Iranian military on Sunday (Apr 5) said that the US military used an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan province during the operation to rescue the stranded crew member of the F-15E that was shot down in its territory. In a statement, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesman for the military's central command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, claimed that the US rescue operation was “completely foiled”. Iran has also released images claiming to be the wreckage of several US aircraft that were downed during the rescue mission. This comes after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.”“The so-called US military rescue operation, planned as a deception and escape mission at an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan under the pretext of recovering the pilot of a downed aircraft, was completely foiled,” Zolfaghari said.<h2>Iran claims several US aircraft shot down</h2>He added that “two C-130 military transport planes and two Black Hawk helicopters were destroyed” during the operation.Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by Tasnim news ​agency that several aircraft were destroyed during the US mission to locate the stranded pilot. Earlier, Iran’s police command announced that an American C-130 plane had been downed in the south of Isfahan.The F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday (Apr 3), the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”.<h2>How was US pilot rescued from Iran?</h2>According to a New York Times report, hundreds of special forces troops and dozens of US warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities were employed to save the crew member. The US forces had a firefight with Iranian convoys. The report added that two transport planes that would carry the commandos and the airmen to safety got stuck at a remote base in Iran, following which they decided to fly three new planes to extract all the US military personnel and the airmen. They blew up the two disabled planes to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands.Trump said that while the pilot had sustained injuries, there were no US casualties in the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that overnight strikes in the Kouh-e Siah area in southwestern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province during the US rescue mission killed five people.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.

Iran said that the US used an abandoned airport in Isfahan in the operation to rescue an F-15E pilot, while claiming that it had foiled the American operation and downed multiple aircraft. This comes after US President Donald Trump said that the airman was rescued safely.

Iranian military on Sunday (Apr 5) said that the US military used an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan province during the operation to rescue the stranded crew member of the F-15E that was shot down in its territory. In a statement, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesman for the military's central command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, claimed that the US rescue operation was “completely foiled”. Iran has also released images claiming to be the wreckage of several US aircraft that were downed during the rescue mission. This comes after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.” “The so-called US military rescue operation, planned as a deception and escape mission at an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan under the pretext of recovering the pilot of a downed aircraft, was completely foiled,” Zolfaghari said. Iran claims several US aircraft shot down He added that “two C-130 military transport planes and two Black Hawk helicopters were destroyed” during the operation. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by Tasnim news agency that several aircraft were destroyed during the US mission to locate the stranded pilot. Earlier, Iran’s police command announced that an American C-130 plane had been downed in the south of Isfahan. The F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday (Apr 3), the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”. How was US pilot rescued from Iran? According to a New York Times report, hundreds of special forces troops and dozens of US warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities were employed to save the crew member. The US forces had a firefight with Iranian convoys. The report added that two transport planes that would carry the commandos and the airmen to safety got stuck at a remote base in Iran, following which they decided to fly three new planes to extract all the US military personnel and the airmen. They blew up the two disabled planes to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands. Trump said that while the pilot had sustained injuries, there were no US casualties in the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that overnight strikes in the Kouh-e Siah area in southwestern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province during the US rescue mission killed five people. 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.

Iran said that the US used an abandoned airport in Isfahan in the operation to rescue an F-15E pilot, while claiming that it had foiled the American operation and downed multiple aircraft. This comes after US President Donald Trump said that the airman was rescued safely.

‘US op was completely foiled’: Iran’s military says Americans used abandoned airport in Isfahan to rescue F-15E pilot

Satellite imaging company Planet Labs has announced it will indefinitely withhold imagery of Iran and the wider conflict zone in West Asia, after a request from the US government, according to a report by Reuters. The California-based firm said in an email to customers on Saturday (April 4) that Washington had requested that all satellite imagery providers restrict visuals of the ongoing conflict region indefinitely.&nbsp;The move marks a significant escalation from a previous 14-day delay imposed last month on the release of such images.&nbsp;Planet Labs said the restrictions are intended to prevent adversaries from using high-resolution satellite imagery to identify and target facilities linked to the US and its allies. The company added that the policy is expected to remain in place until the conflict comes to an end. However, the firm noted that exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, particularly for urgent, mission-critical needs or where there is a clear public interest.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-is-larger-than-iraq-syria-afghanistan-combined-charlie-kirk-s-post-before-his-assassination-resurfaces-amid-tehran-war-1775376617784">‘Iran is larger than Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan combined’: Charlie Kirk’s post before his assassination resurfaces amid Tehran war</a>&nbsp;“These are extraordinary circumstances, and we are doing all we can to balance the needs of all our stakeholders,” the company said, as quoted by Reuters. Planet Labs operates one of the world’s largest fleets of Earth-imaging satellites, supplying frequently updated visuals to governments, media organisations and private clients.&nbsp;The ongoing conflict in West Asia began on February 28 after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Since then, the war has resulted in thousands of casualties and has contributed to a deepening global energy crisis, underscoring the strategic sensitivity of real-time satellite intelligence in modern warfare.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-not-our-war-we-aren-t-going-to-be-dragged-into-it-starmer-on-us-vs-nato-amid-iran-war-1775036357616">'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war</a> &nbsp;

At the request of the US government, satellite firm Planet Labs will indefinitely restrict high-resolution imagery of Iran and West Asian conflict zones to prevent adversaries from targeting allied facilities.

Satellite imaging company Planet Labs has announced it will indefinitely withhold imagery of Iran and the wider conflict zone in West Asia, after a request from the US government, according to a report by Reuters. The California-based firm said in an email to customers on Saturday (April 4) that Washington had requested that all satellite imagery providers restrict visuals of the ongoing conflict region indefinitely. The move marks a significant escalation from a previous 14-day delay imposed last month on the release of such images. Planet Labs said the restrictions are intended to prevent adversaries from using high-resolution satellite imagery to identify and target facilities linked to the US and its allies. The company added that the policy is expected to remain in place until the conflict comes to an end. However, the firm noted that exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, particularly for urgent, mission-critical needs or where there is a clear public interest. Also read: ‘Iran is larger than Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan combined’: Charlie Kirk’s post before his assassination resurfaces amid Tehran war “These are extraordinary circumstances, and we are doing all we can to balance the needs of all our stakeholders,” the company said, as quoted by Reuters. Planet Labs operates one of the world’s largest fleets of Earth-imaging satellites, supplying frequently updated visuals to governments, media organisations and private clients. The ongoing conflict in West Asia began on February 28 after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Since then, the war has resulted in thousands of casualties and has contributed to a deepening global energy crisis, underscoring the strategic sensitivity of real-time satellite intelligence in modern warfare. Also read: 'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war

At the request of the US government, satellite firm Planet Labs will indefinitely restrict high-resolution imagery of Iran and West Asian conflict zones to prevent adversaries from targeting allied facilities.

‘Extraordinary circumstances’: Planet Labs halts Iran conflict imagery indefinitely after US request

Iranian state media on Sunday (Apr 5) released the first footage of what it claimed to be the wreckage of several US aircraft downed during the American military operation to rescue the stranded crew member of the F-15E that was shot down in Iran. This comes after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.” The F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday (Apr 3), the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”.Following the rescue operation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by Tasnim news ​agency that several aircraft were destroyed during the US mission to locate the stranded pilot. Earlier, Iran’s police command announced that an American C-130 plane had been downed in the south of Isfahan.“During a joint operation (Aerospace, Ground ⁠Force, Popular Units, Basij ​and Police command), enemy aircraft ​were destroyed,” IRGC said.According to the spokesperson ⁠of Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the unified command of the Iranian armed forces, the downed US aircraft included a C-130 military transport plane and two ​Black ⁠Hawk helicopters. Meanwhile, Iran’s army said that it had shot down an Israeli drone in the same province.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Iranian media release video claiming to show destroyed US aircraft involved in the rescue operation for a downed pilot in southern Isfahan <a href="https://t.co/zQm8PcYI3r">pic.twitter.com/zQm8PcYI3r</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2040706574650683735?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>‘Miraculous’ rescue operation</h2>Trump said that while the pilot had sustained injuries, there were no US casualties in the rescue operation. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies, who were getting closer and closer by the hour, but was never truly alone because his Commander in Chief, Secretary of War, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and fellow Warfighters were monitoring his location 24 hours a day, and diligently planning for his rescue. At my direction, the U.S. Military sent dozens of aircraft, armed with the most lethal weapons in the World, to retrieve him.”Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that overnight strikes in the Kouh-e Siah area in southwestern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province during the US rescue mission killed five people.<h2>How was US pilot rescued from Iran?</h2>According to a New York Times report, hundreds of special forces troops and dozens of US warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities were employed to save the crew member. The US forces had a firefight with Iranian convoys. The report added that two transport planes that would carry the commandos and the airmen to safety got stuck at a remote base in Iran, following which they decided to fly three new planes to extract all the US military personnel and the airmen. They blew up the two disabled planes to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands. 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.&nbsp;

Iran released footage claiming multiple US aircraft were downed during an F-15E pilot rescue, while US President Donald Trump said the airman was safe after a ‘miraculous’ operation and no US casualties occurred.

Iranian state media on Sunday (Apr 5) released the first footage of what it claimed to be the wreckage of several US aircraft downed during the American military operation to rescue the stranded crew member of the F-15E that was shot down in Iran. This comes after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.” The F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday (Apr 3), the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”. Following the rescue operation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by Tasnim news agency that several aircraft were destroyed during the US mission to locate the stranded pilot. Earlier, Iran’s police command announced that an American C-130 plane had been downed in the south of Isfahan. “During a joint operation (Aerospace, Ground ⁠Force, Popular Units, Basij and Police command), enemy aircraft were destroyed,” IRGC said. According to the spokesperson ⁠of Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the unified command of the Iranian armed forces, the downed US aircraft included a C-130 military transport plane and two Black ⁠Hawk helicopters. Meanwhile, Iran’s army said that it had shot down an Israeli drone in the same province.

Iran released footage claiming multiple US aircraft were downed during an F-15E pilot rescue, while US President Donald Trump said the airman was safe after a ‘miraculous’ operation and no US casualties occurred.

WATCH | Iran releases first footage claiming US aircraft downed during rescue operation

A social media post by assassinated conservative commentator, Charlie Kirk, warning against a new West Asia war has resurfaced online, following remarks by his widow, Erika Kirk, praising US troops amid the ongoing military campaign dubbed Operation Epic Fury.&nbsp;Erika Kirk took to X to express support for American forces, writing: “Regardless of your opinion on Operation Epic Fury or your political affiliation, we have the greatest military in the world. Its strength lies not just in power, but in the courage, discipline, and sacrifice of our troops. God bless our men and women in uniform.”&nbsp;Her post quickly drew reactions, with several users sharing screenshots of Charlie Kirk’s earlier remarks cautioning against military escalation in the region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-carry-on-patriots-us-def-secy-hegseth-lifts-suspension-for-army-pilots-after-2-ah-64-apache-helicopters-fly-by-at-kid-rock-s-estate-1775024195671">‘Carry on, patriots’: US Def Secy Hegseth lifts suspension for Army pilots after 2 AH-64 Apache helicopters fly-by at Kid Rock’s estate</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It’s going unnoticed because so much other news is happening, but the war drums are beating again in D.C. The warmongers worry this is their last chance to get the white whale they’ve been chasing for thirty years, an all-out regime change war against Iran. A new Middle East war…&mdash; Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) <a href="https://twitter.com/charliekirk11/status/1907840667595976733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>‘War drums are beating again’</h2>In an April 2025 post, written roughly two months before his death, Charlie Kirk warned that Washington was edging towards another major conflict. “The war drums are beating again in D.C.,” he wrote, adding that “a new Middle East war would be a catastrophic mistake”.&nbsp;Kirk argued that the US was ill-prepared for another prolonged conflict, citing depleted military stockpiles after years of support for Ukraine, ongoing efforts to rebuild domestic manufacturing, and the country’s mounting fiscal pressures.&nbsp;“Iran is larger than Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan combined. A war would not be easy and could easily become a calamity,” he said, cautioning that such a conflict could spiral beyond control.&nbsp;He also praised US President Donald Trump for what he described as restraint during his first term, suggesting that Washington had a “golden opportunity” to disengage from what he termed Middle East “quagmires”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Regardless of your opinion on Operation Epic Fury or your political affiliation, we have the greatest military in the world. Its strength lies not just in power, but in the courage, discipline, and sacrifice of our troops. God bless our men and women in uniform.&mdash; Erika Kirk (@MrsErikaKirk) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrsErikaKirk/status/2040653231467250092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Assassination and renewed attention</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-not-our-war-we-aren-t-going-to-be-dragged-into-it-starmer-on-us-vs-nato-amid-iran-war-1775036357616">'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war</a>&nbsp;Charlie Kirk, 31, was allegedly shot dead on 10 September 2025 during a campus appearance in Orem, Utah. Authorities said the incident occurred during a student Q&amp;A session at Utah Valley University. The suspect, identified as Tyler Robinson, was later taken into custody. His past statements have now gained renewed attention amid the intensifying conflict involving Iran.<h2>Operation Epic Fury</h2>The US launched Operation Epic Fury on 28 February, deploying a range of military assets including suicide drones, Tomahawk cruise missiles and stealth aircraft against Iranian targets. The operation also reportedly marked the first combat use of low-cost one-way attack drones modelled on Iranian designs.&nbsp;The strikes targeted key military infrastructure, including missile facilities and naval bases, as well as locations near the office of slain Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Khamenei was killed in the aftermath of the operation, with Trump announcing his death in a post on Truth Social, describing him as “one of the most evil people in history”.

The resurfaced anti-war posts of assassinated commentator Charlie Kirk contrast with his widow Erika’s support for Operation Epic Fury, a 2026 US military campaign that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader.

