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<p>The National Democratic Alliance delivered a strong performance in the latest Rajya Sabha elections, winning all five seats in Bihar, three in Odisha and one in Haryana on Monday (Mar 16). Of the 37 Rajya Sabha vacancies nationwide, voting was required in only 11 seats across the three states, with the rest filled unopposed.</p><h2><strong>Bihar: NDA benefits as opposition skips vote</strong></h2><p>In Bihar, the NDA secured a clean sweep after opposition legislators, four MLAs of the Opposition Mahagathbandhan, stayed away from voting. While all 202 MLAs of the NDA cast their votes, only 37 MLAs from the Mahagathbandhan voted.</p><p>Winners include Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with BJP leaders Nitin Nabin and Shivesh Kumar and Ramnath Thakur from Janata Dal (United). Upendra Kushwaha of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha also won.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-collapse-of-governance-opposition-nda-to-protest-against-ruling-dmk-in-tamil-nadu-1773647881037"><strong>Opposition NDA to protest against ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Odisha: Cross-voting tilts the balance</strong></h2><p>In Odisha, the Bharatiya Janata Party won three seats, including one backed Independent candidate, Dilip Ray. The Biju Janata Dal managed to secure just one seat despite expectations of a closer fight.</p><p>The outcome was shaped by cross-voting with many Congress and BJD MLAs voting across party lines in favour of Ray, a BJD founding member. At least 11 MLAs, including members from both the BJD and the Congress, voted in favour of Ray, turning what was expected to be a competitive contest into a one-sided result.</p><h2><strong>Haryana: Counting delay amid complaints</strong></h2><p>In Haryana, the election process was briefly held up during counting after both the BJP and the Indian National Congress filed complaints alleging violations of voting secrecy.</p><p>Eventually, BJP candidate Sanjay Bhatia and Congress nominee Karamvir Singh Boudh were declared elected. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini congratulated both winners following the announcement.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-uscirf-report-as-biased-rejects-allegations-on-religious-freedom-1773691146838"><strong>India slams USCIRF report as 'biased', rejects allegations on religious freedom</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How the Rajya Sabha voting works</strong></h2><p>Rajya Sabha elections follow a proportional representation system using a single transferable vote.</p><p>MLAs rank candidates in order of preference rather than choosing just one. A candidate needs to cross a fixed vote quota to win. Surplus votes are then transferred based on second preferences, which can often decide close contests, as seen in Bihar.<br>&nbsp;</p>

NDA sweeps key Rajya Sabha seats across Bihar, Odisha and Haryana: The National Democratic Alliance secured a strong win, aided by opposition absences in Bihar and cross-voting in Odisha. 

The National Democratic Alliance delivered a strong performance in the latest Rajya Sabha elections, winning all five seats in Bihar, three in Odisha and one in Haryana on Monday (Mar 16). Of the 37 Rajya Sabha vacancies nationwide, voting was required in only 11 seats across the three states, with the rest filled unopposed. Bihar: NDA benefits as opposition skips vote In Bihar, the NDA secured a clean sweep after opposition legislators, four MLAs of the Opposition Mahagathbandhan, stayed away from voting. While all 202 MLAs of the NDA cast their votes, only 37 MLAs from the Mahagathbandhan voted. Winners include Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with BJP leaders Nitin Nabin and Shivesh Kumar and Ramnath Thakur from Janata Dal (United). Upendra Kushwaha of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha also won. Also read | Opposition NDA to protest against ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu Odisha: Cross-voting tilts the balance In Odisha, the Bharatiya Janata Party won three seats, including one backed Independent candidate, Dilip Ray. The Biju Janata Dal managed to secure just one seat despite expectations of a closer fight. The outcome was shaped by cross-voting with many Congress and BJD MLAs voting across party lines in favour of Ray, a BJD founding member. At least 11 MLAs, including members from both the BJD and the Congress, voted in favour of Ray, turning what was expected to be a competitive contest into a one-sided result. Haryana: Counting delay amid complaints In Haryana, the election process was briefly held up during counting after both the BJP and the Indian National Congress filed complaints alleging violations of voting secrecy. Eventually, BJP candidate Sanjay Bhatia and Congress nominee Karamvir Singh Boudh were declared elected. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini congratulated both winners following the announcement. Also read | India slams USCIRF report as 'biased', rejects allegations on religious freedom How the Rajya Sabha voting works Rajya Sabha elections follow a proportional representation system using a single transferable vote. MLAs rank candidates in order of preference rather than choosing just one. A candidate needs to cross a fixed vote quota to win. Surplus votes are then transferred based on second preferences, which can often decide close contests, as seen in Bihar.

<p>NDA sweeps key Rajya Sabha seats across Bihar, Odisha and Haryana: The National Democratic Alliance secured a strong win, aided by opposition absences in Bihar and cross-voting in Odisha.&nbsp;</p>

NDA sweeps Rajya Sabha seats in Bihar, Odisha; Haryana sees close contest

<p>Scientists have captured two planets smashing into each other, giving a rare insight into how our own planet, Earth and the Moon might have formed. The exciting event happened around Gaia20ehk, a star similar to our sun, located 11,000 light-years from Earth. The star and its planets reside near the constellation Puppis, or the "poop deck". A planetary collision has only been seen a few times in the past, but this one is different since astronomers say it is almost like seeing our own planet's history. Lead author of the study, Anastasios Tzanidakis, a doctoral candidate in astronomy at the University of Washington, said that several telescopes around the world "caught the impact in real time." He added, "There are only a few other planetary collisions of any kind on record, and none that bear so many similarities to the impact that created the Earth and moon." The study was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters on March 11.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-pin-source-of-three-mysterious-signals-from-centre-of-milky-way-to-excited-dark-matter-1772794076955"><strong>Scientists pin source of three mysterious signals coming from centre of Milky Way to…</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How did scientists know that two planets had collided?</strong></h2><p>It is not like planets rarely collide with each other. In fact, every young star system is a chaotic place with debris flying all around, crashing and smashing before coalescing to form planets and moons. However, to see these events from Earth is not easy. To witness the violent cosmic episodes, the planets' orbits must take them directly in front of their home star. When this happens, their debris blocks part of the star's light, and the telescopes detect and measure it in visible and infrared light. Tzanidakis was scanning through NASA's SPHEREx mission when he saw something strange. In 2016, the star Gaia20ehk was stable and just like any other fireball in the universe. However, five years later, it dimmed by three times its original light, and chaos started. "Right around 2021, it went completely bonkers," Tzanidakis said, adding that stars like our sun do not experience such weird alterations.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-is-safe-jwst-pulls-off-near-impossible-feat-locates-asteroid-2024-yr4-1772796801306"><strong>JWST pulls off near-impossible feat, locates asteroid that had gone into hiding</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Star got hotter and hotter, creating an infrared glow</strong></h2><p>Further observations showed that something repeatedly passing in front of the star was blocking part of its light. However, visible-light data was not enough to conclude. This could be happening because of anything - from a stellar explosion to a planet being gobbled up by a supermassive black hole. An analysis of Gaia20ehk's emission in the infrared spectrum showed that its infrared signal shot up even though the star's light dipped. This means it was getting hotter, and in fact, whatever material was blocking it was also extremely hot, as proven by the infrared glow.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-days-are-getting-longer-it-has-not-happened-in-3-6-million-years-1773408587727"><strong>Earth days are getting longer. It has not happened in 3.6 million years</strong></a></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-claims-heaven-lies-in-the-physical-universe-and-tells-its-exact-location-1771939781638"><strong>Scientist claims heaven lies in the physical universe, and tells its EXACT location</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The researchers concluded that what they were seeing was a collision between two planets, since such an event could throw out hot dust and rock into an orbit, perfectly aligning with their findings. However, it was likely not a one-time head-on collision. Scientists think they initially grazed each other, which is when the star's light dimmed. "Then, they had their big catastrophic collision, and the infrared really ramped up," Tzanidakis said. The study states that the event resembles our moon's past since the debris cloud around Gaia20ehk is around one astronomical unit from its star, almost the same distance as Earth orbits the sun.&nbsp;</p>

A collision between two planets was seen from Earth, an event that has only been seen a handful of times in the past. Scientists noticed chaos and temperatures running extremely high near the constellation Puppis, and were surprised when they found the reason.

Scientists have captured two planets smashing into each other, giving a rare insight into how our own planet, Earth and the Moon might have formed. The exciting event happened around Gaia20ehk, a star similar to our sun, located 11,000 light-years from Earth. The star and its planets reside near the constellation Puppis, or the "poop deck". A planetary collision has only been seen a few times in the past, but this one is different since astronomers say it is almost like seeing our own planet's history. Lead author of the study, Anastasios Tzanidakis, a doctoral candidate in astronomy at the University of Washington, said that several telescopes around the world "caught the impact in real time." He added, "There are only a few other planetary collisions of any kind on record, and none that bear so many similarities to the impact that created the Earth and moon." The study was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters on March 11. Also Read: Scientists pin source of three mysterious signals coming from centre of Milky Way to… How did scientists know that two planets had collided? It is not like planets rarely collide with each other. In fact, every young star system is a chaotic place with debris flying all around, crashing and smashing before coalescing to form planets and moons. However, to see these events from Earth is not easy. To witness the violent cosmic episodes, the planets' orbits must take them directly in front of their home star. When this happens, their debris blocks part of the star's light, and the telescopes detect and measure it in visible and infrared light. Tzanidakis was scanning through NASA's SPHEREx mission when he saw something strange. In 2016, the star Gaia20ehk was stable and just like any other fireball in the universe. However, five years later, it dimmed by three times its original light, and chaos started. "Right around 2021, it went completely bonkers," Tzanidakis said, adding that stars like our sun do not experience such weird alterations. Also Read: JWST pulls off near-impossible feat, locates asteroid that had gone into hiding Star got hotter and hotter, creating an infrared glow Further observations showed that something repeatedly passing in front of the star was blocking part of its light. However, visible-light data was not enough to conclude. This could be happening because of anything - from a stellar explosion to a planet being gobbled up by a supermassive black hole. An analysis of Gaia20ehk's emission in the infrared spectrum showed that its infrared signal shot up even though the star's light dipped. This means it was getting hotter, and in fact, whatever material was blocking it was also extremely hot, as proven by the infrared glow. Also Read: Earth days are getting longer. It has not happened in 3.6 million years Also Read: Scientist claims heaven lies in the physical universe, and tells its EXACT location The researchers concluded that what they were seeing was a collision between two planets, since such an event could throw out hot dust and rock into an orbit, perfectly aligning with their findings. However, it was likely not a one-time head-on collision. Scientists think they initially grazed each other, which is when the star's light dimmed. "Then, they had their big catastrophic collision, and the infrared really ramped up," Tzanidakis said. The study states that the event resembles our moon's past since the debris cloud around Gaia20ehk is around one astronomical unit from its star, almost the same distance as Earth orbits the sun.

<p>A collision between two planets was seen from Earth, an event that has only been seen a handful of times in the past. Scientists noticed chaos and temperatures running extremely high near the constellation Puppis, and were surprised when they found the reason.</p>

Chaos, heat and a star that went bonkers: Scientists see major collision between two planets

<p>The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Mar 17) announced an “exceptional precautionary measure”, temporarily closing its airspace after its military reported incoming missile and drone threats from Iran. This marks a sharp escalation in the Gulf amid the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran. The country’s General Civil Aviation Authority said the move was intended to ensure flight safety and protect the national airspace. It remains unclear how long the closure will stay in place.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vance-accuses-press-of-driving-a-wedge-between-him-and-trump-defends-iran-war-blasts-dumb-predecessors-1773708013155"><strong>Vance accuses press of 'driving a wedge' between him and Trump; defends Iran war, blasts 'dumb' predecessors</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Dubai airport hit, flights disrupted</strong></h2><p>The decision came a day after a drone attack set a fuel tank ablaze at Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest hub for international travel. Flight operations were disrupted, with airlines including India's IndiGo advising passengers to check real-time updates before heading to the airport.</p><p>Witnesses described thick smoke rising near the airport, while passengers inside the terminals were moved to safer areas for several hours.</p><p>Previously, Dubai Airport said that flights to and from DXB are gradually resuming to selected destinations. However, in a later advisory, the airport asked passengers "not to proceed to DXB unless you have been contacted directly by your airline with a confirmed departure time, as schedules remain subject to change.</p><h2><strong>Civilian killed, multiple strikes reported</strong></h2><p>A Palestinian civilian was killed on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi after a missile struck a car, according to state media. In Umm Al Quwain, a drone damaged a building but caused no casualties. The UAE has reported at least seven deaths since the conflict began.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-iran-war-trump-wants-to-delay-trip-to-china-summit-with-xi-for-a-month-or-so-here-s-why-1773697685355"><strong>Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Oil operations disrupted in Fujairah</strong></h2><p>The attacks have begun to hit critical energy infrastructure. A strike on oil infrastructure in Fujairah sparked a fire that authorities said was still being contained. State oil company ADNOC, as per an AFP report citing sources, has halted oil loading operations at its Fujairah facility following repeated strikes.</p><p>This comes as Iran has stepped up its strikes across Gulf countries, targeting US-linked assets as well as civilian infrastructure such as airports, ports and energy facilities.</p><p>Officials say more than 1,900 missiles and drones have been launched at the UAE alone, although most have been intercepted. Tehran has meanwhile accused the UAE of aiding strikes on Iranian targets, a claim Emirati authorities have denied.<br>&nbsp;</p>

The United Arab Emirates has taken the "exceptional" step of closing its entire airspace on Tuesday (Mar 17) following a barrage of missile and drone threats from Iran.

