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Amid ongoing war in West Asia, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday (Mar 25) ook a swipe at Washington’s shifting goals in the conflict and commented on the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid Iran allowing ships from Pakistan to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. It also comes at the backdrop of reports that Pakistan is eyeing a mediator role between Iran and the US as US President Donald Trump hinted at a peace deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-eyes-peace-broker-role-between-us-and-iran-as-trump-halts-war-what-we-know-1774339285051">Pakistan eyes peace broker role between US and Iran as Trump halts war? What we know</a>&nbsp;"The goal of the war seems to have shifted to opening the Strait of Hormuz, which was open before the war", Asif wrote in a post on X. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared a similar post, saying, “Pakistan welcomes and fully supports ongoing efforts to pursue dialogue to end the WAR in Middle East, in the interest of peace and stability in region and beyond." "Subject to concurrence by the US and Iran, Pakistan stands ready and honoured to be the host to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement of the ongoing conflict," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-allows-india-to-use-strait-of-hormuz-amid-energy-crisis-pakistan-china-other-countries-on-the-list-1774504190136">Iran allows India to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis — Check 4 other countries on the list</a><h2>Pakistan the mediator?</h2>While Trump did share a Pakistan PM's post about mediation, Responding to the development, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that nothing concrete could be said. In response to an ANI query, Leavitt said that it should not be deemed as final until it is formally announced by the White House. Leavitt responded, “These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and the US will not negotiate through the press. This is a fluid situation, and speculation about meetings should not be deemed as final until they are formally announced by the White House.” Interestingly, on March 12, when Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for the first time spoke about conditions that the Islamic Republic would put forward to end the war, he had held a telephonic conversation with leaders of Russia and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reports also indicate that Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke to Trump on Sunday, followed by a phone call between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Channel 12 reported quoting sources that US Vice President JD Vance, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet with Iranian officials in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Amid the West Asia war, Khawaja Asif criticised Washington’s shifting war goals, linking them to the Strait of Hormuz. As Iran allows Pakistan ships passage, Shehbaz Sharif offered to mediate US-Iran talks, though the US called it speculative.

Amid ongoing war in West Asia, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday (Mar 25) ook a swipe at Washington’s shifting goals in the conflict and commented on the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid Iran allowing ships from Pakistan to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. It also comes at the backdrop of reports that Pakistan is eyeing a mediator role between Iran and the US as US President Donald Trump hinted at a peace deal. Also Read: Pakistan eyes peace broker role between US and Iran as Trump halts war? What we know "The goal of the war seems to have shifted to opening the Strait of Hormuz, which was open before the war", Asif wrote in a post on X. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared a similar post, saying, “Pakistan welcomes and fully supports ongoing efforts to pursue dialogue to end the WAR in Middle East, in the interest of peace and stability in region and beyond." "Subject to concurrence by the US and Iran, Pakistan stands ready and honoured to be the host to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement of the ongoing conflict," he added. Also Read: Iran allows India to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis — Check 4 other countries on the list Pakistan the mediator? While Trump did share a Pakistan PM's post about mediation, Responding to the development, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that nothing concrete could be said. In response to an ANI query, Leavitt said that it should not be deemed as final until it is formally announced by the White House. Leavitt responded, “These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and the US will not negotiate through the press. This is a fluid situation, and speculation about meetings should not be deemed as final until they are formally announced by the White House.” Interestingly, on March 12, when Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for the first time spoke about conditions that the Islamic Republic would put forward to end the war, he had held a telephonic conversation with leaders of Russia and Pakistan. Reports also indicate that Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke to Trump on Sunday, followed by a phone call between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Channel 12 reported quoting sources that US Vice President JD Vance, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet with Iranian officials in Islamabad.

Amid the West Asia war, Khawaja Asif criticised Washington’s shifting war goals, linking them to the Strait of Hormuz. As Iran allows Pakistan ships passage, Shehbaz Sharif offered to mediate US-Iran talks, though the US called it speculative.

Did Pakistan Defence Minister just mock US over Strait of Hormuz claims?

A New York Times report has claimed that many American troops in West Asia were forced to relocate to hotels and office spaces throughout the Gulf region after Iran bombed their bases. Citing military personnel and American officials, the report said that the land-based US military is, in essence, fighting the war while working remotely. The only exceptions are fighter pilots and crews operating and maintaining jets and conducting strikes, it said.<h2>US bases in Gulf region now vulnerable due to Iran bombardment&nbsp;</h2>In response to the joint US-Israel strikes since February 28, Iran has launched missile strikes on US bases across the Middle East. With their bases now vulnerable, many troops have been dispersed or relocated to “alternative” locations.Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has urged civilians to report US troop locations.Thousands of US troops are now dispersedThoudands out of of the nearly 40,000 US troops in the region have now been dispersed, some even to Europe. Many remain in the Middle East in less secure, improvised locations, as per the NYT report.&nbsp;One official said this shift has made the war &nbsp;“much harder to prosecute,” reducing operational capability.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-they-take-any-step-iran-threatens-retaliation-over-plan-to-occupy-island-by-enemies-1774469648698">'If they take any step…': Iran threatens retaliation over plan to 'occupy island by enemies'</a><h2>How exactly are American troops operating remotely?</h2>According to the report, US troops are operating in a operating in a dispersed, improvised network, instead of centralised bases. They have set up “expedient operation centres” in hotels, office buildings, and other temporary facilities across the region. They continue to carry out core tasks like intelligence analysis, targeting, coordination of strikes, and command-and-control functions using portable and scaled-down systems, said the report.&nbsp;<h2>Warfighting from remote locations is not a feasible option</h2>The paper quoted Retired Air Force specialist Wes J Bryant as saying: “You can’t just put all that equipment on the top of a hotel… Some of it is unwieldy.”&nbsp;“You’re absolutely going to lose capability.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-says-strait-of-hormuz-open-for-friendly-nations-like-india-wion-1774506577245/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-says-strait-of-hormuz-open-for-friendly-nations-like-india-wion-1774506577245/embed</a><h2>Iran’s ballistic capabilities rendered traditional US bases unsafe&nbsp;</h2>The ballistic missile and drone capabilities were on full display in Iran during this conflict,reflecting poor prewar planning. The US did not anticipate it or evacuate nonessential personnel.&nbsp;The facilities were not reinforced and US troops were not prepared or did not have the right equipment ahead of the Iran strikes. At Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, a lack of reinforced structures contributed to casualties in an attack, said the NYT report.Refuelling tankers were deployed hastily with minimal preparation. And a collision between two KC-135 aircraft killed six service members over Iraq.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-clears-stance-on-trump-s-peace-plan-after-unleash-hell-threat-by-us-west-asia-war-1774483434830">'We do not intend to negotiate but...': Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US</a><h2>US military is capable of decentralised execution, but it comes with costs</h2>The US military can continue operations even when dispersed. As one official told the paper, “down to the last individual soldier, we’re still going to be operating.” But still, there are some tradeoffs in this scenario. The remote setup limits war effectiveness as critical equipment cannot be fully deployed in such spaces as much as at established military bases.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran's missile and drone strikes on US bases across the Middle East have forced some American troops there to shift to hotels and alternative sites, says a report. These dispersed operations come with logistical challenges.

A New York Times report has claimed that many American troops in West Asia were forced to relocate to hotels and office spaces throughout the Gulf region after Iran bombed their bases. Citing military personnel and American officials, the report said that the land-based US military is, in essence, fighting the war while working remotely. The only exceptions are fighter pilots and crews operating and maintaining jets and conducting strikes, it said. US bases in Gulf region now vulnerable due to Iran bombardment In response to the joint US-Israel strikes since February 28, Iran has launched missile strikes on US bases across the Middle East. With their bases now vulnerable, many troops have been dispersed or relocated to “alternative” locations. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has urged civilians to report US troop locations. Thousands of US troops are now dispersed Thoudands out of of the nearly 40,000 US troops in the region have now been dispersed, some even to Europe. Many remain in the Middle East in less secure, improvised locations, as per the NYT report. One official said this shift has made the war “much harder to prosecute,” reducing operational capability. Also read: 'If they take any step…': Iran threatens retaliation over plan to 'occupy island by enemies' How exactly are American troops operating remotely? According to the report, US troops are operating in a operating in a dispersed, improvised network, instead of centralised bases. They have set up “expedient operation centres” in hotels, office buildings, and other temporary facilities across the region. They continue to carry out core tasks like intelligence analysis, targeting, coordination of strikes, and command-and-control functions using portable and scaled-down systems, said the report. Warfighting from remote locations is not a feasible option The paper quoted Retired Air Force specialist Wes J Bryant as saying: “You can’t just put all that equipment on the top of a hotel… Some of it is unwieldy.” “You’re absolutely going to lose capability.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-says-strait-of-hormuz-open-for-friendly-nations-like-india-wion-1774506577245/embed Iran’s ballistic capabilities rendered traditional US bases unsafe The ballistic missile and drone capabilities were on full display in Iran during this conflict, reflecting poor prewar planning. The US did not anticipate it or evacuate nonessential personnel. The facilities were not reinforced and US troops were not prepared or did not have the right equipment ahead of the Iran strikes. At Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, a lack of reinforced structures contributed to casualties in an attack, said the NYT report. Refuelling tankers were deployed hastily with minimal preparation. And a collision between two KC-135 aircraft killed six service members over Iraq. Also read: 'We do not intend to negotiate but...': Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US US military is capable of decentralised execution, but it comes with costs The US military can continue operations even when dispersed. As one official told the paper, “down to the last individual soldier, we’re still going to be operating.” But still, there are some tradeoffs in this scenario. The remote setup limits war effectiveness as critical equipment cannot be fully deployed in such spaces as much as at established military bases. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran's missile and drone strikes on US bases across the Middle East have forced some American troops there to shift to hotels and alternative sites, says a report. These dispersed operations come with logistical challenges.

