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A French national sentenced to death in 2010 for drug trafficking has been executed by China said the Chinese embassy in France in ‌a statement on ⁠its official ⁠WeChat account. The news was also confirmed by France that said Chan Thao Phoumy, who was born in Laos, was executed, "despite the efforts of the French authorities, including efforts to obtain a pardon on humanitarian grounds for our compatriot".&nbsp;According to French ministry, the 62-year-old Frenchman's defence team did not get access to the final court hearing, which violated his rights. The sentence was carried out in Guangzhou the south of the country.&nbsp;The French ministry reiterated its opposition to the death penalty "everywhere and in all circumstances" and called for "its universal abolition," reported AFP.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-face-the-longest-nation-scale-internet-shutdown-on-record-digitally-cut-off-for-more-than-a-month-now-1775386083287">Iranians face the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record, digitally cut off for more than a month now</a>&nbsp;China's foreign ministry did not elaborate on the case when asked on Sunday about the execution of Phoumy.&nbsp;Replying to AFP it said "Cracking down on drug-related crime is a shared responsibility of all countries."&nbsp;It further said, “China treats defendants of different nationalities equally, handles cases strictly and fairly in accordance with the law and protects the lawful rights and treatment of the parties involved.”&nbsp;

According to French ministry, the 62-year-old Frenchmans defence team did not get access to the final court hearing, which violated his rights. 

A French national sentenced to death in 2010 for drug trafficking has been executed by China said the Chinese embassy in France in ‌a statement on ⁠its official ⁠WeChat account. The news was also confirmed by France that said Chan Thao Phoumy, who was born in Laos, was executed, "despite the efforts of the French authorities, including efforts to obtain a pardon on humanitarian grounds for our compatriot". According to French ministry, the 62-year-old Frenchman's defence team did not get access to the final court hearing, which violated his rights. The sentence was carried out in Guangzhou the south of the country. The French ministry reiterated its opposition to the death penalty "everywhere and in all circumstances" and called for "its universal abolition," reported AFP. ALSO READ: Iranians face the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record, digitally cut off for more than a month now China's foreign ministry did not elaborate on the case when asked on Sunday about the execution of Phoumy. Replying to AFP it said "Cracking down on drug-related crime is a shared responsibility of all countries." It further said, “China treats defendants of different nationalities equally, handles cases strictly and fairly in accordance with the law and protects the lawful rights and treatment of the parties involved.”

According to French ministry, the 62-year-old Frenchman's defence team did not get access to the final court hearing, which violated his rights.&nbsp;

China executes French national convicted of drug trafficking

The US has been relying heavily on the F-15E Strike Eagle for deep-strike missions in the ongoing Iran conflict, even as questions grow over the use of decades-old aircraft in modern warfare. The debate intensified after an F-15E was shot down over southwestern Iran on April 3 - marking the first time in more than 20 years that a US fighter jet has been lost to enemy fire. Both crew members survived, but the incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of non-stealth aircraft in heavily defended airspace.<h2>What is the F-15E Strike Eagle?</h2>The F-15E Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter developed by McDonnell Douglas, now part of Boeing. It is an advanced variant of the original F-15, designed to perform both air-to-air combat and deep ground strikes. Introduced in 1988, the aircraft quickly became a backbone of US airpower, seeing action in major conflicts such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-is-larger-than-iraq-syria-afghanistan-combined-charlie-kirk-s-post-before-his-assassination-resurfaces-amid-tehran-war-1775376617784">‘Iran is larger than Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan combined’: Charlie Kirk’s post before his assassination resurfaces amid Tehran war</a>&nbsp;Unlike traditional fighters, the F-15E is specifically built for long-range missions deep inside enemy territory, capable of operating without escort or dedicated electronic warfare support. Despite its origins in the 1970s, the F-15E remains one of the most versatile and powerful aircraft in the US arsenal - often referred to as a “bomb truck” due to its massive payload capacity.&nbsp;One of its biggest advantages is firepower. The aircraft can carry more than 10,400 kilograms of ordnance, nearly double what stealth fighters like the F-35 Lightning II can carry internally while maintaining low radar visibility. This allows it to deliver a wide mix of precision-guided munitions in a single mission.&nbsp;Speed and range are also critical factors. Powered by twin engines, the F-15E can exceed Mach 2.5 and operate deep inside hostile territory thanks to its conformal fuel tanks, which extend range without sacrificing weapon load.&nbsp;Another key strength is its two-person crew. While the pilot focuses on flying and combat manoeuvres, the Weapon Systems Officer (WSO) manages targeting systems, sensors, and electronic warfare — a crucial advantage in complex strike missions. Although the platform is decades old, today’s F-15E is far from outdated. Continuous upgrades have significantly enhanced its combat effectiveness.&nbsp;The AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar provides advanced long-range detection and tracking capabilities, while the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System (EPAWSS) boosts survivability in contested environments through cutting-edge electronic warfare.&nbsp;Future variants like the F-15EX Eagle II are being designed to carry next-generation weapons, including hypersonic missiles, capabilities that older stealth platforms cannot easily match due to size constraints. The US Air Force plans to keep modernised versions of the Strike Eagle in service into the 2030s.<h2>Role in the Iran conflict</h2>The F-15E has been central to US operations such as Operation Epic Fury, targeting heavily defended infrastructure and suspected nuclear-related sites in Iran. However, the April 3 shootdown has underscored the risks. According to reports, the aircraft was hit by Iranian air defence systems during a deep-strike mission.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-and-japanese-linked-vessels-make-1st-passage-through-hormuz-since-iran-war-began-1775298635785">French and Japanese-linked vessels make 1st passage through Hormuz since Iran war began</a>&nbsp;Both crew members ejected safely, triggering a high-risk combat search and rescue operation. The pilot was recovered shortly after the crash, while the WSO, a colonel, was rescued two days later after evading capture in mountainous terrain.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump described the mission as “one of the most daring search and rescue operations in US history”. The operation reportedly involved dozens of aircraft, and US forces destroyed two of their own MC-130J aircraft on the ground to prevent them from falling into enemy hands.<h2>A growing debate</h2>The continued use of the F-15E highlights a broader dilemma in modern warfare. While stealth aircraft offer survivability, they often lack the payload and endurance needed for sustained, high-intensity strike operations.&nbsp;The Strike Eagle fills that gap - delivering unmatched firepower and flexibility. However, the recent loss has reignited debate among military experts over whether older, non-stealth “fourth-generation” jets can survive increasingly sophisticated air defence systems.&nbsp;

The F-15E Strike Eagle’s recent shootdown over Iran has sparked debate regarding the vulnerability of non-stealth, fourth-generation fighters against modern air defences, despite their superior payload, speed, and mission versatility.

