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Where is Mojtaba Khamenei? Iran says Supreme Leader ‘is fine’ as war with US and Israel escalates

US President Donald Trump on Monday (March 16) signalled a potential coalition of countries to reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, saying US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will announce the names of countries which will assist the US military efforts in securing the waterway.&nbsp;Trump said he had talked with French President Emmanuel Macron about it, and his response had been "an eight, not perfect."&nbsp;"I think he's going to help," Trump told reporters at the White House, adding that he also believed Britain would be involved in a Hormuz mission.&nbsp;Trump's statements are seen as a pressure tactic to get European countries, especially the UK and France, to join America in its effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer ruled out direct involvement in the conflict with Iran, pledging instead to focus on defensive measures to safeguard the interests of Britain and its partners.&nbsp;"The United Kingdom will not be drawn into a wider war. Our priority is always the national interest... While taking the necessary action to defend ourselves and our allies, we will not be drawn into the wider war," he said at a press conference on Monday.&nbsp;The US president further claimed that Iran wants to make a deal to end the conflict; however, it is unclear who is speaking for Iran. “We don’t know their leaders,” he said.&nbsp;Moving on to speak about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's new supreme leader, Trump said he has heard reports from his advisers and the media that he has been disfigured as a result of attacks, or that he has lost a leg.&nbsp;"A lot of people are saying that he's badly disfigured. They're saying that he lost his leg -- one leg -- and he's, you know, been hurt very badly. Other people are saying he's dead. Nobody's saying he's 100 per cent healthy. You know he hasn't spoken."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-numerous-countries-on-the-way-to-hormuz-trump-claims-iran-is-reduced-to-paper-tiger-1773679080903">‘Numerous countries on the way’ to Hormuz: Trump claims Iran is reduced to ‘paper tiger’</a>&nbsp;The US president made these statements as he came under intense domestic and international pressure from the energy crisis and the sharp rise in oil prices triggered by Iran's effective blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for the shipping of nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply.&nbsp;The war, sparked by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has entered its 17th day with no sign of either side ready to back down. On the opening day of the military campaign, US-Israeli forces targeted the top leadership of the Islamic Republic, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a decapitation strike on a high-security compound in Tehran.&nbsp;In retaliation, Tehran resorted to launching missile and drone strikes on strategic locations, including US military bases in Gulf nations and key energy and financial centres in these countries, along with closing the Strait of Hormuz to put pressure on Washington.&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.)

The US president claimed that Iran wants to make a deal to end the conflict; however, it is unclear who is speaking for Iran. “We don’t know their leaders,” he said.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (March 16) signalled a potential coalition of countries to reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, saying US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will announce the names of countries which will assist the US military efforts in securing the waterway. Trump said he had talked with French President Emmanuel Macron about it, and his response had been "an eight, not perfect." "I think he's going to help," Trump told reporters at the White House, adding that he also believed Britain would be involved in a Hormuz mission. Trump's statements are seen as a pressure tactic to get European countries, especially the UK and France, to join America in its effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier in the day, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer ruled out direct involvement in the conflict with Iran, pledging instead to focus on defensive measures to safeguard the interests of Britain and its partners. "The United Kingdom will not be drawn into a wider war. Our priority is always the national interest... While taking the necessary action to defend ourselves and our allies, we will not be drawn into the wider war," he said at a press conference on Monday. The US president further claimed that Iran wants to make a deal to end the conflict; however, it is unclear who is speaking for Iran. “We don’t know their leaders,” he said. Moving on to speak about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's new supreme leader, Trump said he has heard reports from his advisers and the media that he has been disfigured as a result of attacks, or that he has lost a leg. "A lot of people are saying that he's badly disfigured. They're saying that he lost his leg -- one leg -- and he's, you know, been hurt very badly. Other people are saying he's dead. Nobody's saying he's 100 per cent healthy. You know he hasn't spoken." Also Read: ‘Numerous countries on the way’ to Hormuz: Trump claims Iran is reduced to ‘paper tiger’ The US president made these statements as he came under intense domestic and international pressure from the energy crisis and the sharp rise in oil prices triggered by Iran's effective blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for the shipping of nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply. The war, sparked by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has entered its 17th day with no sign of either side ready to back down. On the opening day of the military campaign, US-Israeli forces targeted the top leadership of the Islamic Republic, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a decapitation strike on a high-security compound in Tehran. In retaliation, Tehran resorted to launching missile and drone strikes on strategic locations, including US military bases in Gulf nations and key energy and financial centres in these countries, along with closing the Strait of Hormuz to put pressure on Washington. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The US president claimed that Iran wants to make a deal to end the conflict; however, it is unclear who is speaking for Iran. “We don’t know their leaders,” he said.

Rubio to announce nations joining Hormuz coalition: Trump says Iran wants a deal

India's Foreign External Affairs minister S Jaishankar discussed the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, developments in the Indo-Pacific, and India’s ties with Europe during a meeting with foreign ministers from the 27 member states of the European Union (EU) in Brussels on Monday (March 16). Jaishankar visited the Belgian capital at the invitation of EU foreign and security policy chief Kaja Kallas to participate in the Foreign Affairs Council meeting, which brings together the bloc’s foreign ministers. During the visit, Jaishankar also held separate discussions with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and his counterparts from countries including Germany and Belgium.&nbsp;Jaishankar said on social media that stronger convergence between India and the EU in a multipolar world is reflected in deeper consultations. “Discussed the West Asia conflict, the Ukraine situation, and the Indo-Pacific in today’s gathering,” he said. Highlighting the progress in India-EU relations this year, Jaishankar noted that both sides are working to translate recent agreements into concrete outcomes. The Foreign Affairs Council discussions also covered cooperation in trade, investment, technology, mobility, and defence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mohsen-rezaee-former-irgc-commander-appointed-as-military-adviser-to-mojtaba-khamenei-1773674742629">Who is Mohsen Rezaee? Former IRGC commander appointed as military adviser to Mojtaba Khamenei</a>&nbsp;This marked Jaishankar’s first visit to Brussels since India and the EU concluded a free trade agreement and several key accords during the India-EU Summit in New Delhi in January. These include the Security and Defence Partnership aimed at expanding collaboration in counter-terrorism, maritime and cyber security, as well as a broader framework for cooperation on mobility. Kallas told reporters that the Foreign Affairs Council also examined ways to better protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, including possible contributions by the EU’s naval mission Aspides. She warned that disruption in the Strait could affect the global economy and energy supplies.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Delighted to meet my fellow Foreign Ministers from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EuropeanUnion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EuropeanUnion</a> today in Brussels. Thank EU HRVP <a href="https://twitter.com/kajakallas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kajakallas</a> for inviting me to this Foreign Affairs Council Meeting. A new chapter in India-EU ties has opened up in 2026. The Foreign Ministers coordinate translating the various… <a href="https://t.co/PkBeGYxZG1">pic.twitter.com/PkBeGYxZG1</a>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2033551378954502603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“The closure of the strait is hurting the global economy, helping Russia fund its war, affecting the EU’s partners in the region, and is dangerous for global energy supplies,” she said. Kallas also emphasised that attention on the Middle East should not overshadow the conflict in Ukraine. She added that easing US sanctions on Russian oil sets a “dangerous precedent”. In his meeting with von der Leyen, Jaishankar reviewed progress on implementing outcomes from the India-EU Summit in January. He said on social media that von der Leyen’s visit to India marked a “turning point” in bilateral relations and that both sides are actively following up on the agreements reached.&nbsp;Von der Leyen, in a separate post, said the two sides had finalised a free trade agreement, “the mother of all deals”, and signed the Security and Defence Partnership. “Now we are focused on efficient implementation, to deliver for the people of Europe and India as soon as possible,” she said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-minister-s-daughter-found-dead-authorities-launch-investigation-amid-tragedy-1773679495964/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-minister-s-daughter-found-dead-authorities-launch-investigation-amid-tragedy-1773679495964/embed</a>&nbsp;“We also discussed developments in the Middle East and in Ukraine. De-escalation, stability, and energy security are our shared objectives,” she added. Jaishankar also held bilateral meetings with foreign ministers, including Johann Wadephul of Germany, Juraj Blanar of Slovakia, Giorgos Gerapetritis of Greece, and Maxime Prevot of Belgium.&nbsp;Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing global issues, including the wider impact of the West Asia conflict. Key areas of cooperation discussed included manufacturing, semiconductors, healthcare, defence, space collaboration, diplomatic presence, connectivity, and boosting trade and investment.

Jaishankar meets EU leaders in Brussels, discusses Ukraine war, West Asia conflict and India-EU trade deal

India's Foreign External Affairs minister S Jaishankar discussed the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, developments in the Indo-Pacific, and India’s ties with Europe during a meeting with foreign ministers from the 27 member states of the European Union (EU) in Brussels on Monday (March 16). Jaishankar visited the Belgian capital at the invitation of EU foreign and security policy chief Kaja Kallas to participate in the Foreign Affairs Council meeting, which brings together the bloc’s foreign ministers. During the visit, Jaishankar also held separate discussions with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and his counterparts from countries including Germany and Belgium. Jaishankar said on social media that stronger convergence between India and the EU in a multipolar world is reflected in deeper consultations. “Discussed the West Asia conflict, the Ukraine situation, and the Indo-Pacific in today’s gathering,” he said. Highlighting the progress in India-EU relations this year, Jaishankar noted that both sides are working to translate recent agreements into concrete outcomes. The Foreign Affairs Council discussions also covered cooperation in trade, investment, technology, mobility, and defence. Also Read: Who is Mohsen Rezaee? Former IRGC commander appointed as military adviser to Mojtaba Khamenei This marked Jaishankar’s first visit to Brussels since India and the EU concluded a free trade agreement and several key accords during the India-EU Summit in New Delhi in January. These include the Security and Defence Partnership aimed at expanding collaboration in counter-terrorism, maritime and cyber security, as well as a broader framework for cooperation on mobility. Kallas told reporters that the Foreign Affairs Council also examined ways to better protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, including possible contributions by the EU’s naval mission Aspides. She warned that disruption in the Strait could affect the global economy and energy supplies.

S Jaishankar meets EU foreign ministers in Brussels to discuss Ukraine, West Asia, Indo-Pacific tensions, and implementation of India-EU trade and security agreements

The US President Donald Trump on Monday (March 16) claimed Iran "has been largely obliterated, air force is gone, navy is gone, many many ships sunk, anti-aircrafts decimated, and the leader is gone". He asserted that the Islamic Republic has been reduced to a "paper tiger" after two weeks of joint US-Israeli military operations in the country.&nbsp;"We have struck 7,000 targets in Iran, we have achieved a 90 per cent reduction in missile attacks, 95 per cent of drone attacks, and it's getting hard for Tehran to manufacture drones," he said, speaking to a reporter at the White House.&nbsp;Trump declared that the US military attacked Kharg Island and "knocked out all parts" but left the oil pipes, which can be hit in five minutes and are just a call away.&nbsp;On the Strait of Hormuz, the US president said, “We are hammering their capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz with more than 30 mine-laying ships destroyed. We hit, to the best of our knowledge, all of their mine-laying ships. Now they can put them on other types of ships."&nbsp;Trump argued that the US gets less than one per cent of its oil through the strait as it has become the largest oil-producing country, and renewed his appeal for other countries to support the US in reopening the waterway.&nbsp;He further claimed that "numerous countries have told me they are on the way" to assist the United States in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that "countries should be happily helping us as Washington has been helping several countries for nearly forty years".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-strait-of-hormuz-only-closed-for-araghchi-says-iran-has-not-requested-ceasefire-1773673079517">'Strait of Hormuz only closed for...': Araghchi says Iran ready to take war as far as necessary</a>&nbsp;The US president made these statements as he came under intense domestic and international pressure from the energy crisis and the sharp rise in oil prices triggered by Iran's effective blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for the shipping of nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply.&nbsp;The war, sparked by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has entered its 17th day with no sign of either side ready to back down. On the opening day of the military campaign, US-Israeli forces targeted the top leadership of the Islamic Republic, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a decapitation strike on a high-security compound in Tehran.&nbsp;In retaliation, Tehran resorted to launching missile and drone strikes on strategic locations, including US military bases in Gulf nations and key energy and financial centres in these countries, along with closing the Strait of Hormuz to put pressure on Washington.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Trump said the US gets less than 1 per cent of its oil from the Strait of Hormuz and repeated his demands for other countries to help America in reopening the Waterway. 

