US-Iran-Israel war: Jaishankar talks to Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa'ar
&imwidth=600&imheight=450&format=webp&quality=medium "US-Iran-Israel war: Jaishankar talks to Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa'ar")
A combination image of US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Photograph: (AFP | WION Combination image)
The US-Iran-Israel war enters Day 20 with no ceasefire in sight. Donald Trump claims victory, while Iran rejects talks and continues strikes. Strait of Hormuz tensions disrupt global oil routes amid rising regional conflict.
US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in Iran has entered Day 20 on Mar 19 and there is no sign of its end. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. A day after, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations. In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders including its security chief Ali Larijani has been killed. Iran has chosen Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei as its new Supreme Leader.
On the other side, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well. But, Iran has said that they are not negotiating about ceasefire with the Americans. Amid this, oil and energy supplies are being hit prompting worldwide chaos. Strait of Hormuz, the strategic chokepoints in the navigation route for oil and energy transport has became dangerous with Iran attacking ships that passes the Strait without its prior approval and Trump urging other nations to help the US secure the route. While Trump is under the scanner for the reasons of this war and the endgame plan, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Iranians can bring the regime down and Israeli attacks will continue. Israel has also expanded the war to target Hezbollah in Lebanon and ruled out any possibility of talks with the Lebanese government urging to end hostilities.
The international actors, including India, China and Russia have urged for dialogue while China and Russia have slammed the US for launching an attack on a sovereign nation.
The West Asia burns for now and major question arises about how will this end and what will be the relationship between the US and Iran in post-war world? What will be the locus standi of Israel and how will the Gulf nations behave? Here are all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Iran-Israel war
Gold and silver prices fell in Thursday’s trading session following the announcement of the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision in the overnight session. Besides, the high crude oil prices amid the Iran war also impacted the bullion market sentiment. Gold fell to Rs 143,250 per 10 gm, while silver dipped to Rs 221,445 per kg.
The United States is likely to ease restrictions on Iranian oil already at sea, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Fox Business, highlighting that Washington decides to stabilise global supply. He also said that the US may also carry out a unilateral release of oil reserves.
Two people died, and eight were injured after Israel launched air strikes on southern Lebanon’s Tyre district, according to the National News Agency. The other missile attack targeted towns including Dabaal, al-Hawsh and Burj al-Shamali, the agency reported.
UK wholesale gas prices have climbed sharply to 171.34 pence per therm ($2.29), driven by disruptions to global energy supplies amid the Israel-US conflict with Iran. This marks the highest level since January 2023. Since the war began on February 28, gas prices in the UK have surged by roughly 140 per cent, rising from 71.13 pence per therm ($1.33).
Europe has adopted a notably different stance, making it clear that it does not want to get involved in the conflict, with leaders emphasising that “this is not our war.” However, the region is still feeling the economic strain, particularly through rising energy costs following recent attacks on gas fields in Qatar, a key supplier.
In response, some countries are considering reducing carbon taxes to ease the burden. Nations such as Poland and Italy support this move, while others like Spain and Germany, which are more advanced in adopting renewable energy, are opposed. As a result, the energy crisis is expected to be a major point of contention in discussions in Brussels.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Iraq has announced that its airspace will continue to be closed for the next three days, until Sunday noon (09:00 GMT), due to the regional security situation. It added that the closure applies to all “arriving, departing, and overflying aircraft”.
As India continues to diversify its crude procurement from sources apart from West Asia, the ripple effect from the war has impacted Indian households. Even as the centre prioritises domestic LPG, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said the situation remains “concerning”.
She highlighted that almost 90% of the country’s LPG imports are from West Asia, and 40% of India’s LNG imports are from Qatar. And now some of our LPG is being sourced from the US. “70% of our crude is coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.”
"Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has created additional storage capacity. An additional land has been ensured with a charge waiver and operational support. Port users have been given 50% rebate on the use of the harbour crane," Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “Reduction in panic booking is seen, but queues still seen at distributors' outlets. Please opt for online booking.”
