JD Vance told reporters at the White House on Monday, that journalists were attempting to "drive a wedge" between him and President Donald Trump over the U.S.-led military campaign against Iran, known as Operation Epic Fury. Standing beside Trump in the Oval Office during a press event announcing a new anti-fraud task force, the vice president defended his support for the war, stating, “You’re trying to drive a wedge between members of the administration, between me and the president.”

Despite his past reputation as a leading anti-interventionist, Vance has publicly backed Trump’s decision to strike Iran, citing a consistent presidential stance since 2015: Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon. He emphasized a key distinction: “We have a smart president, whereas in the past we’ve had dumb presidents.” The vice president asserted he trusts Trump to avoid repeating the mistakes of previous administrations, particularly the prolonged conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Vance, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, built his political identity on skepticism toward foreign military interventions. In 2023, he praised Trump’s reluctance to start wars, calling it “the enduring legacy of Mr. Trump’s first term.”

Two senior Trump administration officials reportedly revealed that Vance had been “skeptical” about the Iran strikes, expressing concerns about success and opposing the war in private. He also privately criticized U.S. strikes on the Houthis in Yemen, calling them a “mistake” in a leaked Signal chat.

Despite these past positions, Vance has since aligned publicly with Trump, calling for unity and praying for the safety of U.S. troops. Trump acknowledged Vance was “maybe less enthusiastic” about the war but said he “was still quite enthusiastic” and praised him as “great.”

The White House and Vance’s team have dismissed speculation of a rift, with spokespersons calling such attempts “totally misguided.” Vance’s silence during the early days of the operation and his cautious tone have fueled media scrutiny, but he has maintained that he keeps strategic discussions with the president confidential to protect national security.

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Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, narrowly survived a U.S.-Israel missile strike on February 28, 2026, that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his wife Zahra Haddad-Adel, son Bagher Khamenei, and brother-in-law Misbah al-Huda Bagheri Kani, according to a leaked audio recording from Mazaher Hosseini, head of protocol for the late supreme leader.

The audio, obtained by The Telegraph, reveals that Mojtaba Khamenei stepped outside the Tehran compound for a brief moment—“to do something”—just seconds before the attack. He was returning upstairs when three Blue Sparrow ballistic missiles struck the compound. “God’s will was that Mojtaba had to go out to the yard to do something and then return. He was outside and was heading upstairs when they struck the building with a missile. His wife, Ms Haddad, was martyred instantly,” according to the recording.

The strike targeted multiple locations within the compound, including the residence of the supreme leader, Mojtaba’s home on an upper floor, and his brother-in-law’s residence. The missiles were powerful enough to cut Misbah al-Huda Bagheri Kani’s head in half.

Mohammad Shirazi, head of Khamenei’s military bureau, was “blown to pieces” — only “a few kilos of flesh” were recovered for identification. Mojtaba Khamenei sustained only a minor leg injury, according to Hosseini, though other reports suggest more severe trauma, including potential loss of a leg or serious internal injuries.

The attack was part of Operation Epic Fury, a coordinated U.S.-Israel campaign targeting Iran’s leadership and military infrastructure.

Despite surviving, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly since the strike, fueling global speculation. Reports claim he was flown to Moscow for emergency surgery at a presidential palace, reportedly offered by Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said the new leader is “in good health and fully managing the situation.”

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday, that American officials do not know whether Mojtaba Khamenei is alive or dead, saying: “We don’t know … if he’s dead or not. I will say that nobody has seen him, which is unusual.”

The new supreme leader’s first public message was read by state media, declaring: “I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs.”

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President Donald Trump delivered a series of remarks at the White House on Monday, expressing frustration and surprise over Iran’s attacks on Gulf states, particularly the UAE, and intensifying pressure on European allies to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said he was "not happy" with the UK and "very surprised" by its response to Iran’s attacks, accusing longtime allies of lacking enthusiasm for helping the U.S. in the crisis. He reiterated his demand that countries benefiting from the free flow of oil through the Strait—such as Japan, South Korea, and China—should assist in reopening it, saying, “They should be thanking me” and “they should be helping us.”

Despite claiming the Iranian regime was “literally obliterated” and that the U.S. had struck over 7,000 targets, including naval vessels and missile production sites, Iran continued to launch drone and missile attacks on Israel, the UAE, and U.S. bases. A drone strike hit a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing a fire and briefly halting flights, while Iranian missiles were intercepted over central Israel, with debris falling near Jerusalem’s Old City.

In response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—critical for transporting a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas—UAE authorities closed its airspace as an “exceptional precautionary measure” amid escalating regional threats. The UAE’s air defense systems intercepted incoming drones and missiles, and Abu Dhabi’s Shah gas field was damaged in a drone attack, suspending operations.

Trump claimed he had spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron, who he said was willing to help, and promised to announce soon which nations would join the U.S. effort. However, European countries, including France, Germany, and the UK, rejected his call for military involvement, with Germany’s foreign minister stating the Iran conflict was “not a matter for NATO.” Greece also confirmed it would not engage in military operations in the strait.

Trump’s shift from previously dismissing allies’ help—such as saying the UK “doesn’t need to meet up with the team” or that he “doesn’t need help” from Ukraine—now marks a significant about-face, raising questions about the U.S. military’s preparedness for Iran’s retaliation.

The conflict has caused global oil prices to surge by about 40% in March, sparking panic buying in regions like Australia, where fuel prices exceeded A$2.30 per litre. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) convened fuel suppliers, including Chevron and BP, to justify pricing.

In Lebanon, Israel launched ground operations in southern Lebanon, intensifying its campaign against Hezbollah. Over 831,000 Lebanese have been displaced**, with more than 850 killed, including 105 children. Israel stated displaced residents cannot return until northern Israel is safe.

The war began on February 28, 2026, when the U.S. and Israel launched “major combat operations” against Iran, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was chosen as Iran’s new Supreme Leader. Iran has vowed to continue fighting wherever it is, calling the Strait of Hormuz closed only to U.S., Israeli, and allied vessels.

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A large explosion struck Ferdowsi Square in Tehran on Friday, during an annual Quds Day rally where thousands chanted “death to Israel” and “death to America.” The blast occurred after Israel issued a warning via a Farsi-language X account, urging people to evacuate the area.

However, due to near-total internet shutdowns in Iran, few likely saw the alert. There were no immediate reports of casualties, but the strike underscored the escalating conflict. Top Iranian leaders attended the march, including the president, they mocked US War Secretary Pete Hegseth for claiming they're in hiding like rats.

U.S. and Israeli airstrikes have intensified across Iran since the war began on February 28, following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli operation. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, succeeded him and has not been seen publicly since. Hegseth stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is “wounded and likely disfigured”, though no evidence was provided. He also claimed that over 15,000 enemy targets have been struck since the war began—more than 1,000 per day.

Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized targeting Iran’s minelaying capabilities and missile infrastructure. Both officials suggested Iranian leadership is on the run, with Hegseth using strong rhetoric implying they are hiding "like rats," though he did not use that exact phrase in the provided sources.

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 773 people, including over 100 children, with 850,000 displaced. Fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah has escalated, and Israeli shells hit a UN base in southern Lebanon. Iran continues to target financial and energy infrastructure, vowing to keep the strait closed.

Iran has retaliated with daily missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states, effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil flows. Brent crude hovered around $100 per barrel, up 40% since the war began. The U.S. Navy shot down Iranian ballistic missiles over Turkey, and attacks have hit Dubai, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. death toll stands at 13 service members, including six airmen killed in a KC-135 refueling plane crash in Iraq, unrelated to enemy fire. Three other U.S. fighter jets were downed by friendly fire from Kuwaiti forces.

President Donald Trump claimed in Fox News interview Friday, the war would end “when I feel it in my bones” and said the U.S. would continue “more of the same.” A $10 million reward has been offered for information on the whereabouts of Iran’s top leaders.

Late Friday, Trump announced that the United States Central Command had conducted one of the most powerful bombing raids in Middle Eastern history, "totally obliterated every military target" on Iran’s Kharg Island, a strategically vital oil export hub located about 15 miles off Iran’s southwestern coast in the Persian Gulf.

The island, often referred to as Iran’s “crown jewel” and “oil lifeline,” handles approximately 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, with a loading capacity of around 7 million barrels per day. It serves as the primary terminal for Iran’s oil shipments, mainly destined for China and India. Despite nearly two weeks of U.S. and Israeli-led strikes against Iran, the island’s oil infrastructure had remained untouched—until now.

In a Truth Social post, Trump stated he had **chosen not to destroy the oil infrastructure“for reasons of decency,” but issued a stark warning: “Should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision.”

"Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island, the president wrote. "Our Weapons are the most powerful and sophisticated that the World has ever known but, for reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island. However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision. During my First Term, and currently, I rebuilt our Military into the Most Lethal, Powerful, and Effective Force, by far, anywhere in the World. Iran has NO ability to defend anything that we want to attack — There is nothing they can do about it! Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States of America, the Middle East or, for that matter, the World! Iran’s Military, and all others involved with this Terrorist Regime, would be wise to lay down their arms, and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP."

The strike targeted military facilities including missile storage sites and Iranian mine depots**, according to a U.S. military official. The attacks caused massive explosions and shook the island like an earthquake, with employees reporting nearly two hours of nonstop airstrikes. Iran’s Oil Ministry confirmed the scale and destructiveness of the assault.

Global oil markets reacted sharply: Brent crude futures closed above $100 per barrel for the second consecutive day, surging over 40% since the war began. Analysts warn that even limited damage to Kharg’s infrastructure could disrupt global supply chains due to ripple effects on shipping, insurance, and market confidence.

The U.S. has also significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying 2,500 Marines and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli. While a ground seizure of Kharg Island remains a high-risk option, the Pentagon has not ruled out future actions. Trump emphasized that the military campaign will continue “as long as necessary,” claiming it is “way ahead of schedule.”

Iran has responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which about 20% of the world’s traded oil passes, and continues launching missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states.

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Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, issued his first public statement on Thursday, following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a U.S.-Israeli strike on February 28. The statement, read aloud on Iranian state television by a news anchor emphasized unwavering resistance and national unity.

Khamenei vowed "never-ending" revenge for the deaths of Iranian civilians, including over 170 people—mostly children—killed in a missile strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, which a preliminary U.S. military investigation suggests was caused by outdated intelligence. He declared that Iran will continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route, as a strategic lever, and warned that attacks on U.S. military bases in the region would persist. He also urged Gulf Arab nations to close American military bases on their soil, calling Washington’s promise of security a “lie,” and stated that Iran would explore new fronts where its adversaries are less experienced.

The supreme leader expressed deep personal loss, mourning his father, his wife, sister, her child, and another sister’s spouse—members of his family killed in the strikes. He praised Iran’s armed forces and allied groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis for their support, while reaffirming Iran’s commitment to friendship with neighboring countries despite ongoing hostilities. His message avoided any mention of internal reforms or economic hardship, focusing instead on defiance and retaliation.

The statement, delivered without visual confirmation of Khamenei’s health, has fueled speculation about his whereabouts and physical condition, especially after earlier reports claimed he was injured in the initial attacks.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier laid out three conditions for ending the war with the U.S. and Israel on March 11: recognition of Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations for damages, and firm international guarantees against future aggression. The offer for a truce, made via social media, stands in stark contrast to Khamenei’s hardline stance.

