Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (Mar 11) denied the claims that the country was planning a "pre-emptive" attack on the US and its forces. His statement comes as the US described a possible Iranian attack as a reason for launching strikes on teh Islamic Republic. Calling it a “sheer and utter lie,” Araghchi called Operation Epic Fury a grave misadventure. This comes as US President Donald Trump said that the war might be over “very soon” but also added that the US has not “won enough.” Iran has ruled out any possibility of talks, stating that they were betrayed as the attacks came in midst of nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-threatens-tehran-with-death-fire-and-fury-1773133183231/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-threatens-tehran-with-death-fire-and-fury-1773133183231/embed</a>&nbsp; In a post on X, the Iranian Foreign Minister said, "The claim that Iran was planning on attacking the U.S. or U.S. Forces, whether preventively or preemptively, is a sheer and utter lie. The sole purpose of that lie is to justify Operation Epic Mistake, a misadventure engineered by Israel and paid for by ordinary Americans." He also slammed Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu stating that he “doesn't want he world to see how Iran's Powerful Armed Forces are punishing Israel for its aggression.” He said that there is “utter destruction caused in Israel by Iranian missiles and leaders are panicking while their air defenses are in disarray." He shared a report that stated that Israel has banned filming of impacts of missiles on civilian areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;This comes in line with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's statement stating that "aggressors have come and gone; Iran has endured". He said in a post on X, “Iran is the heir to a civilization at least 6,000 years old. Through the trials of history, no power has ever succeeded in erasing this storied name. Anyone who entertains the illusion of destroying Iran knows nothing of history. Aggressors have come and gone; Iran has endured.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260311/image-1773201145710.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war</a><h2>What had Trump said about pre-emptive attack?</h2>US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 9), during a press briefing, said that the military actions in Iran were something he "felt" had to be done. Trump had told reporters, "I felt it (military action in Iran) was something we had to do. I didn't feel we had a choice. If we didn't do it they (Iran) would have done it to us. I felt based on the negotiations that were being had by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Marco and Pete and everybody was involved, I felt that they were going to that they were looking to tap us along before they hit. And I thought they were going to hit and if they hit us first that would have been a very bad thing." Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, "We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties." Meanwhile, on Tuesday, during a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated the stance of Trump, adding that the "feeling" was based on "facts".&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-advised-to-articulate-exit-plan-from-iran-war-white-house-says-1773125275628">Trump advised to articulate exit plan from Iran war? White House says…</a>&nbsp;Moreover, a report by the Wall Street Journal has claimed that Trump's advisors have asked him to articulate an exit plan from Iran war. While the White House has quashed the reports stating that it is "full of crap", the report suggests that Trump's advisers have cautioned him that the war will eat into his support base. The advisors who were not named in the report, said that the White House should come up with an "aggressive" public messaging to sell the war."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This comes amid contradicting claims by Trump about the endgame of the war. Trump has also differed from his team about the aim of the war, with Secretary of War Pete <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">Hegseth stating it has just started</a> and Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubio-contradicts-trump-on-why-us-entered-iran-war-backtracks-on-israeli-plans-remark-netanyahu-smirks-is-america-confused-1772615320319/1772615320323">Marco Rubio</a> saying that the war began after knowing Israeli plans.&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.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected US claims that Tehran planned a pre-emptive strike, calling Operation Epic Fury a “grave misadventure.” The remarks come after Trump said he ordered strikes based on intelligence fears, while Iran’s president vowed the nation would endure.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (Mar 11) denied the claims that the country was planning a "pre-emptive" attack on the US and its forces. His statement comes as the US described a possible Iranian attack as a reason for launching strikes on teh Islamic Republic. Calling it a “sheer and utter lie,” Araghchi called Operation Epic Fury a grave misadventure. This comes as US President Donald Trump said that the war might be over “very soon” but also added that the US has not “won enough.” Iran has ruled out any possibility of talks, stating that they were betrayed as the attacks came in midst of nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-threatens-tehran-with-death-fire-and-fury-1773133183231/embed In a post on X, the Iranian Foreign Minister said, "The claim that Iran was planning on attacking the U.S. or U.S. Forces, whether preventively or preemptively, is a sheer and utter lie. The sole purpose of that lie is to justify Operation Epic Mistake, a misadventure engineered by Israel and paid for by ordinary Americans." He also slammed Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu stating that he “doesn't want he world to see how Iran's Powerful Armed Forces are punishing Israel for its aggression.” He said that there is “utter destruction caused in Israel by Iranian missiles and leaders are panicking while their air defenses are in disarray." He shared a report that stated that Israel has banned filming of impacts of missiles on civilian areas. This comes in line with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's statement stating that "aggressors have come and gone; Iran has endured". He said in a post on X, “Iran is the heir to a civilization at least 6,000 years old. Through the trials of history, no power has ever succeeded in erasing this storied name. Anyone who entertains the illusion of destroying Iran knows nothing of history. Aggressors have come and gone; Iran has endured.” Also Read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war What had Trump said about pre-emptive attack? US President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 9), during a press briefing, said that the military actions in Iran were something he "felt" had to be done. Trump had told reporters, "I felt it (military action in Iran) was something we had to do. I didn't feel we had a choice. If we didn't do it they (Iran) would have done it to us. I felt based on the negotiations that were being had by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Marco and Pete and everybody was involved, I felt that they were going to that they were looking to tap us along before they hit. And I thought they were going to hit and if they hit us first that would have been a very bad thing." Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, "We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties." Meanwhile, on Tuesday, during a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated the stance of Trump, adding that the "feeling" was based on "facts". Also Read: Trump advised to articulate exit plan from Iran war? White House says… Moreover, a report by the Wall Street Journal has claimed that Trump's advisors have asked him to articulate an exit plan from Iran war. While the White House has quashed the reports stating that it is "full of crap", the report suggests that Trump's advisers have cautioned him that the war will eat into his support base. The advisors who were not named in the report, said that the White House should come up with an "aggressive" public messaging to sell the war." This comes amid contradicting claims by Trump about the endgame of the war. Trump has also differed from his team about the aim of the war, with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stating it has just started and Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying that the war began after knowing Israeli plans. 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.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected US claims that Tehran planned a pre-emptive strike, calling Operation Epic Fury a “grave misadventure.” The remarks come after Trump said he ordered strikes based on intelligence fears, while Iran’s president vowed the nation would endure.

'We're just getting started': Iran issues BIG warning to Netanyahu, rejects US allegations of pre-emptive attack as 'utter lie'

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 10) stepped up its anti-Trump rhetoric with a cartoon of the US President Donald Trump grinning monstrously while standing amid a pile of bloodied school bags. The cartoon was posted by the X account of former Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (assassination confirmed March 1) along with a cryptic message that when translated from Persian to English simply reads "Nobel Cannibal". This comes amid reports that a American fired Tomahawk cruise missile was responsible for the death and destruction at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-epic-fury-s-darkest-day-us-investigation-points-to-america-s-role-in-minab-girls-school-massacre-shajareh-tayyebeh-girls-school-iran-1772782378596">Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school</a> in Minab, on Feb 28, the first day of the ongoing Iran war. Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-also-has-tomahawks-trump-confronted-by-reporters-as-he-floats-wild-theory-on-minab-school-strike-contradicts-pentagon-on-missile-use-1773120388711">'Iran also has Tomahawks': Trump confronted by reporters as he floats wild theory on Minab school strike, contradicts Pentagon</a><h2>What does the ghastly Trump cartoon show?</h2>The cartoon depicts US President Donald Trump as a monstrous figure with pointed teeth, holding a Nobel Peace Prize medal, with a background of scattered school backpacks and rubble from the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab. It is black and white except for stark red blood splatters that seem to cover the school bags that lay at the US President's feet.The Graphic illustration also has a caption written at the bottom of the image which emphasises the civilian toll of Operation Epic Fury. Labelling Trump a “pedophile and terrorist” it calls the alleged US strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab an “unprecedented crime in contemporary history”. It states that “168 innocent girls from an elementary school in Minab, Hormozgan Province, were martyred by a direct missile fired by the pedophile and terrorist American President Donald Trump.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">'Expel US &amp; Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260311/image-1773197128915.png"></figure>

<h2>Trump's wild Tomahawk theory</h2>Just a day earlier, POTUS Trump floated a theory that Iran itself possesses Tomahawk cruise missiles suspected in the attack. Speaking at his Doral resort in Florida, Trump denied US responsibility for the Feb 28 tragedy at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-epic-fury-s-darkest-day-us-investigation-points-to-america-s-role-in-minab-girls-school-massacre-shajareh-tayyebeh-girls-school-iran-1772782378596">Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school</a> in Minab. He suggested that the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "Tomahawk, which is one of the most powerful weapons around, is sold and used by other countries," said Trump.“And whether it's Iran, who also has some Tomahawks, they wish they had more, but, whether it's Iran or somebody else, the fact that a Tomahawk -- a Tomahawk is very generic, it's sold to other countries. But that's being investigated right now,” he said. The attack reportedly killed at least 175 people, most of them aged 7 to 12 years. This marks the most devastating death toll of the US-Israel-Iran war.&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. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a chilling escalation of Day 12 information war, the official X account of Ali Khamenei has branded US President a "Nobel Cannibal." It features a monstrous Donald Trump amid ruins of Minab girls' school, a direct rhetorical strike following his wild Tomahawk Theory regarding Feb 28 massacre.

Iran on Wednesday (Mar 10) stepped up its anti-Trump rhetoric with a cartoon of the US President Donald Trump grinning monstrously while standing amid a pile of bloodied school bags. The cartoon was posted by the X account of former Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (assassination confirmed March 1) along with a cryptic message that when translated from Persian to English simply reads "Nobel Cannibal". This comes amid reports that a American fired Tomahawk cruise missile was responsible for the death and destruction at the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab, on Feb 28, the first day of the ongoing Iran war. Here's all we know. Also read | 'Iran also has Tomahawks': Trump confronted by reporters as he floats wild theory on Minab school strike, contradicts Pentagon What does the ghastly Trump cartoon show? The cartoon depicts US President Donald Trump as a monstrous figure with pointed teeth, holding a Nobel Peace Prize medal, with a background of scattered school backpacks and rubble from the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab. It is black and white except for stark red blood splatters that seem to cover the school bags that lay at the US President's feet. The Graphic illustration also has a caption written at the bottom of the image which emphasises the civilian toll of Operation Epic Fury. Labelling Trump a “pedophile and terrorist” it calls the alleged US strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab an “unprecedented crime in contemporary history”. It states that “168 innocent girls from an elementary school in Minab, Hormozgan Province, were martyred by a direct missile fired by the pedophile and terrorist American President Donald Trump.” Also read | 'Expel US & Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition

Why did Iran post a cartoon of Donald Trump labelled “Nobel Cannibal”?The image shows the US president smiling amid bloodied school bags after reports linked a Tomahawk missile to deadly strike on an Iranian girls’ school. What message is Tehran trying to send? Scroll down to find out.

'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike

US President Donald Trump's war secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday (Mar 10) warned Russia that it "should not be involved" in the Iran war. This comes as reports suggest that Moscow may be aiding Tehran by providing intel about US military assets in the Gulf. Russian officials have meanwhile insisted in a call with Trump on Monday that they "have not been sharing" intelligence with Tehran amid the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran.<h2>Russia 'should not be involved'</h2>While speaking to the press, Hegseth was asked about Trump's recent call with Russian President Vladmir Putin. The War Secretary said that, "The president maintains strong relationships with world leaders, which creates opportunities and options for us in very dynamic ways".When asked about how the call related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, he ominously said, Russia "should not be involved".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">'Expel US &amp; Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition</a><h2>What intelligence is Russia providing to Iran?</h2>Reports suggest that Russia has been providing Iran intelligence about the locations and the movement of US troops, ships and aircraft.America, as per White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has "sent a message to Russia that if that was taking place, it’s not something they would be happy with, and they hope that it is not taking place."Meanwhile, Iran's &nbsp;foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi over the weekend acknowledged Russian help in "many different directions," but said he didn't "have any detailed information".<h2>Russian consulate in Iran damaged</h2>Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Tuesday revealed that the Russian Consulate General in Isfahan, Iran was damaged on Sunday. She said that the damage happened as a nearby provincial government building was attacked.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-and-diesel-prices-in-india-unlikely-to-rise-for-now-but-can-increase-if-oil-prices-cross-this-mark-1773111685796">India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost can increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark. Details inside</a>While several employees reported being pushed backwards by the force of the blast, no casualties or serious injuries were reported. The attack broke the windows of the consulate and nearby residential buildings.Calling attacks on diplomatic and consular buildings a violation of international law, she said "We demand that all parties strictly respect the inviolability of diplomatic premises and refrain from any attacks on the safety, life, and health of their personnel."&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. &nbsp;

Why did the US warn Russia to stay out of the Iran war? US War Secretary Pete Hegseth says Moscow “should not be involved” amid reports Russia may be sharing intelligence with Tehran.

What exactly is Russia accused of doing and how did the Kremlin respond? Scroll down to find out.

US President Donald Trump's war secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday (Mar 10) warned Russia that it "should not be involved" in the Iran war. This comes as reports suggest that Moscow may be aiding Tehran by providing intel about US military assets in the Gulf. Russian officials have meanwhile insisted in a call with Trump on Monday that they "have not been sharing" intelligence with Tehran amid the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran. Russia 'should not be involved' While speaking to the press, Hegseth was asked about Trump's recent call with Russian President Vladmir Putin. The War Secretary said that, "The president maintains strong relationships with world leaders, which creates opportunities and options for us in very dynamic ways". When asked about how the call related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, he ominously said, Russia "should not be involved". Also read | 'Expel US & Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition What intelligence is Russia providing to Iran? Reports suggest that Russia has been providing Iran intelligence about the locations and the movement of US troops, ships and aircraft. America, as per White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has "sent a message to Russia that if that was taking place, it’s not something they would be happy with, and they hope that it is not taking place." Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi over the weekend acknowledged Russian help in "many different directions," but said he didn't "have any detailed information". Russian consulate in Iran damaged Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Tuesday revealed that the Russian Consulate General in Isfahan, Iran was damaged on Sunday. She said that the damage happened as a nearby provincial government building was attacked. Also read | India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost can increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark. Details inside While several employees reported being pushed backwards by the force of the blast, no casualties or serious injuries were reported. The attack broke the windows of the consulate and nearby residential buildings. Calling attacks on diplomatic and consular buildings a violation of international law, she said "We demand that all parties strictly respect the inviolability of diplomatic premises and refrain from any attacks on the safety, life, and health of their personnel." 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.

Why did the US warn Russia to stay out of the Iran war? US War Secretary Pete Hegseth says Moscow “should not be involved” amid reports Russia may be sharing intelligence with Tehran.What exactly is Russia accused of doing and how did the Kremlin respond? Scroll down to find out.

'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations

As the US-Israeli military operation in Iran triggered a steep rise in global energy prices due to trade route disruptions, Washington on Tuesday (Mar 10) proposed another round of Russia-Ukraine talks next week, mediated by the United States, to end the four-year-long war in Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.&nbsp;“This was proposed by the American side, but we'll see what happens in the Middle East, to be honest,” Zelensky told journalists, adding that the meeting “could be in Switzerland or Turkey.”&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Donald Trump announced a U-turn from his policy on Russian oil, after over a year of mounting rhetoric about “funding Putin's war” and imposing tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy. He stated that Washington will waive some sanctions to boost supply and bring down prices due to upheaval in the global energy market caused by the war in West Asia.&nbsp;“We're also waiving certain oil-related sanctions to reduce prices,” Trump told reporters after talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding, “We're going to take those sanctions off till this straightens out.”&nbsp;These developments came as the war in West Asia entered its 11th day, causing upheaval in energy markets across the world as global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28, which resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-u-turn-on-russian-oil-deepens-rift-between-us-and-european-allies-1773152628871">Trump’s U-turn on Russian oil deepens rift between US and European allies</a>&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. In response, major producers such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with limited export routes.&nbsp;The proposed talks between Russia and Ukraine follow three major trilateral summits in Abu Dhabi and Geneva, centred on a 20-point peace plan proposed by the Trump administration. The framework seeks to resolve humanitarian and technical issues, including prisoner swaps and nuclear safety, while temporarily freezing the frontline to defer territorial disputes. Although 90 per cent of the non-territorial clauses are reportedly settled, the process is currently on hold as Washington pivots its diplomatic focus toward the escalating conflict in West Asia.&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.)

Donald Trump also announced a U-turn from his policy on Russian oil, after over a year of mounting rhetoric about “funding Putin's war” and imposing tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy.

As the US-Israeli military operation in Iran triggered a steep rise in global energy prices due to trade route disruptions, Washington on Tuesday (Mar 10) proposed another round of Russia-Ukraine talks next week, mediated by the United States, to end the four-year-long war in Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said. “This was proposed by the American side, but we'll see what happens in the Middle East, to be honest,” Zelensky told journalists, adding that the meeting “could be in Switzerland or Turkey.” Earlier in the day, Donald Trump announced a U-turn from his policy on Russian oil, after over a year of mounting rhetoric about “funding Putin's war” and imposing tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy. He stated that Washington will waive some sanctions to boost supply and bring down prices due to upheaval in the global energy market caused by the war in West Asia. “We're also waiving certain oil-related sanctions to reduce prices,” Trump told reporters after talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding, “We're going to take those sanctions off till this straightens out.” These developments came as the war in West Asia entered its 11th day, causing upheaval in energy markets across the world as global oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel for the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, marking more than a 50 per cent increase since the start of joint US-Israeli military strikes in Iran on February 28, which resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the campaign. Also Read: Trump’s U-turn on Russian oil deepens rift between US and European allies In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and strategic locations across Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, leading to disruptions across the region. Moreover, Tehran has effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. In response, major producers such as Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have been forced to cut production as their storage tanks reach capacity with limited export routes. The proposed talks between Russia and Ukraine follow three major trilateral summits in Abu Dhabi and Geneva, centred on a 20-point peace plan proposed by the Trump administration. The framework seeks to resolve humanitarian and technical issues, including prisoner swaps and nuclear safety, while temporarily freezing the frontline to defer territorial disputes. Although 90 per cent of the non-territorial clauses are reportedly settled, the process is currently on hold as Washington pivots its diplomatic focus toward the escalating conflict in West Asia. (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.)