The Ministry is in regular coordination with state ports. No report of congestion anywhere: MEA
All Indian-flagged vessels are safe. In the last 24 hours, no unforeseen situation unfolded. DG shipping is in coordination with shipowners, employment agencies and respective missions: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “PPAC (Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell) is designated as the nodal agency in India.”
Iran war impact: European gas prices have gone up by 32%, while crude oil soars above $116 per barrel
The Iran war has partially pushed the world into an economic crisis. Rising crude oil prices have led to the cost of essential commodities skyrocketing. On Thursday, Brent crude prices surged more than 4 per cent to USD 112.17 per barrel. This comes after Israel struck an Iranian gas field and Iran retaliated by targeting a key fuel hub in Qatar.
The Iran war might not end anytime soon as reports suggest that the Pentagon has asked the White House for $200billion in funding as it prepares to deploy more troops in the region. America has already spent billions on the war. A study showed that $3.7 billion vanished in the first 100 hours of the conflict, and in a week, $11 billion of taxpayer money was poured into the war. The latest development shows that the US is gearing up for a longer conflict as it tries to gain control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has declared the waterway closed and warned that any ships seen attempting to cross will be bombed. The country is also laying mines in the area as a war strategy. This closure has cost the world immensely, sending oil process rocketing. Experts are concerned that a barrel of oil could even touch $200 billion because of the conflict.
Issuing first response after the killing of Iran's top officials by Israel, China on Thursday (Mar 19) said that it is “unacceptable" and added it is it opposes “use of force.” Addressing a press conference, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian straightforwardly said, “We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable.”
The summit will also focus on a long-brewing standoff between Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán and most other EU nations.
Iran will "boycott the United States" but "not the World Cup", Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said in a video released by the Iranian press agency Fars.
Iran's ambassador to the United Nations Amir-Saeid Iravani has written a letter to the UNSC, criticising its continued silence over the assassination of top Iranian officials. He wrote that the council’s inaction had made Israel more bold in targeting officials. He said that, if left unchecked, the assassinations could become normalised and spread to other countries as well.
The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation says a “limited fire” has broken out after a drone hit an operational unit at the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery
Hezbollah said its fighters engaged Israeli ground forces advancing in southern Lebanon, from Taybeh toward the Baydar al-Fuqa’ani area, using missiles to repel the push and destroy six Israeli Merkava tanks
Iranian missile attacks have killed three Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank and a foreign worker in central Israel, AFP reported quoting medics
Saudi Aramco’s SAMREF refinery targeted in aerial attack. The impact has been minimal
A US-Israeli attack has hit a residential area in western Iran’s Dorud county, the Tasnim news agency reported
In a message published on his official Telegram channel, Iranain Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said that "Every drop of spilled blood comes at a price." He vowed that “the criminal murderers of these martyrs will soon have to pay it”. The assassination of figures like security chief Ali Larijani "attest" to his importance and "to the hatred that the enemies of Islam harbour toward him," added Mojtaba on the of Larijani's funeral in Tehran.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the “Iranian terrorist attack” targeting its Habshan gas facility and the Bab oilfield constitutes a “dangerous escalation and a violation of the principles of international law”.
The Qatari Ministry of Interior has announced that civil defence teams are working to contain a fire at Ras Laffan Industrial City
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan after a meeting with Arab and Islamic foreign ministers, said, “ Iran’s message today was quite clear… The targeting of Riyadh, while a number of diplomats are meeting, I cannot see as coincidental. It doesn’t believe in talking to its neighbours. It tries to pressure its neighbours. And what I can say, categorically, that’s not going to work. Saudi is not going to succumb to pressure.” He added that this attempt to build pressure will “backfire” warning that the country ”reserves the right to take military actions."