Meanwhile, the war continues to escalate, with Iranian forces intensifying attacks on vessels in the Persian Gulf—two oil tankers were struck near Basra, and a third near Dubai—while drone and missile strikes have hit energy infrastructure in Bahrain and Oman.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sent oil prices soaring by 10%, disrupting global markets and raising fears of a broader economic crisis. The U.N. has reported that up to 3.2 million Iranians have been displaced, and around 800,000 people in Lebanon have fled due to Israeli bombardment of Beirut. Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent calls for a swift end to the conflict, Israeli officials remain skeptical of regime change in Iran, and the war shows no sign of de-escalation.

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President Trump is facing mounting economic concerns as the U.S.-Israel-led war against Iran intensifies, triggering global market volatility and soaring energy prices. Oil prices surged nearly 30% to $119 a barrel during a “Monday Meltdown,” before stabilizing around $100, amid fears of prolonged disruption to global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

In the U.S., the average gasoline price rose to $3.48 per gallon, up 48 cents in a week. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a loss of 92,000 jobs in February, with unemployment rising to 4.4%—a major concern for Trump ahead of November’s midterm elections.

Trump, however, has repeatedly downplayed the economic toll, calling the spike a "very small price to pay" for eliminating Iran’s nuclear threat.

Despite declaring the war “very complete, pretty much” and asserting that Iran’s navy, air force, and communications have been destroyed, Trump has also insisted the U.S. “hasn’t won enough” and remains “more determined than ever” for “ultimate victory.” He told CBS News the war was “very complete, pretty much” and “far ahead of schedule,” while simultaneously later declaring it a “short-term excursion.”

Trump's contradictory messaging has fueled uncertainty: while he told Republican lawmakers the conflict would be a “short-term excursion,” he also warned it could last “at least another week” and hinted at possible U.S. naval escorts for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. However the Navy has informed shipping industry leaders that military escorts are not currently possible, as Iran reportedly begins to lay mines in the strait.

During a press conference Monday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated the administration’s goal of a “scoped” operation, stating the U.S. knows “exactly what we’re attempting to achieve,” but declined to confirm whether the war was in its beginning, middle, or end. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, acknowledged Iran was adapting to the U.S. campaign but avoided specifying the most challenging changes.

The war has expanded beyond Iran, with Israeli strikes intensifying in Lebanon, where Hezbollah has retaliated, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Over 30,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon, and humanitarian groups warn of a deepening crisis in a country still recovering from the 2024 war.

Iran has launched sustained missile and drone attacks on Gulf states, including the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, with over 1,000 attacks reported by UAE officials. The Islamic Republic has also targeted civilian infrastructure, including fuel storage and airports, in a strategy aimed at pressuring the global economy.

The U.S. has struck nearly 2,000 targets in Iran, including military installations, nuclear facilities, and leadership compounds. The U.S. military claims to have destroyed 17 Iranian ships, including a submarine, and degraded Iran’s missile and drone capabilities. A suspected strike on an Iranian school in Minab killed up to 168 people, mostly children, raising international condemnation.

Allies are increasingly frustrated. The UK’s delayed deployment of naval assets and France’s cautious response have drawn Trump’s ire, with him criticizing Prime Minister Keir Starmer as “not Winston Churchill.” France, however, has deployed its aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean, while NATO has pledged to defend Turkey after a suspected Iranian ballistic missile was intercepted over the country.

Trump’s administration has faced criticism for launching the war without consulting key allies, with European diplomats calling the approach “uncoordinated” and “unpredictable.” Analysts warn that without a clear endgame, the war risks triggering civil unrest in Iran, a refugee crisis, or further regional destabilization.

Trump’s rhetoric on Truth Social has been defiant: “Too Late!” he wrote after claiming he rejected Iran’s attempt to negotiate, declaring, “Their air defense, Air Force, Navy and Leadership is gone.” Yet the war’s economic and geopolitical fallout continues to grow, with global markets on edge and allies scrambling to manage the consequences.

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Thick black smoke and acidic, oil-tainted rainfall blanketed Tehran early Sunday, following Israeli airstrikes on multiple fuel depots, including the Aghdasieh and Shahran facilities in Tehran and an oil depot in Karaj. The attacks, part of a broader Israeli campaign targeting Iranian infrastructure, caused massive fires that burned for hours, leaving residents struggling to breathe and reporting skin irritation, sore eyes, and headaches.

Iran’s Red Crescent Society warned the public that the rainfall could be “highly dangerous and acidic,” potentially causing chemical burns and lung damage.

This comes a day after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized in a televised address, to neighboring Gulf countries for attacks carried out by Iran’s armed forces, calling them “brothers” and stating, “I deem it necessary to apologise to neighbouring countries that were attacked.”

Pezeshkian claimed the strikes were due to “miscommunication” within Iran’s military chain of command and announced a new order: Iran’s armed forces would not attack neighboring countries unless first attacked. He emphasized Iran’s intent to pursue regional cooperation and peace, while condemning U.S. demands for unconditional surrender.

Hours after Pezeshkian’s apology, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, declaring, “Today Iran will be hit very hard!” and warning that “under serious consideration for complete destruction and certain death, because of Iran’s bad behavior, are areas and groups of people that were not considered for targeting up until this moment in time.”

Trump later claimed Iran had “surrendered to Middle East neighbours,” a statement contradicted by Iran’s continued missile and drone attacks on Gulf states.

Despite the apology, following Trump's taunting social media posts, Iran launched fresh waves of attacks on Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Lebanon, with drones and missiles intercepted by Gulf defenses. Explosions were reported near Dubai International Airport, and a Pakistani driver was killed by debris from an intercepted missile.

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 16 people, and Hezbollah clashed with Israeli forces in eastern Lebanon. The U.S. and Israel have conducted over 3,000 strikes in seven days, targeting Iranian military sites, naval vessels, and missile systems, including a desalination plant on Qeshm Island—though both U.S. and Israeli officials denied involvement.

The conflict began on February 28, 2026, after U.S.-Israeli strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader and top military officials, triggering a regional war. Iran has since retaliated with missile and drone barrages, while the U.S. and Israel maintain air dominance.

Israeli forces have since been bombarding Southern Lebanon since Hezbollah militants joined the war following Khamenei's killing by Israeli airstrikes in Tehran.

Over 1,300 in Iranian civilians, 200 in Lebanon and seven American service members have reportedly been killed in the war. Global leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have called for an immediate ceasefire, warning of a broader regional catastrophe.

Meanwhile Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei has been formally appointed as Iran’s new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, the 88-member clerical body responsible for selecting the country’s top religious and political authority. The announcement came just over a week after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a U.S.-Israeli airstrike, along with his wife, son, daughter and nephew. The Assembly confirmed the appointment in a statement issued just after midnight Tehran time, calling it a “decisive vote” and urging national unity around the new leader.

The appointment marks a pivotal moment in Iran’s political trajectory, signaling that hardline factions remain firmly in control despite the devastating attacks. Mojtaba Khamenei, 57, is a mid-ranking cleric with deep ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), having served as his father’s close aide for decades.

Though he lacks the high clerical rank of his father and has never held elected office, he has cultivated influence through his role in Iran’s security and economic networks. His selection is unprecedented in the Islamic Republic’s history, representing a de facto family succession.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly vowed to target the new supreme leader, stating his government will strike Iran’s rulers “without mercy” and that the new leader is an “unequivocal target for elimination.” The Israeli Defense Forces have already intensified strikes on Iranian military and strategic facilities, in what they describe as a coordinated effort to destabilize the regime.

Trump has rejected the appointment, calling Mojtaba Khamenei “unacceptable” and asserting that any new leader must have U.S. approval to “last long.” In an interview with ABC News, Trump declared, “If he doesn't get approval from us, he's not going to last long,” and later told the Times of Israel that the war’s end would be a “mutual” decision with Netanyahu. The comments have been widely interpreted as a threat of continued military pressure, even as Iran’s leadership defiantly insists the selection was a legal and sovereign process.

Iran’s leadership has responded with unity. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pledged full obedience and readiness to sacrifice for the new leader, while President Pezeshkian and security chief Ali Larijani welcomed the appointment, framing it as a sign of national resilience. Larijani stated that the enemies “thought the country would reach a dead end,” but the Assembly proceeded with the selection “despite threats” — including from Trump.

Despite international pressure and internal challenges, Mojtaba Khamenei’s rise underscores the regime’s determination to maintain continuity and power — even as the country faces existential threats. His leadership will likely deepen Iran’s hardline stance, with no immediate signs of diplomatic engagement.

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IRIS Dena, an Iranian frigate, was sunk by a U.S. submarine in international waters approximately 25 miles south of Sri Lanka on March 4, 2026, just days after completing a peacetime naval exercise hosted by India. The ship had participated in Exercise MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam, India, from February 15 to 25, where it represented Iran alongside 74 other nations. The vessel was en route home when it was struck by a single Mark 48 torpedo fired from a U.S. fast-attack submarine.

The sinking occurred amid escalating hostilities between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, now in its sixth day. The conflict has spread beyond the Middle East, with Iran and its proxies launching retaliatory strikes across the region, including in Cyprus and U.S. allied territories. The U.S. Department of Defense released video footage showing the frigate breaking apart after the torpedo strike.

Sri Lanka’s navy responded to a distress signal, recovering 87 bodies and rescuing 32 survivors, with around 10 sailors still unaccounted for. A second Iranian naval vessel entered Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone afterward, prompting concerns over regional stability.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack as an “atrocity at sea,” accusing the U.S. of violating international norms by targeting a warship that had been a “guest of India’s Navy” and was not engaged in hostilities. He warned the U.S. would “bitterly regret the precedent it has set.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the strike as a demonstration of American military capability and referred to the IRIS Dena as a “prize ship.” President Donald Trump reiterated the war’s objective: to “wipe out Iran’s navy.”

The U.S. has justified the attack under a March 2 executive order by Trump aimed at ensuring the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts debate the legality, noting the Dena was en route home and not engaged in hostilities.

India has remained silent on the incident, drawing sharp criticism from opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, who accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to uphold India’s role as a “net security provider” in the Indian Ocean. Former diplomat Kanwal Sibal emphasized India’s moral responsibility, noting the ship was in the region due to India’s invitation.

Australia, while not directly involved in the attack, has expressed concern over the incident, as the U.S. submarine reportedly carried three Australian personnel.

The sinking marks a significant escalation in the conflict, which has now spread far beyond the Middle East, with ongoing airstrikes between Iran, Israel, and U.S. forces. The incident has triggered diplomatic tensions and raised concerns about the safety of maritime routes and international law.

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U.S. and Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of Iran for the fifth consecutive day, targeting government, military, and infrastructure sites across 24 of Iran’s 31 provinces.

Strikes have hit Tehran’s central districts, including the Basij paramilitary headquarters, internal security command centers, and missile launch sites, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The attacks have caused widespread destruction, with smoke rising over Tehran, Karaj, and Isfahan, and a school in Minab struck by three missiles, killing an estimated 180 children—a claim confirmed by Iran’s Health Ministry but not independently verified.

Iran has responded with a wave of retaliatory strikes, launching hundreds of drones and missiles across the Middle East. These attacks have targeted U.S. military bases in Qatar (Al Udeid), Bahrain (U.S. Navy 5th Fleet), Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, as well as Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Beit Shemesh. In Israel, nine people were killed and over 20 injured in a missile strike on Beit Shemesh, while 40 buildings in Tel Aviv were damaged. The U.S. military confirmed six soldiers killed, with 18 injured, and three U.S. fighter jets crashed in Kuwait, though all crew survived.

