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Amid escalating tensions between Israel, Iran and the US, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has offered assistance to Gulf nations to protect civilian populations in the region. But in return, the Ukrainian leader demanded a proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war. Zelensky said he can help in saving the civilians in the Gulf region from Iranian bombings, but only if the leader of the region would help him end the war in his country.&nbsp;He said the Gulf leaders have strong economic ties and relations with Russia and Vladimir Putin, and hence they could play a crucial role in persuading Moscow to agree to a pause or end the war. The Ukrainian president added that if Gulf leaders send a signal to Russia for a ceasefire, Ukraine could deploy specialists to help protect civilian populations in the region.&nbsp;“If they give Russia a signal to cease fire, for example, for a certain period of time, (0:14) a month, two months, we can then send our specialists to protect the civilian population. The peace talks should take place between the 5th and the 8th or 9th of this month,” Zelensky said, as quoted by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fact-check-benjamin-netanyahu-assassinated-in-iranian-strike-truth-behind-massive-claim-1772420690844">FACT CHECK: Benjamin Netanyahu assassinated in Iranian strike? Truth behind massive claim</a>&nbsp;The leader further said that the peace negotiations for the Ukraine war were tentatively planned between March 5th, 8th, and 9th and the venue was decided as Abu Dhabi, as per a suggestion from the US. He said that if there's any change in plan due to escalated tensions in West Asia, Ukraine would be open in any other location as well.&nbsp;“We are prepared to meet in Switzerland and we are also prepared to meet in Turkey, as I mentioned today. Turkey and Switzerland were both possible venues, as were the Emirates," Zelensky said.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered to assist Gulf nations in protecting civilians from Iranian attacks, but linked the support to progress in ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Zelensky urged Gulf leaders to use their economic ties with Moscow to push for a temporary ceasefire.

Amid escalating tensions between Israel, Iran and the US, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has offered assistance to Gulf nations to protect civilian populations in the region. But in return, the Ukrainian leader demanded a proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war. Zelensky said he can help in saving the civilians in the Gulf region from Iranian bombings, but only if the leader of the region would help him end the war in his country. He said the Gulf leaders have strong economic ties and relations with Russia and Vladimir Putin, and hence they could play a crucial role in persuading Moscow to agree to a pause or end the war. The Ukrainian president added that if Gulf leaders send a signal to Russia for a ceasefire, Ukraine could deploy specialists to help protect civilian populations in the region. “If they give Russia a signal to cease fire, for example, for a certain period of time, (0:14) a month, two months, we can then send our specialists to protect the civilian population. The peace talks should take place between the 5th and the 8th or 9th of this month,” Zelensky said, as quoted by news agency Reuters. Also read: FACT CHECK: Benjamin Netanyahu assassinated in Iranian strike? Truth behind massive claim The leader further said that the peace negotiations for the Ukraine war were tentatively planned between March 5th, 8th, and 9th and the venue was decided as Abu Dhabi, as per a suggestion from the US. He said that if there's any change in plan due to escalated tensions in West Asia, Ukraine would be open in any other location as well. “We are prepared to meet in Switzerland and we are also prepared to meet in Turkey, as I mentioned today. Turkey and Switzerland were both possible venues, as were the Emirates," Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered to assist Gulf nations in protecting civilians from Iranian attacks, but linked the support to progress in ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Zelensky urged Gulf leaders to use their economic ties with Moscow to push for a temporary ceasefire.

Zelensky offers assistance to save civilians in Gulf nations amid Iran's offensive, but has a condition

Satellite images from Iran show that a nuclear facility was damaged in the strikes carried out by the United States and Israel. Vantor released more images showing the compound where Khamenei was killed, among other places.

Satellite image shows damage at Natanz nuclear facility | Photos from Iran

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in his office on Saturday (February 28) during a coordinated military strike conducted by the United States and Israel, in what is being described as one of the most consequential escalations in the long-running hostility between Tehran and its rivals. Iran’s state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) announced his death early on Sunday (March 1), declaring that the Supreme Leader had “reached martyrdom.” Khamenei, who held Iran’s highest authority for over three decades, had previously survived a dramatic assassination attempt years before assuming the role of Supreme Leader. The attack left him with lifelong physical damage that became closely associated with his public persona.&nbsp;On June 27, 1981, while serving as president during the Iran-Iraq War, Khamenei visited a mosque shortly after returning from the war front. After leading prayers and interacting with attendees, a man approached and placed a tape recorder on the desk in front of him. Witnesses described the individual as a young man with curly hair, a beard and a chequered coat. Roughly a minute after being set down, the device emitted a sharp whistling sound before detonating.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-entered-war-on-behalf-of-israel-iran-slams-rubio-s-justification-of-pre-emptive-attack-1772524933052">'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack'</a>&nbsp;Authorities later discovered a note hidden inside the recorder saying: “A gift of Furqan Group to the Islamic Republic.” The Furqan Group was known at the time for its opposition to Iran’s clerical establishment. The explosion left Khamenei severely wounded, causing extensive injuries to his right arm, vocal cords and lungs. Though he survived after months of medical care, his right arm was permanently paralysed.&nbsp;Undeterred, he pressed on with his political career. Reflecting his resilience, he once remarked that he did not require his hand as long as his mind and voice remained intact. He adapted by learning to write with his left hand and steadily consolidated influence within Iran’s political and religious hierarchy. In 1989, he rose to the position of Supreme Leader and went on to dominate Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for 35 years, becoming one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the country’s modern history.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed</a>&nbsp;Despite his authority, much about his private life remained shielded from public view. He is survived by his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, and their six children. While reports suggest some extended family members reside abroad, his immediate household has largely stayed in Iran. According to Axios, the 86-year-old cleric ranked among the world’s longest-serving rulers. His death is likely to trigger uncertainty within Iran’s leadership structure and intensify pressure on the ruling establishment as tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv persist.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The secret beneath the robe: How the 1981 bombing paralysed Ali Khamenei’s right hand

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in his office on Saturday (February 28) during a coordinated military strike conducted by the United States and Israel, in what is being described as one of the most consequential escalations in the long-running hostility between Tehran and its rivals. Iran’s state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) announced his death early on Sunday (March 1), declaring that the Supreme Leader had “reached martyrdom.” Khamenei, who held Iran’s highest authority for over three decades, had previously survived a dramatic assassination attempt years before assuming the role of Supreme Leader. The attack left him with lifelong physical damage that became closely associated with his public persona. On June 27, 1981, while serving as president during the Iran-Iraq War, Khamenei visited a mosque shortly after returning from the war front. After leading prayers and interacting with attendees, a man approached and placed a tape recorder on the desk in front of him. Witnesses described the individual as a young man with curly hair, a beard and a chequered coat. Roughly a minute after being set down, the device emitted a sharp whistling sound before detonating. Also Read: 'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack' Authorities later discovered a note hidden inside the recorder saying: “A gift of Furqan Group to the Islamic Republic.” The Furqan Group was known at the time for its opposition to Iran’s clerical establishment. The explosion left Khamenei severely wounded, causing extensive injuries to his right arm, vocal cords and lungs. Though he survived after months of medical care, his right arm was permanently paralysed. Undeterred, he pressed on with his political career. Reflecting his resilience, he once remarked that he did not require his hand as long as his mind and voice remained intact. He adapted by learning to write with his left hand and steadily consolidated influence within Iran’s political and religious hierarchy. In 1989, he rose to the position of Supreme Leader and went on to dominate Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for 35 years, becoming one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the country’s modern history. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed Despite his authority, much about his private life remained shielded from public view. He is survived by his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, and their six children. While reports suggest some extended family members reside abroad, his immediate household has largely stayed in Iran. According to Axios, the 86-year-old cleric ranked among the world’s longest-serving rulers. His death is likely to trigger uncertainty within Iran’s leadership structure and intensify pressure on the ruling establishment as tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv persist. 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.

Long before leading Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei survived a 1981 bomb attack that left his right arm permanently paralysed

Can you melt away a huge glacier by raining tons of fire on it? That is the kind of question one asks oneself as a military deadlock meets diplomatic crises (please note the plural) in the aftermath of the US-Israel conflict with Iran this week that fits well into the logical paradox of an irresistible force meeting an immovable object. Theoretically, these forces would pass through each other, but in real, geopolitical life, it means a deadlock that is not easily resolvable. Applying some game theory, there is an “equilibrium of mistrust” exemplified by how the pre-emptive strikes on Tehran began even as peace talks seem to be going ahead towards a solution – spiralling into a regional conflict that threatens significant aspects of the global economy, from rising oil prices to airline passengers in inter-continental movement stranded in Dubai.&nbsp;Drone and missile attacks by Iran ostensibly on US military targets also hit some civilian countries not officially part of the conflict. This queered the pitch further. Proxy players like Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and a Saudi Arabia friendly to the US only complicate the picture further. It all resembles a jigsaw puzzle in which the pieces seem to fly with a will of their own to new places that makes solving it a near impossibility.&nbsp;<h2>Game theory to conspiracy theories</h2>&nbsp;From game theory to conspiracy theories, there is another journey. The easy armchair hypothesis is that US President Donald Trump has lined up his forces with Israel to divert attention from the Epstein Files linked to sexual abuse in which he often figures as a wrongdoer. A deeper theory talks about how an oil price spike triggered by Iran may actually benefit the US as it takes low-quality crude from Venezuela, which Washington is arm-twisting after abducting its President Maduro.&nbsp;<h2>Old assumptions are no longer easily valid</h2>&nbsp;If you connect the dots between the talk of ‘De-dollarisation’ under which there is a structural reduction of American currency’s dominance in the world economy linked to US sanctions as well as US deficits, and Washington’s recent pull-out from climate change accords and agencies, you can write a breezy political novel about the wheels within wheels of the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;The elephant in the military theatre is the Iranian regime, which despite the internationally illegal killing of its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei seems unshakeable like an ancient glacier. Iran’s political system, despite the lack of democratic popularity of the Islamic regime, is resilient enough for lines of command and succession plans to have been put in place. One thing on which there has been a global consensus this week is the poor American track record in enforcing regime changes.&nbsp;Contrast that with domestic politics in the US, where Trump’s popularity has been sliding. A CBS News poll found that only 28% of Americans and 57% of Republicans from Trump’s own party had found a justified case for the military strikes on Iran. Trump’s overall approval ratings have been steadily rising on the negative side since he took charge for a second term early in 2025. With mid-term Congressional elections due by the year-end, some would say the US regime is shakier than that of the Iranian one that Trump and Israel want to dismantle.&nbsp;The American assertion of an unshakeable technological edge has been blunted by Tehran hitting regional targets and blocking waters in the Hormuz Strait that is causing oil prices to surge, with a potential a knock-on effect on several countries that will not be amused. Iran’s drone strike on the US embassy in Riyadh throws open the chances of Trump’s domestic popularity sliding further. The Average American does not like it when Americans get hit in an America-led conflict!&nbsp;In such a surcharged atmosphere, news of three US fighter jets being mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti forces in a “friendly fire” incident does not improve the optics for the US.&nbsp;If Iran’s tactical strikes in places like Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE and Bahrain result in regional tensions that put some pressure back on the US, it may well turn out to be a diplomatic advantage for Iran, though Tehran is literally playing with fire in the process.&nbsp;It would be wise to remember that China and Russia have publicly condemned the assassination of Khamenei – while several major countries either supported it or glossed over it. Moscow and Beijing conducting some deft back-channel diplomacy to garner wider support to end the conflict on behalf of Iran seems quite high.&nbsp;The mineral and oil wealth of Iran as well as Tehran’s comprehensive agreement with Moscow last year hangs in the backdrop as a gentle reminder that this war may not be just between a US-led coalition and Iran.Russia signed a comprehensive military agreement with Iran in January 2025.&nbsp;According to UK-based ‘Energy, Oil &amp; Gas’ magazine, Iran possesses the third-largest proven crude oil reserves globally, estimated at 208.6 billion barrels.&nbsp;Iran is also estimated to hold 7% of the world’s mineral wealth by Science Direct, part of Amsterdam-based Elsevier group. The academic research repository estimates Iran’s proven mineral reserves at 37 billion tonnes. Iran is said to have 68 known minerals putting it in among 15 most mineral-rich countries on the planet. Recent searches for rare earth minerals used in electric mobility, electronics and aerospace make it a key hunting ground in geopolitics.If you add all that up, what we are sitting on is a slippery geo-economic corridor in which the Russian bear and China’s dragon cannot be easily wished away. Their reticence cannot be equated with either neutrality or restraint.

