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Martin County police on Thursday (April 2) released a new body cam video after Tiger Woods’ car crash, as the legendary golfer was seen handcuffed. Woods was traveling at “high speeds” on a beachside, residential road in Jupiter Island on Friday (Mar 27) when his Land Rover clipped a truck and rolled onto its side, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, noting that Woods showed “signs of impairment.” Woods, who wasn’t injured, was booked by the Martin County following the accident before being released on bail eight hours later.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tiger Woods’ DUI Bodycam footage released: <a href="https://t.co/Lciq4kvUqO">https://t.co/Lciq4kvUqO</a> <a href="https://t.co/xWS6xGIh80">pic.twitter.com/xWS6xGIh80</a>&mdash; Block Topickz (formerly Glock Topickz) (@BlockTopickz) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlockTopickz/status/2039733375594897722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Martin County police release new video</h2>“I do believe your normal faculties are impaired, and you’re under an unknown substance, so at this time you’re under arrest for DUI,” Martin County Sheriff’s deputy Tatiana Levenar told Woods after conducting a sobriety test on the golfer.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;In the bodycam footage, Woods told Levenar that he had not drunk any alcohol and that he had taken “a few” medications earlier in the day, though Woods’ words are muted in the released video as he describes some of the drugs.&nbsp;Initially, the 50-year-old golder agreed to a Breathalyzer test that showed no signs of alcohol, but he refused a urine test, authorities said.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Woods entered a not guilty plea on Tuesday to suspicion of driving under the influence. He posted a statement Tuesday night saying that he was stepping away indefinitely “to seek treatment and focus on my health.”&nbsp;The video also shows that officers found pills in Tiger Woods’ pocket after the crash.“That’s a Norco,” Woods said after an officer pulled out two white pills from Woods pocket, referring to a painkiller that contains acetaminophen and hydrocodone. Authorities would later confirm they found that Woods was in possession of hydrocodone.

Tiger Woods was traveling at “high speeds” on a beachside, residential road in Jupiter Island on Friday (Mar 27) when his Land Rover clipped a truck and rolled onto its side, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, noting that Woods showed “signs of impairment.” 

Martin County police on Thursday (April 2) released a new body cam video after Tiger Woods’ car crash, as the legendary golfer was seen handcuffed. Woods was traveling at “high speeds” on a beachside, residential road in Jupiter Island on Friday (Mar 27) when his Land Rover clipped a truck and rolled onto its side, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, noting that Woods showed “signs of impairment.” Woods, who wasn’t injured, was booked by the Martin County following the accident before being released on bail eight hours later.

Tiger Woods was traveling at “high speeds” on a beachside, residential road in Jupiter Island on Friday (Mar 27) when his Land Rover clipped a truck and rolled onto its side, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, noting that Woods showed “signs of impairment.”&nbsp;

Tiger Woods car crash case: Martin County police release new body cam video, legendary golfer seen handcuffed

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth tweeted, “back to the Stone Age”. The comments come amid escalating West Asia war, and days before Donald Trump’s pause and ultimatum for Iran ends. To which Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps aerospace commander Brigadier General Seyed Majid Moosavi responded with, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves, not Iran, whom you seek to drag back to the Stone Age.” He added, “Hollywood delusions have so poisoned your minds that, with your paltry 250-year history, you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">این شمایید که سربازانتان را به زیر سنگ گور می‌برید نه ایران که بخواهید او را به عصر سنگ برگردانید. توهمات هالیوودی آنقدر فکرتان را آلوده کرده که با سابقه ناچیز ۲۵۰ساله یک تمدن بیش از ۶هزار ساله را تهدید می‌کنید. <a href="https://t.co/IQGf4IGY5v">https://t.co/IQGf4IGY5v</a>&mdash; Seyed Majid Moosavi (@smajid_moosavi) <a href="https://twitter.com/smajid_moosavi/status/2039636773630832883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-neither-elegant-nor-appropriate-macron-s-classy-response-to-trump-s-unwarranted-personal-attack-1775141015495"> 'Neither elegant nor appropriate': Macron's classy response to Trump's unwarranted personal attack</a>&nbsp;Even the Iranian embassy in India responded, “We will not be driven back to the Stone Age by your bombings. We are a nation with 7,000 years of civilization. History knows us well. What is clear is this: it is YOU who have carried the killing of children and crimes against humanity from the Stone Age into the modern world.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We will not be driven back to the Stone Age by your bombings. We are a nation with 7,000 years of civilization. History knows us well. What is clear is this: it is YOU who have carried the killing of children and crimes against humanity from the Stone Age into the modern world.&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran_in_India/status/2039639206738448881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The pause…</h2>&nbsp;Amid the ongoing war, which has created a global energy crisis, Trump had announced a pause for 5 days on March 23 and then extended it for 10 days on March 27. According to this timeline, the 10th day would be April 6, but on Monday (Mar 30), the US president threatened Iran even before the ultimatum could end. As the US and Israel's joint military operation in Iran was paused as per Donald Trump's claims. In a social media post he wrote, “I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-s-10-day-pause-on-hitting-energy-infra-ends-on-april-6-1775148311861/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-s-10-day-pause-on-hitting-energy-infra-ends-on-april-6-1775148311861/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;What began as a joint military strike in Iran on February 28 has spread across the region far and beyond. Following the attack which killed Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran conducted airstrikes on American bases in West Asia.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s "Stone Age" warning has triggered a fierce response from the IRGC, which reminded the U.S. that it is "threatening a civilization over 6,000 years old." Read the latest on the escalating war of words.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth tweeted, “back to the Stone Age”. The comments come amid escalating West Asia war, and days before Donald Trump’s pause and ultimatum for Iran ends. To which Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps aerospace commander Brigadier General Seyed Majid Moosavi responded with, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves, not Iran, whom you seek to drag back to the Stone Age.” He added, “Hollywood delusions have so poisoned your minds that, with your paltry 250-year history, you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s "Stone Age" warning has triggered a fierce response from the IRGC, which reminded the U.S. that it is "threatening a civilization over 6,000 years old." Read the latest on the escalating war of words.

Pete Hegseth's 'Stone Age' warning sparks IRGC's 'you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old'

New Delhi: In February, Indians and Pakistanis met in Doha for Track 2 talks even as, officially, the ties between the two countries remain frosty. The Doha round was not the first in recent months, but it comes at a time when ties remain cold, as India remains concerned over cross-border terrorism supported by Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.&nbsp;For India and Pakistan, the backchannel track 2 has been continuing for decades. At one point, nearly 20 such dialogues ran simultaneously.&nbsp;Inputs from these help make an assessment when ties remain snapped, as they are currently. No breakthrough is expected from such engagement, but it is seen as a channel of informal communication away from public glare. No press releases are issued, no statements are made after these meetings, and above all, no one will confirm or deny them.&nbsp;The Neemrana Dialogue has been, in the past, one of the longest-running dialogues, bringing together voices from both sides.&nbsp;Track 2 is not new. The term, coined in 1981 by American diplomat Joseph Montville, describes informal, non-structured talks between non-officials, often former officials, journalists, business leaders, and civil society voices. The goal is to build trust, test ideas, and create space for understanding, away from the glare of politics and media.&nbsp;Unlike Track 1, formal government-to-government negotiations like the Camp David Accords, Track 2 offers deniability and flexibility. A hybrid version, Track 1.5, mixes serving officials (acting unofficially) with outsiders. This pattern repeats globally when relations sour. For example, the Oslo Accords, the initial phase (1993), when unofficial meetings in Norway between Israeli academics and PLO representatives took place.&nbsp;After the deadly 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India and China froze much official contact. But Track 2 exchanges helped keep lines open. High-level signals of thaw followed: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Tianjin in 2025. Direct flights resumed in October 2025 after five years. Cross-border trade mechanisms and people-to-people contacts are slowly returning. Xi may even visit India for the BRICS summit later this year.&nbsp;In 2022, when war broke out in Ukraine, India quietly engaged in Track 2 and Track 1.5 forums with Europeans, Russians, and Ukrainians. Civil society groups and former officials explored humanitarian solutions and de-escalation ideas while New Delhi maintained its public stance of strategic autonomy.&nbsp;Even with Canada, when ties were at a low point after accusations over the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, pragmatism prevailed after track 1.5 diplomacy. Meetings between PM Modi and Prime Minister Mark Carney at the G7 in June 2025 and G20 in November helped stabilise ties. High commissioners returned. Carney’s visit to India in early 2026 delivered concrete outcomes: talks on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to push bilateral trade towards $50 billion by 2030, plus cooperation in energy, critical minerals, defence and nuclear issues. Political differences were set aside for economic and strategic gains.&nbsp;From Pakistan to China, from Canada to conflicts, Track 2 diplomacy has proved its worth in a fractured world. It does not replace official talks but provides an opportunity to exchange notes and sometimes be part of heated debate, but above all it also provides space for quiet conversations. In some cases, it may provide a channel of communication; in other cases, seeds for future breakthroughs.

After the deadly 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India and China froze much official contact. But Track 2 exchanges helped keep lines open. High-level signals of thaw followed: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Tianjin in 2025.

New Delhi: In February, Indians and Pakistanis met in Doha for Track 2 talks even as, officially, the ties between the two countries remain frosty. The Doha round was not the first in recent months, but it comes at a time when ties remain cold, as India remains concerned over cross-border terrorism supported by Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. For India and Pakistan, the backchannel track 2 has been continuing for decades. At one point, nearly 20 such dialogues ran simultaneously. Inputs from these help make an assessment when ties remain snapped, as they are currently. No breakthrough is expected from such engagement, but it is seen as a channel of informal communication away from public glare. No press releases are issued, no statements are made after these meetings, and above all, no one will confirm or deny them. The Neemrana Dialogue has been, in the past, one of the longest-running dialogues, bringing together voices from both sides. Track 2 is not new. The term, coined in 1981 by American diplomat Joseph Montville, describes informal, non-structured talks between non-officials, often former officials, journalists, business leaders, and civil society voices. The goal is to build trust, test ideas, and create space for understanding, away from the glare of politics and media. Unlike Track 1, formal government-to-government negotiations like the Camp David Accords, Track 2 offers deniability and flexibility. A hybrid version, Track 1.5, mixes serving officials (acting unofficially) with outsiders. This pattern repeats globally when relations sour. For example, the Oslo Accords, the initial phase (1993), when unofficial meetings in Norway between Israeli academics and PLO representatives took place. After the deadly 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India and China froze much official contact. But Track 2 exchanges helped keep lines open. High-level signals of thaw followed: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Tianjin in 2025. Direct flights resumed in October 2025 after five years. Cross-border trade mechanisms and people-to-people contacts are slowly returning. Xi may even visit India for the BRICS summit later this year. In 2022, when war broke out in Ukraine, India quietly engaged in Track 2 and Track 1.5 forums with Europeans, Russians, and Ukrainians. Civil society groups and former officials explored humanitarian solutions and de-escalation ideas while New Delhi maintained its public stance of strategic autonomy. Even with Canada, when ties were at a low point after accusations over the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, pragmatism prevailed after track 1.5 diplomacy. Meetings between PM Modi and Prime Minister Mark Carney at the G7 in June 2025 and G20 in November helped stabilise ties. High commissioners returned. Carney’s visit to India in early 2026 delivered concrete outcomes: talks on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to push bilateral trade towards $50 billion by 2030, plus cooperation in energy, critical minerals, defence and nuclear issues. Political differences were set aside for economic and strategic gains. From Pakistan to China, from Canada to conflicts, Track 2 diplomacy has proved its worth in a fractured world. It does not replace official talks but provides an opportunity to exchange notes and sometimes be part of heated debate, but above all it also provides space for quiet conversations. In some cases, it may provide a channel of communication; in other cases, seeds for future breakthroughs.

After the deadly 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India and China froze much official contact. But Track 2 exchanges helped keep lines open. High-level signals of thaw followed: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Tianjin in 2025.

Track 2 channels active between India and Pakistan even as official relations remain in freeze

At a private lunch, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Apr ) took a jibe at his French counterpart. He said, “I call up France, Macron, whose wife treats him extremely badly…still recovering from the right to the jaw.” And to which Macron responded with, “Trump talks too much... his remarks are neither elegant nor appropriate” The personal attack came before Trump could ask him for help. These words were the pretext to a call for help in West Asia.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-vows-crushing-attacks-trump-hints-at-ending-war-1775140184238/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-vows-crushing-attacks-trump-hints-at-ending-war-1775140184238/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The US-Israel military operation against Iran, which began on February 28, has spread across the region. He smirked and went to say, “Emmanuel, we'd love to have some help in the Gulf, even though we're setting records on knocking out bad people and knocking out ballistic missiles. We'd love to have some help. If you could, could you please send ships immediately.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨🇫🇷🇺🇸 Trump said Macron&#39;s wife beats him up. Macron&#39;s response: &quot;Trump talks too much... his remarks are neither elegant nor up to the standard.&quot; Macron told Trump that he has bad manners. In French this is a declaration of war.<a href="https://t.co/fhcm2lyGKt">pic.twitter.com/fhcm2lyGKt</a> <a href="https://t.co/8Nfx8Llqdo">https://t.co/8Nfx8Llqdo</a>&mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2039652760627626462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 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/how-a-french-sailor-s-workout-routine-accidentally-leaked-military-secrets-amid-west-asia-war-1773977705943"> How a French sailor's workout routine accidentally leaked military secrets amid West Asia war</a>&nbsp;To which the US president quoted Macron saying, “No, no, no, Donald. We cannot do that, can do it after the war is won.” And to which apparently the 79-year-old that's what he looking at and “many have said that they would be there after the war in completed.”The French government is bolstering its military presence in West Asia amid the escalating war. Even its flagship aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle has been deployed. During his visit to the warship, Macron said that they stand by their allies and friends. The country also has key defence agreements with nations like Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE. Over 400,000 French citizens live away from home in West Asia that is more than any EU country. More than half of this number live in Israel and over 60,000 are in the UAE.