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, has engaged in direct combat with the IDF, launching rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel, including a strike near Haifa. In response, Israel launched over 60 strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and Beirut, killing at least 50 people and injuring 335, including civilians. Israeli forces have reportedly entered southern Lebanon, seizing strategic areas to prevent cross-border attacks. The IDF has been attacking Hezbollah targets over the past year in violation of the ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S.

Iran’s retaliatory campaign includes attacks on energy infrastructure and diplomatic compounds, such as the U.S. consulate in Dubai and the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, both hit by drones. Qatar Airways suspended all flights after missile strikes on Al Udeid base, and Qatar’s air defenses intercepted 65 missiles and 12 drones. The UK’s RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was also struck by an Iranian drone, causing minimal damage.

So far in the war, casualty estimates include 1,045 dead in Iran, 11 in Israel, 6 U.S. soldiers, and 18 in Gulf states. The Israeli government has barred journalists from publishing pictures of the damages done by Iranian missiles across the Jewish state.

The conflict has disrupted energy supplies, grounded airlines, and triggered regional evacuations, with Lebanon, Qatar, and the UAE declaring emergency measures.

The nuclear watchdog (IAEA) confirmed no radiological release in Iran, noting damage at two buildings near Isfahan but no harm to nuclear facilities.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the initial wave of strikes, a development that has significantly escalated the conflict. Iran has declared all U.S. military installations in the region as legitimate targets under its “decentralized Mosaic Defence” strategy.

U.S. officials say the conflict could last weeks or longer, with President Trump asserting that "someone from within" the Iranian government may replace the current regime after the war. He again suggested the U.S conducted initial strikes under pressure from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu reportedly asked the White House for clarifications earlier this week after learning that Trump administration officials might be communicating with the Iranian governement. He was told no such talks took place.

Trump has been facing harsh criticisms from his MAGA supporters and 'America first' conservative critics who accuse him of "betrayal," and being a "traitor" for breaking his campaign promise of "no new wars." They slam the president for "sending Americans to die in Israel's war."

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The conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States escalated into its third day Monday, with widespread missile and airstrike attacks across the Middle East. The war began on Saturday, when the U.S. and Israel launched a large-scale military operation—dubbed “Operation Epic Fury”—targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) headquarters, naval bases, and missile facilities.

The strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders, including Defense Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour. The country’s leadership is now in the hands of a three-person council following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The U.S. and Israel also targeted key sites outside Tehran, including the Shajarah Tayyebeh school in Minab, which was struck in a bombing that killed at least 175 children, according to Iranian health officials. This attack was condemned by UNESCO as a grave violation of humanitarian law.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of missiles and drones at Israel, Gulf states, and U.S. military installations. Beit Shemesh, an Israeli city near Jerusalem, was hit by an Iranian missile, killing nine people and injuring nearly 30—making it the deadliest incident in Israel since the conflict began.

Israeli air defenses intercepted most of the incoming threats, but some missiles breached the system. In response, Israel intensified its attacks, conducting strikes in Lebanon and targeting Hezbollah strongholds outside Beirut.

These strikes killed at least 31 people and wounded 149, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Hezbollah claimed to have launched rockets and drones at Israeli military sites, marking its first major attack in over a year.

The war rapidly spread beyond Iran and Israel. U.S. military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE came under attack, with Iranian drones and missiles targeting the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

In Kuwait, a missile strike killed three U.S. service members, bringing the American death toll to six. A drone attack on Kuwait International Airport caused injuries, while a missile fragment killed one worker in Bahrain. The U.S. military confirmed that four U.S. troops were killed and five seriously wounded, with additional minor injuries reported.

Iran’s retaliation extended to energy infrastructure. A drone struck an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, killing one mariner, and Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery was targeted by drones, though defenses intercepted them. QatarEnergy halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, sending European gas prices up 40%. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, saw shipping activity slow significantly. Qatar also confirmed it shot down two Iranian Su-24 bombers and intercepted seven ballistic missiles and five drones.

Global consequences are mounting. Air travel has been disrupted, with Emirates and Etihad restarting limited flights after grounding. Oil prices surged, and the U.S. pledged to mitigate energy market spikes. The UK, U.S., and other nations urged citizens to evacuate 14 countries in the region, including Israel, Iran, and Gulf states.

The UN Secretary-General called for de-escalation, warning of nuclear safety risks. U.S. President Donald Trump stated the campaign could last 4 to 5 weeks, vowing to avenge U.S. casualties and suggesting he would be open to dialogue with Iran’s new leadership. However, Iran’s top security official Ali Larijani declared on X: “We will not negotiate with the United States.”

The situation remains fluid, with Israel and the U.S. continuing to strike Tehran and Iran’s proxy networks, while Iran and its allies maintain a relentless campaign across the region.

During a press conference Monday with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, U.S. Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth said the operation is not a “regime change war” but aims to “destroy the missile threat, destroy the navy, no nukes,” emphasizing the U.S. has no intention of engaging in nation-building like in Iraq.

Caine described the strikes as a “long-term campaign” requiring months or years of planning, noting the operation is not a single, overnight event and that more U.S. losses are expected.

Trump told the press at the White House, that combat operations would continue “until all objectives are achieved,” warning it could go “far longer.” He cited the killing of U.S. service members as justification for enduring the conflict and claimed the strikes had “annihilated” Iran’s navy and were destroying its missile capabilities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his part, confirmed Israel launched strikes in Lebanon in response to Hezbollah attacks, targeting command centers and weapons storage. He also emphasized the attacks on Iran was necessary to counter “imminent threat,” though he did not provide evidence of an imminent attack.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters on Capitol Hill, that the U.S. acted preemptively to prevent Iran from retaliating against U.S. forces after Israel’s planned military action. He said, “We weren’t going to sit there and absorb a blow before we responded,” and confirmed U.S. ground troops remain a possible option.

Rubio's comments outraged many conservatives, Trump's MAGA supporters and detractors online who slammed the administration for allowing Netayahu to drag the United States into a devastating war against Iran, which, they argue, is not in America's interest. The criticsms were harsh and bipartisan, with many accusing Israel destabilizing Middle East in pursuit of its messianic 'Greater Israel' project.

Popular U.S. journalist and commentator Tucker Carlson called the strikes "absolutely disgusting and evil" and said this war is happening "purely because Israel wanted it to be waged... Israel is the only reason" the US is involved.

Carlson reportedly met with Trump multiple times to urge restraint, warning of risks to US troops in Gulf allies like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and energy prices. He also revealed that Qatar and Saudi Arabia arrested Mossad agents who were planning to set off bombs in the Gulf states, actions aimed to incite chaos.

The conservative commentator argued it's not America's fight and will "shuffle the deck in a profound way" for Trump's movement.

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President Donald Trump announced "major combat operations" in Iran early Saturday, launching "Operation Epic Fury"—a joint U.S.-Israel airstrike campaign targeting hundreds of military and political sites across Iran. The strikes, carried out by U.S. attack planes and Israeli forces, hit at least nine Iranian cities, including Tehran, Qom, Shiraz, and Chabahar.

Israel reportedly targeted around 500 locations, focusing on ballistic missile sites, air defense systems, and high-value regime assets, including a high-security compound housing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which showed extensive damage in satellite imagery, and unconfirmed reports and announcement by Trump that the supreme leader is dead. The 86-year-old has ruled Iran for 36 years. He died along with his wife, daughter-in-law and grandchild.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles and drones at Israel and U.S. military bases across the Middle East, in Operation True Promise 4. Targets included Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al Salem Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and the U.S. Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain. Iran also attacked Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with debris from an Iranian missile killing at least one person in the UAE. The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait confirmed attacks, while Jordan reported a blast in its capital.

The U.S. and Israel struck Iran following a breakdown in last-ditch nuclear talks, months of escalating rhetoric amd intense lobbying of Trump administration by zealous Zionist activists and donors.

President Trump, in a video post on Truth Social, vowed to "destroy their missiles," "annihilate their navy," and "enable the overthrow of the regime,"urging Iranians to "take over your government." The U.S. Central Command confirmed that its forces successfully defended against hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks, with minimal damage to U.S. bases and no reported U.S. combat deaths.

Khamenei has reportedly put in place detailed plans for succession and emergency chains of command in the event of his death, elevating longtime loyalist Ali Larijani to manage the war and become the de facto leader of Iran.

The conflict has severely disrupted global energy markets. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—critical for one-fifth of the world’s oil—has been halted or rerouted, with the U.S. Maritime Administration advising vessels to avoid the region. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards declared the strait unsafe, and oil prices surged amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions.

Casualty reports from Iran are alarming. Iranian state media and the Red Crescent reported over 60 deaths in a strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, with Iran’s IRIB broadcaster citing about 150 dead and over 100 injured. The U.S. and Israel have not confirmed the school strike, but the attack has drawn international condemnation.

Regional tensions have escalated further. The Houthis in Yemen denounced the strikes and called for mass protests, while New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the operation as a "catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression." World leaders urged restraint, though Canada and Australia publicly backed the U.S.-Israel action.

Many conservatives on social media were outraged with many calling Trump a "traitor" for breaking his "no new wars" promise to voters during the 2024 presidential election campaign. Popular podcaster and Trump ally Tucker Carlson called the bombing of Iran "disgusting and evil."

Analysts warn the conflict risks spiraling into a protracted war with no clear exit. The Iranian military has vowed to continue retaliating until the U.S. and Israel are "definitively defeated," signaling sustained hostilities. The situation remains highly volatile as the region braces for further escalation.

Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, narrowly survived a U.S.-Israel missile strike on February 28, 2026, that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his wife Zahra Haddad-Adel, son Bagher Khamenei, and brother-in-law Misbah al-Huda Bagheri Kani, according to a leaked audio recording from Mazaher Hosseini, head of protocol for the late supreme leader.

The audio, obtained by The Telegraph, reveals that Mojtaba Khamenei stepped outside the Tehran compound for a brief moment—“to do something”—just seconds before the attack. He was returning upstairs when three Blue Sparrow ballistic missiles struck the compound. “God’s will was that Mojtaba had to go out to the yard to do something and then return. He was outside and was heading upstairs when they struck the building with a missile. His wife, Ms Haddad, was martyred instantly,” according to the recording.

The strike targeted multiple locations within the compound, including the residence of the supreme leader, Mojtaba’s home on an upper floor, and his brother-in-law’s residence. The missiles were powerful enough to cut Misbah al-Huda Bagheri Kani’s head in half.

Mohammad Shirazi, head of Khamenei’s military bureau, was “blown to pieces” — only “a few kilos of flesh” were recovered for identification. Mojtaba Khamenei sustained only a minor leg injury, according to Hosseini, though other reports suggest more severe trauma, including potential loss of a leg or serious internal injuries.

The attack was part of Operation Epic Fury, a coordinated U.S.-Israel campaign targeting Iran’s leadership and military infrastructure.

Despite surviving, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly since the strike, fueling global speculation. Reports claim he was flown to Moscow for emergency surgery at a presidential palace, reportedly offered by Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said the new leader is “in good health and fully managing the situation.”

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday, that American officials do not know whether Mojtaba Khamenei is alive or dead, saying: “We don’t know … if he’s dead or not. I will say that nobody has seen him, which is unusual.”

The new supreme leader’s first public message was read by state media, declaring: “I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs.”

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President Donald Trump delivered a series of remarks at the White House on Monday, expressing frustration and surprise over Iran’s attacks on Gulf states, particularly the UAE, and intensifying pressure on European allies to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said he was "not happy" with the UK and "very surprised" by its response to Iran’s attacks, accusing longtime allies of lacking enthusiasm for helping the U.S. in the crisis. He reiterated his demand that countries benefiting from the free flow of oil through the Strait—such as Japan, South Korea, and China—should assist in reopening it, saying, “They should be thanking me” and “they should be helping us.”