In a major security breach, officials reportedly detected unidentified drones above Fort McNair base, a high-profile army base in Washington
The Washington Post reported citing a senior administration official that the US Department of Defense has asked the White House to approve a more than $200bn request to the US Congress to fund the war in Iran
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said an “unknown projectile” has hit a ship 11 nautical miles (about 20km) east of Khor Fakkan in the UAE“Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO while authorities continue to investigate,” the agency said in a statement.
Iran has executed three people convicted of killing police officers and carrying out operations in favour of the United States and Israel during unrest earlier this year
US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in Iran has entered Day 20 on Mar 19 and there is no sign of its end. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. A day after, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations. In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders including its security chief Ali Larijani has been killed. Iran has chosen Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei as its new Supreme Leader.
On the other side, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well. But, Iran has said that they are not negotiating about ceasefire with the Americans. Amid this, oil and energy supplies are being hit prompting worldwide chaos. Strait of Hormuz, the strategic chokepoints in the navigation route for oil and energy transport has became dangerous with Iran attacking ships that passes the Strait without its prior approval and Trump urging other nations to help the US secure the route. While Trump is under the scanner for the reasons of this war and the endgame plan, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Iranians can bring the regime down and Israeli attacks will continue. Israel has also expanded the war to target Hezbollah in Lebanon and ruled out any possibility of talks with the Lebanese government urging to end hostilities.
The international actors, including India, China and Russia have urged for dialogue while China and Russia have slammed the US for launching an attack on a sovereign nation.
The West Asia burns for now and major question arises about how will this end and what will be the relationship between the US and Iran in post-war world? What will be the locus standi of Israel and how will the Gulf nations behave? Here are all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Iran-Israel war
Gold and silver prices fell in Thursday’s trading session following the announcement of the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision in the overnight session. Besides, the high crude oil prices amid the Iran war also impacted the bullion market sentiment. Gold fell to Rs 143,250 per 10 gm, while silver dipped to Rs 221,445 per kg.
The United States is likely to ease restrictions on Iranian oil already at sea, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Fox Business, highlighting that Washington decides to stabilise global supply. He also said that the US may also carry out a unilateral release of oil reserves.
Two people died, and eight were injured after Israel launched air strikes on southern Lebanon’s Tyre district, according to the National News Agency. The other missile attack targeted towns including Dabaal, al-Hawsh and Burj al-Shamali, the agency reported.
UK wholesale gas prices have climbed sharply to 171.34 pence per therm ($2.29), driven by disruptions to global energy supplies amid the Israel-US conflict with Iran. This marks the highest level since January 2023. Since the war began on February 28, gas prices in the UK have surged by roughly 140 per cent, rising from 71.13 pence per therm ($1.33).
Europe has adopted a notably different stance, making it clear that it does not want to get involved in the conflict, with leaders emphasising that “this is not our war.” However, the region is still feeling the economic strain, particularly through rising energy costs following recent attacks on gas fields in Qatar, a key supplier.
In response, some countries are considering reducing carbon taxes to ease the burden. Nations such as Poland and Italy support this move, while others like Spain and Germany, which are more advanced in adopting renewable energy, are opposed. As a result, the energy crisis is expected to be a major point of contention in discussions in Brussels.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Iraq has announced that its airspace will continue to be closed for the next three days, until Sunday noon (09:00 GMT), due to the regional security situation. It added that the closure applies to all “arriving, departing, and overflying aircraft”.
As India continues to diversify its crude procurement from sources apart from West Asia, the ripple effect from the war has impacted Indian households. Even as the centre prioritises domestic LPG, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said the situation remains “concerning”.
She highlighted that almost 90% of the country’s LPG imports are from West Asia, and 40% of India’s LNG imports are from Qatar. And now some of our LPG is being sourced from the US. “70% of our crude is coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.”
"Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has created additional storage capacity. An additional land has been ensured with a charge waiver and operational support. Port users have been given 50% rebate on the use of the harbour crane," Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “Reduction in panic booking is seen, but queues still seen at distributors' outlets. Please opt for online booking.”