'Work from Home' for US soldiers? Iran attacks damaged their Gulf bases so much that some now operate from hotels, remote locations: Report

Short-range kamikaze drones operated by an Iran-backed militia appear to have successfully hit a US Black Hawk helicopter and a key air defence radar at an American base in Iraq. A video circulating on social media, captured from a first-person view (FPV) drone, shows a pair of Black Hawk helicopters parked inside a compound with minimal protection. The video cuts off just before detonation near the main rotor, suggesting at least one helicopter was likely hit. The site has been identified as the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport. The targeted helicopter seems to be an HH-60M medevac variant, though markings like red crosses appear to have been edited out in the footage. Since the conflict began, there have also been concerning drone incursions over a major US base that houses nuclear weapons and B-52 bombers.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An Iranian-backed militia carried out a successful FPV drone strike on Camp Victory in Iraq yesterday, successfully hitting multiple targets. Seen here, one of the FPV attack munitions hits a parked UH-60 Black Hawk. <a href="https://t.co/ngY8td9ONZ">pic.twitter.com/ngY8td9ONZ</a>&mdash; OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/2036618002838212834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Iran claims to have shot down US F18 fighter jet</h3>Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday (March 25) claimed striking a US F-18 fighter jet, indicating a potential escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington. The IRGC stated that the aircraft was ‘successfully targeted’, but did not provide details on the location, level of damage, or the pilot’s status. However, there has been no immediate confirmation from the end of the US military, which has earlier rejected similar Iranian claims during past confrontations. The visuals shared online, including by Iran’s state-linked Press TV, appear to capture a fighter jet in flight before a sudden flash occurs close to the aircraft, indicating it may have been struck mid-air. Moments later, the jet seems to become unstable, trailing what looks like a plume that could suggest damage or a loss of control. Although the clip is short, it points to a possible aerial incident. The video has not been independently verified.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-secretly-sending-drones-to-iran-in-covert-shipment-that-includes-food-and-medicines-claims-report-iran-israel-us-war-news-update-1774503153687">Russia secretly sending drones to Iran in covert shipment that includes food and medicines, claims report</a>

The targeted helicopter seems to be an HH-60M medevac variant, though markings like red crosses appear to have been edited out in the footage. The site has been identified as the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport.

Short-range kamikaze drones operated by an Iran-backed militia appear to have successfully hit a US Black Hawk helicopter and a key air defence radar at an American base in Iraq. A video circulating on social media, captured from a first-person view (FPV) drone, shows a pair of Black Hawk helicopters parked inside a compound with minimal protection. The video cuts off just before detonation near the main rotor, suggesting at least one helicopter was likely hit. The site has been identified as the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport. The targeted helicopter seems to be an HH-60M medevac variant, though markings like red crosses appear to have been edited out in the footage. Since the conflict began, there have also been concerning drone incursions over a major US base that houses nuclear weapons and B-52 bombers.

The targeted helicopter seems to be an HH-60M medevac variant, though markings like red crosses appear to have been edited out in the footage. The site has been identified as the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport.

WATCH: Iranian drone attacks US Black Hawk helicopter at American base in Iraq - More details inside

A humanoid robot sauntered down the Red Carpet in the White House hallway with US First Lady Melania Trump on March 26, 2026, for the "Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit." The robot then introduced itself as "Figure 03," and greeted the guests in 11 different languages."I am grateful to be part of this historic movement to empower children with technology and education," said the Robot while joining Trump in the East Room. Melania thanked the robot for joining her, "It's fair to state, you are my first American-made humanoid guest in the White House." She then went on to suggest that the Artificial intelligence will move outside of our phones to the humanoid robots.&nbsp;Trump said that Figure 03 was a US-made humanoid robot, a guest at the White House and used its appearance as a promotion for the collaboration between AI companies and the government to work together and use AI for student instruction.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/larry-fink-oil-150-global-recession-warning-ai-bubble-1774416620897">BlackRock CEO Larry Fink warns $150 oil could trigger global recession</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JUST IN: First Lady Melania Trump walks out with an AI-powered robot at the White House. &quot;The first American-made humanoid in the White House,&quot; Melania Trump said. Melania Trump is hosting 45 nations at the White House for a two-day global coalition summit. <a href="https://t.co/LTqttQgSIr">pic.twitter.com/LTqttQgSIr</a>&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/2036831318655516957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Melania, a former model, further optimistically presented the humanoid as a part of a future delivering lessons in classical studies, mathematics and other subjects to students based on their cognitive abilities. She greeted all the “human capital” present in the White House, calling upon them to harness it to empower their communities.&nbsp;“Nowhere else could such a concentration of excellence be assembled, from AI pioneers like OpenAI, Palantir, and xAI, to tech platforms like Google and Meta, creative engines like Adobe and Microsoft, plus human connectivity through Zoom Communications…This room is filled with extraordinary human capital. Leaders: harness it to elevate your children, to empower your people, and to accelerate your economies,” said Melania.Figure 03 was developed by a Silicon Valley-based robotics company, Figure AI, and uses the Helix engine for performing autonomous tasks. It has a value of $25,000. Trump said they can accelerate civilisation with enterprises delivering innovation, the government create scales, and the capital market finances the distribution of these emerging technologies.&nbsp;

Humanoid Robot Figure 03 joins US President Donald Trump and Melania Trump in White House, as they push the AI for future narrative.

A humanoid robot sauntered down the Red Carpet in the White House hallway with US First Lady Melania Trump on March 26, 2026, for the "Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit." The robot then introduced itself as "Figure 03," and greeted the guests in 11 different languages. "I am grateful to be part of this historic movement to empower children with technology and education," said the Robot while joining Trump in the East Room. Melania thanked the robot for joining her, "It's fair to state, you are my first American-made humanoid guest in the White House." She then went on to suggest that the Artificial intelligence will move outside of our phones to the humanoid robots. Trump said that Figure 03 was a US-made humanoid robot, a guest at the White House and used its appearance as a promotion for the collaboration between AI companies and the government to work together and use AI for student instruction. Also Read: BlackRock CEO Larry Fink warns $150 oil could trigger global recession

Humanoid Robot Figure 03 joins US President Donald Trump and Melania Trump in White House, for the "Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit," as they push the AI for future narrative.

Melania Trump walks along humanoid robot Figure 03 in White House

In what may be called a diplomatic win for India amid the ongoing West Asia war, Iran has said that it is allowing Indian and India-bound ships to pass through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi added that China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan have also been allowed to to pass through the strait. The waterway is a narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of the world's oil is normally shipped. Iran has blocked the chokepoint for the US and Israeli ships.&nbsp;&nbsp;Talking to Iranian State TV, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that the Strait is not completely closed. "Many of the shipowners, or the countries that own these vessels, have contacted us and requested that we ensure their safe passage through the strait. For some of these countries that we consider friendly, or in cases where we have decided to do so for other reasons, our armed forces have provided safe passage," Araghchi said. "You have seen on the news: China, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, and India. Two of its ships passed through a few nights ago, and some other countries, and even Bangladesh, I believe. These are countries that spoke with us and coordinated with us, and this will continue in the future as well, even after the war," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, Araghchi clearly stated that vessels linked to countries seen as adversaries would not be allowed passage. "We are in a state of war. The region is a war zone, and there is no reason to allow the ships of our enemies and their allies to pass through. But it remains open to others," he said.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260326/image-1774507286531.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sends-15-point-plan-peace-plan-tehran-opens-hormuz-for-non-hostile-oil-vessels-no-nuclear-weapon-to-end-of-sanctions-1774403435419">No nuclear weapon to end of sanctions: Trump sends 15-point plan peace plan; Tehran opens Hormuz for 'non-hostile' oil vessels</a><h2>Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US</h2>A day after Iran seemingly rejected the peace talks initiated by the US, Abbas Araghchi said that his country is reviewing a US proposal to end the war in the Gulf but has ​no intention of holding talks citing past betrayal. The FM, however, did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarifies that it “does not mean negotiations with the US, while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." He hinted that Tehran may negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-military-slams-trump-over-peace-plan-dismisses-negotiation-claims-what-s-happening-1774418769619">'People like you...': Iran military slams Trump over peace plan, dismisses negotiation claims — What's happening</a>&nbsp;Araghchi said, “Wherever we find American interests, we will target them, and any country that shares in these interests will be considered a legitimate target by us. Iran wants to end the war with the United States and Israel on its own terms. One of the key things Iran is looking at is ensuring guarantees from both the aggressors that such attacks won’t repeat. They put forward ideas in their messages that were conveyed to top authorities, and if necessary, a position will be announced by ​them. At present, our policy is the continuation of resistance. We do not intend to negotiate – so far, no negotiations have taken place, and I believe our position is completely principled."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz remains open for friendly nations like India despite the war, while blocking adversaries. Iran signalled conditional openness to talks but warned it will continue targeting US interests.

In what may be called a diplomatic win for India amid the ongoing West Asia war, Iran has said that it is allowing Indian and India-bound ships to pass through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi added that China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan have also been allowed to to pass through the strait. The waterway is a narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of the world's oil is normally shipped. Iran has blocked the chokepoint for the US and Israeli ships. Talking to Iranian State TV, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that the Strait is not completely closed. "Many of the shipowners, or the countries that own these vessels, have contacted us and requested that we ensure their safe passage through the strait. For some of these countries that we consider friendly, or in cases where we have decided to do so for other reasons, our armed forces have provided safe passage," Araghchi said. "You have seen on the news: China, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, and India. Two of its ships passed through a few nights ago, and some other countries, and even Bangladesh, I believe. These are countries that spoke with us and coordinated with us, and this will continue in the future as well, even after the war," he added. However, Araghchi clearly stated that vessels linked to countries seen as adversaries would not be allowed passage. "We are in a state of war. The region is a war zone, and there is no reason to allow the ships of our enemies and their allies to pass through. But it remains open to others," he said. Also Read: No nuclear weapon to end of sanctions: Trump sends 15-point plan peace plan; Tehran opens Hormuz for 'non-hostile' oil vessels Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US A day after Iran seemingly rejected the peace talks initiated by the US, Abbas Araghchi said that his country is reviewing a US proposal to end the war in the Gulf but has no intention of holding talks citing past betrayal. The FM, however, did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarifies that it “does not mean negotiations with the US, while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." He hinted that Tehran may negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met. Also Read: 'People like you...': Iran military slams Trump over peace plan, dismisses negotiation claims — What's happening Araghchi said, “Wherever we find American interests, we will target them, and any country that shares in these interests will be considered a legitimate target by us. Iran wants to end the war with the United States and Israel on its own terms. One of the key things Iran is looking at is ensuring guarantees from both the aggressors that such attacks won’t repeat. They put forward ideas in their messages that were conveyed to top authorities, and if necessary, a position will be announced by them. At present, our policy is the continuation of resistance. We do not intend to negotiate – so far, no negotiations have taken place, and I believe our position is completely principled."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz remains open for friendly nations like India despite the war, while blocking adversaries. Iran signalled conditional openness to talks but warned it will continue targeting US interests.