Despite claiming the Iranian regime was “literally obliterated” and that the U.S. had struck over 7,000 targets, including naval vessels and missile production sites, Iran continued to launch drone and missile attacks on Israel, the UAE, and U.S. bases. A drone strike hit a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing a fire and briefly halting flights, while Iranian missiles were intercepted over central Israel, with debris falling near Jerusalem’s Old City.

In response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—critical for transporting a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas—UAE authorities closed its airspace as an “exceptional precautionary measure” amid escalating regional threats. The UAE’s air defense systems intercepted incoming drones and missiles, and Abu Dhabi’s Shah gas field was damaged in a drone attack, suspending operations.

Trump claimed he had spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron, who he said was willing to help, and promised to announce soon which nations would join the U.S. effort. However, European countries, including France, Germany, and the UK, rejected his call for military involvement, with Germany’s foreign minister stating the Iran conflict was “not a matter for NATO.” Greece also confirmed it would not engage in military operations in the strait.

Trump’s shift from previously dismissing allies’ help—such as saying the UK “doesn’t need to meet up with the team” or that he “doesn’t need help” from Ukraine—now marks a significant about-face, raising questions about the U.S. military’s preparedness for Iran’s retaliation.

The conflict has caused global oil prices to surge by about 40% in March, sparking panic buying in regions like Australia, where fuel prices exceeded A$2.30 per litre. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) convened fuel suppliers, including Chevron and BP, to justify pricing.

In Lebanon, Israel launched ground operations in southern Lebanon, intensifying its campaign against Hezbollah. Over 831,000 Lebanese have been displaced**, with more than 850 killed, including 105 children. Israel stated displaced residents cannot return until northern Israel is safe.

The war began on February 28, 2026, when the U.S. and Israel launched “major combat operations” against Iran, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was chosen as Iran’s new Supreme Leader. Iran has vowed to continue fighting wherever it is, calling the Strait of Hormuz closed only to U.S., Israeli, and allied vessels.

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A large explosion struck Ferdowsi Square in Tehran on Friday, during an annual Quds Day rally where thousands chanted “death to Israel” and “death to America.” The blast occurred after Israel issued a warning via a Farsi-language X account, urging people to evacuate the area.

However, due to near-total internet shutdowns in Iran, few likely saw the alert. There were no immediate reports of casualties, but the strike underscored the escalating conflict. Top Iranian leaders attended the march, including the president, they mocked US War Secretary Pete Hegseth for claiming they're in hiding like rats.

U.S. and Israeli airstrikes have intensified across Iran since the war began on February 28, following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli operation. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, succeeded him and has not been seen publicly since. Hegseth stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is “wounded and likely disfigured”, though no evidence was provided. He also claimed that over 15,000 enemy targets have been struck since the war began—more than 1,000 per day.

Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized targeting Iran’s minelaying capabilities and missile infrastructure. Both officials suggested Iranian leadership is on the run, with Hegseth using strong rhetoric implying they are hiding "like rats," though he did not use that exact phrase in the provided sources.

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 773 people, including over 100 children, with 850,000 displaced. Fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah has escalated, and Israeli shells hit a UN base in southern Lebanon. Iran continues to target financial and energy infrastructure, vowing to keep the strait closed.

Iran has retaliated with daily missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states, effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil flows. Brent crude hovered around $100 per barrel, up 40% since the war began. The U.S. Navy shot down Iranian ballistic missiles over Turkey, and attacks have hit Dubai, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. death toll stands at 13 service members, including six airmen killed in a KC-135 refueling plane crash in Iraq, unrelated to enemy fire. Three other U.S. fighter jets were downed by friendly fire from Kuwaiti forces.

President Donald Trump claimed in Fox News interview Friday, the war would end “when I feel it in my bones” and said the U.S. would continue “more of the same.” A $10 million reward has been offered for information on the whereabouts of Iran’s top leaders.

Late Friday, Trump announced that the United States Central Command had conducted one of the most powerful bombing raids in Middle Eastern history, "totally obliterated every military target" on Iran’s Kharg Island, a strategically vital oil export hub located about 15 miles off Iran’s southwestern coast in the Persian Gulf.

The island, often referred to as Iran’s “crown jewel” and “oil lifeline,” handles approximately 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, with a loading capacity of around 7 million barrels per day. It serves as the primary terminal for Iran’s oil shipments, mainly destined for China and India. Despite nearly two weeks of U.S. and Israeli-led strikes against Iran, the island’s oil infrastructure had remained untouched—until now.

In a Truth Social post, Trump stated he had **chosen not to destroy the oil infrastructure“for reasons of decency,” but issued a stark warning: “Should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision.”

"Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island, the president wrote. "Our Weapons are the most powerful and sophisticated that the World has ever known but, for reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island. However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision. During my First Term, and currently, I rebuilt our Military into the Most Lethal, Powerful, and Effective Force, by far, anywhere in the World. Iran has NO ability to defend anything that we want to attack — There is nothing they can do about it! Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States of America, the Middle East or, for that matter, the World! Iran’s Military, and all others involved with this Terrorist Regime, would be wise to lay down their arms, and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP."

The strike targeted military facilities including missile storage sites and Iranian mine depots**, according to a U.S. military official. The attacks caused massive explosions and shook the island like an earthquake, with employees reporting nearly two hours of nonstop airstrikes. Iran’s Oil Ministry confirmed the scale and destructiveness of the assault.

Global oil markets reacted sharply: Brent crude futures closed above $100 per barrel for the second consecutive day, surging over 40% since the war began. Analysts warn that even limited damage to Kharg’s infrastructure could disrupt global supply chains due to ripple effects on shipping, insurance, and market confidence.

The U.S. has also significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying 2,500 Marines and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli. While a ground seizure of Kharg Island remains a high-risk option, the Pentagon has not ruled out future actions. Trump emphasized that the military campaign will continue “as long as necessary,” claiming it is “way ahead of schedule.”

Iran has responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which about 20% of the world’s traded oil passes, and continues launching missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states.

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Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, issued his first public statement on Thursday, following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a U.S.-Israeli strike on February 28. The statement, read aloud on Iranian state television by a news anchor emphasized unwavering resistance and national unity.

Khamenei vowed "never-ending" revenge for the deaths of Iranian civilians, including over 170 people—mostly children—killed in a missile strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, which a preliminary U.S. military investigation suggests was caused by outdated intelligence. He declared that Iran will continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route, as a strategic lever, and warned that attacks on U.S. military bases in the region would persist. He also urged Gulf Arab nations to close American military bases on their soil, calling Washington’s promise of security a “lie,” and stated that Iran would explore new fronts where its adversaries are less experienced.

The supreme leader expressed deep personal loss, mourning his father, his wife, sister, her child, and another sister’s spouse—members of his family killed in the strikes. He praised Iran’s armed forces and allied groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis for their support, while reaffirming Iran’s commitment to friendship with neighboring countries despite ongoing hostilities. His message avoided any mention of internal reforms or economic hardship, focusing instead on defiance and retaliation.

The statement, delivered without visual confirmation of Khamenei’s health, has fueled speculation about his whereabouts and physical condition, especially after earlier reports claimed he was injured in the initial attacks.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier laid out three conditions for ending the war with the U.S. and Israel on March 11: recognition of Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations for damages, and firm international guarantees against future aggression. The offer for a truce, made via social media, stands in stark contrast to Khamenei’s hardline stance.

Meanwhile, the war continues to escalate, with Iranian forces intensifying attacks on vessels in the Persian Gulf—two oil tankers were struck near Basra, and a third near Dubai—while drone and missile strikes have hit energy infrastructure in Bahrain and Oman.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sent oil prices soaring by 10%, disrupting global markets and raising fears of a broader economic crisis. The U.N. has reported that up to 3.2 million Iranians have been displaced, and around 800,000 people in Lebanon have fled due to Israeli bombardment of Beirut. Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent calls for a swift end to the conflict, Israeli officials remain skeptical of regime change in Iran, and the war shows no sign of de-escalation.

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President Trump is facing mounting economic concerns as the U.S.-Israel-led war against Iran intensifies, triggering global market volatility and soaring energy prices. Oil prices surged nearly 30% to $119 a barrel during a “Monday Meltdown,” before stabilizing around $100, amid fears of prolonged disruption to global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

In the U.S., the average gasoline price rose to $3.48 per gallon, up 48 cents in a week. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a loss of 92,000 jobs in February, with unemployment rising to 4.4%—a major concern for Trump ahead of November’s midterm elections.

Trump, however, has repeatedly downplayed the economic toll, calling the spike a "very small price to pay" for eliminating Iran’s nuclear threat.

Despite declaring the war “very complete, pretty much” and asserting that Iran’s navy, air force, and communications have been destroyed, Trump has also insisted the U.S. “hasn’t won enough” and remains “more determined than ever” for “ultimate victory.” He told CBS News the war was “very complete, pretty much” and “far ahead of schedule,” while simultaneously later declaring it a “short-term excursion.”

Trump's contradictory messaging has fueled uncertainty: while he told Republican lawmakers the conflict would be a “short-term excursion,” he also warned it could last “at least another week” and hinted at possible U.S. naval escorts for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. However the Navy has informed shipping industry leaders that military escorts are not currently possible, as Iran reportedly begins to lay mines in the strait.

During a press conference Monday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated the administration’s goal of a “scoped” operation, stating the U.S. knows “exactly what we’re attempting to achieve,” but declined to confirm whether the war was in its beginning, middle, or end. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, acknowledged Iran was adapting to the U.S. campaign but avoided specifying the most challenging changes.

The war has expanded beyond Iran, with Israeli strikes intensifying in Lebanon, where Hezbollah has retaliated, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Over 30,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon, and humanitarian groups warn of a deepening crisis in a country still recovering from the 2024 war.

Iran has launched sustained missile and drone attacks on Gulf states, including the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, with over 1,000 attacks reported by UAE officials. The Islamic Republic has also targeted civilian infrastructure, including fuel storage and airports, in a strategy aimed at pressuring the global economy.

The U.S. has struck nearly 2,000 targets in Iran, including military installations, nuclear facilities, and leadership compounds. The U.S. military claims to have destroyed 17 Iranian ships, including a submarine, and degraded Iran’s missile and drone capabilities. A suspected strike on an Iranian school in Minab killed up to 168 people, mostly children, raising international condemnation.

Allies are increasingly frustrated. The UK’s delayed deployment of naval assets and France’s cautious response have drawn Trump’s ire, with him criticizing Prime Minister Keir Starmer as “not Winston Churchill.” France, however, has deployed its aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean, while NATO has pledged to defend Turkey after a suspected Iranian ballistic missile was intercepted over the country.

Trump’s administration has faced criticism for launching the war without consulting key allies, with European diplomats calling the approach “uncoordinated” and “unpredictable.” Analysts warn that without a clear endgame, the war risks triggering civil unrest in Iran, a refugee crisis, or further regional destabilization.

Trump’s rhetoric on Truth Social has been defiant: “Too Late!” he wrote after claiming he rejected Iran’s attempt to negotiate, declaring, “Their air defense, Air Force, Navy and Leadership is gone.” Yet the war’s economic and geopolitical fallout continues to grow, with global markets on edge and allies scrambling to manage the consequences.

