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Multiple reports suggest that Gulf nations are slowly running out of air defence capacity amid a barrage of Iranian missile and drone strikes in retaliation for US–Israel attacks on the Islamic Republic in the ongoing war. This is forcing nations such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE to consider joining the war against Iran after remaining on the defensive for the first month. Here is how the air defence systems are holding up against the Iranian strikes.<h2>Iran fired thousands of missiles and drones at Gulf nations</h2>A report in Bloomberg claimed that Iran has launched 1,200 ballistic missiles and 4,000 Shahed drones and cruise missiles at US bases and military assets in Gulf countries since the war began on 28 February. Iran also targeted oil and gas facilities in several nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. This past weekend alone, around 40 Iranian missiles were launched in a single wave, which is twice the daily average, the report said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-says-securing-the-strait-of-hormuz-is-not-our-job-1775022284664/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-says-securing-the-strait-of-hormuz-is-not-our-job-1775022284664/embed</a><h2>Gulf countries ended up firing double the number of interceptors</h2>The air defence systems of Gulf nations, mostly bought from the US, have fired more than 2,400 interceptors. This has nearly exhausted their pre-war stockpiles of these missiles, according to the Bloomberg report.This is because the defence systems often have to fire at least twice at each missile or drone based on the ‘shoot, shoot, look’ doctrine. This means interceptors are launched twice and then the results are assessed. By implication, it can be estimated that at least 2,400 interceptors were fired over the course of the war, perhaps more. This is because, at times, additional interceptor missiles are needed to defend against incoming projectiles, the Bloomberg report noted.Most of these interceptors were Patriot PAC-3 and GEM-T (Guidance Enhanced Missile–Tactical) missiles. Before the war, Gulf nations had fewer than 2,800 of these.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-to-join-iran-war-report-claims-gulf-nation-to-help-us-allies-force-open-strait-of-hormuz-1775023984485">UAE to join Iran war? Report claims Gulf nation to help US, allies force open Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>Iran targeted crucial military and fuel facilities of Gulf nations; layered defence under strain</h2>Iran has targeted US bases such as Prince Sultan in Saudi Arabia, Al Udeid in Qatar and Al Dhafra in the UAE, among others. Its missiles and drones have also hit ports and oil infrastructure.Gulf states intercepted most of the threats, but the volume of attacks from Iran has created significant pressure.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expect-destruction-irgc-threatens-attacks-on-us-firms-in-gulf-after-iran-leader-killings-which-companies-are-on-the-target-list-1774971791262">'Expect destruction': IRGC threatens attacks on US firms in Gulf after Iran leader killings. Which companies are on target list</a><h2>Interceptor missiles are expensive</h2>There is heavy dependence on US-supplied defence systems. Pre-war stockpiles of these specific interceptors were fewer than 2,800, whereas at least 2,400 have already been fired, leaving limited reserves.They are not quickly replaceable in large quantities during active conflict, with Patriot PAC-3 missiles alone costing millions of dollars each.Countries such as the UAE also use the US-made THAAD defence system, as well as fighter jets for intercepting drones and cruise missiles.&nbsp;However, high-end ballistic interceptors are reserved for the most dangerous threats.<h2>Iranian strikes are getting through despite interceptions</h2>Some Iranian missiles or drones have managed to land in Gulf states and cause damage despite interception efforts.Iran’s long-range missiles are harder to fully suppress.&nbsp;Iran has managed to launch them from dispersed sites despite claims that US–Israel airstrikes have degraded two-thirds of these launchers.<h2>Gulf defence is running dry. Offence may be the next option</h2>Sustained Iranian attacks risk Gulf nations running out of key defensive munitions.Some officials are privately questioning the security guarantees offered by the US, while others have reportedly asked it to ‘finish the job’ in order to deprive Iran of the ability to carry out such strikes in future.This could eventually force them to join the war.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.

Gulf nations are facing air defence strain as Iranian missile and drone attacks intensify. Interceptor stockpiles are depleting, raising concerns over security. This might force them to join the war 

Multiple reports suggest that Gulf nations are slowly running out of air defence capacity amid a barrage of Iranian missile and drone strikes in retaliation for US–Israel attacks on the Islamic Republic in the ongoing war. This is forcing nations such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE to consider joining the war against Iran after remaining on the defensive for the first month. Here is how the air defence systems are holding up against the Iranian strikes. Iran fired thousands of missiles and drones at Gulf nations A report in Bloomberg claimed that Iran has launched 1,200 ballistic missiles and 4,000 Shahed drones and cruise missiles at US bases and military assets in Gulf countries since the war began on 28 February. Iran also targeted oil and gas facilities in several nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. This past weekend alone, around 40 Iranian missiles were launched in a single wave, which is twice the daily average, the report said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-says-securing-the-strait-of-hormuz-is-not-our-job-1775022284664/embed Gulf countries ended up firing double the number of interceptors The air defence systems of Gulf nations, mostly bought from the US, have fired more than 2,400 interceptors. This has nearly exhausted their pre-war stockpiles of these missiles, according to the Bloomberg report. This is because the defence systems often have to fire at least twice at each missile or drone based on the ‘shoot, shoot, look’ doctrine. This means interceptors are launched twice and then the results are assessed. By implication, it can be estimated that at least 2,400 interceptors were fired over the course of the war, perhaps more. This is because, at times, additional interceptor missiles are needed to defend against incoming projectiles, the Bloomberg report noted. Most of these interceptors were Patriot PAC-3 and GEM-T (Guidance Enhanced Missile–Tactical) missiles. Before the war, Gulf nations had fewer than 2,800 of these. Also read: UAE to join Iran war? Report claims Gulf nation to help US, allies force open Strait of Hormuz Iran targeted crucial military and fuel facilities of Gulf nations; layered defence under strain Iran has targeted US bases such as Prince Sultan in Saudi Arabia, Al Udeid in Qatar and Al Dhafra in the UAE, among others. Its missiles and drones have also hit ports and oil infrastructure. Gulf states intercepted most of the threats, but the volume of attacks from Iran has created significant pressure. Also read: 'Expect destruction': IRGC threatens attacks on US firms in Gulf after Iran leader killings. Which companies are on target list Interceptor missiles are expensive There is heavy dependence on US-supplied defence systems. Pre-war stockpiles of these specific interceptors were fewer than 2,800, whereas at least 2,400 have already been fired, leaving limited reserves. They are not quickly replaceable in large quantities during active conflict, with Patriot PAC-3 missiles alone costing millions of dollars each. Countries such as the UAE also use the US-made THAAD defence system, as well as fighter jets for intercepting drones and cruise missiles. However, high-end ballistic interceptors are reserved for the most dangerous threats. Iranian strikes are getting through despite interceptions Some Iranian missiles or drones have managed to land in Gulf states and cause damage despite interception efforts. Iran’s long-range missiles are harder to fully suppress. Iran has managed to launch them from dispersed sites despite claims that US–Israel airstrikes have degraded two-thirds of these launchers. Gulf defence is running dry. Offence may be the next option Sustained Iranian attacks risk Gulf nations running out of key defensive munitions. Some officials are privately questioning the security guarantees offered by the US, while others have reportedly asked it to ‘finish the job’ in order to deprive Iran of the ability to carry out such strikes in future. This could eventually force them to join the war. 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.

Gulf nations are facing air defence strain as Iranian missile and drone attacks intensify. Interceptor stockpiles are depleting, raising concerns over security. This might force them to join the war&nbsp;

Iran war: Gulf states' air defences are under strain. It might force them to go on offensive

In a rare public appearance, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were seen joining a rally to mark the celebrations of Islamic Republic Day on Tuesday (Mar 31) night in Tehran. Their appearance, alongside senior officials, came at the time of the ongoing war with the US and Israel, which has been going on for a month now. In response, Tehran has retaliated across the Gulf, targeting US and Israeli targets.Araghchi and Pezeshkian were seen interacting with Iranians in the streets of Tehran without visible security. They were also seen stopping to take selfies with some. Their public appearance came despite a continued threat of assassination by the US and Israel.In the video, which quickly went viral on social media, Araghchi is seen interacting with the crowd. When asked why he joined the rally, the Iranian leader replied, “I came to be among them, to draw energy from the movement on the ground and to enjoy this unity and popular cohesion.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dr. Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, attended a nighttime gathering on the eve of Islamic Republic Day, expressing gratitude to the people and saying: “I’ve come to draw strength from your spirit.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IslamicRepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IslamicRepublicDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/hX9PtiIztv">pic.twitter.com/hX9PtiIztv</a>&mdash; Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2039150451405586920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>When were Iranian leaders last seen in public?</h2>The last time Pezeshkian and Araghchi were seen in public was on Iranian Quds Day. They made an appearance along with Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani, who was killed just days later his was seen in the streets of Tehran.Since the beginning of the war, the US and Israeli troops have targeted several top officials of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Larijani, and others.<h2>When will the war end?</h2>On Tuesday (Apr 1), Araghchi said that he received messages from US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Although he insisted that the communication did not constitute negotiations.“I receive messages from Witkoff directly, as before, and this does not mean that we are in negotiations,” he told Al Jazeera. “We do not have any faith that negotiations with the US will yield any results. The trust level is at zero.”On Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump said that the United States could end its military operation against Iran within “two to three weeks”. Despite warning Iran of a deal soon, Trump, in what may now be called a change in tone, said that Tehran does not have to make a deal as a condition for the war ending.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a rare public appearance in Tehran amid war, signalling unity as hostilities continue with the United States and Israel.

In a rare public appearance, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were seen joining a rally to mark the celebrations of Islamic Republic Day on Tuesday (Mar 31) night in Tehran. Their appearance, alongside senior officials, came at the time of the ongoing war with the US and Israel, which has been going on for a month now. In response, Tehran has retaliated across the Gulf, targeting US and Israeli targets. Araghchi and Pezeshkian were seen interacting with Iranians in the streets of Tehran without visible security. They were also seen stopping to take selfies with some. Their public appearance came despite a continued threat of assassination by the US and Israel. In the video, which quickly went viral on social media, Araghchi is seen interacting with the crowd. When asked why he joined the rally, the Iranian leader replied, “I came to be among them, to draw energy from the movement on the ground and to enjoy this unity and popular cohesion.”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a rare public appearance in Tehran amid war, signalling unity as hostilities continue with the United States and Israel.

