Iran-Israel war highlights: Israel says attacks on Iran to ramp up as Trump mulls ‘winding down' military operations
Kartavya Desk Staff
#### Key Updates
• 'Iran did not initiate the war,' President Pezeshkian tells PM Modi in talks
• Jaishankar speaks to Iranian FM Araghchi; discusses implications of West Asia conflict 'for larger region'
• Over 20 countries want to contribute to efforts for safe passage in Strait of Hormuz
• 22 Indian-flagged vessels remain stranded in the western Persian Gulf region: Govt.
• Govt. allows additional 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States and UTs
• March 22, 2026 05:49 Trump threatens attacks on Iran's power plants if Tehran doesn't reopen Strait of Hormuz in 48 hoursPresident Donald Trump on Saturday said the U.S. will “obliterate” Iranian power plants if it doesn’t fully open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.Mr. Trump issued the ultimatum in a social media post whole he spent the weekend in Florida.He said he’s giving Iran exactly 48 hours to open the vital waterway or face a new round of attacks. He said the US would destroy “various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” Mr. Trump faces increasing pressure to secure the strait as oil prices soar.-AP
President Donald Trump on Saturday said the U.S. will “obliterate” Iranian power plants if it doesn’t fully open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.
Mr. Trump issued the ultimatum in a social media post whole he spent the weekend in Florida.
He said he’s giving Iran exactly 48 hours to open the vital waterway or face a new round of attacks. He said the US would destroy “various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” Mr. Trump faces increasing pressure to secure the strait as oil prices soar.
• March 22, 2026 04:50 Dozens injured in Israel after Iranian missile strikes target areas near nuclear research centreIran struck two communities near Israel’s main nuclear research centre late Saturday, leaving buildings shattered and at least seven people seriously injured, hours after Tehran’s main nuclear enrichment site was hit as the war spun into a dangerous new direction at the start of its fourth week.It was the first time Israel’s nuclear research centre has been targeted in the fighting. Israel’s military said it was not able to intercept missiles that hit the southern cities of Dimona and Arad, the largest near the centre in Israel’s sparsely populated Negev desert.“This is a very difficult evening,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, adding that more emergency resources were being sent to the scene. -AP
Iran struck two communities near Israel’s main nuclear research centre late Saturday, leaving buildings shattered and at least seven people seriously injured, hours after Tehran’s main nuclear enrichment site was hit as the war spun into a dangerous new direction at the start of its fourth week.
It was the first time Israel’s nuclear research centre has been targeted in the fighting. Israel’s military said it was not able to intercept missiles that hit the southern cities of Dimona and Arad, the largest near the centre in Israel’s sparsely populated Negev desert.
“This is a very difficult evening,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, adding that more emergency resources were being sent to the scene.
• March 22, 2026 04:49 Iran missile strikes wound over 100 in two south Israel townsIranian missile strikes on two southern Israeli towns wounded more than 100 people on Saturday, medics said, after Israeli air defence systems failed to intercept the projectiles.The two direct hits tore open the fronts of residential buildings and carved craters into the ground.First responders said 75 people were injured in the town of Arad, 10 of them seriously, hours after 33 were wounded in nearby Dimona.Iranian state TV said the missile attack on Dimona, which houses a nuclear facility, was a “response” to an earlier strike on its own nuclear site at Natanz.-AFP
Iranian missile strikes on two southern Israeli towns wounded more than 100 people on Saturday, medics said, after Israeli air defence systems failed to intercept the projectiles.
The two direct hits tore open the fronts of residential buildings and carved craters into the ground.
First responders said 75 people were injured in the town of Arad, 10 of them seriously, hours after 33 were wounded in nearby Dimona.
Iranian state TV said the missile attack on Dimona, which houses a nuclear facility, was a “response” to an earlier strike on its own nuclear site at Natanz.
• March 22, 2026 03:32 Dozens injured in Israel after Iranian missile strikes target areas near nuclear research centreDozens of people have been injured in Israel after Iranian missile strikes targeted two areas near the country’s main nuclear research centre.The Israeli military said its defences were not able to intercept the missiles that hit the southern cities of Dimona and Arad. Several people were in serious condition.-AP
Dozens of people have been injured in Israel after Iranian missile strikes targeted two areas near the country’s main nuclear research centre.
The Israeli military said its defences were not able to intercept the missiles that hit the southern cities of Dimona and Arad. Several people were in serious condition.
• March 22, 2026 02:03 Saudi Arabia orders Iranian military attache, four embassy staff to leaveSaudi Arabia has ordered Iran’s military attache and four other embassy staff to leave the kingdom within 24 hours after declaring them persona non grata, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said on Saturday in a statement, citing what it described as continued Iranian attacks against Saudi territory. -Reuters
Saudi Arabia has ordered Iran’s military attache and four other embassy staff to leave the kingdom within 24 hours after declaring them persona non grata, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said on Saturday in a statement, citing what it described as continued Iranian attacks against Saudi territory.
-Reuters
• March 22, 2026 02:01 Saudi Arabia orders Iran military attache to leave country
• March 22, 2026 01:23 Iran 'unsuccessfully' targeted Diego Garcia baseIran was “unsuccessful” in targeting the joint U.K.-U.S. Indian Ocean military base at Diego Garcia, a U.K. official source told AFP on Saturday, as Israel’s army chief said Tehran fired an “intercontinental ballistic missile” at the base.Diego Garcia, which is around 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometres) from Iranian territory, is one of two bases the U.K. has allowed the United States to use for “defensive operations” in its war against Iran.On Friday, the U.K. government said it would allow Washington to use its bases in Diego Garcia and Fairford in southwest England to target Iranian “missile sites and capabilities being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz”.The U.K. official source confirmed that Iran’s “unsuccessful targeting of Diego Garcia” took place before Friday’s announcement.The source did not confirm additional details about the attack. -AFP
Iran was “unsuccessful” in targeting the joint U.K.-U.S. Indian Ocean military base at Diego Garcia, a U.K. official source told AFP on Saturday, as Israel’s army chief said Tehran fired an “intercontinental ballistic missile” at the base.
Diego Garcia, which is around 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometres) from Iranian territory, is one of two bases the U.K. has allowed the United States to use for “defensive operations” in its war against Iran.
On Friday, the U.K. government said it would allow Washington to use its bases in Diego Garcia and Fairford in southwest England to target Iranian “missile sites and capabilities being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz”.
The U.K. official source confirmed that Iran’s “unsuccessful targeting of Diego Garcia” took place before Friday’s announcement.
The source did not confirm additional details about the attack.
• March 22, 2026 00:47 G7 ready to act to protect global energy supplies, backs Hormuz Strait securityThe Foreign Ministers of the Group of Seven countries said on Saturday they stood ready to take necessary measures to support global energy supplies and reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes, including in the Strait of Hormuz.“We ... express support to our partners in the region in the face of the unjustifiable attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies,” the Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the top EU diplomat, said in a statement.“We condemn in the strongest terms the regime’s reckless attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure,” they said. -Reuters
The Foreign Ministers of the Group of Seven countries said on Saturday they stood ready to take necessary measures to support global energy supplies and reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes, including in the Strait of Hormuz.
“We ... express support to our partners in the region in the face of the unjustifiable attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies,” the Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the top EU diplomat, said in a statement.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the regime’s reckless attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure,” they said.