Donald Trump also announced a U-turn from his policy on Russian oil, after over a year of mounting rhetoric about “funding Putin's war” and imposing tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy.

US pushes for Ukraine-Russia talks next week as Iran war triggers oil price surge

Global strategic oil reserves revealed: how much crude the US, China, Japan, Germany, France, Italy and the UK store and how long their oil supplies could last in a crisis.

Global strategic oil reserves revealed: how much crude the US, China, Japan, Germany, France, Italy and the UK store and how long their oil supplies could last in a crisis.

Global strategic oil reserves explained: How long US, China, Japan, Germany, France, Italy and UK can survive an oil supply crisis

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force has vowed to launch missiles with only one tonne of warhead, according to reports by Iran International, which quotes Aerospace Force Commander Majid Mousavi. He added that the "wavelength" and the "intensity" of the attacks will increase. Israeli Defence Force has claimed that 75 per cent of Iran's missile launchers were destroyed, eventhough there was a spike in missile sirens in Israel.&nbsp;Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force has claimed that it is ready for a prolonged conflict. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, which cites Martin Sampson, former UK defence adviser and leading Middle East military analyst, the striking capacity of Iran still remains large. According to the report by the Wall Street Journal, Iran had been using bombs that have a warhead of at least 2 kilograms. Iran has started using cluster munitions, which are designed to maximise damage in a certain locality withing a approximate distance of eight kilometres. Israeli media claims that it is to maximise damage on the civilians and called it a war crime according to the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions. However, neither Iran nor the US nor Israel are part of the Convention.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-diesel-export-bangladesh-energy-crisis-pipeline-1773131561351">India sends 5,000 tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh amid energy crisis and global oil market volatility</a>US President Donald Trump has claimed that the war in Iran is “very complete" and “pretty much" over. The US army has significantly reduced the capacity of Iran to launch any major offensive. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force has said that it will be the one who “determines the end of the war”.&nbsp;“The equations and future status of the region are now in the hands of our armed forces; American forces will not end the war," read the statement. On March 10, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force claimed an attack on the United States military installation in northern Iraq. The headquarters of the US Army at the Harir Air Base in Erbil, in Iraq's Kurdistan, serves as the vital hub for the coalition forces and US command capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran's IRGC has vowed to attack with further wavelength and intensity to maximise damage. While US President Donald Trump claims to have reduced the capability of Iran to engage in major offensive.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force has vowed to launch missiles with only one tonne of warhead, according to reports by Iran International, which quotes Aerospace Force Commander Majid Mousavi. He added that the "wavelength" and the "intensity" of the attacks will increase. Israeli Defence Force has claimed that 75 per cent of Iran's missile launchers were destroyed, eventhough there was a spike in missile sirens in Israel. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force has claimed that it is ready for a prolonged conflict. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, which cites Martin Sampson, former UK defence adviser and leading Middle East military analyst, the striking capacity of Iran still remains large. According to the report by the Wall Street Journal, Iran had been using bombs that have a warhead of at least 2 kilograms. Iran has started using cluster munitions, which are designed to maximise damage in a certain locality withing a approximate distance of eight kilometres. Israeli media claims that it is to maximise damage on the civilians and called it a war crime according to the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions. However, neither Iran nor the US nor Israel are part of the Convention. Also Read: India sends 5,000 tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh amid energy crisis and global oil market volatility US President Donald Trump has claimed that the war in Iran is “very complete" and “pretty much" over. The US army has significantly reduced the capacity of Iran to launch any major offensive. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force has said that it will be the one who “determines the end of the war”. “The equations and future status of the region are now in the hands of our armed forces; American forces will not end the war," read the statement. On March 10, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Force claimed an attack on the United States military installation in northern Iraq. The headquarters of the US Army at the Harir Air Base in Erbil, in Iraq's Kurdistan, serves as the vital hub for the coalition forces and US command capabilities.

Iran's IRGC has vowed to attack with further wavelength and intensity to maximise damage. While US President Donald Trump claims to have reduced the capability of Iran to engage in major offensive.

Iran vows to launch missiles with one tonne warhead as war continues in West Asia

US President Donald Trump and the Pentagon are offering differing opinions on the progress of "Operation Epic Fury" and the possibility of the end of the conflict. On the other hand, Iran is determined to drag out the war as long as possible to hurt the GCC countries and make the global economy bleed.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Monday said that the “excursion” is "very much complete". He claimed that the US has achieved ‘major strides’ in achieving its objectives in Iran. When asked when will the war in Iran end, he said ”very soon".On the contrary, a Department of War run social media account, posted that, “We have Only Just Begun to Fight,” along side picture of missile with word ”No Mercy" superimposed on it.When asked about the contradiction between the statement Trump and his Defence Secretary, he said, “it could be both”. He claimed that its a new begining for the country. Then he again claimed that they have reduced the capability of Iran to launch an offensive, Iran has “no navy, no communications, they’ve got no air force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Q: You said the war is &#39;very complete.&#39; But your defense secretary says &#39;this is just the beginning.&#39; So which is it? TRUMP: You could say both <a href="https://t.co/4orXm5ZM4b">pic.twitter.com/4orXm5ZM4b</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/2031132139274543287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump and Rubio offered conflicting reasons for entering into war&nbsp;</h2>This contradiction between Trump and his Defence Secretary, Secretary of State has been characteristic of the “Operation Epic Fury”. It has happened from the very beginning of the US war on Iran, which Trump now calls an “incursion”. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that the US had information to believe Israel would launch an attack on Iran, and in retaliation, Iran would target US military assets in the region. So the US attacked preemptively."We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action; we knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn’t preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," said Rubio.On the contrary, Trump denied these claims, saying that, “I might have forced their (Israel's) hand”. He further added that he had a "feeling" those “lunatics” (Iran) will launch an attack against the US.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/centcom-5000-targets-iran-operation-epic-fury-strike-video-1773119657977">CENTCOM claims 5,000 targets hit in Iran during first 10 days of ‘Operation Epic Fury’, releases strike video</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">RUBIO: “The only reason we’re at war with Iran is because Israel forced our hand.” Unbelievable. It’s time to cut Israel off and treat them like the blood-thirsty parasitic terrorists that they are. <a href="https://t.co/gzHAx9Z6yt">pic.twitter.com/gzHAx9Z6yt</a>&mdash; Stew Peters (@realstewpeters) <a href="https://twitter.com/realstewpeters/status/2028620997780193638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump and Hegseth gave conflicting accounts of the double-tap bombing at the Minab girls' school</h2>On February 28, at the early hours of the attack at the Minab girls' school. The US forces struck the Minab Girls' school twice, 40 minutes apart, killing more than 150 children and staff members. These kinds of double-tap attacks on civilian infrastructure are considered War Crime by the United Nations. When at first confronted by reporters, Pete Hegseth said, “We are investigating”.Then Trump claimed that the missile was from Iran, who have poor accuracy with its munitions. But when asked by Hegseth, he again said, “We are investigating”, further adding that only people who kill civilians are Iranians. When confronted with the fact that no one other than Trump is saying that, even his Defence Secretary, Pete Hegseth, standing on his shoulder, on his plane, did not agree with him. He said, “Because I just don't know”. Further suggesting that Tomahawk is a missile that a lot of other country including Iran, have purchased. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Q: You just suggested Iran got a Tomahawk and bombed its own elementary school. But you&#39;re the only person in your govt saying this. Even your defense secretary wouldn&#39;t say that. Why are you the only person saying this? TRUMP: Because I just don&#39;t know enough about it. It&#39;s… <a href="https://t.co/C9yy4RFFSj">pic.twitter.com/C9yy4RFFSj</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/2031135239347519739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Uncertainty around the Iran war remains</h2>The war in Iran has reached its 10th day, and there were mixed hints in almost every important aspect of the war. There were conflicting accounts from Trump in a few hours apart, and between Trump and his own team, from the war being over, the state of Iran's defences, depleted Iranian leadership and the bombing of the elementary school. A cloud of uncertainty has engulfed the war, US is unable to rationalise its own actions, even within its own country, to its own citizens. The war remains unpopular, and the US has almost lost the narrative.&nbsp;

Trump again contradicts his own team, who have offered conflicting narratives on the rationale of war, the bombing of Minab elementary school, and the progress or ending of the war. 

US President Donald Trump and the Pentagon are offering differing opinions on the progress of "Operation Epic Fury" and the possibility of the end of the conflict. On the other hand, Iran is determined to drag out the war as long as possible to hurt the GCC countries and make the global economy bleed. US President Donald Trump on Monday said that the “excursion” is "very much complete". He claimed that the US has achieved ‘major strides’ in achieving its objectives in Iran. When asked when will the war in Iran end, he said ”very soon". On the contrary, a Department of War run social media account, posted that, “We have Only Just Begun to Fight,” along side picture of missile with word ”No Mercy" superimposed on it. When asked about the contradiction between the statement Trump and his Defence Secretary, he said, “it could be both”. He claimed that its a new begining for the country. Then he again claimed that they have reduced the capability of Iran to launch an offensive, Iran has “no navy, no communications, they’ve got no air force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones.”

Trump again contradicts his own team, who have offered conflicting narratives on the rationale of war, the bombing of Minab elementary school, to the progress or ending of war.&nbsp;

Uncertainty around the war in Iran, as Trump and his team contradict each other

US President Donald Trump faced tough questions on Monday (Mar 9) over mounting evidence that an American missile struck an Iranian girls’ school, killing over 165 children on the first day of the conflict. Speaking at his Doral resort in Florida, Trump denied US responsibility for the Feb 28 tragedy at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-epic-fury-s-darkest-day-us-investigation-points-to-america-s-role-in-minab-girls-school-massacre-shajareh-tayyebeh-girls-school-iran-1772782378596">Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school</a> in Minab, floating a theory that Iran itself possesses Tomahawk cruise missiles suspected in the attack. While the US-Israel-Iran war enters its second week under Operations Epic Fury and Lion's Roar, the President’s claim that Tomahawks are 'generic' weapons used by 'numerous nations' has sparked a firestorm of fact-checking. Here is everything you need to know.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/america-s-deadliest-war-crime-investigation-finds-us-likely-responsible-for-devastating-school-strike-that-killed-150-iranian-girls-1772766411530">US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls</a><h2>Tomahawk also 'used by other countries': Trump</h2>During a press conference at his golf resort in Florida, Trump, when asked about reports about US Tomahawk cruise missiles being used for the devastating attack on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab. The attack reportedly killed at least 175 people, most of them aged 7 to 12 years. This marks the most devastating death toll of the US-Israel-Iran war.Before the question could be finished, Trump interrupted, saying, "Well, I haven’t seen it". He suggested the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "Tomahawk, which is one of the most powerful weapons around, is sold and used by other countries," said Trump.He suggested the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "And whether it's Iran, who also has some Tomahawks, they wish they had more, but, whether it's Iran or somebody else, the fact that a Tomahawk -- a Tomahawk is very generic, it's sold to other countries. But that's being investigated right now."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">'Expel US &amp; Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition</a><h2>Which nations have Tomahawk missiles?</h2>Trump's remarks quickly drew scrutiny. According to a 2024 statement by Australian defence officials, only three countries currently operate Tomahawk missiles: the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia itself.The missiles are manufactured by US defence contractor Raytheon. While Washington has approved future sales of the weapon system to Japan and the Netherlands, those deliveries have not yet been deployed. Experts cited by US media outlets have also said that neither Israel nor Iran currently uses Tomahawk missiles.<h2>Did Trump mean Iran stole Tomahawks from the US?</h2>The exchange grew tense when another reporter pressed the president on his comments. "You just suggested that Iran got its hands on a Tomahawk and bombed its own elementary school on the first day of the war," another reporter noted. The journalist then noted, "You’re the only person in your government saying this. Even your defence secretary wouldn’t say that when he was asked, standing over your shoulder on your plane on Saturday.""Why are you the only person saying this?" they asked. To this, Trump, impatiently interrupting the reporter, said, "Because I just don’t know enough about it"."I think it’s something that I was told is under investigation, but Tomahawks are used by others, as you know," said the POTUS, adding, "Numerous other nations have Tomahawks; they buy them from us".He then insisted that he would accept whatever conclusion investigators eventually reach. "I will certainly, whatever the report shows, I’m willing to live with that report".&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.

During a tense Doral press conference, President Trump was cornered over the Shajareh Tayyebeh school strike in Minab. Despite evidence of a US Tomahawk missile, Trump suggested Iran may be responsible, incorrectly claiming Tehran operates the weapon system.

US President Donald Trump faced tough questions on Monday (Mar 9) over mounting evidence that an American missile struck an Iranian girls’ school, killing over 165 children on the first day of the conflict. Speaking at his Doral resort in Florida, Trump denied US responsibility for the Feb 28 tragedy at the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab, floating a theory that Iran itself possesses Tomahawk cruise missiles suspected in the attack. While the US-Israel-Iran war enters its second week under Operations Epic Fury and Lion's Roar, the President’s claim that Tomahawks are 'generic' weapons used by 'numerous nations' has sparked a firestorm of fact-checking. Here is everything you need to know. Also read | US investigation admits America may be responsible for devastating school strike that killed over 150 Iranian girls Tomahawk also 'used by other countries': Trump During a press conference at his golf resort in Florida, Trump, when asked about reports about US Tomahawk cruise missiles being used for the devastating attack on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab. The attack reportedly killed at least 175 people, most of them aged 7 to 12 years. This marks the most devastating death toll of the US-Israel-Iran war. Before the question could be finished, Trump interrupted, saying, "Well, I haven’t seen it". He suggested the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "Tomahawk, which is one of the most powerful weapons around, is sold and used by other countries," said Trump. He suggested the missile could have been used by another nation, including Iran, while adding that the incident was still under investigation. "And whether it's Iran, who also has some Tomahawks, they wish they had more, but, whether it's Iran or somebody else, the fact that a Tomahawk -- a Tomahawk is very generic, it's sold to other countries. But that's being investigated right now." Also read | 'Expel US & Israeli ambassadors': IRGC offers 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz to Arab, European nations on one condition Which nations have Tomahawk missiles? Trump's remarks quickly drew scrutiny. According to a 2024 statement by Australian defence officials, only three countries currently operate Tomahawk missiles: the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia itself. The missiles are manufactured by US defence contractor Raytheon. While Washington has approved future sales of the weapon system to Japan and the Netherlands, those deliveries have not yet been deployed. Experts cited by US media outlets have also said that neither Israel nor Iran currently uses Tomahawk missiles. Did Trump mean Iran stole Tomahawks from the US? The exchange grew tense when another reporter pressed the president on his comments. "You just suggested that Iran got its hands on a Tomahawk and bombed its own elementary school on the first day of the war," another reporter noted. The journalist then noted, "You’re the only person in your government saying this. Even your defence secretary wouldn’t say that when he was asked, standing over your shoulder on your plane on Saturday." "Why are you the only person saying this?" they asked. To this, Trump, impatiently interrupting the reporter, said, "Because I just don’t know enough about it". "I think it’s something that I was told is under investigation, but Tomahawks are used by others, as you know," said the POTUS, adding, "Numerous other nations have Tomahawks; they buy them from us". He then insisted that he would accept whatever conclusion investigators eventually reach. "I will certainly, whatever the report shows, I’m willing to live with that report". 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.

Did Donald Trump suggest Iran might have used a US Tomahawk missile in the deadly strike on an Iranian girls’ school? The claim raised eyebrows because only a handful of countries operate Tomahawk cruise missiles. So what exactly did he say, and does Iran even possess them? Scroll down.

'Iran also has Tomahawks': Trump confronted by reporters as he floats wild theory on Minab school strike, contradicts Pentagon

Centcom released a summary of the first 10 days of Operation Epic Fury. The post claimed that it has struck around 5000 targets across Iran and damaged or destroyed at least 50 ships. However, it didn't specify the 5000 targets it hit. It did mention a broad nature of the targets. It claimed that it targeted the Iranian military's command and control centres, integrated air defence systems, ballistic missile sites, navy ships and submarines, air defence systems, anti-ship missiles, military communication capabilities, and ballistic missile and drone manufacturing.&nbsp;It further listed the US assets deployed in the region for ‘Operation Epic Fury’, such as B-1 Bombers, B-2 stealth bombers, B-52 bombers, LUCAS drones, Patriot missile defence system, THAAD anti-ballistic missile systems, F-15 fighters, F-16 fighters, F-18 fighters, F-22 fighter jets, etc.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Operation Epic Fury: The first 10 days <a href="https://t.co/pGL1Scu4hG">pic.twitter.com/pGL1Scu4hG</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2031141236107509958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

CENTCOM also posted a video of it targeting an underground missile launcher. “The Iranian regime can try to hide its missile launchers, but U.S. forces won’t stop looking. When we find them, we’re taking them out,” wrote the post. The video shows a projectile hitting an underground missile launcher, followed by an explosion.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-irgc-drone-strike-al-dhafra-air-base-uae-1772891326271">Iran claims payback of Minab school bombing at UAE's Al Dhafra air base</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The Iranian regime can try to hide their missile launchers, but U.S. forces won’t stop looking. When we find them, we’re taking them out. <a href="https://t.co/urq3LWwARC">pic.twitter.com/urq3LWwARC</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2031182939782791365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

These posts come as US President Donald Trump claimed, “I think the war is very complete, pretty much." Iranian officials have dismissed recent claims that the conflict with the U.S. and Israel is nearing its end, asserting that their military is prepared for a prolonged confrontation. Iran's Foreign Ministry on March 9 suggested there is “no room” for diplomacy when military attacks continue, and they have prepared themselves for a long, drawn-out conflict.&nbsp;

US Central Command says it struck around 5,000 targets across Iran during the first 10 days of Operation Epic Fury, targeting missile sites, air defence systems and naval assets. Iran rejects claims that the war is nearing its end.