A social media post by assassinated conservative commentator, Charlie Kirk, warning against a new West Asia war has resurfaced online, following remarks by his widow, Erika Kirk, praising US troops amid the ongoing military campaign dubbed Operation Epic Fury. Erika Kirk took to X to express support for American forces, writing: “Regardless of your opinion on Operation Epic Fury or your political affiliation, we have the greatest military in the world. Its strength lies not just in power, but in the courage, discipline, and sacrifice of our troops. God bless our men and women in uniform.” Her post quickly drew reactions, with several users sharing screenshots of Charlie Kirk’s earlier remarks cautioning against military escalation in the region. Also read: ‘Carry on, patriots’: US Def Secy Hegseth lifts suspension for Army pilots after 2 AH-64 Apache helicopters fly-by at Kid Rock’s estate

The resurfaced anti-war posts of assassinated commentator Charlie Kirk contrast with his widow Erika’s support for Operation Epic Fury, a 2026 US military campaign that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader.

‘Iran is larger than Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan combined’: Charlie Kirk’s post before his assassination resurfaces  amid Tehran war

The Iranian Consulate in Najaf, Iraq, on Sunday (Apr 5) posted a video on social media of what it claimed to be the video of Iran’s police shooting down an American aircraft during the operation to rescue the F-15E crew member from Iran after his fighter jet was downed in the Iranian territory. The Consulate also slammed US President Donald Trump, saying that he is boasting about the operation without mentioning the losses incurred in the process. This comes after Trump announced the US pilot was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.”In a post on X, the Iranian Consulate wrote, “The enemies of Islam are always ‘wandering blindly in their rebellion.’ On the third day of the war, he was boasting that he had destroyed the air defenses of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and on the thirty-sixth day of the war, he boasts about a rescue operation for the pilot of his fighter jet that was shot down, without mentioning the losses he incurred in the process.” Sharing a video of an aircraft on fire falling down from the sky, the Consulate wrote, “Image from the ‘Rescue Operation’ carried out by the Americans in Iran. Don’t be mistaken; what is being dropped belongs to the army of the American terrorists.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">صورة من «عملية الإنقاذ» التي قام بها الأمريكيون في إيران لا تَخطئوا؛ ما يتم إسقاطه يعود لجيش الإرهابيين الأمريكيين😁 <a href="https://t.co/PB0aq4u3ap">https://t.co/PB0aq4u3ap</a> <a href="https://t.co/B1ziJztUjB">pic.twitter.com/B1ziJztUjB</a>&mdash; Iranian Consulate in Najaf (@IraninNajaf) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraninNajaf/status/2040654478882267290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In another post, the Iranian Consulate in Najaf mocked the US, saying that it was a record in history that Iran’s “police” shot down an American aircraft with a personal weapon.Iran’s Revolutionary Guards earlier claimed that a US aircraft, which had been searching for the missing American F-15E fighter jet crew member, had been destroyed, as reported by Iranian media. Iran’s police command said that the downed US aircraft in Isfahan was a C-130 used to refuel “invaders”.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 Iranian consulate shared a video claiming a US aircraft was shot down during an F-15E pilot rescue, mocking Donald Trump for ignoring losses after declaring the pilot safe.

The Iranian Consulate in Najaf, Iraq, on Sunday (Apr 5) posted a video on social media of what it claimed to be the video of Iran’s police shooting down an American aircraft during the operation to rescue the F-15E crew member from Iran after his fighter jet was downed in the Iranian territory. The Consulate also slammed US President Donald Trump, saying that he is boasting about the operation without mentioning the losses incurred in the process. This comes after Trump announced the US pilot was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.” In a post on X, the Iranian Consulate wrote, “The enemies of Islam are always ‘wandering blindly in their rebellion.’ On the third day of the war, he was boasting that he had destroyed the air defenses of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and on the thirty-sixth day of the war, he boasts about a rescue operation for the pilot of his fighter jet that was shot down, without mentioning the losses he incurred in the process.” Sharing a video of an aircraft on fire falling down from the sky, the Consulate wrote, “Image from the ‘Rescue Operation’ carried out by the Americans in Iran. Don’t be mistaken; what is being dropped belongs to the army of the American terrorists.”

The Iranian consulate shared a video claiming a US aircraft was shot down during an F-15E pilot rescue, mocking Donald Trump for ignoring losses after declaring the pilot safe.

‘Trump boasts without mentioning losses’: Iranian Consulate in Iraq posts video of alleged US crash during rescue op – WATCH

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Apr 5) claimed that a US aircraft, which had been searching for the missing American F-15E fighter jet crew member, had been destroyed, as reported by Iranian media. This comes minutes after US President Donald Trump announced that the US pilot was “SAFE and SOUND” following a search and rescue operation after his jet was downed inside Iran.“An American enemy aircraft that was searching for the pilot of a downed fighter jet was destroyed by the fighters of Islam in the southern region of Isfahan,” the Tasnim news agency quoted the Guards as saying.Iran’s police command said that the downed US aircraft in Isfahan was a C-130 used to refuel “invaders”.In a post on X, the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai said that a US enemy aircraft searching for the downed fighter pilot was destroyed in southern Isfahan. It also shared an image showing smoke, suggesting a crash site.The claim comes after Trump confirmed that the second airman downed in Iran had been safely recovered after “one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.”&nbsp;“This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies,” Trump said on Truth Social. “He sustained injuries, but he will be just fine.”Trump added, “This miraculous Search and Rescue Operation comes in addition to a successful rescue of another brave Pilot, yesterday, which we did not confirm, because we did not want to jeopardize our second rescue operation.”The developments come after Trump gave an ultimatum to Iran to “MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT”.“Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT. Time is running out - 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!” Trump said.Iran’s central military command rejected Trump’s threats, calling them “helpless, nervous, unbalanced and stupid action”. General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi warned that “the gates of hell will open for you.”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. &nbsp;

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed they shot down a US aircraft searching for a downed F-15E pilot near Isfahan, shortly after US President Donald Trump said the pilot was safe following a rescue operation.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Apr 5) claimed that a US aircraft, which had been searching for the missing American F-15E fighter jet crew member, had been destroyed, as reported by Iranian media. This comes minutes after US President Donald Trump announced that the US pilot was “SAFE and SOUND” following a search and rescue operation after his jet was downed inside Iran. “An American enemy aircraft that was searching for the pilot of a downed fighter jet was destroyed by the fighters of Islam in the southern region of Isfahan,” the Tasnim news agency quoted the Guards as saying. Iran’s police command said that the downed US aircraft in Isfahan was a C-130 used to refuel “invaders”. In a post on X, the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai said that a US enemy aircraft searching for the downed fighter pilot was destroyed in southern Isfahan. It also shared an image showing smoke, suggesting a crash site. The claim comes after Trump confirmed that the second airman downed in Iran had been safely recovered after “one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.” “This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies,” Trump said on Truth Social. “He sustained injuries, but he will be just fine.” Trump added, “This miraculous Search and Rescue Operation comes in addition to a successful rescue of another brave Pilot, yesterday, which we did not confirm, because we did not want to jeopardize our second rescue operation.” The developments come after Trump gave an ultimatum to Iran to “MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT”. “Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT. Time is running out - 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!” Trump said. Iran’s central military command rejected Trump’s threats, calling them “helpless, nervous, unbalanced and stupid action”. General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi warned that “the gates of hell will open for you.” 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.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed they shot down a US aircraft searching for a downed F-15E pilot near Isfahan, shortly after US President Donald Trump said the pilot was safe following a rescue operation.

Iran claims US aircraft searching for missing F-15E pilot destroyed in Isfahan after Trump confirms airman ‘SAFE and SOUND’

The missing US airman, whose F-15E was shot down by Tehran inside the Iranian territory, was recovered by the American forces on Saturday (Apr 4). US President Donald Trump confirmed that the fighter pilot was rescued by the US military and was “safe and sound”. This comes after a US F-15E fighter jet was shot down in Iran, the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”.&nbsp;In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “WE GOT HIM! My fellow Americans, over the past several hours, the United States Military pulled off one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in U.S. History, for one of our incredible Crew Member Officers, who also happens to be a highly respected Colonel, and who I am thrilled to let you know is now SAFE and SOUND! This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies, who were getting closer and closer by the hour, but was never truly alone because his Commander in Chief, Secretary of War, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and fellow Warfighters were monitoring his location 24 hours a day, and diligently planning for his rescue. At my direction, the U.S. Military sent dozens of aircraft, armed with the most lethal weapons in the World, to retrieve him.”Trump added that the pilot has sustained injuries, adding that “he will be just fine”. The US president confirmed that there were no American casualties in the operation.He said, “This miraculous Search and Rescue Operation comes in addition to a successful rescue of another brave Pilot, yesterday, which we did not confirm, because we did not want to jeopardize our second rescue operation. This is the first time in military memory that two U.S. Pilots have been rescued, separately, deep in Enemy Territory. WE WILL NEVER LEAVE AN AMERICAN WARFIGHTER BEHIND!”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.

US President Donald Trump confirmed that the US military on Saturday (Apr 4) rescued the F-15E fighter pilot after his plane went down in Iran. There were no US casualties in the operation, while Trump said that the pilot was injured.

The missing US airman, whose F-15E was shot down by Tehran inside the Iranian territory, was recovered by the American forces on Saturday (Apr 4). US President Donald Trump confirmed that the fighter pilot was rescued by the US military and was “safe and sound”. This comes after a US F-15E fighter jet was shot down in Iran, the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “WE GOT HIM! My fellow Americans, over the past several hours, the United States Military pulled off one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in U.S. History, for one of our incredible Crew Member Officers, who also happens to be a highly respected Colonel, and who I am thrilled to let you know is now SAFE and SOUND! This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies, who were getting closer and closer by the hour, but was never truly alone because his Commander in Chief, Secretary of War, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and fellow Warfighters were monitoring his location 24 hours a day, and diligently planning for his rescue. At my direction, the U.S. Military sent dozens of aircraft, armed with the most lethal weapons in the World, to retrieve him.” Trump added that the pilot has sustained injuries, adding that “he will be just fine”. The US president confirmed that there were no American casualties in the operation. He said, “This miraculous Search and Rescue Operation comes in addition to a successful rescue of another brave Pilot, yesterday, which we did not confirm, because we did not want to jeopardize our second rescue operation. This is the first time in military memory that two U.S. Pilots have been rescued, separately, deep in Enemy Territory. WE WILL NEVER LEAVE AN AMERICAN WARFIGHTER BEHIND!” 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.

US President Donald Trump confirmed that the US military on Saturday (Apr 4) rescued the F-15E fighter pilot after his plane went down in Iran. There were no US casualties in the operation, while Trump said that the pilot was injured.

Missing US pilot rescued in Iran after F-15E shot down

As Iranian and American forces race to locate a crew member of a US fighter jet that went down inside Iranian territory, military experts have shared insights on how fighter pilots are trained to survive behind enemy lines. This comes after Tehran said that it had shot down a US F-15 warplane. US media reports suggested that American special forces had rescued one of the two crew members, while the other was missing. So far, no information about the pilot has emerged as both nations continue to search.Retired US Air Force brigadier general Houston Cantwell, who is now at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, told AFP that a pilot’s training, known as survival, evasion, resistance and escape (SERE), would kick in before he or she parachutes to the ground. He described that pilots are trained to assess their surroundings from the parachute after ejecting from an aircraft to identifying safe zones and potential threats. He added that landing itself can be dangerous and may even result in injuries such as fractures.“Your best view of where you may want to go or where you may want to avoid is while you're coming down in your parachute,” Cantwell said.Once on the ground, the pilot’s priority is survival. Upon landing, “take an inventory of yourself to figure out, what condition am I in? Can I even move? Am I even mobile?”“Try to avoid enemy capture, as long as you can,” Cantwell added. “And if I were in a desert environment, I’d want to try to find some water.”Cantwell detailed that movement is best carried out at night to reduce detection risk. He emphasised that concealment is key, as pilots aim to reach a location suitable for extraction, such as an open field or rooftop.“My priority would be, first of all, concealment, because I don’t want to be captured,” he said. “I want to try to get to a location where I can get extracted.”Retired master sergeant Scott Fales explained that rescue missions are meticulously planned even before flights begin. Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) teams are immediately activated, and intelligence from drones, satellites, and human sources is used to locate the downed aviator.Once a position is identified, rescue teams move quickly but cautiously, balancing threat levels and medical urgency. Upon reaching the pilot, they verify identity, assess injuries, and decide whether to provide on-site treatment or execute a rapid extraction. Despite the uncertainty, experts remain hopeful that the missing aviator will either evade capture or be safely recovered.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.

After a US F-15 crash in Iran, experts explain how fighter pilots are trained to survive and hide until they are extracted by rescue teams behind enemy lines.

As Iranian and American forces race to locate a crew member of a US fighter jet that went down inside Iranian territory, military experts have shared insights on how fighter pilots are trained to survive behind enemy lines. This comes after Tehran said that it had shot down a US F-15 warplane. US media reports suggested that American special forces had rescued one of the two crew members, while the other was missing. So far, no information about the pilot has emerged as both nations continue to search. Retired US Air Force brigadier general Houston Cantwell, who is now at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, told AFP that a pilot’s training, known as survival, evasion, resistance and escape (SERE), would kick in before he or she parachutes to the ground. He described that pilots are trained to assess their surroundings from the parachute after ejecting from an aircraft to identifying safe zones and potential threats. He added that landing itself can be dangerous and may even result in injuries such as fractures. “Your best view of where you may want to go or where you may want to avoid is while you're coming down in your parachute,” Cantwell said. Once on the ground, the pilot’s priority is survival. Upon landing, “take an inventory of yourself to figure out, what condition am I in? Can I even move? Am I even mobile?” “Try to avoid enemy capture, as long as you can,” Cantwell added. “And if I were in a desert environment, I’d want to try to find some water.” Cantwell detailed that movement is best carried out at night to reduce detection risk. He emphasised that concealment is key, as pilots aim to reach a location suitable for extraction, such as an open field or rooftop. “My priority would be, first of all, concealment, because I don’t want to be captured,” he said. “I want to try to get to a location where I can get extracted.” Retired master sergeant Scott Fales explained that rescue missions are meticulously planned even before flights begin. Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) teams are immediately activated, and intelligence from drones, satellites, and human sources is used to locate the downed aviator. Once a position is identified, rescue teams move quickly but cautiously, balancing threat levels and medical urgency. Upon reaching the pilot, they verify identity, assess injuries, and decide whether to provide on-site treatment or execute a rapid extraction. Despite the uncertainty, experts remain hopeful that the missing aviator will either evade capture or be safely recovered. 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.

