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Global benchmark for oil, Brent Crude prices on Sunday crossed $106.12 a barrel before settling on $105.9 on Monday as the US-Israel war on Iran enters its third week. At the time of writing, WTI Crude is trading at $100.4 per barrel, up by $1.68 per cent, and Murban Crude is trading at $117.5 per barrel, up by 3.09 per cent from March 15. Oil Prices tend to be more volatile in after-hours trading; last Sunday, it reached $120 per barrel, before settling at $100 during the Monday.&nbsp;The last time oil traded above $100 when Russia attacked Ukraine in March 2022, and it stayed there till July, 2022. The International Energy Agency member countries have agreed on the largest collective action on Wednesday to release 400 million barrels of emergency oil. However, experts suggest this is just a drop in the bucket compared to global oil needs.&nbsp;This comes after the US attacked Kharg Island, Iran's most important oil export terminal in the Persian Gulf. Iran threatened to retaliate against the region. A drone attack had already disrupted a United Arab Emirates energy hub, and the US embassy in Baghdad warned US citizens to leave Iraq. It said that the US attack on oil infrastructure will open up a new dimension of the war, &nbsp;as Iran will also target Gulf energy terminals in the region. Trump said that the US may carry out more strikes on Kharg Island 'just for fun'.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-kill-family-four-children-west-bank-tammun-1773642883818">'We killed dogs': Israeli forces kill Palestinian family of four, including two children, in West Bank’s Tammun</a>As pressure increases on the global trade choke point Strait of Hormuz, the shockwaves are being felt across the global market. The oil disruption has led to a 24 per cent rise in US gas prices to $3.70 a gallon since the start of the war. The closure of Hormuz has also triggered a crisis of Liquified Natural Gas supply in the south-east asia. Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are now cut off from the global oil market.&nbsp;The US is scrambling to build a coalition of its allies to secure the Strait of Hormuz. However, its traditional allies either seem cautious or uninterested in any joint operation. The Trump administration has conceded that it would take weeks before the US Navy is prepared to take on the task of securing the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Global oil prices surged past $100 per barrel as the US-Israel war with Iran entered its third week, raising fears of supply disruption through the Strait of Hormuz and triggering volatility in energy markets.

Global benchmark for oil, Brent Crude prices on Sunday crossed $106.12 a barrel before settling on $105.9 on Monday as the US-Israel war on Iran enters its third week. At the time of writing, WTI Crude is trading at $100.4 per barrel, up by $1.68 per cent, and Murban Crude is trading at $117.5 per barrel, up by 3.09 per cent from March 15. Oil Prices tend to be more volatile in after-hours trading; last Sunday, it reached $120 per barrel, before settling at $100 during the Monday. The last time oil traded above $100 when Russia attacked Ukraine in March 2022, and it stayed there till July, 2022. The International Energy Agency member countries have agreed on the largest collective action on Wednesday to release 400 million barrels of emergency oil. However, experts suggest this is just a drop in the bucket compared to global oil needs. This comes after the US attacked Kharg Island, Iran's most important oil export terminal in the Persian Gulf. Iran threatened to retaliate against the region. A drone attack had already disrupted a United Arab Emirates energy hub, and the US embassy in Baghdad warned US citizens to leave Iraq. It said that the US attack on oil infrastructure will open up a new dimension of the war, as Iran will also target Gulf energy terminals in the region. Trump said that the US may carry out more strikes on Kharg Island 'just for fun'. Also Read: 'We killed dogs': Israeli forces kill Palestinian family of four, including two children, in West Bank’s Tammun As pressure increases on the global trade choke point Strait of Hormuz, the shockwaves are being felt across the global market. The oil disruption has led to a 24 per cent rise in US gas prices to $3.70 a gallon since the start of the war. The closure of Hormuz has also triggered a crisis of Liquified Natural Gas supply in the south-east asia. Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are now cut off from the global oil market. The US is scrambling to build a coalition of its allies to secure the Strait of Hormuz. However, its traditional allies either seem cautious or uninterested in any joint operation. The Trump administration has conceded that it would take weeks before the US Navy is prepared to take on the task of securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Global oil prices surged past $100 per barrel as the US-Israel war with Iran entered its third week, raising fears of supply disruption through the Strait of Hormuz and triggering volatility in energy markets.

Oil prices cross $105 per barrel first time since Russia's Ukraine invasion

Iran war will be among a host of geopolitical issues to be discussed at Wion World Pulse, the Leaders' Confluence taking place on Wednesday (Mar 18) in the Indian capital New Delhi. An interesting aspect of this is how the BRICS grouping navigates the complexities unleashed on their economies by the war, which began with joint Israel-US strikes on Iran from February 28. BRICS is yet to issue a joint statement on the war, a complication partly arising from the fact that Iran is a full member of BRICS. Each individual member is affected by the war and the subsequent disruption of maritime trade amid Iranian threats to partially close the chokepoint &nbsp;of Srtait of Hormuz. How are India and other BRICS nations dealing with the crisis? Ahead of WION World Pulse event, here is an analysis.&nbsp;<h2>Iran war complicates India's chairmanship of BRICS</h2>India currently chairs BRICS and will host the annual summit around August or September. Along with protecting its own interests, India is responsible for coordinating positions on major issues affecting the group, with the Iran war emerging as a key challenge. This year’s BRICS theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” Its four pillars include supply chain resilience, innovation in digital public infrastructure and AI, cooperation through reformed multilateralism and Global South representation, and sustainability through green finance and energy transition. The agenda prioritises economic and developmental cooperation rather than geopolitical disputes, aligning with India’s approach of multi-alignment and consensus-building.However, the Iran war has brought India’s chairmanship under sharp relief. BRICS has not issued a joint statement even as Iran directly urged India to “activate BRICS.” President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi contacted External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, asking the bloc to condemn US-Israeli strikes and the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. No such statement was issued.India’s Ministry of External Affairs said “some members of the BRICS are directly involved in the current situation in the West Asia region, which has impacted forging a consensus on a common BRICS position.” India has instead called for “dialogue and diplomacy,” expressed concern over escalation and civilian losses, and largely maintained neutrality. Under Brazil’s chairmanship in 2025, BRICS had issued two statements condemning Israeli strikes on Iran during the 12-day war, highlighting how the chair’s national interests shape the bloc’s response.<h2>India maintains close relations with multiple sides in the conflict</h2>&nbsp;India has defence and technology ties with Israel, strong energy and diaspora interests in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and expanding relations with the United States. At the same time, it retains longstanding ties with Iran, including the Chabahar port project that provides it access to Central Asia.BRICS expansion has also complicated the consensus. The grouping has grown from five to 11 members, including countries with competing interests. Iran now faces tensions with fellow members UAE and Saudi Arabia. As chair, India cannot manufacture unity; it can only amplify consensus when interests align or manage divisions quietly.<h2>War is testing the economic pillar of BRICS cooperation</h2>Iran has effectively restricted the Strait of Hormuz since early March through attacks on shipping, delaying or rerouting more than 1,000 vessels. The strait normally carries about 20 per cent of global seaborne oil, LNG, fertilisers, grains and other commodities. Oil and gas prices surged, tanker rates rose sharply, and shipping lines rerouted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding 10–14 days to transit and raising costs for BRICS economies, including India.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-power-pulse-top-envoys-from-italy-germany-singapore-and-sri-lanka-to-discuss-trust-in-era-of-disruptive-diplomacy-1773197728582">Power Pulse: Top envoys from Italy, Germany, Singapore and Sri Lanka to discuss trust in era of disruptive diplomacy</a><h2>Food and fertiliser supplies for India and other BRICS nations hit by war</h2>Fertiliser markets have been particularly sensitive to the disruption. Gas price spikes and shipping delays pushed global fertiliser costs up by roughly 20–30 per cent. However, India has moved to cushion domestic impact. The government says fertiliser stocks remain comfortable ahead of the Kharif 2026 season, with urea inventories higher than last yearDomestic urea production is expected to exceed consumption as the Rabi season ends. Authorities advanced annual maintenance schedules at fertiliser plants to maximise output with available gas. The Department of Fertilisers also issued global tenders in advance and is procuring spot gas competitively to sustain production. Officials say supply partners have assured uninterrupted deliveries and that stocks should remain adequate when Kharif demand peaks around mid-May.Food supply chains are also affected by the maritime disruptions. Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE import nearly 70 per cent of their food through these routes, while major importers such as India and China face rising freight costs for grains, sugar and vegetable oils. Even short disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz can trigger global food-price inflation and supply chain instability for import-dependent BRICS economies.If the war extends beyond several weeks, countries may need emergency steps such as releasing stockpiles, sourcing supplies from alternative partners like Russia or Brazil, or offering subsidies to support businesses facing rising input costs.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-global-leaders-strategy-conversations-in-new-delhi-1773582256775/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-global-leaders-strategy-conversations-in-new-delhi-1773582256775/embed</a><h2>India’s approach: A pragmatic strategy amid testing times</h2>India's stance is focused on economic stability and de-escalation. It continues consultations through BRICS Sherpa channels and diplomatic engagement with member states. The crisis highlights both India’s balancing act and the structural limits of BRICS consensus during geopolitical conflicts.These geopolitical and economic pressures on BRICS will be among issues to be discussed in detail at WION World Pulse, starting at 10 am at ITC Maurya, New Delhi.&nbsp;Stay tuned.

WION World Pulse: Among the issues to be discussed at the event would be the Iran war, wherein India’s BRICS chairmanship faces pressure over a joint stance. Trade disruptions raise energy and fertiliser costs. India is taking a pragmatic approach.



