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A vehicle was involved in an attack at a Michigan synagogue on Thursday (March 12), according to Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard. When reporters asked whether someone had crashed their vehicle into Temple Israel, the sheriff responded, “A vehicle was involved.” “We’re going to get into more details when there’s time for that,” he added, declining to provide further information as the investigation remains in its early stages.&nbsp;According to reports, the suspect rammed a car into the synagogue and had a rifle in his possession. After the vehicle struck the building, security personnel opened fire, killing the suspect, the official said, while cautioning that the investigation is still in its early stages. A federal law enforcement official briefed on the situation told CNN that the suspect is dead following the incident at the Detroit-area synagogue. When the suspect arrived at the synagogue, security personnel spotted him and engaged him in gunfire, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard told reporters near the scene. Bouchard also said that nearby schools were evacuated and residents in the area were asked to shelter in place.&nbsp;Temple Israel, located at 5725 Walnut Lake Road near the intersection of Walnut Lake and Drake roads, is described on its website as the largest reform synagogue in the United States. Police from West Bloomfield, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Michigan State Police were present at the scene.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooter-killed-after-opening-fire-inside-old-dominion-university-building-two-injured-1773334302221">Shooter killed after opening fire inside Old Dominion University building; two injured</a>&nbsp;Officials are asking the public to stay away from the area while law enforcement continues its response. Nearby schools, West Bloomfield High School, West Bloomfield Middle School, Doherty Elementary School, and Bloomfield Hills Schools, have been placed in secure mode. The Jewish Federation of Detroit has also asked Jewish organisations in the region to activate security procedures.&nbsp;"We are asking community members to stay away from the area to allow for police response. Troopers are also increasing patrols at other places of worship in the district," the Michigan State Police reported. Authorities in nearby Ann Arbor said they are also monitoring the situation. The Ann Arbor Police Department said it was aware of reports of the incident in West Bloomfield, "out of an abundance of caution."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-china-iran-close-deal-for-missiles-that-can-sink-us-warships-1773336607395/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-china-iran-close-deal-for-missiles-that-can-sink-us-warships-1773336607395/embed</a>&nbsp;Ann Arbor Police Chief Andre Anderson directed officers to increase patrols and respond to local houses of worship and schools throughout the city as a precautionary safety measure, the police department said. So far, officials say there have been no reports of injuries. Authorities have not released additional details.&nbsp;Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer wrote on X, " I am tracking an active shooting at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. We are working with the Michigan State Police to get more information. Thank you to law enforcement for their swift action.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/kMRBH1diKe">pic.twitter.com/kMRBH1diKe</a>&mdash; Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovWhitmer/status/2032148753818202118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Suspect in Michigan Synagogue shooting dead: Reports

A vehicle was involved in an attack at a Michigan synagogue on Thursday (March 12), according to Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard. When reporters asked whether someone had crashed their vehicle into Temple Israel, the sheriff responded, “A vehicle was involved.” “We’re going to get into more details when there’s time for that,” he added, declining to provide further information as the investigation remains in its early stages. According to reports, the suspect rammed a car into the synagogue and had a rifle in his possession. After the vehicle struck the building, security personnel opened fire, killing the suspect, the official said, while cautioning that the investigation is still in its early stages. A federal law enforcement official briefed on the situation told CNN that the suspect is dead following the incident at the Detroit-area synagogue. When the suspect arrived at the synagogue, security personnel spotted him and engaged him in gunfire, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard told reporters near the scene. Bouchard also said that nearby schools were evacuated and residents in the area were asked to shelter in place. Temple Israel, located at 5725 Walnut Lake Road near the intersection of Walnut Lake and Drake roads, is described on its website as the largest reform synagogue in the United States. Police from West Bloomfield, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Michigan State Police were present at the scene. Also Read: Shooter killed after opening fire inside Old Dominion University building; two injured Officials are asking the public to stay away from the area while law enforcement continues its response. Nearby schools, West Bloomfield High School, West Bloomfield Middle School, Doherty Elementary School, and Bloomfield Hills Schools, have been placed in secure mode. The Jewish Federation of Detroit has also asked Jewish organisations in the region to activate security procedures. "We are asking community members to stay away from the area to allow for police response. Troopers are also increasing patrols at other places of worship in the district," the Michigan State Police reported. Authorities in nearby Ann Arbor said they are also monitoring the situation. The Ann Arbor Police Department said it was aware of reports of the incident in West Bloomfield, "out of an abundance of caution." https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-china-iran-close-deal-for-missiles-that-can-sink-us-warships-1773336607395/embed Ann Arbor Police Chief Andre Anderson directed officers to increase patrols and respond to local houses of worship and schools throughout the city as a precautionary safety measure, the police department said. So far, officials say there have been no reports of injuries. Authorities have not released additional details. Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer wrote on X, " I am tracking an active shooting at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. We are working with the Michigan State Police to get more information. Thank you to law enforcement for their swift action.

Police are responding to an ‘active shooter situation’ at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan. Nearby schools are secured as authorities clear the area; suspect dead

A shooter was killed on Thursday (March 12) after opening fire inside a building at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, according to the university. Two people were injured during the incident. The shooting happened on Thursday morning in Constant Hall, part of the university’s College of Business. Old Dominion issued an alert saying that the shooter had been neutralized but did not immediately release additional details. The condition of the two injured victims has not been disclosed.&nbsp;Shortly after noon, the university notified students and staff that the situation had been resolved. "The emergency at Constant Hall has ended," the university said. “There is no longer an active threat to the campus community.” A junior at the university told CBS affiliate WTKR-TV he was in class in the building when the shooting started.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-passes-controversial-law-for-ethnic-unity-makes-it-must-for-minorities-to-learn-mandarin-1773328454387">China passes controversial law for ethnic unity, makes it must for minorities to learn Mandarin</a>&nbsp;"We heard like faint screaming, and we just looked back. We didn't know what it was, and then we heard the screams getting louder, and then that's when the alarm went off, and everyone just ran out of the building," the student told WTKR-TV. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives said on X that agents were responding at the scene. Following the incident, the university announced that classes would be suspended for the remainder of the day.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-his-generals-told-him-it-was-fun-to-watch-ships-sink-1773335675287/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-his-generals-told-him-it-was-fun-to-watch-ships-sink-1773335675287/embed</a>&nbsp;The university first notified students and faculty at about 10:50 a.m. local time, warning them of an active threat on campus. “ODU. Urgent Alert: Active threat reported at Constant Hall. Follow Run-Hide-Fight protocols. Emergency personnel responding. Avoid the area,” the alert sent to the campus community said. After the incident, the university issued one more alert saying, "Due to an active shooter situation in which the shooter has been neutralised, all classes and operations on main campus are suspended for the remainder of the day,” a university alert issued at 11:30 am said.

Shooter killed after opening fire inside Old Dominion University building; two injured

A shooter was killed on Thursday (March 12) after opening fire inside a building at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, according to the university. Two people were injured during the incident. The shooting happened on Thursday morning in Constant Hall, part of the university’s College of Business. Old Dominion issued an alert saying that the shooter had been neutralized but did not immediately release additional details. The condition of the two injured victims has not been disclosed. Shortly after noon, the university notified students and staff that the situation had been resolved. "The emergency at Constant Hall has ended," the university said. “There is no longer an active threat to the campus community.” A junior at the university told CBS affiliate WTKR-TV he was in class in the building when the shooting started. Also Read: China passes controversial law for ethnic unity, makes it must for minorities to learn Mandarin "We heard like faint screaming, and we just looked back. We didn't know what it was, and then we heard the screams getting louder, and then that's when the alarm went off, and everyone just ran out of the building," the student told WTKR-TV. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives said on X that agents were responding at the scene. Following the incident, the university announced that classes would be suspended for the remainder of the day. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-his-generals-told-him-it-was-fun-to-watch-ships-sink-1773335675287/embed The university first notified students and faculty at about 10:50 a.m. local time, warning them of an active threat on campus. “ODU. Urgent Alert: Active threat reported at Constant Hall. Follow Run-Hide-Fight protocols. Emergency personnel responding. Avoid the area,” the alert sent to the campus community said. After the incident, the university issued one more alert saying, "Due to an active shooter situation in which the shooter has been neutralised, all classes and operations on main campus are suspended for the remainder of the day,” a university alert issued at 11:30 am said.

A gunman killed after opening fire inside the Old Dominion University business school building; two injured. Campus locked down before all-clear issued

A 60-year-old British tourist has been arrested in Dubai after allegedly filming missiles during the ongoing conflict involving Iran, according to a report by The Independent. The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was visiting the Gulf city on holiday when authorities reportedly detained him after he filmed missiles during the US-Iran war. The tourist is said to have deleted the video immediately when asked and reportedly had no harmful intent. Despite this, he now faces charges under the UAE’s cybercrime legislation.&nbsp;According to campaign group Detained in Dubai, the British national is one of 21 people of different nationalities arrested in connection with similar incidents. After his arrest, he was held at Bur Dubai police station. Radha Stirling, CEO of the campaign group, said the tourist is accused of having used “an information network or information technology tool to broadcast, publish, republish or circulate false news, rumours or provocative propaganda that may incite public opinion or disturb public security.”&nbsp;“The charges sound extremely vague but serious on paper. In reality, the alleged conduct could be something as simple as sharing or commenting on a video that is already circulating online,” she said. “Under UAE cybercrime laws, the person who originally posts content can be charged, but so can anyone who reshapes, reposts or comments on it. One video can quickly lead to dozens of people facing criminal charges,” Stirling added. If convicted, the tourist could face up to two years in prison or a fine ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 200,000, or both, along with possible deportation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-vows-revenge-for-crimes-against-iran-warns-of-more-attacks-on-us-bases-1773325213704">Mojtaba Khamenei vows revenge for ‘crimes’ against Iran, warns of more attacks on US bases</a>&nbsp;The arrest comes amid rising tensions in the region following military exchanges involving Iran, the US and Israel. Officials say hundreds of drones and ballistic missiles have been intercepted since the escalation began, with some incidents causing damage to infrastructure, including an airport and a hotel. Stirling said UAE authorities tend to be particularly sensitive during periods of regional conflict, and several individuals have reportedly been questioned after recording or briefly filming missile interceptions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-in-modern-warfare-questions-after-iran-school-strike-1773329384932/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-in-modern-warfare-questions-after-iran-school-strike-1773329384932/embed</a>&nbsp;She warned that behaviour considered normal on social media in other countries could lead to legal trouble in the UAE.“Foreigners need to understand that what may seem like normal social media behaviour elsewhere can lead to arrest in the UAE,” Stirling said, adding that in some cases, people may be treated as national security suspects before facts are clarified. She also cautioned that during times of geopolitical tension, even minor actions can quickly escalate into serious legal situations for foreign visitors. “In times of regional tension, authorities can become hypersensitive, and innocent mistake can quickly escalate into extremely serious and dangerous situations for foreigners,” she said.&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.

60-year-old British tourist arrested in Dubai for filming missiles attack amid Iran war

A 60-year-old British tourist has been arrested in Dubai after allegedly filming missiles during the ongoing conflict involving Iran, according to a report by The Independent. The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was visiting the Gulf city on holiday when authorities reportedly detained him after he filmed missiles during the US-Iran war. The tourist is said to have deleted the video immediately when asked and reportedly had no harmful intent. Despite this, he now faces charges under the UAE’s cybercrime legislation. According to campaign group Detained in Dubai, the British national is one of 21 people of different nationalities arrested in connection with similar incidents. After his arrest, he was held at Bur Dubai police station. Radha Stirling, CEO of the campaign group, said the tourist is accused of having used “an information network or information technology tool to broadcast, publish, republish or circulate false news, rumours or provocative propaganda that may incite public opinion or disturb public security.” “The charges sound extremely vague but serious on paper. In reality, the alleged conduct could be something as simple as sharing or commenting on a video that is already circulating online,” she said. “Under UAE cybercrime laws, the person who originally posts content can be charged, but so can anyone who reshapes, reposts or comments on it. One video can quickly lead to dozens of people facing criminal charges,” Stirling added. If convicted, the tourist could face up to two years in prison or a fine ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 200,000, or both, along with possible deportation. Also Read: Mojtaba Khamenei vows revenge for ‘crimes’ against Iran, warns of more attacks on US bases The arrest comes amid rising tensions in the region following military exchanges involving Iran, the US and Israel. Officials say hundreds of drones and ballistic missiles have been intercepted since the escalation began, with some incidents causing damage to infrastructure, including an airport and a hotel. Stirling said UAE authorities tend to be particularly sensitive during periods of regional conflict, and several individuals have reportedly been questioned after recording or briefly filming missile interceptions. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-in-modern-warfare-questions-after-iran-school-strike-1773329384932/embed She warned that behaviour considered normal on social media in other countries could lead to legal trouble in the UAE. “Foreigners need to understand that what may seem like normal social media behaviour elsewhere can lead to arrest in the UAE,” Stirling said, adding that in some cases, people may be treated as national security suspects before facts are clarified. She also cautioned that during times of geopolitical tension, even minor actions can quickly escalate into serious legal situations for foreign visitors. “In times of regional tension, authorities can become hypersensitive, and innocent mistake can quickly escalate into extremely serious and dangerous situations for foreigners,” she said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

A 60-year-old British tourist in Dubai was arrested for filming missiles during the US-Iran conflict and could face up to two years under UAE cybercrime laws