The US has been relying heavily on the F-15E Strike Eagle for deep-strike missions in the ongoing Iran conflict, even as questions grow over the use of decades-old aircraft in modern warfare. The debate intensified after an F-15E was shot down over southwestern Iran on April 3 - marking the first time in more than 20 years that a US fighter jet has been lost to enemy fire. Both crew members survived, but the incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of non-stealth aircraft in heavily defended airspace. What is the F-15E Strike Eagle? The F-15E Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter developed by McDonnell Douglas, now part of Boeing. It is an advanced variant of the original F-15, designed to perform both air-to-air combat and deep ground strikes. Introduced in 1988, the aircraft quickly became a backbone of US airpower, seeing action in major conflicts such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Also read: ‘Iran is larger than Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan combined’: Charlie Kirk’s post before his assassination resurfaces amid Tehran war Unlike traditional fighters, the F-15E is specifically built for long-range missions deep inside enemy territory, capable of operating without escort or dedicated electronic warfare support. Despite its origins in the 1970s, the F-15E remains one of the most versatile and powerful aircraft in the US arsenal - often referred to as a “bomb truck” due to its massive payload capacity. One of its biggest advantages is firepower. The aircraft can carry more than 10,400 kilograms of ordnance, nearly double what stealth fighters like the F-35 Lightning II can carry internally while maintaining low radar visibility. This allows it to deliver a wide mix of precision-guided munitions in a single mission. Speed and range are also critical factors. Powered by twin engines, the F-15E can exceed Mach 2.5 and operate deep inside hostile territory thanks to its conformal fuel tanks, which extend range without sacrificing weapon load. Another key strength is its two-person crew. While the pilot focuses on flying and combat manoeuvres, the Weapon Systems Officer (WSO) manages targeting systems, sensors, and electronic warfare — a crucial advantage in complex strike missions. Although the platform is decades old, today’s F-15E is far from outdated. Continuous upgrades have significantly enhanced its combat effectiveness. The AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar provides advanced long-range detection and tracking capabilities, while the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System (EPAWSS) boosts survivability in contested environments through cutting-edge electronic warfare. Future variants like the F-15EX Eagle II are being designed to carry next-generation weapons, including hypersonic missiles, capabilities that older stealth platforms cannot easily match due to size constraints. The US Air Force plans to keep modernised versions of the Strike Eagle in service into the 2030s. Role in the Iran conflict The F-15E has been central to US operations such as Operation Epic Fury, targeting heavily defended infrastructure and suspected nuclear-related sites in Iran. However, the April 3 shootdown has underscored the risks. According to reports, the aircraft was hit by Iranian air defence systems during a deep-strike mission. Also read: French and Japanese-linked vessels make 1st passage through Hormuz since Iran war began Both crew members ejected safely, triggering a high-risk combat search and rescue operation. The pilot was recovered shortly after the crash, while the WSO, a colonel, was rescued two days later after evading capture in mountainous terrain. US President Donald Trump described the mission as “one of the most daring search and rescue operations in US history”. The operation reportedly involved dozens of aircraft, and US forces destroyed two of their own MC-130J aircraft on the ground to prevent them from falling into enemy hands. A growing debate The continued use of the F-15E highlights a broader dilemma in modern warfare. While stealth aircraft offer survivability, they often lack the payload and endurance needed for sustained, high-intensity strike operations. The Strike Eagle fills that gap - delivering unmatched firepower and flexibility. However, the recent loss has reignited debate among military experts over whether older, non-stealth “fourth-generation” jets can survive increasingly sophisticated air defence systems.

The F-15E Strike Eagle’s recent shootdown over Iran has sparked debate regarding the vulnerability of non-stealth, fourth-generation fighters against modern air defences, despite their superior payload, speed, and mission versatility.

Why is US using 50-year-old jets in Iran war? Inside the deadly F-15E ‘bomb trucks’

Iran released images claiming US aircraft were destroyed during an F-15E rescue mission, while Donald Trump said the pilot was safely recovered with no US casualties.

PICS | Iran releases images of US aircraft ‘destroyed’ during rescue mission

Internet services in Iran were suspended over a month ago - when the United States and Israel launched a joint operation on Tehran - and it continues to remain shut, making this the longest nationwide shutdown on record - fifth week on a trot-, according to the monitor NetBlocks.&nbsp;Taking to X NetBlocks wrote, "#Iran's internet blackout is now the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record in any country, exceeding all other comparable incidents in severity having entered its 37th consecutive day after 864 hours."&nbsp;“Exactly five weeks ago on Saturday 28 February, Iran cut off access to the global internet. The measure remains in place, entering day 36 after 840 hours, isolating the general public as authorities explore ways to give chosen users access via a tiered whitelisting system," the monitor further added.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwait-under-attack-amid-us-iran-war-power-and-desalination-plants-hit-oil-petroleum-and-ministries-complex-targeted-video-1775369545933">Kuwait under attack amid US-Iran war: Power and desalination plants hit, oil, petroleum and ministries complex targeted - VIDEO</a>&nbsp;In a separate tweet it pointed out that there were countries that did face internet shutdown or regional-level closure over longer periods, but that was intermittent, with North Korea being an exception as it has remained cut off from the outer world.&nbsp;“Iran is the first country to have had internet connectivity and then subsequently lost it by reverting to a national network, while others such as North Korea have skipped the connected phase and been internationally isolated for longer,” said NetBlocks.&nbsp;The Monitor went on to cite few examples where internet shutdown has lasted for longer periods due to war and regional troubles but "no war is known to have sent an entire country offline.""Intermittent digital shutdown incidents such as Myanmar, and those experiencing restoration after several weeks like Sudan, and sub-national incidents like Kashmir and Tigray have also been recorded over a longer period.&nbsp;"Wartime damage to infrastructure in countries at war like Ukraine and Gaza has also resulted in extended reductions in connectivity due to damaged infrastructure, resulting in an observable reduction in users though no war is known to have sent an entire country offline," the monitor added.&nbsp;

In a separate tweet NetBlocks pointed out that there were countries that did face internet shutdown or regional-level closure over longer periods, but that was intermittent.