WATCH | Iranian President Pezeshkian, FM Araghchi make rare public appearance amid war

Amid the ongoing West Asia war, Qatar stated that a tanker leased to its state-owned energy company was struck by an Iranian missile in the country's territorial waters on Wednesday (Apr 1). The Qatari Ministry of Defence announced that their armed forces “successfully intercepted two of the cruise missiles, while the third missile struck an oil tanker”.&nbsp;Gulf countries have faced repeated drone and missile salvos from Iran over the past month in response to US and Israeli strikes that began at the end of February. Iran has targeted hydrocarbon infrastructure in the oil-rich Gulf nations as well as shipping, effectively closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of global oil usually passes.&nbsp;QatarEnergy said in a statement the Aqua 1, a fuel oil tanker, had been "the subject of a missile attack in the northern territorial waters of the State of Qatar in the early morning hours of Wednesday".- It confirmed no crew members had been injured and there was "no impact on the environment as a result of this incident".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-war-why-iran-is-targeting-uae-bases-but-letting-abu-dhabi-oil-pass-on-friendly-ships-1773726079438">West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships</a>&nbsp;According to the British marine security agency UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incident occurred 17 nautical miles north of Doha.The agency later said "the vessel was struck by two projectiles" north of Ras Laffan, the world's largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) hub."One projectile caused a fire, which was extinguished, and another "remains unexploded within the vessel's engine room", UKMTO said.&nbsp;Private security firms Ambrey and Vanguard also reported unexploded ordnance within the tanker's engine room, adding that authorities were investigating. Earlier, UKMTO said the tanker had been "hit by unknown projectile on the port side causing damage to the hull above water line".&nbsp;(With agency inputs)

The Qatari Defence Ministry confirmed that an Iranian cruise missile struck the Aqua 1 oil tanker today. While two other missiles were successfully intercepted, the strike near Ras Laffan marks a significant escalation in the regional conflict. No casualties have been reported.

Amid the ongoing West Asia war, Qatar stated that a tanker leased to its state-owned energy company was struck by an Iranian missile in the country's territorial waters on Wednesday (Apr 1). The Qatari Ministry of Defence announced that their armed forces “successfully intercepted two of the cruise missiles, while the third missile struck an oil tanker”. Gulf countries have faced repeated drone and missile salvos from Iran over the past month in response to US and Israeli strikes that began at the end of February. Iran has targeted hydrocarbon infrastructure in the oil-rich Gulf nations as well as shipping, effectively closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of global oil usually passes. QatarEnergy said in a statement the Aqua 1, a fuel oil tanker, had been "the subject of a missile attack in the northern territorial waters of the State of Qatar in the early morning hours of Wednesday".- It confirmed no crew members had been injured and there was "no impact on the environment as a result of this incident". Also read: West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships According to the British marine security agency UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incident occurred 17 nautical miles north of Doha. The agency later said "the vessel was struck by two projectiles" north of Ras Laffan, the world's largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) hub. "One projectile caused a fire, which was extinguished, and another "remains unexploded within the vessel's engine room", UKMTO said. Private security firms Ambrey and Vanguard also reported unexploded ordnance within the tanker's engine room, adding that authorities were investigating. Earlier, UKMTO said the tanker had been "hit by unknown projectile on the port side causing damage to the hull above water line". (With agency inputs)

The Qatari Defence Ministry confirmed that an Iranian cruise missile struck the Aqua 1 oil tanker today. While two other missiles were successfully intercepted, the strike near Ras Laffan marks a significant escalation in the regional conflict. No casualties have been reported.

Iran struck oil tanker in Qatar, Defence Ministry said forces intercepted 2 of 3 cruise missiles

The head of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission on Wednesday (Apr 1) issued a stark warning to US President Donald Trump, saying that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed for the United States. In a statement, Ebrahim Azizi said that the strategic waterway will “certainly” be reopened, but “not for Trump”. This comes as US and Israeli forces continue to strike Iran, with Tehran retaliating across the Gulf and blocking the Strait of Hormuz.In a post on X, Azizi mocked Trump saying that he has reached the dream of “regime change” but in the regime of the region’s seas, referring to the Strait of Hormuz. He added that the waterway will be opened for those who follow new rules of Iran.“Finally, Trump has reached the dream of ‘regime change,’ but in the regime of the region's seas!” he said.“The Strait of Hormuz will certainly be opened; but not for you! For those who follow the new rules of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he added. “The 47-year era of hospitality is over.”<h2>Trump claims to end the war in ‘two to three weeks’</h2>On Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump said that the United States could end its military operation against Iran within “two to three weeks”. Despite warning Iran of a deal soon, Trump, in what may now be called a change in tone, said that Tehran does not have to make a deal as a condition for the war ending.Meanwhile, a Washington Post report on Tuesday (Mar 31) suggested that Trump told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. Reportedly, the US president and his advisers concluded that an operation to force open the strategic chokepoint would likely extend the conflict beyond their expected four- to six-week timeframe. Instead, he opted for the United States to focus on weakening Iran’s naval capabilities and missile reserves.The report contradicts Trump’s earlier statement on March 29, when he said that the US could reopen the strait in minutes. He also claimed that Iran is on the verge of accepting his 15-point peace plan, which includes the opening of Hormuz.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.

An Iranian lawmaker warned that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen, but “not for Trump” amid war. Meanwhile, Trump claims the conflict could end in weeks despite the rising tensions in West Asia.

The head of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission on Wednesday (Apr 1) issued a stark warning to US President Donald Trump, saying that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed for the United States. In a statement, Ebrahim Azizi said that the strategic waterway will “certainly” be reopened, but “not for Trump”. This comes as US and Israeli forces continue to strike Iran, with Tehran retaliating across the Gulf and blocking the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on X, Azizi mocked Trump saying that he has reached the dream of “regime change” but in the regime of the region’s seas, referring to the Strait of Hormuz. He added that the waterway will be opened for those who follow new rules of Iran. “Finally, Trump has reached the dream of ‘regime change,’ but in the regime of the region's seas!” he said. “The Strait of Hormuz will certainly be opened; but not for you! For those who follow the new rules of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he added. “The 47-year era of hospitality is over.” Trump claims to end the war in ‘two to three weeks’ On Tuesday (Mar 31), Trump said that the United States could end its military operation against Iran within “two to three weeks”. Despite warning Iran of a deal soon, Trump, in what may now be called a change in tone, said that Tehran does not have to make a deal as a condition for the war ending. Meanwhile, a Washington Post report on Tuesday (Mar 31) suggested that Trump told his aides that he is willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. Reportedly, the US president and his advisers concluded that an operation to force open the strategic chokepoint would likely extend the conflict beyond their expected four- to six-week timeframe. Instead, he opted for the United States to focus on weakening Iran’s naval capabilities and missile reserves. The report contradicts Trump’s earlier statement on March 29, when he said that the US could reopen the strait in minutes. He also claimed that Iran is on the verge of accepting his 15-point peace plan, which includes the opening of Hormuz. 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.

An Iranian lawmaker warned that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen, but “not for Trump” amid war. Meanwhile, Trump claims the conflict could end in weeks despite the rising tensions in West Asia.

‘Strait of Hormuz will be opened, but not for Trump’: Iranian lawmaker slams US president amid war

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during a press conference on Wednesday (April 1), said that NATO is "the single most effective military alliance that the world has ever seen" and that it has "kept us safe for many decades". He said that the UK is "fully committed" to NATO. His statement came in response to the ongoing clashes between NATO and the US in the backdrop of the Iran war. He added that "whatever they pressure on me and others, whatever the noise, I'm going to act in the British national interest in all teh decisions that I make".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/power-shift-in-iran-not-mojtaba-khamenei-irgc-assumes-de-facto-control-amid-war-with-us-israel-1775025649170">Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;"...It's been absolutely clear. That this is not our war. And we are not going to be dragged into it. And I'm equally clear that when it comes to defence security, and our economic future, we have to have closer ties with Europe," the British PM told the reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-not-our-war-we-aren-t-going-to-be-dragged-into-it-starmer-on-us-vs-nato-amid-iran-war-1775036357616">'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war</a>&nbsp;The PM also said that the UK will host a meeting of about 35 countries this week to discuss how to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz - which has been crippled by the Iran war. He said that the meeting will “assess all viable diplomatic and political measures that we can take to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers and resume the movement of vital commodities”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-m-going-trump-hints-he-could-become-first-sitting-us-president-to-attend-supreme-court-hearing-1775031635367">‘I’m going’: Trump hints he could become first sitting US president to attend Supreme Court hearing</a>&nbsp;"The conflict in the Middle East has now entered a second month. And while we're working at pace for de-escalation and peace, it is now clear that the impact of this war will affect the future of our country. So today, I want to reassure the British people that no matter how fierce this storm, we are well-placed to weather it, and that we have a long-term plan to emerge from it , a stronger, a more secure nation,” Starmer said.&nbsp;

UK PM Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK NATO commitment while asserting national interest. He explicitly declined involvement in the Iran-US conflict, instead prioritising closer security and economic ties with Europe.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during a press conference on Wednesday (April 1), said that NATO is "the single most effective military alliance that the world has ever seen" and that it has "kept us safe for many decades". He said that the UK is "fully committed" to NATO. His statement came in response to the ongoing clashes between NATO and the US in the backdrop of the Iran war. He added that "whatever they pressure on me and others, whatever the noise, I'm going to act in the British national interest in all teh decisions that I make". Also read: Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel "...It's been absolutely clear. That this is not our war. And we are not going to be dragged into it. And I'm equally clear that when it comes to defence security, and our economic future, we have to have closer ties with Europe," the British PM told the reporters. Also read: 'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war The PM also said that the UK will host a meeting of about 35 countries this week to discuss how to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz - which has been crippled by the Iran war. He said that the meeting will “assess all viable diplomatic and political measures that we can take to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers and resume the movement of vital commodities”. Also read: ‘I’m going’: Trump hints he could become first sitting US president to attend Supreme Court hearing "The conflict in the Middle East has now entered a second month. And while we're working at pace for de-escalation and peace, it is now clear that the impact of this war will affect the future of our country. So today, I want to reassure the British people that no matter how fierce this storm, we are well-placed to weather it, and that we have a long-term plan to emerge from it , a stronger, a more secure nation,” Starmer said.

UK PM Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK's NATO commitment while asserting national interest. He explicitly declined involvement in the Iran-US conflict, instead prioritising closer security and economic ties with Europe.