Iran war will be among a host of geopolitical issues to be discussed at Wion World Pulse, the Leaders' Confluence taking place on Wednesday (Mar 18) in the Indian capital New Delhi. An interesting aspect of this is how the BRICS grouping navigates the complexities unleashed on their economies by the war, which began with joint Israel-US strikes on Iran from February 28. BRICS is yet to issue a joint statement on the war, a complication partly arising from the fact that Iran is a full member of BRICS. Each individual member is affected by the war and the subsequent disruption of maritime trade amid Iranian threats to partially close the chokepoint of Srtait of Hormuz. How are India and other BRICS nations dealing with the crisis? Ahead of WION World Pulse event, here is an analysis. Iran war complicates India's chairmanship of BRICS India currently chairs BRICS and will host the annual summit around August or September. Along with protecting its own interests, India is responsible for coordinating positions on major issues affecting the group, with the Iran war emerging as a key challenge. This year’s BRICS theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” Its four pillars include supply chain resilience, innovation in digital public infrastructure and AI, cooperation through reformed multilateralism and Global South representation, and sustainability through green finance and energy transition. The agenda prioritises economic and developmental cooperation rather than geopolitical disputes, aligning with India’s approach of multi-alignment and consensus-building. However, the Iran war has brought India’s chairmanship under sharp relief. BRICS has not issued a joint statement even as Iran directly urged India to “activate BRICS.” President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi contacted External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, asking the bloc to condemn US-Israeli strikes and the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. No such statement was issued. India’s Ministry of External Affairs said “some members of the BRICS are directly involved in the current situation in the West Asia region, which has impacted forging a consensus on a common BRICS position.” India has instead called for “dialogue and diplomacy,” expressed concern over escalation and civilian losses, and largely maintained neutrality. Under Brazil’s chairmanship in 2025, BRICS had issued two statements condemning Israeli strikes on Iran during the 12-day war, highlighting how the chair’s national interests shape the bloc’s response. India maintains close relations with multiple sides in the conflict India has defence and technology ties with Israel, strong energy and diaspora interests in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and expanding relations with the United States. At the same time, it retains longstanding ties with Iran, including the Chabahar port project that provides it access to Central Asia. BRICS expansion has also complicated the consensus. The grouping has grown from five to 11 members, including countries with competing interests. Iran now faces tensions with fellow members UAE and Saudi Arabia. As chair, India cannot manufacture unity; it can only amplify consensus when interests align or manage divisions quietly. War is testing the economic pillar of BRICS cooperation Iran has effectively restricted the Strait of Hormuz since early March through attacks on shipping, delaying or rerouting more than 1,000 vessels. The strait normally carries about 20 per cent of global seaborne oil, LNG, fertilisers, grains and other commodities. Oil and gas prices surged, tanker rates rose sharply, and shipping lines rerouted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding 10–14 days to transit and raising costs for BRICS economies, including India. Also read: Power Pulse: Top envoys from Italy, Germany, Singapore and Sri Lanka to discuss trust in era of disruptive diplomacy Food and fertiliser supplies for India and other BRICS nations hit by war Fertiliser markets have been particularly sensitive to the disruption. Gas price spikes and shipping delays pushed global fertiliser costs up by roughly 20–30 per cent. However, India has moved to cushion domestic impact. The government says fertiliser stocks remain comfortable ahead of the Kharif 2026 season, with urea inventories higher than last year Domestic urea production is expected to exceed consumption as the Rabi season ends. Authorities advanced annual maintenance schedules at fertiliser plants to maximise output with available gas. The Department of Fertilisers also issued global tenders in advance and is procuring spot gas competitively to sustain production. Officials say supply partners have assured uninterrupted deliveries and that stocks should remain adequate when Kharif demand peaks around mid-May. Food supply chains are also affected by the maritime disruptions. Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE import nearly 70 per cent of their food through these routes, while major importers such as India and China face rising freight costs for grains, sugar and vegetable oils. Even short disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz can trigger global food-price inflation and supply chain instability for import-dependent BRICS economies. If the war extends beyond several weeks, countries may need emergency steps such as releasing stockpiles, sourcing supplies from alternative partners like Russia or Brazil, or offering subsidies to support businesses facing rising input costs. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-world-pulse-global-leaders-strategy-conversations-in-new-delhi-1773582256775/embed India’s approach: A pragmatic strategy amid testing times India's stance is focused on economic stability and de-escalation. It continues consultations through BRICS Sherpa channels and diplomatic engagement with member states. The crisis highlights both India’s balancing act and the structural limits of BRICS consensus during geopolitical conflicts. These geopolitical and economic pressures on BRICS will be among issues to be discussed in detail at WION World Pulse, starting at 10 am at ITC Maurya, New Delhi. Stay tuned.

WION World Pulse: Among the issues to be discussed at the event would be the Iran war, wherein India’s BRICS chairmanship faces pressure over a joint stance. Trade disruptions raise energy and fertiliser costs. India is taking a pragmatic approach.&nbsp;

WION World Pulse: Iran war response of BRICS, with India as chair, under focus

The recent suspension of oil-loading operations at the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Port of Fujairah following a drone attack and subsequent fire has sent ripples through an already volatile global energy market. As tensions escalate in the region and the nearby Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, Fujairah’s role as an energy lifeline has never been more critical.<h2>Why Fujairah matters globally</h2>Fujairah is not just a regional port, it is a vital cog in the global energy machine. Last year, the port exported an average of more than 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil and refined fuels - a staggering 1.7 per cent of daily global demand.&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;Located on the Gulf of Oman, just 70 nautical miles from the Strait of Hormuz, Fujairah serves as an essential alternative route. Amidst the tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing war, the world is heavily reliant on the oil that flows through this strait to avoid a complete supply collapse.&nbsp;It is the 4th largest marine fuel (bunker) hub in the world, trailing only Singapore, Rotterdam, and Zhoushan. Ships rely on this infrastructure to refuel, keeping global maritime trade moving.<h2>Why it matters to the UAE</h2>For the UAE, Fujairah is a strategic economic asset that secures the nation's ability to export its resources even when traditional routes are compromised. The port is connected to the Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP), also known as the Habshan–Fujairah Pipeline. This 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) pipeline enables the UAE to transport crude oil from its interior fields directly to the coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz entirely.&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;Any significant disruption at the Fujairah terminal limits the UAE's ability to export. As OPEC’s 3rd largest crude producer, the UAE may be forced to further curtail oil production if its only reliable export outlet is compromised.<h2>Why it matters to crude and fuel markets</h2>Beyond exports, Fujairah is one of the world’s most important "energy batteries." With a massive storage capacity of 18 million cubic metres, the port is a premier global hub for storing crude and refined products. It also facilitates complex "blending" operations, where different components are mixed to create specific grades of gasoline and bunker fuels that meet international standards.&nbsp;The facility hosts some of the world's most influential energy companies, including VTTI, Vitol, ADNOC, and Vopak. These companies rely on Fujairah’s infrastructure to manage their global supply chains. A disruption here creates bottlenecks that can quickly translate into higher prices and tighter supplies for consumers worldwide. &nbsp;

The temporary suspension of Fujairah’s oil-loading operations, caused by a drone attack, threatens a vital global energy lifeline. As a strategic bypass to the blocked Strait of Hormuz, any disruption here risks forcing production cuts. 

The recent suspension of oil-loading operations at the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Port of Fujairah following a drone attack and subsequent fire has sent ripples through an already volatile global energy market. As tensions escalate in the region and the nearby Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, Fujairah’s role as an energy lifeline has never been more critical. Why Fujairah matters globally Fujairah is not just a regional port, it is a vital cog in the global energy machine. Last year, the port exported an average of more than 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil and refined fuels - a staggering 1.7 per cent of daily global demand. Also read: Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination? Hint: It's not Mojtaba Khamenei Located on the Gulf of Oman, just 70 nautical miles from the Strait of Hormuz, Fujairah serves as an essential alternative route. Amidst the tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing war, the world is heavily reliant on the oil that flows through this strait to avoid a complete supply collapse. It is the 4th largest marine fuel (bunker) hub in the world, trailing only Singapore, Rotterdam, and Zhoushan. Ships rely on this infrastructure to refuel, keeping global maritime trade moving. Why it matters to the UAE For the UAE, Fujairah is a strategic economic asset that secures the nation's ability to export its resources even when traditional routes are compromised. The port is connected to the Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP), also known as the Habshan–Fujairah Pipeline. This 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) pipeline enables the UAE to transport crude oil from its interior fields directly to the coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz entirely. Also read: ‘Don’t want to lose US backing because of Iran war,’ says Zelensky after Trump rejects his ‘help’ Any significant disruption at the Fujairah terminal limits the UAE's ability to export. As OPEC’s 3rd largest crude producer, the UAE may be forced to further curtail oil production if its only reliable export outlet is compromised. Why it matters to crude and fuel markets Beyond exports, Fujairah is one of the world’s most important "energy batteries." With a massive storage capacity of 18 million cubic metres, the port is a premier global hub for storing crude and refined products. It also facilitates complex "blending" operations, where different components are mixed to create specific grades of gasoline and bunker fuels that meet international standards. The facility hosts some of the world's most influential energy companies, including VTTI, Vitol, ADNOC, and Vopak. These companies rely on Fujairah’s infrastructure to manage their global supply chains. A disruption here creates bottlenecks that can quickly translate into higher prices and tighter supplies for consumers worldwide.

The temporary suspension of Fujairah’s oil-loading operations, caused by a drone attack, threatens a vital global energy lifeline. As a strategic bypass to the blocked Strait of Hormuz, any disruption here risks forcing production cuts.&nbsp;

UAE's Fujairah operations suspended after drone attack - why it's a huge deal for global oil market

Israeli forces on Sunday shot and killed four people in a car while they were returning home. The four people killed had two children and their parents, 37-year-old Ali Khaled Bani Odeh and his 35-year-old wife Waad. The two children killed are 7-year-old Mohammad and 5-year-old Othman in the village of Tammun. All of them were shot in the head, as two others were injured in the shrapnel from the attack, according to the Palestinian health authorities.&nbsp;“We came under direct fire; we didn’t know the source. Everyone in the car was ⁠martyred, except my brother Mustafa and me,” said 12-year-old Khaled, one of the two who survived the attack. He said that when soldiers pulled him out of the car and beat him while shouting, “We killed dogs.”The Israeli military said it was carrying out an operation in Tammun to arrest Palestinians who were wanted for involvement in “terrorist activity”. According to the statement, during the operation, they accelerated the vehicle towards them, and they shot in self-defence. "A vehicle accelerated toward the forces, who perceived an immediate threat to their safety and responded with gunfire. As a result, four Palestinians who were in the vehicle were killed.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-allies-refuse-trump-strait-of-hormuz-mission-1773638482417">US allies, UK, Australia and Japan refused to deploy warships at the Strait of Hormuz</a>The two accounts were contradictory. According to the surviving boys, 8-year-old Mustafa and 12-year-old Khaled, the family went for Eid al-Fitr while returning, their mother was asking their father for help with the 5-year-old Othman, when they saw lasers being pointed at them from all directions as their mother screamed and their father said: “god is great”. Khaled could see parts of his brother on his shoe, reported the NYT. &nbsp;The injured children were grabbed by their hair, thrown to the ground, &nbsp;beaten, stepped on and aggressively asked by Israeli military if anyone else had survived the attack. &nbsp;The Israeli military maintains de facto control over the West Bank, and taking advantage of the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, they have imposed restrictions and curbed movements even for medical emergencies like ambulances. At least 5 people have been killed since the beginning of the war on February 28. The Israeli police, who investigate the settler violence, have largely failed to bring any justice against the aggressors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Israeli forces shot dead four Palestinians, including two children, in the West Bank village of Tammun. Survivors say the family was returning home after Eid, while the Israeli military claims the vehicle posed a threat.