Internet services in Iran were suspended over a month ago - when the United States and Israel launched a joint operation on Tehran - and it continues to remain shut, making this the longest nationwide shutdown on record - fifth week on a trot-, according to the monitor NetBlocks. Taking to X NetBlocks wrote, "#Iran's internet blackout is now the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record in any country, exceeding all other comparable incidents in severity having entered its 37th consecutive day after 864 hours." “Exactly five weeks ago on Saturday 28 February, Iran cut off access to the global internet. The measure remains in place, entering day 36 after 840 hours, isolating the general public as authorities explore ways to give chosen users access via a tiered whitelisting system," the monitor further added. ALSO READ: Kuwait under attack amid US-Iran war: Power and desalination plants hit, oil, petroleum and ministries complex targeted - VIDEO In a separate tweet it pointed out that there were countries that did face internet shutdown or regional-level closure over longer periods, but that was intermittent, with North Korea being an exception as it has remained cut off from the outer world. “Iran is the first country to have had internet connectivity and then subsequently lost it by reverting to a national network, while others such as North Korea have skipped the connected phase and been internationally isolated for longer,” said NetBlocks. The Monitor went on to cite few examples where internet shutdown has lasted for longer periods due to war and regional troubles but "no war is known to have sent an entire country offline." "Intermittent digital shutdown incidents such as Myanmar, and those experiencing restoration after several weeks like Sudan, and sub-national incidents like Kashmir and Tigray have also been recorded over a longer period. "Wartime damage to infrastructure in countries at war like Ukraine and Gaza has also resulted in extended reductions in connectivity due to damaged infrastructure, resulting in an observable reduction in users though no war is known to have sent an entire country offline," the monitor added.

In a separate tweet NetBlocks pointed out that there were countries that did face internet shutdown or regional-level closure over longer periods, but that was intermittent.

Iranians face the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record, digitally cut off for more than a month now

Iranian military on Sunday (Apr 5) said that the US military used an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan province during the operation to rescue the stranded crew member of the F-15E that was shot down in its territory. In a statement, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesman for the military's central command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, claimed that the US rescue operation was “completely foiled”. Iran has also released images claiming to be the wreckage of several US aircraft that were downed during the rescue mission. This comes after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.”“The so-called US military rescue operation, planned as a deception and escape mission at an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan under the pretext of recovering the pilot of a downed aircraft, was completely foiled,” Zolfaghari said.<h2>Iran claims several US aircraft shot down</h2>He added that “two C-130 military transport planes and two Black Hawk helicopters were destroyed” during the operation.Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by Tasnim news ​agency that several aircraft were destroyed during the US mission to locate the stranded pilot. Earlier, Iran’s police command announced that an American C-130 plane had been downed in the south of Isfahan.The F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday (Apr 3), the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”.<h2>How was US pilot rescued from Iran?</h2>According to a New York Times report, hundreds of special forces troops and dozens of US warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities were employed to save the crew member. The US forces had a firefight with Iranian convoys. The report added that two transport planes that would carry the commandos and the airmen to safety got stuck at a remote base in Iran, following which they decided to fly three new planes to extract all the US military personnel and the airmen. They blew up the two disabled planes to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands.Trump said that while the pilot had sustained injuries, there were no US casualties in the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that overnight strikes in the Kouh-e Siah area in southwestern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province during the US rescue mission killed five people.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

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

Iranian military on Sunday (Apr 5) said that the US military used an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan province during the operation to rescue the stranded crew member of the F-15E that was shot down in its territory. In a statement, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesman for the military's central command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, claimed that the US rescue operation was “completely foiled”. Iran has also released images claiming to be the wreckage of several US aircraft that were downed during the rescue mission. This comes after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND” after he was recovered from Iran following “the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History.” “The so-called US military rescue operation, planned as a deception and escape mission at an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan under the pretext of recovering the pilot of a downed aircraft, was completely foiled,” Zolfaghari said. Iran claims several US aircraft shot down He added that “two C-130 military transport planes and two Black Hawk helicopters were destroyed” during the operation. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by Tasnim news agency that several aircraft were destroyed during the US mission to locate the stranded pilot. Earlier, Iran’s police command announced that an American C-130 plane had been downed in the south of Isfahan. The F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday (Apr 3), the first such incident since the start of the war. While the first pilot was rescued by the US forces earlier, the second had remained missing behind the enemy lines as American and Iranian forces raced to locate him. Reports suggested that the second crew member from the downed F-15E has been recovered after a “heavy firefight”. How was US pilot rescued from Iran? According to a New York Times report, hundreds of special forces troops and dozens of US warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities were employed to save the crew member. The US forces had a firefight with Iranian convoys. The report added that two transport planes that would carry the commandos and the airmen to safety got stuck at a remote base in Iran, following which they decided to fly three new planes to extract all the US military personnel and the airmen. They blew up the two disabled planes to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands. Trump said that while the pilot had sustained injuries, there were no US casualties in the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that overnight strikes in the Kouh-e Siah area in southwestern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province during the US rescue mission killed five people. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<h2>‘Miraculous’ rescue operation</h2>Trump said that while the pilot had sustained injuries, there were no US casualties in the rescue operation. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies, who were getting closer and closer by the hour, but was never truly alone because his Commander in Chief, Secretary of War, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and fellow Warfighters were monitoring his location 24 hours a day, and diligently planning for his rescue. At my direction, the U.S. Military sent dozens of aircraft, armed with the most lethal weapons in the World, to retrieve him.”Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that overnight strikes in the Kouh-e Siah area in southwestern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province during the US rescue mission killed five people.<h2>How was US pilot rescued from Iran?</h2>According to a New York Times report, hundreds of special forces troops and dozens of US warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities were employed to save the crew member. The US forces had a firefight with Iranian convoys. The report added that two transport planes that would carry the commandos and the airmen to safety got stuck at a remote base in Iran, following which they decided to fly three new planes to extract all the US military personnel and the airmen. They blew up the two disabled planes to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