Centcom released a summary of the first 10 days of Operation Epic Fury. The post claimed that it has struck around 5000 targets across Iran and damaged or destroyed at least 50 ships. However, it didn't specify the 5000 targets it hit. It did mention a broad nature of the targets. It claimed that it targeted the Iranian military's command and control centres, integrated air defence systems, ballistic missile sites, navy ships and submarines, air defence systems, anti-ship missiles, military communication capabilities, and ballistic missile and drone manufacturing. It further listed the US assets deployed in the region for ‘Operation Epic Fury’, such as B-1 Bombers, B-2 stealth bombers, B-52 bombers, LUCAS drones, Patriot missile defence system, THAAD anti-ballistic missile systems, F-15 fighters, F-16 fighters, F-18 fighters, F-22 fighter jets, etc.

US Central Command says it struck around 5,000 targets across Iran during the first 10 days of Operation Epic Fury, targeting missile sites, air defence systems and naval assets. Iran rejects claims that the war is nearing its end.

CENTCOM claims 5,000 targets hit in Iran during first 10 days of ‘Operation Epic Fury’, releases strike video

Conflicting messages from Donald Trump and US officials have created confusion over the Iran war. While Trump said the conflict is nearly finished, he later vowed to continue fighting until total victory, even as Pentagon leaders signalled the campaign has only just begun.

Conflicting messages from Donald Trump and US officials have created confusion over the Iran war. While Trump said the conflict is nearly finished, he later vowed to continue fighting until total victory, even as Pentagon leaders signalled the campaign has only just begun.

From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself on endgame of Iran war

The US-Israel-Iran war has already put the Middle Eastern country's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in doubt and now Iran could face disciplinary action from the sport's governing body as well. The FIFA World Cup is scheduled to played from Jun 11 to Jul 19 and is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The war, which started Saturday (Feb 28), has jeopardized the participation of Iran which was also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-isreal-iran-war-iran-s-participation-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-unlikely-amid-ongoing-attacks-1772420510367">confirmed by the country's football fedration head Mehdi Taj</a> last week. Iran, shall they decide to pull out of the tournament, however, would not be able to breath easy and as they can get banned from paticipating in the future tournaments along with a hefty fine.<h2>What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>As per the FIFA rules and regulations, no member country is allowed to withdraw from the tournament after the draw and doing so can attract not only monetary penalty but other repurcussions as well. A withdrawl by a member country prompt a fine between $319,000 and $644,000 along with a slew of other form of punishment as well.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-s-atlanta-hawks-wanted-to-celebrate-a-strip-club-here-s-what-league-said-about-it-1773111456250">NBA's Atlanta Hawks wanted to celebrate a STRIP CLUB. Here's what league said about it</a>"Participating associations that withdraw at any stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 shall be required to reimburse all funds received from FIFA for the preparation of their national team, as well as any competition-related contributions received from FIFA,” the regulations state."The FIFA disciplinary committee may impose additional disciplinary measures, taking into account in particular the timing of the withdrawal or exclusion, the seriousness of the infringement that led to the inadmission or exclusion, possible mitigating factors and any other relevant circumstances."These disciplinary sanctions may include the exclusion of the association concerned from a future FIFA competition or the replacement of that association by another."<h2>Has any country every withdrawn from FIFA World Cup?</h2>The last instance of a country withdrawing from FIFA World Cup after the draw happened in 1950 when France and India decided not to take part in the tournament, citing travel costs.Iran, which has played six FIFA World Cups including past three, are place with New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G for the upcoming edition. They may end up facing United States in the knockout stage if both the teams manage to advance from their respective groups.Iranian nationals, as of now, are barred from entering the US under a ban imposed by president Donald Trump in June last year. The athletets who are expected to take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA28 Olympics are, however, expempted from the ban.

As per the FIFA rules and regulations, no member country is allowed to withdraw from the tournament after the draw and doing so can attract not only monetary penalty but other repurcussions too. A withdrawl by a member country prompt a fine between $319,000 and $644,000 along with other punishments.

The US-Israel-Iran war has already put the Middle Eastern country's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in doubt and now Iran could face disciplinary action from the sport's governing body as well. The FIFA World Cup is scheduled to played from Jun 11 to Jul 19 and is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The war, which started Saturday (Feb 28), has jeopardized the participation of Iran which was also confirmed by the country's football fedration head Mehdi Taj last week. Iran, shall they decide to pull out of the tournament, however, would not be able to breath easy and as they can get banned from paticipating in the future tournaments along with a hefty fine. What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026? As per the FIFA rules and regulations, no member country is allowed to withdraw from the tournament after the draw and doing so can attract not only monetary penalty but other repurcussions as well. A withdrawl by a member country prompt a fine between $319,000 and $644,000 along with a slew of other form of punishment as well. Also Read - NBA's Atlanta Hawks wanted to celebrate a STRIP CLUB. Here's what league said about it "Participating associations that withdraw at any stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 shall be required to reimburse all funds received from FIFA for the preparation of their national team, as well as any competition-related contributions received from FIFA,” the regulations state. "The FIFA disciplinary committee may impose additional disciplinary measures, taking into account in particular the timing of the withdrawal or exclusion, the seriousness of the infringement that led to the inadmission or exclusion, possible mitigating factors and any other relevant circumstances. "These disciplinary sanctions may include the exclusion of the association concerned from a future FIFA competition or the replacement of that association by another." Has any country every withdrawn from FIFA World Cup? The last instance of a country withdrawing from FIFA World Cup after the draw happened in 1950 when France and India decided not to take part in the tournament, citing travel costs. Iran, which has played six FIFA World Cups including past three, are place with New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G for the upcoming edition. They may end up facing United States in the knockout stage if both the teams manage to advance from their respective groups. Iranian nationals, as of now, are barred from entering the US under a ban imposed by president Donald Trump in June last year. The athletets who are expected to take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA28 Olympics are, however, expempted from the ban.

Iran's participatin in doubt amid ongoing US-Israel-Iran war.FIFA WC 2026, from Jun 11 to Jul 19, co-hosted by USA along with Canada and Mexico.Iran faces fine between $319,000 and $644,000 and a ban from future tournament if they pull out.

'Fund payback and disciplinary measures': What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026

The United States has intercepted top-secret communications believed to have originated in Iran. The encrypted communication, as per US intelligence, may serve as "an operational trigger" for Iranian "sleeper assets" outside the nation. The US federal government, in an alert sent to law enforcement agencies, has warned that the transmission may have activated Iranian sleeper cells. This comes as the US-Israel-Iran war enters its 11th day and as Tehran announced that the Islamic Republic and not America would "determine the end of the war" in West Asia. Which countries are at risk? Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">Iran ready to give countries 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz, but ONLY IF...</a><h2>Top-secret Iranian communications intercepted by US intelligence</h2>According to ABC News, US authorities have intercepted encrypted communications believed to have originated in Iran. The communication, they say, may be intended to activate covert operatives outside the country.The alert, reviewed by ABC News, refers to "preliminary signals analysis" of a transmission thought to be of Iranian origin. Officials said the signal appeared shortly after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike on Feb 28.<h2>Possible instructions to covert operatives</h2>According to the alert, the transmission was encrypted and relayed across multiple countries before reaching its intended recipients. Officials believe the signal may have been directed at “clandestine recipients” who already possess the required encryption key. Messages of this type are sometimes used to send instructions to "covert operatives or sleeper assets" without relying on internet or cellular networks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-and-diesel-prices-in-india-unlikely-to-rise-for-now-but-can-increase-if-oil-prices-cross-this-mark-1773111685796">India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost can increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark. Details inside</a>The alert notes that the transmission could potentially be intended to activate sleeper assets already positioned outside Iran."While the exact contents of these transmissions cannot currently be determined, the sudden appearance of a new station with international rebroadcast characteristics warrants heightened situational awareness," read the federal alert to US law enforcement.<h2>Which countries are at risk?</h2>According to the report, US authorities have not identified a specific threat. They stressed that the alert does not point to any specific target or location.There is "no operational threat tied to a specific location," the notice said, though it advised law enforcement agencies to increase monitoring of unusual or suspicious radio frequency activity.The intercepted transmission comes amid heightened security concerns following the killing of Khamenei during a joint US-Israeli strike. Notably, officials in Washington have previously warned that Iran or groups aligned with Tehran could attempt retaliation outside the Middle East.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US intelligence intercepts a secret Iranian message that could activate sleeper cells abroad. Officials say the encrypted signal may be part of a global retaliation campaign following the Feb 28 assassination of Ali Khamenei. Which countries are at risk, and what did the alert reveal? 

The United States has intercepted top-secret communications believed to have originated in Iran. The encrypted communication, as per US intelligence, may serve as "an operational trigger" for Iranian "sleeper assets" outside the nation. The US federal government, in an alert sent to law enforcement agencies, has warned that the transmission may have activated Iranian sleeper cells. This comes as the US-Israel-Iran war enters its 11th day and as Tehran announced that the Islamic Republic and not America would "determine the end of the war" in West Asia. Which countries are at risk? Here's all we know. Also read | Iran ready to give countries 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz, but ONLY IF... Top-secret Iranian communications intercepted by US intelligence According to ABC News, US authorities have intercepted encrypted communications believed to have originated in Iran. The communication, they say, may be intended to activate covert operatives outside the country. The alert, reviewed by ABC News, refers to "preliminary signals analysis" of a transmission thought to be of Iranian origin. Officials said the signal appeared shortly after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike on Feb 28. Possible instructions to covert operatives According to the alert, the transmission was encrypted and relayed across multiple countries before reaching its intended recipients. Officials believe the signal may have been directed at “clandestine recipients” who already possess the required encryption key. Messages of this type are sometimes used to send instructions to "covert operatives or sleeper assets" without relying on internet or cellular networks. Also read | India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost can increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark. Details inside The alert notes that the transmission could potentially be intended to activate sleeper assets already positioned outside Iran. "While the exact contents of these transmissions cannot currently be determined, the sudden appearance of a new station with international rebroadcast characteristics warrants heightened situational awareness," read the federal alert to US law enforcement. Which countries are at risk? According to the report, US authorities have not identified a specific threat. They stressed that the alert does not point to any specific target or location. There is "no operational threat tied to a specific location," the notice said, though it advised law enforcement agencies to increase monitoring of unusual or suspicious radio frequency activity. The intercepted transmission comes amid heightened security concerns following the killing of Khamenei during a joint US-Israeli strike. Notably, officials in Washington have previously warned that Iran or groups aligned with Tehran could attempt retaliation outside the Middle East. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US intelligence intercepts a secret Iranian message that could activate sleeper cells abroad. Officials say the encrypted signal may be part of a global retaliation campaign following the Feb 28 assassination of Ali Khamenei. Which countries are at risk, and what did the alert reveal?&nbsp;

Top-secret 'sleeper asset trigger' intercepted: US intel warns Iran planning global retaliation after Khamenei assassination

Petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to increase unless global crude oil prices cross the $130 per barrel mark, suggest reports citing government sources. Talking to WION on Tuesday (Mar 10), Government of India sources cautioned that petrol and diesel prices may be hiked, but only if the price of crude oil crosses the USD 130 per barrel mark. They confirmed that "Petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to rise unless crude oil breaches $130 per barrel," with expectations of prices stabilising around $100. The sources also confirmed that India currently has sufficient fuel supplies.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-secret-sleeper-asset-trigger-intercepted-us-intel-warns-iran-planning-global-retaliation-after-khamenei-assassination-iran-war-1773115872567">US intelligence intercepts TOP-SECRET signal linked to Iranian sleeper cells</a><h2>No shortage of petrol, diesel in India</h2>A senior Indian government official told WION that they expect crude oil prices to be around USD 100 per barrel, and insisted that there was no shortage of petrol and diesel at any pump in the country. “India faces no shortage of petrol, diesel, or Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), with sufficient stocks and ongoing exports of ATF positioning the country better than many others amid global disruptions,” government sources said.To further lessen the risk of supply restrictions, India has also accelerated sourcing from routes outside the Strait of Hormuz, reported ANI.<h2>No need to worry: Minister Hardeep Puri</h2>Previously, India's Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri also stated that the nation was not facing any energy shortage and insisted that there was no cause for worry for energy consumers. Following an interaction with members of the media, the minister on X posted: “Our priority is to ensure availability of affordable and sustainable fuel for our citizens, and we are doing it comfortably. There is no shortage of energy in India and there is no cause of worry for our energy consumers”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In my regular interaction with members of the fourth estate today, we discussed various aspects of India’s uninterrupted energy imports despite geopolitical challenges. Our priority is to ensure availability of affordable and sustainable fuel for our citizens, and we are doing… <a href="https://t.co/u4QCfSVgQo">pic.twitter.com/u4QCfSVgQo</a>&mdash; Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/2029909849589567987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expel-us-israeli-ambassadors-irgc-offers-full-freedom-in-strait-of-hormuz-to-arab-european-nations-on-one-condition-1773107488099">Iran ready to give countries 'full freedom' in Strait of Hormuz, but ONLY IF...</a>Rubbishing reports of a fuel shortage, Indian Oil Corporation also echoed Puri's statement and took to X to say, “India has sufficient fuel stocks, and supply and distribution networks are functioning normally. IndianOil is committed to maintaining uninterrupted fuel supply across the country. Citizens are requested not to panic or crowd fuel stations and to rely only on official sources for accurate information”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">सोशल मीडिया पर पेट्रोल और डीज़ल की कमी को लेकर फैल रही खबरें पूरी तरह निराधार हैं। भारत में ईंधन का पर्याप्त भंडार उपलब्ध है और आपूर्ति व वितरण नेटवर्क सामान्य रूप से कार्य कर रहे हैं। इंडियनऑइल निर्बाध ईंधन आपूर्ति बनाए रखने के लिए पूरी तरह प्रतिबद्ध है। नागरिकों को आश्वस्त…&mdash; Indian Oil Corp Ltd (@IndianOilcl) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianOilcl/status/2029904002574589958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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.

Will petrol and diesel prices rise in India as global oil prices surge during the Iran war? Reports suggest fuel prices are unlikely to increase unless crude crosses $130 per barrel. India currently has adequate supplies, but what happens if oil prices keep climbing? Scroll down to find out.

Petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to increase unless global crude oil prices cross the $130 per barrel mark, suggest reports citing government sources. Talking to WION on Tuesday (Mar 10), Government of India sources cautioned that petrol and diesel prices may be hiked, but only if the price of crude oil crosses the USD 130 per barrel mark. They confirmed that "Petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to rise unless crude oil breaches $130 per barrel," with expectations of prices stabilising around $100. The sources also confirmed that India currently has sufficient fuel supplies. Also read | US intelligence intercepts TOP-SECRET signal linked to Iranian sleeper cells No shortage of petrol, diesel in India A senior Indian government official told WION that they expect crude oil prices to be around USD 100 per barrel, and insisted that there was no shortage of petrol and diesel at any pump in the country. “India faces no shortage of petrol, diesel, or Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), with sufficient stocks and ongoing exports of ATF positioning the country better than many others amid global disruptions,” government sources said. To further lessen the risk of supply restrictions, India has also accelerated sourcing from routes outside the Strait of Hormuz, reported ANI. No need to worry: Minister Hardeep Puri Previously, India's Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri also stated that the nation was not facing any energy shortage and insisted that there was no cause for worry for energy consumers. Following an interaction with members of the media, the minister on X posted: “Our priority is to ensure availability of affordable and sustainable fuel for our citizens, and we are doing it comfortably. There is no shortage of energy in India and there is no cause of worry for our energy consumers”.

Will petrol and diesel prices rise in India as global oil prices surge during the Iran war? Reports suggest fuel prices are unlikely to increase unless crude crosses $130 per barrel. India currently has adequate supplies, but what happens if oil prices keep climbing? Scroll down to find out.

India to hike petrol and diesel prices? Your fuel cost might increase if crude oil crosses THIS mark

Five players in Iran's visiting women's football team have taken asylum in Australia over fears of persecution at home for not singing the national anthem before a match, the government said Tuesday. The Iranian players' silence during the anthem ahead of an Asian Cup tournament match in Australia last week was widely seen as an act of defiance against the Islamic republic. Five players escaped the team hotel on Australia's Gold Coast overnight, holing up in a "safe location" while lodging their claims for asylum, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said."They were moved to a safe location by Australian police. I signed off last night on their applications for humanitarian visas," he told reporters."They are welcome to stay in Australia, and they are safe here, and should feel at home here."The government said it was also ready to help other team members if they need it.US President Donald Trump earlier said he had spoken with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to confirm the women were safe.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-check-complete-match-schedules-timings-and-venues-1773049474920">FIFA World Cup 2026: Check complete match schedules, timings and venues</a><h2>'He's on it!'</h2>"I just spoke to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, of Australia, concerning the Iranian National Women's Soccer Team. He's on it! Five have already been taken care of," Trump said Monday on his Truth Social network, less than two hours after an initial post urging Australia to take them in.Trump added that "some, however, feel they must go back because they are worried about the safety of their families, including threats to those family members if they don't return."Albanese said the government had prepared to help the players "for some time" and it was open to helping others in the team."Once it was made clear that these women wanted assistance, the Australian Federal Police moved them to a safe location where they remain," he said.Australia's intelligence service chief was also consulted, the prime minister said."Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women. They're safe here, and they should feel at home here," he told a news conference.<h2>‘Help is here’</h2>"We are willing to provide assistance to other women in the team, noting that this is a very delicate situation, and it is up to them," Albanese said."But we say to them, if you want our help, help is here, and we will provide that."The prime minister thanked the media for their "restraint" in reporting the story, saying the government wanted to let the players know that help was available in a way that did not endanger them or their families and friends at home.The son of Iran's late shah, US-based Reza Pahlavi, said on social media that he had been informed of the five players' asylum.Pahlavi, who has not returned to Iran since before the 1979 Islamic revolution that ousted the monarchy, has billed himself as the man to lead a democratic transition to a secular Iran as the theocratic regime fights to survive.Politicians, human rights activists and even "Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling had called for the team to be offered official protection.A presenter on Iranian state TV had branded the players "wartime traitors" after they stood motionless during the anthem before their match against South Korea.In subsequent games, the players saluted and sang.Crowds gathered outside the Gold Coast stadium where the side played their last match over the weekend, banging drums and shouting "regime change for Iran".They then surrounded the Iranian team bus, chanting "let them go" and "save our girls".On Monday, an AFP journalist saw members of the team speaking on phones from their hotel room balconies.

