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Amid escalated military tensions between the US, Iran and Israel, the US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday (March 4) that an Iranian warship sank in the Indian Ocean after the attack by the US. He said that the US had “torpedoed” the vessel in international waters. The confirmation came after a spokesperson for Sri Lanka’s navy earlier confirmed that multiple bodies have so far been recovered after the Iranian frigate Iris Dena sank just outside the island's territorial waters.&nbsp;Hegseth said in a briefing that the US and Israel "will have complete control of Iran skies in under a week". He added, “We would use precision gravity bombs, which we have in unlimited stockpile. The enermy can no longer shoot the volume of missile they did. We can sustain this fight easilty. We will decide when to end the fight, on our terms.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu">https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wc1e0B0um7">pic.twitter.com/Wc1e0B0um7</a>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2029193757162139762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-matter-where-he-hides-israeli-defence-minister-threatens-to-assassinate-any-successor-to-iran-s-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-1772613368778">'No matter where he hides': Israeli Defence Minister threatens to 'assassinate' any successor to Iran's Khamenei</a>&nbsp;The Pentagon chief also added that six American soldiers died in Iranian strikes. He said the US will "avenge them". "Iranian senior leaders are dead. The council that had to select new leader is dead as well. Iranian air force is no more. It was by the US. Last night we sank their ship, their navy is no more," he further said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in the same briefing as Hegseth, the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Dan Caine said that Iran's missile launches have dropped sharply since the start of the US-Israeli strikes on the country. “As of this morning, US Central Command is making steady progress. Iran’s theater ballistic missile shots fired are down 86 per cent from the first day of fighting,” Caine said.&nbsp;There’s “a 23 per cent decrease just in the last 24 hours, and their one-way attack drone shots are down 73 per cent,” Caine added.&nbsp;

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said American forces torpedoed Iran’s frigate Iris Dena in international waters, causing it to sink near Sri Lanka. He claimed US-Israeli forces would soon control Iranian airspace and confirmed six American soldiers were killed in Iranian strikes.

Amid escalated military tensions between the US, Iran and Israel, the US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday (March 4) that an Iranian warship sank in the Indian Ocean after the attack by the US. He said that the US had “torpedoed” the vessel in international waters. The confirmation came after a spokesperson for Sri Lanka’s navy earlier confirmed that multiple bodies have so far been recovered after the Iranian frigate Iris Dena sank just outside the island's territorial waters. Hegseth said in a briefing that the US and Israel "will have complete control of Iran skies in under a week". He added, “We would use precision gravity bombs, which we have in unlimited stockpile. The enermy can no longer shoot the volume of missile they did. We can sustain this fight easilty. We will decide when to end the fight, on our terms.”

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said American forces torpedoed Iran’s frigate Iris Dena in international waters, causing it to sink near Sri Lanka. He claimed US-Israeli forces would soon control Iranian airspace and confirmed six American soldiers were killed in Iranian strikes.

Iranian warship sunk in Indian Ocean after US attack, confirms Pete Hegseth, says US and Israel ‘will have control of Iran skies’

US-Israel-Iran War LIVE: The US and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran on February 28, with Israel calling the campaign Operation Lion’s Roar and Washington naming it Operation Epic Fury. Both described the assault as preemptive, carried out amid rising tensions and ongoing nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington. The strikes came eight months after a brief but intense 12-day confrontation between Israel and Iran.Iran responded with missile attacks on Israel and targeted US military bases in Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. On March 1, it was confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the joint strikes, along with several senior Iranian figures. Tehran has since escalated its retaliation, warning that US bases in the region would be treated as American territory. Gulf states have cautioned against further escalation, even as Washington and Tel Aviv signal that operations could continue for weeks.The conflict is widening, with Iran-aligned groups joining the fight. International leaders have condemned the US-led action, while several European allies voiced support for Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held calls with key leaders, including Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, urging restraint and dialogue. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, as both Donald Trump and Iranian officials indicate potential openness to talks.<h2>Stay tuned to WION for all the LIVE updates and analysis on the US-Israel-Iran War</h2>

Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped by 90 percent following the outbreak of US-Israeli attacks on Iran, energy market intelligence firm Kpler said Wednesday on X. Iranian military officials claim they have fully blocked passage through the strategic waterway, which handles about a fifth of the world’s crude oil supply. However, Kpler reported that some vessels are still attempting the journey. "Unlike several other vessel segments where movements have largely ceased, some tankers are still travelling east and west through the strait, with a number of voyages occurring under AIS blackouts," said Kpler Principal Freight Analyst Matt Wright, referring to the marine traffic tracking system.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Oil tanker traffic through Strait of Hormuz down 90%: Kpler

Iranian media report an attack on an army base in the city of Baneh in Iran’s Kurdistan province in the country’s northwest.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Attack reported on army base in Iran’s Kurdish region

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reverted to his past talking points about “fake news” while touting the US military’s accomplishments. He suggested that the press prominently cover service member casualties to “make the president look bad,” an incendiary claim that injected partisan politics into a wartime Pentagon press conference.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Hegseth says Iran war coverage makes 'president look bad'

The Israeli military said anti-tank fire in south Lebanon injured two of its soldiers on Wednesday, after Hezbollah said it had struck two Israeli military vehicles.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Israel army says two soldiers injured by anti-tank fire in south Lebanon

Pete Hegseth during a press conference on Wednesday said that US would use precision gravity bombs which they have in unlimited stockpile. The US can sustain this fight easily. We will decide when to end the fight, on our terms.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: 'We can sustain this fight easily', says Hegseth

Sirens were sounded again in Israel on Wednesday after simultaneous launches from Lebanon and Iran. Interception trails were seen over the Tel Aviv area and loud explosions were heard. Iran has fired regular salvoes of missiles and drones at Israel, though most of the incoming fire has been intercepted

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Sirens sound again in Israel after simultaneous attacks by Lebanon and Iran

Turkish officials said Wednesday that a missile fired from Iran toward Turkish airspace was intercepted and destroyed by NATO air defense systems. According to a statement from Turkey’s Defense Ministry, the ballistic projectile was detected traveling through Iraqi and Syrian airspace before heading toward Turkey. NATO air and missile defense assets deployed in the eastern Mediterranean engaged the missile promptly and neutralized it before it could pose a threat.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Missile launched from Iran towards Turkey destroyed: Ankara

Iranian state media reported that the planned state funeral for Ali Khamenei, originally scheduled for Wednesday evening in Tehran, has been postponed due to expectations of an exceptionally large public turnout. “The farewell ceremony for the martyred Imam has been postponed. A new date will be announced later,” state television said on Wednesday, following Khamenei’s reported death in U.S.-Israeli strikes over the weekend.

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV

The United Arab Emirates and Qatar separately said Wednesday they had intercepted drone and missile barrages as Iran pressed its campaign targeting its neighbours into a fifth day.

UAE and Qatar say intercepted drone, missile barrages

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Wednesday they had total control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global energy transit, as Israel launched a new wave of strikes on the Iranian capital.

Iran claims 'complete control' of key waterway for energy transit

Israeli military spokesperson tells&nbsp;residents of southern Lebanon to move immediately to the north of the Litani River

Israeli military spokesperson tells residents of southern Lebanon to move 

Saudi Arabia intercepted a drone attack in targeting its massive Ras Tanura refinery, the defence ministry said Wednesday, following an earlier hit on the complex along its Gulf coast this week.

Saudi Arabia intercepts drone attack targeting huge refinery: defence ministry

Chinese shipping giant Cosco, which operates one of the world's biggest oil tanker fleets, said it is suspending from Wednesday services to and from Gulf countries including the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Kuwait.

China shipping giant Cosco halts services to and from Gulf

Iran still retains a substantial capability to launch missiles at Israel despite ongoing US and Israeli strikes, military officials said.

Iran still has significant capacity to fire missiles at Israel: Military

Hezbollah said it launched an attack targeting the headquarters of Israel Aerospace Industries, one of Israel’s largest defence contractors.

Hezbollah says targeted the headquarters of Israel Aerospace Industries

Kuwait's military said it detected incoming projectiles on Wednesday and was working to intercept them, with Iran pressing its campaign targeting Gulf states into a fifth day."The armed forces are currently dealing with a wave of missiles and drones that have been detected in the airspace of the State of Kuwait, and are carrying out their missions to confront and intercept them," the army said in a statement as an AFP reporter said sirens sounded in Kuwait City.

Kuwait military says detected inbound missiles, drones

The Iranian Government via the Consulate General in Mumbai has rubbished reports that emerged from Israeli media that Mojtaba Khamenei was named as his late father Ayatollah Khamenei's successor. &nbsp;&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Reports circulating on media regarding potential candidates for leadership selected by Iran’s Assembly of Experts have no official source and are officially denied.&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Iran&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AssemblyOfExperts?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#AssemblyOfExperts&lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FactCheck?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#FactCheck&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/g9b9znt8j8"&gt;pic.twitter.com/g9b9znt8j8&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2029075963708096547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Iran government denies reports of Mojtaba Khamenei's succession

Mohammad Mokhber, a senior aide to Iran’s late Supreme Leader, said Tehran has no contact with the United States and ruled out any negotiations with Washington.Speaking to Iran’s Mehr news agency, Mokhber said Iran “has no contacts with the Americans in any form and there would be no negotiations with Washington”.Mokhber, a longtime senior figure within Iran’s leadership who previously served as first vice president, made the remarks as tensions remain high following the escalating conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's aide says Iran won't negotiate with US

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez hit back on Wednesday at US President Donald Trump's criticisms of Madrid's refusal to let US planes use its bases to attack Iran. "The position of the government of Spain can be summed up in four words: no to war," he said in a televised address, a day after Trump threatened to sever all trade with Spain. "We will not be complicit in something that is harmful to the world and contrary to our values and interests, simply out of fear of retaliation."

'No to war,' Spanish PM tells Trump

An explosion hit northeastern Tehran on Wednesday, reported AFP citing its journalist. Iranian state television has also confirmed a powerful explosion, without providing further details.An AFP journalist in Tehran saw a cloud of smoke rising in the northeast of the city and heard the roar of military aircraft in the sky at around 11:15 am (0745 GMT).