The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Mar 17) announced an “exceptional precautionary measure”, temporarily closing its airspace after its military reported incoming missile and drone threats from Iran. This marks a sharp escalation in the Gulf amid the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran. The country’s General Civil Aviation Authority said the move was intended to ensure flight safety and protect the national airspace. It remains unclear how long the closure will stay in place. Also read | Vance accuses press of 'driving a wedge' between him and Trump; defends Iran war, blasts 'dumb' predecessors Dubai airport hit, flights disrupted The decision came a day after a drone attack set a fuel tank ablaze at Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest hub for international travel. Flight operations were disrupted, with airlines including India's IndiGo advising passengers to check real-time updates before heading to the airport. Witnesses described thick smoke rising near the airport, while passengers inside the terminals were moved to safer areas for several hours. Previously, Dubai Airport said that flights to and from DXB are gradually resuming to selected destinations. However, in a later advisory, the airport asked passengers "not to proceed to DXB unless you have been contacted directly by your airline with a confirmed departure time, as schedules remain subject to change. Civilian killed, multiple strikes reported A Palestinian civilian was killed on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi after a missile struck a car, according to state media. In Umm Al Quwain, a drone damaged a building but caused no casualties. The UAE has reported at least seven deaths since the conflict began. Also read | Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why Oil operations disrupted in Fujairah The attacks have begun to hit critical energy infrastructure. A strike on oil infrastructure in Fujairah sparked a fire that authorities said was still being contained. State oil company ADNOC, as per an AFP report citing sources, has halted oil loading operations at its Fujairah facility following repeated strikes. This comes as Iran has stepped up its strikes across Gulf countries, targeting US-linked assets as well as civilian infrastructure such as airports, ports and energy facilities. Officials say more than 1,900 missiles and drones have been launched at the UAE alone, although most have been intercepted. Tehran has meanwhile accused the UAE of aiding strikes on Iranian targets, a claim Emirati authorities have denied.

<p>The United Arab Emirates has taken the "exceptional" step of closing its entire airspace on Tuesday (Mar 17) following a barrage of missile and drone threats from Iran.</p>

Do not 'proceed to DXB unless...': Dubai shuts airspace; massive flight chaos as 1,900 Iranian missiles, drones rain down on UAE

<p>US Vice President JD Vance on Monday (Mar 16) found himself walking a political tightrope in the Oval Office, defending President Donald Trump's war in Iran while pushing back against questions about his past opposition to foreign military interventions. Standing beside Donald Trump, Vance was asked whether he fully supported the ongoing conflict with Tehran. Before becoming Trump's VP, Vance built much of his political identity around scepticism of US involvement in overseas conflicts, particularly after his brief deployment in Iraq as a Marine.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-iran-war-trump-wants-to-delay-trip-to-china-summit-with-xi-for-a-month-or-so-here-s-why-1773697685355"><strong>Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Vance accuses the press of trying to drive a wedge between him and Trump</strong></h2><p>When asked about his opinion on Operation Epic Fury and the US-Israel war on Iran, Vance responded with a jab at the press.</p><p>“I know what you’re trying to do,” Vance told a reporter, accusing journalists of trying to drive a wedge between him and the president. “You’re trying to drive a wedge between members of the administration, between me and the president.”</p><h2><strong>Then vs Now: 'One big difference' in US wars</strong></h2><p>Defending Trump, Vance, who earlier reports suggested was not in favour of the US-Israel-Iran war, claimed there was "one big difference" in US wars now vs before.</p><p>“One big difference" between now and the past is that "we have a smart president,” Vance said. “In the past, we’ve had dumb presidents.” Trump, seated nearby, smiled and even winked toward someone in the room as the vice president said this.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Vance's U-turn on war</strong></h2><p>A war veteran within the Republican Party, Vance has long been seen as a leading anti-interventionist. As recently as 2023, he praised Trump’s reluctance to start new wars, describing that restraint as “the enduring legacy of Mr Trump’s first term.”</p><p>But the conflict with Iran has forced a shift in tone. Vance now argues the situation is fundamentally different because of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “What the president has said consistently, going back to 2015, and I agreed with him, is that Iran should not have a nuclear weapon,” he said.</p><p>Reports last week suggested that Vance privately urged a more aggressive military strategy against Iran. Allies of the vice president quickly pushed back, insisting he had expressed concerns behind closed doors about a wider war.</p><p>His relative silence on social media during the early days of the strikes also caught the attention of supporters who expected him to weigh in quickly. Vance now insists the conflict will not turn into another “forever war,” a phrase often used to describe the long US campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

JD Vance accused reporters of trying to "drive a wedge" between him and President Donald Trump before asserting that the Iran War is different because "we have a smart president" compared to "dumb" predecessors. Here's what he said.

US Vice President JD Vance on Monday (Mar 16) found himself walking a political tightrope in the Oval Office, defending President Donald Trump's war in Iran while pushing back against questions about his past opposition to foreign military interventions. Standing beside Donald Trump, Vance was asked whether he fully supported the ongoing conflict with Tehran. Before becoming Trump's VP, Vance built much of his political identity around scepticism of US involvement in overseas conflicts, particularly after his brief deployment in Iraq as a Marine. Also read | Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why Vance accuses the press of trying to drive a wedge between him and Trump When asked about his opinion on Operation Epic Fury and the US-Israel war on Iran, Vance responded with a jab at the press. “I know what you’re trying to do,” Vance told a reporter, accusing journalists of trying to drive a wedge between him and the president. “You’re trying to drive a wedge between members of the administration, between me and the president.” Then vs Now: 'One big difference' in US wars Defending Trump, Vance, who earlier reports suggested was not in favour of the US-Israel-Iran war, claimed there was "one big difference" in US wars now vs before. “One big difference" between now and the past is that "we have a smart president,” Vance said. “In the past, we’ve had dumb presidents.” Trump, seated nearby, smiled and even winked toward someone in the room as the vice president said this. Also read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest Vance's U-turn on war A war veteran within the Republican Party, Vance has long been seen as a leading anti-interventionist. As recently as 2023, he praised Trump’s reluctance to start new wars, describing that restraint as “the enduring legacy of Mr Trump’s first term.” But the conflict with Iran has forced a shift in tone. Vance now argues the situation is fundamentally different because of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “What the president has said consistently, going back to 2015, and I agreed with him, is that Iran should not have a nuclear weapon,” he said. Reports last week suggested that Vance privately urged a more aggressive military strategy against Iran. Allies of the vice president quickly pushed back, insisting he had expressed concerns behind closed doors about a wider war. His relative silence on social media during the early days of the strikes also caught the attention of supporters who expected him to weigh in quickly. Vance now insists the conflict will not turn into another “forever war,” a phrase often used to describe the long US campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. 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.

<p>JD Vance accused reporters of trying to "drive a wedge" between him and President Donald Trump before asserting that the Iran War is different because "we have a smart president" compared to "dumb" predecessors. Here's what he said.</p>

Vance accuses press of 'driving a wedge' between him and Trump; defends Iran war, blasts 'dumb' predecessors

<p>Iran's top minister has rejected claims that Tehran has been in recent contact with Washington over ending the war. In a post on X on Tuesday (Mar 17), Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, said his last communication with US envoy Steve Witkoff took place before what he described as US President Donald Trump's "decision to kill diplomacy with another illegal military attack on Iran." Araghchi's denial comes after Trump, in an interview, claimed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trump-shares-video-of-massive-strike-on-iran-s-crown-jewel-kharg-island-amid-iran-war-1773455549662">Iran </a>wants to make a deal, but that he was not interested in doing so "because the terms aren’t good enough yet".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What did Araghchi say?</strong></h2><p>In a public denial on X, the Iranian foreign minister indirectly slammed Trump and said that his last contact with Steve Witkoff happened before the US envoy's employer, i.e., Trump, decided to "kill diplomacy with another illegal military attack on Iran".</p><p>He added that any reports suggesting otherwise were misleading and aimed at influencing oil markets and public opinion. "Any claim to the contrary appears geared solely to mislead oil traders and the public," he wrote.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-iran-war-trump-wants-to-delay-trip-to-china-summit-with-xi-for-a-month-or-so-here-s-why-1773697685355"><strong>Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My last contact with Mr. Witkoff was prior to his employer&#39;s decision to kill diplomacy with another illegal military attack on Iran.<br><br>Any claim to the contrary appears geared solely to mislead oil traders and the public.</p>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2033651325397868982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>What did Trump say about US-Iran deal to end the war in West Asia?</strong></h2><p>Talking to NBC News, the US President said he was not prepared to reach a deal with Iran despite Tehran signalling interest in negotiations. He claimed that this was because the conditions offered so far were not acceptable.</p><p>“Iran wants to make a deal, and I don’t want to make it because the terms aren’t good enough yet,” he said. The president declined to explain what specific conditions Washington would require but said that any agreement would have to be “very solid.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has issued a stinging denial of President Donald Trump’s claims that Tehran is seeking an immediate peace deal to end the Iran war that has now entered its 18th day. Here's what he said.

Iran's top minister has rejected claims that Tehran has been in recent contact with Washington over ending the war. In a post on X on Tuesday (Mar 17), Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, said his last communication with US envoy Steve Witkoff took place before what he described as US President Donald Trump's "decision to kill diplomacy with another illegal military attack on Iran." Araghchi's denial comes after Trump, in an interview, claimed that Iran wants to make a deal, but that he was not interested in doing so "because the terms aren’t good enough yet". Also read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest What did Araghchi say? In a public denial on X, the Iranian foreign minister indirectly slammed Trump and said that his last contact with Steve Witkoff happened before the US envoy's employer, i.e., Trump, decided to "kill diplomacy with another illegal military attack on Iran". He added that any reports suggesting otherwise were misleading and aimed at influencing oil markets and public opinion. "Any claim to the contrary appears geared solely to mislead oil traders and the public," he wrote. Also read | Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why

<p>Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has issued a stinging denial of President Donald Trump’s claims that Tehran is seeking an immediate peace deal to end the Iran war, which has now entered its 18th day. Here's what he said.</p>

Iran FM Araghchi says Trump ‘killed diplomacy’ with illegal attack, denies US claim of peace talks

<p>US President Donald Trump has announced that he has asked China to postpone a planned summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping by about a month. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Monday (Mar 16), Trump said the meeting, originally expected to take place in early April, could be pushed back. This comes days after China, using an AI-generated video, mocked Trump's security summit, Shield of the Americas. The video that went viral on social media carried the title <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-shield-of-the-americas-or-shackles-china-mocks-trump-with-ai-video-of-eagle-trapping-latin-american-doves-here-s-what-it-means-1773458991330">“Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?”</a>. Why is the US president pushing his meeting with the Chinese leader? Here's all we know.</p><h2><strong>Why has Trump delayed his vital China trip?</strong></h2><p>Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he won't meet Xi while the war between the US, Israel and Iran continues. “We’re speaking to China,” Trump said. “Because of the war I want to be here, I have to be here, I feel. And so we’ve requested that we delay it a month or so.”&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-shield-of-the-americas-or-shackles-china-mocks-trump-with-ai-video-of-eagle-trapping-latin-american-doves-here-s-what-it-means-1773458991330"><strong>Watch: ‘Shield of the Americas, or shackles?’ China mocks Trump with AI video of eagle trapping doves. Here's what it means</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Summit was expected in early April</strong></h2><p>The two leaders had been expected to meet in China from around March 31 to April 2, a visit that would have marked a major moment in relations between the world’s two largest economies. Officials say the possible delay is linked mainly to the war effort rather than disputes between Washington and Beijing.</p><p>US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Trump wants to remain in Washington to coordinate military operations related to the Iran conflict.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Aso read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iran war reshapes diplomatic schedule</strong></h2><p>The conflict, now entering its third week, has disrupted parts of the global energy market and raised tensions across the Middle East. Trump has also been urging several countries, including China, to help maintain security in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for global oil supplies.&nbsp;</p><p>Despite the possible delay, officials on both sides say preparations for the summit are continuing and that communication between Washington and Beijing remains active. The meeting is expected to focus on trade issues and broader geopolitical tensions once a new date is agreed.</p>

President Donald Trump has asked to postpone his highly anticipated summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping by a month. Originally scheduled for March 31 to April 2, the delay comes as the US pushes Beijing to help secure Strait of Hormuz, where oil transit has been throttled by IRGC threats.

