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A workout in the middle of a sea, helped trace a French naval vessel. It was an officer’s discipline and workout route logged in a fitness app that led to him revealing the accurate location of the military vessel, which is extremely sensitive data. A 36-minute workout in the midst of the West Asia war, which is affecting the world across, revealed the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle’s exact location. The vessel is the French Navy’s flagship and only nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in operation outside the US military.&nbsp;<h2>How was it traced?</h2>&nbsp;A young French sailor diligently completed his workout on board the aircraft carrier. Up to this point, everything is under control, but logging the exercise session in the fitness app Strava is where things went south. While many use the app to track and record their fitness journey, the sailor’s similar action revealed the ship's precise location. Days after US and Israel launched the joint military operation against Iran, France, on March 3, announced the deployment of the carrier, which is now roughly 100 km off the Turkish coast. Strava, which tracks the location, has shown that the vessel is in the northwest of Cyprus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Strava leaks - Military data revealed

&nbsp;&nbsp;Though the aircraft carrier's deployment was public, but its location in the Mediterranean Sea was sensitive and known to those involved in the operation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-be-relentlessly-lethal-centcom-commander-briefs-troops-amid-iran-conflict-operation-epic-fury-1772520944164">'Be relentlessly lethal': CENTCOM commander briefs troops amid Iran conflict</a>&nbsp;News outlet Le Monde corroborated the data with help of satellite imagery captured shortly after the sailor’s workout, and it revealed more startling information. It showed the presence of a nuclear-powered vessel in the same area as the aircraft carrier. This lapse was acknowledged by the French Armed Forces General Staff, who told the news outlet that such activity did not comply with the operation’s security rules, and appropriate measures will be taken.

A French sailor’s fitness tracking data has inadvertently leaked sensitive military locations amid rising tensions in West Asia. Discover how routine workouts are creating major national security risks.

A workout in the middle of a sea, helped trace a French naval vessel. It was an officer’s discipline and workout route logged in a fitness app that led to him revealing the accurate location of the military vessel, which is extremely sensitive data. A 36-minute workout in the midst of the West Asia war, which is affecting the world across, revealed the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle’s exact location. The vessel is the French Navy’s flagship and only nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in operation outside the US military. How was it traced? A young French sailor diligently completed his workout on board the aircraft carrier. Up to this point, everything is under control, but logging the exercise session in the fitness app Strava is where things went south. While many use the app to track and record their fitness journey, the sailor’s similar action revealed the ship's precise location. Days after US and Israel launched the joint military operation against Iran, France, on March 3, announced the deployment of the carrier, which is now roughly 100 km off the Turkish coast. Strava, which tracks the location, has shown that the vessel is in the northwest of Cyprus.

A French sailor’s fitness tracking data has inadvertently leaked sensitive military locations amid rising tensions in West Asia. Discover how routine workouts are creating major national security risks.

How a French sailor's workout routine accidentally leaked military secrets amid West Asia war

A major cabinet reshuffle was announced by Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez on Wenesday. This led to the appointment of a new defence minister, who would replace Gen. Vladimir Padrino López, a cornerstone of the military’s long-standing support for former President Nicolás Maduro. The announcement was made by Rodríguez on her Telegram channel that said the appointment of Gen. Gustavo González López was with immediate effect.&nbsp;In her post she also thanked Padrino López for his “loyalty to the Homeland” and expressed confidence in his future roles.&nbsp;The reshuffle and announcement of new defence minister was made only 10 weeks after Rodríguez took over as acting president from Nicolas Maduro after he was captured by the United States on drug trafficking charges.<h2>Who is González López</h2>&nbsp;González López has an extensive intelligence background&nbsp;He was commander general of the presidential honor guard and head of the military’s counterintelligence agency&nbsp;He was also sanctioned by the US for his role in cracking down on 2014 street protests<h2>Capture of Maduro by US</h2>&nbsp;US launched an attack on the Venezuelan capital Caracas on Saturday (Jan 3) and captured Nicolas Maduro. The attack was a two-hour and twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea. It was unprecedented if compared to the scale and precision it was carried out with.&nbsp;Trump, watched the complex capture in Caracas play out in real time from a room in Mar-a-Lago alongside military generals.&nbsp;“If you would have seen what happened, I mean, I watched it literally, like I was watching a television show,” he said to Fox news.&nbsp;

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez after appointing the new defence chief thanked the outgoing Padrino López for his “loyalty to the Homeland”.

A major cabinet reshuffle was announced by Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez on Wenesday. This led to the appointment of a new defence minister, who would replace Gen. Vladimir Padrino López, a cornerstone of the military’s long-standing support for former President Nicolás Maduro. The announcement was made by Rodríguez on her Telegram channel that said the appointment of Gen. Gustavo González López was with immediate effect. In her post she also thanked Padrino López for his “loyalty to the Homeland” and expressed confidence in his future roles. The reshuffle and announcement of new defence minister was made only 10 weeks after Rodríguez took over as acting president from Nicolas Maduro after he was captured by the United States on drug trafficking charges. Who is González López González López has an extensive intelligence background He was commander general of the presidential honor guard and head of the military’s counterintelligence agency He was also sanctioned by the US for his role in cracking down on 2014 street protests Capture of Maduro by US US launched an attack on the Venezuelan capital Caracas on Saturday (Jan 3) and captured Nicolas Maduro. The attack was a two-hour and twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea. It was unprecedented if compared to the scale and precision it was carried out with. Trump, watched the complex capture in Caracas play out in real time from a room in Mar-a-Lago alongside military generals. “If you would have seen what happened, I mean, I watched it literally, like I was watching a television show,” he said to Fox news.

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez after appointing the new defence chief thanked the outgoing Padrino López for his “loyalty to the Homeland”.

Venezuela appoints new defense chief, replacing longtime Maduro loyalist

Denmark spent January preparing for a military invasion—not from Russia, but from its closest ally, the United States. Following Donald Trump’s threat to take Greenland "the hard way," Danish elite soldiers were reportedly flown to the Arctic carrying bags of blood. Here's all we know.

Blood bags, bombs, and betrayal? Denmark's plan to stop Trump from invading Greenland REVEALED!

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appears with daughter Kim Ju Ae during tank drills, signalling heightened military readiness amid missile tests and rising tensions with South Korea and the US.

North Korea preparing for war? Kim Jong Un and his teen daughter ride tank, oversee drills

Iran has executed three, including a 19-year-old athlete, for waging war against God. Saleh Mohammadi had participated in international events and was publicly hanged. There are fears of mass executions amid the war with US and Israel.

Iran hangs 3, including 19-year-old champion wrestler, activists fear mass executions

New Delhi: Canada's top police official has indicated a significant shift in the country's assessment of alleged Indian government involvement in so-called transnational repression, stating that current investigations show no links to any foreign entity, including India. In an exclusive interview with Canada's CTV News, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.”He added, “I’m saying that based on the totality of the files that we have on foreign interference or transnational repression, what we have in our holdings is we have people that are intimidating people, harassing people, but connecting the dots to a foreign entity, regardless of the country, we don’t have that.”The comments mark a notable departure from earlier positions. In 2023, then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced “credible allegations” of potential links between what he termed as "agents" of the Indian government and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist. The Canadian national was a listed terrorist in India and was shot dead outside a gurdwara in British Columbia in June 2023.The allegations triggered a major diplomatic crisis. India rejected the accusations as baseless. The development led to a near-freeze in relations, including suspended trade talks and reduced diplomatic presence.Under Prime Minister Mark Carney, who succeeded Trudeau in 2025, Ottawa has pursued a pragmatic reset. High commissioners were reinstated, visa services restored, and high-level engagements resumed, including meetings at the G7 and G20 summits. In early 2026, the two countries announced a “renewed strategic partnership,” launching negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at doubling bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. They also signed deals on nuclear energy cooperation, including long-term uranium supply arrangements, alongside commitments to collaborate in technology, clean energy, and critical minerals.

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.”

New Delhi: Canada's top police official has indicated a significant shift in the country's assessment of alleged Indian government involvement in so-called transnational repression, stating that current investigations show no links to any foreign entity, including India. In an exclusive interview with Canada's CTV News, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.” He added, “I’m saying that based on the totality of the files that we have on foreign interference or transnational repression, what we have in our holdings is we have people that are intimidating people, harassing people, but connecting the dots to a foreign entity, regardless of the country, we don’t have that.” The comments mark a notable departure from earlier positions. In 2023, then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced “credible allegations” of potential links between what he termed as "agents" of the Indian government and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist. The Canadian national was a listed terrorist in India and was shot dead outside a gurdwara in British Columbia in June 2023. The allegations triggered a major diplomatic crisis. India rejected the accusations as baseless. The development led to a near-freeze in relations, including suspended trade talks and reduced diplomatic presence. Under Prime Minister Mark Carney, who succeeded Trudeau in 2025, Ottawa has pursued a pragmatic reset. High commissioners were reinstated, visa services restored, and high-level engagements resumed, including meetings at the G7 and G20 summits. In early 2026, the two countries announced a “renewed strategic partnership,” launching negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at doubling bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. They also signed deals on nuclear energy cooperation, including long-term uranium supply arrangements, alongside commitments to collaborate in technology, clean energy, and critical minerals.

