National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

In an inflammatory statement that has drawn swift international attention, Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has alleged that remnants of Jeffrey Epstein’s network are orchestrating a plot to stage a terrorist attack mirroring the 9/11 atrocities in the US, with the explicit intent of framing Tehran. Writing on the social media platform X, Larijani claimed: "I’ve heard that the remaining members of Epstein’s network have devised a conspiracy to create an incident similar to 9/11 and blame Iran for it."&nbsp;Larijani, a high-ranking official within the Iranian government, emphasised that Tehran remains steadfastly opposed to terrorism, stating, "Iran fundamentally opposes such terrorist schemes and has no war with the American people."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-iran-being-framed-abbas-araghchi-claims-trump-is-using-lucas-drones-that-match-shahed-perfectly-to-attack-arab-nations-1773580911417">Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations</a>&nbsp;The allegations invoke the memory of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, widely regarded as one of the deadliest and most significant events in modern history. According to official reports from major news agencies like Reuters.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’ve heard that the remaining members of Epstein’s network have devised a conspiracy to create an incident similar to 9/11 and blame Iran for it. Iran fundamentally opposes such terrorist schemes and has no war with the American people.&mdash; Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alilarijani_ir/status/2033119770237645261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>The 9/11 attack</h2>19 hijackers linked to the Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation seized control of four commercial passenger planes on September 11, 2001.&nbsp;The targets:<ol><li>World Trade Centre: Two planes were flown into the Twin Towers in New York City, leading to their catastrophic collapse.</li><li>The Pentagon: A third plane struck the US military headquarters in Virginia.</li><li>Shanksville, Pennsylvania: A fourth plane crashed into a field after passengers resisted the hijackers, preventing it from reaching a presumed target in Washington, DC.</li></ol>Nearly 3,000 lives were lost, and the event caused unprecedented destruction to the World Trade Centre complex and surrounding areas.&nbsp;As of now, there has been no official response from the US government regarding Larijani's specific claims, nor has there been any public evidence provided to support the allegation of a conspiracy involving the late Jeffrey Epstein’s associates.

Iranian security official Ali Larijani has alleged that remnants of the Jeffrey Epstein network are orchestrating a 9/11-style terrorist attack intended to frame Tehran, a claim made amidst escalating tensions between Iran and the US.

In an inflammatory statement that has drawn swift international attention, Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has alleged that remnants of Jeffrey Epstein’s network are orchestrating a plot to stage a terrorist attack mirroring the 9/11 atrocities in the US, with the explicit intent of framing Tehran. Writing on the social media platform X, Larijani claimed: "I’ve heard that the remaining members of Epstein’s network have devised a conspiracy to create an incident similar to 9/11 and blame Iran for it." Larijani, a high-ranking official within the Iranian government, emphasised that Tehran remains steadfastly opposed to terrorism, stating, "Iran fundamentally opposes such terrorist schemes and has no war with the American people."

Iranian security official Ali Larijani has alleged that remnants of the Jeffrey Epstein network are orchestrating a 9/11-style terrorist attack intended to frame Tehran, a claim made amidst escalating tensions between Iran and the US.

‘Incident similar to 9/11’: Iran’s security chief claims conspiracy linking ‘Epstein network’

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claims the US is using reverse-engineered "LUCAS" drones, designed to mimic Iran's Shahed-136, to conduct deceptive false-flag attacks on civilian sites in Arab nations.

Is Iran being framed? Abbas Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly' to attack Arab nations

Britain is contemplating sending mine-hunting drones and ships to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end Iran’s stranglehold over the key oil shipping route following a call to allies by US President Donald Trump. Energy secretary Ed Miliband said on Sunday that the UK and its allies could do “a range of things” to secure the route, which has been blocked by Iran and led to a fuel supply shortage and the consequent surge in energy prices.&nbsp;Miliband’s intervention comes after Trump called for allies to send warships to protect their own tankers in the region and help secure the waterway.&nbsp;&nbsp;The energy secretary confirmed that ministers were talking to their allies about how the UK could help secure the vital waterway after the US president, Donald Trump, urged Britain and other countries to deploy ships to the region.&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;About 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait, and its effective closure since the start of the war, which has entered its third week, has sent oil prices rocketing from approximately $65 a barrel to about $100.&nbsp;The energy price spiral is an alarm for the western countries as governments face the prospect of inflation.“It is very important that we get the Strait of Hormuz reopened. And we have already been talking with our allies, including the US, about this,” Miliband told BBC.“There are different ways that we could contribute, including with mine-hunting drones. All of these things are being looked at in concert with our allies … Any options that can help to get the strait reopened are being looked at,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-and-iran-harden-stance-both-reject-mediation-efforts-for-ceasefire-talks-1773516304591">Trump and Iran harden stance, both reject mediation efforts for ceasefire talks</a>&nbsp;Britain’s mine-hunter drones trick mines into detonating safely by flying in a pattern that makes them look like passing ships.&nbsp;Ministers are also considering the domestic fallout of higher energy prices, which threaten to derail the UK’s nascent economic recovery.On being asked whether the government would cancel a rise in fuel duty planned for September, Miliband said ministers would “stand by” the British people. “We will stand by the British people in this, in this crisis, and we’ll do what it takes to do that,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-leader-says-ukraine-now-a-legitimate-target-over-alleged-drone-support-for-israel-1773501266904">Iranian leader says Ukraine now a ‘legitimate target’ over alleged drone support for Israel</a>&nbsp;Miliband was speaking a day after Trump called on the UK, China, France, Japan, South Korea, and others to send their warships to the region in an appeal to nations affected by the price rise.Trump said in a post on Truth Social, “Hopefully China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others, that are affected by this artificial constraint will send ships to the area so that the Hormuz Strait will no longer be a threat by a nation that has been totally decapitated.”“In the meantime, the United States will be bombing the hell out of the shoreline and continually shooting Iranian boats and ships out of the water. One way or the other, we will soon get the Hormuz Strait OPEN, SAFE, and FREE!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-with-iran-entering-decisive-phase-says-israel-s-defence-minister-israel-katz-1773498890073">War with Iran entering ‘decisive phase,’ says Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz</a>&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz has been gripped by conflict after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had taken “complete control” of the passage, obstructing the flow of oil out of the Middle East and pushing up energy prices across the globe.&nbsp;There is growing concern that Iran has started placing sea mines in the strait while numerous oil tankers have come under fire as they attempted to pass through the strait.&nbsp;Earlier, in his first public statement this week, Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed to keep blocking the Strait of Hormuz as a means of pressuring the US.In turn, Trump has threatened to “wipe out” Kharg Island, a vital part of Iran’s oil infrastructure, if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Britain’s mine-hunter drones trick mines into detonating safely by flying in a pattern that makes them look like passing ships. The ministers are also considering the domestic fallout of higher energy prices, which threaten to derail the UK’s nascent economic recovery.

Britain is contemplating sending mine-hunting drones and ships to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end Iran’s stranglehold over the key oil shipping route following a call to allies by US President Donald Trump. Energy secretary Ed Miliband said on Sunday that the UK and its allies could do “a range of things” to secure the route, which has been blocked by Iran and led to a fuel supply shortage and the consequent surge in energy prices. Miliband’s intervention comes after Trump called for allies to send warships to protect their own tankers in the region and help secure the waterway. The energy secretary confirmed that ministers were talking to their allies about how the UK could help secure the vital waterway after the US president, Donald Trump, urged Britain and other countries to deploy ships to the region. Also Read: Indian Navy warships deployed near Persian Gulf, on standby to assist merchant vessels: Report About 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait, and its effective closure since the start of the war, which has entered its third week, has sent oil prices rocketing from approximately $65 a barrel to about $100. The energy price spiral is an alarm for the western countries as governments face the prospect of inflation. “It is very important that we get the Strait of Hormuz reopened. And we have already been talking with our allies, including the US, about this,” Miliband told BBC. “There are different ways that we could contribute, including with mine-hunting drones. All of these things are being looked at in concert with our allies … Any options that can help to get the strait reopened are being looked at,” he added. Also Read: Trump and Iran harden stance, both reject mediation efforts for ceasefire talks Britain’s mine-hunter drones trick mines into detonating safely by flying in a pattern that makes them look like passing ships. Ministers are also considering the domestic fallout of higher energy prices, which threaten to derail the UK’s nascent economic recovery. On being asked whether the government would cancel a rise in fuel duty planned for September, Miliband said ministers would “stand by” the British people. “We will stand by the British people in this, in this crisis, and we’ll do what it takes to do that,” he said. Also Read: Iranian leader says Ukraine now a ‘legitimate target’ over alleged drone support for Israel Miliband was speaking a day after Trump called on the UK, China, France, Japan, South Korea, and others to send their warships to the region in an appeal to nations affected by the price rise. Trump said in a post on Truth Social, “Hopefully China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others, that are affected by this artificial constraint will send ships to the area so that the Hormuz Strait will no longer be a threat by a nation that has been totally decapitated.” “In the meantime, the United States will be bombing the hell out of the shoreline and continually shooting Iranian boats and ships out of the water. One way or the other, we will soon get the Hormuz Strait OPEN, SAFE, and FREE!” Also Read: War with Iran entering ‘decisive phase,’ says Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz The Strait of Hormuz has been gripped by conflict after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had taken “complete control” of the passage, obstructing the flow of oil out of the Middle East and pushing up energy prices across the globe. There is growing concern that Iran has started placing sea mines in the strait while numerous oil tankers have come under fire as they attempted to pass through the strait. Earlier, in his first public statement this week, Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed to keep blocking the Strait of Hormuz as a means of pressuring the US. In turn, Trump has threatened to “wipe out” Kharg Island, a vital part of Iran’s oil infrastructure, if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Britain’s mine-hunter drones trick mines into detonating safely by flying in a pattern that makes them look like passing ships. The ministers are also considering the domestic fallout of higher energy prices, which threaten to derail the UK’s nascent economic recovery.

UK may send mine-hunting drones to help open Strait of Hormuz: Energy Secretary Ed Miliband

The ongoing conflict has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, halting nearly all commercial traffic and threatening global energy security. As asymmetric threats persist, international efforts to secure this vital artery remain critical to stabilising volatile global markets.

Trump wants to secure Strait of Hormuz: Is it possible?