US President Donald Trump has announced that he has asked China to postpone a planned summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping by about a month. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Monday (Mar 16), Trump said the meeting, originally expected to take place in early April, could be pushed back. This comes days after China, using an AI-generated video, mocked Trump's security summit, Shield of the Americas. The video that went viral on social media carried the title “Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?”. Why is the US president pushing his meeting with the Chinese leader? Here's all we know. Why has Trump delayed his vital China trip? Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he won't meet Xi while the war between the US, Israel and Iran continues. “We’re speaking to China,” Trump said. “Because of the war I want to be here, I have to be here, I feel. And so we’ve requested that we delay it a month or so.” Also read | Watch: ‘Shield of the Americas, or shackles?’ China mocks Trump with AI video of eagle trapping doves. Here's what it means Summit was expected in early April The two leaders had been expected to meet in China from around March 31 to April 2, a visit that would have marked a major moment in relations between the world’s two largest economies. Officials say the possible delay is linked mainly to the war effort rather than disputes between Washington and Beijing. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Trump wants to remain in Washington to coordinate military operations related to the Iran conflict. Aso read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest Iran war reshapes diplomatic schedule The conflict, now entering its third week, has disrupted parts of the global energy market and raised tensions across the Middle East. Trump has also been urging several countries, including China, to help maintain security in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for global oil supplies. Despite the possible delay, officials on both sides say preparations for the summit are continuing and that communication between Washington and Beijing remains active. The meeting is expected to focus on trade issues and broader geopolitical tensions once a new date is agreed.

<p>President Donald Trump has asked to postpone his highly anticipated summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping by a month. Originally scheduled for March 31 to April 2, the delay comes as the US pushes Beijing to help secure Strait of Hormuz, where oil transit has been throttled by IRGC threats.</p>

Trump wants to delay trip to China, summit with Xi for ‘a month or so’. Here's why

<p>Archaeologists exploring Roman history in Switzerland have discovered a 2,000-year-old Roman military camp located 7,000 feet above sea level. According to a translated statement from the Canton of Graubünden, the Roman military camp strategically sat at high ground to let the troops keep a watch on valleys and mountain passes, regions that would otherwise be hard to observe. What remains of the camp are ditches and a wall. But the clearest sign was lead sling bullets with the stamp of the Roman 3rd Legion. Researchers from the University of Basel, along with the Graubünden Archaeological Service, had been scanning the Crap Ses area between Cunter and Tiefencastel since 2021. They knew about the Roman battlefield in the Oberhalbstein Alps, but stumbled upon something unexpected when a volunteer noticed something unbelievable.</p><h2><strong>Romans in Switzerland</strong></h2><p>The Romans found "a striking terrain structure in the Colm la Runga corridor" located 3,000 feet above the battlefield. The researchers used a high-resolution digital terrain model and LiDAR data to investigate the high area and saw that this particular portion was fortified. Sitting 7,000 feet above sea level in the Swiss Alps, the Roman military camp was fortified by three ditches and a wall with ramparts. It let them observe enemy movement from high above the ground. They could also observe four key valleys - Landwassertal, Albulatal, Domleschg, and Surses - and Lenzerheide, a heavily travelled mountain passageway.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-cikai-korran-came-here-2-000-years-ago-indian-man-scribbled-his-name-in-tamil-on-8-egyptian-tombs-1773298022463"><strong>'Cikai Korran came here': 2,000 years ago, Indian man scribbled his name in Tamil on Egyptian tombs</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Weapons matched the age of the Roman battlefield&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>The volunteers were joined by students to study the military camp in August. They found weapons like lead sling bullets and boot nails. and equipment belonging to Roman soldiers. The stamp of the 3rd Legion on the slingshot was proof that the camp was linked to the Roman battlefield, which was involved in the battle at Crap Ses. Dating of the weapons showed that they belonged to the same period as the battlefield, both being around 2,000 years old. The researchers called the military camp a "sensational discovery" that shows the Roman forces moved with great precision 2,000 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

The Roman military camp survived for over 2,000 years, and no one even knew that it existed all this time. Archaeologists studying Roman history in Switzerland were surprised that they had fortified a region so high above the ground. 

Archaeologists exploring Roman history in Switzerland have discovered a 2,000-year-old Roman military camp located 7,000 feet above sea level. According to a translated statement from the Canton of Graubünden, the Roman military camp strategically sat at high ground to let the troops keep a watch on valleys and mountain passes, regions that would otherwise be hard to observe. What remains of the camp are ditches and a wall. But the clearest sign was lead sling bullets with the stamp of the Roman 3rd Legion. Researchers from the University of Basel, along with the Graubünden Archaeological Service, had been scanning the Crap Ses area between Cunter and Tiefencastel since 2021. They knew about the Roman battlefield in the Oberhalbstein Alps, but stumbled upon something unexpected when a volunteer noticed something unbelievable. Romans in Switzerland The Romans found "a striking terrain structure in the Colm la Runga corridor" located 3,000 feet above the battlefield. The researchers used a high-resolution digital terrain model and LiDAR data to investigate the high area and saw that this particular portion was fortified. Sitting 7,000 feet above sea level in the Swiss Alps, the Roman military camp was fortified by three ditches and a wall with ramparts. It let them observe enemy movement from high above the ground. They could also observe four key valleys - Landwassertal, Albulatal, Domleschg, and Surses - and Lenzerheide, a heavily travelled mountain passageway. Also Read: 'Cikai Korran came here': 2,000 years ago, Indian man scribbled his name in Tamil on Egyptian tombs Weapons matched the age of the Roman battlefield The volunteers were joined by students to study the military camp in August. They found weapons like lead sling bullets and boot nails. and equipment belonging to Roman soldiers. The stamp of the 3rd Legion on the slingshot was proof that the camp was linked to the Roman battlefield, which was involved in the battle at Crap Ses. Dating of the weapons showed that they belonged to the same period as the battlefield, both being around 2,000 years old. The researchers called the military camp a "sensational discovery" that shows the Roman forces moved with great precision 2,000 years ago.

<p>The Roman military camp survived for over 2,000 years, and no one even knew that it existed all this time. Archaeologists studying Roman history in Switzerland were surprised that they had fortified a region so high above the ground.&nbsp;</p>

Archaeologists find unexpected structure hiding for 2,000 years 7,000 feet high in Swiss Alps

<p>The United States thought it could get away with dumping its waste in an Asian country, but this time, its plan has failed. Thailand seized 284 tonnes of electronic waste that reached its port under false declarations. Authorities are planning to ship all of its back to the country of origin - Trump's America. Thai customs authorities encountered the illegal waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri province and have decided to give a clear message to the US that it isn't a dumping ground. Surin Warakijthamrong, head of the Department of Pollution Control, told Bangkok Post that 12 containers were sent to Thailand under a false pretext that they had scrap metal from Haiti. “Authorities have been checking the remaining containers — there are 21 in all — and we expect to find more illegal electronic waste. It will be sent back to the US under the terms of the Basel Convention,” Surin said.</p><h2><strong>Thai authorities checking 21 US containers for e-waste&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>Officials received a tip from the Basel Action Network, an international organisation that keeps a check on the trafficking of hazardous goods that violates the Basel Convention. Inspections were carried out and revealed that the containers had circuit boards, electronic components, computer parts, and used technological equipment. There are 21 containers in total, and all of them are being checked. Officials expect more e-waste to be found in them. This e-waste costs a lot more to recycle, and so the US ships it off to some other country. But Thailand has refused to take in the garbage and is getting ready to send it back to the US. Officials from the Pollution Control Department are carrying out an investigation.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/asos-millionaire-quentin-griffiths-dies-net-worth-and-scandals-1771561666020"><strong>Asos millionaire Quentin Griffiths falls to his death under 'suspicious circumstances': Net worth and scandals</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Basel Convention on e-waste</strong></h2><p>Basel Convention rules dictate that any illegal shipment of hazardous waste must be returned to the country of origin. The cost should also be borne by the country that exported it. Thailand ratified the convention in March 2023. It was formed to control shipments of hazardous waste, which are especially dumped in the least developed and developing countries. It states that such waste should be managed in such a way that it does not pose any threat to the environment. Thailand has taken strict measures to control the entry of e-waste into the country and banned its import in 2020. It also expanded regulations in 2025, covering 463 types of e-waste.</p>

Thailand found 284 tonnes of electronic waste sent illegally by the United States, filled in 12 containers and is not preparing to ship it back to the country of origin. More of them are being checked, and the findings can increase.

The United States thought it could get away with dumping its waste in an Asian country, but this time, its plan has failed. Thailand seized 284 tonnes of electronic waste that reached its port under false declarations. Authorities are planning to ship all of its back to the country of origin - Trump's America. Thai customs authorities encountered the illegal waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri province and have decided to give a clear message to the US that it isn't a dumping ground. Surin Warakijthamrong, head of the Department of Pollution Control, told Bangkok Post that 12 containers were sent to Thailand under a false pretext that they had scrap metal from Haiti. “Authorities have been checking the remaining containers — there are 21 in all — and we expect to find more illegal electronic waste. It will be sent back to the US under the terms of the Basel Convention,” Surin said. Thai authorities checking 21 US containers for e-waste Officials received a tip from the Basel Action Network, an international organisation that keeps a check on the trafficking of hazardous goods that violates the Basel Convention. Inspections were carried out and revealed that the containers had circuit boards, electronic components, computer parts, and used technological equipment. There are 21 containers in total, and all of them are being checked. Officials expect more e-waste to be found in them. This e-waste costs a lot more to recycle, and so the US ships it off to some other country. But Thailand has refused to take in the garbage and is getting ready to send it back to the US. Officials from the Pollution Control Department are carrying out an investigation. Also Read: Asos millionaire Quentin Griffiths falls to his death under 'suspicious circumstances': Net worth and scandals Basel Convention on e-waste Basel Convention rules dictate that any illegal shipment of hazardous waste must be returned to the country of origin. The cost should also be borne by the country that exported it. Thailand ratified the convention in March 2023. It was formed to control shipments of hazardous waste, which are especially dumped in the least developed and developing countries. It states that such waste should be managed in such a way that it does not pose any threat to the environment. Thailand has taken strict measures to control the entry of e-waste into the country and banned its import in 2020. It also expanded regulations in 2025, covering 463 types of e-waste.

<p>Thailand found 284 tonnes of electronic waste sent illegally by the United States, filled in 12 containers and is not preparing to ship it back to the country of origin. More of them are being checked, and the findings can increase.</p>

Your garbage, not mine: Thailand to return 284 tonnes of e-waste to America

<p>In a rare development in Indian politics, opposition parties under the INDIA bloc have submitted notices in both Houses of the parliament demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The notice against CEC followed with the allegations of irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, mass exclusion of voters, and favouring the ruling BJP.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The move marks the first attempt in the independent history of India to impeach a sitting CEC. But the question lies ahead: Can Gyanesh Kumar really be removed from the CEC post? The short answer is yes; however, it is not as simple because the action requires an extraordinarily rigorous, quasi-judicial process that is similar to the removal process of a Supreme Court judge.</p><h3>What does the Constitution actually say?</h3><p>To protect the independence of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Article 324(5) of the Constitution of India states that the CEC can only be removed in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court. Additionally, the CEC’s service conditions cannot be altered to their disadvantage after appointment.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This provision is reinforced by the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. The law limits removal to two grounds: proved misbehaviour, such as corruption or abuse of power, or incapacity due to physical or mental inability.</p><h3>What is the removal process?</h3><p>The removal procedure of the CEC is based on Article 124(4) of the Constitution and governed by the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, which is intentionally complex.</p><ul><li>First step says that a motion must first be supported by at least 100 Lok Sabha members or 50 Rajya Sabha members and submitted to the Speaker or the Chairman. The presiding officer then reviews the motion and may either accept or reject it.</li><li>If accepted, then in the next step, a three-member independent committee is formed, consisting of a sitting Supreme Court judge, a Chief Justice of a High Court, and a distinguished jurist. This panel conducts a detailed inquiry, examines evidence and determines whether “proved misbehaviour or incapacity” exists.</li><li>If the committee confirms the charges, the motion is debated and must be approved by both Houses in the same session with a special majority—more than half the total membership and at least two-thirds of members present and voting.</li><li>After parliamentary approval, an address is sent to the President, who issues the official removal order.</li><li>This process can take several months and involves thorough legal scrutiny, making it significantly more rigorous than a standard no-confidence motion or parliamentary censure.</li></ul><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-congress-creating-panic-within-country-pm-modi-accuses-party-during-his-assam-visit-amid-west-asia-war-1773475122315">‘Congress creating panic within country’: PM Modi accuses party during his Assam visit amid West Asia war</a></p>

The removal procedure of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is based on Article 124(4) of the Constitution and governed by the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, which is intentionally complex.