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.”

RCMP chief: No current evidence links India to transnational repression in Canada

The United Nations' maritime watchdog has delivered a sharp message to Iran over closure of Strait of Hormuz, with India among more than 100 countries backing a landmark resolution demanding Tehran back down. In an extraordinary session in London, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council "strongly condemned" Iran's attacks on vessels and its "purported closure" of the vital waterway, warning that such actions represent "a grave danger to life, particularly seafarers, and serious risk to the marine environment".The declaration, tabled by the United Arab Emirates and co-sponsored by over 115 member states, is a record in IMO history, and also condemned Iran's broader attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan as a "breach of international law"."Any attempt to impede lawful transit passage or freedom of navigation in these waterways constitutes a serious threat to international peace and security," the Council stated, explicitly referencing UN Security Council resolution 2817 (2026), which earlier affirmed the same principle.The IMO demanded that Iran "immediately refrain from any actions or threats aimed at closing, obstructing or otherwise interfering with international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz or against merchant or commercial vessels in and around the Strait". It reaffirmed that navigational rights for commercial shipping must be respected, amid reports of thousands of seafarers stranded on vessels trapped in the Gulf due to the disruptions.India's envoy to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, speaking at an extraordinary session of the International Maritime Organization, expressed deep concern over escalating attacks in West Asia that have killed seven seafarers, including three Indians, injured four others, and left one missing.He extended condolences and stressed: "Attacks on commercial shipping and civilian maritime infrastructure are unacceptable."Doraiswami highlighted that 23,000 seafarers have been impacted, warning that any obstruction or closure of the Strait of Hormuz would have "direct consequences" for India's economy, global energy, and humanitarian supply chains."We remain deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of all seafarers," he said, urging respect for navigational rights and calling for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate the crisis.India was among the key supporters, having co-sponsored the draft declaration submitted earlier, aligning with its prior stance at the UN Security Council where it backed a similar condemnation of Iranian actions. The UAE hailed the outcome as a demonstration of "the international community's shared responsibility to ensure the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz".The move comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia including strikes that have crippled shipping through the narrow chokepoint, a route carrying about a fifth of the world's oil supplies. The IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez warned that "when seafarers die, statements are not enough" and stressed that "a human life cannot be replaced," amid the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.

India was among the key supporters, having co-sponsored the draft declaration submitted earlier, aligning with its prior stance at the UN Security Council where it backed a similar condemnation of Iranian actions. 

The United Nations' maritime watchdog has delivered a sharp message to Iran over closure of Strait of Hormuz, with India among more than 100 countries backing a landmark resolution demanding Tehran back down. In an extraordinary session in London, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council "strongly condemned" Iran's attacks on vessels and its "purported closure" of the vital waterway, warning that such actions represent "a grave danger to life, particularly seafarers, and serious risk to the marine environment". The declaration, tabled by the United Arab Emirates and co-sponsored by over 115 member states, is a record in IMO history, and also condemned Iran's broader attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan as a "breach of international law". "Any attempt to impede lawful transit passage or freedom of navigation in these waterways constitutes a serious threat to international peace and security," the Council stated, explicitly referencing UN Security Council resolution 2817 (2026), which earlier affirmed the same principle. The IMO demanded that Iran "immediately refrain from any actions or threats aimed at closing, obstructing or otherwise interfering with international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz or against merchant or commercial vessels in and around the Strait". It reaffirmed that navigational rights for commercial shipping must be respected, amid reports of thousands of seafarers stranded on vessels trapped in the Gulf due to the disruptions. India's envoy to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, speaking at an extraordinary session of the International Maritime Organization, expressed deep concern over escalating attacks in West Asia that have killed seven seafarers, including three Indians, injured four others, and left one missing. He extended condolences and stressed: "Attacks on commercial shipping and civilian maritime infrastructure are unacceptable." Doraiswami highlighted that 23,000 seafarers have been impacted, warning that any obstruction or closure of the Strait of Hormuz would have "direct consequences" for India's economy, global energy, and humanitarian supply chains. "We remain deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of all seafarers," he said, urging respect for navigational rights and calling for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate the crisis. India was among the key supporters, having co-sponsored the draft declaration submitted earlier, aligning with its prior stance at the UN Security Council where it backed a similar condemnation of Iranian actions. The UAE hailed the outcome as a demonstration of "the international community's shared responsibility to ensure the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz". The move comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia including strikes that have crippled shipping through the narrow chokepoint, a route carrying about a fifth of the world's oil supplies. The IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez warned that "when seafarers die, statements are not enough" and stressed that "a human life cannot be replaced," amid the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.

India was among the key supporters, having co-sponsored the draft declaration submitted earlier, aligning with its prior stance at the UN Security Council where it backed a similar condemnation of Iranian actions.&nbsp;

UAE-Tabled, India-Backed: Nations express concern over closure of Hormuz at UN Maritime Body

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The military conflict in West Asia has entered its third week as of March 20, 2026. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations.Key Developments at a Glance:- A day after the pre-emptive strikes, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Following his death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader.- Total Rejection of Talks: Tehran has ruled out a ceasefire, labelling US actions a "betrayal" of nuclear negotiations.- The Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran is targeting vessels in the strategic chokepoint, causing a global energy supply shock.- Expanding Fronts: Israel has officially expanded operations into Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure while rejecting diplomatic overtures from the Lebanese government.- In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders, including the country's security chief Ali Larijani, have been killed.While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the campaign will continue until the Iranian regime collapses, the international community remains divided. Russia and China have formally condemned the strikes as violations of national sovereignty, whereas India continues to push for an immediate return to dialogue to stabilise energy markets.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well.<h2>Follow WION for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war</h2>

Israel's foreign ministry on Friday accused Iran of an attack on the “holy sites of Jerusalem” after an impact near the walls of the Old City following a missile warning.“The Iranian attack on the holy sites sacred to all three religions reveals the madness of the Iranian regime, which claims to be religious,” Israel's foreign ministry wrote on X, calling it an “Iranian gift” for the Muslim holiday Eid al-Fitr.

Israel decries Iran's 'madness' after strikes near Jerusalem holy sites

Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said on Friday that the enemies of the Islamic Republic were being defeated in the war against the US and Israel in a written message for the Persian New Year, Nowruz.“At the moment, due to the particular unity that has been created between you, our compatriots, despite all the differences in religious, intellectual, cultural, and political origins, the enemy has been defeated,” said Khamenei, who is yet to appear in public after being named to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an airstrike at the start of the war.

‘Enemy being defeated,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in Nowruz message

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said on Friday that the country considers “our eastern neighbors to be very close to us”. Khamenei said Iran values the relationship with these countries despite the attacks, which he said is fostered by shared culture and religion. “Each of these elements can strengthen good relations, and we are eager for this,” he said.Khamenei also blamed Israel for recent attacks on Oman and Turkey without providing any evidence.

Neighboring countries are ‘very close’ to us, says Iran's Supreme Leader

President Donald Trump has lashed out at NATO again, condemning alliance members for not wanting “to help open” the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has effectively closed the strait with periodic attacks on oil tankers and other shipping. Trump has criticised Nato members for failing to offer warships to help patrol the strategic waterway.Trump wrote in a social media post, “Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER! They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a Nuclear Powered Iran. Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”

Trump calls Nato members ‘cowards’ for not helping secure Strait of Hormuz

US stocks fell on Friday as traders kept monitoring the Iran war. The Nasdaq Composite lost 1.2%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average traded 163 points lower, or 0.4%, while the S&amp;P 500 fell 0.8% amid reports that the Pentagon was sending thousands of additional Marines to the Middle East.The market wobbled after Iran and Israel exchanged strikes overnight, while Tehran also launched new attacks against energy sites in the Gulf. On top of that, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials, that the Pentagon was sending thousands of additional Marines to the Middle East.

Nasdaq 100 falls over 1% as US announces sending 2,500 Marines to Middle East

A senior official in the Iranian armed forces has warned that the country's enemies won't be safe in tourist centres around the world.&nbsp;Gen. Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesman for Iran’s armed forces, said that the high numbers of Iranian officials being killed in American and Israeli strikes “is not a sign of the enemy’s strength; rather, it stems from desperation, helplessness, and malice.”Iranian officials “live with the people and among the people,” he said.

Enemies won't be safe in tourist centres around the world, warns Iran’s military

NATO said Friday it was "adjusting" its mission in Iraq, after officials in the country said the non-combat force had been temporarily withdrawn due to the war in the Middle East.

NATO announces ‘adjustments’ to Iraq mission

Iran's military threatens to hunt down US and Israeli officials even on vacation, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Iran military threatens to hunt down US, Israeli officials even on vacation

Switzerland decided Friday it will not authorise the export of war materiel to the United States during the Middle East conflict, in line with its long-standing principle of military neutrality.