'This is not our war, we aren't going to be dragged into it': Starmer on US vs NATO amid Iran war

Oracle has begun laying off thousands of employees worldwide, with estimates suggesting total job cuts could reach between 20,000 and 30,000. Workers across regions reportedly received early-morning emails informing them that their roles had been eliminated with immediate effect. The software maker is reportedly dealing with a plummeting stock price tied to hefty capital commitments for building out AI infrastructure.&nbsp;The email cited “organisational change” and stated plainly: “Today is your last working day.” It added, “We are grateful for your dedication, hard work, and the impact you have made during your time with us.” Employees were told they would be eligible for severance “subject to the terms and conditions” after signing termination paperwork. The layoffs span multiple divisions, including cloud, sales, health, customer success and NetSuite, reflecting a broad restructuring rather than isolated cuts.&nbsp;<h2>AI expansion driving cost-cutting</h2>&nbsp;The primary trigger behind the layoffs is Oracle’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company is significantly increasing investment in data centres to compete with cloud leaders and support large-scale AI workloads. According to reports, this expansion comes at a substantial cost. Oracle has raised tens of billions of dollars to fund projects, including large AI data centre initiatives linked to OpenAI. The scale of spending has forced the company to reduce operational costs elsewhere, with workforce reduction emerging as a key lever.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-b-52-bombers-fly-over-iran-how-us-veteran-bomber-remains-indispensable-next-to-b-1-and-b-2-1774968358568">'B‑52 bombers fly over Iran': How US’ veteran bomber remains indispensable next to B‑1 and B‑2</a>&nbsp;According to a CNBC report, Oracle continues to rely on its flagship database business for storing and managing corporate data. In recent years, however, the company has significantly increased capital expenditure as it builds data centre infrastructure to support AI workloads, positioning itself alongside cloud rivals such as Amazon, though it remains smaller in scale. The company has also turned to the debt market to fund this expansion, announcing a $50 billion raise earlier this year, with no further borrowing planned for 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;Analysts estimate that cutting between 20,000 and 30,000 roles could generate $8 billion to $10 billion in additional free cash flow, helping to sustain these capital-intensive investments.&nbsp;<h2>Financial pressure and market response</h2>&nbsp;Oracle’s restructuring is also tied to mounting financial pressure. The company expects up to $2.1 billion in restructuring costs in fiscal 2026, largely driven by severance and related expenses.&nbsp;Despite reporting strong revenue and continued demand for its cloud services, Oracle’s stock has fallen sharply, down nearly 25–30 per cent this year, dropping more than all of tech’s megacaps, this comes amid investor concerns over rising debt and the risks associated with its AI-heavy strategy. However, markets reacted positively in the short term, with shares rising following news of the layoffs, reflecting expectations of improved cost efficiency.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oracle-layoffs-shock-30-000-jobs-slashed-worldwide-how-much-severance-are-employees-actually-getting-1775028211102">Oracle layoffs shock: 30,000 jobs slashed worldwide, how much severance are employees actually getting?</a>&nbsp;<h2>Part of a wider tech industry shift</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Oracle’s decision reflects a broader trend across the technology sector, where companies are cutting jobs to redirect resources towards artificial intelligence. More than 70 tech firms have collectively eliminated tens of thousands of roles this year alone as AI reshapes business priorities.&nbsp;While Oracle has not officially confirmed the full scale of the layoffs, the developments underline a clear shift: prioritising AI-driven growth, even as it results in large-scale workforce reductions across its existing operations.

The primary trigger behind the layoffs is Oracle’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company is significantly increasing investment in data centres to compete with cloud leaders and support large-scale AI workloads.

Oracle has begun laying off thousands of employees worldwide, with estimates suggesting total job cuts could reach between 20,000 and 30,000. Workers across regions reportedly received early-morning emails informing them that their roles had been eliminated with immediate effect. The software maker is reportedly dealing with a plummeting stock price tied to hefty capital commitments for building out AI infrastructure. The email cited “organisational change” and stated plainly: “Today is your last working day.” It added, “We are grateful for your dedication, hard work, and the impact you have made during your time with us.” Employees were told they would be eligible for severance “subject to the terms and conditions” after signing termination paperwork. The layoffs span multiple divisions, including cloud, sales, health, customer success and NetSuite, reflecting a broad restructuring rather than isolated cuts. AI expansion driving cost-cutting The primary trigger behind the layoffs is Oracle’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company is significantly increasing investment in data centres to compete with cloud leaders and support large-scale AI workloads. According to reports, this expansion comes at a substantial cost. Oracle has raised tens of billions of dollars to fund projects, including large AI data centre initiatives linked to OpenAI. The scale of spending has forced the company to reduce operational costs elsewhere, with workforce reduction emerging as a key lever. ALSO READ: 'B‑52 bombers fly over Iran': How US’ veteran bomber remains indispensable next to B‑1 and B‑2 According to a CNBC report, Oracle continues to rely on its flagship database business for storing and managing corporate data. In recent years, however, the company has significantly increased capital expenditure as it builds data centre infrastructure to support AI workloads, positioning itself alongside cloud rivals such as Amazon, though it remains smaller in scale. The company has also turned to the debt market to fund this expansion, announcing a $50 billion raise earlier this year, with no further borrowing planned for 2026. Analysts estimate that cutting between 20,000 and 30,000 roles could generate $8 billion to $10 billion in additional free cash flow, helping to sustain these capital-intensive investments. Financial pressure and market response Oracle’s restructuring is also tied to mounting financial pressure. The company expects up to $2.1 billion in restructuring costs in fiscal 2026, largely driven by severance and related expenses. Despite reporting strong revenue and continued demand for its cloud services, Oracle’s stock has fallen sharply, down nearly 25–30 per cent this year, dropping more than all of tech’s megacaps, this comes amid investor concerns over rising debt and the risks associated with its AI-heavy strategy. However, markets reacted positively in the short term, with shares rising following news of the layoffs, reflecting expectations of improved cost efficiency. ALSO READ: Oracle layoffs shock: 30,000 jobs slashed worldwide, how much severance are employees actually getting? Part of a wider tech industry shift Oracle’s decision reflects a broader trend across the technology sector, where companies are cutting jobs to redirect resources towards artificial intelligence. More than 70 tech firms have collectively eliminated tens of thousands of roles this year alone as AI reshapes business priorities. While Oracle has not officially confirmed the full scale of the layoffs, the developments underline a clear shift: prioritising AI-driven growth, even as it results in large-scale workforce reductions across its existing operations.

The primary trigger behind the layoffs is Oracle’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company is significantly increasing investment in data centres to compete with cloud leaders and support large-scale AI workloads.

Oracle layoffs: Why did the tech giant axe 30,000 jobs globally without warning?

Several Asian nations are increasing the use of coal in order to cover the energy crunch triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran. The development has triggered warnings from climate experts indicating that coal as dirtiest fossil fuel, which has a devastating environmental impact. They also indicated a wake-up call for governments to invest in renewables, which can offer a more stable supply and are less exposed to price hikes.&nbsp;From Bangladesh to South Korea, governments are attempting to offset declining energy imports, much of which traditionally comes from the Middle East. South Korea has postponed the closure of coal-fired power plants and lifted limits on coal-based power generation, while Thailand has increased output at the country’s largest coal-fired plant. Similarly, the Philippines, after declaring a “national energy emergency”, also plans to increase operations of its coal-fired power plants. In South Asia, India, where coal accounts for nearly 75 per cent of electricity generation, has directed plants to operate at full capacity, while Bangladesh has boosted both coal usage and imports. Countries are scrambling to address shortages, especially of liquefied natural gas (LNG), widely seen as a transition fuel. However, supply disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz closure and strikes on Qatar’s LNG facilities have worsened the crisis. Experts also indicated that a major LNG export facility in Qatar is set to exacerbate the shortage and will have a years-long impact on the industry.<h3>Removal of 30 billion cubic meters of LNG</h3>Henning Gloystein, managing director of energy and resources at Eurasia Group, stated that nearly 30 billion cubic meters of LNG have been discarded from global supply chains, of which over 80 per cent is missing in the Indo-Pacific region. He added that the remaining cargoes that crossed the strait before the conflict spiralled will arrive in the next week. “The global market has flipped within four weeks from quite a healthy supply surplus … into a very severe deficit – and that’s going to not just lead to price spikes, but real fuel shortages.” “Those countries that have coal reserves will be [using] that because it’s the fastest, cheapest way to replace LNG,” he said, adding that countries such as India are also increasing their use of renewable energy. Delhi has fast-tracked approvals for setting up wind power projects and battery energy storage systems. Pauline Heinrichs, a climate and energy expert at King’s College London, said the crisis could serve as a critical turning point for governments. “The impact of coal on climate and health outcomes is devastating and disastrous – and we’ve proven that this is the case for many decades. Not only does it worsen climate risks, of course, but the same goes for pollution and for toxicity,” she said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-doesn-t-have-to-make-a-deal-trump-makes-u-turn-on-peace-talks-says-war-could-end-in-two-to-three-weeks-1775007982329">'Iran doesn’t have to...': Trump makes U-turn on peace talks, says war could end in ‘two to three weeks’</a>&nbsp;

South Korea has postponed the closure of coal-fired power plants and lifted limits on coal-based power generation, while Thailand has increased output at the country’s largest coal-fired plant. 

Several Asian nations are increasing the use of coal in order to cover the energy crunch triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran. The development has triggered warnings from climate experts indicating that coal as dirtiest fossil fuel, which has a devastating environmental impact. They also indicated a wake-up call for governments to invest in renewables, which can offer a more stable supply and are less exposed to price hikes. From Bangladesh to South Korea, governments are attempting to offset declining energy imports, much of which traditionally comes from the Middle East. South Korea has postponed the closure of coal-fired power plants and lifted limits on coal-based power generation, while Thailand has increased output at the country’s largest coal-fired plant. Similarly, the Philippines, after declaring a “national energy emergency”, also plans to increase operations of its coal-fired power plants. In South Asia, India, where coal accounts for nearly 75 per cent of electricity generation, has directed plants to operate at full capacity, while Bangladesh has boosted both coal usage and imports. Countries are scrambling to address shortages, especially of liquefied natural gas (LNG), widely seen as a transition fuel. However, supply disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz closure and strikes on Qatar’s LNG facilities have worsened the crisis. Experts also indicated that a major LNG export facility in Qatar is set to exacerbate the shortage and will have a years-long impact on the industry. Removal of 30 billion cubic meters of LNG Henning Gloystein, managing director of energy and resources at Eurasia Group, stated that nearly 30 billion cubic meters of LNG have been discarded from global supply chains, of which over 80 per cent is missing in the Indo-Pacific region. He added that the remaining cargoes that crossed the strait before the conflict spiralled will arrive in the next week. “The global market has flipped within four weeks from quite a healthy supply surplus … into a very severe deficit – and that’s going to not just lead to price spikes, but real fuel shortages.” “Those countries that have coal reserves will be [using] that because it’s the fastest, cheapest way to replace LNG,” he said, adding that countries such as India are also increasing their use of renewable energy. Delhi has fast-tracked approvals for setting up wind power projects and battery energy storage systems. Pauline Heinrichs, a climate and energy expert at King’s College London, said the crisis could serve as a critical turning point for governments. “The impact of coal on climate and health outcomes is devastating and disastrous – and we’ve proven that this is the case for many decades. Not only does it worsen climate risks, of course, but the same goes for pollution and for toxicity,” she said. Also read: 'Iran doesn’t have to...': Trump makes U-turn on peace talks, says war could end in ‘two to three weeks’

South Korea has postponed the closure of coal-fired power plants and lifted limits on coal-based power generation, while Thailand has increased output at the country’s largest coal-fired plant.&nbsp;

Asian nations push for 'dirty fuels' to ease energy crisis amid West Asia war

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in West Asia that began on February 28, when the United States, alongside Israel, launched a series of pre-emptive strikes inside Iran, has entered its second month. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is dead and new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has taken over, but he has not been seen in public. Tehran has launched a full-scale retaliation, targeting Israel as well as American military installations across the Gulf region. Several Iranian leaders have been killed as strike continue. Iran-backed groups in the Gulf, namely Houthis and Hezbollah - have joined the war. Iran has blocked the strategic oil route the Strait of Hormuz, while Israel has expanded its attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon.After almost a month, US President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to engage and is said to have put forward a 15-point proposal aimed at ending the conflict. However, Iran has maintained that any communication so far has been indirect. Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary, reportedly preparing to host the talks if needed. Trump has been dilly-dallying in his approach on Iran, sometimes hinting at its end and sometimes saying that it will continueThe major question that arises amid the ongoing operation in West Asia is that what future holds? How the Iran-US relations will pan out and what it will mean for regional security in specific and world geopolitics at large? All updates and analysis on the ongoing situation as Israel-US war on Iran continues

Kuwaiti firefighters on Wednesday extinguished a massive fire that broke out in fuel tanks at Kuwait International Airport earlier in the day following an Iranian drone attack, the government said.&nbsp;There were no casualties, a government spokesperson said, and only material damage.The tanks were hit by drones as Iran retaliated with strikes across the Gulf.