In a rare development in Indian politics, opposition parties under the INDIA bloc have submitted notices in both Houses of the parliament demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The notice against CEC followed with the allegations of irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, mass exclusion of voters, and favouring the ruling BJP. The move marks the first attempt in the independent history of India to impeach a sitting CEC. But the question lies ahead: Can Gyanesh Kumar really be removed from the CEC post? The short answer is yes; however, it is not as simple because the action requires an extraordinarily rigorous, quasi-judicial process that is similar to the removal process of a Supreme Court judge. What does the Constitution actually say? To protect the independence of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Article 324(5) of the Constitution of India states that the CEC can only be removed in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court. Additionally, the CEC’s service conditions cannot be altered to their disadvantage after appointment. This provision is reinforced by the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. The law limits removal to two grounds: proved misbehaviour, such as corruption or abuse of power, or incapacity due to physical or mental inability. What is the removal process? The removal procedure of the CEC is based on Article 124(4) of the Constitution and governed by the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, which is intentionally complex. First step says that a motion must first be supported by at least 100 Lok Sabha members or 50 Rajya Sabha members and submitted to the Speaker or the Chairman. The presiding officer then reviews the motion and may either accept or reject it. If accepted, then in the next step, a three-member independent committee is formed, consisting of a sitting Supreme Court judge, a Chief Justice of a High Court, and a distinguished jurist. This panel conducts a detailed inquiry, examines evidence and determines whether “proved misbehaviour or incapacity” exists. If the committee confirms the charges, the motion is debated and must be approved by both Houses in the same session with a special majority—more than half the total membership and at least two-thirds of members present and voting. After parliamentary approval, an address is sent to the President, who issues the official removal order. This process can take several months and involves thorough legal scrutiny, making it significantly more rigorous than a standard no-confidence motion or parliamentary censure. Also read: ‘Congress creating panic within country’: PM Modi accuses party during his Assam visit amid West Asia war

<p>The removal procedure of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is based on Article 124(4) of the Constitution and governed by the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, which is intentionally complex.</p>

Can India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) really be removed? Here's what the Constitution says

The US has placed a $10 million bounty on Mojtaba Khamenei and several other senior Iranian figures, accusing them of directing activities linked to the IRGC. Who are the leaders on Washington’s most-wanted list and why are they being targeted? Scroll down to find out.

US puts $10M bounty on Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC top leaders it claims ‘plan, organise and execute terror worldwide’. Who are they?

<p>Eleven Indians have been arrested in the United States for reportedly plotting staged armed robberies to obtain immigration benefits. The suspects face charges of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. Federal investigators in Boston, Massachusetts, said the group arranged fake robbery incidents at several businesses so employees could claim they were victims of crime, a key requirement for securing a particular visa.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The United States grants the “U visa” to individuals who are victims of serious crimes and assist law enforcement in investigations. Officials indicated that the accused organised at least six staged robberies at convenience stores, liquor outlets and fast-food restaurants. Investigators added that the scheme was carefully planned, with one person acting as a fake robber who entered a store with an object resembling a firearm, took cash from the counter and then fled the scene, according to a report by NDTV.</p><h3>What is a U Visa?</h3><p>The U Visa is a special type of temporary visa issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services to individuals who have been victims of serious crimes in the United States. Basically, it is applied to the people who have faced mental or physical abuse and have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The U visa provides an immigrant work authorisation and a route to a Green Card within 5–10 years in the United States. The visa was created by Congress in October 2000 with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (including the Battered Immigrant Women’s Protection Act).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The move was supposed to bolster the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of sexual assault, trafficking of aliens, domestic violence and other crimes. It also protects victims of crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse due to the crime and are willing to help law enforcement officials in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. The legislation also helps law enforcement agencies to better serve victims of crimes.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-shantanu-narayen-adobe-ceo-steps-down-after-nearly-two-decades-1773382245551"><strong> </strong>Who is Shantanu Narayen? Adobe CEO steps down after nearly two decades</a></p>

The U visa applies to people who have faced mental or physical abuse and have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. It provides an immigrant work authorisation and a route to a Green Card within 5–10 years in the United States.

Eleven Indians have been arrested in the United States for reportedly plotting staged armed robberies to obtain immigration benefits. The suspects face charges of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. Federal investigators in Boston, Massachusetts, said the group arranged fake robbery incidents at several businesses so employees could claim they were victims of crime, a key requirement for securing a particular visa. The United States grants the “U visa” to individuals who are victims of serious crimes and assist law enforcement in investigations. Officials indicated that the accused organised at least six staged robberies at convenience stores, liquor outlets and fast-food restaurants. Investigators added that the scheme was carefully planned, with one person acting as a fake robber who entered a store with an object resembling a firearm, took cash from the counter and then fled the scene, according to a report by NDTV. What is a U Visa? The U Visa is a special type of temporary visa issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services to individuals who have been victims of serious crimes in the United States. Basically, it is applied to the people who have faced mental or physical abuse and have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. The U visa provides an immigrant work authorisation and a route to a Green Card within 5–10 years in the United States. The visa was created by Congress in October 2000 with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (including the Battered Immigrant Women’s Protection Act). The move was supposed to bolster the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of sexual assault, trafficking of aliens, domestic violence and other crimes. It also protects victims of crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse due to the crime and are willing to help law enforcement officials in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. The legislation also helps law enforcement agencies to better serve victims of crimes. Also read: Who is Shantanu Narayen? Adobe CEO steps down after nearly two decades

<p>The U visa applies to people who have faced mental or physical abuse and have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. It provides an immigrant work authorisation and a route to a Green Card within 5–10 years in the United States.</p>

What is U Visa? 11 Indians charged in US for staging fake robberies in visa fraud scheme

<p>China’s embassy in Washington briefly posted an AI-generated video mocking a security summit hosted by US President Donald Trump, days after the POTUS took the stage, warning about "hostile foreign influence". The short animation appeared on Wednesday on the embassy’s X account before being removed early Friday. Produced by Xinhua News Agency, the video carried the title “Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?” It comes as the US continues to be engaged in a war against Iran in West Asia. The conflict began on Feb 28, with the US and Israel launching pre-emptive strikes under Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-lie-lie-lie-iran-uses-inside-out-ai-satire-to-mock-trump-s-evil-impulses-amid-minab-school-strike-and-epstein-files-controversies-watch-1773374313730"><strong>'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran mocks Trump' evil impulses over Minab school strike—Watch</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Animated clip takes aim at Trump's security proposal</strong></h2><p>The 18-second animation showed a bald eagle wearing a suit presiding over a group of white doves representing Latin American countries.</p><p>In the video, the eagle presses a red button that first triggers an atomic explosion before promising to "keep everyone safe" and showing a large red, white and blue shield as a symbol of protection.</p><p>Moments later, the shield transforms into a cage that traps the birds while the eagle says, "Relax, sometimes security comes with a little control."</p><p>Watch it here:</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">JUST IN 🇺🇸🇨🇳: The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. TRolls America&#39;s Security Pacts <br><br>&quot;Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/MCP02wVra7">pic.twitter.com/MCP02wVra7</a></p>&mdash; Ryan Rozbiani (@RyanRozbiani) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanRozbiani/status/2031913140909211940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Why did China post the video now?</strong></h2><p>The video was posted days after the Shield of the Americas Summit was held in Florida on March 7, 2026. The meeting brought together right wing and center right leaders from 12 Latin American countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, and Trinidad and Tobago, attended the summit.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-cannibal-khamenei-s-x-account-posts-ghastly-trump-cartoon-after-potus-floats-twisted-tomahawk-theory-on-minab-school-strike-1773194272348"><strong>'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike</strong></a></p><p>Trump used the event to propose "hard power" against security threats. "We're working with you to do whatever we have to do. We'll use missiles. You want us to use a missile? They're extremely accurate," Trump told Latin American leaders.</p><p>"'Piu,' right into the living room," he said, mimicking the sound of a missile in flight. "That's the end of that cartel person. But we'll do whatever you need."</p><h2><strong>Tensions over China’s regional presence</strong></h2><p>Trump has repeatedly warned about China’s expanding footprint across Latin America.</p><p>In his 2025 inaugural address, he claimed China was operating the Panama Canal, a statement widely disputed by analysts.</p><p>At the time, a Hong Kong-based company controlled key port terminals near the canal. Last month, Panama’s highest court ruled the arrangement illegal, prompting criticism from Beijing.</p><p>Chinese officials described the decision as “shameful and pathetic,” accusing the United States of political pressure.</p>

Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?: The Chinese Embassy in Washington has sparked a fresh diplomatic row after briefly posting—and then deleting—an AI-generated animation mocking President Donald Trump’s "Shield of the Americas" summit. Watch it here

China’s embassy in Washington briefly posted an AI-generated video mocking a security summit hosted by US President Donald Trump, days after the POTUS took the stage, warning about "hostile foreign influence". The short animation appeared on Wednesday on the embassy’s X account before being removed early Friday. Produced by Xinhua News Agency, the video carried the title “Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?” It comes as the US continues to be engaged in a war against Iran in West Asia. The conflict began on Feb 28, with the US and Israel launching pre-emptive strikes under Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar. Also read | 'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran mocks Trump' evil impulses over Minab school strike—Watch Animated clip takes aim at Trump's security proposal The 18-second animation showed a bald eagle wearing a suit presiding over a group of white doves representing Latin American countries. In the video, the eagle presses a red button that first triggers an atomic explosion before promising to "keep everyone safe" and showing a large red, white and blue shield as a symbol of protection. Moments later, the shield transforms into a cage that traps the birds while the eagle says, "Relax, sometimes security comes with a little control." Watch it here:

<p><strong>Shield of the Americas, or shackles of the Americas?: </strong>The Chinese Embassy in Washington has sparked a fresh diplomatic row after briefly posting—and then deleting—an AI-generated animation mocking President Donald Trump’s "Shield of the Americas" summit. Watch it here</p>

Watch: ‘Shield of the Americas, or shackles?’ China mocks Trump with AI video of eagle trapping doves. Here's what it means

<p>US President Donald Trump on Friday (Mar 14) posted a video of the United States carrying out a strike on Iran's ‘crown jewel’, Kharg Islands. Posting on social media, Trump said the strikes had destroyed military sites on the island. "The United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran's crown jewel, Kharg Island," Trump announced.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-trump-duped-by-netanyahu-into-launching-iran-war-iranian-parliament-speaker-makes-shocking-claim-1773450862372"><strong>Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into starting Iran war? Ghalibaf makes shocking claim</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>US strikes Iran's Kharg Island</strong></h2><p>On Friday (March 13), the US military carried out a heavy bombing campaign against targets on Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub. Trump warned that he would target the island’s oil infrastructure if tensions escalate and if Tehran did not allow passage for ships via the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump later posted a video of the strike. Watch video here:</p>

<p>He insisted that US will “NEVER” allow Tehran to have a nuclear weapon. “Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States of America, the Middle East or, for that matter, the World! Iran’s Military, and all others involved with this Terrorist Regime, would be wise to lay down their arms, and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much!” he wrote.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iran threatens retaliation</strong></h2><p>Iran's armed forces threatened on Saturday to destroy US-linked oil infrastructure after Trump announced that the United States had bombed Iran's oil hub Kharg Island. In a statement, the military's Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said that oil and energy infrastructure belonging to firms that cooperated with the United States would "immediately be destroyed and turned into a pile of ashes" if Iran's energy facilities were attacked.</p><p>The announcement, reported by Iran's Fars and Tasnim news agencies, comes in "response to statements" made by the US president, who had earlier said in a social media post that strikes had "obliterated" military targets on Kharg Island.</p><h2><strong>Why is Kharg Island important to Iran's economy?</strong></h2><p>Kharg Island, located about 30 kilometres (19 miles) off the Iranian mainland, handles roughly 90 per cent of Iran's crude exports, according to a recent JP Morgan note.</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