The US President Donald Trump on Monday (March 16) claimed Iran "has been largely obliterated, air force is gone, navy is gone, many many ships sunk, anti-aircrafts decimated, and the leader is gone". He asserted that the Islamic Republic has been reduced to a "paper tiger" after two weeks of joint US-Israeli military operations in the country. "We have struck 7,000 targets in Iran, we have achieved a 90 per cent reduction in missile attacks, 95 per cent of drone attacks, and it's getting hard for Tehran to manufacture drones," he said, speaking to a reporter at the White House. Trump declared that the US military attacked Kharg Island and "knocked out all parts" but left the oil pipes, which can be hit in five minutes and are just a call away. On the Strait of Hormuz, the US president said, “We are hammering their capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz with more than 30 mine-laying ships destroyed. We hit, to the best of our knowledge, all of their mine-laying ships. Now they can put them on other types of ships." Trump argued that the US gets less than one per cent of its oil through the strait as it has become the largest oil-producing country, and renewed his appeal for other countries to support the US in reopening the waterway. He further claimed that "numerous countries have told me they are on the way" to assist the United States in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that "countries should be happily helping us as Washington has been helping several countries for nearly forty years". Also Read: 'Strait of Hormuz only closed for...': Araghchi says Iran ready to take war as far as necessary The US president made these statements as he came under intense domestic and international pressure from the energy crisis and the sharp rise in oil prices triggered by Iran's effective blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for the shipping of nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply. The war, sparked by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has entered its 17th day with no sign of either side ready to back down. On the opening day of the military campaign, US-Israeli forces targeted the top leadership of the Islamic Republic, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a decapitation strike on a high-security compound in Tehran. In retaliation, Tehran resorted to launching missile and drone strikes on strategic locations, including US military bases in Gulf nations and key energy and financial centres in these countries, along with closing the Strait of Hormuz to put pressure on Washington. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Trump said the US gets less than 1 per cent of its oil from the Starit of Hormuz and repeated his demands for other countries to help America in reopening the Waterway.&nbsp;

‘Numerous countries on the way’ to Hormuz: Trump claims Iran is reduced to ‘paper tiger’

Sabereen News, a media outlet linked to pro-Iranian militias in Iraq, reported that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has appointed Mohsen Rezaei as his military adviser. Rezaei is a member of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and a former commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).<h2>Who is Mohsen Rezaee?</h2>Rezaei is an Iranian principlist politician associated with the Resistance Front of Islamic Iran. He currently serves as a member of the Expediency Discernment Council and holds key economic policy roles, including secretary of the Supreme Council for Economic Coordination and secretary of the Iranian government’s Economic Committee. He previously served as secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council from 1997 to 2021 and as Iran’s Vice President for Economic Affairs from 2021 to 2023.&nbsp;Before the Iranian Revolution, Rezaei was a member of the Islamist guerrilla group Mansouroun and later joined the Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution Organization after the revolution. From 1981 to 1997, Rezaei served as commander-in-chief of the IRGC. He joined the IRGC early after the revolution and later became chief of its intelligence division. Appointed to lead the force by Ruhollah Khomeini, he assumed the role of commander-in-chief on 20 September 1981 at the age of 27 and played an active role during the Iran–Iraq War. In 1986, he was appointed a member of Iran’s Supreme Defense Council.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-which-side-are-you-on-iran-s-ali-larijani-calls-on-muslim-nations-to-stand-with-tehran-1773672667069">'Which side are you on?': Iran’s Ali Larijani calls on Muslim nations to stand with Tehran</a>&nbsp;Rezaei left the IRGC in 1997 amid political pressure from supporters of then-president Mohammad Khatami and concerns over his handling of perceived threats from the United States. He was succeeded by Yahya Rahim Safavi.Often described as a “perennial candidate,” Rezaei has run in several Iranian presidential elections. In 2009, he placed third behind Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Mir‑Hossein Mousavi.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cuba-us-relations-trump-hints-us-will-engage-cuba-after-resolving-iran-conflict-talks-underway-1773677674483/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cuba-us-relations-trump-hints-us-will-engage-cuba-after-resolving-iran-conflict-talks-underway-1773677674483/embed</a>&nbsp;In 2013, he finished fourth behind Hassan Rouhani, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Saeed Jalili. In the 2021 presidential election, he was runner-up to Ebrahim Raisi, receiving about 3.4 million votes. On January 10, 2020, Rezaei was placed on the US Treasury’s Specially Designated Nationals list under Executive Order 13876 for alleged involvement in advancing the Iranian government’s destabilizing activities.&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.

Who is Mohsen Rezaee? Former IRGC commander appointed as military adviser to Mojtaba Khamenei

Sabereen News, a media outlet linked to pro-Iranian militias in Iraq, reported that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has appointed Mohsen Rezaei as his military adviser. Rezaei is a member of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and a former commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Who is Mohsen Rezaee? Rezaei is an Iranian principlist politician associated with the Resistance Front of Islamic Iran. He currently serves as a member of the Expediency Discernment Council and holds key economic policy roles, including secretary of the Supreme Council for Economic Coordination and secretary of the Iranian government’s Economic Committee. He previously served as secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council from 1997 to 2021 and as Iran’s Vice President for Economic Affairs from 2021 to 2023. Before the Iranian Revolution, Rezaei was a member of the Islamist guerrilla group Mansouroun and later joined the Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution Organization after the revolution. From 1981 to 1997, Rezaei served as commander-in-chief of the IRGC. He joined the IRGC early after the revolution and later became chief of its intelligence division. Appointed to lead the force by Ruhollah Khomeini, he assumed the role of commander-in-chief on 20 September 1981 at the age of 27 and played an active role during the Iran–Iraq War. In 1986, he was appointed a member of Iran’s Supreme Defense Council. Also Read: 'Which side are you on?': Iran’s Ali Larijani calls on Muslim nations to stand with Tehran Rezaei left the IRGC in 1997 amid political pressure from supporters of then-president Mohammad Khatami and concerns over his handling of perceived threats from the United States. He was succeeded by Yahya Rahim Safavi. Often described as a “perennial candidate,” Rezaei has run in several Iranian presidential elections. In 2009, he placed third behind Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Mir‑Hossein Mousavi. https://www.wionews.com/videos/cuba-us-relations-trump-hints-us-will-engage-cuba-after-resolving-iran-conflict-talks-underway-1773677674483/embed In 2013, he finished fourth behind Hassan Rouhani, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Saeed Jalili. In the 2021 presidential election, he was runner-up to Ebrahim Raisi, receiving about 3.4 million votes. On January 10, 2020, Rezaei was placed on the US Treasury’s Specially Designated Nationals list under Executive Order 13876 for alleged involvement in advancing the Iranian government’s destabilizing activities. 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’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has reportedly appointed former IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaei as military adviser amid his long political and security career

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, on Monday (March 16) said that the Strait of Hormuz is only closed for enemies and those supporting their aggression, and clarified that Iran has not requested a ceasefire while emphasising that any end to the war with the United States and Israel must be definitive, Reuters reported, citing the semi-official Students News Network.&nbsp;A foreign ministry spokesperson maintained that states not party to the war have been able to transit their vessels through the strait with coordination and permission from Iranian forces.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Araghchi declared that Tehran had shown it was ready to take the war with Israel and the United States as far as necessary.&nbsp;"I think by now they have learned a good lesson and understood what kind of nation they are dealing with, one that does not hesitate to defend itself and is ready to continue the war wherever it may lead, and take it as far as necessary," said Araghchi during a weekly foreign ministry briefing.&nbsp;At the United Nations, the Islamic Republic vowed not to submit to "lawless aggression," and said its citizens were in "grave danger" from US and Israeli strikes. Tehran reprimanded the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, where countries were discussing the rights situation in Iran following a deadly crackdown on protests in the recent past.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-in-iran-move-into-armenia-azerbaijan-amid-west-asia-war-as-mea-facilitates-land-border-transit-1773665623273">Indians in Iran move into Armenia, Azerbaijan amid West Asia war as MEA facilitates land-border transit</a>&nbsp;"The most urgent and fundamental human rights issue concerning Iran is the imminent threat to the lives of 90 million people whose lives are in immediate and grave danger under the shadow of reckless military aggression," said Ali Bahreini, Iran's ambassador to the UN in Geneva.&nbsp;Calling the war in West Asia "an aggression that is carried out by some of the most lawless and unscrupulous actors on the international stage," the Iranian ambassador cautioned that if such indifference continues, then "Iran will most certainly not be the last country to suffer such treatment".&nbsp;These developments come as the war in West Asia entered its 17th day after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted the top leadership of Iran, assassinating Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on the opening day of the military campaign.&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases across the region. It also announced the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipping. This led to a sharp rise in energy prices, with crude crossing $100 per barrel.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump is facing mounting domestic and international pressure as the conflict in West Asia has triggered a global energy shock. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed to commercial traffic and crude oil prices surging by more than 40% since the start of the war, the administration is racing to implement emergency measures to stabilise the market.&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.)

At the United Nations, the Islamic Republic vowed not to submit to "lawless aggression," and said its citizens were in "grave danger" from US and Israeli strikes. 

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, on Monday (March 16) said that the Strait of Hormuz is only closed for enemies and those supporting their aggression, and clarified that Iran has not requested a ceasefire while emphasising that any end to the war with the United States and Israel must be definitive, Reuters reported, citing the semi-official Students News Network. A foreign ministry spokesperson maintained that states not party to the war have been able to transit their vessels through the strait with coordination and permission from Iranian forces. Earlier in the day, Araghchi declared that Tehran had shown it was ready to take the war with Israel and the United States as far as necessary. "I think by now they have learned a good lesson and understood what kind of nation they are dealing with, one that does not hesitate to defend itself and is ready to continue the war wherever it may lead, and take it as far as necessary," said Araghchi during a weekly foreign ministry briefing. At the United Nations, the Islamic Republic vowed not to submit to "lawless aggression," and said its citizens were in "grave danger" from US and Israeli strikes. Tehran reprimanded the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, where countries were discussing the rights situation in Iran following a deadly crackdown on protests in the recent past. Also Read: Indians in Iran move into Armenia, Azerbaijan amid West Asia war as MEA facilitates land-border transit "The most urgent and fundamental human rights issue concerning Iran is the imminent threat to the lives of 90 million people whose lives are in immediate and grave danger under the shadow of reckless military aggression," said Ali Bahreini, Iran's ambassador to the UN in Geneva. Calling the war in West Asia "an aggression that is carried out by some of the most lawless and unscrupulous actors on the international stage," the Iranian ambassador cautioned that if such indifference continues, then "Iran will most certainly not be the last country to suffer such treatment". These developments come as the war in West Asia entered its 17th day after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted the top leadership of Iran, assassinating Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on the opening day of the military campaign. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases across the region. It also announced the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipping. This led to a sharp rise in energy prices, with crude crossing $100 per barrel. US President Donald Trump is facing mounting domestic and international pressure as the conflict in West Asia has triggered a global energy shock. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed to commercial traffic and crude oil prices surging by more than 40% since the start of the war, the administration is racing to implement emergency measures to stabilise the market. (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.)

At the United Nations, the Islamic Republic vowed not to submit to "lawless aggression," and said its citizens were in "grave danger" from US and Israeli strikes.&nbsp;

'Strait of Hormuz only closed for...': Araghchi says Iran ready to take war as far as necessary

Senior Iranian official Ali Larijani has issued a message addressed to Muslims worldwide and the governments of Islamic nations, urging unity and criticising what he described as aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran. In the statement, Larijani said Iran had been subjected to what he called a ‘deceitful American-Zionist act of aggression’ carried out during a period of negotiations. He said the attack resulted in the deaths of a senior commander of the Islamic Revolution as well as several civilians and military leaders.&nbsp;According to Larijani, the Iranian people responded with ‘steadfast national and Islamic resistance’, which he said prevented the aggressors from achieving their objectives. The Iranian official also criticised what he described as the lack of solidarity from most Islamic nations during the confrontation. While acknowledging that some governments expressed limited political support, he said the broader Muslim world had largely remained silent.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-posts-another-video-as-online-death-rumours-continue-1773663619808">WATCH | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu posts another video as online ‘death’ rumours continue</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">عبدٌ من عباد الله علي لاريجاني <a href="https://t.co/bwICBtOPRM">https://t.co/bwICBtOPRM</a> <a href="https://t.co/prh5F02Krh">pic.twitter.com/prh5F02Krh</a>&mdash; Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alilarijani_ir/status/2033552693759787104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Larijani argued that Iran’s resistance against the United States, referred to in the statement as the ‘Great Satan’, and Israel, the ‘Lesser Satan’, was rooted in defending the interests of the Muslim world. He questioned whether some Islamic governments’ positions aligned with Islamic teachings, citing a prophetic tradition that urges Muslims to respond to calls for help from fellow believers.&nbsp;The message also addressed criticism from certain countries that have objected to Iran targeting American military bases and interests located within their territories. Larijani argued that Iran could not remain passive if those bases were used to launch attacks against it. “The confrontation today,” he said, “is in reality between America and Israel on one side, and Muslim Iran and the forces of resistance on the other.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/oscars-2026-sean-penn-secures-third-academy-award-joins-elite-three-time-oscar-winners-1773669571142/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/oscars-2026-sean-penn-secures-third-academy-award-joins-elite-three-time-oscar-winners-1773669571142/embed</a>&nbsp;Larijani urged leaders across the Islamic world to reconsider their positions and reflect on the long-term future of the region. He said Iran does not seek domination over other nations but instead offers what he described as “sincere counsel.” Concluding the message, Larijani emphasised that unity among the Islamic Ummah could ensure security, progress, and independence for countries across the Muslim world.&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.