-Reuters
• March 22, 2026 00:46 Iran state TV says attack on Israel town a 'response' to strike on nuclear siteIranian state TV said a missile attack on the Israeli town of Dimona, home to a nuclear facility, was a “response” to an earlier strike on its own nuclear site at Natanz.Iran’s atomic energy organisation had said earlier in the day that the “Natanz enrichment complex was targeted this morning”, though there was “no leakage of radioactive materials reported”, according to a statement carried by local media.The missile strike in Dimona wounded at least 39 people, according to Israeli emergency services. -AFP
Iranian state TV said a missile attack on the Israeli town of Dimona, home to a nuclear facility, was a “response” to an earlier strike on its own nuclear site at Natanz.
Iran’s atomic energy organisation had said earlier in the day that the “Natanz enrichment complex was targeted this morning”, though there was “no leakage of radioactive materials reported”, according to a statement carried by local media.
The missile strike in Dimona wounded at least 39 people, according to Israeli emergency services.
• March 22, 2026 00:25 Iran state TV says attack on Israel town a 'response' to strike on nuclear site
• March 22, 2026 00:24 UAE says faced drone, missile barrages after Iran warningThe United Arab Emirates said on Saturday it faced aerial attacks from Iran after the Islamic republic warned its neighbour against allowing attacks from its territory on disputed islands near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.“UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement explaining “the sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones”.The Tasnim news agency reported the Iranian military’s operational command had warned the UAE “if any further aggression originates from its territory against the Iranian islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb in the Persian Gulf, Iran... will subject Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE to heavy strikes”. -AFP
The United Arab Emirates said on Saturday it faced aerial attacks from Iran after the Islamic republic warned its neighbour against allowing attacks from its territory on disputed islands near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
“UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement explaining “the sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones”.
The Tasnim news agency reported the Iranian military’s operational command had warned the UAE “if any further aggression originates from its territory against the Iranian islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb in the Persian Gulf, Iran... will subject Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE to heavy strikes”.
• March 21, 2026 23:25 Iran targets British-U.S. base and its main nuclear enrichment site is struck againIran targeted a joint U.K.-U.S. base in the Indian Ocean, and Iran’s main nuclear enrichment site was struck again, as the war in the Middle East entered its fourth week.Iran’s attack on the Diego Garcia air base — about 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometres) away — suggested Tehran has missiles that can go farther than it had previously acknowledged, or that it had used its space programme for an improvised launch. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said attacks would “increase significantly” next week. He spoke shortly after fragments from an Iranian missile slammed into an empty kindergarten near Tel Aviv.The war shows no sign of abating as its effects are felt far beyond the Middle East, raising food and fuel prices. -AP
Iran targeted a joint U.K.-U.S. base in the Indian Ocean, and Iran’s main nuclear enrichment site was struck again, as the war in the Middle East entered its fourth week.
Iran’s attack on the Diego Garcia air base — about 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometres) away — suggested Tehran has missiles that can go farther than it had previously acknowledged, or that it had used its space programme for an improvised launch.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said attacks would “increase significantly” next week. He spoke shortly after fragments from an Iranian missile slammed into an empty kindergarten near Tel Aviv.
The war shows no sign of abating as its effects are felt far beyond the Middle East, raising food and fuel prices.
• March 21, 2026 23:00 U.S.-Israeli strikes hit passenger terminal in Iran's Bushehr port, empty passenger ship at Kharg Island: state media
• March 21, 2026 22:17 U.K. says its bases on Cyprus will not be used in offensive operations: Cypriot spokespersonBritain will not be using its bases in Cyprus for any offensive action in the Iran crisis, the Cypriot government spokesperson said on Saturday (March 21, 2026), citing a phone call between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides.“The British Prime Minister reiterated ... that the security of the Republic of Cyprus is fundamental to the United Kingdom and, to that end, a decision has been taken to enhance the means contributing to the preventive measures already in place,” the spokesperson said in a written statement.“Finally, the Prime Minister reiterated that the British Bases in Cyprus will not be used for any offensive military operations.”An Iranian-type Shahed drone caused slight damage when it hit facilities at Britain’s Akrotiri airbase in southern Cyprus on March 2, with two others later intercepted. There have been no further known security incidents.Reuters
Britain will not be using its bases in Cyprus for any offensive action in the Iran crisis, the Cypriot government spokesperson said on Saturday (March 21, 2026), citing a phone call between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides.
“The British Prime Minister reiterated ... that the security of the Republic of Cyprus is fundamental to the United Kingdom and, to that end, a decision has been taken to enhance the means contributing to the preventive measures already in place,” the spokesperson said in a written statement.
“Finally, the Prime Minister reiterated that the British Bases in Cyprus will not be used for any offensive military operations.”
An Iranian-type Shahed drone caused slight damage when it hit facilities at Britain’s Akrotiri airbase in southern Cyprus on March 2, with two others later intercepted. There have been no further known security incidents.
• March 21, 2026 22:15 Bangladesh rushes to secure $2 billion loan amid energy crisisBangladesh is pushing to secure loans of around $2 billion from multilateral agencies for tackling energy security concerns amid soaring global fuel prices driven by the West Asia war.The government has already taken several measures to curb fuel consumption, including halting production at most fertiliser factories.The government has now adopted a three-pronged approach to ensure sustainable energy supply, the prime minister’s finance and planning adviser Rashed Al Titumir said on Saturday (March 21, 2026).Bangladesh rushes to secure $2 billion loan amid energy crisisBangladesh seeks $2 billion in loans to address energy security amid rising global fuel prices and ongoing crisis measures.
Bangladesh is pushing to secure loans of around $2 billion from multilateral agencies for tackling energy security concerns amid soaring global fuel prices driven by the West Asia war.
The government has already taken several measures to curb fuel consumption, including halting production at most fertiliser factories.
The government has now adopted a three-pronged approach to ensure sustainable energy supply, the prime minister’s finance and planning adviser Rashed Al Titumir said on Saturday (March 21, 2026).
Bangladesh rushes to secure $2 billion loan amid energy crisis
Bangladesh seeks $2 billion in loans to address energy security amid rising global fuel prices and ongoing crisis measures.
• March 21, 2026 21:33 Bahrain cites Patriot interception in March 9 Iranian drone incidentA Patriot air defence system was involved in the interception of an Iranian drone over a residential area of Bahrain on March 9, Bahrain’s government said on Saturday (March 21, 2026), an incident that the U.S. military had characterised as a direct Iranian drone strike.At the time, Bahrain said 32 civilians had been injured, including children who required medical treatment, and the U.S. military said an Iranian drone had struck a residential neighbourhood.On Saturday (March 21, 2026), a government spokesperson said the kingdom had been subjected to multiple Iranian drone attacks that day, and that the interception over the Sitra district had prevented a drone strike and saved lives.“During this incident, the Patriot air defence system intercepted an Iranian drone aerially,” they said.Reuters
A Patriot air defence system was involved in the interception of an Iranian drone over a residential area of Bahrain on March 9, Bahrain’s government said on Saturday (March 21, 2026), an incident that the U.S. military had characterised as a direct Iranian drone strike.
At the time, Bahrain said 32 civilians had been injured, including children who required medical treatment, and the U.S. military said an Iranian drone had struck a residential neighbourhood.
On Saturday (March 21, 2026), a government spokesperson said the kingdom had been subjected to multiple Iranian drone attacks that day, and that the interception over the Sitra district had prevented a drone strike and saved lives.
“During this incident, the Patriot air defence system intercepted an Iranian drone aerially,” they said.