Iran allows India to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis — Check 4 other countries on the list

The Financial Times, citing Western intelligence sources and experts, reported that Russia is completing a phased, covert delivery of drones to Iran in shipments that also include medicine and food. The discussions on the transfers reportedly started days after the US-Israeli joint strikes on Iran. The shipments would conclude this month. Here is what the report claimed:<h2>Russia giving lethal military support to Iran?</h2>The report raises the question of whether Russia is providing lethal military aid to Iran. This would also be a reversal of roles, if confirmed, as Iran had been supplying drones—mainly from the Shahed series—to Russia for use in its war on Ukraine.<h2>Kremlin calls news of drone deliveries to Iran fake</h2>Rejecting the news, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said: “There are a lot of fakes going around right now. One thing is true — we are continuing our dialogue with the Iranian leadership.” Russia has publicly confirmed that it has delivered humanitarian aid, including over 13 tonnes of medicine to Iran via Azerbaijan, and further shipments are planned.<h2>Russia appears keen to give stability to Iran regime</h2>The FT report cited Western officials as saying that Moscow’s objective goes beyond battlefield assistance, as it aims to “underwrite the broader political stability of Tehran’s regime.” This means Russia is possibly combining military reinforcement and economic support to Iran.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwait-airport-drone-strike-fuel-tank-fire-flights-status-1774416609616">Kuwait airport hit by drone strike, fuel tank catches fire; no closure reported</a><h2>Iran used drones to lethal effect in ongoing war</h2>Russian shipments of drones to Iran, if confirmed, would be significant as Tehran has heavily relied on these unmanned aerial vehicles in its counterstrikes. More than 3,000 one-way attack UAVs have been used by Iran across the Middle East since the conflict began on February 28.A central part of Iran’s military doctrine, drones are low-cost, easy to produce, and widely deployable. Russia has used Iranian technology to shape its own drone capabilities, having mass-produced these based on Iranian designs since 2023.<h2>Iran is seeking upgraded drones from Russia</h2>Russia has also modified the UAVs to evade air defences and given them the capability to carry heavier payloads. Iran is possibly seeking these Russian upgrades: improved engines, better navigation systems, and anti-jamming technology. “They don’t need more drones. They need better drones. They are after the more advanced capabilities,” the FT report cited analyst Antonio Giustozzi as saying.Eventually, Iran might reverse-engineer the improvements in the Russian drones, according to scholar Nicole Grajewski. “These systems are already more advanced than the ones Iran was producing domestically,” the FT report quoted Grajewski as saying.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-s-new-rule-cheap-drones-are-beating-billion-dollar-militaries-1774440155878">War’s new rule: Cheap drones are beating billion-dollar militaries</a><h2>Russia may be supplying Geran-2 drones to Iran</h2>Which drones are being transferred to Iran is not clear, but the report said it could be the Geran-2, a modified version of Iran’s Shahed-136, upgraded for greater effectiveness.The drone supply news came days after reports that Israel attacked a key weapons transfer route located on the Caspian Sea.<h2>Russia may be supplying satellite imagery and targeting intelligence</h2>The FT report, citing intelligence officials, claimed that Russia may be offering other military logistical support to Iran, such as satellite imagery and targeting intelligence.Russia had already planned deliveries of air defence systems like 500 Verba launchers and 2,500 missiles over three years. But Moscow has still refused to supply the advanced S-400 system, possibly to avoid direct confrontation with the US, as its operation could require Russian personnel involvement.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-iran-launches-missiles-drones-at-uae-as-air-defences-intercept-attack-breaking-1774502084430/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-iran-launches-missiles-drones-at-uae-as-air-defences-intercept-attack-breaking-1774502084430/embed</a><h2>Perspective: Russia-Iran strategic partnership is active though not on paper</h2>Russia and Iran signed a cooperation agreement in 2025, but it does not include a mutual defence clause. Yet, the exchange of weapons, technology, and intelligence is growing, a sign of a deeper strategic alliance.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;

A report has claimed that Russia is sending drones to Iran in covert shipments. This, if confirmed, signals deeper military ties, potential lethal support, and a shift in their strategic partnership amid Iran-US-Israel war

The Financial Times, citing Western intelligence sources and experts, reported that Russia is completing a phased, covert delivery of drones to Iran in shipments that also include medicine and food. The discussions on the transfers reportedly started days after the US-Israeli joint strikes on Iran. The shipments would conclude this month. Here is what the report claimed: Russia giving lethal military support to Iran? The report raises the question of whether Russia is providing lethal military aid to Iran. This would also be a reversal of roles, if confirmed, as Iran had been supplying drones—mainly from the Shahed series—to Russia for use in its war on Ukraine. Kremlin calls news of drone deliveries to Iran fake Rejecting the news, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said: “There are a lot of fakes going around right now. One thing is true — we are continuing our dialogue with the Iranian leadership.” Russia has publicly confirmed that it has delivered humanitarian aid, including over 13 tonnes of medicine to Iran via Azerbaijan, and further shipments are planned. Russia appears keen to give stability to Iran regime The FT report cited Western officials as saying that Moscow’s objective goes beyond battlefield assistance, as it aims to “underwrite the broader political stability of Tehran’s regime.” This means Russia is possibly combining military reinforcement and economic support to Iran. Also read: Kuwait airport hit by drone strike, fuel tank catches fire; no closure reported Iran used drones to lethal effect in ongoing war Russian shipments of drones to Iran, if confirmed, would be significant as Tehran has heavily relied on these unmanned aerial vehicles in its counterstrikes. More than 3,000 one-way attack UAVs have been used by Iran across the Middle East since the conflict began on February 28. A central part of Iran’s military doctrine, drones are low-cost, easy to produce, and widely deployable. Russia has used Iranian technology to shape its own drone capabilities, having mass-produced these based on Iranian designs since 2023. Iran is seeking upgraded drones from Russia Russia has also modified the UAVs to evade air defences and given them the capability to carry heavier payloads. Iran is possibly seeking these Russian upgrades: improved engines, better navigation systems, and anti-jamming technology. “They don’t need more drones. They need better drones. They are after the more advanced capabilities,” the FT report cited analyst Antonio Giustozzi as saying. Eventually, Iran might reverse-engineer the improvements in the Russian drones, according to scholar Nicole Grajewski. “These systems are already more advanced than the ones Iran was producing domestically,” the FT report quoted Grajewski as saying. Also read: War’s new rule: Cheap drones are beating billion-dollar militaries Russia may be supplying Geran-2 drones to Iran Which drones are being transferred to Iran is not clear, but the report said it could be the Geran-2, a modified version of Iran’s Shahed-136, upgraded for greater effectiveness. The drone supply news came days after reports that Israel attacked a key weapons transfer route located on the Caspian Sea. Russia may be supplying satellite imagery and targeting intelligence The FT report, citing intelligence officials, claimed that Russia may be offering other military logistical support to Iran, such as satellite imagery and targeting intelligence. Russia had already planned deliveries of air defence systems like 500 Verba launchers and 2,500 missiles over three years. But Moscow has still refused to supply the advanced S-400 system, possibly to avoid direct confrontation with the US, as its operation could require Russian personnel involvement. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-iran-launches-missiles-drones-at-uae-as-air-defences-intercept-attack-breaking-1774502084430/embed Perspective: Russia-Iran strategic partnership is active though not on paper Russia and Iran signed a cooperation agreement in 2025, but it does not include a mutual defence clause. Yet, the exchange of weapons, technology, and intelligence is growing, a sign of a deeper strategic alliance. 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.

A report has claimed that Russia is sending drones to Iran in covert shipments. This, if confirmed, signals deeper military ties, potential lethal support, and a shift in their strategic partnership amid Iran-US-Israel war

Russia secretly sending drones to Iran in covert shipment that includes food and medicines, claims report

On March 25, 2026, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon was questioned by a reporter about Israel's secretive nuclear program and why it was justified for Israel to have a secretive nuclear program and why any other country in the Middle East does not have the same right.“Sir, everyone knows that Israel is a nuclear power. Former nuclear technician Mordechai Vanunu fled Israel to London, and he gave that important interview with the Times of London, and he was kidnapped back to Israel and was arrested for 18 years,” said the reporter. He then asked, “Why does Israel have the right to acquire nuclear weapons, but no other Middle Eastern country has that same right?”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-child-torture-allegations-israel-detention-abuse-1774340931837">Palestinian media alleges 1-year-old boy 'tortured by Israeli forces' in Gaza to 'extract confession' from father</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Reporter: Why does Israel have the right to nukes, but no other Middle Eastern country has that same right? Israeli Amb. to UN Danny Danon: We want peace.<a href="https://t.co/DmN2H9l8x8">pic.twitter.com/DmN2H9l8x8</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/2036761394469552197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Danon responded that Israel is a stabilising force, it signs treaties, while Iran is an aggressor. “Israel is a stabilising force in the region. We want peace. Allow me to answer that. We sign peace treaties, we promote peace, we pray for peace. When you look at the Iranian regime, they are doing exactly the opposite,” said Dannon. He continued that Iran attacked 13 countries within a month, and Israel, in its entire 77 years of existence, did not attack 13 countries.&nbsp;The reporter again asked if he would be responding to the question of nuclear capability. “Can you answer my question about nuclear capabilities?” Dannon responded, “I did. Thank you.” Israel has never admitted to having nuclear power. It maintains a doctrine of nuclear-ambiguity, -or nuclear-opacity but ever since the revelations by whistleblower Mordechai Vanunu, it is widely believed that Israel does possess at least 90 nuclear warheads according to SIPRI and The Federation of American Scientists. Israel has never signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty or the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), while Iran has signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in 1968, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty in 1996, the Partial Test Ban Treaty in 1963, and signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2015 until Trump walked out of the deal in 2018.&nbsp;

At the UN, Danny Danon sidesteps a reporter’s question on Israel’s nuclear weapons, reigniting debate over nuclear double standards in the Middle East.