Drone and missile attacks by Iran ostensibly on US military targets also hit some civilian countries not officially part of the conflict.

Can you melt away a huge glacier by raining tons of fire on it? That is the kind of question one asks oneself as a military deadlock meets diplomatic crises (please note the plural) in the aftermath of the US-Israel conflict with Iran this week that fits well into the logical paradox of an irresistible force meeting an immovable object. Theoretically, these forces would pass through each other, but in real, geopolitical life, it means a deadlock that is not easily resolvable. Applying some game theory, there is an “equilibrium of mistrust” exemplified by how the pre-emptive strikes on Tehran began even as peace talks seem to be going ahead towards a solution – spiralling into a regional conflict that threatens significant aspects of the global economy, from rising oil prices to airline passengers in inter-continental movement stranded in Dubai. Drone and missile attacks by Iran ostensibly on US military targets also hit some civilian countries not officially part of the conflict. This queered the pitch further. Proxy players like Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and a Saudi Arabia friendly to the US only complicate the picture further. It all resembles a jigsaw puzzle in which the pieces seem to fly with a will of their own to new places that makes solving it a near impossibility. Game theory to conspiracy theories From game theory to conspiracy theories, there is another journey. The easy armchair hypothesis is that US President Donald Trump has lined up his forces with Israel to divert attention from the Epstein Files linked to sexual abuse in which he often figures as a wrongdoer. A deeper theory talks about how an oil price spike triggered by Iran may actually benefit the US as it takes low-quality crude from Venezuela, which Washington is arm-twisting after abducting its President Maduro. Old assumptions are no longer easily valid If you connect the dots between the talk of ‘De-dollarisation’ under which there is a structural reduction of American currency’s dominance in the world economy linked to US sanctions as well as US deficits, and Washington’s recent pull-out from climate change accords and agencies, you can write a breezy political novel about the wheels within wheels of the ongoing conflict. The elephant in the military theatre is the Iranian regime, which despite the internationally illegal killing of its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei seems unshakeable like an ancient glacier. Iran’s political system, despite the lack of democratic popularity of the Islamic regime, is resilient enough for lines of command and succession plans to have been put in place. One thing on which there has been a global consensus this week is the poor American track record in enforcing regime changes. Contrast that with domestic politics in the US, where Trump’s popularity has been sliding. A CBS News poll found that only 28% of Americans and 57% of Republicans from Trump’s own party had found a justified case for the military strikes on Iran. Trump’s overall approval ratings have been steadily rising on the negative side since he took charge for a second term early in 2025. With mid-term Congressional elections due by the year-end, some would say the US regime is shakier than that of the Iranian one that Trump and Israel want to dismantle. The American assertion of an unshakeable technological edge has been blunted by Tehran hitting regional targets and blocking waters in the Hormuz Strait that is causing oil prices to surge, with a potential a knock-on effect on several countries that will not be amused. Iran’s drone strike on the US embassy in Riyadh throws open the chances of Trump’s domestic popularity sliding further. The Average American does not like it when Americans get hit in an America-led conflict! In such a surcharged atmosphere, news of three US fighter jets being mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti forces in a “friendly fire” incident does not improve the optics for the US. If Iran’s tactical strikes in places like Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE and Bahrain result in regional tensions that put some pressure back on the US, it may well turn out to be a diplomatic advantage for Iran, though Tehran is literally playing with fire in the process. It would be wise to remember that China and Russia have publicly condemned the assassination of Khamenei – while several major countries either supported it or glossed over it. Moscow and Beijing conducting some deft back-channel diplomacy to garner wider support to end the conflict on behalf of Iran seems quite high. The mineral and oil wealth of Iran as well as Tehran’s comprehensive agreement with Moscow last year hangs in the backdrop as a gentle reminder that this war may not be just between a US-led coalition and Iran. Russia signed a comprehensive military agreement with Iran in January 2025. According to UK-based ‘Energy, Oil & Gas’ magazine, Iran possesses the third-largest proven crude oil reserves globally, estimated at 208.6 billion barrels. Iran is also estimated to hold 7% of the world’s mineral wealth by Science Direct, part of Amsterdam-based Elsevier group. The academic research repository estimates Iran’s proven mineral reserves at 37 billion tonnes. Iran is said to have 68 known minerals putting it in among 15 most mineral-rich countries on the planet. Recent searches for rare earth minerals used in electric mobility, electronics and aerospace make it a key hunting ground in geopolitics. If you add all that up, what we are sitting on is a slippery geo-economic corridor in which the Russian bear and China’s dragon cannot be easily wished away. Their reticence cannot be equated with either neutrality or restraint.

Drone and missile attacks by Iran ostensibly on US military targets also hit some civilian countries not officially part of the conflict.&nbsp;

A flying jigsaw with hidden pieces: As US-Iran conflict slides on slippery oil, Russia and China remain critical

Amid the escalated tensions between Iran, Israel and the US, an Emirates flight was witnessed making a rare manoeuvre in UAE airspace as the war spread into West Asia. The flight's movement was noticed after it was alerted to a missile attack. The flight, EK501, was bound for Dubai and took off from Mumbai, India. It was held outside of UAE airspace on Tuesday (March 3).&nbsp;As per the data by Flightradar24, the live tracker of the plane showed it took off from Mumbai and was seen making a double reverse, described as "rare", before it landed in Dubai. The flight was seen heading back to Mumbai after take off, but then resumed its route to Dubai.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">And now for the rarely seen double reverse. <a href="https://t.co/Kn5v0kLg1f">https://t.co/Kn5v0kLg1f</a> <a href="https://t.co/GpSPZVOVBP">https://t.co/GpSPZVOVBP</a> <a href="https://t.co/2bcDIRFlBn">pic.twitter.com/2bcDIRFlBn</a>&mdash; Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) <a href="https://twitter.com/flightradar24/status/2028627619659252057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied the claims that there would be an endless war in West Asia. Speaking in an interview with Fox News on Monday (March 2), Netanyahu said, “This is not an endless war. This is in fact, something that will usher in an era of peace that we haven’t even dreamed of.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-on-iran-will-continue-until-all-of-our-objectives-are-achieved-trump-issues-fresh-warning-1772408635896">Attacks on Iran will ‘continue until all of our objectives are achieved’: Trump issues fresh warning</a>&nbsp;A day earlier, Iran escalated its war in the Gulf region as multiple explosions were heard in the cities, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. This was after Tehran officials said that Iran "will not negotiate" with America following the killing of the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Moreover, Akasa Air suspended all the flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Riyadh for March 3.&nbsp;Moreover, the US Embassy in Kuwait issued a warning to residents saying, "There is a continuing threat of missile and UAV attacks over Kuwait. Do not come to the Embassy. Take cover in your residence on the lowest available floor and away from windows. Do not go outside," the embassy said in a statement. "US Embassy personnel are sheltering in place."&nbsp;

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee warned that Americans have “VERY LIMITED options” to leave Israel amid escalating conflict with Iran, advising evacuation via Taba, Egypt, before flying to Cairo. 

Amid the escalated tensions between Iran, Israel and the US, an Emirates flight was witnessed making a rare manoeuvre in UAE airspace as the war spread into West Asia. The flight's movement was noticed after it was alerted to a missile attack. The flight, EK501, was bound for Dubai and took off from Mumbai, India. It was held outside of UAE airspace on Tuesday (March 3). As per the data by Flightradar24, the live tracker of the plane showed it took off from Mumbai and was seen making a double reverse, described as "rare", before it landed in Dubai. The flight was seen heading back to Mumbai after take off, but then resumed its route to Dubai.

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee warned that Americans have “VERY LIMITED options” to leave Israel amid escalating conflict with Iran, advising evacuation via Taba, Egypt, before flying to Cairo.&nbsp;

Mumbai-Dubai Emirates flight makes ‘rare’ double reverse amid Iranian strikes

In sharp criticism of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that it is now proven that America is fighting Israel's war. Slamming his American counterpart Marco Rubio’s justification for attacking Tehran, Araghchi said that there was never anything called the “Iranian threat.” He was commenting after Rubio issued a statement stating that there would have been an Israeli action.&nbsp;&nbsp;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/-us-attacked-iran-pre-emptively-after-learning-of-israel-plans-marco-rubio-1772485553239">'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260303/image-1772527597387.png"></figure><h2>What Rubio said?</h2>This comes after Marco Rubio said on Monday (Mar 3) 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. Rubio said that Iran had told field commanders to respond automatically against US forces if there was an attack. "If we stood and waited for that attack to come first before we hit them, we would suffer much higher casualties. And so the president made the very wise decision" to hit alongside Israel, Rubio said.&nbsp;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>&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 FM Abbas Araghchi slammed US Secretary Marco Rubio, saying Washington has entered a “war of choice” for Israel and denying any Iranian threat. His remarks came after Rubio defended preemptive US strikes on Iran, citing intelligence on Israeli plans and risks to American forces.

In sharp criticism of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that it is now proven that America is fighting Israel's war. Slamming his American counterpart Marco Rubio’s justification for attacking Tehran, Araghchi said that there was never anything called the “Iranian threat.” He was commenting after Rubio issued a statement stating that there would have been an Israeli action. 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: 'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio What Rubio said? This comes after Marco Rubio said on Monday (Mar 3) 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. Rubio said that Iran had told field commanders to respond automatically against US forces if there was an attack. "If we stood and waited for that attack to come first before we hit them, we would suffer much higher casualties. And so the president made the very wise decision" to hit alongside Israel, Rubio said. Also read: 'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 ‘good choices’ 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 FM Abbas Araghchi slammed US Secretary Marco Rubio, saying Washington has entered a “war of choice” for Israel and denying any Iranian threat. His remarks came after Rubio defended preemptive US strikes on Iran, citing intelligence on Israeli plans and risks to American forces.

'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack'

An earthquake of magnitude 4.4 has struck the Gerash region in Iran with 10.0 km depth on Tuesday (March 3). The calamity hit the country which is already in the midst of conflict. The US-Israel joint military operation has already caused damage to both military facilities and civilians living in the region. Bombardment is seen and heard in the Middle East due to the escalating situation.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-be-relentlessly-lethal-centcom-commander-briefs-troops-amid-iran-conflict-operation-epic-fury-1772520944164"> 'Be relentlessly lethal': CENTCOM commander briefs troops amid Iran conflict</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Earthquake of magnitude 4.4 hit Geransh region of Iran at about 12:24 PM (IST): USGS. More details are awaited.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/m6ifS56sXp">pic.twitter.com/m6ifS56sXp</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2028741937789120775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

There were no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties following the tremor, which occurred amid heightened security concerns across the Islamic Republic. The seismic event coincided with a fresh exchange of sharply conflicting statements between Iran and the United States over alleged retaliatory strikes in recent days.The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that hundreds of American personnel had been killed or wounded during the first two days of what it described as retaliation against US positions in the region. An IRGC spokesperson said as many as 650 US soldiers were casualties, including 160 in attacks targeting American bases in Bahrain.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-day-4-trump-admits-being-surprised-at-w-asia-attacks-1772561693761/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-war-with-iran-day-4-trump-admits-being-surprised-at-w-asia-attacks-1772561693761/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Central Command Commander Charles Bradford Cooper II sends out a letter to the troops. At a time when the Middle East is in a turbulent situation, the letter read: “To America's extraordinary sons and daughters deployed around the Middle East, by order of the President of the United States, we are embarking on a mission of profound consequence. The time for preparation is over. The time for action has arrived.”