The Iranian players' silence during the anthem ahead of an Asian Cup tournament match in Australia last week was widely seen as an act of defiance against the Islamic republic. Five players escaped the team hotel on Australia's Gold Coast overnight, holing up in a "safe location" while lodging their claims for asylum.

Five players in Iran's visiting women's football team have taken asylum in Australia over fears of persecution at home for not singing the national anthem before a match, the government said Tuesday. The Iranian players' silence during the anthem ahead of an Asian Cup tournament match in Australia last week was widely seen as an act of defiance against the Islamic republic. Five players escaped the team hotel on Australia's Gold Coast overnight, holing up in a "safe location" while lodging their claims for asylum, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said. "They were moved to a safe location by Australian police. I signed off last night on their applications for humanitarian visas," he told reporters. "They are welcome to stay in Australia, and they are safe here, and should feel at home here." The government said it was also ready to help other team members if they need it. US President Donald Trump earlier said he had spoken with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to confirm the women were safe. Also Read - FIFA World Cup 2026: Check complete match schedules, timings and venues 'He's on it!' "I just spoke to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, of Australia, concerning the Iranian National Women's Soccer Team. He's on it! Five have already been taken care of," Trump said Monday on his Truth Social network, less than two hours after an initial post urging Australia to take them in. Trump added that "some, however, feel they must go back because they are worried about the safety of their families, including threats to those family members if they don't return." Albanese said the government had prepared to help the players "for some time" and it was open to helping others in the team. "Once it was made clear that these women wanted assistance, the Australian Federal Police moved them to a safe location where they remain," he said. Australia's intelligence service chief was also consulted, the prime minister said. "Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women. They're safe here, and they should feel at home here," he told a news conference. ‘Help is here’ "We are willing to provide assistance to other women in the team, noting that this is a very delicate situation, and it is up to them," Albanese said. "But we say to them, if you want our help, help is here, and we will provide that." The prime minister thanked the media for their "restraint" in reporting the story, saying the government wanted to let the players know that help was available in a way that did not endanger them or their families and friends at home. The son of Iran's late shah, US-based Reza Pahlavi, said on social media that he had been informed of the five players' asylum. Pahlavi, who has not returned to Iran since before the 1979 Islamic revolution that ousted the monarchy, has billed himself as the man to lead a democratic transition to a secular Iran as the theocratic regime fights to survive. Politicians, human rights activists and even "Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling had called for the team to be offered official protection. A presenter on Iranian state TV had branded the players "wartime traitors" after they stood motionless during the anthem before their match against South Korea. In subsequent games, the players saluted and sang. Crowds gathered outside the Gold Coast stadium where the side played their last match over the weekend, banging drums and shouting "regime change for Iran". They then surrounded the Iranian team bus, chanting "let them go" and "save our girls". On Monday, an AFP journalist saw members of the team speaking on phones from their hotel room balconies.

The Iranian players' silence during the anthem ahead of an Asian Cup tournament match in Australia last week was widely seen as an act of defiance against the Islamic republic. Five players escaped the team hotel on Australia's Gold Coast overnight, holing up in a "safe location" while lodging their claims for asylum.

Amid chaos, five Iranian women's football players given asylum in Australia

Global markets staged a dramatic turnaround on Monday (March 9) after comments from Donald Trump suggested the conflict with Iran may be nearing an end. Speaking to CBS News, Trump said the war was “very complete, pretty much,” sparking a sharp reversal in both oil prices and stock markets after a day of intense volatility. Earlier in the day, oil prices had surged amid fears that the conflict could disrupt supplies through the critical Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for global crude exports. US crude oil prices briefly jumped as much as 32% overnight to $119 per barrel before sharply reversing.&nbsp;By the close of trading, US crude had dropped about 5% to around $86 per barrel. International benchmark Brent crude also pulled back more than 3.5%, falling below $89 per barrel. US stock markets also rebounded strongly. The S&amp;P 500, which had earlier fallen as much as 1.5%, ended the session up 0.83%. The Nasdaq Composite reversed a 1.4% drop to close 1.38% higher. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average recovered from a drop of more than 880 points to finish the day up 239 points.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-had-a-very-good-call-with-putin-here-s-what-russian-president-said-about-middle-east-war-1773096489961">Trump says he had 'a very good call' with Putin. Here’s what Russian president said about Middle East war</a>&nbsp;Despite Monday’s pullback, oil prices remain sharply higher. US crude has surged more than 50% since the beginning of the year and more than 30% in the past five days alone. Rising energy costs are also hitting consumers. According to fuel-tracking service GasBuddy, the average price of gasoline in the United States climbed to $3.49 per gallon Monday afternoon, up more than 50 cents since the conflict began.<h2>How global markets reacted?</h2>Global markets were hit earlier in the day before the rebound in the US. Japan’s Nikkei 225 suffered its worst decline since last year’s tariff-driven sell-off, plunging 5.2% and entering correction territory after falling more than 10% from its recent high. South Korea’s KOSPI dropped 6%, triggering a 20-minute trading halt during heavy selling.&nbsp;In Europe, the STOXX Europe 600 closed 0.6% lower as markets in Germany, France, Italy and Spain fell roughly 1%.Bond markets also reversed course. The yield on the US 10‑Year Treasury slipped to 4.10%, while the U.S. 30‑Year Treasury yield fell to 4.71%. Energy markets showed similar volatility. Natural gas futures traded in New York dropped about 4%, while European contracts eased after an earlier surge and were trading about 5% higher.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-indonesia-to-buy-india-s-brahmos-missile-in-major-defence-deal-wion-1773098060808/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-indonesia-to-buy-india-s-brahmos-missile-in-major-defence-deal-wion-1773098060808/embed</a>&nbsp;Heating oil, often viewed as a proxy for jet fuel, fell more than 8% after earlier jumping as much as 23%. Finance ministers from major industrialized nations also held emergency talks Monday to discuss the possibility of releasing strategic oil reserves to calm markets. However, no coordinated release was announced for now.&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.

Oil prices, stocks stage dramatic reversal after Trump says Iran war ‘very complete’

Global markets staged a dramatic turnaround on Monday (March 9) after comments from Donald Trump suggested the conflict with Iran may be nearing an end. Speaking to CBS News, Trump said the war was “very complete, pretty much,” sparking a sharp reversal in both oil prices and stock markets after a day of intense volatility. Earlier in the day, oil prices had surged amid fears that the conflict could disrupt supplies through the critical Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for global crude exports. US crude oil prices briefly jumped as much as 32% overnight to $119 per barrel before sharply reversing. By the close of trading, US crude had dropped about 5% to around $86 per barrel. International benchmark Brent crude also pulled back more than 3.5%, falling below $89 per barrel. US stock markets also rebounded strongly. The S&P 500, which had earlier fallen as much as 1.5%, ended the session up 0.83%. The Nasdaq Composite reversed a 1.4% drop to close 1.38% higher. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average recovered from a drop of more than 880 points to finish the day up 239 points. Also Read: Trump says he had 'a very good call' with Putin. Here’s what Russian president said about Middle East war Despite Monday’s pullback, oil prices remain sharply higher. US crude has surged more than 50% since the beginning of the year and more than 30% in the past five days alone. Rising energy costs are also hitting consumers. According to fuel-tracking service GasBuddy, the average price of gasoline in the United States climbed to $3.49 per gallon Monday afternoon, up more than 50 cents since the conflict began. How global markets reacted? Global markets were hit earlier in the day before the rebound in the US. Japan’s Nikkei 225 suffered its worst decline since last year’s tariff-driven sell-off, plunging 5.2% and entering correction territory after falling more than 10% from its recent high. South Korea’s KOSPI dropped 6%, triggering a 20-minute trading halt during heavy selling. In Europe, the STOXX Europe 600 closed 0.6% lower as markets in Germany, France, Italy and Spain fell roughly 1%. Bond markets also reversed course. The yield on the US 10‑Year Treasury slipped to 4.10%, while the U.S. 30‑Year Treasury yield fell to 4.71%. Energy markets showed similar volatility. Natural gas futures traded in New York dropped about 4%, while European contracts eased after an earlier surge and were trading about 5% higher. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-indonesia-to-buy-india-s-brahmos-missile-in-major-defence-deal-wion-1773098060808/embed Heating oil, often viewed as a proxy for jet fuel, fell more than 8% after earlier jumping as much as 23%. Finance ministers from major industrialized nations also held emergency talks Monday to discuss the possibility of releasing strategic oil reserves to calm markets. However, no coordinated release was announced for now. 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.

Oil prices and global stocks reversed sharply after Trump signaled the Iran conflict may be nearing its end, easing fears of supply disruption

US President Donald Trump said he had “a very good call” with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (March 9), describing the conversation as productive and saying the Russian leader expressed interest in helping address tensions in the Middle East. The call marked Trump’s first conversation with Putin since the conflict with Iran began. Speaking to reporters in Doral, Florida, Trump said the two leaders discussed the escalating crisis in the Middle East, adding that Putin “wants to be helpful.”&nbsp;However, Trump also used the opportunity to push Russia to end its long-running war with Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year. “I said, ‘You could be more helpful by getting the Ukraine-Russia war over with,’” he told reporters in Doral, Florida. “That would be more helpful.” The US president described the ongoing war in Ukraine as difficult to resolve but said he viewed the conversation with Putin as constructive. Trump called Ukraine “a never-ending fight,” but said he thinks “it was a positive call on that subject.” While Trump has frequently highlighted his efforts to bring an end to international conflicts, he has also acknowledged frustration that a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine has remained elusive.<h2>JD Vance was less enthusiastic about going to war: Trump</h2>During the same briefing, Trump also addressed internal discussions within his administration over the decision to launch military action against Iran. He said Vice President JD Vance had initially been more cautious about the prospect of war. “He was, I would say, philosophically a little bit different than me,” Trump said. “I think he was maybe less enthusiastic about going, but he was quite enthusiastic.” Trump stressed that despite differences in tone, the two leaders were not in disagreement about the overall decision.&nbsp;The president added that he believed striking Iran was necessary to prevent a potential attack on the United States.Vance, who rose to national prominence as a critic of prolonged foreign wars, had previously expressed concerns about opening another military conflict in the Middle East. However, as it became clear that Trump supported a military campaign, he later backed a rapid and decisive approach to the operation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-was-going-to-take-over-the-middle-east-claims-trump-as-he-defends-strikes-1773095658953">'Iran was going to take over the Middle East', claims Trump as he defends strikes</a><h2>Disappointed to see their choice: Trump on Mojtaba Khamenei becoming new Iran's supreme leader</h2>Trump also commented on the recent leadership change in Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Tehran has named his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader. Trump said he was unhappy with the decision but stopped short of suggesting direct action against the new leader. “I was disappointed, because we think it’s going to lead to just more of the same problem for the country. So I was disappointed to see their choice,” Trump told reporters.&nbsp;When asked whether Mojtaba Khamenei had become a potential target, Trump declined to speculate. “That would be inappropriate. But hey, look, I had a target on my back,” Trump said, referring to previous assassination attempts against him. The president also said the United States should play a role in shaping Iran’s future leadership.“We want to be involved,” Trump said. He added: “We think they should put a president in, or the head of the country in, that’s going to be able to do something peacefully for a change.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-praises-us-armed-forces-amid-iran-war-wion-breaking-1773092659922/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-praises-us-armed-forces-amid-iran-war-wion-breaking-1773092659922/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump has previously called Mojtaba Khamenei an “unacceptable” option for Iran’s leadership. However, speaking earlier to Republican lawmakers, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the country’s political future, saying “nobody has any idea” who will ultimately lead Iran.&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.

Trump says he had 'a very good call' with Putin. Here’s what Russian president said about Middle East war

US President Donald Trump said he had “a very good call” with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (March 9), describing the conversation as productive and saying the Russian leader expressed interest in helping address tensions in the Middle East. The call marked Trump’s first conversation with Putin since the conflict with Iran began. Speaking to reporters in Doral, Florida, Trump said the two leaders discussed the escalating crisis in the Middle East, adding that Putin “wants to be helpful.” However, Trump also used the opportunity to push Russia to end its long-running war with Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year. “I said, ‘You could be more helpful by getting the Ukraine-Russia war over with,’” he told reporters in Doral, Florida. “That would be more helpful.” The US president described the ongoing war in Ukraine as difficult to resolve but said he viewed the conversation with Putin as constructive. Trump called Ukraine “a never-ending fight,” but said he thinks “it was a positive call on that subject.” While Trump has frequently highlighted his efforts to bring an end to international conflicts, he has also acknowledged frustration that a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine has remained elusive. JD Vance was less enthusiastic about going to war: Trump During the same briefing, Trump also addressed internal discussions within his administration over the decision to launch military action against Iran. He said Vice President JD Vance had initially been more cautious about the prospect of war. “He was, I would say, philosophically a little bit different than me,” Trump said. “I think he was maybe less enthusiastic about going, but he was quite enthusiastic.” Trump stressed that despite differences in tone, the two leaders were not in disagreement about the overall decision. The president added that he believed striking Iran was necessary to prevent a potential attack on the United States. Vance, who rose to national prominence as a critic of prolonged foreign wars, had previously expressed concerns about opening another military conflict in the Middle East. However, as it became clear that Trump supported a military campaign, he later backed a rapid and decisive approach to the operation. Also Read: 'Iran was going to take over the Middle East', claims Trump as he defends strikes Disappointed to see their choice: Trump on Mojtaba Khamenei becoming new Iran's supreme leader Trump also commented on the recent leadership change in Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Tehran has named his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader. Trump said he was unhappy with the decision but stopped short of suggesting direct action against the new leader. “I was disappointed, because we think it’s going to lead to just more of the same problem for the country. So I was disappointed to see their choice,” Trump told reporters. When asked whether Mojtaba Khamenei had become a potential target, Trump declined to speculate. “That would be inappropriate. But hey, look, I had a target on my back,” Trump said, referring to previous assassination attempts against him. The president also said the United States should play a role in shaping Iran’s future leadership. “We want to be involved,” Trump said. He added: “We think they should put a president in, or the head of the country in, that’s going to be able to do something peacefully for a change.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-praises-us-armed-forces-amid-iran-war-wion-breaking-1773092659922/embed Trump has previously called Mojtaba Khamenei an “unacceptable” option for Iran’s leadership. However, speaking earlier to Republican lawmakers, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the country’s political future, saying “nobody has any idea” who will ultimately lead Iran. 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.

Trump says he had “a very good call” with Russian president Putin, urging him to end the Ukraine war while discussing the Iran conflict and Middle East tensions

US President Donald Trump said Iran’s decision to retaliate against its regional neighbours following joint US-Israeli strikes was a major miscalculation, calling the move “very foolish, very stupid.” Speaking at a news conference in Florida, Trump said Tehran’s attacks on nearby countries, including Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, backfired strategically by pushing them closer to Washington. Iran’s neighbours “were largely neutral, or at least weren’t going to be involved,” Trump said, adding that after Tehran’s strikes “the neighbors came onto our side and started attacking [Iran,] and actually quite successfully.”&nbsp;Trump also said the military action fulfills a pledge he made years ago to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.During the same remarks, the president argued that the ongoing war with Iran could ultimately push oil prices lower, even though global markets have surged since the conflict began. The spike was partly driven by disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global energy supplies. “The Strait of Hormuz is going to remain safe,” he said during the news conference. “We’re putting an end to all of this threat once and for all, and the result will be lower oil and gas prices for American families.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/-we-have-wiped-every-single-force-in-iran-out-very-completely-trump-claims-1773094757085">'We have wiped every single force in Iran out very completely', Trump claims</a>&nbsp;Trump downplayed the immediate economic impact of rising oil prices on Americans, arguing that supply disruptions affect other countries more significantly. “Doesn’t really affect us,” he said. “We have so much oil.” Global crude prices surged after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, briefly approaching $120 per barrel before easing. The jump has already pushed gasoline prices higher for consumers. Trump also warned Iran against targeting commercial shipping routes, cautioning that the consequences would be severe.&nbsp;He said “the price will be incalculable” for Iran if it attempts to strike any ships moving through the region.The president further claimed that Iran had broader ambitions in the region and that the military action prevented a larger geopolitical shift. “Iran’s a very powerful country. They were going to take over the Middle East. If we did not hit them, they were going to take over the Middle East,” Trump said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-us-uneasy-after-israel-hits-iranian-fuel-depot-1773088181156/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-us-uneasy-after-israel-hits-iranian-fuel-depot-1773088181156/embed</a>&nbsp;He added that most of Iran’s missile systems and weapons capabilities have now been destroyed and claimed they had been aimed at other regional countries. Trump also said Iran had intended to target Israel but that the United States intervened in time. “We’re very proud to be involved in this and it’s going to be ended soon, and if it starts up again, they’ll be hit even harder,” he said. Amid the surge in global oil prices, Trump also announced that his administration is considering temporary changes to sanctions policy to ease energy costs.&nbsp;The president said his administration would be “waiving certain oil-related sanctions to reduce prices.” He did not specify which countries could benefit from the waiver, saying only: “We have sanctions on some countries. We’re going to take those sanctions off until this straightens out.” Among the world’s most heavily sanctioned oil producers are Iran and Russia. Trump recently granted India a waiver allowing it to increase imports of Russian oil following a trade agreement between Washington and New Delhi that required India to reduce its purchases.&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.