Switzerland halts war materiel exports to US amid Iran war

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="ar" dir="rtl"&gt;الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع 4 صواريخ باليستية و 26 طائرة مسيرة.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;تعاملت الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية (20 مارس 2026) مع 4 صواريخ باليستية، و 26 طائرة مسيرة قادمة من إيران. &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;ومنذ بدء الاعتداءات الإيرانية السافرة تعاملت الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية مع 338 صاروخاً باليستياً، و… &lt;a href="https://t.co/ItXnv8CKvh"&gt;pic.twitter.com/ItXnv8CKvh&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/modgovae/status/2034938599423320229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 20, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

UAE air defences intercept 4 ballistic missiles and 26 drones 

Israel launched a new wave of heavy airstrikes on Tehran on Friday, as Iranians mark Nowruz (the Persian New Year) amidst the ongoing conflict.

Israel hits Tehran with air strikes as Iranians mark Persian new year

The United States and Israel struck 16 Iranian cargo vessels in port towns on the Gulf on Friday, local media reported, saying the ships were burnt.

US, Israel strike 16 Iranian cargo vessels in Gulf port towns: Iran media

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar greets his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot ahead of a meeting in Jerusalem. France's foreign minister arrived in Israel after visiting Lebanon.

Israeli FM greets French counterpart ahead of meeting in Jerusalem

CCTV images show flashes of light and smoke rising from the area of an oil refinery in the northern port city of Haifa on Thursday (Mar 19). Israeli media reported Thursday that the refinery had been hit following a military warning of incoming missiles launched from Iran

West Asia war LIVE | CCTV images show flashes and smoke rising in area of Haifa oil refinery

Special non-scheduled commercial flights for people from Kuwait to resume today. Flights to six Indian cities will take off from Saudi Arabia's Qaisumah Airport as Kuwait's airspace remains closed: Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf). &nbsp;

West Asia war LIVE | Special non-scheduled commercial flights for people from Kuwait to resume today

PM spoke to 5 world leaders yesterday: Oman, Malayisa, France, Jordan, and Qatar. PM put India's position and priority to dialogue, he condemned attacks on energy structure: MEA

West Asia war LIVE | PM Modi condemned attacks on energy infrastructure: MEA

Maritime security firm Ambrey says the US-Israeli strike targeted Bandar Lengeh port in Iran. No casualties or damage to merchant vessels has been reported.

West Asia war LIVE | US-Israeli strike targeted Bandar Lengeh port in Iran: Maritime security firm 

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa says he is working to keep his country out of the regional conflict raging across the West Asia. In a statement following the Eid prayers marking the end of Ramadan, Sharaa said "we are trying to keep Syria as far as possible from any conflict."

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Al-Sharaa says working to keep Syria out of West Asia conflict

Most production facilities are operating; the remainder are in the process of being restarted. An Iranian strike on the Haifa refinery damaged external infrastructure owned by a third party that is essential to operations; it is expected to return to operations within a few days.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Iranian missile hits Israel's oil refineries 

In the latest attack on Iran,Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini, was killed, as announced by Iranian state TV on Friday (Mar 20). The news broke shortly after news agency Fars quoted him saying that the country'smissile production continues despite the war with Israel and the US.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | Iran confirms IRGC spokesperson Brig Gen Ali Mohammad Naeini killed in US-Israeli airstrikes

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told his British counterpart Yvette Cooper in a phone call that any US use of British bases would be seen as "participation in aggression" against the Islamic republic.It was not clear when the call with Cooper took place."These actions will certainly be regarded as participation in aggression and will be recorded in the history of relations between the two countries," said Araghchi, according to a statement released Friday by the foreign ministry.

Iran FM told British counterpart UK complicit in US, Israel 'aggression'

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday that US-Israeli strikes had killed their spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini.Naini "was martyred in the criminal cowardly terrorist attack by the American-Zionist side at dawn", the Guards said in a statement on their Sepah News website.

Iran Revolutionary Guards say US-Israel strikes kill spokesman

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei called Friday for the enemies of his nations to have their “security” taken away, in his latest message to the public.Khamenei made the remarks in a statement issued on his behalf and sent to President Masoud Pezeshkian, after Israel killed Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib.Khamenei hasn’t been seen since he was named as supreme leader, succeeding his father, the 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the first day of the war on Feb. 28.American and Israeli officials have suggested that Mojtaba Khamenei was hurt in the war.

Iran’s supreme leader says enemies’ ‘security must be taken away’ after intelligence minister’s killing

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Friday that the Islamic republic has continued to produce missiles despite the war with Israel and the United States."Our missile industry deserves a perfect score... and there is no concern in this regard, because even under wartime conditions we continue missile production," Guards spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini said, quoted by the Fars news agency.On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that "Iran no longer has the capacity to enrich uranium and manufacture ballistic missiles".

Iran Guards say missile production continues despite war

Sri Lanka refused permission to the United States to station two of its warplanes at an airport in the island's south in early March, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake told parliament on Friday."They wanted to bring two warplanes armed with eight anti-ship missiles from a base in Djibouti to the Mattala International Airport from March 4 to 8 and we said 'no'," Dissanayake said.Sri Lanka maintains close ties with the United States, its biggest export market, and Iran which is a key buyer of tea, its main export commodity.

Sri Lanka refused ground access to US warplanes

Israel carried out strikes on towns in southern Lebanon, causing multiple injuries, state media reported on Friday."Israeli enemy fighter jets struck at dawn, targeting the towns of Bafliyeh and Hanine in the Tyre and Bint Jbeil districts," the official National News Agency (NNA) reported, adding that Israeli forces had hit five other towns in the south of the country.

Lebanon state media says Israeli jets struck southern towns

Iran's Revolutionary Guards say missile production continue during war.

No stockpile shortage, says Iran

According to Kuwaits KPC, Mina AL-Ahmedi refinery has been hit by drone attack. Some units shut down to ensure safety.

Refinery in Kuwait hit in drone attack

At least 16 US military aircraft have been lost since the start of the war with Iran.

US Aircraft Losses Mount

A missile alert sounded in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates early Friday morning.

Explosions heard in Dubai in the UAE

The Islamic Republic of Iran said that the video of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei was published for the first time.

Iranian state media releases undated video of Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

The war has severely disrupted air traffic over Gulf countries, which have carved out a niche as a stopover for long flights between the United States, Europe, Asia and Oceania.Many European travellers have found themselves stranded in Asia, unable to pass through the key hubs of Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi -- the respective headquarters of Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad."It is a bit of a wake-up call to show how dependent the European continent is on Gulf carriers," the chief executive of Air France-KLM, Benjamin Smith, told a press conference of the Airlines for Europe (A4E) association.

Air traffic severely disrupted over Gulf countries

The European Central Bank cut its growth forecast and raised inflation forecasts for this year as it warned of the energy price shock from the Mideast war.ECB staff now see eurozone GDP growth reduced to 0.9 percent in 2026, and raised inflation projections to 2.6 percent for the year.

ECB cuts 2026 growth forecast

With the Iran war entering its third week, the Trump administration is in hot water for reportedly requesting a staggering $200 billion in emergency funding. Amid concerns about the staggering bill of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 20) sought to downplay the costs, dismissing the bill as a "small price" to keep the US military "tippy top."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-takes-money-to-kill-bad-guys-hegseth-defends-iran-war-bill-as-trump-eyes-200bn-to-keep-us-military-tippy-top-1773970092030">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260320/image-1773971810117.jpg?rect=(0,68,1065,799)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘Tippy top’ defence vs taxpayers money? Trump shrugs off $200B Iran war bill as US burns $2B a day"></figure>

‘Tippy top’ defence vs taxpayers money? Trump shrugs off $200B Iran war bill as US burns $2B a day

The UN's maritime body called for the creation of a safe shipping "corridor" in the Gulf to evacuate stranded vessels and seafarers, after an emergency meeting that also condemned Iran.Following two days of urgent talks in London, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) said the "safe maritime corridor" should be established as "a provisional and urgent measure".Six Western allies, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, earlier stated they were ready "to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz". Paris, Rome and Berlin later stressed any initiative would take place only after a ceasefire was reached.

UN urges safe shipping 'corridor' 

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All Gulf Air flights at Goa International Airport Dabolim cancelled till March 26

Crude prices fell more than two per cent on Friday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war with Iran could finish sooner than many feared.Traders also welcomed US President Donald Trump's remarks that Israeli forces would not target any more of Tehran's energy infrastructure.Both main oil contracts sank, though Brent remains at about $105 and West Texas Intermediate at about $93.On Thursday, Brent jumped almost six per cent to hit $119 a barrel before falling back to around $109.Gold and silver prices shed more than six per cent and 13 per cent, respectively, as rising inflation fears dampened expectations for near-term interest rate cuts.