• March 21, 2026 21:04 Iran says ready to help Japan ships through Strait of Hormuz Tehran is willing to help Japanese ships transit the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for global oil supplies, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Kyodo News in an interview published on Saturday (March 21, 2026).In a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday (March 20, 2026), Mr. Araghchi denied the passage was closed, insisting instead that countries attacking Iran face restrictions, while others were being offered assistance.“We have not closed this strait. From our perspective, the strait is open,” Mr. Araghchi said according to a Farsi transcript of the interview posted on his Telegram channel.“It is only closed to ships belonging to our enemies -- countries that attack us. For other countries, (their) vessels can pass through the strait.”He added that Iran was prepared to ensure safe passage for Japan. “They only need to contact us so we can discuss how this transit can take place,” Mr. Araghchi added.AFP
Tehran is willing to help Japanese ships transit the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for global oil supplies, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Kyodo News in an interview published on Saturday (March 21, 2026).
In a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday (March 20, 2026), Mr. Araghchi denied the passage was closed, insisting instead that countries attacking Iran face restrictions, while others were being offered assistance.
“We have not closed this strait. From our perspective, the strait is open,” Mr. Araghchi said according to a Farsi transcript of the interview posted on his Telegram channel.
“It is only closed to ships belonging to our enemies -- countries that attack us. For other countries, (their) vessels can pass through the strait.”
He added that Iran was prepared to ensure safe passage for Japan. “They only need to contact us so we can discuss how this transit can take place,” Mr. Araghchi added.
• March 21, 2026 20:59 Iran state-linked hospital ordered shut in Dubai: reportThe United Arab Emirates has ordered the closure of an Iranian state-linked hospital in Dubai, three employees at the facility told AFP, as ties between the two neighbours deteriorate amid Tehran’s aerial campaign against Gulf states.Since the United States and Israel began striking Iran on February 28, Tehran has launched waves of missiles and drones at Gulf states, with more than 2,000 attacks on the UAE alone.The strikes have strained ties between the countries, prompting Abu Dhabi to recall its ambassador to Iran and close its diplomatic mission.Iran-linked entities, including schools, have been shut despite longstanding economic and community links.The Iranian hospital, which employs more than 700 people, is run by the Iranian Red Crescent Society. It is one of the oldest healthcare facilities in the UAE.AFP
The United Arab Emirates has ordered the closure of an Iranian state-linked hospital in Dubai, three employees at the facility told AFP, as ties between the two neighbours deteriorate amid Tehran’s aerial campaign against Gulf states.
Since the United States and Israel began striking Iran on February 28, Tehran has launched waves of missiles and drones at Gulf states, with more than 2,000 attacks on the UAE alone.
The strikes have strained ties between the countries, prompting Abu Dhabi to recall its ambassador to Iran and close its diplomatic mission.
Iran-linked entities, including schools, have been shut despite longstanding economic and community links.
The Iranian hospital, which employs more than 700 people, is run by the Iranian Red Crescent Society. It is one of the oldest healthcare facilities in the UAE.
• March 21, 2026 20:42 'Iran did not initiate the war,' President Pezeshkian tells PM Modi in talksThe Iranian Embassy in India on Saturday evening (March 21, 2026) provided details of the conversation between Iran’s President President Masoud Pezeshkian and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the West Asia conflict.“Dr. President, outlining the dimensions of the aggression, unlawful attacks, and crimes committed by the U. S and the Zionist regime, emphasized that Iran did not initiate the war. He stated that the aggressor, without any justification, logic, or legal basis, launched military attacks against Iran during ongoing nuclear negotiations, resulting in the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, senior military commanders, and a number of defenceless civilians, including innocent schoolchildren, as well as targeting public infrastructure,” the Embassy said in a post on X.Referring to India’s rotating presidency of BRICS, Mr. Pezeshkian also called for the group to play an independent role in halting aggressions against Iran and in safeguarding regional and international peace and stability.“President also proposed the establishment of a regional security framework composed of countries of West Asia, aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region through regional cooperation without foreign interference,” the Embassy added.
The Iranian Embassy in India on Saturday evening (March 21, 2026) provided details of the conversation between Iran’s President President Masoud Pezeshkian and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the West Asia conflict.
“Dr. President, outlining the dimensions of the aggression, unlawful attacks, and crimes committed by the U. S and the Zionist regime, emphasized that Iran did not initiate the war. He stated that the aggressor, without any justification, logic, or legal basis, launched military attacks against Iran during ongoing nuclear negotiations, resulting in the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, senior military commanders, and a number of defenceless civilians, including innocent schoolchildren, as well as targeting public infrastructure,” the Embassy said in a post on X.
Referring to India’s rotating presidency of BRICS, Mr. Pezeshkian also called for the group to play an independent role in halting aggressions against Iran and in safeguarding regional and international peace and stability.
“President also proposed the establishment of a regional security framework composed of countries of West Asia, aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region through regional cooperation without foreign interference,” the Embassy added.
• March 21, 2026 20:34 Jaishankar speaks to Iranian FM Araghchi; discusses implications of West Asia conflict 'for larger region'External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said he spoke to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the latest developments in the escalating West Asia conflict and the “implications for the larger region”.Mr. Jaishankar also conveyed Id and Nowruz greetings, he said in a post on X.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said he spoke to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the latest developments in the escalating West Asia conflict and the “implications for the larger region”.
Mr. Jaishankar also conveyed Id and Nowruz greetings, he said in a post on X.
• March 21, 2026 20:21 Safety of Indians living in UAE is a 'priority': EnvoyThe UAE has assured India that the safety of Indians living in the Gulf country is its “priority”, stressing that they are protected and treated like family, especially amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia which has seen the emirate facing attacks from Iran.UAE Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Alshaali also hailed India’s move to co-sponsor a UN resolution that condemned Iran’s attacks against Gulf countries, saying it was a statement of principle from a country that the UAE considers a strategic partner and friend, at a moment when it mattered most.The UAE will remember that India was among those “who stood with us first”, he said.Safety of Indians living in UAE is a 'priority': EnvoyUAE assures India that the safety of its citizens is a top priority amid ongoing regional conflicts and tensions.
The UAE has assured India that the safety of Indians living in the Gulf country is its “priority”, stressing that they are protected and treated like family, especially amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia which has seen the emirate facing attacks from Iran.
UAE Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Alshaali also hailed India’s move to co-sponsor a UN resolution that condemned Iran’s attacks against Gulf countries, saying it was a statement of principle from a country that the UAE considers a strategic partner and friend, at a moment when it mattered most.
The UAE will remember that India was among those “who stood with us first”, he said.
Safety of Indians living in UAE is a 'priority': Envoy
UAE assures India that the safety of its citizens is a top priority amid ongoing regional conflicts and tensions.
• March 21, 2026 20:02 West Asia crisis must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy: Rajnath SinghThe ongoing war in West Asia is a matter of concern not only for India, but for the entire world and it must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday (March 21, 2026).India has clearly stated its position, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that war will not bring a solution, he said while speaking at an event in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani.“The constant attacks in West Asia are a matter of concern not only for India but for the entire world,” he said, adding: “If a solution is to be found, it will come through dialogue and diplomacy.” “When the world is facing conflict, no country can remain unaffected. India may also be affected, but to date, our prime minister, through his ability and wisdom has kept India from falling into a difficult situation,” Singh said in Hindi.PTI
The ongoing war in West Asia is a matter of concern not only for India, but for the entire world and it must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday (March 21, 2026).
India has clearly stated its position, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that war will not bring a solution, he said while speaking at an event in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani.