'Iran was going to take over the Middle East', claims Trump as he defends strikes

US President Donald Trump said Iran’s decision to retaliate against its regional neighbours following joint US-Israeli strikes was a major miscalculation, calling the move “very foolish, very stupid.” Speaking at a news conference in Florida, Trump said Tehran’s attacks on nearby countries, including Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, backfired strategically by pushing them closer to Washington. Iran’s neighbours “were largely neutral, or at least weren’t going to be involved,” Trump said, adding that after Tehran’s strikes “the neighbors came onto our side and started attacking [Iran,] and actually quite successfully.” Trump also said the military action fulfills a pledge he made years ago to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. During the same remarks, the president argued that the ongoing war with Iran could ultimately push oil prices lower, even though global markets have surged since the conflict began. The spike was partly driven by disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global energy supplies. “The Strait of Hormuz is going to remain safe,” he said during the news conference. “We’re putting an end to all of this threat once and for all, and the result will be lower oil and gas prices for American families.” Also Read: 'We have wiped every single force in Iran out very completely', Trump claims Trump downplayed the immediate economic impact of rising oil prices on Americans, arguing that supply disruptions affect other countries more significantly. “Doesn’t really affect us,” he said. “We have so much oil.” Global crude prices surged after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, briefly approaching $120 per barrel before easing. The jump has already pushed gasoline prices higher for consumers. Trump also warned Iran against targeting commercial shipping routes, cautioning that the consequences would be severe. He said “the price will be incalculable” for Iran if it attempts to strike any ships moving through the region. The president further claimed that Iran had broader ambitions in the region and that the military action prevented a larger geopolitical shift. “Iran’s a very powerful country. They were going to take over the Middle East. If we did not hit them, they were going to take over the Middle East,” Trump said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-us-uneasy-after-israel-hits-iranian-fuel-depot-1773088181156/embed He added that most of Iran’s missile systems and weapons capabilities have now been destroyed and claimed they had been aimed at other regional countries. Trump also said Iran had intended to target Israel but that the United States intervened in time. “We’re very proud to be involved in this and it’s going to be ended soon, and if it starts up again, they’ll be hit even harder,” he said. Amid the surge in global oil prices, Trump also announced that his administration is considering temporary changes to sanctions policy to ease energy costs. The president said his administration would be “waiving certain oil-related sanctions to reduce prices.” He did not specify which countries could benefit from the waiver, saying only: “We have sanctions on some countries. We’re going to take those sanctions off until this straightens out.” Among the world’s most heavily sanctioned oil producers are Iran and Russia. Trump recently granted India a waiver allowing it to increase imports of Russian oil following a trade agreement between Washington and New Delhi that required India to reduce its purchases. 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.

Trump calls Iran’s strikes on Gulf neighbours “very foolish,” warns of consequences in Hormuz crisis and says US may waive oil sanctions to ease prices

US President Donald Trump held a news conference at his golf club in Florida as the war with Iran entered its second week, with global attention focused on rising oil prices and major political developments inside Iran. Oil markets have surged sharply since the conflict began, adding to economic uncertainty worldwide. Meanwhile, Iran has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Trump described the conflict as “very complete” during an interview with CBS News. According to Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov, Trump also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Iran and other international matters. Speaking on Monday, Trump said the United States had made significant progress in the conflict and suggested the mission could be nearing completion. “We’re achieving major strides toward completing our military objective, and some people could say they’re pretty well complete,” he said during a press conference. “We’ve wiped every single force in Iran out very completely.”<h2>US has hit more than 5000 targets across Iran: Trump</h2>However, the president has recently offered mixed signals about the duration of the campaign. During a speech to House Republicans shortly before the press conference, Trump described the operation as a “short-term excursion.” Later, he struck a more determined tone, pledging to “go forward more determined than ever to achieve ultimate victory.” Trump also claimed the US military had carried out extensive strikes since the conflict began. “If we hit them, it’s going to take many years for them to be rebuilt, having to do with electricity production and many other things,” he said. The president said the United States has struck more than 5,000 targets across Iran, noting that several critical targets remain untouched for now.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-better-not-try-anything-cute-us-president-donald-trump-claims-iran-war-very-complete-1773088853706">'They better not try anything cute': US President Donald Trump claims Iran war 'very complete'</a>&nbsp;“If we hit them, it’s going to take many years for them to be rebuilt, having to do with electricity production and many other things,” he continued. During the remarks, Trump reiterated that US objectives in Iran are “pretty well complete.”He also revealed new details about prior diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran earlier this year. Trump said his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner held three rounds of negotiations with Iranian officials, with Oman serving as mediator.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-spring-arrives-in-srinagar-as-badamwari-hosts-almond-blossom-festival-wion-1773092653932/embed&nbsp;Despite those discussions, the talks ultimately failed to produce an agreement. “Despite these countless opportunities to renounce their nuclear ambitions, which they had just a short while ago, they told Mr. Witkoff … they actually said, ‘We want to keep building,’” Trump told reporters in Doral, Florida. “Essentially, in a real nutshell, ‘We want to continue to build nuclear weapons,’” he added. Trump also argued that US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last summer prevented a far more dangerous scenario. “They would have had a nuclear weapon, they would have used it long before now, and at a minimum, Israel would have been annihilated.”&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.

'We have wiped every single force in Iran out very completely', Trump claims

US President Donald Trump held a news conference at his golf club in Florida as the war with Iran entered its second week, with global attention focused on rising oil prices and major political developments inside Iran. Oil markets have surged sharply since the conflict began, adding to economic uncertainty worldwide. Meanwhile, Iran has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader. Earlier in the day, Trump described the conflict as “very complete” during an interview with CBS News. According to Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov, Trump also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Iran and other international matters. Speaking on Monday, Trump said the United States had made significant progress in the conflict and suggested the mission could be nearing completion. “We’re achieving major strides toward completing our military objective, and some people could say they’re pretty well complete,” he said during a press conference. “We’ve wiped every single force in Iran out very completely.” US has hit more than 5000 targets across Iran: Trump However, the president has recently offered mixed signals about the duration of the campaign. During a speech to House Republicans shortly before the press conference, Trump described the operation as a “short-term excursion.” Later, he struck a more determined tone, pledging to “go forward more determined than ever to achieve ultimate victory.” Trump also claimed the US military had carried out extensive strikes since the conflict began. “If we hit them, it’s going to take many years for them to be rebuilt, having to do with electricity production and many other things,” he said. The president said the United States has struck more than 5,000 targets across Iran, noting that several critical targets remain untouched for now. Also Read: 'They better not try anything cute': US President Donald Trump claims Iran war 'very complete' “If we hit them, it’s going to take many years for them to be rebuilt, having to do with electricity production and many other things,” he continued. During the remarks, Trump reiterated that US objectives in Iran are “pretty well complete.” He also revealed new details about prior diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran earlier this year. Trump said his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner held three rounds of negotiations with Iranian officials, with Oman serving as mediator. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-spring-arrives-in-srinagar-as-badamwari-hosts-almond-blossom-festival-wion-1773092653932/embed Despite those discussions, the talks ultimately failed to produce an agreement. “Despite these countless opportunities to renounce their nuclear ambitions, which they had just a short while ago, they told Mr. Witkoff … they actually said, ‘We want to keep building,’” Trump told reporters in Doral, Florida. “Essentially, in a real nutshell, ‘We want to continue to build nuclear weapons,’” he added. Trump also argued that US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last summer prevented a far more dangerous scenario. “They would have had a nuclear weapon, they would have used it long before now, and at a minimum, Israel would have been annihilated.” 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.

Trump says US has struck 5,000+ targets in Iran and claims war goals are ‘pretty well complete’ as oil prices surge and Iran names Mojtaba Khamenei supreme leader

Amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the war is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In statement made during an interview with CBS News, Trump on Monday (March 9) said the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. Speaking to CBS reporters, the US President said the war is “very complete, pretty much.” Trump argued that Iran’s military capabilities had been severely weakened during the operation. "They have no navy, no communications, they've got no air force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones," said Trump, adding that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense."&nbsp;The conflict began on February 28 when the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran as part of a joint military operation. The escalation pushed several Middle East nations closer to the brink of a wider regional war. Earlier, Trump had said US military action against Iran could last four to five weeks. However, in his latest remarks to CBS, he said Washington was “Far ahead” of that timeline and the conflict could conclude soon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-men-charged-after-alleged-isis-inspired-bomb-were-thrown-near-nyc-mayor-s-home-1773085939347">Two men charged after alleged ISIS-inspired bomb were thrown near NYC mayor’s home</a><h2>Trump’s warning to Iran</h2>During the interview, Trump also issued a warning to Tehran, urging the country not to escalate the situation further."They've shot everything they have to shoot, and they better not try anything cute or it's going to be the end of that country…If they do anything bad, that would be the end of Iran and you'd never hear the name again," POTUS was quoted as saying.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/human-rights-group-accuses-israel-of-white-phosphorus-attack-in-lebanon-1773088157056/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/human-rights-group-accuses-israel-of-white-phosphorus-attack-in-lebanon-1773088157056/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump also said the Strait of Hormuz is currently open and claimed ships have resumed passing through the strategic passage. He added that he is considering a potential US takeover of the vital maritime route. His statement come as the United States Department of Defense said in a statement that the US has "only just begun its fight." Trump is also expected to hold a press conference as the conflict continues to impact global oil prices.&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.

'They better not try anything cute': US President Donald Trump claims Iran war 'very complete'

Amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the war is nearly finished, describing the situation as “very complete.” In statement made during an interview with CBS News, Trump on Monday (March 9) said the conflict had progressed much faster than initially expected and could end soon. Speaking to CBS reporters, the US President said the war is “very complete, pretty much.” Trump argued that Iran’s military capabilities had been severely weakened during the operation. "They have no navy, no communications, they've got no air force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones," said Trump, adding that Tehran has nothing left in a "military sense." The conflict began on February 28 when the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran as part of a joint military operation. The escalation pushed several Middle East nations closer to the brink of a wider regional war. Earlier, Trump had said US military action against Iran could last four to five weeks. However, in his latest remarks to CBS, he said Washington was “Far ahead” of that timeline and the conflict could conclude soon. Also Read: Two men charged after alleged ISIS-inspired bomb were thrown near NYC mayor’s home Trump’s warning to Iran During the interview, Trump also issued a warning to Tehran, urging the country not to escalate the situation further. "They've shot everything they have to shoot, and they better not try anything cute or it's going to be the end of that country…If they do anything bad, that would be the end of Iran and you'd never hear the name again," POTUS was quoted as saying. https://www.wionews.com/videos/human-rights-group-accuses-israel-of-white-phosphorus-attack-in-lebanon-1773088157056/embed Trump also said the Strait of Hormuz is currently open and claimed ships have resumed passing through the strategic passage. He added that he is considering a potential US takeover of the vital maritime route. His statement come as the United States Department of Defense said in a statement that the US has "only just begun its fight." Trump is also expected to hold a press conference as the conflict continues to impact global oil prices. 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.

Trump in an interview with CBS said that the Iran conflict is ‘very complete’ and warned Tehran not to ‘try anything cute’, saying the war could end sooner than expected

US stocks tumbled at the opening bell on Monday (March 9), wiping out more than $900 billion in market value in early trading as investors reacted to a sharp surge in oil prices and rising geopolitical tensions. Crude oil briefly rose above $100 per barrel, fueling fears that the expanding Middle East conflict could drive inflation higher and weigh on global economic growth. According to reports from Reuters and Yahoo Finance, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell more than 800 points shortly after the market opened, while the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq also dropped sharply as investors moved to reduce risk exposure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Travel and banking stocks led the declines, with major airline and cruise companies posting steep losses. Energy stocks, however, held up better as higher oil prices supported the sector. The spike in oil prices is being driven by instability linked to the widening Iran conflict, which has disrupted supply expectations and pushed global markets into risk-off mode. Investors are now closely watching whether oil prices continue to climb and whether renewed inflation pressures could force central banks to delay anticipated interest-rate cuts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anthropic-sues-pentagon-over-ai-warfare-dispute-seeks-to-undo-supply-chain-risk-designation-1773072313870">Anthropic sues Pentagon over AI warfare dispute; seeks to undo 'supply chain risk' designation</a>&nbsp;Goldman Sachs analysts are warning that even a modest slowdown in economic growth could significantly impact corporate profits, highlighting rising risks for US equities as geopolitical tensions intensify. According to the bank’s analysts, a 1% decline in economic growth could reduce earnings for companies in the S&amp;P 500 by roughly 4%, underscoring how sensitive corporate profits are to changes in the broader economy.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-after-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-takes-power-as-us-israel-war-with-iran-escalates-1773076467980/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-after-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-takes-power-as-us-israel-war-with-iran-escalates-1773076467980/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

$900 Billion wiped out at opening bell as oil spike jolts Wall Street before markets rebound

US stocks tumbled at the opening bell on Monday (March 9), wiping out more than $900 billion in market value in early trading as investors reacted to a sharp surge in oil prices and rising geopolitical tensions. Crude oil briefly rose above $100 per barrel, fueling fears that the expanding Middle East conflict could drive inflation higher and weigh on global economic growth. According to reports from Reuters and Yahoo Finance, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell more than 800 points shortly after the market opened, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq also dropped sharply as investors moved to reduce risk exposure. Travel and banking stocks led the declines, with major airline and cruise companies posting steep losses. Energy stocks, however, held up better as higher oil prices supported the sector. The spike in oil prices is being driven by instability linked to the widening Iran conflict, which has disrupted supply expectations and pushed global markets into risk-off mode. Investors are now closely watching whether oil prices continue to climb and whether renewed inflation pressures could force central banks to delay anticipated interest-rate cuts. Also Read: Anthropic sues Pentagon over AI warfare dispute; seeks to undo 'supply chain risk' designation Goldman Sachs analysts are warning that even a modest slowdown in economic growth could significantly impact corporate profits, highlighting rising risks for US equities as geopolitical tensions intensify. According to the bank’s analysts, a 1% decline in economic growth could reduce earnings for companies in the S&P 500 by roughly 4%, underscoring how sensitive corporate profits are to changes in the broader economy. https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-after-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-takes-power-as-us-israel-war-with-iran-escalates-1773076467980/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US stocks dropped at the open, wiping out $900B as oil surged past $100 amid Middle East tensions, before markets attempted to stabilize

India had granted docking permission to all Iranian naval vessels to dock in Kochi, following their participation in its multinational naval events, amid escalating tensions in the region involving a US military strike on one of the ships. The three Iranian ships, IRIS Lavan (an amphibious landing ship), IRIS Bushehr (a supply vessel), and IRIS Dena (a Moudge-class frigate), were taking part in the Indian exercises Milan 2026 multilateral exercise and the International Fleet Review (IFR) held in Visakhapatnam in February.&nbsp;The events, which included navies from dozens of countries, showcased maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean. On 28 February, Tehran submitted requests for post-event port calls or support for the ships as they prepared to return home. Indian authorities approved these on 1 March.&nbsp;Only IRIS Lavan arrived at Kochi port in southern India, docking on 4 March after reporting technical issues that prompted an urgent humanitarian request. Its 183 crew members, including cadets, have been accommodated at Indian naval facilities while the vessel remains in port.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-deploys-doomsday-nuclear-command-planes-to-west-asia-amid-ww3-fears-1773071562944">Trump deploys ‘Doomsday’ nuclear command planes to West Asia amid WW3 fears</a>&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar described the decision as a "humane gesture" and the "right thing to do," reflecting India's longstanding friendly ties with Iran. Meanwhile, the other two ships, IRIS Dena and IRIS Bushehr, sailed towards Sri Lanka after the IFR.&nbsp;However, on 4 March, IRIS Dena was sunk by a US submarine torpedo in international waters off Sri Lanka's southern coast, resulting in significant loss of life, at least 100 sailors killed &amp; dozens rescued by Sri Lankan forces.&nbsp;IRIS Bushehr, facing reported engine problems and fearing further risks amid the widening Iran-US conflict, entered Sri Lankan waters. Colombo took control of the vessel, transferring over 200 crew members ashore while the ship anchors at Trincomalee under Sri Lankan navy oversight.

Only IRIS Lavan arrived at Kochi port in southern India, docking on 4 March after reporting technical issues that prompted an urgent humanitarian request. Its 183 crew members, including cadets, have been accommodated at Indian naval facilities while the vessel remains in port.

India had granted docking permission to all Iranian naval vessels to dock in Kochi, following their participation in its multinational naval events, amid escalating tensions in the region involving a US military strike on one of the ships. The three Iranian ships, IRIS Lavan (an amphibious landing ship), IRIS Bushehr (a supply vessel), and IRIS Dena (a Moudge-class frigate), were taking part in the Indian exercises Milan 2026 multilateral exercise and the International Fleet Review (IFR) held in Visakhapatnam in February. The events, which included navies from dozens of countries, showcased maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean. On 28 February, Tehran submitted requests for post-event port calls or support for the ships as they prepared to return home. Indian authorities approved these on 1 March. Only IRIS Lavan arrived at Kochi port in southern India, docking on 4 March after reporting technical issues that prompted an urgent humanitarian request. Its 183 crew members, including cadets, have been accommodated at Indian naval facilities while the vessel remains in port. Also Read: Trump deploys ‘Doomsday’ nuclear command planes to West Asia amid WW3 fears EAM Jaishankar described the decision as a "humane gesture" and the "right thing to do," reflecting India's longstanding friendly ties with Iran. Meanwhile, the other two ships, IRIS Dena and IRIS Bushehr, sailed towards Sri Lanka after the IFR. However, on 4 March, IRIS Dena was sunk by a US submarine torpedo in international waters off Sri Lanka's southern coast, resulting in significant loss of life, at least 100 sailors killed & dozens rescued by Sri Lankan forces. IRIS Bushehr, facing reported engine problems and fearing further risks amid the widening Iran-US conflict, entered Sri Lankan waters. Colombo took control of the vessel, transferring over 200 crew members ashore while the ship anchors at Trincomalee under Sri Lankan navy oversight.

Only IRIS Lavan arrived at Kochi port in southern India, docking on 4 March after reporting technical issues that prompted an urgent humanitarian request. Its 183 crew members, including cadets, have been accommodated at Indian naval facilities while the vessel remains in port.