Why did the US bomb Iran’s Kharg Island, its key oil export hub? President Donald Trump claims American forces “obliterated” military targets on Kharg Island, calling it one of the most powerful bombing raids in the region’s history. Why is this island so critical to Iran? Watch video here.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Mar 14) posted a video of the United States carrying out a strike on Iran's ‘crown jewel’, Kharg Islands. Posting on social media, Trump said the strikes had destroyed military sites on the island. "The United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran's crown jewel, Kharg Island," Trump announced. Also read | Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into starting Iran war? Ghalibaf makes shocking claim

<p>Why did the US bomb Iran’s Kharg Island, its key oil export hub? President Donald Trump claims American forces “obliterated” military targets on Kharg Island, calling it one of the most powerful bombing raids in the region’s history. Why is this island so critical to Iran? Watch video here.</p>

Watch | Trump shares video of massive strike on Iran’s ‘crown jewel’ Kharg Island amid Iran war

<p>Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran no longer distinguishes between the United States and Israel following the outbreak of the war. In a post on X, Ghalibaf accused US President Donald Trump of being “duped” by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into launching the conflict. This comes as the US president on Friday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he insisted.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Trump ‘duped’ by Netanyahu?</strong></h2><p>“Trump was duped by Netanyahu into starting the war and is now acting under his control,” wrote.</p><p>Ghalibaf added that Iran would continue fighting until its adversaries change their approach. “The war will continue until the enemy's calculus is altered and they are driven to regret,” he said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">2/ The war will continue until the enemy&#39;s calculus is altered and they are driven to regret.</p>&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://twitter.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2032558167398154527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The war in West Asia has entered its third week. In the 14 days of war, Brent contracts for a barrel of crude have soared more than 42 per cent. The soaring prices of crude oil have left markets and governments everywhere skittish about energy supply and higher inflation. On Friday, oil stayed above $100 a barrel.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-no-radar-trump-claims-iran-s-military-is-collapsing-says-iran-war-will-last-as-long-as-necessary-1773442127855"><strong>Trump claims Tehran is 'collapsing' says Iran war to last 'as long as necessary'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>13 Americans killed: The cost of war</strong></h2><p>Since the war began, the US military has lost 13 personnel, including six who were onboard a refuelling aircraft that crashed in Iraq. Officials confirmed the crash was not caused by hostile fire.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has asserted that the United States and Israel are now "indistinguishable" following the escalation of Iran war. In a scathing post on X, he claimed that Trump was "duped" by Netanyahu into starting the conflict.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran no longer distinguishes between the United States and Israel following the outbreak of the war. In a post on X, Ghalibaf accused US President Donald Trump of being “duped” by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into launching the conflict. This comes as the US president on Friday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he insisted. Also read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Trump ‘duped’ by Netanyahu? “Trump was duped by Netanyahu into starting the war and is now acting under his control,” wrote. Ghalibaf added that Iran would continue fighting until its adversaries change their approach. “The war will continue until the enemy's calculus is altered and they are driven to regret,” he said.

<p>Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has asserted that the United States and Israel are now "indistinguishable" following the escalation of Iran war. In a scathing post on X, he claimed that Trump was "duped" by Netanyahu into starting the conflict.</p>

Was Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into launching Iran war? Iranian parliament speaker makes shocking claim

<p>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) said the United States will soon begin naval escorts for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate in the Gulf. Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. This comes amid reports of top Iranian officials joining a defiant pro-government rally in Tehran where they reportedly marched alongside demonstrators waving banners reading "Death to America" and "Death to Israel."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-no-radar-trump-claims-iran-s-military-is-collapsing-says-iran-war-will-last-as-long-as-necessary-1773442127855"><strong>Trump claims Tehran is 'collapsing' says Iran war to last 'as long as necessary'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz</strong></h2><p>With oil prices spiking, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;When will the Navy start escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;It&#39;ll happen soon — very soon.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/IzEpZ8zznz">pic.twitter.com/IzEpZ8zznz</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2032589623466029367?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iran is collapsing, claims Trump</strong></h2><p>Speaking at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility in Washington, the US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran now lacks functioning radar and anti-aircraft systems following ongoing US and Israeli strikes. “Iran have no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after being in “bad shape.”</p><p>Trump also suggested that Iran’s government is weakening under pressure. “Iran is collapsing. I won’t give you a time, but we are way ahead,” he said. The president added that the conflict would continue "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-no-radar-trump-claims-iran-s-military-is-collapsing-says-iran-war-will-last-as-long-as-necessary-1773442127855">as long as necessary</a>."&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will soon begin naval escorts for commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a major move to break the maritime blockade as Operation Epic Fury enters its 14th day. Here's what he said.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) said the United States will soon begin naval escorts for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate in the Gulf. Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. This comes amid reports of top Iranian officials joining a defiant pro-government rally in Tehran where they reportedly marched alongside demonstrators waving banners reading "Death to America" and "Death to Israel." Also read | Trump claims Tehran is 'collapsing' says Iran war to last 'as long as necessary' US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz With oil prices spiking, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said.

<p>President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will soon begin naval escorts for commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a major move to break the maritime blockade as Operation Epic Fury enters its 14th day. Here's what he said.</p>

Trump says US Navy escorts in Strait of Hormuz ‘will happen soon’, claims Iran military weakened

<p>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran ‘has no radar,’ while insisting that the Iran war will last as long as necessary. The POTUS effectively signalled that the US and Israel have achieved total air supremacy over Iran. Speaking to the press at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility Washington, the US President claimed that Iran's military capabilities have been severely weakened after 14 days of war with the United States and Israel.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-putin-s-plan-to-tranfer-iran-s-uranium-as-us-and-israel-weigh-special-ops-raids-to-seize-450kg-of-nuclear-material-report-1773439671375"><strong>Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iran is ‘collapsing’, claims Trump</strong></h2><p>Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. “I built our military, rebuilt it, it was all in bad shape,” he said.&nbsp;</p><p>He also acknowledged that US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different."</p><p>President Donald Trump on Friday said the US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different,”&nbsp;</p><p>“Well, I think they might be a little different, I guess, they’re a different country than we are. But he (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) will tell you there’s never been a power like the power of the United States,” Trump told reporters.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-trump-duped-by-netanyahu-into-launching-iran-war-iranian-parliament-speaker-makes-shocking-claim-1773450862372"><strong>Was Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into launching Iran war? Iranian parliament speaker makes shocking claim</strong></a></p><h2><strong>US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz</strong></h2><p>With oil prices spiking as the war enters its third week, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said. However, he did not share a timeline.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

Speaking from Joint Base Andrews on the 14th day of Operation Epic Fury, President Donald Trump asserted that Iran’s military has been "largely neutralized," claiming the regime now "has no radar" and "no navy." Here's what he said.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 13) claimed that Tehran ‘has no radar,’ while insisting that the Iran war will last as long as necessary. The POTUS effectively signalled that the US and Israel have achieved total air supremacy over Iran. Speaking to the press at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility Washington, the US President claimed that Iran's military capabilities have been severely weakened after 14 days of war with the United States and Israel. Also read | Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Iran is ‘collapsing’, claims Trump Speaking to the press, Trump claimed Tehran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded. “Iran has no radar. They have no anti-aircraft weapons,” he said, adding that the US military had been rebuilt during his presidency after previously being in poor condition. “I built our military, rebuilt it, it was all in bad shape,” he said. He also acknowledged that US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different." President Donald Trump on Friday said the US and Israeli objectives in Iran “might be a little different,” “Well, I think they might be a little different, I guess, they’re a different country than we are. But he (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) will tell you there’s never been a power like the power of the United States,” Trump told reporters. Also read | Was Trump 'duped' by Netanyahu into launching Iran war? Iranian parliament speaker makes shocking claim US Navy to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz With oil prices spiking as the war enters its third week, Trump was asked when the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Gulf's critical Strait of Hormuz. "It'll happen soon, very soon," he said. However, he did not share a timeline. 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.

<p>Speaking from Joint Base Andrews on the 14th day of Operation Epic Fury, President Donald Trump asserted that Iran’s military has been "largely neutralised," claiming the regime now "has no radar" and "no navy." Here's what he said.</p>

'They have no radar': Trump claims Iran’s military is 'collapsing,' says Iran war will last 'as long as necessary'

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed moving Iran's enriched uranium to his country, according to reports. This offer was made during his call with US President Donald Trump this week, reports Axios. Speaking to the publication, a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that this was not the first time Russia had made this offer. Notably, the ongoing war between the US, Israel and Iran started amid Washington's claims that Tehran had enriched uranium to weapon-grade. Why didn't Trump accept Putin's proposal even as the US insists that securing Iran's uranium stockpile remains a priority? Here's all we know.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-something-we-d-be-happy-with-us-warns-russia-against-getting-involved-in-iran-war-amid-intel-sharing-allegations-1773191720629"><strong>'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Putin offers help securing Iranian uranium</strong></h2><p>Reports suggest that Iran has around 450 kilogrammes of 60 per cent enriched uranium, which could be converted to weapons-grade uranium within weeks. This amount of radioactive material is enough for more than 10 bombs.</p><p>Citing sources, Axios reports that Trump is yet to take up Putin on his offer to move the alleged nuclear-grade uranium to Russia. A source told the publication that, "This is not the first time it was offered," but added that, "it hasn't been accepted. The U.S. position is we need to see the uranium secured."</p><p>Russia reportedly made a similar offer in May 2025, before the US and Israel launched strikes against Iranian facilities. The same was also proposed before the launch of the current "pre-emptive" strikes under the US's Operation Epic Fury and Israel's Operation Lion's Roar.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-scared-and-disfigured-us-claims-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-injured-in-chaotic-strike-1773438327145"><strong>'Scared and disfigured': US claims Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured in 'chaotic' strike</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why hasn't Trump accepted the offer?</strong></h2><p>The US official noted that the US President "talks to everyone — Xi, Putin, the Europeans — and he's always willing to make a deal". However, he added that it has to be a good deal, as the "president doesn't make bad deals".</p><p>This comes amid reports that the US and Israel were considering putting boots on the ground in Iran. The two nations are believed to have discussed sending special forces into Iran to secure the nation's nuclear stockpile in the later stages of the US-Israel-Iran war in West Asia.</p><p>On Friday, Trump's Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, insisted that US "has a range of options" to take control of Iran's highly enriched uranium. He said that one option was that Tehran submit the stockpile voluntarily. "They weren't willing to do that in negotiations. I would never tell this group or the world what we're willing to do or how far we're willing to go — but we have options, for sure," he added.</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

US President Donald Trump has turned down a proposal from Vladimir Putin to transfer Iran’s 450kg stockpile of 60% enriched uranium to Russia to end the ongoing conflict, suggest reports. All we know.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed moving Iran's enriched uranium to his country, according to reports. This offer was made during his call with US President Donald Trump this week, reports Axios. Speaking to the publication, a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that this was not the first time Russia had made this offer. Notably, the ongoing war between the US, Israel and Iran started amid Washington's claims that Tehran had enriched uranium to weapon-grade. Why didn't Trump accept Putin's proposal even as the US insists that securing Iran's uranium stockpile remains a priority? Here's all we know. Also read | 'Not something we'd be happy with': US warns Russia against getting 'involved' in Iran war amid intel sharing allegations Putin offers help securing Iranian uranium Reports suggest that Iran has around 450 kilogrammes of 60 per cent enriched uranium, which could be converted to weapons-grade uranium within weeks. This amount of radioactive material is enough for more than 10 bombs. Citing sources, Axios reports that Trump is yet to take up Putin on his offer to move the alleged nuclear-grade uranium to Russia. A source told the publication that, "This is not the first time it was offered," but added that, "it hasn't been accepted. The U.S. position is we need to see the uranium secured." Russia reportedly made a similar offer in May 2025, before the US and Israel launched strikes against Iranian facilities. The same was also proposed before the launch of the current "pre-emptive" strikes under the US's Operation Epic Fury and Israel's Operation Lion's Roar. Also read | 'Scared and disfigured': US claims Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured in 'chaotic' strike Why hasn't Trump accepted the offer? The US official noted that the US President "talks to everyone — Xi, Putin, the Europeans — and he's always willing to make a deal". However, he added that it has to be a good deal, as the "president doesn't make bad deals". This comes amid reports that the US and Israel were considering putting boots on the ground in Iran. The two nations are believed to have discussed sending special forces into Iran to secure the nation's nuclear stockpile in the later stages of the US-Israel-Iran war in West Asia. On Friday, Trump's Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, insisted that US "has a range of options" to take control of Iran's highly enriched uranium. He said that one option was that Tehran submit the stockpile voluntarily. "They weren't willing to do that in negotiations. I would never tell this group or the world what we're willing to do or how far we're willing to go — but we have options, for sure," he added. 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.