'Which side are you on?': Iran’s Ali Larijani calls on Muslim nations to stand with Tehran

Senior Iranian official Ali Larijani has issued a message addressed to Muslims worldwide and the governments of Islamic nations, urging unity and criticising what he described as aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran. In the statement, Larijani said Iran had been subjected to what he called a ‘deceitful American-Zionist act of aggression’ carried out during a period of negotiations. He said the attack resulted in the deaths of a senior commander of the Islamic Revolution as well as several civilians and military leaders. According to Larijani, the Iranian people responded with ‘steadfast national and Islamic resistance’, which he said prevented the aggressors from achieving their objectives. The Iranian official also criticised what he described as the lack of solidarity from most Islamic nations during the confrontation. While acknowledging that some governments expressed limited political support, he said the broader Muslim world had largely remained silent. Also Read: WATCH | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu posts another video as online ‘death’ rumours continue

Ali Larijani urges Muslim nations to unite against US and Israeli actions, defend Iran’s resistance, and rethink allowing American bases to be used in attacks

The current closure of the Strait of Hormuz - a narrow, critical chokepoint between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula - has triggered a global energy supply crisis. With Iran effectively blocking the route following US-Israeli strikes, Saudi Arabia has attempted to pivot its massive oil exports through an alternative: the Red Sea port of Yanbu. However, as the region grapples with the fallout, it is becoming clear that "Plan B" is insufficient to replace the sheer volume of the "front door."<h2>The strategic importance of the Strait</h2>The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most important oil transit chokepoint. In February, before the escalation, Saudi Arabia was exporting approximately 7.2 million barrels of crude oil per day, the vast majority of which moved through the Gulf terminals of Ras Tanura and Juaymah. These facilities have direct, high-capacity access to the massive tankers that service Asian markets.<h2>The Yanbu alternative: A bottlenecked solution</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-iran-being-framed-abbas-araghchi-claims-trump-is-using-lucas-drones-that-match-shahed-perfectly-to-attack-arab-nations-1773580911417">Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations</a>&nbsp;To bypass the blocked strait, Saudi Arabia has turned to its "back door": the 1,200-kilometre East-West Pipeline that transports crude across the Arabian Peninsula to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. While this infrastructure provides an essential lifeline, it suffers from two major systemic constraints:&nbsp;Capacity Limits: While the pipeline has a theoretical capacity of 5 million barrels per day, the actual processing and loading capacity at the Yanbu port is significantly lower. This creates an immediate arithmetic problem: even if fully utilised, the Red Sea route cannot handle the 7.2 million barrels per day that typically flowed through the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;Logistical Inefficiency: Geography dictates that tankers leaving Yanbu must take a much longer route to reach Asian markets compared to those departing from the Gulf. This increases both shipping duration and operational costs, further straining a global supply chain already reeling from shortages.<h2>Global impacts and political manoeuvring</h2>The consequences of this logistical shift are already manifesting in the market. China’s Sinopec has reported a 10 per cent reduction in refining activity, and Japan has begun tapping into its national strategic reserves to hedge against uncertainty. Even European refiners are facing reduced volumes, demonstrating that the reach of the blockade extends far beyond the immediate region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-making-decisions-in-war-torn-iran-after-ali-khamenei-s-assassination-hint-it-s-not-mojtaba-khamenei-1773572591604">Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination? Hint: It's not Mojtaba Khamenei</a>&nbsp;Amidst this, the US position remains volatile. President Trump’s recent rhetoric has oscillated between demanding that regional allies take responsibility for patrolling their own waters and questioning whether the US should maintain a military presence in the Gulf at all. By stating, "we don't need it," and emphasising US energy independence, the administration is signalling a potential shift in long-term Middle East security policy, leaving regional actors in a state of high geopolitical anxiety.&nbsp;Ultimately, Yanbu serves as a vital emergency valve, but it is not a replacement. As long as the Strait of Hormuz remains contested, the global economy faces a sustained "supply squeeze" that no single pipeline can resolve.

The Strait of Hormuz closure has triggered a global energy crisis. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea pipeline, while helpful, cannot compensate for the massive volume loss, leaving Asian markets facing shortages.

The current closure of the Strait of Hormuz - a narrow, critical chokepoint between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula - has triggered a global energy supply crisis. With Iran effectively blocking the route following US-Israeli strikes, Saudi Arabia has attempted to pivot its massive oil exports through an alternative: the Red Sea port of Yanbu. However, as the region grapples with the fallout, it is becoming clear that "Plan B" is insufficient to replace the sheer volume of the "front door." The strategic importance of the Strait The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most important oil transit chokepoint. In February, before the escalation, Saudi Arabia was exporting approximately 7.2 million barrels of crude oil per day, the vast majority of which moved through the Gulf terminals of Ras Tanura and Juaymah. These facilities have direct, high-capacity access to the massive tankers that service Asian markets. The Yanbu alternative: A bottlenecked solution Also read: Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations To bypass the blocked strait, Saudi Arabia has turned to its "back door": the 1,200-kilometre East-West Pipeline that transports crude across the Arabian Peninsula to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. While this infrastructure provides an essential lifeline, it suffers from two major systemic constraints: Capacity Limits: While the pipeline has a theoretical capacity of 5 million barrels per day, the actual processing and loading capacity at the Yanbu port is significantly lower. This creates an immediate arithmetic problem: even if fully utilised, the Red Sea route cannot handle the 7.2 million barrels per day that typically flowed through the Persian Gulf. Logistical Inefficiency: Geography dictates that tankers leaving Yanbu must take a much longer route to reach Asian markets compared to those departing from the Gulf. This increases both shipping duration and operational costs, further straining a global supply chain already reeling from shortages. Global impacts and political manoeuvring The consequences of this logistical shift are already manifesting in the market. China’s Sinopec has reported a 10 per cent reduction in refining activity, and Japan has begun tapping into its national strategic reserves to hedge against uncertainty. Even European refiners are facing reduced volumes, demonstrating that the reach of the blockade extends far beyond the immediate region. Also read: Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination? Hint: It's not Mojtaba Khamenei Amidst this, the US position remains volatile. President Trump’s recent rhetoric has oscillated between demanding that regional allies take responsibility for patrolling their own waters and questioning whether the US should maintain a military presence in the Gulf at all. By stating, "we don't need it," and emphasising US energy independence, the administration is signalling a potential shift in long-term Middle East security policy, leaving regional actors in a state of high geopolitical anxiety. Ultimately, Yanbu serves as a vital emergency valve, but it is not a replacement. As long as the Strait of Hormuz remains contested, the global economy faces a sustained "supply squeeze" that no single pipeline can resolve.

The Strait of Hormuz closure has triggered a global energy crisis. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea pipeline, while helpful, cannot compensate for the massive volume loss, leaving Asian markets facing shortages.

Saudi Arabia has offered alternative to Strait of Hormuz - but there's a problem

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;A nursery worker in the UK sentenced to 30 years in prison on Monday (March 16) for the systematic sexual abuse of toddlers at a Bristol nursery, in a case that has sparked a national debate over mandatory surveillance in childcare settings.&nbsp;Nathan Bennett, 30, was handed an extended sentence at Bristol Crown Court after being convicted of 21 offences, including rape and sexual penetration, against five boys aged between two and three.&nbsp;Judge William Hart described Bennett as an "incorrigible and dangerous predator" who used his position at the Partou King Street nursery to "pollute the innocence" of the children in his care.&nbsp;The court heard how Bennett, who began working at the nursery in July 2024, groomed his victims by showering them with affection to gain their trust. The abuse took place over a seven-month period, often occurring during nap times or in communal areas where he believed he was unobserved.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-in-iran-move-into-armenia-azerbaijan-amid-west-asia-war-as-mea-facilitates-land-border-transit-1773665623273">Indians in Iran move into Armenia, Azerbaijan amid West Asia war as MEA facilitates land-border transit</a>&nbsp;"You prioritised your own sexual satisfaction over the welfare of these little children. That was due to grossly distorted thinking and a degree of, to use perhaps an old-fashioned word, evil," Judge William Hart said while pronouncing the sentence.&nbsp;“Nathan Bennett, having presided over your trial and having heard and seen the evidence upon which you were convicted, I am unhesitatingly driven to the conclusion that you are an incorrigible and dangerous paedophile with an uncontrollable and ungovernable sexual interest in male toddlers," the Judge added.&nbsp;The abuse was finally halted in February 2025 when the nursery manager reviewed CCTV footage and witnessed Bennett behaving inappropriately. Upon further investigation, specialist child protection officers from Avon and Somerset Police reviewed hundreds of hours of footage from 18 separate cameras, which provided the crucial evidence needed for prosecution.&nbsp;Bennett had admitted to 13 charges but denied the most serious offences, including rape, forcing the families of the victims to endure a traumatic trial.&nbsp;

Nathan Bennett, 30, was handed an extended sentence at Bristol Crown Court after being convicted of 21 offences, including rape and sexual penetration, against five boys aged between two and three.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. A nursery worker in the UK sentenced to 30 years in prison on Monday (March 16) for the systematic sexual abuse of toddlers at a Bristol nursery, in a case that has sparked a national debate over mandatory surveillance in childcare settings. Nathan Bennett, 30, was handed an extended sentence at Bristol Crown Court after being convicted of 21 offences, including rape and sexual penetration, against five boys aged between two and three. Judge William Hart described Bennett as an "incorrigible and dangerous predator" who used his position at the Partou King Street nursery to "pollute the innocence" of the children in his care. The court heard how Bennett, who began working at the nursery in July 2024, groomed his victims by showering them with affection to gain their trust. The abuse took place over a seven-month period, often occurring during nap times or in communal areas where he believed he was unobserved. Also Read: Indians in Iran move into Armenia, Azerbaijan amid West Asia war as MEA facilitates land-border transit "You prioritised your own sexual satisfaction over the welfare of these little children. That was due to grossly distorted thinking and a degree of, to use perhaps an old-fashioned word, evil," Judge William Hart said while pronouncing the sentence. “Nathan Bennett, having presided over your trial and having heard and seen the evidence upon which you were convicted, I am unhesitatingly driven to the conclusion that you are an incorrigible and dangerous paedophile with an uncontrollable and ungovernable sexual interest in male toddlers," the Judge added. The abuse was finally halted in February 2025 when the nursery manager reviewed CCTV footage and witnessed Bennett behaving inappropriately. Upon further investigation, specialist child protection officers from Avon and Somerset Police reviewed hundreds of hours of footage from 18 separate cameras, which provided the crucial evidence needed for prosecution. Bennett had admitted to 13 charges but denied the most serious offences, including rape, forcing the families of the victims to endure a traumatic trial.

Nathan Bennett, 30, was handed an extended sentence at Bristol Crown Court after being convicted of 21 offences, including rape and sexual penetration, against five boys aged between two and three.

Nursery worker in UK sentenced to 30 years in prison for raping children

The Israeli military announced that it had destroyed an aircraft linked to Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an overnight strike at the Mehrabad International Airport. Mehrabad is one of Tehran's oldest and busiest airports and is used as both a civilian and military asset. The flight targeted was a Boeing 747 and belonged to the Iranian Air Force and was used by Iran's late ​Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and other senior leaders and military figures. &nbsp;Iran did not confirm the claims neither reported any civilian casualties associated with the strike.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">חיל האוויר השמיד את מטוסו של מנהיג משטר הטרור האיראני בשדה התעופה ״מהאראבד״ שבטהרן צה״ל השמיד הלילה באופן ממוקד את המטוס של מנהיג משטר הטרור האיראני בשדה התעופה ״מהאראבד״ שבטהרן. המטוס שימש את עלי ח׳אמנהאי, מנהיג משטר הטרור האיראני, בכירים נוספים ממשטר הטרור וגורמים בצבא… <a href="https://t.co/pLximHkbJV">pic.twitter.com/pLximHkbJV</a>&mdash; צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/2033451517596868648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmer-denies-rift-trump-uk-hormuz-operation-1773661379152">Keir Starmer denies rift with Donald Trump, says UK won’t be drawn into wider war</a>The IDF claimed in a social media post that the flight was being used by senior Iranian officials and military figures for coordination, military procurement domestically and internationally with the “axis of resistance”. The aircraft was associated with the Late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and had symbolic and strategic importance.&nbsp;&nbsp;IDF claimed that the damage to the flight will hinder the capacity of the Iran to coordinate with other leaders of the axis of resistance and will significantly decrease its logistical capabilities. IDF described the operation as precise strikes and asserted that it will continue to target this infrastructure. The operation was part of a broader aerial campaign in which Israel reported striking over 200 targets across western and central Iran, including missile production sites and defence installations.In a separate strike, the IDF claimed to have destroyed a centre that was used by Iran to develop anti-satellite capabilities in space. The centre that was attacked was used to develop military space programs, including the development of the 'Shamran 1' satellite. It was built by the Iranian Ministry of Defence's Electronics Industries and launched into space in October 2024. IDF also claimed another attack at the space research centre of the Iranian Space Organisation in Tehran, last Friday. &nbsp;

The Israeli military says it destroyed an Iranian Air Force Boeing 747 linked to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport as part of a wider campaign targeting military and space facilities.

The Israeli military announced that it had destroyed an aircraft linked to Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an overnight strike at the Mehrabad International Airport. Mehrabad is one of Tehran's oldest and busiest airports and is used as both a civilian and military asset. The flight targeted was a Boeing 747 and belonged to the Iranian Air Force and was used by Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and other senior leaders and military figures. Iran did not confirm the claims neither reported any civilian casualties associated with the strike.

The Israeli military says it destroyed an Iranian Air Force Boeing 747 linked to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport as part of a wider campaign targeting military and space facilities.

