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Did the US attack yet another school in Iran, similar to the Minab strike, that too using missiles untested for warfare? A New York Times investigation report has claimed that the US military used a combat-untested Precision Strike Missile, or PrSM, in a strike that hit an Iranian sports hall and an adjacent elementary school in Lamerd, southern Iran, on February 28, the first day of the Iran–US–Israel war. Iranian officials cited in media reports had stated that this strike, and others nearby in the city of Lamerd, killed at least 21 people including children.<h2>What the NYT report claims</h2>The NYT report on Sunday (Mar 29), citing weapons experts and visual analysis, claimed that a weapon “bearing the hallmarks of a newly developed US-made ballistic missile” was used in the attack that struck a sports hall and an adjacent elementary school near a military facility in southern Iran. The Times, as well as some other global media outlets, verified videos of two strikes in Lamerd, as well as aftermath footage from the attacks.The weapon’s features, explosions and damage are consistent with a short-range ballistic missile called the Precision Strike Missile, or PrSM, &nbsp;the NYT report said citing munitions experts.The sports hall in Lamerd was being used by a girls’ volleyball team at the time of the attack, according to reports. Of the 21 victims, there were two schoolgirls aged 10 and 11, and their volleyball coach, reports said.<h2>About the Precision Strike Missile allegedly used on the Iran school</h2>In use was a short-range ballistic missile developed by the US Army and Lockheed Martin.The Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) is designed to detonate just above its target and disperse small tungsten pellets outwards, the report said.Munitions experts matched the missile’s silhouette in flight videos, mid-air fireball, and pockmarked damage patterns from the pellets to the PrSM, it said.Videos that capture one strike, in a residential area about 900 feet from the sports hall and school, showed the weapon in flight, with a distinctive silhouette.“The missile erupts in a large fireball mid-air. Another video, filmed from a security camera directly across from the sports hall, shows the strike on the hall and adjacent school,” said the report.Photos of the aftermath showed that both sites were pockmarked with holes, apparently from the tungsten pellets.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-big-day-iran-strikes-war-oil-hormuz-escalation-1774853787077">Donald Trump says ‘big day in Iran’ claims key targets destroyed amid talks of diplomacy</a><h2>Iran as weapons testing ground? Pentagon is allegedly using untested missiles in Iran</h2>According to the report, the Pentagon used missiles untested in combat in the deadly attack that struck civilian sites near a military compound on February 28, including on Lamerd.&nbsp;The PrSM had only finished prototype testing in 2025 and had not been used in a war till the alleged attack.An unnamed US official told the NYT that the missile used in the Lamerd strike was indeed a PrSM.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-us-military-destroyed-long-sought-targets-in-iran-wion-1774862113291/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-us-military-destroyed-long-sought-targets-in-iran-wion-1774862113291/embed</a><h2>The newly revealed strike took place on the same day as the deadly Minab school strike</h2>The newly reported strike took place on the same day as the widely reported and condemned attack on a primary school in Minab, hundreds of miles away.&nbsp;It was revealed days later that a US Tomahawk cruise missile was used in the Minab strike, killing 175 people, mostly young schoolgirls.If confirmed, the Lamerd incident would be the second American strike on an Iranian school or civilian educational and sports facility on February 28.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-israel-iran-war-tehran-confirms-killing-of-guards-navy-commander-alireza-tangsiri-1774857239834">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE | Iran military claims Israel behind attack on Kuwait desalination plant</a><h2>Iranian military sites may have been the intended targets</h2>Both sites were apparently located near facilities belonging to the Iranian military or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;It could have been a case of a missed target.The US has not officially confirmed or denied the alleged Lamerd attack at the time of writing.Earlier, the Pentagon had acknowledged using Tomahawks and other precision weapons in the broader campaign.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Reports are claiming that a US missile strike on a school in Iran used a new, untested missile 

Did the US attack yet another school in Iran, similar to the Minab strike, that too using missiles untested for warfare? A New York Times investigation report has claimed that the US military used a combat-untested Precision Strike Missile, or PrSM, in a strike that hit an Iranian sports hall and an adjacent elementary school in Lamerd, southern Iran, on February 28, the first day of the Iran–US–Israel war. Iranian officials cited in media reports had stated that this strike, and others nearby in the city of Lamerd, killed at least 21 people including children. What the NYT report claims The NYT report on Sunday (Mar 29), citing weapons experts and visual analysis, claimed that a weapon “bearing the hallmarks of a newly developed US-made ballistic missile” was used in the attack that struck a sports hall and an adjacent elementary school near a military facility in southern Iran. The Times, as well as some other global media outlets, verified videos of two strikes in Lamerd, as well as aftermath footage from the attacks. The weapon’s features, explosions and damage are consistent with a short-range ballistic missile called the Precision Strike Missile, or PrSM, the NYT report said citing munitions experts. The sports hall in Lamerd was being used by a girls’ volleyball team at the time of the attack, according to reports. Of the 21 victims, there were two schoolgirls aged 10 and 11, and their volleyball coach, reports said. About the Precision Strike Missile allegedly used on the Iran school In use was a short-range ballistic missile developed by the US Army and Lockheed Martin. The Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) is designed to detonate just above its target and disperse small tungsten pellets outwards, the report said. Munitions experts matched the missile’s silhouette in flight videos, mid-air fireball, and pockmarked damage patterns from the pellets to the PrSM, it said. Videos that capture one strike, in a residential area about 900 feet from the sports hall and school, showed the weapon in flight, with a distinctive silhouette. “The missile erupts in a large fireball mid-air. Another video, filmed from a security camera directly across from the sports hall, shows the strike on the hall and adjacent school,” said the report. Photos of the aftermath showed that both sites were pockmarked with holes, apparently from the tungsten pellets. Also read: Donald Trump says ‘big day in Iran’ claims key targets destroyed amid talks of diplomacy Iran as weapons testing ground? Pentagon is allegedly using untested missiles in Iran According to the report, the Pentagon used missiles untested in combat in the deadly attack that struck civilian sites near a military compound on February 28, including on Lamerd. The PrSM had only finished prototype testing in 2025 and had not been used in a war till the alleged attack. An unnamed US official told the NYT that the missile used in the Lamerd strike was indeed a PrSM. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-us-military-destroyed-long-sought-targets-in-iran-wion-1774862113291/embed The newly revealed strike took place on the same day as the deadly Minab school strike The newly reported strike took place on the same day as the widely reported and condemned attack on a primary school in Minab, hundreds of miles away. It was revealed days later that a US Tomahawk cruise missile was used in the Minab strike, killing 175 people, mostly young schoolgirls. If confirmed, the Lamerd incident would be the second American strike on an Iranian school or civilian educational and sports facility on February 28. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE | Iran military claims Israel behind attack on Kuwait desalination plant Iranian military sites may have been the intended targets Both sites were apparently located near facilities belonging to the Iranian military or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It could have been a case of a missed target. The US has not officially confirmed or denied the alleged Lamerd attack at the time of writing. Earlier, the Pentagon had acknowledged using Tomahawks and other precision weapons in the broader campaign. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Reports are claiming that a US strike on a school in Iran used a new, untested missile. The strike happened the same day as 175 people were killed in another missile attack on a school in Minab.

US hit another Iranian school using a precision missile untested for war on the same day as Minab strike, claims report

A magnitude 7 earthquake struck the Vanuatu Islands on Monday (March 30), the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) reported. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 115 kilometres, does not pose a tsunami threat, according to the US Tsunami Warning Centre.&nbsp;Vanuatu is a Pacific island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies east of Australia, north-east of New Caledonia, and west of Fiji. The country is an archipelago of about 83 islands and is part of the region known as Melanesia.&nbsp;<h2>Earthquakes do's and don'ts &nbsp;</h2><h2>Do’s</h2><ul><li>Repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations; seek expert advice if there are structural defects.</li><li>Anchor overhead lighting fixtures securely to the ceiling.</li><li>Follow BIS codes relevant to your area for safe building standards.</li><li>Fasten shelves firmly to walls.</li><li>Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.</li><li>Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.</li><li>If no shelter is nearby, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner.</li><li>Stay under safe spots like an inner door lintel, a table, or even under a bed.</li></ul><h3>Don’ts</h3><ul><li>Do not move unnecessarily during shaking.</li><li>Do not stand near buildings, trees, streetlights, or utility wires.</li><li>Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors, and walls.</li><li>Avoid objects that may fall, such as lighting fixtures or heavy furniture.</li></ul> (This is a developing story; Further details are awaited)

A magnitude 7 earthquake struck the Vanuatu Islands on Monday (March 30), the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) reported.

A magnitude 7 earthquake struck the Vanuatu Islands on Monday (March 30), the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) reported. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 115 kilometres, does not pose a tsunami threat, according to the US Tsunami Warning Centre. Vanuatu is a Pacific island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies east of Australia, north-east of New Caledonia, and west of Fiji. The country is an archipelago of about 83 islands and is part of the region known as Melanesia. Earthquakes do's and don'ts Do’s Repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations; seek expert advice if there are structural defects. Anchor overhead lighting fixtures securely to the ceiling. Follow BIS codes relevant to your area for safe building standards. Fasten shelves firmly to walls. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. If no shelter is nearby, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner. Stay under safe spots like an inner door lintel, a table, or even under a bed. Don’ts Do not move unnecessarily during shaking. Do not stand near buildings, trees, streetlights, or utility wires. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors, and walls. Avoid objects that may fall, such as lighting fixtures or heavy furniture. (This is a developing story; Further details are awaited)

A magnitude 7 earthquake struck the Vanuatu Islands on Monday (March 30), the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) reported.

7.0-magnitude earthquake rocks Vanuatu Islands, South Pacific, no tsunami threat

US President Donald Trump, in his Truth Social post, claimed that March 30 was the “big day” for Iran. In his Truth Social Post Trump claimed that the US has already taken out "many long-sought-after targets". This post comes after Trump's claim that Iran has already achieved its objective of regime change in Iran.&nbsp;“Big day in Iran. Many long-sought-after targets have been taken out and destroyed by our GREAT MILITARY, the finest and most lethal in the World. God bless you all!” wrote Trump in his latest Truth Social Post.Trump had earlier suggested that a deal with Iran is close and claimed that they have already changed the earlier group of leaders. “It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change,” said US President Donald Trump while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-20-oil-ships-strait-of-hormuz-pakistan-claim-1774847850141">Trump claims Iran cleared 20 ships as a 'sign of respect'; Pakistan says vessels are theirs</a>The war in Iran has entered its 31st day. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed effectively. Eventhough Trump has claimed that the US has already claimed its objective global benchmark for crude oil, Brent Crude has risen to $115.85 per barrel. While US-Israeli forces have struck a petrochemical facility in Tabriz, affecting the power supply in parts of Tehran. An Iranian fire hit an industrial area in Southern Israel, causing a massive blaze.Iranian speaker of Parliament, MB Ghalibaf, accused the US of talking about diplomacy while planning a ground attack. "The enemy publicly sends messages of negotiation and dialogue while secretly planning a ground attack," read his statement as reported by the Iranian state media IRNA. The US continues to mobilise troops to West Asia, as 3,500 Marines and sailors have reached Iran aboard the USS Tripoli; similarly 82nd Airborne Division have been mobilised in the region, with several reports suggesting that the US is planning an invasion of Kharg Island.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump calls it a “big day in Iran” after US strikes. Oil prices surge, and tensions rise as Iran accuses the US of planning a ground invasion.

US President Donald Trump, in his Truth Social post, claimed that March 30 was the “big day” for Iran. In his Truth Social Post Trump claimed that the US has already taken out "many long-sought-after targets". This post comes after Trump's claim that Iran has already achieved its objective of regime change in Iran. “Big day in Iran. Many long-sought-after targets have been taken out and destroyed by our GREAT MILITARY, the finest and most lethal in the World. God bless you all!” wrote Trump in his latest Truth Social Post. Trump had earlier suggested that a deal with Iran is close and claimed that they have already changed the earlier group of leaders. “It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change,” said US President Donald Trump while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. Also Read: Trump claims Iran cleared 20 ships as a 'sign of respect'; Pakistan says vessels are theirs The war in Iran has entered its 31st day. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed effectively. Eventhough Trump has claimed that the US has already claimed its objective global benchmark for crude oil, Brent Crude has risen to $115.85 per barrel. While US-Israeli forces have struck a petrochemical facility in Tabriz, affecting the power supply in parts of Tehran. An Iranian fire hit an industrial area in Southern Israel, causing a massive blaze. Iranian speaker of Parliament, MB Ghalibaf, accused the US of talking about diplomacy while planning a ground attack. "The enemy publicly sends messages of negotiation and dialogue while secretly planning a ground attack," read his statement as reported by the Iranian state media IRNA. The US continues to mobilise troops to West Asia, as 3,500 Marines and sailors have reached Iran aboard the USS Tripoli; similarly 82nd Airborne Division have been mobilised in the region, with several reports suggesting that the US is planning an invasion of Kharg Island.

Trump calls it a “big day in Iran” after US strikes. Oil prices surge, and tensions rise as Iran accuses the US of planning a ground invasion.

Donald Trump says ‘big day in Iran’  claims key targets destroyed amid talks of diplomacy

New Delhi: A new direct air link between India and China has started, connecting the eastern Indian city of Kolkata with Shanghai, China's bustling commercial capital. IndiGo launched daily non-stop flights between Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Shanghai Pudong International Airport. The inaugural service marks a direct route between the two cities, cutting travel time significantly compared with previous connections via third countries.Consul General of India in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, met senior members of IndiGo's management team in Shanghai to mark the occasion. He welcomed the development as a sign of growing confidence in air connectivity and economic ties between the two nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewBeginnings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewBeginnings</a>💥🌟🌅 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChaloKolkata?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChaloKolkata</a> 🪷☀️🌞 Consul General <a href="https://twitter.com/PratikMathur1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PratikMathur1</a> was happy to meet the top management team of <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indigo6E</a> team in Shanghai as the direct flight connecting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shanghai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shanghai</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kolkata?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kolkata</a> started operations. ➡️ Underlining the positive momentum, CG appreciated the… <a href="https://t.co/mPPKAP7XZB">pic.twitter.com/mPPKAP7XZB</a>&mdash; India In Shanghai (@IndiaInShanghai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaInShanghai/status/2038439733760802913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Both IndiGo and Air India now operate services from Indian cities to Shanghai, reflecting renewed momentum in bilateral travel and trade. The new route is expected to strengthen economic links between eastern India and eastern China.&nbsp;For passengers, the schedule offers convenient timing. The Kolkata-to-Shanghai flight departs at 21:45 local time and arrives at 04:40 the next day. The return leaves Shanghai at 05:40 and reaches Kolkata at 09:05. IndiGo will use Airbus A320 aircraft on the route.&nbsp;The launch forms part of a broader recovery in India-China air links. Direct flights between the two countries had been limited after the Galwan incident, but services have been expanding steadily after the thaw that started after PM Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting in Kazan in 2024. Enhanced connectivity is seen as vital for people-to-people contacts, cultural exchange and trade. &nbsp;

India and China have established a significant aviation milestone with the launch of a new daily direct flight service connecting Kolkata (CCU) and Shanghai (PVG). This daily route marks a pivotal shift in regional connectivity, streamlining travel for business professionals and tourists.