Israeli forces on Sunday shot and killed four people in a car while they were returning home. The four people killed had two children and their parents, 37-year-old Ali Khaled Bani Odeh and his 35-year-old wife Waad. The two children killed are 7-year-old Mohammad and 5-year-old Othman in the village of Tammun. All of them were shot in the head, as two others were injured in the shrapnel from the attack, according to the Palestinian health authorities. “We came under direct fire; we didn’t know the source. Everyone in the car was ⁠martyred, except my brother Mustafa and me,” said 12-year-old Khaled, one of the two who survived the attack. He said that when soldiers pulled him out of the car and beat him while shouting, “We killed dogs.” The Israeli military said it was carrying out an operation in Tammun to arrest Palestinians who were wanted for involvement in “terrorist activity”. According to the statement, during the operation, they accelerated the vehicle towards them, and they shot in self-defence. "A vehicle accelerated toward the forces, who perceived an immediate threat to their safety and responded with gunfire. As a result, four Palestinians who were in the vehicle were killed.” Also Read: US allies, UK, Australia and Japan refused to deploy warships at the Strait of Hormuz The two accounts were contradictory. According to the surviving boys, 8-year-old Mustafa and 12-year-old Khaled, the family went for Eid al-Fitr while returning, their mother was asking their father for help with the 5-year-old Othman, when they saw lasers being pointed at them from all directions as their mother screamed and their father said: “god is great”. Khaled could see parts of his brother on his shoe, reported the NYT. The injured children were grabbed by their hair, thrown to the ground, beaten, stepped on and aggressively asked by Israeli military if anyone else had survived the attack. The Israeli military maintains de facto control over the West Bank, and taking advantage of the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, they have imposed restrictions and curbed movements even for medical emergencies like ambulances. At least 5 people have been killed since the beginning of the war on February 28. The Israeli police, who investigate the settler violence, have largely failed to bring any justice against the aggressors.

Israeli forces shot dead four Palestinians, including two children, in the West Bank village of Tammun. Survivors say the family was returning home after Eid, while the Israeli military claims the vehicle posed a threat.

'We killed dogs': Israeli forces kill Palestinian family of four, including two children, in West Bank’s Tammun

Israel's ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has said the ongoing military campaign against Iran could continue for an unspecified period, but Israel is "ahead of schedule" in achieving its objectives. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, amid escalating conflict in West Asia, Mr Azar described the operation, &nbsp;involving joint efforts with the United States, as progressing faster than initially anticipated.&nbsp;"We don't know yet" how long the war will last, he said. "We have said at the outset, this can take a few weeks. We are actually ahead of schedule when it comes to our military targets. But it's not over yet, we still have things that we want to do, especially when it comes to the missile launch capability, &amp; other military targets."&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;The ambassador emphasised that Israel remains open to diplomacy but is prepared to persist if Iran refuses concessions. "We still are open to an acceptance of the conditions that the United States has put forward to Iran in the nuclear realm, in the ballistic missile realm, and there's support for the proxies," Mr Azar stated.&nbsp;"But if they do not cooperate, at the end of the day, we will exhaust this effort, and then we will engage in keeping Iran debilitated, in giving the Iranian people the opportunity to embrace the future. And if they choose to demand a change in policy, or a change in the regime."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-not-ready-for-deal-ai-being-misused-to-fake-pro-khamenei-march-images-says-trump-1773636129031">'Iran not ready for deal', says Trump, accuses Tehran of misusing AI</a>&nbsp;He highlighted close coordination with Washington. "We are completely in sync with the United States," he said. "We've been talking with the leadership, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in constant contact with President Trump and his team, and what we want to achieve is stability that will emanate either from Iran's acceptance of the conditions or from the debilitation of their capability to hurt us and our neighbor."On the economic fallout from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, &nbsp;a vital chokepoint for global oil, Mr Azar downplayed long-term risks. "The Strait of Hormuz are not completely closed," he noted.&nbsp;&nbsp;"They are economic repercussions. They are not as big as people are assuming. Iranians won't be capable of threatening movement in the strip of Hormuz for a long period of time, and that means that we will be able to stabilize the situation."&nbsp;He framed Israel's actions as benefiting global trade and regional stability, including for India. "The fact that we are now removing this threat is a great service, not only for the US and Israel, I think it's also a great service for the world, for the region and for the world that wants to trade through West Asia," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's these are great news for millions of Indians that are living in the Gulf and now will be liberated from this terrible shadow coming from Iran."&nbsp;Mr Azar also addressed the timing of the operation in relation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel. "India is not part of this plan that Israel had," he clarified. "We knew that the situation in the region is volatile, but the operational opportunity for us to launch this operation came two days, only two days after Prime Minister Modi left." On bilateral ties, the ambassador expressed optimism. "We are very pleased with the cooperation we have with India," he said. "I think that this visit has been a landmark in upgrading our relationship to a level of a special strategic relationship partnership, and we will now engage in the coming months to implementing more than 17 agreements that were signed."

Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Iran, supported by the United States, is progressing ahead of schedule as it aims to neutralise Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities through targeted operations.

Israel's ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has said the ongoing military campaign against Iran could continue for an unspecified period, but Israel is "ahead of schedule" in achieving its objectives. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, amid escalating conflict in West Asia, Mr Azar described the operation, involving joint efforts with the United States, as progressing faster than initially anticipated. "We don't know yet" how long the war will last, he said. "We have said at the outset, this can take a few weeks. We are actually ahead of schedule when it comes to our military targets. But it's not over yet, we still have things that we want to do, especially when it comes to the missile launch capability, & other military targets." Also read: US religious freedom panel recommends sanction on RSS, R&AW, names 'India as Country of concern' The ambassador emphasised that Israel remains open to diplomacy but is prepared to persist if Iran refuses concessions. "We still are open to an acceptance of the conditions that the United States has put forward to Iran in the nuclear realm, in the ballistic missile realm, and there's support for the proxies," Mr Azar stated. "But if they do not cooperate, at the end of the day, we will exhaust this effort, and then we will engage in keeping Iran debilitated, in giving the Iranian people the opportunity to embrace the future. And if they choose to demand a change in policy, or a change in the regime." Also read: 'Iran not ready for deal', says Trump, accuses Tehran of misusing AI He highlighted close coordination with Washington. "We are completely in sync with the United States," he said. "We've been talking with the leadership, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in constant contact with President Trump and his team, and what we want to achieve is stability that will emanate either from Iran's acceptance of the conditions or from the debilitation of their capability to hurt us and our neighbor." On the economic fallout from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil, Mr Azar downplayed long-term risks. "The Strait of Hormuz are not completely closed," he noted. "They are economic repercussions. They are not as big as people are assuming. Iranians won't be capable of threatening movement in the strip of Hormuz for a long period of time, and that means that we will be able to stabilize the situation." He framed Israel's actions as benefiting global trade and regional stability, including for India. "The fact that we are now removing this threat is a great service, not only for the US and Israel, I think it's also a great service for the world, for the region and for the world that wants to trade through West Asia," he said. "It's these are great news for millions of Indians that are living in the Gulf and now will be liberated from this terrible shadow coming from Iran." Mr Azar also addressed the timing of the operation in relation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel. "India is not part of this plan that Israel had," he clarified. "We knew that the situation in the region is volatile, but the operational opportunity for us to launch this operation came two days, only two days after Prime Minister Modi left." On bilateral ties, the ambassador expressed optimism. "We are very pleased with the cooperation we have with India," he said. "I think that this visit has been a landmark in upgrading our relationship to a level of a special strategic relationship partnership, and we will now engage in the coming months to implementing more than 17 agreements that were signed."

Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Iran, supported by the United States, is progressing ahead of schedule as it aims to neutralise Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities through targeted operations.

Israel 'completely in sync' with US on West Asia war, says Israel Ambassador Reuven Azar

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), ideological front of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the external intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (R&amp;AW), has been recomended by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) to be sanctioned &nbsp;for violations of religious freedom.&nbsp;Designating India as a “country of particular concern” it has urged Washington to link arms sales and trade policies to religious freedom.&nbsp;There has not been any response by the External Affairs Ministry (EAM) so far but last year the ministry had shunned &nbsp;USCIRF's findings by calling them “biased” and “politically motivated”.&nbsp;USCIRF was founded in 1998 by an act of Congress to “monitor the universal right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) abroad” and makes recommendations to the US President, Secretary of State, and Congress, reported Hindustan Times.&nbsp;The USCIRF claims it works independently, however, all nine commissioners of the agency are appointed by the he US President and senior political leaders in the House of Representatives.&nbsp;The agency in its report said, “Several states undertook efforts to introduce or strengthen anti-conversion laws to include harsher prison sentences. Indian authorities also facilitated widespread detention and illegal expulsion of citizens and religious refugees and tolerated vigilante attacks against religious minority communities."

Designating India as a “country of particular concern” USCIRF urged Washington to link arms sales and trade policies to religious freedom.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), ideological front of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the external intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), has been recomended by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) to be sanctioned for violations of religious freedom. Designating India as a “country of particular concern” it has urged Washington to link arms sales and trade policies to religious freedom. There has not been any response by the External Affairs Ministry (EAM) so far but last year the ministry had shunned USCIRF's findings by calling them “biased” and “politically motivated”. USCIRF was founded in 1998 by an act of Congress to “monitor the universal right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) abroad” and makes recommendations to the US President, Secretary of State, and Congress, reported Hindustan Times. The USCIRF claims it works independently, however, all nine commissioners of the agency are appointed by the he US President and senior political leaders in the House of Representatives. The agency in its report said, “Several states undertook efforts to introduce or strengthen anti-conversion laws to include harsher prison sentences. Indian authorities also facilitated widespread detention and illegal expulsion of citizens and religious refugees and tolerated vigilante attacks against religious minority communities."

Designating India as a “country of particular concern” USCIRF urged Washington to link arms sales and trade policies to religious freedom.