An Iran-bound crude shipment headed for India has changed its course mid-voyage and begun to move towards China. The development has sparked speculation that issues in payment or sanctions-related hurdles may have forced the diversion. However, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has stepped in to clarify that there were no payment issues and such claims are “factually incorrect.” India had not imported Iranian oil for nearly seven years, and this shipment was expected to be the first in that period. However, the Eswatini-flagged tanker Ping Shun, which was heading to Vadinar port in Gujarat, later changed its destination to Dongying in China’s Shandong province, based on data from commodity market analytics firm Kpler.<h3>Indian government responds</h3>Responding to the reports, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said there are no payment-related obstacles to importing Iranian crude. It also reiterated that Indian refiners source oil from a wide and diverse range of global suppliers. "India imports crude oil from 40 countries, with companies having full flexibility to source oil from different sources and geographies based on commercial considerations," the statement read. The ministry added that such mid-voyage route changes are common in the oil trade, noting that cargo destinations are often flexible and can be altered due to commercial or operational considerations. "Claims on vessel diversion ignore how the oil trade works. Bills of Lading often carry indicative discharge ports, destinations and on-sea cargoes can change destinations mid-voyage based on trade optimisation and operational flexibility," the ministry said. In addition, authorities indicated that rerouting can be based on multiple factors, and it is not only a sign of supply disruption or diplomatic rift. The ministry also highlighted that energy trade with Iran is ongoing, noting that an LPG vessel, Sea Bird, carrying about 44,000 tonnes, docked at Mangalore on April 2 and is currently unloading its cargo. Amid supply concerns linked to tensions in West Asia, the government reassured that India’s energy requirements remain fully secure and adequately met. "It is reiterated that India's crude oil requirements remain fully secured for the coming months." "Amid Middle East supply disruptions, Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including from Iran, and there is no payment hurdle for Iranian crude imports, contrary to the rumours being circulated," the ministry further said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-boasts-without-mentioning-losses-iranian-consulate-in-iraq-posts-video-of-alleged-us-crash-during-rescue-op-watch-1775376840902">‘Trump boasts without mentioning losses’: Iranian Consulate in Iraq posts video of alleged US crash during rescue op – WATCH</a>

The Eswatini-flagged tanker Ping Shun, which was heading to Vadinar port in Gujarat, later changed its destination to Dongying in China’s Shandong province. It was speculated that issues in payment or sanctions-related hurdles may have forced the diversion. 

An Iran-bound crude shipment headed for India has changed its course mid-voyage and begun to move towards China. The development has sparked speculation that issues in payment or sanctions-related hurdles may have forced the diversion. However, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has stepped in to clarify that there were no payment issues and such claims are “factually incorrect.” India had not imported Iranian oil for nearly seven years, and this shipment was expected to be the first in that period. However, the Eswatini-flagged tanker Ping Shun, which was heading to Vadinar port in Gujarat, later changed its destination to Dongying in China’s Shandong province, based on data from commodity market analytics firm Kpler. Indian government responds Responding to the reports, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said there are no payment-related obstacles to importing Iranian crude. It also reiterated that Indian refiners source oil from a wide and diverse range of global suppliers. "India imports crude oil from 40 countries, with companies having full flexibility to source oil from different sources and geographies based on commercial considerations," the statement read. The ministry added that such mid-voyage route changes are common in the oil trade, noting that cargo destinations are often flexible and can be altered due to commercial or operational considerations. "Claims on vessel diversion ignore how the oil trade works. Bills of Lading often carry indicative discharge ports, destinations and on-sea cargoes can change destinations mid-voyage based on trade optimisation and operational flexibility," the ministry said. In addition, authorities indicated that rerouting can be based on multiple factors, and it is not only a sign of supply disruption or diplomatic rift. The ministry also highlighted that energy trade with Iran is ongoing, noting that an LPG vessel, Sea Bird, carrying about 44,000 tonnes, docked at Mangalore on April 2 and is currently unloading its cargo. Amid supply concerns linked to tensions in West Asia, the government reassured that India’s energy requirements remain fully secure and adequately met. "It is reiterated that India's crude oil requirements remain fully secured for the coming months." "Amid Middle East supply disruptions, Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including from Iran, and there is no payment hurdle for Iranian crude imports, contrary to the rumours being circulated," the ministry further said. Also read: ‘Trump boasts without mentioning losses’: Iranian Consulate in Iraq posts video of alleged US crash during rescue op – WATCH

The Eswatini-flagged tanker Ping Shun, which was heading to Vadinar port in Gujarat, later changed its destination to Dongying in China’s Shandong province. It was speculated that issues in payment or sanctions-related hurdles may have forced the diversion.&nbsp;

Iran-bound crude shipment rerouted to China over payment issue? Here's what Indian govt said

US‑Iran‑Israel War Highlights | The conflict in West Asia that erupted on February 28 — triggered by coordinated strikes inside Iran by the United States and Israel — has now entered its second month with escalating tension across the region. Iran’s long‑time Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died, and his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, has assumed leadership, though he has yet to appear publicly. Meanwhile, Tehran has intensified its retaliation, launching counterattacks not only against Israeli targets but also against US forces and bases throughout the Gulf. While US is now eager for a deal again, Iran is only exchanging messages via friendly nations, and has ruled out any sort of negotiations directly.The confrontations have continued with a series of deadly strikes that have claimed the lives of multiple Iranian commanders. Iran‑aligned militant groups such as the Houthis and Hezbollah have entered the fray, expanding hostilities beyond Iran’s borders. In a significant strategic move, Iran has closed the crucial Strait of Hormuz, threatening global energy supplies, while Israel has broadened its offensive against Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon.As the war continues, the big questions loom: how will US‑Iran ties evolve, and what consequences will this conflict have for regional stability and global geopolitics? Follow all the latest developments, analysis, and live updates on the unfolding US‑Iran‑Israel crisis.

Israel's military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir visited troops in southern Lebanon on Sunday and pledged to intensify strikes against Hezbollah."The IDF is striking Hezbollah, a terrorist organisation, with determination, extensively, and across multiple fronts," Zamir said, according to a statement issued by the military.

Israel army chief visits south Lebanon, warns of stepped-up strikes on Hezbollah

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Received a call from Foreign Minister &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@araghchi&lt;/a&gt; of Iran. Discussed the present situation.&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2040840035491365062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 5, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Jaishankar receives call from Iran FM Araghchi, discusses current situation

US President Donald Trump on Sunday appeared to extend his deadline for Iran to make a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face devastating bombardment, posting a message stating simply: "Tuesday, 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time!"The new deadline, 0000 GMT Wednesday, would push back his ultimatum on Tehran by one day, after which Trump has vowed to destroy the country's power plants and bridges.