President Emmanuel Macron has responded to Donald Trump's personal comments regarding his marriage, calling the remarks "neither elegant nor appropriate" during a press conference.

At a private lunch, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Apr ) took a jibe at his French counterpart. He said, “I call up France, Macron, whose wife treats him extremely badly…still recovering from the right to the jaw.” And to which Macron responded with, “Trump talks too much... his remarks are neither elegant nor appropriate” The personal attack came before Trump could ask him for help. These words were the pretext to a call for help in West Asia. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-vows-crushing-attacks-trump-hints-at-ending-war-1775140184238/embed The US-Israel military operation against Iran, which began on February 28, has spread across the region. He smirked and went to say, “Emmanuel, we'd love to have some help in the Gulf, even though we're setting records on knocking out bad people and knocking out ballistic missiles. We'd love to have some help. If you could, could you please send ships immediately.”

President Emmanuel Macron has responded to Donald Trump's personal comments regarding his marriage, calling the remarks "neither elegant nor appropriate" during a press conference.

'Neither elegant nor appropriate': Macron's classy response to Trump's unwarranted personal attack

India has been invited by the United Kingdom to join a meeting of more than 60 countries that will explore ways for the reopening of the vital Strait of Hormuz, as its blockade since the inception of the Iran War has sent oil prices spiralling, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday. The ministry’s spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, shared in a press briefing that the virtual meeting held on Thursday will be attended by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.&nbsp;“The UK side has invited several countries, which also include India, for talks on the Strait of Hormuz. From our side, the foreign secretary is attending the meeting this evening,” Jaiswal said.&nbsp;“We are in touch with Iran and other countries there to see how best we can get unimpeded transit and safe transit for our ships, which are carrying products including LPG, LNG, and other products. Through this conversation that we have had over the last several days, we have had six Indian ships which have been able to safely cross the Strait of Hormuz, and we continue to be in touch with relevant parties,” Jaiswal added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-foreign-secretary-yvette-cooper-condemns-iran-s-recklessness-says-urgent-need-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-1775133637067">UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemns Iran’s ‘recklessness’, says ‘urgent need’ to reopen Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz is critical to the world economy because 20% of global energy supplies pass through the narrow waterway, which has been closed by Iran since being attacked by the US and Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>India only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in Gulf: Misri</h2>&nbsp;Representing India, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted the importance of the principles of freedom of navigation and unimpeded transit through international waterways, stated a press release issued after the meeting. Misri emphasised the impact of the crisis on India’s energy security and the fact that India remains the only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in the Gulf. He also underlined that the way out of the crisis consisted of de-escalation and a return to the path of diplomacy and dialogue among all concerned parties.&nbsp;<h2>Why Strait of Hormuz is important for India</h2>&nbsp;Unimpeded transit of shipping through the key waterway is important for India because roughly 40% of the oil, 50% of the liquefied natural gas (LNG), and over 80% of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that the country imports flow through this route.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump, who had been insisting on the reopening of the strait, on Wednesday asked US allies, including the UK, to get their own oil, emphasising that the US would not help them anymore.“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the US, we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-following-path-of-martyred-leader-says-mojtaba-vows-to-continue-resistance-against-zionist-us-enemy-1775072181802">‘Following path of martyred leader,’ says Mojtaba; vows to continue resistance against ‘Zionist-US’ enemy</a>&nbsp;“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the USA won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘More than 1,200 Indian nationals safely evacuated from Iran’</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that more than 1,200 Indian nationals have been safely evacuated from Iran amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia as fighting and strikes intensify with each passing day.MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said while addressing an inter-ministerial briefing that the evacuation is being carried out through Armenia and Azerbaijan, with the Centre closely coordinating efforts on the ground.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-be-out-of-iran-pretty-quickly-could-return-for-spot-hits-1775055158626">Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’</a>&nbsp;“Some 1,200 Indian nationals have been evacuated, out of which 845 are students. 996 moved to Armenia and 204 to Azerbaijan, from where they are being helped by the MEA,” Jaiswal said.&nbsp;Jaiswal added that arrangements are in place to assist evacuees in transit before they are brought back to India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Unimpeded transit of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is important for India because roughly 40% of the oil, 50% of the liquefied natural gas (LNG), and over 80% of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that the country imports flow through this route.

India has been invited by the United Kingdom to join a meeting of more than 60 countries that will explore ways for the reopening of the vital Strait of Hormuz, as its blockade since the inception of the Iran War has sent oil prices spiralling, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday. The ministry’s spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, shared in a press briefing that the virtual meeting held on Thursday will be attended by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. “The UK side has invited several countries, which also include India, for talks on the Strait of Hormuz. From our side, the foreign secretary is attending the meeting this evening,” Jaiswal said. “We are in touch with Iran and other countries there to see how best we can get unimpeded transit and safe transit for our ships, which are carrying products including LPG, LNG, and other products. Through this conversation that we have had over the last several days, we have had six Indian ships which have been able to safely cross the Strait of Hormuz, and we continue to be in touch with relevant parties,” Jaiswal added. Also Read: UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemns Iran’s ‘recklessness’, says ‘urgent need’ to reopen Strait of Hormuz The Strait of Hormuz is critical to the world economy because 20% of global energy supplies pass through the narrow waterway, which has been closed by Iran since being attacked by the US and Israel. India only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in Gulf: Misri Representing India, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted the importance of the principles of freedom of navigation and unimpeded transit through international waterways, stated a press release issued after the meeting. Misri emphasised the impact of the crisis on India’s energy security and the fact that India remains the only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in the Gulf. He also underlined that the way out of the crisis consisted of de-escalation and a return to the path of diplomacy and dialogue among all concerned parties. Why Strait of Hormuz is important for India Unimpeded transit of shipping through the key waterway is important for India because roughly 40% of the oil, 50% of the liquefied natural gas (LNG), and over 80% of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that the country imports flow through this route. US President Donald Trump, who had been insisting on the reopening of the strait, on Wednesday asked US allies, including the UK, to get their own oil, emphasising that the US would not help them anymore. “All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the US, we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Also Read: ‘Following path of martyred leader,’ says Mojtaba; vows to continue resistance against ‘Zionist-US’ enemy “You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the USA won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” he added. ‘More than 1,200 Indian nationals safely evacuated from Iran’ Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that more than 1,200 Indian nationals have been safely evacuated from Iran amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia as fighting and strikes intensify with each passing day. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said while addressing an inter-ministerial briefing that the evacuation is being carried out through Armenia and Azerbaijan, with the Centre closely coordinating efforts on the ground. Also Read: Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’ “Some 1,200 Indian nationals have been evacuated, out of which 845 are students. 996 moved to Armenia and 204 to Azerbaijan, from where they are being helped by the MEA,” Jaiswal said. Jaiswal added that arrangements are in place to assist evacuees in transit before they are brought back to India.

Unimpeded transit of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is important for India because roughly 40% of the oil, 50% of the liquefied natural gas (LNG), and over 80% of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that the country imports flow through this route.

India to join coalition of nations exploring ways to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed mission of the Artemis programme, marks humanity’s return to deep space nearly 55 years after the Apollo missions. The 10-day journey, launched from Kennedy Space Center aboard the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft, carries astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen on a lunar flyby. Unlike missions to the International Space Station, Artemis II cannot receive fresh provisions, making its food system essential. &nbsp;&nbsp;Unlike missions to the International Space Station, Artemis II has no option for resupply or fresh food, so every item aboard must be shelf-stable, safe, and compatible with microgravity. To meet these constraints, NASA designed a menu that balances nutritional requirements, morale, and operational practicality. Each astronaut has carefully selected meals tested during preflight to ensure ease of preparation, proper calorie intake, and suitability for life beyond Earth orbit.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cake-cookies-bbq-brisket-in-space-inside-nasa-s-189-item-menu-for-artemis-ii-s-10-day-mission-1775121196827">Cake, cookies, BBQ brisket in space? Inside NASA’s 189-item menu for Artemis II’s 10-day mission</a>&nbsp;The crew participated in preflight testing to help select meals, ensuring that calorie needs, hydration, and nutrient intake were all carefully balanced. Main entrées consist of tortillas, wheat flatbread, vegetable quiche, breakfast sausage, couscous with nuts, mango salad, granola with blueberries, almonds, cashews, barbecued beef brisket, broccoli au gratin, spicy green beans, macaroni and cheese, tropical fruit salad, butternut squash, and cauliflower. Desserts feature chocolate pudding cake, maple cream cookies, cobbler, and candy-coated almonds. Yet, despite the carefully curated menu of 189 items, some common food staples, like breads, salt, and pepper, are intentionally excluded, reflecting the unique challenges of preparing and consuming food in microgravity.<h2>Why Bread, Salt and Pepper Are Banned</h2>Flour tortillas have long replaced traditional bread in space, first introduced on shuttle missions in 1985. Their low crumb count prevents particles from floating freely in microgravity, which could interfere with instruments or clog ventilation systems. Similarly, salt and pepper are excluded, as loose grains would not settle on food and could contaminate cabin air, posing safety risks. Polyethylene dropper bottles provide bulk supplies of liquid seasonings: pepper suspended in oil and salt dissolved in water.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Artemis II crew has successfully completed the proximity operations demonstration! This test allows the astronauts to practice piloting Orion similarly to how they would if they were docking with another spacecraft — an important early test objective for the mission. <a href="https://t.co/5FzBI96Lu3">pic.twitter.com/5FzBI96Lu3</a>&mdash; NASA Artemis (@NASAArtemis) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAArtemis/status/2039548883550822689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Additionally, carbonated drinks are banned as bubbles don’t separate in microgravity, causing ‘wet burps,’ while alcohol is prohibited due to impairment risks and potential damage to water recycling systems.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/toilet-trouble-in-space-what-went-wrong-with-artemis-ii-s-toilet-how-it-was-fixed-1775123659797">Toilet trouble in space: What went wrong with Artemis II’s toilet, how it was fixed?</a>&nbsp;NASA uses freeze-dried, thermostabilised, and irradiated foods, combined with pre-measured powdered seasonings and beverages for precise, safe consumption. Drinks, including coffee, tea, orange juice, lemonade, and apple cider arrive in foil-sealed pouches with septum adapters that interface with Orion’s potable water dispenser. This allows astronauts to rehydrate beverages directly without spillage. Each meal is carefully portioned and packaged to maintain nutritional balance, ensure ease of handling, and prevent contamination, enabling the crew to consume all items safely throughout the 10-day Artemis II mission.<h2>Eating in Orbit: Trays, Utensils and Cleanup</h2>Astronauts use meal trays strapped to their laps or fixed to the wall to manage multiple dishes simultaneously. This replicates a conventional dining experience while preventing food containers from floating away. After meals, containers are disposed of in the trash compartment beneath the middeck floor. Utensils and trays are cleaned using premoistened sanitising towelettes. This careful orchestration of meal planning, preparation, and cleanup allows the Artemis II crew to enjoy 189 menu items safely, maintaining nutrition and comfort throughout their 10-day lunar journey.

NASA's Artemis 2 mission launched April 1 from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, sending four astronauts on a 10-day trip around the moon in an Orion capsule. 

Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed mission of the Artemis programme, marks humanity’s return to deep space nearly 55 years after the Apollo missions. The 10-day journey, launched from Kennedy Space Center aboard the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft, carries astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen on a lunar flyby. Unlike missions to the International Space Station, Artemis II cannot receive fresh provisions, making its food system essential. Unlike missions to the International Space Station, Artemis II has no option for resupply or fresh food, so every item aboard must be shelf-stable, safe, and compatible with microgravity. To meet these constraints, NASA designed a menu that balances nutritional requirements, morale, and operational practicality. Each astronaut has carefully selected meals tested during preflight to ensure ease of preparation, proper calorie intake, and suitability for life beyond Earth orbit. ALSO READ: Cake, cookies, BBQ brisket in space? Inside NASA’s 189-item menu for Artemis II’s 10-day mission The crew participated in preflight testing to help select meals, ensuring that calorie needs, hydration, and nutrient intake were all carefully balanced. Main entrées consist of tortillas, wheat flatbread, vegetable quiche, breakfast sausage, couscous with nuts, mango salad, granola with blueberries, almonds, cashews, barbecued beef brisket, broccoli au gratin, spicy green beans, macaroni and cheese, tropical fruit salad, butternut squash, and cauliflower. Desserts feature chocolate pudding cake, maple cream cookies, cobbler, and candy-coated almonds. Yet, despite the carefully curated menu of 189 items, some common food staples, like breads, salt, and pepper, are intentionally excluded, reflecting the unique challenges of preparing and consuming food in microgravity. Why Bread, Salt and Pepper Are Banned Flour tortillas have long replaced traditional bread in space, first introduced on shuttle missions in 1985. Their low crumb count prevents particles from floating freely in microgravity, which could interfere with instruments or clog ventilation systems. Similarly, salt and pepper are excluded, as loose grains would not settle on food and could contaminate cabin air, posing safety risks. Polyethylene dropper bottles provide bulk supplies of liquid seasonings: pepper suspended in oil and salt dissolved in water.