US religious freedom panel recommends sanction on RSS, R&AW, names 'India as Country of concern'

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has arrested 19 Indians for sharing "misleading and fabricated content" amid the ongoing Iran war. They are a part of a group of 35 people who have been detained by the authorities for posting videos on social media. They are separate from the 10 people who were arrested on Saturday. The UAE has been telling people not to share videos of interceptions, attack sites and unverified footage and photos. Such acts are considered a criminal offence and are punishable under the law with imprisonment of at least 1 year and a fine of at least AED 1,00,000. Their arrest was ordered by UAE attorney-general Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi on March 15. Authorities have said that the suspects will face an expedited trial after an investigation found them guilty of circulating manipulated footage and narratives linked to the ongoing Iran-US-Israel war on social media platforms.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-fire-near-dubai-airport-after-drone-strike-fuel-tank-hit-all-operations-suspended-1773624662525">Massive fire near Dubai airport after drone strike, fuel tank hit; flight operations suspended - VIDEO</a><h2>Social media activity monitored in UAE</h2>Shamsi said digital platforms are being strictly monitored to prevent the spread of fabricated information and artificial content that could trigger public disorder. "Investigations and electronic monitoring revealed that the defendants were divided into three groups that committed various acts. These included the publication of real clips related to current events, the fabrication of clips using AI, and the promotion of a state practising acts of military aggression while glorifying its leadership and military actions," a statement read.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-asked-for-ceasefire-iran-denies-reaching-out-to-us-for-deal-to-end-war-amid-trump-s-claims-1773615354776">'Never asked for ceasefire': Iran denies reaching out to US for deal to end war amid Trump's claims</a><h2>Three groups of offence in UAE linked to social media posts on Iran war&nbsp;</h2>The UAE official news agency Wam stated that the first group of offenders are those who allegedly shared genuine video clips of missiles passing through the country's airspace or being intercepted. They also showed damage on sites, and included videos of crowds watching the incidents, adding commentary that could cause fear and panic among the public.&nbsp;The second group comprised people who either used artificial intelligence to create fabricated visuals or reposted footage of incidents that actually happened somewhere else, while falsely claiming they had occurred in the UAE. Artificial clips of explosions were accompanied by national flags or particular dates to make the videos appear authentic.&nbsp;The third group includes those who praised a hostile state in their posts and showed support for its regional military actions, calling them achievements. They also praised the leaders of that state and reposted propaganda. Five of the six accused arrested under this category are Indians, while one is Pakistani.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Iran war: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has arrested 19 Indians for spreading "misleading and fabricated content" on social media. Authorities have told people not to share such content that causes panic and spreads a narrative of instability in the region. 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has arrested 19 Indians for sharing "misleading and fabricated content" amid the ongoing Iran war. They are a part of a group of 35 people who have been detained by the authorities for posting videos on social media. They are separate from the 10 people who were arrested on Saturday. The UAE has been telling people not to share videos of interceptions, attack sites and unverified footage and photos. Such acts are considered a criminal offence and are punishable under the law with imprisonment of at least 1 year and a fine of at least AED 1,00,000. Their arrest was ordered by UAE attorney-general Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi on March 15. Authorities have said that the suspects will face an expedited trial after an investigation found them guilty of circulating manipulated footage and narratives linked to the ongoing Iran-US-Israel war on social media platforms. Also Read: Massive fire near Dubai airport after drone strike, fuel tank hit; flight operations suspended - VIDEO Social media activity monitored in UAE Shamsi said digital platforms are being strictly monitored to prevent the spread of fabricated information and artificial content that could trigger public disorder. "Investigations and electronic monitoring revealed that the defendants were divided into three groups that committed various acts. These included the publication of real clips related to current events, the fabrication of clips using AI, and the promotion of a state practising acts of military aggression while glorifying its leadership and military actions," a statement read. Also Read: 'Never asked for ceasefire': Iran denies reaching out to US for deal to end war amid Trump's claims Three groups of offence in UAE linked to social media posts on Iran war The UAE official news agency Wam stated that the first group of offenders are those who allegedly shared genuine video clips of missiles passing through the country's airspace or being intercepted. They also showed damage on sites, and included videos of crowds watching the incidents, adding commentary that could cause fear and panic among the public. The second group comprised people who either used artificial intelligence to create fabricated visuals or reposted footage of incidents that actually happened somewhere else, while falsely claiming they had occurred in the UAE. Artificial clips of explosions were accompanied by national flags or particular dates to make the videos appear authentic. The third group includes those who praised a hostile state in their posts and showed support for its regional military actions, calling them achievements. They also praised the leaders of that state and reposted propaganda. Five of the six accused arrested under this category are Indians, while one is Pakistani.

Iran war: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has arrested 19 Indians for spreading "misleading and fabricated content" on social media. Authorities have told people not to share such content that causes panic and spreads a narrative of instability in the region.&nbsp;

Iran war: UAE arrests 19 Indians for sharing 'misleading and fabricated' content on social media

Seventeen days on, and there is no end in sight to the West Asian war. What began as Israel and the US' joint military strike in Iran on February 28 has spread across the region far and beyond. Following the attack which killed Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran conducted airstrikes on American bases in West Asia.Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen to lead the country. While Trump has said that the new leader of Iran won't last long without his approval, Israel has threatened that he is the “target.” The three sides are bombing relentlessly with Israel having expanded its offensive to target Hezbollah in Lebanon.The ripple effect: Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Lebanon have also been targets of drones and missiles. The Strait of Hormuz has been blocked, and that has led to a situation even back home in India. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in its briefing, said the LPG situation in the country is “a concern" though no official shortage has been mentioned. New Delhi has used diversified channels to procure crude.In the latest: Donald Trump said on Sunday ( Mar 15) that the United States was in discussions with Iran as the war enters its third week, but that Tehran was not ready for a deal to end it. "But I don't think they're ready. But they are getting pretty close," Trump said. Iran's foreign minister had denied earlier that any talks with the United States were taking place.Follow WION for the latest developments on the ongoing West Asia war

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.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE: Araghchi says Iran ready to take war as far as necessary

Sri Lanka announced a shorter work week to protect its scarce fuel reserves as it prepares for a prolonged war in the Middle East, officials said on Monday. Commissioner-General of Essential Services Prabath Chandrakeerthi said, "We are also asking the private sector to follow suit and declare every Wednesday a holiday from now on," Chandrakeerthi told reporters after an emergency meeting chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. "We must prepare for the worst, but hope for the best," Dissanayake told senior officials, according to one who attended the meeting.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE: Sri Lanka announces four-day work week 

International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol said Monday more strategic oil stocks could be released if necessary to limit the fallout of from the near complete blockage of supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;

Global energy body says more oil stocks can be released if necessary

US President Donald Trump said he will hold a "news conference" on Monday as the war he ordered against Iran continues for a third week.Trump frequently takes questions from reporters so it was not immediately clear if the latest event had a specific topic."News Conference today," Trump announced on his Truth Social Platform, adding it would take place just before a meeting at the White House on the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Donald Trump says he will hold news conference on Monday

The sharp decline in WTI crude oil prices to below $95 per barrel, a drop of roughly 8% in 12 hours, marks a significant pivot in energy markets following a period of extreme volatility.

US oil prices extend losses to drop below $95/barrel, now down -8% in 12 hours

US Central Command reported today that the joint force has successfully neutralised more than 100 vessels, including the entire class of Shahid Soleimani guided-missile catamarans and at least one drone-carrier ship.

US military says it destroyed over 100 Iranian vessels

Forty-five flights from various countries in the Gulf region, includng the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and the Qatar are expected to land at various airports in India on Monday, an Indian government official said adding that around 2,20,000 Indians have returned to the country since February 28, when the war first began.

Over 2 lakh Gulf passengers returned to India: MEA

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday Britain was working with allies to come up with a "viable" plan to reopen the key Strait of Hormuz, but ruled out a NATO mission.During a press conference in Downing Street, Starmer told reporters he had discussed the situation in the vital oil transport route, effectively closed by Iran during the Middle East war, with US President Donald Trump.

UK and partners push Hormuz solution without NATO deployment

Explosions hit Iranian capital: AFP&nbsp;

Explosions hit Iranian capital: AFP 

Aircraft used for the official transport of senior Islamic Republic officials were destroyed in a new wave of strikes on Tehran’s Mehrabad airport overnight, Iran International has learned.

Aircraft used for Iran leaders’ transport destroyed at Mehrabad

China’s Foreign Ministry called for an immediate halt to military operations in the Middle East, warning that further regional escalation could hit the global economy.&nbsp;

China calls for immediate halt to military operations in West Asia 

Fire breaks out in UAE's petroleum industrial zone Fujairah after drone strike. No casualties have been reported so far.

Fire breaks out in UAE's petroleum industrial zone Fujairah

Iranian female soccer players are expected to travel to alternative destinations as they are unable to return to their country immediately, said Asian Football Confederation (AFC) General Secretary Windsor John.

Iranian female footballers safe in Malaysia, can't return home immediately 

“It is in our interest to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and that’s why we are also discussing what we can do in this regard from the European side,” says EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

EU to discuss how to keep Hormuz Strait open

A "drone-related incident" sparked a fuel tank fire near Dubai airport on Monday and disrupted travel, as Iran maintained its Gulf attacks, though authorities said flights were gradually resuming."Flights to and from DXB are gradually resuming to selected destinations, following the temporary suspension implemented as a precautionary measure," Dubai Airports said in a statement on X.

Dubai airport gradually resumes flights after nearby drone fire

Japan said on Monday it was beginning the release of its strategic oil reserves after the International Energy Agency indicated earlier that the release would begin in Asia and Oceania before other regions. IEA members agreed on March 11 to tap oil stockpiles to cushion the surge in prices caused by the war in the Middle East -- by far the largest-ever response of its kind.Japan, which depends on the Middle East for 95 percent of its oil imports, said Monday in a notice in its official government gazette that the level of oil reserves in the country "is being lowered".

Japan not currently mulling maritime ops despite Trump pressure over Hormuz

Twenty Thai crew members of a cargo ship attacked in the crucial Strait of Hormuz arrived in Thailand on Monday, with three of their colleagues still stranded on the vessel in the Gulf.The Thai-registered Mayuree Naree was hit by two projectiles on Wednesday while transiting through the Gulf waterway, after departing a port in the United Arab Emirates.Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they had struck the Thai ship, as well as a Liberia-flagged vessel, in the strait because they had ignored "warnings".The 20 sailors landed at Thailand's main international airport early Monday morning and were immediately escorted away by officials without speaking to gathered media.The wife of one of the returned crew, who gave her name as Bass, told reporters she was still waiting to see her husband after the ordeal.