Explosion rocks northeast Tehran

The IDF in its latest statement said that since Hezbollah joined the conflict on Monday, Israeli forces have struck over 250 targets in Lebanon, including 100 in the past day. The targets included senior terror operatives, rocket launchers, weapons depots, and headquarters belonging to Hezbollah and other terror groups.

Israel says it has struck over 250 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon so far

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Wednesday he believed that Israeli-US strikes on Iran were not consistent with international law."It would appear, prima facie, not to be consistent or to be inconsistent with international law," Carney told a gathering at the Lowy Institute in Sydney.

Israeli-US strikes on Iran 'inconsistent with international law': Canada PM

“Every leader appointed by the Iranian terror regime to continue and lead the plan to destroy Israel, to threaten the United States and the free world and the countries of the region, and to suppress the Iranian people—will be an unequivocal target for elimination,” said Israel's Minister of Defense Israel Katz on X."It does not matter what his name is or the place where he hides. The Prime Minister and I have instructed the IDF to prepare and act by all means to carry out the mission as an integral part of the objectives of Operation "Lion's Roar"."&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="iw" dir="rtl"&gt;כל מנהיג שימונה ע&amp;quot;י משטר הטרור האיראני כדי להמשיך ולהוביל את התוכנית להשמדת ישראל, לאיים על ארה&amp;quot;ב והעולם החופשי ומדינות האזור, ולדכא את העם האירני - יהיה יעד חד משמעי לחיסול.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;לא חשוב מה שמו והמקום בו יסתתר.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;רה&amp;quot;מ ואני הנחינו את צה&amp;quot;ל להיערך ולפעול בכל האמצעים למימוש המשימה כחלק…&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/2029080566872580134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt; &nbsp;

Every leader of Iranian terror regime 'will be an unequivocal target for elimination': Israel's Minister of Defense 

Amid Iran's criticism that the US might be dragged into the war on Israel's insistence, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Mar 3) denied all such claims and suggested that if anything, the opposite could be true and that he felt Iran was going to attack first. Speaking at a press conference in the Oval Office alongside visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump said that the US was negotiating with “lunatics” and he might have “forced” Israel into this war.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-forced-israel-into-war-with-iranian-lunatics-trump-contradicts-rubio-s-we-knew-israeli-plans-remark-why-is-us-confused-1772601123296">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260211/image-1770790595395.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium"></figure>

'Forced Israel into war with Iranian lunatics': Trump contradicts Rubio's 'we knew Israeli plans' remark: Why is US confused?

After Saudi Arabia and Oman, the United States has now granted non-emergency staff in Cyprus to leave for the US amid security concerns.

US says non-emergency staff granted permission to leave Cyprus

A drone was shot down on Wednesday near Baghdad's international airport, a day after a similar attack on the facility. Citing two security sources, AFP reported that "a drone was downed near Baghdad airport, with no casualties or material damage reported."&nbsp;The airport includes a military base that hosts a US diplomatic facility and previously housed US-led coalition troops.

Drone shot down near Baghdad airport for second straight day

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has said it now has “complete control” of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. Iranian officials warned that any vessel attempting to pass through the strategic waterway could be targeted."Currently, the Strait of Hormuz is under the complete control of the Islamic Republic's Navy," said Guards Navy official Mohammad Akbarzadeh in a statement issued on Fars news agency.

Iran Guards claim to have 'complete control' of Strait of Hormuz

Will the US back militias to topple Iran’s regime? Reports say President Donald Trump is weighing support for armed groups inside Iran amid the reported rise of Mojtaba Khamenei.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-arming-militias-to-overthrow-iran-regime-wants-somebody-from-within-report-1772599622355">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260304/image-1772599887117.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)"></figure>

Trump weighs arming militias to overthrow Iran regime, wants 'somebody from within': Report

Israel’s military on Wednesday (Mar 4) said that Iran had launched missiles toward the country for the second time in less than two hours. “Defense systems are operating to intercept the threat,” it added.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260304/image-1772599309235.png"></figure>

Iran launches second wave of missiles toward Israel

US President Donald Trump is weighing whether to support armed groups seeking to overthrow Iran’s ruling establishment, though no final decision has been made on providing weapons, training or intelligence assistance, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.The report said Trump has held discussions with Kurdish leaders and other regional figures. However, US officials told the outlet that the administration has yet to settle on a concrete strategy or identify a clear successor to lead Iran if the regime collapses.Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he would prefer “somebody from within” Iran to emerge as a future leader, though he acknowledged that many potential power brokers had already been killed during the conflict. “Most of the people we had in mind are dead,” he said.Trump has also floated what he called the “Venezuela model,” in which a successor from within the existing system maintains stability after the removal of the top leader, according to the report.

Trump considering backing militias to topple Iran regime: Report

According to the US State Department, America has authorised non-emergency US government employees and their families to leave Saudi Arabia and Oman due to safety risks.The department "authorised non-emergency US government employees and US government employee family members to leave" Saudi Arabia and Oman "due to safety risks," the US embassies in Riyadh and Muscat said in advisories on their websites.

US allows non-emergency government staff to depart Saudi, Oman

The Saudi defence ministry said two cruise missiles were intercepted Wednesday over an area south of the capital Riyadh, and state media reported a separate drone attack was thwarted."Two cruise missiles were intercepted and destroyed in Al-Kharj" district, a defence ministry statement said, while the official Saudi Press Agency cited a ministry spokesman as saying "nine drones were intercepted and destroyed immediately upon entering the Kingdom's airspace". The statements did not say who may be behind the attacks.&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="ar" dir="rtl"&gt;المتحدث الرسمي لـ &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9_%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%B9?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#وزارة_الدفاع&lt;/a&gt;: اعتراض وتدمير صاروخين من نوع كروز بالخرج. &lt;a href="https://t.co/mOTNyMQk8R"&gt;pic.twitter.com/mOTNyMQk8R&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/modgovksa/status/2029030985422033111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Saudi Arabia says intercepted two cruise missiles

The Lebanese Ministry of Health, in a statement, said that the “martyrdom toll from the occupation's airstrike” on a four-storey residential building in the city of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon has risen to 8.

Israeli airstrike on Baalbek residential building kills 8

An Israeli strike hit a hotel in the Beirut suburb of Hazmieh on Wednesday, Lebanese state media reported, the first recent such attack on the predominantly Christian area.The state-run National News Agency said that "an Israeli airstrike targeted a hotel in Hazmieh" adding that "ambulances were dispatched to the scene".

Israeli strike hits hotel in Beirut suburb of Hazmieh

Trump said the US Navy could begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if required."If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, as soon as possible. No matter what, the United States will ensure the FREE FLOW of ENERGY to the WORLD," he said in a post on Truth Social.

US considering naval escorts through Strait of Hormuz: Trump

The United States Department of Defense on Wednesday (Mar 4) identified four of the six US Army Reserve soldiers killed in a drone strike in Kuwait earlier this week, as the conflict between Washington, Tel Aviv and Tehran continues to escalate.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-identifies-four-soldiers-killed-in-kuwait-attack-all-we-know-about-them-cody-a-khork-noah-l-tietjens-nicole-m-amor-declan-j-coady-1772591385160">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260304/image-1772594018344.png"></figure>

Pentagon identifies four soldiers killed in Kuwait attack: All we know about them

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;The Trump Administration has no higher priority than the safety and security of Americans worldwide. On March 2 we issued a region-wide precautionary message to Americans in the Middle East in light of evolving dynamics. Here is a summary of our latest security updates as of… &lt;a href="https://t.co/if2pSbo8GQ"&gt;pic.twitter.com/if2pSbo8GQ&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; TravelGov (@TravelGov) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/TravelGov/status/2029020021352218677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

United States increased travel advisories for Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to Level 3

A Control Room has been set up in the Ministry of External Affairs in view of the current situation in West Asia and the Gulf region. The Control Room can be contacted from 9 am to 9 pm at:1800118797 (Toll Free) +91 11 2301 2113 +91 11 2301 4104 +91 11 2301 7905Emergency contact numbers of Indian Embassies in the region are:Bahrain: +973 39418071Iran: +98 9128109115 / +98 912810910 / +98 912810910 / +98 932179359Iraq: +964 771 651 1185 / +964 770444 4899Israel: +972 54 7520711 / +972 54 2428378Jordan: +962 770 422 276Kuwait: + 965 65501946Lebanon: +961 76860128Oman: +968 98282270 (Whatsapp) / 80071234 (Toll free)Qatar: +974 55647502Ramallah, Palestine: +970 592916418Saudi Arabia (Riyadh): +966 11 4884697 / 800 247 1234 (toll free)Saudi Arabia (Jeddah): +966 126648660 / +966 12 2614093United Arab Emirates: +971 543090571 (Whatsapp) / 800 46342 (Toll free) &nbsp;

India's Ministry of External Affairs sets up Control Room amid West Asia conflict

Three US F-15E fighter jets that went down over Kuwait on Tuesday were reportedly shot down by a Kuwaiti Air Force F/A-18 Hornet in a suspected friendly fire incident, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

Report claims Kuwaiti fighter jet shot down three US F-15Es in friendly fire incident

President Donald Trump threatened to cut trade ties with Spain after Madrid refused to allow US aircraft to use its bases for strikes on Iran.Spain’s government said any use of its bases must comply with the United Nations Charter.