NASA's Artemis 2 mission launched April 1 from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, sending four astronauts on a 10-day trip around the moon in an Orion capsule.&nbsp;

Artemis II mission: Why NASA’s 189-Item menu omits bread, salt & pepper. How these everyday foods become hazardous in space

A machete-wielding man killed four children in a brutal attack inside a nursery school in the Ugandan Capital of Kampala on Thursday. He has been apprehended by police and taken into custody, as an angry crowd tried to lynch him. The motive of the attack remains unknown and under investigation.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rosatom-evacuation-bushehr-nuclear-plant-iran-1775131922358">Rosatom begins final evacuation at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant</a>The man reportedly disguised himself as a parent to gain access to the Gaba Early Childhood Development Program in Kampala, reported the local newspaper, Daily Monitor. Once he was inside, he briefly went into the school offices, engaging in conversation with the administrator to gain confidence. He then stepped out, locked the gate and began attacking children. The attacker “brutally stabbed and killed four juveniles,” police said in a statement.An angry crowd gathered outside the school to lynch the man as parents of the victims were weeping. Reports suggest that police had to fire in the air to disperse the crowd. This type of violenece are rare occurrence in the Ugandan capital Kampala.&nbsp;

A machete-wielding man killed four children at a nursery in Kampala, Uganda. Police have arrested him while investigating the motive behind the attack.

A machete-wielding man killed four children in a brutal attack inside a nursery school in the Ugandan Capital of Kampala on Thursday. He has been apprehended by police and taken into custody, as an angry crowd tried to lynch him. The motive of the attack remains unknown and under investigation. Also Read: Rosatom begins final evacuation at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant The man reportedly disguised himself as a parent to gain access to the Gaba Early Childhood Development Program in Kampala, reported the local newspaper, Daily Monitor. Once he was inside, he briefly went into the school offices, engaging in conversation with the administrator to gain confidence. He then stepped out, locked the gate and began attacking children. The attacker “brutally stabbed and killed four juveniles,” police said in a statement. An angry crowd gathered outside the school to lynch the man as parents of the victims were weeping. Reports suggest that police had to fire in the air to disperse the crowd. This type of violenece are rare occurrence in the Ugandan capital Kampala.

A machete-wielding man killed four children at a nursery in Kampala, Uganda. Police have arrested him while investigating the motive behind the attack.

Machete-wielding man attacks at nursery in Uganda kills four children

Rosatom, a Russian oil giant, on Wednesday said that it is preparing the final phases of the major evacuation of its employees from Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant in the coming days. While a group of approximately 50 volunteers will be left behind to keep the plant operational. The Bushehr plant is the only remaining operational nuclear power plant with a gross capacity of 1,000 megawatts. At the moment, it has 72 metric tons of nuclear fuel and 210 metric tons of spent fuel&nbsp;“The situation at Bushehr is not calming down. We are detecting explosions literally just hundreds of meters, 700 to 900 meters away from the residential settlement. It is clear that the conflict is escalating, and naturally, this is a source of grave concern. We are preparing for a final, major wave of evacuations this week; more than 200 people are scheduled to depart from the Bushehr site,” said Alexei Likhachev, head of Rosatom.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mohamad-safa-un-resignation-nuclear-threat-iran-allegations-1774872383427">‘Nuclear winter’ warning: UN diplomat steps down, cites safety concerns</a>According to the IAEA, as of April 2, the Bushehr plant has been struck at least 3 times. The first strike was on March 17-18, when a projectile hit a structure around 350 metres away from the nuclear reactors. The structure has been decimated, but the reactor had no damage to it. Subsequent strikes were reported on March 24 and March 28. Despite the near misses, Russian authorities have begun the evacuation of their staff. More than 400 have left already in the previous waves of evacuation. The construction of Units 2 and 3 has been suspended.&nbsp;“It seems to me that around 50 people will be sufficient to maintain operations during this pause, ensuring the functionality of construction equipment as well as the basic upkeep of the construction camp and its support facilities. We will not be withdrawing from the site entirely,” said Alexei Likhachev. “Only volunteers will remain there, including members of our security team. Such is the nature of this work; however, a nuclear facility simply cannot be left completely unattended.”&nbsp;

Rosatom begins final evacuation of staff from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant after repeated strikes. Around 50 volunteers remain to maintain operations.

Rosatom, a Russian oil giant, on Wednesday said that it is preparing the final phases of the major evacuation of its employees from Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant in the coming days. While a group of approximately 50 volunteers will be left behind to keep the plant operational. The Bushehr plant is the only remaining operational nuclear power plant with a gross capacity of 1,000 megawatts. At the moment, it has 72 metric tons of nuclear fuel and 210 metric tons of spent fuel “The situation at Bushehr is not calming down. We are detecting explosions literally just hundreds of meters, 700 to 900 meters away from the residential settlement. It is clear that the conflict is escalating, and naturally, this is a source of grave concern. We are preparing for a final, major wave of evacuations this week; more than 200 people are scheduled to depart from the Bushehr site,” said Alexei Likhachev, head of Rosatom. Also Read: ‘Nuclear winter’ warning: UN diplomat steps down, cites safety concerns According to the IAEA, as of April 2, the Bushehr plant has been struck at least 3 times. The first strike was on March 17-18, when a projectile hit a structure around 350 metres away from the nuclear reactors. The structure has been decimated, but the reactor had no damage to it. Subsequent strikes were reported on March 24 and March 28. Despite the near misses, Russian authorities have begun the evacuation of their staff. More than 400 have left already in the previous waves of evacuation. The construction of Units 2 and 3 has been suspended. “It seems to me that around 50 people will be sufficient to maintain operations during this pause, ensuring the functionality of construction equipment as well as the basic upkeep of the construction camp and its support facilities. We will not be withdrawing from the site entirely,” said Alexei Likhachev. “Only volunteers will remain there, including members of our security team. Such is the nature of this work; however, a nuclear facility simply cannot be left completely unattended.”

Rosatom begins final evacuation of staff from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant after repeated strikes. Around 50 volunteers remain to maintain operations.

Rosatom begins final evacuation at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has condemned Iran’s “recklessness” for “hitting global economic security” in her addresses at the virtual meeting of foreign ministers from around 35 countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, on Thursday.&nbsp;“We have seen Iran hijack an international shipping route to hold the global economy hostage,” Cooper said in her opening remarks, which were broadcast by media before the rest of the meeting took place behind closed doors.Cooper is chairing the meeting convened by the UK as an effort for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy shipping route.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-following-path-of-martyred-leader-says-mojtaba-vows-to-continue-resistance-against-zionist-us-enemy-1775072181802">Also Read: ‘Following path of martyred leader,’ says Mojtaba; vows to continue resistance against ‘Zionist-US’ enemy</a>&nbsp;Cooper told the meeting of around 40 foreign ministers there is an “urgent need” to restore the freedom of navigation for international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz in the Middle East.In the last 24 hours, only 25 vessels have passed through the strait while usually 150 vessels cross through, she said.Cooper added that around 20,000 tracked seafarers are stranded on some 2,000 trapped ships due to the strait’s near-total closure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-be-out-of-iran-pretty-quickly-could-return-for-spot-hits-1775055158626">Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’</a><h2>‘Military planner talks will follow,’ says Cooper</h2>&nbsp;Cooper further said that the discussions on Thursday will be followed up by a meeting of military planners to look into what can be done to secure safe navigation in the area.“We are also convening military planners to look at how we marshal our collective defensive military capabilities, including looking at issues such as de-mining or reassurance once the conflict eases,” Cooper said.&nbsp;The meeting will focus on discussing “collective mobilisation of our full range of diplomatic and economic tools and pressure,” she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-troops-will-be-good-food-for-persian-gulf-sharks-iran-again-warns-against-ground-assault-1774813142373">‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault</a>&nbsp;The foreign ministers will also discuss action to guarantee the safety of ships and seafarers, as well as effective coordination needed across the world to enable a safe and sustained opening of the strait, Cooper says.&nbsp;Britain is hosting the talks aimed at forming a coalition of countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after US President Donald Trump said securing the vital waterway was a problem for other nations to resolve and it was the responsibility of countries that rely on the waterway to ensure it was open.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-chairs-key-meeting-orders-steps-to-ensure-supplies-curb-price-hike-risks-amid-conflict-1775065138114">PM chairs key meeting, orders steps to ensure supplies, curb price hike risks amid conflict</a>&nbsp;Iran has effectively shut down the Strait, which carries about a fifth of the world’s total oil consumption, in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes leading to a sharp spurt in fuel prices amid a supply crunch.&nbsp;&nbsp;European ⁠countries initially refused Trump’s demand to send their navies to the area because of fears about being dragged into the conflict.UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Wednesday that reopening the waterway would not be easy and would require a “united ⁠front of military strength and diplomatic activity."

Britain is hosting the talks aimed at forming a coalition of countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after US President Donald Trump said that it was the responsibility of countries that rely on the waterway to ensure it was open.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has condemned Iran’s “recklessness” for “hitting global economic security” in her addresses at the virtual meeting of foreign ministers from around 35 countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, on Thursday. “We have seen Iran hijack an international shipping route to hold the global economy hostage,” Cooper said in her opening remarks, which were broadcast by media before the rest of the meeting took place behind closed doors. Cooper is chairing the meeting convened by the UK as an effort for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy shipping route. Also Read: ‘Following path of martyred leader,’ says Mojtaba; vows to continue resistance against ‘Zionist-US’ enemy Cooper told the meeting of around 40 foreign ministers there is an “urgent need” to restore the freedom of navigation for international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz in the Middle East. In the last 24 hours, only 25 vessels have passed through the strait while usually 150 vessels cross through, she said. Cooper added that around 20,000 tracked seafarers are stranded on some 2,000 trapped ships due to the strait’s near-total closure. Also Read: Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’ ‘Military planner talks will follow,’ says Cooper Cooper further said that the discussions on Thursday will be followed up by a meeting of military planners to look into what can be done to secure safe navigation in the area. “We are also convening military planners to look at how we marshal our collective defensive military capabilities, including looking at issues such as de-mining or reassurance once the conflict eases,” Cooper said. The meeting will focus on discussing “collective mobilisation of our full range of diplomatic and economic tools and pressure,” she added. Also Read: ‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault The foreign ministers will also discuss action to guarantee the safety of ships and seafarers, as well as effective coordination needed across the world to enable a safe and sustained opening of the strait, Cooper says. Britain is hosting the talks aimed at forming a coalition of countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after US President Donald Trump said securing the vital waterway was a problem for other nations to resolve and it was the responsibility of countries that rely on the waterway to ensure it was open. Also Read: PM chairs key meeting, orders steps to ensure supplies, curb price hike risks amid conflict Iran has effectively shut down the Strait, which carries about a fifth of the world’s total oil consumption, in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes leading to a sharp spurt in fuel prices amid a supply crunch. European ⁠countries initially refused Trump’s demand to send their navies to the area because of fears about being dragged into the conflict. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Wednesday that reopening the waterway would not be easy and would require a “united ⁠front of military strength and diplomatic activity."

Britain is hosting the talks aimed at forming a coalition of countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after US President Donald Trump said that it was the responsibility of countries that rely on the waterway to ensure it was open.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemns Iran’s ‘recklessness’, says ‘urgent need’ to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Iran has pulled off one of the most consequential geopolitical heists of the 21st century, a bifurcation of the oil trade. As of early April 2026, the war in West Asia continues. The US-Israeli coalition launched an attack on Iran with the prospective goal of regime change, but it seems the war has evolved into a crack in the petrodollar regime of the US.As the war widens, Iran has managed to cope with the US-Israeli attack, even after significant damage to its leadership and has been able to assert strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz. Now Iran has been accepting payment in Chinese Yuan, particularly in relation to oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz. At least two vessels have settled the transit fees in Yuan. Whereas a Chinese maritime services company is acting as an intermediary and handling payment to the Iranian authorities.This is a structurally significant eventhough analysts debate if it can ultimately become decisive in the longer run. The de-dollarisation rhetoric has circulated for years, without materialising into meaningful change. Now, if one of the vital choke points through which one-fifth of the world's petroleum passes becomes conditional on currency denomination. The practical consequence, even if it was partially adopted, would be a bifurcated global oil market. One where yuan-denominated barrels flowing through Hormuz for payment in China's currency in the Chinese payment system CIPS ( Cross-Border Interbank Payment System) and dollar-denominated barrels are rerouted at a high additional cost and time for those who are not using Chinese currency. Further, Iran is employing a broader mechanism employing informal transactions in cryptocurrency to effectively circumvent the US financial system. Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University, said that the yuan-for-passage is more likely to gain international acceptance than a complete blockade. Though Chinese analysts remain sceptical about its effect on the US-China relations.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-talks-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-oil-crisis-1775120014544">UK to lead talks on reopening Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with Iran</a><h2>The Petrodollar regime and how it's crucial to fund US debts</h2>The Petrodollar regime was born out of the 1974 deal struck between Saudi Arabia and the then-US President Richard Nixon. Saudi Arabia agreed to price oil in US dollars and invest the surplus in US assets. Nixon decided that the dollar would not be valued at the gold standard, but it would be backed by the oil trade, and in return US would provide military support to its Gulf allies. What the deal did was create an artificial global demand for dollars. Oil is the lifeblood of the global economy, the primary energy to fuel transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and industrial production. Every country needs oil for its economy, so they need to hold dollars in exchange for trade. So the US could fund its social welfare scheme, sophisticated living standard of its middle class and focus on financialisation of the economy. It did not have to worry about the Current Account Deficit; it would just print more money, and the global economy would absorb it as inflation. The US exploited this by having a $39 trillion debt. But all of this was based on social contracts, a contract between the US and its allies in Europe and in the Gulf, that the US would provide security. Specifically, countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain are not traditional nation-states. They do not have food production, nor proper groundwater to sustain life. The cities were built on the social contract that they are safe, for tourism, finance and tech. But that illusion has been shattered by both Iran and the US itself. Iran has attacked several energy facilities, and the US has failed or, at times, seemed not interested in defending its allies. The US was betraying the system that was making it an empire. It was challenging the very rule-based order that was at the base of the global economy.&nbsp;Meanwhile, China emerges as an alternative, the largest trading partner for Saudi Arabia, military/tech sales without conditions, and currency swaps in yuan. If Gulf States abandon the petrodollar, global dollar demand collapses. Rising interest rates would force impossible budgetary choices on the US, $700 bn per year per 2 per cent rate increase. This does not imply a direct collapse, but an inevitable decline. This would need a major structural change among the elites to avert the course.&nbsp;

Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz and yuan-based oil payments signal pressure on the petrodollar system. Here’s what it means.