A 4.4 magnitude earthquake has struck southern Iran near Gerash as U.S. and Israeli forces intensify "Operation Epic Fury."

An earthquake of magnitude 4.4 has struck the Gerash region in Iran with 10.0 km depth on Tuesday (March 3). The calamity hit the country which is already in the midst of conflict. The US-Israel joint military operation has already caused damage to both military facilities and civilians living in the region. Bombardment is seen and heard in the Middle East due to the escalating situation. Also read: 'Be relentlessly lethal': CENTCOM commander briefs troops amid Iran conflict

A 4.4 magnitude earthquake has struck southern Iran near Gerash as U.S. and Israeli forces intensify "Operation Epic Fury."

Double crisis: 4.4 magnitude earthquake hits Iran amid US-Israeli airstrikes

Oil prices have surged for the 3rd day straight, as the US-Israel offensive on Iran has widened. One of the biggest threats of any conflict involving Iran was the spillover of the tension on the shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, which carries one-fifth of the global oil supply.“The price of oil has reached $81/bbl, and the world is certainly waiting for it to reach at least $200. The Strait of Hormuz is closed. Our heroes in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy and the Army will set fire to any ships that wish to pass through this strait,” said the IRGC adviser General Ebrahim Jabari on state TV.&nbsp;The cumulative jump in crude oil prices was by at least 10 per cent following the US-Israel attacks on the Islamic Republic. On Tuesday, Brent future is trading at $79.85 per barrel, up by 2.78 per cent, WTI future is trading at $73.15 per barrel, up by 2.70 per cent, Murban future is trading at $80.41 per barrel, up by 2.37 per cent from Monday. Brent briefly touched $82.37 per barrel on Monday, then retreated before the market closed. The Spot prices have also seen a cumulative jump of 10 per cent since the pre-conflict period, with Brent at $77.82 per barrel for Brent, WTI spot at $70.90 per barrel, and Murban spot at around $79 per barrel. The surge in oil prices was apparent in US gas stations as the US had an average price of gasoline that topped $3 per gallon for the first time since November. Gasoline is being sold at $3.052 per gallon, up by 11.1 cents, and Diesel is being sold at $3.812 per gallon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/epic-fury-enduring-freedom-war-names-psychology-1772368544008">Epic Fury to Enduring Freedom: What war names reveal about power</a>&nbsp;The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said on Monday that they have a phased plan in place to tackle the spike in oil prices. “ We anticipated this could be an issue. And Secretary Wright and Bessent will begin to roll out those steps starting tomorrow to mitigate – to mitigate – against the impact that could have,” said Marco Rubio, referring to &nbsp;Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, analysts predict a further surge in the volatility, as there is no proper plan in place for de-escalation in the region. The Strait of Hormuz remains technically open but functionally closed. “Traffic is down at least 80 per cent,” said Michelle Bockmann, a senior maritime intelligence analyst at Windward. Most commercial operators have withdrawn from the site, and insuarance premium have reached six years high. This could impact the Gulf countries and specifically South East Asian countries, China, India, Japan, South Korea and Europe. As some 30 per cent of Europe’s supply of jet fuel passes through the lane. The US seems immune at the beginning with the rising cost, as it likely helps the US Producers. &nbsp;Ships are compelled to reroute, and longer routes cost more in transport and insurance. A prolonged conflict might encourage South Asian countries to look at other producers in Russia. However, market analysts predict that Iran's attack on the shipping route might just work against them, as it will draw the Gulf nations into the war and might make “boots on the ground” feasible for the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Oil prices jump 10% after US-Israel strikes on Iran. Brent nears $82 as Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz, raising global supply fears.

Oil prices have surged for the 3rd day straight, as the US-Israel offensive on Iran has widened. One of the biggest threats of any conflict involving Iran was the spillover of the tension on the shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, which carries one-fifth of the global oil supply. “The price of oil has reached $81/bbl, and the world is certainly waiting for it to reach at least $200. The Strait of Hormuz is closed. Our heroes in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy and the Army will set fire to any ships that wish to pass through this strait,” said the IRGC adviser General Ebrahim Jabari on state TV. The cumulative jump in crude oil prices was by at least 10 per cent following the US-Israel attacks on the Islamic Republic. On Tuesday, Brent future is trading at $79.85 per barrel, up by 2.78 per cent, WTI future is trading at $73.15 per barrel, up by 2.70 per cent, Murban future is trading at $80.41 per barrel, up by 2.37 per cent from Monday. Brent briefly touched $82.37 per barrel on Monday, then retreated before the market closed. The Spot prices have also seen a cumulative jump of 10 per cent since the pre-conflict period, with Brent at $77.82 per barrel for Brent, WTI spot at $70.90 per barrel, and Murban spot at around $79 per barrel. The surge in oil prices was apparent in US gas stations as the US had an average price of gasoline that topped $3 per gallon for the first time since November. Gasoline is being sold at $3.052 per gallon, up by 11.1 cents, and Diesel is being sold at $3.812 per gallon. Also Read: Epic Fury to Enduring Freedom: What war names reveal about power The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said on Monday that they have a phased plan in place to tackle the spike in oil prices. “ We anticipated this could be an issue. And Secretary Wright and Bessent will begin to roll out those steps starting tomorrow to mitigate – to mitigate – against the impact that could have,” said Marco Rubio, referring to Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. However, analysts predict a further surge in the volatility, as there is no proper plan in place for de-escalation in the region. The Strait of Hormuz remains technically open but functionally closed. “Traffic is down at least 80 per cent,” said Michelle Bockmann, a senior maritime intelligence analyst at Windward. Most commercial operators have withdrawn from the site, and insuarance premium have reached six years high. This could impact the Gulf countries and specifically South East Asian countries, China, India, Japan, South Korea and Europe. As some 30 per cent of Europe’s supply of jet fuel passes through the lane. The US seems immune at the beginning with the rising cost, as it likely helps the US Producers. Ships are compelled to reroute, and longer routes cost more in transport and insurance. A prolonged conflict might encourage South Asian countries to look at other producers in Russia. However, market analysts predict that Iran's attack on the shipping route might just work against them, as it will draw the Gulf nations into the war and might make “boots on the ground” feasible for the US. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Oil prices jump 10% after US-Israel strikes on Iran. Brent nears $82 as Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz, raising global supply fears.

Oil prices surge 10% as Iran threatens to 'set fire' to ships passing through Strait of Hormuz

Amid escalated tensions between Israel and Iran, the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, said on Tuesday (March 3) that there are "VERY LIMITED options" for Americans who are currently residing in Israel. He said that at present, it is best to utilise the Israeli &nbsp;Ministry of Tourism shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt and from there, the Americans must get flights to Cairo and then back to the US.&nbsp;"We are getting a lot of requests regarding evacuating from Israel from American citizens who are currently in Israel or who have family here," Huckabee said. The Ambassador added that it is not advised to exit via Jordan amid the bombings.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-on-iran-will-continue-until-all-of-our-objectives-are-achieved-trump-issues-fresh-warning-1772408635896">Attacks on Iran will ‘continue until all of our objectives are achieved’: Trump issues fresh warning</a>&nbsp;"All of our personnel from the embassy are sheltering in place, but I realise you may need to get people out and back home and not continue to incur hotel costs," he said. The Ambassador shared details and websites as "recommendations" for the Americans to evacuate the country in the best possible manner for now.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For American who are currently in Israel I want to share this thorough (but long) update on options for departing. There are VERY LIMITED options. As of now, the best is utilizing Israel&#39;s Ministry of Tourism shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt and getting flights from there or going…&mdash; Ambassador Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeHuckabee/status/2028696725448167646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As per the Health Ministry of Israel, in the past 24 hours, around 289 people were injured and taken to the hospital due to the conflict with Iran. Among the injured, around 19 were reported in moderate condition, and 258 were in good condition. The report by the ministry said around eight people were treated for anxiety, and four were under medical evaluation.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia announced the cancellation of all consular appointments “due to an attack on the facility" suspectedly by Iranian drones on Tuesday. The defence ministry of Saudi Arabia previously confirmed the attack and said &nbsp;it caused “limited fire and minor material damages.”&nbsp;“All routine and emergency American Citizen Services appointments are cancelled. The shelter in place notification for Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dhahran remains in place and we recommend American citizens in the Kingdom also continue to shelter in place,” the embassy wrote on X.

Amid escalated tensions between Israel and Iran, the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, said on Tuesday (March 3) that there are "VERY LIMITED options" for Americans who are currently residing in Israel. He said that at present, it is best to utilise the Israeli Ministry of Tourism shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt and from there, the Americans must get flights to Cairo and then back to the US. "We are getting a lot of requests regarding evacuating from Israel from American citizens who are currently in Israel or who have family here," Huckabee said. The Ambassador added that it is not advised to exit via Jordan amid the bombings. Also read: Attacks on Iran will ‘continue until all of our objectives are achieved’: Trump issues fresh warning "All of our personnel from the embassy are sheltering in place, but I realise you may need to get people out and back home and not continue to incur hotel costs," he said. The Ambassador shared details and websites as "recommendations" for the Americans to evacuate the country in the best possible manner for now.

‘Americans have VERY LIMITED options to leave Israel’ amid war with Iran: Mike Huckabee

In a big revelation, US special envoy Steve Witkoff on Tuesday (Mar 3) has said that Iran’s top negotiators during nuclear talks “boasted” about having enough highly enriched uranium to build “11 nuclear bombs.” This comes even as the US asserted after June strikes that it had obliterated Iran’s nuclear facilities. Witkoff also said that Iranian negotiators “were proud that they had evaded all sorts of oversight protocols to get to a place where they could deliver 11 nuclear bombs.” He also said that envoy Jared Kushner was also “flummoxed” on hearing when Iranian envoy said that they had “inalienable right” to enrich their nuclear fuel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-us-envoy-says-trump-questioning-why-iran-hasn-t-capitulated-1771817377187/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-us-envoy-says-trump-questioning-why-iran-hasn-t-capitulated-1771817377187/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“In that first meeting, both the Iranian negotiators said to us directly that they controlled 460 kilograms of 60% [enriched uranium] and that they’re aware that could make 11 nuclear bombs. We responded that the president feels we have the inalienable right to stop you dead in your tracks and I just sort of looked at ourselves flummoxed, and said, ‘We’re really in for it now,” Witkoff recalled. “We went in there and tried to make a fair deal with them, and it was very, very clear that it was going to be impossible — probably by the end of the second meeting, but we then went back for the third meeting just to give it the last college try. They wanted us to report positivity. It was not positive that meeting,” Witkoff added.&nbsp;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>Iran-US-Israel war</h2>Iran is attacking US bases in its neighbourhood after having declared that it will be treated as American territory. US President Donald Trump has warned that larger strikes are yet to come. The regional stability has risen after the United States and Israel bombed Iran on Feb 28. Israel named the operation Lion's Roar and it was called Operation Epic Fury by the US. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in the attack, triggering widespread protest across the world by Shia community.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-attacked-iran-pre-emptively-after-learning-of-israel-plans-marco-rubio-1772485553239">'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;Iran vowed to avenge his assassination and has resorted to launch missiles towards Israel and many neighbouring nations including Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Saudi. The bombings are still continuing, with Israel now attacking Hezbollah in Lebanon. International community has urged all sides for immediate ceasefire with Russia, China and North Korea slamming America for its “pre-emptive attack.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf including Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and urged peace. However, Iran has ruled out any possibility of negotiation even as Trump said that he is ready for talks. Iran's transition government has also started the process of choosing new Supreme Leader.