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Thick black smoke and acidic, oil-tainted rainfall blanketed Tehran early Sunday, following Israeli airstrikes on multiple fuel depots, including the Aghdasieh and Shahran facilities in Tehran and an oil depot in Karaj. The attacks, part of a broader Israeli campaign targeting Iranian infrastructure, caused massive fires that burned for hours, leaving residents struggling to breathe and reporting skin irritation, sore eyes, and headaches.

Iran’s Red Crescent Society warned the public that the rainfall could be “highly dangerous and acidic,” potentially causing chemical burns and lung damage.

This comes a day after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized in a televised address, to neighboring Gulf countries for attacks carried out by Iran’s armed forces, calling them “brothers” and stating, “I deem it necessary to apologise to neighbouring countries that were attacked.”

Pezeshkian claimed the strikes were due to “miscommunication” within Iran’s military chain of command and announced a new order: Iran’s armed forces would not attack neighboring countries unless first attacked. He emphasized Iran’s intent to pursue regional cooperation and peace, while condemning U.S. demands for unconditional surrender.

Hours after Pezeshkian’s apology, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, declaring, “Today Iran will be hit very hard!” and warning that “under serious consideration for complete destruction and certain death, because of Iran’s bad behavior, are areas and groups of people that were not considered for targeting up until this moment in time.”

Trump later claimed Iran had “surrendered to Middle East neighbours,” a statement contradicted by Iran’s continued missile and drone attacks on Gulf states.

Despite the apology, following Trump's taunting social media posts, Iran launched fresh waves of attacks on Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Lebanon, with drones and missiles intercepted by Gulf defenses. Explosions were reported near Dubai International Airport, and a Pakistani driver was killed by debris from an intercepted missile.

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 16 people, and Hezbollah clashed with Israeli forces in eastern Lebanon. The U.S. and Israel have conducted over 3,000 strikes in seven days, targeting Iranian military sites, naval vessels, and missile systems, including a desalination plant on Qeshm Island—though both U.S. and Israeli officials denied involvement.

The conflict began on February 28, 2026, after U.S.-Israeli strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader and top military officials, triggering a regional war. Iran has since retaliated with missile and drone barrages, while the U.S. and Israel maintain air dominance.

Israeli forces have since been bombarding Southern Lebanon since Hezbollah militants joined the war following Khamenei's killing by Israeli airstrikes in Tehran.

Over 1,300 in Iranian civilians, 200 in Lebanon and seven American service members have reportedly been killed in the war. Global leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have called for an immediate ceasefire, warning of a broader regional catastrophe.

Meanwhile Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei has been formally appointed as Iran’s new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, the 88-member clerical body responsible for selecting the country’s top religious and political authority. The announcement came just over a week after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a U.S.-Israeli airstrike, along with his wife, son, daughter and nephew. The Assembly confirmed the appointment in a statement issued just after midnight Tehran time, calling it a “decisive vote” and urging national unity around the new leader.

The appointment marks a pivotal moment in Iran’s political trajectory, signaling that hardline factions remain firmly in control despite the devastating attacks. Mojtaba Khamenei, 57, is a mid-ranking cleric with deep ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), having served as his father’s close aide for decades.

Though he lacks the high clerical rank of his father and has never held elected office, he has cultivated influence through his role in Iran’s security and economic networks. His selection is unprecedented in the Islamic Republic’s history, representing a de facto family succession.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly vowed to target the new supreme leader, stating his government will strike Iran’s rulers “without mercy” and that the new leader is an “unequivocal target for elimination.” The Israeli Defense Forces have already intensified strikes on Iranian military and strategic facilities, in what they describe as a coordinated effort to destabilize the regime.

Trump has rejected the appointment, calling Mojtaba Khamenei “unacceptable” and asserting that any new leader must have U.S. approval to “last long.” In an interview with ABC News, Trump declared, “If he doesn't get approval from us, he's not going to last long,” and later told the Times of Israel that the war’s end would be a “mutual” decision with Netanyahu. The comments have been widely interpreted as a threat of continued military pressure, even as Iran’s leadership defiantly insists the selection was a legal and sovereign process.

Iran’s leadership has responded with unity. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pledged full obedience and readiness to sacrifice for the new leader, while President Pezeshkian and security chief Ali Larijani welcomed the appointment, framing it as a sign of national resilience. Larijani stated that the enemies “thought the country would reach a dead end,” but the Assembly proceeded with the selection “despite threats” — including from Trump.

Despite international pressure and internal challenges, Mojtaba Khamenei’s rise underscores the regime’s determination to maintain continuity and power — even as the country faces existential threats. His leadership will likely deepen Iran’s hardline stance, with no immediate signs of diplomatic engagement.

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IRIS Dena, an Iranian frigate, was sunk by a U.S. submarine in international waters approximately 25 miles south of Sri Lanka on March 4, 2026, just days after completing a peacetime naval exercise hosted by India. The ship had participated in Exercise MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam, India, from February 15 to 25, where it represented Iran alongside 74 other nations. The vessel was en route home when it was struck by a single Mark 48 torpedo fired from a U.S. fast-attack submarine.

The sinking occurred amid escalating hostilities between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, now in its sixth day. The conflict has spread beyond the Middle East, with Iran and its proxies launching retaliatory strikes across the region, including in Cyprus and U.S. allied territories. The U.S. Department of Defense released video footage showing the frigate breaking apart after the torpedo strike.

Sri Lanka’s navy responded to a distress signal, recovering 87 bodies and rescuing 32 survivors, with around 10 sailors still unaccounted for. A second Iranian naval vessel entered Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone afterward, prompting concerns over regional stability.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack as an “atrocity at sea,” accusing the U.S. of violating international norms by targeting a warship that had been a “guest of India’s Navy” and was not engaged in hostilities. He warned the U.S. would “bitterly regret the precedent it has set.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the strike as a demonstration of American military capability and referred to the IRIS Dena as a “prize ship.” President Donald Trump reiterated the war’s objective: to “wipe out Iran’s navy.”

The U.S. has justified the attack under a March 2 executive order by Trump aimed at ensuring the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts debate the legality, noting the Dena was en route home and not engaged in hostilities.

India has remained silent on the incident, drawing sharp criticism from opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, who accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to uphold India’s role as a “net security provider” in the Indian Ocean. Former diplomat Kanwal Sibal emphasized India’s moral responsibility, noting the ship was in the region due to India’s invitation.

Australia, while not directly involved in the attack, has expressed concern over the incident, as the U.S. submarine reportedly carried three Australian personnel.

The sinking marks a significant escalation in the conflict, which has now spread far beyond the Middle East, with ongoing airstrikes between Iran, Israel, and U.S. forces. The incident has triggered diplomatic tensions and raised concerns about the safety of maritime routes and international law.

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U.S. and Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of Iran for the fifth consecutive day, targeting government, military, and infrastructure sites across 24 of Iran’s 31 provinces.

Strikes have hit Tehran’s central districts, including the Basij paramilitary headquarters, internal security command centers, and missile launch sites, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The attacks have caused widespread destruction, with smoke rising over Tehran, Karaj, and Isfahan, and a school in Minab struck by three missiles, killing an estimated 180 children—a claim confirmed by Iran’s Health Ministry but not independently verified.

Iran has responded with a wave of retaliatory strikes, launching hundreds of drones and missiles across the Middle East. These attacks have targeted U.S. military bases in Qatar (Al Udeid), Bahrain (U.S. Navy 5th Fleet), Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, as well as Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Beit Shemesh. In Israel, nine people were killed and over 20 injured in a missile strike on Beit Shemesh, while 40 buildings in Tel Aviv were damaged. The U.S. military confirmed six soldiers killed, with 18 injured, and three U.S. fighter jets crashed in Kuwait, though all crew survived.

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, has engaged in direct combat with the IDF, launching rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel, including a strike near Haifa. In response, Israel launched over 60 strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and Beirut, killing at least 50 people and injuring 335, including civilians. Israeli forces have reportedly entered southern Lebanon, seizing strategic areas to prevent cross-border attacks. The IDF has been attacking Hezbollah targets over the past year in violation of the ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S.

Iran’s retaliatory campaign includes attacks on energy infrastructure and diplomatic compounds, such as the U.S. consulate in Dubai and the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, both hit by drones. Qatar Airways suspended all flights after missile strikes on Al Udeid base, and Qatar’s air defenses intercepted 65 missiles and 12 drones. The UK’s RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was also struck by an Iranian drone, causing minimal damage.

So far in the war, casualty estimates include 1,045 dead in Iran, 11 in Israel, 6 U.S. soldiers, and 18 in Gulf states. The Israeli government has barred journalists from publishing pictures of the damages done by Iranian missiles across the Jewish state.

The conflict has disrupted energy supplies, grounded airlines, and triggered regional evacuations, with Lebanon, Qatar, and the UAE declaring emergency measures.

The nuclear watchdog (IAEA) confirmed no radiological release in Iran, noting damage at two buildings near Isfahan but no harm to nuclear facilities.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the initial wave of strikes, a development that has significantly escalated the conflict. Iran has declared all U.S. military installations in the region as legitimate targets under its “decentralized Mosaic Defence” strategy.

U.S. officials say the conflict could last weeks or longer, with President Trump asserting that "someone from within" the Iranian government may replace the current regime after the war. He again suggested the U.S conducted initial strikes under pressure from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu reportedly asked the White House for clarifications earlier this week after learning that Trump administration officials might be communicating with the Iranian governement. He was told no such talks took place.

Trump has been facing harsh criticisms from his MAGA supporters and 'America first' conservative critics who accuse him of "betrayal," and being a "traitor" for breaking his campaign promise of "no new wars." They slam the president for "sending Americans to die in Israel's war."

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The conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States escalated into its third day Monday, with widespread missile and airstrike attacks across the Middle East. The war began on Saturday, when the U.S. and Israel launched a large-scale military operation—dubbed “Operation Epic Fury”—targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) headquarters, naval bases, and missile facilities.

The strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders, including Defense Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour. The country’s leadership is now in the hands of a three-person council following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The U.S. and Israel also targeted key sites outside Tehran, including the Shajarah Tayyebeh school in Minab, which was struck in a bombing that killed at least 175 children, according to Iranian health officials. This attack was condemned by UNESCO as a grave violation of humanitarian law.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of missiles and drones at Israel, Gulf states, and U.S. military installations. Beit Shemesh, an Israeli city near Jerusalem, was hit by an Iranian missile, killing nine people and injuring nearly 30—making it the deadliest incident in Israel since the conflict began.

Israeli air defenses intercepted most of the incoming threats, but some missiles breached the system. In response, Israel intensified its attacks, conducting strikes in Lebanon and targeting Hezbollah strongholds outside Beirut.

These strikes killed at least 31 people and wounded 149, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Hezbollah claimed to have launched rockets and drones at Israeli military sites, marking its first major attack in over a year.

The war rapidly spread beyond Iran and Israel. U.S. military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE came under attack, with Iranian drones and missiles targeting the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

In Kuwait, a missile strike killed three U.S. service members, bringing the American death toll to six. A drone attack on Kuwait International Airport caused injuries, while a missile fragment killed one worker in Bahrain. The U.S. military confirmed that four U.S. troops were killed and five seriously wounded, with additional minor injuries reported.

Iran’s retaliation extended to energy infrastructure. A drone struck an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, killing one mariner, and Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery was targeted by drones, though defenses intercepted them. QatarEnergy halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, sending European gas prices up 40%. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, saw shipping activity slow significantly. Qatar also confirmed it shot down two Iranian Su-24 bombers and intercepted seven ballistic missiles and five drones.