On March 25, 2026, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon was questioned by a reporter about Israel's secretive nuclear program and why it was justified for Israel to have a secretive nuclear program and why any other country in the Middle East does not have the same right. “Sir, everyone knows that Israel is a nuclear power. Former nuclear technician Mordechai Vanunu fled Israel to London, and he gave that important interview with the Times of London, and he was kidnapped back to Israel and was arrested for 18 years,” said the reporter. He then asked, “Why does Israel have the right to acquire nuclear weapons, but no other Middle Eastern country has that same right?” Also Read: Palestinian media alleges 1-year-old boy 'tortured by Israeli forces' in Gaza to 'extract confession' from father

At the UN, Danny Danon sidesteps a reporter’s question on Israel’s nuclear weapons, reigniting debate over nuclear double standards in the Middle East.

Why can Israel have nukes? UN Reporter presses Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon on double standards

Donald Trump said Iran informally offered them the post of Supreme Leader, which he turned down by saying, "No, thank you." Speaking at the annual National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) fundraising dinner on Wednesday (March 25), Trump reportedly said, "There’s never been a head of a country that wanted that job less than being the head of Iran. We hear them very clearly. They say, ‘I don’t want it. We’d like to make you the next supreme leader.’ No, thank you. I don’t want it." His latest claim comes after Iran clearly stated that no one from Iran is talking to anyone in the United States. Trump has repeatedly asserted in the past few days that backchannel talks have been going on between the regime and the US, and that Iran wanted to "make a deal." But Iran has categorically rubbished his claims. Tehran has labelled his claims as "maximalist and unreasonable", clarifying they do not engage in negotiations with the US.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-clears-stance-on-trump-s-peace-plan-after-unleash-hell-threat-by-us-west-asia-war-1774483434830">'We do not intend to negotiate but...': Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US</a>&nbsp;Notably, Iran announced Mojtaba Khamenei as their new Supreme Leader after his father, Ali Khamenei, was killed in Israeli strikes on February 28.&nbsp;<h2>Watch video of Trump from fundraising dinner</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">US President Donald Trump says, &quot;They are negotiating, by the way. They want to make a deal so badly, but they are afraid to say it because they think they will be killed by their own people. They are also afraid they will be killed by us. There has never been a head of a country… <a href="https://t.co/TJpvlfcuW7">pic.twitter.com/TJpvlfcuW7</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2037046025777799587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran mocks Trump, says US is “talking to itself”</h2>Iran mocked Trump by saying that America is apparently talking to itself. “Has the level of your inner ⁠struggle reached the stage ⁠of you negotiating with yourself?” Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for the unified command of Iran’s armed ⁠forces, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said on Wednesday, according to Iran’s semiofficial Fars news agency. Trump also presented a 15-point peace plan, which Iran has rejected. White House has threatened the regime with dire consequences if it does not accept a deal to end the war. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, "If Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment, if they fail to understand that they have been defeated militarily and will continue to be, President Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have ever been hit before." &nbsp;

Donald Trump made yet another quip about how Iran has been negotiating with the US, and even offered him the job of the Ayatollah, or the Supreme Leader, of Iran. Trump made the statement while speaking at a fundraising dinner on Wednesday.

Donald Trump said Iran informally offered them the post of Supreme Leader, which he turned down by saying, "No, thank you." Speaking at the annual National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) fundraising dinner on Wednesday (March 25), Trump reportedly said, "There’s never been a head of a country that wanted that job less than being the head of Iran. We hear them very clearly. They say, ‘I don’t want it. We’d like to make you the next supreme leader.’ No, thank you. I don’t want it." His latest claim comes after Iran clearly stated that no one from Iran is talking to anyone in the United States. Trump has repeatedly asserted in the past few days that backchannel talks have been going on between the regime and the US, and that Iran wanted to "make a deal." But Iran has categorically rubbished his claims. Tehran has labelled his claims as "maximalist and unreasonable", clarifying they do not engage in negotiations with the US. Also Read: 'We do not intend to negotiate but...': Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US Notably, Iran announced Mojtaba Khamenei as their new Supreme Leader after his father, Ali Khamenei, was killed in Israeli strikes on February 28. Watch video of Trump from fundraising dinner

Donald Trump made yet another quip about how Iran has been negotiating with the US, and even offered him the job of the Ayatollah, or the Supreme Leader, of Iran. Trump made the statement while speaking at a fundraising dinner on Wednesday.

Trump jokes Iran offered him the job of Supreme Leader - 'No, thank you. I don’t want it' - Watch video

A Los Angeles jury on Wednesday found Meta and YouTube liable for harming a young woman because of an addictive design of their social media platforms, ordering the companies to pay $6 million in damages, including $3 million in punitive damages.The verdict hands plaintiffs in more than a thousand similar pending cases significant leverage -- and signals to the broader tech industry that juries are prepared to hold social media companies accountable for the mental health toll of their design choices.The jury answered yes to all seven questions on verdict forms for both companies, finding that Meta and YouTube were negligent in the design and operation of their platforms and that their negligence was a substantial factor in causing harm to the plaintiff.Jurors also found that both companies knew or should have known their services posed a danger to minors, that they failed to adequately warn users of that danger, and that a reasonable platform operator would have done so.The panel awarded $3 million in compensatory damages, assigning Meta 70 percent of the responsibility for the plaintiff's harm -- a $2.1 million share -- and YouTube the remaining 30 percent, or $900,000.In a second phase, jurors added a further $3 million in total punitive damages after finding both companies had acted with malice, oppression or fraud.Both companies said they would appeal the verdict."This case misunderstands YouTube, which is a responsibly built streaming platform, not a social media site," Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda said.A spokesperson for Meta said they "respectfully disagree with the verdict," adding that "teen mental health is profoundly complex and cannot be linked to a single app."Nine of the 12 jurors further found that both companies had acted with malice, oppression or fraud, a finding that set the stage for the separate punitive damages.The plaintiff, known in court documents by her initials K.G.M. and called Kaley at trial, began using YouTube when she was six, downloading the app on her iPod Touch to watch videos about lip gloss and an online kids game.She joined Instagram at nine, getting around a block her mother had put in place to keep her off the platform.She told jurors that her near-constant social media use "really affected my self-worth," saying the apps led her to abandon hobbies, struggle to make friends and constantly measure herself against others.In closing arguments, plaintiff attorney Mark Lanier cast the case as a story of corporate greed, saying that features like infinite scrolling, autoplay videos, notifications and like counts were engineered to drive compulsive use among young people.<h2>'Existential' threat?</h2>Meta and YouTube had maintained throughout the trial that Kaley's mental health struggles had nothing to do with their platforms.Meta's lawyer pointed to her life at home and a turbulent relationship with her parents, while YouTube disputed how much time Kaley actually spent on its platform.The jury rejected both defenses across all seven questions on each verdict form.TikTok and Snap were originally named as defendants but settled on undisclosed terms before the trial got underway.Two further bellwether trials are expected to follow in the same Los Angeles courthouse, with their outcomes likely to determine whether social media companies fight on or move toward a broader settlement, potentially including redesigning how their platforms work.The penalty amounts are "a slap on the wrist for companies like Meta and YouTube, which are two of the biggest ad sellers in the world," said Jasmine Enberg of Scalable, who tracks the social media industry."But if these companies are forced to redesign their products, that poses an existential threat to their business models."A separate New Mexico jury on Tuesday found Meta liable for endangering children by making them vulnerable to predators on its platforms and other dangers.The state had sought the maximum $2.2 billion in damages, but the jury awarded a lesser amount of $375 million.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jurors also found that both companies knew or should have known their services posed a danger to minors, that they failed to adequately warn users of that danger, and that a reasonable platform operator would have done so.

A Los Angeles jury on Wednesday found Meta and YouTube liable for harming a young woman because of an addictive design of their social media platforms, ordering the companies to pay $6 million in damages, including $3 million in punitive damages. The verdict hands plaintiffs in more than a thousand similar pending cases significant leverage -- and signals to the broader tech industry that juries are prepared to hold social media companies accountable for the mental health toll of their design choices. The jury answered yes to all seven questions on verdict forms for both companies, finding that Meta and YouTube were negligent in the design and operation of their platforms and that their negligence was a substantial factor in causing harm to the plaintiff. Jurors also found that both companies knew or should have known their services posed a danger to minors, that they failed to adequately warn users of that danger, and that a reasonable platform operator would have done so. The panel awarded $3 million in compensatory damages, assigning Meta 70 percent of the responsibility for the plaintiff's harm -- a $2.1 million share -- and YouTube the remaining 30 percent, or $900,000. In a second phase, jurors added a further $3 million in total punitive damages after finding both companies had acted with malice, oppression or fraud. Both companies said they would appeal the verdict. "This case misunderstands YouTube, which is a responsibly built streaming platform, not a social media site," Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda said. A spokesperson for Meta said they "respectfully disagree with the verdict," adding that "teen mental health is profoundly complex and cannot be linked to a single app." Nine of the 12 jurors further found that both companies had acted with malice, oppression or fraud, a finding that set the stage for the separate punitive damages. The plaintiff, known in court documents by her initials K.G.M. and called Kaley at trial, began using YouTube when she was six, downloading the app on her iPod Touch to watch videos about lip gloss and an online kids game. She joined Instagram at nine, getting around a block her mother had put in place to keep her off the platform. She told jurors that her near-constant social media use "really affected my self-worth," saying the apps led her to abandon hobbies, struggle to make friends and constantly measure herself against others. In closing arguments, plaintiff attorney Mark Lanier cast the case as a story of corporate greed, saying that features like infinite scrolling, autoplay videos, notifications and like counts were engineered to drive compulsive use among young people. 'Existential' threat? Meta and YouTube had maintained throughout the trial that Kaley's mental health struggles had nothing to do with their platforms. Meta's lawyer pointed to her life at home and a turbulent relationship with her parents, while YouTube disputed how much time Kaley actually spent on its platform. The jury rejected both defenses across all seven questions on each verdict form. TikTok and Snap were originally named as defendants but settled on undisclosed terms before the trial got underway. Two further bellwether trials are expected to follow in the same Los Angeles courthouse, with their outcomes likely to determine whether social media companies fight on or move toward a broader settlement, potentially including redesigning how their platforms work. The penalty amounts are "a slap on the wrist for companies like Meta and YouTube, which are two of the biggest ad sellers in the world," said Jasmine Enberg of Scalable, who tracks the social media industry. "But if these companies are forced to redesign their products, that poses an existential threat to their business models." A separate New Mexico jury on Tuesday found Meta liable for endangering children by making them vulnerable to predators on its platforms and other dangers. The state had sought the maximum $2.2 billion in damages, but the jury awarded a lesser amount of $375 million. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jurors also found that both companies knew or should have known their services posed a danger to minors, that they failed to adequately warn users of that danger, and that a reasonable platform operator would have done so.