New Delhi: A new direct air link between India and China has started, connecting the eastern Indian city of Kolkata with Shanghai, China's bustling commercial capital. IndiGo launched daily non-stop flights between Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Shanghai Pudong International Airport. The inaugural service marks a direct route between the two cities, cutting travel time significantly compared with previous connections via third countries. Consul General of India in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, met senior members of IndiGo's management team in Shanghai to mark the occasion. He welcomed the development as a sign of growing confidence in air connectivity and economic ties between the two nations.

India and China have established a significant aviation milestone with the launch of a new daily direct flight service connecting Kolkata (CCU) and Shanghai (PVG). This daily route marks a pivotal shift in regional connectivity, streamlining travel for business professionals and tourists.

India and China linked by new daily direct flight between Kolkata and Shanghai

New Zealand media on Sunday (Mar 29) publicly identified Baltej Singh as the alleged key figure behind the country’s largest-ever methamphetamine seizure. Singh is related to Satwant Singh, known for his role in the 1984 assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The case, estimated to be worth NZ$180 million (around ₹180 crore), involved approximately 100 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed inside rice cookers shipped from the United Kingdom. The drugs were discovered during a police raid at a property in Whangārei in January 2026. Singh’s identity was made public following a High Court decision to remove long-standing name suppression.<h3>Why legal protection was removed</h3>Earlier, Singh had obtained legal protection preventing New Zealand media from revealing his identity, arguing that disclosure could endanger his family. However, the court ruled that transparency and the principle of open justice outweighed those concerns, particularly since his name had already appeared in international media. The court had earlier cited concerns related to public safety and the possibility of ongoing criminal operations. Singh recently withdrew his attempt to secure permanent anonymity in court.&nbsp;Reports indicate that Singh’s identity had already been published by Indian and other international outlets after his arrest in 2023. This significantly reduced the effectiveness of continued suppression. His decision to drop the appeal ended a prolonged legal process, enabling local media to officially name him in connection with the case.<h3>Inside New Zealand’s largest meth trafficking network</h3>Authorities allege that Singh led a highly organised drug smuggling operation involving more than 700 kilograms of methamphetamine, much of it transported in liquid form. The drugs were hidden within everyday items, making detection difficult. Investigators found that shipments were cleverly masked as common beverages such as kombucha, coconut water, and even beer cans. This method allowed the illegal consignments to move through multiple international routes without raising suspicion.&nbsp;The investigation began after a 21-year-old man died in 2023 after unknowingly consuming methamphetamine-laced liquid from one of the containers. This incident prompted a deeper probe, eventually leading authorities to a storage facility in Auckland where a significant quantity of drugs was seized. Singh was detained at Auckland Airport while attempting to travel to Dubai. He was later convicted and sentenced to 22 years in prison. Another individual linked to the case, accused of distributing the contaminated substance, was found guilty of manslaughter and handed a similar sentence. Officials described the operation as highly sophisticated and international in nature, involving extensive logistics, multiple countries, and advanced concealment techniques to traffic large quantities of drugs.

New Zealand media named Baltej Singh as the alleged mastermind behind its largest meth bust worth ₹180 crore. The High Court lifted name suppression citing public interest. Singh led a global drug network smuggling meth via consumer goods and was sentenced to 22 years in prison.

New Zealand media on Sunday (Mar 29) publicly identified Baltej Singh as the alleged key figure behind the country’s largest-ever methamphetamine seizure. Singh is related to Satwant Singh, known for his role in the 1984 assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The case, estimated to be worth NZ$180 million (around ₹180 crore), involved approximately 100 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed inside rice cookers shipped from the United Kingdom. The drugs were discovered during a police raid at a property in Whangārei in January 2026. Singh’s identity was made public following a High Court decision to remove long-standing name suppression. Why legal protection was removed Earlier, Singh had obtained legal protection preventing New Zealand media from revealing his identity, arguing that disclosure could endanger his family. However, the court ruled that transparency and the principle of open justice outweighed those concerns, particularly since his name had already appeared in international media. The court had earlier cited concerns related to public safety and the possibility of ongoing criminal operations. Singh recently withdrew his attempt to secure permanent anonymity in court. Reports indicate that Singh’s identity had already been published by Indian and other international outlets after his arrest in 2023. This significantly reduced the effectiveness of continued suppression. His decision to drop the appeal ended a prolonged legal process, enabling local media to officially name him in connection with the case. Inside New Zealand’s largest meth trafficking network Authorities allege that Singh led a highly organised drug smuggling operation involving more than 700 kilograms of methamphetamine, much of it transported in liquid form. The drugs were hidden within everyday items, making detection difficult. Investigators found that shipments were cleverly masked as common beverages such as kombucha, coconut water, and even beer cans. This method allowed the illegal consignments to move through multiple international routes without raising suspicion. The investigation began after a 21-year-old man died in 2023 after unknowingly consuming methamphetamine-laced liquid from one of the containers. This incident prompted a deeper probe, eventually leading authorities to a storage facility in Auckland where a significant quantity of drugs was seized. Singh was detained at Auckland Airport while attempting to travel to Dubai. He was later convicted and sentenced to 22 years in prison. Another individual linked to the case, accused of distributing the contaminated substance, was found guilty of manslaughter and handed a similar sentence. Officials described the operation as highly sophisticated and international in nature, involving extensive logistics, multiple countries, and advanced concealment techniques to traffic large quantities of drugs.

New Zealand media named Baltej Singh as the alleged mastermind behind its largest meth bust worth ₹180 crore. The High Court lifted name suppression citing public interest. Singh led a global drug network smuggling meth via consumer goods and was sentenced to 22 years in prison.

Who is Baltej Singh? Nephew of Indira Gandhi's assassin jailed in New Zealand for smuggling drugs in beer cans, rice cookers

US President Donald Trump on Sunday night aboard Air Force One said that, the Iran has allowed almost 20 cargo ships of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, starting on Monday, March 30. He called this a “tribute” and a “sign of respect” to the US. He also implied that Tehran's decision was a sign that the negotiations are underway and the war was coming to an end. However, it was not clear where these 20 ships were headed. China and India are the major buyers of Iranian oil. The ship could also belong to the Gulf nations.&nbsp;“As you know, they agreed to send eight boats two days ago, and they added another two. So, that’s 10 boats. So, today they gave us as a tribute…I don’t know, I can’t describe it exactly…I think out of a sign of respect, 20 boats of oil, big, big boats of oil going through the Hormuz Strait. That’s taking place starting tomorrow morning over the next couple of days. I would only say that we are doing extremely well in negotiations,” said Trump to the reporters aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-iran-war-day-30-kharg-island-escalation-global-impact-1774799290072">US-Iran war day 30: Kharg Island showdown, regional escalation and global market shock</a><h2>Do the 20 ships belong to Pakistan?</h2>Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Isaq Dar confirmed that Iran has approved 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels to sail through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the agreement, two ships will be allowed to cross the Strait every day. “This positive announcement marks a meaningful step toward peace and will strengthen our collective efforts in that direction”, wrote Dar in a social media post.&nbsp;While Iranian authorities have not confirmed the passing of the vessels or any possible "sign of respect" for the US, they have indicated that non-hostile vessels can pass through. Pakistan has claimed Iran has allowed two-pakistani flagged vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since February 28. In an interview with the Financial Time Trump said that Tehran has allowed 10-Pakistani flagged vehicle to pass through. “They gave us 10. Now they’re giving 20, and the 20 have already started, and they’re going right up the middle of the Strait,” US President Donald Trump claimed that this shows Iran's willingness to negotiate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump says Iran allowed 20 oil ships via the Strait of Hormuz as a “tribute.” Pakistan confirms vessels are Pakistani amid ongoing US-Iran tensions.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday night aboard Air Force One said that, the Iran has allowed almost 20 cargo ships of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, starting on Monday, March 30. He called this a “tribute” and a “sign of respect” to the US. He also implied that Tehran's decision was a sign that the negotiations are underway and the war was coming to an end. However, it was not clear where these 20 ships were headed. China and India are the major buyers of Iranian oil. The ship could also belong to the Gulf nations. “As you know, they agreed to send eight boats two days ago, and they added another two. So, that’s 10 boats. So, today they gave us as a tribute…I don’t know, I can’t describe it exactly…I think out of a sign of respect, 20 boats of oil, big, big boats of oil going through the Hormuz Strait. That’s taking place starting tomorrow morning over the next couple of days. I would only say that we are doing extremely well in negotiations,” said Trump to the reporters aboard Air Force One. Also read: US-Iran war day 30: Kharg Island showdown, regional escalation and global market shock Do the 20 ships belong to Pakistan? Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Isaq Dar confirmed that Iran has approved 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels to sail through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the agreement, two ships will be allowed to cross the Strait every day. “This positive announcement marks a meaningful step toward peace and will strengthen our collective efforts in that direction”, wrote Dar in a social media post. While Iranian authorities have not confirmed the passing of the vessels or any possible "sign of respect" for the US, they have indicated that non-hostile vessels can pass through. Pakistan has claimed Iran has allowed two-pakistani flagged vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since February 28. In an interview with the Financial Time Trump said that Tehran has allowed 10-Pakistani flagged vehicle to pass through. “They gave us 10. Now they’re giving 20, and the 20 have already started, and they’re going right up the middle of the Strait,” US President Donald Trump claimed that this shows Iran's willingness to negotiate.

Trump says Iran allowed 20 oil ships via the Strait of Hormuz as a “tribute.” Pakistan confirms vessels are Pakistani amid ongoing US-Iran tensions.

Trump claims Iran cleared 20 ships as a 'sign of respect'; Pakistan says vessels are theirs

US President Donald Trump has again said that Cuba, a country situated 90 miles from Florida and that is reeling under sanctions by Washington will be "next" after the military operation against Iran and it will fail soon. Sanction imposed by the US has put immense financial pressure on the Caribbean Island sparking strong conversations between both the countries.&nbsp;While travelling on Air Force One to Washington, DC Trump called the country a "mess" and said that the "Cuba is going to be next," in reply to a question posed by reporters.&nbsp;"It's a failing country, and they're going to be next. Within a short period of time, it's going to fail, and we will be there to help it out. We'll be there to help our great Cuban Americans out," he added.<h2>‘No problem with Russian oil tanker reaching Cuba'</h2>&nbsp;He was also asked about reports of Russian oil tanker likely to be allowed to reach Cuba to which he said he has “no problem” with it.&nbsp;"I told them, if a country wants to send some oil into Cuba right now, I have no problem whether it's Russia or not," Trump told reporters, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-remember-these-two-criminals-iran-names-two-us-navy-officers-behind-tomahawk-missile-attack-on-minab-school-1774843457208">'Remember these two criminals': Iran names two US navy officers behind Tomahawk missile attack on Minab school</a>&nbsp;"We have a tanker out there. We don't mind having somebody get a boatload because they need… they have to survive," he added.&nbsp;According to tracking data the oil tanker is carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of oil and is just off the eastern tip of the island. It is expected to land in the city of Matanzas by Tuesday, reported the news agency.&nbsp;Earlier too Trump has described Cuba as being "in a bad shape" and a "weakened nation." He's also gone as far as saying he'll have "the honor of taking Cuba".&nbsp;

Earlier too Trump has described Cuba as being in a bad shape and a weakened nation. Hes also gone as far as saying hell have the honor of taking Cuba.

US President Donald Trump has again said that Cuba, a country situated 90 miles from Florida and that is reeling under sanctions by Washington will be "next" after the military operation against Iran and it will fail soon. Sanction imposed by the US has put immense financial pressure on the Caribbean Island sparking strong conversations between both the countries. While travelling on Air Force One to Washington, DC Trump called the country a "mess" and said that the "Cuba is going to be next," in reply to a question posed by reporters. "It's a failing country, and they're going to be next. Within a short period of time, it's going to fail, and we will be there to help it out. We'll be there to help our great Cuban Americans out," he added. ‘No problem with Russian oil tanker reaching Cuba' He was also asked about reports of Russian oil tanker likely to be allowed to reach Cuba to which he said he has “no problem” with it. "I told them, if a country wants to send some oil into Cuba right now, I have no problem whether it's Russia or not," Trump told reporters, as reported by AFP. ALSO READ: 'Remember these two criminals': Iran names two US navy officers behind Tomahawk missile attack on Minab school "We have a tanker out there. We don't mind having somebody get a boatload because they need… they have to survive," he added. According to tracking data the oil tanker is carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of oil and is just off the eastern tip of the island. It is expected to land in the city of Matanzas by Tuesday, reported the news agency. Earlier too Trump has described Cuba as being "in a bad shape" and a "weakened nation." He's also gone as far as saying he'll have "the honor of taking Cuba".

Earlier too Trump has described Cuba as being "in a bad shape" and a "weakened nation." He's also gone as far as saying he'll have "the honor of taking Cuba".