LPG is at the heart of India's domestic cooking solutions. Its availability is not a crisis until it is, because it has become overwhelmingly used in households and commercial outlets. As the Iran war is straining the LPG supply chain, it is interesting to ask: How did LPG become India's main cooking fuel? From where is India getting LPG? What percentage of India's cooking fuel is LPG? Does India produce LPG? Here is what you should know about India's tryst with LPG:<h2>How India embraced LPG as the main cooking fuel</h2>Liquefied Petroleum Gas became India's dominant cooking fuel as a result of long-term subsidies, the creation of infrastructure, and the massive government push through the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) since 2016.Before the red cylinders became ever-present, rural cooking used wood, dung, crop residue, timber and coal, among others. Earlier, LPG was largely used in urban or middle-class households. But that changed in the last decade.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lpg-consumption-across-india-top-states-using-the-most-cylinders-from-uttar-pradesh-to-west-bengal-1773325207709">LPG consumption across India: Top states using the most cylinders, from Uttar Pradesh to West Bengal</a><h2>Burshane: The first brand of LPG</h2>LPG was introduced in India in December 1955 by Burmah Shell, from which evolved BPCL, under the brand Burshane. Mumbai saw the first packed LPG cylinders of Burshane, followed later by cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra. M/s L.D. Bhave &amp; Sons, India's first dedicated LPG distributor, began operations in Pune in January 1956.The first major LPG brand, Indane, was launched by Indian Oil in Kolkata in October 1965. India manufactured its first local gas cylinder in 1967.But these were the days when LPG was seen as an urban fuel. It was not so popular due to high costs, the lack of enough bottling plants, a shortage of cylinders, and challenges in distribution. There was also the fear of cylinder blasts, which made many people see LPG as unsafe.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-lpg-cylinder-shortage-6-simple-alternatives-to-keep-your-kitchen-running-1773307213431">India LPG cylinder shortage: 6 simple alternatives to keep your kitchen running</a><h2>LPG usage grew in the 1990s</h2>With the liberalisation era of the 1990s, public sector oil marketing companies like Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum expanded LPG networks.The two and a half decades between 2000 and 2015 saw the growth of rural usage of LPG. The 2009 Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitaran Yojana (RGGLVY) set up rural LPG distributors even in remote areas.<h2>Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG changed the game</h2>Even though subsidies on LPG cylinders had existed for decades for domestic use, they were benefiting mostly higher-income urban users. The DBTL, known locally as ‘PAHAL’, short for Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh, was introduced by the Narendra Modi government to curb leakages through cash transfers of the government subsidy directly to beneficiary bank accounts. Equally important was the "GiveItUp" scheme aimed encouraging affluent users to voluntarily give up their subsidies. Once the subsidies were rationalised, millions of poor households also moved to LPG as their cooking fuel.Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-do-lpg-lng-png-and-cng-fuel-india-s-homes-transport-and-industry-know-the-differences-1773309737906"> How do LPG, LNG, PNG and CNG fuel India’s homes, transport and industry? Know the differences</a><h2>The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the rural expansion of LPG in India</h2>Modi launched PMUY on 1 May 2016, giving deposit-free LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, including a gas stove and a first refill subsidy of 1,600 rupees. The scheme benefited lower castes and tribes, forest dwellers, migrants, and other marginalised groups.&nbsp;Ujjwala 2.0, launched in August 2021, simplified the eligibility criteria for LPG connections. Ujjwala reduced indoor air pollution, empowered women by saving time, and helped address air pollution and deforestation.By 2024, India had 328.3 million active domestic LPG consumers, nearly doubling from 166.3 million in 2016. National LPG coverage jumped from around 62 per cent in 2016 to near-saturation today.Household LPG consumption went up by more than 50 per cent by 2019 and has grown ever since.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-india-lpg-prices-surge-amid-west-asia-war-pm-modi-says-no-need-to-panic-wion-1773259205110/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-india-lpg-prices-surge-amid-west-asia-war-pm-modi-says-no-need-to-panic-wion-1773259205110/embed</a><h2>LPG is now the primary cooking fuel for most Indians</h2>The National Sample Survey Office Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey of 2022–23 showed that 63 per cent of Indian households use clean fuels, overwhelmingly LPG, as their primary cooking fuel: 93 per cent in urban areas and around 50 per cent in rural areas.Nearly all LPG in India goes to household cooking, making it the nation's main cooking fuel by a wide margin. An estimated 16 per cent of LPG use is in commercial and industrial sectors.However, nearly 37 per cent of households, mostly in rural areas, still use solid biomass fuels. Many rural and urban households also mix their fuels, combining LPG with wood or other biomass fuels or induction cooking.<h2>India's LPG production capacity</h2>India produces LPG domestically as a by-product of crude oil refining at public sector refineries of IOCL, BPCL and HPCL, as well as at private facilities such as Reliance Industries' Jamnagar complex.In FY 2024–25, domestic LPG production was around 40 per cent, about 12.8 million metric tonnes (MMT) out of total consumption of 31.3 MMT.The government is confident about the supply amid the Iran war because it can boost domestic production of LPG when required by diverting refinery streams of propane and butane from petrochemicals. India can also diversify its LPG imports from sources such as the US Gulf Coast.<h2>Why the Iran war is affecting LPG supplies to India</h2>In different years, India imports between 59 and 67 per cent of LPG. The Middle East accounted for more than 90 per cent of LPG imports in 2024. Qatar is often the largest single supplier. Other major suppliers are the UAE and Saudi Arabia. A large percentage of LPG &nbsp;shipments from the Middle East to India pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is a flashpoint in the Iran war. As tensions rose, several Gulf nations have either reduced production or curbed shipments of LPG. Indian LPG consumers are now slowly feeling the pinch.

It's only at crisis times like this that we wonder how LPG became India’s main cooking fuel. Once used mostly by urban and affluent households, LPG saw nationwide adoption through subsidies and schemes. Here is that story

LPG is at the heart of India's domestic cooking solutions. Its availability is not a crisis until it is, because it has become overwhelmingly used in households and commercial outlets. As the Iran war is straining the LPG supply chain, it is interesting to ask: How did LPG become India's main cooking fuel? From where is India getting LPG? What percentage of India's cooking fuel is LPG? Does India produce LPG? Here is what you should know about India's tryst with LPG: How India embraced LPG as the main cooking fuel Liquefied Petroleum Gas became India's dominant cooking fuel as a result of long-term subsidies, the creation of infrastructure, and the massive government push through the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) since 2016. Before the red cylinders became ever-present, rural cooking used wood, dung, crop residue, timber and coal, among others. Earlier, LPG was largely used in urban or middle-class households. But that changed in the last decade. Also read: LPG consumption across India: Top states using the most cylinders, from Uttar Pradesh to West Bengal Burshane: The first brand of LPG LPG was introduced in India in December 1955 by Burmah Shell, from which evolved BPCL, under the brand Burshane. Mumbai saw the first packed LPG cylinders of Burshane, followed later by cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra. M/s L.D. Bhave & Sons, India's first dedicated LPG distributor, began operations in Pune in January 1956. The first major LPG brand, Indane, was launched by Indian Oil in Kolkata in October 1965. India manufactured its first local gas cylinder in 1967. But these were the days when LPG was seen as an urban fuel. It was not so popular due to high costs, the lack of enough bottling plants, a shortage of cylinders, and challenges in distribution. There was also the fear of cylinder blasts, which made many people see LPG as unsafe. Also read: India LPG cylinder shortage: 6 simple alternatives to keep your kitchen running LPG usage grew in the 1990s With the liberalisation era of the 1990s, public sector oil marketing companies like Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum expanded LPG networks. The two and a half decades between 2000 and 2015 saw the growth of rural usage of LPG. The 2009 Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitaran Yojana (RGGLVY) set up rural LPG distributors even in remote areas. Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG changed the game Even though subsidies on LPG cylinders had existed for decades for domestic use, they were benefiting mostly higher-income urban users. The DBTL, known locally as ‘PAHAL’, short for Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh, was introduced by the Narendra Modi government to curb leakages through cash transfers of the government subsidy directly to beneficiary bank accounts. Equally important was the "GiveItUp" scheme aimed encouraging affluent users to voluntarily give up their subsidies. Once the subsidies were rationalised, millions of poor households also moved to LPG as their cooking fuel. Also read: How do LPG, LNG, PNG and CNG fuel India’s homes, transport and industry? Know the differences The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the rural expansion of LPG in India Modi launched PMUY on 1 May 2016, giving deposit-free LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, including a gas stove and a first refill subsidy of 1,600 rupees. The scheme benefited lower castes and tribes, forest dwellers, migrants, and other marginalised groups. Ujjwala 2.0, launched in August 2021, simplified the eligibility criteria for LPG connections. Ujjwala reduced indoor air pollution, empowered women by saving time, and helped address air pollution and deforestation. By 2024, India had 328.3 million active domestic LPG consumers, nearly doubling from 166.3 million in 2016. National LPG coverage jumped from around 62 per cent in 2016 to near-saturation today. Household LPG consumption went up by more than 50 per cent by 2019 and has grown ever since. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-india-lpg-prices-surge-amid-west-asia-war-pm-modi-says-no-need-to-panic-wion-1773259205110/embed LPG is now the primary cooking fuel for most Indians The National Sample Survey Office Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey of 2022–23 showed that 63 per cent of Indian households use clean fuels, overwhelmingly LPG, as their primary cooking fuel: 93 per cent in urban areas and around 50 per cent in rural areas. Nearly all LPG in India goes to household cooking, making it the nation's main cooking fuel by a wide margin. An estimated 16 per cent of LPG use is in commercial and industrial sectors. However, nearly 37 per cent of households, mostly in rural areas, still use solid biomass fuels. Many rural and urban households also mix their fuels, combining LPG with wood or other biomass fuels or induction cooking. India's LPG production capacity India produces LPG domestically as a by-product of crude oil refining at public sector refineries of IOCL, BPCL and HPCL, as well as at private facilities such as Reliance Industries' Jamnagar complex. In FY 2024–25, domestic LPG production was around 40 per cent, about 12.8 million metric tonnes (MMT) out of total consumption of 31.3 MMT. The government is confident about the supply amid the Iran war because it can boost domestic production of LPG when required by diverting refinery streams of propane and butane from petrochemicals. India can also diversify its LPG imports from sources such as the US Gulf Coast. Why the Iran war is affecting LPG supplies to India In different years, India imports between 59 and 67 per cent of LPG. The Middle East accounted for more than 90 per cent of LPG imports in 2024. Qatar is often the largest single supplier. Other major suppliers are the UAE and Saudi Arabia. A large percentage of LPG shipments from the Middle East to India pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is a flashpoint in the Iran war. As tensions rose, several Gulf nations have either reduced production or curbed shipments of LPG. Indian LPG consumers are now slowly feeling the pinch.

It's only at crisis times like this that we wonder how LPG became India’s main cooking fuel. Once used mostly by urban and affluent households, LPG saw nationwide adoption through subsidies and schemes. Here is that story

India's tryst with LPG: How the red cylinders became nation's main cooking fuel. A lookback amid Iran war shortage news

China on Thursday approved a sweeping new law that promotes “ethnic unity” but what critics say will further erode the rights of minority groups as it makes it mandatory for all to learn Mandarin. The law mandates that all children should be taught Mandarin before kindergarten and up until the end of high school. Till now, students could study most of the curriculum in their native language, such as Tibetan, Uyghur, or Mongolian.&nbsp;The new law aims to promote integration across ethnic groups through education, housing, migration, community life, culture, tourism, and development policy. It also mandates that Mandarin be the basic language of instruction in schools and for government and official business.Beijing argues that teaching Mandarin to the next generation will help their job prospects. It also says the law is crucial for promoting “modernisation through greater unity”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-it-struck-taleghan-compound-where-iran-advanced-its-nuclear-programme-1773320992019">Israel says it struck Taleghan compound, where Iran ‘advanced’ its nuclear programme</a><h2>Law aims to promote integration among 56 officially recognised ethnic groups</h2>&nbsp;The law purportedly aims to promote integration among the 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, dominated by the Han Chinese, through education and housing.The law was passed on Thursday at the National People’s Congress in Beijing, which has never rejected an item on its agenda.The law provides a legal basis to prosecute parents or guardians who instil “detrimental” views in children, which would affect ethnic harmony. It also calls for “mutually embedded community environments," which some analysts say could result in the breakup of minority-heavy neighbourhoods.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-with-indian-captain-went-dark-to-cross-high-risk-strait-of-hormuz-reach-mumbai-1773315721972">Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai</a><h2>Chinese govt started to push for ‘sinicisation’ of minority groups in late 2000s</h2>&nbsp;The Chinese government started to push for what it describes as the “sinicisation” of minority groups in the late 2000s and create a more unified national identity by assimilating ethnic groups into the dominant Han culture.&nbsp;Beijing has been facing accusations of restricting the rights of minority ethnic groups in regions like Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia.In Tibet, the authorities have arrested monks and taken control of monasteries to ensure they do not worship the Dalai Lama.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-threatens-to-strike-google-microsoft-nvidia-sites-banks-as-economic-infra-becomes-new-war-target-1773256316860">Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target</a>&nbsp;In Xinjiang, human rights groups have documented the detention of a million Uyghur Muslims in what the Chinese government calls camps for “re-education”, while the UN has accused Beijing of grave human rights violations.&nbsp;Critics say the law will further erode the identity of people who are not majority Han Chinese.&nbsp;Officially, China has 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, dominated by the Han Chinese, who account for more than 91% of the country’s 1.4 billion people.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-practically-nothing-left-to-target-in-iran-war-will-end-soon-says-trump-1773246460317">‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;China’s ethnic minority populations, including Tibetans, Mongols, Hui, Manchus, and Uyghurs, are concentrated in regions that together cover roughly half of the country’s land area.&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping says that China’s ethnic groups should be like “pomegranate seeds that stick together”.&nbsp;

China has 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, dominated by the Han Chinese, who account for more than 91% of the country’s 1.4 billion people. The ethnic minority populations, like Tibetans, Mongols, Hui, Manchus, and Uyghurs, live in regions that cover roughly half of the country’s land.

China on Thursday approved a sweeping new law that promotes “ethnic unity” but what critics say will further erode the rights of minority groups as it makes it mandatory for all to learn Mandarin. The law mandates that all children should be taught Mandarin before kindergarten and up until the end of high school. Till now, students could study most of the curriculum in their native language, such as Tibetan, Uyghur, or Mongolian. The new law aims to promote integration across ethnic groups through education, housing, migration, community life, culture, tourism, and development policy. It also mandates that Mandarin be the basic language of instruction in schools and for government and official business. Beijing argues that teaching Mandarin to the next generation will help their job prospects. It also says the law is crucial for promoting “modernisation through greater unity”. Also Read: Israel says it struck Taleghan compound, where Iran ‘advanced’ its nuclear programme Law aims to promote integration among 56 officially recognised ethnic groups The law purportedly aims to promote integration among the 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, dominated by the Han Chinese, through education and housing. The law was passed on Thursday at the National People’s Congress in Beijing, which has never rejected an item on its agenda. The law provides a legal basis to prosecute parents or guardians who instil “detrimental” views in children, which would affect ethnic harmony. It also calls for “mutually embedded community environments," which some analysts say could result in the breakup of minority-heavy neighbourhoods. Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai Chinese govt started to push for ‘sinicisation’ of minority groups in late 2000s The Chinese government started to push for what it describes as the “sinicisation” of minority groups in the late 2000s and create a more unified national identity by assimilating ethnic groups into the dominant Han culture. Beijing has been facing accusations of restricting the rights of minority ethnic groups in regions like Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia. In Tibet, the authorities have arrested monks and taken control of monasteries to ensure they do not worship the Dalai Lama. Also Read: Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target In Xinjiang, human rights groups have documented the detention of a million Uyghur Muslims in what the Chinese government calls camps for “re-education”, while the UN has accused Beijing of grave human rights violations. Critics say the law will further erode the identity of people who are not majority Han Chinese. Officially, China has 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, dominated by the Han Chinese, who account for more than 91% of the country’s 1.4 billion people. Also Read: ‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump China’s ethnic minority populations, including Tibetans, Mongols, Hui, Manchus, and Uyghurs, are concentrated in regions that together cover roughly half of the country’s land area. Chinese President Xi Jinping says that China’s ethnic groups should be like “pomegranate seeds that stick together”.