India granted permission for Iranian Navy trio to dock, but just Lavan arrived amid US strike

Iran’s Kharg Island, a small coral island in the northern Persian Gulf, has become a strategically important location as tensions in the Middle East escalate. Located about 15 miles from Iran’s mainland, the island serves as the backbone of the country’s oil export system. Nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports are believed to pass through Kharg Island before tankers move through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route. Before US-Israeli strikes on Iran started in late February, Tehran reportedly increased production at the island significantly. According to energy analytics firm Kpler, output surged to nearly 4 million barrels per day, approaching record levels and far above the usual 1.5 million barrels per day baseline.<h2>Why is Kharg Island strategically important?</h2>Kharg Island’s importance stems from its central role in Iran’s economy and global energy supply chains.Key reasons include:<ul><li>Primary export hub: Around 90% of Iran’s crude exports pass through the island.</li><li>Major oil infrastructure: It houses large oil terminals and storage facilities.</li><li>Economic lifeline: Oil revenue remains one of Tehran’s most critical financial resources.</li><li>Global impact: Any disruption could push international oil prices higher.</li><li>Experts say that disabling or capturing the island’s infrastructure could significantly weaken Iran’s economic capacity.</li><li>However, analysts suggest that seizing the island would likely require a ground operation, something the United States has historically been reluctant to undertake.</li></ul><h2>Has Kharg Island been targeted before?</h2>The island has been considered in past conflicts but has largely escaped direct US attacks.Key historical moments include:<ul><li>1979 Iran hostage crisis: US President Jimmy Carter was advised that capturing Kharg Island could give Washington leverage over Tehran, but he ultimately rejected the idea.</li><li>1980s Iran-Iraq War: Iraqi forces heavily bombed the island’s oil terminal, causing major damage. Iran later rebuilt the facility.</li><li>Reagan-era retaliation: After Iran mined the Strait of Hormuz, President Ronald Reagan ordered strikes on Iranian offshore export sites, but Kharg Island was not targeted.</li></ul>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-iran-war-boosting-democrats-midterm-chances-here-s-what-the-prediction-markets-suggest-1773066564902">Is the Iran war boosting Democrats’ midterm chances? Here's what the prediction markets suggest</a><h2>What are experts saying about a potential strike?</h2>Some analysts argue that targeting Kharg Island could severely weaken Iran’s financial capabilities. Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon adviser on Iran and Iraq, said an attack could significantly affect Tehran’s ability to fund military operations and maintain internal authority. He also said he had raised the island’s importance with officials in Washington and believes discussions may have taken place within the US National Security Council. However, Rubin added he is unsure whether the issue has reached the small group of advisers believed to shape Trump’s decisions regarding the Gulf conflict.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-rains-drones-missiles-on-gulf-will-saudi-arabia-s-change-stance-1773067475227/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-rains-drones-missiles-on-gulf-will-saudi-arabia-s-change-stance-1773067475227/embed</a><h2>Are the US and Israel considering an attack?</h2>Recent comments from political leaders and reports suggest the island has become part of broader strategic discussions. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote on X, “Israel should destroy all of Iran’s oil fields and energy industry on Kharg Island. That would collapse Iran’s economy and bring down the regime,” Lapid said on X. Tehran has warned that any attack on its energy infrastructure would trigger retaliation against oil facilities across the region. According to Axios, officials in the Trump administration have explored several possible options, including: Seizing Kharg Island and its oil facilities, launching commando raids to capture Iran’s enriched uranium reserves. When asked about these potential plans in an interview with ABC, US president Trump did not rule out the possibility, saying, "Everything is on the table."&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.

What is Kharg Island? Iran’s key oil export hub Trump may target amid Middle East conflict

Iran’s Kharg Island, a small coral island in the northern Persian Gulf, has become a strategically important location as tensions in the Middle East escalate. Located about 15 miles from Iran’s mainland, the island serves as the backbone of the country’s oil export system. Nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports are believed to pass through Kharg Island before tankers move through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route. Before US-Israeli strikes on Iran started in late February, Tehran reportedly increased production at the island significantly. According to energy analytics firm Kpler, output surged to nearly 4 million barrels per day, approaching record levels and far above the usual 1.5 million barrels per day baseline. Why is Kharg Island strategically important? Kharg Island’s importance stems from its central role in Iran’s economy and global energy supply chains. Key reasons include: Primary export hub: Around 90% of Iran’s crude exports pass through the island. Major oil infrastructure: It houses large oil terminals and storage facilities. Economic lifeline: Oil revenue remains one of Tehran’s most critical financial resources. Global impact: Any disruption could push international oil prices higher. Experts say that disabling or capturing the island’s infrastructure could significantly weaken Iran’s economic capacity. However, analysts suggest that seizing the island would likely require a ground operation, something the United States has historically been reluctant to undertake. Has Kharg Island been targeted before? The island has been considered in past conflicts but has largely escaped direct US attacks. Key historical moments include: 1979 Iran hostage crisis: US President Jimmy Carter was advised that capturing Kharg Island could give Washington leverage over Tehran, but he ultimately rejected the idea. 1980s Iran-Iraq War: Iraqi forces heavily bombed the island’s oil terminal, causing major damage. Iran later rebuilt the facility. Reagan-era retaliation: After Iran mined the Strait of Hormuz, President Ronald Reagan ordered strikes on Iranian offshore export sites, but Kharg Island was not targeted. Also Read: Is the Iran war boosting Democrats’ midterm chances? Here's what the prediction markets suggest What are experts saying about a potential strike? Some analysts argue that targeting Kharg Island could severely weaken Iran’s financial capabilities. Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon adviser on Iran and Iraq, said an attack could significantly affect Tehran’s ability to fund military operations and maintain internal authority. He also said he had raised the island’s importance with officials in Washington and believes discussions may have taken place within the US National Security Council. However, Rubin added he is unsure whether the issue has reached the small group of advisers believed to shape Trump’s decisions regarding the Gulf conflict. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-rains-drones-missiles-on-gulf-will-saudi-arabia-s-change-stance-1773067475227/embed Are the US and Israel considering an attack? Recent comments from political leaders and reports suggest the island has become part of broader strategic discussions. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote on X, “Israel should destroy all of Iran’s oil fields and energy industry on Kharg Island. That would collapse Iran’s economy and bring down the regime,” Lapid said on X. Tehran has warned that any attack on its energy infrastructure would trigger retaliation against oil facilities across the region. According to Axios, officials in the Trump administration have explored several possible options, including: Seizing Kharg Island and its oil facilities, launching commando raids to capture Iran’s enriched uranium reserves. When asked about these potential plans in an interview with ABC, US president Trump did not rule out the possibility, saying, "Everything is on the table." 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.

Iran’s Kharg Island handles nearly 90% of its oil exports, making it a critical economic hub and a potential strategic target in the escalating US-Iran conflict

Democrats’ chances of regaining control of Congress in the upcoming US midterm elections have surged in prediction markets, raising questions about whether escalating geopolitical tensions with Iran are reshaping the political landscape. Data circulating on social media and political betting platforms shows Democrats now holding roughly an 85% probability of winning the House of Representatives, while their odds of capturing the Senate have climbed to about 47%, the highest level in recent months.<h2>What are the chances of Democrats winning the US Midterm elections?</h2>The shift in market expectations comes as tensions surrounding the ongoing Iran conflict dominate political debate in Washington and global headlines. Analysts say geopolitical crises often influence domestic political sentiment, particularly when national security and foreign policy take center stage. Prediction markets aggregate the views of traders who buy and sell contracts tied to real-world outcomes, effectively pricing in collective expectations about future events. These markets have increasingly been watched by political analysts as a complementary indicator alongside traditional polling and forecasting models.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-oil-is-not-well-g7-countries-japan-weigh-strategic-reserve-release-as-price-hovers-around-100-1773061681105">'Oil' is not well: G7 countries, Japan weigh strategic reserve release as price hovers around $100</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: The odds of the Democrats winning the Senate in midterm elections surge to a new high of 47%. Democrats also have a record 85% chance of winning the House of Representatives. Odds have surged since the Iran war began. <a href="https://t.co/D5pJ5ZVCta">pic.twitter.com/D5pJ5ZVCta</a>&mdash; The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2031003462918435249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While the reasons behind the shift remain debated, some observers argue that wartime dynamics, public scrutiny of foreign policy decisions, and potential economic spillovers can all influence voter attitudes ahead of major elections.Still, election forecasts remain fluid. Polling data, economic conditions, and developments in the Iran conflict could significantly alter the outlook before voters head to the polls.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-denies-attacks-on-turkiye-cyprus-azerbaijan-focused-on-retaliation-not-talks-1773066568673/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-denies-attacks-on-turkiye-cyprus-azerbaijan-focused-on-retaliation-not-talks-1773066568673/embed</a>&nbsp;For now, however, betting markets suggest growing expectations that Democrats could make significant gains in Congress as the midterm cycle approaches.&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.

Is the Iran war boosting Democrats’ midterm chances? Here's what the prediction markets suggest

Democrats’ chances of regaining control of Congress in the upcoming US midterm elections have surged in prediction markets, raising questions about whether escalating geopolitical tensions with Iran are reshaping the political landscape. Data circulating on social media and political betting platforms shows Democrats now holding roughly an 85% probability of winning the House of Representatives, while their odds of capturing the Senate have climbed to about 47%, the highest level in recent months. What are the chances of Democrats winning the US Midterm elections? The shift in market expectations comes as tensions surrounding the ongoing Iran conflict dominate political debate in Washington and global headlines. Analysts say geopolitical crises often influence domestic political sentiment, particularly when national security and foreign policy take center stage. Prediction markets aggregate the views of traders who buy and sell contracts tied to real-world outcomes, effectively pricing in collective expectations about future events. These markets have increasingly been watched by political analysts as a complementary indicator alongside traditional polling and forecasting models. Also Read: 'Oil' is not well: G7 countries, Japan weigh strategic reserve release as price hovers around $100

Prediction markets show Democrats’ odds rising to 85% for the House and 47% for the Senate as the Iran war reshapes political sentiment ahead of 2026 midterm elections

After several drones and missiles streak across the Middle East sky amid the ongoing war between Iran and the US-Israel, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries remain silent. The six-nation bloc is also quite despite sustaining direct hits on civilian infrastructure, ranging from Dubai’s luxury districts to Saudi oil refineries.&nbsp;For this silent, the world is still wondering for the answer that why some of the most well-funded militaries in the region aren't joining the fray. The answer lies in a complex mix of economic survival, historical lessons, and a desperate attempt to protect their "Post-Oil" futures.&nbsp;Abdullah Baabood, an Oman-based political analyst and visiting scholar at the University of Cambridge, told The i Paper that these nations are stepping back due to the economic and reputational damage that has defined themselves as safe havens in a troubled region. &nbsp;“Iran is trying to hit each country where it hurts most,” he said. “So for Dubai, it’s hotels and tourism, in Qatar, they attacked [LNG facility] Ras Laffan.”&nbsp;Baabood also indicated that the pain has remained in the tolerable range for Gulf countries. The vast majority of incoming drones and missiles were also shot down by the Air defences. He said the priority for the Gulf is “to avoid being dragged into this war at all costs”.&nbsp;A Middle East analyst at the US Baker Institute, Kristian Ulrichsen, said that the leaders in the region are worried about all those things that could further escalate tension from an increasingly aggressive Iran. “An Iranian regime fighting for survival, feeling it has nothing left to lose, could target desalination facilities in the Gulf that people rely on for water, or go all out in attacking energy infrastructure,” he told The i Paper.&nbsp;“There is a feeling that if Donald Trump were to decide he’s had enough and declare victory, and the Gulf states were involved, they would be left alone to face any backlash,” Ulrichsen added.<h3>Gulf region had a lot to lose if further drawn into conflict</h3>Andreas Krieg, a Gulf security expert at the War Studies Department of King’s College London, said countries in the region stand to lose significantly if they become more deeply involved in the ongoing conflict. “Iran’s retaliation options against Gulf targets are broad, scalable and politically painful,” he said. “If a Gulf state crosses the line into overt participation in a US-Israeli campaign, it makes itself a standing target not just during the war but afterwards as well.”&nbsp;He noted that the main priority for governments within the Gulf Cooperation Council is to limit the duration of the war and prevent it from spreading geographically, particularly to avoid their cities, airports and oil facilities turning into frontline targets. Krieg also raised doubts about whether Gulf states could offer more than limited support to the military campaign led by the United States and Israel, which has already carried out thousands of airstrikes on sites across Iran.&nbsp;He also said that Arab governments could face significant political consequences if they were seen as joining a US-Israeli war against a Muslim-majority country. In Bahrain, authorities have recently increased security deployments as the Sunni-led government monitors the largely Shia population amid public expressions of support for people in Iran.<h3>What is GCC?</h3>The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries are a political and economic union of six Arab nations bordering the Persian Gulf: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. Established in 1981, this alliance aims to promote regional cooperation, security, and economic integration, with a strong focus on shared cultural and Islamic values.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-wide-scale-strikes-across-iran-as-thousands-in-tehran-pledge-allegiance-to-new-supreme-leader-1773061128382">Israel launches ‘wide-scale’ strikes across Iran as thousands in Tehran pledge allegiance to new supreme leader</a>

A Middle East analyst at the US Baker Institute, Kristian Ulrichsen, said that the leaders in the region are worried about all those things that could further escalate tension from an increasingly aggressive Iran. 

After several drones and missiles streak across the Middle East sky amid the ongoing war between Iran and the US-Israel, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries remain silent. The six-nation bloc is also quite despite sustaining direct hits on civilian infrastructure, ranging from Dubai’s luxury districts to Saudi oil refineries. For this silent, the world is still wondering for the answer that why some of the most well-funded militaries in the region aren't joining the fray. The answer lies in a complex mix of economic survival, historical lessons, and a desperate attempt to protect their "Post-Oil" futures. Abdullah Baabood, an Oman-based political analyst and visiting scholar at the University of Cambridge, told The i Paper that these nations are stepping back due to the economic and reputational damage that has defined themselves as safe havens in a troubled region. “Iran is trying to hit each country where it hurts most,” he said. “So for Dubai, it’s hotels and tourism, in Qatar, they attacked [LNG facility] Ras Laffan.” Baabood also indicated that the pain has remained in the tolerable range for Gulf countries. The vast majority of incoming drones and missiles were also shot down by the Air defences. He said the priority for the Gulf is “to avoid being dragged into this war at all costs”. A Middle East analyst at the US Baker Institute, Kristian Ulrichsen, said that the leaders in the region are worried about all those things that could further escalate tension from an increasingly aggressive Iran. “An Iranian regime fighting for survival, feeling it has nothing left to lose, could target desalination facilities in the Gulf that people rely on for water, or go all out in attacking energy infrastructure,” he told The i Paper. “There is a feeling that if Donald Trump were to decide he’s had enough and declare victory, and the Gulf states were involved, they would be left alone to face any backlash,” Ulrichsen added. Gulf region had a lot to lose if further drawn into conflict Andreas Krieg, a Gulf security expert at the War Studies Department of King’s College London, said countries in the region stand to lose significantly if they become more deeply involved in the ongoing conflict. “Iran’s retaliation options against Gulf targets are broad, scalable and politically painful,” he said. “If a Gulf state crosses the line into overt participation in a US-Israeli campaign, it makes itself a standing target not just during the war but afterwards as well.” He noted that the main priority for governments within the Gulf Cooperation Council is to limit the duration of the war and prevent it from spreading geographically, particularly to avoid their cities, airports and oil facilities turning into frontline targets. Krieg also raised doubts about whether Gulf states could offer more than limited support to the military campaign led by the United States and Israel, which has already carried out thousands of airstrikes on sites across Iran. He also said that Arab governments could face significant political consequences if they were seen as joining a US-Israeli war against a Muslim-majority country. In Bahrain, authorities have recently increased security deployments as the Sunni-led government monitors the largely Shia population amid public expressions of support for people in Iran. What is GCC? The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries are a political and economic union of six Arab nations bordering the Persian Gulf: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. Established in 1981, this alliance aims to promote regional cooperation, security, and economic integration, with a strong focus on shared cultural and Islamic values. Also read: Israel launches ‘wide-scale’ strikes across Iran as thousands in Tehran pledge allegiance to new supreme leader

A Middle East analyst at the US Baker Institute, Kristian Ulrichsen, said that the leaders in the region are worried about all those things that could further escalate tension from an increasingly aggressive Iran.&nbsp;

Strategic silence? Why are GCC countries staying out of the Iran war: Key details inside

G7 countries will hold an emergency meeting on Monday (March 9) to address soaring oil prices after crude surged 30% to $119.48, crashed 19% to $96.45, and later settled near $103.32, a massive $23 intraday swing, one of the biggest single-day reversals in crude oil market history. The sharp volatility came as the escalating US-Israel conflict with Iran rattled global markets. Finance ministers from major industrialised economies, including UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, are expected to discuss the economic consequences of the conflict and its impact on energy markets and inflation.&nbsp;Oil prices spiked as traders feared prolonged disruptions to energy shipments through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime route that normally carries about 20% of the world’s oil supply. Traffic through the strait has slowed dramatically since the conflict intensified more than a week ago. Global benchmark Brent crude briefly climbed close to $120 per barrel during Asian trading on Monday before retreating to around $107. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude followed similar movements and traded near $104 per barrel.&nbsp;According to a report by the Financial Times, the G7 meeting may consider a coordinated release of petroleum reserves through the International Energy Agency (IEA). If implemented, it would mark the first such intervention since 2022, when reserves were released following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The possibility of major supply disruptions has raised fears of higher energy costs for households and businesses worldwide. Persistent energy inflation could also limit the scope for central banks to cut interest rates.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mirror-of-power-will-mojtaba-khamenei-follow-his-father-ali-khamenei-s-path-or-build-a-harder-line-for-iran-1773057882409">Mirror of power: Will Mojtaba Khamenei follow his father Ali Khamenei’s path or build a harder line for Iran?</a>&nbsp;Geopolitical tensions escalated over the weekend. The US and Israel carried out fresh airstrikes across Iran targeting several sites, including oil storage facilities. Meanwhile, Iran reportedly launched attacks on energy infrastructure in nearby Gulf states. Saudi Arabia said it intercepted two waves of drones heading toward a major oilfield overnight.Political developments inside Iran also added to uncertainty after Mojtaba Khamenei was named successor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, signalling that hardline leadership remains firmly in control during the conflict.<h2>How global markets reacted to Israel-Iran war?</h2>Financial markets reacted sharply. European stock markets fell after steep declines across Asia. Germany’s DAX dropped 1.6% while France’s CAC 40 fell 2%. In London, the FTSE 100 slipped 1.3%, although energy companies BP and Shell gained as oil prices surged. Asian markets saw deeper losses earlier in the day. Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 5.2%, while South Korea’s Kospi dropped 6%, triggering a temporary circuit breaker to halt trading and prevent panic selling. Natural gas prices also surged. UK gas for month-ahead delivery jumped nearly 25% to 171p per therm at the start of trading before easing to about 156p. Despite the spike, prices remain far below the 2022 peak of 640p reached after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-us-uneasy-after-israel-hits-iranian-fuel-depot-1773052202181/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-us-uneasy-after-israel-hits-iranian-fuel-depot-1773052202181/embed</a>&nbsp;Rising geopolitical risks have also pushed up government borrowing costs. The yield on UK two-year government bonds climbed to 4.12% from 3.87%, while the benchmark 10-year yield rose to 4.76%, up from around 4.3% before the conflict began. US President Donald Trump downplayed concerns over rising oil prices. Posting on his Truth Social platform, he said temporary price increases were a small cost for global security and predicted oil prices would fall once Iran’s nuclear threat was eliminated. However, higher fuel costs are already hitting American consumers. Data from the motorists group AAA shows the average price of regular gasoline in the US rose 11% last week to $3.32 per gallon.&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.