Crude price falls by 2%

French President Emmanuel Macron said his country planned to talk with permanent members of the UN Security Council about establishing a UN framework -- once the ongoing exchange of fire had ended -- to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz."We have initiated an exploratory process, and we will see in the coming days whether it stands a chance of succeeding," he told reporters in Brussels following a European summit.

Macron says eyeing UN action on Hormuz

The Israeli military said it launched a wave of strikes on Tehran, following Iranian missile fire at Israel overnight.A military statement said Israeli forces had "begun a wave of strikes targeting infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran."

Israel launches fresh wave of strikes against Iran

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency that they had targeted US forces in the UAE's Al-Dhafra air base as well as sites in Israel with missiles and drones.There were no immediate reports of any casualties.Saudi Arabia's defence ministry said that within less than two hours, its forces had "intercepted and destroyed" 10 drones in the country's east and another in the north.

IRGS targets US forces at UAE's Al-Dhafra air base

Emirati and Kuwaiti air defences were responding to missile fire early Friday, authorities in the Gulf states said, while Saudi Arabia intercepted drone attacks.Elsewhere in the Gulf, Bahrain's interior ministry said that shrapnel from an "Iranian aggression" caused a fire at a warehouse, which was brought under control and resulted in no injuries.The ministry earlier said air raid sirens were activated.In Kuwait, an army statement said air defences were "responding to hostile missile and drone threats", while the UAE state media reported "incoming missile and drone threats from Iran".

Gulf states say responding to missile, drone attacks

UAE authorities have arrested at least five members of a "terrorist network" linked to Iran and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, state media said Friday.The alleged network had "sought to infiltrate the national economy and carry out external schemes threatening the country's financial stability" as part of "a pre-established strategic plan in coordination with external parties linked to Hezbollah and Iran", the official WAM news agency said, citing the UAE State Security Apparatus. The report included mug shots of five detained suspects.

UAE arrests members of Iran-linked 'terrorist network': state media

The US-Iran-Israel war enters Day 21 with no ceasefire in sight. Scroll down for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war.

US-Iran-Israel war LIVE | The military conflict in West Asia has entered its third week as of March 20, 2026. The war began on Feb 28 when Israel and the United States launched "pre-emptive" strikes on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. As tensions escalated, Iran launched retaliatory strikes on all neighbouring Gulf countries that had US bases, justifying it as an attack on “American territory.” Tehran also launched missiles and drones at Israel and has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Americans, calling them out for their “betrayal” during the nuclear negotiations. Key Developments at a Glance: - A day after the pre-emptive strikes, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Following his death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader. - Total Rejection of Talks: Tehran has ruled out a ceasefire, labelling US actions a "betrayal" of nuclear negotiations. - The Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran is targeting vessels in the strategic chokepoint, causing a global energy supply shock. - Expanding Fronts: Israel has officially expanded operations into Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure while rejecting diplomatic overtures from the Lebanese government. - In the past 20 days, several top Iranian leaders, including the country's security chief Ali Larijani, have been killed. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the campaign will continue until the Iranian regime collapses, the international community remains divided. Russia and China have formally condemned the strikes as violations of national sovereignty, whereas India continues to push for an immediate return to dialogue to stabilise energy markets. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who previously said that the war might go on for four weeks or so, has now said that the war is almost over and has declared victory. Similar claims have been made by Israel as well. Follow WION for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war

The US-Iran-Israel war enters Day 21 with no ceasefire in sight. Scroll down for all the updates, analysis and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war.

US-Israel-Iran war Day 21 highlights | ‘Enemy being defeated,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in Nowruz message

WASHINGTON: With the Iran war entering its third week, the Trump administration is in hot water for reportedly requesting a staggering $200 billion in emergency funding. Amid concerns about the staggering bill of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 20) sought to downplay the costs, dismissing the bill as a "small price" to keep the US military "tippy top." Meanwhile, as soaring costs, combined with the Strait of Hormuz energy crisis, fuel economic troubles at home, Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has sparked controversy by saying it "takes money to kill bad guys." The Trump aide said this when asked by a reporter about the $200bn request. Internal reports suggest, in just the first six days of the conflict, the US burned through $11.3 billion—a nearly $2 billion-a-day price tag driven by dual carrier strike groups and a rain of "standoff" cruise missiles. While President TrumpAlso read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-how-much-iran-war-cost-us-in-first-week-pentagon-reveals-shocking-number-1773284909499">THIS is how much Iran war cost US in first week: Pentagon reveals shocking number</a><h2>'Tippy Top' Defense: Trump’s Plan to Refill the US Ammunition 'Locker.'</h2>Trump seemed to confirm the figure. When asked about the money and what it would be used for, the POTUS reasoned that even beyond Iran, it was a "volatile world"."We're asking for a lot of reasons, beyond even what we're talking about in Iran. This is a very volatile world," he said.Trump said that the US wants and needs "right now" vast amounts of ammunition, and the $200 billion was a small price to stay "tippy top". Speaking during an event in the oval office, the president said "We want to have vast amounts of ammunition, which we have right now...It's a small price to pay to make sure that we stay tippy top."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-lie-lie-lie-iran-uses-inside-out-ai-satire-to-mock-trump-s-evil-impulses-amid-minab-school-strike-and-epstein-files-controversies-watch-1773374313730">'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike &amp; Epstein files controversies | Watch</a><h2>Where is the $200 Billion Going? Breaking Down the Iran War 'Bill'</h2>While the White House is yet to confirm or deny reports of the $200 billion funding request to Congress, Hegseth on Thursday all but confirmed it. Alarmingly, he said that the $200 billion number could actually go up as the US tries to "refill" ammunition. &nbsp;"As far as $200 billion, I think that number could move," he told reporters. "We're going back to Congress and our folks there to ensure that we're properly funded for what's been done, for what we may have to do in the future, ensure that our ammunition is, everything's refilled," Hegseth added.<h2>$1.8 Billion Per Day: Why the Iran Conflict is the 'Costliest' US Intervention</h2>While lawmakers were told that Trump's war against Iran cost US taxpayers $11.3 billion in the first six days, exactly how much the war cost so far has yet to be publicly disclosed. Friday (Mar 20) will be Day 21 of the war.Experts believe that the cost of war is substantial. "The amount of precision munitions and interceptors used, the number of air sorties, fuel expended, and cost of operation of two carrier strike groups all factored in, would lead to a very large bill," Daniel Schneiderman, director of global policy programs at Penn Washington told AFP.He noted that in military operations like these, the most crucial items happen to be the most expensive. "Standoff weapons like cruise missiles, THAAD interceptors and batteries, bombs and missiles fired from aircraft, the fuel and maintenance that supports those aircraft and the carriers they fly off of, and not to mention the skilled labor that operates them."Schneiderman added that it is "very expensive to run a war" and said that the Iran War "has to be up there with the costliest interventions the US has undertaken from a financial perspective."&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.

$200B for war? Trump admin faces heat as Pentagon says “it takes money to kill bad guys.” With $11.3B burned in just the first 6 days, the Iran war is turning into one of America’s costliest conflicts yet. How big is the real bill? Scroll to find out

WASHINGTON: With the Iran war entering its third week, the Trump administration is in hot water for reportedly requesting a staggering $200 billion in emergency funding. Amid concerns about the staggering bill of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Mar 20) sought to downplay the costs, dismissing the bill as a "small price" to keep the US military "tippy top." Meanwhile, as soaring costs, combined with the Strait of Hormuz energy crisis, fuel economic troubles at home, Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has sparked controversy by saying it "takes money to kill bad guys." The Trump aide said this when asked by a reporter about the $200bn request. Internal reports suggest, in just the first six days of the conflict, the US burned through $11.3 billion—a nearly $2 billion-a-day price tag driven by dual carrier strike groups and a rain of "standoff" cruise missiles. While President Trump Also read | THIS is how much Iran war cost US in first week: Pentagon reveals shocking number 'Tippy Top' Defense: Trump’s Plan to Refill the US Ammunition 'Locker.' Trump seemed to confirm the figure. When asked about the money and what it would be used for, the POTUS reasoned that even beyond Iran, it was a "volatile world". "We're asking for a lot of reasons, beyond even what we're talking about in Iran. This is a very volatile world," he said. Trump said that the US wants and needs "right now" vast amounts of ammunition, and the $200 billion was a small price to stay "tippy top". Speaking during an event in the oval office, the president said "We want to have vast amounts of ammunition, which we have right now...It's a small price to pay to make sure that we stay tippy top." Also read | 'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike & Epstein files controversies | Watch Where is the $200 Billion Going? Breaking Down the Iran War 'Bill' While the White House is yet to confirm or deny reports of the $200 billion funding request to Congress, Hegseth on Thursday all but confirmed it. Alarmingly, he said that the $200 billion number could actually go up as the US tries to "refill" ammunition. "As far as $200 billion, I think that number could move," he told reporters. "We're going back to Congress and our folks there to ensure that we're properly funded for what's been done, for what we may have to do in the future, ensure that our ammunition is, everything's refilled," Hegseth added. $1.8 Billion Per Day: Why the Iran Conflict is the 'Costliest' US Intervention While lawmakers were told that Trump's war against Iran cost US taxpayers $11.3 billion in the first six days, exactly how much the war cost so far has yet to be publicly disclosed. Friday (Mar 20) will be Day 21 of the war. Experts believe that the cost of war is substantial. "The amount of precision munitions and interceptors used, the number of air sorties, fuel expended, and cost of operation of two carrier strike groups all factored in, would lead to a very large bill," Daniel Schneiderman, director of global policy programs at Penn Washington told AFP. He noted that in military operations like these, the most crucial items happen to be the most expensive. "Standoff weapons like cruise missiles, THAAD interceptors and batteries, bombs and missiles fired from aircraft, the fuel and maintenance that supports those aircraft and the carriers they fly off of, and not to mention the skilled labor that operates them." Schneiderman added that it is "very expensive to run a war" and said that the Iran War "has to be up there with the costliest interventions the US has undertaken from a financial perspective." 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.