US envoy Steve Witkoff claimed Iranian negotiators boasted of holding 460 kg of 60% enriched uranium—enough for 11 nuclear bombs. He said Tehran evaded oversight and asserted an “inalienable right” to enrich fuel, while the US insists its strikes crippled Iran’s nuclear facilities.

In a big revelation, US special envoy Steve Witkoff on Tuesday (Mar 3) has said that Iran’s top negotiators during nuclear talks “boasted” about having enough highly enriched uranium to build “11 nuclear bombs.” This comes even as the US asserted after June strikes that it had obliterated Iran’s nuclear facilities. Witkoff also said that Iranian negotiators “were proud that they had evaded all sorts of oversight protocols to get to a place where they could deliver 11 nuclear bombs.” He also said that envoy Jared Kushner was also “flummoxed” on hearing when Iranian envoy said that they had “inalienable right” to enrich their nuclear fuel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-us-envoy-says-trump-questioning-why-iran-hasn-t-capitulated-1771817377187/embed “In that first meeting, both the Iranian negotiators said to us directly that they controlled 460 kilograms of 60% [enriched uranium] and that they’re aware that could make 11 nuclear bombs. We responded that the president feels we have the inalienable right to stop you dead in your tracks and I just sort of looked at ourselves flummoxed, and said, ‘We’re really in for it now,” Witkoff recalled. “We went in there and tried to make a fair deal with them, and it was very, very clear that it was going to be impossible — probably by the end of the second meeting, but we then went back for the third meeting just to give it the last college try. They wanted us to report positivity. It was not positive that meeting,” Witkoff added. Also Read: 'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 ‘good choices’ Iran-US-Israel war Iran is attacking US bases in its neighbourhood after having declared that it will be treated as American territory. US President Donald Trump has warned that larger strikes are yet to come. The regional stability has risen after the United States and Israel bombed Iran on Feb 28. Israel named the operation Lion's Roar and it was called Operation Epic Fury by the US. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in the attack, triggering widespread protest across the world by Shia community. Also Read: 'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio Iran vowed to avenge his assassination and has resorted to launch missiles towards Israel and many neighbouring nations including Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Saudi. The bombings are still continuing, with Israel now attacking Hezbollah in Lebanon. International community has urged all sides for immediate ceasefire with Russia, China and North Korea slamming America for its “pre-emptive attack.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf including Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and urged peace. However, Iran has ruled out any possibility of negotiation even as Trump said that he is ready for talks. Iran's transition government has also started the process of choosing new Supreme Leader.

US envoy Steve Witkoff claimed Iranian negotiators boasted of holding 460 kg of 60% enriched uranium—enough for 11 nuclear bombs. He said Tehran evaded oversight and asserted an “inalienable right” to enrich fuel, while the US insists its strikes crippled Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Iran could build 11 nuclear bombs? Witkoff makes MASSIVE claims about Iranian nuclear programme

As the US and Israel strike Iran in a joint military operation, the US Central Command Commander Charles Bradford Cooper II sends out a letter to the troops. At a time when the Middle East is in a turbulent situation, the letter read: “To America's extraordinary sons and daughters deployed around the Middle East, by order of the President of the United States, we are embarking on a mission of profound consequence. The time for preparation is over. The time for action has arrived.”&nbsp;The document dated February 28 was shared by news outlet Washington Post’s journalist Dan Lamothe. It highlights how Admiral Cooper is honoured to serve with “most exceptional Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Guardians and Coast Guardsmen on this earth.”&nbsp;

CENTCOM Chief Admiral Brad Cooper issues a "relentlessly lethal" order to US troops as Operation Epic Fury enters a decisive phase.

As the US and Israel strike Iran in a joint military operation, the US Central Command Commander Charles Bradford Cooper II sends out a letter to the troops. At a time when the Middle East is in a turbulent situation, the letter read: “To America's extraordinary sons and daughters deployed around the Middle East, by order of the President of the United States, we are embarking on a mission of profound consequence. The time for preparation is over. The time for action has arrived.” The document dated February 28 was shared by news outlet Washington Post’s journalist Dan Lamothe. It highlights how Admiral Cooper is honoured to serve with “most exceptional Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Guardians and Coast Guardsmen on this earth.”

CENTCOM Chief Admiral Brad Cooper issues a "relentlessly lethal" order to US troops as Operation Epic Fury enters a decisive phase.&nbsp;

'Be relentlessly lethal': CENTCOM commander briefs troops amid Iran conflict

Almost a year after the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which led to a military conflict between Pakistan and India, the Pakistani President Asif Zardari claimed that New Delhi is "preparing for another war". Zardari made the claim in the parliament and urged for peaceful negotiations with the neighbouring nation.&nbsp;"My message to them (India) is to move away from the war theatre to meaningful negotiation tables, because that is the only path for regional security," the Pakistani President reportedly said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-son-of-a-b-tch-burn-in-hell-anchor-lashes-out-at-killed-iranian-supreme-leader-ali-khamenei-watch-1772430844465">‘Son of a b***h, burn in hell!’: Anchor lashes out at late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei | WATCH</a>&nbsp;A video was circulated on social media in which Zardari made the claim. WION can not independently verify the authenticity of the video. Moreover, Zardari also called for negotiations with Afghanistan amid the cross-border conflict with Tehran. According to a report by Arab News, the Pakistani President also accused Afghanistan of acting like a proxy for India. “Stop being used by another country as a battlefield for their ambitions,” he said. The allegation was first made by Pakistan in 2025 during a conflict with Afghanistan. India has repeatedly denied the claim.&nbsp;“Three things are clear. One, Pakistan hosts terrorist organisations and sponsors terrorist activities. Two, it is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. Three, Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories,” Indian MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said.&nbsp;India condemned Pakistani strikes on Kabul last month. "India strongly condemns Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, during the holy month of Ramadan. It is another attempt by Pakistan to externalise its internal failures," Jaiswal said during a weekly press briefing.&nbsp;

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari claimed that India is “preparing for another war” nearly a year after the Pahalgam terror attack triggered military tensions between the two nations. Speaking in parliament, Zardari urged New Delhi to choose dialogue over conflict for regional stability.

Almost a year after the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which led to a military conflict between Pakistan and India, the Pakistani President Asif Zardari claimed that New Delhi is "preparing for another war". Zardari made the claim in the parliament and urged for peaceful negotiations with the neighbouring nation. "My message to them (India) is to move away from the war theatre to meaningful negotiation tables, because that is the only path for regional security," the Pakistani President reportedly said. Also read: ‘Son of a b***h, burn in hell!’: Anchor lashes out at late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei | WATCH A video was circulated on social media in which Zardari made the claim. WION can not independently verify the authenticity of the video. Moreover, Zardari also called for negotiations with Afghanistan amid the cross-border conflict with Tehran. According to a report by Arab News, the Pakistani President also accused Afghanistan of acting like a proxy for India. “Stop being used by another country as a battlefield for their ambitions,” he said. The allegation was first made by Pakistan in 2025 during a conflict with Afghanistan. India has repeatedly denied the claim. “Three things are clear. One, Pakistan hosts terrorist organisations and sponsors terrorist activities. Two, it is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. Three, Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories,” Indian MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said. India condemned Pakistani strikes on Kabul last month. "India strongly condemns Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, during the holy month of Ramadan. It is another attempt by Pakistan to externalise its internal failures," Jaiswal said during a weekly press briefing.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari claimed that India is “preparing for another war” nearly a year after the Pahalgam terror attack triggered military tensions between the two nations. Speaking in parliament, Zardari urged New Delhi to choose dialogue over conflict for regional stability.

‘India is preparing for another war’: Pakistani President Asif Zardari claims, urges ‘peaceful negotiation’

US Marines have open fired on demonstrators trying to storm the US Consulate in Karachi, Pakistan, on March 1, 2026, said US officials. This was during a violent protest that resulted from the killing of Ayatollah Khomenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, on February 28, 2026, in a joint US-Israel operation. At least 10 people were killed in the violence, and more than 30 were injured.&nbsp;According to the Reuters report, US Officials confirmed the open fire on the diplomatic posts on Monday. The two US officials failed to confirm whether the shots fired by the Marines resulted in the death of anyone or if anyone else fired shots at the angry protesters. The Pakistani provincial government spokesman, Sukhdev Assardas Hemnani, said the deaths resulted from the fires of “security” personnel who did not specify their affiliation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-storm-us-consulate-khamenei-death-clashes-1772351377238">Protesters storm US Consulate in Karachi after Khamenei’s death</a>Protesters outside the consulate chanted, “Death to America! Death to Israel!” Hundreds breached the compound’s outer wall, threw stones, smashed windows and torched at least one section of the establishment. Security forces were compelled to use tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds. Approximately 26 people were killed in the protests in different parts of the country. Pakistan has the second largest shia population in the world, only behind Iran. Following the unrest, the Pakistan government announced a nationwide ban on protests from March 2, 2026. Despite the ban on demonstration Shia community leaders have ⁠called for more protests in Lahore and Karachi.&nbsp;The US has announced cancellation of all visa appointments across the US Embassy in Islamabad, the US Consulate in Lahore and Karachi, amid worsening “security situation” in the country and the rising escalation following the US-Israel strikes on Iran. The cancellation will be effective till March 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

US Marines opened fire as protesters stormed the US Consulate in Karachi following Ayatollah Khamenei’s killing. At least 10 dead, visa services suspended.

US Marines have open fired on demonstrators trying to storm the US Consulate in Karachi, Pakistan, on March 1, 2026, said US officials. This was during a violent protest that resulted from the killing of Ayatollah Khomenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, on February 28, 2026, in a joint US-Israel operation. At least 10 people were killed in the violence, and more than 30 were injured. According to the Reuters report, US Officials confirmed the open fire on the diplomatic posts on Monday. The two US officials failed to confirm whether the shots fired by the Marines resulted in the death of anyone or if anyone else fired shots at the angry protesters. The Pakistani provincial government spokesman, Sukhdev Assardas Hemnani, said the deaths resulted from the fires of “security” personnel who did not specify their affiliation. Also Read: Protesters storm US Consulate in Karachi after Khamenei’s death Protesters outside the consulate chanted, “Death to America! Death to Israel!” Hundreds breached the compound’s outer wall, threw stones, smashed windows and torched at least one section of the establishment. Security forces were compelled to use tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds. Approximately 26 people were killed in the protests in different parts of the country. Pakistan has the second largest shia population in the world, only behind Iran. Following the unrest, the Pakistan government announced a nationwide ban on protests from March 2, 2026. Despite the ban on demonstration Shia community leaders have ⁠called for more protests in Lahore and Karachi. The US has announced cancellation of all visa appointments across the US Embassy in Islamabad, the US Consulate in Lahore and Karachi, amid worsening “security situation” in the country and the rising escalation following the US-Israel strikes on Iran. The cancellation will be effective till March 6.

US Marines opened fire as protesters stormed the US Consulate in Karachi following Ayatollah Khamenei’s killing. At least 10 dead, visa services suspended.

US Marines open fire at protesters storming US Consulate in Karachi after Khamenei’s killing

The Iranian “mothership” that was being used to launch drones on US bases and Gulf countries was hit by the US military. The extent of damage is not known. US Central Command said that none of its own warships had been struck by Iran. 