China has 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, dominated by the Han Chinese, who account for more than 91% of the country’s 1.4 billion people. The ethnic minority populations, like Tibetans, Mongols, Hui, Manchus, and Uyghurs, live in regions that cover roughly half of the country’s land.

China passes controversial law for ethnic unity, makes it must for minorities to learn Mandarin

Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a defiant first statement after his appointment, saying that the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed as leverage against the United States and warning that attacks linked to regional tensions could continue. The statement was read on state television by a news anchor on Thursday (March 12), with Khamenei not appearing on camera. In the message, he defended Iran’s actions, accused the United States of using regional bases to control neighbouring countries, and urged people in the region to oppose what he described as aggression against Iran.&nbsp;Khamenei said Iran had resisted efforts to divide the country and insisted that pressure on the US must continue. “We have thwarted the efforts to partition the country. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz must continue. The enemy's bases in the region are intended to control its countries.” He said Iran maintains that it seeks friendly relations with neighbouring states but would continue targeting US military installations located within them.&nbsp;“We believe in friendship with neighboring countries, but we are compelled to continue targeting the American bases within them. We have been attacked from the enemy's bases in neighboring countries, and we are compelled to respond.” Khamenei also claimed Iran had deliberately limited its strikes to military facilities rather than the countries hosting them. “As we have previously warned, we targeted those bases only without attacking those countries.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-strait-of-hormuz-should-be-continued-as-a-tool-to-pressure-enemy-iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-s-first-statement-1773321492482">'Strait of Hormuz closure should be continued as a tool to pressure enemy': Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's first statement</a>&nbsp;He warned that Iran would seek revenge for attacks against its citizens and referenced what he called the “Minab school massacre.” “We will not hesitate to take revenge for the crimes committed by the enemy, especially the Minab school massacre.” In the statement, Khamenei called on countries in the region to shut down US military bases and urged the Iranian public to remain mobilised. “We advise the countries of the region to close the American bases. The people must be present in force in all arenas to thwart all the enemies' schemes.”&nbsp;He also warned that if the conflict escalates further, new fronts could emerge. “If the war situation continues, other fronts will be activated in which the enemy has no experience.” Khamenei said Iran shares borders with 15 countries and reiterated that Tehran seeks constructive relations with them, while also urging regional governments to clarify their stance on the conflict. “We have borders with 15 countries, and we have always desired and still desire to establish constructive relations with them. The countries of the region must determine their position regarding the aggressors and the killers of our people.”&nbsp;He added that Iran would seek compensation for damages and threatened retaliation if it was denied. “We will obtain compensation from the enemy in any case; if they refuse, we will destroy their property to the same extent.” Khamenei also criticised US claims about promoting peace in the region. “The countries of the region must have realized that America's claim of establishing peace was nothing but a lie.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-president-sends-mixed-signals-on-ending-iran-war-1773326664201/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-president-sends-mixed-signals-on-ending-iran-war-1773326664201/embed</a>&nbsp;He praised groups aligned with what Iran calls the “resistance front,” including forces in Yemen, Lebanon and Iraq. “I sincerely thank the fighters of the resistance front. The cooperation of the components of this front with one another shortens the path to getting rid of the zionist sedition.” “As we have seen, brave and faithful Yemen has not stopped defending the oppressed people of Gaza, Hezbollah, the self-sacrificing, despite all obstacles, came to help the Islamic Republic, and the resistance in Iraq is also courageously following this path.”&nbsp;Toward the end of his statement, Khamenei spoke about personal losses in his family, expressing sympathy for families of those killed in the conflict. “My deep sympathy with the families of the martyrs stems from a shared experience I had with them. Alongside my father, whose loss has become a general affliction, I said farewell to my loyal and dear wife.” “I lost my sacrificing sister who devoted herself to serving her parents and attained her reward, along with her young child and her husband.”&nbsp;He finished by invoking faith and promising that those killed would be avenged. “What makes patience in the face of calamities possible, and even easy, is the trust in Allah’s definitive promise of a great reward for those who are patient.”“I assure everyone that we will not overlook avenging the blood of your martyrs.”&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.

Mojtaba Khamenei vows revenge for ‘crimes’ against Iran, warns of more attacks on US bases

Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a defiant first statement after his appointment, saying that the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed as leverage against the United States and warning that attacks linked to regional tensions could continue. The statement was read on state television by a news anchor on Thursday (March 12), with Khamenei not appearing on camera. In the message, he defended Iran’s actions, accused the United States of using regional bases to control neighbouring countries, and urged people in the region to oppose what he described as aggression against Iran. Khamenei said Iran had resisted efforts to divide the country and insisted that pressure on the US must continue. “We have thwarted the efforts to partition the country. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz must continue. The enemy's bases in the region are intended to control its countries.” He said Iran maintains that it seeks friendly relations with neighbouring states but would continue targeting US military installations located within them. “We believe in friendship with neighboring countries, but we are compelled to continue targeting the American bases within them. We have been attacked from the enemy's bases in neighboring countries, and we are compelled to respond.” Khamenei also claimed Iran had deliberately limited its strikes to military facilities rather than the countries hosting them. “As we have previously warned, we targeted those bases only without attacking those countries.” Also Read: 'Strait of Hormuz closure should be continued as a tool to pressure enemy': Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's first statement He warned that Iran would seek revenge for attacks against its citizens and referenced what he called the “Minab school massacre.” “We will not hesitate to take revenge for the crimes committed by the enemy, especially the Minab school massacre.” In the statement, Khamenei called on countries in the region to shut down US military bases and urged the Iranian public to remain mobilised. “We advise the countries of the region to close the American bases. The people must be present in force in all arenas to thwart all the enemies' schemes.” He also warned that if the conflict escalates further, new fronts could emerge. “If the war situation continues, other fronts will be activated in which the enemy has no experience.” Khamenei said Iran shares borders with 15 countries and reiterated that Tehran seeks constructive relations with them, while also urging regional governments to clarify their stance on the conflict. “We have borders with 15 countries, and we have always desired and still desire to establish constructive relations with them. The countries of the region must determine their position regarding the aggressors and the killers of our people.” He added that Iran would seek compensation for damages and threatened retaliation if it was denied. “We will obtain compensation from the enemy in any case; if they refuse, we will destroy their property to the same extent.” Khamenei also criticised US claims about promoting peace in the region. “The countries of the region must have realized that America's claim of establishing peace was nothing but a lie.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-president-sends-mixed-signals-on-ending-iran-war-1773326664201/embed He praised groups aligned with what Iran calls the “resistance front,” including forces in Yemen, Lebanon and Iraq. “I sincerely thank the fighters of the resistance front. The cooperation of the components of this front with one another shortens the path to getting rid of the zionist sedition.” “As we have seen, brave and faithful Yemen has not stopped defending the oppressed people of Gaza, Hezbollah, the self-sacrificing, despite all obstacles, came to help the Islamic Republic, and the resistance in Iraq is also courageously following this path.” Toward the end of his statement, Khamenei spoke about personal losses in his family, expressing sympathy for families of those killed in the conflict. “My deep sympathy with the families of the martyrs stems from a shared experience I had with them. Alongside my father, whose loss has become a general affliction, I said farewell to my loyal and dear wife.” “I lost my sacrificing sister who devoted herself to serving her parents and attained her reward, along with her young child and her husband.” He finished by invoking faith and promising that those killed would be avenged. “What makes patience in the face of calamities possible, and even easy, is the trust in Allah’s definitive promise of a great reward for those who are patient.” “I assure everyone that we will not overlook avenging the blood of your martyrs.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei says the Strait of Hormuz must stay closed and warns attacks on US-linked bases in the region will continue

Just hours before Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, delivered his first official address, a section of the western media claimed that he is in a coma and lost one leg. The Sun, which first reported it, quoting a source in Tehran, and the UK media, which amplified it, said that it had gained information from the hospital where he is reportedly being treated after being injured in an airstrike. However, soon after, Iran released an audio message by the Ayatollah in which he talked about the attack by the US and Israel, the Minab school massacre, the Gulf countries under attack and the death of his family members.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-strait-of-hormuz-should-be-continued-as-a-tool-to-pressure-enemy-iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-s-first-statement-1773321492482">'Strait of Hormuz closure should be continued as a tool to pressure enemy': Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's first statement</a><h2>What did Mojtaba Khamenei say in his first message?</h2>On Thursday, Mojtaba said Iran will not hesitate to take revenge for the crimes committed by the enemy, especially the Minab school massacre, which killed 168 girls. He told Gulf countries to close the American bases, saying they will otherwise be compelled to continue targeting the American bases there. Khamenei said they had only targeted those bases without attacking those countries. He urged them to determine their position regarding the "aggressors and the killers of our people." He said, "We have borders with 15 countries, and we have always desired and still desire to establish constructive relations with them."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-middle-east-will-go-dark-iran-warns-us-over-threat-to-destroy-power-grid-1773324544326">'Middle East will go dark': Iran warns US over threat to destroy power grid</a><h2>What did Western media claim about his health?</h2>The Sun reported that Mojtaba Khamenei was in a coma and had also lost a leg in an airstrike. It quoted a source as saying that the Ayatollah is in a critical condition and has also suffered serious stomach or liver damage. It is unclear whether he sustained the injuries in the same strikes that killed his father, Ali Khamenei, on February 28. The outlet had its source pass on the information on Mojtaba's condition from Tehran to an exiled dissident based in London. He said that the new Supreme Leader is in intensive care at the Sina University Hospital, and a section of the building has been sealed off with huge security present at the scene. The source, who was not named due to security reasons, said he knew people in the hospital’s trauma team who told him that Mojtaba was "very serious." He named the doctor looking after him as Mohammad-Reza Zafarghandi, who is Iran's top trauma surgeon and also the Minister of Health, Treatment and Medical Education.&nbsp;“One or two of his legs have been cut off. His liver or stomach has also ruptured. He is apparently in a coma as well," the source told The Sun. Zafarghandi is one of the Iranian regime's one of most trusted doctors. The Sun conceded that because of the internet blackout in Iran, it is not possible to verify the account. Notably, the Iranian state TV had earlier referred to Mojtaba as “Jaanbaz of Ramadan” – a wounded war veteran. Rumours have been doing the rounds that Iran is being run by a "Ghost Ayatollah".&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-does-trump-have-a-counter-for-iran-s-hormuz-strategy-1773323083342/embed<h2>Iran debunked reports of critical injury</h2> Reports also claim that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the Sina Hospital two days ago. Mojtaba was named the new Ayatollah just five days ago, but has never been heard from. He has been silent on the war, and there have been rumours that he could already be dead. Just yesterday (Wednesday, March 11), Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said that Mojtaba was “safe and sound”.&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.

Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has delivered his first address as the Ayatollah in which he urged Gulf nations to shut down US bases. Earlier, a section of Western media claimed that he was in a coma and had lost a leg.

Just hours before Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, delivered his first official address, a section of the western media claimed that he is in a coma and lost one leg. The Sun, which first reported it, quoting a source in Tehran, and the UK media, which amplified it, said that it had gained information from the hospital where he is reportedly being treated after being injured in an airstrike. However, soon after, Iran released an audio message by the Ayatollah in which he talked about the attack by the US and Israel, the Minab school massacre, the Gulf countries under attack and the death of his family members. Also Read: 'Strait of Hormuz closure should be continued as a tool to pressure enemy': Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's first statement What did Mojtaba Khamenei say in his first message? On Thursday, Mojtaba said Iran will not hesitate to take revenge for the crimes committed by the enemy, especially the Minab school massacre, which killed 168 girls. He told Gulf countries to close the American bases, saying they will otherwise be compelled to continue targeting the American bases there. Khamenei said they had only targeted those bases without attacking those countries. He urged them to determine their position regarding the "aggressors and the killers of our people." He said, "We have borders with 15 countries, and we have always desired and still desire to establish constructive relations with them." Also Read: 'Middle East will go dark': Iran warns US over threat to destroy power grid What did Western media claim about his health? The Sun reported that Mojtaba Khamenei was in a coma and had also lost a leg in an airstrike. It quoted a source as saying that the Ayatollah is in a critical condition and has also suffered serious stomach or liver damage. It is unclear whether he sustained the injuries in the same strikes that killed his father, Ali Khamenei, on February 28. The outlet had its source pass on the information on Mojtaba's condition from Tehran to an exiled dissident based in London. He said that the new Supreme Leader is in intensive care at the Sina University Hospital, and a section of the building has been sealed off with huge security present at the scene. The source, who was not named due to security reasons, said he knew people in the hospital’s trauma team who told him that Mojtaba was "very serious." He named the doctor looking after him as Mohammad-Reza Zafarghandi, who is Iran's top trauma surgeon and also the Minister of Health, Treatment and Medical Education. “One or two of his legs have been cut off. His liver or stomach has also ruptured. He is apparently in a coma as well," the source told The Sun. Zafarghandi is one of the Iranian regime's one of most trusted doctors. The Sun conceded that because of the internet blackout in Iran, it is not possible to verify the account. Notably, the Iranian state TV had earlier referred to Mojtaba as “Jaanbaz of Ramadan” – a wounded war veteran. Rumours have been doing the rounds that Iran is being run by a "Ghost Ayatollah". https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-does-trump-have-a-counter-for-iran-s-hormuz-strategy-1773323083342/embed Iran debunked reports of critical injury Reports also claim that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the Sina Hospital two days ago. Mojtaba was named the new Ayatollah just five days ago, but has never been heard from. He has been silent on the war, and there have been rumours that he could already be dead. Just yesterday (Wednesday, March 11), Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said that Mojtaba was “safe and sound”. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has delivered his first address as the Ayatollah in which he urged Gulf nations to shut down US bases. Earlier, a section of Western media claimed that he was in a coma and had lost a leg.