$200B for war? Trump admin faces heat as Pentagon says “it takes money to kill bad guys.” With $11.3B burned in just the first 6 days, the Iran war is turning into one of America’s costliest conflicts yet. How big is the real bill? Scroll to find out

WASHINGTON: A high-stakes Oval Office summit between President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi took a surreal turn on Thursday (Mar 19) after the US President invoked the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbour to justify keeping Japan "in the dark" over recent Iran strikes under Operation Epic Fury. When questioned by Japanese media on why Tokyo wasn't consulted before the February 28 escalation, Trump fired back: "Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbour?" Despite the visible shock, Takaichi—Japan’s first female premier—successfully navigated the "diplomatic storm" to seal a staggering $73 billion energy pact, trading a "big hug" and a massive nuclear and gas partnership designed to save her tanking domestic approval ratings.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-unveil-nuclear-deal-bet-40b-on-small-modular-reactors-in-next-gen-energy-push-after-trump-takaichi-meet-1773960751058">US, Japan unveil nuclear deal, bet $40B on small modular reactors in next gen energy push after Trump-Takaichi meet</a><h2>'Why Didn't You Tell Me About Pearl Harbour?': Decoding Trump’s Viral Jibe</h2>A routine diplomatic question during a press conference quickly turned into something else when Trump brought up Pearl Harbour during his meeting with Japanese PM Takaichi. When asked by a Japanese media person why allies like Japan were kept in the dark about US strikes on Iran, Trump didn’t answer directly.Instead, he shot back: "We wanted surprise...Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbour?"A video of the moment is going viral on social media. It shows how, for a moment after Trump's comment, the room shifted, and Takaichi's expression tightened. The comment pointed to the December 7, 1941, attack on the US Pacific Fleet, the moment that pulled Washington into World War II.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-moment-of-silence-for-the-0-07-internet-reacts-as-kim-jong-un-s-perfect-election-marred-by-rare-dissent-north-korea-1773819815156">'A moment of silence for the 0.07%': Internet reacts as Kim Jong Un’s ‘perfect’ election marred by rare dissent</a><h2>Hugs vs. History: How Sanae Takaichi is 'Charming' Trump During the Iran War</h2>Takaichi, for her part, did not engage with the remark. She kept her composure and let the moment pass, choosing not to escalate what could have quickly turned awkward. Notably, just minutes before the comment, Trump had struck a noticeably warm tone, praising Japan for “stepping up” on Middle East security and even telling Takaichi, “I’m very proud of you.”He called her a friend. She greeted him with a hug. Then came the Pearl Harbour line.However, Japan had to walk a careful line, as for Tokyo, the stakes are high. Japan depends heavily on energy routes like the Strait of Hormuz and on US security guarantees. About 60,000 American troops are stationed in Japan, and the alliance remains central amid rising tensions with China. However, deploying military support overseas continues to be a politically sensitive issue domestically. That balancing act showed in Takaichi’s approach. She avoided confrontation, stayed focused on the broader agenda, and moved the conversation forward.

Trump stuns Japan PM with a Pearl Harbour jab when asked about Iran strikes. Awkward moment goes viral, but here’s the twist, Tokyo still walks away with a massive $73B energy deal. Diplomacy derailed or strategic win? Scroll to see how it played out.

WASHINGTON: A high-stakes Oval Office summit between President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi took a surreal turn on Thursday (Mar 19) after the US President invoked the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbour to justify keeping Japan "in the dark" over recent Iran strikes under Operation Epic Fury. When questioned by Japanese media on why Tokyo wasn't consulted before the February 28 escalation, Trump fired back: "Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbour?" Despite the visible shock, Takaichi—Japan’s first female premier—successfully navigated the "diplomatic storm" to seal a staggering $73 billion energy pact, trading a "big hug" and a massive nuclear and gas partnership designed to save her tanking domestic approval ratings. Also read | US, Japan unveil nuclear deal, bet $40B on small modular reactors in next gen energy push after Trump-Takaichi meet 'Why Didn't You Tell Me About Pearl Harbour?': Decoding Trump’s Viral Jibe A routine diplomatic question during a press conference quickly turned into something else when Trump brought up Pearl Harbour during his meeting with Japanese PM Takaichi. When asked by a Japanese media person why allies like Japan were kept in the dark about US strikes on Iran, Trump didn’t answer directly. Instead, he shot back: "We wanted surprise...Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbour?" A video of the moment is going viral on social media. It shows how, for a moment after Trump's comment, the room shifted, and Takaichi's expression tightened. The comment pointed to the December 7, 1941, attack on the US Pacific Fleet, the moment that pulled Washington into World War II. Also read | 'A moment of silence for the 0.07%': Internet reacts as Kim Jong Un’s ‘perfect’ election marred by rare dissent Hugs vs. History: How Sanae Takaichi is 'Charming' Trump During the Iran War Takaichi, for her part, did not engage with the remark. She kept her composure and let the moment pass, choosing not to escalate what could have quickly turned awkward. Notably, just minutes before the comment, Trump had struck a noticeably warm tone, praising Japan for “stepping up” on Middle East security and even telling Takaichi, “I’m very proud of you.” He called her a friend. She greeted him with a hug. Then came the Pearl Harbour line. However, Japan had to walk a careful line, as for Tokyo, the stakes are high. Japan depends heavily on energy routes like the Strait of Hormuz and on US security guarantees. About 60,000 American troops are stationed in Japan, and the alliance remains central amid rising tensions with China. However, deploying military support overseas continues to be a politically sensitive issue domestically. That balancing act showed in Takaichi’s approach. She avoided confrontation, stayed focused on the broader agenda, and moved the conversation forward.

Trump stuns Japan PM with a Pearl Harbour jab when asked about Iran strikes. Awkward moment goes viral, but here’s the twist, Tokyo still walks away with a massive $73B energy deal. Diplomacy derailed or strategic win? Scroll to see how it played out.

'Why didn't you tell me?': Trump stuns Japan PM Takaichi with Pearl Harbour swipe when asked about surprise strikes on Iran | Watch video

The United States and Japan have announced a major energy partnership, agreeing to invest $40 billion in building next-generation nuclear reactors across the American South. The plan was confirmed on Thursday (Mat 19) after talks in Washington between US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. At the centre of the deal are small modular reactors, or SMRs, to be developed in Tennessee and Alabama. The technology is being pitched as a more flexible, scalable alternative to traditional nuclear plants. This comes as Tokyo last year agreed to invest $550 billion through 2029 under a new trade pact with Washington.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-moment-of-silence-for-the-0-07-internet-reacts-as-kim-jong-un-s-perfect-election-marred-by-rare-dissent-north-korea-1773819815156">'A moment of silence for the 0.07%': Internet reacts as Kim Jong Un’s ‘perfect’ election marred by rare dissent</a><h2>What the projects involve</h2>The so-called small modular reactors (SMRs) will be built with support from GE Vernova Hitachi, which has been working on SMR technology for years. In simple terms, these are smaller, factory-built reactors that can be deployed faster and at lower cost. Alongside the nuclear investment, both countries also announced $33 billion for natural gas power facilities in Pennsylvania and Texas.<h2>Next-gen stable power</h2>A joint statement by the two nations said that the SMRs would serve as "a tremendous next-generation stable power source, stabilising electricity prices for the American people and strengthening the Japan-US leadership in global technological competition."These projects are part of a broader investment framework agreed last year, under which Tokyo committed up to $550 billion in investment in the US economy through 2029. The first set of projects under that framework was rolled out earlier this year in February, a $36 billion in commitments in three infrastructure projects. According to Thursday's announcement, the projects would ensure security by "accelerating economic growth of both countries, thereby paving the way for a New Golden Age of the ever-growing Japan-US Alliance."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-divorce-paper-bloodshed-woman-kills-self-after-shooting-husband-at-us-military-base-in-new-mexico-holloman-air-force-base-shoppette-1773802929441">‘Divorce paper’ bloodshed: Woman commits suicide after shooting husband at US' Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico</a><h2>Focus on critical minerals</h2>The two countries also released a separate action plan targeting supply chains for critical minerals, an area where China currently dominates. The plan includes exploring coordinated trade policies and mechanisms, such as border-adjusted price floors, "focusing in the first instance on select critical minerals."