Trump appears to extend Iran deadline in cryptic post

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has called on the United States to "abandon the language of ultimatums" and return to the framework of international law.

Russia's Lavrov says US should 'abandon language of ultimatums'

Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned US President Donald Trump on Sunday that his reckless moves would mean “our whole region is going to burn.”“Your reckless moves are dragging the United States into a living HELL for every single family, and our whole region is going to burn because you insist on following Netanyahu’s commands,” Ghalibaf wrote in a post on X.

‘Whole region going to burn’: Iran parliament speaker warns Trump

US President Donald Trump told Axios on Sunday that he believes many Iranians opposed to their government would support strikes to weaken the regime. “They are living in fear. They are afraid we are gonna leave in the middle of the war, but we are not going to leave,” he said.

Trump says many Iranians living in fear, would support US ‘blowing up everything’

Israeli influence in the Gulf will increase as a result of Iran's strategy in the region, UAE presidential advisor Anwar Gargash said on Sunday as Tehran pressed an air campaign against its neighbours. “The Iranian strategy will actually concretise the American role... &nbsp;It will not reduce it. We will also see Israeli influence become more prominent in the Gulf, not less,” Gargash said, in remarks released to the media on Sunday.

Iran’s strategy will boost Israeli influence in Gulf: UAE

The Qatari Ministry of Defence said that the State of Qatar was subjected to an attack involving a number of drones and 2 cruise missiles launched from Iran on Sunday. “Our Armed Forces, by the grace of God, successfully intercepted all drones and both cruise missiles. May Allah protect Qatar, its Amir, its people, and all residents on its land,” it said..

Downed two missiles, numerous drones from Iranm says Qatar

The King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifam said on Sunday that Iranian aggression against Bahrain and countries in the region targeted civilians and infrastructure, and must stop immediately.

‘Iranian aggression against Bahrain, other countries in region must stop’

The IDF said it has further expanded its ground offensive against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, with a reserve brigade being deployed to carry out “targeted operations.”Reservists of the 8th Armored Brigade, operating under the 91st “Galilee” Regional Division, are working to “expand ground activity to protect residents of the north,” the IDF said.

Reserve brigade deployed in southern Lebanon to widen ground offensive: IDF

"The Shahid (Qasem) Soleimani international airport was hit in an airstrike carried out by US and Zionist forces," the official IRNA news agency said,

US-Israeli strikes hit airport in southwestern Iran

Three fire break out at Borouge plant but no casualties or injures reported, say Abu Dhabi authorities.

Abu Dhabi confirms fire at Borouge plant

Rescue teams rushed to the site of a massive Israeli strike on a three-storey building in Jnah, Beirut, on Sunday (April 5). Four people have been killed and several other injured in the attack.

Israeli air strike reported in Beirut's Jnah 

&nbsp;"Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the Fuckin' Strait, you crazy bastards, or you'll be living in Hell - JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah," Trump wrote on his Truth Social account.

Trump to Iran: "Open the F...in' Strait" or face bombing Tuesday

“Congratulations President @realDonaldTrump!All Israelis rejoice in the incredible rescue of a brave American pilot by America's dauntless warriors. This proves that when free societies muster their courage and their resolve, they can confront seemingly insurmountable odds and overcome the forces of darkness and terror," wrote Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu salutes Trump over successful rescue operation

An oil tanker loaded with Iraqi crude was seen passing through the Strait of Hormuz close to the Iranian coast on Sunday (April 5), data from LSEG and Kpler showed.

Tanker loaded with Iraqi crude passes through Hormuz, 

IRGC &nbsp;targets petrochemical plants in UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain, refinery in Israel and gas facility in UAE.

IRGC  targets petrochemical plants in UAE, Kuwait

&nbsp;Lebanese state media reported that an Israeli strike hit south Beirut on Sunday, making impact about 100 metres away from a public hospital.

Israeli strike hits near hospital in south Beirut

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation said on Sunday that an Iranian drone attack had caused fires and “severe material damage” at its operating units.

Kuwait Petroleum says Iranian drone strike caused severe damage

Oman and Iran held deputy foreign minister-level talks on options to ensure the smooth transit of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, Oman’s Foreign Ministry said on X.

Oman, Iran holds deputy foreign minister-level talks

Bahrain’s military said it has intercepted 466 drones and 188 missiles since the war began. In a statement, the Bahrain Defense Force said it was proud of the high combat readiness and vigilance of its forces and praised what it described as their continued operational effectiveness in protecting the country.

Bahrain says 466 drones, 188 missiles intercepted since start of war

Mostafa Tajzadeh, a jailed reformist politician, said in an open letter from Evin Prison addressed to Donald Trump that Iranians would defend their country under any circumstances.

Bombing infrastructure will turn war into bigger disaster, jailed reformist tells Trump

Saeed Kouzehchi, the Islamic Republic’s ambassador to South Korea, said no direct talks were under way with the United States and that messages were being exchanged only through mediators.

Iran envoy in South Korea says no direct talks with US under way

Gholamreza Tajgardoun, head of parliament’s Planning and Budget Committee, said Iran would obtain compensation for the war from its enemies and suggested the Strait of Hormuz would be one way of doing so.

Tehran will extract war compensation through Strait of Hormuz, MP says

Internet monitor NetBlocks said Iran’s blackout has now become the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record in any country, entering its 37th consecutive day after 864 hours.

Iran internet blackout now longest nation-scale shutdown on record, NetBlocks says

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;I join the &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/iaeaorg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@iaeaorg&lt;/a&gt; in raising the alarm again over the safety of nuclear facilities in &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Iran&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;The latest incident involving the Bushehr nuclear power plant is a stark reminder: a strike could trigger a nuclear accident, with health impacts that would devastate generations.… &lt;a href="https://t.co/mvFRC23EpT"&gt;https://t.co/mvFRC23EpT&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/2040701569323167874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 5, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

'We must de-escalate now': WHO 

A Fox News Digital report cited missile expert Bruce Bechtol as saying that some Iranian missiles used against US and Israeli targets are either North Korean systems or based on North Korean designs.

Iran uses North Korean missile tech against US, Israel, expert tells Fox

An Iranian drone attack on Sunday sparked a fire at a storage tank belonging to Bahrain's state energy firm that was later extinguished, the company said in a statement."Bapco Energies confirms an incident occurred at one of its storage facilities earlier today resulting in a tank fire, as a result of a hostile Iranian drone attack," the company said, without specifying the location of the blaze."The fire has been fully extinguished, and the situation is under control. Damages are currently being assessed and evaluated. No injuries have been reported," it added.