The Ministry is in regular coordination with state ports. No report of congestion anywhere: MEA
All Indian-flagged vessels are safe. In the last 24 hours, no unforeseen situation unfolded. DG shipping is in coordination with shipowners, employment agencies and respective missions: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “PPAC (Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell) is designated as the nodal agency in India.”
Iran war impact: European gas prices have gone up by 32%, while crude oil soars above $116 per barrel
The Iran war has partially pushed the world into an economic crisis. Rising crude oil prices have led to the cost of essential commodities skyrocketing. On Thursday, Brent crude prices surged more than 4 per cent to USD 112.17 per barrel. This comes after Israel struck an Iranian gas field and Iran retaliated by targeting a key fuel hub in Qatar.
The Iran war might not end anytime soon as reports suggest that the Pentagon has asked the White House for $200billion in funding as it prepares to deploy more troops in the region. America has already spent billions on the war. A study showed that $3.7 billion vanished in the first 100 hours of the conflict, and in a week, $11 billion of taxpayer money was poured into the war. The latest development shows that the US is gearing up for a longer conflict as it tries to gain control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has declared the waterway closed and warned that any ships seen attempting to cross will be bombed. The country is also laying mines in the area as a war strategy. This closure has cost the world immensely, sending oil process rocketing. Experts are concerned that a barrel of oil could even touch $200 billion because of the conflict.
Issuing first response after the killing of Iran's top officials by Israel, China on Thursday (Mar 19) said that it is “unacceptable" and added it is it opposes “use of force.” Addressing a press conference, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian straightforwardly said, “We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable.”
The summit will also focus on a long-brewing standoff between Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán and most other EU nations.
Iran will "boycott the United States" but "not the World Cup", Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said in a video released by the Iranian press agency Fars.
Iran's ambassador to the United Nations Amir-Saeid Iravani has written a letter to the UNSC, criticising its continued silence over the assassination of top Iranian officials. He wrote that the council’s inaction had made Israel more bold in targeting officials. He said that, if left unchecked, the assassinations could become normalised and spread to other countries as well.
The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation says a “limited fire” has broken out after a drone hit an operational unit at the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery
Hezbollah said its fighters engaged Israeli ground forces advancing in southern Lebanon, from Taybeh toward the Baydar al-Fuqa’ani area, using missiles to repel the push and destroy six Israeli Merkava tanks
Iranian missile attacks have killed three Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank and a foreign worker in central Israel, AFP reported quoting medics
Saudi Aramco’s SAMREF refinery targeted in aerial attack. The impact has been minimal
A US-Israeli attack has hit a residential area in western Iran’s Dorud county, the Tasnim news agency reported
In a message published on his official Telegram channel, Iranain Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said that "Every drop of spilled blood comes at a price." He vowed that “the criminal murderers of these martyrs will soon have to pay it”. The assassination of figures like security chief Ali Larijani "attest" to his importance and "to the hatred that the enemies of Islam harbour toward him," added Mojtaba on the of Larijani's funeral in Tehran.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the “Iranian terrorist attack” targeting its Habshan gas facility and the Bab oilfield constitutes a “dangerous escalation and a violation of the principles of international law”.
The Qatari Ministry of Interior has announced that civil defence teams are working to contain a fire at Ras Laffan Industrial City
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan after a meeting with Arab and Islamic foreign ministers, said, “ Iran’s message today was quite clear… The targeting of Riyadh, while a number of diplomats are meeting, I cannot see as coincidental. It doesn’t believe in talking to its neighbours. It tries to pressure its neighbours. And what I can say, categorically, that’s not going to work. Saudi is not going to succumb to pressure.” He added that this attempt to build pressure will “backfire” warning that the country ”reserves the right to take military actions."
In a major security breach, officials reportedly detected unidentified drones above Fort McNair base, a high-profile army base in Washington
The Washington Post reported citing a senior administration official that the US Department of Defense has asked the White House to approve a more than $200bn request to the US Congress to fund the war in Iran
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said an “unknown projectile” has hit a ship 11 nautical miles (about 20km) east of Khor Fakkan in the UAE“Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO while authorities continue to investigate,” the agency said in a statement.