Hours before Iran's new Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei shared his first message, UK media reported he is in a coma

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani warned the entire Middle East will "go dark" if the United State try to destroy the power generation capacity of Iran. He confirmed that the darkness creates favourable conditions for "hunting American soldiers." "Trump has said, 'We can take apart Iran's electric capacity within one hour, but we have not done it.' Well, if they do that, the whole region will go dark in less than half an hour, and darkness provides ample opportunity to hunt down US servicemen running for safety," Ali said in a post on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump has said &quot;we can take apart Iran&#39;s electric capacity within one hour, but we have not done it.&quot; Well, if they do that, the whole region will go dark in less than half an hour and darkness provides ample opportunity to hunt down US servicemen running for safety.&mdash; Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alilarijani_ir/status/2032077584809292183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The statement of Ali Larijani came days after the American leader threatened to destroy the power generation capacity of Iran within an hour, but expressed hope that this would not be necessary.<h3>Iran's supreme leader says Strait of Hormuz must remain closed</h3>Meanwhile, Iran's supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, stated that the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed, disobeying the order of President Donald Trump and calls from global markets to reopen the important oil trade route. “Certainly, the lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz should still be used,” Khamenei said, based on a quote from his first message to the public, the semiofficial Tasnim news agency reported. Iran has also vowed to target any US, Israeli or allied ship that attempts to cross the Strait of Hormuz, which is considered one-fifth of the world’s oil passage annually. The disruption due to war and the blockade of the strait led to an upsurge in oil prices.&nbsp;Oil prices surged by more than 7 per cent on Thursday after the International Energy Agency warned that the US–Israel war on Iran was “creating the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market.”&nbsp;After remarks by Ali Khamenei, the price of international Brent crude oil climbed above $100 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate rose past $95. The shockwaves from the oil market disruption also hit equities, sending stocks lower. At the opening bell, the S&amp;P 500 dropped more than 1 per cent, the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.3 per cent, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average slid by about 570 points.&nbsp;US crude prices have now climbed over 40 per cent since the war began, pushing retail fuel costs higher. Since March 1, gasoline prices have increased by nearly 70 cents to reach $3.59 per gallon on Thursday, according to GasBuddy. &nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-strait-of-hormuz-should-be-continued-as-a-tool-to-pressure-enemy-iran-s-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-s-first-statement-1773321492482"> 'Strait of Hormuz closure should be continued as a tool to pressure enemy': Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's first statement</a>

Ali Larijani's statement came days after the American leader threatened to destroy the power generation capacity of Iran within an hour, but expressed hope that this would not be necessary.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani warned the entire Middle East will "go dark" if the United State try to destroy the power generation capacity of Iran. He confirmed that the darkness creates favourable conditions for "hunting American soldiers." "Trump has said, 'We can take apart Iran's electric capacity within one hour, but we have not done it.' Well, if they do that, the whole region will go dark in less than half an hour, and darkness provides ample opportunity to hunt down US servicemen running for safety," Ali said in a post on X.

Ali Larijani's statement came days after the American leader threatened to destroy the power generation capacity of Iran within an hour, but expressed hope that this would not be necessary.

'Middle East will go dark': Iran warns US over threat to destroy power grid

The Israeli Defence Forces have said that they recently struck an Iranian nuclear facility where the regime worked on “critical capabilities in the development of nuclear weapons.” The site near Tehran, identified by the IDF as the Taleghan compound, was hit during waves of strikes the air force carried out in the area over the past few days, Times of Israel reported on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Israeli Air Force, acting on precise IDF intelligence, struck an additional Iranian nuclear programme site,” the military said, claiming the “Taleghan compound was utilized by the regime to advance critical capabilities for developing nuclear weapons.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-with-indian-captain-went-dark-to-cross-high-risk-strait-of-hormuz-reach-mumbai-1773315721972">Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai</a>&nbsp;<h2>Taleghan compound earlier struck by Israel in October 2024</h2>&nbsp;The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month.The military said it recently detected that Iran had “taken steps to rehabilitate the compound” following those strikes.“The Iranian regime has continued efforts to advance and develop capabilities required for the development of a nuclear weapon,” the IDF said, adding that the recent strike is part of a “series of operations” aimed at “further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-threatens-to-strike-google-microsoft-nvidia-sites-banks-as-economic-infra-becomes-new-war-target-1773256316860">Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target</a>&nbsp;The Institute for Science and International Security, a US-based think tank that monitors Iran’s nuclear programme, recently claimed that Iran conducts covert military activities in the Taleghan compound, a facility in Parchin, southeast of Tehran.&nbsp;<h2>Israel targeted underground nuclear facility in Iran earlier</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this month, the Israeli military had announced that it targeted an underground nuclear facility in Iran where it claimed scientists were “covertly” developing a key component for nuclear weapons.“IDF intelligence continued to follow the scientists’ activities and located their new location at this site in a manner that enabled a precise strike,” the military said, while sharing a map showing the facility on the eastern outskirts of Tehran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-practically-nothing-left-to-target-in-iran-war-will-end-soon-says-trump-1773246460317">‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;Israel and Western powers have long accused Iran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran has kept denying, but it has continued to enrich uranium up to 60% purity, a level considered highly enriched and just below weapons-grade.&nbsp;Israel and the United States launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28 to eliminate “the existential threat” posed by the latter’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.Israeli officials say Iran intensified its pursuit of an atomic weapon after the end of the 12-day war in June 2025, which began with Israeli strikes and included US bombings of three nuclear facilities, including an enrichment plant.

The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month. The IDF said that the recent strike is part of a series of operations aimed at further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.

The Israeli Defence Forces have said that they recently struck an Iranian nuclear facility where the regime worked on “critical capabilities in the development of nuclear weapons.” The site near Tehran, identified by the IDF as the Taleghan compound, was hit during waves of strikes the air force carried out in the area over the past few days, Times of Israel reported on Thursday. “The Israeli Air Force, acting on precise IDF intelligence, struck an additional Iranian nuclear programme site,” the military said, claiming the “Taleghan compound was utilized by the regime to advance critical capabilities for developing nuclear weapons.” Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai Taleghan compound earlier struck by Israel in October 2024 The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month. The military said it recently detected that Iran had “taken steps to rehabilitate the compound” following those strikes. “The Iranian regime has continued efforts to advance and develop capabilities required for the development of a nuclear weapon,” the IDF said, adding that the recent strike is part of a “series of operations” aimed at “further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.” Also Read: Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target The Institute for Science and International Security, a US-based think tank that monitors Iran’s nuclear programme, recently claimed that Iran conducts covert military activities in the Taleghan compound, a facility in Parchin, southeast of Tehran. Israel targeted underground nuclear facility in Iran earlier Earlier this month, the Israeli military had announced that it targeted an underground nuclear facility in Iran where it claimed scientists were “covertly” developing a key component for nuclear weapons. “IDF intelligence continued to follow the scientists’ activities and located their new location at this site in a manner that enabled a precise strike,” the military said, while sharing a map showing the facility on the eastern outskirts of Tehran. Also Read: ‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump Israel and Western powers have long accused Iran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran has kept denying, but it has continued to enrich uranium up to 60% purity, a level considered highly enriched and just below weapons-grade. Israel and the United States launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28 to eliminate “the existential threat” posed by the latter’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Israeli officials say Iran intensified its pursuit of an atomic weapon after the end of the 12-day war in June 2025, which began with Israeli strikes and included US bombings of three nuclear facilities, including an enrichment plant.

The Taleghan compound had earlier been struck by Israel in October 2024 in retaliation for an Iranian missile attack in the same month. The IDF said that the recent strike is part of a series of operations aimed at further damaging the Iranian terror regime’s nuclear aspirations.

Israel says it struck Taleghan compound, where Iran ‘advanced’ its nuclear programme

An investigation has been launched after some customers of Lloyds, Halifax and Bank of Scotland were able to see the transactions of other users on their accounts when they logged into their app on Thursday. Several customers reported difficulties while logging into their bank accounts, and some were able to see the account details of others. A woman confirmed that she encountered the accounts of six different users on the Bank of Scotland app, along with some national insurance numbers, for 20 minutes, BBC reported. She found benefits payments from the Department for Work and Pensions, which uses National Insurance numbers of recipients as payment references. She also noticed transactions linked to &nbsp;Waitrose, even though she does not live near one of the supermarket’s stores.<h3>Lloyds Banking Group responds</h3>In response, a spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group apologised and said the issue had been resolved quickly, but some customers continued to report problems logging into their bank accounts. In a Facebook post, consumer advocate Martin Lewis said people had been contacting him about “being shown other people’s transactions”. The founder of MoneySavingExpert then received nearly 2,000 comments from concerned bank customers. Many said they could view other people’s names and transactions, while some feared their accounts had been hacked. In another post, Shirley Finlayson said that when she logged into the Bank of Scotland app, she saw several transactions, including one dating back to 2024. She added that outgoing payments displayed the recipient’s full details, including their name, bank account and sort code. Another user, identified as Jill Steel, confirmed that when she logged into her account in the Lloyds app, she was witnessing the financial details of 30 people. “Can see names plus corresponding account numbers and sort codes. NI numbers if they’re receiving any benefits.” Responding to customers on social media, Halifax stated that it was aware some customers were “having issues with viewing transactions and balances right now”. “We’re sorry that some customers experienced an issue viewing transactions in the app for a short time this morning. The issue was quickly resolved, and we’re looking into what happened," a Lloyds spokesperson said.<h3>Previous incident</h3>This is not the first time apps run by Lloyds Banking Group have encountered problems. The apps for Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland were hit by technical issues during broader UK banking app outages on payday in January and February 2025. The disruptions led to thousands of users reporting problems on the outage-tracking platform Downdetector, prompting consumer groups and officials to urge banks to strengthen the resilience of their digital systems.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-rupee-slides-to-record-low-of-92-35-per-dollar-amid-iran-war-more-details-inside-1773311169729">Indian rupee slides to record low of 92.35 per dollar amid Iran war: More details inside</a>

In response to the error in the bank app, a spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group apologised and said the issue had been resolved quickly, but some customers continued to report problems logging into their bank accounts.

An investigation has been launched after some customers of Lloyds, Halifax and Bank of Scotland were able to see the transactions of other users on their accounts when they logged into their app on Thursday. Several customers reported difficulties while logging into their bank accounts, and some were able to see the account details of others. A woman confirmed that she encountered the accounts of six different users on the Bank of Scotland app, along with some national insurance numbers, for 20 minutes, BBC reported. She found benefits payments from the Department for Work and Pensions, which uses National Insurance numbers of recipients as payment references. She also noticed transactions linked to Waitrose, even though she does not live near one of the supermarket’s stores. Lloyds Banking Group responds In response, a spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group apologised and said the issue had been resolved quickly, but some customers continued to report problems logging into their bank accounts. In a Facebook post, consumer advocate Martin Lewis said people had been contacting him about “being shown other people’s transactions”. The founder of MoneySavingExpert then received nearly 2,000 comments from concerned bank customers. Many said they could view other people’s names and transactions, while some feared their accounts had been hacked. In another post, Shirley Finlayson said that when she logged into the Bank of Scotland app, she saw several transactions, including one dating back to 2024. She added that outgoing payments displayed the recipient’s full details, including their name, bank account and sort code. Another user, identified as Jill Steel, confirmed that when she logged into her account in the Lloyds app, she was witnessing the financial details of 30 people. “Can see names plus corresponding account numbers and sort codes. NI numbers if they’re receiving any benefits.” Responding to customers on social media, Halifax stated that it was aware some customers were “having issues with viewing transactions and balances right now”. “We’re sorry that some customers experienced an issue viewing transactions in the app for a short time this morning. The issue was quickly resolved, and we’re looking into what happened," a Lloyds spokesperson said. Previous incident This is not the first time apps run by Lloyds Banking Group have encountered problems. The apps for Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland were hit by technical issues during broader UK banking app outages on payday in January and February 2025. The disruptions led to thousands of users reporting problems on the outage-tracking platform Downdetector, prompting consumer groups and officials to urge banks to strengthen the resilience of their digital systems. Also read: Indian rupee slides to record low of 92.35 per dollar amid Iran war: More details inside

In response to the error in the bank app, a spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group apologised and said the issue had been resolved quickly, but some customers continued to report problems logging into their bank accounts.

Customers of three UK banks see transactions of other users on app: More details inside

Iran has reiterated that the ongoing war must not damage its relations with neighbouring countries, even though it says attacks against it have been launched from some US bases located in those nations. In a statement read on state television, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, called for national unity and urged citizens to participate in Quds Day events. Khamenei also said the closure of the Strait of Hormuz should continue as a means of pressuring Iran’s adversaries. He warned that all US bases in the region must be shut down immediately, adding that those facilities would be targeted.&nbsp;While stressing that Iran believes in maintaining friendly relations with neighboring countries, he said Tehran would focus its retaliation on the bases themselves and vowed that the campaign would continue. Khamenei further declared that Iran would not refrain from avenging the blood of what he called its “martyrs.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/-will-abandon-all-restraint-iran-issues-chilling-warning-to-us-israel-over-persian-gulf-islands-1773309968082">‘Blood of American soldiers...’: Iran issues chilling warning to US, Israel over Persian Gulf islands</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">رهبرا! ما با شما عهد می‌بندیم که برای اعتلاء این پرچم که پرچم اصلی جبهه حق است و برای وصول به مقاصد مقدس جنابتان با تمام وجود تلاش کنیم.&mdash; رسانه رهبر انقلاب اسلامی (@Rahbarenghelab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rahbarenghelab_/status/2032088635831464174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I, Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, your servant, along with you and through the Islamic Republic Broadcasting, became aware of the result of the vote of the esteemed Assembly of Experts. For me, leaning upon a place that has been the seat of two great leaders, the great Khomeini and the martyred Khamenei, is a difficult task. I had the honor of visiting their body after martyrdom; what I saw was a mountain of steadfastness, and I heard that he had clenched the fist of his healthy hand.”&nbsp;“The insight and wisdom of the great Iranian nation in the recent event, along with its steadfastness, courage, and presence, compelled friends to admiration and foes to astonishment. It was you, the people, who led the country and guaranteed its authority. If that supreme blessing was taken from us, in its place, the Ammar-like presence of the Iranian nation was once again bestowed upon this system,” a post read from his newly made X account.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-alternative-fuel-options-are-being-activated-1773322206422/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-alternative-fuel-options-are-being-activated-1773322206422/embed</a>&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.