Trump threatens Spain over base access

Ambassador Yechiel (Michael) Leiter, the Israeli ambassador to the United States on X announced that joint US-Israel strikes under Operation Epic Fury, has disrupted Iran’s nuclear missile program, leading to the destruction of vital command centers, missile launchers, and radar sites.He said that the attacks stopped Tehran from equipping missile delivery systems with enriched uranium, a vital move for creating nuclear weapons. “Together with the United States and Epic Fury, we have eliminated most of the radar stations in western Iran, the missile launchers, both surface-to-surface and surface-to-air. Today in Tehran, we took out the fourth of the four command centers, three we took out yesterday, creating chaos within the ranks of the Ayatollah regime.""This creates a chink in the chain of command where they’re not able to send messages down the system onto the field, and that’s part of the reason we’re seeing the chaos of the Iranians firing ballistic missiles into all its neighbors all at once," Leiter said.“The most important site we took out today was a site where they intended to pair nuclear enriched uranium with a missile delivery system.""If we would have delayed these operations, they would have reached a point very soon where this impenetrable site would not have been able to be destroyed, and that’s why we had to act," he added.&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Here with the evening update from outside our situation room: today we eliminated a covert underground nuclear compound in Iran.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Follow for more information on operation &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoaringLion?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#RoaringLion&lt;/a&gt; 🇮🇱🇺🇸 &lt;a href="https://t.co/DRIgCbrL9d"&gt;pic.twitter.com/DRIgCbrL9d&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Ambassador Yechiel (Michael) Leiter (@yechielleiter) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/yechielleiter/status/2029005111318478918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 4, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Israeli ambassador to the US says Op Epic Fury disrupted Iran nuclear missile program

The United States said it has organised charter flights to help Americans leave the Middle East.Flights have been arranged from Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, with officials saying that they "will continue to secure additional capacity as security conditions allow."

US arranges charter flights for Americans

Taking to Truth Social, US President Donald Trump claimed that since the launch of Operation Epic Fury, “more than 9,000 Americans have safely returned home from the Middle East.” He also shared a link for Americans in the Middle East who are looking for a way to return to the US.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260304/image-1772591040693.png">

Trump says over 9,000 Americans ‘returned home’ safely

French President Emmanuel Macron said France is sending its flagship aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the eastern Mediterranean as the conflict widens.The carrier was pulled from a North Atlantic mission.

France deploys aircraft carrier to Mediterranean

According to Lebanon, Israeli strikes on towns south of its capital, Beirut have killed at least six people. In a statement, Lebanon's health ministry said that "the Israeli enemy’s attacks on the areas of Aramoun and Saadiyat" killed six people and wounded eight others "in a preliminary toll".Aramoun and Saadiyat are both towns outside of Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah's traditional strongholds.

Israeli strikes on towns south of Beirut kill 6

In a statement on his website, US Senator Tim Kaine said that Americans don't want POTUS Donald Trump to “drag us into unnecessary forever wars”“Americans want President Trump to lower prices—not drag us into unnecessary forever wars. Yet he has unilaterally launched strikes at Iran without congressional authorization, failed to articulate a clear strategy, and callously said he doesn’t ‘have the yips about boots on the ground,’” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees.&nbsp;“The Senate will vote on our bipartisan War Powers Resolution tomorrow, and every senator will have to go on the record to declare whether it is in our best interest to send our sons and daughters into conflict against Iran. I pray that my colleagues will vote to end this dangerous and unnecessary war that has already resulted in the loss of six service members and injured others. We owe it to those in uniform, their families, and all Americans to not make the same mistakes that we made in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Americans don't want Trump to 'drag us into unnecessary forever wars': Senator Tim Kaine

The US Senate is poised to vote Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET on a war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to continue military actions against Iran without explicit congressional approval. The measure, led by Democrats including Sen. Tim Kaine with support from Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and Adam Schiff, would require Trump to come to Congress for authorisation if he wants to keep US forces engaged in hostilities.

US Senate set to vote on war powers resolution to curb Trump’s Iran campaign

A drone strike caused a fire near the US consulate in Dubai.Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang before seeing flames. Police cordoned off surrounding roads as emergency teams responded. The incident comes as Iran intensified its targeting of US diplomatic missions in the Gulf. &nbsp;

Drone attack sparks fire near US consulate in Dubai

Israel’s military said it launched a "broad wave of strikes" targeting sites in Iran.The announcement came after Iran fired three separate missile barrages at Israeli territory. Earlier, Israel said it had struck an underground nuclear facility where it claimed scientists were "covertly" working on key nuclear weapons components.

Israel launches new wave of strikes on Iran

Qatar announced that it had broken up two spy cells allegedly linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.Authorities said 10 suspects who "admitted during the investigation their links to the Revolutionary Guards and having been instructed to conduct espionage and sabotage activities," were arrested. Qatar hosts a major US military base and has faced Iranian strikes since the conflict escalated.

Qatar says it dismantled Iranian spy cells

A loud explosion was heard in Beirut shortly after midnight Wednesday, according to AFP citing journalists on the ground.The blast comes as Israel and Hezbollah exchange strikes and rocket fire. The latest round of fighting began after Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Explosion rocks Beirut as Israel and Hezbollah trade fire

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Wednesday (Mar 4) called for the "rapid de-escalation" of the Middle East war unleashed by US-Israeli strikes on Iran."Resolution of this crisis will require commitment to a broader political solution, and diplomatic engagement is essential to avoid a wider and deeper conflict," Carney told reporters in Sydney."Innocent civilians must be protected, and all parties must commit to finding enduring agreements to end both nuclear proliferation and terrorist extremism," he said.

Mark Carney calls for 'rapid de-escalation' of war in Middle East

The United States military has struck nearly 2,000 targets inside Iran so far, marking what officials describe as one of the largest buildups of American firepower in the region in decades.Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, said Tuesday (Mar 3) that American forces had used more than 2,000 munitions in the campaign. "We've already struck nearly 2,000 targets with more than 2,000 munitions. We have severely degraded Iran's air defenses and destroyed hundreds of Iran's ballistic missiles, launchers and drones," Cooper said in a video message.He added that the first 24 hours of the operation were "nearly double the scale" of the opening day of the 2003 Iraq war. Strikes into Iran, he said, are continuing 24/7.

US says nearly 2,000 targets hit in Iran as strikes intensify

According to an Iran International report, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected as Iran’s new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, citing informed sources.According to the report, the 56-year-old cleric was chosen to take charge of the country following deliberations within the powerful body responsible for appointing the Supreme Leader.Mojtaba is the second eldest son of the late leader and has long been viewed by political observers as a potential successor, though his possible elevation had remained a subject of speculation until now.

Mojtaba Khamenei picked as Iran’s next Supreme Leader

With the Israel-Iran war entering the fifth day, Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected as Iran’s new Supreme Leader by the country’s Assembly of Experts, suggest reports. All LIVE updates on US-Israel's war on Iran here.

US-Israel-Iran War LIVE: The US and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran on February 28, with Israel calling the campaign Operation Lion’s Roar and Washington naming it Operation Epic Fury. Both described the assault as preemptive, carried out amid rising tensions and ongoing nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington. The strikes came eight months after a brief but intense 12-day confrontation between Israel and Iran. Iran responded with missile attacks on Israel and targeted US military bases in Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. On March 1, it was confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the joint strikes, along with several senior Iranian figures. Tehran has since escalated its retaliation, warning that US bases in the region would be treated as American territory. Gulf states have cautioned against further escalation, even as Washington and Tel Aviv signal that operations could continue for weeks. The conflict is widening, with Iran-aligned groups joining the fight. International leaders have condemned the US-led action, while several European allies voiced support for Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held calls with key leaders, including Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, urging restraint and dialogue. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, as both Donald Trump and Iranian officials indicate potential openness to talks. Stay tuned to WION for all the LIVE updates and analysis on the US-Israel-Iran War

With the Israel-Iran war entering the fifth day, Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected as Iran’s new Supreme Leader by the country’s Assembly of Experts, suggest reports. All LIVE updates on US-Israel's war on Iran HERE.

US-Israel-Iran war highlights: Oil tanker traffic through Strait of Hormuz down 90%: Kpler

Amid continuing tensions across West Asia and sustained American military action against Iranian positions, Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has said the decision to strike was taken when what he described as the “right operational moment” presented itself, following years of preparation and military buildup. The coordinated operation by the United States and Israel took place shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his two-day visit to Israel. During the trip, he addressed the Knesset and held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;In an interview with The Indian Express, Azar clarified that no fixed timeline for the strike existed while Modi was in Israel. He explained that the military window emerged only after the Indian prime minister had left. Although regional security concerns were discussed during the visit, Azar said there was no concrete operational plan at that stage to disclose. According to him, Israel’s security cabinet authorised the mission on Saturday morning, roughly two days after Modi concluded his visit. His remarks follow a report by Axios, which claimed that Washington and Tel Aviv had mapped out the strike roughly a week earlier but postponed it due to intelligence and operational considerations.&nbsp;<ol><li>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-host-three-day-farewell-ceremony-for-khamenei-where-will-the-funeral-take-place-1772621956234">Iran to host three-day farewell ceremony for Khamenei. Where will the funeral take place?</a></li></ol><h2>Years of strategic preparation</h2>The Israeli envoy emphasised that the operation was the result of long-term strategic planning at the highest levels. He said that Israel had faced sustained threats from Iran over the years and invested heavily in strengthening its defence systems and intelligence capabilities. Azar noted that Israel had spent billions of dollars enhancing its military readiness against Iran and affiliated groups. He also revealed that coordination with the US had been ongoing for an extended period, even though the precise timing of the attack remained uncertain until the final go-ahead.<h2>Political backlash in India</h2>Back home, Modi’s Israel visit drew criticism from opposition leaders soon after news of the joint strike broke. During his speech in the Israeli Parliament, Modi had reiterated India’s firm support for Israel, a statement that opposition parties later questioned in light of the subsequent military action. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the prime minister on social media, referring to Netanyahu and former US President Donald Trump as Modi’s “friends” and accusing him of overlooking the escalating conflict. Ramesh argued that the attack had been widely anticipated amid stalled diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington, and said the prime minister’s visit sent the wrong message at a volatile moment.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-explosions-rocks-northeastern-tehran-1772627383577/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-explosions-rocks-northeastern-tehran-1772627383577/embed</a><h2>Rising regional tensions</h2>The Middle East remains on edge following the strike. Iran is preparing for the funeral of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the joint US-Israeli operation. Meanwhile, India has issued travel advisories for its citizens in Gulf cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as disruptions to air travel continue due to current situation.&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.