'Cuba is failing and is going to be next', says Trump again amid reports of Russian oil tanker reaching the Island

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 30) said that the Latin Patriarch would get "full and immediate access" to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, after police denied him entry on Palm Sunday. In his statement, Netanyahu blamed Iran in an attempt to justify the ban imposed by Israeli Police. Israeli police had prevented the senior Catholic cleric from entering Christianity's most sacred site to celebrate Palm Sunday mass over what Netanyahu had said were security concerns, provoking protests from the European Union and several European countries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibi-files-netanyahu-documentary-adelson-hamas-funding-1774776776301">The Bibi Files: What the viral Netanyahu documentary reveals about corruption, Adelson ties and Hamas funding</a>&nbsp;"I have instructed the relevant authorities that Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch, be granted full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem," Netanyahu shared a post on X. The Israeli PM elaborated on Israel's security concerns in his post."Over the past several days, Iran has repeatedly targeted the holy sites of all three monotheistic religions in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles," he wrote. “In one strike, missile fragments crashed meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.” It was to protect worshippers that Israel had asked people of all faiths to "temporarily abstain" from worshipping at all the holy sites in Jerusalem's Old City, he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fact-check-israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-office-debunks-fake-news-over-his-whereabouts-death-claims-1773524769573">'The PM is...': Netanyahu's office breaks silence over reports claiming his assassination</a><h2>How EU and the Catholic Church reacted?</h2>After Israel's initial ban, EU had reacted sharply with EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas saying that it is a “violation of religious freedom.” “The decision by Israeli police to bar Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday constitutes a violation of religious freedom and long-standing protections governing holy sites,” she said. “Freedom of worship in Jerusalem must be fully guaranteed, without exception, for all faiths. Jerusalem’s multi-religious character must be protected,” she added in a social media post.&nbsp;The Catholic Church in its statement said that Pizzaballa and Francesco lelpo, the official Guardian of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, were both prevented from entering the church. “As a result, and for the first time in centuries, the Heads of the Church were prevented from celebrating the Palm Sunday Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This incident is a grave precedent and disregards the sensibilities of billions of people around the world, who, during this week, look to Jerusalem,” the statement said.

Netanyahu allowed the Latin Patriarch access to Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre after police barred him on Palm Sunday, sparking global outrage. Israel cited Iran-linked security threats, while the EU and Catholic Church condemned the move as a violation of religious freedom.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 30) said that the Latin Patriarch would get "full and immediate access" to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, after police denied him entry on Palm Sunday. In his statement, Netanyahu blamed Iran in an attempt to justify the ban imposed by Israeli Police. Israeli police had prevented the senior Catholic cleric from entering Christianity's most sacred site to celebrate Palm Sunday mass over what Netanyahu had said were security concerns, provoking protests from the European Union and several European countries. Also Read: The Bibi Files: What the viral Netanyahu documentary reveals about corruption, Adelson ties and Hamas funding "I have instructed the relevant authorities that Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch, be granted full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem," Netanyahu shared a post on X. The Israeli PM elaborated on Israel's security concerns in his post. "Over the past several days, Iran has repeatedly targeted the holy sites of all three monotheistic religions in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles," he wrote. “In one strike, missile fragments crashed meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.” It was to protect worshippers that Israel had asked people of all faiths to "temporarily abstain" from worshipping at all the holy sites in Jerusalem's Old City, he added. Also Read: 'The PM is...': Netanyahu's office breaks silence over reports claiming his assassination How EU and the Catholic Church reacted? After Israel's initial ban, EU had reacted sharply with EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas saying that it is a “violation of religious freedom.” “The decision by Israeli police to bar Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday constitutes a violation of religious freedom and long-standing protections governing holy sites,” she said. “Freedom of worship in Jerusalem must be fully guaranteed, without exception, for all faiths. Jerusalem’s multi-religious character must be protected,” she added in a social media post. The Catholic Church in its statement said that Pizzaballa and Francesco lelpo, the official Guardian of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, were both prevented from entering the church. “As a result, and for the first time in centuries, the Heads of the Church were prevented from celebrating the Palm Sunday Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This incident is a grave precedent and disregards the sensibilities of billions of people around the world, who, during this week, look to Jerusalem,” the statement said.

Netanyahu allowed the Latin Patriarch access to Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre after police barred him on Palm Sunday, sparking global outrage. Israel cited Iran-linked security threats, while the EU and Catholic Church condemned the move as a violation of religious freedom.

'Iran has repeatedly targeted...': Netanyahu allows Catholic leaders to pray at Jerusalem after backlash

Days after an elementary girls school in Iran's Minab was attacked in US, Israel strike, Tehran has publicly accused two US Navy officers of being responsible for the attack that claimed the lives of 170 children. Iran released their images through its embassy in South Africa and accused them of directly authorising the missile attack.&nbsp;The officers were identified as Leigh R Tate, said to be the commanding officer, and Jeffrey E York, the executive officer of the USS Spruance.&nbsp;In a post on microblogging site X the embassy wrote, "Remember these two criminals. Leigh R. Tate, the commander, and Jeffrey E. York, the executive officer of the USS Spruance, who ordered the launch of Tomahawk missiles three times, killing 168 innocent children at a school in #Minab."The post ended emotionally by saying, “Remember these two. Don’t they have children of their own?".<h2>‘Slaughtered in cold blood’</h2>&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday (Mar 27) slammed the bombing of Minab school, calling it a “calculated assault” by the United States. Aragchi called the February 28 attack on the school “a war crime and a crime against humanity”.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-regime-change-happened-after-a-month-of-war-hints-at-peace-deal-soon-1774830991167">‘Regime change has happened’: Trump issues BIG statement after a month of Iran war, hints at peace deal ‘pretty soon’</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump had claimed that Iran itself was responsible for the attack, which happened on the first day of the war. However, a US military investigation reported by The New York Times suggested that a US Tomahawk cruise missile, which Iran does not possess, had struck the school due to an error in targeting.&nbsp;The report added that the US military was striking an adjacent Iranian base. The school building had earlier been a part of the base, and target coordinates were set using outdated data.

Iran released their images through its embassy in South Africa and accused both the navy officers of directly authorising the Tomahawl missile attack on the elementary girls school in Minab.

Days after an elementary girls school in Iran's Minab was attacked in US, Israel strike, Tehran has publicly accused two US Navy officers of being responsible for the attack that claimed the lives of 170 children. Iran released their images through its embassy in South Africa and accused them of directly authorising the missile attack. The officers were identified as Leigh R Tate, said to be the commanding officer, and Jeffrey E York, the executive officer of the USS Spruance. In a post on microblogging site X the embassy wrote, "Remember these two criminals. Leigh R. Tate, the commander, and Jeffrey E. York, the executive officer of the USS Spruance, who ordered the launch of Tomahawk missiles three times, killing 168 innocent children at a school in #Minab." The post ended emotionally by saying, “Remember these two. Don’t they have children of their own?". ‘Slaughtered in cold blood’ Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday (Mar 27) slammed the bombing of Minab school, calling it a “calculated assault” by the United States. Aragchi called the February 28 attack on the school “a war crime and a crime against humanity”. ALSO READ: ‘Regime change has happened’: Trump issues BIG statement after a month of Iran war, hints at peace deal ‘pretty soon’ US President Donald Trump had claimed that Iran itself was responsible for the attack, which happened on the first day of the war. However, a US military investigation reported by The New York Times suggested that a US Tomahawk cruise missile, which Iran does not possess, had struck the school due to an error in targeting. The report added that the US military was striking an adjacent Iranian base. The school building had earlier been a part of the base, and target coordinates were set using outdated data.

Iran released their images through its embassy in South Africa and accused both the navy officers of directly authorising the Tomahawl missile attack on the elementary girls school in Minab.

'Remember these two criminals': Iran names two US navy officers behind Tomahawk missile attack on Minab school

US President Donald Trump has hinted at overtaking Iran's Kharg Island “very easily” stating that it is his favourite thing to take oil from Iran. His statement comes in contrast with what he said on Day 18 of the war that the US did not attack Iran for oil. The statement is also seen at the backdrop of thousands of US troops reaching West Asia amid reports of possible ground operations, that include raids in Strait of Hormuz and seizure of Kharg Island. According to AFP, Kharg Island, located off the west coast of Iran, is a vital oil terminal.&nbsp;Speaking to Financial Times in an interview on Sunday (Mar 29), Trump said, "To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people.”Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options. It would also mean we had to be there [in Kharg Island] for a while. Asked about Iran’s defensive capabilities on the island, Trump said: "I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily.” In the same interview, he spoke about Mojtaba Khamenei's health negotiations with Iran and regime change. He repeated the same in press gabble aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-mojtaba-alive-injured-not-seen-about-iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-after-regime-change-claims-1774832773966">Trump says THIS about Iran's Mojtaba Khamenei, after regime change claims</a><h2>Trump contradicts his previous stance AGAIN!</h2>Trump on Mar 16 had said that the US did not attack Iran for oil, adding that he wants a secure Strait of Hormuz because of other countries. “We don't need oil. We have all the oil we need for ourselves. Its one of the great asset that we have. We have doubled, more than double, what anybody else, in terms of oil production than any other country...so we don't need it. But, we did it because we have some good allies there...you can almost say we didn't, it happened. We have some great Middle Eastern countries there, Israel there, so we did it for a lot of reason but it always remains there that we did it. We never asked for reimbursement and we were really there to save other countries, not us.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-regime-change-happened-after-a-month-of-war-hints-at-peace-deal-soon-1774830991167">‘Iran has undergone regime change’: Trump's BIG statement after a month-long war&nbsp;</a><h2>What more Trump said in the interview?</h2>About the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said that he may be alive but he is seriously wounded. In FT interview, he said, "The son is either dead or in extremely bad shape," Trump said. “We've not heard from him at all. He's gone.” Hinting a green light towards the peace plan, Trump said that the Iranians have allowed to pass US oil boats to pass through Strait of Hormuz as a gift. He claimed that Iran is decimated and are ready to give up nuclear weapons. He also said that they have no reason to not accpet his 15-point peace plan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump said the US could take Iran’s Kharg Island “very easily,” calling it undefended. He stressed the US did not attack Iran for oil but seeks a secure Strait of Hormuz, while Pentagon considers ground operations without a full-scale invasion.

US President Donald Trump has hinted at overtaking Iran's Kharg Island “very easily” stating that it is his favourite thing to take oil from Iran. His statement comes in contrast with what he said on Day 18 of the war that the US did not attack Iran for oil. The statement is also seen at the backdrop of thousands of US troops reaching West Asia amid reports of possible ground operations, that include raids in Strait of Hormuz and seizure of Kharg Island. According to AFP, Kharg Island, located off the west coast of Iran, is a vital oil terminal. Speaking to Financial Times in an interview on Sunday (Mar 29), Trump said, "To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people.”Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options. It would also mean we had to be there [in Kharg Island] for a while. Asked about Iran’s defensive capabilities on the island, Trump said: "I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily.” In the same interview, he spoke about Mojtaba Khamenei's health negotiations with Iran and regime change. He repeated the same in press gabble aboard Air Force One. Also Read: Trump says THIS about Iran's Mojtaba Khamenei, after regime change claims Trump contradicts his previous stance AGAIN! Trump on Mar 16 had said that the US did not attack Iran for oil, adding that he wants a secure Strait of Hormuz because of other countries. “We don't need oil. We have all the oil we need for ourselves. Its one of the great asset that we have. We have doubled, more than double, what anybody else, in terms of oil production than any other country...so we don't need it. But, we did it because we have some good allies there...you can almost say we didn't, it happened. We have some great Middle Eastern countries there, Israel there, so we did it for a lot of reason but it always remains there that we did it. We never asked for reimbursement and we were really there to save other countries, not us.” Also Read: ‘Iran has undergone regime change’: Trump's BIG statement after a month-long war What more Trump said in the interview? About the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said that he may be alive but he is seriously wounded. In FT interview, he said, "The son is either dead or in extremely bad shape," Trump said. “We've not heard from him at all. He's gone.” Hinting a green light towards the peace plan, Trump said that the Iranians have allowed to pass US oil boats to pass through Strait of Hormuz as a gift. He claimed that Iran is decimated and are ready to give up nuclear weapons. He also said that they have no reason to not accpet his 15-point peace plan. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump said the US could take Iran’s Kharg Island “very easily,” calling it undefended. He stressed the US did not attack Iran for oil but seeks a secure Strait of Hormuz, while Pentagon considers ground operations without a full-scale invasion.