Firefighters extinguish blaze in fuel tanks at Kuwait International Airport

Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev told Rossiya-24 state television that Russia’s state nuclear corporation plans to evacuate more than 200 of its staff from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant this week

Rosatom to evacuate over 200 workers from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, called President Donald Trump’s claim that it has asked for a ceasefire “false and baseless”, reported Iranian state television. Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard separately issued a statement saying the Strait of Hormuz “is firmly and decisively under the control” of its forces.“This strait will not be opened to the enemies of this nation through the ridiculous spectacle by the president of the United States,” it added.

Trump’s claim of ceasefire request ‘false and baseless’: Iran

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the US will be “out of Iran pretty quickly” but could return for “spot hits”. In an interview with Reuters news agency ahead of his scheduled national address, Trump slammed Nato over what he described as its lack of support for his war objectives against Iran. He added that he was “absolutely” considering an attempt to withdraw the US from the alliance.

Trump says US will be out of Iran pretty quickly, could return for ‘spot hits’

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Iran’s new president has asked the US for a ceasefire, but he will consider the offer only when the Strait of Hormuz is “open, free, and clear.”“Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion or, as they say, back to the Stone Ages!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Trump says Iran’s new president asked for ceasefire, but US wants Hormuz Strait open first

Iran said on Wednesday that its Security Council has approved safe passage to Bangladesh's six fuel-carrying ships waiting to cross the Strait of Hormuz amid continued war in West Asia.Petroleum reserves dwindled in Bangladesh, which is heavily dependent on imported fuel. Five LNG shipments from Qatar and one crude oil cargo from Saudi Arabia, carrying nearly 5 lakh tonnes of LNG and around 79,000 tonnes of crude oil, had been waiting to cross the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran allow safe passage to six fuel carrying ships headed to Bangladesh

Bahrain Ministry of Defence confirmed on Wednesday that its air defence systems have intercepted 186 ballistic missiles and 419 UAVs launched by Iran since the war began on February 28, 2026.&nbsp;

Bahrain intercepts 419 Iranian drones since start of West Asia war

Bahrain reported on Wednesday that a fire broke out at a commercial facility after an Iranian strike, and authorities are currently working to bring the blaze under control.

Fire broke out at Bahrain business site after Iranian strike

A Bangladeshi national was killed on Wednesday after an Iranian drone attack targeted Fujairah. According to the Fujairah Media Office, the air defence system intercepted the drone, but debris fell onto a farm, causing the death. &nbsp;

Bangladeshi man dies after drone debris falls onto farm in Fujairah’s Al Rifa

A drone strike sparked a major fire at storage facilities belonging to an engine oil company in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region on Wednesday, according to local authorities and the firm.Iraq has increasingly been caught up in the conflict that began on February 28 involving the US and Israel, with attacks targeting both American interests and Iran-backed groups within the country.

Huge Fire erupts after drone attack hits engine oil warehouse in Iraqi Kurdistan

Prime Minister of the UK Keir Starmer announced on Wednesday that Britain is set to hold a meeting this week of about 35 countries to discuss how to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which has been disrupted by the Middle East war, adding that UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will also host the discussions.The meeting will "assess all viable diplomatic and political measures that we can take to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers and resume the movement of vital commodities", Starmer said. "Following that meeting, we will also convene our military planners to look at how we can marshal our capabilities and make the strait accessible and safe after the fighting has stopped," he added.

UK PM Starmer says Britain to host multi-nation meeting on reopen strategic Strait of Hormuz

An Israeli strike in the Jnah area of Beirut on Wednesday killed the top commander of Hezbollah for Iraq military affairs, Yousef Hashem, sources informed AFP. The security source said "a senior Hezbollah official, who is the military chief for the Iraq file, named Youssef Hashem, was killed in the strike on the Jnah area in Beirut," adding that "he was in a meeting inside a tent near several vehicles".

Hezbollah commander for Iraq killed in Israeli strike in Beirut

Oil supply disruptions from the West Asia are set to increase in April and will begin to hit Europe, the head of the International Energy Agency said. Fatih Birol said losses in April would be about double those in March, warning shortages of jet fuel and diesel could soon spread from Asia to Europe.

IEA chief warns West Asia oil disruptions to hit Europe

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain will not be drawn into the Iran conflict and called for closer ties with the European Union as the war drives an energy crisis.“We will not be drawn into this conflict,” Starmer said in an address to the nation.

UK will not be drawn into Iran conflict, calls for closer EU ties: Starmer 

US-Israeli strikes hit steel complexes in central, southwest Iran: Media

US-Israeli strikes hit steel complexes in central, southwest Iran: Media

Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to meet today at 7 PM with focus on the West Asia War.&nbsp;&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Just in: Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to meet today at 7 PM with focus on West Asia War. This is the 3rd CCS since the outbreak of war.&lt;/p&gt;— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/2039261149502595533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

CCS to meet today at 7 PM with focus on West Asia War

Russia’s foreign intelligence chief Sergei Naryshkin said on Wednesday (April 1) his agency is in contact with the US Central Intelligence Agency over the situation in Iran, according to RIA news agency.

Russia spy chief says in contact with CIA over Iran situation

The US has warned its citizens in Saudi Arabia of potential threats targeting public places such as hotels, businesses, and educational institutions. Americans have been advised to shelter in place and avoid windows. While airports remain open, travel disruptions are likely, and those wishing to leave the region can seek US government assistance.

US has warned its citizens in Saudi Arabia of potential threats

Israeli media reported that at least 25 people were wounded across 20 different sites in Iran’s most recent strikes. One person is in critical condition, while another is in serious condition.

At least 25 people wounded in attacks on Israel

Qatar’s Defence Ministry said that Qatar was targeted by three cruise missiles launched from Iran, one of which struck an oil tanker. In a post on X, the ministry said that it intercepted two of the missiles, while the third hit a tanker leased to QatarEnergy. The tanker’s 21-person crew was evacuated, the ministry said. No injuries were reported.

Oil tanker off Qatar’s coast hit

Explosions reported in Isfahan again, reported AL Jazeera quoting Iranian media&nbsp;

Explosions reported in Isfahan again

Oil prices tumbled and European stocks rose on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump said the war with Iran could end within weeks.International benchmark Brent North Sea crude fell five percent to $98.77 a barrel, and the main US oil contract WTI dropped around four percent to $97.28 a barrel.The Frankfurt and Paris stock markets jumped more than two percent at the open, while London's FTSE 100 index gained 1.7 percent.

European stocks jump, oil tumbles on Mideast war optimism

Yemen's Houthis on Wednesday claimed a missile attack targeting Israel that they said was launched jointly with their backer Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah group -- the third such attack by the Houthis since they entered the Middle East war.The Houthis "carried out the third military operation... targeting sensitive Israeli enemy targets... with a barrage of ballistic missiles", military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a video statement."This operation was conducted jointly with our mujahideen brothers in Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon," he added.

Yemen's Houthis claim third missile attack targeting Israel

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly willing to join the war in West Asia and is preparing to assist the United States and other allies in reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force. The move would make the UAE the first Gulf country to directly engage in the conflict that has been going on for a month now. This comes as Iran continues to retaliate against the UAE and other Gulf nations in response to the US and Israeli attacks.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-to-join-iran-war-report-claims-gulf-nation-to-help-us-allies-force-open-strait-of-hormuz-1775023984485">Read more here.</a>

UAE to join Iran war? Report claims Gulf nation to help US, allies force open Strait of Hormuz

Residents assessed damage in the Beirut neighbourhood of Jnah on Wednesday morning, following an Israeli strike. Footage captured by The Associated Press showed damage to a road and vehicles. Lebanon’s Health Ministry said in a preliminary count early Wednesday that 21 people were wounded in the strike in Jnah.

Widespread devastation in Beirut neighbourhood after deadly Israeli strike

Jet fuel prices on Wednesday (Apr 1) have breached the Rs 2 lakh per kilolitre mark for the first time since the war in West Asia began. The new Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices have been revised from April 1 in major cities. The fare has more than doubled to a record high of Rs 2.07 lakh per kilolitre. Meanwhile, commercial LPG rates were raised by Rs 195.50 per cylinder, amid the global energy crisis triggered by the Iran war.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/flights-to-get-costly-in-india-jet-fuel-prices-breach-rs-2-lakh-per-kl-mark-for-first-time-1775013867426">Read more here.</a>

Flights to get costly in India? Jet fuel prices breach Rs 2 lakh per kl mark for first time

A Bangladeshi national was killed by falling shrapnel after a drone interception in the United Arab Emirates, the official WAM news agency said on Wednesday."Shrapnel falling from the interception of a drone... resulted in the killing of a person of Bangladeshi nationality," WAM posted on X, adding that the incident happened in Fujairah, which is close to the Strait of Hormuz.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Bangladeshi killed by drone shrapnel in UAE: official media

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has said that the US-Israeli war on Iran “should be opposed on every single ground” noting that “regime change wars” by Washington have historically had “disastrous consequences”.