“The constant attacks in West Asia are a matter of concern not only for India but for the entire world,” he said, adding: “If a solution is to be found, it will come through dialogue and diplomacy.” “When the world is facing conflict, no country can remain unaffected. India may also be affected, but to date, our prime minister, through his ability and wisdom has kept India from falling into a difficult situation,” Singh said in Hindi.
• March 21, 2026 19:52 IRGC say targeted Israeli F-16 jet over central Iran Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Saturday (March 21, 2026) they had targeted an Israeli F-16 fighter jet over the country’s centre.“An F-16 hostile enemy fighter jet belonging to the Zionist regime was struck at 3:45 am in central Iran,” the Guards said on their Sepah News website.The Israeli military earlier said a surface-to-air missile had been launched at an Israeli aircraft during “an operational activity” in Iran, without specifying the type of jet. It added that “no damage was caused to the aircraft”.It was not immediately clear if the Iranian and Israeli statements referred to the same incident.AFP
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Saturday (March 21, 2026) they had targeted an Israeli F-16 fighter jet over the country’s centre.
“An F-16 hostile enemy fighter jet belonging to the Zionist regime was struck at 3:45 am in central Iran,” the Guards said on their Sepah News website.
The Israeli military earlier said a surface-to-air missile had been launched at an Israeli aircraft during “an operational activity” in Iran, without specifying the type of jet. It added that “no damage was caused to the aircraft”.
It was not immediately clear if the Iranian and Israeli statements referred to the same incident.
• March 21, 2026 19:50 Air India CEO warns of travel demand hit as fuel costs surge, flags possible flight cutsAir India CEO Campbell Wilson warned airline employees of a possible travel demand squeeze due to the rising cost of aviation turbine fuel and urged for “tighter-than-ever” control on all non-essential spending.He also cautioned that, depending on how the situation evolves, the airline may have to trim capacity,Air India CEO warns of travel demand hit as fuel costs surge, flags possible flight cutsAir India CEO warns of potential flight cuts and reduced travel demand due to rising fuel costs amid ongoing Gulf conflict.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson warned airline employees of a possible travel demand squeeze due to the rising cost of aviation turbine fuel and urged for “tighter-than-ever” control on all non-essential spending.
He also cautioned that, depending on how the situation evolves, the airline may have to trim capacity,
Air India CEO warns of travel demand hit as fuel costs surge, flags possible flight cuts
Air India CEO warns of potential flight cuts and reduced travel demand due to rising fuel costs amid ongoing Gulf conflict.
• March 21, 2026 19:21 Over 20 countries want to contribute to efforts for safe passage in Strait of HormuzMore than 20 countries on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said they would contribute to efforts ensuring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, condemning Iran’s closure of the vital waterway.“We condemn in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces,” said the 22 countries, mostly European but also including the UAE and Bahrain.“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait. We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning,” they said in a joint statement.AFP
More than 20 countries on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said they would contribute to efforts ensuring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, condemning Iran’s closure of the vital waterway.
“We condemn in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces,” said the 22 countries, mostly European but also including the UAE and Bahrain.
“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait. We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning,” they said in a joint statement.
• March 21, 2026 19:04 U.S. military says Tehran's threat to Strait of Hormuz 'degraded'The U.S. military said on Saturday (March 21, 2026) that Iran’s ability to threaten the Strait of Hormuz has been “degraded” by the bombing this week of an underground facility where it stored cruise missiles and other weaponry. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command said in video message posted on X, said over 8,000 Iranian military targets and over 130 vessels have been struck since the start of ‘Operation Epic Fury’. He urged troops in West Asia to be “relentlessly lethal” as they have the “momentum”.
The U.S. military said on Saturday (March 21, 2026) that Iran’s ability to threaten the Strait of Hormuz has been “degraded” by the bombing this week of an underground facility where it stored cruise missiles and other weaponry. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command said in video message posted on X, said over 8,000 Iranian military targets and over 130 vessels have been struck since the start of ‘Operation Epic Fury’.
He urged troops in West Asia to be “relentlessly lethal” as they have the “momentum”.
• March 21, 2026 18:23 'Blatant violation of international law': Russia condemns attack on Iran's Natanz facilityThe Russian Foreign Ministry condemned an attack on Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility that occurred on Saturday (March 21, 2026).“This is a blatant violation of international law,” the ministry’s spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement. Reuters
The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned an attack on Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility that occurred on Saturday (March 21, 2026).
“This is a blatant violation of international law,” the ministry’s spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement.
• March 21, 2026 18:16 Israeli military says 'unaware' of attack on Natanz nuclear facilityThe Israeli military on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said that it was “unaware” of any attack on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility. The statement, reported by Reuters, comes shortly after Iran said its Natanz nuclear facility was hit in an airstrike. However, there has been no radiation leakage.Reuters
The Israeli military on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said that it was “unaware” of any attack on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility. The statement, reported by Reuters, comes shortly after Iran said its Natanz nuclear facility was hit in an airstrike. However, there has been no radiation leakage.
• March 21, 2026 18:14 Iranian gas resumes after South Pars attack, Iraq saysIranian gas supplies to Iraq have resumed at a rate of five million cubic metres per day, the Iraqi electricity ministry said on Saturday (March 21, 2026), according to the state news agency.Flows had been halted after Israel attacked Iran’s main gas field, South Pars, on Wednesday (March 18, 2026).AFP
Iranian gas supplies to Iraq have resumed at a rate of five million cubic metres per day, the Iraqi electricity ministry said on Saturday (March 21, 2026), according to the state news agency.
Flows had been halted after Israel attacked Iran’s main gas field, South Pars, on Wednesday (March 18, 2026).
• March 21, 2026 17:48 Britain condemns 'reckless attacks' after Iran fires missiles at U.K.-U.S. base in Diego GarciaBritain has condemned “Iran’s reckless attacks” after its military fired missiles at the U.K.-U.S. air base on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.U.K. officials have not given details of the attempted strike, which was unsuccessful. It’s unclear how close the missiles came to the base, which is about 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometres) from Iran.The Ministry of Defence said on Saturday (March 21, 2026) that Iran’s “lashing out across the region and holding hostage the Strait of Hormuz, are a threat to British interests and British allies.” Britain has not participated in U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, but has allowed American bombers to use U.K. bases to attack Iran’s missile sites.AP
Britain has condemned “Iran’s reckless attacks” after its military fired missiles at the U.K.-U.S. air base on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.
U.K. officials have not given details of the attempted strike, which was unsuccessful. It’s unclear how close the missiles came to the base, which is about 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometres) from Iran.
The Ministry of Defence said on Saturday (March 21, 2026) that Iran’s “lashing out across the region and holding hostage the Strait of Hormuz, are a threat to British interests and British allies.” Britain has not participated in U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, but has allowed American bombers to use U.K. bases to attack Iran’s missile sites.
• March 21, 2026 17:43 Iran 'unsuccessfully' targeted Diego Garcia base: U.K. official source to AFPIran was “unsuccessful” in targeting the joint U.K.-U.S. Indian Ocean military base at Diego Garcia, a U.K. official source confirmed to AFP on Saturday (March 21, 2026), after the Wall Street Journal reported Tehran fired two ballistic missiles at it.The source said the “unsuccessful targeting of Diego Garcia” took place before the UK government announced on Friday (March 20, 2026) that it would allow the United States to use some of its bases to target Iranian sites being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.AFP
Iran was “unsuccessful” in targeting the joint U.K.-U.S. Indian Ocean military base at Diego Garcia, a U.K. official source confirmed to AFP on Saturday (March 21, 2026), after the Wall Street Journal reported Tehran fired two ballistic missiles at it.