'Favorite thing is to take oil…': Trump contradicts 'don’t need Iran oil' stance, hints at seizing Kharg Island

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 29) spoke to press abroad Air Force One and said that Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is severely wounded as he is no where to be seen. He also claimed about a regime change that he claimed has already taken place in Iran and ruled out need for a ground offensive. The POTUS also said that there might be a peace deal with Iran soon as negotiations are taking place both directly and indirectly.&nbsp;&nbsp;About the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said that he may be alive but he is seriously wounded. “Nobody's heard about him. He may be alive, but he's obviously in trouble. He's seriously wounded.” On regime change, he said, “The one regime was decimated, destroyed, they're all dead. The next regime is mostly dead. And the third regime, we're dealing with different people than anybody's dealt with before. It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change.”&nbsp;On Mar 14, Trump had said that he doesn't know if Mojtaba is “even alive.” "I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender.” However, within minutes the US president described reports of his death as “a rumour.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-raises-doubts-about-supreme-leader-mojtaba-s-wellbeing-rules-out-iran-war-deal-for-now-1773538495777">'I’m hearing he’s not alive...': Trump raises doubts about Supreme Leader Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now</a><h2>Mojtaba's latest statement</h2>Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, in his latest statement on Mar 29, thanked the Iraqi people and religious leadership for their support of Iran “in the face of aggression." His statement once again paved way for rumours surrounding his well being. More than three weeks have passed since his appointment as the supreme leader, but Khamenei has still not been seen in public. In the latest message attributed to Iran’s third Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, he is said to have thanked the Iraqi clergy and people for their “clear position on aggression against Iran”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mojtaba-khamenei-advisor-says-war-will-continue-despite-trump-netanyahu-5-day-halt-how-iran-has-reacted-so-far-1774322779656/1774322779657">Khamenei's advisor says ‘war will continue’ despite Trump's '5-day halt' announcement — How Iran has reacted so far</a><h2>What we know about Mojtaba's previous statements</h2>On Mar 16, he issued a statement amid rumours if Russia escape and said that all those previously appointed to government positions by his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will remain in their posts and should “continue to carry on with their work.” He also appointed the former chief of the Revolutionary Guards, General Mohsen Rezaei, as a military adviser. The statement increased scrutiny about the wellbeing of the Iranian leader as he did not appear on TV or video to deliver the message.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his first statement after succeeding his father as country's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba said that Iran will not hesitate to take revenge for the crimes committed by the enemy and mentioned the Minab school massacre. He warned the Gulf countries to close the American bases. He also said Iran had only targeted US bases in neighbouring countries and urged them to determine their position regarding the "aggressors and the killers of our people." However this message was also a read out by a presenter on state TV. This was in stark contrast with the former Supreme Leader - who appeared in video at least three times in February alone amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran.<h2>What Iran said?</h2>Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Mar 14 said that there was "no problem" with the Islamic Republic's new Supreme Leader, silencing all buzz around his whereabouts. "There is no problem with the new supreme leader. He sent his message yesterday, and he will perform his duties," Araghchi told MSNBC. On March 11, Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said that Mojtaba was “safe and sound.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Trump claims Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is seriously wounded and says a regime change has already occurred, ruling out a ground offensive. He hints at a possible peace deal amid ongoing talks. Khamenei remains largely unseen

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 29) spoke to press abroad Air Force One and said that Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is severely wounded as he is no where to be seen. He also claimed about a regime change that he claimed has already taken place in Iran and ruled out need for a ground offensive. The POTUS also said that there might be a peace deal with Iran soon as negotiations are taking place both directly and indirectly. About the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said that he may be alive but he is seriously wounded. “Nobody's heard about him. He may be alive, but he's obviously in trouble. He's seriously wounded.” On regime change, he said, “The one regime was decimated, destroyed, they're all dead. The next regime is mostly dead. And the third regime, we're dealing with different people than anybody's dealt with before. It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change.” On Mar 14, Trump had said that he doesn't know if Mojtaba is “even alive.” "I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender.” However, within minutes the US president described reports of his death as “a rumour.” Also Read: 'I’m hearing he’s not alive...': Trump raises doubts about Supreme Leader Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now Mojtaba's latest statement Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, in his latest statement on Mar 29, thanked the Iraqi people and religious leadership for their support of Iran “in the face of aggression." His statement once again paved way for rumours surrounding his well being. More than three weeks have passed since his appointment as the supreme leader, but Khamenei has still not been seen in public. In the latest message attributed to Iran’s third Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, he is said to have thanked the Iraqi clergy and people for their “clear position on aggression against Iran”. Also Read: Khamenei's advisor says ‘war will continue’ despite Trump's '5-day halt' announcement — How Iran has reacted so far What we know about Mojtaba's previous statements On Mar 16, he issued a statement amid rumours if Russia escape and said that all those previously appointed to government positions by his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will remain in their posts and should “continue to carry on with their work.” He also appointed the former chief of the Revolutionary Guards, General Mohsen Rezaei, as a military adviser. The statement increased scrutiny about the wellbeing of the Iranian leader as he did not appear on TV or video to deliver the message. In his first statement after succeeding his father as country's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba said that Iran will not hesitate to take revenge for the crimes committed by the enemy and mentioned the Minab school massacre. He warned the Gulf countries to close the American bases. He also said Iran had only targeted US bases in neighbouring countries and urged them to determine their position regarding the "aggressors and the killers of our people." However this message was also a read out by a presenter on state TV. This was in stark contrast with the former Supreme Leader - who appeared in video at least three times in February alone amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran. What Iran said? Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Mar 14 said that there was "no problem" with the Islamic Republic's new Supreme Leader, silencing all buzz around his whereabouts. "There is no problem with the new supreme leader. He sent his message yesterday, and he will perform his duties," Araghchi told MSNBC. On March 11, Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said that Mojtaba was “safe and sound.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump claims Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is seriously wounded and says a regime change has already occurred, ruling out a ground offensive. He hints at a possible peace deal amid ongoing talks. Khamenei remains largely unseen

'He's obviously in trouble': After regime change claims, Trump says THIS about Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

US President Donald Trump has said that a regime change has already happened in Iran, adding that the United States is having very meaningful conversation with the Iranians. However, maintaining that one can never know with Iran, Trump accepted that the US has bombed the country amid negotiations for two times - one in 2025 with B2 bombers and other on Feb 28, that has led to a month- long war. Reiterating that the Iran war is “ahead of schedule”, Trump said that the US is dealing with a “completely different set of people” who are reasonable. He said that there can be a deal with Tehran “pretty soon.” About the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said that he may be alive but he is seriously wounded. Hinting a green light towards the peace plan, Trump said that the Iranians have responded and even gave several ships of oil boats as gift that passed through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"The one regime was decimated, destroyed, they're all dead. The next regime is mostly dead. And the third regime, we're dealing with different people than anybody's dealt with before. It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change. And frankly, they've been very reasonable. So I think we've had regime change. We can't do much better than that. The regime that was really bad, really evil, was the first one. That was done. The second was appointed, and they're gone. They're all dead,” the president told reporters aboard Air Force One. About a possible deal, "I think we'll make a deal with them, pretty sure...but we've had regime change," he said.&nbsp;Elsewhere during his conversation, he said that Iran is decimated and they will to give up nuclear weapons. On Iran charging tolls from ships crossing the Hormuz, Trump said he will find out about it. Hailing the Gulf nations for fighting back, Trump said, “They are fighting back. Saudi Arabia is fighting back hard. Qatar is fighting back. UAE is fighting back. Kuwait's fighting back. Bahrain's fighting back. They're all fighting back. Actually, they were surprised to be hit. I was very surprised they got hit. And once they got hit, they started fighting very well.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-irgc-issues-ultimatum-to-us-universities-in-west-asia-after-attack-on-campuses-in-tehran-1774741664288/amp">'By 12 noon...': Iran issues ultimatum to US universities in West Asia after attack on campuses in Tehran</a><h2>What we know about the Iran war so far?</h2>The war began on February 28, when the United States and Israel carried out pre-emptive airstrikes across Iran. The subsequent escalation reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, triggering a broad Iranian retaliation targeting not just Israel but also US bases across Gulf countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocks-saudi-s-very-regular-kind-of-a-guy-mohammad-bin-salman-in-blunt-remarks-1774755156132">'Kissing my a**': Trump mocks Saudi's 'very regular kind of a guy' MBS in blunt remarks</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has sent 15-point peace plan to Iran. While Iran has ruled out direct negotiations, it has said that it exchanged messages with the US via “friendly countries.” Pakistan has presented itself as a key mediator and on Sunday said that it is ready to "host and facilitate meaningful talks." Outlining growing support for its peace efforts, including from the United Nations and China, Pakistan issued a statement after its Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held "very productive talks" with Foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey in Islamabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Trump says a regime change has occurred in Iran and the US is in “meaningful talks” despite bombing the country twice, triggering a month-long war. Iran’s new leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly wounded. Pakistan offers to host peace talks as Trump signals a possible deal soon.

US President Donald Trump has said that a regime change has already happened in Iran, adding that the United States is having very meaningful conversation with the Iranians. However, maintaining that one can never know with Iran, Trump accepted that the US has bombed the country amid negotiations for two times - one in 2025 with B2 bombers and other on Feb 28, that has led to a month- long war. Reiterating that the Iran war is “ahead of schedule”, Trump said that the US is dealing with a “completely different set of people” who are reasonable. He said that there can be a deal with Tehran “pretty soon.” About the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Trump said that he may be alive but he is seriously wounded. Hinting a green light towards the peace plan, Trump said that the Iranians have responded and even gave several ships of oil boats as gift that passed through the Strait of Hormuz. "The one regime was decimated, destroyed, they're all dead. The next regime is mostly dead. And the third regime, we're dealing with different people than anybody's dealt with before. It's a whole different group of people. So I would consider that regime change. And frankly, they've been very reasonable. So I think we've had regime change. We can't do much better than that. The regime that was really bad, really evil, was the first one. That was done. The second was appointed, and they're gone. They're all dead,” the president told reporters aboard Air Force One. About a possible deal, "I think we'll make a deal with them, pretty sure...but we've had regime change," he said. Elsewhere during his conversation, he said that Iran is decimated and they will to give up nuclear weapons. On Iran charging tolls from ships crossing the Hormuz, Trump said he will find out about it. Hailing the Gulf nations for fighting back, Trump said, “They are fighting back. Saudi Arabia is fighting back hard. Qatar is fighting back. UAE is fighting back. Kuwait's fighting back. Bahrain's fighting back. They're all fighting back. Actually, they were surprised to be hit. I was very surprised they got hit. And once they got hit, they started fighting very well.” Also Read: 'By 12 noon...': Iran issues ultimatum to US universities in West Asia after attack on campuses in Tehran What we know about the Iran war so far? The war began on February 28, when the United States and Israel carried out pre-emptive airstrikes across Iran. The subsequent escalation reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, triggering a broad Iranian retaliation targeting not just Israel but also US bases across Gulf countries. Also Read: 'Kissing my a**': Trump mocks Saudi's 'very regular kind of a guy' MBS in blunt remarks US President Donald Trump has sent 15-point peace plan to Iran. While Iran has ruled out direct negotiations, it has said that it exchanged messages with the US via “friendly countries.” Pakistan has presented itself as a key mediator and on Sunday said that it is ready to "host and facilitate meaningful talks." Outlining growing support for its peace efforts, including from the United Nations and China, Pakistan issued a statement after its Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held "very productive talks" with Foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey in Islamabad. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump says a regime change has occurred in Iran and the US is in “meaningful talks” despite bombing the country twice, triggering a month-long war. Iran’s new leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly wounded. Pakistan offers to host peace talks as Trump signals a possible deal soon.

‘Regime change has happened’: Trump issues BIG statement after a month of Iran war, hints at peace deal ‘pretty soon’

An Indian worker ​was killed ‌in an Iranian attack on ​a ​power and water ⁠desalination plant ​in Kuwait on Monday (Mar 30), according to Kuwaiti government. The attack also damaged a service building ​at ​the facility, Kuwait’s Ministry ‌of ⁠Electricity and Water said ​in ⁠a post ​on social ​media ⁠website X. The Indian Embassy or Ministry of External Affairs have not yet responded to the incident. Since the war began in West Asia, as many as seven Indian nationals have been confirmed killed and at least one has been reported missing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trust-and-responsiveness-sri-lanka-deputy-fm-thanks-india-for-emergency-petroleum-shipment-1774798173554">'Trust and responsiveness': Sri Lanka deputy FM thanks India for emergency petroleum shipment</a><h2>Safety of Indians: Top priority of the Indian government</h2>According to reports, those killed include one in Saudi Arabia, two in Oman and two in UAE. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that Indian missions in Riyadh, Muscat, Abu Dhabi, and Baghdad are actively coordinating the repatriation of mortal remains and assisting stranded citizens. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have held telephone discussions with leaders in the UAE, Saudi Arabia , Qatar, Oman , and Kuwait to ensure the safety of the Indian community.&nbsp;They have also held conversations with Iranian leadership including President Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-holds-talks-with-saudi-crown-prince-stresses-freedom-of-navigation-amid-west-asia-war-1774705117707">PM Modi holds talks with Saudi Crown Prince, stresses freedom of navigation amid West Asia war</a><h2>What PM Modi has said on West Asia war so far?</h2>Since the war began, PM Modi has dialled leaders of Gulf countries and has also spoken to top leaders of Iran and the US. The Prime Minister also addressed the both Houses of the Parliament and highlighted India's push for dialogue and diplomacy. He has repeatedly called for an early cessation of hostilities and condemned attack on seafarers and blockage of strategic shipping route the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that a prolonged conflict would have "serious and unavoidable" consequences for the global economy and supply chains. He assured the nation that the government is taking "every necessary step" to ensure availability amid global energy crisis. &nbsp;PM Modi also informed the Lok Sabha that over 3.75 lakh Indians have been safely brought back from conflict-hit areas so far. He expressed deep concern for the nearly one crore (10 million) Indians living and working in the Gulf, calling their safety a "top priority" for the government. In his latest Mann Ki Baat on March 29, he urged citizens to remain united and vigilant, warning against "rumour-mongering" and the "politicisation" of the crisis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An Indian worker was killed in an Iranian attack on a Kuwaiti desalination plant, damaging a service building. This raises Indian casualties in West Asia to seven. The MEA and Indian missions are coordinating repatriation.

An Indian worker was killed ‌in an Iranian attack on a power and water ⁠desalination plant in Kuwait on Monday (Mar 30), according to Kuwaiti government. The attack also damaged a service building at the facility, Kuwait’s Ministry ‌of ⁠Electricity and Water said in ⁠a post on social media ⁠website X. The Indian Embassy or Ministry of External Affairs have not yet responded to the incident. Since the war began in West Asia, as many as seven Indian nationals have been confirmed killed and at least one has been reported missing. Also Read: 'Trust and responsiveness': Sri Lanka deputy FM thanks India for emergency petroleum shipment Safety of Indians: Top priority of the Indian government According to reports, those killed include one in Saudi Arabia, two in Oman and two in UAE. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that Indian missions in Riyadh, Muscat, Abu Dhabi, and Baghdad are actively coordinating the repatriation of mortal remains and assisting stranded citizens. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have held telephone discussions with leaders in the UAE, Saudi Arabia , Qatar, Oman , and Kuwait to ensure the safety of the Indian community. They have also held conversations with Iranian leadership including President Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump. Also Read: PM Modi holds talks with Saudi Crown Prince, stresses freedom of navigation amid West Asia war What PM Modi has said on West Asia war so far? Since the war began, PM Modi has dialled leaders of Gulf countries and has also spoken to top leaders of Iran and the US. The Prime Minister also addressed the both Houses of the Parliament and highlighted India's push for dialogue and diplomacy. He has repeatedly called for an early cessation of hostilities and condemned attack on seafarers and blockage of strategic shipping route the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that a prolonged conflict would have "serious and unavoidable" consequences for the global economy and supply chains. He assured the nation that the government is taking "every necessary step" to ensure availability amid global energy crisis. PM Modi also informed the Lok Sabha that over 3.75 lakh Indians have been safely brought back from conflict-hit areas so far. He expressed deep concern for the nearly one crore (10 million) Indians living and working in the Gulf, calling their safety a "top priority" for the government. In his latest Mann Ki Baat on March 29, he urged citizens to remain united and vigilant, warning against "rumour-mongering" and the "politicisation" of the crisis.