United States and Chinese delegations are meeting in Paris for a high-level trade delegation aimed at stabilising trade relations between the two nations and laying the groundwork for the Trump-Xi summit later this month or early April. The meeting will be led by the US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant and Chinese Premier He Lifeng. They are discussing a way to ease the tension between the two of the world's largest economies. According to White House reports, Trump is expected to travel to China from March 31 to April 2, but no official confirmation has been issued from Beijing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Scott Kennedy, a China economics expert at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said that the summit “superficially suggests progress, but that really just leaves things about where they’ve been for the last four months.” He further added that both parties' minimum goal is to avoid a “rupture and re-escalation of tensions."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-consumer-rights-day-2026-highest-consumer-spending-countries-us-china-india-germany-france-1773563804706">World Consumer Rights Day 2026: 7 countries with the highest consumer spending in the world</a><h2>Key issues on the agenda&nbsp;</h2>Tariffs and Trade - The meeting is expected to review the progress of the October 2025 trade truce declared by Trump and Xi in Busan, South Korea. The deal, which paused US tariffs on Chinese imports, eased China's export control on rare earths, a pause of the US blacklist of Chinese companies from buying high-tech goods such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and China's promise to purchase US agricultural products, such as Soybean.&nbsp;Section 301- Bessent is likely to bring in a new irritant of section 301 to target China and 15 other trading partners over alleged excess industrial capacity, which could revitalise the trade war following a strike down of Trump's tariffs by the US Supreme Court. It is also likely to bring alleged forced labour practices in 60 countries, including China.&nbsp;Strategic Consideration- Perhaps the most significant of the talks are around broader geopolitical tensions, energy security and Iran's leverage over the Strait of Hormuz through which China gets 45 per cent of its oil. Earlier today, Trump urged the UK, China, France, Japan and South Korea to send ships to secure the shipping route. The Chinese embassy in Washington responded that all parties involved in the conflict have a responsibility to ensure energy security.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

US and Chinese officials meet in Paris to ease trade tensions and prepare for a Trump–Xi summit, discussing tariffs, Section 301 probes and global energy security.

United States and Chinese delegations are meeting in Paris for a high-level trade delegation aimed at stabilising trade relations between the two nations and laying the groundwork for the Trump-Xi summit later this month or early April. The meeting will be led by the US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant and Chinese Premier He Lifeng. They are discussing a way to ease the tension between the two of the world's largest economies. According to White House reports, Trump is expected to travel to China from March 31 to April 2, but no official confirmation has been issued from Beijing. Scott Kennedy, a China economics expert at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said that the summit “superficially suggests progress, but that really just leaves things about where they’ve been for the last four months.” He further added that both parties' minimum goal is to avoid a “rupture and re-escalation of tensions." Also Read: World Consumer Rights Day 2026: 7 countries with the highest consumer spending in the world Key issues on the agenda Tariffs and Trade - The meeting is expected to review the progress of the October 2025 trade truce declared by Trump and Xi in Busan, South Korea. The deal, which paused US tariffs on Chinese imports, eased China's export control on rare earths, a pause of the US blacklist of Chinese companies from buying high-tech goods such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and China's promise to purchase US agricultural products, such as Soybean. Section 301- Bessent is likely to bring in a new irritant of section 301 to target China and 15 other trading partners over alleged excess industrial capacity, which could revitalise the trade war following a strike down of Trump's tariffs by the US Supreme Court. It is also likely to bring alleged forced labour practices in 60 countries, including China. Strategic Consideration- Perhaps the most significant of the talks are around broader geopolitical tensions, energy security and Iran's leverage over the Strait of Hormuz through which China gets 45 per cent of its oil. Earlier today, Trump urged the UK, China, France, Japan and South Korea to send ships to secure the shipping route. The Chinese embassy in Washington responded that all parties involved in the conflict have a responsibility to ensure energy security.

US and Chinese officials meet in Paris to ease trade tensions and prepare for a Trump–Xi summit, discussing tariffs, Section 301 probes and global energy security.

US-China launch trade talks in Paris to pave way for Trump-Xi summit amid Iran war

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, urged other countries and regional neighbours to refrain from any action that could widen the scope of the war with the United States and Israel. In a telephonic conversation with his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, on Sunday (March 15), Araghchi called on other countries to "refrain from any action that could lead to escalation and expansion of the conflict," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on X.&nbsp;Tehran's top diplomat emphasised Iran's firm determination to defend its sovereignty, dignity, territorial integrity, and national security.Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries.&nbsp;"Iran's defensive actions are exclusively targeted at the military bases and facilities of the aggressors in the region and should in no way be construed as an attack by Iran on the countries of the region," the statement read.&nbsp;These statements from the Islamic Republic come after US President Donald Trump urged multiple countries, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others "affected by this artificial constraint," to send warships to the area "so that the Hormuz will no longer be a threat by a nation that has totally decapitated."&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-china-france-japan-and-uk-to-send-warships-to-open-strait-of-hormuz-1773500295310"> Trump urges China, France, Japan, and UK to send warships to open Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;The war in West Asia entered its third week after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted the top leadership of Iran, assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the opening day of the military campaign.&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases across the region. It announced the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipping. This led to a sharp rise in energy prices, with crude crossing $100 per barrel.Amid mounting pressure from rising oil prices, Trump on Friday ordered massive strikes on Kharg Island, Iran's critical oil export hub, to push Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;On the issue of shipping disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's foreign minister stressed the need to "decisively condemn the criminal actions of the aggressors in attacking Iran," adding that "the primary root of insecurity across the entire region, including Lebanon, lies in the Zionist regime's aggression and quest for dominance, and the return of calm to Lebanon is contingent upon the end of this regime's occupation and the cessation of its attacks and aggressions."&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)&nbsp;

Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, urged other countries and regional neighbours to refrain from any action that could widen the scope of the war with the United States and Israel. In a telephonic conversation with his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, on Sunday (March 15), Araghchi called on other countries to "refrain from any action that could lead to escalation and expansion of the conflict," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on X. Tehran's top diplomat emphasised Iran's firm determination to defend its sovereignty, dignity, territorial integrity, and national security. Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries. "Iran's defensive actions are exclusively targeted at the military bases and facilities of the aggressors in the region and should in no way be construed as an attack by Iran on the countries of the region," the statement read. These statements from the Islamic Republic come after US President Donald Trump urged multiple countries, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others "affected by this artificial constraint," to send warships to the area "so that the Hormuz will no longer be a threat by a nation that has totally decapitated." Also Read: Trump urges China, France, Japan, and UK to send warships to open Strait of Hormuz The war in West Asia entered its third week after joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 targeted the top leadership of Iran, assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the opening day of the military campaign. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases across the region. It announced the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipping. This led to a sharp rise in energy prices, with crude crossing $100 per barrel. Amid mounting pressure from rising oil prices, Trump on Friday ordered massive strikes on Kharg Island, Iran's critical oil export hub, to push Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. On the issue of shipping disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's foreign minister stressed the need to "decisively condemn the criminal actions of the aggressors in attacking Iran," adding that "the primary root of insecurity across the entire region, including Lebanon, lies in the Zionist regime's aggression and quest for dominance, and the return of calm to Lebanon is contingent upon the end of this regime's occupation and the cessation of its attacks and aggressions." (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.)

Araghchi described Tehran's strikes as "defensive actions" and clarified that Iran's strikes on US bases in Gulf nations should not be considered attacks on those countries.

'Avoid action that could widen the war': Araghchi says Iran targeted US assets in regional strikes

In the wake of Ali Khamenei’s assassination, the IRGC has emerged as the true authority in Iran. By managing the severely wounded Mojtaba Khamenei’s communications, the Guard maintains the illusion of leadership while directing the country's wartime military and economic machinery.

Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination? Hint: It's not Mojtaba Khamenei

India is not expected to join any multinational naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz, opting instead to rely on its own naval resources to protect merchant vessels amid the escalating war in West Asia. The message is clear: the heavy lifting will be done by the Indian Navy.Indian govt sources told WION that, "India has been carrying out operations in western Indian ocean for years, esp under Op Sankalp, which India has carried on its own capacity", detailing that “while other multinational operation in anti piracy has taken place, India has carried independent, effective anti piracy operation without being part of multinational constructs”.&nbsp;India currently has 22 Indian-flagged vessels with 611 seafarers in the Persian Gulf region. 2 two Indian-flag LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, carrying about 92,712 MT of LPG, crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend and are due to dock at Mundra, Kandla port very soon.For India, the Indian Navy has long prepared for conflict scenarios in the western Indian Ocean. Since June 2019, Operation Sankalp has provided armed escorts, surveillance and rapid response to threats, including piracy, drones and missiles, for vessels in the Gulf of Oman, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Aden.Recent deployments have included warships escorting tankers like Shivalik and Nanda Devi through Hormuz, with the security corridor expected to remain in place for some time.The long-standing Indian stance comes as US President Donald Trump has urged other nations to step up, posting on Truth Social: "The Countries of the World that receive Oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage" and that the US "will help-A Lot". He listed China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others" to send ships "to the area".The war sparked by US and Israeli attacks on Iran on 28 February enters its third week, and there seems to be no end in sight. With counterattacks by Iran, the vessel traffic through Hormuz, a strategic waterway, has been negligible. Iran has, however, allowed some vessels, including India-bound ships. The closure has sent energy prices soaring, triggering emergency conservation measures in import-dependent countries.Countries from South Korea to India, from Sri Lanka to Pakistan, have imposed steps, from fuel rationing via QR codes and flue caps on vehicles to redirecting commercial LPG to households, school closures and even salary cuts in some cases.

India remains committed to independent maritime security, utilising its Navy to protect merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz rather than joining multinational coalitions.
 

India is not expected to join any multinational naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz, opting instead to rely on its own naval resources to protect merchant vessels amid the escalating war in West Asia. The message is clear: the heavy lifting will be done by the Indian Navy. Indian govt sources told WION that, "India has been carrying out operations in western Indian ocean for years, esp under Op Sankalp, which India has carried on its own capacity", detailing that “while other multinational operation in anti piracy has taken place, India has carried independent, effective anti piracy operation without being part of multinational constructs”. India currently has 22 Indian-flagged vessels with 611 seafarers in the Persian Gulf region. 2 two Indian-flag LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, carrying about 92,712 MT of LPG, crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend and are due to dock at Mundra, Kandla port very soon. For India, the Indian Navy has long prepared for conflict scenarios in the western Indian Ocean. Since June 2019, Operation Sankalp has provided armed escorts, surveillance and rapid response to threats, including piracy, drones and missiles, for vessels in the Gulf of Oman, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Aden. Recent deployments have included warships escorting tankers like Shivalik and Nanda Devi through Hormuz, with the security corridor expected to remain in place for some time. The long-standing Indian stance comes as US President Donald Trump has urged other nations to step up, posting on Truth Social: "The Countries of the World that receive Oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage" and that the US "will help-A Lot". He listed China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others" to send ships "to the area". The war sparked by US and Israeli attacks on Iran on 28 February enters its third week, and there seems to be no end in sight. With counterattacks by Iran, the vessel traffic through Hormuz, a strategic waterway, has been negligible. Iran has, however, allowed some vessels, including India-bound ships. The closure has sent energy prices soaring, triggering emergency conservation measures in import-dependent countries. Countries from South Korea to India, from Sri Lanka to Pakistan, have imposed steps, from fuel rationing via QR codes and flue caps on vehicles to redirecting commercial LPG to households, school closures and even salary cuts in some cases.