Iran has pulled off one of the most consequential geopolitical heists of the 21st century, a bifurcation of the oil trade. As of early April 2026, the war in West Asia continues. The US-Israeli coalition launched an attack on Iran with the prospective goal of regime change, but it seems the war has evolved into a crack in the petrodollar regime of the US. As the war widens, Iran has managed to cope with the US-Israeli attack, even after significant damage to its leadership and has been able to assert strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz. Now Iran has been accepting payment in Chinese Yuan, particularly in relation to oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz. At least two vessels have settled the transit fees in Yuan. Whereas a Chinese maritime services company is acting as an intermediary and handling payment to the Iranian authorities. This is a structurally significant eventhough analysts debate if it can ultimately become decisive in the longer run. The de-dollarisation rhetoric has circulated for years, without materialising into meaningful change. Now, if one of the vital choke points through which one-fifth of the world's petroleum passes becomes conditional on currency denomination. The practical consequence, even if it was partially adopted, would be a bifurcated global oil market. One where yuan-denominated barrels flowing through Hormuz for payment in China's currency in the Chinese payment system CIPS ( Cross-Border Interbank Payment System) and dollar-denominated barrels are rerouted at a high additional cost and time for those who are not using Chinese currency. Further, Iran is employing a broader mechanism employing informal transactions in cryptocurrency to effectively circumvent the US financial system. Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University, said that the yuan-for-passage is more likely to gain international acceptance than a complete blockade. Though Chinese analysts remain sceptical about its effect on the US-China relations. Also Read: UK to lead talks on reopening Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with Iran The Petrodollar regime and how it's crucial to fund US debts The Petrodollar regime was born out of the 1974 deal struck between Saudi Arabia and the then-US President Richard Nixon. Saudi Arabia agreed to price oil in US dollars and invest the surplus in US assets. Nixon decided that the dollar would not be valued at the gold standard, but it would be backed by the oil trade, and in return US would provide military support to its Gulf allies. What the deal did was create an artificial global demand for dollars. Oil is the lifeblood of the global economy, the primary energy to fuel transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and industrial production. Every country needs oil for its economy, so they need to hold dollars in exchange for trade. So the US could fund its social welfare scheme, sophisticated living standard of its middle class and focus on financialisation of the economy. It did not have to worry about the Current Account Deficit; it would just print more money, and the global economy would absorb it as inflation. The US exploited this by having a $39 trillion debt. But all of this was based on social contracts, a contract between the US and its allies in Europe and in the Gulf, that the US would provide security. Specifically, countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain are not traditional nation-states. They do not have food production, nor proper groundwater to sustain life. The cities were built on the social contract that they are safe, for tourism, finance and tech. But that illusion has been shattered by both Iran and the US itself. Iran has attacked several energy facilities, and the US has failed or, at times, seemed not interested in defending its allies. The US was betraying the system that was making it an empire. It was challenging the very rule-based order that was at the base of the global economy. Meanwhile, China emerges as an alternative, the largest trading partner for Saudi Arabia, military/tech sales without conditions, and currency swaps in yuan. If Gulf States abandon the petrodollar, global dollar demand collapses. Rising interest rates would force impossible budgetary choices on the US, $700 bn per year per 2 per cent rate increase. This does not imply a direct collapse, but an inevitable decline. This would need a major structural change among the elites to avert the course.

Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz and yuan-based oil payments signal pressure on the petrodollar system. Here’s what it means.

Cracks widen in US petro-dollar regime- How Iran’s Hormuz leverage is reshaping global oil trade?

After US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (April 1) criticised NATO allies for their "reluctance" to support the United States in the ongoing war against Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said it would be unrealistic to launch a military operation to force open the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;“Some people defend the idea of freeing the Strait of Hormuz by force via a military operation, a position sometimes expressed by the United States, although it has varied,” said Macron on his trip to South Korea&nbsp;“This was never the option we have supported because it is unrealistic,” he further said and added, “It would take forever, and would expose all those who go through the strait to risks from the guardians of the revolution but also ballistic missiles."&nbsp;ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-iranian-foreign-minister-kamal-kharazi-reportedly-injured-in-air-strike-1775122777999"> Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi reportedly injured in air strike</a>&nbsp;While Donald Trump in an interview to The Telegraph newspaper has threatened to leave the NATO alliance. This is largely because the US President is unhappy with NATO countries not willing to join the Iran war.&nbsp;“NATO treated us very badly, and you have to remember it because they’ll be treating us badly again if we ever need them,” he said Wednesday at a private White House lunch for the upcoming Easter holiday.&nbsp;However, in his televised evening address to the American people about the Iran war, Trump chose not to mention NATO and suggested that countries dependent on oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz “must deal with it.&nbsp;Trump’s stance on NATO puts its alliance at risk of breaking. But to leave NATO would be a tough task as Congress passed a legislation in 2023 that would prevent any president from pulling out of the alliance without its approval.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To leave NATO would be a tough task for Trump as Congress passed a legislation in 2023 that would prevent any president from pulling out of the alliance without its approval.

After US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (April 1) criticised NATO allies for their "reluctance" to support the United States in the ongoing war against Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said it would be unrealistic to launch a military operation to force open the Strait of Hormuz. “Some people defend the idea of freeing the Strait of Hormuz by force via a military operation, a position sometimes expressed by the United States, although it has varied,” said Macron on his trip to South Korea “This was never the option we have supported because it is unrealistic,” he further said and added, “It would take forever, and would expose all those who go through the strait to risks from the guardians of the revolution but also ballistic missiles." ALSO READ: Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi reportedly injured in air strike While Donald Trump in an interview to The Telegraph newspaper has threatened to leave the NATO alliance. This is largely because the US President is unhappy with NATO countries not willing to join the Iran war. “NATO treated us very badly, and you have to remember it because they’ll be treating us badly again if we ever need them,” he said Wednesday at a private White House lunch for the upcoming Easter holiday. However, in his televised evening address to the American people about the Iran war, Trump chose not to mention NATO and suggested that countries dependent on oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz “must deal with it. Trump’s stance on NATO puts its alliance at risk of breaking. But to leave NATO would be a tough task as Congress passed a legislation in 2023 that would prevent any president from pulling out of the alliance without its approval.

To leave NATO would be a tough task for Trump as Congress passed a legislation in 2023 that would prevent any president from pulling out of the alliance without its approval.

Military action cannot be an option to free Strait of Hormuz: Macron

The Iran war has shown that the Strait of Hormuz is no longer a fully reliable route for global oil trade. Oil-producing nations in the Gulf, caught in tensions involving the US, Israel and Iran, are now urgently advancing plans for new pipelines, transport corridors and infrastructure to bypass the chokepoint. These projects had been discussed for years, but were repeatedly delayed. Now, they are being treated as a strategic necessity despite high costs and political complexities.<h2>Existing pipelines are operating at full capacity</h2>Saudi Arabia’s East-West Petroline, stretching 1,200 km from Abqaiq to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, is operating at its full capacity of roughly 7 million barrels per day (mbpd). The UAE’s Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP), which carries up to 1.8 mbpd from Habshan to Fujairah outside the strait, is also at maximum capacity. Together, these routes provide around 8–9 mbpd of bypass capacity—far short of the estimated 17–21 mbpd that typically transits through the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Alternative plans in the UAE, Oman and Iraq</h2>One key proposal is the expansion of the UAE’s Fujairah corridor. Plans include an additional pipeline that could add about 1.5 mbpd and link offshore fields directly to export terminals outside Hormuz. Another proposal is a pipeline to Oman’s Duqm port on the Arabian Sea, likely to cost around $10 billion. This would provide a direct outlet for Gulf crude beyond the Strait of Hormuz.There are also plans to expand the Iraq–Turkey pipeline from Kirkuk to the Mediterranean port of Ceyhan, which has a nominal capacity of 1.6 mbpd. The project was delayed by political disputes, but possible extensions to southern Iraqi or Gulf-linked supplies make it a candidate for increased use. The long-dormant Iraq Pipeline through Saudi Arabia (IPSA), which runs to the Red Sea, is also being reconsidered for reactivation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-indian-friends-are-safe-says-iran-on-strait-of-hormuz-transit-as-irgc-reportedly-charges-1-per-oil-barrel-in-yuan-and-stablecoins-iran-war-update-1775112816765">‘Indian friends are safe’, says Iran on Strait of Hormuz transit as IRGC reportedly charges $1 per oil barrel in yuan and stablecoins</a><h2>New overland energy corridors</h2>Several proposed corridors aim to link Gulf producers directly to the Mediterranean and possibly beyond. These include pipelines from Qatar and the UAE across Saudi Arabia, and potentially through Iraq or Jordan, to terminals in Israel or Egypt. Such routes would bypass not only Hormuz but also the Bab el-Mandeb strait in the Red Sea—another flashpoint during Iran-linked conflicts—as well as the Suez Canal. The India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor is another ambitious initiative with potential energy components.<h2>Rail and logistics networks</h2>Governments in the region are also examining rail and logistics corridors. Projects include Saudi Arabia’s planned landbridge and the UAE’s Etihad Rail. These could transport refined products and support pipeline distribution to alternative export hubs, including Oman’s Sohar and Duqm ports.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-tehran-tightens-grip-on-hormuz-demonstrates-capabilities-to-strike-gulf-1775124006365/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-tehran-tightens-grip-on-hormuz-demonstrates-capabilities-to-strike-gulf-1775124006365/embed</a><h2>Costs, terrain and political barriers still persist</h2>Despite growing momentum, major obstacles remain. Many routes pass through countries that have political tensions with one another. Terrain challenges and regional rivalries add further complications. Approvals could take years for some projects. Tens of billions of dollars in investment will be required. Cross-border agreements and security guarantees will be difficult to secure.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-talks-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-oil-crisis-1775120014544">UK to lead talks on reopening Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with Iran</a><h2>Shift away from Hormuz dependence is the need of the hour</h2>In spite of these challenges, the Iran conflict has highlighted how easily threats to the Strait of Hormuz can disrupt global energy markets. This has pushed governments and industries to prioritise alternative routes and logistics. Contingency plans are now being treated as core investments in energy security. While change will take time, reliance on the Strait of Hormuz as the primary artery of global oil trade is set to decline.

Days of dependency on Strait of Hormuz for global oil trade will be over, even if it takes several years, as the Iran war has proven how Tehran can put a chokehold on the chokepoint. Gulf states are accelerating pipeline and transport plans to bypass the strait. But will they succeed?

The Iran war has shown that the Strait of Hormuz is no longer a fully reliable route for global oil trade. Oil-producing nations in the Gulf, caught in tensions involving the US, Israel and Iran, are now urgently advancing plans for new pipelines, transport corridors and infrastructure to bypass the chokepoint. These projects had been discussed for years, but were repeatedly delayed. Now, they are being treated as a strategic necessity despite high costs and political complexities. Existing pipelines are operating at full capacity Saudi Arabia’s East-West Petroline, stretching 1,200 km from Abqaiq to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, is operating at its full capacity of roughly 7 million barrels per day (mbpd). The UAE’s Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP), which carries up to 1.8 mbpd from Habshan to Fujairah outside the strait, is also at maximum capacity. Together, these routes provide around 8–9 mbpd of bypass capacity—far short of the estimated 17–21 mbpd that typically transits through the Strait of Hormuz. Alternative plans in the UAE, Oman and Iraq One key proposal is the expansion of the UAE’s Fujairah corridor. Plans include an additional pipeline that could add about 1.5 mbpd and link offshore fields directly to export terminals outside Hormuz. Another proposal is a pipeline to Oman’s Duqm port on the Arabian Sea, likely to cost around $10 billion. This would provide a direct outlet for Gulf crude beyond the Strait of Hormuz. There are also plans to expand the Iraq–Turkey pipeline from Kirkuk to the Mediterranean port of Ceyhan, which has a nominal capacity of 1.6 mbpd. The project was delayed by political disputes, but possible extensions to southern Iraqi or Gulf-linked supplies make it a candidate for increased use. The long-dormant Iraq Pipeline through Saudi Arabia (IPSA), which runs to the Red Sea, is also being reconsidered for reactivation. Also read: ‘Indian friends are safe’, says Iran on Strait of Hormuz transit as IRGC reportedly charges $1 per oil barrel in yuan and stablecoins New overland energy corridors Several proposed corridors aim to link Gulf producers directly to the Mediterranean and possibly beyond. These include pipelines from Qatar and the UAE across Saudi Arabia, and potentially through Iraq or Jordan, to terminals in Israel or Egypt. Such routes would bypass not only Hormuz but also the Bab el-Mandeb strait in the Red Sea—another flashpoint during Iran-linked conflicts—as well as the Suez Canal. The India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor is another ambitious initiative with potential energy components. Rail and logistics networks Governments in the region are also examining rail and logistics corridors. Projects include Saudi Arabia’s planned landbridge and the UAE’s Etihad Rail. These could transport refined products and support pipeline distribution to alternative export hubs, including Oman’s Sohar and Duqm ports. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-tehran-tightens-grip-on-hormuz-demonstrates-capabilities-to-strike-gulf-1775124006365/embed Costs, terrain and political barriers still persist Despite growing momentum, major obstacles remain. Many routes pass through countries that have political tensions with one another. Terrain challenges and regional rivalries add further complications. Approvals could take years for some projects. Tens of billions of dollars in investment will be required. Cross-border agreements and security guarantees will be difficult to secure. Also read: UK to lead talks on reopening Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with Iran Shift away from Hormuz dependence is the need of the hour In spite of these challenges, the Iran conflict has highlighted how easily threats to the Strait of Hormuz can disrupt global energy markets. This has pushed governments and industries to prioritise alternative routes and logistics. Contingency plans are now being treated as core investments in energy security. While change will take time, reliance on the Strait of Hormuz as the primary artery of global oil trade is set to decline.