An Indian worker was killed in an Iranian attack on a Kuwaiti desalination plant, damaging a service building. This raises Indian casualties in West Asia to seven. The MEA and Indian missions are coordinating repatriation.

Kuwait confirms death of Indian national in 'Iranian attack' on power, desalination plant; MEA yet to respond

Pakistan said on Sunday (March 29, 2026) that it is ready to "host and facilitate meaningful talks" between the United States and Iran to bring an end to the month-long war that has destabilise the region. Outlining growing support for its peace efforts, including from the United Nations and China, Pakistan issued a statement after its Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held "very productive talks" with Foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey in Islamabad. In a televised statement, Dar said that the visitors “expressed their full support” for potential US-Iran talks in Islamabad. Batting for “dialogue and diplomacy”, Pakistan said that both Iran and the US have “expressed their confidence” in Islamabad to facilitate the talks.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🔊PR No.8️⃣2️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣6️⃣ Statement by the Deputy Prime Minister /Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar at the Conclusion of 2nd Meeting of Four Foreign Ministers 🔗⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/JpUbUdhzLb">pic.twitter.com/JpUbUdhzLb</a>&mdash; Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/2038312594147271059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-irgc-issues-ultimatum-to-us-universities-in-west-asia-after-attack-on-campuses-in-tehran-1774741664288/amp">'By 12 noon...': Iran issues ultimatum to US universities in West Asia after attack on campuses in Tehran</a><h2>Pakistan as a mediator</h2>Pakistan is counting on its longstanding links with Tehran and close contacts in the Gulf, as well as the personal rapport that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the country’s powerful Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, have struck up with US President Donald Trump in the past few days. Dar and Sharif have held several calls with senior government ministers in Iran, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and were “actively engaged” with the US administration, the foreign minister said. The Pak Foreign Ministry statement also said that Dar spoke to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, adding that they “fully support” Pakistan’s push for peace, as do other governments around the world.&nbsp;Pakistan’s efforts make economic sense as it relies on oil and gas imports through the Strait of Hormuz. Continued disruption to shipping could worsen fuel supplies, driving up prices and forcing further austerity measures. Iran had allowed 20 more Pakistani-flagged vessels to pass through the Strait after it started the mediation in the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocks-saudi-s-very-regular-kind-of-a-guy-mohammad-bin-salman-in-blunt-remarks-1774755156132">'Kissing my a**': Trump mocks Saudi's 'very regular kind of a guy' MBS in blunt remarks</a>&nbsp;Sunday’s talks, held under tight security and with no US, Israeli or Iranian representation, addressed efforts to stop the conflict from spreading and to encourage “a negotiations track” between Tehran and Washington to prevent the region “slipping into a state of complete chaos”, Cairo said.All three visiting ministers — Badr Abdelatty from Egypt, Hakan Fidan from Turkey, and Saudi Arabia’s Faisal bin Farhan — also met Pak PM Sharif as well as Asim Munir.<h2>How the war began?</h2>The war began on February 28, when the United States and Israel carried out pre-emptive airstrikes across Iran. The subsequent escalation reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, triggering a broad Iranian retaliation targeting not just Israel but also US bases across Gulf countries.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Pakistan offered to host US-Iran peace talks amid rising regional tensions. Backed by UN, China, and Middle Eastern allies, Islamabad is pushing diplomacy to end the conflict, protect trade routes, and stabilise the region while leveraging strong ties with both Tehran and Washington.

Pakistan said on Sunday (March 29, 2026) that it is ready to "host and facilitate meaningful talks" between the United States and Iran to bring an end to the month-long war that has destabilise the region. Outlining growing support for its peace efforts, including from the United Nations and China, Pakistan issued a statement after its Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held "very productive talks" with Foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey in Islamabad. In a televised statement, Dar said that the visitors “expressed their full support” for potential US-Iran talks in Islamabad. Batting for “dialogue and diplomacy”, Pakistan said that both Iran and the US have “expressed their confidence” in Islamabad to facilitate the talks.

Pakistan offered to host US-Iran peace talks amid rising regional tensions. Backed by UN, China, and Middle Eastern allies, Islamabad is pushing diplomacy to end the conflict, protect trade routes, and stabilise the region while leveraging strong ties with both Tehran and Washington.

'To host meaningful talks': Pakistan 'honoured' to mediate Iran-US war after Gulf FMs meet, with China’s support

The Iranian military on Sunday again issued a warning to US President Donald Trump against any “ground operations and occupation of some islands” in the Persian Gulf, saying American forces would “become good food for the sharks of the Persian Gulf” if they made any such attempt. Ebrahim Zolfaqari, Brigadier General and spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, issued the warning in a video statement, intensifying the exchange of verbal attacks. In the latest video released by Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters, Zolfaghari said that US troops would become “good food for the sharks of the Persian Gulf” if they attempted a ground invasion of Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-thanks-iraqi-people-for-their-support-state-media-1774806982822">Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei thanks Iraqi people for their support: State media</a>&nbsp;Zolfaqari also accused Trump of being under pressure from the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad due to his links with the Epstein case and called him a “pawn” of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.“There is no doubt that the US president is under pressure from the terrorist organisation Mossad due to his background in the Epstein case and has become a pawn of the Israeli prime minister in the war and aggression against Iran,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-days-away-from-hitting-all-its-top-priority-targets-in-iran-1774788156871">Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson</a>&nbsp;Zolfaqari said Iran’s military is “counting down the moments” for the annihilation of US forces in case any ground attack or occupation attempt is launched.&nbsp;“American commanders and soldiers will become good food for the sharks of the Persian Gulf,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-ministers-of-regional-powers-hold-quadrilateral-talks-in-pakistan-for-iran-war-de-escalation-1774794127899">Saudi, Egypt and Turkey foreign ministers hold quadrilateral talks in Pakistan for Iran war de-escalation</a>&nbsp;He said that the Army of the Islamic Republic has been waiting to prove that aggression and occupation will result in nothing but humiliating captivity, dismemberment, and the disappearance of the aggressors.&nbsp;The military spokesperson’s warning comes amid several media reports that the Pentagon has been preparing plans for ground operations, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and sites near the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Media reports said that the US is considering sending around 10,000 troops to the Middle East, possibly as part of plans to carry out a ground attack on Iran. Trump has not yet approved any deployment.

Ebrahim Zolfaqari, brigadier general and spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said the Army has been waiting to prove that aggression and occupation will result in nothing but humiliating captivity, dismemberment, and disappearance of aggressors.

The Iranian military on Sunday again issued a warning to US President Donald Trump against any “ground operations and occupation of some islands” in the Persian Gulf, saying American forces would “become good food for the sharks of the Persian Gulf” if they made any such attempt. Ebrahim Zolfaqari, Brigadier General and spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, issued the warning in a video statement, intensifying the exchange of verbal attacks. In the latest video released by Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters, Zolfaghari said that US troops would become “good food for the sharks of the Persian Gulf” if they attempted a ground invasion of Iran. Also Read: Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei thanks Iraqi people for their support: State media Zolfaqari also accused Trump of being under pressure from the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad due to his links with the Epstein case and called him a “pawn” of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “There is no doubt that the US president is under pressure from the terrorist organisation Mossad due to his background in the Epstein case and has become a pawn of the Israeli prime minister in the war and aggression against Iran,” he said. Also Read: Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson Zolfaqari said Iran’s military is “counting down the moments” for the annihilation of US forces in case any ground attack or occupation attempt is launched. “American commanders and soldiers will become good food for the sharks of the Persian Gulf,” he added. Also Read: Saudi, Egypt and Turkey foreign ministers hold quadrilateral talks in Pakistan for Iran war de-escalation He said that the Army of the Islamic Republic has been waiting to prove that aggression and occupation will result in nothing but humiliating captivity, dismemberment, and the disappearance of the aggressors. The military spokesperson’s warning comes amid several media reports that the Pentagon has been preparing plans for ground operations, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and sites near the Strait of Hormuz. Media reports said that the US is considering sending around 10,000 troops to the Middle East, possibly as part of plans to carry out a ground attack on Iran. Trump has not yet approved any deployment.

Ebrahim Zolfaqari, brigadier general and spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said the Army has been waiting to prove that aggression and occupation will result in nothing but humiliating captivity, dismemberment, and disappearance of aggressors.

‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has thanked the Iraqi people and religious leadership for their support of Iran “in the face of aggression,” reported Iranian state media on Sunday without saying how the message was conveyed. More than three weeks have passed since his appointment as the supreme leader, but Khamenei has still not been seen in public since he was injured in the US-Israeli airstrike that killed his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his wife, and his son on the first day of the war. Mojtaba also issued two written statements earlier that have been delivered via state media, fuelling speculation about the extent of his injuries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-days-away-from-hitting-all-its-top-priority-targets-in-iran-1774788156871">Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson</a>&nbsp;In the latest message attributed to Iran’s third Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, he is said to have thanked the Iraqi clergy and people for their “clear position on aggression against Iran”.&nbsp;As per Iranian media outlets, the message from Khamenei was delivered to an Iraqi official following a meeting between the Speaker of the Supreme Islamic Assembly of Iraq and the Iranian ambassador to Baghdad.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-ministers-of-regional-powers-hold-quadrilateral-talks-in-pakistan-for-iran-war-de-escalation-1774794127899">Saudi, Egypt and Turkey foreign ministers hold quadrilateral talks in Pakistan for Iran war de-escalation</a>&nbsp;Since his succession to the position, several written messages attributed to Mojtaba Khamenei have been published, but he is yet to be seen in public or on state television.&nbsp;Iran’s late Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed on the first day of strikes on 28 February, but he has yet to be buried.US President Donald Trump has claimed that Mojtaba Khamenei is “either dead or in very bad shape, because no one has heard from him,” but Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva insists that Khamenei’s absence from public view is due to “security considerations”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/telangana-brings-bill-to-deduct-15-salary-of-employees-mps-mlas-neglecting-parents-1774801998531">Telangana brings bill to deduct 15% salary of employees, MPs, MLAs neglecting parents</a>&nbsp;Israel had vowed to target Mojtaba Khamenei both before and after his succession.The US State Department has also placed a $10 million bounty on 10 Iranian leaders, including the new supreme leader.

Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen in public since he was injured in the US-Israeli airstrike that killed his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his wife, and his son. He has issued two written statements that have been delivered via state media.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has thanked the Iraqi people and religious leadership for their support of Iran “in the face of aggression,” reported Iranian state media on Sunday without saying how the message was conveyed. More than three weeks have passed since his appointment as the supreme leader, but Khamenei has still not been seen in public since he was injured in the US-Israeli airstrike that killed his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his wife, and his son on the first day of the war. Mojtaba also issued two written statements earlier that have been delivered via state media, fuelling speculation about the extent of his injuries. Also Read: Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson In the latest message attributed to Iran’s third Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, he is said to have thanked the Iraqi clergy and people for their “clear position on aggression against Iran”. As per Iranian media outlets, the message from Khamenei was delivered to an Iraqi official following a meeting between the Speaker of the Supreme Islamic Assembly of Iraq and the Iranian ambassador to Baghdad. Also Read: Saudi, Egypt and Turkey foreign ministers hold quadrilateral talks in Pakistan for Iran war de-escalation Since his succession to the position, several written messages attributed to Mojtaba Khamenei have been published, but he is yet to be seen in public or on state television. Iran’s late Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed on the first day of strikes on 28 February, but he has yet to be buried. US President Donald Trump has claimed that Mojtaba Khamenei is “either dead or in very bad shape, because no one has heard from him,” but Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva insists that Khamenei’s absence from public view is due to “security considerations”. Also Read: Telangana brings bill to deduct 15% salary of employees, MPs, MLAs neglecting parents Israel had vowed to target Mojtaba Khamenei both before and after his succession. The US State Department has also placed a $10 million bounty on 10 Iranian leaders, including the new supreme leader.

Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen in public since he was injured in the US-Israeli airstrike that killed his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his wife, and his son. He has issued two written statements that have been delivered via state media.

Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei thanks Iraqi people for their support: State media

State-affiliated Iranian media, including Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), has launched a social media campaign using a mock “fact-check” format to target United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and President Donald Trump over reported damage to American military equipment.&nbsp;The campaign, which has gained traction online, reframes alleged combat losses as routine technical or household issues. In its latest instance, Iranian media reported damage to a US E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">False: The IRGC claims to have damaged an E-3 AWACS aircraft. ✅ Fact: US Central Command (CENTCOM) reports that the damage to the E-3 AWACS aircraft was caused by a clogged drain pipe from the aircraft’s kitchen dishwasher. Thank you for your attention to this issue; CENTCOM <a href="https://t.co/FFPbEMzhHm">pic.twitter.com/FFPbEMzhHm</a>&mdash; IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) (@iribnews_irib) <a href="https://twitter.com/iribnews_irib/status/2038217968740368569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Following reports of an Iranian missile and drone barrage that injured 12 US personnel, IRIB circulated a mock bulletin on Sunday (March 29) claiming the damage was caused by a “clogged drain pipe from the aircraft’s kitchen dishwasher” rather than a missile strike.&nbsp;The messaging follows a similar narrative used earlier during a March 12 incident involving the USS Gerald R Ford (CVN-78). While Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed it had struck the carrier in the Red Sea, US officials attributed visible smoke to a “laundry room fire”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-will-target-uss-abraham-lincoln-if-it-moves-within-range-to-avenge-iris-dena-martyrs-1774791281873">Iran warns ‘will target USS Abraham Lincoln’ if it moves within range to avenge IRIS Dena martyrs</a>&nbsp;Iranian outlets have since amplified such explanations, using them to question US military credibility. The approach blends satire with strategic messaging, aiming to portray US hardware as vulnerable and official statements as misleading.&nbsp;Amid the online campaign, independent satellite imagery dated March 28 indicates significant burn marks at Prince Sultan Air Base, suggesting structural damage to at least one E-3G AWACS aircraft and multiple refuelling tankers consistent with explosive impact.&nbsp;The development highlights a parallel information battle alongside the ongoing West Asia conflict, where narratives compete as much as military actions.&nbsp;Currently, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is docked in Split, Croatia, for repairs, while the damaged E-3 Sentry remains grounded in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Following reports of an Iranian missile and drone barrage that injured 12 US personnel, IRIB circulated a mock bulletin on Sunday (March 29) claiming the damage was caused by a “clogged drain pipe from the aircraft’s kitchen dishwasher” rather than a missile strike.