The source said the “unsuccessful targeting of Diego Garcia” took place before the UK government announced on Friday (March 20, 2026) that it would allow the United States to use some of its bases to target Iranian sites being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
• March 21, 2026 17:37 90 flights expected to operate from the UAE on March 21: Govt.The government statement on Saturday (March 21, 2026) also said that about 90 flights are expected to operate from the UAE today. Flights are also continuing from Saudi Arabia and Oman, while Qatar is operating 8–10 non-scheduled flights with partial reopening of its airspace.
The government statement on Saturday (March 21, 2026) also said that about 90 flights are expected to operate from the UAE today.
Flights are also continuing from Saudi Arabia and Oman, while Qatar is operating 8–10 non-scheduled flights with partial reopening of its airspace.
• March 21, 2026 17:37 Around 3.3 lakh passengers have returned to India from West Asia since Feb. 28The government said that around 3.3 lakh passengers have returned to India from West Asia since the start of the conflict on February 28.In separate incidents, six Indian nationals have lost their lives and one remains missing.
The government said that around 3.3 lakh passengers have returned to India from West Asia since the start of the conflict on February 28.
In separate incidents, six Indian nationals have lost their lives and one remains missing.
• March 21, 2026 17:26 22 Indian-flagged vessels remain stranded in the western Persian Gulf region: Govt. The government on Saturday (March 21, 2026) confirmed that a total of 22 Indian-flagged vessels with 611 Indian seafarers remain stranded in the western Persian Gulf region (west of the Strait of Hormuz) at the moment. Over 534 Indian sailors have been safely repatriated so far, including 21 in the last 24 hours, the statement said. In separate incidents, six Indian nationals have lost their lives and one remains missing.Saptaparno Ghosh
The government on Saturday (March 21, 2026) confirmed that a total of 22 Indian-flagged vessels with 611 Indian seafarers remain stranded in the western Persian Gulf region (west of the Strait of Hormuz) at the moment. Over 534 Indian sailors have been safely repatriated so far, including 21 in the last 24 hours, the statement said. In separate incidents, six Indian nationals have lost their lives and one remains missing.
Saptaparno Ghosh
• March 21, 2026 17:25 Govt. allows additional 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States and UTsAmid the escalating West Asia situation, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said it has allowed for a further 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States and UTs. This would now take the cumulative allocation of commercial LPG to 50%, inclusive of the 10% allocation announced earlier based on spurring transition and expansion of piped natural gas. The additional 20% would be given on priority to sectors such as hotels, food processing/dairy, subsidised canteens/outlets run by State governments or local bodies, the statement said.Saptaparno Ghosh
Amid the escalating West Asia situation, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said it has allowed for a further 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States and UTs. This would now take the cumulative allocation of commercial LPG to 50%, inclusive of the 10% allocation announced earlier based on spurring transition and expansion of piped natural gas. The additional 20% would be given on priority to sectors such as hotels, food processing/dairy, subsidised canteens/outlets run by State governments or local bodies, the statement said.
Saptaparno Ghosh
• March 21, 2026 16:53 In talks with Iran President, PM Modi stresses on ensuring shipping lanes 'open and secure'In his telephonic conversation with the Iranian President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure.This was the second telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Modi and the Iranian President since the present conflict started on February 28.On March 12, President Pezeshkian briefed Prime Minister Modi on the current situation in Iran and shared his perspective on recent developments in the region.PTI
In his telephonic conversation with the Iranian President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure.
This was the second telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Modi and the Iranian President since the present conflict started on February 28.
On March 12, President Pezeshkian briefed Prime Minister Modi on the current situation in Iran and shared his perspective on recent developments in the region.
• March 21, 2026 16:41 In Focus podcast | Under what conditions would Iran agree to a ceasefire?Tune into the latest episode of In Focus where Mehdi Razmahang - Assistant Professor with the Parliamentary Research Center of Iran - helps us understand the conflict at the level of the people, the situation, the mood, and the thinking within Iran – as it endures daily, and unrelenting, attacks on civilians, civilian infrastructure, and political assassinations. In Focus podcast | West Asia conflict: Under what conditions would Iran agree to a ceasefire?In this episode, Mehdi Razmahang speaks to us about life inside Iran as the war intensifies and what it means for the region.
Tune into the latest episode of In Focus where Mehdi Razmahang - Assistant Professor with the Parliamentary Research Center of Iran - helps us understand the conflict at the level of the people, the situation, the mood, and the thinking within Iran – as it endures daily, and unrelenting, attacks on civilians, civilian infrastructure, and political assassinations.
In Focus podcast | West Asia conflict: Under what conditions would Iran agree to a ceasefire?
In this episode, Mehdi Razmahang speaks to us about life inside Iran as the war intensifies and what it means for the region.
• March 21, 2026 16:38 PM Modi speaks to Iranian President, condemns attacks on critical infrastructure in West Asia Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (March 21, 2026) spoke to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian over the phone and condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in West Asia. Extending Id and Nowruz greetings, the prime minister also appreciated Iran’s continued support to the safety and security of Indian nationals in the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (March 21, 2026) spoke to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian over the phone and condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in West Asia. Extending Id and Nowruz greetings, the prime minister also appreciated Iran’s continued support to the safety and security of Indian nationals in the country.
• March 21, 2026 16:15 IAEA calls for ‘military restraint’ after attack on Natanz nuclear siteThe UN atomic watchdog on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said it was looking into a report by Iran that the Natanz nuclear site was attacked in the war with the United States and Israel.International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi repeated a “call for military restraint to avoid any risk of a nuclear accident”, the agency posted on X.“The IAEA has been informed by Iran that the Natanz nuclear site was attacked today. No increase in off-site radiation levels reported,” it added. -- AFP
The UN atomic watchdog on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said it was looking into a report by Iran that the Natanz nuclear site was attacked in the war with the United States and Israel.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi repeated a “call for military restraint to avoid any risk of a nuclear accident”, the agency posted on X.
“The IAEA has been informed by Iran that the Natanz nuclear site was attacked today. No increase in off-site radiation levels reported,” it added. -- AFP
• March 21, 2026 16:13 Israel Defence Minister warns strikes on Iran to increase ‘significantly’Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that the United States and Israel would intensify their strikes on Iran in the coming week starting Sunday (March 22, 2026).“This week, the intensity of the strikes to be carried out by the IDF and the U.S. military against the Iranian terror regime and the infrastructure on which it relies will rise significantly,” Mr Katz said in a statement issued by the Defence Ministry on Saturday (March 21, 2026). -- AFP
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that the United States and Israel would intensify their strikes on Iran in the coming week starting Sunday (March 22, 2026).
“This week, the intensity of the strikes to be carried out by the IDF and the U.S. military against the Iranian terror regime and the infrastructure on which it relies will rise significantly,” Mr Katz said in a statement issued by the Defence Ministry on Saturday (March 21, 2026). -- AFP
• March 21, 2026 15:34 British PM Starmer calls meeting on Iran war’s cost‑of‑living impactBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer will next week convene an emergency meeting of senior ministers and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey to discuss plans to help households with the soaring cost of living caused by the war in Iran, the Times reported on Saturday (March 21, 2026).A spokesperson for Mr. Starmer’s office and one for the Bank of England declined to comment on the report. Mr. Starmer is under pressure to assist U.K. consumers after the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran drove up petrol, energy and mortgage costs.On Monday, he promised to support “working people” with cost-of-living pressures worsened by the conflict. As a start the government said it will provide a 53-million-pound ($70 million) package to help the most vulnerable households cope with the rising cost of heating oil. -- Reuters
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will next week convene an emergency meeting of senior ministers and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey to discuss plans to help households with the soaring cost of living caused by the war in Iran, the Times reported on Saturday (March 21, 2026).