'Today they have ZERO...': Iranian 'mothership' Shahid Bagheri gone, CENTCOM releases video of strike

An explosion occurred at the US Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Monday (March 2) As Iran continues its retaliation on US-linked places in the neighbourhood. AFP reported that Saudi Arabia's Riyadh's diplomatic quarter, home to foreign embassies in the Saudi capital and residences of foreign diplomats was under attack and cloud of smoke was seen. A Saudi defence ministry spokesman said in a statement that the two drones attacked the US embassy in Riyadh and sparked a "small fire." "The attack resulted in a limited fire and minor material damage to the building," the statement said. AFP also reported quoting sources that Saudi air defence intercepted four drones targeting Riyadh's diplomatic quarter in the attack.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">US embassy in Riyadh is attacked by Iran with 2 drones Middle East on burning What next America &amp; Israel?<a href="https://t.co/JdpDRJutk6">pic.twitter.com/JdpDRJutk6</a>&mdash; Raj Sharma (@crockraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/crockraj/status/2028645335065936030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-secretary-of-state-says-us-struck-iran-pre-emptively-1772500484070/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-us-secretary-of-state-says-us-struck-iran-pre-emptively-1772500484070/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>What US and Trump said after the attack?</h2>The US Embassy confirmed the incident and said that it will be closed on March 3.&nbsp;“All&nbsp;routine and emergency American Citizen Services appointments are cancelled.” It also issued shelter in place notification for Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dhahran&nbsp;remains&nbsp;in place and avoid the Embassy until further notice."&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, responding on the same, US President Donald Trump told NewsNation that everyone will “soon find out the retaliation Iran will face for attacking the US embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.” POTUS also said he doesn’t believe US boots on the ground will be necessary.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-attacked-iran-pre-emptively-after-learning-of-israel-plans-marco-rubio-1772485553239">'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;Additionally, Kuwait Army also said that the forces were dealing with a “wave of missiles and drones” that was detected in the airspace of the State of Kuwait. “The General Staff affirms full readiness to deal with all threats to ensure the protection of the country's lands and airspace, as well as the safety of citizens and residents,” it said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-no-longer-be-safe-irgc-big-warning-to-us-israel-iran-as-war-enters-fourth-day-1772478580144">'Will no longer be safe': IRGC's BIG warning to US as Israel-Iran war enters fourth day</a>

Explosions rocked Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter as drones targeted the US Embassy, causing minor damage and a small fire. Saudi air defences reportedly intercepted multiple drones. The incident comes amid Iran’s intensified missile and drone campaign across Gulf states.


An explosion occurred at the US Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Monday (March 2) As Iran continues its retaliation on US-linked places in the neighbourhood. AFP reported that Saudi Arabia's Riyadh's diplomatic quarter, home to foreign embassies in the Saudi capital and residences of foreign diplomats was under attack and cloud of smoke was seen. A Saudi defence ministry spokesman said in a statement that the two drones attacked the US embassy in Riyadh and sparked a "small fire." "The attack resulted in a limited fire and minor material damage to the building," the statement said. AFP also reported quoting sources that Saudi air defence intercepted four drones targeting Riyadh's diplomatic quarter in the attack.

Explosions rocked Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter as drones targeted the US Embassy, causing minor damage and a small fire. Saudi air defences reportedly intercepted multiple drones. The incident comes amid Iran’s intensified missile and drone campaign across Gulf states. &nbsp;

Drone attack on US embassy in Saudi Arabia as war with Iran spreads; Trump warns of retaliation 'soon'

US First Lady Melania Trump on Monday (Mar 2) chaired a UN Security Council meeting amid raging the US-Israeli war against Iran. Melania Trump opened the meeting with a strike of a ceremonial gavel before thanking Britain for its month-long presidency. In her address, she honoured the US service members killed in the war on Iran and insisted that there will be “peace soon.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-melania-trump-chairs-historic-unsc-meeting-on-children-amid-iran-war-tensions-1772509505769/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-melania-trump-chairs-historic-unsc-meeting-on-children-amid-iran-war-tensions-1772509505769/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;"To the families who have lost their heroes who sacrifice their lives for freedom, their bravery and dedication will always be remembered," she said before the packed chamber. "Enduring peace will be achieved when knowledge and understanding are fully valued within all our societies," she added. "Societies ruled by knowledge and wisdom are therefore more peaceful." She also addressed a session named "Children, Technology, and Education in Conflict," that was planned before the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran. She said, "The US stands with all of the children throughout the world. I hope soon peace will be yours." Ahead of the meeting, Iran's ambassador to the UN Amir Saeid Iravani said "it is deeply shameful and hypocritical that on the very first day of its presidency of the Security Council, the United States convened a high-level meeting on protecting children."&nbsp;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>

Meanwhile, AFP said that many observers say the US president intends to bypass the Security Council with his new "Board of Peace," which held its inaugural session in Washington last month, with several countries pledging funds and personnel to rebuild Gaza. At the meeting, Trump repeated his stance that the UN had failed in its mission. Since returning to the White House last year, he has withdrawn support from several major UN agencies, including the World Health Organization.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-attacked-iran-pre-emptively-after-learning-of-israel-plans-marco-rubio-1772485553239">'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;

US First Lady Melania Trump chaired a UN Security Council meeting as the US-Israel war with Iran intensified, urging protection for children in conflict. Representing the US during its rotating presidency, she called for peace 

US First Lady Melania Trump on Monday (Mar 2) chaired a UN Security Council meeting amid raging the US-Israeli war against Iran. Melania Trump opened the meeting with a strike of a ceremonial gavel before thanking Britain for its month-long presidency. In her address, she honoured the US service members killed in the war on Iran and insisted that there will be “peace soon.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-melania-trump-chairs-historic-unsc-meeting-on-children-amid-iran-war-tensions-1772509505769/embed "To the families who have lost their heroes who sacrifice their lives for freedom, their bravery and dedication will always be remembered," she said before the packed chamber. "Enduring peace will be achieved when knowledge and understanding are fully valued within all our societies," she added. "Societies ruled by knowledge and wisdom are therefore more peaceful." She also addressed a session named "Children, Technology, and Education in Conflict," that was planned before the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran. She said, "The US stands with all of the children throughout the world. I hope soon peace will be yours." Ahead of the meeting, Iran's ambassador to the UN Amir Saeid Iravani said "it is deeply shameful and hypocritical that on the very first day of its presidency of the Security Council, the United States convened a high-level meeting on protecting children." Also Read: 'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 ‘good choices’

US First Lady Melania Trump chaired a UN Security Council meeting as the US-Israel war with Iran intensified, urging protection for children in conflict. Representing the US during its rotating presidency, she called for peace&nbsp;

'US stands with all children...': Melania Trump's 'peace soon' message in UN amid America's war with Iran

Iran-US war: The Strait of Hormuz has been closed, and a fuel tanker is on fire after being hit by two drones. Iran claims it was helping the US Navy ship.s Iran's Revolutionary Guards have warned that any ship trying to cross will be set ablaze. 

Strait of Hormuz shut: Fuel tanker on fire, 750 ships caught in backups as insurers cancel war coverage

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in a television interview claimed that it was “needed” to launch strike on Iran as the Islamic Republic was “months away from making nuclear programme immune.” He also said that the war in Iran will not be “endless” adding that it may be long. Hailing US President Donald Trump, the Israeli PM claimed that Iranian regime “tried to assassinate US president twice.” The war in West Asia has entered Day 4, after Israel and the US launched ‘pre-emptive’ strike on Iran on Feb 28. Notably, this is Netanyahu's first appearance after his office was attacked by Tehran. Iran is attacking nations in West Asia, including Israel, as part of retaliation after its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-at-war-with-iran-netanyahu-orders-ground-operations-in-lebanon-1772448283305/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-at-war-with-iran-netanyahu-orders-ground-operations-in-lebanon-1772448283305/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Stating importance and the timing of Israel and the US strikes on Iran, Netanyahu said, “The reason that we had to act now is because after we hit their nuclear sites and their ballistic missile program… they started building new sites… underground bunkers that would make their ballistic missile program and their atomic bomb program immune within months. If no action was taken now, no action could be taken in the future.” He insisted, "You're not going to have an endless war. This is going to be a quick and decisive action.” He later added that the conflict "may take some time, but it's not going to take years."&nbsp;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>&nbsp;Slamming Iranian regime, he said, “Iran for 47 years has been chanting death to America. They bombed your embassies. They tried to assassinate Donald Trump, the President of the United States, twice. They murdered their own people, they massacred so many. And they spread a worldwide web of terror.” He also praised President Donald J Trump for his “resoluteness, his decisiveness, his clarity of thinking” and went on to praise himself saying, “I think for Israel and I think for the countries of the free world.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-attacked-iran-pre-emptively-after-learning-of-israel-plans-marco-rubio-1772485553239">'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio</a><h2>Iran-US-Israel war</h2>Iran is attacking US bases in its neighbourhood after having declared that it will be treated as American territory. US President Donald Trump has warned that larger strikes are yet to come. The regional stability has risen after the United States and Israel bombed Iran on Feb 28. Israel named the operation Lion's Roar and it was called Operation Epic Fury by the US. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in the attack, triggering widespread protest across the world by Shia community.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran vowed to avenge his assassination and has resorted to launch missiles towards Israel and many neighbouring nations including Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Saudi. The bombings are still continuing, with Israel now attacking Hezbollah in Lebanon. International community has urged all sides for immediate ceasefire with Russia, China and North Korea slamming America for its “pre-emptive attack.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf including Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and urged peace. However, Iran has ruled out any possibility of negotiation even as Trump said that he is ready for talks. Iran's tarnsition government has also started the process of choosing new Supreme Leader.&nbsp;

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu defended pre-emptive strikes on Iran, saying Tehran was months away from securing its nuclear program. Calling the war “not endless,” he praised US President Donald Trump as Israel-US operations continue into Day 4 amid rising West Asia tensions.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in a television interview claimed that it was “needed” to launch strike on Iran as the Islamic Republic was “months away from making nuclear programme immune.” He also said that the war in Iran will not be “endless” adding that it may be long. Hailing US President Donald Trump, the Israeli PM claimed that Iranian regime “tried to assassinate US president twice.” The war in West Asia has entered Day 4, after Israel and the US launched ‘pre-emptive’ strike on Iran on Feb 28. Notably, this is Netanyahu's first appearance after his office was attacked by Tehran. Iran is attacking nations in West Asia, including Israel, as part of retaliation after its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-at-war-with-iran-netanyahu-orders-ground-operations-in-lebanon-1772448283305/embed Stating importance and the timing of Israel and the US strikes on Iran, Netanyahu said, “The reason that we had to act now is because after we hit their nuclear sites and their ballistic missile program… they started building new sites… underground bunkers that would make their ballistic missile program and their atomic bomb program immune within months. If no action was taken now, no action could be taken in the future.” He insisted, "You're not going to have an endless war. This is going to be a quick and decisive action.” He later added that the conflict "may take some time, but it's not going to take years." Also Read: 'Let's get the job done': Trump to pick Iran's new leader? US president says he has 3 'good choices' Slamming Iranian regime, he said, “Iran for 47 years has been chanting death to America. They bombed your embassies. They tried to assassinate Donald Trump, the President of the United States, twice. They murdered their own people, they massacred so many. And they spread a worldwide web of terror.” He also praised President Donald J Trump for his “resoluteness, his decisiveness, his clarity of thinking” and went on to praise himself saying, “I think for Israel and I think for the countries of the free world.” Also Read: 'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio Iran-US-Israel war Iran is attacking US bases in its neighbourhood after having declared that it will be treated as American territory. US President Donald Trump has warned that larger strikes are yet to come. The regional stability has risen after the United States and Israel bombed Iran on Feb 28. Israel named the operation Lion's Roar and it was called Operation Epic Fury by the US. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in the attack, triggering widespread protest across the world by Shia community. Iran vowed to avenge his assassination and has resorted to launch missiles towards Israel and many neighbouring nations including Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Saudi. The bombings are still continuing, with Israel now attacking Hezbollah in Lebanon. International community has urged all sides for immediate ceasefire with Russia, China and North Korea slamming America for its “pre-emptive attack.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf including Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and urged peace. However, Iran has ruled out any possibility of negotiation even as Trump said that he is ready for talks. Iran's tarnsition government has also started the process of choosing new Supreme Leader.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu defended pre-emptive strikes on Iran, saying Tehran was months away from securing its nuclear program. Calling the war “not endless,” he praised US President Donald Trump as Israel-US operations continue into Day 4 amid rising West Asia tensions.