India remains committed to independent maritime security, utilising its Navy to protect merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz rather than joining multinational coalitions. &nbsp;

India is unlikely to be part of any multinational coalition on Strait of Hormuz

Amid escalating hostilities in West Asia, SpiceJet has announced to operate special flights from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India for Indian nationals returning to the country. The airlines will be operating seven special flights from Fujairah and two from Dubai on March 15 and March 16. This comes as many foreign nationals remain stranded in the Gulf nations following airspace restrictions amid the conflict.On March 15, the airline is running three special flights from Fujairah to India. Two of the flights will connect Fujairah with New Delhi, while another will land in Mumbai. In addition, a special flight from Dubai to Pune is also being operated to help passengers return home.On March 16, the airline plans to operate four more flights from Fujairah to India, along with another one from Dubai. SpiceJet said it has been coordinating with airport authorities and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and efficient passenger handling.Earlier on March 4, the airlines operated eight special flights from the UAE to facilitate the return of Indian nationals.<h2>IndiGo, Air India cancel flights</h2>Earlier today, IndiGo and Air India cancelled their flights due to the conflict in West Asia. In a statement early Sunday (Mar 15), IndiGo said, “Due to the evolving situation in Middle East, flight operations have been further restricted in Dubai, leading to changes in flight schedules.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Update: Due to the evolving situation in Middle East, flight operations have been further restricted in Dubai, leading to changes in flight schedules. Customers travelling to/from Dubai are requested to check their flight status at <a href="https://t.co/ll3K8Px1Ht">https://t.co/ll3K8Px1Ht</a> before leaving for the… <a href="https://t.co/j3mr7nyxCv">https://t.co/j3mr7nyxCv</a>&mdash; IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/2032939613858443367?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Air India, in a statement on Sunday, said, “Following instructions from UAE Airport Authorities, Air India and Air India Express are compelled to further curtail their ad‑hoc operations for 15 March 2026.”“All Air India Express flights planned for the day to and from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah stand cancelled. Both airlines will now operate one round trip each on the Delhi–Dubai sector,” it added. “These flights will be operated subject to slot availability and prevailing conditions at the time of operation. Guests booked on cancelled or temporarily suspended services may rebook to a future date at no additional charge or opt for a full refund.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ImportantUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ImportantUpdate</a> Following instructions from UAE Airport Authorities, Air India and Air India Express are compelled to further curtail their ad‑hoc operations for 15 March 2026. All Air India Express flights planned for the day to and from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah…&mdash; Air India (@airindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindia/status/2033059604863877222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The flight disruptions come after the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran on February 28, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

SpiceJet will run nine special flights from the United Arab Emirates to India on Mar 15–16 for stranded Indians, while IndiGo and Air India cancel several services amid the West Asia conflict.

Amid escalating hostilities in West Asia, SpiceJet has announced to operate special flights from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India for Indian nationals returning to the country. The airlines will be operating seven special flights from Fujairah and two from Dubai on March 15 and March 16. This comes as many foreign nationals remain stranded in the Gulf nations following airspace restrictions amid the conflict. On March 15, the airline is running three special flights from Fujairah to India. Two of the flights will connect Fujairah with New Delhi, while another will land in Mumbai. In addition, a special flight from Dubai to Pune is also being operated to help passengers return home. On March 16, the airline plans to operate four more flights from Fujairah to India, along with another one from Dubai. SpiceJet said it has been coordinating with airport authorities and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and efficient passenger handling. Earlier on March 4, the airlines operated eight special flights from the UAE to facilitate the return of Indian nationals. IndiGo, Air India cancel flights Earlier today, IndiGo and Air India cancelled their flights due to the conflict in West Asia. In a statement early Sunday (Mar 15), IndiGo said, “Due to the evolving situation in Middle East, flight operations have been further restricted in Dubai, leading to changes in flight schedules.”

SpiceJet will run nine special flights from the United Arab Emirates to India on Mar 15–16 for stranded Indians, while IndiGo and Air India cancel several services amid the West Asia conflict.

SpiceJet to operate 9 special flights from UAE to India amid Iran war – Check details

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed grave concern on Sunday (March 15) that the escalating conflict between the US and Iran could distract Washington from Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Speaking to reporters in a briefing, the Ukrainian leader acknowledged that US officials are "without a doubt currently preoccupied with the Middle East." His comments come just two weeks after a series of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military and energy infrastructure sparked a regional crisis.<h2>Ukraine offers drone expertise as ‘Trump card’</h2>In an effort to remain a relevant ally, Zelensky revealed that Ukraine has deployed military expert teams to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to share hard-won experience in intercepting Iranian-made drones.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-anyone-clothed-by-the-us-is-naked-iranian-official-slams-gulf-nations-over-us-bases-1773560411963">‘Anyone clothed by US is NAKED’: Iran official slams Gulf nations over US bases</a>&nbsp;"We are showing our willingness to help the US and their allies in the Middle East," Zelensky said. "We strongly hope that... the United States will not turn its back on the question of the war in Ukraine,” he added.&nbsp;Ukraine has faced years of barrages from Iranian-designed Shahed drones launched by Russia, leading Kyiv to develop some of the world’s most cost-effective anti-drone tactics. But the American President Donald Trump has been publicly dismissive of the offer. Trump told reporters that the US has "the best drones in the world" and that Zelensky is "the last person the United States would need help from" in a fight against Iran.<h2>‘Will work with any leadership...’</h2>Beyond Washington, Zelensky addressed deteriorating relations with Budapest. He signalled a willingness to work with "any leadership in Hungary," provided they are not a "tool" of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-said-iran-s-fm-denies-witkoff-s-claims-of-boasting-to-build-11-nuclear-bombs-slams-us-envoy-s-lack-of-knowledge-1773556763090">Araghchi denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs</a>&nbsp;The remarks came weeks after escalating friction with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has recently blocked a €90 billion EU loan intended for Ukraine and has accused Kyiv of political sabotage regarding the closure of the Druzhba oil pipeline. The PM also seized Ukrainian bank vehicles carrying cash and gold, alleging a money-laundering investigation - a move Kyiv labelled as “hostage-taking.”

Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed concern that escalating US-Iran tensions could divert American support from Ukraine. To maintain relevance, Kyiv offered drone-defence expertise to Middle Eastern allies.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed grave concern on Sunday (March 15) that the escalating conflict between the US and Iran could distract Washington from Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Speaking to reporters in a briefing, the Ukrainian leader acknowledged that US officials are "without a doubt currently preoccupied with the Middle East." His comments come just two weeks after a series of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military and energy infrastructure sparked a regional crisis. Ukraine offers drone expertise as ‘Trump card’ In an effort to remain a relevant ally, Zelensky revealed that Ukraine has deployed military expert teams to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to share hard-won experience in intercepting Iranian-made drones. Also read: ‘Anyone clothed by US is NAKED’: Iran official slams Gulf nations over US bases "We are showing our willingness to help the US and their allies in the Middle East," Zelensky said. "We strongly hope that... the United States will not turn its back on the question of the war in Ukraine,” he added. Ukraine has faced years of barrages from Iranian-designed Shahed drones launched by Russia, leading Kyiv to develop some of the world’s most cost-effective anti-drone tactics. But the American President Donald Trump has been publicly dismissive of the offer. Trump told reporters that the US has "the best drones in the world" and that Zelensky is "the last person the United States would need help from" in a fight against Iran. ‘Will work with any leadership...’ Beyond Washington, Zelensky addressed deteriorating relations with Budapest. He signalled a willingness to work with "any leadership in Hungary," provided they are not a "tool" of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also read: Araghchi denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs The remarks came weeks after escalating friction with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has recently blocked a €90 billion EU loan intended for Ukraine and has accused Kyiv of political sabotage regarding the closure of the Druzhba oil pipeline. The PM also seized Ukrainian bank vehicles carrying cash and gold, alleging a money-laundering investigation - a move Kyiv labelled as “hostage-taking.”

Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed concern that escalating US-Iran tensions could divert American support from Ukraine. To maintain relevance, Kyiv offered drone-defence expertise to Middle Eastern allies.

‘Don’t want to lose US backing because of Iran war,’ says Zelensky after Trump rejects his ‘help’

Amid the ongoing war with Israel and the US, Iran arrested 20 people over suspected links to Tel Aviv, said the West Azerbaijan province’s prosecutor office, as reported by Tasnim news agency. The arrested are accused of sending location details on Iran’s military and security assets to Israel. Arrests in Iran on the pretext of spying, without giving any evidence is nothing new in the country.&nbsp;In its new phase of assault against Iran, Israel has targeted security checkpoints based on tip-offs ​from ​informants on ⁠the ground, reported Reuters.<h2>Russia comes to Iran's help</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Russia has become the first country to send aid to Iran amid war. Moscow has delivered more than 13 tons of emergency medical supplies to Iran via Azerbaijan, as the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel intensifies. The aid package, consisting primarily of medicines and essential hospital equipment, was dispatched on the direct orders of Russian President Vladimir Putin to address urgent healthcare shortages following weeks of heavy bombardment.&nbsp;The humanitarian shipment was transported by a specialised Il-76 aircraft from Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry to Azerbaijan, from where it was transferred to the Iranian Red Crescent Society for final delivery. The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the aid was provided following a specific request from Tehran, citing the widespread destruction of medical infrastructure and a high volume of civilian casualties. &nbsp;

Russia has become the first country to send aid to Iran amid war. It has sent tons of emergency medical supplies to Iran.

Amid the ongoing war with Israel and the US, Iran arrested 20 people over suspected links to Tel Aviv, said the West Azerbaijan province’s prosecutor office, as reported by Tasnim news agency. The arrested are accused of sending location details on Iran’s military and security assets to Israel. Arrests in Iran on the pretext of spying, without giving any evidence is nothing new in the country. In its new phase of assault against Iran, Israel has targeted security checkpoints based on tip-offs from informants on ⁠the ground, reported Reuters. Russia comes to Iran's help Meanwhile, Russia has become the first country to send aid to Iran amid war. Moscow has delivered more than 13 tons of emergency medical supplies to Iran via Azerbaijan, as the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel intensifies. The aid package, consisting primarily of medicines and essential hospital equipment, was dispatched on the direct orders of Russian President Vladimir Putin to address urgent healthcare shortages following weeks of heavy bombardment. The humanitarian shipment was transported by a specialised Il-76 aircraft from Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry to Azerbaijan, from where it was transferred to the Iranian Red Crescent Society for final delivery. The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the aid was provided following a specific request from Tehran, citing the widespread destruction of medical infrastructure and a high volume of civilian casualties.

Russia has become the first country to send aid to Iran amid war. It has sent tons of emergency medical supplies to Iran.

Iran arrests 20 for sharing military details with Israel

The Strait of Hormuz is controlled geographically by Iran and Oman, but international law guarantees transit passage, making it a shared chokepoint where influence matters more than legal ownership.



Who controls the Strait of Hormuz - Iran, US or International Law?

Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Saturday (Mar 14) slammed Gulf nations, claiming that US military bases in the region “do not protect anyone” but “are a threat”. This comes as hostilities continue to rise in West Asia as the US and Israel continue strikes on Iran, with Tehran targeting multiple American and Israeli targets across the Gulf and several ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.In a post on X, Ghalibaf said, “This war proved one thing quite clearly: American bases in our region do not protect anyone—they are a threat. America sacrifices everyone for Israel and does not care about anyone but Israel.”He further added, “Anyone clothed by the US is literally NAKED!”Earlier on Thursday (Mar 12), Ghalibaf warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. However, the next day, US forces launched an attack on Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf.Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said US bases in the Gulf “protect no one” but threaten the region as Iran, the United States and Israel clash in the escalating war.

Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Saturday (Mar 14) slammed Gulf nations, claiming that US military bases in the region “do not protect anyone” but “are a threat”. This comes as hostilities continue to rise in West Asia as the US and Israel continue strikes on Iran, with Tehran targeting multiple American and Israeli targets across the Gulf and several ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on X, Ghalibaf said, “This war proved one thing quite clearly: American bases in our region do not protect anyone—they are a threat. America sacrifices everyone for Israel and does not care about anyone but Israel.” He further added, “Anyone clothed by the US is literally NAKED!” Earlier on Thursday (Mar 12), Ghalibaf warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. However, the next day, US forces launched an attack on Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said US bases in the Gulf “protect no one” but threaten the region as Iran, the United States and Israel clash in the escalating war.

‘Anyone clothed by US is NAKED’: Iranian official slams Gulf nations over US bases

Tensions between Islamabad and Kabul reached a volatile peak on Sunday (March 15) as Pakistan announced a series of military strikes against targets inside southern Afghanistan. The operation, which followed weeks of intensifying cross-border skirmishes, marked a significant escalation in the ongoing regional security crisis.&nbsp;Pakistan’s security apparatus said that its forces successfully neutralised critical infrastructure within Kandahar. As per reports, the strikes decimated technical support hubs and specialised equipment storage facilities. These locations are particularly sensitive, as Kandahar serves as the power base for the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. Further operations targeted a strategic tunnel network reportedly utilised by both the Afghan Taliban and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the militant organisation Islamabad holds responsible for a surging wave of domestic violence.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-said-iran-s-fm-denies-witkoff-s-claims-of-boasting-to-build-11-nuclear-bombs-slams-us-envoy-s-lack-of-knowledge-1773556763090">'Never said...': Iran’s FM denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs, slams US envoy’s 'lack of knowledge'</a>&nbsp;Local accounts from Kandahar corroborate the intensity of the offensive. Residents described the roar of military aircraft overhead throughout the night, followed by the sight of flames erupting from mountainous terrain near military installations. Reports of additional aerial activity emerged from Spin Boldak and the eastern province of Khost, signalling a broad geographic reach to the hostilities.&nbsp;The Taliban administration in Kabul has vehemently challenged Pakistan's narrative. Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesperson for the Taliban, downplayed the military impact of the strikes. He claimed the bombardment primarily damaged a drug rehabilitation centre and empty storage containers, insisting that the targeted sites lacked the strategic or militant significance claimed by Pakistani officials.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-netanyahu-is-alive-iran-s-revolutionary-guards-vow-to-pursue-and-kill-israeli-pm-amid-war-1773553754317">‘If Netanyahu is alive...’: Iran’s Guards vow to ‘pursue and kill’ Israeli PM</a>&nbsp;This exchange followed a weekend of heightened confrontation. Islamabad maintained it intercepted multiple drone attacks directed at sensitive sites, including its primary military headquarters in Rawalpindi. President Asif Ali Zardari has characterised these provocations as a crossing of a "red line," warning that the state would not tolerate threats to its civilian population.

Pakistan launched significant military strikes against Kandahar and eastern Afghanistan on Sunday (March 15), targeting TTP hubs and Taliban infrastructure. This escalation follows intercepted Afghan drone attacks on Rawalpindi. 

Tensions between Islamabad and Kabul reached a volatile peak on Sunday (March 15) as Pakistan announced a series of military strikes against targets inside southern Afghanistan. The operation, which followed weeks of intensifying cross-border skirmishes, marked a significant escalation in the ongoing regional security crisis. Pakistan’s security apparatus said that its forces successfully neutralised critical infrastructure within Kandahar. As per reports, the strikes decimated technical support hubs and specialised equipment storage facilities. These locations are particularly sensitive, as Kandahar serves as the power base for the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. Further operations targeted a strategic tunnel network reportedly utilised by both the Afghan Taliban and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the militant organisation Islamabad holds responsible for a surging wave of domestic violence. Also read: 'Never said...': Iran’s FM denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs, slams US envoy’s 'lack of knowledge' Local accounts from Kandahar corroborate the intensity of the offensive. Residents described the roar of military aircraft overhead throughout the night, followed by the sight of flames erupting from mountainous terrain near military installations. Reports of additional aerial activity emerged from Spin Boldak and the eastern province of Khost, signalling a broad geographic reach to the hostilities. The Taliban administration in Kabul has vehemently challenged Pakistan's narrative. Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesperson for the Taliban, downplayed the military impact of the strikes. He claimed the bombardment primarily damaged a drug rehabilitation centre and empty storage containers, insisting that the targeted sites lacked the strategic or militant significance claimed by Pakistani officials. Also read: ‘If Netanyahu is alive...’: Iran’s Guards vow to ‘pursue and kill’ Israeli PM This exchange followed a weekend of heightened confrontation. Islamabad maintained it intercepted multiple drone attacks directed at sensitive sites, including its primary military headquarters in Rawalpindi. President Asif Ali Zardari has characterised these provocations as a crossing of a "red line," warning that the state would not tolerate threats to its civilian population.

Pakistan launched significant military strikes against Kandahar and eastern Afghanistan on Sunday (March 15), targeting TTP hubs and Taliban infrastructure. This escalation follows intercepted Afghan drone attacks on Rawalpindi.&nbsp;

Pakistan strikes Kandahar military facilities in Afghanistan as tensions hit ‘red line'. Details here

The United Arab Emirates has the right to defend itself against the Iranian strikes but chooses to restrain, a senior UAE official said late Saturday (Mar 14). This comes as Tehran continues to engage in retaliatory strikes across the Gulf. Since the war began, Iran has fired over 1,800 missiles and drones at the Emirates, more than any other nation targeted by Tehran.“The UAE has the right to defend itself against this imposed terrorist aggression, but it is still prioritising reason and logic, continuing to exercise restraint and seeking a way out for Iran and the region,” presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said on X. He added that the UAE “made sincere efforts until the very last moment to mediate between Washington and Tehran to avoid this war.”Since the war began, Iran has launched attacks in the UAE on several targets, including Dubai International Airport, Fujairah oil port, and the iconic Palm hotel.On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.In recent days, US President Donald Trump has claimed victory in the war with Iran. On Friday (Mar 13), the US forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.The attack came after Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The UAE says it has the right to defend itself after Iran fired over 1,800 missiles and drones at the Emirates, but will continue showing restraint while seeking a diplomatic path to end the war.

The United Arab Emirates has the right to defend itself against the Iranian strikes but chooses to restrain, a senior UAE official said late Saturday (Mar 14). This comes as Tehran continues to engage in retaliatory strikes across the Gulf. Since the war began, Iran has fired over 1,800 missiles and drones at the Emirates, more than any other nation targeted by Tehran. “The UAE has the right to defend itself against this imposed terrorist aggression, but it is still prioritising reason and logic, continuing to exercise restraint and seeking a way out for Iran and the region,” presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said on X. He added that the UAE “made sincere efforts until the very last moment to mediate between Washington and Tehran to avoid this war.” Since the war began, Iran has launched attacks in the UAE on several targets, including Dubai International Airport, Fujairah oil port, and the iconic Palm hotel. On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan. In recent days, US President Donald Trump has claimed victory in the war with Iran. On Friday (Mar 13), the US forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The attack came after Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The UAE says it has the right to defend itself after Iran fired over 1,800 missiles and drones at the Emirates, but will continue showing restraint while seeking a diplomatic path to end the war.

UAE has ‘right to defend’ but ‘exercising restraint’, senior official says

Trump's Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr threatened to revoke license of the broadcasters over their coverage of the Iran war. He accused news channels of “running hoaxes and news distortions” and warned them to “correct course before their license renewals come up.”&nbsp;“The law is clear. Broadcasters must operate in the public interest, and they will lose their licenses if they do not,” wrote Carr in a Truth Social post. His threat drew a reaction from US Senator Elizabeth Warren, who called the threat illegal intimidation of free speech and termed the move “straight out of the authoritarian playbook”.He shared a Truth Social post by US President Donald Trump, which criticised the news media coverage of the Iran war, &nbsp;claiming it wants the United States to lose the war. “The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal (in particular), and other Lowlife Papers” and Media actually want us to lose the War,” wrote in a post on Truth Social.The post specifically referred to a Wall Street Journal article that mentioned five US Air Force refuelling planes had recently been struck and damaged by an Iranian missile at Prince Sultan Air Base. Trump called those reports “intentionally misleading” and claimed that four of the five tankers had “virtually no damage, and are already back in service.”Trump's Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth complained at length about CNN's coverage of the US-Iran war. He further added that he is looking forward to the management of the network by Trump loyalist David Ellison, who is seeking to acquire Warner Bros Discovery through its Paramount Skydance for $111 billion. This will, in turn, bring CNN under Ellison, who is known for replacing leadership at CBS with conservative journalists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-rejects-us-reconnaissance-flight-iran-war-neutrality-1773551125152">Switzerland denies US military requests to use its airspace amid Iran war</a><h2>Is the US losing the narrative war?</h2>A CNN poll found that 59 per cent of US citizens oppose the war. The support for the US war on Iran is at 27-38 per cent whch is significantly lower than previous US military adventures, like the Afghanistan war, 88-92 per cent; the Gulf War of 1991, 79-80 per cent; the Iraq war of 2003, 70-76 per cent; the Libya war of 2011, 47 per cent. Even among Republicans its 76 per cent compared to 96 per cent Republicans who backed Afghanistan and 90 per cent backed the Iraq war.&nbsp;The core problem had been incoherent messaging from the White House and a lack of a compelling grand narrative to mobilise the nation behind the flag. The goals are not clearly articulated to the supporters, and even Trump himself continues to shift the goalpost as the war enters its third week. There is no clear intelligence on Trump's supposed claim that Iran was preparing for an attack. The Western morality of delivering justice to Iranian women from the “Iranian regime” failed in the early hours of the ‘Epic Fury’ as the US struck a girls' school in Minab, killing at least 176 children and staff. The bottom line is that the US has lost both the domestic and international war of narrative. This will seem insignificant right now to the Trump administration and its loyalists, who are still confident in US military might. But it will be damaging if Trump ever considers a ground invasion of Iran. It would require a national draft to mobilise the manpower needed to invade a country as huge as Iran, which will inevitably see civil unrest and might lead to a civil war.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

With declining domestic support and critical domestic and international media coverage of the US war in Iran, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatens to revoke license of broadcasters. 