A spokesperson for Mr. Starmer’s office and one for the Bank of England declined to comment on the report. Mr. Starmer is under pressure to assist U.K. consumers after the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran drove up petrol, energy and mortgage costs.
On Monday, he promised to support “working people” with cost-of-living pressures worsened by the conflict. As a start the government said it will provide a 53-million-pound ($70 million) package to help the most vulnerable households cope with the rising cost of heating oil. -- Reuters
• March 21, 2026 15:28 Iran targets fuel tanks, refuelling aircraft at Ben Gurion AirportIranian Army said it targeted fuel tanks and refuelling aircraft at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport with drones, says Iranian state media. -- Reuters
Iranian Army said it targeted fuel tanks and refuelling aircraft at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport with drones, says Iranian state media. -- Reuters
• March 21, 2026 15:13 Drone strike kills officer near Iraqi intelligence headquarters in BaghdadAn Iraqi officer was killed on Saturday (March 21, 2026) in a drone attack targeting an Iraqi intelligence services building in a residential Baghdad neighbourhood, the agency said.“An officer was martyred,” Iraqi intelligence said in a statement condemning “a terrorist attack carried out by rogue elements”. A security official and an Iraqi emergency services source reported that another officer was injured. -- AFP
An Iraqi officer was killed on Saturday (March 21, 2026) in a drone attack targeting an Iraqi intelligence services building in a residential Baghdad neighbourhood, the agency said.
“An officer was martyred,” Iraqi intelligence said in a statement condemning “a terrorist attack carried out by rogue elements”. A security official and an Iraqi emergency services source reported that another officer was injured. -- AFP
• March 21, 2026 14:51 Modi govt's failure to condemn attacks on Iran shows moral cowardice of civilisational values: Congress The Congress on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said the Modi government’s failure to condemn the US-Israel aerial assault on Iran and “force a brutal regime change” there reflected the “moral cowardice” and “political betrayal” of India’s civilisational values.Modi govt's failure to condemn attacks on Iran shows moral cowardice of civilisational values: CongressCongress criticizes Modi government's inaction on US-Israel attacks on Iran, calling it a betrayal of India's civilizational values.
The Congress on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said the Modi government’s failure to condemn the US-Israel aerial assault on Iran and “force a brutal regime change” there reflected the “moral cowardice” and “political betrayal” of India’s civilisational values.
Modi govt's failure to condemn attacks on Iran shows moral cowardice of civilisational values: Congress
Congress criticizes Modi government's inaction on US-Israel attacks on Iran, calling it a betrayal of India's civilizational values.
• March 21, 2026 14:50 U.S., Israel attack Iran's Natanz nuclear facility: Iran atomic energy organisationThe United States and Israel struck Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility on Saturday (March 21, 2026), the Islamic republic’s atomic energy organisation said.“Following the criminal attacks by the United States and the usurping Zionist regime against our country, the... Natanz enrichment complex was targeted this morning,” the organisation said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency.It added that there was “no leakage of radioactive materials reported” in the area in central IranNatanz, Iran’s main enrichment site, was hit in the first week of the war and several buildings appeared damaged, according to satellite images. The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog said that “no radiological consequence” was expected from that earlier strike.The nuclear facility, located nearly 220 kilometers southeast of Tehran, had been targeted by Israeli airstrikes in the 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June 2025, and by the United States. -- Agencies
The United States and Israel struck Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility on Saturday (March 21, 2026), the Islamic republic’s atomic energy organisation said.
“Following the criminal attacks by the United States and the usurping Zionist regime against our country, the... Natanz enrichment complex was targeted this morning,” the organisation said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency.
It added that there was “no leakage of radioactive materials reported” in the area in central Iran
Natanz, Iran’s main enrichment site, was hit in the first week of the war and several buildings appeared damaged, according to satellite images. The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog said that “no radiological consequence” was expected from that earlier strike.
The nuclear facility, located nearly 220 kilometers southeast of Tehran, had been targeted by Israeli airstrikes in the 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June 2025, and by the United States. -- Agencies
• March 21, 2026 14:15 Congress leader Salman Khurshid flags global impact of ongoing West Asia conflict Former External Affairs Minister and Congress Foreign Affairs Department President Salman Khurshid on Saturday (March 21) expressed concern over the ongoing West Asia conflict, saying that the prolonged nature of the war suggests it has become evenly matched and could have far-reaching global consequences.“So, it’s very important for us to understand the consequences of the attacks on the entire. The U.S. and Iran must be thinking about it, and other countries in the world are also thinking about it.- ANI
Former External Affairs Minister and Congress Foreign Affairs Department President Salman Khurshid on Saturday (March 21) expressed concern over the ongoing West Asia conflict, saying that the prolonged nature of the war suggests it has become evenly matched and could have far-reaching global consequences.
“So, it’s very important for us to understand the consequences of the attacks on the entire. The U.S. and Iran must be thinking about it, and other countries in the world are also thinking about it.
• March 21, 2026 13:59 Drone attack in residential Baghdad neighbourhood: security source An upscale Baghdad neighbourhood came under drone attack Saturday (March 21) morning, a security official told AFP, with one drone targeting an Iraqi security service building.The drone “carried out the attack on a communications building”, the official said, adding that the building houses an Iraqi security agency that works with U.S. advisors in Iraq, part of an international anti-jihadist coalition.Another drone, filming the operation, crashed into a private members’ sports club popular with Iraqi elite and foreign diplomats, according to the same source.-AFP
An upscale Baghdad neighbourhood came under drone attack Saturday (March 21) morning, a security official told AFP, with one drone targeting an Iraqi security service building.
The drone “carried out the attack on a communications building”, the official said, adding that the building houses an Iraqi security agency that works with U.S. advisors in Iraq, part of an international anti-jihadist coalition.
Another drone, filming the operation, crashed into a private members’ sports club popular with Iraqi elite and foreign diplomats, according to the same source.
• March 21, 2026 13:21 Iranians hold Eid prayers as West Asia war ragesThousands of Muslims held Eid al-Fitr prayers in Iran on Saturday (March 21) to mark the end of the Ramadan fast against the backdrop of the West Asia war, state television footage showed.Iran, a majority-Shia nation, marked the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan a day after most other Muslim countries, which are mainly Sunni.At dawn, a crowd of worshippers gathered at central Tehran’s Imam Khomeini grand mosque, named after the founder of the Islamic Republic.- AFP
Thousands of Muslims held Eid al-Fitr prayers in Iran on Saturday (March 21) to mark the end of the Ramadan fast against the backdrop of the West Asia war, state television footage showed.
Iran, a majority-Shia nation, marked the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan a day after most other Muslim countries, which are mainly Sunni.
At dawn, a crowd of worshippers gathered at central Tehran’s Imam Khomeini grand mosque, named after the founder of the Islamic Republic.