Meta and YouTube found liable in social media addiction trial

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in West Asia is going on for almost a month now. The conflict began on February 28, when Israel and the United States carried out what they described as “pre-emptive” strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with Tehran. A day later, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed, prompting Iran to strike Israel and US bases in Gulf countries. Over the past weeks, several senior Iranian figures, including security chief Ali Larijani, have been killed. Iran has since appointed Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader.On the diplomatic front, US President Donald Trump has extended a peace plan, with Iran rejecting negotiations and saying that it would only talk if security guarantees are given. Meanwhile, global energy markets are under strain, with disruptions to oil supplies causing widespread concern. The Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for global energy shipments—has become increasingly volatile.The West Asia burns for now and major question arises about how will this end and what will be the relationship between the US and Iran in post-war world? What will be the locus standi of Israel and how will the Gulf nations behave? Here are all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Iran-Israel war(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.)

Witnesses heard repeated explosions across most parts of Iran’s capital, along with the activation of air defense systems. Very large blasts are also being reported.

Explosions boom in Tehran

US envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington has presented Tehran with a 15-point framework intended to form the basis of a potential peace agreement.“I can report to you today that we have, along with your foreign policy team, presented a 15-point action list that forms the framework for a peace deal,” Witkoff said during a televised Cabinet meeting.

Witkoff confirms US presented Iran with 15-point peace framework

Iran said diplomacy has not stopped, but there is still no realistic plan for negotiations with the United States, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Thursday (March 26). “Diplomacy has not stopped, and if realism prevails in Washington, a path forward may still be found,” the official said.

Iran official says diplomacy with US ongoing but no realistic talks plan yet: Reuters

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates want the Iran war to end but are wary of a quick deal that could leave the region less stable, officials and analysts told the Washington Post.

Arab states favour pressure over quick Iran deal: Washington Post

Iran has sent its response to a 15-point US proposal via intermediaries and is awaiting a reply, IRGC-affiliated Tasnim reported on Thursday (March 26), citing a source.

Iran sends response to US proposal via intermediaries

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis are ready to join the war if needed, a Houthi leader told Reuters, raising the risk of renewed disruption to global shipping. “We stand fully militarily ready with all options,” the leader said, adding any decision on timing would depend on developments.

Houthis say ready to join Iran war, raising shipping risks

Israel’s military said on Monday (March 26) that Behnam Rezaei, head of the IRGC Navy Intelligence Directorate, was killed alongside commander Alireza Tangsiri in a strike in Bandar Abbas.

IRGC Navy intelligence chief Rezaei killed, Israel says

Israel’s defence minister said on Thursday that the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, a significant figure involved in blocking the Strait of Hormuz, has been killed. &nbsp;

Iranian commander involved in Strait of Hormuz blockade has been killed, says Israel 

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Thursday that Iran is permitting Malaysian oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing tensions in the region. &nbsp;

Iran allowing Malaysian oil tankers through Hormuz Strait: PM Anwar

Ishaq Dar, Pakistan's Foreign Minister, confirmed on Thursday that indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran to end their war were taking place, considering Islamabad as an intermediary. Dar also described speculation about "peace talks" as "unnecessary", and added that "In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan.""In this context, the United States has shared 15 points, being deliberated upon by Iran. Brotherly countries of Turkiye and Egypt, among others, are also extending their support to this initiative," he wrote on X, using Turkey's official name.

'US-Iran indirect talks are underway', says Pakistan

The G7 should collectively back a de-escalation of the war in the Middle East, Canada's foreign minister said Thursday.

Canada urges G7 to 'collectively' back Iran de-escalation

Cathay Pacific airlines raises fuel surcharge on all flights by 34%.

Cathay Pacific raises fuel surcharge

Iranian army ground force commander says ‘land warfare will be more dangerous and costly for the enemy.’

'Land warfare will be more dangerous'

Israeli media claim that its military has eliminated &nbsp;Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Commander.

 Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Commander eliminated?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is expanding an area it controls along southern Lebanon’s border with Israel.

Israeli strikes continue in southern Lebanon near the coastal city of Tyre

Iran is reportedly preparing legislation to impose a fee on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, charging for security and monitoring services. According to Bloomberg, citing Fars News Agency, the proposal is still under development and could be finalised as early as next week. “We are pursuing a proposal in which Iran’s sovereignty, control, and oversight in the Strait of Hormuz are formally recognized in law, and through the collection of tolls, a source of revenue is also created for the country,” Fars cited the lawmaker as saying.

Iran planning new toll on vessels passing through Strait of Hormuz

The Omani national carrier says flights to Dubai, Doha, Bahrain and Kuwait will remain cancelled until April 15 due to the ongoing airspace closures.Services to Iraq’s Baghdad and Denmark’s Copenhagen also remain suspended until then, it said, but flights to Jordan’s Amman and Saudi Arabia’s Dammam will resume on April 1.

Oman Air extends flight cancellations across Gulf

Two people were killed and three were wounded by falling debris after air defences intercepted a ballistic missile on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, the government media office said on Thursday."The incident resulted in the deaths of two unidentified individuals, three injuries, and damage to a number of cars," the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a post on X.

Two dead, three wounded as missile intercepted in Abu Dhabi: government media office

It has been reported that a drone struck the Turkish tanker "Altura," carrying 140,000 tons of crude oil, approximately 26 kilometers from the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul. All 27 crew members on board are reported to be in good health.The ongoing US-Israel-Iran tensions in the Middle East have reached the Turkish coast. A tanker sailing in the northern approach waters of the Bosphorus was reportedly targeted.It was damaged, the ship started taking on water.According to NTV, the ship's control center, the bridge, was heavily damaged in the attack. It was reported that the tanker began taking on water due to damage to the hull.It was reported that the 27 Turkish crew members on board the ship escaped the attack unharmed and moved to safe areas.

Turkish tanker carrying 140,000 tons of oil targeted

A day after Iran seemingly rejected the peace talks initiated by the US, Abbas Araghchi said that his country is reviewing a US proposal to end the war in the Gulf but has ​no intention of holding talks citing past betrayal. The FM, however, did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarifies that it “does not mean negotiations with the US, while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." He hinted that Tehran may negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met.

Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US

The UAE Ambassador to the United States, Yousef Al Otaiba, warned in a Wall Street Journal op-ed published that a "simple ceasefire" is insufficient to end the ongoing war with Iran. He argued that the conflict must conclude with a "conclusive outcome" that addresses the full range of threats posed by Tehran to prevent deferring the next crisis.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: UAE ambassador to US warns against ending Iran war too early

Uganda’s Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba expressed his support for Israel amid the ongoing war with Iran. "We want the war in the Middle East to end now. The world is tired of it," he wrote, adding that any talk of destroying or defeating Israel will bring Uganda into the war. "On the side of Israel!" he concluded.&nbsp;

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Uganda 'on the side of Israel' amid Iran war, defense chief claims

China's top diplomat has said that a "glimmer of hope" for peace has emerged in West Asia, despite Tehran vowing to keep fighting. "With both the United States and Iran signalling a willingness to negotiate, a glimmer of hope for peace has emerged," Wang told Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, according to a Beijing readout published late Wednesday.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: China says 'glimmer of hope' on Iran war talks

The Emirati Ministry of Defence said, “Responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran…The sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones.”

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: UAE responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Holy shit, Iran just released this video!&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;What are we supposed to think about this?&lt;a href="https://t.co/Nzp7xKz2B2"&gt;pic.twitter.com/Nzp7xKz2B2&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/ChdbEgrjFa"&gt;https://t.co/ChdbEgrjFa&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2036777835541487657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 25, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Iran hits US Statue of Liberty in AI video

IRGC said that precision-guided Emad, Qiam, Khorramshahr-4, and Qadr missiles struck more than 70 locations across Israel in the 81st wave of Operation True Promise 4. IRGC Public Relations Department claimed the missiles successfully hit targets in Haifa, Dimona, Al-Khudriyya near Haifa, and areas north and south of Tel Aviv.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: IRGC launches Emad, Qiam, Khorramshahr-4, and Qadr missiles across Israel

Over 500 gas stations in Australia have now run out of fuel as the nation’s fuel crisis worsens. Of these, 187 have completely run out of diesel, while 32 service stations had run out of all types of fuel

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Hundreds of petrol stations across Australia run out of fue

Iran has granted Spain safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz as Spain continues to prohibit the US from using its military bases for operations against Iran

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Iran grants Spain safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz

US Postal Service is set to impose its 'first-ever surcharge on packages to cover the rising cost of fuel', according to Wall Street Journal report

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: US Postal Service to impose 8% fuel surcharge on packages, WSJ reports

US and Israel have temporarily removed Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi from the target list to allow for high-level talks, according to Wall Street Journal

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi removed from US target

Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry announced the interception and destruction of a drone in the Eastern Province.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Drone intercepted in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has issued a warning to the US-Israel forces on considering a possible ground operation within Iranian territory. "Don't send your children to hell with the deceit of Netanyahu and Trump. The invading soldiers will be deeply drowned and disappear in the million-strong sea of the Iranian nation," the statement warned.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: 'Don't send your children to hell': IRGC's appeal to Americans and Israelis

Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom has evacuated a further 163 of its staff from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant. Russia’s foreign ministry accused the US and Israel of deliberately trying to spark a nuclear disaster&nbsp;

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Russia evacuates staff from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant

Kuwaiti authorities issued a rare radiation advisory, cautioning residents about radiation exposure because of escalating strikes near Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Kuwait issues radiation alert

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that Iran had informed it that a projectile struck the Bushehr nuclear power plant

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: Projectile hit Bushehr nuclear reactor again

The Israel Defence Forces said that it had completed a wave of extensive strikes in Iran's Isfahan. The IDF said it had targeted infrastructure of the Iranian regime in several areas. Earlier, Israel's Air Force said that under intelligence guidance, it had completed a wave of strikes overnight targeting production sites for weaponry of the Iranian terror regime in the Tehran area.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE: IDF bombs areas near Isfahan

The US–Iran–Israel war, ongoing for nearly a month, began on February 28. The killing of Ali Khamenei escalated the conflict, prompting Iranian retaliation. Diplomatic efforts led by Donald Trump have stalled, with Iran demanding security guarantees before talks. 