<p>US President Donald Trump has turned down a proposal from Vladimir Putin to transfer Iran’s 450kg stockpile of 60% enriched uranium to Russia to end the ongoing conflict, suggest reports. All we know.</p>

Did Trump snub Putin’s plan to transfer Iran's 450kg nuclear material to Russia? Here's what reports suggest

<p>Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Iranian Supreme Leader, was injured in a "chaotic environment" and is "likely disfigured", said the United States on Friday (Mar 13). However, speaking to the press, US Vice President JD Vance confessed that it was "not totally clear" if the new Ayatollah was injured by a US strike. Meanwhile, America's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, while questioning Ali Khamenei's son's ability to rule Iran, said that Mojtaba was "wounded and likely disfigured". This comes just two days after Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, confirmed that the newly appointed Supreme Leader had sustained injuries in the Iran war, but insisted that he was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273">"safe and sound"</a>. Here's all we know about Mojtaba Khamenei's condition.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-safe-and-sound-despite-war-injuries-says-president-pezeshkian-s-son-1773210931273"><strong>Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iranian Supreme Leader "likely disfigured"?</strong></h2><p>During a press briefing on Friday, US Defense Secretary noted that a statement released by Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday had "no voice and there was no video. It was a written statement."</p><p>This, he said, was because the "new so-called, not so supreme, leader is wounded and likely disfigured." Hegseth said Khamenei lacks "legitimacy" and was running scared.&nbsp;</p><p>“He put out a statement yesterday. A weak one, actually, but there was no voice, and there was no video. It was a written statement,” said Hegseth. "Iran has plenty of cameras and plenty of voice recorders. Why a written statement? I think you know why. His father — dead. He's scared, he's injured, he's on the run and he lacks legitimacy," he added.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-huge-mistake-was-the-north-korean-embassy-in-tehran-hit-by-an-israeli-missile-here-s-the-truth-fact-check-1773298739599"><strong>Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How was Mojtaba Khamenei injured?</strong></h2><p>According to US VP Vance, Iran's Supreme Leader had been injured in a "chaotic environment," but it remains unclear whether the wounds were caused by a US or an Israeli airstrike.</p><p>"It's not totally clear, actually," Vance told reporters. "You have the Israelis striking, you have obviously the United States striking a number of targets. So we know that he's hurt. We don't know exactly how bad, but we know that he's hurt."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>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.</i></p>

The US government has claimed that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is "likely disfigured" and currently in hiding. US Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that Khamenei’s recent address was a text-only statement with no audio or video proof of life.

Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Iranian Supreme Leader, was injured in a "chaotic environment" and is "likely disfigured", said the United States on Friday (Mar 13). However, speaking to the press, US Vice President JD Vance confessed that it was "not totally clear" if the new Ayatollah was injured by a US strike. Meanwhile, America's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, while questioning Ali Khamenei's son's ability to rule Iran, said that Mojtaba was "wounded and likely disfigured". This comes just two days after Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, confirmed that the newly appointed Supreme Leader had sustained injuries in the Iran war, but insisted that he was "safe and sound". Here's all we know about Mojtaba Khamenei's condition. Also read | Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ‘safe and sound’ despite war injuries, says President Pezeshkian's son Iranian Supreme Leader "likely disfigured"? During a press briefing on Friday, US Defense Secretary noted that a statement released by Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday had "no voice and there was no video. It was a written statement." This, he said, was because the "new so-called, not so supreme, leader is wounded and likely disfigured." Hegseth said Khamenei lacks "legitimacy" and was running scared. “He put out a statement yesterday. A weak one, actually, but there was no voice, and there was no video. It was a written statement,” said Hegseth. "Iran has plenty of cameras and plenty of voice recorders. Why a written statement? I think you know why. His father — dead. He's scared, he's injured, he's on the run and he lacks legitimacy," he added. Also read | Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check How was Mojtaba Khamenei injured? According to US VP Vance, Iran's Supreme Leader had been injured in a "chaotic environment," but it remains unclear whether the wounds were caused by a US or an Israeli airstrike. "It's not totally clear, actually," Vance told reporters. "You have the Israelis striking, you have obviously the United States striking a number of targets. So we know that he's hurt. We don't know exactly how bad, but we know that he's hurt." 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.

<p>The US government has claimed that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is "likely disfigured" and currently in hiding. US Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that Khamenei’s recent address was a text-only statement with no audio or video proof of life.</p>

'Scared and disfigured': US claims Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured in 'chaotic' strike

<p>In a powerful display of defiance, Iran's state media released footage of top leaders walking the streets and joining the Quds Day protest in Tehran moments after US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, in a press briefing, claimed that the Iranian leadership had “gone underground” and were “cowering like rats.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Iranian leadership are desperate and hiding, gone underground, like that rat used to do,” Hegseth declared, adding that, “We know the new so-called, not-so-supreme leader (Mojtaba Khamenei) is wounded and likely disfigured.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The high-definition, real-time broadcast, refuting Hegseth’s assertion that the Iranian regime had lost the capability to communicate or coordinate, featured President Masoud Pezeshkian, the leading political figure of the country, seen greeting supporters and taking selfies on the rain-spattered streets in Tehran.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mr. Hegseth! Our leaders have been, and still are, among the people. But your leaders? On Epstein&#39;s island! <a href="https://t.co/iywavTegyv">https://t.co/iywavTegyv</a> <a href="https://t.co/rxFhzsWoq5">pic.twitter.com/rxFhzsWoq5</a></p>&mdash; Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alilarijani_ir/status/2032488143568425368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Gholam‑Hossein Mohseni‑Ejei, Iran’s judiciary chief, was also seen giving media bites while a missile struck a nearby building close to his location. He refused to leave the area despite the attack. He also serves as a key member of the three-person leadership council currently governing the Islamic Republic.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: Watch | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-possible-assassination-attempt-missile-hit-building-near-location-of-iran-s-judiciary-chief-during-quds-day-rally-in-tehran-1773401556597"><strong>Possible assassination attempt? missile hit building near location of Iran's judiciary chief during Quds Day rally in Tehran</strong></a></p><p><br>Iran’s security chief, Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), was seen marching and dismissed US-Israeli strikes as a sign of desperation.</p><p>Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic, also participated in the Jerusalem Day rally.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Iranian leaders out on the streets today in a show of defiance and rallying support for the war.<br><br>President Pezeshkian, Larijani, Araghchi, clerics. <a href="https://t.co/lw9Gck6UES">pic.twitter.com/lw9Gck6UES</a></p>&mdash; Yusuf Unjhawala 🇮🇳 (@YusufDFI) <a href="https://twitter.com/YusufDFI/status/2032413394482127202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Other prominent figures included Ahmad‑Reza Radan, the national police chief, and Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Notably, the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, did not appear in person, as Hegseth claimed that US strikes had severely wounded and likely disfigured him.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Quds Day rallies are political demonstrations organised in Iran and some other countries in support of the Palestinian cause and in opposition to Israel. The event was established in 1979 by Iran’s first Supreme Leader, Ruhollah Khomeini, after the Iranian Revolution.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Friday said American forces would strike Iranian targets “very hard” in the coming days, signalling an intensification of the US-Israeli campaign as the war in the Middle East approaches its third week.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(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.)</i></p>

The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership.

In a powerful display of defiance, Iran's state media released footage of top leaders walking the streets and joining the Quds Day protest in Tehran moments after US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, in a press briefing, claimed that the Iranian leadership had “gone underground” and were “cowering like rats.” “Iranian leadership are desperate and hiding, gone underground, like that rat used to do,” Hegseth declared, adding that, “We know the new so-called, not-so-supreme leader (Mojtaba Khamenei) is wounded and likely disfigured.” The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership. The high-definition, real-time broadcast, refuting Hegseth’s assertion that the Iranian regime had lost the capability to communicate or coordinate, featured President Masoud Pezeshkian, the leading political figure of the country, seen greeting supporters and taking selfies on the rain-spattered streets in Tehran.

<p>The timing of the release of these videos appeared to be a strategic counter-move by Tehran to undermine Hegseth’s specific narrative about the condition of the Iranian leadership.</p>

Watch | Iran releases videos showing top leaders on streets as US claims leadership ‘has gone underground’

<p>When Mojtaba Khamenei’s first message as Iranian Supreme Leader was read out by TV anchors of the Islamic Republic on Thursday (Mar 12), historical parallels were not lost on observers. Smuggled audio cassettes containing the messages and sermons of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini had once contributed to sparking the Iran Revolution that established the Islamic Republic in 1979. Mojtaba’s message was a clear call for Iranians to fight to safeguard that revolution and the Islamic Republic. He may or may not succeed in ruling through audio or text messages, but Iranians certainly remember the parallels from history.</p><h2>Mojtaba is ‘ghosting’. But this is nothing new for the Islamic Republic</h2><p>Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed Supreme Leader this month after his father and the second Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Ali Khamenei, was killed in a joint Israel-US strike on February 28 that sparked the ongoing Iran war. Mojtaba’s first public statement was primarily a written one, without him making himself seen. This creates an ironic modern parallel with Khomeini: the founder of the Islamic Republic built revolutionary momentum through prolific voice recordings while in exile, and the current leader is operating through messaging without making any appearance since being chosen.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-aytollah-mojabata-is-injured-and-hiding-underground-hegesth-claims-us-struk-15000-targets-in-iran-1773404739066">'Ayatollah Mojtaba is disfigured and hiding underground': Hegseth claims US struck 15,000 targets in Iran</a></p><h2>Khomeini’s audio tape revolution</h2><p>The audio cassette phenomenon took place ahead of and during Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, making it one of the most striking instances of low-tech media being used to power a mass uprising. Exiled since 1964, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini recorded sermons and political speeches while living in Najaf, Iraq, until 1978, and later from a rented house in Neauphle-le-Château, a village west of Paris in France, from October 1978 until his return to Iran. The tapes became the most powerful and ubiquitous underground communication tool of the revolution.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-claims-war-has-started-to-stop-iran-s-nuclear-programme-1773404983868/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-claims-war-has-started-to-stop-iran-s-nuclear-programme-1773404983868/embed</a></p><h2>How Khomeini’s tapes were produced, smuggled and distributed</h2><p>Khomeini’s most influential tapes, which were played via loudspeakers during and after the Islamic Revolution, were recorded on ordinary tape recorders in the 1970s, mostly from the French village. Cassette copies were cheaply duplicated in France or Iraq and then smuggled into Iran through clandestine channels. Trusted couriers, merchants, and Shia pilgrims returning from holy sites in Iraq brought the tapes to Iran, often hidden in personal luggage, clothing, suitcases, or mixed with ordinary goods. Despite strict monitoring by SAVAK, the Iranian Shah’s secret police, many of these cassettes still found their way into the nation.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fm-seyed-abbas-araghchi-mocks-us-diplomacy-claims-no-nuclear-weapons-deal-failed-because-of-american-negotiators-technical-ignorance-1773384353579">Iran FM Abbas Araghchi mocks US diplomacy; claims 'NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS' deal failed because of American negotiators' 'technical ignorance'</a></p><h2>Audio messages of Khomeini mobilised a grassroots network</h2><p>The tapes were eagerly listened to by Khomeini’s followers, creating a grassroots network primed for revolution. Cheap home cassette recorders were used by activists and mosque networks to reproduce hundreds of duplicates from a single master copy of Khomeini’s cassettes. At the peak of revolutionary mobilisation in Iran, some 90,000 mosques across the country simultaneously duplicated and circulated Khomeini’s audio messages. His voice became ubiquitous while he remained physically absent from the country.</p><p>The cassettes were passed through bazaars, private homes, student circles, and religious gatherings, and were sold cheaply on the streets. They were so much in demand that the cassettes were resold for around $1.25, giving daily profits to the sellers. Khomeini’s speeches and sermons were openly played during Friday prayers, effectively turning mosques into revolutionary broadcast hubs. The regime could not fully suppress the spread of his message, as the cassettes bypassed the Shah’s tight control over radio, television, and the print media networks.</p><p>What followed was the Islamic Revolution.</p><h2>What was the message of Khomeini in the smuggled audio tapes?</h2><p>In the tapes, Khomeini’s calm, authoritative and slow voice denounced the Shah as a tyrant. He described the Westernisation of Iran at the time as cultural imperialism and called for a new government based on Islamic identity. His voice reached millions directly, bypassing media censorship.</p><p>He framed the revolution as a war to safeguard the Islamic faith. The message resonated with vast segments of Iranian society — from bazaari merchants and clerics to students and ordinary Shia Muslim believers who formed the backbone of the revolution.</p><h2>The silent revolution that paralysed Iran</h2><p>Historians described the tapes as a “silent revolution” organised in mosques and religious seminaries. They helped coordinate protests, strikes, and mass demonstrations that paralysed the country in 1978–79. Even though Khomeini had not been physically present in Iran for over a decade, his voice remained in constant contact with followers inside the country.</p><p>The tapes also contained specific instructions to clerics. According to one description, the recordings became “as vital as a daily newspaper” by late 1978. Bloody crackdowns eroded the Shah’s legitimacy and convinced millions that an Islamic Republic under Khomeini was not only possible but inevitable.</p><p>Under the weight of the public uprising, the Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, fled Iran on 16 January 1979. On 1 February 1979, Khomeini returned from exile in a chartered Air France jet to a hero’s welcome by millions in Tehran.&nbsp;</p><p>All this while, he was not a ghostly figure to them. His voice had already enabled the nationwide unification of people under the principles and ideas he had shared for years through those audio messages.</p>