20 Thai sailors return home after vessel attacked in Gulf

United Arab Emirates in a statement said that one person was killed by missile attack on civilian car in Abu Dhabi

One person killed by missile attack on civilian car in Abu Dhabi

Israel army says begun 'limited targeted ground operations' against Hezbollah in south Lebanon

Israel army says begun 'limited targeted ground operations' against Hezbollah

Columns of smoke have been seen over Tehran after Israel launched a new wave of strikes on the Iranian capital

Smoke seen over Tehran: Reports

Emirates airlines has announced it will “operate a limited schedule” after 10am (06:00 GMT) today

Emirates airlines to ‘operate limited schedule’ after airport fuel tank fire

Reuven Azar, Israel’s ambassador to India, said his country is not seeking a “perpetual war” when asked about the duration of the ongoing conflict. He stressed that Israel’s goal is security and stability, not an endless military confrontation. He also said that the war is intended to remove 'existential threats'

Israel’s ambassador to India says Iran war would not be a 'perpetual war'

Eleven Indian nationals have been indicted in the United States for their alleged involvement in a fraudulent conspiracy to orchestrate staged armed robberies aimed at helping individuals secure illegitimate immigration status.

11 Indians charged in US for staging "armed robberies" to secure US visas

Iran's exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi has issued a stirring call to his "compatriots" ahead of the ancient festival of Charshanbeh Suri, accusing the Iranian leadership of attempting to suppress the national ritual. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Pahlavi asserted that "the anti-Iranian regime of the Islamic Republic is once again attempting to prevent this ancient national ritual."

'Gather in front of regime's embassies': Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi's call to Iranians abroad for Charshanbeh Suri

Trump said the United States and Israel are largely aligned in their military goals in the war with Iran. "I think we have similar objectives, really, but could be a little bit different. The relationship has been very good. The militaries are very well coordinated. Ours is the strongest by far in the world. And they have a real good military,” Trump said when asked whether Israel’s strategy differs from that of the United States.”

Trump says US and Israel likely have “similar objectives” amid war with Iran

&nbsp;In a <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/116235861005528220">lengthy Truth Social post</a> railing against the media, Trump praised that Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr’s threats to potentially revoke the licenses of local broadcasters over coverage he deemed “fake. “I am so thrilled to see Brendan Carr, the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), looking at the licenses of some of these Corrupt and Highly Unpatriotic ‘News’ Organizations,” Trump said.

Trump touts FCC chair's threats against TV networks over their Iran war coverage

“The overall maritime threat environment remains at a critical level due to recent attack patterns, continued navigation interference and persistent operational disruption, to include port facilities, across the region," UK maritime agency warns

Strait of Hormuz threat level critical despite no incidents in 3 days: UK maritime agency

Japan is not currently planning to send ships to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said. “We have not yet made any decisions whatsoever regarding the dispatch of naval vessels. We are currently examining what Japan can do independently within our legal framework,” Takaichi said in parliament.

Japan is not currently planning to send ships to Hormuz: Japanese PM 

Japan said it was "not considering" maritime security operations. Australia's transport minister said Monday the country won't be sending a navy ship to the Strait of Hormuz

 Australia, Japan deny to join Trump's coalition for securing Strait of Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates' air defence systems were intercepting Iranian missiles and drones on Monday, the Gulf nation's defence ministry said. "UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran," the UAE Ministry of Defence posted on X.

UAE says air defence systems intercepting Iranian missiles and drones 

Beijing said on Monday it has "lodged representations" and urged Washington to "correct its erroneous ways" after the US launched new trade probes last week, with negotiators from both countries meeting in Paris. Washington's trade investigations target 60 economies including China and will look into "failures to take action on forced labor" and whether these burden or restrict US commerce.Those investigations came a day after a separate set of US probes centred on excess industrial capacity that target 16 trading partners including China, which Beijing's foreign ministry criticised as "political manipulation".

China urges US to 'immediately correct erroneous' trade practices

Twenty Thai crew members of a cargo ship that was attacked in the crucial Strait of Hormuz arrived in Thailand on Monday, with three of their colleagues still stranded on the vessel in the Gulf. The Thai-registered Mayuree Naree was hit by two projectiles on Wednesday while transiting through the Gulf waterway, after departing a port in the United Arab Emirates.Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they had struck the Thai ship, as well as a Liberia-flagged vessel, in the strait because they had ignored "warnings".

French President Emmanuel Macron said Sunday he had told Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian it was "unacceptable" to target French interests, after an Iranian-designed drone killed a French soldier in Iraq's Kurdistan region last week."I called on him to put an immediate end to the unacceptable attacks that Iran is carrying out against countries in the region, whether directly or through proxies, as in Lebanon and Iraq," Macron said on X after his call with Pezeshkian.

Macron tells Iran attacks on French interests 'unacceptable'

Iran's foreign minister said on Monday that Israeli strikes on Tehran fuel depots constituted "ecocide" due to the long-term risks to residents' health. "Israel's bombings of fuel depots in Tehran violate international law and constitute ecocide," Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X."Residents face long-term damage to their health and well-being. Contamination of soil and groundwater could have generational impacts," the post added.

Iran calls strikes on Tehran fuel depots 'ecocide' 

US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to see China helping the US in helping to secure the Strait of Hormuz. He also reflected on his upcoming China visit and meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and hinted that it could be delayed. Trump's statement comes as uncertainity surrounded the upcoming visit amid war in West Asia. Trump and Jinping met in South Korea in 2025 and reached a truce in the US-China trade tensions and decided to meet again in March 2026. However, America's pre-emptive attack on Iran alongside Israel on Feb 28 and China's alleged help to Iran in providing satellite technology, has complicated the matters even as the US president has reiterated, time and again, that he has a good relationship with the Chinese president.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-waiting-until-trump-breaks-silence-on-his-china-visit-amid-iran-war-wants-xi-jinping-s-support-for-securing-hormuz-1773618652226">Read more</a>

Trump breaks silence on his China visit amid Iran war

A drone-related incident triggered a fire near Dubai International Airport on Monday (Mar 16), according to city authorities, amid raging war in West Asia and Iran's intensified attacks targeting the Gulf nations. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that there had been no reports of injuries. It posted on X, "A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB) affected one of the fuel tanks. Dubai Civil Defence teams are currently working to bring the fire under control." On Wednesday, the city media office said two falling drones wounded four people near the airport.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-fire-near-dubai-airport-after-drone-strike-fuel-tank-hit-all-operations-suspended-1773624662525">Read more</a>

Massive fire near Dubai airport after drone strike, fuel tank hit; flight operations suspended 

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 15) warned that North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) could face a “very bad” future if US allies fail to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. His message is seen as a blunt call to European nations to support Washington’s efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. He also reminded the NATO nations of America's help in Ukraine-Russia war. The US president also expressed disappointment over the UK’s initial refusal to allow the use of its bases by the US.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-nato-nations-to-help-in-hormuz-security-reminds-them-of-ukraine-support-amid-iran-war-1773618199313">Read More</a>

Trump asks NATO nations to help in Hormuz security

Oil prices hovered around $100 a barrel Monday and stocks fluctuated as the Iran war moved into a third week with both sides showing no sign of backing down and diplomats trying to ensure safe passage for tankers through the crucial Strait of Hormuz.Crude shot up in the opening minutes after the US president said at the weekend that&nbsp;forces struck military targets on Kharg Island, a scrubby stretch of land in the Gulf that handles almost all of Iran's oil exports.He also warned attacks could expand to energy infrastructure if the Islamic republic interferes with transit through Hormuz, which has been effectively closed since the US-Israel operations began on February 28.

Oil hovers around $100, stocks mixed as Iran war rages

Saudi Arabia has intercepted more than 60 drones since midnight, according to a tally of defence ministry figures released on Monday.The Saudi defence ministry posted a series of statements on X describing the interception of a total of 61 drones in the east of the country in the early hours of Monday morning.

Saudi Arabia has intercepted more than 60 drones since midnight

Donald Trump signals a potential breakthrough, stating Washington is "getting close to a deal" with Tehran while regional strikes continue. Get the latest updates on the West Asia conflict, the Strait of Hormuz closure, and the impact of Operation Epic Fury on global oil prices and security.

Seventeen days on, and there is no end in sight to the West Asian war. What began as Israel and the US' joint military strike in Iran on February 28 has spread across the region far and beyond. Following the attack which killed Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran conducted airstrikes on American bases in West Asia. Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen to lead the country. While Trump has said that the new leader of Iran won't last long without his approval, Israel has threatened that he is the “target.” The three sides are bombing relentlessly with Israel having expanded its offensive to target Hezbollah in Lebanon. The ripple effect: Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Lebanon have also been targets of drones and missiles. The Strait of Hormuz has been blocked, and that has led to a situation even back home in India. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in its briefing, said the LPG situation in the country is “a concern" though no official shortage has been mentioned. New Delhi has used diversified channels to procure crude. In the latest: Donald Trump said on Sunday ( Mar 15) that the United States was in discussions with Iran as the war enters its third week, but that Tehran was not ready for a deal to end it. "But I don't think they're ready. But they are getting pretty close," Trump said. Iran's foreign minister had denied earlier that any talks with the United States were taking place. Follow WION for the latest developments on the ongoing West Asia war

Day 17: Donald Trump signals a potential breakthrough, stating Washington is "getting close to a deal" with Tehran while regional strikes continue. Get the latest updates on the developing situation

US-Israel-Iran war | US military says it has destroyed over 100 Iranian Navy vessels

Benjamin Netanyahu shared a video from The Sataf – Jerusalem cafe to dismiss death rumours, even showing his “five fingers” to counter AI claims. However, users on X questioned the clip, pointing to alleged glitches. The cafe later posted photos confirming his visit on March 15.