'Strike on Iran timed after ‘operational opportunity’ post PM Modi's visit', says Israel's India Envoy

Amid continuing tensions across West Asia and sustained American military action against Iranian positions, Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has said the decision to strike was taken when what he described as the “right operational moment” presented itself, following years of preparation and military buildup. The coordinated operation by the United States and Israel took place shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his two-day visit to Israel. During the trip, he addressed the Knesset and held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In an interview with The Indian Express, Azar clarified that no fixed timeline for the strike existed while Modi was in Israel. He explained that the military window emerged only after the Indian prime minister had left. Although regional security concerns were discussed during the visit, Azar said there was no concrete operational plan at that stage to disclose. According to him, Israel’s security cabinet authorised the mission on Saturday morning, roughly two days after Modi concluded his visit. His remarks follow a report by Axios, which claimed that Washington and Tel Aviv had mapped out the strike roughly a week earlier but postponed it due to intelligence and operational considerations. Also Read: Iran to host three-day farewell ceremony for Khamenei. Where will the funeral take place? Years of strategic preparation The Israeli envoy emphasised that the operation was the result of long-term strategic planning at the highest levels. He said that Israel had faced sustained threats from Iran over the years and invested heavily in strengthening its defence systems and intelligence capabilities. Azar noted that Israel had spent billions of dollars enhancing its military readiness against Iran and affiliated groups. He also revealed that coordination with the US had been ongoing for an extended period, even though the precise timing of the attack remained uncertain until the final go-ahead. Political backlash in India Back home, Modi’s Israel visit drew criticism from opposition leaders soon after news of the joint strike broke. During his speech in the Israeli Parliament, Modi had reiterated India’s firm support for Israel, a statement that opposition parties later questioned in light of the subsequent military action. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the prime minister on social media, referring to Netanyahu and former US President Donald Trump as Modi’s “friends” and accusing him of overlooking the escalating conflict. Ramesh argued that the attack had been widely anticipated amid stalled diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington, and said the prime minister’s visit sent the wrong message at a volatile moment. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-explosions-rocks-northeastern-tehran-1772627383577/embed Rising regional tensions The Middle East remains on edge following the strike. Iran is preparing for the funeral of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the joint US-Israeli operation. Meanwhile, India has issued travel advisories for its citizens in Gulf cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as disruptions to air travel continue due to current situation. 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.

Israel says Iran strike timing emerged after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit; years of planning and US coordination preceded the operation

It is very clear that Iran of 2026 is not Iraq of 2003. No large groups of protesters against the regime have gathered in Tehran's Azadi Square with claims to form the next government, five days after US-Israeli bombing. There is no sign of a new government, other than the Islamic Republic. At best, people are confused, afraid and keeping a low profile. &nbsp;As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, the US and Israel have bombed out the entire negotiating table, leaving nobody to take charge of the nation. The US is appealing to ethnic groups such as the Kurds to take the fight forward in their respective regions against the still-entrenched Iranian forces to help complete the transition into a new regime. But how good is that idea?&nbsp;<h2>Best alternatives to current Iranian leadership are already gone in Israeli strikes</h2>US President Donald Trump himself said that the second and third options for leadership transition are gone. This is because, the first day of the current conflict saw Israel “take out” much of the leadership of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This could frustrate any future efforts to bring in a semblance of security, safety and stability. Added to this is the Israeli threat that any new Supreme Leader would also be a target for assassination.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed</a><h2>Iran is not a simple puzzle to crack, it's a vast nation&nbsp;</h2>Iran is a vast nation with huge resources, including oil. With its control over much of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has long played a key role in global commerce. Surprisingly, Iran is still standing in spite of the decapitation strikes by the US and Israel. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, repeatedly said he is ready to take Iran into a new phase of transition, but neither Trump nor Israel appears interested in backing him. Even the last Shah’s widow urged caution and warned against plunging the country into chaos, saying Iran must not be allowed to descend into bloodshed and fragmentation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-arming-militias-to-overthrow-iran-regime-wants-somebody-from-within-report-1772599622355">Trump’s 'Operation Epic Fury' targets Tehran: Is a US-backed militia the key to ending the Iran war?</a><h2>Iran today is not like Iraq in 2003: Not many cheering for the US or Israel or the fall of a regime</h2>When the US invaded Saddam Hussein’s Iraq in 2003, many people there rejoiced. But in Iran today, there is no comparable atmosphere. The large, sustained protest movements of late 2025 did draw millions into the streets initially. However, before the February 27 bombardment, the Iranian system had already brutally suppressed the protests, with killings, mass arrests and an internet blackout. This may be why, after the US–Israel strike, there is no unified rival government claiming authority or occupying major Iranian cities. Perhaps the discontent, though serious, was not nationwide as projected in some sections of the media earlier; it was concentrated in pockets of Iranian society.Thousands of protesters were reportedly killed amid curfews, arrests and show trials. Tehran residents might be too fearful now to suddenly come out and attempt a physical overthrow of the government or its officials.In short, there is no revolution.Iran’s permanent UN envoy has said that Tehran has not contacted Washington about peace talks and is sceptical about resuming official negotiations after the hostilities. With possible intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman and the UAE also drawn into the conflict by Iranian retaliatory strikes, even indirect talks have been disrupted.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-israel-iran-war-live-updates-donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-ali-khamenei-mojtaba-khamenei-new-supreme-leader-assembly-of-experts-march-2026-1772584866186">US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV</a><h2>From Kurds to Baluchs to Arabs and others: What are the US options for a proxy takeover?</h2>Reports say that the US has been in discussions with Iranian Kurdish militia leaders about potential military operations in western Iran. The idea is for Kurdish forces to weaken Iranian security forces in border regions. The US appears ready to arm the Kurds and provide intelligence cooperation.Long fighting the Islamic Republic, the Kurds are battle-hardened and familiar with the territory in western Iran that have seen opposition to Tehran. Kurdish groups have formed alliances and articulated political aims beyond simply supporting protests too.But there are downsides. If they are entertained too much, the Kurds may push for secession. Many Kurdish groups have long sought autonomy or self-determination rather than reintegration into a centralised Iranian state.US engagement with Kurdish forces could inflame ethnic tensions, trigger wider regional conflict and draw in neighbours such as Turkey, which hosts a volatile Kurdish community that has only recently scaled down armed attacks on Turkish state targets.&nbsp;US arming of Kurdish groups could lead to a never-ending civil war situation, similar to what Syria experienced for over a decade after the so-called Arab Spring revolutions.This could, in essence, lead to the Balkanisation of Iran into ethnic strongholds and pockets.&nbsp;<h2>Other than the Kurds, what options does the US have in Iran?</h2>The Baluch minority in south-eastern Iran is another group the US is believed to be in contact with, according to intelligence reports. These are largely Sunni groups that have long sought greater autonomy or independence and have a history of armed resistance against the Iranian state.The Arab minority in Khuzestan province is another group in Iran’s south-west that has engaged in protests and clashes with security forces in past years and remains politically significant.&nbsp;Feelers have also been sent to moderate regime officials and dissidents inside Iran. The US may be talking to ‘friendly figures’ within Iran’s military and government, offering conditional support to those willing to break with hardliners.US strategists are also said to be engaging civil society actors, local leaders and influencers inside Iran who might provide political legitimacy or leadership in a transition period, not necessarily as armed groups.<h2>Can exile groups run Iran?</h2>There is a multitude of Iranian opposition groups in exile, such as the Iran National Council, which bring together secular and pro-democracy factions, including supporters of Reza Pahlavi. However, there has been no direct high-level US coordination with them in the context of the current crisis.Iran-focused opposition organisations based in the West or the US are part of the broader opposition ecosystem and often influence Washington policy debates. The Organisation of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), an advocacy group that supports ending the Islamic Republic’s rule and a democratic transition, is one such, with historical links to the People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK).However, none of these groups appears capable of handling a wholesale political or governmental transition inside Iran at present.In short, there is no consolidated internal interim government or group capable of providing broad national leadership to Iranians.In essence, if continuity is not ensured, the US and Isreael run the risk of leaving behind a major power vacuum in Iran.&nbsp;Continuity of governance, at present, can only come from remnants of the Islamic Republic.US leveraging of any other group, without a cohesive and broadly supported governance plan, risks internal fragmentation, ethnic conflict, Balkanisation and possible civil war, rather than a smooth transition.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.

After US–Israel decapitatation of Iran’s leadership, there's no sign of an alternative form of government emerging. Former anti-regime protesters are not cheering on the streets for a revolution. The US is talking with Kurds, Baluch, Arab groups and dissidents. Has Iran's fragmentation begun?