'Oil' is not well: G7 countries, Japan weigh strategic reserve release as price hovers around $100

G7 countries will hold an emergency meeting on Monday (March 9) to address soaring oil prices after crude surged 30% to $119.48, crashed 19% to $96.45, and later settled near $103.32, a massive $23 intraday swing, one of the biggest single-day reversals in crude oil market history. The sharp volatility came as the escalating US-Israel conflict with Iran rattled global markets. Finance ministers from major industrialised economies, including UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, are expected to discuss the economic consequences of the conflict and its impact on energy markets and inflation. Oil prices spiked as traders feared prolonged disruptions to energy shipments through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime route that normally carries about 20% of the world’s oil supply. Traffic through the strait has slowed dramatically since the conflict intensified more than a week ago. Global benchmark Brent crude briefly climbed close to $120 per barrel during Asian trading on Monday before retreating to around $107. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude followed similar movements and traded near $104 per barrel. According to a report by the Financial Times, the G7 meeting may consider a coordinated release of petroleum reserves through the International Energy Agency (IEA). If implemented, it would mark the first such intervention since 2022, when reserves were released following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The possibility of major supply disruptions has raised fears of higher energy costs for households and businesses worldwide. Persistent energy inflation could also limit the scope for central banks to cut interest rates. Also Read: Mirror of power: Will Mojtaba Khamenei follow his father Ali Khamenei’s path or build a harder line for Iran? Geopolitical tensions escalated over the weekend. The US and Israel carried out fresh airstrikes across Iran targeting several sites, including oil storage facilities. Meanwhile, Iran reportedly launched attacks on energy infrastructure in nearby Gulf states. Saudi Arabia said it intercepted two waves of drones heading toward a major oilfield overnight. Political developments inside Iran also added to uncertainty after Mojtaba Khamenei was named successor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, signalling that hardline leadership remains firmly in control during the conflict. How global markets reacted to Israel-Iran war? Financial markets reacted sharply. European stock markets fell after steep declines across Asia. Germany’s DAX dropped 1.6% while France’s CAC 40 fell 2%. In London, the FTSE 100 slipped 1.3%, although energy companies BP and Shell gained as oil prices surged. Asian markets saw deeper losses earlier in the day. Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 5.2%, while South Korea’s Kospi dropped 6%, triggering a temporary circuit breaker to halt trading and prevent panic selling. Natural gas prices also surged. UK gas for month-ahead delivery jumped nearly 25% to 171p per therm at the start of trading before easing to about 156p. Despite the spike, prices remain far below the 2022 peak of 640p reached after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-us-uneasy-after-israel-hits-iranian-fuel-depot-1773052202181/embed Rising geopolitical risks have also pushed up government borrowing costs. The yield on UK two-year government bonds climbed to 4.12% from 3.87%, while the benchmark 10-year yield rose to 4.76%, up from around 4.3% before the conflict began. US President Donald Trump downplayed concerns over rising oil prices. Posting on his Truth Social platform, he said temporary price increases were a small cost for global security and predicted oil prices would fall once Iran’s nuclear threat was eliminated. However, higher fuel costs are already hitting American consumers. Data from the motorists group AAA shows the average price of regular gasoline in the US rose 11% last week to $3.32 per gallon. 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.

G7 countries to hold emergency talks as oil swings wildly amid US-Israel-Iran conflict. Crude surged to $119 before retreating, raising fears of supply disruption

As Iran's Assembly of experts officially appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the country's third Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike on 28 February, the Israeli military on Monday (Feb 09) launched a "wide-scale" strikes on Tehran, Isfahan and southern Iran, shortly after one man was killed in Israel following missile launches from Iran.&nbsp;"The IDF has just begun a wide-scale wave of strikes against the infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran, Isfahan, and southern Iran," the military said in a statement.&nbsp;Amid the strikes, thousands of people gathered at Tehran's Enghelab Square to pledge allegiance to the Islamic Republic's new leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, AFP reported, citing journalists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-attack-mojtaba-khamenei-ex-ambassador-warns-says-duty-bound-to-eliminate-1773058915216">Israel to attack Mojtaba Khamenei? Ex-ambassador warns, says ‘duty-bound to eliminate...’</a>&nbsp;The crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. The Islamic Republic on Sunday night named hardline Mojabata as its new leader amid a US-Israeli campaign to trigger regime change in Iran through military strikes. He is known to have close ties with the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and wielded significant influence in Israeli politics despite never holding any political office. The move comes after a deadly war in West Asia triggered by the launch of a joint military operation by the US-Israeli forces on February 28, targeting top leadership of Iran, including late Supreme Leader Khamenei and multiple sensitive military locations across the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;In retaliation, the Revolutionary Guards struck US bases and other key locations in the Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait.&nbsp;The wave of strikes and counterstrikes turned the West Asia region into a warzone and sparked Brent crude prices to $90-$100 per barrel owing to production interruptions and shipping disruptions caused by the closure of Starit of Hormuz.&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.)&nbsp;

The crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans.

As Iran's Assembly of experts officially appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the country's third Supreme Leader after his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike on 28 February, the Israeli military on Monday (Feb 09) launched a "wide-scale" strikes on Tehran, Isfahan and southern Iran, shortly after one man was killed in Israel following missile launches from Iran. "The IDF has just begun a wide-scale wave of strikes against the infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran, Isfahan, and southern Iran," the military said in a statement. Amid the strikes, thousands of people gathered at Tehran's Enghelab Square to pledge allegiance to the Islamic Republic's new leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, AFP reported, citing journalists. Also Read: Israel to attack Mojtaba Khamenei? Ex-ambassador warns, says ‘duty-bound to eliminate...’ The crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. The Islamic Republic on Sunday night named hardline Mojabata as its new leader amid a US-Israeli campaign to trigger regime change in Iran through military strikes. He is known to have close ties with the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and wielded significant influence in Israeli politics despite never holding any political office. The move comes after a deadly war in West Asia triggered by the launch of a joint military operation by the US-Israeli forces on February 28, targeting top leadership of Iran, including late Supreme Leader Khamenei and multiple sensitive military locations across the Islamic Republic. In retaliation, the Revolutionary Guards struck US bases and other key locations in the Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait. The wave of strikes and counterstrikes turned the West Asia region into a warzone and sparked Brent crude prices to $90-$100 per barrel owing to production interruptions and shipping disruptions caused by the closure of Starit of Hormuz. (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 crowds that were seen at Tehran's central square saw many carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the new supreme leader and were raising anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans.

Israel launches ‘wide-scale’ strikes across Iran as thousands in Tehran pledge allegiance to new supreme leader

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the ongoing conflict with Iran will end only after the "mutual" decision with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump claimed that Iran was on the verge of destroying Israel before the current military intervention, according to a report by The Times of Israel. "Iran was going to destroy Israel and everything else around it. We've worked together. We've destroyed a country that wanted to destroy Israel," he asserted. "I think it's mutual, a little bit. We've been talking. I'll make a decision at the right time, but everything's going to be taken into account," he remarked and also indicated that he would keep the ultimate prerogative while considering suggestions from Netanyahu. Addressing the prospect of Israel continuing military operations on its own if the United States were to halt its strikes, Trump dismissed the likelihood of such a situation. According to The Times of Israel, the president declined to speculate on the hypothetical scenario, saying simply, "I don't think it's going to be necessary."<h3>No fixed timeline to stop the war</h3>Although the White House has indicated the conflict could last between four and six weeks, Trump has skipped committing to a fixed timeline. His comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. He also avoided a detailed explanation on the appointment of newly supreme leader of Iran, declaring only, "We'll see what happens." The cautious remark follows earlier comments made by the US president to ABC News, where he warned that Iran’s new leadership might not “last long” without support from the White House. Beyond the conflict, Trump also commented on Israeli domestic politics, renewing his call for legal relief for Netanyahu. He criticised Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Netanyahu, who is currently facing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. "Bibi Netanyahu should be given that pardon immediately. I think [Herzog is] doing a terrible thing by not giving it. We want Bibi to be focused on the war, not on a ridiculous pardon," Trump told The Times of Israel. Following the Trump comments, the office of Herzog maintained that Israel "is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law," underscoring that the pardon request is being treated through the Justice Ministry. Despite a rift between the leaders, Trump lauded his current bonding and partnership with Netanyahu, adding, “We've done a great job together, like what we've done with Iran.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-missile-strike-shuts-gulf-airspace-grounds-at-least-12-000-flights-strands-over-million-passengers-1773041375002">Iran war in numbers: 92 million passengers affected as flights, airspace disrupted in Gulf region; remittances take a hit</a>

US President Donald Trump's comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the ongoing conflict with Iran will end only after the "mutual" decision with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump claimed that Iran was on the verge of destroying Israel before the current military intervention, according to a report by The Times of Israel. "Iran was going to destroy Israel and everything else around it. We've worked together. We've destroyed a country that wanted to destroy Israel," he asserted. "I think it's mutual, a little bit. We've been talking. I'll make a decision at the right time, but everything's going to be taken into account," he remarked and also indicated that he would keep the ultimate prerogative while considering suggestions from Netanyahu. Addressing the prospect of Israel continuing military operations on its own if the United States were to halt its strikes, Trump dismissed the likelihood of such a situation. According to The Times of Israel, the president declined to speculate on the hypothetical scenario, saying simply, "I don't think it's going to be necessary." No fixed timeline to stop the war Although the White House has indicated the conflict could last between four and six weeks, Trump has skipped committing to a fixed timeline. His comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. He also avoided a detailed explanation on the appointment of newly supreme leader of Iran, declaring only, "We'll see what happens." The cautious remark follows earlier comments made by the US president to ABC News, where he warned that Iran’s new leadership might not “last long” without support from the White House. Beyond the conflict, Trump also commented on Israeli domestic politics, renewing his call for legal relief for Netanyahu. He criticised Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Netanyahu, who is currently facing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. "Bibi Netanyahu should be given that pardon immediately. I think [Herzog is] doing a terrible thing by not giving it. We want Bibi to be focused on the war, not on a ridiculous pardon," Trump told The Times of Israel. Following the Trump comments, the office of Herzog maintained that Israel "is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law," underscoring that the pardon request is being treated through the Justice Ministry. Despite a rift between the leaders, Trump lauded his current bonding and partnership with Netanyahu, adding, “We've done a great job together, like what we've done with Iran.” Also read: Iran war in numbers: 92 million passengers affected as flights, airspace disrupted in Gulf region; remittances take a hit

US President Donald Trump's comments highlighted the close coordination between the two nations after the joint military attack launched on February 28, killing Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.

No timeline to end Iran war? Trump signals decision will be only after ‘mutual’ decision with Netanyahu

After Iranian missiles struck the Gulf region in retaliation for the US and Israel attack, it resulted in widespread disruption across some of the world’s busiest aviation routes. The severely affected airports include Dubai International Airport, the world’s second busiest airport, which typically handles around 92 million passengers annually, with a takeoff or landing roughly every 72 seconds around the clock.&nbsp;The Dubai International Airport first came to a halt on Saturday (February 28, 2026), and within hours, major Gulf aviation hubs, including Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, were forced offline. &nbsp;Over the following three days, at least 12,000 flights were cancelled, accounting for around 40 per cent of scheduled departures, leaving more than one million passengers stranded, according to a report by Al Jazeera.<h3>Why does Iraq's and Iran's airspace matter?</h3>In addition to airports in the region, the airspace above Iraq and Iran also acts as a crucial corridor connecting Europe with South and Southeast Asia. The centre of this route containing three major Gulf airports handle around 90,000 transit passengers each day. Airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, together generate more than $68 billion in annual revenue.&nbsp;When the conflict escalated, dozens of airlines withdrew from the region almost immediately. At least 145 aircraft already in the air were forced to turn back mid-flight, while the skies above Iran quickly emptied. While stranded passengers faced immediate disruption, the impact extended far beyond airport terminals. Although air cargo accounts for less than one per cent of global trade by weight, it represents about 35 per cent of global trade by value, transporting more than $8 trillion worth of goods annually.&nbsp;Air freight carries goods that require rapid delivery, including vaccines with expiry dates, semiconductors for just-in-time manufacturing, and fresh produce with limited shelf life. Rerouting flights to avoid airspace above Iran has become very costly. Meanwhile, alternative routes can add up to 90 minutes to flight times, increasing operating expenses by roughly $6,000 per hour.&nbsp;Following the airstrikes, Brent crude prices rose by 4.5 per cent, while airline stocks declined across Asia and Australia. Airlines typically pass such rising costs to passengers, meaning fares could remain elevated for months.<h3>How closure of flights and airspace affect remittance?</h3>In the United Arab Emirates, more than 60 per cent of migrant workers earn less than $1,360 per month, including construction workers, drivers, and domestic workers who support families back home. Remittances from Gulf workers form a major financial lifeline for several countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian workers in the Gulf send home about $49 billion annually, while Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE transfer more than $17 billion. Bangladeshi workers in the region send around $11 billion each year. When Gulf aviation hubs shut down, the impact extends far beyond disrupted travel. The consequences reach households thousands of miles away, families waiting for remittances that may never arrive.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-was-zahra-haddad-adel-mojtaba-khamenei-s-wife-killed-in-us-israel-strike-on-iran-know-more-about-family-kids-1773036204637">Who Was Zahra Haddad-Adel? Mojtaba Khamenei’s wife killed in US-Israel strike on Iran: Know more about family, kids</a>

Over the following three days after the war broke out, at least 12,000 flights were cancelled, accounting for around 40 per cent of scheduled departures, leaving more than one million passengers stranded.

After Iranian missiles struck the Gulf region in retaliation for the US and Israel attack, it resulted in widespread disruption across some of the world’s busiest aviation routes. The severely affected airports include Dubai International Airport, the world’s second busiest airport, which typically handles around 92 million passengers annually, with a takeoff or landing roughly every 72 seconds around the clock. The Dubai International Airport first came to a halt on Saturday (February 28, 2026), and within hours, major Gulf aviation hubs, including Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, were forced offline. Over the following three days, at least 12,000 flights were cancelled, accounting for around 40 per cent of scheduled departures, leaving more than one million passengers stranded, according to a report by Al Jazeera. Why does Iraq's and Iran's airspace matter? In addition to airports in the region, the airspace above Iraq and Iran also acts as a crucial corridor connecting Europe with South and Southeast Asia. The centre of this route containing three major Gulf airports handle around 90,000 transit passengers each day. Airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, together generate more than $68 billion in annual revenue. When the conflict escalated, dozens of airlines withdrew from the region almost immediately. At least 145 aircraft already in the air were forced to turn back mid-flight, while the skies above Iran quickly emptied. While stranded passengers faced immediate disruption, the impact extended far beyond airport terminals. Although air cargo accounts for less than one per cent of global trade by weight, it represents about 35 per cent of global trade by value, transporting more than $8 trillion worth of goods annually. Air freight carries goods that require rapid delivery, including vaccines with expiry dates, semiconductors for just-in-time manufacturing, and fresh produce with limited shelf life. Rerouting flights to avoid airspace above Iran has become very costly. Meanwhile, alternative routes can add up to 90 minutes to flight times, increasing operating expenses by roughly $6,000 per hour. Following the airstrikes, Brent crude prices rose by 4.5 per cent, while airline stocks declined across Asia and Australia. Airlines typically pass such rising costs to passengers, meaning fares could remain elevated for months. How closure of flights and airspace affect remittance? In the United Arab Emirates, more than 60 per cent of migrant workers earn less than $1,360 per month, including construction workers, drivers, and domestic workers who support families back home. Remittances from Gulf workers form a major financial lifeline for several countries. Indian workers in the Gulf send home about $49 billion annually, while Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE transfer more than $17 billion. Bangladeshi workers in the region send around $11 billion each year. When Gulf aviation hubs shut down, the impact extends far beyond disrupted travel. The consequences reach households thousands of miles away, families waiting for remittances that may never arrive. Also read: Who Was Zahra Haddad-Adel? Mojtaba Khamenei’s wife killed in US-Israel strike on Iran: Know more about family, kids

Over the following three days after the war broke out, at least 12,000 flights were cancelled, accounting for around 40 per cent of scheduled departures, leaving more than one million passengers stranded.