Trump's Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr threatened to revoke license of the broadcasters over their coverage of the Iran war. He accused news channels of “running hoaxes and news distortions” and warned them to “correct course before their license renewals come up.” “The law is clear. Broadcasters must operate in the public interest, and they will lose their licenses if they do not,” wrote Carr in a Truth Social post. His threat drew a reaction from US Senator Elizabeth Warren, who called the threat illegal intimidation of free speech and termed the move “straight out of the authoritarian playbook”. He shared a Truth Social post by US President Donald Trump, which criticised the news media coverage of the Iran war, claiming it wants the United States to lose the war. “The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal (in particular), and other Lowlife Papers” and Media actually want us to lose the War,” wrote in a post on Truth Social. The post specifically referred to a Wall Street Journal article that mentioned five US Air Force refuelling planes had recently been struck and damaged by an Iranian missile at Prince Sultan Air Base. Trump called those reports “intentionally misleading” and claimed that four of the five tankers had “virtually no damage, and are already back in service.” Trump's Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth complained at length about CNN's coverage of the US-Iran war. He further added that he is looking forward to the management of the network by Trump loyalist David Ellison, who is seeking to acquire Warner Bros Discovery through its Paramount Skydance for $111 billion. This will, in turn, bring CNN under Ellison, who is known for replacing leadership at CBS with conservative journalists. Also Read: Switzerland denies US military requests to use its airspace amid Iran war Is the US losing the narrative war? A CNN poll found that 59 per cent of US citizens oppose the war. The support for the US war on Iran is at 27-38 per cent whch is significantly lower than previous US military adventures, like the Afghanistan war, 88-92 per cent; the Gulf War of 1991, 79-80 per cent; the Iraq war of 2003, 70-76 per cent; the Libya war of 2011, 47 per cent. Even among Republicans its 76 per cent compared to 96 per cent Republicans who backed Afghanistan and 90 per cent backed the Iraq war. The core problem had been incoherent messaging from the White House and a lack of a compelling grand narrative to mobilise the nation behind the flag. The goals are not clearly articulated to the supporters, and even Trump himself continues to shift the goalpost as the war enters its third week. There is no clear intelligence on Trump's supposed claim that Iran was preparing for an attack. The Western morality of delivering justice to Iranian women from the “Iranian regime” failed in the early hours of the ‘Epic Fury’ as the US struck a girls' school in Minab, killing at least 176 children and staff. The bottom line is that the US has lost both the domestic and international war of narrative. This will seem insignificant right now to the Trump administration and its loyalists, who are still confident in US military might. But it will be damaging if Trump ever considers a ground invasion of Iran. It would require a national draft to mobilise the manpower needed to invade a country as huge as Iran, which will inevitably see civil unrest and might lead to a civil war.

With declining domestic support and critical domestic and international media coverage of the US war in Iran, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatens to revoke license of broadcasters.&nbsp;

Is US losing the narrative war? Trump ally Brendan Carr threatens media licences over Iran war reporting

The renewed tensions around the Persian Gulf — marked by heightened naval deployments, threats to tanker traffic and rising volatility in oil markets — are an early signal that the foundations of the global order are being reconfigured.What appears on the surface to be a regional confrontation is unfolding at the intersection of several deeper shifts: the strategic importance of energy chokepoints, the emergence of new digital financial infrastructure, and intensifying competition over critical resources.Military tensions around the Gulf have intensified. Western policymakers have again turned their attention to major oil producers such as Venezuela. At the same time, Washington has been moving toward a clearer regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and dollar-backed stablecoins — developments that together point to a deeper strategic adjustment.The United States appears to be adapting the foundations of its long-standing global influence to a world increasingly shaped by technological disruption, geopolitical rivalry and shifting energy dynamics.For decades, the international system rested on what became known as the petrodollar order. Oil was traded largely in US dollars. Those dollars flowed back into American financial markets through purchases of Treasury securities and other assets. Meanwhile, the sea lanes carrying global energy supplies were secured by US naval power.Energy flows, financial markets and maritime security reinforced one another, placing the dollar at the centre of global commerce.That structure is now under pressure.China has emerged as the world’s largest manufacturing power and a central hub in global supply chains. Alternative payment mechanisms are proliferating. Some countries have begun experimenting with non-dollar energy transactions. At the same time, the scale of US public debt has expanded sharply, raising questions about the durability of global demand for dollar assets.Preserving monetary dominance in this environment requires adaptation.One sign of that adaptation lies in Washington’s growing focus on dollar-backed stablecoins. These digital tokens maintain a fixed value against the US dollar and are typically backed by reserves held in short-term US Treasury securities or dollar deposits.If stablecoins become widely used for cross-border payments, issuers will need to hold substantial quantities of dollar assets in reserve. This creates a new structural source of demand for US government debt.In effect, stablecoins could become a digital extension of the dollar system, embedding American financial influence within the infrastructure of global digital payments while reinforcing demand for US financial assets.Yet financial power alone has never sustained global primacy.The tensions unfolding in the Persian Gulf underline the continuing importance of energy and maritime geography. Nearly a fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most sensitive chokepoints in the global economy. Any disruption there would ripple immediately through energy markets.Even as countries speak of energy transition, petroleum remains central to the functioning of the global economy. Control over energy flows — and the sea lanes that carry them — continues to confer immense geopolitical leverage.The Gulf crisis also highlights another strategic reality: China’s growing energy vulnerability.China is now the world’s largest importer of crude oil, much of it sourced from the Persian Gulf and transported across the Indian Ocean toward East Asia. This dependence creates what Chinese strategists call the “Malacca dilemma” — the vulnerability of China’s energy lifeline to disruption along maritime chokepoints.The security of the Gulf, therefore, carries implications not only for global markets but also for the balance of power in Asia.A parallel contest is unfolding over the resources that will power the technologies of the future. Lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper and rare earth elements are essential inputs for electric vehicles, semiconductors and artificial intelligence infrastructure. Control over these supply chains is rapidly becoming as strategically significant as control over oil was in the twentieth century.Together, these forces are reshaping the strategic foundations of the global system.The system that underpinned American dominance rested on three pillars: the dollar, energy markets and maritime power. The emerging system is taking shape around four: digital dollar networks, global capital markets, control over energy and mineral supply chains, and military power capable of securing the sea lanes through which these resources move.This does not mean the world is returning to uncontested American supremacy. China retains major advantages in manufacturing, infrastructure development and mineral processing. Beijing is expanding economic partnerships across Asia, Africa and Latin America while promoting alternative financial arrangements.The emerging global system is therefore likely to resemble a hybrid order — one in which financial power remains concentrated in the United States while industrial capacity and production networks become more widely distributed.For India, this evolving landscape presents both opportunity and risk.India’s growing technological capabilities and expanding economy position it well to benefit from the diversification of global supply chains. Partnerships in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, digital infrastructure and critical minerals could significantly strengthen India’s strategic position.At the same time, India remains deeply exposed to developments in the Persian Gulf. A large share of India’s oil imports passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any sustained disruption in that corridor would have immediate economic consequences.Yet India’s geography also offers a strategic advantage.The sea lanes connecting the Persian Gulf to East Asia pass directly across the Indian Ocean, the principal artery of the world’s energy trade. Positioned near the midpoint of these routes, India occupies a uniquely important location in the emerging maritime system.During the twentieth century, the North Atlantic formed the strategic centre of the global order. In the twenty-first century, the Indian Ocean is increasingly assuming that role.For India, the ability to help secure these maritime corridors could become one of its most significant strategic contributions to global stability.The Gulf crisis may therefore prove to be more than a regional confrontation. It is an early warning that the structure of global power is changing — and that the states which recognise this shift first will shape the rules of the next international order.Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

India’s growing technological capabilities and expanding economy position it well to benefit from the diversification of global supply chains. 

The renewed tensions around the Persian Gulf — marked by heightened naval deployments, threats to tanker traffic and rising volatility in oil markets — are an early signal that the foundations of the global order are being reconfigured. What appears on the surface to be a regional confrontation is unfolding at the intersection of several deeper shifts: the strategic importance of energy chokepoints, the emergence of new digital financial infrastructure, and intensifying competition over critical resources. Military tensions around the Gulf have intensified. Western policymakers have again turned their attention to major oil producers such as Venezuela. At the same time, Washington has been moving toward a clearer regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and dollar-backed stablecoins — developments that together point to a deeper strategic adjustment. The United States appears to be adapting the foundations of its long-standing global influence to a world increasingly shaped by technological disruption, geopolitical rivalry and shifting energy dynamics. For decades, the international system rested on what became known as the petrodollar order. Oil was traded largely in US dollars. Those dollars flowed back into American financial markets through purchases of Treasury securities and other assets. Meanwhile, the sea lanes carrying global energy supplies were secured by US naval power. Energy flows, financial markets and maritime security reinforced one another, placing the dollar at the centre of global commerce. That structure is now under pressure. China has emerged as the world’s largest manufacturing power and a central hub in global supply chains. Alternative payment mechanisms are proliferating. Some countries have begun experimenting with non-dollar energy transactions. At the same time, the scale of US public debt has expanded sharply, raising questions about the durability of global demand for dollar assets. Preserving monetary dominance in this environment requires adaptation. One sign of that adaptation lies in Washington’s growing focus on dollar-backed stablecoins. These digital tokens maintain a fixed value against the US dollar and are typically backed by reserves held in short-term US Treasury securities or dollar deposits. If stablecoins become widely used for cross-border payments, issuers will need to hold substantial quantities of dollar assets in reserve. This creates a new structural source of demand for US government debt. In effect, stablecoins could become a digital extension of the dollar system, embedding American financial influence within the infrastructure of global digital payments while reinforcing demand for US financial assets. Yet financial power alone has never sustained global primacy. The tensions unfolding in the Persian Gulf underline the continuing importance of energy and maritime geography. Nearly a fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most sensitive chokepoints in the global economy. Any disruption there would ripple immediately through energy markets. Even as countries speak of energy transition, petroleum remains central to the functioning of the global economy. Control over energy flows — and the sea lanes that carry them — continues to confer immense geopolitical leverage. The Gulf crisis also highlights another strategic reality: China’s growing energy vulnerability. China is now the world’s largest importer of crude oil, much of it sourced from the Persian Gulf and transported across the Indian Ocean toward East Asia. This dependence creates what Chinese strategists call the “Malacca dilemma” — the vulnerability of China’s energy lifeline to disruption along maritime chokepoints. The security of the Gulf, therefore, carries implications not only for global markets but also for the balance of power in Asia. A parallel contest is unfolding over the resources that will power the technologies of the future. Lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper and rare earth elements are essential inputs for electric vehicles, semiconductors and artificial intelligence infrastructure. Control over these supply chains is rapidly becoming as strategically significant as control over oil was in the twentieth century. Together, these forces are reshaping the strategic foundations of the global system. The system that underpinned American dominance rested on three pillars: the dollar, energy markets and maritime power. The emerging system is taking shape around four: digital dollar networks, global capital markets, control over energy and mineral supply chains, and military power capable of securing the sea lanes through which these resources move. This does not mean the world is returning to uncontested American supremacy. China retains major advantages in manufacturing, infrastructure development and mineral processing. Beijing is expanding economic partnerships across Asia, Africa and Latin America while promoting alternative financial arrangements. The emerging global system is therefore likely to resemble a hybrid order — one in which financial power remains concentrated in the United States while industrial capacity and production networks become more widely distributed. For India, this evolving landscape presents both opportunity and risk. India’s growing technological capabilities and expanding economy position it well to benefit from the diversification of global supply chains. Partnerships in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, digital infrastructure and critical minerals could significantly strengthen India’s strategic position. At the same time, India remains deeply exposed to developments in the Persian Gulf. A large share of India’s oil imports passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any sustained disruption in that corridor would have immediate economic consequences. Yet India’s geography also offers a strategic advantage. The sea lanes connecting the Persian Gulf to East Asia pass directly across the Indian Ocean, the principal artery of the world’s energy trade. Positioned near the midpoint of these routes, India occupies a uniquely important location in the emerging maritime system. During the twentieth century, the North Atlantic formed the strategic centre of the global order. In the twenty-first century, the Indian Ocean is increasingly assuming that role. For India, the ability to help secure these maritime corridors could become one of its most significant strategic contributions to global stability. The Gulf crisis may therefore prove to be more than a regional confrontation. It is an early warning that the structure of global power is changing — and that the states which recognise this shift first will shape the rules of the next international order. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

India’s growing technological capabilities and expanding economy position it well to benefit from the diversification of global supply chains.