Israel claims strike on aircraft linked to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at Tehran’s Mehrabad airport

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (March 16) shared another video of himself on social media amid circulating rumours online claiming that the Israeli prime minister had died. In the video posted on his X account, Netanyahu is seen chatting with people at an outdoor location while getting coffee. The post accompanying the clip read, “Sticking to the guidelines and winning together.” The video surfaced a day after the Israeli leader publicly mocked rumours about his death and viral claims suggesting the footage of him online showed a ‘six fingers’ anomaly.&nbsp;In the clip shared on his personal X handle, Netanyahu is heard interacting with a coffee vendor. “Great (he tells the seller giving him coffee), Thanks.” He then asks the person filming, “What did you ask me?” When the videographer tells him that some channels were reporting he had died, Netanyahu jokingly responds, “I am dying for coffee.” The speculation about his death gained traction during a period of heightened regional tensions that started on February 28, when Israel and the United States carried out coordinated strikes on targets in Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-allowing-iranian-oil-tankers-through-strait-of-hormuz-to-maintain-global-supply-says-scott-bessent-1773664766747">'US allowing Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to maintain global supply', says Scott Bessent</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">שומרים על ההנחיות ומנצחים ביחד &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/HC5w3PqKuV">pic.twitter.com/HC5w3PqKuV</a>&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/2033515975379911114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At the same time, social media users started circulating claims that a video of Netanyahu addressing a press conference about the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran appeared to show him with six fingers on his right hand. Users highlighted a moment around the 0:35-second mark in the clip where Netanyahu raises his hands. Some claimed that what looked like extra flesh near his little finger was a ‘classic AI finger glitch’, suggesting the video had been artificially generated.&nbsp;Responding to the rumours, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office dismissed the claims outright. “These are fake news; the prime minister is fine,” the office told Anadolu News when asked about posts alleging Netanyahu had been killed in retaliation for recent Israeli and US strikes on Iran.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-discussions-on-technology-geopolitics-in-new-delhi-1773666871815/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-discussions-on-technology-geopolitics-in-new-delhi-1773666871815/embed</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Reuven Azar, Israel’s ambassador to India, also rejected the rumours and confirmed that Netanyahu was alive. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Azar said, “PM Netanyahu is alive". He also addressed claims that a video showing Netanyahu at a cafe in Israel was AI-generated, calling the allegation misinformation. “PM Netanyahu is alive. I saw him when I was in Israel more than once. The video at the cafe is not AI-fabricated. A lot of disinformation is being spread,” Azar said. The ambassador accused Iran and its ‘accomplices’ of spreading disinformation online.&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.

WATCH | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu posts another video as online ‘death’ rumours continue

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (March 16) shared another video of himself on social media amid circulating rumours online claiming that the Israeli prime minister had died. In the video posted on his X account, Netanyahu is seen chatting with people at an outdoor location while getting coffee. The post accompanying the clip read, “Sticking to the guidelines and winning together.” The video surfaced a day after the Israeli leader publicly mocked rumours about his death and viral claims suggesting the footage of him online showed a ‘six fingers’ anomaly. In the clip shared on his personal X handle, Netanyahu is heard interacting with a coffee vendor. “Great (he tells the seller giving him coffee), Thanks.” He then asks the person filming, “What did you ask me?” When the videographer tells him that some channels were reporting he had died, Netanyahu jokingly responds, “I am dying for coffee.” The speculation about his death gained traction during a period of heightened regional tensions that started on February 28, when Israel and the United States carried out coordinated strikes on targets in Iran. Also Read: 'US allowing Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to maintain global supply', says Scott Bessent Watch the video here

Benjamin Netanyahu posted another video mocking death rumours and viral ‘six fingers’ AI claims as Israel and its ambassador deny disinformation online

Amid the escalating war in West Asia, hundreds of Indian nationals have crossed out of Iran into neighbouring countries, Armenia and Azerbaijan, with assistance from authorities, as the conflict enters its 17th day since the US and Israel began their military operation in the Islamic Republic by launching joint strikes on February 28.&nbsp;A total of 550 Indian nationals have crossed into Armenia through the land border, while 90 Indians travelled into Azerbaijan from Iran via land border, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia.&nbsp;"The Indian embassy in Tehran facilitated these movements, assisting citizens with necessary visas and immigration formalities. This group of 550 individuals who crossed from Iran into Armenia includes 284 pilgrims. While some members of the group have already returned to India, others currently remain in Armenia and Azerbaijan and are expected to fly home within the next few days."Jaiswal added. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-allowing-iranian-oil-tankers-through-strait-of-hormuz-to-maintain-global-supply-says-scott-bessent-1773664766747">'US allowing Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to maintain global supply', says Scott Bessent</a>&nbsp;Indian students, who were living in Iran, have been relocated to safer cities outside Tehran as a precautionary measure. The MEA confirmed that the Indian embassy in Tehran remains fully operational despite difficulties.&nbsp;"Our embassy in Tehran, in spite of all the difficulties, continues to be fully functional. For the last few days, they have also been able to relocate students who were outside Tehran to cities that are safer for them," the MEA official said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, air travel arrangements are being coordinated for those seeking to return home. An official said that 45 flights are scheduled on Monday from destinations including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar to India.&nbsp;Around 2,20,000 Indians have returned to the country since the start of the war in West Asia on February 28, the government said. &nbsp;

A total of 550 Indian nationals have crossed into Armenia through the land border, while 90 Indians travelled into Azerbaijan from Iran via land border, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia.

Amid the escalating war in West Asia, hundreds of Indian nationals have crossed out of Iran into neighbouring countries, Armenia and Azerbaijan, with assistance from authorities, as the conflict enters its 17th day since the US and Israel began their military operation in the Islamic Republic by launching joint strikes on February 28. A total of 550 Indian nationals have crossed into Armenia through the land border, while 90 Indians travelled into Azerbaijan from Iran via land border, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia. "The Indian embassy in Tehran facilitated these movements, assisting citizens with necessary visas and immigration formalities. This group of 550 individuals who crossed from Iran into Armenia includes 284 pilgrims. While some members of the group have already returned to India, others currently remain in Armenia and Azerbaijan and are expected to fly home within the next few days."Jaiswal added. Also Read: 'US allowing Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to maintain global supply', says Scott Bessent Indian students, who were living in Iran, have been relocated to safer cities outside Tehran as a precautionary measure. The MEA confirmed that the Indian embassy in Tehran remains fully operational despite difficulties. "Our embassy in Tehran, in spite of all the difficulties, continues to be fully functional. For the last few days, they have also been able to relocate students who were outside Tehran to cities that are safer for them," the MEA official said. Meanwhile, air travel arrangements are being coordinated for those seeking to return home. An official said that 45 flights are scheduled on Monday from destinations including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar to India. Around 2,20,000 Indians have returned to the country since the start of the war in West Asia on February 28, the government said.

A total of 550 Indian nationals have crossed into Armenia through the land border, while 90 Indians travelled into Azerbaijan from Iran via land border, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia.

Indians in Iran move into Armenia, Azerbaijan amid West Asia war as MEA facilitates land-border transit

The United States is allowing Iranian oil tankers to continue passing through the Strait of Hormuz to maintain global oil supply, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Monday (March 16) in an interview with CNBC. “The Iranian ships have been getting out already, and we’ve let that happen to supply the rest of the world,” Bessent told CNBC’s Brian Sullivan. Tanker traffic through the key shipping route has dropped sharply as Iran continues to attack commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf. Despite tensions and the presence of the U.S. Navy in the region, Iran has continued to export millions of barrels of oil through the narrow passage. Iran currently exports around 1.5 million barrels per day.&nbsp;According to Bessent, the Trump administration expects tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to increase before US and allied naval forces begin escorting commercial vessels. He added that tankers delivering oil to India have already moved through the Strait, and US officials believe some Chinese vessels are also leaving the Gulf. “We think that there will be a natural opening that the Iranians are letting out, and for now, we’re fine with that. We want the world to be well supplied,” Bessent said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-lpg-tanker-shivalik-arrives-at-mundra-port-after-safe-transit-via-strait-of-hormuz-1773661163343">WATCH | Indian LPG tanker Shivalik arrives at Mundra Port after safe transit via Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Bessent also expressed expectations that oil prices could drop significantly after the conflict ends. “The world will be safer, and we will be better supplied,” he said, adding that prices could fall “much lower” than $80 per barrel once the war is over. However, he noted that he does not know when the conflict will end. Bessent also dismissed speculation that the administration might step into oil futures markets. “We haven’t done that,” the Treasury secretary said. He added that it remains unclear what legal authority the US government would even have to intervene in such trading.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fuel-crisis-indian-lpg-tanker-arrives-after-safe-sail-through-hormuz-1773665081391/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/fuel-crisis-indian-lpg-tanker-arrives-after-safe-sail-through-hormuz-1773665081391/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

'US allowing Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to maintain global supply', says Scott Bessent 

The United States is allowing Iranian oil tankers to continue passing through the Strait of Hormuz to maintain global oil supply, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Monday (March 16) in an interview with CNBC. “The Iranian ships have been getting out already, and we’ve let that happen to supply the rest of the world,” Bessent told CNBC’s Brian Sullivan. Tanker traffic through the key shipping route has dropped sharply as Iran continues to attack commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf. Despite tensions and the presence of the U.S. Navy in the region, Iran has continued to export millions of barrels of oil through the narrow passage. Iran currently exports around 1.5 million barrels per day. According to Bessent, the Trump administration expects tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to increase before US and allied naval forces begin escorting commercial vessels. He added that tankers delivering oil to India have already moved through the Strait, and US officials believe some Chinese vessels are also leaving the Gulf. “We think that there will be a natural opening that the Iranians are letting out, and for now, we’re fine with that. We want the world to be well supplied,” Bessent said. Also Read: WATCH | Indian LPG tanker Shivalik arrives at Mundra Port after safe transit via Strait of Hormuz Bessent also expressed expectations that oil prices could drop significantly after the conflict ends. “The world will be safer, and we will be better supplied,” he said, adding that prices could fall “much lower” than $80 per barrel once the war is over. However, he noted that he does not know when the conflict will end. Bessent also dismissed speculation that the administration might step into oil futures markets. “We haven’t done that,” the Treasury secretary said. He added that it remains unclear what legal authority the US government would even have to intervene in such trading. https://www.wionews.com/videos/fuel-crisis-indian-lpg-tanker-arrives-after-safe-sail-through-hormuz-1773665081391/embed 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 allows Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to stabilise global supply, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says amid tensions in the Gulf

'US allowing Iranian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz to maintain global supply', says Scott Bessent

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has denied any rift with US President Donald Trump. He said that his first priority is to protect British “people in the region”, &nbsp;but he doesn't intend to be drawn into the wider war. &nbsp;While speaking in the Downing Street press conference, Starmer said that he maintains a “good relationship” with Donald Trump and had a “good discussion” with him. He further added that the best way through this is to de-escalate, as it is the simple and most effective way to deal with the cost of living.&nbsp;“We’re strong allies, have been for decades, but it is for me to act in what I consider to be the best interests of Britain. And I have to keep that uppermost in my mind,” said Starmer to GB News. Starmer did not give any definitive answer on the possibility of joining forces with the US on the Strait of Hormuz. He said that they are working with the US “in relation to a viable plan”. Starmer said that he wanted as many partners as possible.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-rise-100-us-israel-war-iran-hormuz-crisis-1773647064840">Oil prices cross $105 per barrel first time since Russia's Ukraine invasion</a>“There have been discussions going on in relation to a viable plan. We want to make sure that it involves as many partners as possible. That’s been our stated objective here, particularly talking to European partners, inevitably talking to Gulf Partners and to the US, because we need a credible, viable plan if we can,” said Starmer on his plan to reopen Hormuz. He added that it will be difficult to reach any conclusion.Starmer outlined three primary objectives of any British involvement: first, to protect British “people in the region”, second, to take necessary action to defend “ourselves and our allies” but not drawn to the wider war, and finally, to work "towards a swift resolution that brings security and stability back to the region."&nbsp;Starmer said that he is not completely aware of what is going to happen in future. “I’m not going to stand here and pretend to you that we all know what the situation will be in three or six months’ time. We don’t.” Further adding that his objective is to end this war as quickly as possible and not to allow it to become a “windfall for Putin”.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&#39;I have been attacked by some for my decision NOT to join the offensive against Iran&#39; — Starmer &#39;Some others would’ve rushed UK into this war without a full picture. It&#39;s not leading, it&#39;s following. My leadership is to stand firm for British interests, no matter the pressure&#39; <a href="https://t.co/gwdfL7GLKn">https://t.co/gwdfL7GLKn</a> <a href="https://t.co/cZuQtZel6P">pic.twitter.com/cZuQtZel6P</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/2033505776661037294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&#39;I want to see the end of this war as quickly as possible&#39; — Starmer on UK’s main objectives in Iran &#39;Protect our people in the region… while taking action to defend our allies, not to be &#39;drawn into a wider war&#39; &amp; &#39;resolution to bring security and stability back to the region&#39; <a href="https://t.co/NpzbaiCYC7">pic.twitter.com/NpzbaiCYC7</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/2033498811658649610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer denied any rift with US President Donald Trump but signalled caution about joining a military operation in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasising de-escalation and protection of British citizens.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has denied any rift with US President Donald Trump. He said that his first priority is to protect British “people in the region”, but he doesn't intend to be drawn into the wider war. While speaking in the Downing Street press conference, Starmer said that he maintains a “good relationship” with Donald Trump and had a “good discussion” with him. He further added that the best way through this is to de-escalate, as it is the simple and most effective way to deal with the cost of living. “We’re strong allies, have been for decades, but it is for me to act in what I consider to be the best interests of Britain. And I have to keep that uppermost in my mind,” said Starmer to GB News. Starmer did not give any definitive answer on the possibility of joining forces with the US on the Strait of Hormuz. He said that they are working with the US “in relation to a viable plan”. Starmer said that he wanted as many partners as possible. Also Read: Oil prices cross $105 per barrel first time since Russia's Ukraine invasion “There have been discussions going on in relation to a viable plan. We want to make sure that it involves as many partners as possible. That’s been our stated objective here, particularly talking to European partners, inevitably talking to Gulf Partners and to the US, because we need a credible, viable plan if we can,” said Starmer on his plan to reopen Hormuz. He added that it will be difficult to reach any conclusion. Starmer outlined three primary objectives of any British involvement: first, to protect British “people in the region”, second, to take necessary action to defend “ourselves and our allies” but not drawn to the wider war, and finally, to work "towards a swift resolution that brings security and stability back to the region." Starmer said that he is not completely aware of what is going to happen in future. “I’m not going to stand here and pretend to you that we all know what the situation will be in three or six months’ time. We don’t.” Further adding that his objective is to end this war as quickly as possible and not to allow it to become a “windfall for Putin”.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer denied any rift with US President Donald Trump but signalled caution about joining a military operation in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasising de-escalation and protection of British citizens.