Iran war in numbers: 92 million passengers affected as flights, airspace disrupted in Gulf region; remittances take a hit

The ongoing conflict between Israel, US and Iran in West Asia is beginning to have ripple effects far beyond the region. With tensions rising and concerns over disruptions to energy supply routes, countries like India — which import a large share of LPG from West Asian nations — are taking precautionary steps. Amid fears of potential supply disruptions, the Pune Municipal Corporation has temporarily shut around 20 gas-based crematorium furnaces in the city and is shifting to electric ones instead.&nbsp;Officials say the move is aimed at conserving LPG to ensure that household cooking gas supplies remain unaffected if the conflict impacts fuel availability. In a precautionary move aimed at protecting the supply of cooking gas for households, authorities in&nbsp;Pune&nbsp;have temporarily shut down several gas-based crematorium furnaces. The decision was taken by the&nbsp;Pune Municipal Corporation&nbsp;after concerns were raised about potential disruptions in LPG availability due to ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global energy supplies. According to civic officials, around 20 gas crematorium furnaces across the city have been temporarily taken out of operation. These facilities typically rely on LPG to run their furnaces, which offer a relatively cleaner and faster alternative to traditional wood-based cremations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials said the step was taken following guidance from the&nbsp;Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas&nbsp;to prioritise domestic LPG consumption. With uncertainty surrounding global supply chains, authorities are taking preventive measures to ensure that households do not face shortages of cooking gas.India imports a significant portion of its LPG requirement, with a large share coming from countries in West Asia. Any disruption in the region can affect shipments and create pressure on domestic supplies. Given this situation, policymakers are prioritising essential domestic consumption over other uses of LPG.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran in West Asia is beginning to have ripple effects far beyond the region. With tensions rising and concerns over disruptions to energy supply routes, countries like India — which import a large share of LPG from West Asian nations — are taking precautionary steps.Amid fears of possible supply disruptions, in Maharashtra, the Pune Municipal Corporation has temporarily shut around 20 gas-based crematorium furnaces in the city, shifting to electric ones instead.&nbsp;Officials say the move is aimed at conserving LPG to ensure that household cooking gas supplies remain unaffected if the conflict impacts fuel availability.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-48-hours-of-energy-left-uk-gas-reserves-down-as-middle-east-tensions-shakes-energy-markets-1772976610407">Only 48 hours of energy left? UK gas reserves down as Middle East tensions shake energy markets</a>&nbsp;Despite the shutdown of gas furnaces, civic authorities have assured residents that cremation services in the city will continue without disruption. Electric crematoriums and traditional wood-based cremation facilities equipped with pollution-control systems will remain operational.One of the city’s major cremation facilities, the&nbsp;Vaikunth Crematorium, has already stopped using its gas furnaces. However, its electric cremation units are still functioning and will continue to handle cremations.&nbsp;Officials from the municipal corporation said the shutdown is a temporary measure and will be reviewed depending on the LPG supply situation in the coming weeks. If the supply stabilises, gas-based crematorium furnaces may resume operations.&nbsp;Civic authorities have also urged residents not to panic, emphasising that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure that funeral services continue smoothly. The move, they said, is part of a broader effort to manage resources carefully during a period of global energy uncertainty.

Officials from the municipal corporation said the shutdown is a temporary measure and will be reviewed depending on the LPG supply situation in the coming weeks.

The ongoing conflict between Israel, US and Iran in West Asia is beginning to have ripple effects far beyond the region. With tensions rising and concerns over disruptions to energy supply routes, countries like India — which import a large share of LPG from West Asian nations — are taking precautionary steps. Amid fears of potential supply disruptions, the Pune Municipal Corporation has temporarily shut around 20 gas-based crematorium furnaces in the city and is shifting to electric ones instead. Officials say the move is aimed at conserving LPG to ensure that household cooking gas supplies remain unaffected if the conflict impacts fuel availability. In a precautionary move aimed at protecting the supply of cooking gas for households, authorities in Pune have temporarily shut down several gas-based crematorium furnaces. The decision was taken by the Pune Municipal Corporation after concerns were raised about potential disruptions in LPG availability due to ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global energy supplies. According to civic officials, around 20 gas crematorium furnaces across the city have been temporarily taken out of operation. These facilities typically rely on LPG to run their furnaces, which offer a relatively cleaner and faster alternative to traditional wood-based cremations. Officials said the step was taken following guidance from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to prioritise domestic LPG consumption. With uncertainty surrounding global supply chains, authorities are taking preventive measures to ensure that households do not face shortages of cooking gas. India imports a significant portion of its LPG requirement, with a large share coming from countries in West Asia. Any disruption in the region can affect shipments and create pressure on domestic supplies. Given this situation, policymakers are prioritising essential domestic consumption over other uses of LPG. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran in West Asia is beginning to have ripple effects far beyond the region. With tensions rising and concerns over disruptions to energy supply routes, countries like India — which import a large share of LPG from West Asian nations — are taking precautionary steps. Amid fears of possible supply disruptions, in Maharashtra, the Pune Municipal Corporation has temporarily shut around 20 gas-based crematorium furnaces in the city, shifting to electric ones instead. Officials say the move is aimed at conserving LPG to ensure that household cooking gas supplies remain unaffected if the conflict impacts fuel availability. Also read: Only 48 hours of energy left? UK gas reserves down as Middle East tensions shake energy markets Despite the shutdown of gas furnaces, civic authorities have assured residents that cremation services in the city will continue without disruption. Electric crematoriums and traditional wood-based cremation facilities equipped with pollution-control systems will remain operational. One of the city’s major cremation facilities, the Vaikunth Crematorium, has already stopped using its gas furnaces. However, its electric cremation units are still functioning and will continue to handle cremations. Officials from the municipal corporation said the shutdown is a temporary measure and will be reviewed depending on the LPG supply situation in the coming weeks. If the supply stabilises, gas-based crematorium furnaces may resume operations. Civic authorities have also urged residents not to panic, emphasising that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure that funeral services continue smoothly. The move, they said, is part of a broader effort to manage resources carefully during a period of global energy uncertainty.

Officials from the municipal corporation said the shutdown is a temporary measure and will be reviewed depending on the LPG supply situation in the coming weeks.

Israel-US-Iran war fallout: Pune moves cremations to electric furnaces

The ongoing war between Israel and Iran has entered a far more volatile stage, with Israel announcing a major expansion of its military campaign across Iranian territory. As the conflict moved into its second week and ninth day on Sunday (March 8), the scale and nature of the strikes indicate that the confrontation is no longer limited to tactical military targets. Instead, it is rapidly evolving into a broader strategic campaign with far-reaching regional and global consequences.&nbsp;Israel said it has carried out thousands of strikes since launching its military campaign, named Operation Epic Fury, alongside the US. The operation, according to Israeli authorities, has included attacks on military infrastructure, air defence systems, and energy facilities across Iran. Among the most dramatic claims is the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a strike on what Israel described as an underground military bunker.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-re-going-to-work-your-a-off-uber-ceo-on-work-life-balance-expects-employees-to-reply-emails-on-weekends-1772896459712">‘You’re going to work your a** off’: Uber CEO on work-life balance, expects employees to reply emails on weekends</a><h2>A shift from military to strategic targets</h2>One of the most striking developments in the latest round of attacks is the shift in Israeli strategy. Initially focused largely on military installations, Israel has now expanded its targets to include oil depots and fuel distribution infrastructure. Israeli and US forces reportedly struck five oil-related facilities in and around Tehran, including four depots and a petroleum transport centre. Iranian officials confirmed that several personnel were killed and that fires broke out following the strikes, though they said the situation was brought under control.&nbsp;Targeting energy infrastructure marks a significant escalation. Oil depots and fuel networks are not just military assets; they are vital to the functioning of the national economy and civilian life. By striking these facilities, Israel appears to be aiming at weakening Iran’s logistical capacity to sustain a prolonged war effort. However, this strategy also raises serious humanitarian and geopolitical concerns. Damage to fuel networks can disrupt civilian supplies and trigger broader economic instability.<h2>Iran’s air defence under pressure</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-today-iran-will-be-hit-very-hard-trump-warns-says-pezeshkian-apologised-because-tehran-s-being-beaten-to-hell-1772884575098">‘Today, Iran will be hit very hard’: Trump warns, says Pezeshkian apologised because Tehran’s ‘being beaten to HELL’</a>&nbsp;Another key development has been Israel’s targeting of Iran’s ageing but symbolically important fleet of F-14 fighter jets at Isfahan airport. These aircraft, purchased from the United States before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, have long served as a central pillar of Iran’s air defence.&nbsp;While it remains unclear how many aircraft were destroyed, Israeli authorities claim the strikes also targeted radar and air defence systems linked to the fleet. If confirmed, such damage would significantly weaken Iran’s ability to protect its airspace and respond effectively to ongoing aerial attacks.&nbsp;The Israeli military has also signalled that its campaign may not end anytime soon, warning that it would pursue anyone involved in appointing a successor to Khamenei. Such statements underline the depth of the confrontation and suggest that Israel’s objectives extend beyond battlefield gains to reshaping Iran’s political leadership.<h2>Global implications of the escalation</h2>The attacks on oil infrastructure have already triggered international concern about global energy stability. Iran is a key player in the global oil market, and any disruption to production or exports could have ripple effects across fuel prices and shipping routes, particularly in the Gulf. Moreover, the widening scope of the conflict risks drawing more regional actors into the war. Iran’s network of allied groups across West Asia has long been a source of tension with Israel and the US. If those groups enter the conflict more aggressively, the situation could escalate into a wider regional confrontation.&nbsp;

Israel’s Operation Epic Fury has targeted Iranian military bases, oil depots near Tehran, air defence systems and F-14 jets in Isfahan. The strikes signal a shift toward strategic infrastructure and economic pressure.

The ongoing war between Israel and Iran has entered a far more volatile stage, with Israel announcing a major expansion of its military campaign across Iranian territory. As the conflict moved into its second week and ninth day on Sunday (March 8), the scale and nature of the strikes indicate that the confrontation is no longer limited to tactical military targets. Instead, it is rapidly evolving into a broader strategic campaign with far-reaching regional and global consequences. Israel said it has carried out thousands of strikes since launching its military campaign, named Operation Epic Fury, alongside the US. The operation, according to Israeli authorities, has included attacks on military infrastructure, air defence systems, and energy facilities across Iran. Among the most dramatic claims is the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a strike on what Israel described as an underground military bunker. Also read: ‘You’re going to work your a** off’: Uber CEO on work-life balance, expects employees to reply emails on weekends A shift from military to strategic targets One of the most striking developments in the latest round of attacks is the shift in Israeli strategy. Initially focused largely on military installations, Israel has now expanded its targets to include oil depots and fuel distribution infrastructure. Israeli and US forces reportedly struck five oil-related facilities in and around Tehran, including four depots and a petroleum transport centre. Iranian officials confirmed that several personnel were killed and that fires broke out following the strikes, though they said the situation was brought under control. Targeting energy infrastructure marks a significant escalation. Oil depots and fuel networks are not just military assets; they are vital to the functioning of the national economy and civilian life. By striking these facilities, Israel appears to be aiming at weakening Iran’s logistical capacity to sustain a prolonged war effort. However, this strategy also raises serious humanitarian and geopolitical concerns. Damage to fuel networks can disrupt civilian supplies and trigger broader economic instability. Iran’s air defence under pressure Also read: ‘Today, Iran will be hit very hard’: Trump warns, says Pezeshkian apologised because Tehran’s ‘being beaten to HELL’ Another key development has been Israel’s targeting of Iran’s ageing but symbolically important fleet of F-14 fighter jets at Isfahan airport. These aircraft, purchased from the United States before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, have long served as a central pillar of Iran’s air defence. While it remains unclear how many aircraft were destroyed, Israeli authorities claim the strikes also targeted radar and air defence systems linked to the fleet. If confirmed, such damage would significantly weaken Iran’s ability to protect its airspace and respond effectively to ongoing aerial attacks. The Israeli military has also signalled that its campaign may not end anytime soon, warning that it would pursue anyone involved in appointing a successor to Khamenei. Such statements underline the depth of the confrontation and suggest that Israel’s objectives extend beyond battlefield gains to reshaping Iran’s political leadership. Global implications of the escalation The attacks on oil infrastructure have already triggered international concern about global energy stability. Iran is a key player in the global oil market, and any disruption to production or exports could have ripple effects across fuel prices and shipping routes, particularly in the Gulf. Moreover, the widening scope of the conflict risks drawing more regional actors into the war. Iran’s network of allied groups across West Asia has long been a source of tension with Israel and the US. If those groups enter the conflict more aggressively, the situation could escalate into a wider regional confrontation.

Israel’s Operation Epic Fury has targeted Iranian military bases, oil depots near Tehran, air defence systems and F-14 jets in Isfahan. The strikes signal a shift toward strategic infrastructure and economic pressure.

From Khamenei’s bunker to 5 oil sites - List of targets struck by Israel since Iran war began

Britain currently has only about two days' worth of natural gas stored, sparking concerns about a potential shortage after conflict in the Middle East led to the shutdown of the world's largest gas facility and Iran blocked a key shipping channel. The new data published by Natural Gas has confirmed that the UK's gas reserves have diminished from 18,000 GWh last year to 6,700 GWh, which can meet up to just 1.5 days of demand. A similar volume is also held in liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage. In contrast, many European countries have stored up several weeks of gas reserves, leaving them better equipped to handle supply disruptions. Because the UK has limited storage and must keep importing fuel, traders have been able to charge higher prices, forcing Britain to outbid European buyers. As a result, the UK is now paying the highest wholesale gas prices in Europe, according to a report in the the Daily Mail.<h3>Closure of the Strait of Hormuz</h3>The disruption in the gas market is partly driven by the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that carries nearly 20 percent of the oil flows and world's natural gas, along with production shutdowns in some places. At the beginning of the week, Qatar declared that it had suspended production at Ras Laffan, the largest natural gas facility of the world, following the Iranian bombardment. Meanwhile, oil prices are likely to hit $100 a barrel sooner, rising to $150 if the war drags on, industry experts warned. The head of gas pricing at Argus Media, Natasha Fielding, said: "The price of gas in the UK has increased by more than almost anywhere in Europe. The UK gas hub price is now above the Dutch TTF [the main European gas hub] all the way from now until the end of May. Before this week, the UK was priced below the EU." She added that this was partly because the UK's meagre gas stockpiles that left 'more exposed to price spikes', and added: 'We can’t rely on withdrawing more from storage, so we have to get that gas from abroad.' Fielding underscored that traders might be tracking temperatures in Britain, waiting for more severe cold in the UK when it will be more urgently compelled to outbid other countries for gas. Earlier, the UK used to have gas stockpiling facilities for 12 day, however, the system collapsed after the funding was pulled out by the successive government ministers. The data of National Gas indicated that gas stores on Friday were at 18pc of their former capacity, while LNG storage were just nearly half full. A National Gas spokesman stated that most of the UK's gas comes from Norway and its own North Sea. "The UK benefits from a wide range of gas supply sources. These provide the flexibility needed to balance supply and demand," the spokeperson told The Telegraph.&nbsp;At the same time, concerns are mounting that oil prices could surge sharply due to disruptions in shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned they would “set ablaze” any Western tanker attempting to pass through the strategic waterway, prompting hundreds of vessels to gather at both entrances of the strait while waiting for safe passage. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-selects-its-new-supreme-leader-amid-raging-war-with-us-israel-1772961973135">Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel</a>

The gas market's disruption is partly driven by the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that carries nearly 20 percent of the oil flows and world's natural gas, along with production shutdowns in some places. 

Britain currently has only about two days' worth of natural gas stored, sparking concerns about a potential shortage after conflict in the Middle East led to the shutdown of the world's largest gas facility and Iran blocked a key shipping channel. The new data published by Natural Gas has confirmed that the UK's gas reserves have diminished from 18,000 GWh last year to 6,700 GWh, which can meet up to just 1.5 days of demand. A similar volume is also held in liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage. In contrast, many European countries have stored up several weeks of gas reserves, leaving them better equipped to handle supply disruptions. Because the UK has limited storage and must keep importing fuel, traders have been able to charge higher prices, forcing Britain to outbid European buyers. As a result, the UK is now paying the highest wholesale gas prices in Europe, according to a report in the the Daily Mail. Closure of the Strait of Hormuz The disruption in the gas market is partly driven by the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that carries nearly 20 percent of the oil flows and world's natural gas, along with production shutdowns in some places. At the beginning of the week, Qatar declared that it had suspended production at Ras Laffan, the largest natural gas facility of the world, following the Iranian bombardment. Meanwhile, oil prices are likely to hit $100 a barrel sooner, rising to $150 if the war drags on, industry experts warned. The head of gas pricing at Argus Media, Natasha Fielding, said: "The price of gas in the UK has increased by more than almost anywhere in Europe. The UK gas hub price is now above the Dutch TTF [the main European gas hub] all the way from now until the end of May. Before this week, the UK was priced below the EU." She added that this was partly because the UK's meagre gas stockpiles that left 'more exposed to price spikes', and added: 'We can’t rely on withdrawing more from storage, so we have to get that gas from abroad.' Fielding underscored that traders might be tracking temperatures in Britain, waiting for more severe cold in the UK when it will be more urgently compelled to outbid other countries for gas. Earlier, the UK used to have gas stockpiling facilities for 12 day, however, the system collapsed after the funding was pulled out by the successive government ministers. The data of National Gas indicated that gas stores on Friday were at 18pc of their former capacity, while LNG storage were just nearly half full. A National Gas spokesman stated that most of the UK's gas comes from Norway and its own North Sea. "The UK benefits from a wide range of gas supply sources. These provide the flexibility needed to balance supply and demand," the spokeperson told The Telegraph. At the same time, concerns are mounting that oil prices could surge sharply due to disruptions in shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned they would “set ablaze” any Western tanker attempting to pass through the strategic waterway, prompting hundreds of vessels to gather at both entrances of the strait while waiting for safe passage. Also read: Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel

The gas market's disruption is partly driven by the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that carries nearly 20 percent of the oil flows and world's natural gas, along with production shutdowns in some places.&nbsp;

Only 48 hours of energy left? UK gas reserves down as Middle East tensions shake energy markets