Iran has executed three people convicted of killing police officers and carrying out operations in favour of the United States and Israel during unrest earlier this year
US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in Iran has entered Day 20 on Mar 19 and there is no sign of its end. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. A day after, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations. In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders including its security chief Ali Larijani has been killed. Iran has chosen Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei as its new Supreme Leader.
On the other side, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well. But, Iran has said that they are not negotiating about ceasefire with the Americans. Amid this, oil and energy supplies are being hit prompting worldwide chaos. Strait of Hormuz, the strategic chokepoints in the navigation route for oil and energy transport has became dangerous with Iran attacking ships that passes the Strait without its prior approval and Trump urging other nations to help the US secure the route. While Trump is under the scanner for the reasons of this war and the endgame plan, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Iranians can bring the regime down and Israeli attacks will continue. Israel has also expanded the war to target Hezbollah in Lebanon and ruled out any possibility of talks with the Lebanese government urging to end hostilities.
The international actors, including India, China and Russia have urged for dialogue while China and Russia have slammed the US for launching an attack on a sovereign nation.
The West Asia burns for now and major question arises about how will this end and what will be the relationship between the US and Iran in post-war world? What will be the locus standi of Israel and how will the Gulf nations behave? Here are all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Iran-Israel war
Gold and silver prices fell in Thursday’s trading session following the announcement of the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision in the overnight session. Besides, the high crude oil prices amid the Iran war also impacted the bullion market sentiment. Gold fell to Rs 143,250 per 10 gm, while silver dipped to Rs 221,445 per kg.
The United States is likely to ease restrictions on Iranian oil already at sea, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Fox Business, highlighting that Washington decides to stabilise global supply. He also said that the US may also carry out a unilateral release of oil reserves.
Two people died, and eight were injured after Israel launched air strikes on southern Lebanon’s Tyre district, according to the National News Agency. The other missile attack targeted towns including Dabaal, al-Hawsh and Burj al-Shamali, the agency reported.
UK wholesale gas prices have climbed sharply to 171.34 pence per therm ($2.29), driven by disruptions to global energy supplies amid the Israel-US conflict with Iran. This marks the highest level since January 2023. Since the war began on February 28, gas prices in the UK have surged by roughly 140 per cent, rising from 71.13 pence per therm ($1.33).
Europe has adopted a notably different stance, making it clear that it does not want to get involved in the conflict, with leaders emphasising that “this is not our war.” However, the region is still feeling the economic strain, particularly through rising energy costs following recent attacks on gas fields in Qatar, a key supplier.
In response, some countries are considering reducing carbon taxes to ease the burden. Nations such as Poland and Italy support this move, while others like Spain and Germany, which are more advanced in adopting renewable energy, are opposed. As a result, the energy crisis is expected to be a major point of contention in discussions in Brussels.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Iraq has announced that its airspace will continue to be closed for the next three days, until Sunday noon (09:00 GMT), due to the regional security situation. It added that the closure applies to all “arriving, departing, and overflying aircraft”.
As India continues to diversify its crude procurement from sources apart from West Asia, the ripple effect from the war has impacted Indian households. Even as the centre prioritises domestic LPG, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said the situation remains “concerning”.
She highlighted that almost 90% of the country’s LPG imports are from West Asia, and 40% of India’s LNG imports are from Qatar. And now some of our LPG is being sourced from the US. “70% of our crude is coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.”
"Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has created additional storage capacity. An additional land has been ensured with a charge waiver and operational support. Port users have been given 50% rebate on the use of the harbour crane," Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “Reduction in panic booking is seen, but queues still seen at distributors' outlets. Please opt for online booking.”
The Ministry is in regular coordination with state ports. No report of congestion anywhere: MEA
All Indian-flagged vessels are safe. In the last 24 hours, no unforeseen situation unfolded. DG shipping is in coordination with shipowners, employment agencies and respective missions: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “PPAC (Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell) is designated as the nodal agency in India.”