Zohran Mamdani slams billions spent on ‘regime change’ war 

&nbsp;One person killed after drone interception debris fell on farm in Fujairah, according to Israeli media

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: One person killed after drone interception debris fell on farm in fujairah

The Israeli military has said that it has “just completed a broad wave of strikes targeting” Iranian government infrastructure in Tehran.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Israel ‘complete another wave of strikes in Tehran’

US Central Command says its forces dropped “precision munitions” in the attacks aimed at further degrading Iran’s “ability to project power in meaningful ways beyond its borders”. CENTCOM posted its comments on X, accompanied by a 13-second video that appears to show an explosion in a mountainous region.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: US military claims attacks on ‘underground military targets deep inside Iran’

The Channel 12 broadcaster reported that the Israeli military intercepted a missile that had been launched from Yemen toward southern Israel, and no casualties were reported from the incident. Air raid sirens were activated across southern Israel, from Dimona to Ashkelon, as the alert unfolded.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Israel intercepts missile from Yemen

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday Washington could see the "finish line" in the Iran war, which is now in its fifth week, and the U.S. will have to reexamine ties with NATO after the conflict. "We can see the ​finish line. It's not today, it's not tomorrow, but it is coming," Rubio told Fox ​News Channel's "Hannity" show. Rubio said there were messages being exchanged between Iran and the U.S. and there is the potential to have a "direct meeting at some point" between the two sides. "There are messages being ​exchanged, there are talks going on. There is the potential for direct meeting at some point," Rubio ​said.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Rubio says US will have to reexamine ties with NATO after Iran conflict

The United Arab Emirates has barred Iranians from entering or transiting the country as the war rages, three major airlines said. They said holders of Golden Visas, 10-year residency permits in the country, could still enter &nbsp;

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: UAE bars Iranians

Argentina has designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary ​Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, its presidential ‌office said in a statement on Tuesday, following a push from the Trump administration for allies to ​do so.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Argentina designates Iran's IRGC a terrorist organization, aligning with US

Trump says when we feel Iran is 'for a long period of time, put in to the Stone Ages and they won't be able to come up with a nuclear weapon, we will leave'

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Trump wants Iran in 'stone age'

Iran’s Foreign Minister Araghchi said that what is happening between Iran and the US is an exchange of messages, either directly or through "friends," not "negotiations," as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Tehran denies 'negotiations' again

The White House says President Donald Trump will deliver a prime-time address Wednesday evening to update the public on the Iran war. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt posted on X that Trump will “give an Address to the Nation to provide an important update on Iran” at 9 p.m. EDT on Wednesday.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Trump to deliver address on West Asia war 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-drone-attack-targets-kuwait-airport-fuel-tanks-on-fire-on-iranian-targets-1775014187064/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-drone-attack-targets-kuwait-airport-fuel-tanks-on-fire-on-iranian-targets-1775014187064/embed</a>

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Drone attack targets Kuwait airport

The US-Iran-Israel war intensifies as Tehran retaliates, allies like Houthis and Hezbollah join in, and Hormuz faces disruption. While Trump signals talks, indirect US-Iran contacts and Pakistan-led mediation offer hope amid rising regional and global tensions.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in West Asia that began on February 28, when the United States, alongside Israel, launched a series of pre-emptive strikes inside Iran, has entered its second month. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is dead and new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has taken over, but he has not been seen in public. Tehran has launched a full-scale retaliation, targeting Israel as well as American military installations across the Gulf region. Several Iranian leaders have been killed as strike continue. Iran-backed groups in the Gulf, namely Houthis and Hezbollah - have joined the war. Iran has blocked the strategic oil route the Strait of Hormuz, while Israel has expanded its attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon. After almost a month, US President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to engage and is said to have put forward a 15-point proposal aimed at ending the conflict. However, Iran has maintained that any communication so far has been indirect. Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary, reportedly preparing to host the talks if needed. Trump has been dilly-dallying in his approach on Iran, sometimes hinting at its end and sometimes saying that it will continue The major question that arises amid the ongoing operation in West Asia is that what future holds? How the Iran-US relations will pan out and what it will mean for regional security in specific and world geopolitics at large? All updates and analysis on the ongoing situation as Israel-US war on Iran continues

The US-Iran-Israel war intensifies as Tehran retaliates, allies like Houthis and Hezbollah join in, and Hormuz faces disruption. While Trump signals talks, indirect US-Iran contacts and Pakistan-led mediation offer hope amid rising regional and global tensions.

US-Iran-Israel war highlights: Trump says US will be out of Iran pretty quickly, could return for ‘spot hits’

Indian‑flagged LPG tanker Pine Gas loaded cargo, that left the United Arab Emirates’ ‌Ruwais port on Feb 27, took an alternate route to reach India as Iran-US-Israeli war broke out in the region. The vessel transited the Strait of Hormuz three weeks later, after Iran allowed ships through the narrow waterway. On Tuesday (Mar 31), Pine Gas Chief Officer Sohan Lal ​revealed that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) instructed the tanker to navigate a narrow channel north of ⁠Larak Island off Iran’s coast. Lal said Indian authorities and the ship’s owner, Mumbai‑based Seven Islands Shipping, agreed to proceed only if every crew member consented to the voyage.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-allows-india-to-use-strait-of-hormuz-amid-energy-crisis-pakistan-china-other-countries-on-the-list-1774504190136">Iran allows India, 4 other nations to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis</a>&nbsp;According to reports, the ship’s 27 Indian crew had seen missiles and drones flying overhead every day as they waited. According to Reuters, a video taken from the vessel showed at least five projectiles streaking through the night. The ship was cleared to move on Mar 23, but not through the normal Hormuz shipping lanes. “They needed a yes or a no from all crew. Everyone onboard ​agreed.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocks-iran-s-threat-to-strike-american-companies-including-apple-microsoft-and-google-1774940943431">'BB guns': Trump mocks Iran’s threat to strike American companies including Apple, Microsoft and Google</a>&nbsp;​Lal added that the Larak route, not generally used by ​shipping, was recommended by the IRGC as the ‌regular passage through Hormuz was mined. Amid reports that Iran is charging ships for crossing the Hormuz strait, Lal said that they did not pay a fee for the transit and the IRGC did not board the vessel at any time. He also revealed that the Indian Navy guided the ship during the transit before four Indian warships escorted it for nearly 20 hours from the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea. The Indian navy also confirmed it was escorting Indian-flagged ships after they crossed the strait.&nbsp;

Indian LPG tanker Pine Gas was delayed nearly three weeks amid the Iran-US war before crossing the Strait of Hormuz. Guided via a narrow IRGC-recommended route near Larak Island, the ship witnessed missile activity before being escorted safely by the Indian Navy into the Arabian Sea.

Indian‑flagged LPG tanker Pine Gas loaded cargo, that left the United Arab Emirates’ ‌Ruwais port on Feb 27, took an alternate route to reach India as Iran-US-Israeli war broke out in the region. The vessel transited the Strait of Hormuz three weeks later, after Iran allowed ships through the narrow waterway. On Tuesday (Mar 31), Pine Gas Chief Officer Sohan Lal revealed that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) instructed the tanker to navigate a narrow channel north of ⁠Larak Island off Iran’s coast. Lal said Indian authorities and the ship’s owner, Mumbai‑based Seven Islands Shipping, agreed to proceed only if every crew member consented to the voyage. Also Read: Iran allows India, 4 other nations to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis According to reports, the ship’s 27 Indian crew had seen missiles and drones flying overhead every day as they waited. According to Reuters, a video taken from the vessel showed at least five projectiles streaking through the night. The ship was cleared to move on Mar 23, but not through the normal Hormuz shipping lanes. “They needed a yes or a no from all crew. Everyone onboard agreed.” Also Read: 'BB guns': Trump mocks Iran’s threat to strike American companies including Apple, Microsoft and Google Lal added that the Larak route, not generally used by shipping, was recommended by the IRGC as the ‌regular passage through Hormuz was mined. Amid reports that Iran is charging ships for crossing the Hormuz strait, Lal said that they did not pay a fee for the transit and the IRGC did not board the vessel at any time. He also revealed that the Indian Navy guided the ship during the transit before four Indian warships escorted it for nearly 20 hours from the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea. The Indian navy also confirmed it was escorting Indian-flagged ships after they crossed the strait.

Indian LPG tanker Pine Gas was delayed nearly three weeks amid the Iran-US war before crossing the Strait of Hormuz. Guided via a narrow IRGC-recommended route near Larak Island, the ship witnessed missile activity before being escorted safely by the Indian Navy into the Arabian Sea.

Indian LPG tanker escaped Strait of Hormuz mines via new route; did not pay fee for transit

The war in West Asia between the US, Israel and Iran has caused widespread disruption in crude oil trade, as Iran started attacking facilities in Gulf States and disrupted the trade via Strait of Hormuz. Beyond the obvious products, each gallon of crude oil results in multiple products

Crude oil is Black Gold: Iran war made us understand its importance, the hard way. How each barrel gives products we use daily

In his address, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that though the country is “not an active participant in the war, but all Australians are paying a price.” He also highlighted that it has triggered the highest fuel price hike in history. Mentioning the economic shocks he said, it “will be here for months.” "The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that. No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. Farmers and truckies, small businesses and families are doing it tough. And the reality is, the economic shocks caused by this war will be with us for months," Albanese continued.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-administration-wins-gulf-of-mexico-oil-drilling-exemption-1775032208252/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-administration-wins-gulf-of-mexico-oil-drilling-exemption-1775032208252/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Albanese had earlier reassured motorists that fuel shipments continue to arrive in Australia and that petrol shortages in rural towns stem from panic buying and distribution bottlenecks. And now he has advised Australians to ditch cars and “catch a train, bus or tram to work". This, he said, would preserve fuel for nurses, shift workers, tradespeople and miners who rely on driving.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-war-why-iran-is-targeting-uae-bases-but-letting-abu-dhabi-oil-pass-on-friendly-ships-1773726079438">West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships</a>&nbsp;The country also announced temporary tax relief for small businesses and slashed fuel tax to help motorists bearing the brunt of soaring petrol prices. "No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it," he added.&nbsp;The war that began on February 28 between the US, Israel, and Iran has spread across West Asia. And now, with the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz, there is a global energy crisis. Countries across the world are looking for respite; many have had to hike fuel prices. Australia is heavily exposed to disruptions in global fuel supply and imports most of its petrol. The country is currently left with roughly 37 days' worth of petrol in reserve, according to government figures, which is far below the 90-day minimum dictated by the International Energy Agency (IEA).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Anthony Albanese warns Australians of dwindling fuel supplies amid the escalating West Asia war. In a rare national address, the PM urges citizens to use public transport to conserve petrol for critical industries as the Strait of Hormuz blockade triggers a global energy crisis.

In his address, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that though the country is “not an active participant in the war, but all Australians are paying a price.” He also highlighted that it has triggered the highest fuel price hike in history. Mentioning the economic shocks he said, it “will be here for months.” "The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that. No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. Farmers and truckies, small businesses and families are doing it tough. And the reality is, the economic shocks caused by this war will be with us for months," Albanese continued. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-administration-wins-gulf-of-mexico-oil-drilling-exemption-1775032208252/embed Albanese had earlier reassured motorists that fuel shipments continue to arrive in Australia and that petrol shortages in rural towns stem from panic buying and distribution bottlenecks. And now he has advised Australians to ditch cars and “catch a train, bus or tram to work". This, he said, would preserve fuel for nurses, shift workers, tradespeople and miners who rely on driving. Also read: West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships The country also announced temporary tax relief for small businesses and slashed fuel tax to help motorists bearing the brunt of soaring petrol prices. "No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it," he added. The war that began on February 28 between the US, Israel, and Iran has spread across West Asia. And now, with the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz, there is a global energy crisis. Countries across the world are looking for respite; many have had to hike fuel prices. Australia is heavily exposed to disruptions in global fuel supply and imports most of its petrol. The country is currently left with roughly 37 days' worth of petrol in reserve, according to government figures, which is far below the 90-day minimum dictated by the International Energy Agency (IEA).