After a US F-15 crash in Iran, experts explain how fighter pilots are trained to survive and hide until they are extracted by rescue teams behind enemy lines.

US F-15 crew member missing in Iran: How fighter pilots are trained to survive behind enemy lines

Iranian and American forces are racing each other to locate a crew member of a US fighter jet that went down inside Iranian territory, the first such incident since the start of the war. This comes after Tehran said that it had shot down a US F-15 warplane. US media reports suggested that American special forces had rescued one of the two crew members, while the other was missing. So far, no information about the pilot has emerged as both nations continue to search.Another US A-10 ground attack aircraft crashed in the Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz, following which US media reported that the pilot was rescued. Meanwhile, Tehran claimed that an American UH-60 Black Hawk was shot down near Iran border, releasing a video. This comes as the war in West Asia, which has been going on for over a month, continues to escalate.<h2>Iran announces reward on capture of pilot</h2>Iran has put a ‘valuable reward’ for anyone who can help capture the US F-15 crew member alive. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Iranian military’s central operational command said “an American hostile fighter jet in central Iranian airspace was struck and destroyed by the IRGC Aerospace Force's advanced air defence system.”“The jet was completely obliterated, and further searches are ongoing,” he added.An Iranian television reporter on a local official channel said that anyone who captures the pilot would “receive a valuable reward”.<h2>US remains silent since pilot missing</h2>The Trump administration and US Central Command have remained silent since the American pilot went missing in Iran following the crash. Normally active on its social media, the CENTCOM has not posted any updates regarding the situation in Iran for nearly 20 hours at the time of publishing of this report.Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said: “The president has been briefed.” In an interview with NBC, Trump said that the F-15 loss would not affect negotiations with Iran, saying, “No, not at all. No, it’s war.”Apart from these remarks, the White House has largely kept the media in the dark since the reports of missing crew member. All press conferences have been cancelled raising speculations that the administration is preparing for a response that goes far beyond tactical.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.

Iran and US race to find a missing F-15 crew member after the jet was downed in Iran. One crew rescued, another missing, as Tehran offers a reward and Washington stays largely silent.

Iranian and American forces are racing each other to locate a crew member of a US fighter jet that went down inside Iranian territory, the first such incident since the start of the war. This comes after Tehran said that it had shot down a US F-15 warplane. US media reports suggested that American special forces had rescued one of the two crew members, while the other was missing. So far, no information about the pilot has emerged as both nations continue to search. Another US A-10 ground attack aircraft crashed in the Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz, following which US media reported that the pilot was rescued. Meanwhile, Tehran claimed that an American UH-60 Black Hawk was shot down near Iran border, releasing a video. This comes as the war in West Asia, which has been going on for over a month, continues to escalate. Iran announces reward on capture of pilot Iran has put a ‘valuable reward’ for anyone who can help capture the US F-15 crew member alive. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Iranian military’s central operational command said “an American hostile fighter jet in central Iranian airspace was struck and destroyed by the IRGC Aerospace Force's advanced air defence system.” “The jet was completely obliterated, and further searches are ongoing,” he added. An Iranian television reporter on a local official channel said that anyone who captures the pilot would “receive a valuable reward”. US remains silent since pilot missing The Trump administration and US Central Command have remained silent since the American pilot went missing in Iran following the crash. Normally active on its social media, the CENTCOM has not posted any updates regarding the situation in Iran for nearly 20 hours at the time of publishing of this report. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said: “The president has been briefed.” In an interview with NBC, Trump said that the F-15 loss would not affect negotiations with Iran, saying, “No, not at all. No, it’s war.” Apart from these remarks, the White House has largely kept the media in the dark since the reports of missing crew member. All press conferences have been cancelled raising speculations that the administration is preparing for a response that goes far beyond tactical. 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.

Iran and US race to find a missing F-15 crew member after the jet was downed in Iran. One crew rescued, another missing, as Tehran offers a reward and Washington stays largely silent.

US chooses silence, Iran puts ‘valuable reward’: Enemies race to find the missing F-15 fighter pilot

Eight Indian ships have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict in West Asia began on 28 February, placing India among the countries with the highest number of vessels navigating the war-affected waterway.The narrow strait between Iran and Oman remains a critical global energy route, carrying much of the world's oil and gas supplies. Traffic has fallen sharply since the war broke out, directly impacting the movement through the Hormuz. However, a limited number of vessels from certain nations have been allowed through, often after diplomatic contacts with Tehran.The eight Indian ships that have transited include LPG carriers Shivalik, Nanda Devi, Pine Gas, Jag Vasant, Green Sanvi, BW Tyr and BW Elm, as well as the crude oil tanker Jag Laadki. These vessels carried vital cargoes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking and other energy supplies destined for Indian ports such as Mundra, Kandla, Mumbai and New Mangalore. Earlier transits involved Shivalik and Nanda Devi, which delivered around 92,000 tonnes of LPG. They were followed by Jag Vasant and Pine Gas with another 92,600 tonnes, and later by BW Tyr and BW Elm carrying approximately 94,000 tonnes combined.India has relied on direct talks with Iran and practical maritime measures to secure these passages. &nbsp;The Indian Navy has played a quiet but important supporting role through Operation Urja Suraksha (Energy Security). The Navy has deployed several frontline warships, including destroyers and frigates, in the Gulf of Oman near the exit of the strait.While Indian naval vessels have not entered the strait itself, they provide real-time guidance, monitoring and escort once merchant ships clear the narrow passage, helping ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and cargoes. All crew members on the transiting vessels have remained safe.These successful transits have helped ease immediate pressure on India's energy supplies, though many more Indian-flagged vessels remain stranded in the Persian Gulf. New Delhi continues diplomatic efforts to secure safe passage for the remaining ships.Other countries have also seen success. China has had multiple vessels transit, including container ships such as CSCL Indian Ocean and CSCL Arctic Ocean, after initial setbacks. Greek-owned tankers have recorded a high number of crossings. A Liberia-flagged crude oil tanker, Shenlong Suezmax, was among the early vessels to reach India carrying Saudi crude.Ships linked to Bangladesh, Philippine, Malaysia, Thailand, Pakistan, Russia, France, Japan and other nations have been able to pass or are in the process of passing Hormuz after coordination with Iranian authorities.

The eight Indian ships that have transited include LPG carriers Shivalik, Nanda Devi, Pine Gas, Jag Vasant, Green Sanvi, BW Tyr and BW Elm, as well as the crude oil tanker Jag Laadki.

Eight Indian ships have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict in West Asia began on 28 February, placing India among the countries with the highest number of vessels navigating the war-affected waterway. The narrow strait between Iran and Oman remains a critical global energy route, carrying much of the world's oil and gas supplies. Traffic has fallen sharply since the war broke out, directly impacting the movement through the Hormuz. However, a limited number of vessels from certain nations have been allowed through, often after diplomatic contacts with Tehran. The eight Indian ships that have transited include LPG carriers Shivalik, Nanda Devi, Pine Gas, Jag Vasant, Green Sanvi, BW Tyr and BW Elm, as well as the crude oil tanker Jag Laadki. These vessels carried vital cargoes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking and other energy supplies destined for Indian ports such as Mundra, Kandla, Mumbai and New Mangalore. Earlier transits involved Shivalik and Nanda Devi, which delivered around 92,000 tonnes of LPG. They were followed by Jag Vasant and Pine Gas with another 92,600 tonnes, and later by BW Tyr and BW Elm carrying approximately 94,000 tonnes combined. India has relied on direct talks with Iran and practical maritime measures to secure these passages. The Indian Navy has played a quiet but important supporting role through Operation Urja Suraksha (Energy Security). The Navy has deployed several frontline warships, including destroyers and frigates, in the Gulf of Oman near the exit of the strait. While Indian naval vessels have not entered the strait itself, they provide real-time guidance, monitoring and escort once merchant ships clear the narrow passage, helping ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and cargoes. All crew members on the transiting vessels have remained safe. These successful transits have helped ease immediate pressure on India's energy supplies, though many more Indian-flagged vessels remain stranded in the Persian Gulf. New Delhi continues diplomatic efforts to secure safe passage for the remaining ships. Other countries have also seen success. China has had multiple vessels transit, including container ships such as CSCL Indian Ocean and CSCL Arctic Ocean, after initial setbacks. Greek-owned tankers have recorded a high number of crossings. A Liberia-flagged crude oil tanker, Shenlong Suezmax, was among the early vessels to reach India carrying Saudi crude. Ships linked to Bangladesh, Philippine, Malaysia, Thailand, Pakistan, Russia, France, Japan and other nations have been able to pass or are in the process of passing Hormuz after coordination with Iranian authorities.

The eight Indian ships that have transited include LPG carriers Shivalik, Nanda Devi, Pine Gas, Jag Vasant, Green Sanvi, BW Tyr and BW Elm, as well as the crude oil tanker Jag Laadki.

Eight Indian vessels transit Hormuz, among highest numbers for any country since the war started

After an Iranian drone strike on the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia last month, more extensive damage had occurred than earlier disclosed, a report suggests. The attack happened during the first week of the war in West Asia when an Iranian drone evaded Riyadh’s air defences and crashed into the American diplomatic compound. A minute later, a second drone hit the same place and exploded. The revelation comes as US President Donald Trump continues to claim that Iran is being “decimated” by the US-Israeli attacks.According to a Wall Street Journal report, citing current and former US officials, the nighttime strikes penetrated a secure part of the embassy, where several hundred people work during the day, and severely damaged three floors. The report added that the Central Intelligence Agency station was among the areas struck in the drone attack.Following the attack, the Saudi Defence Ministry had said that the strike resulted in limited fire and minor damage. However, officials told WSJ that the destruction was worse and sparked a blaze that took half a day to control. They added that parts of the embassy were damaged and not recoverable.The attack happened on March 3 at 1:30 am when the staff was not present. Officials said that if it had happened during working hours, it could have been a mass-casualty event. This suggests that Iran sent a message through the attack that it could strike Americans in places they believed were protected.“It was able to produce an indigenously made weapon, fire it across hundreds of miles and put it into the embassy of their top opponent, which means they could have hit anything they wanted in the city,” Bernard Hudson, a former CIA counterterrorism chief with extensive experience in Persian Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, told the Post.“There’s been a complete blackout on the actual amount of damage done to these places,” he said of the US embassies and bases. “That feeds suspicions that a lot more damage may have actually happened.”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.

Iranian drones struck the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia, causing far greater damage than initially disclosed reportedly. Multiple floors were hit, including a secure area, and a major fire caused destruction.

After an Iranian drone strike on the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia last month, more extensive damage had occurred than earlier disclosed, a report suggests. The attack happened during the first week of the war in West Asia when an Iranian drone evaded Riyadh’s air defences and crashed into the American diplomatic compound. A minute later, a second drone hit the same place and exploded. The revelation comes as US President Donald Trump continues to claim that Iran is being “decimated” by the US-Israeli attacks. According to a Wall Street Journal report, citing current and former US officials, the nighttime strikes penetrated a secure part of the embassy, where several hundred people work during the day, and severely damaged three floors. The report added that the Central Intelligence Agency station was among the areas struck in the drone attack. Following the attack, the Saudi Defence Ministry had said that the strike resulted in limited fire and minor damage. However, officials told WSJ that the destruction was worse and sparked a blaze that took half a day to control. They added that parts of the embassy were damaged and not recoverable. The attack happened on March 3 at 1:30 am when the staff was not present. Officials said that if it had happened during working hours, it could have been a mass-casualty event. This suggests that Iran sent a message through the attack that it could strike Americans in places they believed were protected. “It was able to produce an indigenously made weapon, fire it across hundreds of miles and put it into the embassy of their top opponent, which means they could have hit anything they wanted in the city,” Bernard Hudson, a former CIA counterterrorism chief with extensive experience in Persian Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, told the Post. “There’s been a complete blackout on the actual amount of damage done to these places,” he said of the US embassies and bases. “That feeds suspicions that a lot more damage may have actually happened.” 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.

Iranian drones struck the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia, causing far greater damage than initially disclosed, reportedly. Multiple floors were hit, including a secure area, and a major fire caused destruction.

Did US Embassy in Saudi downplay damage from Iranian drone attack? Report reveals shocking details

A US F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over Iran, US officials confirmed on Friday, with one crew member rescued by American forces, CBS News reported. The aircraft, which carries a two-member crew, went down during operations over Iranian territory. A search-and-rescue mission is still underway to locate and recover the remaining crew member, CBS News reported, citing two US officials.&nbsp;The F-15E Strike Eagle is operated by a pilot and a weapons systems officer, both trained for combat missions. Officials said efforts are ongoing to secure the second crew member amid the evolving situation.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for shooting down a US fighter jet over central parts of the country.&nbsp;Photos and videos circulating on social media, and shared by Iranian state media, appeared to show at least one Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft and two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters flying at low altitude over central and southwest Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/earthquake-of-magnitude-5-9-strikes-afghanistan-tremors-felt-in-delhi-ncr-1775233936812">Earthquake of magnitude 5.9 strikes Afghanistan; tremors felt in Delhi-NCR</a>&nbsp;The aircraft were reportedly part of a possible search-and-rescue operation aimed at locating and extracting the downed jet’s crew.&nbsp;The US media reported that President Donald Trump had been briefed on the fighter jet situation.&nbsp;Iran's parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf took a sharp jab at President Trump, sarcastically remarking: "After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from 'regime change' to 'Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please? 🥺"&nbsp;"Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses," he added.&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 F-15E Strike Eagle is operated by a pilot and a weapons systems officer, both trained for combat missions. Officials said efforts are ongoing to secure the second crew member amid the evolving situation.