Global consequences are mounting. Air travel has been disrupted, with Emirates and Etihad restarting limited flights after grounding. Oil prices surged, and the U.S. pledged to mitigate energy market spikes. The UK, U.S., and other nations urged citizens to evacuate 14 countries in the region, including Israel, Iran, and Gulf states.

The UN Secretary-General called for de-escalation, warning of nuclear safety risks. U.S. President Donald Trump stated the campaign could last 4 to 5 weeks, vowing to avenge U.S. casualties and suggesting he would be open to dialogue with Iran’s new leadership. However, Iran’s top security official Ali Larijani declared on X: “We will not negotiate with the United States.”

The situation remains fluid, with Israel and the U.S. continuing to strike Tehran and Iran’s proxy networks, while Iran and its allies maintain a relentless campaign across the region.

During a press conference Monday with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, U.S. Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth said the operation is not a “regime change war” but aims to “destroy the missile threat, destroy the navy, no nukes,” emphasizing the U.S. has no intention of engaging in nation-building like in Iraq.

Caine described the strikes as a “long-term campaign” requiring months or years of planning, noting the operation is not a single, overnight event and that more U.S. losses are expected.

Trump told the press at the White House, that combat operations would continue “until all objectives are achieved,” warning it could go “far longer.” He cited the killing of U.S. service members as justification for enduring the conflict and claimed the strikes had “annihilated” Iran’s navy and were destroying its missile capabilities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his part, confirmed Israel launched strikes in Lebanon in response to Hezbollah attacks, targeting command centers and weapons storage. He also emphasized the attacks on Iran was necessary to counter “imminent threat,” though he did not provide evidence of an imminent attack.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters on Capitol Hill, that the U.S. acted preemptively to prevent Iran from retaliating against U.S. forces after Israel’s planned military action. He said, “We weren’t going to sit there and absorb a blow before we responded,” and confirmed U.S. ground troops remain a possible option.

Rubio's comments outraged many conservatives, Trump's MAGA supporters and detractors online who slammed the administration for allowing Netayahu to drag the United States into a devastating war against Iran, which, they argue, is not in America's interest. The criticsms were harsh and bipartisan, with many accusing Israel destabilizing Middle East in pursuit of its messianic 'Greater Israel' project.

Popular U.S. journalist and commentator Tucker Carlson called the strikes "absolutely disgusting and evil" and said this war is happening "purely because Israel wanted it to be waged... Israel is the only reason" the US is involved.

Carlson reportedly met with Trump multiple times to urge restraint, warning of risks to US troops in Gulf allies like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and energy prices. He also revealed that Qatar and Saudi Arabia arrested Mossad agents who were planning to set off bombs in the Gulf states, actions aimed to incite chaos.

The conservative commentator argued it's not America's fight and will "shuffle the deck in a profound way" for Trump's movement.

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President Donald Trump announced "major combat operations" in Iran early Saturday, launching "Operation Epic Fury"—a joint U.S.-Israel airstrike campaign targeting hundreds of military and political sites across Iran. The strikes, carried out by U.S. attack planes and Israeli forces, hit at least nine Iranian cities, including Tehran, Qom, Shiraz, and Chabahar.

Israel reportedly targeted around 500 locations, focusing on ballistic missile sites, air defense systems, and high-value regime assets, including a high-security compound housing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which showed extensive damage in satellite imagery, and unconfirmed reports and announcement by Trump that the supreme leader is dead. The 86-year-old has ruled Iran for 36 years. He died along with his wife, daughter-in-law and grandchild.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles and drones at Israel and U.S. military bases across the Middle East, in Operation True Promise 4. Targets included Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al Salem Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and the U.S. Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain. Iran also attacked Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with debris from an Iranian missile killing at least one person in the UAE. The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait confirmed attacks, while Jordan reported a blast in its capital.

The U.S. and Israel struck Iran following a breakdown in last-ditch nuclear talks, months of escalating rhetoric amd intense lobbying of Trump administration by zealous Zionist activists and donors.

President Trump, in a video post on Truth Social, vowed to "destroy their missiles," "annihilate their navy," and "enable the overthrow of the regime,"urging Iranians to "take over your government." The U.S. Central Command confirmed that its forces successfully defended against hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks, with minimal damage to U.S. bases and no reported U.S. combat deaths.

Khamenei has reportedly put in place detailed plans for succession and emergency chains of command in the event of his death, elevating longtime loyalist Ali Larijani to manage the war and become the de facto leader of Iran.

The conflict has severely disrupted global energy markets. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—critical for one-fifth of the world’s oil—has been halted or rerouted, with the U.S. Maritime Administration advising vessels to avoid the region. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards declared the strait unsafe, and oil prices surged amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions.

Casualty reports from Iran are alarming. Iranian state media and the Red Crescent reported over 60 deaths in a strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, with Iran’s IRIB broadcaster citing about 150 dead and over 100 injured. The U.S. and Israel have not confirmed the school strike, but the attack has drawn international condemnation.

Regional tensions have escalated further. The Houthis in Yemen denounced the strikes and called for mass protests, while New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the operation as a "catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression." World leaders urged restraint, though Canada and Australia publicly backed the U.S.-Israel action.

Many conservatives on social media were outraged with many calling Trump a "traitor" for breaking his "no new wars" promise to voters during the 2024 presidential election campaign. Popular podcaster and Trump ally Tucker Carlson called the bombing of Iran "disgusting and evil."

Analysts warn the conflict risks spiraling into a protracted war with no clear exit. The Iranian military has vowed to continue retaliating until the U.S. and Israel are "definitively defeated," signaling sustained hostilities. The situation remains highly volatile as the region braces for further escalation.

President Donald Trump delivered a series of remarks at the White House on Monday, expressing frustration and surprise over Iran’s attacks on Gulf states, particularly the UAE, and intensifying pressure on European allies to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said he was "not happy" with the UK and "very surprised" by its response to Iran’s attacks, accusing longtime allies of lacking enthusiasm for helping the U.S. in the crisis. He reiterated his demand that countries benefiting from the free flow of oil through the Strait—such as Japan, South Korea, and China—should assist in reopening it, saying, “They should be thanking me” and “they should be helping us.”

Despite claiming the Iranian regime was “literally obliterated” and that the U.S. had struck over 7,000 targets, including naval vessels and missile production sites, Iran continued to launch drone and missile attacks on Israel, the UAE, and U.S. bases. A drone strike hit a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing a fire and briefly halting flights, while Iranian missiles were intercepted over central Israel, with debris falling near Jerusalem’s Old City.

In response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—critical for transporting a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas—UAE authorities closed its airspace as an “exceptional precautionary measure” amid escalating regional threats. The UAE’s air defense systems intercepted incoming drones and missiles, and Abu Dhabi’s Shah gas field was damaged in a drone attack, suspending operations.

Trump claimed he had spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron, who he said was willing to help, and promised to announce soon which nations would join the U.S. effort. However, European countries, including France, Germany, and the UK, rejected his call for military involvement, with Germany’s foreign minister stating the Iran conflict was “not a matter for NATO.” Greece also confirmed it would not engage in military operations in the strait.

Trump’s shift from previously dismissing allies’ help—such as saying the UK “doesn’t need to meet up with the team” or that he “doesn’t need help” from Ukraine—now marks a significant about-face, raising questions about the U.S. military’s preparedness for Iran’s retaliation.

The conflict has caused global oil prices to surge by about 40% in March, sparking panic buying in regions like Australia, where fuel prices exceeded A$2.30 per litre. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) convened fuel suppliers, including Chevron and BP, to justify pricing.

In Lebanon, Israel launched ground operations in southern Lebanon, intensifying its campaign against Hezbollah. Over 831,000 Lebanese have been displaced**, with more than 850 killed, including 105 children. Israel stated displaced residents cannot return until northern Israel is safe.

The war began on February 28, 2026, when the U.S. and Israel launched “major combat operations” against Iran, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was chosen as Iran’s new Supreme Leader. Iran has vowed to continue fighting wherever it is, calling the Strait of Hormuz closed only to U.S., Israeli, and allied vessels.

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A large explosion struck Ferdowsi Square in Tehran on Friday, during an annual Quds Day rally where thousands chanted “death to Israel” and “death to America.” The blast occurred after Israel issued a warning via a Farsi-language X account, urging people to evacuate the area.

However, due to near-total internet shutdowns in Iran, few likely saw the alert. There were no immediate reports of casualties, but the strike underscored the escalating conflict. Top Iranian leaders attended the march, including the president, they mocked US War Secretary Pete Hegseth for claiming they're in hiding like rats.

U.S. and Israeli airstrikes have intensified across Iran since the war began on February 28, following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli operation. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, succeeded him and has not been seen publicly since. Hegseth stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is “wounded and likely disfigured”, though no evidence was provided. He also claimed that over 15,000 enemy targets have been struck since the war began—more than 1,000 per day.

Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized targeting Iran’s minelaying capabilities and missile infrastructure. Both officials suggested Iranian leadership is on the run, with Hegseth using strong rhetoric implying they are hiding "like rats," though he did not use that exact phrase in the provided sources.

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 773 people, including over 100 children, with 850,000 displaced. Fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah has escalated, and Israeli shells hit a UN base in southern Lebanon. Iran continues to target financial and energy infrastructure, vowing to keep the strait closed.

Iran has retaliated with daily missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states, effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil flows. Brent crude hovered around $100 per barrel, up 40% since the war began. The U.S. Navy shot down Iranian ballistic missiles over Turkey, and attacks have hit Dubai, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. death toll stands at 13 service members, including six airmen killed in a KC-135 refueling plane crash in Iraq, unrelated to enemy fire. Three other U.S. fighter jets were downed by friendly fire from Kuwaiti forces.

President Donald Trump claimed in Fox News interview Friday, the war would end “when I feel it in my bones” and said the U.S. would continue “more of the same.” A $10 million reward has been offered for information on the whereabouts of Iran’s top leaders.

Late Friday, Trump announced that the United States Central Command had conducted one of the most powerful bombing raids in Middle Eastern history, "totally obliterated every military target" on Iran’s Kharg Island, a strategically vital oil export hub located about 15 miles off Iran’s southwestern coast in the Persian Gulf.

The island, often referred to as Iran’s “crown jewel” and “oil lifeline,” handles approximately 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, with a loading capacity of around 7 million barrels per day. It serves as the primary terminal for Iran’s oil shipments, mainly destined for China and India. Despite nearly two weeks of U.S. and Israeli-led strikes against Iran, the island’s oil infrastructure had remained untouched—until now.

In a Truth Social post, Trump stated he had **chosen not to destroy the oil infrastructure“for reasons of decency,” but issued a stark warning: “Should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision.”

"Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island, the president wrote. "Our Weapons are the most powerful and sophisticated that the World has ever known but, for reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island. However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision. During my First Term, and currently, I rebuilt our Military into the Most Lethal, Powerful, and Effective Force, by far, anywhere in the World. Iran has NO ability to defend anything that we want to attack — There is nothing they can do about it! Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States of America, the Middle East or, for that matter, the World! Iran’s Military, and all others involved with this Terrorist Regime, would be wise to lay down their arms, and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP."

The strike targeted military facilities including missile storage sites and Iranian mine depots**, according to a U.S. military official. The attacks caused massive explosions and shook the island like an earthquake, with employees reporting nearly two hours of nonstop airstrikes. Iran’s Oil Ministry confirmed the scale and destructiveness of the assault.