Keir Starmer denies rift with Donald Trump, says UK won’t be drawn into wider war

The geopolitical crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has escalated into a high-stakes standoff. As oil prices surge past $100 a barrel, US President Donald Trump has issued a call for an international naval coalition to forcibly secure this narrow maritime artery. However, despite the potential for global economic instability, the response from the international community has been tepid at best, revealing deep fissures in global security policy and the daunting reality of modern maritime warfare.<h2>Trump’s push for maritime enforcement</h2>President Trump’s strategy relies on the assumption that a show of naval force can neutralise Iran’s capacity to disrupt shipping. His administration has publicly invited China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to contribute warships. The US rhetoric is dual-tracked: promising "a lot" of support for participating nations while simultaneously threatening NATO members with a “very bad future” if they decline to assist in what the US deems a mission to keep the waterway "open, safe, and free."<h2>Iran’s strategic leverage</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-iran-being-framed-abbas-araghchi-claims-trump-is-using-lucas-drones-that-match-shahed-perfectly-to-attack-arab-nations-1773580911417">Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations</a>&nbsp;Tehran has framed its actions not as a total closure of the strait, but as a selective blockade targeting the US and its allies. By maintaining a presence and leveraging the geography of the waterway, Iran has effectively signalled that the strait is under its functional control. This creates a psychological and physical barrier that, according to Iranian leadership, will remain as long as the conflict with the US and Israel continues. For Iran, the Strait is a primary instrument of asymmetrical warfare, providing a critical lever of power against a superior conventional military force.

<h2>The daunting obstacles to naval coalition success</h2>Several critical challenges make a coalition difficult to implement and potentially ineffective:&nbsp;1. Geographic vulnerability: At just 21 nautical miles wide at its narrowest point, the Strait is an “unforgiving environment.” The proximity of the Iranian shoreline allows for the effective use of land-based missiles, drones, and mines.2. The interoperability gap: As noted by experts like Alexandru Hudisteanu, coordinating naval units from multiple nations, each with different doctrines, communication protocols, and rules of engagement, presents a massive logistical hurdle. 3. Asymmetric threats: Traditional naval assets - designed for ship-to-ship combat - are often ill-suited to detect and counter the swarming, low-tech, or unmanned systems that characterise current Iranian naval tactics.4. Escalation risks: For any foreign navy, participating in an escort mission carries the risk of direct kinetic engagement with Iran, potentially drawing those nations deeper into a war they are currently trying to avoid.<h2>International reluctance and diplomatic stagnation</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-s-fujairah-operations-suspended-after-drone-attack-why-it-s-a-huge-deal-for-global-oil-market-1773646477977">UAE's Fujairah operations suspended after drone attack - why it's a huge deal for global oil market</a>&nbsp;The global response suggests that Trump’s call has failed to generate momentum. France and Australia have explicitly ruled out sending vessels, emphasising a desire to remain out of the direct conflict. Japan is proceeding with extreme caution, balancing its reliance on Gulf energy with a reluctance to commit military assets. While the UK and South Korea have expressed concern and are "monitoring" the situation, none have committed to a military role.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is seeking a global naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid rising oil prices and Iranian blockades, yet major nations have declined, citing geopolitical risks and security.

The geopolitical crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has escalated into a high-stakes standoff. As oil prices surge past $100 a barrel, US President Donald Trump has issued a call for an international naval coalition to forcibly secure this narrow maritime artery. However, despite the potential for global economic instability, the response from the international community has been tepid at best, revealing deep fissures in global security policy and the daunting reality of modern maritime warfare. Trump’s push for maritime enforcement President Trump’s strategy relies on the assumption that a show of naval force can neutralise Iran’s capacity to disrupt shipping. His administration has publicly invited China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to contribute warships. The US rhetoric is dual-tracked: promising "a lot" of support for participating nations while simultaneously threatening NATO members with a “very bad future” if they decline to assist in what the US deems a mission to keep the waterway "open, safe, and free." Iran’s strategic leverage Also read: Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations Tehran has framed its actions not as a total closure of the strait, but as a selective blockade targeting the US and its allies. By maintaining a presence and leveraging the geography of the waterway, Iran has effectively signalled that the strait is under its functional control. This creates a psychological and physical barrier that, according to Iranian leadership, will remain as long as the conflict with the US and Israel continues. For Iran, the Strait is a primary instrument of asymmetrical warfare, providing a critical lever of power against a superior conventional military force.

US President Donald Trump is seeking a global naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid rising oil prices and Iranian blockades, yet major nations have declined, citing geopolitical risks and security.

Trump wants allies to join naval coalition to open Strait of Hormuz - but no one has agreed yet. Here's why

Global leaders and thinkers are coming together at #WIONWorldPulse to discuss the ideas shaping tomorrow. Sanjeev Sanyal explains why WION World Pulse stands out as a unique forum connecting experts, policymakers, and thought leaders from around the world.

Why WION World Pulse matters | Sanjeev Sanyal, Member, EAC-PM 

Why WION World Pulse Matters | Sanjeev Sanyal congratulates WION World Pulse

The Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker Shivalik arrived at Mundra port in Gujarat on Monday (March 16) after safely crossing the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, were granted transit through the strategic waterway by Iranian authorities. While Shivalik has reached Mundra, Nanda Devi is expected to arrive at Kandla port on March 17. Earlier, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Shipping Ministry, had confirmed the vessels’ movement and the safety of Indian seafarers in the region.&nbsp;“All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe, and no untoward incidents involving them have been reported over the last 24 hours. There were 24 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf, situated to the west of the Strait of Hormuz. Among these, two vessels, the Shivalik and the Nanda Devi, are Indian-flagged vessels, both LPG carriers. They safely transited the Strait of Hormuz late last night/early this morning and are now proceeding towards India. These vessels are carrying approximately 92,700 metric tons of LPG; their ports of arrival will be Mundra and Kandla, with expected arrival dates of March 16 and March 17, respectively. Consequently, there are now 22 Indian-flagged vessels remaining in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 611 seafarers,” the secretary said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-france-uk-denies-trump-s-call-to-join-hormuz-naval-coalition-1773656669930">After France, UK denies Trump’s call to join Hormuz naval coalition</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's diplomatic engagement with Iran to ensure continued maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz. In an interview with the Financial Times UK, Jaishankar said India is directly engaging with Tehran to help reopen the vital shipping route that handles nearly 20 per cent of global oil trade. He noted that these discussions are "already yielding some results," suggesting that India finds it more effective to "reason and coordinate" with Tehran rather than disengage. “Certainly, from India's perspective, it is better that we reason and we coordinate and we get a solution than we don't. While this is a welcome development, there is continuing conversation because there is continued work on that,” Jaishankar said.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">India-flagged LPG tanker Shivalik, which crossed the Strait of Hormuz, arrives at the Mundra Port in Gujarat . . . . Video: news agency ANI <a href="https://t.co/HwaV5Fwfyr">pic.twitter.com/HwaV5Fwfyr</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2033506992338440380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The minister cited the passage of Shivalik and Nanda Devi as a practical example of the progress achieved through diplomatic engagement. However, Jaishankar clarified that a formal ‘blanket arrangement’ for all Indian-flagged ships has not yet been finalised, noting that vessel transit is currently being handled on a "case-by-case basis."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-massive-tornado-leaves-trail-of-destruction-two-killed-dozens-injured-1773660600132/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-massive-tornado-leaves-trail-of-destruction-two-killed-dozens-injured-1773660600132/embed</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran has also reassured that Indian ships will be allowed to pass through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, reiterated Tehran’s position in an interview with news agency ANI. "Of course, of course. Yes," Ilahi said when asked whether Indian ships would be allowed to pass through the Strait. When asked to elaborate further, he added, “I heard that our embassy tried to provide an opportunity for some Indian ships to cross the Strait of Hormuz.” The development comes as India closely monitors maritime routes in the Persian Gulf region to safeguard its energy supplies and shipping interests.&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.

WATCH | Indian LPG tanker Shivalik arrives at Mundra Port after safe transit via Strait of Hormuz

The Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker Shivalik arrived at Mundra port in Gujarat on Monday (March 16) after safely crossing the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, were granted transit through the strategic waterway by Iranian authorities. While Shivalik has reached Mundra, Nanda Devi is expected to arrive at Kandla port on March 17. Earlier, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Shipping Ministry, had confirmed the vessels’ movement and the safety of Indian seafarers in the region. “All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe, and no untoward incidents involving them have been reported over the last 24 hours. There were 24 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf, situated to the west of the Strait of Hormuz. Among these, two vessels, the Shivalik and the Nanda Devi, are Indian-flagged vessels, both LPG carriers. They safely transited the Strait of Hormuz late last night/early this morning and are now proceeding towards India. These vessels are carrying approximately 92,700 metric tons of LPG; their ports of arrival will be Mundra and Kandla, with expected arrival dates of March 16 and March 17, respectively. Consequently, there are now 22 Indian-flagged vessels remaining in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 611 seafarers,” the secretary said. Also Read: After France, UK denies Trump’s call to join Hormuz naval coalition Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's diplomatic engagement with Iran to ensure continued maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz. In an interview with the Financial Times UK, Jaishankar said India is directly engaging with Tehran to help reopen the vital shipping route that handles nearly 20 per cent of global oil trade. He noted that these discussions are "already yielding some results," suggesting that India finds it more effective to "reason and coordinate" with Tehran rather than disengage. “Certainly, from India's perspective, it is better that we reason and we coordinate and we get a solution than we don't. While this is a welcome development, there is continuing conversation because there is continued work on that,” Jaishankar said. Watch the video here

Indian LPG tanker Shivalik arrived at Mundra after safely crossing the Strait of Hormuz, as India engages Iran to ensure energy supply routes remain open

After his call for international support to secure the Strait of Hormuz received a cold response, the US president walked back on his plan, saying 'we don't need it' as America is the largest producer of oil in the world.

'Maybe we shouldn't be there at all': Trump reconsiders plans to 'secure' Strait of Hormuz after calls for help go unanswered

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declined a direct request from US President Donald Trump to deploy Royal Navy warships to the Strait of Hormuz, a decision that highlights growing friction within the "special relationship" as the US-Iran conflict intensifies.&nbsp;President Trump, pushing for a multinational maritime coalition to secure the vital waterway, has argued that nations heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil, including the UK, China, Japan, France, and South Korea, must take primary responsibility for keeping the route open. Trump’s pressure comes amid a global energy squeeze, with oil prices surging past $100 per barrel as the strait remains effectively blocked following the outbreak of hostilities on February 28.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-making-decisions-in-war-torn-iran-after-ali-khamenei-s-assassination-hint-it-s-not-mojtaba-khamenei-1773572591604">Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination? Hint: It's not Mojtaba Khamenei</a>&nbsp;While Starmer held talks with the President on Sunday (March 15) to discuss the "importance of reopening" the waterway, the UK stopped short of committing naval assets to a US-led escort mission. The British PM’s hesitation reflects broader unease in London regarding the ongoing conflict, including friction over earlier British refusals to allow US forces to launch offensive strikes from UK bases.&nbsp;The White House is reportedly preparing to announce a formal naval coalition as early as this week, yet international appetite for the operation remains muted. Major allies have responded with caution. Australia has ruled out sending vessels, and Japan has stated it is not currently considering maritime security operations, citing constitutional and legal constraints.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-want-to-lose-us-backing-because-of-iran-war-says-zelensky-after-trump-rejects-his-help-1773563659731">‘Don’t want to lose US backing because of Iran war,’ says Zelensky after Trump rejects his ‘help’</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian officials claim the strait is not closed but under "control," asserting that only vessels linked to the US and Israel are currently being barred from passage. However, with Iranian forces reportedly deploying sea mines and drones to disrupt commercial traffic, the practical reality for shipping companies is a functional blockade.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declined President Trump’s request to deploy Royal Navy warships to the Strait of Hormuz, reflecting international hesitation to join a US-led coalition amid escalating tensions with Iran.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declined a direct request from US President Donald Trump to deploy Royal Navy warships to the Strait of Hormuz, a decision that highlights growing friction within the "special relationship" as the US-Iran conflict intensifies. President Trump, pushing for a multinational maritime coalition to secure the vital waterway, has argued that nations heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil, including the UK, China, Japan, France, and South Korea, must take primary responsibility for keeping the route open. Trump’s pressure comes amid a global energy squeeze, with oil prices surging past $100 per barrel as the strait remains effectively blocked following the outbreak of hostilities on February 28. Also read: Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination? Hint: It's not Mojtaba Khamenei While Starmer held talks with the President on Sunday (March 15) to discuss the "importance of reopening" the waterway, the UK stopped short of committing naval assets to a US-led escort mission. The British PM’s hesitation reflects broader unease in London regarding the ongoing conflict, including friction over earlier British refusals to allow US forces to launch offensive strikes from UK bases. The White House is reportedly preparing to announce a formal naval coalition as early as this week, yet international appetite for the operation remains muted. Major allies have responded with caution. Australia has ruled out sending vessels, and Japan has stated it is not currently considering maritime security operations, citing constitutional and legal constraints. Also read: ‘Don’t want to lose US backing because of Iran war,’ says Zelensky after Trump rejects his ‘help’ Meanwhile, Iranian officials claim the strait is not closed but under "control," asserting that only vessels linked to the US and Israel are currently being barred from passage. However, with Iranian forces reportedly deploying sea mines and drones to disrupt commercial traffic, the practical reality for shipping companies is a functional blockade.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declined President Trump’s request to deploy Royal Navy warships to the Strait of Hormuz, reflecting international hesitation to join a US-led coalition amid escalating tensions with Iran.