Iran war impact: European gas prices have gone up by 32%, while crude oil soars above $116 per barrel
The Iran war has partially pushed the world into an economic crisis. Rising crude oil prices have led to the cost of essential commodities skyrocketing. On Thursday, Brent crude prices surged more than 4 per cent to USD 112.17 per barrel. This comes after Israel struck an Iranian gas field and Iran retaliated by targeting a key fuel hub in Qatar.
The Iran war might not end anytime soon as reports suggest that the Pentagon has asked the White House for $200billion in funding as it prepares to deploy more troops in the region. America has already spent billions on the war. A study showed that $3.7 billion vanished in the first 100 hours of the conflict, and in a week, $11 billion of taxpayer money was poured into the war. The latest development shows that the US is gearing up for a longer conflict as it tries to gain control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has declared the waterway closed and warned that any ships seen attempting to cross will be bombed. The country is also laying mines in the area as a war strategy. This closure has cost the world immensely, sending oil process rocketing. Experts are concerned that a barrel of oil could even touch $200 billion because of the conflict.
Issuing first response after the killing of Iran's top officials by Israel, China on Thursday (Mar 19) said that it is “unacceptable" and added it is it opposes “use of force.” Addressing a press conference, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian straightforwardly said, “We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable.”
The summit will also focus on a long-brewing standoff between Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán and most other EU nations.
Iran will "boycott the United States" but "not the World Cup", Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said in a video released by the Iranian press agency Fars.
Iran's ambassador to the United Nations Amir-Saeid Iravani has written a letter to the UNSC, criticising its continued silence over the assassination of top Iranian officials. He wrote that the council’s inaction had made Israel more bold in targeting officials. He said that, if left unchecked, the assassinations could become normalised and spread to other countries as well.
The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation says a “limited fire” has broken out after a drone hit an operational unit at the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery
Hezbollah said its fighters engaged Israeli ground forces advancing in southern Lebanon, from Taybeh toward the Baydar al-Fuqa’ani area, using missiles to repel the push and destroy six Israeli Merkava tanks
Iranian missile attacks have killed three Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank and a foreign worker in central Israel, AFP reported quoting medics
Saudi Aramco’s SAMREF refinery targeted in aerial attack. The impact has been minimal
A US-Israeli attack has hit a residential area in western Iran’s Dorud county, the Tasnim news agency reported
In a message published on his official Telegram channel, Iranain Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said that "Every drop of spilled blood comes at a price." He vowed that “the criminal murderers of these martyrs will soon have to pay it”. The assassination of figures like security chief Ali Larijani "attest" to his importance and "to the hatred that the enemies of Islam harbour toward him," added Mojtaba on the of Larijani's funeral in Tehran.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the “Iranian terrorist attack” targeting its Habshan gas facility and the Bab oilfield constitutes a “dangerous escalation and a violation of the principles of international law”.
The Qatari Ministry of Interior has announced that civil defence teams are working to contain a fire at Ras Laffan Industrial City
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan after a meeting with Arab and Islamic foreign ministers, said, “ Iran’s message today was quite clear… The targeting of Riyadh, while a number of diplomats are meeting, I cannot see as coincidental. It doesn’t believe in talking to its neighbours. It tries to pressure its neighbours. And what I can say, categorically, that’s not going to work. Saudi is not going to succumb to pressure.” He added that this attempt to build pressure will “backfire” warning that the country ”reserves the right to take military actions."
In a major security breach, officials reportedly detected unidentified drones above Fort McNair base, a high-profile army base in Washington
The Washington Post reported citing a senior administration official that the US Department of Defense has asked the White House to approve a more than $200bn request to the US Congress to fund the war in Iran
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said an “unknown projectile” has hit a ship 11 nautical miles (about 20km) east of Khor Fakkan in the UAE“Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO while authorities continue to investigate,” the agency said in a statement.