PM Anthony Albanese warns Australians of dwindling fuel supplies amid the escalating West Asia war. In a rare national address, the PM urges citizens to use public transport to conserve petrol for critical industries as the Strait of Hormuz blockade triggers a global energy crisis.

'Catch a train, bus, or tram to work': Australian PM Albanese advises citizens amid West Asia war

US President Donald Trump has said he may personally attend a hearing at the Supreme Court on Wednesday (April 1), where justices are set to consider arguments over his executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship. If he attends the hearing, Trump would become the first sitting US president to attend oral arguments at the court, a move that would break with long-standing convention separating the executive and judicial branches.&nbsp;“I’m going. I think so. I do believe,” Trump told reporters on Tuesday (March 31), signalling his intention to be present when the case is heard. The court is due to examine the administration’s attempt to revive the order after several lower courts blocked it. Judges previously ruled that the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees citizenship to nearly all individuals born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-why-would-any-us-president-consider-pakistan-as-host-mary-millben-calls-out-trump-for-letting-terrorist-country-mediate-in-iran-war-1774946583563">‘Why would any US President consider Pakistan as host?’: Mary Millben calls out Trump for letting ‘terrorist country’ mediate in Iran war</a>&nbsp;Trump, however, has argued that the amendment was originally intended to grant citizenship to the children of formerly enslaved people following the Civil War, and should not extend to children of undocumented migrants or those on temporary visas.“Everything having to do with birthright citizenship… it had to do with the babies of slaves,” he said, according to Politico, adding that it was not meant to cover wealthy foreign nationals seeking US citizenship for their children.&nbsp;Shortly after returning to the White House last year, Trump signed an executive order aiming to deny federal benefits, including passports, to children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants and individuals on limited-duration visas. The administration maintains that such benefits incentivise illegal immigration and so-called “birth tourism”.<h2>Trump and his visits to the apex court</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/power-shift-in-iran-not-mojtaba-khamenei-irgc-assumes-de-facto-control-amid-war-with-us-israel-1775025649170">Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;Trump has visited the Supreme Court on multiple occasions during his presidency, including for the investiture ceremonies of his nominees Neil Gorsuch in 2017 and Brett Kavanaugh in 2018. He also attended after the death of retired Justice John Paul Stevens in 2019, and during the funeral of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2020. He did not attend the formal installation of his nominee, Amy Coney Barrett, whose investiture was delayed until the presidency of Joe Biden due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump plans to attend Supreme Court arguments on Wednesday (April 1) regarding his executive order ending birthright citizenship, marking a historic first for a sitting president while challenging the 14th Amendment.

US President Donald Trump has said he may personally attend a hearing at the Supreme Court on Wednesday (April 1), where justices are set to consider arguments over his executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship. If he attends the hearing, Trump would become the first sitting US president to attend oral arguments at the court, a move that would break with long-standing convention separating the executive and judicial branches. “I’m going. I think so. I do believe,” Trump told reporters on Tuesday (March 31), signalling his intention to be present when the case is heard. The court is due to examine the administration’s attempt to revive the order after several lower courts blocked it. Judges previously ruled that the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees citizenship to nearly all individuals born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. Also read: ‘Why would any US President consider Pakistan as host?’: Mary Millben calls out Trump for letting ‘terrorist country’ mediate in Iran war Trump, however, has argued that the amendment was originally intended to grant citizenship to the children of formerly enslaved people following the Civil War, and should not extend to children of undocumented migrants or those on temporary visas. “Everything having to do with birthright citizenship… it had to do with the babies of slaves,” he said, according to Politico, adding that it was not meant to cover wealthy foreign nationals seeking US citizenship for their children. Shortly after returning to the White House last year, Trump signed an executive order aiming to deny federal benefits, including passports, to children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants and individuals on limited-duration visas. The administration maintains that such benefits incentivise illegal immigration and so-called “birth tourism”. Trump and his visits to the apex court Also read: Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel Trump has visited the Supreme Court on multiple occasions during his presidency, including for the investiture ceremonies of his nominees Neil Gorsuch in 2017 and Brett Kavanaugh in 2018. He also attended after the death of retired Justice John Paul Stevens in 2019, and during the funeral of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2020. He did not attend the formal installation of his nominee, Amy Coney Barrett, whose investiture was delayed until the presidency of Joe Biden due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

US President Donald Trump plans to attend Supreme Court arguments on Wednesday (April 1) regarding his executive order ending birthright citizenship, marking a historic first for a sitting president while challenging the 14th Amendment.

‘I’m going’: Trump hints he could become first sitting US president to attend Supreme Court hearing

US-based tech giant Oracle has laid off thousands of employees to cut costs, reported suggested, with more layoffs expected within a month. About 12,000 people were fired by the company in India, while about 30,000 were laid off globally. According to the laid-off employees, the company sent an email stating they were being relieved from duty, without any prior communication.According to a PTI report citing people impacted by the retrenchment, “In India, around 12,000 employees have been laid off. The company is planning another mass layoff within a month.” LinkedIn posts from laid-off employees suggested that the cuts have affected staff across Oracle Cloud, Health, Sales, Customer Success, and NetSuite.In the email, the company cited organisational changes as the reason behind firing employees. It added that “because of these changes, a decision has been taken to streamline the operations, and as a result, unfortunately, the position you currently hold will become redundant.”In its severance package, Oracle has offered 15 days of salary to those employees who have completed a year of service in India. It will also add one month of unpaid wages till the termination date, leave encashment, gratuity based on eligibility and pay for a one-month notice period. The company has also offered a two-month salary as a top-up. The package is available for the employees who voluntarily and amicably resign.<h2>What did the email say?</h2>According to the email received by an employee and posted on social media, it read, “We are sharing some difficult news regarding your position. After careful consideration of Oracle's current business needs, we have made the decision to eliminate your role as part of a broader organizational change. As a result, today is your last working day.”“We are grateful for your dedication, hard work, and the impact you have made during your time with us,” it added. “After signing your termination paperwork, you will be eligible to receive a severance package subject to the terms and conditions of the severance plan. You will receive an email from DocuSign to your Oracle email address with details on your severance and termination date.”The email also included details of separation-related information and severance agreements and was signed by “Oracle Leadership”.

Oracle has laid off about 30,000 employees globally, including 12,000 in India, citing restructuring. More cuts may follow, with affected staff receiving severance packages after sudden notices.

US-based tech giant Oracle has laid off thousands of employees to cut costs, reported suggested, with more layoffs expected within a month. About 12,000 people were fired by the company in India, while about 30,000 were laid off globally. According to the laid-off employees, the company sent an email stating they were being relieved from duty, without any prior communication. According to a PTI report citing people impacted by the retrenchment, “In India, around 12,000 employees have been laid off. The company is planning another mass layoff within a month.” LinkedIn posts from laid-off employees suggested that the cuts have affected staff across Oracle Cloud, Health, Sales, Customer Success, and NetSuite. In the email, the company cited organisational changes as the reason behind firing employees. It added that “because of these changes, a decision has been taken to streamline the operations, and as a result, unfortunately, the position you currently hold will become redundant.” In its severance package, Oracle has offered 15 days of salary to those employees who have completed a year of service in India. It will also add one month of unpaid wages till the termination date, leave encashment, gratuity based on eligibility and pay for a one-month notice period. The company has also offered a two-month salary as a top-up. The package is available for the employees who voluntarily and amicably resign. What did the email say? According to the email received by an employee and posted on social media, it read, “We are sharing some difficult news regarding your position. After careful consideration of Oracle's current business needs, we have made the decision to eliminate your role as part of a broader organizational change. As a result, today is your last working day.” “We are grateful for your dedication, hard work, and the impact you have made during your time with us,” it added. “After signing your termination paperwork, you will be eligible to receive a severance package subject to the terms and conditions of the severance plan. You will receive an email from DocuSign to your Oracle email address with details on your severance and termination date.” The email also included details of separation-related information and severance agreements and was signed by “Oracle Leadership”.

Oracle has laid off about 30,000 employees globally, including 12,000 in India, citing restructuring. More cuts may follow, with affected staff receiving severance packages after sudden notices.

Oracle lays off 12,000 in India: Company sends email overnight – Here’s what it said

Oracle has begun executing a sweeping round of layoffs across its global workforce, with reports indicating that up to 30,000 jobs may be cut, including around 12,000 in India. Employees across the United States, India and other regions reportedly received termination emails as early as 6 a.m. EST, informing them that their roles had been eliminated with immediate effect. The layoffs are closely linked to Oracle’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company is investing heavily in data centres and cloud capacity, including large-scale partnerships with OpenAI. According to reports, employees laid off in the United States have been offered a structured severance package.&nbsp;The message, sent by “Oracle Leadership”, stated that “after careful consideration of Oracle’s current business needs”, the company had “decided to eliminate” the role “as part of a broader organisational change”, making that day the employee’s last working day. It added a note of appreciation for the employee’s “dedication, hard work, and contributions” during their tenure. Affected workers described the process as abrupt, with many highlighting there was “no call, no meeting… just an email. And a DocuSign,” underscoring the impersonal nature of the layoffs.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-b-52-bombers-fly-over-iran-how-us-veteran-bomber-remains-indispensable-next-to-b-1-and-b-2-1774968358568">'B‑52 bombers fly over Iran': How US’ veteran bomber remains indispensable next to B‑1 and B‑2</a>&nbsp;<h2>Severance package details in the US</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>According to a Business Insider report, in the United States, affected employees have reportedly been offered severance of four weeks’ base salary plus one additional week per year of service, capped at 26 weeks.&nbsp;The company also clarified that employees would become eligible for the severance package only after signing termination documents. The communication noted that individuals would receive further details via a DocuSign email sent to their official Oracle accounts, outlining severance terms and the final termination date, reported NDTV.&nbsp;This approach aligns with standard corporate severance frameworks in the US, though the cap at 26 weeks places a limit on payouts for long-serving employees.&nbsp;Severance packages in India, as per media reports, include 15 days’ salary for employees who have served the compony for at least one year. The package also includes one month’s unpaid wages up to the termination date, leave encashment, gratuity subject to eligibility, and salary in lieu of a one-month notice period. In addition, the company has offered a two-month salary top-up. This is only available to employees who opt to resign voluntarily and amicably.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-deploys-b-52-bombers-over-iran-for-first-time-5-deadly-capabilities-that-make-this-bomber-a-strategic-hammer-1774965474957">'US deploys B‑52 bombers over Iran for first time!' 5 incredible facts that make this 75‑year‑old bomber deadly</a>&nbsp;<h2>Broader restructuring and financial drivers</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The company has entered large-scale commitments, including partnerships with OpenAI, and is significantly increasing capital expenditure to support AI workloads. This expansion has placed pressure on Oracle’s finances, with the company managing substantial debt while attempting to sustain cash flow. Analysts estimate that cutting between 20,000 and 30,000 jobs could generate $8 billion to $10 billion in additional free cash flow, helping fund these capital-intensive initiatives.&nbsp;<h2>Market reaction and uncertain outlook</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The company reported quarterly revenue of $17.2 billion, its highest in 15 years, yet investor concerns persist over debt levels and long-term returns. Oracle, which had about 162,000 full-time employees ​globally as of May 2025, is yet to comment on the development.&nbsp;With further layoffs expected within weeks, Oracle’s restructuring highlights a broader shift: prioritising AI and cloud infrastructure, even at significant human cost. Meanwhile, more than 70 tech companies have cut around 40,480 jobs ​so far this year, per Layoffs.fyi, as companies increasingly reallocate resources ​toward AI, ⁠heightening fears of AI-driven disruptions among workers.&nbsp;

The company is investing heavily in data centres and cloud capacity, including large-scale partnerships with OpenAI. According to reports, employees laid off in the United States have been offered a structured severance package.