A US F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over Iran, US officials confirmed on Friday, with one crew member rescued by American forces, CBS News reported. The aircraft, which carries a two-member crew, went down during operations over Iranian territory. A search-and-rescue mission is still underway to locate and recover the remaining crew member, CBS News reported, citing two US officials. The F-15E Strike Eagle is operated by a pilot and a weapons systems officer, both trained for combat missions. Officials said efforts are ongoing to secure the second crew member amid the evolving situation. Earlier in the day, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for shooting down a US fighter jet over central parts of the country. Photos and videos circulating on social media, and shared by Iranian state media, appeared to show at least one Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft and two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters flying at low altitude over central and southwest Iran. Also Read: Earthquake of magnitude 5.9 strikes Afghanistan; tremors felt in Delhi-NCR The aircraft were reportedly part of a possible search-and-rescue operation aimed at locating and extracting the downed jet’s crew. The US media reported that President Donald Trump had been briefed on the fighter jet situation. Iran's parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf took a sharp jab at President Trump, sarcastically remarking: "After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from 'regime change' to 'Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please? 🥺" "Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses," he added. (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 F-15E Strike Eagle is operated by a pilot and a weapons systems officer, both trained for combat missions. Officials said efforts are ongoing to secure the second crew member amid the evolving situation.

One crew member rescued after US fighter jet downed in Iran: Report

Reports of an F-15E Strike Eagle downed over Iran highlight the vulnerability of non-stealth jets against modern air defences. Despite the F-15 family's 104-0 aerial record, the $31 million ground-attack variant remains susceptible to SAM strikes.

Reports of an F-15E Strike Eagle downed over Iran highlight the vulnerability of non-stealth jets against modern air defences. Despite the F-15 family's 104-0 aerial record, the $31 million ground-attack variant remains susceptible to SAM strikes.

Shattered in Iran?: The combat record of the US F‑15E fighter jet

US President Donald Trump on Friday (April 03) said the United States could “open” the Strait of Hormuz and “take the oil” if given more time, even as the White House proposed a massive $1.5 trillion defence budget amid the ongoing Iran war.&nbsp;“With a little more time, we can easily OPEN THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, &amp; MAKE A FORTUNE. It would be a ‘gusher’ for the world???” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.&nbsp;However, the post did not explain how Washington would end Iranian control over the key waterway or clarify which oil resources he was referring to.&nbsp;Since the start of the war in West Asia on February 28, Iran has effectively restricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reducing shipments through the vital route to minimal levels in retaliation for the US-Israeli bombing campaign targeting Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and key figures in the regime and the IRGC.<h2>White House proposes record defence budget</h2>Meanwhile, the White House has sent a spending proposal to lawmakers seeking a record $1.5 trillion US defence budget for the next fiscal year, citing increased costs linked to the Iran war.&nbsp;The proposal marks the largest year-on-year increase in Pentagon spending since World War II, according to US media reports. However, presidential budgets remain proposals and require approval from Congress.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-ship-crosses-strait-of-hormuz-after-macron-backs-iran-s-sovereignity-1775218647423">French-owned ship crosses Strait of Hormuz as Macron backs Iran's sovereignty</a>&nbsp;“The budget builds upon the historic $1 trillion overall defence topline for 2026 and requests $1.5 trillion in total budgetary resources for 2027,” the document stated. “This represents a $445 billion, or 42 per cent, increase from the 2026 total resource level.”&nbsp;Earlier, on March 19, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon is seeking a $200 billion emergency supplemental funding request to sustain Operation Epic Fury against Iran. Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth defended the proposal, saying “it takes money to kill bad guys,” and stressed the urgent need to replenish US munitions stockpiles.&nbsp;The request aims to cover the high operational “burn rate” of the conflict, which reportedly cost an estimated $12.7 billion in its first six days alone, and includes funding for thousands of strikes carried out against Iranian infrastructure.

The defence budget proposal marks the largest year-on-year increase in Pentagon spending since World War II, according to US media reports. However, presidential budgets remain proposals and require approval from Congress.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (April 03) said the United States could “open” the Strait of Hormuz and “take the oil” if given more time, even as the White House proposed a massive $1.5 trillion defence budget amid the ongoing Iran war. “With a little more time, we can easily OPEN THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, & MAKE A FORTUNE. It would be a ‘gusher’ for the world???” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. However, the post did not explain how Washington would end Iranian control over the key waterway or clarify which oil resources he was referring to. Since the start of the war in West Asia on February 28, Iran has effectively restricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reducing shipments through the vital route to minimal levels in retaliation for the US-Israeli bombing campaign targeting Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and key figures in the regime and the IRGC. White House proposes record defence budget Meanwhile, the White House has sent a spending proposal to lawmakers seeking a record $1.5 trillion US defence budget for the next fiscal year, citing increased costs linked to the Iran war. The proposal marks the largest year-on-year increase in Pentagon spending since World War II, according to US media reports. However, presidential budgets remain proposals and require approval from Congress. Also Read: French-owned ship crosses Strait of Hormuz as Macron backs Iran's sovereignty “The budget builds upon the historic $1 trillion overall defence topline for 2026 and requests $1.5 trillion in total budgetary resources for 2027,” the document stated. “This represents a $445 billion, or 42 per cent, increase from the 2026 total resource level.” Earlier, on March 19, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon is seeking a $200 billion emergency supplemental funding request to sustain Operation Epic Fury against Iran. Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth defended the proposal, saying “it takes money to kill bad guys,” and stressed the urgent need to replenish US munitions stockpiles. The request aims to cover the high operational “burn rate” of the conflict, which reportedly cost an estimated $12.7 billion in its first six days alone, and includes funding for thousands of strikes carried out against Iranian infrastructure.

The defence spending proposal marks the largest year-on-year increase in Pentagon spending since World War II, according to US media reports. However, presidential budgets remain proposals and require approval from Congress.

Trump says US can open Hormuz with ‘a little more time’ as White House seeks record $1.5 trn defence budget amid Iran war

United States Marines held amphibious assault drills at Diego Garcia as US President Donald Trump weighs options on Iran, with USS Tripoli (LHA-7) deployed nearby.

United States Marines held amphibious assault drills at Diego Garcia as US President Donald Trump weighs options on Iran, with USS Tripoli (LHA-7) deployed nearby.

Is US planning ground operation in Iran? Marines conduct amphibious assault training at Diego Garcia – PICS

Recent US intelligence has reportedly suggested that about half of Iran’s missile launchers and thousands of one-way attack drones still remain intact despite US and Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic over the last five weeks. The report comes amid repeated claims by US President Donald Trump, who said that Tehran’s attacking capability has been significantly reduced by US-Israeli attacks, which began on February 28. This comes as hostilities in West Asia continue to escalate, with strikes now targeting civilian infrastructure.According to a CNN report, citing people familiar with the intel, the &nbsp;US intelligence assessment may include launchers that remain inaccessible, like those buried underground by strikes but not destroyed yet.“They are still very much poised to wreak absolute havoc throughout the entire region,” one of the sources said of Iran.The intel also suggested that a large percentage of Iran’s coastal defence cruise missiles were intact. These missiles are believed to be allowing it to maintain its threat over the maritime traffic in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. While the US has not been focusing its air strikes on coastal military assets, they have been targeting ships.The intel contradicts the remarks made by Trump, who said that Iran is “getting decimated”. During his address to the nation on Wednesday (Apr 1), the US president said that Tehran’s “ability to launch missiles and drones is dramatically curtailed, and their weapons factories and rocket launchers are being blown to pieces, very few of them left.”US Central Command said that the American military has struck more than 12,300 targets inside Iran as of Wednesday. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has claimed that Iran attacks have dropped by 90 per cent, not giving details on what has been destroyed.During a press briefing on March 19, Hegseth said that “ballistic missile attacks against our forces, down 90 per cent since the start of the conflict, same with one-way attack UAVs, think kamikaze drones, down 90 per cent.”<h2>What did Trump administration say?</h2>In response to the report, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said that “anonymous sources desperately want to attack President Trump and demean the incredible work of our United States Military in achieving the goals of Operation Epic Fury.” She added that Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks are down 90 per cent, with their navy “wiped out” and two-thirds of their production facilities “damaged or destroyed.”Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell called the CNN report “completely wrong.” He added that the US military has “delivered a crippling series of blows to the Iranian regime”.“We are far ahead of schedule on accomplishing our military objectives: destroy Iran’s missile arsenal, annihilate their Navy, destroy their terrorist proxies, and ensure Iran can never obtain a nuclear weapon,” Parnell said.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.

US intel reportedly suggests Iran still has half its missile launchers and thousands of drones, contradicting US President Donald Trump’s claims, as tensions continue to rise in West Asia.

Recent US intelligence has reportedly suggested that about half of Iran’s missile launchers and thousands of one-way attack drones still remain intact despite US and Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic over the last five weeks. The report comes amid repeated claims by US President Donald Trump, who said that Tehran’s attacking capability has been significantly reduced by US-Israeli attacks, which began on February 28. This comes as hostilities in West Asia continue to escalate, with strikes now targeting civilian infrastructure. According to a CNN report, citing people familiar with the intel, the US intelligence assessment may include launchers that remain inaccessible, like those buried underground by strikes but not destroyed yet. “They are still very much poised to wreak absolute havoc throughout the entire region,” one of the sources said of Iran. The intel also suggested that a large percentage of Iran’s coastal defence cruise missiles were intact. These missiles are believed to be allowing it to maintain its threat over the maritime traffic in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. While the US has not been focusing its air strikes on coastal military assets, they have been targeting ships. The intel contradicts the remarks made by Trump, who said that Iran is “getting decimated”. During his address to the nation on Wednesday (Apr 1), the US president said that Tehran’s “ability to launch missiles and drones is dramatically curtailed, and their weapons factories and rocket launchers are being blown to pieces, very few of them left.” US Central Command said that the American military has struck more than 12,300 targets inside Iran as of Wednesday. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has claimed that Iran attacks have dropped by 90 per cent, not giving details on what has been destroyed. During a press briefing on March 19, Hegseth said that “ballistic missile attacks against our forces, down 90 per cent since the start of the conflict, same with one-way attack UAVs, think kamikaze drones, down 90 per cent.” What did Trump administration say? In response to the report, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said that “anonymous sources desperately want to attack President Trump and demean the incredible work of our United States Military in achieving the goals of Operation Epic Fury.” She added that Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks are down 90 per cent, with their navy “wiped out” and two-thirds of their production facilities “damaged or destroyed.” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell called the CNN report “completely wrong.” He added that the US military has “delivered a crippling series of blows to the Iranian regime”. “We are far ahead of schedule on accomplishing our military objectives: destroy Iran’s missile arsenal, annihilate their Navy, destroy their terrorist proxies, and ensure Iran can never obtain a nuclear weapon,” Parnell said. 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.

US intel reportedly suggests Iran still has half its missile launchers and thousands of drones, contradicting US President Donald Trump’s claims, as tensions continue to rise in West Asia.

Is Iran’s military really ‘decimated’? Report claims US intel suggests otherwise

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 2) said that Iran is “eager” to make a deal with the United States even as Tehran continues to retaliate across the Gulf. Trump also boasted that American forces “blew up their three big bridges last night”. This comes after the American forces destroyed the Islamic Republic’s largest bridge.“Why wouldn’t they call? We just blew up their three big bridges last night,” Trump told TIME Magazine in an interview. “They’re getting decimated. They say Trump is not negotiating with Iran. I mean, it’s sort of an easy negotiation.”The US president has repeatedly claimed that the military campaign in Iran was “nearing its completion,” adding that the American forces would strike the Islamic Republic “extremely hard” over the next two to three weeks.<h2>Trump threatens Iran’s power plants</h2>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 2) warned to strike Iran’s electrical power plants, a day after American forces destroyed the Islamic Republic’s largest bridge. The US president hailed the “greatest” and “most powerful” military of his country, saying that they haven’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. He warned Tehran’s new regime, claiming that they know what has to be done.“Our Military, the greatest and most powerful (by far!) anywhere in the World, hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants! New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.Earlier on Wednesday (Apr 1), Trump threatened to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Ages” before the US-Israeli strikes hit a bridge in the northern town of Karaj that resulted in civilian casualties. Posting a video on his Truth Social account, Trump wrote that “the biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again”, ominously adding, “Much more to follow!” Trump further warned Iran to “make a deal before it is too late and there is nothing left of what still could become a great country.”<h2>What Trump said about Israel</h2>When asked about whether Israel would stop its military operations in Iran when the US stops the war, Trump said that they will “stop when [he stops]”. However, he added that they would stop unless “they’re provoked.”“They’ll do what I tell them. They’ve been a good team player. They’ll stop when I stop. They’ll stop unless they’re provoked, in which case, they’ll have no choice, but they’ll stop when I stop,” Trump said.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.

US President Donald Trump claimed Iran is eager for a deal after US strikes destroyed key bridges, and warned of attacks on power plants, vowing stronger action as tensions escalate with Iran.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 2) said that Iran is “eager” to make a deal with the United States even as Tehran continues to retaliate across the Gulf. Trump also boasted that American forces “blew up their three big bridges last night”. This comes after the American forces destroyed the Islamic Republic’s largest bridge. “Why wouldn’t they call? We just blew up their three big bridges last night,” Trump told TIME Magazine in an interview. “They’re getting decimated. They say Trump is not negotiating with Iran. I mean, it’s sort of an easy negotiation.” The US president has repeatedly claimed that the military campaign in Iran was “nearing its completion,” adding that the American forces would strike the Islamic Republic “extremely hard” over the next two to three weeks. Trump threatens Iran’s power plants US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 2) warned to strike Iran’s electrical power plants, a day after American forces destroyed the Islamic Republic’s largest bridge. The US president hailed the “greatest” and “most powerful” military of his country, saying that they haven’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. He warned Tehran’s new regime, claiming that they know what has to be done. “Our Military, the greatest and most powerful (by far!) anywhere in the World, hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants! New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform. Earlier on Wednesday (Apr 1), Trump threatened to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Ages” before the US-Israeli strikes hit a bridge in the northern town of Karaj that resulted in civilian casualties. Posting a video on his Truth Social account, Trump wrote that “the biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again”, ominously adding, “Much more to follow!” Trump further warned Iran to “make a deal before it is too late and there is nothing left of what still could become a great country.” What Trump said about Israel When asked about whether Israel would stop its military operations in Iran when the US stops the war, Trump said that they will “stop when [he stops]”. However, he added that they would stop unless “they’re provoked.” “They’ll do what I tell them. They’ve been a good team player. They’ll stop when I stop. They’ll stop unless they’re provoked, in which case, they’ll have no choice, but they’ll stop when I stop,” Trump said. 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.