After France, UK denies Trump’s call to join Hormuz naval coalition

Dubai airport has gradually resumed its service after a drone sparked fire in a nearby fuel tank. Before Iran began attacking US’ air bases in the UAE, Dubai was the world’s busiest for international flights. The airport had suspended operations as a precautionary move.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a statement, the DXB airport noted, "Flights to and from DXB are gradually resuming to selected destinations, following the temporary suspension implemented as a precautionary measure."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Flights to and from DXB are gradually resuming to selected destinations, following the temporary suspension implemented as a precautionary measure. Please check with your airlines for the latest updates regarding your flights.&mdash; DXB (@DXB) <a href="https://twitter.com/DXB/status/2033425955394605207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Missiles and drone attacks hit across the UAE on Monday, with a drone-related incident sparking a fuel tank fire near Dubai airport that disrupted travel, while a missile killed a civilian in Abu Dhabi. In the eastern emirate of Fujairah, a drone attack on oil infrastructure sparked a fire, just one day after an AFP journalist saw smoke rising from a major UAE energy installation in the emirate.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-woke-up-to-explosion-sounds-indian-expat-in-dubai-notes-people-are-calm-away-from-fear-mongering-1772442572603">'Woke up to explosion sounds': Indian expat in Dubai notes people are calm, away from fearmongering</a>&nbsp;Amid the turbulence in the Middle East, Iran has struck its neighbouring regions. After Iran declared the death of its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on March 1 slammed the nation for targeting its neighbours with missiles. The President asked Iran to act accordingly, reinforcing the idea that Tehran is not at war with neighbours like the UAE.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-war-not-with-your-neighbours-uae-warns-iran-after-strikes-1772370559294">'War not with your neighbours': UAE warns Iran after strikes</a>&nbsp;Following the joint US-Israel military action that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has vowed to avenge his death. The country has gone all guns blazing at its neighbours. Speaking to the news outlet Sky News, Anwar Gargash, the president's advisor to the UAE President, highlighted how Tehran’s position lacks clarity and a rational vision. He also characterised the attacks as blatant and irresponsible.

Flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) are gradually resuming following a 7-hour suspension caused by a drone strike on a nearby fuel tank.

Dubai airport has gradually resumed its service after a drone sparked fire in a nearby fuel tank. Before Iran began attacking US’ air bases in the UAE, Dubai was the world’s busiest for international flights. The airport had suspended operations as a precautionary move. In a statement, the DXB airport noted, "Flights to and from DXB are gradually resuming to selected destinations, following the temporary suspension implemented as a precautionary measure."

Flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) are gradually resuming following a 7-hour suspension caused by a drone strike on a nearby fuel tank.

Dubai airport reopened: Limited flights resume after drone strike on fuel tank sparks fire

The escalating Iran conflict and its geopolitical fallout will be among issues under discussion at the WION World Pulse event on Wednesday (Mar 18) in the Indian capital of New Delhi. The war placed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in an unusual situation: several actors in the war - both Iran and Gulf states - sit in the same grouping. While Iran is a full member, top Gulf states affected by the war participate as dialogue partners. India, another major SCO member, finds itself navigating a delicate middle path. As the war disrupts energy flows and strategic balances, SCO is facing one question: Can it find consensus when its members and partners are tied to rival camps?<h2>The Iran war's regional impact</h2>The war started with joint US-Israel strikes on Iran from February 28, triggering retaliatory actions from Tehran targeting Gulf nations. Iran’s partial blocking of the Strait of Hormuz has had far-reaching consequences, including for most members of SCO. The disruption choked supplies of commodities from crude oil and natural gas to fertilisers and food, raising global energy prices and threatening supply chains.The crisis has drawn in countries across the Gulf and beyond. It has become a &nbsp;test case for multilateral organisations such as the SCO, on how to respond when its member states’ interests diverge sharply.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-world-pulse-the-leaders-confluence-the-rhythm-of-the-new-world-order-takes-centrestage-in-new-delhi-1773222456167">Wion World Pulse: The Leaders' Confluence - The Rhythm of the New World Order takes centrestage in New Delhi</a><h2>The SCO’s expanding Gulf footprint</h2>Iran became a full member of the SCO in July 2023, joining a bloc that already includes China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Belarus.Several Gulf states affected by the conflict are dialogue partners, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Only Oman is not part of the SCO framework in any form. Dialogue partner can participate in selected SCO events and cooperation initiatives under the SCO charter. In 2025, the SCO introduced a new “SCO Partner” category intended to gradually replace older observer and dialogue partner formats, but the existing Gulf partnerships remain active.The overall result is a forum where countries linked to different sides of the Iran conflict coexist under the same institutional umbrella.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-world-pulse-iran-war-response-of-brics-with-india-as-chair-under-focus-1773642486663">WION World Pulse: Iran war response of BRICS, with India as chair, under focus</a><h2>SCO statements on Iran war: Condemnation without consensus</h2>The SCO responded to the conflict through official statements rather than concrete policy measures, since the 2025 12-day war involving Israel, Iran and the US.On 14 June 2025, the SCO strongly condemned Israeli strikes carried out a day earlier, calling them “aggressive actions against civilian targets” and “gross violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.” The SCO statement said the attacks infringed on Iran’s sovereignty and threatened regional and global stability, while urging a political and diplomatic resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue.Another statement, issued on 23 June 2025, condemned US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, again calling them violations of international law and urging immediate de-escalation.This year, as hostilities persisted, the SCO expressed “grave concern” over the situation and said the use of force was “unacceptable.” It called for the protection of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. It also urged all parties to resolve differences through dialogue and diplomacy. SCO also called on the UN and the UN Security Council to take immediate steps. The language is strong, but the statements also exposed the limits of the SCO’s collective response. There is no mediation efforts led by SCO, nor any coordinated security measures or moves to secure the energy and goods supplies.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-world-pulse-the-leaders-confluence-the-rhythm-of-the-new-world-order-takes-centrestage-in-new-delhi-1773222456167">Wion World Pulse: The Leaders' Confluence - The Rhythm of the New World Order takes centrestage in New Delhi</a><h2>India's middle path: Is it clashing with SCO's stance?</h2>India has good relations with most of the SCO members, as well as the belligerents in the war: Israel and the US. India’s independent stance in foreign policy is an issue when looked from the SCO lens. In June 2025, for instance, while China and Russia supported strong condemnations of Israeli strikes, India declined to endorse the joint SCO statement criticising Israel. India issued a separate statement stressing de-escalation and diplomacy while highlighting its friendly relations with both Iran and Israel.&nbsp;India’s balancing strategy is a result of deep defence and technological ties with Israel, one of its largest arms suppliers, while simultaneously sustaining economic and strategic engagement with Iran. The Chabahar Port, a joint project with Iran, is central to India’s connectivity ambitions toward Central Asia.The Indian divergence at SCO illustrates a broader reality: for a grouping that tries to operate on consensus, collective action becomes difficult in situations like the Iran war, where national interests clash.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-rhythm-of-the-new-world-order-1773582256218/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-rhythm-of-the-new-world-order-1773582256218/embed</a><h2>SCO's Iran war response is driven by member states' energy security concerns</h2>With the Strait of Hormuz under threat, energy security has become the most immediate concern for major SCO economies including India.Russia, a key energy exporter, offered to increase oil supplies to both China and India to offset the disruptions. Moscow said it's is ready to increase deliveries and can meet India’s energy requirements if the conflict intensifies.China responded by strengthening its energy security strategy, accelerating purchases of discounted Russian oil, using the window opened by the US desanctioning of Russian crude. China is also expanding domestic energy investments.India's precautionary and contingency steps are underway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired meetings with senior ministers to secure energy routes, expand alternative supply chains and prepare for volatility in global oil markets.<h2>Iran war and the SCO’s structural constraints</h2>The crisis underscores a structural challenge within the SCO, as its members have &nbsp;overlapping but often competing interests. Iran sits alongside India and China, which are major energy importers, while Russia is a leading oil exporter. Pakistan and India are strategic rivals in SCO, while Gulf states engaged with the organisation maintain close ties with Western powers like the US. Such diversity, and diverging interests, limit SCO's ability to act decisively during conflicts involving its members or partners.The organisation’s role in the Iran war remains largely rhetorical: calling for de-escalation, emphasising international law and urging UN-led diplomacy.<h2>SCO: A forum for discussion, not intervention</h2>SCO offers a space where rival powers can engage diplomatically, but lacks the mechanisms or consensus to intervene directly in conflicts involving its members.As the Iran war continues to reshape regional dynamics and energy markets, these contradictions will feature in discussions at the WION World Pulse.The event starts at 10 am on Wednesday at ITC Maurya, New Delhi. Don't miss it.&nbsp;

WION World Pulse: Iran war is testing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as its members take divergent positions. While India balances ties with Iran and Israel,  SCO struggles to move collectively beyond statements, with individual members focused on energy security

The escalating Iran conflict and its geopolitical fallout will be among issues under discussion at the WION World Pulse event on Wednesday (Mar 18) in the Indian capital of New Delhi. The war placed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in an unusual situation: several actors in the war - both Iran and Gulf states - sit in the same grouping. While Iran is a full member, top Gulf states affected by the war participate as dialogue partners. India, another major SCO member, finds itself navigating a delicate middle path. As the war disrupts energy flows and strategic balances, SCO is facing one question: Can it find consensus when its members and partners are tied to rival camps? The Iran war's regional impact The war started with joint US-Israel strikes on Iran from February 28, triggering retaliatory actions from Tehran targeting Gulf nations. Iran’s partial blocking of the Strait of Hormuz has had far-reaching consequences, including for most members of SCO. The disruption choked supplies of commodities from crude oil and natural gas to fertilisers and food, raising global energy prices and threatening supply chains. The crisis has drawn in countries across the Gulf and beyond. It has become a test case for multilateral organisations such as the SCO, on how to respond when its member states’ interests diverge sharply. Also read: Wion World Pulse: The Leaders' Confluence - The Rhythm of the New World Order takes centrestage in New Delhi The SCO’s expanding Gulf footprint Iran became a full member of the SCO in July 2023, joining a bloc that already includes China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Belarus. Several Gulf states affected by the conflict are dialogue partners, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Only Oman is not part of the SCO framework in any form. Dialogue partner can participate in selected SCO events and cooperation initiatives under the SCO charter. In 2025, the SCO introduced a new “SCO Partner” category intended to gradually replace older observer and dialogue partner formats, but the existing Gulf partnerships remain active. The overall result is a forum where countries linked to different sides of the Iran conflict coexist under the same institutional umbrella. Also read: WION World Pulse: Iran war response of BRICS, with India as chair, under focus SCO statements on Iran war: Condemnation without consensus The SCO responded to the conflict through official statements rather than concrete policy measures, since the 2025 12-day war involving Israel, Iran and the US. On 14 June 2025, the SCO strongly condemned Israeli strikes carried out a day earlier, calling them “aggressive actions against civilian targets” and “gross violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.” The SCO statement said the attacks infringed on Iran’s sovereignty and threatened regional and global stability, while urging a political and diplomatic resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue. Another statement, issued on 23 June 2025, condemned US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, again calling them violations of international law and urging immediate de-escalation. This year, as hostilities persisted, the SCO expressed “grave concern” over the situation and said the use of force was “unacceptable.” It called for the protection of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. It also urged all parties to resolve differences through dialogue and diplomacy. SCO also called on the UN and the UN Security Council to take immediate steps. The language is strong, but the statements also exposed the limits of the SCO’s collective response. There is no mediation efforts led by SCO, nor any coordinated security measures or moves to secure the energy and goods supplies. Also read: Wion World Pulse: The Leaders' Confluence - The Rhythm of the New World Order takes centrestage in New Delhi India's middle path: Is it clashing with SCO's stance? India has good relations with most of the SCO members, as well as the belligerents in the war: Israel and the US. India’s independent stance in foreign policy is an issue when looked from the SCO lens. In June 2025, for instance, while China and Russia supported strong condemnations of Israeli strikes, India declined to endorse the joint SCO statement criticising Israel. India issued a separate statement stressing de-escalation and diplomacy while highlighting its friendly relations with both Iran and Israel. India’s balancing strategy is a result of deep defence and technological ties with Israel, one of its largest arms suppliers, while simultaneously sustaining economic and strategic engagement with Iran. The Chabahar Port, a joint project with Iran, is central to India’s connectivity ambitions toward Central Asia. The Indian divergence at SCO illustrates a broader reality: for a grouping that tries to operate on consensus, collective action becomes difficult in situations like the Iran war, where national interests clash. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-rhythm-of-the-new-world-order-1773582256218/embed SCO's Iran war response is driven by member states' energy security concerns With the Strait of Hormuz under threat, energy security has become the most immediate concern for major SCO economies including India. Russia, a key energy exporter, offered to increase oil supplies to both China and India to offset the disruptions. Moscow said it's is ready to increase deliveries and can meet India’s energy requirements if the conflict intensifies. China responded by strengthening its energy security strategy, accelerating purchases of discounted Russian oil, using the window opened by the US desanctioning of Russian crude. China is also expanding domestic energy investments. India's precautionary and contingency steps are underway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired meetings with senior ministers to secure energy routes, expand alternative supply chains and prepare for volatility in global oil markets. Iran war and the SCO’s structural constraints The crisis underscores a structural challenge within the SCO, as its members have overlapping but often competing interests. Iran sits alongside India and China, which are major energy importers, while Russia is a leading oil exporter. Pakistan and India are strategic rivals in SCO, while Gulf states engaged with the organisation maintain close ties with Western powers like the US. Such diversity, and diverging interests, limit SCO's ability to act decisively during conflicts involving its members or partners. The organisation’s role in the Iran war remains largely rhetorical: calling for de-escalation, emphasising international law and urging UN-led diplomacy. SCO: A forum for discussion, not intervention SCO offers a space where rival powers can engage diplomatically, but lacks the mechanisms or consensus to intervene directly in conflicts involving its members. As the Iran war continues to reshape regional dynamics and energy markets, these contradictions will feature in discussions at the WION World Pulse. The event starts at 10 am on Wednesday at ITC Maurya, New Delhi. Don't miss it.