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The war in West Asia is going on for almost a month now. The conflict began on February 28, when Israel and the United States carried out what they described as “pre-emptive” strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with Tehran. A day later, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed, prompting Iran to strike Israel and US bases in Gulf countries. Over the past weeks, several senior Iranian figures, including security chief Ali Larijani, have been killed. Iran has since appointed Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader. On the diplomatic front, US President Donald Trump has extended a peace plan, with Iran rejecting negotiations and saying that it would only talk if security guarantees are given. Meanwhile, global energy markets are under strain, with disruptions to oil supplies causing widespread concern. The Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for global energy shipments—has become increasingly volatile. The West Asia burns for now and major question arises about how will this end and what will be the relationship between the US and Iran in post-war world? What will be the locus standi of Israel and how will the Gulf nations behave? Here are all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Iran-Israel war (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.)

The US–Iran–Israel war, ongoing for nearly a month, began on February 28. The killing of Ali Khamenei escalated the conflict, prompting Iranian retaliation. Diplomatic efforts led by Donald Trump have stalled, with Iran demanding security guarantees before talks.&nbsp;

US-Iran-Israel war: Israel says Iranian Commander linked to Hormuz blockade killed

Amid reports of Pentagon likely to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has sent out a stern warning to the US-Israel forces on the possibility of ground operation within Iranian territory. In an address to the American people, the IRGC appealed not to be "misled by warmongers Trump and Netanyahu".&nbsp;"Don't send your children to hell with the deceit of Netanyahu and Trump. The invading soldiers will be deeply drowned and disappear in the million-strong sea of the Iranian nation," read the statement by IRGC.&nbsp;"The truth of the war you must observe at American gas stations, on the streets of Iran, and in the skies of Tel Aviv and Haifa," the statement read further.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-centcom-issues-first-response-after-iran-claims-strikes-on-uss-abraham-lincoln-1774490335992">'While sailing in regional waters...': CENTCOM issues first response after Iran claims strikes on USS Abraham Lincoln</a>&nbsp;According to various media reports, Pentagon is gearing up to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. A possible ground operation in the Kharg Island is also on the cards.<h2>"Struck several location in Israel"</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile the IRGC claimed it struck more than 70 locations across Israel in the 81st wave of Operation True Promise 4 with its precision-guided Emad, Qiam, Khorramshahr-4, and Qadr missiles.&nbsp;Haifa, Dimona, Al-Khudriyya near Haifa, and areas north and south of Tel Aviv were some of the areas struck by the precision-guided missiles.&nbsp;"Remember, we will level Tel Aviv and Haifa to the ground, this is what our martyred Leader taught us," the IRGC statement concluded by saying.&nbsp;Since US and Israel together carried out air strikes on Iran, IRGC claims to have fired over 700 missiles and 3,600 drones at American and Israeli targets. It also says that its defence systems have intercepted and destroyed more than 200 enemy aircraft.&nbsp;

Pentagon is gearing up to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. A possible ground operation in the Kharg Island is also on the cards.

Amid reports of Pentagon likely to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has sent out a stern warning to the US-Israel forces on the possibility of ground operation within Iranian territory. In an address to the American people, the IRGC appealed not to be "misled by warmongers Trump and Netanyahu". "Don't send your children to hell with the deceit of Netanyahu and Trump. The invading soldiers will be deeply drowned and disappear in the million-strong sea of the Iranian nation," read the statement by IRGC. "The truth of the war you must observe at American gas stations, on the streets of Iran, and in the skies of Tel Aviv and Haifa," the statement read further. ALSO READ: 'While sailing in regional waters...': CENTCOM issues first response after Iran claims strikes on USS Abraham Lincoln According to various media reports, Pentagon is gearing up to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. A possible ground operation in the Kharg Island is also on the cards. "Struck several location in Israel" Meanwhile the IRGC claimed it struck more than 70 locations across Israel in the 81st wave of Operation True Promise 4 with its precision-guided Emad, Qiam, Khorramshahr-4, and Qadr missiles. Haifa, Dimona, Al-Khudriyya near Haifa, and areas north and south of Tel Aviv were some of the areas struck by the precision-guided missiles. "Remember, we will level Tel Aviv and Haifa to the ground, this is what our martyred Leader taught us," the IRGC statement concluded by saying. Since US and Israel together carried out air strikes on Iran, IRGC claims to have fired over 700 missiles and 3,600 drones at American and Israeli targets. It also says that its defence systems have intercepted and destroyed more than 200 enemy aircraft.

Pentagon is gearing up to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. A possible ground operation in the Kharg Island is also on the cards.

'Don't send your children to hell with the deceit of Netanyahu and Trump', appeals Iran with American citizens

The White House sparked a buzz on social media after posting two short cryptic videos on Wednesday night (Mar 25). The purpose or meaning behind the clips, which were posted on Instagram and X, was not clear as social media users tried to make sense of it. One video was later deleted from both handles. This comes amid the war with Iran, further fueling speculations about whether it had anything to do with the ongoing conflict in West Asia.&nbsp;The first video, which was deleted, was posted around 9:15 p.m. EST. It appeared that it was recorded using a smartphone with the camera pointing downwards. In the four-second-long clip, a woman’s feet can be seen, and a voice is heard saying, “It’s launching soon, right?” The video also had a caption reading: “sound on”. The video was deleted from both the Instagram and X accounts of the White House about 90 minutes after it was posted. Some social media users also claimed that the voice in the first video sounded like that of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Strange video posted earlier by the White House on X, possibly accidentally, in which a female individual, potentially Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, can be heard saying, “It’s launching soon right?” <a href="https://t.co/D3XUhUNxAQ">pic.twitter.com/D3XUhUNxAQ</a>&mdash; OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/2036984717929546136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the second video, which was posted at 10 p.m. EST, a black screen was seen with a static split-second visual and a notification chime was heard. An American flag could be seen in one frame. The post’s caption had a smartphone and sound emojis.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another cryptic video just posted by the White House, featuring static obscuring a drooping American Flag. <a href="https://t.co/ObPlDTL8dy">pic.twitter.com/ObPlDTL8dy</a>&mdash; OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/2036990365773803772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

There was no context provided in either of the videos. The videos gained millions of views as they went viral with social media users speculating if the White House accounts had been hacked or if the US President Donald Trump’s administration was cryptically teasing something. It was not clear whether the posts were made intentionally. However, White House has posted several memes on its social media accounts.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The White House posted two cryptic videos online, deleting one shortly after, sparking speculation. The unclear clips—one hinting “It’s launching soon”—fueled buzz amid ongoing Iran war tensions.

The White House sparked a buzz on social media after posting two short cryptic videos on Wednesday night (Mar 25). The purpose or meaning behind the clips, which were posted on Instagram and X, was not clear as social media users tried to make sense of it. One video was later deleted from both handles. This comes amid the war with Iran, further fueling speculations about whether it had anything to do with the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The first video, which was deleted, was posted around 9:15 p.m. EST. It appeared that it was recorded using a smartphone with the camera pointing downwards. In the four-second-long clip, a woman’s feet can be seen, and a voice is heard saying, “It’s launching soon, right?” The video also had a caption reading: “sound on”. The video was deleted from both the Instagram and X accounts of the White House about 90 minutes after it was posted. Some social media users also claimed that the voice in the first video sounded like that of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

The White House posted two cryptic videos online, deleting one shortly after, sparking speculation. The unclear clips—one hinting “It’s launching soon”—fueled buzz amid ongoing Iran war tensions.

‘It’s launching soon, right?’ White House’s ‘strange’ videos spark buzz on social media amid Iran war | WATCH

Hezbollah has issued its first response on the reports of negotiation with Israel after tensions between the group and Benjamin Netanyahu-led nation escalated due to war in Iran. On Wednesday (Mar 25), Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem rejected any possibility of negotiation with Israel stating that it would mean “surrender” for Lebanon. This was in response of attempts made by the Lebanese president’s to start direct talks between the group and Israel. Qassem also urged the Lebanese government to reverse its ban on the group's military activities. Hezbollah stepped into the war between Iran, US and Israel after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It opened fire ​on Israel on March 2 in solidarity with Tehran, triggering an Israeli air and ground campaign in Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sends-15-point-plan-peace-plan-tehran-opens-hormuz-for-non-hostile-oil-vessels-no-nuclear-weapon-to-end-of-sanctions-1774403435419">No nuclear weapon to end of sanctions: Trump sends 15-point plan peace plan; Tehran opens Hormuz for 'non-hostile' oil vessels</a>&nbsp;In a televised speech read on his behalf, Naim Qassem said, “When negotiations with the Israeli enemy are proposed under fire, this is an imposition of surrender,” Qassem said, adding, that negotiations cannot happen ”with an enemy that occupies our land and carries out daily attacks.” Qassem called on the Lebanese people to embrace “national unity."&nbsp;<h2>Iran wants end of hostilities on Hezbollah</h2>This also comes as Iran in its guarantees to end the war included that Israel halts its strikes on Iran’s Lebanese proxy Hezbollah, the Wall Street Journal reported. Iran has told intermediaries that Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire agreement with ​the United States and Israel, six regional sources familiar with Iran's position told Reuters. Iran's Press TV also cited an Iranian official saying Tehran wanted any deal with the United States to secure an end to the war both on Iran and other "resistance groups" in the region. The ​six regional sources, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Tehran ⁠had informed mediators as early as mid-March that it sought a deal that would also stop Israel's attacks on Hezbollah.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hezbollah ​was founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982 and is widely seen as the spearhead of Iran's regional alliance of armed actors. The United States, meanwhile, in its demand has asked Iran to not support any armed group in the region. A senior Trump administration official told Reuters that ending Iran's "proxy activities" and disarming Hezbollah were “crucial to ensuring ​peace and stability in Lebanon and across the region.”<h2>Lebanese govt's stance on the matter</h2>Lebanese government has slammed Hezbollah for dragging the country into the war and has urged Israel to conduct negotiations. Lebanon's foreign ministry declared the appointed Iranian ambassador persona non grata. Hezbollah and other leading Shiite Muslim figures in the country condemned the move and said the envoy should stay. A foreign ​official in Beirut familiar with Hezbollah's position said the group hoped an Iran-backed truce would help it ​bolster its political position ⁠in Lebanon<h2>Trump's peace plan and Iran's stance&nbsp;</h2>Trump said a 15-point peace plan had been sent, including ceasefire terms and nuclear restrictions, to end the West Asia war, while also insisting Iran was willing to negotiate. He indicated that the the proposal begins with Iran agreeing to “not have a nuclear weapon,” while also hinting at a positive gesture from Tehran, describing it as a “very big present.” According to reports, the plan includes a proposed one-month ceasefire, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and potential sanctions relief for Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-clears-stance-on-trump-s-peace-plan-after-unleash-hell-threat-by-us-west-asia-war-1774483434830">Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US</a>&nbsp;Iran, meanwhile, said it is reviewing the US proposal to end the war but is not engaging in direct negotiations. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarified that it “does not mean negotiations with the US," while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." Araghchi warned Iran would target American interests in the region if necessary. Military spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaqari mocked Washington’s claims of negotiations, rejecting any possibility of alignment. Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned of strong retaliation against any hostile move.&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.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem rejected talks with Israel under fire as “surrender,” urging Lebanon to lift its ban on the group’s military wing. Iran demands Hezbollah’s inclusion in any ceasefire, linking a broader deal with the US and Israel to halting strikes on Lebanon.