Oracle has begun executing a sweeping round of layoffs across its global workforce, with reports indicating that up to 30,000 jobs may be cut, including around 12,000 in India. Employees across the United States, India and other regions reportedly received termination emails as early as 6 a.m. EST, informing them that their roles had been eliminated with immediate effect. The layoffs are closely linked to Oracle’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company is investing heavily in data centres and cloud capacity, including large-scale partnerships with OpenAI. According to reports, employees laid off in the United States have been offered a structured severance package. The message, sent by “Oracle Leadership”, stated that “after careful consideration of Oracle’s current business needs”, the company had “decided to eliminate” the role “as part of a broader organisational change”, making that day the employee’s last working day. It added a note of appreciation for the employee’s “dedication, hard work, and contributions” during their tenure. Affected workers described the process as abrupt, with many highlighting there was “no call, no meeting… just an email. And a DocuSign,” underscoring the impersonal nature of the layoffs. ALSO READ: 'B‑52 bombers fly over Iran': How US’ veteran bomber remains indispensable next to B‑1 and B‑2 Severance package details in the US According to a Business Insider report, in the United States, affected employees have reportedly been offered severance of four weeks’ base salary plus one additional week per year of service, capped at 26 weeks. The company also clarified that employees would become eligible for the severance package only after signing termination documents. The communication noted that individuals would receive further details via a DocuSign email sent to their official Oracle accounts, outlining severance terms and the final termination date, reported NDTV. This approach aligns with standard corporate severance frameworks in the US, though the cap at 26 weeks places a limit on payouts for long-serving employees. Severance packages in India, as per media reports, include 15 days’ salary for employees who have served the compony for at least one year. The package also includes one month’s unpaid wages up to the termination date, leave encashment, gratuity subject to eligibility, and salary in lieu of a one-month notice period. In addition, the company has offered a two-month salary top-up. This is only available to employees who opt to resign voluntarily and amicably. ALSO READ: 'US deploys B‑52 bombers over Iran for first time!' 5 incredible facts that make this 75‑year‑old bomber deadly Broader restructuring and financial drivers The company has entered large-scale commitments, including partnerships with OpenAI, and is significantly increasing capital expenditure to support AI workloads. This expansion has placed pressure on Oracle’s finances, with the company managing substantial debt while attempting to sustain cash flow. Analysts estimate that cutting between 20,000 and 30,000 jobs could generate $8 billion to $10 billion in additional free cash flow, helping fund these capital-intensive initiatives. Market reaction and uncertain outlook The company reported quarterly revenue of $17.2 billion, its highest in 15 years, yet investor concerns persist over debt levels and long-term returns. Oracle, which had about 162,000 full-time employees globally as of May 2025, is yet to comment on the development. With further layoffs expected within weeks, Oracle’s restructuring highlights a broader shift: prioritising AI and cloud infrastructure, even at significant human cost. Meanwhile, more than 70 tech companies have cut around 40,480 jobs so far this year, per Layoffs.fyi, as companies increasingly reallocate resources toward AI, ⁠heightening fears of AI-driven disruptions among workers.

The company is investing heavily in data centres and cloud capacity, including large-scale partnerships with OpenAI. According to reports, employees laid off in the United States have been offered a structured severance package.

Oracle layoffs shock: 30,000 jobs slashed worldwide, how much severance are employees actually getting?

A leaked internal directive from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) appears to reveal a systematic strategy of using civilian locations to conceal and support missile operations, raising fresh concerns over the risks posed to non-combatants.&nbsp;The 33-page document, marked “very confidential” and titled Instruction for Identification, Maintenance, and Use of Positions, was obtained by the hacktivist group Edalat-e Ali (Ali’s Justice) and shared with Iran International. It is attributed to the Specialised Documents Centre under the Intelligence and Operations Deputy of the IRGC’s missile command.&nbsp;As per the document, the integration of civilian environments into missile operations is not incidental but forms part of a structured and bureaucratic framework. It outlines detailed procedures for identifying, classifying and maintaining a wide network of launch positions, complete with inspection protocols, coding systems and chains of responsibility.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/power-shift-in-iran-not-mojtaba-khamenei-irgc-assumes-de-facto-control-amid-war-with-us-israel-1775025649170">Power shift in Iran? Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;The directive argues that advances in enemy surveillance and strike capabilities necessitate new approaches to concealment. It explicitly calls for the use of “deception”, “cover” and “normalisation” to make missile units less visible and harder to detect.&nbsp;Rather than relying solely on hardened silos or underground “missile cities”, the framework expands operational flexibility by enabling missile units to operate across a dispersed network of sites, including non-military environments.<h2>Civilian sites repurposed</h2>The most contentious aspect of the document is its explicit inclusion of civilian locations as potential missile cover. It identifies so-called “artificial dispersion” sites, including service facilities, industrial centres, sports complexes, warehouses and sheds - locations that are civilian in function but can be repurposed for military use.&nbsp;Conditions for selecting such sites include being enclosed, shielded from surrounding buildings, and either lacking CCTV surveillance or allowing cameras to be disabled. Analysts say these criteria indicate a deliberate effort to embed missile activity within ordinary civilian settings, reducing visibility and complicating detection.&nbsp;The directive further details how these sites are catalogued, inspected and maintained, with responsibilities assigned across intelligence, engineering, communications, safety and counterintelligence units, suggesting a standing system rather than an improvised wartime measure.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expect-destruction-irgc-threatens-attacks-on-us-firms-in-gulf-after-iran-leader-killings-which-companies-are-on-the-target-list-1774971791262">'Expect destruction': IRGC threatens attacks on US firms in Gulf after Iran leader killings. Which companies are on the target list</a>&nbsp;Farzin Nadimi, a senior defence analyst at the Washington Institute, said the document points to a database-driven effort to map out not just launch sites but also dispersal, deception and technical positions.&nbsp;“These technical positions can include large, covered spaces such as industrial sheds or sports halls, where missile launchers and support vehicles can be brought inside,” Nadimi told the outlet. He added that such locations could also be used to assemble and prepare missiles, including attaching warheads and fuelling systems. This, analysts warn, goes beyond concealment, indicating that core elements of missile preparation may be embedded within civilian infrastructure.&nbsp;

A leaked IRGC manual reveals a systematic strategy to hide missile operations within civilian sites like sports complexes and warehouses, using “deception” to complicate detection and endangering non-combatants.

A leaked internal directive from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) appears to reveal a systematic strategy of using civilian locations to conceal and support missile operations, raising fresh concerns over the risks posed to non-combatants. The 33-page document, marked “very confidential” and titled Instruction for Identification, Maintenance, and Use of Positions, was obtained by the hacktivist group Edalat-e Ali (Ali’s Justice) and shared with Iran International. It is attributed to the Specialised Documents Centre under the Intelligence and Operations Deputy of the IRGC’s missile command. As per the document, the integration of civilian environments into missile operations is not incidental but forms part of a structured and bureaucratic framework. It outlines detailed procedures for identifying, classifying and maintaining a wide network of launch positions, complete with inspection protocols, coding systems and chains of responsibility. Also read: Power shift in Iran? Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel The directive argues that advances in enemy surveillance and strike capabilities necessitate new approaches to concealment. It explicitly calls for the use of “deception”, “cover” and “normalisation” to make missile units less visible and harder to detect. Rather than relying solely on hardened silos or underground “missile cities”, the framework expands operational flexibility by enabling missile units to operate across a dispersed network of sites, including non-military environments. Civilian sites repurposed The most contentious aspect of the document is its explicit inclusion of civilian locations as potential missile cover. It identifies so-called “artificial dispersion” sites, including service facilities, industrial centres, sports complexes, warehouses and sheds - locations that are civilian in function but can be repurposed for military use. Conditions for selecting such sites include being enclosed, shielded from surrounding buildings, and either lacking CCTV surveillance or allowing cameras to be disabled. Analysts say these criteria indicate a deliberate effort to embed missile activity within ordinary civilian settings, reducing visibility and complicating detection. The directive further details how these sites are catalogued, inspected and maintained, with responsibilities assigned across intelligence, engineering, communications, safety and counterintelligence units, suggesting a standing system rather than an improvised wartime measure. Also read: 'Expect destruction': IRGC threatens attacks on US firms in Gulf after Iran leader killings. Which companies are on the target list Farzin Nadimi, a senior defence analyst at the Washington Institute, said the document points to a database-driven effort to map out not just launch sites but also dispersal, deception and technical positions. “These technical positions can include large, covered spaces such as industrial sheds or sports halls, where missile launchers and support vehicles can be brought inside,” Nadimi told the outlet. He added that such locations could also be used to assemble and prepare missiles, including attaching warheads and fuelling systems. This, analysts warn, goes beyond concealment, indicating that core elements of missile preparation may be embedded within civilian infrastructure.

A leaked IRGC manual reveals a systematic strategy to hide missile operations within civilian sites like sports complexes and warehouses, using “deception” to complicate detection and endangering non-combatants.