US President Donald Trump claimed Iran is eager for a deal after US strikes destroyed key bridges, and warned of attacks on power plants, vowing stronger action as tensions escalate with Iran.

‘Easy negotiation’: Trump claims Iran ‘eager’ to make a deal after US ‘blew up their three big bridges’

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 2) warned to strike Iran’s electrical power plants, a day after American forces destroyed the Islamic Republic’s largest bridge. The US president hailed the “greatest” and “most powerful” military of his country, saying that they haven’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. He warned Tehran’s new regime, claiming that they know what has to be done.“Our Military, the greatest and most powerful (by far!) anywhere in the World, hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants! New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.Earlier on Wednesday (Apr 1), Trump threatened to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Ages” before the US-Israeli strikes hit a bridge in the northern town of Karaj that resulted in civilian casualties. Posting a video on his Truth Social account, Trump wrote that “the biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again”, ominously adding, “Much more to follow!” Trump further warned Iran to “make a deal before it is too late and there is nothing left of what still could become a great country.”The highway bridge, which connects Tehran to the western city of Karaj. The footage posted by Trump showed the structure erupting in flames and thick smoke following the attack. Israeli forces reportedly said they were not aware of the attack.As hostilities continue in West Asia, Iran retaliates against the US and Israel across the Gulf. In a recent warning, Iran threatened to strike major US companies in the region, including Microsoft, Apple, Google, Meta, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, Tesla, Nvidia, Intel, Palantir, JP Morgan, and Boeing.Iran has also blocked the strategic Strait of Hormuz, targeting vessels that are attempting to cross the waterway without prior approval from Tehran. This has triggered a global energy supply crisis and has significantly affected international trade. Trump has repeatedly called on European powers to help open the strait using force, expressing disappointment with NATO. Meanwhile, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Thursday (Apr 2) urged the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to authorise the use of force to protect the Strait of Hormuz from Iranian attacks.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.

US President Donald Trump warned of more strikes on Iran, targeting power plants after a deadly attack near Karaj, destroying the largest bridge, as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 2) warned to strike Iran’s electrical power plants, a day after American forces destroyed the Islamic Republic’s largest bridge. The US president hailed the “greatest” and “most powerful” military of his country, saying that they haven’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. He warned Tehran’s new regime, claiming that they know what has to be done. “Our Military, the greatest and most powerful (by far!) anywhere in the World, hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants! New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform. Earlier on Wednesday (Apr 1), Trump threatened to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Ages” before the US-Israeli strikes hit a bridge in the northern town of Karaj that resulted in civilian casualties. Posting a video on his Truth Social account, Trump wrote that “the biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again”, ominously adding, “Much more to follow!” Trump further warned Iran to “make a deal before it is too late and there is nothing left of what still could become a great country.” The highway bridge, which connects Tehran to the western city of Karaj. The footage posted by Trump showed the structure erupting in flames and thick smoke following the attack. Israeli forces reportedly said they were not aware of the attack. As hostilities continue in West Asia, Iran retaliates against the US and Israel across the Gulf. In a recent warning, Iran threatened to strike major US companies in the region, including Microsoft, Apple, Google, Meta, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, Tesla, Nvidia, Intel, Palantir, JP Morgan, and Boeing. Iran has also blocked the strategic Strait of Hormuz, targeting vessels that are attempting to cross the waterway without prior approval from Tehran. This has triggered a global energy supply crisis and has significantly affected international trade. Trump has repeatedly called on European powers to help open the strait using force, expressing disappointment with NATO. Meanwhile, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Thursday (Apr 2) urged the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to authorise the use of force to protect the Strait of Hormuz from Iranian attacks. 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.

US President Donald Trump warned of more strikes on Iran, targeting power plants after a deadly attack near Karaj, destroying the largest bridge, as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia.

‘Bridges next, then…’: Trump issues another BIG warning to Iran, threatens to strike Tehran’s infrastructure

As Tehran continues to retaliate across the Gulf, targeting US and Israeli targets, Iranian state media on Thursday (Apr 2) claimed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had targeted an Oracle data centre in Dubai. However, the Dubai Media Office denied the report, calling it “fake news”. This comes as the war in West Asia continues for over a month now, with civilian infrastructure being threatened by the strikes. In a recent threat, the IRGC warned that several major US companies in the Gulf could be targeted.A day earlier on Wednesday (Apr 1), the IRGC claimed responsibility for an attack on Amazon cloud computing center in Bahrain. In a statement, Bahrain’s interior ministry said that civil defence teams were extinguishing a fire at a company facility following an Iranian attack. Last week, the US tech giant reported “disruption” of its Amazon Web Services region amid the war in West Asia, marking the second time its operations were affected due to the conflict.<h2>Iran threatens to target US companies</h2>Earlier this week, the IRGC threatened to target 18 companies, including US tech firms, in the Gulf, warning their employees to leave their workplaces immediately. The list included US giants including Microsoft, Apple, Google, Meta, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, Tesla, Nvidia, Intel, Palantir, JP Morgan, and Boeing. Iran accused the companies of acting as “spies” for the US and helping in carrying out strikes.“These companies, starting from 8:00 pm (1630 GMT) Tehran time on Wednesday, April 1, should expect the destruction of their relevant units in exchange for every assassination in Iran,” the Guards said in a statement.<h2>Iran strikes industrial facilities in Gulf</h2>In a statement carried by state TV, the military’s central command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, said that IRGC launched a fresh wave of attacks in morning in response to the US-Israeli attacks on Iranian steel industries“American steel industries in Abu Dhabi, American aluminium industries in Bahrain, and the Rafael arms factories of the Zionist regime” were among a number of targets, it said.Tasnim news agency reported citing Revolutionary Guards’ navy command that data centres of Oracle in Dubai and Amazon in Bahrain were also targeted. However, Dubai authorities denied any such attack.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. &nbsp;

Iran claimed it struck an Oracle data centre in Dubai, but UAE authorities denied it as fake news. The West Asia war continues to escalate, raising concerns over attacks on civilian infrastructure.

As Tehran continues to retaliate across the Gulf, targeting US and Israeli targets, Iranian state media on Thursday (Apr 2) claimed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had targeted an Oracle data centre in Dubai. However, the Dubai Media Office denied the report, calling it “fake news”. This comes as the war in West Asia continues for over a month now, with civilian infrastructure being threatened by the strikes. In a recent threat, the IRGC warned that several major US companies in the Gulf could be targeted. A day earlier on Wednesday (Apr 1), the IRGC claimed responsibility for an attack on Amazon cloud computing center in Bahrain. In a statement, Bahrain’s interior ministry said that civil defence teams were extinguishing a fire at a company facility following an Iranian attack. Last week, the US tech giant reported “disruption” of its Amazon Web Services region amid the war in West Asia, marking the second time its operations were affected due to the conflict. Iran threatens to target US companies Earlier this week, the IRGC threatened to target 18 companies, including US tech firms, in the Gulf, warning their employees to leave their workplaces immediately. The list included US giants including Microsoft, Apple, Google, Meta, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, Tesla, Nvidia, Intel, Palantir, JP Morgan, and Boeing. Iran accused the companies of acting as “spies” for the US and helping in carrying out strikes. “These companies, starting from 8:00 pm (1630 GMT) Tehran time on Wednesday, April 1, should expect the destruction of their relevant units in exchange for every assassination in Iran,” the Guards said in a statement. Iran strikes industrial facilities in Gulf In a statement carried by state TV, the military’s central command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, said that IRGC launched a fresh wave of attacks in morning in response to the US-Israeli attacks on Iranian steel industries “American steel industries in Abu Dhabi, American aluminium industries in Bahrain, and the Rafael arms factories of the Zionist regime” were among a number of targets, it said. Tasnim news agency reported citing Revolutionary Guards’ navy command that data centres of Oracle in Dubai and Amazon in Bahrain were also targeted. However, Dubai authorities denied any such attack. 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.

Iran claimed it struck an Oracle data centre in Dubai, but UAE authorities denied it as fake news. The West Asia war continues to escalate, raising concerns over attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Fact Check: Did Iran strike Oracle data centre in Dubai? What UAE said

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States will be “out of Iran pretty quickly” and could return for “spot hits” if needed. Just hours before he was scheduled to make a primetime address to the nation, President Trump told Reuters in a phone interview that one element of his speech would be to express his disgust with NATO for what he considers the alliance’s lack of support for US objectives in Iran.Trump said he is “absolutely” considering withdrawing the United States from NATO, a treaty organisation ratified by the US Senate in 1949.“They haven’t been friends when we needed them,” Trump said. “We’ve never asked them for much ... it’s a one-way street.”&nbsp;With the war in its fifth week, Trump is under pressure for an off-ramp amid rising gasoline prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;When asked in the phone interview with Reuters when the United States would consider the Iran war over, Trump said, “I can’t tell you exactly .... we’re going to be out pretty quickly.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-troops-will-be-good-food-for-persian-gulf-sharks-iran-again-warns-against-ground-assault-1774813142373">‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault</a><h2>‘US action has ensured Iran will not have a nuclear weapon’</h2>&nbsp;President Donald Trump said that the US action has ensured Iran will not have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;“They won’t have a nuclear weapon because they are incapable of that ⁠now, and then I’ll leave, and I’ll take everybody with me, and if we have to we’ll come back to do spot hits,” Trump said.Iran claims its nuclear programme is peaceful and denies wanting to develop a nuclear weapon.“They won’t have a nuclear weapon because they are incapable of that now, and then I’ll leave, and I’ll take everybody with me, and if we have ⁠to we’ll come back to do spot hits,” Trump said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-terror-nexus-unmasked-pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-s-aide-spotted-with-hafiz-saeed-s-son-talha-1775048052015">Political-terror nexus unmasked: Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif’s aide spotted with Hafiz Saeed’s son Talha</a><h2>‘We have had full regime change’</h2>&nbsp;Trump also said that he hopes that he can strike a deal with the new leaders in Iran after airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.“We have had full regime change,” he said. “I’m dealing with a very good chance that ⁠we’ll make a deal because they don’t want to be blasted anymore.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-macron-and-pm-takaichi-strike-iconic-kamehameha-pose-at-tokyo-summit-1775051821838">President Macron and PM Takaichi strike iconic ‘Kamehameha’ pose at Tokyo summit</a>&nbsp;“I didn’t need regime change, but we got it because of the casualties of war. We got it. So we have regime change and the big thing we have ⁠is they’re not going to have a nuclear weapon,” said Trump, adding, “Nor do they want one.”As for the enriched uranium still with Iran, Trump said, “That’s so far underground, I don’t care about that.”“We’ll always be watching it by satellite,” he said.

President Donald Trump said that he hopes that he can strike a deal with the new leaders in Iran after airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The US president said he is dealing with a very good chance of making a deal because the new Iran leaders don’t want to be blasted anymore.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States will be “out of Iran pretty quickly” and could return for “spot hits” if needed. Just hours before he was scheduled to make a primetime address to the nation, President Trump told Reuters in a phone interview that one element of his speech would be to express his disgust with NATO for what he considers the alliance’s lack of support for US objectives in Iran. Trump said he is “absolutely” considering withdrawing the United States from NATO, a treaty organisation ratified by the US Senate in 1949. “They haven’t been friends when we needed them,” Trump said. “We’ve never asked them for much ... it’s a one-way street.” With the war in its fifth week, Trump is under pressure for an off-ramp amid rising gasoline prices. When asked in the phone interview with Reuters when the United States would consider the Iran war over, Trump said, “I can’t tell you exactly .... we’re going to be out pretty quickly.” Also Read: ‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault ‘US action has ensured Iran will not have a nuclear weapon’ President Donald Trump said that the US action has ensured Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. “They won’t have a nuclear weapon because they are incapable of that ⁠now, and then I’ll leave, and I’ll take everybody with me, and if we have to we’ll come back to do spot hits,” Trump said. Iran claims its nuclear programme is peaceful and denies wanting to develop a nuclear weapon. “They won’t have a nuclear weapon because they are incapable of that now, and then I’ll leave, and I’ll take everybody with me, and if we have ⁠to we’ll come back to do spot hits,” Trump said. Also Read: Political-terror nexus unmasked: Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif’s aide spotted with Hafiz Saeed’s son Talha ‘We have had full regime change’ Trump also said that he hopes that he can strike a deal with the new leaders in Iran after airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. “We have had full regime change,” he said. “I’m dealing with a very good chance that ⁠we’ll make a deal because they don’t want to be blasted anymore.” Also Read: President Macron and PM Takaichi strike iconic ‘Kamehameha’ pose at Tokyo summit “I didn’t need regime change, but we got it because of the casualties of war. We got it. So we have regime change and the big thing we have ⁠is they’re not going to have a nuclear weapon,” said Trump, adding, “Nor do they want one.” As for the enriched uranium still with Iran, Trump said, “That’s so far underground, I don’t care about that.” “We’ll always be watching it by satellite,” he said.

President Donald Trump said that he hopes that he can strike a deal with the new leaders in Iran after airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The US president said he is dealing with a very good chance of making a deal because the new Iran leaders don’t want to be blasted anymore.

Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has begun to ripple through an unlikely sector in India, with disruptions in petrochemical supply chains affecting the country’s ₹8,000 crore condom manufacturing industry. India’s over $860 million condom market, which produces more than 400 crore units annually, is facing mounting pressure as shortages of key raw materials and rising input costs threaten production and supply. Industry leaders, including state-run HLL Lifecare Ltd, Mankind Pharma Ltd and Cupid Ltd, are grappling with the fallout.<h2>How are condoms made?</h2>The manufacturing of condoms depends heavily on two critical inputs - silicone oil and ammonia. Silicone oil, a key lubricant used in production, is currently in short supply, triggering uncertainty across the market. At the same time, ammonia, essential for stabilising raw latex, is expected to see price increases of 40 to 50 per cent, significantly raising production costs.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-iran-war-escalates-red-sea-cable-threat-raises-fear-of-internet-disruption-in-india-1774877905277">As US-Iran war escalates, Red Sea cable threat raises fear of internet disruption in India</a>&nbsp;As per The Indian Express, an official from a condom manufacturing firm said supply constraints and price volatility in inputs such as PVC foil, aluminium foil and packaging materials have disrupted production and order execution. Logistics bottlenecks linked to the regional conflict have compounded these challenges.&nbsp;“A price increase of 40–50 per cent is expected for ammonia, which is essential for condom production. There has been a significant rise in the price of silicone oil, leading to uncertainty in the market,” the official told the newspaper.<h2>Broader impact of supply crisis</h2>Industry bodies have acknowledged the broader impact of the crisis. Jatish N Sheth of the Karnataka Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers Association told the news outlet that any product reliant on petrochemicals is being affected. “We are definitely impacted, but we need to assess the extent and depth of the impact on the industry,” he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-yemen-war-missile-fired-from-yemen-toward-israel-as-middle-east-tensions-rise-1775018679674/amp">Israel-Yemen War: Missile Fired From Yemen Toward Israel As Middle East Tensions Rise</a>&nbsp;The situation may worsen as the government reprioritises resource allocation. During an inter-ministerial briefing on March 11, officials indicated that petrochemical units could face a 35 per cent reduction in resource allocation to safeguard higher-priority sectors, further tightening supply for products such as condoms.

The West Asia conflict has disrupted petrochemical supplies, causing shortages and price spikes in silicone oil and ammonia. This threatens India’s ₹8,000 crore condom industry, impacting production and logistics.

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has begun to ripple through an unlikely sector in India, with disruptions in petrochemical supply chains affecting the country’s ₹8,000 crore condom manufacturing industry. India’s over $860 million condom market, which produces more than 400 crore units annually, is facing mounting pressure as shortages of key raw materials and rising input costs threaten production and supply. Industry leaders, including state-run HLL Lifecare Ltd, Mankind Pharma Ltd and Cupid Ltd, are grappling with the fallout. How are condoms made? The manufacturing of condoms depends heavily on two critical inputs - silicone oil and ammonia. Silicone oil, a key lubricant used in production, is currently in short supply, triggering uncertainty across the market. At the same time, ammonia, essential for stabilising raw latex, is expected to see price increases of 40 to 50 per cent, significantly raising production costs. Also read: As US-Iran war escalates, Red Sea cable threat raises fear of internet disruption in India As per The Indian Express, an official from a condom manufacturing firm said supply constraints and price volatility in inputs such as PVC foil, aluminium foil and packaging materials have disrupted production and order execution. Logistics bottlenecks linked to the regional conflict have compounded these challenges. “A price increase of 40–50 per cent is expected for ammonia, which is essential for condom production. There has been a significant rise in the price of silicone oil, leading to uncertainty in the market,” the official told the newspaper. Broader impact of supply crisis Industry bodies have acknowledged the broader impact of the crisis. Jatish N Sheth of the Karnataka Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers Association told the news outlet that any product reliant on petrochemicals is being affected. “We are definitely impacted, but we need to assess the extent and depth of the impact on the industry,” he said. Also read: Israel-Yemen War: Missile Fired From Yemen Toward Israel As Middle East Tensions Rise The situation may worsen as the government reprioritises resource allocation. During an inter-ministerial briefing on March 11, officials indicated that petrochemical units could face a 35 per cent reduction in resource allocation to safeguard higher-priority sectors, further tightening supply for products such as condoms.

The West Asia conflict has disrupted petrochemical supplies, causing shortages and price spikes in silicone oil and ammonia. This threatens India’s ₹8,000 crore condom industry, impacting production and logistics.

Disruption in petrochemical supply amid Iran war hits India’s ₹8,000 crore condom industry

In a rare public appearance, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were seen joining a rally to mark the celebrations of Islamic Republic Day on Tuesday (Mar 31) night in Tehran. Their appearance, alongside senior officials, came at the time of the ongoing war with the US and Israel, which has been going on for a month now. In response, Tehran has retaliated across the Gulf, targeting US and Israeli targets.Araghchi and Pezeshkian were seen interacting with Iranians in the streets of Tehran without visible security. They were also seen stopping to take selfies with some. Their public appearance came despite a continued threat of assassination by the US and Israel.In the video, which quickly went viral on social media, Araghchi is seen interacting with the crowd. When asked why he joined the rally, the Iranian leader replied, “I came to be among them, to draw energy from the movement on the ground and to enjoy this unity and popular cohesion.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dr. Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, attended a nighttime gathering on the eve of Islamic Republic Day, expressing gratitude to the people and saying: “I’ve come to draw strength from your spirit.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IslamicRepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IslamicRepublicDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/hX9PtiIztv">pic.twitter.com/hX9PtiIztv</a>&mdash; Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2039150451405586920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>When were Iranian leaders last seen in public?</h2>The last time Pezeshkian and Araghchi were seen in public was on Iranian Quds Day. They made an appearance along with Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani, who was killed just days later his was seen in the streets of Tehran.Since the beginning of the war, the US and Israeli troops have targeted several top officials of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Larijani, and others.<h2>When will the war end?</h2>On Tuesday (Apr 1), Araghchi said that he received messages from US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Although he insisted that the communication did not constitute negotiations.“I receive messages from Witkoff directly, as before, and this does not mean that we are in negotiations,” he told Al Jazeera. “We do not have any faith that negotiations with the US will yield any results. The trust level is at zero.”On Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump said that the United States could end its military operation against Iran within “two to three weeks”. Despite warning Iran of a deal soon, Trump, in what may now be called a change in tone, said that Tehran does not have to make a deal as a condition for the war ending.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.&nbsp;

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a rare public appearance in Tehran amid war, signalling unity as hostilities continue with the United States and Israel.

In a rare public appearance, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were seen joining a rally to mark the celebrations of Islamic Republic Day on Tuesday (Mar 31) night in Tehran. Their appearance, alongside senior officials, came at the time of the ongoing war with the US and Israel, which has been going on for a month now. In response, Tehran has retaliated across the Gulf, targeting US and Israeli targets. Araghchi and Pezeshkian were seen interacting with Iranians in the streets of Tehran without visible security. They were also seen stopping to take selfies with some. Their public appearance came despite a continued threat of assassination by the US and Israel. In the video, which quickly went viral on social media, Araghchi is seen interacting with the crowd. When asked why he joined the rally, the Iranian leader replied, “I came to be among them, to draw energy from the movement on the ground and to enjoy this unity and popular cohesion.”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a rare public appearance in Tehran amid war, signalling unity as hostilities continue with the United States and Israel.

WATCH | Iranian President Pezeshkian, FM Araghchi make rare public appearance amid war

The head of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission on Wednesday (Apr 1) issued a stark warning to US President Donald Trump, saying that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed for the United States. In a statement, Ebrahim Azizi said that the strategic waterway will “certainly” be reopened, but “not for Trump”. This comes as US and Israeli forces continue to strike Iran, with Tehran retaliating across the Gulf and blocking the Strait of Hormuz.In a post on X, Azizi mocked Trump saying that he has reached the dream of “regime change” but in the regime of the region’s seas, referring to the Strait of Hormuz. He added that the waterway will be opened for those who follow new rules of Iran.“Finally, Trump has reached the dream of ‘regime change,’ but in the regime of the region's seas!” he said.“The Strait of Hormuz will certainly be opened; but not for you! For those who follow the new rules of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he added. “The 47-year era of hospitality is over.”<h2>Trump claims to end the war in ‘two to three weeks’</h2>On Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump said that the United States could end its military operation against Iran within “two to three weeks”. Despite warning Iran of a deal soon, Trump, in what may now be called a change in tone, said that Tehran does not have to make a deal as a condition for the war ending.Meanwhile, a Washington Post report on Tuesday (Mar 31) suggested that Trump told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. Reportedly, the US president 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.The report contradicts Trump’s earlier statement on March 29, when he said that the US could reopen the strait in minutes. He also claimed that Iran is on the verge of accepting his 15-point peace plan, which includes the opening of Hormuz.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.

An Iranian lawmaker warned that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen, but “not for Trump” amid war. Meanwhile, Trump claims the conflict could end in weeks despite the rising tensions in West Asia.

The head of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission on Wednesday (Apr 1) issued a stark warning to US President Donald Trump, saying that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed for the United States. In a statement, Ebrahim Azizi said that the strategic waterway will “certainly” be reopened, but “not for Trump”. This comes as US and Israeli forces continue to strike Iran, with Tehran retaliating across the Gulf and blocking the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on X, Azizi mocked Trump saying that he has reached the dream of “regime change” but in the regime of the region’s seas, referring to the Strait of Hormuz. He added that the waterway will be opened for those who follow new rules of Iran. “Finally, Trump has reached the dream of ‘regime change,’ but in the regime of the region's seas!” he said. “The Strait of Hormuz will certainly be opened; but not for you! For those who follow the new rules of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he added. “The 47-year era of hospitality is over.” Trump claims to end the war in ‘two to three weeks’ On Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump said that the United States could end its military operation against Iran within “two to three weeks”. Despite warning Iran of a deal soon, Trump, in what may now be called a change in tone, said that Tehran does not have to make a deal as a condition for the war ending. Meanwhile, a Washington Post report on Tuesday (Mar 31) suggested that Trump told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. Reportedly, the US president 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. The report contradicts Trump’s earlier statement on March 29, when he said that the US could reopen the strait in minutes. He also claimed that Iran is on the verge of accepting his 15-point peace plan, which includes the opening of Hormuz. 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.

An Iranian lawmaker warned that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen, but “not for Trump” amid war. Meanwhile, Trump claims the conflict could end in weeks despite the rising tensions in West Asia.

‘Strait of Hormuz will be opened, but not for Trump’: Iranian lawmaker slams US president amid war

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during a press conference on Wednesday (April 1), said that NATO is "the single most effective military alliance that the world has ever seen" and that it has "kept us safe for many decades". He said that the UK is "fully committed" to NATO. His statement came in response to the ongoing clashes between NATO and the US in the backdrop of the Iran war. He added that "whatever they pressure on me and others, whatever the noise, I'm going to act in the British national interest in all teh decisions that I make".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/power-shift-in-iran-not-mojtaba-khamenei-irgc-assumes-de-facto-control-amid-war-with-us-israel-1775025649170">Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;"...It's been absolutely clear. That this is not our war. And we are not going to be dragged into it. And I'm equally clear that when it comes to defence security, and our economic future, we have to have closer ties with Europe," the British PM told the reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-not-our-war-we-aren-t-going-to-be-dragged-into-it-starmer-on-us-vs-nato-amid-iran-war-1775036357616">'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war</a>&nbsp;The PM also said that the UK will host a meeting of about 35 countries this week to discuss how to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz - which has been crippled by the Iran war. He said that the meeting will “assess all viable diplomatic and political measures that we can take to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers and resume the movement of vital commodities”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-m-going-trump-hints-he-could-become-first-sitting-us-president-to-attend-supreme-court-hearing-1775031635367">‘I’m going’: Trump hints he could become first sitting US president to attend Supreme Court hearing</a>&nbsp;"The conflict in the Middle East has now entered a second month. And while we're working at pace for de-escalation and peace, it is now clear that the impact of this war will affect the future of our country. So today, I want to reassure the British people that no matter how fierce this storm, we are well-placed to weather it, and that we have a long-term plan to emerge from it , a stronger, a more secure nation,” Starmer said.&nbsp;

UK PM Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK NATO commitment while asserting national interest. He explicitly declined involvement in the Iran-US conflict, instead prioritising closer security and economic ties with Europe.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during a press conference on Wednesday (April 1), said that NATO is "the single most effective military alliance that the world has ever seen" and that it has "kept us safe for many decades". He said that the UK is "fully committed" to NATO. His statement came in response to the ongoing clashes between NATO and the US in the backdrop of the Iran war. He added that "whatever they pressure on me and others, whatever the noise, I'm going to act in the British national interest in all teh decisions that I make". Also read: Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel "...It's been absolutely clear. That this is not our war. And we are not going to be dragged into it. And I'm equally clear that when it comes to defence security, and our economic future, we have to have closer ties with Europe," the British PM told the reporters. Also read: 'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war The PM also said that the UK will host a meeting of about 35 countries this week to discuss how to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz - which has been crippled by the Iran war. He said that the meeting will “assess all viable diplomatic and political measures that we can take to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers and resume the movement of vital commodities”. Also read: ‘I’m going’: Trump hints he could become first sitting US president to attend Supreme Court hearing "The conflict in the Middle East has now entered a second month. And while we're working at pace for de-escalation and peace, it is now clear that the impact of this war will affect the future of our country. So today, I want to reassure the British people that no matter how fierce this storm, we are well-placed to weather it, and that we have a long-term plan to emerge from it , a stronger, a more secure nation,” Starmer said.

UK PM Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK's NATO commitment while asserting national interest. He explicitly declined involvement in the Iran-US conflict, instead prioritising closer security and economic ties with Europe.