Iran has executed three people convicted of killing police officers and carrying out operations in favour of the United States and Israel during unrest earlier this year
US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in Iran has entered Day 20 on Mar 19 and there is no sign of its end. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. A day after, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations. In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders including its security chief Ali Larijani has been killed. Iran has chosen Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei as its new Supreme Leader.
On the other side, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well. But, Iran has said that they are not negotiating about ceasefire with the Americans. Amid this, oil and energy supplies are being hit prompting worldwide chaos. Strait of Hormuz, the strategic chokepoints in the navigation route for oil and energy transport has became dangerous with Iran attacking ships that passes the Strait without its prior approval and Trump urging other nations to help the US secure the route. While Trump is under the scanner for the reasons of this war and the endgame plan, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Iranians can bring the regime down and Israeli attacks will continue. Israel has also expanded the war to target Hezbollah in Lebanon and ruled out any possibility of talks with the Lebanese government urging to end hostilities.
The international actors, including India, China and Russia have urged for dialogue while China and Russia have slammed the US for launching an attack on a sovereign nation.
The West Asia burns for now and major question arises about how will this end and what will be the relationship between the US and Iran in post-war world? What will be the locus standi of Israel and how will the Gulf nations behave? Here are all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Iran-Israel war
Gold and silver prices fell in Thursday’s trading session following the announcement of the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision in the overnight session. Besides, the high crude oil prices amid the Iran war also impacted the bullion market sentiment. Gold fell to Rs 143,250 per 10 gm, while silver dipped to Rs 221,445 per kg.
The United States is likely to ease restrictions on Iranian oil already at sea, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Fox Business, highlighting that Washington decides to stabilise global supply. He also said that the US may also carry out a unilateral release of oil reserves.
Two people died, and eight were injured after Israel launched air strikes on southern Lebanon’s Tyre district, according to the National News Agency. The other missile attack targeted towns including Dabaal, al-Hawsh and Burj al-Shamali, the agency reported.
UK wholesale gas prices have climbed sharply to 171.34 pence per therm ($2.29), driven by disruptions to global energy supplies amid the Israel-US conflict with Iran. This marks the highest level since January 2023. Since the war began on February 28, gas prices in the UK have surged by roughly 140 per cent, rising from 71.13 pence per therm ($1.33).
Europe has adopted a notably different stance, making it clear that it does not want to get involved in the conflict, with leaders emphasising that “this is not our war.” However, the region is still feeling the economic strain, particularly through rising energy costs following recent attacks on gas fields in Qatar, a key supplier.
In response, some countries are considering reducing carbon taxes to ease the burden. Nations such as Poland and Italy support this move, while others like Spain and Germany, which are more advanced in adopting renewable energy, are opposed. As a result, the energy crisis is expected to be a major point of contention in discussions in Brussels.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Iraq has announced that its airspace will continue to be closed for the next three days, until Sunday noon (09:00 GMT), due to the regional security situation. It added that the closure applies to all “arriving, departing, and overflying aircraft”.
As India continues to diversify its crude procurement from sources apart from West Asia, the ripple effect from the war has impacted Indian households. Even as the centre prioritises domestic LPG, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said the situation remains “concerning”.
She highlighted that almost 90% of the country’s LPG imports are from West Asia, and 40% of India’s LNG imports are from Qatar. And now some of our LPG is being sourced from the US. “70% of our crude is coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.”
"Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has created additional storage capacity. An additional land has been ensured with a charge waiver and operational support. Port users have been given 50% rebate on the use of the harbour crane," Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “Reduction in panic booking is seen, but queues still seen at distributors' outlets. Please opt for online booking.”
The Ministry is in regular coordination with state ports. No report of congestion anywhere: MEA
All Indian-flagged vessels are safe. In the last 24 hours, no unforeseen situation unfolded. DG shipping is in coordination with shipowners, employment agencies and respective missions: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Port and Shipping
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “PPAC (Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell) is designated as the nodal agency in India.”