It is very clear that Iran of 2026 is not Iraq of 2003. No large groups of protesters against the regime have gathered in Tehran's Azadi Square with claims to form the next government, five days after US-Israeli bombing. There is no sign of a new government, other than the Islamic Republic. At best, people are confused, afraid and keeping a low profile. As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, the US and Israel have bombed out the entire negotiating table, leaving nobody to take charge of the nation. The US is appealing to ethnic groups such as the Kurds to take the fight forward in their respective regions against the still-entrenched Iranian forces to help complete the transition into a new regime. But how good is that idea? Best alternatives to current Iranian leadership are already gone in Israeli strikes US President Donald Trump himself said that the second and third options for leadership transition are gone. This is because, the first day of the current conflict saw Israel “take out” much of the leadership of Iran, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This could frustrate any future efforts to bring in a semblance of security, safety and stability. Added to this is the Israeli threat that any new Supreme Leader would also be a target for assassination. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-cia-reportedly-plans-to-use-kurds-for-regime-change-in-iran-1772625570340/embed Iran is not a simple puzzle to crack, it's a vast nation Iran is a vast nation with huge resources, including oil. With its control over much of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has long played a key role in global commerce. Surprisingly, Iran is still standing in spite of the decapitation strikes by the US and Israel. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, repeatedly said he is ready to take Iran into a new phase of transition, but neither Trump nor Israel appears interested in backing him. Even the last Shah’s widow urged caution and warned against plunging the country into chaos, saying Iran must not be allowed to descend into bloodshed and fragmentation. Also read: Trump’s 'Operation Epic Fury' targets Tehran: Is a US-backed militia the key to ending the Iran war? Iran today is not like Iraq in 2003: Not many cheering for the US or Israel or the fall of a regime When the US invaded Saddam Hussein’s Iraq in 2003, many people there rejoiced. But in Iran today, there is no comparable atmosphere. The large, sustained protest movements of late 2025 did draw millions into the streets initially. However, before the February 27 bombardment, the Iranian system had already brutally suppressed the protests, with killings, mass arrests and an internet blackout. This may be why, after the US–Israel strike, there is no unified rival government claiming authority or occupying major Iranian cities. Perhaps the discontent, though serious, was not nationwide as projected in some sections of the media earlier; it was concentrated in pockets of Iranian society. Thousands of protesters were reportedly killed amid curfews, arrests and show trials. Tehran residents might be too fearful now to suddenly come out and attempt a physical overthrow of the government or its officials. In short, there is no revolution. Iran’s permanent UN envoy has said that Tehran has not contacted Washington about peace talks and is sceptical about resuming official negotiations after the hostilities. With possible intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman and the UAE also drawn into the conflict by Iranian retaliatory strikes, even indirect talks have been disrupted. Also read: US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: Iran postpones state funeral for Khamenei: state TV From Kurds to Baluchs to Arabs and others: What are the US options for a proxy takeover? Reports say that the US has been in discussions with Iranian Kurdish militia leaders about potential military operations in western Iran. The idea is for Kurdish forces to weaken Iranian security forces in border regions. The US appears ready to arm the Kurds and provide intelligence cooperation. Long fighting the Islamic Republic, the Kurds are battle-hardened and familiar with the territory in western Iran that have seen opposition to Tehran. Kurdish groups have formed alliances and articulated political aims beyond simply supporting protests too. But there are downsides. If they are entertained too much, the Kurds may push for secession. Many Kurdish groups have long sought autonomy or self-determination rather than reintegration into a centralised Iranian state. US engagement with Kurdish forces could inflame ethnic tensions, trigger wider regional conflict and draw in neighbours such as Turkey, which hosts a volatile Kurdish community that has only recently scaled down armed attacks on Turkish state targets. US arming of Kurdish groups could lead to a never-ending civil war situation, similar to what Syria experienced for over a decade after the so-called Arab Spring revolutions. This could, in essence, lead to the Balkanisation of Iran into ethnic strongholds and pockets. Other than the Kurds, what options does the US have in Iran? The Baluch minority in south-eastern Iran is another group the US is believed to be in contact with, according to intelligence reports. These are largely Sunni groups that have long sought greater autonomy or independence and have a history of armed resistance against the Iranian state. The Arab minority in Khuzestan province is another group in Iran’s south-west that has engaged in protests and clashes with security forces in past years and remains politically significant. Feelers have also been sent to moderate regime officials and dissidents inside Iran. The US may be talking to ‘friendly figures’ within Iran’s military and government, offering conditional support to those willing to break with hardliners. US strategists are also said to be engaging civil society actors, local leaders and influencers inside Iran who might provide political legitimacy or leadership in a transition period, not necessarily as armed groups. Can exile groups run Iran? There is a multitude of Iranian opposition groups in exile, such as the Iran National Council, which bring together secular and pro-democracy factions, including supporters of Reza Pahlavi. However, there has been no direct high-level US coordination with them in the context of the current crisis. Iran-focused opposition organisations based in the West or the US are part of the broader opposition ecosystem and often influence Washington policy debates. The Organisation of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), an advocacy group that supports ending the Islamic Republic’s rule and a democratic transition, is one such, with historical links to the People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK). However, none of these groups appears capable of handling a wholesale political or governmental transition inside Iran at present. In short, there is no consolidated internal interim government or group capable of providing broad national leadership to Iranians. In essence, if continuity is not ensured, the US and Isreael run the risk of leaving behind a major power vacuum in Iran. Continuity of governance, at present, can only come from remnants of the Islamic Republic. US leveraging of any other group, without a cohesive and broadly supported governance plan, risks internal fragmentation, ethnic conflict, Balkanisation and possible civil war, rather than a smooth transition. 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.

After US–Israel decapitatation of Iran’s leadership, there's no sign of an alternative form of government emerging. Former anti-regime protesters are not cheering on the streets for a revolution. The US is talking with Kurds, Baluch, Arab groups and dissidents. Has Iran's fragmentation begun?

Iran 2026 is not Iraq 2003: With top leaders gone, US talks to Kurds and other ethnic groups, but who will run Tehran?

Amid the escalated military tensions between Israel, Iran and the US, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday (March 4) that its F-35I fighter jet, known as Adir, shot down an Iranian Air Force YAK-130 fighter aircraft in the first event in history. The IDF posted on social media platform X and wrote, “IRANIAN JET SHOT DOWN: An IAF F-35I 'Adir’ fighter jet shot down an Iranian Air Force YAK-130 fighter jet. This is the first shootdown in the history of a manned fighter aircraft by an F-35 “Adir” fighter jet.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🛩️IRANIAN JET SHOT DOWN: An IAF F-35I “Adir” fighter jet shot down an Iranian Air Force YAK-130 fighter jet. This is the first shootdown in history of a manned fighter aircraft by an F-35 “Adir” fighter jet.&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/2029115112347304191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-americans-have-very-limited-options-to-leave-israel-amid-war-with-iran-mike-huckabee-1772525123928">‘Americans have VERY LIMITED options to leave Israel’ amid war with Iran: Mike Huckabee</a>&nbsp;The F-35, made by an American aerospace manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, is known as one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. The jet is advanced in shape, internal sensors, weapons and fuel, contributing to the aircraft's stealth. Meanwhile, Iran's YAK-130 is a subsonic two-seat advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft originally developed by Yakovlev and Aermacchi.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-offers-assistance-to-save-civilians-in-gulf-nations-amid-iran-s-offensive-but-has-a-condition-1772535170097">Zelensky offers assistance to save civilians in Gulf nations amid Iran's offensive, but has a condition</a>&nbsp;The IDF also said that it carried out a series of strikes on the Basij and internal security command centres in Tehran belonging to the Iranian terror regime. The targeted command centres were used by the Iranian regime to maintain control throughout Iran, the Israeli military added.&nbsp;“The IDF has carried out a series of strikes on the Basij and internal security command centers in Tehran belonging to the Iranian terror regime. The targeted command centres were used by the Iranian regime to maintain control throughout Iran. The IDF also struck the regime’s missile launchers and other systems,” it said in another post.&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.

Israel’s IDF said an F-35I Adir shot down an Iranian Yak-130, marking the first reported air-to-air kill by the Israeli F-35 variant. The military also claimed strikes on Basij and security centers in Tehran, targeting missile systems and regime infrastructure.

Amid the escalated military tensions between Israel, Iran and the US, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday (March 4) that its F-35I fighter jet, known as Adir, shot down an Iranian Air Force YAK-130 fighter aircraft in the first event in history. The IDF posted on social media platform X and wrote, “IRANIAN JET SHOT DOWN: An IAF F-35I 'Adir’ fighter jet shot down an Iranian Air Force YAK-130 fighter jet. This is the first shootdown in the history of a manned fighter aircraft by an F-35 “Adir” fighter jet.”

Israel’s IDF said an F-35I Adir shot down an Iranian Yak-130, marking the first reported air-to-air kill by the Israeli F-35 variant. The military also claimed strikes on Basij and security centers in Tehran, targeting missile systems and regime infrastructure.

‘First in history’: Israel’s F-35I fighter jet ‘Adir’ shoots down Iran’s Air Force YAK-130

Iran has announced a three-day public mourning period for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei following his death during a joint military operation carried out by the United States and Israel. State media reported that the farewell ceremony will start at 10 pm local time in Tehran. The event is set to take place at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla, also known as the Grand Mosalla Mosque, a major prayer complex in the capital.&nbsp;Hojjatoleslam Mahmoudi, head of Iran’s Islamic Propagation Council, confirmed that the venue will remain open for three days to allow citizens to pay their respects. He said that the prayer hall would welcome visitors, encouraging the public to attend and participate in the farewell proceedings. Details regarding the funeral procession are expected to be announced at a later time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-mojtaba-khamenei-named-supreme-leader-tehran-slams-fake-reports-on-succession-1772615770404">Iran denies Mojtaba Khamenei named supreme leader: Tehran slams 'fake' reports on succession</a>&nbsp;The Imam Khomeini Mosalla of Tehran, a partially completed mosque that has been under construction for more than three decades, regularly hosts Friday prayers and large-scale religious and national gatherings. In addition to its religious role, the complex functions as a community and event center.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-what-is-trump-s-endgame-on-iran-democrats-accuse-us-of-shifting-goals-1772617502821/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-what-is-trump-s-endgame-on-iran-democrats-accuse-us-of-shifting-goals-1772617502821/embed</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, reports have emerged suggesting that Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son, has been selected as his successor. Iran International claimed that Mojtaba is expected to assume the position of Supreme Leader after the funeral. Israeli outlet Ynet also cited senior officials indicating that the Assembly of Experts may formally confirm his appointment in the coming hours. However, Iranian authorities have not yet officially announced the name of the next Supreme Leader.&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 to host three-day farewell ceremony for Khamenei. Where will the funeral take place?