Why the Gulf crisis could reshape the global order — and India’s role in it

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied the claims made by US envoy Steve Witkoff that he ‘boasted’ about having enriched uranium to build nuclear bombs. Araghchi suggested US President Donald Trump's negotiators Witkoff and Jared Kushner had a "lack of enough knowledge" during the final round of peace talks before the war broke out. Araghchi said the US fabricated the claims to "justify an unjustifiable act of aggression" and to "make some excuses for themselves." He denied the reports of shouting and expressed his surprise over what was conveyed to the US president.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-raises-doubts-about-supreme-leader-mojtaba-s-wellbeing-rules-out-iran-war-deal-for-now-1773538495777">Trump raises doubts about Supreme Leader Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now</a><h2>What Abbas Araghchi&nbsp;said?</h2>Speaking to American channel MS Now, the Iranian minister said, “I don't know what they have conveyed to their boss. What I know is that on the 26th of February when we met in Geneva, we were able to make a good progress as (the) Omani Foreign Minister, the intermediator, said it was a significant progress. I do understand why they (Witkoff and Kushner) are saying those things. They want to justify an unjustifiable act of aggression. They are trying to make some excuses for themselves.” On the specific claim that he boasted about Iran's capability to make 11 nuclear bombs, he said, “ I never said that we are going to make bombs. I said that we have 440 kilos of 60 per cent enriched material, and that was not a secret. That is what is mentioned in the reports of the IAEA. So I said that, look, this is mentioned in the report. This if enriched more, can be good enough for ten bombs, as your own experts claims, so we are ready to give them up and to give them away.”&nbsp;Explaining his comment further, he said that he is not aware how the US envoys interpreted his remark. “Maybe because the lack of enough knowledge, maybe because of, you know, their intentions to justify the act of which cannot be justified. Ihope that the true story of what happened on the 26th of February in Geneva would, would become, you know, known to the people soon,” he added.<h2>What &nbsp;Steve Witkoff said?</h2>Days after the war began, US special envoy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-could-build-11-nuclear-bombs-witkoff-makes-massive-claims-about-iranian-nuclear-programme-1772510348021">Steve Witkoff</a> said that Iran’s top negotiators including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi during nuclear talks “boasted” about having enough highly enriched uranium to build “11 nuclear bombs.” Witkoff said that Iranian negotiators “were proud that they had evaded all sorts of oversight protocols to get to a place where they could deliver 11 nuclear bombs.” He added that envoy Jared Kushner and he were “flummoxed” on hearing when Iranian envoy said that they had “inalienable right” to enrich their nuclear fuel.&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>&nbsp;“In that first meeting, both the Iranian negotiators said to us directly that they controlled 460 kilograms of 60% [enriched uranium] and that they’re aware that could make 11 nuclear bombs. We responded that the president feels we have the inalienable right to stop you dead in your tracks and I just sort of looked at ourselves flummoxed, and said, ‘We’re really in for it now,” Witkoff recalled. “We went in there and tried to make a fair deal with them, and it was very, very clear that it was going to be impossible — probably by the end of the second meeting, but we then went back for the third meeting just to give it the last college try. They wanted us to report positivity. It was not positive that meeting,” Witkoff added.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied claims that he threatened the US with nuclear weapons, accusing Washington of twisting his remarks to justify military action. He said Iran only referenced IAEA reports on enriched uranium while talking about concessions during Geneva meet

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied the claims made by US envoy Steve Witkoff that he ‘boasted’ about having enriched uranium to build nuclear bombs. Araghchi suggested US President Donald Trump's negotiators Witkoff and Jared Kushner had a "lack of enough knowledge" during the final round of peace talks before the war broke out. Araghchi said the US fabricated the claims to "justify an unjustifiable act of aggression" and to "make some excuses for themselves." He denied the reports of shouting and expressed his surprise over what was conveyed to the US president. Also Read: Trump raises doubts about Supreme Leader Mojtaba's wellbeing, rules out Iran war deal for now What Abbas Araghchi said? Speaking to American channel MS Now, the Iranian minister said, “I don't know what they have conveyed to their boss. What I know is that on the 26th of February when we met in Geneva, we were able to make a good progress as (the) Omani Foreign Minister, the intermediator, said it was a significant progress. I do understand why they (Witkoff and Kushner) are saying those things. They want to justify an unjustifiable act of aggression. They are trying to make some excuses for themselves.” On the specific claim that he boasted about Iran's capability to make 11 nuclear bombs, he said, “ I never said that we are going to make bombs. I said that we have 440 kilos of 60 per cent enriched material, and that was not a secret. That is what is mentioned in the reports of the IAEA. So I said that, look, this is mentioned in the report. This if enriched more, can be good enough for ten bombs, as your own experts claims, so we are ready to give them up and to give them away.” Explaining his comment further, he said that he is not aware how the US envoys interpreted his remark. “Maybe because the lack of enough knowledge, maybe because of, you know, their intentions to justify the act of which cannot be justified. Ihope that the true story of what happened on the 26th of February in Geneva would, would become, you know, known to the people soon,” he added. What Steve Witkoff said? Days after the war began, US special envoy Steve Witkoff said that Iran’s top negotiators including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi during nuclear talks “boasted” about having enough highly enriched uranium to build “11 nuclear bombs.” Witkoff said that Iranian negotiators “were proud that they had evaded all sorts of oversight protocols to get to a place where they could deliver 11 nuclear bombs.” He added that envoy Jared Kushner and he were “flummoxed” on hearing when Iranian envoy said that they had “inalienable right” to enrich their nuclear fuel. Also Read: China responds after Trump urges countries to send warships to secure Strait of Hormuz “In that first meeting, both the Iranian negotiators said to us directly that they controlled 460 kilograms of 60% [enriched uranium] and that they’re aware that could make 11 nuclear bombs. We responded that the president feels we have the inalienable right to stop you dead in your tracks and I just sort of looked at ourselves flummoxed, and said, ‘We’re really in for it now,” Witkoff recalled. “We went in there and tried to make a fair deal with them, and it was very, very clear that it was going to be impossible — probably by the end of the second meeting, but we then went back for the third meeting just to give it the last college try. They wanted us to report positivity. It was not positive that meeting,” Witkoff added.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied claims that he threatened the US with nuclear weapons, accusing Washington of twisting his remarks to justify military action. He said Iran only referenced IAEA reports on enriched uranium while talking about concessions during Geneva meet

'Never said...': Iran’s FM denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs, slams US envoy’s 'lack of knowledge'

Amid United States President Donald Trump asking other nation to send their warships to help protect world oil supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz, japan said the threshold is "extremely high" for Tokyo. Takayuki Kobayashi, the policy chief of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), on Sunday said "Legally speaking, we do not rule out the possibility, but given the current situation in which this conflict is ongoing, I believe this is something that must be considered with great caution."&nbsp;Japan is the fifth-biggest importer of oil with 95 percent of it coming from the Middle East and 70 percent passing through the Strait of Hormuz which is almost blocked for passage in the Iran war.Sending its warship abroad is a sensitive matter in the officially pacifist Japan, as many voters seem to back the US-imposed, war-renouncing 1947 constitution.&nbsp;Last week, Takaichi while speaking in parliament on the issue of sending its warship to the Middle East said “nothing has been decided”.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-netanyahu-is-alive-iran-s-revolutionary-guards-vow-to-pursue-and-kill-israeli-pm-amid-war-1773553754317">‘If Netanyahu is alive...’: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards vow to ‘pursue and kill’ Israeli PM amid war</a>&nbsp;Iranian attacks have nearly halted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, used for one-fifth of world oil supplies. This has led to petroleum prices soaring 40 percent thus hitting the global economy hard.&nbsp;"Many Countries, especially those who are affected by Iran's attempted closure of the Hormuz Strait, will be sending War Ships, in conjunction with the United States of America, to keep the Strait open and safe," Trump while appealing for help wrote on social media Saturday.&nbsp;"Hopefully China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others, that are affected by this artificial constraint, will send Ships to the area," he added.

Japan is the fifth-biggest importer of oil with 95 percent of it coming from the Middle East and 70 percent passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid United States President Donald Trump asking other nation to send their warships to help protect world oil supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz, japan said the threshold is "extremely high" for Tokyo. Takayuki Kobayashi, the policy chief of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), on Sunday said "Legally speaking, we do not rule out the possibility, but given the current situation in which this conflict is ongoing, I believe this is something that must be considered with great caution." Japan is the fifth-biggest importer of oil with 95 percent of it coming from the Middle East and 70 percent passing through the Strait of Hormuz which is almost blocked for passage in the Iran war. Sending its warship abroad is a sensitive matter in the officially pacifist Japan, as many voters seem to back the US-imposed, war-renouncing 1947 constitution. Last week, Takaichi while speaking in parliament on the issue of sending its warship to the Middle East said “nothing has been decided”. ALSO READ: ‘If Netanyahu is alive...’: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards vow to ‘pursue and kill’ Israeli PM amid war Iranian attacks have nearly halted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, used for one-fifth of world oil supplies. This has led to petroleum prices soaring 40 percent thus hitting the global economy hard. "Many Countries, especially those who are affected by Iran's attempted closure of the Hormuz Strait, will be sending War Ships, in conjunction with the United States of America, to keep the Strait open and safe," Trump while appealing for help wrote on social media Saturday. "Hopefully China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others, that are affected by this artificial constraint, will send Ships to the area," he added.

Japan is the fifth-biggest importer of oil with 95 percent of it coming from the Middle East and 70 percent passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid Trump's call for help in Strait of Hormuz, Japan says bar high for sending warships

Three more members of the Iranian women’s football team have changed their minds and left their asylum in Australia to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran, Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said in a statement on Sunday (Mar 15). More than half a dozen players of Iran’s visiting delegation at the Women’s Asian Cup sought refuge in Australia after their government labelled them as ‘traitors’ for refusing to sing the national anthem.&nbsp;Only three players are left now after another member of the group left to rejoin the Iranian women’s team earlier in the week. &nbsp;Detailing the latest developments, the Home Affairs minister said the relevant authorities had given them repeated opportunities to reconsider their final call, adding that the players faced an incredibly difficult time making their decisions.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/amid-chaos-five-iranian-women-s-football-players-given-asylum-in-australia-1773102820461">Amid chaos, five Iranian women's football players given asylum in Australia</a> &nbsp;"Overnight, three members of the Iranian Women's Football Team made the decision to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran," Tony Burke said. "After telling Australian officials they had made this decision, the players were given repeated chances to talk about their options," he said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the football drama has unfolded against a backdrop of war in the Middle East, unleashed by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran. Rights groups have repeatedly accused Iranian authorities of pressuring athletes abroad by threatening relatives or with the seizure of property if they defect or make statements against the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;"The Australian Government has done everything we could to make sure these women were provided with the chance for a safe future in Australia," Burke said. "Australians should be proud that it was in our country that these women experienced a nation presenting them with genuine choices and interacted with authorities seeking to help them."&nbsp;Iranian state broadcaster IRIB said on Saturday that three team members -- two players and one member of the technical staff -- had withdrawn their asylum applications and were currently en route to Malaysia.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Three more Iranian women’s football team members have withdrawn their asylum bids in Australia to return to Iran. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the players chose to rejoin their team despite being labeled "traitors" and facing potential threats at home.