Iran war impact: European gas prices have gone up by 32%, while crude oil soars above $116 per barrel
The Iran war has partially pushed the world into an economic crisis. Rising crude oil prices have led to the cost of essential commodities skyrocketing. On Thursday, Brent crude prices surged more than 4 per cent to USD 112.17 per barrel. This comes after Israel struck an Iranian gas field and Iran retaliated by targeting a key fuel hub in Qatar.
The Iran war might not end anytime soon as reports suggest that the Pentagon has asked the White House for $200billion in funding as it prepares to deploy more troops in the region. America has already spent billions on the war. A study showed that $3.7 billion vanished in the first 100 hours of the conflict, and in a week, $11 billion of taxpayer money was poured into the war. The latest development shows that the US is gearing up for a longer conflict as it tries to gain control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has declared the waterway closed and warned that any ships seen attempting to cross will be bombed. The country is also laying mines in the area as a war strategy. This closure has cost the world immensely, sending oil process rocketing. Experts are concerned that a barrel of oil could even touch $200 billion because of the conflict.
Issuing first response after the killing of Iran's top officials by Israel, China on Thursday (Mar 19) said that it is “unacceptable" and added it is it opposes “use of force.” Addressing a press conference, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian straightforwardly said, “We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable.”
The summit will also focus on a long-brewing standoff between Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán and most other EU nations.
Iran will "boycott the United States" but "not the World Cup", Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said in a video released by the Iranian press agency Fars.
Iran's ambassador to the United Nations Amir-Saeid Iravani has written a letter to the UNSC, criticising its continued silence over the assassination of top Iranian officials. He wrote that the council’s inaction had made Israel more bold in targeting officials. He said that, if left unchecked, the assassinations could become normalised and spread to other countries as well.
The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation says a “limited fire” has broken out after a drone hit an operational unit at the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery
Hezbollah said its fighters engaged Israeli ground forces advancing in southern Lebanon, from Taybeh toward the Baydar al-Fuqa’ani area, using missiles to repel the push and destroy six Israeli Merkava tanks
Iranian missile attacks have killed three Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank and a foreign worker in central Israel, AFP reported quoting medics
Saudi Aramco’s SAMREF refinery targeted in aerial attack. The impact has been minimal
A US-Israeli attack has hit a residential area in western Iran’s Dorud county, the Tasnim news agency reported
In a message published on his official Telegram channel, Iranain Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said that "Every drop of spilled blood comes at a price." He vowed that “the criminal murderers of these martyrs will soon have to pay it”. The assassination of figures like security chief Ali Larijani "attest" to his importance and "to the hatred that the enemies of Islam harbour toward him," added Mojtaba on the of Larijani's funeral in Tehran.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the “Iranian terrorist attack” targeting its Habshan gas facility and the Bab oilfield constitutes a “dangerous escalation and a violation of the principles of international law”.
The Qatari Ministry of Interior has announced that civil defence teams are working to contain a fire at Ras Laffan Industrial City
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan after a meeting with Arab and Islamic foreign ministers, said, “ Iran’s message today was quite clear… The targeting of Riyadh, while a number of diplomats are meeting, I cannot see as coincidental. It doesn’t believe in talking to its neighbours. It tries to pressure its neighbours. And what I can say, categorically, that’s not going to work. Saudi is not going to succumb to pressure.” He added that this attempt to build pressure will “backfire” warning that the country ”reserves the right to take military actions."
In a major security breach, officials reportedly detected unidentified drones above Fort McNair base, a high-profile army base in Washington
The Washington Post reported citing a senior administration official that the US Department of Defense has asked the White House to approve a more than $200bn request to the US Congress to fund the war in Iran
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said an “unknown projectile” has hit a ship 11 nautical miles (about 20km) east of Khor Fakkan in the UAE“Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO while authorities continue to investigate,” the agency said in a statement.
Iran has executed three people convicted of killing police officers and carrying out operations in favour of the United States and Israel during unrest earlier this year