Iran has announced a three-day public mourning period for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei following his death during a joint military operation carried out by the United States and Israel. State media reported that the farewell ceremony will start at 10 pm local time in Tehran. The event is set to take place at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla, also known as the Grand Mosalla Mosque, a major prayer complex in the capital. Hojjatoleslam Mahmoudi, head of Iran’s Islamic Propagation Council, confirmed that the venue will remain open for three days to allow citizens to pay their respects. He said that the prayer hall would welcome visitors, encouraging the public to attend and participate in the farewell proceedings. Details regarding the funeral procession are expected to be announced at a later time. Also Read: Iran denies Mojtaba Khamenei named supreme leader: Tehran slams 'fake' reports on succession The Imam Khomeini Mosalla of Tehran, a partially completed mosque that has been under construction for more than three decades, regularly hosts Friday prayers and large-scale religious and national gatherings. In addition to its religious role, the complex functions as a community and event center. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-what-is-trump-s-endgame-on-iran-democrats-accuse-us-of-shifting-goals-1772617502821/embed Meanwhile, reports have emerged suggesting that Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son, has been selected as his successor. Iran International claimed that Mojtaba is expected to assume the position of Supreme Leader after the funeral. Israeli outlet Ynet also cited senior officials indicating that the Assembly of Experts may formally confirm his appointment in the coming hours. However, Iranian authorities have not yet officially announced the name of the next Supreme Leader. 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 begins a three-day farewell for Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran as reports suggest Mojtaba Khamenei is likely to succeed him as the next supreme leader

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Mar 3) dismissed the exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi as a potential successor to Iran's Ali Khamenei arguing that “someone from within” Iran might be a better fit. While Trump did call Pahlavi a “nice guy” but he batted for someone within the country. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said that many Iranian officials his administration had viewed as potential new leaders for the country had been killed in the US-Israeli campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>"Most of the people we had in mind are dead. Now we have another group, they may be dead also, based on reports. So you have a third wave coming. Pretty soon, we’re not going to know anybody," he said in an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office. “</blockquote><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-what-is-trump-s-endgame-on-iran-democrats-accuse-us-of-shifting-goals-1772617502821/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-what-is-trump-s-endgame-on-iran-democrats-accuse-us-of-shifting-goals-1772617502821/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, Trump said that he had a shortlist of three names to lead Iran. Speaking to The New York Times, Trump said that he had "three very good choices" for who could lead Iran, but he did not name them. "I won’t be revealing them now. Let’s get the job done first," he added. Trump has also said that offensive on Iran by America and Israel may continue for “four weeks or so”, while also warning that there could be more American casualties. "It's always been a four-week process. We figured it will be four weeks or so," the Daily Mail quoted Trump as saying.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-their-atomic-bomb-program-netanyahu-reveals-main-reason-for-pre-emptive-strikes-on-iran-1772510133728/amp">'Their atomic bomb program...': Netanyahu reveals MAIN reason for 'pre-emptive' strikes on Iran</a><h2>Could Pahlavi be in list of Trump's name who could lead Iran?</h2>Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the son of last Shah of Iran, has positioned himself as a leader for a transitional government in Iran, but he has not been endorsed by Trump. Though, Trump has hinted at regime change, about Reza he remains unsure. He had previously said that Reza is a “nice guy” but lacks ground support.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-could-build-11-nuclear-bombs-witkoff-makes-massive-claims-about-iranian-nuclear-programme-1772510348021/amp">Iran could build 11 nuclear bombs? Witkoff makes MASSIVE claims about Iranian nuclear programme</a>&nbsp;On the day of Khamenei's death, Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah, Mohammad Reza Shah, declared that it is the end of the Islamic Republic and it is time to unfurl Iran’s Lion and Sun National Revolution flag. He also said that any attempt to appoint a successor to Khamenei will fail, while urging Iranian people to take the streets and witness the “final victory.” Calling the moment as “freedom” for Iranians, he also sent a message to the military, law enforcement and security forces of Iran, stating that ut us their “final opportunity to help ensure Iran’s stable transition.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Donald Trump dismissed exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as Iran’s next leader, saying someone “from within” the country may be better suited. While hinting at regime change and revealing he has three potential names in mind, Trump has not endorsed Pahlavi 

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Mar 3) dismissed the exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi as a potential successor to Iran's Ali Khamenei arguing that “someone from within” Iran might be a better fit. While Trump did call Pahlavi a “nice guy” but he batted for someone within the country. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said that many Iranian officials his administration had viewed as potential new leaders for the country had been killed in the US-Israeli campaign. "Most of the people we had in mind are dead. Now we have another group, they may be dead also, based on reports. So you have a third wave coming. Pretty soon, we’re not going to know anybody," he said in an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office. “ https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-what-is-trump-s-endgame-on-iran-democrats-accuse-us-of-shifting-goals-1772617502821/embed Earlier, Trump said that he had a shortlist of three names to lead Iran. Speaking to The New York Times, Trump said that he had "three very good choices" for who could lead Iran, but he did not name them. "I won’t be revealing them now. Let’s get the job done first," he added. Trump has also said that offensive on Iran by America and Israel may continue for “four weeks or so”, while also warning that there could be more American casualties. "It's always been a four-week process. We figured it will be four weeks or so," the Daily Mail quoted Trump as saying. Also Read: 'Their atomic bomb program...': Netanyahu reveals MAIN reason for 'pre-emptive' strikes on Iran Could Pahlavi be in list of Trump's name who could lead Iran? Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the son of last Shah of Iran, has positioned himself as a leader for a transitional government in Iran, but he has not been endorsed by Trump. Though, Trump has hinted at regime change, about Reza he remains unsure. He had previously said that Reza is a “nice guy” but lacks ground support. Also Read: Iran could build 11 nuclear bombs? Witkoff makes MASSIVE claims about Iranian nuclear programme On the day of Khamenei's death, Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah, Mohammad Reza Shah, declared that it is the end of the Islamic Republic and it is time to unfurl Iran’s Lion and Sun National Revolution flag. He also said that any attempt to appoint a successor to Khamenei will fail, while urging Iranian people to take the streets and witness the “final victory.” Calling the moment as “freedom” for Iranians, he also sent a message to the military, law enforcement and security forces of Iran, stating that ut us their “final opportunity to help ensure Iran’s stable transition.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Donald Trump dismissed exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as Iran’s next leader, saying someone “from within” the country may be better suited. While hinting at regime change and revealing he has three potential names in mind, Trump has not endorsed Pahlavi&nbsp;

Pahlavi snubbed? Trump says ‘someone from within’ Iran should be Khamenei successor

On Wednesday (March 4), the Saudi Ministry of Defense announced that it had intercepted a drone attack targeting the Ras Tanura refinery. This marks the second strike on the massive Gulf Coast energy complex this week, following an earlier hit on the facility. In a statement, the ministry said, "Initial estimates indicate that the attack was carried out by a drone and did not result in any damage.”&nbsp;Operations at the Ras Tanura refinery were partially suspended on Monday after an attack ignited a fire at the facility. Located on Saudi Arabia’s eastern Gulf coast, the complex is a critical pillar of the Kingdom’s energy sector and stands as one of the largest refineries in the Middle East.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-woke-up-to-explosion-sounds-indian-expat-in-dubai-notes-people-are-calm-away-from-fear-mongering-1772442572603">'Woke up to explosion sounds': Indian expat in Dubai notes people are calm, away from fearmongering</a> With a massive processing capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, any disruption to the site has significant implications for global energy markets. Gulf nations have pointed the finger at Tehran for this and other strikes on regional energy infrastructure, citing a surge in Iranian barrages following the large-scale U.S. and Israeli air campaign against Iran.&nbsp;Following the joint US-Israel military action that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has vowed to avenge his death. The country has gone all guns blazing at its neighbours. UAE also was in the line of fire. The country has gone all guns blazing at its neighbours. Speaking to the news outlet Sky News, Anwar Gargash, the president's advisor to the UAE President, highlighted how Tehran’s position lacks clarity and a rational vision. He also characterised the attacks as blatant and irresponsible.&nbsp;&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.

With a massive processing capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, any disruption to the site has significant implications for global energy markets. 

On Wednesday (March 4), the Saudi Ministry of Defense announced that it had intercepted a drone attack targeting the Ras Tanura refinery. This marks the second strike on the massive Gulf Coast energy complex this week, following an earlier hit on the facility. In a statement, the ministry said, "Initial estimates indicate that the attack was carried out by a drone and did not result in any damage.” Operations at the Ras Tanura refinery were partially suspended on Monday after an attack ignited a fire at the facility. Located on Saudi Arabia’s eastern Gulf coast, the complex is a critical pillar of the Kingdom’s energy sector and stands as one of the largest refineries in the Middle East. Also read: 'Woke up to explosion sounds': Indian expat in Dubai notes people are calm, away from fearmongering With a massive processing capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, any disruption to the site has significant implications for global energy markets. Gulf nations have pointed the finger at Tehran for this and other strikes on regional energy infrastructure, citing a surge in Iranian barrages following the large-scale U.S. and Israeli air campaign against Iran. Following the joint US-Israel military action that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has vowed to avenge his death. The country has gone all guns blazing at its neighbours. UAE also was in the line of fire. The country has gone all guns blazing at its neighbours. Speaking to the news outlet Sky News, Anwar Gargash, the president's advisor to the UAE President, highlighted how Tehran’s position lacks clarity and a rational vision. He also characterised the attacks as blatant and irresponsible. 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.