Days of dependency on Strait of Hormuz for global oil trade will be over, even if it takes several years, as the Iran war has proven how Tehran can put a chokehold on the chokepoint. Gulf states are accelerating pipeline and transport plans to bypass the strait. But will they succeed?

Strait of Hormuz crisis: Gulf states rush with alternative pipelines, infra to bypass chokepoint amid Iran war. What can they do, what are problems?

Donald Trump mocked French President Emmanuel Macron during a private lunch on Wednesday (Apr 1).&nbsp; He narrated his phone call with his French counterpart, in which he asked Macron to send “some help in the Gulf”. As he was describing the situation and his telephonic exchange, Trump prefixed it with, "I call up France, Macron, whose wife treats him extremely badly. Still recovering from the right to the jaw.” In this comment, he was referencing a video from May 2025, which went viral. It was from Macron and French First Lady Brigitte Macron’s visit to Vietnam. A video in which it seemed as if Macron’s wife was shoving his face, the president rejected it and called it disinformation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-tehran-tightens-grip-on-hormuz-demonstrates-capabilities-to-strike-gulf-1775124006365/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-tehran-tightens-grip-on-hormuz-demonstrates-capabilities-to-strike-gulf-1775124006365/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;He smirked and went to say, “Emmanuel, we'd love to have some help in the Gulf, even though we're setting records on knocking out bad people and knocking out ballistic missiles. We'd love to have some help. If you could, could you please send ships immediately.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump mocks Macron again: I called up France, Macron, whose wife treats him extremely badly and he’s still recovering from the right to the jaw. <a href="https://t.co/bEJgfKaVRg">pic.twitter.com/bEJgfKaVRg</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/2039467980170391783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 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/how-a-french-sailor-s-workout-routine-accidentally-leaked-military-secrets-amid-west-asia-war-1773977705943"> How a French sailor's workout routine accidentally leaked military secrets amid West Asia war</a> To which the US president quoted Macron saying, “No, no, no, Donald. We cannot do that, can do it after the war is won.” And to which apparently the 79-year-old that's what he looking at and “many have said that they would be there after the war in completed.” The French government is bolstering its military presence in West Asia amid the escalating war. Even its flagship aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle has been deployed. During his visit to the warship, Macron said that they stand by their allies and friends. The country also has key defence agreements with nations like Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE. Over 400,000 French citizens live away from home in West Asia that is more than any EU country. More than half of this number live in Israel and over 60,000 are in the UAE.

Donald Trump mocked French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte during a private lunch, calling the NATO alliance a "paper tiger." Read about the leaked video where Trump joked about Macron’s marriage and criticized France's role in the Iran war.

Donald Trump mocked French President Emmanuel Macron during a private lunch on Wednesday (Apr 1). He narrated his phone call with his French counterpart, in which he asked Macron to send “some help in the Gulf”. As he was describing the situation and his telephonic exchange, Trump prefixed it with, "I call up France, Macron, whose wife treats him extremely badly. Still recovering from the right to the jaw.” In this comment, he was referencing a video from May 2025, which went viral. It was from Macron and French First Lady Brigitte Macron’s visit to Vietnam. A video in which it seemed as if Macron’s wife was shoving his face, the president rejected it and called it disinformation. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-tehran-tightens-grip-on-hormuz-demonstrates-capabilities-to-strike-gulf-1775124006365/embed He smirked and went to say, “Emmanuel, we'd love to have some help in the Gulf, even though we're setting records on knocking out bad people and knocking out ballistic missiles. We'd love to have some help. If you could, could you please send ships immediately.”

Donald Trump mocked French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte during a private lunch, calling the NATO alliance a "paper tiger." Read about the leaked video where Trump joked about Macron’s marriage and criticised France's role in the Iran war.

'I called French Prez, whose wife treats him badly': Trump launches personal attack on Macron at private lunch

Pakistan's spy agency has launched a sophisticated propaganda drive, according to intelligence sources, ahead of the first anniversary of last year's deadly Pahalgam terror attack.&nbsp;The campaign, orchestrated by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), accuses India of planning a "false flag" operation in the coming days. It claims Indian authorities might stage an attack and blame Pakistan, possibly by using Pakistani nationals held in Indian jails. The narrative has been swiftly picked up by major mainstream Pakistani outlets, and amplified across social media.&nbsp;Intelligence inputs suggest the story was drafted by ISI's Director General-Media, Major General Muhammad Mushtaq Ali. It was then planted in newspapers before the Pakistan Army's X Corps and the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) took over wider dissemination.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-thanks-azerbaijan-for-iran-evacuation-both-agree-to-launch-political-consultations-1775061714836">India thanks Azerbaijan for Iran evacuation; both agree to launch political consultations</a>&nbsp;Lieutenant General Amer Ahsan Nawaz, commander of X Corps, and ISPR's DG-Bravo, Major General Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti, are said to have overseen the push, using coordinated bot networks and affiliated accounts to spread the message rapidly.&nbsp;This timing is no coincidence. It comes just before the anniversary of the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed dozens, mostly tourists. Indian officials point out a similar pattern last year, Pakistan floated comparable "false flag" warnings weeks before the terror attack. After the attack, two of the three terrorists neutralised were found carrying Pakistani Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs), undermining Islamabad's denials.&nbsp;In the 11 months since Pahalgam, Indian security forces have eliminated 34 Pakistani terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, according to sources. Yet more than 40 others linked to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed remain active. Agencies are also tracking recent meetings between ISI officers, including Punjab Sector Commander Brigadier Rizwan Sharif, and operatives from these outfits.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/forces-minutes-from-sea-strike-on-pakistan-during-operation-sindoor-indian-navy-chief-admiral-tripathi-1775057204584">Forces minutes from sea strike on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor: Indian Navy Chief Admiral Tripathi</a>&nbsp;What stands out in this latest episode is the highly institutionalised nature of Pakistan's information warfare. Far from ad-hoc responses, the machinery involves the ISI's Analysis Wing working with media and technical directors to craft unified narratives. ISPR's "Bravo Division" executes the plans, while those recruited through a long-running programme, now reportedly running batches of over 8,000, help generate and push content.&nbsp;Regulatory bodies like PEMRA and the PTA help control the domestic information space.&nbsp;Indian security agencies remain on high alert, viewing the campaign as part of a hybrid strategy that blends psychological operations with potential ground threats. They emphasise that such pre-emptive narratives aim to shape global perceptions and provide cover if terror attack happens.Pakistan has long involved in cross border terrorism attacks in India, from 2001 Parliament terror attack to 26/11 Mumbai terror attack to last year' Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan’s intelligence agency is alleged to be pushing a coordinated propaganda campaign ahead of the Pahalgam attack anniversary, claiming India may stage a ‘false flag’ operation. 

Pakistan's spy agency has launched a sophisticated propaganda drive, according to intelligence sources, ahead of the first anniversary of last year's deadly Pahalgam terror attack. The campaign, orchestrated by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), accuses India of planning a "false flag" operation in the coming days. It claims Indian authorities might stage an attack and blame Pakistan, possibly by using Pakistani nationals held in Indian jails. The narrative has been swiftly picked up by major mainstream Pakistani outlets, and amplified across social media. Intelligence inputs suggest the story was drafted by ISI's Director General-Media, Major General Muhammad Mushtaq Ali. It was then planted in newspapers before the Pakistan Army's X Corps and the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) took over wider dissemination. ALSO READ: India thanks Azerbaijan for Iran evacuation; both agree to launch political consultations Lieutenant General Amer Ahsan Nawaz, commander of X Corps, and ISPR's DG-Bravo, Major General Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti, are said to have overseen the push, using coordinated bot networks and affiliated accounts to spread the message rapidly. This timing is no coincidence. It comes just before the anniversary of the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed dozens, mostly tourists. Indian officials point out a similar pattern last year, Pakistan floated comparable "false flag" warnings weeks before the terror attack. After the attack, two of the three terrorists neutralised were found carrying Pakistani Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs), undermining Islamabad's denials. In the 11 months since Pahalgam, Indian security forces have eliminated 34 Pakistani terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, according to sources. Yet more than 40 others linked to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed remain active. Agencies are also tracking recent meetings between ISI officers, including Punjab Sector Commander Brigadier Rizwan Sharif, and operatives from these outfits. ALSO READ: Forces minutes from sea strike on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor: Indian Navy Chief Admiral Tripathi What stands out in this latest episode is the highly institutionalised nature of Pakistan's information warfare. Far from ad-hoc responses, the machinery involves the ISI's Analysis Wing working with media and technical directors to craft unified narratives. ISPR's "Bravo Division" executes the plans, while those recruited through a long-running programme, now reportedly running batches of over 8,000, help generate and push content. Regulatory bodies like PEMRA and the PTA help control the domestic information space. Indian security agencies remain on high alert, viewing the campaign as part of a hybrid strategy that blends psychological operations with potential ground threats. They emphasise that such pre-emptive narratives aim to shape global perceptions and provide cover if terror attack happens. Pakistan has long involved in cross border terrorism attacks in India, from 2001 Parliament terror attack to 26/11 Mumbai terror attack to last year' Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan’s intelligence agency is alleged to be pushing a coordinated propaganda campaign ahead of the Pahalgam attack anniversary, claiming India may stage a ‘false flag’ operation.&nbsp;

Pakistan pushes 'false flag' narrative before Pahalgam terror attack anniversary; Indian Intel on high alert

The United Kingdom will hold talks with dozens of countries to discuss the possible diplomatic and political steps for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. In a press conference, the UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper said the virtual meeting will be held today to assess the measures to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.The strategic waterway has been “effectively shuttered” following the US-Israeli aggression on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation in the regional countries, and the vital chokepoint Strait of Hormuz. The Strait accounts for roughly 20 per cent of global petroleum flow. It has sent shockwaves in the global market and has the potential to push the global economy towards a recession, as oil prices are consistently above $100 per barrel.UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper is set to chair Thursday's virtual meeting. The summit involves a broad coalition of over 30 countries, including France, Germany, Japan, Canada, and Australia. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the countries which signed the statement saying they were ready “to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz” &nbsp;would take part in the talks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-karoline-leavitt-bad-publicity-controversy-1775108070468">Donald Trump says Karoline Leavitt is doing a 'terrible job' and is responsible for ‘bad Publicity’</a><h2>What is the strategic stance of the UK?</h2>The UK wants to open the Strait of Hormuz but refuses to get drawn into a wider war. But it admits that opening the Strait will not be easy. “I do have to level with people on this. This [reopening] will not be easy,” said Starmer. He also refused to join the NATO-led direct military action along with the US despite persistent nagging from US President Donald Trump. &nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Wednesday mocked his allies to "build up some delayed courage" and go to the Strait of Hormuz and protect it for themselves.“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself; the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” said US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Starmer, however, assured that the British Military planner would consider what could be done to make the strait safe and accessible &nbsp;“after the fighting has stopped.”

The United Kingdom is set to lead a virtual meeting of over 30 countries to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route disrupted by tensions involving Iran. As oil prices surge past $100, the crisis raises concerns about global economic stability and energy security.

The United Kingdom will hold talks with dozens of countries to discuss the possible diplomatic and political steps for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. In a press conference, the UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper said the virtual meeting will be held today to assess the measures to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway has been “effectively shuttered” following the US-Israeli aggression on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation in the regional countries, and the vital chokepoint Strait of Hormuz. The Strait accounts for roughly 20 per cent of global petroleum flow. It has sent shockwaves in the global market and has the potential to push the global economy towards a recession, as oil prices are consistently above $100 per barrel. UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper is set to chair Thursday's virtual meeting. The summit involves a broad coalition of over 30 countries, including France, Germany, Japan, Canada, and Australia. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the countries which signed the statement saying they were ready “to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz” would take part in the talks. Also Read: Donald Trump says Karoline Leavitt is doing a 'terrible job' and is responsible for ‘bad Publicity’ What is the strategic stance of the UK? The UK wants to open the Strait of Hormuz but refuses to get drawn into a wider war. But it admits that opening the Strait will not be easy. “I do have to level with people on this. This [reopening] will not be easy,” said Starmer. He also refused to join the NATO-led direct military action along with the US despite persistent nagging from US President Donald Trump. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday mocked his allies to "build up some delayed courage" and go to the Strait of Hormuz and protect it for themselves.“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself; the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” said US President Donald Trump. Starmer, however, assured that the British Military planner would consider what could be done to make the strait safe and accessible “after the fighting has stopped.”

The United Kingdom is set to lead a virtual meeting of over 30 countries to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route disrupted by tensions involving Iran. As oil prices surge past $100, the crisis raises concerns about global economic stability and energy security.