Global oil markets reacted sharply: Brent crude futures closed above $100 per barrel for the second consecutive day, surging over 40% since the war began. Analysts warn that even limited damage to Kharg’s infrastructure could disrupt global supply chains due to ripple effects on shipping, insurance, and market confidence.

The U.S. has also significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying 2,500 Marines and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli. While a ground seizure of Kharg Island remains a high-risk option, the Pentagon has not ruled out future actions. Trump emphasized that the military campaign will continue “as long as necessary,” claiming it is “way ahead of schedule.”

Iran has responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which about 20% of the world’s traded oil passes, and continues launching missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states.

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Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, issued his first public statement on Thursday, following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a U.S.-Israeli strike on February 28. The statement, read aloud on Iranian state television by a news anchor emphasized unwavering resistance and national unity.

Khamenei vowed "never-ending" revenge for the deaths of Iranian civilians, including over 170 people—mostly children—killed in a missile strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, which a preliminary U.S. military investigation suggests was caused by outdated intelligence. He declared that Iran will continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route, as a strategic lever, and warned that attacks on U.S. military bases in the region would persist. He also urged Gulf Arab nations to close American military bases on their soil, calling Washington’s promise of security a “lie,” and stated that Iran would explore new fronts where its adversaries are less experienced.

The supreme leader expressed deep personal loss, mourning his father, his wife, sister, her child, and another sister’s spouse—members of his family killed in the strikes. He praised Iran’s armed forces and allied groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis for their support, while reaffirming Iran’s commitment to friendship with neighboring countries despite ongoing hostilities. His message avoided any mention of internal reforms or economic hardship, focusing instead on defiance and retaliation.

The statement, delivered without visual confirmation of Khamenei’s health, has fueled speculation about his whereabouts and physical condition, especially after earlier reports claimed he was injured in the initial attacks.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier laid out three conditions for ending the war with the U.S. and Israel on March 11: recognition of Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations for damages, and firm international guarantees against future aggression. The offer for a truce, made via social media, stands in stark contrast to Khamenei’s hardline stance.

Meanwhile, the war continues to escalate, with Iranian forces intensifying attacks on vessels in the Persian Gulf—two oil tankers were struck near Basra, and a third near Dubai—while drone and missile strikes have hit energy infrastructure in Bahrain and Oman.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sent oil prices soaring by 10%, disrupting global markets and raising fears of a broader economic crisis. The U.N. has reported that up to 3.2 million Iranians have been displaced, and around 800,000 people in Lebanon have fled due to Israeli bombardment of Beirut. Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent calls for a swift end to the conflict, Israeli officials remain skeptical of regime change in Iran, and the war shows no sign of de-escalation.

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President Trump is facing mounting economic concerns as the U.S.-Israel-led war against Iran intensifies, triggering global market volatility and soaring energy prices. Oil prices surged nearly 30% to $119 a barrel during a “Monday Meltdown,” before stabilizing around $100, amid fears of prolonged disruption to global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

In the U.S., the average gasoline price rose to $3.48 per gallon, up 48 cents in a week. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a loss of 92,000 jobs in February, with unemployment rising to 4.4%—a major concern for Trump ahead of November’s midterm elections.

Trump, however, has repeatedly downplayed the economic toll, calling the spike a "very small price to pay" for eliminating Iran’s nuclear threat.

Despite declaring the war “very complete, pretty much” and asserting that Iran’s navy, air force, and communications have been destroyed, Trump has also insisted the U.S. “hasn’t won enough” and remains “more determined than ever” for “ultimate victory.” He told CBS News the war was “very complete, pretty much” and “far ahead of schedule,” while simultaneously later declaring it a “short-term excursion.”

Trump's contradictory messaging has fueled uncertainty: while he told Republican lawmakers the conflict would be a “short-term excursion,” he also warned it could last “at least another week” and hinted at possible U.S. naval escorts for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. However the Navy has informed shipping industry leaders that military escorts are not currently possible, as Iran reportedly begins to lay mines in the strait.

During a press conference Monday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated the administration’s goal of a “scoped” operation, stating the U.S. knows “exactly what we’re attempting to achieve,” but declined to confirm whether the war was in its beginning, middle, or end. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, acknowledged Iran was adapting to the U.S. campaign but avoided specifying the most challenging changes.

The war has expanded beyond Iran, with Israeli strikes intensifying in Lebanon, where Hezbollah has retaliated, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Over 30,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon, and humanitarian groups warn of a deepening crisis in a country still recovering from the 2024 war.

Iran has launched sustained missile and drone attacks on Gulf states, including the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, with over 1,000 attacks reported by UAE officials. The Islamic Republic has also targeted civilian infrastructure, including fuel storage and airports, in a strategy aimed at pressuring the global economy.

The U.S. has struck nearly 2,000 targets in Iran, including military installations, nuclear facilities, and leadership compounds. The U.S. military claims to have destroyed 17 Iranian ships, including a submarine, and degraded Iran’s missile and drone capabilities. A suspected strike on an Iranian school in Minab killed up to 168 people, mostly children, raising international condemnation.

Allies are increasingly frustrated. The UK’s delayed deployment of naval assets and France’s cautious response have drawn Trump’s ire, with him criticizing Prime Minister Keir Starmer as “not Winston Churchill.” France, however, has deployed its aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean, while NATO has pledged to defend Turkey after a suspected Iranian ballistic missile was intercepted over the country.

Trump’s administration has faced criticism for launching the war without consulting key allies, with European diplomats calling the approach “uncoordinated” and “unpredictable.” Analysts warn that without a clear endgame, the war risks triggering civil unrest in Iran, a refugee crisis, or further regional destabilization.

Trump’s rhetoric on Truth Social has been defiant: “Too Late!” he wrote after claiming he rejected Iran’s attempt to negotiate, declaring, “Their air defense, Air Force, Navy and Leadership is gone.” Yet the war’s economic and geopolitical fallout continues to grow, with global markets on edge and allies scrambling to manage the consequences.

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Thick black smoke and acidic, oil-tainted rainfall blanketed Tehran early Sunday, following Israeli airstrikes on multiple fuel depots, including the Aghdasieh and Shahran facilities in Tehran and an oil depot in Karaj. The attacks, part of a broader Israeli campaign targeting Iranian infrastructure, caused massive fires that burned for hours, leaving residents struggling to breathe and reporting skin irritation, sore eyes, and headaches.

Iran’s Red Crescent Society warned the public that the rainfall could be “highly dangerous and acidic,” potentially causing chemical burns and lung damage.

This comes a day after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized in a televised address, to neighboring Gulf countries for attacks carried out by Iran’s armed forces, calling them “brothers” and stating, “I deem it necessary to apologise to neighbouring countries that were attacked.”

Pezeshkian claimed the strikes were due to “miscommunication” within Iran’s military chain of command and announced a new order: Iran’s armed forces would not attack neighboring countries unless first attacked. He emphasized Iran’s intent to pursue regional cooperation and peace, while condemning U.S. demands for unconditional surrender.

Hours after Pezeshkian’s apology, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, declaring, “Today Iran will be hit very hard!” and warning that “under serious consideration for complete destruction and certain death, because of Iran’s bad behavior, are areas and groups of people that were not considered for targeting up until this moment in time.”

Trump later claimed Iran had “surrendered to Middle East neighbours,” a statement contradicted by Iran’s continued missile and drone attacks on Gulf states.

Despite the apology, following Trump's taunting social media posts, Iran launched fresh waves of attacks on Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Lebanon, with drones and missiles intercepted by Gulf defenses. Explosions were reported near Dubai International Airport, and a Pakistani driver was killed by debris from an intercepted missile.

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 16 people, and Hezbollah clashed with Israeli forces in eastern Lebanon. The U.S. and Israel have conducted over 3,000 strikes in seven days, targeting Iranian military sites, naval vessels, and missile systems, including a desalination plant on Qeshm Island—though both U.S. and Israeli officials denied involvement.

The conflict began on February 28, 2026, after U.S.-Israeli strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader and top military officials, triggering a regional war. Iran has since retaliated with missile and drone barrages, while the U.S. and Israel maintain air dominance.

Israeli forces have since been bombarding Southern Lebanon since Hezbollah militants joined the war following Khamenei's killing by Israeli airstrikes in Tehran.

Over 1,300 in Iranian civilians, 200 in Lebanon and seven American service members have reportedly been killed in the war. Global leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have called for an immediate ceasefire, warning of a broader regional catastrophe.

Meanwhile Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei has been formally appointed as Iran’s new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, the 88-member clerical body responsible for selecting the country’s top religious and political authority. The announcement came just over a week after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a U.S.-Israeli airstrike, along with his wife, son, daughter and nephew. The Assembly confirmed the appointment in a statement issued just after midnight Tehran time, calling it a “decisive vote” and urging national unity around the new leader.

The appointment marks a pivotal moment in Iran’s political trajectory, signaling that hardline factions remain firmly in control despite the devastating attacks. Mojtaba Khamenei, 57, is a mid-ranking cleric with deep ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), having served as his father’s close aide for decades.

Though he lacks the high clerical rank of his father and has never held elected office, he has cultivated influence through his role in Iran’s security and economic networks. His selection is unprecedented in the Islamic Republic’s history, representing a de facto family succession.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly vowed to target the new supreme leader, stating his government will strike Iran’s rulers “without mercy” and that the new leader is an “unequivocal target for elimination.” The Israeli Defense Forces have already intensified strikes on Iranian military and strategic facilities, in what they describe as a coordinated effort to destabilize the regime.

Trump has rejected the appointment, calling Mojtaba Khamenei “unacceptable” and asserting that any new leader must have U.S. approval to “last long.” In an interview with ABC News, Trump declared, “If he doesn't get approval from us, he's not going to last long,” and later told the Times of Israel that the war’s end would be a “mutual” decision with Netanyahu. The comments have been widely interpreted as a threat of continued military pressure, even as Iran’s leadership defiantly insists the selection was a legal and sovereign process.

Iran’s leadership has responded with unity. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pledged full obedience and readiness to sacrifice for the new leader, while President Pezeshkian and security chief Ali Larijani welcomed the appointment, framing it as a sign of national resilience. Larijani stated that the enemies “thought the country would reach a dead end,” but the Assembly proceeded with the selection “despite threats” — including from Trump.

Despite international pressure and internal challenges, Mojtaba Khamenei’s rise underscores the regime’s determination to maintain continuity and power — even as the country faces existential threats. His leadership will likely deepen Iran’s hardline stance, with no immediate signs of diplomatic engagement.

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IRIS Dena, an Iranian frigate, was sunk by a U.S. submarine in international waters approximately 25 miles south of Sri Lanka on March 4, 2026, just days after completing a peacetime naval exercise hosted by India. The ship had participated in Exercise MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam, India, from February 15 to 25, where it represented Iran alongside 74 other nations. The vessel was en route home when it was struck by a single Mark 48 torpedo fired from a U.S. fast-attack submarine.

The sinking occurred amid escalating hostilities between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, now in its sixth day. The conflict has spread beyond the Middle East, with Iran and its proxies launching retaliatory strikes across the region, including in Cyprus and U.S. allied territories. The U.S. Department of Defense released video footage showing the frigate breaking apart after the torpedo strike.

Sri Lanka’s navy responded to a distress signal, recovering 87 bodies and rescuing 32 survivors, with around 10 sailors still unaccounted for. A second Iranian naval vessel entered Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone afterward, prompting concerns over regional stability.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack as an “atrocity at sea,” accusing the U.S. of violating international norms by targeting a warship that had been a “guest of India’s Navy” and was not engaged in hostilities. He warned the U.S. would “bitterly regret the precedent it has set.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the strike as a demonstration of American military capability and referred to the IRIS Dena as a “prize ship.” President Donald Trump reiterated the war’s objective: to “wipe out Iran’s navy.”