'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly willing to join the war in West Asia and is preparing to assist the United States and other allies in reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force. The move would make the UAE the first Gulf country to directly engage in the conflict that has been going on for a month now. This comes as Iran continues to retaliate against the UAE and other Gulf nations in response to the US and Israeli attacks.The Wall Street Journal reported, citing Arab officials, that the UAE is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution that would authorise such action. It added that Emirati diplomats have called on the military powers in the US, Europe, and Asia to form a coalition to open the strategic strait by force. The officials said that the Iranian regime believes it is fighting for its existence and is willing to bring the global economy down with it in a chokehold on the strait.<h2>Iran threatens the UAE</h2>In recent weeks, Iran has launched several missiles and drone attacks on the Emirates, with nearly 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones on Tuesday. Tehran has warned that it would target the civilian infrastructure of any Gulf nation that supports any operation to seize its territory.Since the war began, Iran has sent nearly 2,500 missiles and drones to the UAE, more than any other country, including Israel. Tehran has targeted hotels, airports, oil refineries and other infrastructure in the country.<h2>Will the UAE join the war?</h2>WSJ reported, citing Gulf officials, that the country’s position on the war has now been changed. Before the war started, the UAE viewed Iran as a difficult neighbour with a logic to its political positions. But now the war has revealed a very different regime that was trying to sow panic with strikes on hotels and airports in Dubai, it added.The report added that the UAE believes that Asian and European nations, which are currently hesitant, may participate in efforts to open the strait if the UNSC approves. However, Russia and China would veto the resolution. Although the Gulf officials have said that the UAE would still be prepared to join the military efforts, which could include mine clearance and other forms of support.In a statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry pointed to a separate resolution passed by the UN that condemned Iranian attacks on its cities, along with another made by the UN International Maritime Organization, condemning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry said that there is “broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved.”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 United Arab Emirates may reportedly enter the Iran war, pushing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, as Tehran intensifies missile attacks and warns of wider escalation.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly willing to join the war in West Asia and is preparing to assist the United States and other allies in reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force. The move would make the UAE the first Gulf country to directly engage in the conflict that has been going on for a month now. This comes as Iran continues to retaliate against the UAE and other Gulf nations in response to the US and Israeli attacks. The Wall Street Journal reported, citing Arab officials, that the UAE is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution that would authorise such action. It added that Emirati diplomats have called on the military powers in the US, Europe, and Asia to form a coalition to open the strategic strait by force. The officials said that the Iranian regime believes it is fighting for its existence and is willing to bring the global economy down with it in a chokehold on the strait. Iran threatens the UAE In recent weeks, Iran has launched several missiles and drone attacks on the Emirates, with nearly 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones on Tuesday. Tehran has warned that it would target the civilian infrastructure of any Gulf nation that supports any operation to seize its territory. Since the war began, Iran has sent nearly 2,500 missiles and drones to the UAE, more than any other country, including Israel. Tehran has targeted hotels, airports, oil refineries and other infrastructure in the country. Will the UAE join the war? WSJ reported, citing Gulf officials, that the country’s position on the war has now been changed. Before the war started, the UAE viewed Iran as a difficult neighbour with a logic to its political positions. But now the war has revealed a very different regime that was trying to sow panic with strikes on hotels and airports in Dubai, it added. The report added that the UAE believes that Asian and European nations, which are currently hesitant, may participate in efforts to open the strait if the UNSC approves. However, Russia and China would veto the resolution. Although the Gulf officials have said that the UAE would still be prepared to join the military efforts, which could include mine clearance and other forms of support. In a statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry pointed to a separate resolution passed by the UN that condemned Iranian attacks on its cities, along with another made by the UN International Maritime Organization, condemning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry said that there is “broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved.” 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 United Arab Emirates may reportedly enter the Iran war, pushing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, as Tehran intensifies missile attacks and warns of wider escalation.

UAE to join Iran war? Report claims Gulf nation to help US, allies force open Strait of Hormuz

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Sunday (March 29) thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending an emergency fuel shipment to ease supply disruptions in the island nation triggered by the West Asia conflict.&nbsp;A consignment of 38,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fuel, &nbsp;including 20,000 MT of diesel and 18,000 MT of petrol, reached Colombo on Saturday. The shipment arrived as part of emergency support through the local operations of Indian Oil Corporation via Lanka IOC.&nbsp;“Spoke with PM @narendramodi a few days ago about the fuel supply disruptions Sri Lanka is facing due to the Middle East conflict. Grateful for India’s swift support. 38,000 MT of fuel arrived in Colombo yesterday,” Dissanayake posted on X.&nbsp;The Sri Lankan President also thanked External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for his support. “My thanks also to EAM @DrSJaishankar for his close coordination”, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sri Lanka’s Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa hailed India’s ‘Neighbourhood First policy’ and called for the country’s government to consider a model similar to India’s recent fuel tax adjustment.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Spoke with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> a few days ago about the fuel supply disruptions Sri Lanka is facing due to the Middle East conflict. Grateful for India’s swift support. 38,000 MT of fuel arrived in Colombo yesterday. My thanks also to EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> for his close coordination.&mdash; Anura Kumara Dissanayake (@anuradisanayake) <a href="https://twitter.com/anuradisanayake/status/2038161871027749214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"Prime Minister Modi and the people of India once again uphold the Neighbourhood First policy through the timely shipment of 38,000 tonnes of petroleum to Sri Lanka," Rajapaksa said in a post on X, adding that the nation has consistently stood as Sri Lanka’s first responder in times of crisis, from critical supplies to economic assistance, which is a true reflection of its Neighbourhood First policy.&nbsp;Citing India’s recent change in fuel excise policy, he called upon the Sri Lankan government to consider a model similar to India’s recent fuel tax adjustment. "India reduced excise duty not to lower prices immediately, but to stabilise the market and prevent further increases during global oil price shocks," he noted.&nbsp;"As Sri Lanka moves forward, the government must also strengthen its own economic policies. While fiscal discipline is important, reducing excessive tax burdens, as seen in India’s more growth-oriented approach, could help stimulate investment, ease pressure on citizens, and support long-term recovery," the MP said.&nbsp;Sri Lanka continues to face a deepening energy crisis as the ongoing West Asia conflict disrupts global fuel supplies. The government has rationed fuel and introduced a four-day working week in the state sector as a measure to conserve energy.&nbsp;Most state institutions, schools and universities have shifted to reduced schedules, while transport services have seen lower activity. Banks are operating on shorter hours, and several private firms have adopted work-from-home arrangements to curb energy use.&nbsp;Fuel prices in the country have already risen sharply after strikes involving the United States and Israel on Iran escalated tensions, triggering retaliatory attacks that have disrupted global energy supplies. The conflict intensified in the second week of March as attacks targeted energy assets, including oil tankers, refineries and LNG facilities.

A consignment of 38,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fuel,  including 20,000 MT of diesel and 18,000 MT of petrol, reached Colombo on Saturday. 

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Sunday (March 29) thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending an emergency fuel shipment to ease supply disruptions in the island nation triggered by the West Asia conflict. A consignment of 38,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fuel, including 20,000 MT of diesel and 18,000 MT of petrol, reached Colombo on Saturday. The shipment arrived as part of emergency support through the local operations of Indian Oil Corporation via Lanka IOC. “Spoke with PM @narendramodi a few days ago about the fuel supply disruptions Sri Lanka is facing due to the Middle East conflict. Grateful for India’s swift support. 38,000 MT of fuel arrived in Colombo yesterday,” Dissanayake posted on X. The Sri Lankan President also thanked External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for his support. “My thanks also to EAM @DrSJaishankar for his close coordination”, he said. Sri Lanka’s Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa hailed India’s ‘Neighbourhood First policy’ and called for the country’s government to consider a model similar to India’s recent fuel tax adjustment.

A consignment of 38,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fuel, &nbsp;including 20,000 MT of diesel and 18,000 MT of petrol, reached Colombo on Saturday.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Dissanayake thanks PM Modi as India sends 38,000 MT emergency fuel

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (Mar 29) slammed Israel over the killing of three journalists in Lebanon. This comes a day after three journalists, including a well-known reporter for Hezbollah’s Al Manar network, lost their lives in south Lebanon. In a statement on his official Telegram channel, Araghchi said the killings amounted to “targeted assassination" and “flagrant violation of international law”.The Israeli military confirmed the killing of Ali Shoeib, Al Manar correspondent, accusing him of having links to Hezbollah and operating under the guise of a journalist. They alleged that he had been providing intelligence on Israeli troop positions.In a statement, the Israeli military said that it targeted Shoeib because he “operated within the Hezbollah terrorist organization under the guise of a journalist for the Al Manar network, while operating systematically to expose the locations of IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon and along the border.”According to an AFP report, citing a Lebanese military source, Shoeib and Fatima Ftouni of Al Mayadeen, seen as close to the Iran-backed movement, were killed in Jezzine. Ftouni’s brother, a cameraman, was also killed. Al Mayadeen and Al Manar have confirmed the deaths of their journalists.Lebanese authorities earlier denounced the attack as a “war crime”. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called the killings “a blatant crime that violates all the norms and treaties under which journalists enjoy international protection in wars.” Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Information Minister Paul Morcos also condemned the attack, calling it a serious breach of international humanitarian law.According to Lebanese authorities, at least 46 rescuers and five medical staff have been killed in the war. This came after Hezbollah joined the war in West Asia, striking Israel. In retaliation, Israel launched airstrikes and sent its troops to south Lebanon.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.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned Israel over the killing of journalists in Lebanon, calling it a violation of international law.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (Mar 29) slammed Israel over the killing of three journalists in Lebanon. This comes a day after three journalists, including a well-known reporter for Hezbollah’s Al Manar network, lost their lives in south Lebanon. In a statement on his official Telegram channel, Araghchi said the killings amounted to “targeted assassination" and “flagrant violation of international law”. The Israeli military confirmed the killing of Ali Shoeib, Al Manar correspondent, accusing him of having links to Hezbollah and operating under the guise of a journalist. They alleged that he had been providing intelligence on Israeli troop positions. In a statement, the Israeli military said that it targeted Shoeib because he “operated within the Hezbollah terrorist organization under the guise of a journalist for the Al Manar network, while operating systematically to expose the locations of IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon and along the border.” According to an AFP report, citing a Lebanese military source, Shoeib and Fatima Ftouni of Al Mayadeen, seen as close to the Iran-backed movement, were killed in Jezzine. Ftouni’s brother, a cameraman, was also killed. Al Mayadeen and Al Manar have confirmed the deaths of their journalists. Lebanese authorities earlier denounced the attack as a “war crime”. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called the killings “a blatant crime that violates all the norms and treaties under which journalists enjoy international protection in wars.” Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Information Minister Paul Morcos also condemned the attack, calling it a serious breach of international humanitarian law. According to Lebanese authorities, at least 46 rescuers and five medical staff have been killed in the war. This came after Hezbollah joined the war in West Asia, striking Israel. In retaliation, Israel launched airstrikes and sent its troops to south Lebanon. 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.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned Israel over the killing of journalists in Lebanon, calling it a violation of international law.

‘Targeted assassination’: Iran FM Araghchi slams Israel after three journalists killed in Lebanon

After month long inconclusive war in West Asia, the US is now preparing for ground offensive in Iran to dismatle the regime. According to a report, the Pentagon is preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran. However, the report says that it won't be a full-scale invasion and instead focus on targeted raids involving a mix of Special Operations units and regular infantry. This comes as United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that a task force of around 3,500 Marines and sailors has reached West Asia. Though, Trump has paused airstrikes on Iran and has sent his 15-point peace proposal, Iran has said that it won't negotiate. However, it has exchanged messages via “friendly countries.”<h2>What's Pentagon's plan of ground ops?</h2>The Washington Post report quoted US officials without naming them that Pentagon's ground offensive include possible seizure of Kharg Island, &nbsp;raids into other coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz and destruction of weapons that can target commercial and military shipping. One person said that the objectives under consideration would probably take “weeks, not months” to complete. Another put the potential timeline at “a couple of months.” The report stated that it was still unclear whether Trump would approve all, some or none of the Pentagon’s plans.&nbsp;It must be recalled that Trump, speaking March 20 in the Oval Office, told reporters: “I’m not putting troops anywhere. If I were, I certainly wouldn’t tell you, but I’m not putting troops.” However, his press secretary Karoline leavitt warned Iran saying that if the proposal of peace is not accepted, then Trump would “prepared to unleash hell” against Iran. She also said, "It’s the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality. It does not mean the President has made a decision.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in France, told reporters that it is “not going to be a prolonged conflict.” He also said that the United States “can achieve all of our objectives without ground troops.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-irgc-issues-ultimatum-to-us-universities-in-west-asia-after-attack-on-campuses-in-tehran-1774741664288">'By 12 noon...': Iran issues ultimatum to US universities in West Asia after attack on campuses in Tehran</a><h2>Iran issues warning</h2>Iran’s English-language daily, the Tehran Times, carried a warning to Washington under the headline ‘Welcome To Hell’ on its front page on Saturday. The daily said that any US troops who set foot on Iranian soil in case of a ground invasion will “leave only in a coffin”. The warning comes a day after US media reported that the United States is considering the deployment of up to 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East. According to the Wall Street Journal, the extra troops would join thousands of paratroopers and Marines who have already been sent to the area and will give Trump a wider range of military options. An Iranian official had said that Tehran would respond to any American ground invasion by activating its Houthi allies in Yemen, who would be instructed to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-launch-second-missile-attack-on-israel-as-yemeni-group-enter-iran-israel-us-war-1774733978022/amp">Houthis launch second missile attack on Israel as Yemeni group enter Iran-Israel-US war</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.

The Pentagon is preparing for possible limited ground operations in Iran as U.S. troop presence grows, though Donald Trump has not made a final call. Plans may include raids and coastal strikes amid rising risks, casualties, and political divisions.

After month long inconclusive war in West Asia, the US is now preparing for ground offensive in Iran to dismatle the regime. According to a report, the Pentagon is preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran. However, the report says that it won't be a full-scale invasion and instead focus on targeted raids involving a mix of Special Operations units and regular infantry. This comes as United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that a task force of around 3,500 Marines and sailors has reached West Asia. Though, Trump has paused airstrikes on Iran and has sent his 15-point peace proposal, Iran has said that it won't negotiate. However, it has exchanged messages via “friendly countries.” What's Pentagon's plan of ground ops? The Washington Post report quoted US officials without naming them that Pentagon's ground offensive include possible seizure of Kharg Island, raids into other coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz and destruction of weapons that can target commercial and military shipping. One person said that the objectives under consideration would probably take “weeks, not months” to complete. Another put the potential timeline at “a couple of months.” The report stated that it was still unclear whether Trump would approve all, some or none of the Pentagon’s plans. It must be recalled that Trump, speaking March 20 in the Oval Office, told reporters: “I’m not putting troops anywhere. If I were, I certainly wouldn’t tell you, but I’m not putting troops.” However, his press secretary Karoline leavitt warned Iran saying that if the proposal of peace is not accepted, then Trump would “prepared to unleash hell” against Iran. She also said, "It’s the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality. It does not mean the President has made a decision.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in France, told reporters that it is “not going to be a prolonged conflict.” He also said that the United States “can achieve all of our objectives without ground troops.” Also Read: 'By 12 noon...': Iran issues ultimatum to US universities in West Asia after attack on campuses in Tehran Iran issues warning Iran’s English-language daily, the Tehran Times, carried a warning to Washington under the headline ‘Welcome To Hell’ on its front page on Saturday. The daily said that any US troops who set foot on Iranian soil in case of a ground invasion will “leave only in a coffin”. The warning comes a day after US media reported that the United States is considering the deployment of up to 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East. According to the Wall Street Journal, the extra troops would join thousands of paratroopers and Marines who have already been sent to the area and will give Trump a wider range of military options. An Iranian official had said that Tehran would respond to any American ground invasion by activating its Houthi allies in Yemen, who would be instructed to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Also Read: Houthis launch second missile attack on Israel as Yemeni group enter Iran-Israel-US 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.