• March 21, 2026 13:20 Bangladesh rushes to secure $2 billion loan amid energy crisisBangladesh is pushing to secure loans of around $2 billion from multilateral agencies for tackling energy security concerns amid soaring global fuel prices driven by the Mideast war.The government has already taken several measures to curb fuel consumption, including halting production at most fertiliser factories.The government has now adopted a three-pronged approach to ensure sustainable energy supply, the Prime Minister’s Finance and Planning Advisor Rashed Al Titumir said Saturday (March 21).- AFP
Bangladesh is pushing to secure loans of around $2 billion from multilateral agencies for tackling energy security concerns amid soaring global fuel prices driven by the Mideast war.
The government has already taken several measures to curb fuel consumption, including halting production at most fertiliser factories.
The government has now adopted a three-pronged approach to ensure sustainable energy supply, the Prime Minister’s Finance and Planning Advisor Rashed Al Titumir said Saturday (March 21).
• March 21, 2026 12:49 Russia stands by Iran: Putin tells TehranRussian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Iranian leaders on Nowruz and said Moscow remained a loyal friend and reliable partner to Tehran, the Kremlin said on Saturday (March 21). - Reuters
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Iranian leaders on Nowruz and said Moscow remained a loyal friend and reliable partner to Tehran, the Kremlin said on Saturday (March 21).
- •Reuters
• March 21, 2026 12:07 Iran military warns UAE over attacks on disputed Gulf islands Iran’s military warned the United Arab Emirates on Saturday (March 21) against allowing attacks from its territory on two disputed islands in the Gulf, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.“We warn the United Arab Emirates if any further aggression originates from its territory against the Iranian islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb in the Persian Gulf, Iran’s powerful armed forces will subject Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE to heavy strikes,” the military’s operational command Khatam Al-Anbiya said in a statement carried by Tasnim news agency.-AFP
Iran’s military warned the United Arab Emirates on Saturday (March 21) against allowing attacks from its territory on two disputed islands in the Gulf, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
“We warn the United Arab Emirates if any further aggression originates from its territory against the Iranian islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb in the Persian Gulf, Iran’s powerful armed forces will subject Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE to heavy strikes,” the military’s operational command Khatam Al-Anbiya said in a statement carried by Tasnim news agency.
• March 21, 2026 11:14 Refiners in India, elsewhere in Asia, look to buy Iranian oil after U.S. waives sanctions Indian refiners plan to resume buying Iranian oil while refiners elsewhere in Asia are examining such a move after Washington temporarily removed sanctions to alleviate an energy crunch caused by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, traders said on Saturday (March 21).Three Indian refining sources said they will buy Iranian oil and are awaiting government directions and clarity from Washington on details such as payment terms- ReutersRefiners in India, elsewhere in Asia look to buy Iranian oil after U.S. waives sanctionsIndian and Asian refiners eye Iranian oil purchases as U.S. waives sanctions amid energy crisis linked to the Iran-Israel war.
Indian refiners plan to resume buying Iranian oil while refiners elsewhere in Asia are examining such a move after Washington temporarily removed sanctions to alleviate an energy crunch caused by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, traders said on Saturday (March 21).
Three Indian refining sources said they will buy Iranian oil and are awaiting government directions and clarity from Washington on details such as payment terms
- •Reuters
Refiners in India, elsewhere in Asia look to buy Iranian oil after U.S. waives sanctions
Indian and Asian refiners eye Iranian oil purchases as U.S. waives sanctions amid energy crisis linked to the Iran-Israel war.
• March 21, 2026 11:11 EU member states urged to lower gas-storage targets due to Iran war, FT reports The European Commission has urged EU states to lower natural-gas storage targets and start refilling reserves gradually to curb demand, after the war in Iran disrupted key suppliers and triggered a surge in energy prices, the Financial Times reported on Saturday (March 21).EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen instructed member states to lower the filling target for their gas storage facilities to 80% of capacity, 10% points below the EU’s official targets, “as early as possible in the filling season to provide certainty and reassurance to market participants”, the newspaper said, citing a letter.- Reuters
The European Commission has urged EU states to lower natural-gas storage targets and start refilling reserves gradually to curb demand, after the war in Iran disrupted key suppliers and triggered a surge in energy prices, the Financial Times reported on Saturday (March 21).
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen instructed member states to lower the filling target for their gas storage facilities to 80% of capacity, 10% points below the EU’s official targets, “as early as possible in the filling season to provide certainty and reassurance to market participants”, the newspaper said, citing a letter.
- •Reuters
• March 21, 2026 10:59 A wave of executions is feared in Iran after three young men were hanged this weekAt least 27 people arrested during the protests face death sentences. War has not stopped Iran’s crackdown on dissent. Rights groups say theocracy has forced confessions from protesters.A 19-year-old star wrestler and two other young men were hanged in Iran this week, raising alarm among rights groups that a wave of executions may be underway as authorities facing relentless attacks from the U.S. and Israel seek to squelch public dissent.The three men are the first to be executed from among the tens of thousands who were arrested during a January crackdown on nationwide protests. Rights groups say more than 100 others could face death sentences.
At least 27 people arrested during the protests face death sentences. War has not stopped Iran’s crackdown on dissent. Rights groups say theocracy has forced confessions from protesters.
A 19-year-old star wrestler and two other young men were hanged in Iran this week, raising alarm among rights groups that a wave of executions may be underway as authorities facing relentless attacks from the U.S. and Israel seek to squelch public dissent.
The three men are the first to be executed from among the tens of thousands who were arrested during a January crackdown on nationwide protests. Rights groups say more than 100 others could face death sentences.
• March 21, 2026 10:32 Arab nations condemn Israeli strikes on Syria Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry condemned on Saturday (March 21) Israel’s strikes on Syrian army camps as “aggression”, joining other Arab nations and Turkiye in calling on the international community to intervene.Israel’s military said on Friday (March 21) it had struck southern Syria in response to what it called attacks against the Druze community in Sweida province.Israel had bombed Syria during a deadly bout of sectarian violence last year, saying it was acting to defend the minority group.Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli 'aggression' against SyriaSaudi Arabia condemns Israel's military strikes on Syria, urging international action against violations of sovereignty and international law.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry condemned on Saturday (March 21) Israel’s strikes on Syrian army camps as “aggression”, joining other Arab nations and Turkiye in calling on the international community to intervene.
Israel’s military said on Friday (March 21) it had struck southern Syria in response to what it called attacks against the Druze community in Sweida province.
Israel had bombed Syria during a deadly bout of sectarian violence last year, saying it was acting to defend the minority group.
Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli 'aggression' against Syria
Saudi Arabia condemns Israel's military strikes on Syria, urging international action against violations of sovereignty and international law.
• March 21, 2026 09:57 Israel strikes Hezbollah's civilian as well as military wings in an attempt to crush the group An Israeli strike on a health centre in southern Lebanon instantly killed 12 medical workers, seriously wounded one, and left four missing under the rubble for hours.The March 13 strike in the village of Burj Qalaouiyah, one of the deadliest strikes in Lebanon since the latest Israel-Hezbollah war began on March 2, targeted a centre run by Hezbollah’s health arm, the Islamic Health Society, which has so far lost 24 members over the past two weeks- AP
An Israeli strike on a health centre in southern Lebanon instantly killed 12 medical workers, seriously wounded one, and left four missing under the rubble for hours.