UK to lead talks on reopening Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with Iran

An earthquake of magnitude 4.9 struck US’ South Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains area on Thursday (Apr 2). The residents were jolted awake. As per the United States Geological Survey (USGC), the quake’s epicentre was Boulder Creek. remors were felt across the Bay Area&nbsp;in Walnut Creek, Alameda, San Francisco and even up in the North. The USGS reported that the tremor occurred at 1:41 a.m. local time, centred approximately 11 miles northwest of Santa Cruz and roughly 19 miles southwest of downtown San Jose.&nbsp;No reports of major injuries or significant structural damage have been reported as yet. However, the timing of the quake led to widespread power flutters and triggered thousands of automated smartphone alerts via the ShakeAlert system, providing many residents with a few seconds of warning before the secondary waves arrived. Shake Alert is USGC’s ‘early earthquake warning’ alert system.&nbsp;&nbsp;As of Thursday morning, several minor aftershocks have been recorded. Authorities advise residents to remain vigilant, secure loose heavy furniture, and ensure their emergency kits are up to date, as the probability of smaller follow-up tremors remains high over the next 48 hours.&nbsp;(This is a developing story)

A magnitude 4.9 earthquake jolted the San Francisco Bay Area near San Jose early Thursday. Read the latest updates on the epicenter, shaking intensity, and reports of damage after the tremor hit the Santa Cruz Mountains.

An earthquake of magnitude 4.9 struck US’ South Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains area on Thursday (Apr 2). The residents were jolted awake. As per the United States Geological Survey (USGC), the quake’s epicentre was Boulder Creek. remors were felt across the Bay Area in Walnut Creek, Alameda, San Francisco and even up in the North. The USGS reported that the tremor occurred at 1:41 a.m. local time, centred approximately 11 miles northwest of Santa Cruz and roughly 19 miles southwest of downtown San Jose. No reports of major injuries or significant structural damage have been reported as yet. However, the timing of the quake led to widespread power flutters and triggered thousands of automated smartphone alerts via the ShakeAlert system, providing many residents with a few seconds of warning before the secondary waves arrived. Shake Alert is USGC’s ‘early earthquake warning’ alert system. As of Thursday morning, several minor aftershocks have been recorded. Authorities advise residents to remain vigilant, secure loose heavy furniture, and ensure their emergency kits are up to date, as the probability of smaller follow-up tremors remains high over the next 48 hours. (This is a developing story)

A magnitude 4.9 earthquake jolted the San Francisco Bay Area near San Jose early Thursday. Read the latest updates on the epicenter, shaking intensity, and reports of damage after the tremor hit the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Earthquake of 4.9 magnitude jolts Bay area near US' San Jose

Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi was reportedly injured in an attack on a residential building. The attack, according to a semiofficial Iranian news outlet also claimed the life of Kharazi wife. However it is not clear whether the airstrike was intended to hit the former Iranian minster or &nbsp;another site nearby.&nbsp;Notably, Kharazi, 81, was helping facilitate a potential meeting between Vice President JD Vance and Iranian authorities, reported New York Times.&nbsp;Kharazi was foreign minister in Iran’s reformist President Mohammad Khatami's government. He was also a foreign affairs adviser to the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an US, Iran joint air strike.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-military-means-cannot-china-reacts-after-trump-s-address-on-iran-war-1775119443085">'Military means cannot...': China reacts after Trump's address on Iran war</a>&nbsp;In 2022, while speaking to a news outlet Kharazi had said Tehran has “the technical means to produce a nuclear bomb, but there has been no decision by Iran to build one,” leading to the world questioning Iran's motives.&nbsp;As the Iran war broke out on February 28, Kharazi in an interview to CNN said “I don’t see any room for diplomacy anymore. Because Donald Trump had been deceiving others and not keeping with his promises, and we experienced this in two times of negotiations — that while we were engaged in negotiation, they struck us.”<h2>&nbsp;US military will step up attack on Iran</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, United states President Donald Trump in a televised speech on Wednesday (April 1) said US military will step up attack on Iran in the next two to three weeks, reiterating his stance of preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;He detailed the United States’ ongoing military campaign against Iran and defended Operation Epic Fury. Trump &nbsp;once again said that regime change was not the agenda and main objectives were: destroying weapons factories, destroying their navy and air force and ending all possibilities for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kharazi was also a foreign affairs adviser to the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an US, Iran joint air strike.

Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi was reportedly injured in an attack on a residential building. The attack, according to a semiofficial Iranian news outlet also claimed the life of Kharazi wife. However it is not clear whether the airstrike was intended to hit the former Iranian minster or another site nearby. Notably, Kharazi, 81, was helping facilitate a potential meeting between Vice President JD Vance and Iranian authorities, reported New York Times. Kharazi was foreign minister in Iran’s reformist President Mohammad Khatami's government. He was also a foreign affairs adviser to the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an US, Iran joint air strike. ALSO READ: 'Military means cannot...': China reacts after Trump's address on Iran war In 2022, while speaking to a news outlet Kharazi had said Tehran has “the technical means to produce a nuclear bomb, but there has been no decision by Iran to build one,” leading to the world questioning Iran's motives. As the Iran war broke out on February 28, Kharazi in an interview to CNN said “I don’t see any room for diplomacy anymore. Because Donald Trump had been deceiving others and not keeping with his promises, and we experienced this in two times of negotiations — that while we were engaged in negotiation, they struck us.” US military will step up attack on Iran Meanwhile, United states President Donald Trump in a televised speech on Wednesday (April 1) said US military will step up attack on Iran in the next two to three weeks, reiterating his stance of preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He detailed the United States’ ongoing military campaign against Iran and defended Operation Epic Fury. Trump once again said that regime change was not the agenda and main objectives were: destroying weapons factories, destroying their navy and air force and ending all possibilities for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon.

Kharazi was also a foreign affairs adviser to the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an US, Iran joint air strike.

Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi reportedly injured in air strike

United states President Donald Trump in a televised speech on Wednesday said US military will step up attack on Iran in the next two to three weeks, reiterating his stance of preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He detailed the United States’ ongoing military campaign against Iran and defended Operation Epic Fury. Trump &nbsp;once again said that regime change was not the agenda and main objectives were: destroying weapons factories, destroying their navy and air force and ending all possibilities for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;The statement by Trump invited a reaction from China that said, "military means cannot fundamentally solve the problem, and the escalation of conflicts is not in the interests of either side."&nbsp;Beijing's foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning on Thursday (April 2) urged "the parties concerned to immediately cease military operations".&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-indian-friends-are-safe-says-iran-on-strait-of-hormuz-transit-as-irgc-reportedly-charges-1-per-oil-barrel-in-yuan-and-stablecoins-iran-war-update-1775112816765">‘Indian friends are safe’, says Iran on Strait of Hormuz transit as IRGC reportedly charges $1 per oil barrel in yuan and stablecoins</a>&nbsp;In fact China went on to directly blame the US, Israeli attacks on Iran as the 'root cause' of Hormuz blockage after US President Donald Trump called on affected countries to seize the key waterway.<h2>What Trump said on Strait of Hormuz?</h2>&nbsp;On the crucial issue of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the vital shipping route, Trump claimed that it would “open up naturally.” The POTUS further hailed US troops and Gulf nations for fighting the regime's threat. He also assured them that US won't let its Gulf Arab allies or Israel "get hurt or fail" due to the Iran war. "I want to thank our allies in the Middle East, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain. They've been great, and we will not let them get hurt or fail in any way, shape, or form," he said.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

China went on to directly blame the US, Israeli attacks on Iran as the root cause of Hormuz blockage after Trump called on affected countries to seize the key waterway.

United states President Donald Trump in a televised speech on Wednesday said US military will step up attack on Iran in the next two to three weeks, reiterating his stance of preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He detailed the United States’ ongoing military campaign against Iran and defended Operation Epic Fury. Trump once again said that regime change was not the agenda and main objectives were: destroying weapons factories, destroying their navy and air force and ending all possibilities for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon. The statement by Trump invited a reaction from China that said, "military means cannot fundamentally solve the problem, and the escalation of conflicts is not in the interests of either side." Beijing's foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning on Thursday (April 2) urged "the parties concerned to immediately cease military operations". ALSO READ: ‘Indian friends are safe’, says Iran on Strait of Hormuz transit as IRGC reportedly charges $1 per oil barrel in yuan and stablecoins In fact China went on to directly blame the US, Israeli attacks on Iran as the 'root cause' of Hormuz blockage after US President Donald Trump called on affected countries to seize the key waterway. What Trump said on Strait of Hormuz? On the crucial issue of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the vital shipping route, Trump claimed that it would “open up naturally.” The POTUS further hailed US troops and Gulf nations for fighting the regime's threat. He also assured them that US won't let its Gulf Arab allies or Israel "get hurt or fail" due to the Iran war. "I want to thank our allies in the Middle East, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain. They've been great, and we will not let them get hurt or fail in any way, shape, or form," he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

China went on to directly blame the US, Israeli attacks on Iran as the 'root cause' of Hormuz blockage after Trump called on affected countries to seize the key waterway.

'Military means cannot...': China reacts after Trump's address on Iran war

Iran on Thursday (Apr 2) has issued a sharp response after US President Donald Trump’s latest speech, dismissing his claims of having “destroyed” its missile capabilities. In a sarcastic remark, the Iranian Consulate in Mumbai mocked ongoing air raid sirens in Israel, suggesting they were “meteor shower from Mars.” The reaction came after Trump strongly defended the war in his national address, vowing to “finish the job” soon while asserting that Iran’s military, including its navy, air force, and missile systems, has been largely decimated. Despite his claims of major success, the address offered little clarity on ceasefire efforts or measures to ease rising global energy prices. In fact, oil prices sharply rose after his address.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-is-decimated-but-war-not-over-trump-repeats-negotiations-claims-says-strikes-to-continue-for-2-3-weeks-1775090848149">'Iran is decimated' but war NOT over: Trump repeats old claims in new address</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a>: &quot;I have completely destroyed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>’s missile capabilities.&quot; Air raid sirens currently blaring across <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel</a>: Must be a meteor shower from Mars!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarsMissiles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarsMissiles</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpLogic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpLogic</a> <a href="https://t.co/qj16GGDUyR">pic.twitter.com/qj16GGDUyR</a>&mdash; Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2039529173237350908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-only-32-days-trump-compares-iran-operation-to-vietnam-korea-iraq-and-world-wars-what-he-means-1775101353372">'Only 32 days': Trump compares Iran operation to Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World wars — What he means?</a><h2>Trump repeats old claims in new address</h2>Trump address the nation on Iran war on Wednesday (Apr 1) and portrayed the Iran war as a major success, claiming the country is “decimated” while insisting the conflict is not yet over. He reiterated that regime change is not the goal, outlining objectives such as destroying Iran’s military capabilities and preventing nuclear weapons. Trump defended the war by criticising the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and recalling past actions like the killing of Qasem Soleimani. He said diplomacy had failed but hinted that talks are ongoing, even as he warned of continued strikes for two to three weeks. On the Strait of Hormuz, he suggested it would reopen “naturally” and urged other nations to take responsibility, while also claiming the US does not rely on Iranian oil. Thanking regional allies, he assured protection against Iran but offered no clear endgame, blending claims of victory with signals of further escalation.

Iran dismissed Trump’s claims of destroyed missile capabilities after his national address, mocking reports of air raid sirens in Israel. Trump touted Iran’s military as “decimated,” warned of continued strikes, and claimed US oil independence, while offering no clear endgame

Iran on Thursday (Apr 2) has issued a sharp response after US President Donald Trump’s latest speech, dismissing his claims of having “destroyed” its missile capabilities. In a sarcastic remark, the Iranian Consulate in Mumbai mocked ongoing air raid sirens in Israel, suggesting they were “meteor shower from Mars.” The reaction came after Trump strongly defended the war in his national address, vowing to “finish the job” soon while asserting that Iran’s military, including its navy, air force, and missile systems, has been largely decimated. Despite his claims of major success, the address offered little clarity on ceasefire efforts or measures to ease rising global energy prices. In fact, oil prices sharply rose after his address. Also Read: 'Iran is decimated' but war NOT over: Trump repeats old claims in new address

Iran dismissed Trump’s claims of destroyed missile capabilities after his national address, mocking reports of air raid sirens in Israel. Trump touted Iran’s military as “decimated,” warned of continued strikes, and claimed US oil independence, while offering no clear endgame

'Meteor shower from Mars': Iran first response to Trump's speech is missiles for Israel