State-affiliated Iranian media, including Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), has launched a social media campaign using a mock “fact-check” format to target United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and President Donald Trump over reported damage to American military equipment. The campaign, which has gained traction online, reframes alleged combat losses as routine technical or household issues. In its latest instance, Iranian media reported damage to a US E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.

Following reports of an Iranian missile and drone barrage that injured 12 US personnel, IRIB circulated a mock bulletin on Sunday (March 29) claiming the damage was caused by a “clogged drain pipe from the aircraft’s kitchen dishwasher” rather than a missile strike.

‘Damage to E‑3 AWACS aircraft caused by a clogged kitchen pipe’: Iran trolls US CENTCOM, Trump

New Delhi: A Bollywood-style musical comedy shot entirely in India is set to bring song, dance, and Russian humour to cinemas across Russia on 1 April 2026. “Persimmon of My Love” marks the first major Russian-Indian film collaboration since the Soviet era and the first Russian wide-release feature filmed from start to finish on Indian soil.&nbsp;More than 350 Indian and international crew members worked on set daily, with some crowd scenes featuring up to 1,000 people on screen, a scale that echoes classic Bollywood spectacles. The story follows two brothers separated in childhood, one an upright police officer, Ramash, and the other a charismatic criminal, Shamar. Their clash of justice, family secrets, romance, and adventure unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of a fictional Indian city called Khurmada.&nbsp;Popular Russian comedians Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan star as the brothers, with Karibidis also writing the screenplay. The supporting cast includes Adila Ragimova, Albina Kabalina, Artur Vakha and Sergey Rost. Indian choreographer Jay Kumar staged the dance sequences, while Russian composer Zurab Matua created the original soundtrack, including songs performed in Hindi.&nbsp;Filming took place in Mumbai’s bustling studios and the historic palaces and forts of Udaipur and Jodhpur in Rajasthan, using real heritage sites to capture the film’s colourful visual world. Tina Kandelaki, Deputy General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding and Director of the TNT channel, which co-produced the film with MyWayStudio, said, “Russia and India have developed a strong partnership for decades, and culture has always played an important role in that relationship.”&nbsp;She explained, “This film shows how organically the creative traditions of the two countries can merge: Bollywood’s emotions and music and the Russian drama school.”&nbsp;Director Marius Weisberg, known for hits such as Love in the Big City&nbsp;and The Taming of the Shrew, praised the Indian crew’s speed and professionalism. “I was astonished by the professionalism and the speed at which the Bollywood teams worked. This is an enormous industry capable of handling the greatest production challenges,” he said.&nbsp;Karibidis, who also served as creative producer, added, “A strong story is key to any successful international project. Audiences can understand it regardless of their country or culture. We made sure that humour, emotions, and visual storytelling would resonate with audiences everywhere.”&nbsp;Producer Lika Blank described the project as “a new fairy tale created from scratch” about love, family, hope and light, told through music, humour and visual beauty. “It was important for us to honour Indian culture while creating an original international film,” she said.&nbsp;The production, backed by the Russian Cinema Fund and Indian partners including ASB Film Village, comes as cultural and economic ties between Russia and India, and within BRICS, continue to grow. Russian audiences, long familiar with Indian cinema from Soviet times, may find the blend of Bollywood spectacle, gentle self-irony, and Russian comedy a fresh and timely treat. Persimmon of My Love&nbsp;premieres in Moscow on 1 April.

Filming took place in Mumbai’s bustling studios and historic palaces and forts in Rajasthan, using real heritage sites. Director Marius Weisberg, known for hits such as Love in the Big City and The Taming of the Shrew, praised the Indian crew’s speed and professionalism.

New Delhi: A Bollywood-style musical comedy shot entirely in India is set to bring song, dance, and Russian humour to cinemas across Russia on 1 April 2026. “Persimmon of My Love” marks the first major Russian-Indian film collaboration since the Soviet era and the first Russian wide-release feature filmed from start to finish on Indian soil. More than 350 Indian and international crew members worked on set daily, with some crowd scenes featuring up to 1,000 people on screen, a scale that echoes classic Bollywood spectacles. The story follows two brothers separated in childhood, one an upright police officer, Ramash, and the other a charismatic criminal, Shamar. Their clash of justice, family secrets, romance, and adventure unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of a fictional Indian city called Khurmada. Popular Russian comedians Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan star as the brothers, with Karibidis also writing the screenplay. The supporting cast includes Adila Ragimova, Albina Kabalina, Artur Vakha and Sergey Rost. Indian choreographer Jay Kumar staged the dance sequences, while Russian composer Zurab Matua created the original soundtrack, including songs performed in Hindi. Filming took place in Mumbai’s bustling studios and the historic palaces and forts of Udaipur and Jodhpur in Rajasthan, using real heritage sites to capture the film’s colourful visual world. Tina Kandelaki, Deputy General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding and Director of the TNT channel, which co-produced the film with MyWayStudio, said, “Russia and India have developed a strong partnership for decades, and culture has always played an important role in that relationship.” She explained, “This film shows how organically the creative traditions of the two countries can merge: Bollywood’s emotions and music and the Russian drama school.” Director Marius Weisberg, known for hits such as Love in the Big City and The Taming of the Shrew, praised the Indian crew’s speed and professionalism. “I was astonished by the professionalism and the speed at which the Bollywood teams worked. This is an enormous industry capable of handling the greatest production challenges,” he said. Karibidis, who also served as creative producer, added, “A strong story is key to any successful international project. Audiences can understand it regardless of their country or culture. We made sure that humour, emotions, and visual storytelling would resonate with audiences everywhere.” Producer Lika Blank described the project as “a new fairy tale created from scratch” about love, family, hope and light, told through music, humour and visual beauty. “It was important for us to honour Indian culture while creating an original international film,” she said. The production, backed by the Russian Cinema Fund and Indian partners including ASB Film Village, comes as cultural and economic ties between Russia and India, and within BRICS, continue to grow. Russian audiences, long familiar with Indian cinema from Soviet times, may find the blend of Bollywood spectacle, gentle self-irony, and Russian comedy a fresh and timely treat. Persimmon of My Love premieres in Moscow on 1 April.

Filming took place in Mumbai’s bustling studios and historic palaces and forts in Rajasthan, using real heritage sites. Director Marius Weisberg, known for hits such as Love in the Big City&nbsp;and The Taming of the Shrew, praised the Indian crew’s speed and professionalism.

First Russian film fully shot in India blends song, dance and brotherly drama

Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs has warmly thanked India for rushing emergency fuel supplies as the war in West Asia threatens energy security in the region. A shipment of 38,000 metric tonnes of petroleum arrived in Colombo on 28 March 2026. It included 20,000 MT of diesel and 18,000 MT of petrol. Speaking to WION, Arun Hemachandra said: "We acknowledge with appreciation the timely support extended by India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in ensuring the continuity of fuel supplies to Sri Lanka during this period of global uncertainty."&nbsp;The delivery followed urgent high-level contacts. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.&nbsp;India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar also spoke with Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.&nbsp;Lanka IOC had secured fuel for March from the Middle East and Singapore, but suppliers invoked force majeure because of disruptions and vessel shortages caused by the conflict. Colombo then requested rescue supplies from India's Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL). Hemachandra placed the assistance in a broader strategic context. "This gesture reflects the spirit of India’s vision of MAHASAGAR and the Neighbourhood First policy, underscoring the importance of regional solidarity and shared responsibility."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-will-target-uss-abraham-lincoln-if-it-moves-within-range-to-avenge-iris-dena-martyrs-1774791281873">Iran warns ‘will target USS Abraham Lincoln’ if it moves within range to avenge IRIS Dena martyrs</a>&nbsp;He added: "At a time when global energy supply chains are under pressure amid prevailing conditions in the Middle East, such cooperation highlights the strength of partnership, trust, and responsiveness within our region."&nbsp;Sri Lanka remains focused on keeping energy flowing to its citizens. "Sri Lanka remains committed to ensuring stable, reliable, and sustainable energy access for our people, while continuing to engage constructively with all partners in line with our national interest," the deputy minister said.&nbsp;The shipment came through Lanka IOC and forms part of India's support to help maintain continuity of fuel supplies. Hemachandra's comments come as the island nation, still sensitive to past economic shocks, deals with fresh pressures from global oil markets. For Sri Lanka, the Indian fuel provides immediate relief and breathing space. For the wider Indian Ocean region, it reinforces the value of neighbourhood cooperation when distant conflicts ripple across supply chains.

The delivery followed urgent high-level contacts. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs has warmly thanked India for rushing emergency fuel supplies as the war in West Asia threatens energy security in the region. A shipment of 38,000 metric tonnes of petroleum arrived in Colombo on 28 March 2026. It included 20,000 MT of diesel and 18,000 MT of petrol. Speaking to WION, Arun Hemachandra said: "We acknowledge with appreciation the timely support extended by India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in ensuring the continuity of fuel supplies to Sri Lanka during this period of global uncertainty." The delivery followed urgent high-level contacts. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar also spoke with Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath. Lanka IOC had secured fuel for March from the Middle East and Singapore, but suppliers invoked force majeure because of disruptions and vessel shortages caused by the conflict. Colombo then requested rescue supplies from India's Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL). Hemachandra placed the assistance in a broader strategic context. "This gesture reflects the spirit of India’s vision of MAHASAGAR and the Neighbourhood First policy, underscoring the importance of regional solidarity and shared responsibility." Also Read: Iran warns ‘will target USS Abraham Lincoln’ if it moves within range to avenge IRIS Dena martyrs He added: "At a time when global energy supply chains are under pressure amid prevailing conditions in the Middle East, such cooperation highlights the strength of partnership, trust, and responsiveness within our region." Sri Lanka remains focused on keeping energy flowing to its citizens. "Sri Lanka remains committed to ensuring stable, reliable, and sustainable energy access for our people, while continuing to engage constructively with all partners in line with our national interest," the deputy minister said. The shipment came through Lanka IOC and forms part of India's support to help maintain continuity of fuel supplies. Hemachandra's comments come as the island nation, still sensitive to past economic shocks, deals with fresh pressures from global oil markets. For Sri Lanka, the Indian fuel provides immediate relief and breathing space. For the wider Indian Ocean region, it reinforces the value of neighbourhood cooperation when distant conflicts ripple across supply chains.

The delivery followed urgent high-level contacts. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

'Trust and responsiveness': Sri Lanka deputy FM thanks India for emergency petroleum shipment

The quadrilateral talks of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan were held in Islamabad on Sunday to discuss the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and make efforts to deescalate the Iran war. The high-level talks involving Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will be held over two days.&nbsp;The talks are focused on de-escalating the US and Israel’s war with Iran and addressing broader regional issues.&nbsp;The diplomats discussed the ongoing regional situation and deliberated on ways for peace and security.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-days-away-from-hitting-all-its-top-priority-targets-in-iran-1774788156871">Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson</a>&nbsp;Islamabad has cordial ties with both Washington and Tehran and, hence, playing an intermediary, conveyed a 15-point peace plan proposed by the US to Iran.&nbsp;The meeting is being held in a bid to open a window for diplomacy for ending an over-month-long war, which began on February 28.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-kings-protests-across-the-us-rally-against-trump-with-marquee-event-in-minnesota-1774731198265">‘No Kings’ protests across the US rally against Trump with marquee event in Minnesota</a>&nbsp;Dar had earlier confirmed indirect talks between the US and Iran were underway through messages being relayed by Pakistan, with Turkey and Egypt also helping in the effort.&nbsp;Iran rejected the 15-point US proposal and insisted that it will end the “imposed war” on its own terms and timeline.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-welcome-to-hell-iran-s-daily-issues-warning-to-us-against-ground-invasion-1774728327794">‘Welcome to Hell’: Iran’s daily issues warning to US against ground invasion</a>&nbsp;Iran offered a counterproposal with five conditions for ending the war: a complete halt to aggression and assassinations; mechanisms to prevent the war from being reimposed; guaranteed payment of reparations; resolution across all fronts and resistance groups; and international recognition of Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The diplomats discussed the ongoing regional situation and deliberated on ways for peace and security. The quadrilateral meeting is being held to open a window for diplomacy for ending an over-month-long war, which began on February 28.

The quadrilateral talks of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan were held in Islamabad on Sunday to discuss the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and make efforts to deescalate the Iran war. The high-level talks involving Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will be held over two days. The talks are focused on de-escalating the US and Israel’s war with Iran and addressing broader regional issues. The diplomats discussed the ongoing regional situation and deliberated on ways for peace and security. Also Read: Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson Islamabad has cordial ties with both Washington and Tehran and, hence, playing an intermediary, conveyed a 15-point peace plan proposed by the US to Iran. The meeting is being held in a bid to open a window for diplomacy for ending an over-month-long war, which began on February 28. Also Read: ‘No Kings’ protests across the US rally against Trump with marquee event in Minnesota Dar had earlier confirmed indirect talks between the US and Iran were underway through messages being relayed by Pakistan, with Turkey and Egypt also helping in the effort. Iran rejected the 15-point US proposal and insisted that it will end the “imposed war” on its own terms and timeline. Also Read: ‘Welcome to Hell’: Iran’s daily issues warning to US against ground invasion Iran offered a counterproposal with five conditions for ending the war: a complete halt to aggression and assassinations; mechanisms to prevent the war from being reimposed; guaranteed payment of reparations; resolution across all fronts and resistance groups; and international recognition of Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The diplomats discussed the ongoing regional situation and deliberated on ways for peace and security. The quadrilateral meeting is being held to open a window for diplomacy for ending an over-month-long war, which began on February 28.