The US and Japan have announced a $40 billion partnership to build next-generation nuclear reactors, specifically small modular reactors (SMRs), in Tennessee and Alabama. The deal was finalised after talks between Donald Trump and Sanae Takaichi

The United States and Japan have announced a major energy partnership, agreeing to invest $40 billion in building next-generation nuclear reactors across the American South. The plan was confirmed on Thursday (Mat 19) after talks in Washington between US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. At the centre of the deal are small modular reactors, or SMRs, to be developed in Tennessee and Alabama. The technology is being pitched as a more flexible, scalable alternative to traditional nuclear plants. This comes as Tokyo last year agreed to invest $550 billion through 2029 under a new trade pact with Washington. Also read | 'A moment of silence for the 0.07%': Internet reacts as Kim Jong Un’s ‘perfect’ election marred by rare dissent What the projects involve The so-called small modular reactors (SMRs) will be built with support from GE Vernova Hitachi, which has been working on SMR technology for years. In simple terms, these are smaller, factory-built reactors that can be deployed faster and at lower cost. Alongside the nuclear investment, both countries also announced $33 billion for natural gas power facilities in Pennsylvania and Texas. Next-gen stable power A joint statement by the two nations said that the SMRs would serve as "a tremendous next-generation stable power source, stabilising electricity prices for the American people and strengthening the Japan-US leadership in global technological competition." These projects are part of a broader investment framework agreed last year, under which Tokyo committed up to $550 billion in investment in the US economy through 2029. The first set of projects under that framework was rolled out earlier this year in February, a $36 billion in commitments in three infrastructure projects. According to Thursday's announcement, the projects would ensure security by "accelerating economic growth of both countries, thereby paving the way for a New Golden Age of the ever-growing Japan-US Alliance." Also read | ‘Divorce paper’ bloodshed: Woman commits suicide after shooting husband at US' Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico Focus on critical minerals The two countries also released a separate action plan targeting supply chains for critical minerals, an area where China currently dominates. The plan includes exploring coordinated trade policies and mechanisms, such as border-adjusted price floors, "focusing in the first instance on select critical minerals."

The US and Japan have announced a $40 billion partnership to build next-generation nuclear reactors, specifically small modular reactors (SMRs), in Tennessee and Alabama. The deal was finalised after talks between Donald Trump and Sanae Takaichi.

US, Japan unveil nuclear deal, bet $40B on small modular reactors in next gen energy push after Trump-Takaichi meet

Real or Deepfake? Netanyahu emerges in the high-security Kirya command center to prove he’s alive—while announcing the deaths of Iran's top leaders. Here is the breakdown of the video that Tel Aviv wants to serve as proof that Netanyahu is alive.

Real or deepfake? Netanyahu mocks death rumours with Kirya war room video after wiping out Iran's top 'terror chieftains'

Israel said an oil refinery in the northern city of Haifa was struck during an Iranian missile attack, but officials emphasised that the impact caused no major or lasting damage to critical infrastructure. In a statement on Thursday (March 19), Energy Minister Eli Cohen said the strike affected the Oil Refineries Ltd facility, briefly disrupting electricity supply in parts of the north. Power was restored quickly, with most customers regaining service within a short period.“The damage to the power grid in the north is localised and not significant,” Cohen said. “Also, in the barrage towards the north, there was no significant damage to Israeli infrastructure sites.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-israel-acted-alone-netanyahu-says-on-iran-gas-strikes-i-misled-no-one-on-us-involvement-1773948704689">'Israel acted alone', Netanyahu says on Iran gas strikes; 'I misled no one' on US involvement</a><h2>Watch the videos here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">❗️🇮🇷⚔️🇮🇱 - The Bazan Oil Refinery in Haifa, northern Israel—Israel&#39;s largest oil processing facility—sustained limited damage during Iran&#39;s most recent missile attack on the country. The strike damaged two buildings and one vehicle in the Haifa area, caused localized power… <a href="https://t.co/USfotbOpNW">pic.twitter.com/USfotbOpNW</a>&mdash; 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) <a href="https://twitter.com/theinformant_x/status/2034659128136593537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to Israel Electric Corp, a power line in the Haifa area was hit by shrapnel from an intercepted missile, triggering a temporary outage that lasted around 45 minutes before being fully resolved. The latest strike comes amid a broader escalation in regional hostilities. Iran has launched a wave of missile and drone attacks across the Middle East in recent weeks, following coordinated strikes by Israel and the United States targeting its energy infrastructure.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🇮🇱🇮🇷 Israel, Haifa oil refinery after the Iranian attack. <a href="https://t.co/iYJJ14xORB">https://t.co/iYJJ14xORB</a> <a href="https://t.co/VOtFg3SGTV">pic.twitter.com/VOtFg3SGTV</a>&mdash; The Daily News (@DailyNewsJustIn) <a href="https://twitter.com/DailyNewsJustIn/status/2034666312790671850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Tehran has framed its actions as retaliation. Earlier this week, Iranian forces targeted several oil and gas facilities in the Gulf region after an Israeli strike hit the South Pars offshore gas field, one of the world’s largest natural gas reserves. In Haifa, authorities said debris from an intercepted missile fell within the city and is being examined as part of a hazardous materials response, raising concerns about potential environmental risks even when direct damage is limited. The Haifa oil refinery has been targeted before.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israeli-pm-iran-has-no-capability-to-enrich-uranium-1773951264571/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israeli-pm-iran-has-no-capability-to-enrich-uranium-1773951264571/embed</a>&nbsp;A similar Iranian strike last June killed three people and forced a temporary shutdown of operations, highlighting the vulnerability of key energy infrastructure amid ongoing tensions. While Israeli officials maintain that the latest damage was minimal, the continued exchange of strikes underscores the risk of further escalation across the region, particularly as energy facilities remain a central target in the conflict.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Smoke was seen rising from Haifa oil refinery in northern Israel, this morning after an Iranian missile attack. <a href="https://t.co/uuxTgMIKjA">pic.twitter.com/uuxTgMIKjA</a>&mdash; OSINT Spectator (@osintspectator) <a href="https://twitter.com/osintspectator/status/2034703164642103646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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 missile strike hits Haifa oil refinery, Israel reports ‘no significant damage’

Israel said an oil refinery in the northern city of Haifa was struck during an Iranian missile attack, but officials emphasised that the impact caused no major or lasting damage to critical infrastructure. In a statement on Thursday (March 19), Energy Minister Eli Cohen said the strike affected the Oil Refineries Ltd facility, briefly disrupting electricity supply in parts of the north. Power was restored quickly, with most customers regaining service within a short period. “The damage to the power grid in the north is localised and not significant,” Cohen said. “Also, in the barrage towards the north, there was no significant damage to Israeli infrastructure sites.” Also Read: 'Israel acted alone', Netanyahu says on Iran gas strikes; 'I misled no one' on US involvement Watch the videos here

According to reports, Iran hits Haifa refinery in missile strike; Israel reports minimal damage and brief outage as regional attacks escalate

Here are 6 key takeaways from Benjamin Netanyahu’s press briefing on Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (March 19) during a press conference from Jerusalem Government Press Office, Israel, said that the US and Israel have ‘achievable goals’ but declined to reveal full battle plans. He said once those goals are met, new oil and gas routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz are needed. He emphasised pipelines through the Arabian Peninsula to ensure the world is ‘done away with the choke points forever’, adding the war may end ‘a lot faster than people think’.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-am-alive-and-we-will-crush-iran-entirely-says-netanyahu-reveals-three-goals-in-iran-war-1773944046326">'I am alive and we will crush Iran entirely', says Netanyahu; reveals three goals in Iran war</a>&nbsp;On recent Iranian gas field strikes, Netanyahu said, ‘Israel acted alone’, adding that Donald Trump had asked Israel to pause further attacks and ‘we are’. Addressing Iran, he claimed, ‘there are a lot’ of signs the regime is weakening, adding, 'We're working to create the conditions for it to collapse, but it may survive it may not'. If it does, he said it would ‘be at its weakest point’.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israel-claims-to-have-hit-iran-s-navy-in-caspian-sea-1773947697102/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israel-claims-to-have-hit-iran-s-navy-in-caspian-sea-1773947697102/embed</a>&nbsp;Responding to criticism, he said, ‘I misled no one’, regarding US involvement and stressed his alignment with Trump as the ‘only way to avoid this catastrophic development’. On energy markets, Netanyahu said efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could lower prices. ‘If they succeed, which I think they will, then oil prices will come down’. He warned that allowing Iran to advance its weapons programs would mean you're going to be blackmailed in ways you can never even imagine.&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.