WION World Pulse: Iran war is testing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as its members take divergent positions. While India balances ties with Iran and Israel, &nbsp;SCO struggles to move collectively beyond statements, with individual members focused on energy security

WION World Pulse: Iran war and the SCO - India in the middle as rival interests test bloc

Analysts and experts have said that taking control of Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium would require "the largest special forces operation in history". The Wall Street Journal quoted US and Israeli security experts in a report, who said that more than 1,000 military personnel would be needed on-site to successfully retrieve all the uranium Iran possesses. When three key Iranian nuclear sites were struck last June, the country reportedly had 440 kilograms of 60 per cent-enriched uranium. Iran is also believed to hold almost 200 kilograms of 20% enriched uranium. Notably, 90%-enriched uranium is needed to build nuclear weapons. Former NATO commander James Stavridis told WSJ that, given the conditions and scenario, it would take "the largest special operations forces in history" to seize all the uranium Iran has.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-facilities-near-iran-s-chabahar-trade-zone-hit-by-us-fighter-jets-report-1773650403315">Military facilities near Iran's Chabahar Trade Zone hit by US fighter jets: Report</a><h2>Where is Iran's uranium?</h2>Talking about the location of this uranium, International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi recently said that nearly half of the 60% enriched uranium was at the Isfahan nuclear site inside a tunnel complex. In another report, the US said there is a "very narrow access point" to get this material. WSJ reported that the operation would require combat troops to secure the perimeters, while engineers would have to dig through a whole lot of debris and also check for mines. An airfield would be needed to make the equipment needed to dig deep and retrieve the uranium available, and to transport it out of the country. It would even need to be built from scratch. At the same time, drone and missile attacks could continue, so the forces would also need to fend them off.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-rise-100-us-israel-war-iran-hormuz-crisis-1773647064840">Oil prices cross $105 per barrel first time since Russia's Ukraine invasion</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-president-claims-talks-are-ongoing-despite-iran-s-denial-1773651585217/embed<h2>Will Iran's uranium be retrieved?&nbsp;</h2>Currently, "everything is under the rubble" after the nuclear facilities were attacked, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told CBS News. The regime is not working to recover anything right now, he said, adding that there would be no negotiations if the attacks continue. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump told Fox News radio that they are not focused on recovering the uranium at the moment, and only on "knocking the hell out of their missiles and their drones." The US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28 following failed negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died in the strikes, and since then, the US, Israel and Iran have been locked in a war that is escalating. &nbsp;

If the US ever plans to retrieve Iran's enriched uranium, it would have to prepare for the largest ever special operation in world history. US and Israeli experts say over 1,000 troops would be needed on the site, besides an airfield, and they would also have to fight missiles.

Analysts and experts have said that taking control of Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium would require "the largest special forces operation in history". The Wall Street Journal quoted US and Israeli security experts in a report, who said that more than 1,000 military personnel would be needed on-site to successfully retrieve all the uranium Iran possesses. When three key Iranian nuclear sites were struck last June, the country reportedly had 440 kilograms of 60 per cent-enriched uranium. Iran is also believed to hold almost 200 kilograms of 20% enriched uranium. Notably, 90%-enriched uranium is needed to build nuclear weapons. Former NATO commander James Stavridis told WSJ that, given the conditions and scenario, it would take "the largest special operations forces in history" to seize all the uranium Iran has. Also Read: Military facilities near Iran's Chabahar Trade Zone hit by US fighter jets: Report Where is Iran's uranium? Talking about the location of this uranium, International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi recently said that nearly half of the 60% enriched uranium was at the Isfahan nuclear site inside a tunnel complex. In another report, the US said there is a "very narrow access point" to get this material. WSJ reported that the operation would require combat troops to secure the perimeters, while engineers would have to dig through a whole lot of debris and also check for mines. An airfield would be needed to make the equipment needed to dig deep and retrieve the uranium available, and to transport it out of the country. It would even need to be built from scratch. At the same time, drone and missile attacks could continue, so the forces would also need to fend them off. Also Read: Oil prices cross $105 per barrel first time since Russia's Ukraine invasion https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-president-claims-talks-are-ongoing-despite-iran-s-denial-1773651585217/embed Will Iran's uranium be retrieved? Currently, "everything is under the rubble" after the nuclear facilities were attacked, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told CBS News. The regime is not working to recover anything right now, he said, adding that there would be no negotiations if the attacks continue. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump told Fox News radio that they are not focused on recovering the uranium at the moment, and only on "knocking the hell out of their missiles and their drones." The US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28 following failed negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died in the strikes, and since then, the US, Israel and Iran have been locked in a war that is escalating.

If the US ever plans to retrieve Iran's enriched uranium, it would have to prepare for the largest ever special operation in world history. US and Israeli experts say over 1,000 troops would be needed on the site, besides an airfield, and they would also have to fight missiles.

1,000 troops on ground, airfield and more: Seizing Iran's uranium would require largest operation ever seen, experts say

The widow of an Alabama airman who was aboard the US refuelling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq has said that the death of her husband has "shattered" their world. Major Alex Klinner died when the KC-135 Stratotanker crashed. His brother-in-law, James Harrill, told the Associated Press that he leaves behind 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son. Five other crew members were also on board the aeroplane that crashed amid the ongoing Iran war. “On March 12, our world shattered. I’m devastated to lose the best person I know, the person who made everything more fun, my best friend," his wife, Libby, wrote on Instagram. Klinner had been on deployment for only around a week when he died in the crash. “My heart is broken for our three kids who will grow up not knowing him,” Libby wrote on Instagram. He graduated from Auburn University in 2016 and was promoted to Major only a few months ago.&nbsp;His sister-in-law, Sarah Rose Harrill, started a GoFundMe page for the 33-year-old, which had received more than 1 million in donations till Sunday morning. A heartbroken Libby wrote that her kids won't get to see their "goofy and funny" father. “They won’t witness his selflessness, the way he thought about everyone else before himself,” she added. “They won’t get to feel the deep love he had for them. ... He was an incredible person and husband, but he was the best dad.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-us-military-identifies-six-personnel-killed-in-kc-135-stratotanker-crash-in-iraq-1773551445502">Iran war: US military identifies six personnel killed in KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq</a><h2>Iraq airplane victims</h2>Meanwhile, Sarah described Klinner as a "devoted husband, a loving father" and someone who would "help anyone who needed it." He was assigned to the 6th Air Refuelling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, along with Captain Ariana G. Savino and Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt. US Central Command said in a post on X early Friday that the aircraft went down around 2 pm ET Thursday. All six crew members aboard the aircraft died in the Thursday crash over Iraq. "The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire,” CENTCOM said. Others who died have been identified as Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28.&nbsp;

Iraq plane crash: The Alabama airman who died after the refuelling jet KC-135 Stratotanker crashed has left behind 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son. His widow posted a message of grief, calling him the “best person” and her “best person”.

The widow of an Alabama airman who was aboard the US refuelling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq has said that the death of her husband has "shattered" their world. Major Alex Klinner died when the KC-135 Stratotanker crashed. His brother-in-law, James Harrill, told the Associated Press that he leaves behind 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son. Five other crew members were also on board the aeroplane that crashed amid the ongoing Iran war. “On March 12, our world shattered. I’m devastated to lose the best person I know, the person who made everything more fun, my best friend," his wife, Libby, wrote on Instagram. Klinner had been on deployment for only around a week when he died in the crash. “My heart is broken for our three kids who will grow up not knowing him,” Libby wrote on Instagram. He graduated from Auburn University in 2016 and was promoted to Major only a few months ago. His sister-in-law, Sarah Rose Harrill, started a GoFundMe page for the 33-year-old, which had received more than 1 million in donations till Sunday morning. A heartbroken Libby wrote that her kids won't get to see their "goofy and funny" father. “They won’t witness his selflessness, the way he thought about everyone else before himself,” she added. “They won’t get to feel the deep love he had for them. ... He was an incredible person and husband, but he was the best dad.” Also Read: Iran war: US military identifies six personnel killed in KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq Iraq airplane victims Meanwhile, Sarah described Klinner as a "devoted husband, a loving father" and someone who would "help anyone who needed it." He was assigned to the 6th Air Refuelling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, along with Captain Ariana G. Savino and Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt. US Central Command said in a post on X early Friday that the aircraft went down around 2 pm ET Thursday. All six crew members aboard the aircraft died in the Thursday crash over Iraq. "The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire,” CENTCOM said. Others who died have been identified as Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28.

Iraq plane crash: The Alabama airman who died after the refuelling jet KC-135 Stratotanker crashed has left behind 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son. His widow posted a message of grief, calling him the “best person” and her “best person”.

'My heart is broken for our three kids': Widow of Alabama airman, who died in Iraq crash, grieves husband

Military facilities near Iran's Chabahar Trade Zone has been struck by US fighter jets, according to various media reports. Intense explosions were heard on a mountain behind Iran's critical trade zone reported Voice of America’s Persian language service.&nbsp;Chabahar Free Trade Zone, established in 1992, is a strategic hub connecting Central Asia to the Indian Ocean. Located along the Gulf of Oman, the trade zone is tax exempted and offers Tehran direct access to the Indian Ocean without passing through the Strait of Hormuz.More details on the strike and explosions at Military facilities near Chabahar Trade Zone is awaited.<h2>"Iran not ready for talks"</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump on Sunday said Tehran was not ready for a deal to end the war despite Washington's efforts. While talking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said "Yes, we're talking to them." He then added, "But I don't think they're ready. But they are getting pretty close."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-religious-freedom-panel-recommends-sanction-on-rss-r-aw-names-india-as-country-of-concern-1773644035804">US religious freedom panel recommends sanction on RSS, R&amp;AW, names 'India as Country of concern'</a>&nbsp;Taking to Truth Social, the US President also accused Iran of Media Manipulation and said they "are really good at “feeding” the very appreciative Fake News Media false information."&nbsp;Further blasting the Iranian media and accusing its authorities of misusing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trump said, "Buildings and Ships that are shown to be on fire are not — It’s FAKE NEWS, generated by A.I. For instance, Iran, working in close coordination with the Fake News Media, shows our great USS Abraham Lincoln Aircraft Carrier, one of the largest and most prestigious Ships in the World, burning uncontrollably in the Ocean. Not only was it not burning, it was not even shot at — Iran knows better than to do that!".

Located along the Gulf of Oman, the trade zone where the military facility is located is tax exempted and offers Tehran direct access to the Indian Ocean.

Military facilities near Iran's Chabahar Trade Zone has been struck by US fighter jets, according to various media reports. Intense explosions were heard on a mountain behind Iran's critical trade zone reported Voice of America’s Persian language service. Chabahar Free Trade Zone, established in 1992, is a strategic hub connecting Central Asia to the Indian Ocean. Located along the Gulf of Oman, the trade zone is tax exempted and offers Tehran direct access to the Indian Ocean without passing through the Strait of Hormuz. More details on the strike and explosions at Military facilities near Chabahar Trade Zone is awaited. "Iran not ready for talks" Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump on Sunday said Tehran was not ready for a deal to end the war despite Washington's efforts. While talking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said "Yes, we're talking to them." He then added, "But I don't think they're ready. But they are getting pretty close." ALSO READ: US religious freedom panel recommends sanction on RSS, R&AW, names 'India as Country of concern' Taking to Truth Social, the US President also accused Iran of Media Manipulation and said they "are really good at “feeding” the very appreciative Fake News Media false information." Further blasting the Iranian media and accusing its authorities of misusing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trump said, "Buildings and Ships that are shown to be on fire are not — It’s FAKE NEWS, generated by A.I. For instance, Iran, working in close coordination with the Fake News Media, shows our great USS Abraham Lincoln Aircraft Carrier, one of the largest and most prestigious Ships in the World, burning uncontrollably in the Ocean. Not only was it not burning, it was not even shot at — Iran knows better than to do that!".