Iran is using civillian sites as missile cover? This is what ‘leaked’ IRGC manual reveals

Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has effectively taken control of key functions of the state amid an escalating power struggle with President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration, according to informed sources cited by Iran International. The latest report said growing tensions between the civilian government and military leadership have pushed the president into what they described as a “complete political deadlock”, with the IRGC increasingly sidelining elected authorities.&nbsp;The military force has reportedly blocked presidential appointments and policy decisions, while establishing a tight security perimeter around the core of Iran’s leadership structure. This has left the government unable to exercise executive authority in several critical areas.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-expect-destruction-irgc-threatens-attacks-on-us-firms-in-gulf-after-iran-leader-killings-which-companies-are-on-the-target-list-1774971791262">'Expect destruction': IRGC threatens attacks on US firms in Gulf after Iran leader killings. Which companies are on the target list</a>&nbsp;Efforts by Pezeshkian to appoint a new intelligence minister last Thursday collapsed following direct intervention from IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi, sources familiar with the matter told the outlet. All proposed candidates, including Hossein Dehghan, were rejected.&nbsp;Vahidi is said to have insisted that, under current wartime conditions, all sensitive and strategic posts must be controlled directly by the IRGC until further notice.<h2>The hierarchy in Iranian regime</h2>Under Iran’s political system, the president traditionally nominates ministers in consultation with the Supreme Leader, who retains ultimate authority over key security portfolios. However, uncertainty surrounding the condition and whereabouts of Mojtaba Khamenei in recent weeks has further complicated the process.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-alireza-tangsiri-israel-claims-to-have-killed-irgc-navy-chief-a-key-player-in-ongoing-war-1774530708165">Who is Alireza Tangsiri? Israel claims to have killed IRGC Navy Chief - a key player in ongoing war</a>&nbsp;As per sources cited by Iran International, a “military council” composed of senior IRGC officers is now exercising effective control over central decision-making, enforcing a strict security cordon around Mojtaba Khamenei. Repeated attempts by Pezeshkian to secure an urgent meeting with him have reportedly gone unanswered, with no direct contact established in recent days.&nbsp;The same sources said the arrangement has prevented government reports on the country’s situation from reaching the Supreme Leader’s inner circle, raising further concerns about the functioning of Iran’s governance structures. Speculation has also emerged over whether Mojtaba Khamenei’s health may be a contributing factor in the current power dynamics, though no official confirmation has been provided.

The IRGC has reportedly seized de facto control of Iran, sidelining President Pezeshkian and isolating Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei behind a military council amid escalating wartime tensions and internal instability.

Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has effectively taken control of key functions of the state amid an escalating power struggle with President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration, according to informed sources cited by Iran International. The latest report said growing tensions between the civilian government and military leadership have pushed the president into what they described as a “complete political deadlock”, with the IRGC increasingly sidelining elected authorities. The military force has reportedly blocked presidential appointments and policy decisions, while establishing a tight security perimeter around the core of Iran’s leadership structure. This has left the government unable to exercise executive authority in several critical areas. Also read: 'Expect destruction': IRGC threatens attacks on US firms in Gulf after Iran leader killings. Which companies are on the target list Efforts by Pezeshkian to appoint a new intelligence minister last Thursday collapsed following direct intervention from IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi, sources familiar with the matter told the outlet. All proposed candidates, including Hossein Dehghan, were rejected. Vahidi is said to have insisted that, under current wartime conditions, all sensitive and strategic posts must be controlled directly by the IRGC until further notice. The hierarchy in Iranian regime Under Iran’s political system, the president traditionally nominates ministers in consultation with the Supreme Leader, who retains ultimate authority over key security portfolios. However, uncertainty surrounding the condition and whereabouts of Mojtaba Khamenei in recent weeks has further complicated the process. Also read: Who is Alireza Tangsiri? Israel claims to have killed IRGC Navy Chief - a key player in ongoing war As per sources cited by Iran International, a “military council” composed of senior IRGC officers is now exercising effective control over central decision-making, enforcing a strict security cordon around Mojtaba Khamenei. Repeated attempts by Pezeshkian to secure an urgent meeting with him have reportedly gone unanswered, with no direct contact established in recent days. The same sources said the arrangement has prevented government reports on the country’s situation from reaching the Supreme Leader’s inner circle, raising further concerns about the functioning of Iran’s governance structures. Speculation has also emerged over whether Mojtaba Khamenei’s health may be a contributing factor in the current power dynamics, though no official confirmation has been provided.

The IRGC has reportedly seized de facto control of Iran, sidelining President Pezeshkian and isolating Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei behind a military council amid escalating wartime tensions and internal instability.

Power shift in Iran? Not Mojtaba Khamenei, IRGC assumes 'de facto control' amid war with US, Israel

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly willing to join the war in West Asia and is preparing to assist the United States and other allies in reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force. The move would make the UAE the first Gulf country to directly engage in the conflict that has been going on for a month now. This comes as Iran continues to retaliate against the UAE and other Gulf nations in response to the US and Israeli attacks.The Wall Street Journal reported, citing Arab officials, that the UAE is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution that would authorise such action. It added that Emirati diplomats have called on the military powers in the US, Europe, and Asia to form a coalition to open the strategic strait by force. The officials said that the Iranian regime believes it is fighting for its existence and is willing to bring the global economy down with it in a chokehold on the strait.<h2>Iran threatens the UAE</h2>In recent weeks, Iran has launched several missiles and drone attacks on the Emirates, with nearly 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones on Tuesday. Tehran has warned that it would target the civilian infrastructure of any Gulf nation that supports any operation to seize its territory.Since the war began, Iran has sent nearly 2,500 missiles and drones to the UAE, more than any other country, including Israel. Tehran has targeted hotels, airports, oil refineries and other infrastructure in the country.<h2>Will the UAE join the war?</h2>WSJ reported, citing Gulf officials, that the country’s position on the war has now been changed. Before the war started, the UAE viewed Iran as a difficult neighbour with a logic to its political positions. But now the war has revealed a very different regime that was trying to sow panic with strikes on hotels and airports in Dubai, it added.The report added that the UAE believes that Asian and European nations, which are currently hesitant, may participate in efforts to open the strait if the UNSC approves. However, Russia and China would veto the resolution. Although the Gulf officials have said that the UAE would still be prepared to join the military efforts, which could include mine clearance and other forms of support.In a statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry pointed to a separate resolution passed by the UN that condemned Iranian attacks on its cities, along with another made by the UN International Maritime Organization, condemning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry said that there is “broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved.”Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The United Arab Emirates may reportedly enter the Iran war, pushing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, as Tehran intensifies missile attacks and warns of wider escalation.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly willing to join the war in West Asia and is preparing to assist the United States and other allies in reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force. The move would make the UAE the first Gulf country to directly engage in the conflict that has been going on for a month now. This comes as Iran continues to retaliate against the UAE and other Gulf nations in response to the US and Israeli attacks. The Wall Street Journal reported, citing Arab officials, that the UAE is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution that would authorise such action. It added that Emirati diplomats have called on the military powers in the US, Europe, and Asia to form a coalition to open the strategic strait by force. The officials said that the Iranian regime believes it is fighting for its existence and is willing to bring the global economy down with it in a chokehold on the strait. Iran threatens the UAE In recent weeks, Iran has launched several missiles and drone attacks on the Emirates, with nearly 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones on Tuesday. Tehran has warned that it would target the civilian infrastructure of any Gulf nation that supports any operation to seize its territory. Since the war began, Iran has sent nearly 2,500 missiles and drones to the UAE, more than any other country, including Israel. Tehran has targeted hotels, airports, oil refineries and other infrastructure in the country. Will the UAE join the war? WSJ reported, citing Gulf officials, that the country’s position on the war has now been changed. Before the war started, the UAE viewed Iran as a difficult neighbour with a logic to its political positions. But now the war has revealed a very different regime that was trying to sow panic with strikes on hotels and airports in Dubai, it added. The report added that the UAE believes that Asian and European nations, which are currently hesitant, may participate in efforts to open the strait if the UNSC approves. However, Russia and China would veto the resolution. Although the Gulf officials have said that the UAE would still be prepared to join the military efforts, which could include mine clearance and other forms of support. In a statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry pointed to a separate resolution passed by the UN that condemned Iranian attacks on its cities, along with another made by the UN International Maritime Organization, condemning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry said that there is “broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The United Arab Emirates may reportedly enter the Iran war, pushing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, as Tehran intensifies missile attacks and warns of wider escalation.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has lifted the suspension of Army pilots involved in a weekend helicopter fly-by near the home of musician Kid Rock, ruling out any disciplinary action or further investigation.&nbsp;The decision, announced on Tuesday (March 31), reverses an earlier move by the Army to suspend the crew pending a review into the incident, which saw two AH-64 Apache helicopters fly in the vicinity of the singer’s Nashville property.“Thank you @KidRock. @USArmy pilots suspension LIFTED. No punishment. No investigation. Carry on, patriots,” Hegseth wrote on social media platform X, confirming the abrupt end to the inquiry.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/KidRock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KidRock</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/USArmy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USArmy</a> pilots suspension LIFTED. No punishment. No investigation. Carry on, patriots. 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/Zqhv1Zx1iG">https://t.co/Zqhv1Zx1iG</a>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/2039109100282196436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 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/-if-iran-is-wise-they-ll-cut-a-deal-hegseth-claims-regime-change-has-occurred-in-tehran-1774960240668">'If Iran is wise, they'll cut a deal': Hegseth claims regime 'Change has occurred in Tehran'</a>&nbsp;The aircraft, part of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, was operating in the Nashville area on Saturday when it passed near the residence of Kid Rock - whose real name is Robert James Ritchie - a property he has dubbed the “Southern White House”.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the Army had confirmed that the personnel involved had been grounded while officials examined whether the flight complied with Federal Aviation Administration regulations, aviation safety protocols and standard approval procedures.&nbsp;Army spokesperson Major Montrell Russell said at the time that the service takes “any allegations of unauthorised or unsafe flight operations very seriously” and is committed to maintaining strict standards and accountability. He added that details could not be disclosed while the review was ongoing, a process that has now been halted following Hegseth’s intervention.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-blocks-promotions-of-two-black-and-two-female-officers-here-s-what-the-report-claims-1774881969039">Pete Hegseth blocks promotions of two Black and two female officers. Here’s what the report claims</a>&nbsp;The episode drew public attention after Kid Rock shared a video of the fly-by online, praising the pilots while aiming at political opponents. The singer, a long-time ally of former president Donald Trump, has remained an outspoken figure in conservative circles and recently staged an alternative halftime performance in protest of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl appearance.&nbsp;The Pentagon has not elaborated on the circumstances that led to the initial suspension or the decision to rescind it, leaving questions over protocol and oversight unanswered.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reversed the suspension of Army pilots who performed a fly-by at Kid Rock’s estate, halting investigations into whether the manoeuvre violated aviation safety protocols or regulations.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has lifted the suspension of Army pilots involved in a weekend helicopter fly-by near the home of musician Kid Rock, ruling out any disciplinary action or further investigation. The decision, announced on Tuesday (March 31), reverses an earlier move by the Army to suspend the crew pending a review into the incident, which saw two AH-64 Apache helicopters fly in the vicinity of the singer’s Nashville property. “Thank you @KidRock. @USArmy pilots suspension LIFTED. No punishment. No investigation. Carry on, patriots,” Hegseth wrote on social media platform X, confirming the abrupt end to the inquiry.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reversed the suspension of Army pilots who performed a fly-by at Kid Rock’s estate, halting investigations into whether the manoeuvre violated aviation safety protocols or regulations.

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