'Strait of Hormuz closure should be continued as a tool to pressure enemy': Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei's first statement

Iran has reiterated that the ongoing war must not damage its relations with neighbouring countries, even though it says attacks against it have been launched from some US bases located in those nations. In a statement read on state television, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, called for national unity and urged citizens to participate in Quds Day events. Khamenei also said the closure of the Strait of Hormuz should continue as a means of pressuring Iran’s adversaries. He warned that all US bases in the region must be shut down immediately, adding that those facilities would be targeted. While stressing that Iran believes in maintaining friendly relations with neighboring countries, he said Tehran would focus its retaliation on the bases themselves and vowed that the campaign would continue. Khamenei further declared that Iran would not refrain from avenging the blood of what he called its “martyrs.” Also Read: ‘Blood of American soldiers...’: Iran issues chilling warning to US, Israel over Persian Gulf islands

Iran's Supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei in a statement read on TV said all US bases should immediately be closed in the region and those bases will be attacked

The video was ten seconds long. It showed Tel Aviv's skyline convulsing under missile fire, towers disappearing into smoke, sirens tearing across a city already half-destroyed. The captions said Iranian ballistic missiles had overwhelmed Israel’s air defences. Within hours, it had millions of views. One major Indian newspaper published it as fact. It was entirely fabricated. That was March 2026. But the machinery behind it had been running for over a year. A review of documented cases by several international news agencies and a range of fact-checking organisations across three war zones has identified more than twelve incidents between January 2025 and March 2026 in which AI-generated video was used to reshape public understanding of active conflicts, in Gaza, Ukraine and the Iran-Israel theatre.<h2>The same playbook, three war zones</h2>The method is consistent. A synthetic clip, often posted openly on a TikTok or Instagram account that labels its content as AI-generated, gets stripped of that label, fitted with a breaking-news caption timed to a real event, and released. By the time a fact-checker responds, the damage is done.<h3>Gaza</h3>In Gaza, a dramatic explosion video captioned as an Israeli air strike on civilians was traced by The Real Fact Hunter to a TikTok account called @everythingai97, which had clearly marked the clip as AI-generated. An October 2025 video of a so-called Gaza Martyrs Museum, complete with statues of well-known victims, was tracked by Misbar to an Instagram account that openly identifies as an AI content creator. In December, two separate clips of children and tents submerged in floodwater went viral as humanitarian evidence. AFP Fact Check found one scored 99.9 percent on AI-detection platform Hive Moderation.<h3>Ukraine-Russia</h3>Ukraine saw a different operation. In November 2025, DW Fact Check identified a wave of videos showing tearful young men in Ukrainian uniforms pleading not to be sent to the front, shared by pro-Russian accounts as proof of forced conscription. Several carried visible Sora watermarks, the logo of OpenA’s video tool. Around the same time, dozens of clips claimed to show mass Ukrainian surrenders near Pokrovsk. Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation issued a formal warning, calling it a coordinated information attack. Independent fact-checkers found faceless soldiers, fused fingers and no corroborating battlefield evidence.<h3>Iran war</h3>The Iran-Israel escalation produced the most extreme material. Reuters Fact Check consulted three forensics experts on the March 2026 Tel Aviv footage, all confirmed AI origin, citing warped solar panels, a flag that changed design mid-zoom and audio that lacked real-world reverberation. An Indian outlet, BOOM ran the same clips through two detection tools; both returned approximately 99 percent synthetic probability.<h3>Virality outperforms fact-check</h3>Vineet Khunger, Co-founder of IndieVisual, a leading AI technology-led video production company, says the barrier to creating convincing synthetic news footage has collapsed entirely. “It’s become a bit too easy for a bad actor sitting alone at home to use foundational AI video models to create clips that look like real news,” he told WION. “Someone with nefarious intent can figure out ways to easily fool people on social media. We’ve already got issues from both angles, some people believing footage that’s fake, and on the flip side, other people doubting what they see even if it’s real.” Vineet says trained professionals can spot the tells, faked CCTV footage that cuts every seven to eight seconds, the current generation limit for consumer AI video models, along with glitchy artefacts and unnatural visual clarity. But he is candid about the limits of that expertise at scale.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Given that we’re scrolling past so much video, it’s not humanly possible to go deep into the authenticity of every clip we see. Social media rewards engagement, a fake clip designed for virality will almost always outperform a post pointing out that it was fake.”<h2>When institutions fell for it</h2>The fakes did not stay on the fringes. Just days ago, a sitting UK Member of Parliament shared an AI-generated image depicting rows of shrouded bodies said to be schoolgirls killed in an airstrike on a school in Minab, Iran. Five separate fact-checking organisations identified it as synthetic. A leading Indian newspaper article briefly treated an AI missile-strike clip as real footage before issuing a correction.&nbsp;The structural problem is not that detection tools are inadequate. It is that the strip-and-amplify pipeline moves faster than any newsroom can respond. The label proving a video is fake is removed before the video goes viral. The correction arrives after the damage is complete. On the question of who bears responsibility, Vineet is direct. “Everyone, the production industry, the media industry, the government, that should be pressurising the tech companies to include clear safeguards around what can be generated,” he said. “The government should step in with context-specific policies. AI video in the news space should be heavily regulated. AI video on social media should be clearly labelled as such. AI has many positive use cases, but these safeguards can give us a more trustworthy, transparent and safer environment for everyone.”&nbsp;Fourteen months of documented fakes across three conflict zones have exposed a gap that technology alone cannot close. To put it simply, AI has not changed what information warfare is for. It has changed who can wage it, how fast, and with what degree of plausibility. For the millions who never saw the fact-check, the fake was simply the news.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Faking the front line: How artificial intelligence is overriding war perceptions

The video was ten seconds long. It showed Tel Aviv's skyline convulsing under missile fire, towers disappearing into smoke, sirens tearing across a city already half-destroyed. The captions said Iranian ballistic missiles had overwhelmed Israel’s air defences. Within hours, it had millions of views. One major Indian newspaper published it as fact. It was entirely fabricated. That was March 2026. But the machinery behind it had been running for over a year. A review of documented cases by several international news agencies and a range of fact-checking organisations across three war zones has identified more than twelve incidents between January 2025 and March 2026 in which AI-generated video was used to reshape public understanding of active conflicts, in Gaza, Ukraine and the Iran-Israel theatre. The same playbook, three war zones The method is consistent. A synthetic clip, often posted openly on a TikTok or Instagram account that labels its content as AI-generated, gets stripped of that label, fitted with a breaking-news caption timed to a real event, and released. By the time a fact-checker responds, the damage is done. Gaza In Gaza, a dramatic explosion video captioned as an Israeli air strike on civilians was traced by The Real Fact Hunter to a TikTok account called @everythingai97, which had clearly marked the clip as AI-generated. An October 2025 video of a so-called Gaza Martyrs Museum, complete with statues of well-known victims, was tracked by Misbar to an Instagram account that openly identifies as an AI content creator. In December, two separate clips of children and tents submerged in floodwater went viral as humanitarian evidence. AFP Fact Check found one scored 99.9 percent on AI-detection platform Hive Moderation. Ukraine-Russia Ukraine saw a different operation. In November 2025, DW Fact Check identified a wave of videos showing tearful young men in Ukrainian uniforms pleading not to be sent to the front, shared by pro-Russian accounts as proof of forced conscription. Several carried visible Sora watermarks, the logo of OpenA’s video tool. Around the same time, dozens of clips claimed to show mass Ukrainian surrenders near Pokrovsk. Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation issued a formal warning, calling it a coordinated information attack. Independent fact-checkers found faceless soldiers, fused fingers and no corroborating battlefield evidence. Iran war The Iran-Israel escalation produced the most extreme material. Reuters Fact Check consulted three forensics experts on the March 2026 Tel Aviv footage, all confirmed AI origin, citing warped solar panels, a flag that changed design mid-zoom and audio that lacked real-world reverberation. An Indian outlet, BOOM ran the same clips through two detection tools; both returned approximately 99 percent synthetic probability. Virality outperforms fact-check Vineet Khunger, Co-founder of IndieVisual, a leading AI technology-led video production company, says the barrier to creating convincing synthetic news footage has collapsed entirely. “It’s become a bit too easy for a bad actor sitting alone at home to use foundational AI video models to create clips that look like real news,” he told WION. “Someone with nefarious intent can figure out ways to easily fool people on social media. We’ve already got issues from both angles, some people believing footage that’s fake, and on the flip side, other people doubting what they see even if it’s real.” Vineet says trained professionals can spot the tells, faked CCTV footage that cuts every seven to eight seconds, the current generation limit for consumer AI video models, along with glitchy artefacts and unnatural visual clarity. But he is candid about the limits of that expertise at scale. “Given that we’re scrolling past so much video, it’s not humanly possible to go deep into the authenticity of every clip we see. Social media rewards engagement, a fake clip designed for virality will almost always outperform a post pointing out that it was fake.” When institutions fell for it The fakes did not stay on the fringes. Just days ago, a sitting UK Member of Parliament shared an AI-generated image depicting rows of shrouded bodies said to be schoolgirls killed in an airstrike on a school in Minab, Iran. Five separate fact-checking organisations identified it as synthetic. A leading Indian newspaper article briefly treated an AI missile-strike clip as real footage before issuing a correction. The structural problem is not that detection tools are inadequate. It is that the strip-and-amplify pipeline moves faster than any newsroom can respond. The label proving a video is fake is removed before the video goes viral. The correction arrives after the damage is complete. On the question of who bears responsibility, Vineet is direct. “Everyone, the production industry, the media industry, the government, that should be pressurising the tech companies to include clear safeguards around what can be generated,” he said. “The government should step in with context-specific policies. AI video in the news space should be heavily regulated. AI video on social media should be clearly labelled as such. AI has many positive use cases, but these safeguards can give us a more trustworthy, transparent and safer environment for everyone.” Fourteen months of documented fakes across three conflict zones have exposed a gap that technology alone cannot close. To put it simply, AI has not changed what information warfare is for. It has changed who can wage it, how fast, and with what degree of plausibility. For the millions who never saw the fact-check, the fake was simply the news. 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.

AI-generated war videos, depicting missile strikes, mass surrenders and civilian massacres, flooded three conflict zones in fourteen months. Some fooled a leading newspaper. A lawmaker shared the image publicly.

A crude oil tanker captained by an Indian successfully navigated through the war-hit Strait of Hormuz and reached Mumbai by switching off its tracking system to enter “dark mode” while crossing the high-risk zone amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and Iran's warning to target vessels and not allow passage to oil tankers. Maritime tracking data showed the vessel’s signals were last visible on monitoring systems inside the Strait of Hormuz on March 8 before they disappeared.&nbsp;The Liberia-flagged tanker, Shenlong Suezmax, carrying crude oil loaded from Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura Port, arrived at Mumbai Port on Wednesday. It was carrying 135,335 metric tonnes of crude oil and has begun discharging the crude, which will be transported to refineries. The tanker had loaded crude at Ras Tanura Port in Saudi Arabia on March 1 and sailed two days later.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-threatens-to-strike-google-microsoft-nvidia-sites-banks-as-economic-infra-becomes-new-war-target-1773256316860">Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Liberia-flagged tanker ship &#39;Shenlong&#39; enters Indian waters near Mumbai Port. It was captained by an Indian and was loaded with crude oil from the Saudi port Ras Tanura. Latest visuals from Mumbai Port <a href="https://t.co/4BWABAsZ88">pic.twitter.com/4BWABAsZ88</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2031997649247965235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Liberian-flagged oil tanker is first vessel to safely transit Hormuz amid war</h2>&nbsp;The Liberian-flagged oil tanker became the first vessel to safely transit the Gulf waterway and arrive in India amid the US-Israeli war against Iran.&nbsp;According to tanker-tracking platforms, Shenlong Suezmax’s last recorded signal in the Strait of Hormuz appeared on March 8, after which it switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) while passing through the strait. The vessel reappeared on tracking systems a day later before docking in Mumbai on Wednesday.TankerTrackers.com, a tanker tracking platform, shared that two Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), three Suezmax tankers, capable of transiting the Suez Canal fully loaded, and a Panamax tanker designed to meet the maximum dimensions allowed for the original Panama Canal locks went offline from AIS tracking for at least 48 hours. The destinations of these ships were China, India, and Japan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-practically-nothing-left-to-target-in-iran-war-will-end-soon-says-trump-1773246460317">‘Practically nothing left to target in Iran, war will end soon,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sanctions-Compliant Tankers Gone Dark Of the oil- or fuel-laden, sanctions-compliant tankers situated west of the Strait of Hormuz, the following have been offline from AIS for at least 48 hours: 2 VLCCs 3 Suezmax tankers 1 Panamax tanker Their stated destinations are China,…&mdash; TankerTrackers.com, Inc. (@TankerTrackers) <a href="https://twitter.com/TankerTrackers/status/2030808251172835676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>AIS automatically transmits info about vessel’s identity, position, and movement</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is used on ships to automatically transmit information about a vessel’s identity, position, and movement to other ships and coastal authorities. It is primarily meant to enhance navigation safety, prevent collisions, and support maritime monitoring. Turning off the system makes the vessel effectively untraceable at sea.&nbsp;Shipping companies often use this tactic, also known as “going dark”, to avoid the risk of being targeted or tracked by hostile forces. However, the strategy is used only in exceptional circumstances, as international maritime rules require AIS to remain active for safety and tracking.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-lethal-black-clad-kill-squad-nopo-now-guards-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-1773232310910">Iran’s lethal ‘black-clad’ kill squad NOPO now guards new supreme leader Mojtaba</a><h2>At least 16 ships attacked by Iran in past two weeks</h2>&nbsp;The Iranian military effectively closed the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz that handles more than 20 million barrels of crude oil per day after the US and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran.At least 16 ships have been attacked by Iran over the past two weeks, with Tehran warning of further strikes on vessels operating in the region.Meanwhile, the Indian government has said that 28 Indian-flagged vessels are currently operating in the Persian Gulf region. Of these vessels, 24 carrying 677 Indian seafarers are located west of the Strait of Hormuz, while four vessels with 101 Indian seafarers are positioned east of the strait.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-govt-won-t-leave-indians-stranded-says-pm-modi-slams-congress-for-politicising-iran-war-1773224945175">‘Govt won’t leave Indians stranded,’ says PM Modi, slams Congress for politicising Iran War</a>&nbsp;A Thai vessel bound for Kandla port in Gujarat was attacked in the strait on Wednesday, drawing strong criticism from New Delhi.&nbsp;Unrelenting attacks on shipping traffic and energy infrastructure pushed oil above $100 a barrel on Thursday.&nbsp;India, which is Asia’s third-largest economy, relies heavily on the Strait of Hormuz, as more than half of its crude oil and natural gas imports pass through the narrow maritime corridor.

The Automatic Identification System (AIS) automatically transmits information about a vessel’s identity, position, and movement to other ships and coastal authorities. The system helps enhance navigation safety, and turning it off makes the vessel effectively untraceable at sea.

A crude oil tanker captained by an Indian successfully navigated through the war-hit Strait of Hormuz and reached Mumbai by switching off its tracking system to enter “dark mode” while crossing the high-risk zone amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and Iran's warning to target vessels and not allow passage to oil tankers. Maritime tracking data showed the vessel’s signals were last visible on monitoring systems inside the Strait of Hormuz on March 8 before they disappeared. The Liberia-flagged tanker, Shenlong Suezmax, carrying crude oil loaded from Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura Port, arrived at Mumbai Port on Wednesday. It was carrying 135,335 metric tonnes of crude oil and has begun discharging the crude, which will be transported to refineries. The tanker had loaded crude at Ras Tanura Port in Saudi Arabia on March 1 and sailed two days later. Also Read: Iran threatens to strike Google, Microsoft, Nvidia sites, banks as economic infra becomes new war target

The Automatic Identification System (AIS) automatically transmits information about a vessel’s identity, position, and movement to other ships and coastal authorities. The system helps enhance navigation safety, and turning it off makes the vessel effectively untraceable at sea.

Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai

Late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s personal accountant has claimed that an accuser of US President Donald Trump was paid out by the Epstein estate. Richard Kahn, who worked closely with Epstein for more than a decade, reportedly made the remarks while testifying before the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday (Mar 11), said US Representative Suhas Subramanyam. This comes after Kahn appeared in a closed-door deposition as part of a congressional probe into Epstein’s finances and associates. While details of the testimony have not been released yet, lawmakers present at the session have revealed some early insights.Sharing his notes from the Richard Kahn deposition, Subramanyam wrote on X, “A Trump accuser has received $ from the survivor fund managed by Kahn.” He did not specify to whom the money was paid or how much.“Guys like Kahn enable billionaires like Epstein to get away with crimes the other 99.9% of Americans couldn’t,” he added.Speaking to the reporters outside the deposition on Capitol Hill, Subramanyam said, “Another person who was an accuser of Donald Trump was given a settlement by Jeffrey Epstein’s estate. We did confirm that.”“We wanted to confirm that certain accusers had received settlements, and he confirmed that,” the Democrat lawmaker added.Subramanyam also said that five rich and powerful men who paid for Epstein’s enterprise included: American billionaire businessman and political activist Les Wexner, American billionaire hedge fund manager Glenn Dubin, American businessman and investor Steven Sinofsky, the wealthy Ashkenazi Jewish noble banking family Rothschilds, and American private equity investor Leon Black.He added, “When I asked about heads of state or elected officials with financial ties to Epstein, Kahn mentioned Ehud Barak,” the former Prime Minister of Israel.The files released by the Department of Justice revealed that at least one woman had accused Trump of sexually abusing her when she was 13-years-old. According to the FBI account, the woman had alleged that Trump forced her to commit a sex act on him around 1984 after she was recruited by Epstein.Meanwhile, the US president has denied any wrongdoing in connection with the sex offender. The White House has called the accusations “completely baseless.”Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article.&nbsp;

During a deposition, Jeffrey Epstein’s accountant Richard Kahn claimed a Donald Trump accuser received money from the Epstein estate survivor fund, according to Suhas Subramanyam.

Late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s personal accountant has claimed that an accuser of US President Donald Trump was paid out by the Epstein estate. Richard Kahn, who worked closely with Epstein for more than a decade, reportedly made the remarks while testifying before the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday (Mar 11), said US Representative Suhas Subramanyam. This comes after Kahn appeared in a closed-door deposition as part of a congressional probe into Epstein’s finances and associates. While details of the testimony have not been released yet, lawmakers present at the session have revealed some early insights. Sharing his notes from the Richard Kahn deposition, Subramanyam wrote on X, “A Trump accuser has received $ from the survivor fund managed by Kahn.” He did not specify to whom the money was paid or how much. “Guys like Kahn enable billionaires like Epstein to get away with crimes the other 99.9% of Americans couldn’t,” he added. Speaking to the reporters outside the deposition on Capitol Hill, Subramanyam said, “Another person who was an accuser of Donald Trump was given a settlement by Jeffrey Epstein’s estate. We did confirm that.” “We wanted to confirm that certain accusers had received settlements, and he confirmed that,” the Democrat lawmaker added. Subramanyam also said that five rich and powerful men who paid for Epstein’s enterprise included: American billionaire businessman and political activist Les Wexner, American billionaire hedge fund manager Glenn Dubin, American businessman and investor Steven Sinofsky, the wealthy Ashkenazi Jewish noble banking family Rothschilds, and American private equity investor Leon Black. He added, “When I asked about heads of state or elected officials with financial ties to Epstein, Kahn mentioned Ehud Barak,” the former Prime Minister of Israel. The files released by the Department of Justice revealed that at least one woman had accused Trump of sexually abusing her when she was 13-years-old. According to the FBI account, the woman had alleged that Trump forced her to commit a sex act on him around 1984 after she was recruited by Epstein. Meanwhile, the US president has denied any wrongdoing in connection with the sex offender. The White House has called the accusations “completely baseless.” Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article.

During a deposition, Jeffrey Epstein’s accountant Richard Kahn claimed a Donald Trump accuser received money from the Epstein estate survivor fund, according to Suhas Subramanyam.

Was Trump accuser paid by Epstein Estate? Sex offender’s accountant drops bombshell claim

A viral claim suggests India warned Iran of a “harsher reply than Pakistan” after attacks on crude vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. A fact check examines whether New Delhi issued such a threat, the context of the tanker attacks, and what official statements actually say.

‘Harsher reply than Pakistan’: Did India warn Iran after Hormuz tanker attacks? FACT CHECK

The Indian rupee dipped to a record low on Thursday following a fresh surge in crude prices and a strengthening of the US dollar. The currency declined 0.3 per cent to 92.3575 per dollar, surpassing its previous all-time low of 92.3475 recorded earlier in the week.&nbsp;The decline of the rupee came alongside weakness in several other Asian currencies, which also dropped against the greenback. The rupee opened weaker at 92.25 per US dollar in the interbank foreign exchange market and later slipped further to 92.35, compared with its previous closing level of 92.01.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index, which measures the dollar’s strength against a basket of six major currencies, rose 0.24 per cent to 99.47. A sharp rise in crude oil prices has revived concerns about the economic impact of possible disruptions to global energy supplies.&nbsp;As a major importer of crude oil, India faces the risk of widening twin deficits, the fiscal deficit and the current account deficit, when oil prices climb, adding pressure on the local currency. In the latest developments in the US–Iran conflict, Iran continued its strikes on oil and transport facilities across the Middle East, pushing Brent crude prices to around $100 per barrel. Later, Tehran also warned that global oil prices could potentially rise to $200 per barrel.<h3>Stock Market crashes</h3>The increasing oil prices have heightened inflation concerns and risked several dented investors. Amid the ongoing crisis, the Indian stock market crashed again, after weakness in global equities on Thursday. The benchmark index of BSE Sensex touched 528.47 points, or 0.69 per cent, at 76,335.24, while the NSE Nifty 50 dipped to 171.40 points, or 0.72 per cent, to 23,693.85.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the USD/INR pair is currently trading around the 92.00–92.50 zone, marking mounting pressure on the Indian rupee. “The chart structure remains bullish, supported by an upward trend and a pattern of higher highs and higher lows in recent months. A sustained move above 92.30 could strengthen bullish momentum toward fresh record highs. On the downside, 91.80 – 91.60 acts as immediate support, and a break below this zone may trigger short-term profit booking, although the broader bias remains positive amid global uncertainties,” said Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/down-by-8-million-barrels-a-day-iea-issues-ominous-warning-on-oil-supplies-amid-iran-war-hours-after-largest-ever-stock-release-iran-israel-us-war-1773308810190">Down by 8 million barrels a day: IEA issues ominous warning on oil supplies amid Iran war, hours after largest ever stock release</a>

The rupee opened weaker at 92.25 per US dollar in the interbank foreign exchange market and later slipped further to 92.35, compared with its previous closing level of 92.01.

The Indian rupee dipped to a record low on Thursday following a fresh surge in crude prices and a strengthening of the US dollar. The currency declined 0.3 per cent to 92.3575 per dollar, surpassing its previous all-time low of 92.3475 recorded earlier in the week. The decline of the rupee came alongside weakness in several other Asian currencies, which also dropped against the greenback. The rupee opened weaker at 92.25 per US dollar in the interbank foreign exchange market and later slipped further to 92.35, compared with its previous closing level of 92.01. Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index, which measures the dollar’s strength against a basket of six major currencies, rose 0.24 per cent to 99.47. A sharp rise in crude oil prices has revived concerns about the economic impact of possible disruptions to global energy supplies. As a major importer of crude oil, India faces the risk of widening twin deficits, the fiscal deficit and the current account deficit, when oil prices climb, adding pressure on the local currency. In the latest developments in the US–Iran conflict, Iran continued its strikes on oil and transport facilities across the Middle East, pushing Brent crude prices to around $100 per barrel. Later, Tehran also warned that global oil prices could potentially rise to $200 per barrel. Stock Market crashes The increasing oil prices have heightened inflation concerns and risked several dented investors. Amid the ongoing crisis, the Indian stock market crashed again, after weakness in global equities on Thursday. The benchmark index of BSE Sensex touched 528.47 points, or 0.69 per cent, at 76,335.24, while the NSE Nifty 50 dipped to 171.40 points, or 0.72 per cent, to 23,693.85. Meanwhile, the USD/INR pair is currently trading around the 92.00–92.50 zone, marking mounting pressure on the Indian rupee. “The chart structure remains bullish, supported by an upward trend and a pattern of higher highs and higher lows in recent months. A sustained move above 92.30 could strengthen bullish momentum toward fresh record highs. On the downside, 91.80 – 91.60 acts as immediate support, and a break below this zone may trigger short-term profit booking, although the broader bias remains positive amid global uncertainties,” said Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money. Also read: Down by 8 million barrels a day: IEA issues ominous warning on oil supplies amid Iran war, hours after largest ever stock release

The rupee opened weaker at 92.25 per US dollar in the interbank foreign exchange market and later slipped further to 92.35, compared with its previous closing level of 92.01.

Indian rupee slides to record low of 92.35 per dollar amid Iran war: More details inside

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. This comes as tensions 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.“Homeland or Death! Any aggression against soil of Iranian islands will shatter all restraint,” Ghalibaf wrote on X. "We will abandon all restraint and make the Persian Gulf run with the blood of invaders.The blood of American soldiers is Trump’s personal responsibility.”It was not immediately clear exactly which islands he was referring to. According to an Axios report, citing US officials, capturing Kharg was among the considerations as the Iran war expands in West Asia.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 a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said.On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”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;

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned the United States and Israel that Iran will “abandon all restraint” if its Gulf islands are attacked, as the West Asia war intensifies.

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. This comes as tensions 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. “Homeland or Death! Any aggression against soil of Iranian islands will shatter all restraint,” Ghalibaf wrote on X. "We will abandon all restraint and make the Persian Gulf run with the blood of invaders. The blood of American soldiers is Trump’s personal responsibility.” It was not immediately clear exactly which islands he was referring to. According to an Axios report, citing US officials, capturing Kharg was among the considerations as the Iran war expands in West Asia. 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 a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said. On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime & US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.” 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.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned the United States and Israel that Iran will “abandon all restraint” if its Gulf islands are attacked, as the West Asia war intensifies.

‘Blood of American soldiers...’: Iran issues chilling warning to US, Israel over Persian Gulf islands

In a big development, Iran has allowed India's crude vessel to pass through Strait of Hormuz and the tanker has reached Mumbai Port. This came a day after Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar held detailed conversation with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in its briefing on Thursday (Mar 12) that in the last conversation between the two leaders the safety of shipping was discussed. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, after the US and Israel launched pre-emptive attack on the Islamic Republic on Feb 28. It has declared that any vessel passing through the passage would require Iran's prior approval, with Iranian Revolutionary Guard stating that it would "not allow a single drop of oil to leave the region to the US" through the strait. Brent Crude is trading around $100.25 per barrel as of Mar 12. The closure of Strait of Hormuz has raised global fears for energy and oil needs as it is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, through which a significant portion of global crude oil and natural gas shipments transit. The latest development may be termed as India's Iran diplomacy paying off amid heightened tensions in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-four-weeks-to-war-is-very-complete-to-not-won-enough-trump-contradicts-himself-about-endgame-of-iran-war-khamenei-dead-netanyahu-israel-1773117026231">From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260312/image-1773292492767.png"></figure>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-goal-in-iran-war-is-not-regime-change-destroying-nuclear-weapons-program-senator-makes-big-claims-1773222254709">US goal in Iran war is NOT regime change, destroying nuclear weapons program: Senator makes BIG claims</a>&nbsp;The crude vessel that reached the Mumbai port was Liberian flagged tanker captained by an Indian. It became the first India-destined vessel to safely transit the waterway, where maritime traffic has all but halted since the US and Israel attacked Iran. Liberia-flagged tanker ship was named 'Shenlong' and was captained by an Indian and was loaded with crude oil from the Saudi port Ras Tanura.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Liberian-flagged tanker Shenlong Suezmax arrives at Mumbai port carrying Saudi crude, becoming the first India-bound shipment to navigate the volatile Strait of Hormuz since the war in West Asia. The tanker was captained by an Indian mariner. Video: ANI <a href="https://t.co/4HIzV98jzM">pic.twitter.com/4HIzV98jzM</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2032005772025217520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Earlier, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri said that two ships that had ignored Iran's warnings were targeted in the Strait. "Were the ships assured of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz? This should be asked from the crews of the vessels Express Rome and Mayuree Naree, who today, trusting in empty promises, ignored the warnings and intended to cross the Strait, but were caught. Any vessel intending to pass must obtain permission from Iran," the Iranian general said in a post on X.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260312/image-1773294749966.png"></figure>&nbsp;On March 5, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that the passage is closed to vessels from the United States, Israel, Europe and their Western allies. Modifying its order on March 10, IRGC said that it will grant those countries “unrestricted passage” through the Strait of Hormuz, that expel Israeli and American ambassadors from their territory.&nbsp;Moreover, Iranian sources denied any transit being allowed though Strait of Hormuz to every Indian flagged ships.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran sources deny any transit being allowed though Strait of Hormuz, when asked if Indian flagged ships are allowed&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/2031972033362608283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Iran has allowed Indian oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after diplomatic talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. The move aims to protect India’s energy imports amid raging war in West Asia

In a big development, Iran has allowed India's crude vessel to pass through Strait of Hormuz and the tanker has reached Mumbai Port. This came a day after Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar held detailed conversation with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in its briefing on Thursday (Mar 12) that in the last conversation between the two leaders the safety of shipping was discussed. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, after the US and Israel launched pre-emptive attack on the Islamic Republic on Feb 28. It has declared that any vessel passing through the passage would require Iran's prior approval, with Iranian Revolutionary Guard stating that it would "not allow a single drop of oil to leave the region to the US" through the strait. Brent Crude is trading around $100.25 per barrel as of Mar 12. The closure of Strait of Hormuz has raised global fears for energy and oil needs as it is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, through which a significant portion of global crude oil and natural gas shipments transit. The latest development may be termed as India's Iran diplomacy paying off amid heightened tensions in the region. Also Read: From 'four weeks' to 'war is very complete' to 'not won enough': Trump contradicts himself about endgame of Iran war Also Read: US goal in Iran war is NOT regime change, destroying nuclear weapons program: Senator makes BIG claims The crude vessel that reached the Mumbai port was Liberian flagged tanker captained by an Indian. It became the first India-destined vessel to safely transit the waterway, where maritime traffic has all but halted since the US and Israel attacked Iran. Liberia-flagged tanker ship was named 'Shenlong' and was captained by an Indian and was loaded with crude oil from the Saudi port Ras Tanura.