'Their atomic bomb program...': Netanyahu reveals MAIN reason for 'pre-emptive' strikes on Iran

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu made first appearance in a television interview after Iran attacked his office. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Monday (Mar 2) had claimed that it targeted Netanyahu's office and the air force commander headquarters. Israeli authorities said that no there were injuries in the strikes even as they issued no statements about Netanyahu's whereabouts or his condition. Now, Netanyahu has appeared in a Fox News interview and insisted that the operations in Iran can be long but would not be ‘endless war.’ Iran is attacking nations in West Asia, including Israel, as part of retaliation after its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint strike by Israel and the US.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">ISRAELI PM NETANYAHU on why Iran strike was needed: &quot;Iran for 47 years has been chanting death to America.&quot; &quot;They bombed your embassies. They tried to assassinate Donald Trump, the President of the United States, twice. They murdered their own people, they massacred so many. And… <a href="https://t.co/Mz8l2XhOU2">pic.twitter.com/Mz8l2XhOU2</a>&mdash; Fox News (@FoxNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxNews/status/2028655846134091981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"You're not going to have an endless war," Netanyahu said. “This is going to be a quick and decisive action.” He later added that the conflict "may take some time, but it's not going to take years." The Israeli PM also said that Iran had been building new nuclear weapon sites that would have been impossible to attack within months. “They started building new sites, new places, underground bunkers, that would make their ballistic missile programs and their atomic bomb programs immune within months. If no action was taken now, no action could be taken in the future.” 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">Khamenei's top aide Larijani rules out negotiations with US after Trump says ‘I have agreed to talk’</a><h2>What IRGC said?</h2>"The office of the criminal Israeli PM, Netanyahu and the location of the regime’s Air Force commander were struck in targeted and surprise attacks by Kheybar Shekan ballistic missiles during the 10th wave," the IRGC said in a statement on Telegram after attacking Israeli PM's office on March 2. "The office of the criminal prime minister of the Zionist regime and the headquarters of the regime’s air force commander were targeted,” a statement carried by Fars news agency stated. Earlier on Monday, several social media accounts claimed that Netanyahu may have fled to Germany. However, it was proven to be fake as the Israeli PMO stated that Netanyahu met the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Staff, and the Director of the Mossad in Tel Aviv on Sunday (Mar 1). 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>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu made his first TV appearance after Iran claimed it struck his office, insisting the Iran operation would be “quick and decisive,” not an endless war. The IRGC said it used Kheybar Shekan missiles, while Israel reported no injuries

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu made first appearance in a television interview after Iran attacked his office. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Monday (Mar 2) had claimed that it targeted Netanyahu's office and the air force commander headquarters. Israeli authorities said that no there were injuries in the strikes even as they issued no statements about Netanyahu's whereabouts or his condition. Now, Netanyahu has appeared in a Fox News interview and insisted that the operations in Iran can be long but would not be ‘endless war.’ Iran is attacking nations in West Asia, including Israel, as part of retaliation after its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint strike by Israel and the US.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu made his first TV appearance after Iran claimed it struck his office, insisting the Iran operation would be “quick and decisive,” not an endless war. The IRGC said it used Kheybar Shekan missiles, while Israel reported no injuries

Netanyahu safe after Iran attack on his office, makes first appearance in TV interview - Video

US–Israel–Iran War LIVE Updates: On Saturday (February 28), the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran. Israel called the operation Operation Lion’s Roar, while the US named it Operation Epic Fury. Washington and Tel Aviv described the strikes as “pre-emptive,” saying they were necessary amid escalating tensions. The attack occurred during ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington and came eight months after Israel’s earlier 12-day conflict with Iran.In response, Iran fired missiles at Israel and targeted multiple 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, had been killed in the joint US-Israel strikes. Following his death and the reported killing of several senior Iranian leaders, Tehran intensified its retaliation. Iranian officials declared that US bases across the region would be treated as “American territory,” while Gulf nations warned Iran against further escalation. Despite mounting tensions, Israel and the United States stated that their military operations could continue for weeks.The conflict has widened, with Iran’s Axis of Resistance joining the fight. Global reactions have been swift: Russia, China, and North Korea condemned the US-led strikes, while several European allies expressed support for Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with key regional leaders, including Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, urging restraint and dialogue. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, and both former US President Donald Trump and Iranian officials have signaled openness to negotiations.As the situation evolves rapidly, pressing questions remain about the future of Iran and the broader West Asia region. The trajectory of US-Iran relations and the broader implications for regional security and global peace are now at the center of international concern. Stay tuned for continued updates and analysis on the escalating Israel-US war with Iran.

Members of the Iranian diaspora were seen protesting in Times Square, New York, celebrating the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and demanding regime change.

Iranian diaspora protests in New York, demands regime change

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said that regional countries should pressure the U.S. for striking Iran. In statements to Iran's State TV, Araqchi said that Tehran was not in war with regional countries but warned US bases across the region are “legitimate targets.”

Regional countries should pressure US for striking Iran, says Iranian FM

Qatar's military intercepted two ballistic missiles early Tuesday morning, the country's defence ministry said in a statement, after AFP reporters heard loud explosions across Doha.

Qatar defence ministry says intercepted two ballistic missiles

The IDF said it has killed Abu Hamza Rami, the commander of Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Lebanon sector in Beirut.

IDF kills commander of Palestinian Islamic Jihad

Iran's state broadcaster reported two explosions near its Tehran headquarters on Tuesday, but said it was continuing to broadcast amid the ongoing Israeli-US strike campaign

Explosions near Iran's state television HQ but no broadcast disruption

Multiple explosions were heard in Tehran. Initial reports suggests that the parliament building was targeted. Fars reporters were investigating this news in detail at the time of writing

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Parliament building attacked, reports Fars news agency

6 US military personnel have been killed since the beginning of the Iran war, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Monday (March 2).

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Six US military members killed since start of Iran war, says CENTCOM

Marco Rubio on Monday said that the United States would love Iranians topple their government but not war objective

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: US would 'love' Iranians to topple government but not war objective: Rubio

Even as security threats intensify, Israel’s financial markets are flashing confidence. On Monday at 4:58 pm local time, the TA-125 Index rose 4.2 per cent, after rising as much as 5 per cent during the session. For a country facing ongoing missile and drone risks, the rally appears surprising at first glance<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-35-000-drone-vs-the-4-million-missile-what-the-market-thinks-about-israel-iran-war-and-the-surprising-rally-in-israel-s-ta-125-1772480557646">Click here to read the story</a>

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: The $35,000 drone vs $4 million missile: What the market thinks about Israel-Iran war

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;These are graves being dug for more than 160 innocent young girls who were killed in the US-Israeli bombing of a primary school. Their bodies were torn to shreds.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;This is how &amp;quot;rescue&amp;quot; promised by Mr. Trump looks in reality. &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;From Gaza to Minab, innocents murdered in cold blood. &lt;a href="https://t.co/cRdJ3BELOn"&gt;pic.twitter.com/cRdJ3BELOn&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2028550945278222558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 2, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Iran's FM shares pic of graves of 'girls' allegedly killed in strike

Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, said Israel will do "whatever necessary" to ensure Iran does not obtain nuclear capability. Danon added that Israel is striking the country “decisively, surgically, without apology.” "Our objectives are clear. No nuclear weapon. No ballistic missile threat. Destroy their navy. And crush the regime's proxy network," he said.

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Israeli Ambassador to UN vows to do 'whatever necessary' to stop Iran's nuclear capability   

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;⚠️ Update: &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Iran&lt;/a&gt;&amp;#39;s internet blackout has now passed the 60-hour mark.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;The incident leaves the people cut off from the world without access to sources of information vital for safety and situational awareness, and out of touch with loved ones abroad as the conflict escalates. &lt;a href="https://t.co/jVgActFBL0"&gt;pic.twitter.com/jVgActFBL0&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; NetBlocks (@netblocks) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/netblocks/status/2028552268488867842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;March 2, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Iran's internet blackout crosses 60 hours

Masoud Pezeshkian said that his country “will not remain silent” after what he described as US-Israeli strikes on a school and a Tehran hospital. "Attacks on hospitals strike at life itself. Attacks on schools target a nation's future... The world must condemn it," he wrote on X. "Iran will not remain silent or yield to these crimes," he added. Iran has claimed 168 were killed at the school in the south on Saturday but neither the United States nor Israel have confirmed the strike, while the incident at Tehran's Gandhi hospital took place on Sunday.

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: 'Will not remain silent' after alleged strikes on school, hospital', says Iran

The Israeli military said on Monday it carried out strikes on several Iranian intelligence offices and other command centers as it continued its offensive against the Islamic republic. "The (Israeli military) struck over 10 headquarters belonging to the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence -- the regime's main intelligence body -- as well as numerous Quds Force headquarters," the military said in a statement, referring to the branch of Iran's Revolutionary Guards that oversees its foreign operations.

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Hit Iran military, intelligence offices in Tehran: Israel army

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a warning to the United States saying that it ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US–Israeli strikes against the Islamic Republic entered fourth day. "The enemy should know that their happy days are over and they will no longer be safe anywhere in the world, not even in their own homes," the Guards' Quds Force, which manages its overseas operations, said in a statement broadcast on state television

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: IRGC issues big warning to US

A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya base said that, "The American base in Arifjan in Kuwait was targeted by 12 drones. The US military command and control center in the UAE was targeted by 6 drones and 5 ballistic missiles. The remaining facilities of the US naval fleet in Bahrain were destroyed by 6 drones. The tanker ‘Aten nova’, one of the US allies, is still burning in the Strait of Hormuz after being hit by 2 drones.

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: US facilities in Nahrain destroyed completely, claims Iran

US-Israel-Iran war Live updates: Iran accuses US, Israel of attacking nuclear site at Natanz: State media

US–Israel–Iran War LIVE Updates: On Saturday (February 28), the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran. Israel called the operation Operation Lion’s Roar, while the US named it Operation Epic Fury. Washington and Tel Aviv described the strikes as “pre-emptive,” saying they were necessary amid escalating tensions. The attack occurred during ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington and came eight months after Israel’s earlier 12-day conflict with Iran. In response, Iran fired missiles at Israel and targeted multiple 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, had been killed in the joint US-Israel strikes. Following his death and the reported killing of several senior Iranian leaders, Tehran intensified its retaliation. Iranian officials declared that US bases across the region would be treated as “American territory,” while Gulf nations warned Iran against further escalation. Despite mounting tensions, Israel and the United States stated that their military operations could continue for weeks. The conflict has widened, with Iran’s Axis of Resistance joining the fight. Global reactions have been swift: Russia, China, and North Korea condemned the US-led strikes, while several European allies expressed support for Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with key regional leaders, including Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, urging restraint and dialogue. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, and both former US President Donald Trump and Iranian officials have signaled openness to negotiations. As the situation evolves rapidly, pressing questions remain about the future of Iran and the broader West Asia region. The trajectory of US-Iran relations and the broader implications for regional security and global peace are now at the center of international concern. Stay tuned for continued updates and analysis on the escalating Israel-US war with Iran.