Netanyahu’s 'five finger' cafe video to quash death rumours sparks new AI claims; coffee shop shares PROOF he was there

Several US allies have refused to join Trump's call to secure the vital shipping route. After the UK, both Australia and Japan were cautious and made clear that they had no intention of sending warships to the region, even after Donald Trump's repeated pressure. Australian Broadcaster ABC reported, quoting Cabinet Minister Catherine King, that Australia has not received any formal request and has no plans to deploy troops in the region.&nbsp;“We won’t be sending a ship to the Strait of Hormuz. We know how incredibly important that is, but that’s not something that we’ve been asked or that we’re contributing to," said Australian Cabinet Minister Catherine King. Australian Defence shadow minister, James Paterson have said that they have to assess if they have the naval capability for these kinds of missions.&nbsp;Japan was more hesitant; instead of outright denial, it said that it wants to pursue options within the “legal framework”. “We have not made any decisions whatsoever about dispatching escort ships. We are continuing to examine what Japan can do independently and what can be done within the legal framework,” said Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-collapse-warning-war-iran-hezbollah-alon-mizrahi-1773580049328">Why Israeli analysts fear a multi-front war could overwhelm Israel?</a>South Korea said it continues consultation with Washington and will make a decision "after careful review.” On the other hand, the UK gave mixed signals at first, suggesting that it is considering sending mine sweepers. Later, officials suggested over the weekend that sending ships would make the volatile situation worse.&nbsp;Trump claimed that his administration has contacted seven countries for support without disclosing the names. In a social media post on Truth Social, Trump said that he hopes China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain and others will participate in the operation. He further warned that NATO faces a bad future if they do not help with the Strait of Hormuz. “We have a thing called NATO… We’ve been very sweet. We didn’t have to help them with Ukraine… But we helped them. Now we’ll see if they help us.” While talking to the reporters at Air Force one Trump claimed that the US does not need the Strait of Hormuz, as it is the largest producer of the oil. He suggested that countries that rely on the Hormuz must go and protect it.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-australia-japan-refuse-trump-s-call-to-send-warships-to-hormuz-1773629967390/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-australia-japan-refuse-trump-s-call-to-send-warships-to-hormuz-1773629967390/embed</a>&nbsp;

Several US allies, including the UK, Australia, and Japan, have either denied or seemed hesitant in Trump's call to join the mission in the Strait of Hormuz. While South Korea have suggested that it is consulting with Washington. 

Several US allies have refused to join Trump's call to secure the vital shipping route. After the UK, both Australia and Japan were cautious and made clear that they had no intention of sending warships to the region, even after Donald Trump's repeated pressure. Australian Broadcaster ABC reported, quoting Cabinet Minister Catherine King, that Australia has not received any formal request and has no plans to deploy troops in the region. “We won’t be sending a ship to the Strait of Hormuz. We know how incredibly important that is, but that’s not something that we’ve been asked or that we’re contributing to," said Australian Cabinet Minister Catherine King. Australian Defence shadow minister, James Paterson have said that they have to assess if they have the naval capability for these kinds of missions. Japan was more hesitant; instead of outright denial, it said that it wants to pursue options within the “legal framework”. “We have not made any decisions whatsoever about dispatching escort ships. We are continuing to examine what Japan can do independently and what can be done within the legal framework,” said Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Also Read: Why Israeli analysts fear a multi-front war could overwhelm Israel? South Korea said it continues consultation with Washington and will make a decision "after careful review.” On the other hand, the UK gave mixed signals at first, suggesting that it is considering sending mine sweepers. Later, officials suggested over the weekend that sending ships would make the volatile situation worse. Trump claimed that his administration has contacted seven countries for support without disclosing the names. In a social media post on Truth Social, Trump said that he hopes China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain and others will participate in the operation. He further warned that NATO faces a bad future if they do not help with the Strait of Hormuz. “We have a thing called NATO… We’ve been very sweet. We didn’t have to help them with Ukraine… But we helped them. Now we’ll see if they help us.” While talking to the reporters at Air Force one Trump claimed that the US does not need the Strait of Hormuz, as it is the largest producer of the oil. He suggested that countries that rely on the Hormuz must go and protect it. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-australia-japan-refuse-trump-s-call-to-send-warships-to-hormuz-1773629967390/embed

Several US allies, including the UK, Australia, and Japan, have either denied or seemed hesitant in Trump's call to join the mission in the Strait of Hormuz. While South Korea have suggested that it is consulting with Washington.&nbsp;

US allies, UK, Australia and Japan refused to deploy warships at the Strait of Hormuz

'Iran not ready for deal', AI being misused to fake pro-Khamenei march images, says TrumpUnited 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;The Iranian authorities had earlier denied claims of any talks with the US in regards to ending the war. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country was not interested in talks with the United States.&nbsp;"We are stable and strong enough. We are only defending our people," Araghchi told CBS in an interview aired Sunday.&nbsp;"We don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans, because we were talking with them when they decided to attack us," he said adding, "There is no good experience talking with Americans."&nbsp;"Iran misusing AI to feed media with fake news"&nbsp;Meanwhile, Trump has said that pro-Khamenei march images are AI generated. Taking to Truth Social, the US President accused Iran of Media Manipulation and said they "are really good at “feeding” the very appreciative Fake News Media false information."&nbsp;"Now, A.I. has become another Disinformation weapon that Iran uses, quite well, considering they are being annihilated by the day," he further added.&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!".&nbsp;

Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said We dont see any reason why we should talk with Americans, because we were talking with them when they decided to attack us.

'Iran not ready for deal', AI being misused to fake pro-Khamenei march images, says Trump 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." The Iranian authorities had earlier denied claims of any talks with the US in regards to ending the war. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country was not interested in talks with the United States. "We are stable and strong enough. We are only defending our people," Araghchi told CBS in an interview aired Sunday. "We don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans, because we were talking with them when they decided to attack us," he said adding, "There is no good experience talking with Americans." "Iran misusing AI to feed media with fake news" Meanwhile, Trump has said that pro-Khamenei march images are AI generated. Taking to Truth Social, the US President accused Iran of Media Manipulation and said they "are really good at “feeding” the very appreciative Fake News Media false information." "Now, A.I. has become another Disinformation weapon that Iran uses, quite well, considering they are being annihilated by the day," he further added. 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!".

Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said “We don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans, because we were talking with them when they decided to attack us.”

'Iran not ready for deal', AI being misused to fake pro-Khamenei march images, says Trump

Donald Trump said the US may soon act on Cuba after operations in Iran are completed, claiming Havana wants a deal with Washington. The remarks follow US sanctions and oil cut-offs linked to Venezuela, while Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed talks over bilateral differences

'Something will happen...': Cuba next after Iran war? Trump's statement sparks speculations

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 15) warned that North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) could face a “very bad” future if US allies fail to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. His message is seen as a blunt call to European nations to support Washington’s efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. He also reminded the NATO nations of America's help in Ukraine-Russia war. The US president also expressed disappointment over the UK’s initial refusal to allow the use of its bases by the US.&nbsp;In an telephonic interview to Financial Times, “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO. We have a thing called NATO…We’ve been very sweet. We didn’t have to help them with Ukraine. Ukraine is thousands of miles away from us . . . But we helped them. Now we’ll see if they help us. Because I’ve long said that we’ll be there for them but they won’t be there for us. And I’m not sure that they’d be there.” He also wanted “people who are going to knock out some bad actors that are along the [Iranian] shore”. Trump implied he wanted European commando teams or other military help to eliminate Iranians making “a nuisance” in the Gulf with drones and naval mines. “We’re hitting them very hard. They’ve got nothing left but to make a little trouble in the Strait but these people are beneficiaries and they ought to help us police it. We’ll help them. But they should also be there. You sort of need a lot of people to watch over a few.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-waiting-until-trump-breaks-silence-on-his-china-visit-amid-iran-war-wants-xi-jinping-s-support-for-securing-hormuz-1773618652226">Trump breaks silence on his China visit amid Iran war</a>&nbsp;While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said that he has “demanded” that about seven countries heavily reliant on oil join a coalition to police the Strait of Hormuz but he did not reveal the names of the countries. “I’m demanding that these countries come in and protect their own territory, because it is their own territory,” Trump said about the strait.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-asked-for-ceasefire-iran-denies-reaching-out-to-us-for-deal-to-end-war-amid-trump-s-claims-1773615354776">'Never asked for ceasefire': Iran denies reaching out to US for deal to end war amid Trump's claims</a><h2>Trump speaks to UK PM</h2>On Sunday, Trump also held a telephonic chat with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and both leaders discussed about the "importance" of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, currently blocked by Iran, the UK leader's office said. "The leaders discussed the ongoing situation in the Middle East and the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to end the disruption to global shipping, which is driving up costs worldwide," a Downing Street spokeswoman said in a statement. Starmer also "expressed his condolences for the American service personnel who have lost their lives during the conflict", the statement said. However, Trump expressed particular frustration with Britain’s response so far. "The UK might be considered the number one ally, the longest serving et cetera and when I asked for them to come, they didn’t want to come,” he said. “And as soon as we basically wiped out the danger capacity from Iran, they said, ‘oh well we’ll send two ships’, and I said, ‘we need these ships before we win, not after we win’. I’ve long said that NATO is a one-way street.”&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)&nbsp;

Donald Trump warned that NATO could face a “very bad” future if allies fail to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz during the Iran conflict. He urged Europe and China to assist in securing the key oil route 

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 15) warned that North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) could face a “very bad” future if US allies fail to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. His message is seen as a blunt call to European nations to support Washington’s efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. He also reminded the NATO nations of America's help in Ukraine-Russia war. The US president also expressed disappointment over the UK’s initial refusal to allow the use of its bases by the US. In an telephonic interview to Financial Times, “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO. We have a thing called NATO…We’ve been very sweet. We didn’t have to help them with Ukraine. Ukraine is thousands of miles away from us . . . But we helped them. Now we’ll see if they help us. Because I’ve long said that we’ll be there for them but they won’t be there for us. And I’m not sure that they’d be there.” He also wanted “people who are going to knock out some bad actors that are along the [Iranian] shore”. Trump implied he wanted European commando teams or other military help to eliminate Iranians making “a nuisance” in the Gulf with drones and naval mines. “We’re hitting them very hard. They’ve got nothing left but to make a little trouble in the Strait but these people are beneficiaries and they ought to help us police it. We’ll help them. But they should also be there. You sort of need a lot of people to watch over a few.” Also Read: Trump breaks silence on his China visit amid Iran war While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said that he has “demanded” that about seven countries heavily reliant on oil join a coalition to police the Strait of Hormuz but he did not reveal the names of the countries. “I’m demanding that these countries come in and protect their own territory, because it is their own territory,” Trump said about the strait. Also Read: 'Never asked for ceasefire': Iran denies reaching out to US for deal to end war amid Trump's claims Trump speaks to UK PM On Sunday, Trump also held a telephonic chat with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and both leaders discussed about the "importance" of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, currently blocked by Iran, the UK leader's office said. "The leaders discussed the ongoing situation in the Middle East and the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to end the disruption to global shipping, which is driving up costs worldwide," a Downing Street spokeswoman said in a statement. Starmer also "expressed his condolences for the American service personnel who have lost their lives during the conflict", the statement said. However, Trump expressed particular frustration with Britain’s response so far. "The UK might be considered the number one ally, the longest serving et cetera and when I asked for them to come, they didn’t want to come,” he said. “And as soon as we basically wiped out the danger capacity from Iran, they said, ‘oh well we’ll send two ships’, and I said, ‘we need these ships before we win, not after we win’. I’ve long said that NATO is a one-way street.” (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.)