Hezbollah has issued its first response on the reports of negotiation with Israel after tensions between the group and Benjamin Netanyahu-led nation escalated due to war in Iran. On Wednesday (Mar 25), Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem rejected any possibility of negotiation with Israel stating that it would mean “surrender” for Lebanon. This was in response of attempts made by the Lebanese president’s to start direct talks between the group and Israel. Qassem also urged the Lebanese government to reverse its ban on the group's military activities. Hezbollah stepped into the war between Iran, US and Israel after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It opened fire on Israel on March 2 in solidarity with Tehran, triggering an Israeli air and ground campaign in Lebanon. Also Read: No nuclear weapon to end of sanctions: Trump sends 15-point plan peace plan; Tehran opens Hormuz for 'non-hostile' oil vessels In a televised speech read on his behalf, Naim Qassem said, “When negotiations with the Israeli enemy are proposed under fire, this is an imposition of surrender,” Qassem said, adding, that negotiations cannot happen ”with an enemy that occupies our land and carries out daily attacks.” Qassem called on the Lebanese people to embrace “national unity." Iran wants end of hostilities on Hezbollah This also comes as Iran in its guarantees to end the war included that Israel halts its strikes on Iran’s Lebanese proxy Hezbollah, the Wall Street Journal reported. Iran has told intermediaries that Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire agreement with the United States and Israel, six regional sources familiar with Iran's position told Reuters. Iran's Press TV also cited an Iranian official saying Tehran wanted any deal with the United States to secure an end to the war both on Iran and other "resistance groups" in the region. The six regional sources, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Tehran ⁠had informed mediators as early as mid-March that it sought a deal that would also stop Israel's attacks on Hezbollah. Hezbollah was founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982 and is widely seen as the spearhead of Iran's regional alliance of armed actors. The United States, meanwhile, in its demand has asked Iran to not support any armed group in the region. A senior Trump administration official told Reuters that ending Iran's "proxy activities" and disarming Hezbollah were “crucial to ensuring peace and stability in Lebanon and across the region.” Lebanese govt's stance on the matter Lebanese government has slammed Hezbollah for dragging the country into the war and has urged Israel to conduct negotiations. Lebanon's foreign ministry declared the appointed Iranian ambassador persona non grata. Hezbollah and other leading Shiite Muslim figures in the country condemned the move and said the envoy should stay. A foreign official in Beirut familiar with Hezbollah's position said the group hoped an Iran-backed truce would help it bolster its political position ⁠in Lebanon Trump's peace plan and Iran's stance Trump said a 15-point peace plan had been sent, including ceasefire terms and nuclear restrictions, to end the West Asia war, while also insisting Iran was willing to negotiate. He indicated that the the proposal begins with Iran agreeing to “not have a nuclear weapon,” while also hinting at a positive gesture from Tehran, describing it as a “very big present.” According to reports, the plan includes a proposed one-month ceasefire, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and potential sanctions relief for Iran. Also Read: Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US Iran, meanwhile, said it is reviewing the US proposal to end the war but is not engaging in direct negotiations. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarified that it “does not mean negotiations with the US," while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." Araghchi warned Iran would target American interests in the region if necessary. Military spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaqari mocked Washington’s claims of negotiations, rejecting any possibility of alignment. Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned of strong retaliation against any hostile move. 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.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem rejected talks with Israel under fire as “surrender,” urging Lebanon to lift its ban on the group’s military wing. Iran demands Hezbollah’s inclusion in any ceasefire, linking a broader deal with the US and Israel to halting strikes on Lebanon.

'Imposition of surrender...': Hezbollah rejects Israel talks as Iran demands halt to strikes on Lebanese proxy

Benjamin Netanyahu has given his commanders 48 hours to destroy Iran's weapons arsenal after Donald Trump presented the regime with a 15-point peace plan. Reports suggest the Israeli prime minister is not happy with the proposal and wants the Israel Defense Forces to strike as many high-value Iranian targets as possible quickly. Netanyahu and his aides were reportedly shocked by the plan and now fear that Trump could reach a deal with Iran quickly. However, Tehran rejected the peace proposal on Wednesday. The Israeli PM issued the order at a meeting with his aides, sitting in a bunker in Tel Aviv. The Daily Mail quoted sources as saying that the environment was "tense" as Netanyahu discussed the proposal by the US. Trump's plan wanted Iran to dismantle its existing nuclear capabilities and commit that it would never pursue the development of nuclear weapons. It does not mention anything about a regime change in the country.&nbsp;Netanyahu views the plan as not going far enough, according to reports. Israeli officials have three key goals they say must be met for the conflict to end. This includes eliminating Iran's ballistic-missile stockpile, ensuring Tehran is left incapable of developing a nuclear warhead, and creating an environment within Iran that could support civilians in overthrowing the Islamic regime. "If you do not obtain the three objectives, you will not be able to end the war,' Boaz Bismuth, a member of Netanyahu's party, said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-clears-stance-on-trump-s-peace-plan-after-unleash-hell-threat-by-us-west-asia-war-1774483434830">Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US</a><h2>Trump ready to “unleash hell” on Iran: White House</h2>Iran has not only rejected Trump's diplomatic gesture but also mocked him by saying that America is "talking to itself", claiming that Trump has not been negotiating with anyone in the country. White House said on Wednesday that Trump is prepared to "unleash hell" if Iran does not accept a deal to end the war. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, "If Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment, if they fail to understand that they have been defeated militarily and will continue to be, President Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have ever been hit before." She reiterated Trump's stance that it was Iran that came forward and asked for ceasefire talks. Leavitt further claimed Iran is being “crushed” and is looking for an “exit ramp”.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-d-do-a-number-on-kharg-island-trump-s-1988-warning-to-iran-resurfaces-amid-ceasefire-talks-1774457466155">'I'd do a number on Kharg Island': Trump’s 1988 warning to Iran resurfaces amid ceasefire talks</a> &nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-warns-to-unleash-hell-if-iran-refuses-deal-wion-1774493085632/embed&nbsp;“You're beginning to see the regime look for an exit ramp. They recognise they are being CRUSHED. Their ability to attack American and allied forces, as well as their ability to defend their own territory, is dwindling literally hour by hour," Leavitt said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran has put forward a list of conditions to end the war, saying it will "end the war when it decides to do so." It wants a "complete halt to aggression and assassinations by the enemy" and the "establishment of concrete mechanisms to ensure that the war is not reimposed on the Islamic Republic."

Benjamin Netanyahu fears Trump could reach a deal with Iran without achieving the objectives of the war. The Israeli Prime Minister and his aides have presented three key goals without which the war would not end.   

Benjamin Netanyahu has given his commanders 48 hours to destroy Iran's weapons arsenal after Donald Trump presented the regime with a 15-point peace plan. Reports suggest the Israeli prime minister is not happy with the proposal and wants the Israel Defense Forces to strike as many high-value Iranian targets as possible quickly. Netanyahu and his aides were reportedly shocked by the plan and now fear that Trump could reach a deal with Iran quickly. However, Tehran rejected the peace proposal on Wednesday. The Israeli PM issued the order at a meeting with his aides, sitting in a bunker in Tel Aviv. The Daily Mail quoted sources as saying that the environment was "tense" as Netanyahu discussed the proposal by the US. Trump's plan wanted Iran to dismantle its existing nuclear capabilities and commit that it would never pursue the development of nuclear weapons. It does not mention anything about a regime change in the country. Netanyahu views the plan as not going far enough, according to reports. Israeli officials have three key goals they say must be met for the conflict to end. This includes eliminating Iran's ballistic-missile stockpile, ensuring Tehran is left incapable of developing a nuclear warhead, and creating an environment within Iran that could support civilians in overthrowing the Islamic regime. "If you do not obtain the three objectives, you will not be able to end the war,' Boaz Bismuth, a member of Netanyahu's party, said. Also Read: Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US Trump ready to “unleash hell” on Iran: White House Iran has not only rejected Trump's diplomatic gesture but also mocked him by saying that America is "talking to itself", claiming that Trump has not been negotiating with anyone in the country. White House said on Wednesday that Trump is prepared to "unleash hell" if Iran does not accept a deal to end the war. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, "If Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment, if they fail to understand that they have been defeated militarily and will continue to be, President Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have ever been hit before." She reiterated Trump's stance that it was Iran that came forward and asked for ceasefire talks. Leavitt further claimed Iran is being “crushed” and is looking for an “exit ramp”. Also Read: 'I'd do a number on Kharg Island': Trump’s 1988 warning to Iran resurfaces amid ceasefire talks https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-warns-to-unleash-hell-if-iran-refuses-deal-wion-1774493085632/embed “You're beginning to see the regime look for an exit ramp. They recognise they are being CRUSHED. Their ability to attack American and allied forces, as well as their ability to defend their own territory, is dwindling literally hour by hour," Leavitt said. Meanwhile, Iran has put forward a list of conditions to end the war, saying it will "end the war when it decides to do so." It wants a "complete halt to aggression and assassinations by the enemy" and the "establishment of concrete mechanisms to ensure that the war is not reimposed on the Islamic Republic."