Three more members of the Iranian women’s football team have changed their minds and left their asylum in Australia to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran, Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said in a statement on Sunday (Mar 15). More than half a dozen players of Iran’s visiting delegation at the Women’s Asian Cup sought refuge in Australia after their government labelled them as ‘traitors’ for refusing to sing the national anthem. Only three players are left now after another member of the group left to rejoin the Iranian women’s team earlier in the week. Detailing the latest developments, the Home Affairs minister said the relevant authorities had given them repeated opportunities to reconsider their final call, adding that the players faced an incredibly difficult time making their decisions. Also read | Amid chaos, five Iranian women's football players given asylum in Australia "Overnight, three members of the Iranian Women's Football Team made the decision to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran," Tony Burke said. "After telling Australian officials they had made this decision, the players were given repeated chances to talk about their options," he said. Meanwhile, the football drama has unfolded against a backdrop of war in the Middle East, unleashed by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran. Rights groups have repeatedly accused Iranian authorities of pressuring athletes abroad by threatening relatives or with the seizure of property if they defect or make statements against the Islamic Republic. "The Australian Government has done everything we could to make sure these women were provided with the chance for a safe future in Australia," Burke said. "Australians should be proud that it was in our country that these women experienced a nation presenting them with genuine choices and interacted with authorities seeking to help them." Iranian state broadcaster IRIB said on Saturday that three team members -- two players and one member of the technical staff -- had withdrawn their asylum applications and were currently en route to Malaysia. (With inputs from AFP)

Three more Iranian women’s football team members have withdrawn their asylum bids in Australia to return to Iran. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the players chose to rejoin their team despite being labeled "traitors" and facing potential threats at home.

More Iranian women’s footballers leave asylum in Australia amid threat back home

The Swiss Federal Government on Sunday announced that it has rejected the request from the US military to use its airspace for a reconnaissance flight, citing its old policy of “neutrality”. It said that on March 15 (Sunday), it rejected two requests from the US military while accepting three others, two transport aircraft scheduled for March 15 and a maintenance-related flight planned for March 17, as they are not directly related to the war.&nbsp;“Today, the Swiss government discussed military overflight requests from the US. Citing the law of neutrality, the Federal Council rejected two requests made in connection with the war in Iran. It decided to permit three flights,” read a post from the Swiss Federal Government on the social media platform X. It further added that the “law of neutrality prohibits overflights by the parties to the conflict that pursue a military purpose” related to the conflict. However, it allows humanitarian and medical transport for the wounded as well as those unrelated to the conflict.The US naturally possess an annual permit for clearly designated aircraft, excluding the aircraft providing military support in the war between the US and Iran. The Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation( FOCA) in consultation with departments of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), and the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) decides the overflight requests, diplomatic clearance based on the Ordinance on the Protection of Air Sovereignty.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-fbi-memo-donald-trump-allegation-1773141245781">FBI memo claims Epstein abused a minor while speaking to Trump on speaker phone</a>Since the start of the war between the US and Iran on February 28, CENTCOM has used Iran's neighbouring Gulf states as a base for its 'war of choice' on Iran. In response, Iran has heavily targeted military and civilian infrastructure that aids and hosts the US military in the region. The US and its allies are trying to claim moral superiority, portraying Iran as a bad actor for targeting its neighbouring states, while using those bases to carry out comprehensive aggression against Iran. The denial from the Swiss Government is an act of significant political importance, while maintaining neutrality. It is consistent with Switzerland's long-standing tradition codified in 1815, which denied involvement in the Kosovo war in 1999 and the Iraq invasion in 2003.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Switzerland rejects US military request for reconnaissance flight linked to Iran war, citing neutrality law while permitting non-military transport flights.

The Swiss Federal Government on Sunday announced that it has rejected the request from the US military to use its airspace for a reconnaissance flight, citing its old policy of “neutrality”. It said that on March 15 (Sunday), it rejected two requests from the US military while accepting three others, two transport aircraft scheduled for March 15 and a maintenance-related flight planned for March 17, as they are not directly related to the war. “Today, the Swiss government discussed military overflight requests from the US. Citing the law of neutrality, the Federal Council rejected two requests made in connection with the war in Iran. It decided to permit three flights,” read a post from the Swiss Federal Government on the social media platform X. It further added that the “law of neutrality prohibits overflights by the parties to the conflict that pursue a military purpose” related to the conflict. However, it allows humanitarian and medical transport for the wounded as well as those unrelated to the conflict. The US naturally possess an annual permit for clearly designated aircraft, excluding the aircraft providing military support in the war between the US and Iran. The Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation( FOCA) in consultation with departments of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), and the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) decides the overflight requests, diplomatic clearance based on the Ordinance on the Protection of Air Sovereignty. Also Read: FBI memo claims Epstein abused a minor while speaking to Trump on speaker phone Since the start of the war between the US and Iran on February 28, CENTCOM has used Iran's neighbouring Gulf states as a base for its 'war of choice' on Iran. In response, Iran has heavily targeted military and civilian infrastructure that aids and hosts the US military in the region. The US and its allies are trying to claim moral superiority, portraying Iran as a bad actor for targeting its neighbouring states, while using those bases to carry out comprehensive aggression against Iran. The denial from the Swiss Government is an act of significant political importance, while maintaining neutrality. It is consistent with Switzerland's long-standing tradition codified in 1815, which denied involvement in the Kosovo war in 1999 and the Iraq invasion in 2003.

Switzerland rejects US military request for reconnaissance flight linked to Iran war, citing neutrality law while permitting non-military transport flights.

Switzerland denies US military requests to use its airspace amid Iran war

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Mar 15) vowed to assassinate Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid the war with Israel and the United States. In a statement, the IRGC said that if Netanyahu is alive, they will “pursue and kill him”. This comes following the rumours claiming that Netanyahu was assassinated or missing during the West Asia war. However, the Israeli PM’s office dismissed the reports as “fake news”, saying that the “Prime Minister is fine.”“If this child-killing criminal is alive, we will continue to pursue and kill him with full force,” said the Guards on their website, Sepah News. The warning comes as hostilities in West Asia continue to rise amid the war.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Mar 14) raised doubts about the well-being of Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. “I don’t know if he’s even alive. So far, nobody’s been able to show him. I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender,” Trump said. However, he added that reports of his death were “rumours”.On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.In recent days, Trump has claimed victory in the war with Iran. On Friday (Mar 13), the US forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.The attack came after Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. &nbsp;

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vowed to eliminate Benjamin Netanyahu, saying it will “pursue and kill him” if he is alive amid the escalating Iran-Israel war.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Sunday (Mar 15) vowed to assassinate Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid the war with Israel and the United States. In a statement, the IRGC said that if Netanyahu is alive, they will “pursue and kill him”. This comes following the rumours claiming that Netanyahu was assassinated or missing during the West Asia war. However, the Israeli PM’s office dismissed the reports as “fake news”, saying that the “Prime Minister is fine.” “If this child-killing criminal is alive, we will continue to pursue and kill him with full force,” said the Guards on their website, Sepah News. The warning comes as hostilities in West Asia continue to rise amid the war. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Mar 14) raised doubts about the well-being of Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. “I don’t know if he’s even alive. So far, nobody’s been able to show him. I’m hearing he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender,” Trump said. However, he added that reports of his death were “rumours”. On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan. In recent days, Trump has claimed victory in the war with Iran. On Friday (Mar 13), the US forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The attack came after Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vowed to eliminate Benjamin Netanyahu, saying it will “pursue and kill him” if he is alive amid the escalating Iran-Israel war.

‘If Netanyahu is alive...’: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards vow to ‘pursue and kill’ Israeli PM amid war

The Pentagon on Saturday (Mar 14) named the six US crew members killed in a refuelling aircraft crash in western Iraq earlier this week. The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker went down on Thursday (Mar 12) near the town of Turaibil along the Iraqi-Jordanian border. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Iran, however, claims that its allied forces downed the aircraft, killing all crew aboard. Since the beginning of the Iran war, at least 13 US troops have been killed. Another plane that was part of the operation had landed safely.The sex members who were killed in the crash were: John Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Alabama; Ariana Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington; Ashley Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky; Seth Koval, 38, of Mooresville, Indiana; Curtis Angst, 30, of Wilmington, Ohio; and Tyler Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio.While the first three were members of the US Air Force, the latter were stationed with the US Air National Guard.The US CENTCOM earlier said that the “loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire”. However, the crash remains under investigation, according to Pentagon officials.The KC-135 crash is at least the fourth US military aircraft that has crashed during the war. Before this, three F-15s were shot down by friendly fire over Kuwait.On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The United States has named six US crew members killed after a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq. US Central Command said the crash was not due to hostile fire.

The Pentagon on Saturday (Mar 14) named the six US crew members killed in a refuelling aircraft crash in western Iraq earlier this week. The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker went down on Thursday (Mar 12) near the town of Turaibil along the Iraqi-Jordanian border. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Iran, however, claims that its allied forces downed the aircraft, killing all crew aboard. Since the beginning of the Iran war, at least 13 US troops have been killed. Another plane that was part of the operation had landed safely. The sex members who were killed in the crash were: John Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Alabama; Ariana Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington; Ashley Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky; Seth Koval, 38, of Mooresville, Indiana; Curtis Angst, 30, of Wilmington, Ohio; and Tyler Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio. While the first three were members of the US Air Force, the latter were stationed with the US Air National Guard. The US CENTCOM earlier said that the “loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire”. However, the crash remains under investigation, according to Pentagon officials. The KC-135 crash is at least the fourth US military aircraft that has crashed during the war. Before this, three F-15s were shot down by friendly fire over Kuwait. On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The United States has named six US crew members killed after a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq. US Central Command said the crash was not due to hostile fire.

Iran war: US military identifies six personnel killed in KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq

On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.In recent days, US President Donald Trump has claimed victory in the war with Iran. On Friday (Mar 13), the US forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.The attack came after Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked.Amid the escalating tension in West Asia, several vessels have been targeted while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has shut down the Strait of Hormuz and warned that any vessel attempting to pass could be targeted and set on fire, with several oil tankers being hit in recent days. However, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on March 5 said that the passage is closed to vessels from the United States, Israel, Europe and their Western allies. On March 10, the IRGC said that it will grant certain countries unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, but that this safe passage will be conditional. The IRGC said that only those Arab or European nations that expel Israeli and American ambassadors from their territory will be granted the right to transit through the strategic waterway, which accounts for roughly 20 per cent of the global oil supply passing through it daily.The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for ports located in the Persian Gulf. Its blockage has significantly affected global energy supply, triggering a sharp rise in oil prices.<h2>Stay with WION to follow the latest updates on the Iran war:</h2>

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Tehran never asked for a ceasefire or negotiation.President Donald Trump had earlier said that Iran wanted a deal, but he was unwilling to agree to one "because the terms are not good enough yet"."We don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans, because we were talking with them when they decided to attack us," Araghchi told CBS News."This is a war of choice by President Trump and the United States, and we are going to continue our self defence."