Iran has allowed Indian oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after diplomatic talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. The move aims to protect India’s energy imports amid raging war in West Asia

India's crude vessel reaches Mumbai port after Iran's nod, MEA says 'shipping safety was discussed' in call with Iran FM, Jaishankar

Iran war is causing the largest ever disruption of global oil supplies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned on Thursday (Mar 12). The IEA's dire projections came in its monthly Oil Market Report (OMR), which provides data on supply, demand, stocks, prices and refinery activity. The otherwise routine report is being watched closely this month, amid the unprecedented crisis in global oil markets. The ominous predictions came a day after the largest-ever release of global emergency oil stocks.<h2>What was the International Energy Agency warning on oil supply?</h2>In the report, the IEA cut its daily oil supply growth forecast sharply. It said the supply is likely to plunge by 8 million barrels a day in March. The Paris-based organisation, which includes several Western nations, now expects global supply to grow by 1.1 million barrels a day this year, the Wall Street Journal reported. This is a dramatic reduction from the earlier forecast of 2.4 million barrels a day.All supply growth is expected to come from outside the OPEC+ alliance, as the conflict forces major Gulf producers to curb output.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-s-largest-oil-company-ceo-warns-of-catastrophic-consequences-of-iran-war-as-nations-impose-emergency-measures-1773141477127">World’s largest oil company CEO warns of 'catastrophic consequences' of Iran war as nations impose emergency measures</a><h2>Oil prices surge after wild swings as war disrupts global flows</h2>After several wild swings, Brent crude has breached the $100 mark. Earlier, it had touched $120 a barrel.Further attacks on shipping and energy facilities, along with uncertainty over when the war will end, could push prices even higher.Oil trade flows have been severely affected since the February 28 US–Israel strike on Iran triggered the ongoing war, which is now entering its second week.Iran’s missile and drone attacks on oil sites in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, along with its threats to block tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, have dirsupted traffic through one of the world’s most critical energy routes.The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for around 20 per cent of global oil supply and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas. Attacks on ships, closures by major shipping companies, and reduced regional production and export capacity are creating shortages.Flows through the strait have fallen to less than 10 per cent of normal levels, amounting to a disruption of roughly 15 million barrels per day.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-crisis-india-first-approach-guides-decision-to-keep-oil-reserves-intact-1773138558351/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-crisis-india-first-approach-guides-decision-to-keep-oil-reserves-intact-1773138558351/embed</a><h2>IEA's report came hours after largest ever emergency oil stock release</h2>Just before the IEA report was released, its 32 member nations unanimously agreed on Wednesday (Mar 11) to release 400 million barrels from their emergency stockpiles.This marked the largest coordinated release in IEA history—more than double the 182 million barrels released in 2022 following the Russia–Ukraine war.The move is aimed at curbing oil price spikes and stabilising markets in the near term.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-hormuz-in-its-grip-iran-ships-more-oil-even-as-war-halts-others-1773255260129">With Hormuz in its grip, Iran ships more oil even as war halts others</a>&nbsp;<h2>But strategic stock release may not be enough</h2>However, the IEA warned that the strategic reserve release may not be sufficient if the war continues.The emergency stocks could cover only about 20 days of lost supply. If the conflict continues to disrupt production and the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened, the reserves could quickly prove inadequate.The war has already triggered one of the most severe oil market shocks in decades. Some industry observers have described it as the biggest disruption ever, while others say it could rank among the worst since the oil shocks of the 1970s.<h2>March IEA report more ominous than February</h2>IEA's March OMR paints a far darker picture than the February 12 report. The earlier report projected global oil demand growth of 850,000 barrels per day in 2026. It also forecast supply growth of around 2.4 million barrels per day and a surplus of roughly 3.73 million barrels per day.

In its latest monthly report, the International Energy Agency warned global oil supply could go down by 8 million barrels a day in March as the Iran war disrupts flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude is above $100 despite a record 400-million-barrel emergency release by IAE members.

Iran war is causing the largest ever disruption of global oil supplies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned on Thursday (Mar 12). The IEA's dire projections came in its monthly Oil Market Report (OMR), which provides data on supply, demand, stocks, prices and refinery activity. The otherwise routine report is being watched closely this month, amid the unprecedented crisis in global oil markets. The ominous predictions came a day after the largest-ever release of global emergency oil stocks. What was the International Energy Agency warning on oil supply? In the report, the IEA cut its daily oil supply growth forecast sharply. It said the supply is likely to plunge by 8 million barrels a day in March. The Paris-based organisation, which includes several Western nations, now expects global supply to grow by 1.1 million barrels a day this year, the Wall Street Journal reported. This is a dramatic reduction from the earlier forecast of 2.4 million barrels a day. All supply growth is expected to come from outside the OPEC+ alliance, as the conflict forces major Gulf producers to curb output. Also read: World’s largest oil company CEO warns of 'catastrophic consequences' of Iran war as nations impose emergency measures Oil prices surge after wild swings as war disrupts global flows After several wild swings, Brent crude has breached the $100 mark. Earlier, it had touched $120 a barrel. Further attacks on shipping and energy facilities, along with uncertainty over when the war will end, could push prices even higher. Oil trade flows have been severely affected since the February 28 US–Israel strike on Iran triggered the ongoing war, which is now entering its second week. Iran’s missile and drone attacks on oil sites in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, along with its threats to block tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, have dirsupted traffic through one of the world’s most critical energy routes. The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for around 20 per cent of global oil supply and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas. Attacks on ships, closures by major shipping companies, and reduced regional production and export capacity are creating shortages. Flows through the strait have fallen to less than 10 per cent of normal levels, amounting to a disruption of roughly 15 million barrels per day. https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-crisis-india-first-approach-guides-decision-to-keep-oil-reserves-intact-1773138558351/embed IEA's report came hours after largest ever emergency oil stock release Just before the IEA report was released, its 32 member nations unanimously agreed on Wednesday (Mar 11) to release 400 million barrels from their emergency stockpiles. This marked the largest coordinated release in IEA history—more than double the 182 million barrels released in 2022 following the Russia–Ukraine war. The move is aimed at curbing oil price spikes and stabilising markets in the near term. Also read: With Hormuz in its grip, Iran ships more oil even as war halts others But strategic stock release may not be enough However, the IEA warned that the strategic reserve release may not be sufficient if the war continues. The emergency stocks could cover only about 20 days of lost supply. If the conflict continues to disrupt production and the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened, the reserves could quickly prove inadequate. The war has already triggered one of the most severe oil market shocks in decades. Some industry observers have described it as the biggest disruption ever, while others say it could rank among the worst since the oil shocks of the 1970s. March IEA report more ominous than February IEA's March OMR paints a far darker picture than the February 12 report. The earlier report projected global oil demand growth of 850,000 barrels per day in 2026. It also forecast supply growth of around 2.4 million barrels per day and a surplus of roughly 3.73 million barrels per day.

In its latest monthly report, the International Energy Agency warned global oil supply could go down by 8 million barrels a day in March as the Iran war disrupts flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude is above $100 despite a record 400-million-barrel emergency release by IAE members.

Down by 8 million barrels a day: IEA issues ominous warning on oil supplies amid Iran war, hours after largest ever stock release

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 12) issued a “Fake News Alert”, warning citizens against false information circulating on social media amid the Iran war. This comes amid the widespread fake news on social media amid the conflict that has expanded to West Asia. The MEA cautioned against “false and baseless” claims on social media, urging people to stay alert.“This is Fake News. Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims on social media!” the MEA wrote on X, sharing fake news social media posts.<h2>What did fake news claim?</h2>The MEA debunked fake news on X, claiming that there has been an attack followed by a massive fire on a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi that resulted in the deaths of workers. The posts also alleged that the Indian media is blaming Iran supporters for the incident.In a post on X, a verified account falsely claimed, “A massive fire broke out in a joint India-Israel defense facility in Delhi, resulting in the deaths of several workers from both countries. The Indian media is blaming supporters of Iran in India.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fake News Alert! This is Fake News. Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims on social media! <a href="https://t.co/vtqwmdj4nQ">pic.twitter.com/vtqwmdj4nQ</a>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAFactCheck/status/2031945809949077797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran war expands to West Asia</h2>On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”Following the supreme leader’s death, Iran’s Assembly of Experts has selected Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new Supreme Leader on Sunday (Mar 8), marking the first time the position passed from father to son in the Islamic Republic’s history. However, multiple reports suggested that his selection was forced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and was opposed by several clerics, who reportedly boycotted the meeting where his selection was made.Since the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which began on February 28, Mojtaba has not made an appearance or statement in public. Following speculations that he has been severely injured in the strikes, Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said on Wednesday (Mar 11) that Mojtaba is “safe and sound” despite injuries sustained during the ongoing war.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.

Amid the expanding West Asia conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs warned citizens about viral social media claims of a blaze at a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 12) issued a “Fake News Alert”, warning citizens against false information circulating on social media amid the Iran war. This comes amid the widespread fake news on social media amid the conflict that has expanded to West Asia. The MEA cautioned against “false and baseless” claims on social media, urging people to stay alert. “This is Fake News. Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims on social media!” the MEA wrote on X, sharing fake news social media posts. What did fake news claim? The MEA debunked fake news on X, claiming that there has been an attack followed by a massive fire on a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi that resulted in the deaths of workers. The posts also alleged that the Indian media is blaming Iran supporters for the incident. In a post on X, a verified account falsely claimed, “A massive fire broke out in a joint India-Israel defense facility in Delhi, resulting in the deaths of several workers from both countries. The Indian media is blaming supporters of Iran in India.”

Amid the expanding West Asia conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs warned citizens about viral social media claims of a blaze at a joint India-Israel defence facility in Delhi.

Was an Indian-Israeli facility in Delhi attacked? Fact-check on viral claim amid Iran war

Why is Kim Jong Un’s daughter suddenly firing pistols in state photos?

New images show Kim Ju Ae shooting at a weapons factory alongside Kim Jong Un, sparking fresh speculation about succession in North Korea. Is this a staged photoshoot or a signal about the country’s next leader?

North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un takes heir apparent Ju Ae shooting: Photoshoot or show of strength amid Iran war?

The Iran war has led to one of the worst oil shocks since the 1970s. Oil prices on Thursday rose sharply after three more cargo vessels were hit in the Gulf by Iranian forces. Crude oil in Asian trading was $100 ($74.79) a barrel before the price eased marginally to settle at about $97.50 in the afternoon.&nbsp;This comes despite the International Energy Agency saying on Wednesday that it will release a record 400 million barrels of oil in an effort to curb the rising price and it impact on the world economy.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for energy shipments is temporarily closed in the wake that they could be attacked.&nbsp;ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-is-a-tough-here-s-what-trump-said-on-tehran-s-resistance-in-the-ongoing-war-1773301153518"> Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance in the ongoing war</a>&nbsp;On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them.<h2>Oil prices could rise up to $200 per barrel</h2>&nbsp;An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson on Wednesday said that any vessel linked to the US, Israel or their allies will be targeted and that oil prices could hit &nbsp;$200 per barrel."You will not be able to artificially lower the price of oil. Expect oil at $200 per barrel," he said and added, "The price of oil depends on regional security, and you are the main source of insecurity in the region."<h2>“Severely weakened Iran's military capabilities”</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the 11-day-war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities.&nbsp;"Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," said while addressing a gathering in Kentucky.&nbsp;"Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further said.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Irans Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them.

The Iran war has led to one of the worst oil shocks since the 1970s. Oil prices on Thursday rose sharply after three more cargo vessels were hit in the Gulf by Iranian forces. Crude oil in Asian trading was $100 ($74.79) a barrel before the price eased marginally to settle at about $97.50 in the afternoon. This comes despite the International Energy Agency saying on Wednesday that it will release a record 400 million barrels of oil in an effort to curb the rising price and it impact on the world economy. The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for energy shipments is temporarily closed in the wake that they could be attacked. ALSO READ: Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance in the ongoing war On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them. Oil prices could rise up to $200 per barrel An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson on Wednesday said that any vessel linked to the US, Israel or their allies will be targeted and that oil prices could hit $200 per barrel. "You will not be able to artificially lower the price of oil. Expect oil at $200 per barrel," he said and added, "The price of oil depends on regional security, and you are the main source of insecurity in the region." “Severely weakened Iran's military capabilities” Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the 11-day-war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. "Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," said while addressing a gathering in Kentucky. "Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further said.

On Wednesday, three vessels were attacked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who said they fired on ships in the Gulf as their orders were disobeyed by them.

Oil prices hit $100 per barrel after Iran attacks three more cargo vessels

Viral social media reports claiming that an Israeli missile strike destroyed the North Korean embassy in Tehran on Wednesday (Mar 11) are false. Despite widespread rumours on X and Instagram suggesting Kim Jong Un issued a "huge mistake" warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, there is no evidence of such an attack. Social media reports claim that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued an ominous warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's nation, saying, "Israel made a huge mistake". The reports are going viral on social media sites like X and Instagram, with a huge number of re-shares. But, how true are the claims? Here's all you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-creek-harbour-strike-drone-hits-luxury-residential-building-sparking-major-fire-and-evacuations-amid-iran-war-watch-1773280236925">Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war — Watch</a><h2>Israel's 'huge mistake': Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Iran?</h2>According to reports, North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un has slammed Israel, saying that the nation made a "huge mistake" by targeting his country's embassy in Iran. The reports come as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-how-much-iran-war-cost-us-in-first-week-pentagon-reveals-shocking-number-1773284909499">United States</a>, Israel, and Iran continue to be engaged in a war for the 13th day.While Tehran has attacked multiple nations, including its neighbours, during the course of the Iran war, there are no official reports that can back the claims of the North Korean embassy in Iran coming under attack.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-cannibal-khamenei-s-x-account-posts-ghastly-trump-cartoon-after-potus-floats-twisted-tomahawk-theory-on-minab-school-strike-1773194272348">'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: 🇮🇷🇰🇵🇮🇱 “Israel made Huge Mistake” — Israeli missiles ‘accidentally’ hits North Korean embassy in Tehran. Kim Joung Un is closely monitoring the situation of US-Israel—Iran war. <a href="https://t.co/R2jYbUYxtk">pic.twitter.com/R2jYbUYxtk</a>&mdash; Dr. Moyi (@UK_Moyi) <a href="https://twitter.com/UK_Moyi/status/2031153459982983445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Did North Korea slam Israel?</h2>Yes, but not for the purported strike on its embassy in Iran or elsewhere. North Korea has condemned the US-Israeli strikes on Iran as "illegal aggression" while expressing its support for Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's newly elected Supreme Leader. Mojtaba Khamenei's accession to the Supreme Leader post comes after the assassination of the previous Supreme Leader, and his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei."Regarding the recent official announcement that the Iranian Assembly of Experts has elected a new leader of the Islamic Revolution, we respect the right and choice of the Iranian people to elect their Supreme Leader," said North Korea's foreign ministry as per a report by state media KCNA."We express grave concern and strongly condemn the aggression of the United States and Israel, which, by launching an unlawful military attack against Iran, are undermining the foundations of regional peace and security and increasing instability in the international landscape," added the statement. &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;

Did Israel destroy North Korea’s embassy in Tehran?