Iran drone sparks fire at storage tank of Bahrain energy firm

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reiterated on Sunday a call for negotiations with Israel, saying he wanted to spare his country's south from destruction on the scale seen in Gaza."It is true that Israel might want to do in southern Lebanon what it did in Gaza," Aoun said in a televised address, after Israel launched airstrikes and a ground offensive against Hezbollah, destroying several southern Lebanese villages."Gaza was destroyed, over 70,000 people were killed, and they eventually sat down and negotiated, so why don't we negotiate... until we can at least save the homes that have not yet been destroyed?" he added.

Lebanon president calls for Israel talks to prevent Gaza-style destruction

Iran's internet blackout, first imposed well over a month ago, is now the longest nationwide shutdown on record, according to the monitor NetBlocks."Iran's internet blackout is now the longest nation-scale internet shutdown on record in any country, exceeding all other comparable incidents in severity having entered its 37th consecutive day after 864 hours," NetBlocks said in a tweet.In another tweet, the monitor noted some countries had experienced intermittent or regional-level shutdowns over longer periods, while North Korea had never been connected to the global internet at all.

Iran internet blackout is longest nationwide shutdown on record: NetBlocks

US-Israeli strikes killed five fighters with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the country's northwest on Sunday, state media said."Following the brutal attacks of the American–Israeli enemy on the Moghan Plain... five IRGC fighters have attained martyrdom," said Iran's official IRNA news agency, citing a statement by the Guards in the northwestern Ardabil province.

US-Israeli strikes kill five Guards members in northwest Iran: state media

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="fa" dir="rtl"&gt;📷واقعۀ طبس تکرار شد&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;🔹 تصاویر تکمیلی از لاشه‌ پرنده‌های متجاوز آمریکایی&lt;br&gt;1/2 &lt;a href="https://t.co/uQwDHemJHj"&gt;pic.twitter.com/uQwDHemJHj&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/FarsNews_Agency/status/2040690342836756495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 5, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Iranian media releases image of destroyed US aircafts

The airman was rescued by US Special Operations forces during a risky Saturday night mission involving “hundreds of special forces troops, dozens of U.S. warplanes, helicopters, and cyber, space and other intelligence capabilities.” The stuck pilot was the Weapons Systems Officer and reportedly relied on locals for shelter. A firefight erupted as forces undertook the 48 hour operation. US attack aircraft dropped bombs and opened fire on Iranian convoys to keep them away from the area where the airman was hiding.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/inside-most-daring-us-ops-to-rescue-downed-pilot-from-iran-cia-s-help-special-troops-dozens-of-warplanes-ground-support-1775371601609/1775371601613">Read more here.</a>

Inside 'most daring' US ops to rescue downed pilot from Iran

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="iw" dir="rtl"&gt;מתחילת המערכה מול ארגון הטרור חיזבאללה, חיל-האוויר תקף יותר מ-2,000 מטרות סיוע לכוחות הקרקעיים בדרום לבנון, באמצעות מטוסי קרב, מסוקי קרב וכלי טיס מאויישים מרחוק. &lt;br&gt;תאי השליטה וצוותי חיל-האוויר נמצאים בקשר ישיר עם הכוחות הלוחמים ומלווים את הלחימה בגזרות השונות, מכווינים את הכוחות… &lt;a href="https://t.co/euwnt6sggY"&gt;pic.twitter.com/euwnt6sggY&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Israeli Air Force (@IAFsite) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/IAFsite/status/2040679448115118339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 5, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Israel struck more than 2,000 targets in Lebanon since the start of war

Steven Cheung, a former spokesperson for the Ultimate Fighting Championship, has taken aim at journalists that he says questioned Trump’s whereabouts earlier.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260405/image-1775368733592.png">

White House communications director hits out at media

Iran has executed two men convicted of attempting to storm a military facility and access an armoury during unrest in January, the judiciary’s Mizan news outlet reported

Iran has executed two men convicted of attempting to storm a military facility

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the US has revoked the permanent residency of Hamideh Soleimani Afshar and her daughter, identifying them as the niece and grandniece of the late Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani. Zeinab Soleimani, the general's daughter, stated that the arrested individuals have "no connection whatsoever" to her father and that the U.S. claims are false. Narjes Soleimani, another daughter and member of Tehran’s City Council, asserted that no member of the Soleimani family has ever resided in the US.

Marco Rubio says he has stripped Qassem Soleimani’s niece of US residency but Iran rejects claims

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Apr 5) claimed that a US aircraft, which had been searching for the missing American F-15E fighter jet crew member, had been destroyed, as reported by Iranian media. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-us-aircraft-searching-for-missing-f-15e-pilot-destroyed-in-isfahan-after-trump-confirms-airman-safe-and-sound-1775364179776">READ MORE</a>

Iran claims US aircraft searching for missing F-15E pilot destroyed in Isfahan

The missing US airman, whose F-15E was shot down by Tehran inside the Iranian territory, was recovered by the American forces on Saturday (Apr 4). US President Donald Trump confirmed that the fighter pilot was rescued by the US military and was “safe and sound”. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missing-us-pilot-rescued-in-iran-after-f-15e-shot-down-1775360297870">READ MORE</a>

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

Iran issued first response to US President Donald Trump 48-hour deadline on Saturday (Apr 4), and said that it was a “helpless” call. General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi, in a statement from the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said that Trump's threat was a "a helpless, nervous, unbalanced andstupid action". And, echoing the religious language of Trump's social media post, he warned that "the simple meaning of this message is that the gates of hell will open for you". “Do not forget: if hostilities expand, the entire region will become hell for you. The illusion of defeating the Islamic Republic of Iran has turned into a swamp that will engulf you,” said Ebrahim Zolfaghari, the spokesperson for the central headquarters. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-issues-first-response-after-trump-s-48-hour-deadline-for-deal-calls-him-helpless-nervous-1775341022259">READ MORE</a>

Iran issues first response after Trump's 48-hour deadline for deal, calls him 'helpless, nervous'

Rumours about Donald Trump’s health circulated after a White House press lid, suggesting hospitalisation. Journalists confirmed he remained at the West Wing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/where-is-us-president-donald-trump-sudden-press-lid-sparks-hospitalisation-rumours-melania-trump-response-truth-social-truth-trump-location-1775356110651/1775356110653">READ FULL REPORT</a>