Iran never asked for ceasefire or negotations, says FM Araghchi

US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz has raised doubts over Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, and said that the Trump administration is keeping a close tab on how much control Mojtaba holds over the country.“The president has said he’s not happy (with the new leader) who by many accounts is an incredibly hardline individual, a hardline cleric, we’ll see if he’s actually really in charge,” Waltz said during an interview with CNN on Sunday.

‘Unclear if Mojtaba has control even if he’s alive’: US ambassador to UN

The Israeli military is planning at least three more weeks of its campaign against Iran with “thousands of targets” remaining, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) military spokesperson told CNN on Sunday. “We have thousands of targets ahead,” IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said. “We are ready, in coordination with our US allies, with plans through at least the Jewish holiday of Passover, about three weeks from now. And we have deeper plans for even three weeks beyond that.”

Israel planning at least three more weeks of campaign against Iran

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview published on Sunday that the war pitting his country against the United States and Israel will only end when Tehran can be certain it will not be restarted.“This war will end when we are certain it will not be repeated and that reparations will be paid. We experienced this last year: Israel attacked, then the United States... they regrouped and attacked us again,” Araghchi told Arabic-language news outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, referring to Iran's war with Israel and the US in June 2025.

War to end when Iran is ‘certain’ it cannot be repeated: FM Araghchi

The Israeli military is planning at least three more weeks of its campaign against Iran with “thousands of targets” remaining, an Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) military spokesperson told CNN on Sunday (March 15).

Israel to continue Iran campaign for at least three more weeks

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Iran’s supreme leader is in “good health” and “manages the country strongly,” as questions swirl over Mojtaba Khamenei’s well-being.

Iran's supreme leader in "good health," foreign minister says

Israel is not facing a shortage of missile interceptors and will continue the war against Iran alongside the US until its objectives are achieved, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said.

Israel says it has no shortage of interceptors

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested 25 people accused of praising Iran and its leadership and promoting its military actions, according to Al Arabiya.

UAE arrests 25 people for praising Iran and promoting its military actions

Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said he had heard of an alleged plot to stage an attack similar to September 11 and falsely blame it on Iran.&nbsp;

Larijani warns of alleged plot to stage attack and blame Iran

Amid escalating hostilities in West Asia, SpiceJet has announced to operate special flights from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India for Indian nationals returning to the country. The airlines will be operating seven special flights from Fujairah and two from Dubai on March 15 and March 16. This comes as many foreign nationals remain stranded in the Gulf nations following airspace restrictions amid the conflict.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/spicejet-to-operate-9-special-flights-from-uae-to-india-amid-iran-war-check-details-1773566107994">Check details here.</a>

SpiceJet to operate 9 special flights from UAE to India amid Iran war

UK Energy Security Minister Ed Miliband on Sunday said it was essential to calm the situation in the Middle East after US President Donald Trump called for other nations to help protect world oil supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz.The "plan now has to be to de-escalate the conflict", Miliband told the BBC.

UK says vital to 'de-escalate' Middle East war

South Korea said on Sunday it was paying close attention to US President Donald Trump's call for Seoul and other countries to send warships to help protect oil supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz."We are closely monitoring President Trump's remarks on social media and will carefully consider the matter in close consultation with the United States," a presidential official told AFP.

South Korea 'closely monitoring' Trump call to send warships to Hormuz: official

The IDF has begun a wave of extensive strikes targeting infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime in western Iran. &nbsp;

Israel begins 'wide scale' wave of strikes on western Iran

US reached out several times regarding help in Middle East, says Ukrainian President Zelensky.

US reached out several times regarding help in Middle East: Zelensky

The Hezbollah terror group continues to fire rockets and launch drones at northern Israel, triggering sirens.

Hezbollah rocket, drone fire triggers sirens in north

The official spokesperson for the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Defence said its forces intercepted and destroyed 4 drones over the Riyadh area.

Drone interceptions in Riyadh

Sirens sound in the Haifa area amid Hezbollah rocket fire from Lebanon.The rocket fire comes at the same time as a missile salvo launched from Iran triggers sirens in the south.

Rocket fire from Lebanon triggers sirens in Haifa area as Iran missiles target south

Airlines have reduced several flights to and from the UAE following the latest directives issued by airport authorities, impacting services operated by Air India and Air India Express. Multiple flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been cancelled or scaled back, while a limited number of services continue to run to select destinations. Affected passengers are being offered free rebooking on upcoming flights or the option of a full refund.&nbsp;

Air India reduces flights to UAE

&nbsp;Bloomberg News reported &nbsp;that oil-loading operations at the United Arab Emirates' Fujairah emirate have resumed following a drone attack and fire

Oil loading operations restart at Fujairah port: Report

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed that the United States launched strikes on Kharg Island and Abu Musa Island from two locations in the UAE — Ras Al-Khaimah and another site he described as “very close to Dubai.” He called the move dangerous and said Iran would try to avoid targeting populated areas there. The US Central Command declined to comment on the claim, according to the Associated Press.

US military declines to comment on Iranian claim it used UAE territory for Kharg attack

Amid the escalating war in West Asia, US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Mar 14) said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is the last person the United States would need help from in fighting with Iran. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-last-person-we-need-help-from-is-zelensky-trump-snubs-ukrainian-leader-s-assistance-in-iran-war-1773545568401">READ MORE</a>

Trump snubs Zelensky's assistance in Iran war

Takayuki Kobayashi, policy chief of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has said the threshold is “extremely high” for Tokyo to send its warships to help protect the Strait of Hormuz.

Japan says bar ‘extremely high’ for sending warships to Strait of Hormuz

The Lebanese National News Agency reported an Israeli strike on a residential building in the Sharhabil area of the southern city of Sidon.&nbsp;

One killed in Israeli attack on Lebanon’s Sidon

Saudi Arabia said that it has intercepted 10 drones in the areas surrounding Riyadh and the eastern regions of the country. The IRGC said shortly afterwards&nbsp;that the attack had nothing to do with Iran. “This attack has no connection to the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Saudi government should seek to discover the origin of the attacks,” it said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia intercepts 10 drones, Iran denies responsibility

CBSE cancels Class 12 board exams in West Asia

UN chief Antonio Guterres said that on a visit to Beirut that diplomatic channels remained open to end the war between Israel and Hezbollah and urged the international community to support Lebanon

UN chief says 'diplomatic avenues' available to stop war in Lebanon

Iran Guards vow to 'pursue and kill' Israeli premier Netanyahu. "If this child-killing criminal is alive, we will continue to pursue and kill him with full force," said the Guards on their website Sepah News. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-netanyahu-is-alive-iran-s-revolutionary-guards-vow-to-pursue-and-kill-israeli-pm-amid-war-1773553754317">READ MORE</a>

Iran Guards vow to 'pursue and kill' Israeli premier Netanyahu

The US embassy in Baghdad was hit by an attack on Saturday following strikes that killed three members of a powerful Iran-backed group in the capital, AFP reported quoting security sources said

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: US embassy attacked in Baghdad, strikes hit Iran-backed fighters

The Formula One grands prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled due to the United States' and Israel's war with Iran, motorsport's governing body the FIA announced&nbsp;

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Bahrain, Saudi Arabia Formula One grands prix cancelled due to Iran war

As hostilities continue in West Asia, the US claims gains after strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island as Tehran shuts the Strait of Hormuz and threatens ships. Oil supply fears rise amid escalating attacks across the region. Follow WION live for latest Iran war updates.

On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan. In recent days, US President Donald Trump has claimed victory in the war with Iran. On Friday (Mar 13), the US forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal located in the northern Persian Gulf. Trump said that the US was striking military targets on Iran’s “crown jewel”. He added that “for reasons of decency”, he did not “wipe out” the oil infrastructure on the island. He further warned that he would reconsider his decision if Iran interfered with the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The attack came after Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on Thursday (Mar 12) warned the United States and Israel, saying that Tehran will “abandon all restraint” if its islands in the Gulf are attacked. Amid the escalating tension in West Asia, several vessels have been targeted while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has shut down the Strait of Hormuz and warned that any vessel attempting to pass could be targeted and set on fire, with several oil tankers being hit in recent days. However, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on March 5 said that the passage is closed to vessels from the United States, Israel, Europe and their Western allies. On March 10, the IRGC said that it will grant certain countries unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, but that this safe passage will be conditional. The IRGC said that only those Arab or European nations that expel Israeli and American ambassadors from their territory will be granted the right to transit through the strategic waterway, which accounts for roughly 20 per cent of the global oil supply passing through it daily. The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for ports located in the Persian Gulf. Its blockage has significantly affected global energy supply, triggering a sharp rise in oil prices. Stay with WION to follow the latest updates on the Iran war:

As hostilities continue in West Asia, the US claims gains after strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island as Tehran shuts the Strait of Hormuz and threatens ships. Oil supply fears rise amid escalating attacks across the region. Follow WION live for latest Iran war updates.

world news

‘Incident similar to 9/11’: Iran’s security chief claims conspiracy linking ‘Epstein network’

Araghchi claims US is using 'LUCAS' drones that match Shahed 'perfectly'

UK may send mine-hunting drones to help open Strait of Hormuz: Ed Miliband

Trump wants to secure Strait of Hormuz: Is it possible?

US-China launch trade talk in Paris ahead of Trump-Xi meeting

Iran calls on countries to 'avoid action that could widen the war

Who is making decisions in war-torn Iran after Ali Khamenei's assassination?

India is unlikely to be part of any multinational coalition on Strait of Hormuz

SpiceJet to operate 9 special flights from UAE to India amid Iran war

‘Don’t want to lose US backing because of Iran war,’ says Zelensky

Iran arrests 20 for sharing military details with Israel

Who controls the Strait of Hormuz - Iran, US or International Law?

‘Anyone clothed by US is NAKED’: Iran official slams Gulf nations over US bases

Pakistan strikes Kandahar military facilities in Afghanistan as tensions hit ‘red line'. Details here

UAE has ‘right to defend’ but ‘exercising restraint’, senior official says

Trump ally Brendan Carr threatens media licences over Iran war reporting

Why the Gulf crisis could reshape the global order — and India’s role in it

Araghchi denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs

Amid Trump's call for help in Hormuz, Japan says bar high for sending warships

More Iranian women’s footballers leave asylum in Australia amid threat back home

Switzerland denies US military requests to use its airspace amid Iran war

‘If Netanyahu is alive...’: Iran’s Guards vow to ‘pursue and kill’ Israeli PM

US identifies six personnel killed in KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq

Iran war highlights: ‘Unclear if Mojtaba has control even if he’s alive’: US

‘Last person we need help from’: Trump snubs Zelensky’s assistance in Iran war

Trump wants to hit Iran’s Kharg Island again despite 'totally obliterated' claim