Mojtaba Khamenei’s absence while giving his first public message as Iran's Supreme Leader recalls the role of Ayatollah Khomeini’s smuggled audio cassette tapes in the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran. Here is how his underground sermons from exile mobilised protests and helped topple the Shah

When Mojtaba Khamenei’s first message as Iranian Supreme Leader was read out by TV anchors of the Islamic Republic on Thursday (Mar 12), historical parallels were not lost on observers. Smuggled audio cassettes containing the messages and sermons of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini had once contributed to sparking the Iran Revolution that established the Islamic Republic in 1979. Mojtaba’s message was a clear call for Iranians to fight to safeguard that revolution and the Islamic Republic. He may or may not succeed in ruling through audio or text messages, but Iranians certainly remember the parallels from history. Mojtaba is ‘ghosting’. But this is nothing new for the Islamic Republic Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed Supreme Leader this month after his father and the second Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Ali Khamenei, was killed in a joint Israel-US strike on February 28 that sparked the ongoing Iran war. Mojtaba’s first public statement was primarily a written one, without him making himself seen. This creates an ironic modern parallel with Khomeini: the founder of the Islamic Republic built revolutionary momentum through prolific voice recordings while in exile, and the current leader is operating through messaging without making any appearance since being chosen. Also read: 'Ayatollah Mojtaba is disfigured and hiding underground': Hegseth claims US struck 15,000 targets in Iran Khomeini’s audio tape revolution The audio cassette phenomenon took place ahead of and during Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, making it one of the most striking instances of low-tech media being used to power a mass uprising. Exiled since 1964, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini recorded sermons and political speeches while living in Najaf, Iraq, until 1978, and later from a rented house in Neauphle-le-Château, a village west of Paris in France, from October 1978 until his return to Iran. The tapes became the most powerful and ubiquitous underground communication tool of the revolution. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-claims-war-has-started-to-stop-iran-s-nuclear-programme-1773404983868/embed How Khomeini’s tapes were produced, smuggled and distributed Khomeini’s most influential tapes, which were played via loudspeakers during and after the Islamic Revolution, were recorded on ordinary tape recorders in the 1970s, mostly from the French village. Cassette copies were cheaply duplicated in France or Iraq and then smuggled into Iran through clandestine channels. Trusted couriers, merchants, and Shia pilgrims returning from holy sites in Iraq brought the tapes to Iran, often hidden in personal luggage, clothing, suitcases, or mixed with ordinary goods. Despite strict monitoring by SAVAK, the Iranian Shah’s secret police, many of these cassettes still found their way into the nation. Also read: Iran FM Abbas Araghchi mocks US diplomacy; claims 'NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS' deal failed because of American negotiators' 'technical ignorance' Audio messages of Khomeini mobilised a grassroots network The tapes were eagerly listened to by Khomeini’s followers, creating a grassroots network primed for revolution. Cheap home cassette recorders were used by activists and mosque networks to reproduce hundreds of duplicates from a single master copy of Khomeini’s cassettes. At the peak of revolutionary mobilisation in Iran, some 90,000 mosques across the country simultaneously duplicated and circulated Khomeini’s audio messages. His voice became ubiquitous while he remained physically absent from the country. The cassettes were passed through bazaars, private homes, student circles, and religious gatherings, and were sold cheaply on the streets. They were so much in demand that the cassettes were resold for around $1.25, giving daily profits to the sellers. Khomeini’s speeches and sermons were openly played during Friday prayers, effectively turning mosques into revolutionary broadcast hubs. The regime could not fully suppress the spread of his message, as the cassettes bypassed the Shah’s tight control over radio, television, and the print media networks. What followed was the Islamic Revolution. What was the message of Khomeini in the smuggled audio tapes? In the tapes, Khomeini’s calm, authoritative and slow voice denounced the Shah as a tyrant. He described the Westernisation of Iran at the time as cultural imperialism and called for a new government based on Islamic identity. His voice reached millions directly, bypassing media censorship. He framed the revolution as a war to safeguard the Islamic faith. The message resonated with vast segments of Iranian society — from bazaari merchants and clerics to students and ordinary Shia Muslim believers who formed the backbone of the revolution. The silent revolution that paralysed Iran Historians described the tapes as a “silent revolution” organised in mosques and religious seminaries. They helped coordinate protests, strikes, and mass demonstrations that paralysed the country in 1978–79. Even though Khomeini had not been physically present in Iran for over a decade, his voice remained in constant contact with followers inside the country. The tapes also contained specific instructions to clerics. According to one description, the recordings became “as vital as a daily newspaper” by late 1978. Bloody crackdowns eroded the Shah’s legitimacy and convinced millions that an Islamic Republic under Khomeini was not only possible but inevitable. Under the weight of the public uprising, the Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, fled Iran on 16 January 1979. On 1 February 1979, Khomeini returned from exile in a chartered Air France jet to a hero’s welcome by millions in Tehran. All this while, he was not a ghostly figure to them. His voice had already enabled the nationwide unification of people under the principles and ideas he had shared for years through those audio messages.

<p>Mojtaba Khamenei’s absence while giving his first public message as Iran's Supreme Leader recalls the role of Ayatollah Khomeini’s smuggled audio cassette tapes in the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran. Here is how his underground sermons from exile mobilised protests and helped topple the Shah</p>

Is presence of a leader needed to unite Iran? How smuggled audio tapes of Khomeini from exile helped establish Islamic Republic

Rivers on Earth act as a pulse as they drive economies and sustain cultures, proving that where water flows, life and civilisation thrive. From the Nile to the Amazon and Ganga, these are 7 major rivers that work as lifelines providing water, food, and power to billions.

Top 7 rivers that serve as lifelines for millions around world: Check the list inside

<p>NASA has announced that the Artemis 2 mission will finally launch on April 1. While it is something to be happy about, some people on social media are sceptical. Yes, because it is April 1, best known as April Fool's Day. The ambitious space endeavour will take humans to the moon after over 50 years. The spacecraft Orion will hover over the moon during a 10-day trip. The launch has been pushed forward several times due to hydrogen leaks and helium blockages. The first date of launch was February 6. &nbsp;A "wet rehearsal" started on February 2, which was also moved forward by a few days because of cold weather. Artemis 2 mission's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket was filled with 2.65 million litres of cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX) but faced leaks. Another wet rehearsal took place on February 19 that was largely successful, but a post-test inspection revealed a helium flow issue in the rocket’s upper stage (ICPS). The rocket was rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to fix the issue, and later, NASA picked April 1 as the launch date.</p><h2><strong>What NASA said of Artemis 2 launch?</strong></h2><p>Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, said, "The next time we tank the vehicle will be when we're attempting to launch. I am comfortable, and the agency is comfortable with targeting April 1 as our first opportunity." NASA also confirmed in an X post that it is targeting a six–day window at the start of April. If things do not work out, it has April 30 scheduled as another potential launch window. The mission has faced several problems and delays, and netizens can't help but mock the choice of date.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-goes-the-apollo-way-plans-yearly-moon-landings-starting-with-2-in-2028-1772538309531"><strong>NASA goes the Apollo way, plans yearly moon landings, starting with 2 in 2028</strong></a></p><h2><strong>April Fool's Day prank? ‘No one is going to believe…’</strong></h2><p>"They are going to say April Fools if they have to push the launch," a user wrote on X, with another saying, "'Artemis II performs a perfect launch on all fools day.' No one is going to believe that..." One user wrote, "April 1st might be the most perfectly coded launch date possible. Half the internet will think it’s a prank." They added, “Meanwhile, humans are being sent around the Moon for the first time in 50+ years. Plot twist: It’s not April Fools Day anymore.”</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-american-flag-that-has-waited-56-years-to-go-to-space-finally-gets-its-chance-with-artemis-2-1769173675138"><strong>An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2</strong></a></p><h2><strong>NASA changes Artemis moon mission&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>Artemis 2 is already running behind schedule by at least two years. During the Artemis 1 mission, problems were seen with Orion's heat shield. NASA is now on a tight deadline it set for itself - the end of April 2026. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen have been gearing up to write history. Meanwhile, the space agency has made some changes in the Artemis programme. Artemis 3 will no longer land humans on the moon, but will test communications, propulsion systems, and the new Extravehicular Activity (xEVA) suits in space. The moon landing will now happen in 2028 with Artemis 4.<br>&nbsp;</p>

NASA has announced April 1 as the new launch date for Artemis 2. The internet has welcomed the news not just because it would be a revolutionary date for humanity, but because it is April Fool's Day. People are asking, why would NASA launch a historic moon mission on April Fool's?

NASA has announced that the Artemis 2 mission will finally launch on April 1. While it is something to be happy about, some people on social media are sceptical. Yes, because it is April 1, best known as April Fool's Day. The ambitious space endeavour will take humans to the moon after over 50 years. The spacecraft Orion will hover over the moon during a 10-day trip. The launch has been pushed forward several times due to hydrogen leaks and helium blockages. The first date of launch was February 6. A "wet rehearsal" started on February 2, which was also moved forward by a few days because of cold weather. Artemis 2 mission's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket was filled with 2.65 million litres of cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX) but faced leaks. Another wet rehearsal took place on February 19 that was largely successful, but a post-test inspection revealed a helium flow issue in the rocket’s upper stage (ICPS). The rocket was rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to fix the issue, and later, NASA picked April 1 as the launch date. What NASA said of Artemis 2 launch? Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, said, "The next time we tank the vehicle will be when we're attempting to launch. I am comfortable, and the agency is comfortable with targeting April 1 as our first opportunity." NASA also confirmed in an X post that it is targeting a six–day window at the start of April. If things do not work out, it has April 30 scheduled as another potential launch window. The mission has faced several problems and delays, and netizens can't help but mock the choice of date. Also Read: NASA goes the Apollo way, plans yearly moon landings, starting with 2 in 2028 April Fool's Day prank? ‘No one is going to believe…’ "They are going to say April Fools if they have to push the launch," a user wrote on X, with another saying, "'Artemis II performs a perfect launch on all fools day.' No one is going to believe that..." One user wrote, "April 1st might be the most perfectly coded launch date possible. Half the internet will think it’s a prank." They added, “Meanwhile, humans are being sent around the Moon for the first time in 50+ years. Plot twist: It’s not April Fools Day anymore.” Also Read: An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2 NASA changes Artemis moon mission Artemis 2 is already running behind schedule by at least two years. During the Artemis 1 mission, problems were seen with Orion's heat shield. NASA is now on a tight deadline it set for itself - the end of April 2026. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen have been gearing up to write history. Meanwhile, the space agency has made some changes in the Artemis programme. Artemis 3 will no longer land humans on the moon, but will test communications, propulsion systems, and the new Extravehicular Activity (xEVA) suits in space. The moon landing will now happen in 2028 with Artemis 4.

<p>NASA has announced April 1 as the new launch date for Artemis 2. The internet has welcomed the news not just because it would be a revolutionary date for humanity, but because it is April Fool's Day. People are asking, why would NASA launch a historic moon mission on April Fool's?</p>

NASA picks April 1 as Artemis 2 launch date, and everyone is wondering, 'Why April Fool's...?'