Saudi, Egypt and Turkey foreign ministers hold quadrilateral talks in Pakistan for Iran war de-escalation

US President Donald Trump on Friday evening said that he surrounds himself with “losers” because he “likes people who listen to my success”. He said that he doesn't like successful people, as he doesn't like to listen to their “success stories”. He made those comments while acknowledging the controversial nature of the comment, he told the crowd, "I'm only kidding... eh, sort of".Trump was at the Saudi-backed conference Future Investment Initiative (FII) summit in Miami.&nbsp;“I always like to hang around with losers, actually, because it makes me feel better. I hate guys who are very, very successful, and you have to listen to their success stories. I like people who like to listen to my success," said Trump. He made the comment &nbsp;in a question-and-answer round following his lengthy speech. He suggested that they could discuss "sex" or “whatever the hell you want."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibi-files-netanyahu-documentary-adelson-hamas-funding-1774776776301">The Bibi Files: What the viral Netanyahu documentary reveals about corruption, Adelson ties and Hamas funding</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: I hang out with losers because it makes be feel better. I hate guys that are very, very successful and you have to listen to their success stories. I like people that like to listen to my success. <a href="https://t.co/OYNXspphxo">pic.twitter.com/OYNXspphxo</a>&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/2037662805558517844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump also heaped some praise on the late IRGC general Qasem Soleimani, who was killed by the US in 2020. He characterised Soleimani as a "great leader" and a "mad genius," but called him a "vicious, horrible human being". He further explained the leader label, saying, "if you define a leader in a certain way- a very powerful leader". He claimed that the Iranian leadership was happy when Soleimani was eliminated. Iranian leadership was “extremely happy”, adding that they wouldn't, but he was very powerful and "nobody’s going to be asking them anymore because they’re not here either". He suggested that the Iranian leadership is not there, and nobody wants to be their leader anymore. He said that the “supreme leader” is no more “supreme” and the son is either dead or severely injured, as no one has heard or seen him. “Their leaders are all dead… Their supreme leader is no longer supreme. He's dead,” he said and further added, “Iran's navy is gone… their air force is totally, completely dead.” He claimed that they were "begging” to make a deal. &nbsp;Trump's comments were part of a broader response to the questions regarding global leadership, where he stated that "winning" is the most important factor.

Donald Trump says he prefers “losers” over successful people, praises Qasem Soleimani and makes explosive claims about Iran at the FII summit in Miami.

US President Donald Trump on Friday evening said that he surrounds himself with “losers” because he “likes people who listen to my success”. He said that he doesn't like successful people, as he doesn't like to listen to their “success stories”. He made those comments while acknowledging the controversial nature of the comment, he told the crowd, "I'm only kidding... eh, sort of".Trump was at the Saudi-backed conference Future Investment Initiative (FII) summit in Miami. “I always like to hang around with losers, actually, because it makes me feel better. I hate guys who are very, very successful, and you have to listen to their success stories. I like people who like to listen to my success," said Trump. He made the comment in a question-and-answer round following his lengthy speech. He suggested that they could discuss "sex" or “whatever the hell you want." Also Read: The Bibi Files: What the viral Netanyahu documentary reveals about corruption, Adelson ties and Hamas funding

Donald Trump says he prefers “losers” over successful people, praises Qasem Soleimani and makes explosive claims about Iran at the FII summit in Miami.

Donald Trump says he surrounds himself with 'losers' because it makes him 'feel better'

Thirty days into the Iran war, what began as a high-intensity military confrontation has transformed into a complex, multi-front conflict drawing in regional powers and proxy groups. The past month has seen a rapid escalation, expanding theatres of conflict, and growing concerns over global economic fallout, particularly in energy markets and shipping routes.War begins with coordinated strikesThe conflict erupted on February 28 with large-scale strikes by the United States and Israel targeting key Iranian military and strategic installations. Air defence systems, missile sites, and command centres were among the first targets. Within hours, Iran responded with missile and drone attacks, signalling the start of a sustained military confrontation.Retaliation spreads across the regionAlso read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-days-away-from-hitting-all-its-top-priority-targets-in-iran-1774788156871">Israeli military days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran</a>In the first few days, Iran expanded its retaliation by targeting US-linked assets and allied positions across the Middle East. Missile and drone strikes were reported near military bases in the Gulf region. Israel, anticipating further escalation, activated emergency protocols, while cyber warfare also emerged as a parallel battleground.Rapid escalation and global disruptionBy the end of the first week, the conflict had intensified significantly. Missile exchanges between Iran and Israel became more frequent, and concerns over maritime security began to rise. The strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, came under heightened threat, disrupting global shipping and pushing energy markets into volatility.Conflict widens geographicallyThe second week marked a turning point as the war spread beyond direct state actors. Iran-backed groups in countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon increased their involvement. Hezbollah’s renewed hostilities against Israel opened an additional front, raising fears of a broader regional war.Sustained strikes and mounting damageAlso read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-awacs-hit-in-iran-strike-why-damage-to-e-3-sentry-is-a-major-blow-explained-1774775200851">US AWACS hit in Iran strike: Why damage to E-3 Sentry is a major blow</a>During the third week, both sides intensified efforts to weaken each other’s military capabilities. The US and Israel focused on degrading Iran’s missile infrastructure, while Iran continued retaliatory strikes, though with varying intensity. Civilian infrastructure and key installations across the region suffered repeated damage.More actors, wider risksAs the war entered its fourth week, the conflict drew in more regional players. Iran-backed militias escalated attacks on US and Israeli interests, while maritime routes faced growing threats. The possibility of disruption extending beyond the Gulf region became a major concern for global trade.A multi-front war takes shapeOn Day 30, the conflict has clearly evolved into a wider regional crisis. Iran continues to launch strikes on strategic and industrial targets, while Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have formally entered the war, targeting Israel. The United States is reportedly weighing further military options, even as diplomatic efforts struggle to gain traction.

The Iran war marks 30 days, evolving from direct strikes into a multi-front regional crisis. With Houthi and Hezbollah involvement, the conflict now threatens global energy markets and maritime security.

Thirty days into the Iran war, what began as a high-intensity military confrontation has transformed into a complex, multi-front conflict drawing in regional powers and proxy groups. The past month has seen a rapid escalation, expanding theatres of conflict, and growing concerns over global economic fallout, particularly in energy markets and shipping routes. War begins with coordinated strikes The conflict erupted on February 28 with large-scale strikes by the United States and Israel targeting key Iranian military and strategic installations. Air defence systems, missile sites, and command centres were among the first targets. Within hours, Iran responded with missile and drone attacks, signalling the start of a sustained military confrontation. Retaliation spreads across the region Also read: Israeli military days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran In the first few days, Iran expanded its retaliation by targeting US-linked assets and allied positions across the Middle East. Missile and drone strikes were reported near military bases in the Gulf region. Israel, anticipating further escalation, activated emergency protocols, while cyber warfare also emerged as a parallel battleground. Rapid escalation and global disruption By the end of the first week, the conflict had intensified significantly. Missile exchanges between Iran and Israel became more frequent, and concerns over maritime security began to rise. The strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, came under heightened threat, disrupting global shipping and pushing energy markets into volatility. Conflict widens geographically The second week marked a turning point as the war spread beyond direct state actors. Iran-backed groups in countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon increased their involvement. Hezbollah’s renewed hostilities against Israel opened an additional front, raising fears of a broader regional war. Sustained strikes and mounting damage Also read: US AWACS hit in Iran strike: Why damage to E-3 Sentry is a major blow During the third week, both sides intensified efforts to weaken each other’s military capabilities. The US and Israel focused on degrading Iran’s missile infrastructure, while Iran continued retaliatory strikes, though with varying intensity. Civilian infrastructure and key installations across the region suffered repeated damage. More actors, wider risks As the war entered its fourth week, the conflict drew in more regional players. Iran-backed militias escalated attacks on US and Israeli interests, while maritime routes faced growing threats. The possibility of disruption extending beyond the Gulf region became a major concern for global trade. A multi-front war takes shape On Day 30, the conflict has clearly evolved into a wider regional crisis. Iran continues to launch strikes on strategic and industrial targets, while Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have formally entered the war, targeting Israel. The United States is reportedly weighing further military options, even as diplomatic efforts struggle to gain traction.

The Iran war marks 30 days, evolving from direct strikes into a multi-front regional crisis. With Houthi and Hezbollah involvement, the conflict now threatens global energy markets and maritime security.

Iran war: As conflict continues after 30 days, here’s a timeline of how it all started

Iranian Navy on Sunday (March 29) warned that it will target the American aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln if it comes within range. The warship is currently deployed in the Gulf region and is serving as the flagship carrier in the US campaign against Iran. While other carriers, such as USS Gerald R Ford, are sidelined for repairs, the Lincoln is carrying the bulk of the aerial combat load.&nbsp;"As soon as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group comes within firing range, we will avenge the blood of the martyrs of the Dena warship by launching various types of sea-to-sea missiles," Navy Chief Shahram Irani was quoted as saying by state TV, referring to an Iranian frigate sunk by the US on March 4.&nbsp;IRIS Dena was sunk in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka’s southern coast, close to Galle, during the ongoing conflict. Around 80–87 sailors were reported killed, with a few survivors rescued after the strike.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-awacs-hit-in-iran-strike-why-damage-to-e-3-sentry-is-a-major-blow-explained-1774775200851">US AWACS hit in Iran strike: Why damage to E-3 Sentry is a major blow | EXPLAINED</a>&nbsp;The war, which was triggered by a US-Israel bombing campaign against Iran, quickly turned into a regional conflict and continues to engulf more countries in the region, as Israel announced that it is ready for a multi-front war after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched missile attacks toward its territory.&nbsp;Gulf nations have already come under Iranian attacks after it targeted US bases and its allies in the region. The strikes disrupted key energy and civilian infrastructure. Tehran also announced the effective closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of global crude transits, triggering oil prices to cross $100 and causing an energy crisis in several countries across the world.&nbsp;Despite President Trump's extension of a pause on military strikes on Iran's power infrastructure until April 6 and claims that negotiations are going very well, several media reports suggested that the US is preparing for a ground attack to seize Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz, as US CENTCOM confirmed the arrival of an additional 3,500 Marines in the region.&nbsp;Responding to reports, Iran's powerful parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, “The enemy publicly sends messages of negotiation and dialogue while secretly planning a ground attack,” adding that, “Our men are waiting for the arrival of the American soldiers on the ground to set them on fire and punish their regional allies once and for all.”&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

USS Abraham Lincoln is currently deployed in the Gulf region and is serving as the flagship carrier in the US campaign against Iran.

Iranian Navy on Sunday (March 29) warned that it will target the American aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln if it comes within range. The warship is currently deployed in the Gulf region and is serving as the flagship carrier in the US campaign against Iran. While other carriers, such as USS Gerald R Ford, are sidelined for repairs, the Lincoln is carrying the bulk of the aerial combat load. "As soon as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group comes within firing range, we will avenge the blood of the martyrs of the Dena warship by launching various types of sea-to-sea missiles," Navy Chief Shahram Irani was quoted as saying by state TV, referring to an Iranian frigate sunk by the US on March 4. IRIS Dena was sunk in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka’s southern coast, close to Galle, during the ongoing conflict. Around 80–87 sailors were reported killed, with a few survivors rescued after the strike. Also Read: US AWACS hit in Iran strike: Why damage to E-3 Sentry is a major blow | EXPLAINED The war, which was triggered by a US-Israel bombing campaign against Iran, quickly turned into a regional conflict and continues to engulf more countries in the region, as Israel announced that it is ready for a multi-front war after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched missile attacks toward its territory. Gulf nations have already come under Iranian attacks after it targeted US bases and its allies in the region. The strikes disrupted key energy and civilian infrastructure. Tehran also announced the effective closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of global crude transits, triggering oil prices to cross $100 and causing an energy crisis in several countries across the world. Despite President Trump's extension of a pause on military strikes on Iran's power infrastructure until April 6 and claims that negotiations are going very well, several media reports suggested that the US is preparing for a ground attack to seize Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz, as US CENTCOM confirmed the arrival of an additional 3,500 Marines in the region. Responding to reports, Iran's powerful parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, “The enemy publicly sends messages of negotiation and dialogue while secretly planning a ground attack,” adding that, “Our men are waiting for the arrival of the American soldiers on the ground to set them on fire and punish their regional allies once and for all.” (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.)

USS Abraham Lincoln is currently deployed in the Gulf region and is serving as the flagship carrier in the US campaign against Iran.