Donald Trump warned that NATO could face a “very bad” future if allies fail to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz during the Iran conflict. He urged Europe and China to assist in securing the key oil route&nbsp;

‘It will be very bad…’: Trump asks NATO nations to help in Hormuz security, reminds them of Ukraine support amid Iran war

A drone-related incident triggered a fire near Dubai International Airport on Monday (Mar 16), according to city authorities, amid raging war in West Asia and Iran's intensified attacks targeting the Gulf nations. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that there had been no reports of injuries. It posted on X, "A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB) affected one of the fuel tanks. Dubai Civil Defence teams are currently working to bring the fire under control." &nbsp;On Wednesday, the city media office said two falling drones wounded four people near the airport.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JUST IN: Iranian Drones Struck Fuel Tanks At Dubai Airport <a href="https://t.co/lBNgqHnbJ3">pic.twitter.com/lBNgqHnbJ3</a>&mdash; 123 (@Mo61378Moazam) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mo61378Moazam/status/2033355192603996279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After the drone incident, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announced temporary suspension of flights at Dubai International Airport - previously one of the world's busiest. The step was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff. “Travellers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. Further updates will be announced through official channels as soon as they become available,” it said in a post on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-asked-for-ceasefire-iran-denies-reaching-out-to-us-for-deal-to-end-war-amid-trump-s-claims-1773615354776">'Never asked for ceasefire': Iran denies reaching out to US for deal to end war amid Trump's claims</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">WATCH: Large fire near Dubai International Airport after Iranian drone strike <a href="https://t.co/FDNa04tHqF">pic.twitter.com/FDNa04tHqF</a>&mdash; Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidReport2025/status/2033336199528755565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-waiting-until-trump-breaks-silence-on-his-china-visit-amid-iran-war-wants-xi-jinping-s-support-for-securing-hormuz-1773618652226">Trump breaks silence on his China visit amid Iran war</a>&nbsp;Iran has been accused of firing over 1,800 missiles and drones at the United Arab Emirates, more than any other country targeted by Tehran in the conflict, upending travel plans in the financial hub despite its air defence intercepting a vast majority of the projectiles. However, Tehran has maintained that it is only attacking American bases and infrastructure and not civilian locations of the neighbouring countries including the UAE. The Emirates' defence ministry has reported six deaths since the war began, including four civilians and two military personnel, who died in a helicopter crash blamed on a technical malfunction.&nbsp;The attack comes hours after United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a phone call and affirmed that continued Iranian attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council countries represent a dangerous escalation threatening regional security and stability, Reuters reported citing Saudi state media. The President of the UAE also received a phone call from Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, Prime Minister of Iraq, during which the two leaders discussed the latest regional developments and their serious impact on security and stability. They also addressed the ongoing Iranian attacks targeting the UAE and several other countries in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

A drone incident sparked a fire near Dubai International Airport as Iran continues missile and drone attacks on the United Arab Emirates amid the regional conflict. Authorities said emergency crews controlled the blaze and no injuries were reported.

A drone-related incident triggered a fire near Dubai International Airport on Monday (Mar 16), according to city authorities, amid raging war in West Asia and Iran's intensified attacks targeting the Gulf nations. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that there had been no reports of injuries. It posted on X, "A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB) affected one of the fuel tanks. Dubai Civil Defence teams are currently working to bring the fire under control." On Wednesday, the city media office said two falling drones wounded four people near the airport.

A drone incident sparked a fire near Dubai International Airport as Iran continues missile and drone attacks on the United Arab Emirates amid the regional conflict. Authorities said emergency crews controlled the blaze and no injuries were reported.

Massive fire near Dubai airport after drone strike, fuel tank hit; flight operations suspended - VIDEO

US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to see China helping the US in helping to secure the Strait of Hormuz. He also reflected on his upcoming China visit and meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and hinted that it could be delayed. Trump's statement comes as uncertainity surrounded the upcoming visit amid war in West Asia. Trump and Jinping met in South Korea in 2025 and reached a truce in the US-China trade tensions and decided to meet again in March 2026. However, America's pre-emptive attack on Iran alongside Israel on Feb 28 and China's alleged help to Iran in providing satellite technology, has complicated the matters even as the US president has reiterated, time and again, that he has a good relationship with the Chinese president.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-report-coalition-to-escort-ships-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773618289652/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-report-coalition-to-escort-ships-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773618289652/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In an telephonic interview to Financial Times, Trump said, “I think China should help too because China gets 90 per cent of its oil from the Straits [sic]. Waiting until the summit would be too late,” he said. "We’d like to know before that. It’s [two weeks is] a long time….We may delay.” The US president’s comments came despite the fact that his Treasury secretary Scott Bessent met his Chinese counterpart He Lifeng in Paris for talks about the planned summit in Beijing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-as-a-sincere-friend-china-responds-after-trump-urges-countries-to-send-warships-to-secure-strait-of-hormuz-amid-iran-threat-1773524775265">China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>Trump's appeal for Strait of Hormuz</h2>This comes after Trump on Friday urged many countries including China to deploy warships in the Strait of Hormuz to secure the region. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the US has “already destroyed 100 percent of Iran's military capability”, but he appealed to multiple countries including China, France, Japan, South Korea and the UK to send ships to the area so that the Hormuz will no longer be a threat. He also said that it is easy for Iran to send a drone or two, drop a mine, or deliver a close-range missile somewhere along or in this waterway, “no matter how badly defeated they are.” On Sunday, Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials, that the POTUS is all set to announce a new coalition that will escort ships through the strategic passage.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-navy-warships-deployed-near-persian-gulf-on-standby-to-assist-merchant-vessels-report-1773521887461">Indian Navy warships deployed near Persian Gulf, on standby to assist merchant vessels: Report</a>&nbsp;In response, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington told CNN that China wants an immediate cession of hostilities, and that “all parties have the responsibility to ensure stable and unimpeded energy supply.” “As a sincere friend and strategic partner of Middle Eastern countries, China will continue to strengthen communication with relevant parties, including parties to the conflict, and play a constructive role for deescalation and restoration of peace,” it added.&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.)

Donald Trump urged China and other nations to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, saying Beijing relies heavily on oil passing through the route. The remarks come ahead of his planned summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing amid tensions linked to the Iran conflict.

US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to see China helping the US in helping to secure the Strait of Hormuz. He also reflected on his upcoming China visit and meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and hinted that it could be delayed. Trump's statement comes as uncertainity surrounded the upcoming visit amid war in West Asia. Trump and Jinping met in South Korea in 2025 and reached a truce in the US-China trade tensions and decided to meet again in March 2026. However, America's pre-emptive attack on Iran alongside Israel on Feb 28 and China's alleged help to Iran in providing satellite technology, has complicated the matters even as the US president has reiterated, time and again, that he has a good relationship with the Chinese president. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-report-coalition-to-escort-ships-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773618289652/embed In an telephonic interview to Financial Times, Trump said, “I think China should help too because China gets 90 per cent of its oil from the Straits [sic]. Waiting until the summit would be too late,” he said. "We’d like to know before that. It’s [two weeks is] a long time….We may delay.” The US president’s comments came despite the fact that his Treasury secretary Scott Bessent met his Chinese counterpart He Lifeng in Paris for talks about the planned summit in Beijing. Also Read: China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz Trump's appeal for Strait of Hormuz This comes after Trump on Friday urged many countries including China to deploy warships in the Strait of Hormuz to secure the region. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the US has “already destroyed 100 percent of Iran's military capability”, but he appealed to multiple countries including China, France, Japan, South Korea and the UK to send ships to the area so that the Hormuz will no longer be a threat. He also said that it is easy for Iran to send a drone or two, drop a mine, or deliver a close-range missile somewhere along or in this waterway, “no matter how badly defeated they are.” On Sunday, Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials, that the POTUS is all set to announce a new coalition that will escort ships through the strategic passage. Also Read: Indian Navy warships deployed near Persian Gulf, on standby to assist merchant vessels: Report In response, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington told CNN that China wants an immediate cession of hostilities, and that “all parties have the responsibility to ensure stable and unimpeded energy supply.” “As a sincere friend and strategic partner of Middle Eastern countries, China will continue to strengthen communication with relevant parties, including parties to the conflict, and play a constructive role for deescalation and restoration of peace,” it added. (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.)

Donald Trump urged China and other nations to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, saying Beijing relies heavily on oil passing through the route. The remarks come ahead of his planned summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing amid tensions linked to the Iran conflict.

'Waiting until...': Trump breaks silence on his China visit amid Iran war, wants Xi Jinping's support for securing Hormuz

India's Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar has hailed ​direct talks with Iran as the most effective way ‌to restart shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and suggested that the talks with the Iranians will continue as it is yielding result. Jaishankar on Sunday (Mar 16) also spoke to foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the UAE and discussed the situation in West Asia. ​On Mar 12, India's crude vessel passed through Strait of Hormuz and reached Mumbai Port safely. On Mar 15, two more LPG tanker passed the strategic chokepoint safely. Reportedly, the Indian Navy has deployed at least three warships in the Gulf of Oman to monitor and provide air-defense cover for India-bound merchant traffic.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-comments-on-india-iran-talks-says-its-better-that-we-coordinate-get-a-solution-1773605694252/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-comments-on-india-iran-talks-says-its-better-that-we-coordinate-get-a-solution-1773605694252/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In an interview with the Financial ⁠Times, Jaishankar said, “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." Stating that his conversation has “yeilded some results," he clarified that there was no “blanket arrangement” for Indian-flagged ships and that Iran had not received anything in exchange. When asked whether European countries ‌could replicate India’s arrangement, Jaishankar said each relationship with ​Iran “stands on its own merits.” About Indian ships crossing the Hormuz, Jaishankar highlighted that it was an example of “what diplomacy could bring.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-as-a-sincere-friend-china-responds-after-trump-urges-countries-to-send-warships-to-secure-strait-of-hormuz-amid-iran-threat-1773524775265/amp">'As a sincere friend...': China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>Jaishankar speaks with his Saudi Arabia, UAE counterparts</h2>After Jaishankar held the phone conversations with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan on Saturday night, Jaishankar posted on X: “Discussed ongoing developments related to the conflict in West Asia.” On the UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Jaishankar said: “Exchanged views on various aspects of the regional situation.” Earlier on Thursday night, Jaishankar spoke to his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-just-for-fun-trump-wants-to-hit-iran-s-kharg-island-again-despite-totally-obliterated-target-claims-1773543729124">Trump wants to hit Iran’s Kharg Island again despite 'totally obliterated target' claims</a>

Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart first spoke on Feb 28 when the joint US-Israeli strikes began. The second call between the two took place on March 5, following the death of the Supreme Leader. During this call, the Iranian Foreign Minister expressed his country's thanks for India's “humane gesture” in allowing the Iranian vessel IRIS Lavan to dock in Kochi due to technical issues. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister has spoken to leaders of several countries in West Asia including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian.&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.)