<p>The Rajasthan government has announced to place families under surveillance in cases related to cylinder dowry. Under the proposed measures, the government has confirmed that if a woman is harassed for bringing a dowry, the supply of gas cylinders to that family will be cut off. Authorities also warned that strict action will be launched against anyone accused of demanding dowry. In addition, officials will track the distribution of one gas cylinder per family within a period of one month.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, the Rajasthan police also warned people against spreading rumours about a shortage of gas cylinders. In a post on social media platform X, they assured that the supply of domestic cylinders is continuing normally and urged citizens not to panic or share unverified information.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="hi" dir="ltr">अफवाह नहीं, सच्चाई पर भरोसा करें।<br><br>गैस सिलेंडर की कमी को लेकर फैल रही अफवाहों से सावधान रहें।<br><br>घरेलू गैस सिलेंडर की आपूर्ति सामान्य रूप से जारी है।<br><br>कृपया घबराएँ नहीं और बिना पुष्टि की जानकारी साझा न करें।<br><br>अफवाह फैलाना और भ्रामक जानकारी साझा करना कानूनन अपराध है।<br><br>जागरूक बनें,… <a href="https://t.co/etjhi6LJCT">pic.twitter.com/etjhi6LJCT</a></p>&mdash; Rajasthan Police (@PoliceRajasthan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PoliceRajasthan/status/2031967694329954660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>LPG black marketing</h3><p>The rumors comes amid reports of an LPG cylinder shortage across the country due to the Iran–Israel and US war. Following the rumours, several incidents of black marketing have also started emerging. After Hapur in Uttar Pradesh, a case of LPG black marketing has now surfaced in Baran district of Rajasthan, according to a report in the news18.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The district supply department acted on Friday as part of an ongoing campaign against the misuse and illegal storage of domestic gas cylinders. During inspections at various hotels, restaurants and factories in the city, a total of 26 domestic LPG cylinders were seized from five establishments.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>District Supply Officer Vishwajeet Singh said a special enforcement team seized 10 gas cylinders from Dwarika Hotel on Kota Road, NH-27, two from Shankar Kachori at Pratap Chowk, three from Pabuji Milk Dairy, five from Mahakal Puri Centre and six from Eatwell Hotel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The action was taken under violations of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG distribution supply regulations. The seized cylinders have been handed over to the nearest gas agency as per rules, and cases are being prepared. The joint team included Enforcement Inspectors Ravindra Meel, Santosh Kumar Meena and Ravindra Meena.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-nobody-will-hire-them-sc-turns-down-plea-on-menstrual-leaves-says-move-will-hamper-career-of-women-1773398413222">‘Nobody will hire them’: SC turns down plea on menstrual leaves, says move will hamper career of women</a></p>

Authorities also warned that strict action will be launched against anyone accused of demanding dowry. In addition, officials will track the distribution of one gas cylinder per family within a period of one month.

The Rajasthan government has announced to place families under surveillance in cases related to cylinder dowry. Under the proposed measures, the government has confirmed that if a woman is harassed for bringing a dowry, the supply of gas cylinders to that family will be cut off. Authorities also warned that strict action will be launched against anyone accused of demanding dowry. In addition, officials will track the distribution of one gas cylinder per family within a period of one month. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan police also warned people against spreading rumours about a shortage of gas cylinders. In a post on social media platform X, they assured that the supply of domestic cylinders is continuing normally and urged citizens not to panic or share unverified information.

<p>Authorities also warned that strict action will be launched against anyone accused of demanding dowry. In addition, officials will track the distribution of one gas cylinder per family within a period of one month.</p>

Ask for dowry, lose your gas: Rajasthan govt warns of LPG supply cut in harassment cases

<p>A possible high-profile assassination attempt or warning strike captured on camera nearly disrupted Iran’s Quds Day commemorations on Friday (Mar 13), as a missile struck a building just metres away from where Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei was marching. The incident occurred during the annual Jerusalem Day demonstrations, which this year have been transformed into a massive show of defiance amid the ongoing Operation Epic Fury.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The strike hit an administrative building near Ferdowsi Square, a central hub for the rally, located near Tehran University.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Video published by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iran's official news agency, captured the immediate aftermath, showing a thick plume of grey smoke rising over the city centre as thousands of marchers continued their chants of "Death to America" and “Death to Israel.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The footage shows the moment a missile hit a building near the location of Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei during the Quds Day rally in Tehran. <a href="https://t.co/s0pRAAMnWr">pic.twitter.com/s0pRAAMnWr</a></p>&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrnaEnglish/status/2032410039311311232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Judiciary Chief Mohseni-Ejei, a key member of the three-person leadership council currently governing Iran, was reportedly in the immediate area at the time of the explosion. Other senior officials, including President Masoud Pezhakian and Police Chief Ahmad-Reza Radan, were also participating in the Tehran marches.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Despite the blast, the rally continued. Radan addressed the crowd shortly after, stating, "The people responded to the sound of the explosion with shouts of 'Allahu Akbar.' Before the eyes of the frustrated enemy, the nation will not leave the site."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This strike marks a significant escalation in the US-Israeli campaign, as it targeted the heart of a mass civilian and political gathering.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in the day, other explosions were reported across central Tehran. The Judiciary Chief had recently issued a stern warning that anyone seen supporting the foreign airstrikes would face "revolutionary, Islamic principles", a thinly veiled reference to the death penalty for treason during wartime.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(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.)</i></p>

Judiciary Chief Mohseni-Ejei, a key member of the three-person leadership council currently governing Iran, was reportedly in the immediate area at the time of the explosion.

A possible high-profile assassination attempt or warning strike captured on camera nearly disrupted Iran’s Quds Day commemorations on Friday (Mar 13), as a missile struck a building just metres away from where Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei was marching. The incident occurred during the annual Jerusalem Day demonstrations, which this year have been transformed into a massive show of defiance amid the ongoing Operation Epic Fury. The strike hit an administrative building near Ferdowsi Square, a central hub for the rally, located near Tehran University. Video published by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iran's official news agency, captured the immediate aftermath, showing a thick plume of grey smoke rising over the city centre as thousands of marchers continued their chants of "Death to America" and “Death to Israel.”

<p>Judiciary Chief Mohseni-Ejei, a key member of the three-person leadership council currently governing Iran, was reportedly in the immediate area at the time of the explosion.</p>

Watch | Possible assassination attempt? missile hit building near location of Iran's judiciary chief during Quds Day rally in Tehran

<p>Londoners were baffled after a “multi-sensory” advertisement featured inside the London Underground, sparking mixed reactions from commuters and staff. This wasn’t just a regular banner, but the advert also emitted a smell of chocolate. The unusual brand promotion was installed in a tunnel between St Pancras railway station and King’s Cross St Pancras Tube station on Monday (Mar 9) by the famous ice-cream company Magnum.</p><p>Following the installation of the advertisement, Transport for London (TfL) workers complained to the management of St Pancras station, saying that the smell reached their break room.</p><p>Speaking to BBC London, one commuter said that while the idea was good, it did not work well in reality. “I work in advertising and marketing, and I really admire the idea but I’m not sure they accounted for some of the other odours that might be in this enclosed tunnel.” He added, “The combination of the smell of urine and the chocolate isn’t doing it for me.”</p><p>While others said that they liked the advert and believed it was a good way to promote the brand. The advertisement also played a cracking sound, similar to that of someone biting into the chocolate-covered dessert.</p><p>“It sounded more like something tumbling out of a vending machine to me,” a commuter said.</p><p>Speaking about the unique advertisement, a Magnum Ice Cream Company spokesperson said, “The Magnum activation at King’s Cross St Pancras recreates the multi-sensory pleasure of enjoying a Magnum through sight, sound and scent, and is designed to bring a moment of enjoyment for commuters.”</p><p>“Since the campaign began on 9 March, we have received mostly positive feedback from commuters onsite and will continue to optimise the campaign, which is scheduled to run until 22 March based on consumer feedback,” the company spokesperson added. “Our intention remains for our campaigns to be engaging and enjoyable.”</p><p>Meanwhile, a TfL spokesperson said they were aware of the issue related to the new advert and had raised it with Network Rail, which oversees the area where the advert is placed.</p><p>It is not the first time an advert on Network Rail property has sparked such reactions.</p><p>Earlier in October 2024, then-transport secretary Louise Haigh ordered the government-owned firm to stop using a 15-metre screen above the concourse at Euston railway station for displaying adverts.</p>

A chocolate-scented advert by Magnum inside the London Underground left commuters baffled, with some praising the idea while others complained the smell reached staff areas and mixed with other tunnel odours.

Londoners were baffled after a “multi-sensory” advertisement featured inside the London Underground, sparking mixed reactions from commuters and staff. This wasn’t just a regular banner, but the advert also emitted a smell of chocolate. The unusual brand promotion was installed in a tunnel between St Pancras railway station and King’s Cross St Pancras Tube station on Monday (Mar 9) by the famous ice-cream company Magnum. Following the installation of the advertisement, Transport for London (TfL) workers complained to the management of St Pancras station, saying that the smell reached their break room. Speaking to BBC London, one commuter said that while the idea was good, it did not work well in reality. “I work in advertising and marketing, and I really admire the idea but I’m not sure they accounted for some of the other odours that might be in this enclosed tunnel.” He added, “The combination of the smell of urine and the chocolate isn’t doing it for me.” While others said that they liked the advert and believed it was a good way to promote the brand. The advertisement also played a cracking sound, similar to that of someone biting into the chocolate-covered dessert. “It sounded more like something tumbling out of a vending machine to me,” a commuter said. Speaking about the unique advertisement, a Magnum Ice Cream Company spokesperson said, “The Magnum activation at King’s Cross St Pancras recreates the multi-sensory pleasure of enjoying a Magnum through sight, sound and scent, and is designed to bring a moment of enjoyment for commuters.” “Since the campaign began on 9 March, we have received mostly positive feedback from commuters onsite and will continue to optimise the campaign, which is scheduled to run until 22 March based on consumer feedback,” the company spokesperson added. “Our intention remains for our campaigns to be engaging and enjoyable.” Meanwhile, a TfL spokesperson said they were aware of the issue related to the new advert and had raised it with Network Rail, which oversees the area where the advert is placed. It is not the first time an advert on Network Rail property has sparked such reactions. Earlier in October 2024, then-transport secretary Louise Haigh ordered the government-owned firm to stop using a 15-metre screen above the concourse at Euston railway station for displaying adverts.

<p>A chocolate-scented advert by Magnum inside the London Underground left commuters baffled, with some praising the idea while others complained the smell reached staff areas and mixed with other tunnel odours.</p>

Chocolate in the air? London Underground’s bizarre ice-cream advert baffles commuters

<p>White House on Thursday (Mar 12) released a shocking video on Instagram, showing US strikes on Iran in a Wii Sports game-themed clip. In the video, the iconic Wii Sports music is heard, and as the ‘Start’ button is pressed, the clips begin. Featuring several game wins, the video keeps cutting to actual footage of attacks by the United States in Iran amid the war.</p><p>The clip has left social media users baffled, with some laughing over the ‘meme’ video, while some finding it sickening. “Lowkey this is the best meme account on ig,” one user wrote. Another called it “hilarious”.</p><p>On the other hand, several others questioned White House’s actions and found the video insensitive. “War isn’t funny,” one person said in the comments. “This is extremely unprofessional. War is not a game,” said another. One user said, “This is so embarrassing,” another wrote, “This is actually disgusting.”</p><p>Some even questioned the Trump administration for bombing a school in Iran’s Minab that killed over 150.</p>

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<p>On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-khamenei-is-back-dramatic-anime-style-video-of-iran-war-goes-viral-watch-1773396379948"><strong>‘Khamenei is back!’ Dramatic anime-style video of Iran war goes viral – WATCH</strong></a></p><p>In a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said.</p><p>Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday (Mar 12) issued his first statement since the start of the war in West Asia. In the statement, Mojtaba Khamenei honoured his father, vowed revenge against the US and Israel. He also expressed willingness to remain friends with the neighbouring nations, which Iran has been repeatedly attacking, but demanded that they “shut down” US bases in their territory that are being used to launch strikes on Iran. He suggested that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</i></p>

A Wii Sports-themed war video posted by the White House showing US strikes on Iran has left the internet divided, with many calling it embarrassing and insensitive amid the ongoing conflict.

White House on Thursday (Mar 12) released a shocking video on Instagram, showing US strikes on Iran in a Wii Sports game-themed clip. In the video, the iconic Wii Sports music is heard, and as the ‘Start’ button is pressed, the clips begin. Featuring several game wins, the video keeps cutting to actual footage of attacks by the United States in Iran amid the war. The clip has left social media users baffled, with some laughing over the ‘meme’ video, while some finding it sickening. “Lowkey this is the best meme account on ig,” one user wrote. Another called it “hilarious”. On the other hand, several others questioned White House’s actions and found the video insensitive. “War isn’t funny,” one person said in the comments. “This is extremely unprofessional. War is not a game,” said another. One user said, “This is so embarrassing,” another wrote, “This is actually disgusting.” Some even questioned the Trump administration for bombing a school in Iran’s Minab that killed over 150.

<p>A Wii Sports-themed war video posted by the White House showing US strikes on Iran has left the internet divided, with many calling it embarrassing and insensitive amid the ongoing conflict.</p>

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White House’s Wii Sports-themed Iran war video leaves internet in splits – WATCH