Iran warns ‘will target USS Abraham Lincoln’ if it moves within range to avenge IRIS Dena martyrs

There is a line, and all of us in the business know that it exists. We go towards danger, and our job is to not be the danger. Lately, however, that line seems to be disappear. Journalists are being killed, captured, and intimidated, not as bystanders, but as inconvenient truth-tellers. Let’s stop glossing over it. This is not just a war. This is a war against the truth. Stories have been written about how many journalists have died in airstrikes while simply doing what they were sent to do: report the truth. They wore press vests. They stood in front of cameras. They clearly identified themselves. They still died.&nbsp;Take the case of Fatima Ftouni, a journalist with Al-Mayadeen. On March 28, 2026, she was in a clearly marked media vehicle in the south of Lebanon, en route to a story she had to write. An Israeli strike hit the media vehicle she was in. She survived the first strike, reportedly stepping out and attempting to run away. A second strike followed. This strike killed her.&nbsp;She was not the only journalist killed in the strike. Her brother, Mohamad Ftouni, a freelance cameraman, also died in the strike. So did another journalist, Ali Shoeib, a veteran journalist. They were not hiding. They were not armed. They were just doing their job. Israel claimed to have targeted one of them, alleging that they had ties to militants, but failed to account for the others who died in the same strike.&nbsp;These are not grey areas. These are documented cases of journalists being hit while doing their jobs. These are not statistics. These are names. Faces. Stories that will now never be told. And then came the now-viral moment, where a CNN journalist was reportedly detained by Israeli forces in Lebanon while filming. Not firing a weapon. Not provoking violence. Just filming.&nbsp;But more than that, I feel something else: a sense of betrayal. Because journalism is founded on a precarious pledge: that in the midst of even the most brutal conflicts, there will be someone left to tell the tale. We are urged to be objective: to report without emotion. But objectivity is not an excuse to remain silent in the face of injustice.&nbsp;For when we target journalists, objectivity becomes complicity. When a journalist dies, it’s not just a life that’s been lost; it’s a story that’s been killed too. Accountability weakened. And when we arrest someone for reporting on a story, we send a rather chilling message: there are some truths we’d rather not reveal.&nbsp;That is not acceptable. We did not sign up to be silenced. We did not sign up to die for holding a camera. We signed up to bear witness. To go where the truth is uncomfortable. To ask questions power would rather avoid. To show people what is really happening, especially when someone wants it hidden. Yes, war reporting has always been a dangerous profession. But there is a difference between danger and targeting. One is risk. The other is suppression. And the more we accept this, the more we accept that the truth itself becomes a casualty.&nbsp;And today, it’s journalists in Lebanon. Tomorrow, it could be journalists anywhere in the world. Because once we accept that truth-telling journalists are dispensable, then no story is sacred and no society is informed. So, to answer the question, this is not just another headline. This is a warning. Because the day journalists become targets…is the day truth becomes optional. And that’s a more dangerous world than any war zone.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Journalists killed in Lebanon highlight a growing war on truth, where reporting facts is becoming as dangerous as the conflict itself

There is a line, and all of us in the business know that it exists. We go towards danger, and our job is to not be the danger. Lately, however, that line seems to be disappear. Journalists are being killed, captured, and intimidated, not as bystanders, but as inconvenient truth-tellers. Let’s stop glossing over it. This is not just a war. This is a war against the truth. Stories have been written about how many journalists have died in airstrikes while simply doing what they were sent to do: report the truth. They wore press vests. They stood in front of cameras. They clearly identified themselves. They still died. Take the case of Fatima Ftouni, a journalist with Al-Mayadeen. On March 28, 2026, she was in a clearly marked media vehicle in the south of Lebanon, en route to a story she had to write. An Israeli strike hit the media vehicle she was in. She survived the first strike, reportedly stepping out and attempting to run away. A second strike followed. This strike killed her. She was not the only journalist killed in the strike. Her brother, Mohamad Ftouni, a freelance cameraman, also died in the strike. So did another journalist, Ali Shoeib, a veteran journalist. They were not hiding. They were not armed. They were just doing their job. Israel claimed to have targeted one of them, alleging that they had ties to militants, but failed to account for the others who died in the same strike. These are not grey areas. These are documented cases of journalists being hit while doing their jobs. These are not statistics. These are names. Faces. Stories that will now never be told. And then came the now-viral moment, where a CNN journalist was reportedly detained by Israeli forces in Lebanon while filming. Not firing a weapon. Not provoking violence. Just filming. But more than that, I feel something else: a sense of betrayal. Because journalism is founded on a precarious pledge: that in the midst of even the most brutal conflicts, there will be someone left to tell the tale. We are urged to be objective: to report without emotion. But objectivity is not an excuse to remain silent in the face of injustice. For when we target journalists, objectivity becomes complicity. When a journalist dies, it’s not just a life that’s been lost; it’s a story that’s been killed too. Accountability weakened. And when we arrest someone for reporting on a story, we send a rather chilling message: there are some truths we’d rather not reveal. That is not acceptable. We did not sign up to be silenced. We did not sign up to die for holding a camera. We signed up to bear witness. To go where the truth is uncomfortable. To ask questions power would rather avoid. To show people what is really happening, especially when someone wants it hidden. Yes, war reporting has always been a dangerous profession. But there is a difference between danger and targeting. One is risk. The other is suppression. And the more we accept this, the more we accept that the truth itself becomes a casualty. And today, it’s journalists in Lebanon. Tomorrow, it could be journalists anywhere in the world. Because once we accept that truth-telling journalists are dispensable, then no story is sacred and no society is informed. So, to answer the question, this is not just another headline. This is a warning. Because the day journalists become targets…is the day truth becomes optional. And that’s a more dangerous world than any war zone. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Targeting journalists in war zones exposes a grim reality, truth is under attack, and those risking their lives to report are no longer protected

They were there to report. They never came back

The Israeli military is just days away from striking all the targets in Iran it considers to be “top priority,” an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson said on Sunday. IDF’s international spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said the military classifies its targets into different groups. “It could be ballistic missiles, (weapons) production, nuclear command and control centres, and so on,” said Shoshani.&nbsp;&nbsp;Within each group, there are different categories: “essential, important, and additional,” Shoshani explained.In a few days, “we will be able to finish the job against the top priority targets in the family group of production,” he said. “(That) doesn’t mean we’re exhausting our targets … but talking about the top priority of what we marked as top priority, we will be able to achieve that within a few days.”&nbsp;Shoshani was reluctant to put a detailed timeline on that in case “operational conditions” changed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-kings-protests-across-the-us-rally-against-trump-with-marquee-event-in-minnesota-1774731198265">‘No Kings’ protests across the US rally against Trump with marquee event in Minnesota</a><h2>IAF bombed production unit of critical missile components: IDF&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The IDF said on Sunday that the Israeli Air Force bombed dozens of Iranian weapon production sites, including a facility where “critical components” for missiles were developed, during a wave of airstrikes overnight.The site in the Tehran area, belonging to Iran’s defence ministry, is “one of only two of its kind in Iran, where the regime developed critical components for assembling and operationalising ballistic missiles intended for launch toward the State of Israel,” IDF added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-welcome-to-hell-iran-s-daily-issues-warning-to-us-against-ground-invasion-1774728327794">‘Welcome to Hell’: Iran’s daily issues warning to US against ground invasion</a>&nbsp;The other targets hit in the wave of strikes in Tehran included a facility where Iran manufactured engines for ballistic missiles; a weapon production and storage site; a facility where engines for drones were manufactured; and a “central site” of the Iranian military used for the development of air defence systems and the manufacturing and storage of anti-aircraft missiles, it added.&nbsp;Over the weekend, the IDF struck two steel plants in Iran, including one that uses radioactive material, the UN’s nuclear watchdog said, as well as a heavy water plant in Arak, which includes key production sites for plutonium.Shoshani said the IDF hit that heavy water plant during its offensive last June too “but intelligence identified attempts to rebuild it.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vp-jd-vance-says-us-will-get-out-of-iran-soon-and-fuel-prices-will-come-down-1774714890254">VP JD Vance says US will get out of Iran ‘soon’ and fuel prices will come down</a>&nbsp;The US-Israeli strikes on Iran have killed at least 1,900 people in Iran and damaged civilian infrastructure, including hundreds of medical facilities and schools, according to the Iranian Red Crescent.

The Israel Defense Forces said on Sunday that the Israeli Air Force bombed dozens of Iranian weapon production sites, including a facility where “critical components” for missiles were developed, during a wave of airstrikes overnight.

The Israeli military is just days away from striking all the targets in Iran it considers to be “top priority,” an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson said on Sunday. IDF’s international spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said the military classifies its targets into different groups. “It could be ballistic missiles, (weapons) production, nuclear command and control centres, and so on,” said Shoshani. Within each group, there are different categories: “essential, important, and additional,” Shoshani explained. In a few days, “we will be able to finish the job against the top priority targets in the family group of production,” he said. “(That) doesn’t mean we’re exhausting our targets … but talking about the top priority of what we marked as top priority, we will be able to achieve that within a few days.” Shoshani was reluctant to put a detailed timeline on that in case “operational conditions” changed. Also Read: ‘No Kings’ protests across the US rally against Trump with marquee event in Minnesota IAF bombed production unit of critical missile components: IDF The IDF said on Sunday that the Israeli Air Force bombed dozens of Iranian weapon production sites, including a facility where “critical components” for missiles were developed, during a wave of airstrikes overnight. The site in the Tehran area, belonging to Iran’s defence ministry, is “one of only two of its kind in Iran, where the regime developed critical components for assembling and operationalising ballistic missiles intended for launch toward the State of Israel,” IDF added. Also Read: ‘Welcome to Hell’: Iran’s daily issues warning to US against ground invasion The other targets hit in the wave of strikes in Tehran included a facility where Iran manufactured engines for ballistic missiles; a weapon production and storage site; a facility where engines for drones were manufactured; and a “central site” of the Iranian military used for the development of air defence systems and the manufacturing and storage of anti-aircraft missiles, it added. Over the weekend, the IDF struck two steel plants in Iran, including one that uses radioactive material, the UN’s nuclear watchdog said, as well as a heavy water plant in Arak, which includes key production sites for plutonium. Shoshani said the IDF hit that heavy water plant during its offensive last June too “but intelligence identified attempts to rebuild it.” Also Read: VP JD Vance says US will get out of Iran ‘soon’ and fuel prices will come down The US-Israeli strikes on Iran have killed at least 1,900 people in Iran and damaged civilian infrastructure, including hundreds of medical facilities and schools, according to the Iranian Red Crescent.

The Israel Defense Forces said on Sunday that the Israeli Air Force bombed dozens of Iranian weapon production sites, including a facility where “critical components” for missiles were developed, during a wave of airstrikes overnight.

Israeli military just days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran, says IDF spokesperson

Israel has said it is prepared for a “multi-front war” after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched missile attacks toward its territory, marking a significant widening of the ongoing conflict. The Israeli military confirmed that two missiles were fired toward southern Israel on Saturday (March 28), including one ballistic missile. Both projectiles were successfully intercepted, preventing any reported damage or casualties. The strikes represent the Houthis’ first direct attempt to target Israel since hostilities began on February 28.&nbsp;“We have prepared for a multi-front war. We’ve been fighting for the last two and a half years a multi-front war with threats from various different fronts,” said Nadav Shoshani, international spokesperson for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), on Sunday (March 29).&nbsp;Shoshani added that Israel is bracing for the Houthis’ involvement to become a sustained part of the conflict. “We have to be ready for this becoming a part of this war, and that’s how we’re preparing for it. We’re taking their word and preparing to defend ourselves for as long as needed from that front as well,” he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibi-files-netanyahu-documentary-adelson-hamas-funding-1774776776301">The Bibi Files: What the viral Netanyahu documentary reveals about corruption, Adelson ties and Hamas funding</a><h3>Houthis signal deeper involvement</h3>The Iran-aligned Houthis’ entry into the conflict underscores the growing regional dimension of the war. The group, which controls large parts of Yemen, has long been backed by Tehran and has expressed strong support for Iran’s position.&nbsp;Houthi leader Abdel-Malik al-Houthi recently reiterated the group’s loyalty to Iran, saying, “Our Yemeni people repay loyalty with loyalty, and Iran was the only state, officially, that stood with us against the aggression on our country.” The development raises concerns about further coordinated actions by Iran-backed groups across the region, potentially stretching Israel’s military across multiple fronts.<h3>Strategic waterways under threat</h3>The Houthis’ involvement has also heightened fears over global energy security, particularly around key maritime chokepoints. Over the past month, Iran has effectively choked off the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments, sending crude prices soaring and rattling international markets. Now, attention is shifting to another critical passage - the Bab al-Mandab Strait.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-awacs-hit-in-iran-strike-why-damage-to-e-3-sentry-is-a-major-blow-explained-1774775200851">US AWACS hit in Iran strike: Why damage to E-3 Sentry is a major blow</a>&nbsp;The narrow waterway, located between Yemen and the Horn of Africa, handles roughly 12 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil trade, according to the US Energy Information Administration. The Houthis have indicated they may target shipping routes in the area, raising the prospect of further disruption to global energy supplies. With multiple flashpoints emerging across the Middle East, Israel’s warning of a “multi-front war” reflects growing concern that the conflict could expand into a broader regional confrontation.

Israel prepares for a "multi-front war" after Yemeni Houthi rebels launched intercepted missiles toward its territory. The escalation threatens global energy security, specifically targeting the Bab al-Mandab and Hormuz straits.

Israel has said it is prepared for a “multi-front war” after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched missile attacks toward its territory, marking a significant widening of the ongoing conflict. The Israeli military confirmed that two missiles were fired toward southern Israel on Saturday (March 28), including one ballistic missile. Both projectiles were successfully intercepted, preventing any reported damage or casualties. The strikes represent the Houthis’ first direct attempt to target Israel since hostilities began on February 28. “We have prepared for a multi-front war. We’ve been fighting for the last two and a half years a multi-front war with threats from various different fronts,” said Nadav Shoshani, international spokesperson for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), on Sunday (March 29). Shoshani added that Israel is bracing for the Houthis’ involvement to become a sustained part of the conflict. “We have to be ready for this becoming a part of this war, and that’s how we’re preparing for it. We’re taking their word and preparing to defend ourselves for as long as needed from that front as well,” he said. Also read: The Bibi Files: What the viral Netanyahu documentary reveals about corruption, Adelson ties and Hamas funding Houthis signal deeper involvement The Iran-aligned Houthis’ entry into the conflict underscores the growing regional dimension of the war. The group, which controls large parts of Yemen, has long been backed by Tehran and has expressed strong support for Iran’s position. Houthi leader Abdel-Malik al-Houthi recently reiterated the group’s loyalty to Iran, saying, “Our Yemeni people repay loyalty with loyalty, and Iran was the only state, officially, that stood with us against the aggression on our country.” The development raises concerns about further coordinated actions by Iran-backed groups across the region, potentially stretching Israel’s military across multiple fronts. Strategic waterways under threat The Houthis’ involvement has also heightened fears over global energy security, particularly around key maritime chokepoints. Over the past month, Iran has effectively choked off the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments, sending crude prices soaring and rattling international markets. Now, attention is shifting to another critical passage - the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Also read: US AWACS hit in Iran strike: Why damage to E-3 Sentry is a major blow The narrow waterway, located between Yemen and the Horn of Africa, handles roughly 12 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil trade, according to the US Energy Information Administration. The Houthis have indicated they may target shipping routes in the area, raising the prospect of further disruption to global energy supplies. With multiple flashpoints emerging across the Middle East, Israel’s warning of a “multi-front war” reflects growing concern that the conflict could expand into a broader regional confrontation.

Israel prepares for a "multi-front war" after Yemeni Houthi rebels launched intercepted missiles toward its territory. The escalation threatens global energy security, specifically targeting the Bab al-Mandab and Hormuz straits.

As Houthis enter Iran conflict, Israel says it’s ready for ‘multi-front war’

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They were there to report. They never came back

Israeli military days away from hitting all its ‘top priority’ targets in Iran

As Houthis enter Iran conflict, Israel says it’s ready for ‘multi-front war’