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Apr 1) addressed the world about the ongoing war with Iran and said that the Islamic Republic is in ruins and is decimated. In a high-stake address, Trump detailed the United States’ ongoing military campaign against Iran and defended Operation Epic Fury. While Washington has been accused of not having a clear objective for the Iran war, Trump stated, once again, that regime change was not the agenda and main objectives were: destroying weapons factories, destroying their navy and air force and ending all &nbsp;possibilities for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon. He portrayed the conflict as a decisive success, saying that US is "winning bigger than ever before." Emphasizing that his first approach was diplomacy, he claimed that it ultimately failed, making military action necessary. He framed the war as critical to protecting global stability, countering long-standing threats from Iran, and ensuring that the US remains secure and less dependent on West Asian resources.&nbsp;<h2>What Trump claimed in his speech?</h2>In a long rant against former President Barack Obama and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-tensions-what-is-iran-s-nuclear-programme-know-history-of-tehran-s-enemity-with-america-wion-explains-1749738405479">Iran nuclear deal </a>that was known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), he said that it gave Iran time to rebuild and strengthen its nuclear capabilities. It was signed between Obama and former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Trump also recalled the killing of Iranian General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-cites-qasem-solemani-s-killing-by-us-amid-heightened-iran-tensions-is-he-sending-a-message-to-khamenei-how-was-iranian-commander-killed-1771994695890">Qasem Solemani</a> during his first term and said that Iran would be much more stronger had he been alive. “If Soleimani was still alive, we would have had probably a different conversation tonight but you know what we would still be winning and winning big.”&nbsp;While he did not say a word about the new Supreme Leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-confirms-iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-s-location-new-leader-is-in-1775000348120">Mojtaba Khamenei</a> in his speech, he did repeat that negotiations are ongoing but warned that if deal is not struck, each and every location in Iran would be hit. Winding up his speech, America is free from “Iranian aggression.” "Tonight, every American can look forward to a day when we are finally free from the wickedness of Iranian aggression and the spectre of nuclear blackmail," he said.<h2>What Trump said on Strait of Hormuz?</h2>On the crucial issue of the reopening of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-willing-to-end-iran-war-without-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-1774923738453">Strait of Hormuz</a>, the vital shipping route, he claimed that it would “open up naturally.” The POTUS further hailed US troops and Gulf nations for fighting the regime's threat. He also assured them that US won't let its Gulf Arab allies or Israel "get hurt or fail" due to the Iran war. "I want to thank our allies in the Middle East, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain. They've been great, and we will not let them get hurt or fail in any way, shape, or form," he said.<h2>What Trump said about oil?</h2>Just two days after he said that his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-contradicts-don-t-need-iran-oil-stance-hints-at-seizing-kharg-island-1774836464859">favourite thing is to take oil</a>, the US president in his speech claimed that US has oil more than Saudi and UAE combined and it is not dependent on Iranian oil. He boasted the takeover of Venezuela. In a message to other countries that rely on oil from the West Asia, Trump said that they should bear responsibility for getting oil tankers to flow through the Strait of Hormuz again, claiming that their threat from Iran is “decimated.” "Grab it and cherish it," he said referring to the 21-mile-wide strait that one-fifth of the world's oil typically flows through, though he suggested the US is willing to be helpful in that mission.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-willing-to-end-iran-war-without-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-1774923738453">Trump willing to end Iran war without reopening Strait of Hormuz: New report</a><h2>Is the war over?</h2>The war in West Asia is NOT over, Trump said, "I am pleased to say that these core strategic objectives are nearing completion. US is systemically dismantling the regime's ability to threaten America or project power outside of their borders. Over the next two to three weeks, we are going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong.”<h2>What Iran said ahead of speech?</h2>Iran has accused Washington of making "maximalist and irrational" demands. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said, "Messages have been received through intermediaries, including Pakistan, but there is no direct negotiation with the US," said, quoted by the ISNA news agency. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi also made similar statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-regime-change-happened-after-a-month-of-war-hints-at-peace-deal-soon-1774830991167">‘Iran has undergone regime change’: Trump's BIG statement after a month of war</a>&nbsp;The US has claimed that it has been holding direct and indirect talks with the Iranians. However, Iran has maintained that only messages have been exchanged and no formal talks or negotiations have taken place. Trump is of the belief that Iran will accept his 15-point peace plan that include giving up of enriched uranium and assurance of never having a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump said Iran’s military is “in ruins,” claiming its navy, air force, and IRGC have been destroyed. He highlighted US strikes, defended operations like “Midnight Hammer,” and warned of missile threats, insisting the war strengthens US security and independence.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Apr 1) addressed the world about the ongoing war with Iran and said that the Islamic Republic is in ruins and is decimated. In a high-stake address, Trump detailed the United States’ ongoing military campaign against Iran and defended Operation Epic Fury. While Washington has been accused of not having a clear objective for the Iran war, Trump stated, once again, that regime change was not the agenda and main objectives were: destroying weapons factories, destroying their navy and air force and ending all possibilities for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon. He portrayed the conflict as a decisive success, saying that US is "winning bigger than ever before." Emphasizing that his first approach was diplomacy, he claimed that it ultimately failed, making military action necessary. He framed the war as critical to protecting global stability, countering long-standing threats from Iran, and ensuring that the US remains secure and less dependent on West Asian resources. What Trump claimed in his speech? In a long rant against former President Barack Obama and Iran nuclear deal that was known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), he said that it gave Iran time to rebuild and strengthen its nuclear capabilities. It was signed between Obama and former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Trump also recalled the killing of Iranian General Qasem Solemani during his first term and said that Iran would be much more stronger had he been alive. “If Soleimani was still alive, we would have had probably a different conversation tonight but you know what we would still be winning and winning big.” While he did not say a word about the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei in his speech, he did repeat that negotiations are ongoing but warned that if deal is not struck, each and every location in Iran would be hit. Winding up his speech, America is free from “Iranian aggression.” "Tonight, every American can look forward to a day when we are finally free from the wickedness of Iranian aggression and the spectre of nuclear blackmail," he said. What Trump said on Strait of Hormuz? On the crucial issue of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the vital shipping route, he claimed that it would “open up naturally.” The POTUS further hailed US troops and Gulf nations for fighting the regime's threat. He also assured them that US won't let its Gulf Arab allies or Israel "get hurt or fail" due to the Iran war. "I want to thank our allies in the Middle East, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain. They've been great, and we will not let them get hurt or fail in any way, shape, or form," he said. What Trump said about oil? Just two days after he said that his favourite thing is to take oil, the US president in his speech claimed that US has oil more than Saudi and UAE combined and it is not dependent on Iranian oil. He boasted the takeover of Venezuela. In a message to other countries that rely on oil from the West Asia, Trump said that they should bear responsibility for getting oil tankers to flow through the Strait of Hormuz again, claiming that their threat from Iran is “decimated.” "Grab it and cherish it," he said referring to the 21-mile-wide strait that one-fifth of the world's oil typically flows through, though he suggested the US is willing to be helpful in that mission. Also Read:Trump willing to end Iran war without reopening Strait of Hormuz: New report Is the war over? The war in West Asia is NOT over, Trump said, "I am pleased to say that these core strategic objectives are nearing completion. US is systemically dismantling the regime's ability to threaten America or project power outside of their borders. Over the next two to three weeks, we are going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong.” What Iran said ahead of speech? Iran has accused Washington of making "maximalist and irrational" demands. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said, "Messages have been received through intermediaries, including Pakistan, but there is no direct negotiation with the US," said, quoted by the ISNA news agency. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi also made similar statement. Also Read: ‘Iran has undergone regime change’: Trump's BIG statement after a month of war The US has claimed that it has been holding direct and indirect talks with the Iranians. However, Iran has maintained that only messages have been exchanged and no formal talks or negotiations have taken place. Trump is of the belief that Iran will accept his 15-point peace plan that include giving up of enriched uranium and assurance of never having a nuclear weapon. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump said Iran’s military is ‘in ruins’ claiming its navy, air force, and IRGC have been destroyed. He highlighted US strikes, defended operations like Op Epic Fury and warned of missile threats, insisting the war strengthens US security and independence.

'Iran is decimated' but war NOT over: Trump repeats old claims in new address

Iran has indicated that Indians and Indian shipping interests are secure amid war-linked tensions on the Strait of Hormuz, while reports claimed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is charging vessels around $1 per barrel of oil for safe passage using non-dollar payment methods. The message to Indians followed remarks by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi that only Iran and Oman would determine the future of the strait through which about 20 per cent of global oil and LNG trade flows.&nbsp;<h2>‘Our Indian friends are in safe hands’: Iran</h2>“Our Indian friends are in safe hands, no worries,” Iran’s embassy in New Delhi said in a post on X, along with a wink emoji. This is a possible signal of preferential treatment for India as the Strait of Hormuz faces disruption due to the US-Israel war on Iran. Despite the global tensions, India has not reported major supply concerns for oil and gas. This is significant, as India is one of the world’s largest oil importers. Indian officials have reassured the public that fuel stocks remain adequate, and the government has intervened in cases of black marketing of LPG and increases in aviation turbine fuel prices.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-lpg-tanker-escaped-strait-of-hormuz-mines-via-new-route-did-not-pay-fee-for-transit-1775028249692">Indian LPG tanker escaped Strait of Hormuz mines via new route; did not pay fee for transit</a><h2>Iran claims full control of Strait of Hormuz</h2>The reassurance comes as Iran claims “full and decisive control” over the critical chokepoint, describing its actions as self-defence following US and Israeli strikes from February 28. It has repeatedly said that friendly nations like India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iraq are being granted safe transit through the waterway. Several Indian-flagged vessels have already passed through after coordination with Iran.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-consider-when-hormuz-is-open-trump-says-iran-asked-for-ceasefire-1775042630435">'Will consider when Hormuz is open..': Trump says Iran asked for ceasefire as West Asia war escalates</a><h2>Iran de-dollarising oil trade? Payments reportedly made in yuan and stablecoins</h2>A report by Bloomberg claimed that the IRGC has effectively established a toll system for commercial shipping along the strait. It said oil tankers are being charged $1 per barrel. This means large vessels carrying about 2 million barrels could pay up to $2 million per transit. Payments are required in Chinese yuan or stablecoins such as USDT, bypassing US-dominated financial systems, the report said.<h2>How vessels are being allowed to pass via Strait of Hormuz</h2>According to reports, vessels seeking passage must contact IRGC-linked intermediaries and submit detailed documentation. This includes details of ownership, cargo and crew. A vetting process follows, based on the perceived geopolitical alignment of the nations linked to the vessels with Iran. Friendly nations receive more favourable terms, while others risk denial or even attack, the reports claimed.Once approved, the ships are issued permits, assigned routes, and in some cases escorted by Iranian patrol boats.Some tankers have paid in Chinese currency, yuan, and others in crypto. The reports state that this toll system has been formalised by Iran’s parliamentary National Security Committee.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-china-call-for-restoring-navigation-in-strait-of-hormuz-1775051996141/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-china-call-for-restoring-navigation-in-strait-of-hormuz-1775051996141/embed</a><h2>Shipping traffic along Strait of Hormuz is still low</h2>Despite the assurances from Iran, overall shipping traffic via the Strait of Hormuz remains below pre-conflict levels. Several major carriers are staying away from the route, as insurance costs have surged, particularly following incidents such as the recent drone strike on a Kuwaiti tanker.The legal basis for Iranian tolls under international maritime law is not yet clear. International law typically limits territorial control to 12 nautical miles.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran has reassured India on safe passage of its vessels via Strait of Hormuz. Reports meanwhile claim that the IRGC is charging $1 per barrel toll in yuan and cryptocurrency like stablecoins. But the situation is far from normal

Iran has indicated that Indians and Indian shipping interests are secure amid war-linked tensions on the Strait of Hormuz, while reports claimed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is charging vessels around $1 per barrel of oil for safe passage using non-dollar payment methods. The message to Indians followed remarks by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi that only Iran and Oman would determine the future of the strait through which about 20 per cent of global oil and LNG trade flows. ‘Our Indian friends are in safe hands’: Iran “Our Indian friends are in safe hands, no worries,” Iran’s embassy in New Delhi said in a post on X, along with a wink emoji. This is a possible signal of preferential treatment for India as the Strait of Hormuz faces disruption due to the US-Israel war on Iran. Despite the global tensions, India has not reported major supply concerns for oil and gas. This is significant, as India is one of the world’s largest oil importers. Indian officials have reassured the public that fuel stocks remain adequate, and the government has intervened in cases of black marketing of LPG and increases in aviation turbine fuel prices. Also read: Indian LPG tanker escaped Strait of Hormuz mines via new route; did not pay fee for transit Iran claims full control of Strait of Hormuz The reassurance comes as Iran claims “full and decisive control” over the critical chokepoint, describing its actions as self-defence following US and Israeli strikes from February 28. It has repeatedly said that friendly nations like India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iraq are being granted safe transit through the waterway. Several Indian-flagged vessels have already passed through after coordination with Iran. Also read: 'Will consider when Hormuz is open..': Trump says Iran asked for ceasefire as West Asia war escalates Iran de-dollarising oil trade? Payments reportedly made in yuan and stablecoins A report by Bloomberg claimed that the IRGC has effectively established a toll system for commercial shipping along the strait. It said oil tankers are being charged $1 per barrel. This means large vessels carrying about 2 million barrels could pay up to $2 million per transit. Payments are required in Chinese yuan or stablecoins such as USDT, bypassing US-dominated financial systems, the report said. How vessels are being allowed to pass via Strait of Hormuz According to reports, vessels seeking passage must contact IRGC-linked intermediaries and submit detailed documentation. This includes details of ownership, cargo and crew. A vetting process follows, based on the perceived geopolitical alignment of the nations linked to the vessels with Iran. Friendly nations receive more favourable terms, while others risk denial or even attack, the reports claimed. Once approved, the ships are issued permits, assigned routes, and in some cases escorted by Iranian patrol boats. Some tankers have paid in Chinese currency, yuan, and others in crypto. The reports state that this toll system has been formalised by Iran’s parliamentary National Security Committee. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-china-call-for-restoring-navigation-in-strait-of-hormuz-1775051996141/embed Shipping traffic along Strait of Hormuz is still low Despite the assurances from Iran, overall shipping traffic via the Strait of Hormuz remains below pre-conflict levels. Several major carriers are staying away from the route, as insurance costs have surged, particularly following incidents such as the recent drone strike on a Kuwaiti tanker. The legal basis for Iranian tolls under international maritime law is not yet clear. International law typically limits territorial control to 12 nautical miles. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran has reassured India on safe passage of its vessels via Strait of Hormuz. Reports meanwhile claim that the IRGC is charging $1 per barrel toll in yuan and cryptocurrency like stablecoins. But the situation is far from normal