US President Trump hospitalised?  FACT-CHECK on viral claims

Trump said that many Iranian military leaders have died in a “massive strike” in Tehran. He shared a video of an explosion in his Truth Social post while making the massive claim. The video is in dark but loud blasts and the sound of aircraft can be heard in the video. The POTUS or the White House did not provide further details on the timing of the reported strike. He did not mention who all was he referring to when he said “Many of Iran’s Military Leaders.” He did not specify when the military action took place. <a href="&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/116348358117196662/embed&quot; class=&quot;truthsocial-embed truthsocial-video&quot; style=&quot;max-width: 100%; border: 0&quot; width=&quot;600&quot; allowfullscreen=&quot;allowfullscreen&quot;&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;script src=&quot;https://truthsocial.com/embed.js&quot; async=&quot;async&quot;&gt;&lt;/script&gt;">READ MORE</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260405/image-1775366270883.png"></figure>

'Many of Iran’s Military Leaders terminated': Trump makes BIG claim

Kuwait said that an electricity generation and water desalination plant was attacked early Friday, causing material damage to parts of the facility. The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy said in a statement that the incident occurred at dawn on April 3, when an Iranian attack targeted the site, damaging some of its components.&nbsp;

US‑Iran‑Israel War LIVE: Kuwait desalination plant attacked

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;❗️🇮🇷⚔️🇰🇼 - An Iranian drone struck the Petroleum Corporation (KPC) oil sector complex in Shuwaikh which also houses the Kuwaiti Ministry of Petroleum. &lt;a href="https://t.co/u5JgRMVJan"&gt;pic.twitter.com/u5JgRMVJan&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/theinformant_x/status/2040579402182922726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US‑Iran‑Israel War LIVE: Kuwait petroleum complex hit (Unverified video)

The US‑Iran war continues, with a rescue of a downed F‑15E pilot inside Iran confirmed after a high‑risk mission, amid ongoing air operations by US and Israeli forces and escalating strikes across the region. Global tensions and battles over the Strait of Hormuz persist.

US‑Iran‑Israel War Highlights | The conflict in West Asia that erupted on February 28 — triggered by coordinated strikes inside Iran by the United States and Israel — has now entered its second month with escalating tension across the region. Iran’s long‑time Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died, and his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, has assumed leadership, though he has yet to appear publicly. Meanwhile, Tehran has intensified its retaliation, launching counterattacks not only against Israeli targets but also against US forces and bases throughout the Gulf. While US is now eager for a deal again, Iran is only exchanging messages via friendly nations, and has ruled out any sort of negotiations directly. The confrontations have continued with a series of deadly strikes that have claimed the lives of multiple Iranian commanders. Iran‑aligned militant groups such as the Houthis and Hezbollah have entered the fray, expanding hostilities beyond Iran’s borders. In a significant strategic move, Iran has closed the crucial Strait of Hormuz, threatening global energy supplies, while Israel has broadened its offensive against Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon. As the war continues, the big questions loom: how will US‑Iran ties evolve, and what consequences will this conflict have for regional stability and global geopolitics? Follow all the latest developments, analysis, and live updates on the unfolding US‑Iran‑Israel crisis.

The US‑Iran war continues, with a rescue of a downed F‑15E pilot inside Iran confirmed after a high‑risk mission, amid ongoing air operations by US and Israeli forces and escalating strikes across the region. Global tensions and battles over the Strait of Hormuz persist.

US‑Iran‑Israel War Highlights: Trump hints at Iran deadline extension in cryptic post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In another post, the Iranian Consulate in Najaf mocked the US, saying that it was a record in history that Iran’s “police” shot down an American aircraft with a personal weapon.Iran’s Revolutionary Guards earlier claimed that a US aircraft, which had been searching for the missing American F-15E fighter jet crew member, had been destroyed, as reported by Iranian media. Iran’s police command said that the downed US aircraft in Isfahan was a C-130 used to refuel “invaders”.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

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

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

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

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

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to keep policy rates unchanged in its upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting scheduled to be held from April 6 to 8. The development comes amid an increase in global uncertainty triggered by the ongoing West Asia war, according to a report by SBI Research. "As the situation is still evolving, we expect RBI to maintain the status quo in the upcoming policy," the report said. It also highlighted that this will be the first policy meeting since the tensions begin the Gulf region. The report added that the war has turned the entire world into chaos due to disruptions in global energy markets, which has emerged as a major concern. It noted that the de facto blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has severely disrupted the global oil market in its history since 1973.<h3>India is not immune to economic uncertainty</h3>A recent report also warned that India is not immune to the uncertainty of global economic developments. "Rupee is already hovering above 93 per dollar and crude oil is adamant above $100/bbl, resulting in a jump in imported inflation," it said, adding that it could worsen further by a possible Super El Niño, impacting inflation dynamics. Domestically, SBI Research highlighted mounting inflationary pressures, noting that imported inflation has already reached 5.4 per cent and could rise further. It also projected that CPI inflation may stay above 4.5 per cent over the next three quarters. Amid this uncertain environment, the Reserve Bank of India is expected to adopt a cautious tone in its communication, especially as this will be its first policy response since the onset of the war. The report further pointed to external challenges, including strain on the rupee and capital outflows. It noted that FY26 recorded the highest foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows since 1991 at $16.6 billion, while the balance of payments is likely to remain in deficit in FY27. SBI also suggested that, more than policy rates, the central bank may focus on liquidity and market functioning. Further, recent regulatory developments to stabilise the rupee may pose challenges for lenders. "Some of the norms may pose operational challenges for Banks," the report observed, particularly in relation to curbs on speculative positions in currency markets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-confirms-it-is-importing-iranian-crude-and-lpg-1775302997381">India confirms it is importing Iranian crude and LPG</a> &nbsp;