Viral posts claim Kim Jong Un warned Israel after an alleged strike on Pyongyang’s embassy in Iran. But is there any proof that the embassy was actually hit? Scroll down to find out what’s real and what’s fake.

Viral social media reports claiming that an Israeli missile strike destroyed the North Korean embassy in Tehran on Wednesday (Mar 11) are false. Despite widespread rumours on X and Instagram suggesting Kim Jong Un issued a "huge mistake" warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, there is no evidence of such an attack. Social media reports claim that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued an ominous warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's nation, saying, "Israel made a huge mistake". The reports are going viral on social media sites like X and Instagram, with a huge number of re-shares. But, how true are the claims? Here's all you need to know. Also read | Dubai Creek Harbour strike: Drone hits luxury residential building, sparking major fire and evacuations amid Iran war — Watch Israel's 'huge mistake': Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Iran? According to reports, North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un has slammed Israel, saying that the nation made a "huge mistake" by targeting his country's embassy in Iran. The reports come as the United States, Israel, and Iran continue to be engaged in a war for the 13th day. While Tehran has attacked multiple nations, including its neighbours, during the course of the Iran war, there are no official reports that can back the claims of the North Korean embassy in Iran coming under attack. Also read | 'Nobel Cannibal': Khamenei’s X account posts ghastly Trump cartoon after POTUS floats Tomahawk theory on Iran school strike

Did Israel destroy North Korea’s embassy in Tehran?Viral posts claim Kim Jong Un warned Israel after an alleged strike on Pyongyang’s embassy in Iran. But is there any proof that the embassy was actually hit? Scroll down to find out what’s real and what’s fake.

Israel's 'huge mistake' amid Iran war: Did Tel Aviv attack North Korea's embassy in Tehran? Here’s the truth | Fact Check

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) once again threatened to cut trade with Spain over its stance on the Iran war. He accused Madrid of failing to cooperate with NATO after the Spanish government refused to allow the US military to use its jointly operated bases in the country for strikes against the Islamic Republic. This comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez distanced his administration from the conflict in the Middle East, saying that his government’s position could be summed up in three words: “No to war.”Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump said, “I think they're not cooperating at all. Spain. I think they've been very bad, very bad, not good at all. We may cut off trade with Spain.” He added,“They’ve been very bad to NATO,” Trump said, adding that Madrid gets “protected” but “they don’t want to pay their fair share, and they’ve been that way for many years.” This comes as the Iran war expands in West Asia 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.In a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said.On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime &amp; US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.”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.

Donald Trump threatens to cut trade with Spain after Pedro Sanchez refused US use of Spanish bases for strikes on Iran amid the widening war.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) once again threatened to cut trade with Spain over its stance on the Iran war. He accused Madrid of failing to cooperate with NATO after the Spanish government refused to allow the US military to use its jointly operated bases in the country for strikes against the Islamic Republic. This comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez distanced his administration from the conflict in the Middle East, saying that his government’s position could be summed up in three words: “No to war.” Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump said, “I think they're not cooperating at all. Spain. I think they've been very bad, very bad, not good at all. We may cut off trade with Spain.” He added, “They’ve been very bad to NATO,” Trump said, adding that Madrid gets “protected” but “they don’t want to pay their fair share, and they’ve been that way for many years.” This comes as the Iran war expands in West Asia 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. In a recent declaration, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Mar 11) claimed victory in the war with Iran, without providing any evidence to support his remarks. “Let me say we’ve won. You know, you never like to say too early that you won. We won. We won, in the first hour it was over, but we won,” he said. On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (Mar 12) has set three conditions to end the raging war. In a first statement on ending war, Pezeshkian said, “The only way to end this war—ignited by the Zionist regime & US—is recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression.” 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.

Donald Trump threatens to cut trade with Spain after Pedro Sanchez refused US use of Spanish bases for strikes on Iran amid the widening war.

‘They’ve been very bad...’: Trump warns Spain of cutting trade ties over Iran war stance

At least 168 people, mostly schoolgirls aged between seven and 17, were killed when a missile struck an Iranian school in the first hours of the US–Israel strikes against Iran on February 28. A preliminary American military investigation suggested that the US was likely responsible for the strike that destroyed the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in the city of Minab. Could the attack, one of the deadliest civilian incidents of the early phase of the conflict, be considered a war crime? Here is how Minab school attack raises questions under international humanitarian law (IHL).<h2>Minab school attack: What happened?</h2>The strike took place during the morning hours, when students were attending classes. The building collapsed, trapping children and staff underneath the rubble.The school was reportedly located near a facility linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which may have been the intended target. Reports and analysis suggested that the strike may have involved a US Tomahawk cruise missile.According to early findings first reported in the media, the attack may have been the result of outdated intelligence that misidentified the site as a military compound.The bombing was widely condemned, with UNESCO and other international bodies noting that schools are protected civilian sites under the laws of war. They called for accountability if those protections were violated.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/initial-military-inquiry-finds-us-forces-responsible-for-strike-on-iran-school-that-killed-168-children-1773245071103">Initial military inquiry finds US forces responsible for strike on Iran school; cites outdated intelligence</a><h2>Minab school attack: What does the law of war say?</h2>The main legal framework applicable in this case is international humanitarian law (IHL), often referred to as the law of war, specifically the rules governing attacks during armed conflict. Many of these rules are contained in the Geneva Conventions and related customary international law.One of the core principles is ‘distinction’. Combatants must distinguish between military targets and civilian objects. Schools are considered ‘civilian objects’, unless they are being used for military purposes.Another principle is ‘proportionality’. An attack is unlawful if the expected civilian harm is excessive when weighed against the anticipated military advantage.The law also requires ‘precautions’ in attack. Parties to a conflict must take all feasible steps to verify targets and minimise civilian casualties.The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court's definitions of war crimes includes intentionally directing attacks against civilian objects, including buildings dedicated to education.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/minab-school-bombing-did-ai-error-lead-to-bombing-of-iran-school-1773246548175/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/minab-school-bombing-did-ai-error-lead-to-bombing-of-iran-school-1773246548175/embed</a><h2>When would the Iranian school attack be considered a war crime?</h2>Although investigations are ongoing, the school strike could be considered a war crime depending on the findings of those inquiries.One key question is whether the school itself was intentionally targeted. If investigators determine that the school was deliberately attacked despite being known to be a civilian facility, it would likely constitute a clear war crime.Another possibility is that the intended target was a nearby military facility but the attack caused foreseeable civilian harm. In such a case, the strike could still be unlawful if the commanders involved failed to adequately consider the presence of a school and the expected civilian harm was disproportionate to the anticipated military advantage.A third scenario is a targeting error despite reasonable precautions. If the strike resulted from an honest mistake despite verification and precautionary measures, it may be difficult to legally establish it as a war crime.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-blames-iran-for-minab-school-bombing-but-his-press-secretary-says-we-re-investigating-who-said-what-1773210974497">US hiding truth behind Minab school bombing? Trump blames Iran but his press secretary says 'we're investigating'</a><h2>Minab could become a case study on how the world treats attacks on schools during war</h2>The Minab strike may become an important case study in how the international community responds to attacks on schools during armed conflict.During its war with Hamas in Gaza, Israel was accused of striking school buildings, though the circumstances of those incidents remain contested. Israeli authorities repeatedly argued that Hamas used civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, for military purposes. Whether similar arguments will emerge in the case of the Minab strike remains to be seen.Even if the attack was unintentional, the scale of civilian casualties, particularly among children, is deeply disturbing. It raises serious questions: how closely were targeting procedures followed? How reliable was the intelligence used? And what accountability mechanisms exist in modern high-technology warfare?Those questions are likely to shape the investigations and debates that follow.&nbsp;And answers are needed.

In the opening hours of US–Israel war with Iran, a missile strike on a girls’ school in Minab killed over 160 people. Could this attack constitute a war crime under international law?

At least 168 people, mostly schoolgirls aged between seven and 17, were killed when a missile struck an Iranian school in the first hours of the US–Israel strikes against Iran on February 28. A preliminary American military investigation suggested that the US was likely responsible for the strike that destroyed the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in the city of Minab. Could the attack, one of the deadliest civilian incidents of the early phase of the conflict, be considered a war crime? Here is how Minab school attack raises questions under international humanitarian law (IHL). Minab school attack: What happened? The strike took place during the morning hours, when students were attending classes. The building collapsed, trapping children and staff underneath the rubble. The school was reportedly located near a facility linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which may have been the intended target. Reports and analysis suggested that the strike may have involved a US Tomahawk cruise missile. According to early findings first reported in the media, the attack may have been the result of outdated intelligence that misidentified the site as a military compound. The bombing was widely condemned, with UNESCO and other international bodies noting that schools are protected civilian sites under the laws of war. They called for accountability if those protections were violated. Also read: Initial military inquiry finds US forces responsible for strike on Iran school; cites outdated intelligence Minab school attack: What does the law of war say? The main legal framework applicable in this case is international humanitarian law (IHL), often referred to as the law of war, specifically the rules governing attacks during armed conflict. Many of these rules are contained in the Geneva Conventions and related customary international law. One of the core principles is ‘distinction’. Combatants must distinguish between military targets and civilian objects. Schools are considered ‘civilian objects’, unless they are being used for military purposes. Another principle is ‘proportionality’. An attack is unlawful if the expected civilian harm is excessive when weighed against the anticipated military advantage. The law also requires ‘precautions’ in attack. Parties to a conflict must take all feasible steps to verify targets and minimise civilian casualties. The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court's definitions of war crimes includes intentionally directing attacks against civilian objects, including buildings dedicated to education. https://www.wionews.com/videos/minab-school-bombing-did-ai-error-lead-to-bombing-of-iran-school-1773246548175/embed When would the Iranian school attack be considered a war crime? Although investigations are ongoing, the school strike could be considered a war crime depending on the findings of those inquiries. One key question is whether the school itself was intentionally targeted. If investigators determine that the school was deliberately attacked despite being known to be a civilian facility, it would likely constitute a clear war crime. Another possibility is that the intended target was a nearby military facility but the attack caused foreseeable civilian harm. In such a case, the strike could still be unlawful if the commanders involved failed to adequately consider the presence of a school and the expected civilian harm was disproportionate to the anticipated military advantage. A third scenario is a targeting error despite reasonable precautions. If the strike resulted from an honest mistake despite verification and precautionary measures, it may be difficult to legally establish it as a war crime. Also read: US hiding truth behind Minab school bombing? Trump blames Iran but his press secretary says 'we're investigating' Minab could become a case study on how the world treats attacks on schools during war The Minab strike may become an important case study in how the international community responds to attacks on schools during armed conflict. During its war with Hamas in Gaza, Israel was accused of striking school buildings, though the circumstances of those incidents remain contested. Israeli authorities repeatedly argued that Hamas used civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, for military purposes. Whether similar arguments will emerge in the case of the Minab strike remains to be seen. Even if the attack was unintentional, the scale of civilian casualties, particularly among children, is deeply disturbing. It raises serious questions: how closely were targeting procedures followed? How reliable was the intelligence used? And what accountability mechanisms exist in modern high-technology warfare? Those questions are likely to shape the investigations and debates that follow. And answers are needed.

In the opening hours of US–Israel war with Iran, a missile strike on a girls’ school in Minab killed over 160 people. Could this attack constitute a war crime under international law?

Iran war Minab school strike: Could it be considered a war crime? What the law says

US President Donald Trump while speaking in Kentucky on Wednesday claimed that the ongoing war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. He also said that US armed forces had "virtually destroyed" key elements of the country's defence infrastructure and that Tehran "no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment."&nbsp;But what caught everybody's attention is his surprise admission that Iran is a "tough country", but its core military systems had been "virtually destroyed".&nbsp;"Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," Trump said.&nbsp;"Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further added.&nbsp;<h2>Number of US troops wounded is far higher</h2>&nbsp;Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-china-slams-report-of-missile-deal-with-tehran-what-is-the-cm-302-anti-ship-cruise-missile-1773294745692">Iran war: China slams report of missile deal with Tehran. What is the CM-302 anti-ship cruise missile?</a>&nbsp;Sean Parnell, a Pentagon spokesperson, said that at least 140 service members have been wounded by Iranian retaliation attacks so far. However, he pointed out that the "the vast majority of these injuries have been minor." and about 108 of them have returned to duty.&nbsp;"Eight service members remain listed as severely injured and are receiving the highest level of medical care," Parnell further said in the statement.&nbsp;

Tehrans resistance according to Trump has been unexpected. Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.

US President Donald Trump while speaking in Kentucky on Wednesday claimed that the ongoing war has "severely crippled" Iran's military capabilities. He also said that US armed forces had "virtually destroyed" key elements of the country's defence infrastructure and that Tehran "no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment." But what caught everybody's attention is his surprise admission that Iran is a "tough country", but its core military systems had been "virtually destroyed". "Over the past 11 days, our military has virtually destroyed Iran. Tough country," Trump said. "Their air force is gone. That took the better part of about three hours. They no longer have radar. They don't have anti-aircraft equipment. They don't have anything. Their missiles are down by 90 per cent. Their drones are down by 85 per cent. We're blowing up the factories where they're made, left and right," he further added. Number of US troops wounded is far higher Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested. ALSO READ: Iran war: China slams report of missile deal with Tehran. What is the CM-302 anti-ship cruise missile? Sean Parnell, a Pentagon spokesperson, said that at least 140 service members have been wounded by Iranian retaliation attacks so far. However, he pointed out that the "the vast majority of these injuries have been minor." and about 108 of them have returned to duty. "Eight service members remain listed as severely injured and are receiving the highest level of medical care," Parnell further said in the statement.

Tehran's resistance according to Trump has been unexpected. Pentagon on Tuesday acknowledged that the number of US soldiers killed in the war with Iran has been higher than it initially suggested.

Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance in the ongoing war

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Iran war Minab school strike: Could it be a war crime? What the law says

Iran is a tough...: Here's what Trump said on Tehran's resistance