">Israel launches 'large-scale strikes' on Iran after 5 people injured in Jerusalem. Details inside</a>&nbsp;This came after Hezbollah claimed the responsibility for firing rockets at northern Israel - first time since the November 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. The Iranian proxy group said that the attack was “revenge for the blood of the Supreme Leader of the Muslims, Ali Khamenei." “The Israeli enemy cannot continue its aggression, ongoing for fifteen months, without receiving a warning response aimed at halting this aggression and withdrawing from occupied Lebanese territory,” Hezbollah said.The terror group claimed that it targeted a missile defence site south of Haifa. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that it intercepted one rocket that was fired at northern Israel from Lebanon.&nbsp;

Israel carried out airstrikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon after Hezbollah fired rockets at northern Israel, calling it revenge for Khamenei. The IDF targeted senior Hezbollah figures, prompting evacuations and raising fears of renewed regional escalation.

Amid escalated tensions with Iran, Israel said its military launched strikes targeting senior figures of Hezbollah in Beirut on Monday (March 2). The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) added that it also hit another “central” person from the Lebanese armed group in southern Lebanon. Moreover, the Israeli military called for evacuation in dozens of southern Lebanese villages, including the town of Bint Jbeil. The residents have been directed to stay at least 1 km away from the buildings. Footage shared on social media showed heavy traffic on the roads of Beirut and residents fleeing the region. Also read: WATCH: What happened at RAF Akrotiri Base in Cyprus? UK issues ‘security alert’ amid US-Iran war “A large-scale displacement from Beirut’s southern suburbs (Dahiyeh) and the south of Lebanon is underway following a series of Israeli airstrikes,” Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported. The Israeli military took to the X and wrote, "IDF struck a short time ago in a targeted manner, senior terrorists from the Hezbollah terror organisation in the Beirut area. In parallel, the IDF struck a central terrorist from the Hezbollah terror organisation in southern Lebanon." Also read: Israel launches 'large-scale strikes' on Iran after 5 people injured in Jerusalem. Details inside This came after Hezbollah claimed the responsibility for firing rockets at northern Israel - first time since the November 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. The Iranian proxy group said that the attack was “revenge for the blood of the Supreme Leader of the Muslims, Ali Khamenei." “The Israeli enemy cannot continue its aggression, ongoing for fifteen months, without receiving a warning response aimed at halting this aggression and withdrawing from occupied Lebanese territory,” Hezbollah said. The terror group claimed that it targeted a missile defence site south of Haifa. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that it intercepted one rocket that was fired at northern Israel from Lebanon.

Israel carried out airstrikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon after Hezbollah fired rockets at northern Israel, calling it revenge for Khamenei. The IDF targeted senior Hezbollah figures, prompting evacuations and raising fears of renewed regional escalation.

Israel strikes Beirut after Hezbollah rocket attack in Haifa as ‘revenge for Khamenei’