The March 13 strike in the village of Burj Qalaouiyah, one of the deadliest strikes in Lebanon since the latest Israel-Hezbollah war began on March 2, targeted a centre run by Hezbollah’s health arm, the Islamic Health Society, which has so far lost 24 members over the past two weeks
• March 21, 2026 09:25 Iran fired missiles at joint U.S.-U.K. base in Indian Ocean: reportIran recently fired two ballistic missiles toward the joint U.S.-U.K. military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday (March 20), citing U.S. officials.Neither missile hit the target, which is around 2,500 miles (4,000 Kilometre) from Iranian territory, but the launch suggests that Tehran has missiles with longer ranges than previously thought, the report said.Iran fired missiles at joint U.S.-U.K. base in Indian Ocean: reportIran launched missiles at a U.S.-U.K. base in the Indian Ocean, revealing longer missile ranges than previously known.- AFP
Iran recently fired two ballistic missiles toward the joint U.S.-U.K. military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday (March 20), citing U.S. officials.
Neither missile hit the target, which is around 2,500 miles (4,000 Kilometre) from Iranian territory, but the launch suggests that Tehran has missiles with longer ranges than previously thought, the report said.
Iran fired missiles at joint U.S.-U.K. base in Indian Ocean: report
Iran launched missiles at a U.S.-U.K. base in the Indian Ocean, revealing longer missile ranges than previously known.
• March 21, 2026 08:37 Iran and the politics of martyrdom Israel-U.S. strike on Iran: Iran and the politics of martyrdomExplore how U.S. and Israeli assassinations have transformed Iranian leaders into martyrs, reinforcing a culture of sacrifice and defiance.
Israel-U.S. strike on Iran: Iran and the politics of martyrdom
Explore how U.S. and Israeli assassinations have transformed Iranian leaders into martyrs, reinforcing a culture of sacrifice and defiance.
• March 21, 2026 08:35 India’s Iran stance does fuel a foreign policy debate India’s Iran stance does fuel a foreign policy debateIndia's Iran policy could be shaped by the evolving dynamics of the U.S.–Israel war
India’s Iran stance does fuel a foreign policy debate
India's Iran policy could be shaped by the evolving dynamics of the U.S.–Israel war
• March 21, 2026 08:33 Iran ready to let Japanese vessels transit Strait of Hormuz, say reports Iran is ready to let Japanese-related vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil supplies, Kyodo news reported, citing Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.Tehran has started talks with Tokyo about possibly opening the strait, Mr. Araghchi told the Japanese news agency in a phone interview on Friday (March 20, 2026).- ReutersIran ready to let Japanese vessels transit Strait of Hormuz, say reportsIran is open to allowing Japanese vessels transit through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Iran is ready to let Japanese-related vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil supplies, Kyodo news reported, citing Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Tehran has started talks with Tokyo about possibly opening the strait, Mr. Araghchi told the Japanese news agency in a phone interview on Friday (March 20, 2026).
- •Reuters
Iran ready to let Japanese vessels transit Strait of Hormuz, say reports
Iran is open to allowing Japanese vessels transit through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
• March 21, 2026 07:39 Iran fired missiles at joint U.S.-U.K. base in Indian OceanIran recently fired two ballistic missiles toward the joint U.S.-U.K. military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing U.S. officials.Neither missile hit the target, which is around 4,000 km from Iranian territory, but the launch suggests that Tehran has missiles with longer ranges than previously thought, the report said.One of the missiles failed in flight, and the other was targeted by an interceptor fired from a US warship, though it was not clear if the missile was hit, The Journal reported.-AFP
Iran recently fired two ballistic missiles toward the joint U.S.-U.K. military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing U.S. officials.
Neither missile hit the target, which is around 4,000 km from Iranian territory, but the launch suggests that Tehran has missiles with longer ranges than previously thought, the report said.
One of the missiles failed in flight, and the other was targeted by an interceptor fired from a US warship, though it was not clear if the missile was hit, The Journal reported.
• March 21, 2026 07:16 Iran warns world tourism sites ‘not safe’ for Israeli, U.S. officialsIran threatened to target recreational and tourist sites worldwide and insisted it was still building missiles. Read more here:Iran warns world tourism sites ‘not safe’ for Israeli, U.S. officials; says it is still building missiles nearly three weeks into warIran warns that global tourist sites are unsafe for Israeli and U.S. officials, while continuing missile development amid ongoing conflict.
Iran threatened to target recreational and tourist sites worldwide and insisted it was still building missiles.
Read more here:
Iran warns world tourism sites ‘not safe’ for Israeli, U.S. officials; says it is still building missiles nearly three weeks into war
Iran warns that global tourist sites are unsafe for Israeli and U.S. officials, while continuing missile development amid ongoing conflict.
• March 21, 2026 07:11 Israeli military says it is striking Hezbollah targets in BeirutThe Israeli military said early on Saturday it was striking Hezbollah targets in Beirut, after issuing an evacuation warning for seven neighborhoods in the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital.There were no immediate reports of casualties.Israel has been stepping up airstrikes against Lebanon in the third week of its war with Iran-backed Hezbollah.The Hezbollah-Israel conflict has become the deadliest spillover of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran since the Lebanese militant group fired at Israel in support of Tehran on March 2, with more than 1,000 people killed in Lebanon and over 1 million displaced. -Reuters
The Israeli military said early on Saturday it was striking Hezbollah targets in Beirut, after issuing an evacuation warning for seven neighborhoods in the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital.
There were no immediate reports of casualties.
Israel has been stepping up airstrikes against Lebanon in the third week of its war with Iran-backed Hezbollah.
The Hezbollah-Israel conflict has become the deadliest spillover of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran since the Lebanese militant group fired at Israel in support of Tehran on March 2, with more than 1,000 people killed in Lebanon and over 1 million displaced.
-Reuters
• March 21, 2026 07:11 U.S. issues 30-day sanctions waiver for sale of Iranian oil at sea The Trump administration on Friday issued a 30-day sanctions waiver for the purchase of Iranian oil at sea to ease energy supply pressures since the start of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.U.S. issues 30-day sanctions waiver for sale of Iranian oil at seaU.S. grants a 30-day sanctions waiver for Iranian oil sales at sea amid ongoing energy supply pressures from conflict.
The Trump administration on Friday issued a 30-day sanctions waiver for the purchase of Iranian oil at sea to ease energy supply pressures since the start of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.
U.S. issues 30-day sanctions waiver for sale of Iranian oil at sea
U.S. grants a 30-day sanctions waiver for Iranian oil sales at sea amid ongoing energy supply pressures from conflict.
• March 21, 2026 07:10 Trump says considering ‘winding down’ Iran war but rules out ceasefire President Donald Trump said Friday (March 20, 2026) that the United States was considering “winding down” military operations against Iran but was not seeking a ceasefire with the Islamic republic.Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei meanwhile claimed in a message to mark the first day of the Persian New Year to have delivered a “dizzying blow” to enemies in the three-week-old West Asia war.Read more here:Trump says considering ‘winding down’ Iran war but rules out ceasefireTrump considers winding down military operations in Iran, rejecting a ceasefire amid escalating tensions and regional conflict.
President Donald Trump said Friday (March 20, 2026) that the United States was considering “winding down” military operations against Iran but was not seeking a ceasefire with the Islamic republic.
Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei meanwhile claimed in a message to mark the first day of the Persian New Year to have delivered a “dizzying blow” to enemies in the three-week-old West Asia war.
Read more here:
Trump says considering ‘winding down’ Iran war but rules out ceasefire
Trump considers winding down military operations in Iran, rejecting a ceasefire amid escalating tensions and regional conflict.
Published - March 21, 2026 07:09 am IST
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