The U.S. has justified the attack under a March 2 executive order by Trump aimed at ensuring the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts debate the legality, noting the Dena was en route home and not engaged in hostilities.

India has remained silent on the incident, drawing sharp criticism from opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, who accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to uphold India’s role as a “net security provider” in the Indian Ocean. Former diplomat Kanwal Sibal emphasized India’s moral responsibility, noting the ship was in the region due to India’s invitation.

Australia, while not directly involved in the attack, has expressed concern over the incident, as the U.S. submarine reportedly carried three Australian personnel.

The sinking marks a significant escalation in the conflict, which has now spread far beyond the Middle East, with ongoing airstrikes between Iran, Israel, and U.S. forces. The incident has triggered diplomatic tensions and raised concerns about the safety of maritime routes and international law.

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U.S. and Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of Iran for the fifth consecutive day, targeting government, military, and infrastructure sites across 24 of Iran’s 31 provinces.

Strikes have hit Tehran’s central districts, including the Basij paramilitary headquarters, internal security command centers, and missile launch sites, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The attacks have caused widespread destruction, with smoke rising over Tehran, Karaj, and Isfahan, and a school in Minab struck by three missiles, killing an estimated 180 children—a claim confirmed by Iran’s Health Ministry but not independently verified.

Iran has responded with a wave of retaliatory strikes, launching hundreds of drones and missiles across the Middle East. These attacks have targeted U.S. military bases in Qatar (Al Udeid), Bahrain (U.S. Navy 5th Fleet), Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, as well as Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Beit Shemesh. In Israel, nine people were killed and over 20 injured in a missile strike on Beit Shemesh, while 40 buildings in Tel Aviv were damaged. The U.S. military confirmed six soldiers killed, with 18 injured, and three U.S. fighter jets crashed in Kuwait, though all crew survived.

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, has engaged in direct combat with the IDF, launching rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel, including a strike near Haifa. In response, Israel launched over 60 strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and Beirut, killing at least 50 people and injuring 335, including civilians. Israeli forces have reportedly entered southern Lebanon, seizing strategic areas to prevent cross-border attacks. The IDF has been attacking Hezbollah targets over the past year in violation of the ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S.

Iran’s retaliatory campaign includes attacks on energy infrastructure and diplomatic compounds, such as the U.S. consulate in Dubai and the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, both hit by drones. Qatar Airways suspended all flights after missile strikes on Al Udeid base, and Qatar’s air defenses intercepted 65 missiles and 12 drones. The UK’s RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was also struck by an Iranian drone, causing minimal damage.

So far in the war, casualty estimates include 1,045 dead in Iran, 11 in Israel, 6 U.S. soldiers, and 18 in Gulf states. The Israeli government has barred journalists from publishing pictures of the damages done by Iranian missiles across the Jewish state.

The conflict has disrupted energy supplies, grounded airlines, and triggered regional evacuations, with Lebanon, Qatar, and the UAE declaring emergency measures.

The nuclear watchdog (IAEA) confirmed no radiological release in Iran, noting damage at two buildings near Isfahan but no harm to nuclear facilities.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the initial wave of strikes, a development that has significantly escalated the conflict. Iran has declared all U.S. military installations in the region as legitimate targets under its “decentralized Mosaic Defence” strategy.

U.S. officials say the conflict could last weeks or longer, with President Trump asserting that "someone from within" the Iranian government may replace the current regime after the war. He again suggested the U.S conducted initial strikes under pressure from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu reportedly asked the White House for clarifications earlier this week after learning that Trump administration officials might be communicating with the Iranian governement. He was told no such talks took place.

Trump has been facing harsh criticisms from his MAGA supporters and 'America first' conservative critics who accuse him of "betrayal," and being a "traitor" for breaking his campaign promise of "no new wars." They slam the president for "sending Americans to die in Israel's war."

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The conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States escalated into its third day Monday, with widespread missile and airstrike attacks across the Middle East. The war began on Saturday, when the U.S. and Israel launched a large-scale military operation—dubbed “Operation Epic Fury”—targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) headquarters, naval bases, and missile facilities.

The strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders, including Defense Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour. The country’s leadership is now in the hands of a three-person council following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The U.S. and Israel also targeted key sites outside Tehran, including the Shajarah Tayyebeh school in Minab, which was struck in a bombing that killed at least 175 children, according to Iranian health officials. This attack was condemned by UNESCO as a grave violation of humanitarian law.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of missiles and drones at Israel, Gulf states, and U.S. military installations. Beit Shemesh, an Israeli city near Jerusalem, was hit by an Iranian missile, killing nine people and injuring nearly 30—making it the deadliest incident in Israel since the conflict began.

Israeli air defenses intercepted most of the incoming threats, but some missiles breached the system. In response, Israel intensified its attacks, conducting strikes in Lebanon and targeting Hezbollah strongholds outside Beirut.

These strikes killed at least 31 people and wounded 149, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Hezbollah claimed to have launched rockets and drones at Israeli military sites, marking its first major attack in over a year.

The war rapidly spread beyond Iran and Israel. U.S. military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE came under attack, with Iranian drones and missiles targeting the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

In Kuwait, a missile strike killed three U.S. service members, bringing the American death toll to six. A drone attack on Kuwait International Airport caused injuries, while a missile fragment killed one worker in Bahrain. The U.S. military confirmed that four U.S. troops were killed and five seriously wounded, with additional minor injuries reported.

Iran’s retaliation extended to energy infrastructure. A drone struck an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, killing one mariner, and Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery was targeted by drones, though defenses intercepted them. QatarEnergy halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, sending European gas prices up 40%. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, saw shipping activity slow significantly. Qatar also confirmed it shot down two Iranian Su-24 bombers and intercepted seven ballistic missiles and five drones.

Global consequences are mounting. Air travel has been disrupted, with Emirates and Etihad restarting limited flights after grounding. Oil prices surged, and the U.S. pledged to mitigate energy market spikes. The UK, U.S., and other nations urged citizens to evacuate 14 countries in the region, including Israel, Iran, and Gulf states.

The UN Secretary-General called for de-escalation, warning of nuclear safety risks. U.S. President Donald Trump stated the campaign could last 4 to 5 weeks, vowing to avenge U.S. casualties and suggesting he would be open to dialogue with Iran’s new leadership. However, Iran’s top security official Ali Larijani declared on X: “We will not negotiate with the United States.”

The situation remains fluid, with Israel and the U.S. continuing to strike Tehran and Iran’s proxy networks, while Iran and its allies maintain a relentless campaign across the region.

During a press conference Monday with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, U.S. Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth said the operation is not a “regime change war” but aims to “destroy the missile threat, destroy the navy, no nukes,” emphasizing the U.S. has no intention of engaging in nation-building like in Iraq.

Caine described the strikes as a “long-term campaign” requiring months or years of planning, noting the operation is not a single, overnight event and that more U.S. losses are expected.

Trump told the press at the White House, that combat operations would continue “until all objectives are achieved,” warning it could go “far longer.” He cited the killing of U.S. service members as justification for enduring the conflict and claimed the strikes had “annihilated” Iran’s navy and were destroying its missile capabilities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his part, confirmed Israel launched strikes in Lebanon in response to Hezbollah attacks, targeting command centers and weapons storage. He also emphasized the attacks on Iran was necessary to counter “imminent threat,” though he did not provide evidence of an imminent attack.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters on Capitol Hill, that the U.S. acted preemptively to prevent Iran from retaliating against U.S. forces after Israel’s planned military action. He said, “We weren’t going to sit there and absorb a blow before we responded,” and confirmed U.S. ground troops remain a possible option.

Rubio's comments outraged many conservatives, Trump's MAGA supporters and detractors online who slammed the administration for allowing Netayahu to drag the United States into a devastating war against Iran, which, they argue, is not in America's interest. The criticsms were harsh and bipartisan, with many accusing Israel destabilizing Middle East in pursuit of its messianic 'Greater Israel' project.

Popular U.S. journalist and commentator Tucker Carlson called the strikes "absolutely disgusting and evil" and said this war is happening "purely because Israel wanted it to be waged... Israel is the only reason" the US is involved.

Carlson reportedly met with Trump multiple times to urge restraint, warning of risks to US troops in Gulf allies like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and energy prices. He also revealed that Qatar and Saudi Arabia arrested Mossad agents who were planning to set off bombs in the Gulf states, actions aimed to incite chaos.

The conservative commentator argued it's not America's fight and will "shuffle the deck in a profound way" for Trump's movement.

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President Donald Trump announced "major combat operations" in Iran early Saturday, launching "Operation Epic Fury"—a joint U.S.-Israel airstrike campaign targeting hundreds of military and political sites across Iran. The strikes, carried out by U.S. attack planes and Israeli forces, hit at least nine Iranian cities, including Tehran, Qom, Shiraz, and Chabahar.

Israel reportedly targeted around 500 locations, focusing on ballistic missile sites, air defense systems, and high-value regime assets, including a high-security compound housing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which showed extensive damage in satellite imagery, and unconfirmed reports and announcement by Trump that the supreme leader is dead. The 86-year-old has ruled Iran for 36 years. He died along with his wife, daughter-in-law and grandchild.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles and drones at Israel and U.S. military bases across the Middle East, in Operation True Promise 4. Targets included Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al Salem Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and the U.S. Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain. Iran also attacked Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with debris from an Iranian missile killing at least one person in the UAE. The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait confirmed attacks, while Jordan reported a blast in its capital.

The U.S. and Israel struck Iran following a breakdown in last-ditch nuclear talks, months of escalating rhetoric amd intense lobbying of Trump administration by zealous Zionist activists and donors.

President Trump, in a video post on Truth Social, vowed to "destroy their missiles," "annihilate their navy," and "enable the overthrow of the regime,"urging Iranians to "take over your government." The U.S. Central Command confirmed that its forces successfully defended against hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks, with minimal damage to U.S. bases and no reported U.S. combat deaths.

Khamenei has reportedly put in place detailed plans for succession and emergency chains of command in the event of his death, elevating longtime loyalist Ali Larijani to manage the war and become the de facto leader of Iran.

The conflict has severely disrupted global energy markets. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—critical for one-fifth of the world’s oil—has been halted or rerouted, with the U.S. Maritime Administration advising vessels to avoid the region. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards declared the strait unsafe, and oil prices surged amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions.

Casualty reports from Iran are alarming. Iranian state media and the Red Crescent reported over 60 deaths in a strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, with Iran’s IRIB broadcaster citing about 150 dead and over 100 injured. The U.S. and Israel have not confirmed the school strike, but the attack has drawn international condemnation.

Regional tensions have escalated further. The Houthis in Yemen denounced the strikes and called for mass protests, while New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the operation as a "catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression." World leaders urged restraint, though Canada and Australia publicly backed the U.S.-Israel action.

Many conservatives on social media were outraged with many calling Trump a "traitor" for breaking his "no new wars" promise to voters during the 2024 presidential election campaign. Popular podcaster and Trump ally Tucker Carlson called the bombing of Iran "disgusting and evil."

Analysts warn the conflict risks spiraling into a protracted war with no clear exit. The Iranian military has vowed to continue retaliating until the U.S. and Israel are "definitively defeated," signaling sustained hostilities. The situation remains highly volatile as the region braces for further escalation.