‘Indian friends are safe’, says Iran on Strait of Hormuz transit as IRGC reportedly charges $1 per oil barrel in yuan and stablecoins

US President Donald Trump awkwardly suggested that his Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, is responsible for all the bad publicity. Speaking at the Oval Office on Tuesday, Trump launched an attack on the “fake press” for unfavourable coverage of him in a wild moment. He suggested that he receives “between 93 and 97” per cent bad publicity. He rather playfully blamed the White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, “You’re doing a terrible job.”“I get 93 per cent bad publicity, maybe between 93 to 97 per cent" Trump floated a phoney number in a sweeping statement and continued, Maybe Karoline’s doing a poor job…Should we keep her? I think we’ll keep her,” said Trump.&nbsp;Trump said that he gets all this bad publicity but still won “in a landslide”, whereas his 1.5 percentage point popular vote margin was smaller than many previous election victories by other Presidents. Using this creates a distrust for the media among the “public”. &nbsp;“We have to straighten our media…The papers that are being dishonest. People don’t believe the media,” said Trump.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-leavitt-defends-trump-pope-leo-xiv-prayer-war-1774958440932">Karoline Leavitt defends Donald Trump amid Pope Leo XIV criticism over prayer and war</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: I got 93% bad publicity. Maybe Karoline is doing a poor job. <a href="https://t.co/HINANqxbs9">pic.twitter.com/HINANqxbs9</a>&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/2039106165054001356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump's obsession with Karoline Leavitt</h2>Karoline Leavitt, the youngest Press Secretary, is like a little play toy for the US President Donald Trump. This can be deduced based on his unstatesmanlike public remarks, which are not just in poor taste but sometimes lewd and obscene.&nbsp;&nbsp;In an August 2025 interview with NewsMax, Trump creeped over Karoline Leavitt's lips, saying they “move like she’s a machine gun”. In a subsequent interview on Air Force One in October, in a Pennsylvania rally in December, he made similar remarks, and once himself admitted that calling her beautiful might be "politically incorrect" and could "harm his political career," but he does not care. In January 2026, during a turbulence in an Air Force One interview, he suggested that maybe he should “grab” Karoline Leavitt, to which many connected it to Trump's 2005 remark “grab them”.&nbsp;&nbsp;These remarks are glaring examples of workplace abuse by a man taking advantage of the imbalance in power. Many suggest that Leavitt fawns over Trump to maintain her high-profile job. Leavitt had been the biggest defender of US President Donald Trump. She explained that these remarks show Trump's authenticity and recently called for him to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.&nbsp;

Donald Trump blames Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt for “93–97% bad publicity,” triggering backlash over media attacks and controversial remarks.

US President Donald Trump awkwardly suggested that his Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, is responsible for all the bad publicity. Speaking at the Oval Office on Tuesday, Trump launched an attack on the “fake press” for unfavourable coverage of him in a wild moment. He suggested that he receives “between 93 and 97” per cent bad publicity. He rather playfully blamed the White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, “You’re doing a terrible job.” “I get 93 per cent bad publicity, maybe between 93 to 97 per cent" Trump floated a phoney number in a sweeping statement and continued, Maybe Karoline’s doing a poor job…Should we keep her? I think we’ll keep her,” said Trump. Trump said that he gets all this bad publicity but still won “in a landslide”, whereas his 1.5 percentage point popular vote margin was smaller than many previous election victories by other Presidents. Using this creates a distrust for the media among the “public”. “We have to straighten our media…The papers that are being dishonest. People don’t believe the media,” said Trump. Also Read: Karoline Leavitt defends Donald Trump amid Pope Leo XIV criticism over prayer and war

Donald Trump blames Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt for “93–97% bad publicity,” triggering backlash over media attacks and controversial remarks.

Donald Trump says Karoline Leavitt is doing a 'terrible job' and is responsible for ‘bad Publicity’

Iran has continued to strike American military bases in the Middle East after US and Israeli forces together launched an air strike on the country on February 28, killing its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several other of its top leadership. In latest attack, Iranian missiles have hit a US base in Jordan. For Israeli fighter jets Jordanian skies are the main route to enter Iran.&nbsp;In a video that has been shared on various social media platforms including X by IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting), one can see a missile hitting a target behind what looks like a small mountainous region. The broadcaster claims it is an Iranian missile strike on US base in Jordan.&nbsp;The authenticity of the video could not be independently verified by WION.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🚨🚨The moment an Iranian missile hit a US base in Jordan. The main route for Israeli fighter jets to enter Iran is through Jordanian skies and the skies of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq. <a href="https://t.co/Q1sAlJ3uL6">pic.twitter.com/Q1sAlJ3uL6</a>&mdash; IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) (@iribnews_irib) <a href="https://twitter.com/iribnews_irib/status/2039561209582588014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran's strike on US military infrastructure &nbsp;</h2>Since Operation Epic Fury began on Feb 28 against Iran by US and Israeli military, Tehran has carried out several strikes on US installation across the Middle East.&nbsp;On March 27, a drone attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia damaged an US Air Force E-3 Sentry and an airborne warning and control system,&nbsp;Two weeks earlier, on March 13, five KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft were damaged in Iranian strike.&nbsp;At least seven U.S. bases across Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have &nbsp;come under Iranian attack since the war broke out on February 28.&nbsp;The Iranian strikes have mainly focused on hitting infrastructure that U.S. forces depend on to detect threats, refuel aircraft and direct air operations in the region.&nbsp;The US Central Command however say that Iranian missile and drone launches dropped more than 90% by late March.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Since Operation Epic Fury began on Feb 28 against Iran by US and Israeli military, Tehran has carried out several strikes on US installation across the Middle East.

Iran has continued to strike American military bases in the Middle East after US and Israeli forces together launched an air strike on the country on February 28, killing its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several other of its top leadership. In latest attack, Iranian missiles have hit a US base in Jordan. For Israeli fighter jets Jordanian skies are the main route to enter Iran. In a video that has been shared on various social media platforms including X by IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting), one can see a missile hitting a target behind what looks like a small mountainous region. The broadcaster claims it is an Iranian missile strike on US base in Jordan. The authenticity of the video could not be independently verified by WION.

Since Operation Epic Fury began on Feb 28 against Iran by US and Israeli military, Tehran has carried out several strikes on US installation across the Middle East.

WATCH: US base in Jordan hit by Iranian missile, claims state media

Donald Trump doubled down on fiery rhetoric, calling Iran “decimated” yet vowing weeks of intense strikes. From “stone age” threats to nuclear warnings and oil claims, his speech mixed victory laps with contradictions, leaving the war’s end uncertain.

Trump wants Iran in 'stone age' but forgets to 'Make Iran Great Again': A look at buzzwords, misses, takeaways from POTUS speech

US President Donald Trump attempted to justify the ongoing Iran war, in his Wednesday address, by comparing it to the other wars that America has been involved in. While he did not provide a definitive date to end the ongoing operation, he did specify the timelines of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean and Iraq wars and contrasted it with the latest American offensive on Iran and said that it has only been 32 days. Trump claimed that Iran has been decimated and the US do not need Iranian oil. While he did not mention anything about Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, his focus on explaining the need of the war and justify it comes at a time when his popularity is dipping in the US. Recent polling showed that Trump's overall approval rating slipped below 40 percent, with disapproval climbing above the mid-50s, with the war itself deeply unpopular, even with segments of his own Republican Party.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-speaks-on-iran-war-says-our-objectives-are-nearing-completion-1775095151852/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-speaks-on-iran-war-says-our-objectives-are-nearing-completion-1775095151852/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective. American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War II lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation, so powerful, so brilliant against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat,” Trump said in his 19-minute long speech.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-grab-it-cherish-it-trump-sends-message-to-nations-over-strait-of-hormuz-blockage-says-us-don-t-need-iranian-oil-1775099672040">'Grab it, cherish it': Trump sends message to nations over Hormuz blockage</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: American involvement in WW1 lasted one year, seven months and five days. WW2 lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean war lasted for three years, one month, and two days. The Vietnam war lasted for 19 years, five months, and 29 days. Iraq went on for… <a href="https://t.co/AaCxsJWQFB">pic.twitter.com/AaCxsJWQFB</a>&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/2039513958126965147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 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-is-decimated-but-war-not-over-trump-repeats-negotiations-claims-says-strikes-to-continue-for-2-3-weeks-1775090848149">'Iran is decimated' but war NOT over: Trump repeats old claims in new address</a>&nbsp;The POTUS once again hinted at ending the war soon and vowed two to three weeks further of "extremely hard" strikes against Iran. "We are going to finish the job, and we're going to finish it very fast. We're getting very close," he said in remarks that largely rehashed his daily streams of social-media postings and rapid media interviews.&nbsp;<h2>What he means?</h2>While Trump’s comparison to past American wars is meant to justify the Iran war to the public, many analysts contend it may signal a continued conflict rather than an imminent end, as his remarks offer no clear timeline or strategy for de‑escalation and markets and experts remain uncertain about when the war will actually conclude.&nbsp;

In a Wednesday address, Donald Trump compared the 32-day US operation in Iran to past wars, claiming Iran has been “decimated” and US oil independence is ensured. He vowed 2–3 more weeks of strikes as his approval falls below 40%, with the war increasingly unpopular even among Republicans.

US President Donald Trump attempted to justify the ongoing Iran war, in his Wednesday address, by comparing it to the other wars that America has been involved in. While he did not provide a definitive date to end the ongoing operation, he did specify the timelines of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean and Iraq wars and contrasted it with the latest American offensive on Iran and said that it has only been 32 days. Trump claimed that Iran has been decimated and the US do not need Iranian oil. While he did not mention anything about Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, his focus on explaining the need of the war and justify it comes at a time when his popularity is dipping in the US. Recent polling showed that Trump's overall approval rating slipped below 40 percent, with disapproval climbing above the mid-50s, with the war itself deeply unpopular, even with segments of his own Republican Party. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-speaks-on-iran-war-says-our-objectives-are-nearing-completion-1775095151852/embed “It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective. American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War II lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation, so powerful, so brilliant against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat,” Trump said in his 19-minute long speech. Also Read: 'Grab it, cherish it': Trump sends message to nations over Hormuz blockage

In a Wednesday address, Donald Trump compared the 32-day US operation in Iran to past wars, claiming Iran has been “decimated” and US oil independence is ensured. He vowed 2–3 more weeks of strikes as his approval falls below 40%, with the war increasingly unpopular even among Republicans.

'Only 32 days': Trump compares Iran operation to Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World wars — What he means?

US President Donald Trump addressed the nation amid the Iran conflict, asserting that the US does not rely on Middle Eastern oil. He said, “We have plenty of gas. We have so much gas. No country like us anywhere in the world. US imports no oil.” He urged countries dependent on the Strait of Hormuz to step up, saying, “Countries take oil from Hormuz. Those countries should take lead.” Trump also claimed, “We produce more oil and gas than Saudi Arabia and Russia combined.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-is-decimated-but-war-not-over-trump-repeats-negotiations-claims-says-strikes-to-continue-for-2-3-weeks-1775090848149">'Iran is decimated' but war NOT over: Trump repeats negotiations claims, says strikes will continue for 2–3 weeks.</a><h2>When will Strait of Hormuz reopen?</h2>On the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said it would reopen on its own after the conflict, adding, “We will be taking the lead but countries that can’t pass should take the lead. Buy from US. Build delayed courage, go to the strait and take it. Hard part is done. Once the conflict is over, the strait will reopen naturally.” “We will be taking the lead but countries that can’t pass should take the lead. Buy from US. Build delayed courage, go to the strait and take it. Hard part is done. Once the conflict is over, the strait will reopen naturally", he said. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-warns-us-may-strike-iran-s-oil-assets-1775098787367/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-warns-us-may-strike-iran-s-oil-assets-1775098787367/embed</a>&nbsp;The strait, a vital global energy route handling about one-fifth of oil and gas trade, has been blocked by Iran following US-Israeli strikes, disrupting supplies and raising prices worldwide.&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.

'Grab it, cherish it': Trump sends message to nations over Strait of Hormuz blockage, says 'US don't need Iranian oil'

US President Donald Trump addressed the nation amid the Iran conflict, asserting that the US does not rely on Middle Eastern oil. He said, “We have plenty of gas. We have so much gas. No country like us anywhere in the world. US imports no oil.” He urged countries dependent on the Strait of Hormuz to step up, saying, “Countries take oil from Hormuz. Those countries should take lead.” Trump also claimed, “We produce more oil and gas than Saudi Arabia and Russia combined.” Also Read: 'Iran is decimated' but war NOT over: Trump repeats negotiations claims, says strikes will continue for 2–3 weeks. When will Strait of Hormuz reopen? On the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said it would reopen on its own after the conflict, adding, “We will be taking the lead but countries that can’t pass should take the lead. Buy from US. Build delayed courage, go to the strait and take it. Hard part is done. Once the conflict is over, the strait will reopen naturally.” “We will be taking the lead but countries that can’t pass should take the lead. Buy from US. Build delayed courage, go to the strait and take it. Hard part is done. Once the conflict is over, the strait will reopen naturally", he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-warns-us-may-strike-iran-s-oil-assets-1775098787367/embed The strait, a vital global energy route handling about one-fifth of oil and gas trade, has been blocked by Iran following US-Israeli strikes, disrupting supplies and raising prices worldwide. 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.

Trump says that the US doesn’t need Middle East oil, urges others to lead in Hormuz crisis, and claims strait will reopen after conflict ends

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