With a massive processing capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, any disruption to the site has significant implications for global energy markets.&nbsp;

Saudi intercepts drone over Ras Tanura as Iran conflict intensifies

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (Mar 4) has slammed the US for treating nuclear negotiations like a “real estate transaction.” He claimed that US President Donald Trump betrayed diplomacy and Americans who elected him. He had earlier said that shedding of both American and Iranian blood is on “Israel Firsters.”In a post on X, he said, “When complex nuclear negotiations are treated like a real estate transaction, and when big lies cloud realities, unrealistic expectations can never be met. The outcome? Bombing the negotiation table out of spite. Mr. Trump betrayed diplomacy and Americans who elected him.” &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260304/image-1772621687907.png"></figure>&nbsp;Trump described the Islamist Regime as 'crazy people' who would have used a nuclear weapon had they had access to it. "If we didn't do what we're doing right now, you would've had a nuclear war and they would've taken out many countries because you know what? They're sick people. They're mentally ill, sick people. They're angry. They're crazy. They're sick. These people are crazy -- and if they had a nuclear weapon, they would've used it," he said in a news conference on Tuesday night (local time).&nbsp;Earlier, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi slammed the US for starting a war with Iran on Israel's insistence. His statement came after Rubio said that America attacked Iran “preemptively” after knowing about Israel's plans. “Obviously, we were aware of Israeli intentions and understood what that would mean for us, and we had to be prepared to act as a result of it. But this had to happen no matter what," he said. "We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," Rubio added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-their-atomic-bomb-program-netanyahu-reveals-main-reason-for-pre-emptive-strikes-on-iran-1772510133728/amp">'Their atomic bomb program...': Netanyahu reveals MAIN reason for 'pre-emptive' strikes on Iran</a>&nbsp;Slamming his American counterpart Marco Rubio’s justification for attacking Tehran, Araghchi said that there was never anything called the “Iranian threat.” In a post on X, Araghchi said, “Mr. Rubio admitted what we all knew: US has entered a war of choice on behalf of Israel. There was never any so-called Iranian ‘threat'. Shedding of both American and Iranian blood is thus on Israel Firsters. American people deserve better and should take back their country."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-s-top-aide-larijani-rules-out-negotiations-with-us-after-trump-says-i-have-agreed-to-talk-what-s-next-for-iran-1772424924420/amp">Khamenei's top aide Larijani rules out negotiations with US after Trump says 'I have agreed to talk'</a>&nbsp;However, Trump contradicted Rubio's statement and suggested that he might have forced Israel into war with Iran. He said that it was he who felt Iran was going to attack first. Speaking at a press conference in the Oval Office, Trump said that the US was negotiating with “lunatics” and he might have “forced” Israel into this war. Moreover, when confronted Rubio over Trump's statement, Rubio seemingly backtracked,saying “your statement is false…were you there yesterday?" He said, “Somebody asked me did we go because of Israel and I said no. I said this had to happen anyway.”&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 Foreign Minister Araghchi accused the US of treating nuclear talks like a “real estate transaction,” saying Trump betrayed diplomacy. He blamed Washington for entering a war on Israel’s behalf, as conflicting statements from Trump and Rubio fuel confusion over why the US attacked Iran.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (Mar 4) has slammed the US for treating nuclear negotiations like a “real estate transaction.” He claimed that US President Donald Trump betrayed diplomacy and Americans who elected him. He had earlier said that shedding of both American and Iranian blood is on “Israel Firsters.”In a post on X, he said, “When complex nuclear negotiations are treated like a real estate transaction, and when big lies cloud realities, unrealistic expectations can never be met. The outcome? Bombing the negotiation table out of spite. Mr. Trump betrayed diplomacy and Americans who elected him.” Trump described the Islamist Regime as 'crazy people' who would have used a nuclear weapon had they had access to it. "If we didn't do what we're doing right now, you would've had a nuclear war and they would've taken out many countries because you know what? They're sick people. They're mentally ill, sick people. They're angry. They're crazy. They're sick. These people are crazy -- and if they had a nuclear weapon, they would've used it," he said in a news conference on Tuesday night (local time). Earlier, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi slammed the US for starting a war with Iran on Israel's insistence. His statement came after Rubio said that America attacked Iran “preemptively” after knowing about Israel's plans. “Obviously, we were aware of Israeli intentions and understood what that would mean for us, and we had to be prepared to act as a result of it. But this had to happen no matter what," he said. "We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," Rubio added. Also Read: 'Their atomic bomb program...': Netanyahu reveals MAIN reason for 'pre-emptive' strikes on Iran Slamming his American counterpart Marco Rubio’s justification for attacking Tehran, Araghchi said that there was never anything called the “Iranian threat.” In a post on X, Araghchi said, “Mr. Rubio admitted what we all knew: US has entered a war of choice on behalf of Israel. There was never any so-called Iranian ‘threat'. Shedding of both American and Iranian blood is thus on Israel Firsters. American people deserve better and should take back their country." Also Read: Khamenei's top aide Larijani rules out negotiations with US after Trump says 'I have agreed to talk' However, Trump contradicted Rubio's statement and suggested that he might have forced Israel into war with Iran. He said that it was he who felt Iran was going to attack first. Speaking at a press conference in the Oval Office, Trump said that the US was negotiating with “lunatics” and he might have “forced” Israel into this war. Moreover, when confronted Rubio over Trump's statement, Rubio seemingly backtracked,saying “your statement is false…were you there yesterday?" He said, “Somebody asked me did we go because of Israel and I said no. I said this had to happen anyway.” 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 Foreign Minister Araghchi accused the US of treating nuclear talks like a “real estate transaction,” saying Trump betrayed diplomacy. He blamed Washington for entering a war on Israel’s behalf, as conflicting statements from Trump and Rubio fuel confusion over why the US attacked Iran.

'Trump betrayed Americans...': Iran's Araghchi slams US for treating nuclear talks 'like real estate transaction'

The Israel-Iran-US conflict that started on February 28 has escalated and spread across the West Asia. The situation became dire enough to penetrate into the UAE's cities, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which were once considered the safest regions amid global conflicts. The US and Israel targeted multiple regions inside Iran in a joint military operation. In retaliation, Iran launched missiles and drones across multiple US bases in the Gulf states and Israel.&nbsp;Amid this, concerns have risen over the regions which are safer to stay in and are unaffected by war. As per a list prepared by Numbeo, these are the top 10 places that are safe to stay in amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-offers-assistance-to-save-civilians-in-gulf-nations-amid-iran-s-offensive-but-has-a-condition-1772535170097">Zelensky offers assistance to save civilians in Gulf nations amid Iran's offensive, but has a condition</a>&nbsp;1. Qingdao, Shandong, China 2. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 3. Doha, Qatar 4. Sharjah, United Arab Emirates 5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates 6. Taipei, Taiwan 7. Manama, Bahrain 8. Muscat, Oman 9. The Hague (Den Haag), Netherlands 10. Eindhoven, Netherlands&nbsp;The data by Numbeo was prepared using surveys answered by website visitors. According to a list by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), the UAE is not among the safest places. Here is the list of IEP.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-warship-sunk-in-indian-ocean-after-us-attack-confirms-pete-hegseth-says-us-and-israel-will-have-control-of-iran-skies-1772631336114">Iranian warship sunk in Indian Ocean after US attack, confirms Pete Hegseth, says US and Israel ‘will have control of Iran skies’</a>&nbsp;1. Iceland 2. Ireland 3. New Zealand 4. Austria 5. Switzerland 6. Singapore 7. Portugal 8. Denmark 9. Slovenia 10. Finland&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.

Amid escalating US–Iran–Israel tensions, global safety rankings gained attention. The Institute for Economics and Peace lists Iceland, Ireland and New Zealand among the safest countries, while Numbeo ranks cities like Qingdao, Abu Dhabi and Dubai highly, though regional risks remain fluid.

The Israel-Iran-US conflict that started on February 28 has escalated and spread across the West Asia. The situation became dire enough to penetrate into the UAE's cities, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which were once considered the safest regions amid global conflicts. The US and Israel targeted multiple regions inside Iran in a joint military operation. In retaliation, Iran launched missiles and drones across multiple US bases in the Gulf states and Israel. Amid this, concerns have risen over the regions which are safer to stay in and are unaffected by war. As per a list prepared by Numbeo, these are the top 10 places that are safe to stay in amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Also read: Zelensky offers assistance to save civilians in Gulf nations amid Iran's offensive, but has a condition 1. Qingdao, Shandong, China 2. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 3. Doha, Qatar 4. Sharjah, United Arab Emirates 5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates 6. Taipei, Taiwan 7. Manama, Bahrain 8. Muscat, Oman 9. The Hague (Den Haag), Netherlands 10. Eindhoven, Netherlands The data by Numbeo was prepared using surveys answered by website visitors. According to a list by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), the UAE is not among the safest places. Here is the list of IEP. Also read: Iranian warship sunk in Indian Ocean after US attack, confirms Pete Hegseth, says US and Israel ‘will have control of Iran skies’ 1. Iceland 2. Ireland 3. New Zealand 4. Austria 5. Switzerland 6. Singapore 7. Portugal 8. Denmark 9. Slovenia 10. Finland 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.

Amid escalating US–Iran–Israel tensions, global safety rankings gained attention. The Institute for Economics and Peace lists Iceland, Ireland and New Zealand among the safest countries, while Numbeo ranks cities like Qingdao, Abu Dhabi and Dubai highly, though regional risks remain fluid.

Safest countries to stay in amid US-Iran-Israel war. Check full list as ‘World War III’ nears

The commander of United States Central Command Admiral Brad Cooper, in a briefing about Operation Epic Fury said that the US is striking Iran 24/7 and that Iranian regime's ability to hit back was declining rapidly. Calling Iranian drones ‘killer’, Cooper boasted that those drones are no longer a tolerable risk. He said that the US have struck nearly 2,000 targets with more than 2,000 munitions. He announced that B-2 bombers and B-1 bombers executed “uncontested surgical strikes against multiple missile facilities” and "B-52 bomber force struck ballistic missile and command and control posts.&nbsp;Admiral Brad Cooper also said that not a single Iranian vessel was operation in the Arabian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz. “We are also sinking the Iranian Navy--the entire navy. Thus far, we've destroyed 17 Iranian ships, including the most operational Iranian submarine, that now has a hole in its side. For decades, the Iranian regime has harassed international shipping. Today, there's not a single Iranian ship underway in the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, or Gulf of Oman. And we will not stop. We're hunting Iran's last remaining mobile ballistic missile launchers to eliminate what I would characterize as their lingering launch capability.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-everything-has-been-knocked-out-in-iran-donald-trump-1772557096000">'EVERYTHING HAS BEEN KNOCKED OUT IN IRAN': Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Admiral Cooper said that the US was far ahead of its game plan for the combat operation and Iran was losing its ability to hit back. “In retaliation, the Iranian regime has launched over 500 ballistic missiles and over 2,000 drones. We are seeing Iran's ability to hit us and our partners is declining, while our combat power, on the other hand, is building.” This is in line with US President Donald Trump's statement who said that the US has “virtually unlimited” munitions to fight wars "forever."&nbsp;Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-israel-us-war-drone-attack-on-us-embassy-in-saudi-arabia-blast-video-surfaces-1772498987746">Drone attack on US embassy in Saudi Arabia as war with Iran spreads; Trump warns of retaliation ‘soon’</a><h2>Israel-US war with Iran</h2>The war with Iran has reached day five with both sides relentlessly targeting each other. It all started when Israel and the United States launched “pre-emptive” attack on Iran, and killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in subsequent airstrikes. Iran retaliated with drone attacks on Israel and on Gulf nations that host US bases. While US President Donald Trump has said that the operations in Iran will go on for “four weeks or so”, he has also boasted about US munitions that are enough for “forever” war. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its operations and has launched attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon, while also continuing its strikes on Tehran. Iran has ruled out any negotiations with the US after criticising the attacks that came amid nuclear talks between two sides. The bombings in West Asia is continuing, with US issuing unprecedented advise to all its citizens to leave the region, including Israel. Iranian regimed has vowed to avenge the death of Khamenei.&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.