Benjamin Netanyahu fears Trump could reach a deal with Iran without achieving the objectives of the war. The Israeli Prime Minister and his aides have presented three key goals without which the war would not end. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Netanyahu orders 48-hour Iran blitzkrieg in 'tense' bunker meeting over Trump's 15-point peace plan

In its first response to Iran’s claims, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday (Mar 26) dismissed as false reports that an American F/A-18 fighter jet was struck over Chabahar using advanced air defence systems. The command clarified that no US fighter aircraft had been shot down by Iran, countering what it described as misinformation. This comes amid a pattern of similar claims by Iranian forces, which CENTCOM has repeatedly denied, while also insisting that US military assets remain fully operational and accounted for. The statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's push for a peace plan and Iran's rejection of it.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚫FALSE: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced a U.S. F/A-18 fighter was struck over Chabahar using new advanced air defense systems. ✅TRUE: No U.S. fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran. <a href="https://t.co/I25QFjYo0l">pic.twitter.com/I25QFjYo0l</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2036869094595568037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-clears-stance-on-trump-s-peace-plan-after-unleash-hell-threat-by-us-west-asia-war-1774483434830"> Iran clears stance on Trump's peace plan after 'unleash hell' threat by US</a><h2>What Iran claimed?</h2>Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday (Mar 25) claimed it has struck a US F-18 fighter jet. The IRGC, in a statement, said the aircraft was ‘successfully targeted’, but did not provide details on the location, level of damage, or the pilot’s status. The Islamic Republic's state-linked Press TV also shared footage that appears to capture a fighter jet in flight before a sudden flash occurs close to the aircraft, indicating it may have been struck mid-air. Moments later, the jet seems to become unstable, trailing what looks like a plume that could suggest damage or a loss of control. Although the clip is short, it points to a possible aerial incident. WION couldn't independently verifiy the video.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-centcom-issues-first-response-after-iran-claims-strikes-on-uss-abraham-lincoln-1774490335992/1774490335993">CENTCOM issues first response after Iran claims strikes on USS Abraham Lincoln</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Breaking: A U.S. military <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F18</a> has been struck by fire from Iran’s integrated air defense network.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Breaking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Breaking</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/US?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#US</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirDefense?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirDefense</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Military?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Military</a> <a href="https://t.co/HbXe5DAzwi">pic.twitter.com/HbXe5DAzwi</a>&mdash; Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2036853630012367082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>USS Abraham Lincoln struck by Iran?</h2>Iran also claimed that it has fired cruise missiles at the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, warning of further launches when the strike group's ships come in range. "The Iranian Navy's Qader cruise missiles (shore-based anti-ship missile) targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier belonging to the US and forced it to change its position," the statement said. It cited Navy chief Admiral Shahram Irani, who said the carrier group's movements were “constantly being monitored." US Central Command denied Iran claims of striking USS Abraham Lincoln, calling them false and sharing proof of operations. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-centcom-issues-first-response-after-iran-claims-strikes-on-uss-abraham-lincoln-1774490335992/1774490335994">SEE POST HERE</a>&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.

United States Central Command denied Iran claims of downing a US F-18 and striking USS Abraham Lincoln, calling them false. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed success, but no evidence was verified.

In its first response to Iran’s claims, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday (Mar 26) dismissed as false reports that an American F/A-18 fighter jet was struck over Chabahar using advanced air defence systems. The command clarified that no US fighter aircraft had been shot down by Iran, countering what it described as misinformation. This comes amid a pattern of similar claims by Iranian forces, which CENTCOM has repeatedly denied, while also insisting that US military assets remain fully operational and accounted for. The statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's push for a peace plan and Iran's rejection of it.

United States Central Command denied Iran claims of downing a US F-18 and striking USS Abraham Lincoln, calling them false. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed success, but no evidence was verified.

'No aircraft...': US rejects Iran’s claim of downing F-18 fighter jet despite video proof

United States Central Command denied Iran claims of striking USS Abraham Lincoln, calling them false and sharing proof of operations. Tehran repeated missile strike claims, while the US said it has hit 10,000+ Iranian targets, weakening its military.

'While sailing in regional waters...': CENTCOM issues first response after Iran claims strikes on USS Abraham Lincoln

A day after Iran seemingly rejected the peace talks initiated by the US, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi suggested ‌some willingness by Tehran to negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met. Speaking to the state television, Araghchi said that his country is reviewing a US proposal to end the war in the Gulf but has ​no intention of holding talks citing past betrayal. He also said that the country is focusing on “targeting American interests in the region.” The FM, however, did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarifies that it “does not mean negotiations with the US, while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." He hinted that Tehran may negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-military-slams-trump-over-peace-plan-dismisses-negotiation-claims-what-s-happening-1774418769619">'People like you...': Iran military slams Trump over peace plan, dismisses negotiation claims — What's happening</a>&nbsp;Araghchi said, “Wherever we find American interests, we will target them, and any country that shares in these interests will be considered a legitimate target by us. Iran wants to end the war with the United States and Israel on its own terms. One of the key things Iran is looking at is ensuring guarantees from both the aggressors that such attacks won’t repeat. They put forward ideas in their messages that were conveyed to top authorities, and if necessary, a position will be announced by ​them. At present, our policy is the continuation of resistance. We do not intend to negotiate – so far, no negotiations have taken place, and I believe our position is completely principled."&nbsp;On Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said that Iran permitted passage of ships belonging to or headed to friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260326/image-1774489300964.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sends-15-point-plan-peace-plan-tehran-opens-hormuz-for-non-hostile-oil-vessels-no-nuclear-weapon-to-end-of-sanctions-1774403435419">No nuclear weapon to end of sanctions: Trump sends 15-point plan peace plan; Tehran opens Hormuz for 'non-hostile' oil vessels</a><h2>What Iranian military said?</h2>A day earlier, Iranian military spokesman ‌Ebrahim Zolfaqari said that the United States is negotiating with ​itself, and added that people like them could never get along with people like the US, dismissing any suggestion of ongoing talks. "Has the level of your inner struggle reached ‌the ⁠stage of you negotiating with yourself?" Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for the unified command of Iran's armed forces, ​Khatam al-Anbiya ​Central Headquarters said in the video, adding, “People like us can never get ​along with people like you.” Zolfaqari ​also said ⁠US investments and pre-war energy prices would not return as long as ⁠Washington ​does not accept ​that regional stability is guaranteed by Iranian armed forces.<h2>What Ghalibaf said?</h2>Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a stark warning saying Tehran has received intelligence suggesting that adversaries may be planning to seize one of Iran’s islands with backing from a regional country. He added that Iranian forces are closely tracking developments and warned that any hostile move would trigger severe retaliation against critical infrastructure in the supporting country. “Our forces are monitoring all enemy movements, and if they take any step, all the vital infrastructure of that regional state will be targeted with relentless, unceasing attacks.” Moreover, Trump has reportedly ordered the deployment of additional airborne troops and Marines to the Gulf region, fueling speculation about a possible ground operation.<h2>Trump sends 15-point peace plan</h2>Trump said that the United States is “in negotiations right now” with Iran and has sent a 15-point peace plan aimed at ending the nearly month-long West Asia conflict. He indicates the proposal begins with Iran agreeing to “not have a nuclear weapon,” while also hinting at a positive gesture from Tehran, describing it as a “very big present.” According to reports, the plan includes a proposed one-month ceasefire, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and potential sanctions relief for Iran.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran is reviewing a 15-point proposal from Donald Trump but denies direct talks. FM Abbas Araqchi said mediation isn’t negotiation. Fighting continues as Israel and the US intensify strikes.

A day after Iran seemingly rejected the peace talks initiated by the US, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi suggested ‌some willingness by Tehran to negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met. Speaking to the state television, Araghchi said that his country is reviewing a US proposal to end the war in the Gulf but has no intention of holding talks citing past betrayal. He also said that the country is focusing on “targeting American interests in the region.” The FM, however, did agree about the exchange of messages between US and Iran through mediators, but clarifies that it “does not mean negotiations with the US, while also adding that ”speaking of negotiations now is an admission of defeat." He hinted that Tehran may negotiate an end to the war if its demands were met. Also Read: 'People like you...': Iran military slams Trump over peace plan, dismisses negotiation claims — What's happening Araghchi said, “Wherever we find American interests, we will target them, and any country that shares in these interests will be considered a legitimate target by us. Iran wants to end the war with the United States and Israel on its own terms. One of the key things Iran is looking at is ensuring guarantees from both the aggressors that such attacks won’t repeat. They put forward ideas in their messages that were conveyed to top authorities, and if necessary, a position will be announced by them. At present, our policy is the continuation of resistance. We do not intend to negotiate – so far, no negotiations have taken place, and I believe our position is completely principled." On Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said that Iran permitted passage of ships belonging to or headed to friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan. Also Read: No nuclear weapon to end of sanctions: Trump sends 15-point plan peace plan; Tehran opens Hormuz for 'non-hostile' oil vessels What Iranian military said? A day earlier, Iranian military spokesman ‌Ebrahim Zolfaqari said that the United States is negotiating with itself, and added that people like them could never get along with people like the US, dismissing any suggestion of ongoing talks. "Has the level of your inner struggle reached ‌the ⁠stage of you negotiating with yourself?" Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for the unified command of Iran's armed forces, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said in the video, adding, “People like us can never get along with people like you.” Zolfaqari also said ⁠US investments and pre-war energy prices would not return as long as ⁠Washington does not accept that regional stability is guaranteed by Iranian armed forces. What Ghalibaf said? Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a stark warning saying Tehran has received intelligence suggesting that adversaries may be planning to seize one of Iran’s islands with backing from a regional country. He added that Iranian forces are closely tracking developments and warned that any hostile move would trigger severe retaliation against critical infrastructure in the supporting country. “Our forces are monitoring all enemy movements, and if they take any step, all the vital infrastructure of that regional state will be targeted with relentless, unceasing attacks.” Moreover, Trump has reportedly ordered the deployment of additional airborne troops and Marines to the Gulf region, fueling speculation about a possible ground operation. Trump sends 15-point peace plan Trump said that the United States is “in negotiations right now” with Iran and has sent a 15-point peace plan aimed at ending the nearly month-long West Asia conflict. He indicates the proposal begins with Iran agreeing to “not have a nuclear weapon,” while also hinting at a positive gesture from Tehran, describing it as a “very big present.” According to reports, the plan includes a proposed one-month ceasefire, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and potential sanctions relief for Iran.

Iran is reviewing a 15-point proposal from Donald Trump but denies direct talks. FM Abbas Araqchi said mediation isn’t negotiation. Fighting continues as Israel and the US intensify strikes.

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