The Pentagon is preparing for possible limited ground operations in Iran as U.S. troop presence grows, though Donald Trump has not made a final call. Plans may include raids and coastal strikes amid rising risks, casualties, and political divisions.

Strait of Hormuz raids, Kharg Island seizure: One month into war, US eyes ground ops in Iran | Details here

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Mar 28) claimed that Russia took satellite images of a US air base in Saudi Arabia three times in the day before Iran launched attacks on the site, wounding American troops. Zelensky added that he believes it was in Moscow’s interest to help Iranians. He said that he was “100 per cent” confident that Russia was sharing such intelligence with Tehran to help target US forces across the Gulf amid the ongoing war. This comes after a wave of Iranian ballistic missiles struck Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, wounding ten American service members and damaging several critical US refuelling aircraft.In the deadly attack, two American service members were very seriously hurt, while the other eight sustained serious injuries. According to reports, unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, were also involved in the attack.“I think that it’s in Russia’s interest to help Iranians. And I don’t believe — I know — that they share information,” Zelensky told NBC News in an interview. “Do they help Iranians? Of course. How many percent? One-hundred per cent.”Sharing a summary of the daily presidential briefing from Ukrainian spy agencies, Zelensky said that the report stated that Russian satellites had taken images of the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 20, March 23 and March 25. The attack on the base, which hosts both US and Saudi troops, happened on March 26.Zelensky added that Russia’s repeated photographing of installations over several days is an indication of attack planning, as per Ukraine’s experience.“We know that if they make images once, they are preparing. If they make images a second time, it’s like a simulation. The third time it means that in one or two days, they will attack,” he said.The Washington Post earlier reported that Russia was providing intelligence inputs to Iran on US military positions in the region. The intelligence shared by Russia reportedly includes satellite imagery showing the locations and movements of American troops, ships and aircraft, according to sources cited in US intelligence briefings, the report added.Meanwhile, The Financial Times, citing Western intelligence sources and experts, reported that Russia is completing a phased, covert delivery of drones to Iran in shipments that also include medicine and food. Rejecting the claims, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said: “There are a lot of fakes going around right now. One thing is true — we are continuing our dialogue with the Iranian leadership.” Russia has publicly confirmed that it has delivered humanitarian aid, including over 13 tonnes of medicine, to Iran via Azerbaijan, and further shipments are planned.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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed Russia shared satellite intel with Iran before a missile strike on a US base in Saudi Arabia, injuring American troops.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Mar 28) claimed that Russia took satellite images of a US air base in Saudi Arabia three times in the day before Iran launched attacks on the site, wounding American troops. Zelensky added that he believes it was in Moscow’s interest to help Iranians. He said that he was “100 per cent” confident that Russia was sharing such intelligence with Tehran to help target US forces across the Gulf amid the ongoing war. This comes after a wave of Iranian ballistic missiles struck Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, wounding ten American service members and damaging several critical US refuelling aircraft. In the deadly attack, two American service members were very seriously hurt, while the other eight sustained serious injuries. According to reports, unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, were also involved in the attack. “I think that it’s in Russia’s interest to help Iranians. And I don’t believe — I know — that they share information,” Zelensky told NBC News in an interview. “Do they help Iranians? Of course. How many percent? One-hundred per cent.” Sharing a summary of the daily presidential briefing from Ukrainian spy agencies, Zelensky said that the report stated that Russian satellites had taken images of the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 20, March 23 and March 25. The attack on the base, which hosts both US and Saudi troops, happened on March 26. Zelensky added that Russia’s repeated photographing of installations over several days is an indication of attack planning, as per Ukraine’s experience. “We know that if they make images once, they are preparing. If they make images a second time, it’s like a simulation. The third time it means that in one or two days, they will attack,” he said. The Washington Post earlier reported that Russia was providing intelligence inputs to Iran on US military positions in the region. The intelligence shared by Russia reportedly includes satellite imagery showing the locations and movements of American troops, ships and aircraft, according to sources cited in US intelligence briefings, the report added. Meanwhile, The Financial Times, citing Western intelligence sources and experts, reported that Russia is completing a phased, covert delivery of drones to Iran in shipments that also include medicine and food. Rejecting the claims, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said: “There are a lot of fakes going around right now. One thing is true — we are continuing our dialogue with the Iranian leadership.” Russia has publicly confirmed that it has delivered humanitarian aid, including over 13 tonnes of medicine, to Iran via Azerbaijan, and further shipments are planned. 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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed Russia shared satellite intel with Iran before a missile strike on a US base in Saudi Arabia, injuring American troops.

Did Russia help Iran strike US base in Saudi Arabia? Zelensky makes BIG claim amid war

Iran’s English-language daily, the Tehran Times, carried a warning to Washington under the headline ‘Welcome To Hell’ on its front page on Saturday. The daily said that any US troops who set foot on Iranian soil in case of a ground invasion will “leave only in a coffin”. The warning comes a day after US media reported that the United States is considering the deployment of up to 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East.&nbsp;&nbsp;The US media reports indicate that Washington is preparing for a possible ground operation inside Iran.According to the Wall Street Journal, the extra troops would join thousands of paratroopers and Marines who have already been sent to the area and will give Trump a wider range of military options.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vp-jd-vance-says-us-will-get-out-of-iran-soon-and-fuel-prices-will-come-down-1774714890254">VP JD Vance says US will get out of Iran ‘soon’ and fuel prices will come down</a>&nbsp;An Iranian official had said that Tehran would respond to any American ground invasion by activating its Houthi allies in Yemen, who would be instructed to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.The Wall Street Journal reported that the additional American forces would most likely be positioned within a striking distance of Iran and Kharg Island, the vital oil-export terminal off the Iranian coast.&nbsp;Trump has repeatedly insisted that Iran is engaged in peace talks with Washington and has publicly downplayed the possibility of a ground invasion, but the latest military planning reports have cast doubt over how far the conflict could expand.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-inks-defence-deal-with-qatar-denies-iran-s-strike-on-anti-drone-systems-depot-in-dubai-1774708617508">Ukraine inks defence deal with Qatar, denies Iran’s strike on anti-drone systems depot in Dubai</a>&nbsp;Iran has already signalled that any direct American ground incursion would trigger a wider regional response.The warning also comes at a time when the Strait of Hormuz remains choked and under severe strain, making any expansion of the conflict into the Red Sea or Iranian coastline especially significant.&nbsp;Trump said on Friday that talks aimed at ending the conflict were “going very well” and announced that he was delaying a deadline he had previously set for possible further strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-launch-first-attack-on-israel-since-outbreak-of-iran-war-fire-ballistic-missiles-1774700386350">Houthis launch first attack on Israel since outbreak of Iran war, fire ballistic missiles</a>

Iran has signalled that any American ground incursion would trigger a wider regional response. An Iranian official said that Tehran would respond to any American ground invasion by activating its Houthi allies in Yemen, who would be instructed to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.

Iran’s English-language daily, the Tehran Times, carried a warning to Washington under the headline ‘Welcome To Hell’ on its front page on Saturday. The daily said that any US troops who set foot on Iranian soil in case of a ground invasion will “leave only in a coffin”. The warning comes a day after US media reported that the United States is considering the deployment of up to 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East. The US media reports indicate that Washington is preparing for a possible ground operation inside Iran. According to the Wall Street Journal, the extra troops would join thousands of paratroopers and Marines who have already been sent to the area and will give Trump a wider range of military options. Also Read: VP JD Vance says US will get out of Iran ‘soon’ and fuel prices will come down An Iranian official had said that Tehran would respond to any American ground invasion by activating its Houthi allies in Yemen, who would be instructed to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. The Wall Street Journal reported that the additional American forces would most likely be positioned within a striking distance of Iran and Kharg Island, the vital oil-export terminal off the Iranian coast. Trump has repeatedly insisted that Iran is engaged in peace talks with Washington and has publicly downplayed the possibility of a ground invasion, but the latest military planning reports have cast doubt over how far the conflict could expand. Also Read: Ukraine inks defence deal with Qatar, denies Iran’s strike on anti-drone systems depot in Dubai Iran has already signalled that any direct American ground incursion would trigger a wider regional response. The warning also comes at a time when the Strait of Hormuz remains choked and under severe strain, making any expansion of the conflict into the Red Sea or Iranian coastline especially significant. Trump said on Friday that talks aimed at ending the conflict were “going very well” and announced that he was delaying a deadline he had previously set for possible further strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure. Also Read: Houthis launch first attack on Israel since outbreak of Iran war, fire ballistic missiles

Iran has signalled that any American ground incursion would trigger a wider regional response. An Iranian official said that Tehran would respond to any American ground invasion by activating its Houthi allies in Yemen, who would be instructed to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.

‘Welcome to Hell’: Iran’s daily issues warning to US against ground invasion

India's economic outlook has become "more uncertain" due to the ongoing escalation and geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have resulted in substantial energy disruption and logistical headwinds, the Finance Ministry's monthly economic review for March 2026 noted.&nbsp;"The economic outlook has become more uncertain in the wake of recent geopolitical developments in West Asia, which have disrupted key energy and logistics channels and led to a tightening of global supply conditions," the report said.&nbsp;The Department of Economic Affairs pointed out that India's economic prospects remained "robust" until February 2026, supported by strong demand and industrial activity.&nbsp;"Prior to the onset of these developments, economic activity in India remained robust up to February 2026, with strong performance across both supply and demand-side indicators," the report added.&nbsp;It highlighted that the conflict in West Asia has sparked fears of a dip in global growth and a surge in inflation due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of global oil transits.&nbsp;The review said ship transits through the strait have nearly come to a halt, dropping to “one a week, as against 200–300 a week,” significantly tightening global oil and gas supplies and pushing prices higher.&nbsp;The review stated that the conflict's impact would be felt through "supply disruptions to oil, gas and fertilisers, higher import prices, higher logistics costs, and a possible decline in remittances by Indians in Gulf countries."&nbsp;On the positive side, the report mentioned that "strong growth in steel and cement production, alongside steady expansion in coal and fertilisers, underscores sustained momentum in infrastructure and construction activity."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-central-command-shares-footage-of-strikes-on-iranian-naval-vessels-1774714620981">Watch: US Central Command shares footage of strikes on Iranian naval vessels</a>&nbsp;The financial sector remained supportive of economic activity, with bank credit growth rising 14.5 per cent year-on-year in February. The report also highlighted that "the overall flow of financial resources to the commercial sector grew by 33.2 per cent (YoY)."&nbsp;However, "retail inflation rose to a 10-month high of 3.21 per cent in February 2026, driven primarily by a sharp uptick in food prices," the review stated.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi also flagged concerns in his recent address to Parliament. "The difficult global conditions caused by this war are likely to persist for a long time... we must be prepared to face the long-term impact," he said.&nbsp;"This war has created a serious energy crisis across the entire world. The routine supply of petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilisers has been affected... India is making every effort to ensure uninterrupted supplies," he added.

The report highlighted that the conflict in West Asia has sparked fears of a dip in global growth and a surge in inflation due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of global oil transits.

India's economic outlook has become "more uncertain" due to the ongoing escalation and geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have resulted in substantial energy disruption and logistical headwinds, the Finance Ministry's monthly economic review for March 2026 noted. "The economic outlook has become more uncertain in the wake of recent geopolitical developments in West Asia, which have disrupted key energy and logistics channels and led to a tightening of global supply conditions," the report said. The Department of Economic Affairs pointed out that India's economic prospects remained "robust" until February 2026, supported by strong demand and industrial activity. "Prior to the onset of these developments, economic activity in India remained robust up to February 2026, with strong performance across both supply and demand-side indicators," the report added. It highlighted that the conflict in West Asia has sparked fears of a dip in global growth and a surge in inflation due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of global oil transits. The review said ship transits through the strait have nearly come to a halt, dropping to “one a week, as against 200–300 a week,” significantly tightening global oil and gas supplies and pushing prices higher. The review stated that the conflict's impact would be felt through "supply disruptions to oil, gas and fertilisers, higher import prices, higher logistics costs, and a possible decline in remittances by Indians in Gulf countries." On the positive side, the report mentioned that "strong growth in steel and cement production, alongside steady expansion in coal and fertilisers, underscores sustained momentum in infrastructure and construction activity." Also Read: Watch: US Central Command shares footage of strikes on Iranian naval vessels The financial sector remained supportive of economic activity, with bank credit growth rising 14.5 per cent year-on-year in February. The report also highlighted that "the overall flow of financial resources to the commercial sector grew by 33.2 per cent (YoY)." However, "retail inflation rose to a 10-month high of 3.21 per cent in February 2026, driven primarily by a sharp uptick in food prices," the review stated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also flagged concerns in his recent address to Parliament. "The difficult global conditions caused by this war are likely to persist for a long time... we must be prepared to face the long-term impact," he said. "This war has created a serious energy crisis across the entire world. The routine supply of petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilisers has been affected... India is making every effort to ensure uninterrupted supplies," he added.

The report highlighted that the conflict in West Asia has sparked fears of a dip in global growth and a surge in inflation due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of global oil transits.

After PM Modi's caution, Finance Ministry says India's economic outlook has become 'more uncertain' due to West Asia war