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said India’s direct talks with Iran helped reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Indian LPG carriers to pass safely. He stressed there is no blanket deal for Indian vessels amid tensions linked to the Iran–Israel war.

India's Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar has hailed direct talks with Iran as the most effective way ‌to restart shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and suggested that the talks with the Iranians will continue as it is yielding result. Jaishankar on Sunday (Mar 16) also spoke to foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the UAE and discussed the situation in West Asia. On Mar 12, India's crude vessel passed through Strait of Hormuz and reached Mumbai Port safely. On Mar 15, two more LPG tanker passed the strategic chokepoint safely. Reportedly, the Indian Navy has deployed at least three warships in the Gulf of Oman to monitor and provide air-defense cover for India-bound merchant traffic. https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-comments-on-india-iran-talks-says-its-better-that-we-coordinate-get-a-solution-1773605694252/embed In an interview with the Financial ⁠Times, Jaishankar said, “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." Stating that his conversation has “yeilded some results," he clarified that there was no “blanket arrangement” for Indian-flagged ships and that Iran had not received anything in exchange. When asked whether European countries ‌could replicate India’s arrangement, Jaishankar said each relationship with Iran “stands on its own merits.” About Indian ships crossing the Hormuz, Jaishankar highlighted that it was an example of “what diplomacy could bring.” Also Read: 'As a sincere friend...': China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz Jaishankar speaks with his Saudi Arabia, UAE counterparts After Jaishankar held the phone conversations with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan on Saturday night, Jaishankar posted on X: “Discussed ongoing developments related to the conflict in West Asia.” On the UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Jaishankar said: “Exchanged views on various aspects of the regional situation.” Earlier on Thursday night, Jaishankar spoke to his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Also Read: Trump wants to hit Iran’s Kharg Island again despite 'totally obliterated target' claims

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said India’s direct talks with Iran helped reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Indian LPG carriers to pass safely. He stressed there is no blanket deal for Indian vessels amid tensions linked to the Iran–Israel war.

'India's diplomacy yielding results':  Jaishankar hails talks with Iran amid Hormuz blockage, denies 'blanket arrangement' for Indian-flagged ships

Iran has denied reaching out to the United States for a deal to end the ongoing war and reiterated its preparedness to fight a long war. Stating that it is ready to “defend” itself for “as longa s it takes", Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an interview said that they will wait for Trump to call this war “illegal.” Slamming United States' “act of aggression” once again, Araghchi declared that the Iranians always knew that they were “stable and strong enough.” About the attack on Gulf nations, the Iranian FM said that Iran is only attacking “American assets, American installations, American military bases” in these countries, and quashed reports of attack on civilian posts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-just-for-fun-trump-wants-to-hit-iran-s-kharg-island-again-despite-totally-obliterated-target-claims-1773543729124">Trump wants to hit Iran’s Kharg Island again despite 'totally obliterated target' claims</a><h2>What Araghchi said about deal with the US?</h2>

"We never asked for a ceasefire, and we have never asked even for negotiation," Araghchi said, in an interview to CBS. He added, “No, we never asked for a cease fire, and we have never asked even for negotiation. We are ready to defend ourselves as long as it takes…We don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans, because we were talking with them when they- when they decided to attack us, and that was for the second time. There is no good experience talking with Americans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;About attacks on neighbouring Gulf nations, he said, “We are only targeting American assets, American installations, American military bases. Everything belongs to Americans, and this is a fact that they are using their soil, you know, just- there are many, many examples. Just yesterday, they, you know, attacked our islands using HIMARS artillery rockets, which is- which are low range, you know, rockets and they use the territory of UAE to attack us. Some a week ago, three F-15 jet fighters were shot down, apparently, by a friendly fire in Kuwait. But nobody asked what they were doing in Kuwait. They were using Kuwait, and, you know, a space of a neighborly, a friendly country, to attack us. So it is obvious we cannot just, you know, remain, you know, silent on this.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-as-a-sincere-friend-china-responds-after-trump-urges-countries-to-send-warships-to-secure-strait-of-hormuz-amid-iran-threat-1773524775265">China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>What Trump said about deal with Iran?</h2>US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Mar 14) has ruled out any possibility of talks with the Iranians after claiming that Iran wants to make a deal. In a phone interview to NBC News, Trump said, “Iran wants to make a deal, and I don’t want to make it because the terms aren’t good enough yet.” He explained that the agreement would need to be “very solid” for Americans to agree with it. When asked what should be the terms of the agreement, he responded, “I don’t want to say that to you,” he said. This comes after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Mar 12, in a post on X, wrote that the war will only end after three conditions will be met - namely - recognition of Islamic Republic's legitimate rights, payment of reparations and firm international guarantees against future aggression. Trump had described Iran as a “tough country”, and declared victory in the war but provided no evidence of the claims.&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.)

Abbas Araghchi said Iran never sought a ceasefire or negotiations with the United States, insisting Tehran will defend itself while targeting American assets in the region. Meanwhile, Donald Trump ruled out a deal with Iran, saying current terms are not strong enough.

Iran has denied reaching out to the United States for a deal to end the ongoing war and reiterated its preparedness to fight a long war. Stating that it is ready to “defend” itself for “as longa s it takes", Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an interview said that they will wait for Trump to call this war “illegal.” Slamming United States' “act of aggression” once again, Araghchi declared that the Iranians always knew that they were “stable and strong enough.” About the attack on Gulf nations, the Iranian FM said that Iran is only attacking “American assets, American installations, American military bases” in these countries, and quashed reports of attack on civilian posts. Also Read: Trump wants to hit Iran’s Kharg Island again despite 'totally obliterated target' claims What Araghchi said about deal with the US?

Abbas Araghchi said Iran never sought a ceasefire or negotiations with the United States, insisting Tehran will defend itself while targeting American assets in the region. Meanwhile, Donald Trump ruled out a deal with Iran, saying current terms are not strong enough.

'Never asked for ceasefire': Iran denies reaching out to US for deal to end war amid Trump's claims

Iran has arrested 500 people accused of sharing information with enemies, the Islamic Republic’s police chief said on Sunday, even as Israeli and US fighter jets continue to strike new targets in the country.Sardar Ahmad-Reza Radan, commander-in-chief of Iranian Police, said hundreds of spies sending information to enemies and anti-Iranian media have been arrested. “500 spies who were sending information to the enemy and anti-Iranian media have been arrested. 250 of these 500 were important cases who provided information to hit targets, had contact with groups, and tried to disrupt public order,” reported Fars News, citing Sardar Radan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">IRAN DETAINS 500 ‘SPIES’ ACCUSED OF PROVIDING DATA FOR ENEMY ATTACKS — Tasnim citing police chief <a href="https://t.co/4mgJLV9gha">pic.twitter.com/4mgJLV9gha</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/2033252220339384366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/conflict-will-certainly-end-in-next-few-weeks-us-energy-secretary-chris-wright-1773597992709">Conflict ‘will certainly’ end in next few weeks: US Energy Secretary Chris Wright</a>&nbsp;“Half of the 500 cases had involved serious incidents, including people who provided information for hitting targets and individuals who took footage of strike locations and sent them,” said Radan said, without sharing details of the arrests and their timing.&nbsp;Radan, appointed in January 2023 by the slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, is known for his hardline stance and has played a major role in suppressing domestic dissent, managing morality policing, and enforcing un-Islamic dress code crackdowns.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-say-i-m-what-netanyahu-mocks-rumours-of-his-death-posts-video-from-coffee-shop-1773591045235">‘They say I’m what?’ Netanyahu mocks rumours of his death, posts video from coffee shop</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Iranian media reported dozens of arrests in several regions ⁠on Sunday.&nbsp;The semi-official Tasnim news agency said 20 people were arrested in northwestern Iran on accusations by the provincial prosecutor’s office of sending location details on Iran’s military and security assets to Israel.In northeastern Iran, which has remained relatively untouched by air strikes, Tasnim reported the arrest of 10 people, with some accused of collecting information on sensitive locations and economic infrastructure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-denies-reports-of-interceptor-shortages-plan-of-talks-with-lebanon-1773584504452">Israel’s FM Gideon Saar denies reports of interceptor shortages, plan of talks with Lebanon</a>&nbsp;“As the Zionist enemy (Israel) and the US are attempting to invade Iran, they simultaneously activate mercenaries and spies to carry out ⁠riots as the next step,” a provincial branch of the Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence organisation said, according to Tasnim news agency.&nbsp;Three people were detained in the western province of Lorestan for “seeking to disturb public opinion ... and burn mourning symbols,” reported The Student News Network.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-attacks-military-camp-in-waziristan-after-pakistan-airstrikes-on-kandahar-1773603281376">Afghanistan attacks military camp in Waziristan after Pakistan airstrikes on Kandahar</a>&nbsp;Israel has ⁠started targeting security checkpoints based on tip-offs from informants on the ground, representing a new phase of its assault on Iran, a source briefed on Israel’s military strategy told Reuters.&nbsp;There were widespread anti-government protests in Iran in January, weeks before the US and Israel launched the current war against Iran, but they were repressed in the deadliest ⁠crackdown in the Islamic Republic’s history.Iranian authorities had blamed Israel and the US for fomenting what they said were “violent riots” aimed at overthrowing the clerical establishment.

About 20 people were arrested in northwestern Iran on accusations of sending location details on Iran’s military and security assets to Israel. Similarly, 10 people were held in northeastern Iran for collecting information on sensitive locations and economic infrastructure.

Iran has arrested 500 people accused of sharing information with enemies, the Islamic Republic’s police chief said on Sunday, even as Israeli and US fighter jets continue to strike new targets in the country. Sardar Ahmad-Reza Radan, commander-in-chief of Iranian Police, said hundreds of spies sending information to enemies and anti-Iranian media have been arrested. “500 spies who were sending information to the enemy and anti-Iranian media have been arrested. 250 of these 500 were important cases who provided information to hit targets, had contact with groups, and tried to disrupt public order,” reported Fars News, citing Sardar Radan.

About 20 people were arrested in northwestern Iran on accusations of sending location details on Iran’s military and security assets to Israel. Similarly, 10 people were held in northeastern Iran for collecting information on sensitive locations and economic infrastructure.

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