Operation Epic Fury entered day fifth as US strikes on Iran intensified, with CENTCOM claiming major damage to Iran’s air defences and navy. Tehran retaliated with missiles and drones, reportedly targeting US-linked sites in Riyadh and Dubai, escalating the regional conflict.

The commander of United States Central Command Admiral Brad Cooper, in a briefing about Operation Epic Fury said that the US is striking Iran 24/7 and that Iranian regime's ability to hit back was declining rapidly. Calling Iranian drones ‘killer’, Cooper boasted that those drones are no longer a tolerable risk. He said that the US have struck nearly 2,000 targets with more than 2,000 munitions. He announced that B-2 bombers and B-1 bombers executed “uncontested surgical strikes against multiple missile facilities” and "B-52 bomber force struck ballistic missile and command and control posts. Admiral Brad Cooper also said that not a single Iranian vessel was operation in the Arabian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz. “We are also sinking the Iranian Navy--the entire navy. Thus far, we've destroyed 17 Iranian ships, including the most operational Iranian submarine, that now has a hole in its side. For decades, the Iranian regime has harassed international shipping. Today, there's not a single Iranian ship underway in the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, or Gulf of Oman. And we will not stop. We're hunting Iran's last remaining mobile ballistic missile launchers to eliminate what I would characterize as their lingering launch capability.” Also Read: 'EVERYTHING HAS BEEN KNOCKED OUT IN IRAN': Donald Trump Admiral Cooper said that the US was far ahead of its game plan for the combat operation and Iran was losing its ability to hit back. “In retaliation, the Iranian regime has launched over 500 ballistic missiles and over 2,000 drones. We are seeing Iran's ability to hit us and our partners is declining, while our combat power, on the other hand, is building.” This is in line with US President Donald Trump's statement who said that the US has “virtually unlimited” munitions to fight wars "forever." Also Read: Drone attack on US embassy in Saudi Arabia as war with Iran spreads; Trump warns of retaliation ‘soon’ Israel-US war with Iran The war with Iran has reached day five with both sides relentlessly targeting each other. It all started when Israel and the United States launched “pre-emptive” attack on Iran, and killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in subsequent airstrikes. Iran retaliated with drone attacks on Israel and on Gulf nations that host US bases. While US President Donald Trump has said that the operations in Iran will go on for “four weeks or so”, he has also boasted about US munitions that are enough for “forever” war. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its operations and has launched attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon, while also continuing its strikes on Tehran. Iran has ruled out any negotiations with the US after criticising the attacks that came amid nuclear talks between two sides. The bombings in West Asia is continuing, with US issuing unprecedented advise to all its citizens to leave the region, including Israel. Iranian regimed has vowed to avenge the death of Khamenei. 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.

Operation Epic Fury entered day fifth as US strikes on Iran intensified, with CENTCOM claiming major damage to Iran’s air defences and navy. Tehran retaliated with missiles and drones, reportedly targeting US-linked sites in Riyadh and Dubai, escalating the regional conflict.

'We're sinking entire Iranian Navy...': CENTCOM says B-2, B-1, B-52 unleash 24/7 strikes, Tehran's 'ability to hit back declining'

The commander of United States Central Command Admiral Brad Cooper, in a briefing about Operation Epic Fury, revealed that America is using drones designed on the Iranian model to hit back at the Islamic State. He also said that Iranian regime's ability to hit back is declining rapidly. Explaining about an important task force, he revealed that the US has formed a special drone task force named ‘Task Force Scorpion strike’ which has been deployed for the first time to launch “countless one-way attack drones.” He also said that these one-way drones are showing “massive effects.” The CENTCOM chief was referring to US LUCAS (Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System) - American one-way "kamikaze" drone - that are designed on the model of Iran’s Shahed-136.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-s-top-aide-larijani-rules-out-negotiations-with-us-after-trump-says-i-have-agreed-to-talk-what-s-next-for-iran-1772424924420/amp">Khamenei's top aide Larijani rules out negotiations with US after Trump says 'I have agreed to talk' — What's next for Iran</a>&nbsp;In the briefing, he also said that the Iranian drones are ‘killer’ and have always spread terror in the region. Providing details on American ops in Iran, he said that US forces have struck nearly 2,000 targets with more than 2,000 munitions, using B-2 bombers and B-1 bombers that executed “uncontested surgical strikes against multiple missile facilities” and B-52 bomber force &nbsp;that “struck ballistic missile and command and control posts.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-signals-tougher-stance-while-israel-steps-up-airstrikes-on-iran-1772598580494/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-signals-tougher-stance-while-israel-steps-up-airstrikes-on-iran-1772598580494/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>"For the first time, US Central Command's drone Task Force, called Task Force Scorpion strike launched countless one way attack drones achieving massive effects. I'd like to point out these drones were originally an Iranian design. We took them back to America, made them better, and fired them right back at Iran," CENTCOM Commander said. "Our military objectives are crystal clear, and our people are executing an immensely complex and historic mission with relentless lethality, conviction, and professionalism. And we've just begun. But I have the utmost confidence that we, alongside our partners, will absolutely achieve our military objectives," he added.</blockquote>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-to-pick-iran-s-new-leader-after-khamenei-death-us-president-says-he-has-3-good-choices-reza-pahlavi-mojtaba-ali-larijani-abbas-aragchi-1772430896517">'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 'good choices'</a><h2>What is Task Force Scorpion, a kamikaze drone unit?</h2>Pentagon’s first drone unit, built for one-way strikes that can explode after hovering over a target were used against Iran after Donald Trump gave the go-ahead for military strikes. Earlier, reports stated that Task Force Scorpion, kamikaze drones, had been activated. These drones evolved from an experimental US Army drone unit.&nbsp;<h2>Drones reverse-engineered from Iran’s Shahed-136 drones</h2>These drones have been developed through reverse engineering based on Iran’s Shahed-136 unmanned aerial vehicle. One drone from the unit was successfully test-launched from the USS Santa Barbara in the Persian Gulf in mid-December. The warship is part of the armada currently deployed near Iran. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/task-force-scorpion-flying-bombs-a-page-from-iran-s-shahed-drones-that-could-be-soon-used-against-them-1772166457540/1772166457543">READ MORE ABOUT IT HERE&nbsp;</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.&nbsp;

CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper said the US is using LUCAS kamikaze drones, reverse-engineered from Iran’s Shahed-136, under Task Force Scorpion Strike in Operation Epic Fury. He claimed Iran’s strike capability is weakening as US forces hit nearly 2,000 targets with bombers and one-way drones.

The commander of United States Central Command Admiral Brad Cooper, in a briefing about Operation Epic Fury, revealed that America is using drones designed on the Iranian model to hit back at the Islamic State. He also said that Iranian regime's ability to hit back is declining rapidly. Explaining about an important task force, he revealed that the US has formed a special drone task force named ‘Task Force Scorpion strike’ which has been deployed for the first time to launch “countless one-way attack drones.” He also said that these one-way drones are showing “massive effects.” The CENTCOM chief was referring to US LUCAS (Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System) - American one-way "kamikaze" drone - that are designed on the model of Iran’s Shahed-136. Also Read: Khamenei's top aide Larijani rules out negotiations with US after Trump says 'I have agreed to talk' — What's next for Iran In the briefing, he also said that the Iranian drones are ‘killer’ and have always spread terror in the region. Providing details on American ops in Iran, he said that US forces have struck nearly 2,000 targets with more than 2,000 munitions, using B-2 bombers and B-1 bombers that executed “uncontested surgical strikes against multiple missile facilities” and B-52 bomber force that “struck ballistic missile and command and control posts.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-signals-tougher-stance-while-israel-steps-up-airstrikes-on-iran-1772598580494/embed "For the first time, US Central Command's drone Task Force, called Task Force Scorpion strike launched countless one way attack drones achieving massive effects. I'd like to point out these drones were originally an Iranian design. We took them back to America, made them better, and fired them right back at Iran," CENTCOM Commander said. "Our military objectives are crystal clear, and our people are executing an immensely complex and historic mission with relentless lethality, conviction, and professionalism. And we've just begun. But I have the utmost confidence that we, alongside our partners, will absolutely achieve our military objectives," he added. Also Read: 'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 'good choices' What is Task Force Scorpion, a kamikaze drone unit? Pentagon’s first drone unit, built for one-way strikes that can explode after hovering over a target were used against Iran after Donald Trump gave the go-ahead for military strikes. Earlier, reports stated that Task Force Scorpion, kamikaze drones, had been activated. These drones evolved from an experimental US Army drone unit. Drones reverse-engineered from Iran’s Shahed-136 drones These drones have been developed through reverse engineering based on Iran’s Shahed-136 unmanned aerial vehicle. One drone from the unit was successfully test-launched from the USS Santa Barbara in the Persian Gulf in mid-December. The warship is part of the armada currently deployed near Iran. READ MORE ABOUT IT HERE 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.

CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper said the US is using LUCAS kamikaze drones, reverse-engineered from Iran’s Shahed-136, under Task Force Scorpion Strike in Operation Epic Fury. He claimed Iran’s strike capability is weakening as US forces hit nearly 2,000 targets with bombers and one-way drones.

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