With the Israel-Iran war entering the fourth day, Trump said that he ordered the strikes on Iran to try to prevent the country from advancing its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Without offering proof, he claimed the threat from Iran was imminent at the time he made the decision

US-Israel-Iran war highlights: Explosions heard near Iran's state television HQ

The United States carried out what it described as a ‘pre-emptive’ strike on Iran on Saturday (February 28) after learning that its ally Israel was preparing to launch an attack, a move that Washington believed would trigger retaliation against American forces, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday (March 2). "We knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," Rubio told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;While expressing support for regime change in Tehran, Rubio clarified that toppling Iran’s Islamic leadership is not the stated objective of the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign. "We hope that the Iranian people can overthrow this government and establish a new future for that country. We would love for that to be possible," Rubio told reporters."But the objective of this mission is the destruction of their ballistic missile capabilities and of their naval capabilities," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-us-military-bases-in-region-are-legitimate-targets-says-abbas-araghchi-1772484608921">Israel-Iran war: 'US military bases in region are legitimate targets', says Abbas Araghchi</a>&nbsp;Responding to Iranian claims that 168 people were killed in an alleged US-Israeli strike, Rubio said the United States does not intentionally target civilian infrastructure such as schools and stressed that the Pentagon is reviewing the reported incident. "The United States would not deliberately target a school. Our objectives are missiles, both the ability to manufacture them and the ability to launch them," Rubio told reporters, while adding that the Pentagon was investigating the alleged incident.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-sends-strong-message-to-israel-drones-missiles-on-standby-1772485169203/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-sends-strong-message-to-israel-drones-missiles-on-standby-1772485169203/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

'US attacked Iran 'pre-emptively' after learning of Israel plans': Marco Rubio

The United States carried out what it described as a ‘pre-emptive’ strike on Iran on Saturday (February 28) after learning that its ally Israel was preparing to launch an attack, a move that Washington believed would trigger retaliation against American forces, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday (March 2). "We knew that if we didn't preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties," Rubio told reporters on Monday. While expressing support for regime change in Tehran, Rubio clarified that toppling Iran’s Islamic leadership is not the stated objective of the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign. "We hope that the Iranian people can overthrow this government and establish a new future for that country. We would love for that to be possible," Rubio told reporters. "But the objective of this mission is the destruction of their ballistic missile capabilities and of their naval capabilities," he said. Also Read: Israel-Iran war: 'US military bases in region are legitimate targets', says Abbas Araghchi Responding to Iranian claims that 168 people were killed in an alleged US-Israeli strike, Rubio said the United States does not intentionally target civilian infrastructure such as schools and stressed that the Pentagon is reviewing the reported incident. "The United States would not deliberately target a school. Our objectives are missiles, both the ability to manufacture them and the ability to launch them," Rubio told reporters, while adding that the Pentagon was investigating the alleged incident. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-sends-strong-message-to-israel-drones-missiles-on-standby-1772485169203/embed 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.

United States says it struck Iran pre-emptively after learning Israel would attack, Secretary of State, Marco Rubio says mission targets missiles, not regime

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday (March 2) said that the United States and ‘Zionists’ do not fully grasp the magnitude of the crime committed by assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader, describing it as a grave offense. He said that American military bases in the region remain legitimate targets for Iran, even if those facilities are not directly used in operations against the country.&nbsp;According to Araghchi, Iran’s dispute is not with neighbouring states but with American troops stationed within those countries. He added that Iran engaged in negotiations with Washington to demonstrate to the international community, and to its own citizens, that it was not responsible for triggering war by refusing diplomacy. Araghchi also said that American soldiers taking shelter in hotels would not exempt them from being targeted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-no-longer-be-safe-irgc-big-warning-to-us-israel-iran-as-war-enters-fourth-day-1772478580144">'Will no longer be safe': IRGC's BIG warning to US as Israel-Iran war enters fourth day</a>&nbsp;He accused the United States and Zionists of harbouring hostility toward the Iranian people and deliberately targeting civilian sites, including schools. Addressing reports that Kuwait may have intercepted three American fighter jets, Araghchi said that if true, Kuwaiti authorities should clarify why the jets were present in their airspace.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-19-israelis-hurt-in-iranian-missile-attack-on-beersheba-1772484277913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-19-israelis-hurt-in-iranian-missile-attack-on-beersheba-1772484277913/embed</a><h2>Staff temporarily evacuated due to threat: US embassy in Amman</h2>The Embassy of the United States, Amman announced that it temporarily evacuated its staff on Monday in response to an unspecified security threat. In a security alert shared on social media, the embassy said that “out of an abundance of caution,” all personnel had left the embassy compound due to the reported threat.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Abbas Araghchi says US forces in the region are legitimate targets, defends Iran’s negotiations, and questions reports of US jets near Kuwait

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday (March 2) said that the United States and ‘Zionists’ do not fully grasp the magnitude of the crime committed by assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader, describing it as a grave offense. He said that American military bases in the region remain legitimate targets for Iran, even if those facilities are not directly used in operations against the country. According to Araghchi, Iran’s dispute is not with neighbouring states but with American troops stationed within those countries. He added that Iran engaged in negotiations with Washington to demonstrate to the international community, and to its own citizens, that it was not responsible for triggering war by refusing diplomacy. Araghchi also said that American soldiers taking shelter in hotels would not exempt them from being targeted. Also Read: 'Will no longer be safe': IRGC's BIG warning to US as Israel-Iran war enters fourth day He accused the United States and Zionists of harbouring hostility toward the Iranian people and deliberately targeting civilian sites, including schools. Addressing reports that Kuwait may have intercepted three American fighter jets, Araghchi said that if true, Kuwaiti authorities should clarify why the jets were present in their airspace. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-back-19-israelis-hurt-in-iranian-missile-attack-on-beersheba-1772484277913/embed Staff temporarily evacuated due to threat: US embassy in Amman The Embassy of the United States, Amman announced that it temporarily evacuated its staff on Monday in response to an unspecified security threat. In a security alert shared on social media, the embassy said that “out of an abundance of caution,” all personnel had left the embassy compound due to the reported threat. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Abbas Araghchi says US forces in the region are legitimate targets, defends Iran’s negotiations, and questions reports of US jets near Kuwait

Israel-Iran war: 'US military bases in region are legitimate targets', says Abbas Araghchi

Even as security threats intensify, Israel’s financial markets are flashing confidence. On Monday at 4:58 pm local time, the TA-125 Index rose 4.2 per cent, after rising as much as 5 per cent during the session. For a country facing ongoing missile and drone risks, the rally appears surprising at first glance. Yet markets often respond to expected outcomes rather than immediate danger. Investors seem to be weighing probabilities, possibly concluding that Israel may gain the upper hand militarily, weaken Iran’s launch capabilities and reduce longer-term risks. The central uncertainty remains the duration of the confrontation. A brief campaign may justify optimism; a drawn-out conflict could shift the equation.<h2>The drone equation: Volume over precision</h2>Iran’s strategy appears centered on scale. Reports suggest Tehran possesses tens of thousands of drones, with steady monthly production. In a high-intensity scenario, this could translate into thousands of launches daily. This approach reflects “saturation warfare”, overwhelming air defenses through sheer quantity rather than pinpoint accuracy. In such a strategy, endurance matters more than precision. Sustained pressure can strain defensive systems over time.<h2>The real cost battle: Interceptors vs drones</h2>The financial imbalance is stark. A single Shahed-type drone reportedly costs around $35,000 to produce. Interceptor missiles used to neutralise them can cost hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions, of dollars per launch. This creates a dramatic cost asymmetry favoring the attacker. If drone salvos reach into the thousands, interception expenses could escalate rapidly. The battlefield dynamic would then extend beyond military tactics into industrial capacity and fiscal resilience. Modern conflicts are increasingly shaped by how quickly nations can replenish stockpiles, scale manufacturing and secure supply chains.<h2>The promise, and limits, of Iron Beam</h2>Israel’s laser-based Iron Beam system represents a potential game-changer. With an estimated cost of just a few dollars per shot, it could dramatically shift the cost curve. However, deployment remains limited. Only a small number of units are operational, and broader scaling will take time. While technologically promising, it is not yet positioned to counter sustained mass-drone waves on its own.<h2>Why investors remain optimistic?</h2>Market participants appear to be operating on several assumptions:<ul><li>The conflict will stay geographically contained.</li><li>Air defense capacity will remain sufficient.</li><li>Western backing, particularly from key allies, will stay intact.</li><li>If those pillars hold, advanced technology and coordinated alliances could outweigh the arithmetic disadvantage posed by low-cost drone warfare.</li><li>Still, markets are quick to reverse course. Should the conflict extend, supply strains become visible or industrial bottlenecks emerge, sentiment could shift abruptly.</li></ul>Ultimately, this confrontation is not merely about drones and missiles. It is about production lines, logistics networks and economic stamina. For now, traders seem to believe that innovation and alliances can outpace the numbers.

The $35,000 drone vs $4 million missile: What the market thinks about Israel-Iran war and the surprising rally in Israel’s TA-125

Even as security threats intensify, Israel’s financial markets are flashing confidence. On Monday at 4:58 pm local time, the TA-125 Index rose 4.2 per cent, after rising as much as 5 per cent during the session. For a country facing ongoing missile and drone risks, the rally appears surprising at first glance. Yet markets often respond to expected outcomes rather than immediate danger. Investors seem to be weighing probabilities, possibly concluding that Israel may gain the upper hand militarily, weaken Iran’s launch capabilities and reduce longer-term risks. The central uncertainty remains the duration of the confrontation. A brief campaign may justify optimism; a drawn-out conflict could shift the equation. The drone equation: Volume over precision Iran’s strategy appears centered on scale. Reports suggest Tehran possesses tens of thousands of drones, with steady monthly production. In a high-intensity scenario, this could translate into thousands of launches daily. This approach reflects “saturation warfare”, overwhelming air defenses through sheer quantity rather than pinpoint accuracy. In such a strategy, endurance matters more than precision. Sustained pressure can strain defensive systems over time. The real cost battle: Interceptors vs drones The financial imbalance is stark. A single Shahed-type drone reportedly costs around $35,000 to produce. Interceptor missiles used to neutralise them can cost hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions, of dollars per launch. This creates a dramatic cost asymmetry favoring the attacker. If drone salvos reach into the thousands, interception expenses could escalate rapidly. The battlefield dynamic would then extend beyond military tactics into industrial capacity and fiscal resilience. Modern conflicts are increasingly shaped by how quickly nations can replenish stockpiles, scale manufacturing and secure supply chains. The promise, and limits, of Iron Beam Israel’s laser-based Iron Beam system represents a potential game-changer. With an estimated cost of just a few dollars per shot, it could dramatically shift the cost curve. However, deployment remains limited. Only a small number of units are operational, and broader scaling will take time. While technologically promising, it is not yet positioned to counter sustained mass-drone waves on its own. Why investors remain optimistic? Market participants appear to be operating on several assumptions: The conflict will stay geographically contained. Air defense capacity will remain sufficient. Western backing, particularly from key allies, will stay intact. If those pillars hold, advanced technology and coordinated alliances could outweigh the arithmetic disadvantage posed by low-cost drone warfare. Still, markets are quick to reverse course. Should the conflict extend, supply strains become visible or industrial bottlenecks emerge, sentiment could shift abruptly. Ultimately, this confrontation is not merely about drones and missiles. It is about production lines, logistics networks and economic stamina. For now, traders seem to believe that innovation and alliances can outpace the numbers.