'Israel acted alone', Netanyahu says on Iran gas strikes; 'I misled no one' on US involvement

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (March 19) during a press conference from Jerusalem Government Press Office, Israel, said that the US and Israel have ‘achievable goals’ but declined to reveal full battle plans. He said once those goals are met, new oil and gas routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz are needed. He emphasised pipelines through the Arabian Peninsula to ensure the world is ‘done away with the choke points forever’, adding the war may end ‘a lot faster than people think’. Also Read: 'I am alive and we will crush Iran entirely', says Netanyahu; reveals three goals in Iran war On recent Iranian gas field strikes, Netanyahu said, ‘Israel acted alone’, adding that Donald Trump had asked Israel to pause further attacks and ‘we are’. Addressing Iran, he claimed, ‘there are a lot’ of signs the regime is weakening, adding, 'We're working to create the conditions for it to collapse, but it may survive it may not'. If it does, he said it would ‘be at its weakest point’. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-israel-claims-to-have-hit-iran-s-navy-in-caspian-sea-1773947697102/embed Responding to criticism, he said, ‘I misled no one’, regarding US involvement and stressed his alignment with Trump as the ‘only way to avoid this catastrophic development’. On energy markets, Netanyahu said efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could lower prices. ‘If they succeed, which I think they will, then oil prices will come down’. He warned that allowing Iran to advance its weapons programs would mean you're going to be blackmailed in ways you can never even imagine. 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.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said war could end sooner than expected, backs new oil routes beyond Hormuz, and insists Israel acted alone in recent strikes at Iran's oil refineries&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (March 19) during a press conference from Jerusalem Government Press Office, Israel, said that after 20 days of war, Iran no longer has the ability to enrich uranium or develop ballistic missiles. He starte his statement in Hebrew, later translated into English, and said: “We will crush them entirely, all those capabilities.” Netanyahu claimed that Israel has degraded Iran’s capabilities ‘to such a degree’ that it can no longer achieve ‘what they have planned’. According to him, while Iran intended to cause massive destruction in Israel, "they’re falling in Lebanon and Iran" instead.&nbsp;He added, "We will change the Middle East, I promise you that," and described Iran as ‘weaker than its ever been’, while asserting that Israel is stronger. Addressing Israelis concerned about the duration of the war, he said "it will take as long as is necessary," emphasizing unity with the statement, “We together will work, and we will win together.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-putting-troops-in-iran-want-japan-to-step-up-says-trump-claims-iran-leadership-gone-1773939473299">‘Not putting troops in Iran, want Japan to step up,’ says Trump; claims Iran leadership ‘gone’</a><h2>What are three goals outlined by Netanyahu on Iran war?</h2>Netanyahu outlined three main objectives: eliminating the nuclear threat, removing the ballistic missile threat, especially before such systems are placed deep underground and become immune to aerial strikes, and creating conditions for the Iranian people to “grasp their freedom.” He went on to detail Israel’s military actions, including targeting missile and drone arsenals, launch systems, and nuclear-related infrastructure such as factories producing missile components. He said Israel is dismantling Iranian industry in a way "that we didn't do before," while noting "there's still more work to do, and we're going to do it."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aditya-dhar-officially-joins-creme-de-la-creme-of-indian-cinema-1773946772344/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/aditya-dhar-officially-joins-creme-de-la-creme-of-indian-cinema-1773946772344/embed</a>&nbsp;Finally, Netanyahu addressed what he described as "fake news" suggesting Israel drew the United States into the conflict. He remarked: "Does anyone really think that someone can tell President Trump what to do? Come on," adding that Donald Trump "always makes his decisions on what he thinks is good for America" and for "future generations."&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.

'I am alive and we will crush Iran entirely', says Netanyahu; reveals three goals in Iran war

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (March 19) during a press conference from Jerusalem Government Press Office, Israel, said that after 20 days of war, Iran no longer has the ability to enrich uranium or develop ballistic missiles. He starte his statement in Hebrew, later translated into English, and said: “We will crush them entirely, all those capabilities.” Netanyahu claimed that Israel has degraded Iran’s capabilities ‘to such a degree’ that it can no longer achieve ‘what they have planned’. According to him, while Iran intended to cause massive destruction in Israel, "they’re falling in Lebanon and Iran" instead. He added, "We will change the Middle East, I promise you that," and described Iran as ‘weaker than its ever been’, while asserting that Israel is stronger. Addressing Israelis concerned about the duration of the war, he said "it will take as long as is necessary," emphasizing unity with the statement, “We together will work, and we will win together.” Also Read: ‘Not putting troops in Iran, want Japan to step up,’ says Trump; claims Iran leadership ‘gone’ What are three goals outlined by Netanyahu on Iran war? Netanyahu outlined three main objectives: eliminating the nuclear threat, removing the ballistic missile threat, especially before such systems are placed deep underground and become immune to aerial strikes, and creating conditions for the Iranian people to “grasp their freedom.” He went on to detail Israel’s military actions, including targeting missile and drone arsenals, launch systems, and nuclear-related infrastructure such as factories producing missile components. He said Israel is dismantling Iranian industry in a way "that we didn't do before," while noting "there's still more work to do, and we're going to do it." https://www.wionews.com/videos/aditya-dhar-officially-joins-creme-de-la-creme-of-indian-cinema-1773946772344/embed Finally, Netanyahu addressed what he described as "fake news" suggesting Israel drew the United States into the conflict. He remarked: "Does anyone really think that someone can tell President Trump what to do? Come on," adding that Donald Trump "always makes his decisions on what he thinks is good for America" and for "future generations." 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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a press conference on Thursday (March 19) said that Israel is stronger than ever, while Iran is weaker than ever

A US F-35 fighter jet was forced to make an emergency landing at a US air base in the Middle East after reportedly being struck by suspected Iranian fire, according to two sources familiar with the situation. Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, said the fifth-generation stealth jet was “flying a combat mission over Iran” when it encountered trouble and had to land.&nbsp;Hawkins confirmed the aircraft landed safely and that an investigation is underway. “The aircraft landed safely, and the pilot is in stable condition,” he said. “This incident is under investigation.” If confirmed, the strike would mark the first instance of Iran successfully hitting a US aircraft since the conflict began in late February. Both US and Israeli forces have been deploying F-35 jets in the ongoing war, with each aircraft valued at over $100 million. The emergency landing comes amid continued claims of success from senior US officials. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Thursday that the US is “winning decisively” and that Iran’s air defense systems have been “flattened.”<h2>Watch the video here released by Iran</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">IRGC Announcement Regarding the Targeting of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F35?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F35</a> Fighter of the US Army Islamic Revolutionary Guards Public Relations: 🔹The F-35 strategic fighter of the US army was hit and seriously damaged in the central sky of Iran at 2:50 AM today by the IRGC’s advanced modern… <a href="https://t.co/8QUGOnMR4R">pic.twitter.com/8QUGOnMR4R</a>&mdash; Iran Consulate - Hyderabad (@IraninHyderabad) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraninHyderabad/status/2034663255613079695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, a statement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Public Relations read, “The F-35 strategic fighter of the US army was hit and seriously damaged in the central sky of Iran at 2:50 AM today by the IRGC’s advanced modern aerospace defense system. The fate of this fighter is unknown and is under investigation, and the possibility of its crash is high. After the successful hunting of more than 125 US-Israeli aggressor drones by Iran’s defense systems, this successful interception shows effective and targeted changes in the country’s integrated defense systems.” &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.

US F-35 hit by Iranian missile as jet makes emergency landing. Here's what we know

A US F-35 fighter jet was forced to make an emergency landing at a US air base in the Middle East after reportedly being struck by suspected Iranian fire, according to two sources familiar with the situation. Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, said the fifth-generation stealth jet was “flying a combat mission over Iran” when it encountered trouble and had to land. Hawkins confirmed the aircraft landed safely and that an investigation is underway. “The aircraft landed safely, and the pilot is in stable condition,” he said. “This incident is under investigation.” If confirmed, the strike would mark the first instance of Iran successfully hitting a US aircraft since the conflict began in late February. Both US and Israeli forces have been deploying F-35 jets in the ongoing war, with each aircraft valued at over $100 million. The emergency landing comes amid continued claims of success from senior US officials. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Thursday that the US is “winning decisively” and that Iran’s air defense systems have been “flattened.” Watch the video here released by Iran

According to reports, US F-35 made an emergency landing after suspected Iranian strike; pilot safe as US officials claim continued success in ongoing conflict