The SBI report indicated that the war has turned the entire world into chaos due to disruptions in global energy markets, which has emerged as a major concern. It also warned that India is not immune to the uncertainty of global economic developments.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to keep policy rates unchanged in its upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting scheduled to be held from April 6 to 8. The development comes amid an increase in global uncertainty triggered by the ongoing West Asia war, according to a report by SBI Research. "As the situation is still evolving, we expect RBI to maintain the status quo in the upcoming policy," the report said. It also highlighted that this will be the first policy meeting since the tensions begin the Gulf region. The report added that the war has turned the entire world into chaos due to disruptions in global energy markets, which has emerged as a major concern. It noted that the de facto blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has severely disrupted the global oil market in its history since 1973. India is not immune to economic uncertainty A recent report also warned that India is not immune to the uncertainty of global economic developments. "Rupee is already hovering above 93 per dollar and crude oil is adamant above $100/bbl, resulting in a jump in imported inflation," it said, adding that it could worsen further by a possible Super El Niño, impacting inflation dynamics. Domestically, SBI Research highlighted mounting inflationary pressures, noting that imported inflation has already reached 5.4 per cent and could rise further. It also projected that CPI inflation may stay above 4.5 per cent over the next three quarters. Amid this uncertain environment, the Reserve Bank of India is expected to adopt a cautious tone in its communication, especially as this will be its first policy response since the onset of the war. The report further pointed to external challenges, including strain on the rupee and capital outflows. It noted that FY26 recorded the highest foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows since 1991 at $16.6 billion, while the balance of payments is likely to remain in deficit in FY27. SBI also suggested that, more than policy rates, the central bank may focus on liquidity and market functioning. Further, recent regulatory developments to stabilise the rupee may pose challenges for lenders. "Some of the norms may pose operational challenges for Banks," the report observed, particularly in relation to curbs on speculative positions in currency markets. Also read: India confirms it is importing Iranian crude and LPG

The SBI report indicated that the war has turned the entire world into chaos due to disruptions in global energy markets, which has emerged as a major concern. It also warned that India is not immune to the uncertainty of global economic developments.

RBI likely to keep policy rates unchanged in first policy since West Asia war: SBI

US forces carried out a “miraculous” rescue of a downed F-15E pilot in Iran, involving hundreds of special operations troops, dozens of aircraft, helicopters, bombs, and intelligence assets. The pilot, hiding in mountainous terrain with local shelter, is now safe. CIA supported the mission

Inside 'most daring' US ops to rescue downed pilot from Iran: CIA's help, special troops, dozens of warplanes and ground support

Two major Kuwaiti power and water desalination plants suffered significant damage following a drone attack, the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy said Sunday (Apr 5). In a post on X, the ministry reported the strikes caused “significant material damage and the shutdown of two electricity generating units,” adding that there were no deaths or injuries. The attacks have not been blamed on Iran amid heightened tensions between the Islamic Republic and Gulf nations that are caught in crosshairs amid Iran-US-Israel war.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kuwait Petroleum Corporation also reported a fire at its Shuwaikh oil sector complex after a drone strike. “Emergency and firefighting teams were deployed immediately and are working to contain the blaze and assess damage,” Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) reported. The state ministry noted the attacks follow a series of recent Iranian strikes on critical facilities, including Friday’s drone assault on the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery, which ignited fires in multiple operational units.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-confirms-rescue-of-missing-us-pilot-in-iran-after-f-15e-downing-we-got-him-safe-and-sound-1775362808744">'We got him safe and sound': Trump confirms rescue of missing US Pilot in Iran after F‑15E downing</a>&nbsp;Viral videos on social media show significant fires at multiple critical infrastructure sites in Kuwait. WION cannot independently verify the authenicity of these videos.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kuwait?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kuwait</a> Petroleum Corporation building has been struck by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iranian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iranian</a> projectiles, causing a massive fire inside the building. <a href="https://t.co/reeaI2loI9">pic.twitter.com/reeaI2loI9</a>&mdash; Real Libyan (@real__libyan) <a href="https://twitter.com/real__libyan/status/2040660047861027085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨🇰🇼🇺🇸BREAKING: A fire breaks out at an energy facility in Kuwait following an Iranian drone strike. <a href="https://t.co/Mf3UOq1q8v">pic.twitter.com/Mf3UOq1q8v</a>&mdash; TUSHAR (@tushar_nior) <a href="https://twitter.com/tushar_nior/status/2040675047447441722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-issues-first-response-after-trump-s-48-hour-deadline-for-deal-calls-him-helpless-nervous-1775341022259">Iran issues first response after Trump's 48-hour deadline for deal, calls him 'helpless, nervous'</a><h3>Government buildings also targeted</h3>While Sunday's attacks have not been blamed on Iran, &nbsp;the Finance Ministry confirmed that Iranian drones damaged a government complex in Kuwait City. The ministry said the attack caused material damage but no injuries, and staff from the affected ministries would work remotely while visits were suspended. Kuwait’s military reported that its air defenses intercepted incoming missiles and drones across the country. In a statement carried by KUNA, the Army’s General Staff said its systems had “intercepted hostile missile and drone attacks,” urging residents to follow safety guidance. The military added that “any explosions heard were the result of air defense interceptions” and that similar attacks had been repelled the previous night.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iranian drones struck Kuwaiti power, water, and oil facilities, causing significant damage but no casualties. Kuwait’s air defenses intercepted attacks over its airspace. The strikes, part of Iran’s retaliation for US-Israeli operations, have targeted key Gulf infrastructure

Two major Kuwaiti power and water desalination plants suffered significant damage following a drone attack, the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy said Sunday (Apr 5). In a post on X, the ministry reported the strikes caused “significant material damage and the shutdown of two electricity generating units,” adding that there were no deaths or injuries. The attacks have not been blamed on Iran amid heightened tensions between the Islamic Republic and Gulf nations that are caught in crosshairs amid Iran-US-Israel war. Kuwait Petroleum Corporation also reported a fire at its Shuwaikh oil sector complex after a drone strike. “Emergency and firefighting teams were deployed immediately and are working to contain the blaze and assess damage,” Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) reported. The state ministry noted the attacks follow a series of recent Iranian strikes on critical facilities, including Friday’s drone assault on the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery, which ignited fires in multiple operational units. Also Read: 'We got him safe and sound': Trump confirms rescue of missing US Pilot in Iran after F‑15E downing Viral videos on social media show significant fires at multiple critical infrastructure sites in Kuwait. WION cannot independently verify the authenicity of these videos.

Iranian drones struck Kuwaiti power, water, and oil facilities, causing significant damage but no casualties. Kuwait’s air defenses intercepted attacks over its airspace. The strikes, part of Iran’s retaliation for US-Israeli operations, have targeted key Gulf infrastructure

Kuwait under attack amid US-Iran war: Power and desalination plants hit, oil, petroleum and ministries complex targeted - VIDEO

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

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

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

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

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