Israel’s TA-125 rallies despite drone threats, as investors bet technology and alliances can offset the costly drone-versus-missile mathematics

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on Monday (March 2) that the United States ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US–Israeli strikes against the Islamic Republic entered their fourth day. "The enemy should know that their happy days are over and they will no longer be safe anywhere in the world, not even in their own homes," the Guards' Quds Force, which manages its overseas operations, said in a statement broadcast on state television.&nbsp;A spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Air Defense Base said, "The American base in Arifjan in Kuwait was targeted by 12 drones. The US military command and control center in the UAE was targeted by 6 drones and 5 ballistic missiles. The remaining facilities of the US naval fleet in Bahrain were destroyed by 6 drones. The tanker ‘Aten nova’, one of the US allies, is still burning in the Strait of Hormuz after being hit by 2 drones."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-big-one-is-coming-soon-trump-s-massive-statement-amid-israel-iran-war-1772465737760">'BIG ONE is coming soon', Trump's MASSIVE statement amid Israel-Iran war</a><h2>Trump defends US military action in Iran</h2>Donald Trump said on Monday (March 2) that he ordered the strike on Iran to disrupt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, pledging to continue the war for as long as needed. He said, without presenting evidence, that the threat from Iran had been imminent when he decided to authorize the attacks. The strikes have killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, sunk Iranian warships and hit more than 1,000 targets to date.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iran-s-ramping-up-counterattacks-across-west-asia-1772478860804/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iran-s-ramping-up-counterattacks-across-west-asia-1772478860804/embed</a>&nbsp;"This was our last best chance to strike ... and eliminate the intolerable threats posed by this sick and sinister regime," he said during an event in the White House East Room. Trump returned to the White House after spending the weekend in Florida, and his remarks marked his most detailed comments so far on the conflict, expanding beyond two video statements and several brief phone interviews with reporters that at times outlined differing goals.&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.

'Will no longer be safe': IRGC's BIG warning to US as Israel-Iran war enters fourth day

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on Monday (March 2) that the United States ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US–Israeli strikes against the Islamic Republic entered their fourth day. "The enemy should know that their happy days are over and they will no longer be safe anywhere in the world, not even in their own homes," the Guards' Quds Force, which manages its overseas operations, said in a statement broadcast on state television. A spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Air Defense Base said, "The American base in Arifjan in Kuwait was targeted by 12 drones. The US military command and control center in the UAE was targeted by 6 drones and 5 ballistic missiles. The remaining facilities of the US naval fleet in Bahrain were destroyed by 6 drones. The tanker ‘Aten nova’, one of the US allies, is still burning in the Strait of Hormuz after being hit by 2 drones." Also Read: 'BIG ONE is coming soon', Trump's MASSIVE statement amid Israel-Iran war Trump defends US military action in Iran Donald Trump said on Monday (March 2) that he ordered the strike on Iran to disrupt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, pledging to continue the war for as long as needed. He said, without presenting evidence, that the threat from Iran had been imminent when he decided to authorize the attacks. The strikes have killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, sunk Iranian warships and hit more than 1,000 targets to date. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iran-s-ramping-up-counterattacks-across-west-asia-1772478860804/embed "This was our last best chance to strike ... and eliminate the intolerable threats posed by this sick and sinister regime," he said during an event in the White House East Room. Trump returned to the White House after spending the weekend in Florida, and his remarks marked his most detailed comments so far on the conflict, expanding beyond two video statements and several brief phone interviews with reporters that at times outlined differing goals. 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 Revolutionary Guards warned on Monday that the United States ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran entered the &nbsp;fourth day

President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 02) said the United States "continues to carry out large-scale combat operations" in Iran and stated our aims are clear: first, destroying Tehran's missile capabilities," second, &nbsp;preventing the Islamic Republic from making nuclear weapons and third, "ensuring it cannot fund or direct armies outside its borders"&nbsp;He further said Washington acted on 'last best chance' to hit the Islamic Republic and claimed that "we are 'substantially ahead' of timeline in Iran war adding that "We projected four to five weeks", but the United States is able to "fight Iran war far beyond 4-5 weeks."&nbsp;"We're already substantially ahead of our time projections," Trump said at the White House, adding: “From the beginning, we projected four to five weeks, but we have capability to go far longer than that. We'll do it.”&nbsp;The president stated that, “We warned Iran not to rebuild at a different location” after we blew up nuclear facilities in Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025, but they went ahead, Trump claimed, adding that "an Iran with nuclear weapons would be intolerable to the US". &nbsp;These statements come after US-Israeli operations in Iran entered its third day on Monday after assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a precision strike on a high-security compound in Tehran. Several other top leaders were also killed after the US and Israel launched a massive coordinated aerial campaign on Saturday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-defend-our-six-thousand-year-old-civilisation-iran-ready-for-long-war-with-the-us-israel-1772461387076">'Will defend our six-thousand-year-old civilisation': Iran ready for 'long war' with the US-Israel</a>&nbsp;The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming specifically to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership.&nbsp;In retaliation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard launched strikes on Israel, US military bases and its allies across West Asia, including Qatar, Iraq, UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.&nbsp;After a series of attacks and counterattacks, the conflict in West Asia expanded beyond the region after the Iranian military struck a British military base in Cyprus and a French naval base known as Camp de la Paix in Abu Dhabi, risking participation of major European countries, including France, the UK and Germany, who vowed to protect their interests in the region.&nbsp; &nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Trump said that the US attack on Iran is meeting its goals ahead of schedule, but also warned the war could go "far longer" than his initial estimates of about a month.

President Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 02) said the United States "continues to carry out large-scale combat operations" in Iran and stated our aims are clear: first, destroying Tehran's missile capabilities," second, preventing the Islamic Republic from making nuclear weapons and third, "ensuring it cannot fund or direct armies outside its borders" He further said Washington acted on 'last best chance' to hit the Islamic Republic and claimed that "we are 'substantially ahead' of timeline in Iran war adding that "We projected four to five weeks", but the United States is able to "fight Iran war far beyond 4-5 weeks." "We're already substantially ahead of our time projections," Trump said at the White House, adding: “From the beginning, we projected four to five weeks, but we have capability to go far longer than that. We'll do it.” The president stated that, “We warned Iran not to rebuild at a different location” after we blew up nuclear facilities in Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025, but they went ahead, Trump claimed, adding that "an Iran with nuclear weapons would be intolerable to the US". These statements come after US-Israeli operations in Iran entered its third day on Monday after assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a precision strike on a high-security compound in Tehran. Several other top leaders were also killed after the US and Israel launched a massive coordinated aerial campaign on Saturday. Also Read: 'Will defend our six-thousand-year-old civilisation': Iran ready for 'long war' with the US-Israel The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted government buildings, military installations, and suspected nuclear facilities, while aiming specifically to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. In retaliation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard launched strikes on Israel, US military bases and its allies across West Asia, including Qatar, Iraq, UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Jordan. After a series of attacks and counterattacks, the conflict in West Asia expanded beyond the region after the Iranian military struck a British military base in Cyprus and a French naval base known as Camp de la Paix in Abu Dhabi, risking participation of major European countries, including France, the UK and Germany, who vowed to protect their interests in the region. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

Trump said that the US attack on Iran is meeting its goals ahead of schedule, but also warned the war could go "far longer" than his initial estimates of about a month.

US-Israel-Iran war: Trump says acted on 'last best chance' to hit Iran after failed talks

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu, currently stranded in a Dubai hotel amid war escalation involving Iran, the US and Israel, is forced out of the All England Open this year. Considering the travel disruptions across West Asia, with missiles flying over several Gulf countries, Sindhu is unlikely to make it to the competition in Birmingham, which starts on March 3. Despite raising concerns with the related authorities (in India) over her scheduled travel for the tournament, Sindhu is confined to her Dubai hotel, having spent most of the past days grinding inside the hotel gym.&nbsp;“She’s pretty down, because she had trained hard and was looking forward to it,” Sindhu’s coach Vimal Kumar, who spoke to her, said, as quoted by the Indian Express. “But she’s accepted the fact now. They were even considering going by road and taking a flight from Oman, but the 6-hour drive is very dangerous. &nbsp;“Her trainer was there, so she didn’t waste time. I told her something bigger is planned for her. There’s a World Championship at home,” Vimal added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-lose-to-south-korea-as-war-torn-nation-makes-defiant-women-asian-cup-start-gold-coast-afc-usa-israel-1772454681217">Iran lose to South Korea as war-torn nation makes defiant Women’s Asian Cup start</a> &nbsp;While the travel disruptions prevented her from reaching England this year, it opened doors for her compatriot, Kidambi Srikanth, who was the first reserve at the Birmingham competition. The same report suggests that Srikanth travelled from Mulheim to Birmingham following his second-round exit at the German Open; however, considering that the faraway shuttlers are struggling to reach England for the coveted tournament, Srikanth could find a place in the main draw, although it remains unconfirmed. &nbsp;Besides, the Badminton Association of India Secretary, Sanjay Mishra, said they were in constant touch with India’s top shuttler but failed to arrange for her travel due to unforeseen circumstances. &nbsp;“We are constantly in touch with her. But right now, things are not in our control, and unfortunately, it looks like she might miss the All England. The Badminton World Federation have been very sympathetic, and have assured that they will reschedule any games for players stuck in travel. But as of now, our options are next to nothing,” Mishra said. &nbsp;While Sindhu was to fly via Emirates, which is among several airlines stranded as things stand, her coach, Vimal, who was to fly to Birmingham from Delhi on Monday, cancelled his travel altogether.&nbsp; &nbsp;On the other hand, Unnati Hooda, the singles player, was re-booked on a flight on a separate route and expected to land in Birmingham late on Monday.&nbsp; &nbsp;“The mixed doubles players have reached, and Gopi will reach tonight,” Mishra informed of flights taken via Singapore or Addis Ababa in Africa. &nbsp;Among those who reached just in time for this year’s All England Open are Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, as well as Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand.&nbsp;

Stranded in Dubai amid the Iran-US-Israel conflict, PV Sindhu is forced to withdraw from the All England Open 2026. Can Kidambi Srikanth capitalise on this last-minute entry?

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu, currently stranded in a Dubai hotel amid war escalation involving Iran, the US and Israel, is forced out of the All England Open this year. Considering the travel disruptions across West Asia, with missiles flying over several Gulf countries, Sindhu is unlikely to make it to the competition in Birmingham, which starts on March 3. Despite raising concerns with the related authorities (in India) over her scheduled travel for the tournament, Sindhu is confined to her Dubai hotel, having spent most of the past days grinding inside the hotel gym. “She’s pretty down, because she had trained hard and was looking forward to it,” Sindhu’s coach Vimal Kumar, who spoke to her, said, as quoted by the Indian Express. “But she’s accepted the fact now. They were even considering going by road and taking a flight from Oman, but the 6-hour drive is very dangerous. “Her trainer was there, so she didn’t waste time. I told her something bigger is planned for her. There’s a World Championship at home,” Vimal added. Also read | Iran lose to South Korea as war-torn nation makes defiant Women’s Asian Cup start While the travel disruptions prevented her from reaching England this year, it opened doors for her compatriot, Kidambi Srikanth, who was the first reserve at the Birmingham competition. The same report suggests that Srikanth travelled from Mulheim to Birmingham following his second-round exit at the German Open; however, considering that the faraway shuttlers are struggling to reach England for the coveted tournament, Srikanth could find a place in the main draw, although it remains unconfirmed. Besides, the Badminton Association of India Secretary, Sanjay Mishra, said they were in constant touch with India’s top shuttler but failed to arrange for her travel due to unforeseen circumstances. “We are constantly in touch with her. But right now, things are not in our control, and unfortunately, it looks like she might miss the All England. The Badminton World Federation have been very sympathetic, and have assured that they will reschedule any games for players stuck in travel. But as of now, our options are next to nothing,” Mishra said. While Sindhu was to fly via Emirates, which is among several airlines stranded as things stand, her coach, Vimal, who was to fly to Birmingham from Delhi on Monday, cancelled his travel altogether. On the other hand, Unnati Hooda, the singles player, was re-booked on a flight on a separate route and expected to land in Birmingham late on Monday. “The mixed doubles players have reached, and Gopi will reach tonight,” Mishra informed of flights taken via Singapore or Addis Ababa in Africa. Among those who reached just in time for this year’s All England Open are Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, as well as Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand.

Stranded in Dubai amid the Iran-US-Israel conflict, PV Sindhu is forced to withdraw from the All England Open 2026. Can Kidambi Srikanth capitalise on this last-minute entry?

Israel-Iran war forces stranded PV Sindhu out of All England Open; first reserve K Srikanth could earn main draw entry

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