President Donald Trump welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House on Thursday and said that he expects Japan to “step up” its support for the US in action against Iran. “I expect Japan to step up because, you know, we have that kind of relationship and we step up for Japan. We have 45,000 soldiers in Japan. We have, we spent a lot of money on Japan,” he said.&nbsp;“We don’t need much. We don’t need anything. I mean, honestly, we don’t need anything from Japan or from anyone else. But I think it’s appropriate that people step up,” Trump added.&nbsp;“In the case of Japan, I hear they get more than 90% of their oil through the strait,” said Trump, to which Takaichi nodded and said, “Yes”.&nbsp;“So that’s a big reason to step up,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-nations-and-japan-condemn-iran-for-attacks-say-ready-for-efforts-to-ensure-safe-passage-in-hormuz-1773931556678">European nations and Japan condemn Iran for attacks, say ready for ‘efforts’ to ensure safe passage in Hormuz</a><h2>‘Iran leadership is gone, not putting troops in Iran’: Trump&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;“We’re defending the strait for everybody else,” Trump said. “And then in the case of, NATO, they don’t want to help us defend the strait, and they’re the ones that need it. But now they’re getting much nicer because they’re seeing my attitude.”&nbsp;Trump also said that the US would not deploy ground troops in Iran but claimed that Tehran’s leadership had been effectively dismantled and suggested the war could end soon.&nbsp;Trump said, “Iran leadership is gone,” but did not elaborate on specific individuals.“Not putting troops in Iran,” Trump added, signalling that he intends to avoid a ground invasion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-attacks-on-gulf-energy-infrastructure-unacceptable-need-to-cease-says-mea-1773925205928">‘Attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure unacceptable, need to cease,’ says MEA</a><h2>‘Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed’: Takaichi</h2>&nbsp;“Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed. And that is why we, Japan, have been urging them and also reaching out to other partners in the world,” said PM Takaichi while speaking through an interpreter.&nbsp;“In addition, Japan condemns Iran's actions, such as attacking the neighbouring region and also the de facto or effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” she added.&nbsp;Asked if he was happy with the level of support the U.S. is getting from Japan on Iran, Trump said, "Well, we're going to be speaking about it today."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-impose-toll-and-taxes-on-ships-passing-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773918080590">Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Trump said last weekend that other nations, particularly Asian countries that were heavily dependent on oil from the Middle East, should help secure the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Japan was one of several US allies to resist Trump’s call, after which he expressed his frustration.&nbsp;<h2>‘Global economy is now about to experience a huge hit’</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, Trump began the meeting with Takaichi by saying, “We have a very fine relationship. And we’re going to be talking about trade and many other things.” Takaichi thanked Trump for inviting her before switching to Japanese.&nbsp;“Right now, situations in the Middle East and also the entire world, we are actually experiencing a very severe security environment,” she said through an interpreter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sensex-tanks-2-500-pts-nifty-ends-down-3-3-at-23-000-rs-12-lakh-crore-wiped-off-1773920912079">Sensex tanks 2,500 pts, Nifty ends down 3.3% at 23,000; Rs 12 lakh crore wiped off</a>&nbsp;“The global economy is now about to experience a huge hit because of this development.”&nbsp;She said that she believed “it is only Trump who could achieve peace across the world”.&nbsp;<h2>‘Seeing defections from Iranian military’</h2>&nbsp;Asked about defections among the Iranian leadership, Trump turned to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to answer.Bessent said, “We are seeing the defections at all levels, as they’re starting to sense what’s going on with the regime ... the regime will probably collapse within itself.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-major-nuclear-threat-to-us-besides-china-russia-and-n-korea-tulsi-gabbard-tells-senate-1773856393463">‘Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and North Korea,’ Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate</a>&nbsp;“At Treasury, we have seen where they’ve wired their money out of the country. We’re coming for that. We’re going to get it back to the Iranian people,” he added.&nbsp;Trump then added, “There’s a lot of military defections, also. You have a lot of military defections in Iran.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi said Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed, and that is why we, Japan, have been urging them and also reaching out to other partners in the world. She added that Japan condemns Iran's attacks on neighbours and Strait of Hormuz closure.

President Donald Trump welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House on Thursday and said that he expects Japan to “step up” its support for the US in action against Iran. “I expect Japan to step up because, you know, we have that kind of relationship and we step up for Japan. We have 45,000 soldiers in Japan. We have, we spent a lot of money on Japan,” he said. “We don’t need much. We don’t need anything. I mean, honestly, we don’t need anything from Japan or from anyone else. But I think it’s appropriate that people step up,” Trump added. “In the case of Japan, I hear they get more than 90% of their oil through the strait,” said Trump, to which Takaichi nodded and said, “Yes”. “So that’s a big reason to step up,” he said. Also Read: European nations and Japan condemn Iran for attacks, say ready for ‘efforts’ to ensure safe passage in Hormuz ‘Iran leadership is gone, not putting troops in Iran’: Trump “We’re defending the strait for everybody else,” Trump said. “And then in the case of, NATO, they don’t want to help us defend the strait, and they’re the ones that need it. But now they’re getting much nicer because they’re seeing my attitude.” Trump also said that the US would not deploy ground troops in Iran but claimed that Tehran’s leadership had been effectively dismantled and suggested the war could end soon. Trump said, “Iran leadership is gone,” but did not elaborate on specific individuals. “Not putting troops in Iran,” Trump added, signalling that he intends to avoid a ground invasion. Also Read: ‘Attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure unacceptable, need to cease,’ says MEA ‘Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed’: Takaichi “Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed. And that is why we, Japan, have been urging them and also reaching out to other partners in the world,” said PM Takaichi while speaking through an interpreter. “In addition, Japan condemns Iran's actions, such as attacking the neighbouring region and also the de facto or effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” she added. Asked if he was happy with the level of support the U.S. is getting from Japan on Iran, Trump said, "Well, we're going to be speaking about it today." Also Read: Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz Trump said last weekend that other nations, particularly Asian countries that were heavily dependent on oil from the Middle East, should help secure the Strait of Hormuz. Japan was one of several US allies to resist Trump’s call, after which he expressed his frustration. ‘Global economy is now about to experience a huge hit’ Earlier, Trump began the meeting with Takaichi by saying, “We have a very fine relationship. And we’re going to be talking about trade and many other things.” Takaichi thanked Trump for inviting her before switching to Japanese. “Right now, situations in the Middle East and also the entire world, we are actually experiencing a very severe security environment,” she said through an interpreter. Also Read: Sensex tanks 2,500 pts, Nifty ends down 3.3% at 23,000; Rs 12 lakh crore wiped off “The global economy is now about to experience a huge hit because of this development.” She said that she believed “it is only Trump who could achieve peace across the world”. ‘Seeing defections from Iranian military’ Asked about defections among the Iranian leadership, Trump turned to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to answer. Bessent said, “We are seeing the defections at all levels, as they’re starting to sense what’s going on with the regime ... the regime will probably collapse within itself.” Also Read: ‘Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and North Korea,’ Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate “At Treasury, we have seen where they’ve wired their money out of the country. We’re coming for that. We’re going to get it back to the Iranian people,” he added. Trump then added, “There’s a lot of military defections, also. You have a lot of military defections in Iran.”

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi said Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed, and that is why we, Japan, have been urging them and also reaching out to other partners in the world. She added that Japan condemns Iran's attacks on neighbours and Strait of Hormuz closure.

‘Not putting troops in Iran, want Japan to step up,’ says Trump; claims Iran leadership ‘gone’

Amid the rising global crude prices, the US may permit sanctioned Iranian oil currently stored on vessels to enter the market. Speaking to news outlet Fox Business on Thursday (Mar 19), Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said there were approximately 130 million barrels of Iranian oil on water. This he said, could be used to regulate the price, which is soaring.&nbsp;&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Bessent indicated that the US is prepared to "unsanction" roughly 140 million barrels of Iranian crude currently held in floating storage at sea. This move is a tactical attempt to flood the physical market and cool a massive price spike that saw benchmark Brent oil jump above $119 a barrel today. Bessent labeled Wednesday as the most intense night for strikes on Iran while clarifying that the US avoided targeting Iranian energy assets. He described the Strait of Hormuz as a temporary bottleneck.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-war-why-iran-is-targeting-uae-bases-but-letting-abu-dhabi-oil-pass-on-friendly-ships-1773726079438">West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships</a>&nbsp;The Treasury Secretary noted the US might launch a unilateral reserve release as part of its strategy. He specified the administration is not manipulating oil futures but is instead boosting physical supply using "oil on water."

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirms the US may "unsanction" roughly 140 million barrels of Iranian oil currently in floating storage. This strategic move aims to stabilise global markets and lower energy prices following the recent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid the rising global crude prices, the US may permit sanctioned Iranian oil currently stored on vessels to enter the market. Speaking to news outlet Fox Business on Thursday (Mar 19), Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said there were approximately 130 million barrels of Iranian oil on water. This he said, could be used to regulate the price, which is soaring. Treasury Secretary Bessent indicated that the US is prepared to "unsanction" roughly 140 million barrels of Iranian crude currently held in floating storage at sea. This move is a tactical attempt to flood the physical market and cool a massive price spike that saw benchmark Brent oil jump above $119 a barrel today. Bessent labeled Wednesday as the most intense night for strikes on Iran while clarifying that the US avoided targeting Iranian energy assets. He described the Strait of Hormuz as a temporary bottleneck. Also read: West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships The Treasury Secretary noted the US might launch a unilateral reserve release as part of its strategy. He specified the administration is not manipulating oil futures but is instead boosting physical supply using "oil on water."

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirms the US may "unsanction" roughly 140 million barrels of Iranian oil currently in floating storage. This strategic move aims to stabilise global markets and lower energy prices following the recent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

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