&nbsp;Located along the Gulf of Oman, the trade zone where the military facility is located is tax exempted and offers Tehran direct access to the Indian Ocean.

Military facilities near Iran's Chabahar Trade Zone hit by US fighter jets: Report

Reports indicate Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is maintaining regular contact with President Trump, privately urging decisive military action against Iran to "cut off the head of the snake" and neutralize its regional influence.

Saudi Arabia’s MBS speaks with Trump regularly, urges harsh actions against Iran: Report

<ul><li>By Maitreya Buddha Samantaray</li></ul>In times of war, every statement becomes a strategic act. Words are not merely descriptive. They are instruments of influence, deterrence, reassurance, and control. Governments understand this instinctively. When missiles fly and markets tremble, leaders know that communication is not a supporting function. It is an operational capability.&nbsp;The ongoing tensions in the Middle East provide a striking demonstration of this reality. Beyond the military dimension, conflict is also an intense contest of narratives. Statements from political leaders, defense establishments, and foreign ministries are carefully constructed to shape perception among multiple audiences, including domestic populations, adversaries, allies, financial markets, and the global public.&nbsp;For business leaders, crisis communication often becomes most visible during moments of uncertainty. The patterns emerging from official communications during the conflict offer valuable lessons for corporate leadership, crisis communication teams, CEO offices, and Boards. These lessons are not about geopolitics. They are about the mechanics of leadership under pressure.&nbsp;What we are witnessing is the emergence of a new grammar of crisis communication.<h2>Clarity of Objective Creates Stability</h2>Messaging from the United States, Israel, and Iran has been marked by relative ambiguity regarding objectives such as deterrence, self-defence, and protection of interests, creating strategic uncertainty. Meanwhile, neutral actors like India employ thoughtful statecraft by maintaining open communication channels with all sides and diversifying relationships without emotional commitment, effectively positioning themselves as potential winners without direct conflict. Complementing this, symbolic gestures such as the UAE President and Dubai Crown Prince appearing publicly at a bustling mall act as powerful reassurances, reinforcing public trust and stability amid regional tensions.Overall, clarity matters because uncertainty fuels instability. Markets react to ambiguity. Employees react to uncertainty. Stakeholders respond to perceived hesitation in leadership. In corporate crises, leaders often issue cautious statements that convey concern while allowing space to understand the evolving situation. Phrases such as “we are monitoring the situation” or “we are assessing developments” can provide time to gather facts. However, stakeholders often seek an understanding of the broader objective guiding leadership decisions.&nbsp;The lesson from the current situation is that communication benefits from clearly articulating the objective early. Stakeholders want to understand what leadership is trying to achieve. Is the priority safety, operational continuity, financial stabilization, or reputational recovery? When the objective is articulated clearly, it anchors the narrative and reduces speculation.<h2>Repetition Builds Narrative Authority</h2>Another characteristic of wartime messaging is disciplined repetition. Governments return to the same core ideas repeatedly, including security, deterrence, legitimacy, defense, and responsibility. The phrasing may evolve, but the narrative frame remains constant. This repetition is somewhat intentional and ensures that the intended message becomes the dominant interpretation of events.&nbsp;Companies and business leaders can draw insight from this approach. Consistency in language across communications helps stakeholders interpret developments more clearly. A key takeaway of effective crisis communication is message discipline. A small set of core themes can guide every statement, internal briefing, and external update. The objective is not rhetorical creativity but narrative consistency.<h2>Separate Strategy from Instruction</h2>Official communications during the conflict reveal another important principle. Strategic messaging is separated from operational instruction. Political leaders speak about national objectives and strategic direction. Military and civil defense authorities communicate practical guidance to citizens, including where to go, what to do, and how to remain safe. This distinction prevents confusion. Strategic narratives address the broader situation while operational communications guide immediate behaviour.&nbsp;Organizations can benefit from adopting a similar clarity in communication. Leadership strategic messaging can focus on the broader context and reassure stakeholders about the direction of the organization. Operational communications can provide clear guidance to employees, customers, and partners regarding necessary actions. Corporate leaders may find it helpful to avoid combining strategic messaging and detailed operational instructions within the same communication. When separated appropriately, both messages become clearer and more effective.&nbsp;&nbsp;A structured operational framework for crisis communication involves establishing a leadership-led communication team supported by trained spokespersons authorized to deliver clear, consistent messages. Robust protocols, including emergency call trees, facilitate rapid information flow across the organization. Tailoring communication strategies to key audiences and their specific information needs is essential, supported by scenario planning to prepare for potential disruptions and accurate situation assessment to develop concise messaging. Selecting appropriate channels such as dedicated status pages for detailed operational updates and social media for real-time acknowledgment ensures timely and effective information dissemination. Continuous monitoring of social media and news, coupled with real-time sentiment tracking, enables organizations to gauge public perception dynamically. Finally, measuring specific metrics during and after crises is critical to evaluating the effectiveness of communication efforts in protecting or restoring reputation and financial value.<h2>Legitimacy Is as Important as Accuracy</h2>A striking feature of statements emerging from Iran is the consistent emphasis on legal and moral framing. References to international law, civilian protection, and sovereignty appear repeatedly in official rhetoric. The goal is not only to present facts but also to position the narrative within a broader moral framework. This reflects an important reality. Crises are judged not only by what happened but also by whether the response appears legitimate.&nbsp;In the business context, stakeholders want to understand not only the facts of a situation but also whether the organization is responding in accordance with its values and principles, including transparency, accountability, fairness, and responsibility. Communication therefore, benefits from articulating both the facts and the standards guiding the response. Legitimacy builds trust even when complete information is still emerging. When responding to regulatory incidents, workplace concerns, or operational disruptions, leaders may find value in emphasizing both factual clarity and procedural integrity.<h2>Preserve Strategic Flexibility</h2>Another notable aspect of the ongoing conflict’s rhetoric is the use of conditional language. Statements frequently emphasize readiness to escalate or de-escalate depending on circumstances. This language allows leaders to project confidence while preserving room to adapt as events evolve.&nbsp;Corporate leaders may also consider this balance. Avoiding absolute statements about outcomes can help maintain credibility during uncertain situations. Declaring that issues will be resolved immediately or that risks are fully contained may provide short-term reassurance but may not always reflect the evolving reality of a crisis. Strategic communication benefits from balancing confidence with flexibility. Leaders can demonstrate control while allowing space for adjustments as new information becomes available.&nbsp;(About the author: Maitreya Buddha Samantaray is the Convenor of the Crisis Intelligence Community (CIC). With over 18 years of experience in consulting and industry, he specialises in helping organisations navigate complex risks in volatile environments. His expertise includes geopolitical risk analysis, crisis management, business continuity, enterprise risk, duty of care, and operational resilience. The views expressed are personal.)

The lesson from the current situation is that communication benefits from clearly articulating the objective early. Stakeholders want to understand what leadership is trying to achieve. 

By Maitreya Buddha Samantaray In times of war, every statement becomes a strategic act. Words are not merely descriptive. They are instruments of influence, deterrence, reassurance, and control. Governments understand this instinctively. When missiles fly and markets tremble, leaders know that communication is not a supporting function. It is an operational capability. The ongoing tensions in the Middle East provide a striking demonstration of this reality. Beyond the military dimension, conflict is also an intense contest of narratives. Statements from political leaders, defense establishments, and foreign ministries are carefully constructed to shape perception among multiple audiences, including domestic populations, adversaries, allies, financial markets, and the global public. For business leaders, crisis communication often becomes most visible during moments of uncertainty. The patterns emerging from official communications during the conflict offer valuable lessons for corporate leadership, crisis communication teams, CEO offices, and Boards. These lessons are not about geopolitics. They are about the mechanics of leadership under pressure. What we are witnessing is the emergence of a new grammar of crisis communication. Clarity of Objective Creates Stability Messaging from the United States, Israel, and Iran has been marked by relative ambiguity regarding objectives such as deterrence, self-defence, and protection of interests, creating strategic uncertainty. Meanwhile, neutral actors like India employ thoughtful statecraft by maintaining open communication channels with all sides and diversifying relationships without emotional commitment, effectively positioning themselves as potential winners without direct conflict. Complementing this, symbolic gestures such as the UAE President and Dubai Crown Prince appearing publicly at a bustling mall act as powerful reassurances, reinforcing public trust and stability amid regional tensions. Overall, clarity matters because uncertainty fuels instability. Markets react to ambiguity. Employees react to uncertainty. Stakeholders respond to perceived hesitation in leadership. In corporate crises, leaders often issue cautious statements that convey concern while allowing space to understand the evolving situation. Phrases such as “we are monitoring the situation” or “we are assessing developments” can provide time to gather facts. However, stakeholders often seek an understanding of the broader objective guiding leadership decisions. The lesson from the current situation is that communication benefits from clearly articulating the objective early. Stakeholders want to understand what leadership is trying to achieve. Is the priority safety, operational continuity, financial stabilization, or reputational recovery? When the objective is articulated clearly, it anchors the narrative and reduces speculation. Repetition Builds Narrative Authority Another characteristic of wartime messaging is disciplined repetition. Governments return to the same core ideas repeatedly, including security, deterrence, legitimacy, defense, and responsibility. The phrasing may evolve, but the narrative frame remains constant. This repetition is somewhat intentional and ensures that the intended message becomes the dominant interpretation of events. Companies and business leaders can draw insight from this approach. Consistency in language across communications helps stakeholders interpret developments more clearly. A key takeaway of effective crisis communication is message discipline. A small set of core themes can guide every statement, internal briefing, and external update. The objective is not rhetorical creativity but narrative consistency. Separate Strategy from Instruction Official communications during the conflict reveal another important principle. Strategic messaging is separated from operational instruction. Political leaders speak about national objectives and strategic direction. Military and civil defense authorities communicate practical guidance to citizens, including where to go, what to do, and how to remain safe. This distinction prevents confusion. Strategic narratives address the broader situation while operational communications guide immediate behaviour. Organizations can benefit from adopting a similar clarity in communication. Leadership strategic messaging can focus on the broader context and reassure stakeholders about the direction of the organization. Operational communications can provide clear guidance to employees, customers, and partners regarding necessary actions. Corporate leaders may find it helpful to avoid combining strategic messaging and detailed operational instructions within the same communication. When separated appropriately, both messages become clearer and more effective. A structured operational framework for crisis communication involves establishing a leadership-led communication team supported by trained spokespersons authorized to deliver clear, consistent messages. Robust protocols, including emergency call trees, facilitate rapid information flow across the organization. Tailoring communication strategies to key audiences and their specific information needs is essential, supported by scenario planning to prepare for potential disruptions and accurate situation assessment to develop concise messaging. Selecting appropriate channels such as dedicated status pages for detailed operational updates and social media for real-time acknowledgment ensures timely and effective information dissemination. Continuous monitoring of social media and news, coupled with real-time sentiment tracking, enables organizations to gauge public perception dynamically. Finally, measuring specific metrics during and after crises is critical to evaluating the effectiveness of communication efforts in protecting or restoring reputation and financial value. Legitimacy Is as Important as Accuracy A striking feature of statements emerging from Iran is the consistent emphasis on legal and moral framing. References to international law, civilian protection, and sovereignty appear repeatedly in official rhetoric. The goal is not only to present facts but also to position the narrative within a broader moral framework. This reflects an important reality. Crises are judged not only by what happened but also by whether the response appears legitimate. In the business context, stakeholders want to understand not only the facts of a situation but also whether the organization is responding in accordance with its values and principles, including transparency, accountability, fairness, and responsibility. Communication therefore, benefits from articulating both the facts and the standards guiding the response. Legitimacy builds trust even when complete information is still emerging. When responding to regulatory incidents, workplace concerns, or operational disruptions, leaders may find value in emphasizing both factual clarity and procedural integrity. Preserve Strategic Flexibility Another notable aspect of the ongoing conflict’s rhetoric is the use of conditional language. Statements frequently emphasize readiness to escalate or de-escalate depending on circumstances. This language allows leaders to project confidence while preserving room to adapt as events evolve. Corporate leaders may also consider this balance. Avoiding absolute statements about outcomes can help maintain credibility during uncertain situations. Declaring that issues will be resolved immediately or that risks are fully contained may provide short-term reassurance but may not always reflect the evolving reality of a crisis. Strategic communication benefits from balancing confidence with flexibility. Leaders can demonstrate control while allowing space for adjustments as new information becomes available. (About the author: Maitreya Buddha Samantaray is the Convenor of the Crisis Intelligence Community (CIC). With over 18 years of experience in consulting and industry, he specialises in helping organisations navigate complex risks in volatile environments. His expertise includes geopolitical risk analysis, crisis management, business continuity, enterprise risk, duty of care, and operational resilience. The views expressed are personal.)

The lesson from the current situation is that communication benefits from clearly articulating the objective early. Stakeholders want to understand what leadership is trying to achieve.&nbsp;

The new grammar of Corporate Crisis Communication: Lessons from Middle East conflict

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The new grammar of Corporate Crisis Communication: Lessons from conflict