Iran-Israel war LIVE: Trump says Iran 'wants to make a deal', but Islamic Republic denies any talks
Kartavya Desk Staff
#### Key Updates
• Netanyahu says spoke with Trump, vows to protect Israel's interests
• Watch: At least 40 energy facilities ‘severely’ affected: IEA Chief
• Israel army confirms own artillery fire killed civilian on northern border on Sunday
• Iran issues indirect threat at West Asian electrical, water stations, including a UAE nuclear plant
• Trump and Iran step up threats over energy targets as war escalates
#### From The Hindu's In Focus Podcast | Is the U.S. running out of missiles in the Iran-Israel war?
In this episode, The Hindu’s data team examines the hidden economics and industrial limits behind modern warfare. From the cost mismatch between Iranian drones and U.S. interceptor missiles, to the strain on American stockpiles, the numbers tell a story of a conflict that may be harder to sustain than it appears.
Click below to listen in:
#### Trump says postponing Iran power plant strikes after 'very good' talks
“I am please to report that the United States of America, and the country of Iran, have had, over the last two days, very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East. Based on the tenor and tone of these in depth, detailed, and constructive conversations, [which] will continue throughout the week, I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.” said President Donald Trump.
• March 24, 2026 05:15 Blast over Jerusalem, Israel building hit after Iran missile fire A loud blast rang out over Jerusalem early Tuesday as the Israeli military sent search and rescue teams to a damaged building following two rounds of Iranian missile fire. Israel’s military announced the Iranian launches hours after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington had held talks with an unnamed Iranian official - a report denied by Tehran. Minutes after the second missile alert, AFP reporters in Jerusalem heard a loud explosion, but the military said people were now cleared to leave their shelters and medics reported no casualties. Following the first launch, the military said it had sent “search and rescue forces to operate at a scene in northern Israel where reports of an impact have been received.” -AFP
A loud blast rang out over Jerusalem early Tuesday as the Israeli military sent search and rescue teams to a damaged building following two rounds of Iranian missile fire.
Israel’s military announced the Iranian launches hours after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington had held talks with an unnamed Iranian official - a report denied by Tehran.
Minutes after the second missile alert, AFP reporters in Jerusalem heard a loud explosion, but the military said people were now cleared to leave their shelters and medics reported no casualties.
Following the first launch, the military said it had sent “search and rescue forces to operate at a scene in northern Israel where reports of an impact have been received.”
• March 24, 2026 03:17 Netanyahu says spoke with Trump, vows to protect Israel's interestsNetanyahu says spoke with Trump, vows to protect Israel's interestsNetanyahu discusses U.S.-Israeli military gains with Trump, emphasizing commitment to protect Israel's interests amid ongoing conflicts.
Netanyahu says spoke with Trump, vows to protect Israel's interests
Netanyahu discusses U.S.-Israeli military gains with Trump, emphasizing commitment to protect Israel's interests amid ongoing conflicts.
• March 24, 2026 02:58 Israel strikes south Beirut, says captured Hezbollah membersIsraeli strikes hit Beirut’s southern suburbs on Monday, the first attack on the Hezbollah stronghold in days, as its military said it had captured two members of the Iran-backed group in southern Lebanon.An earlier Israeli strike had hit the upscale, predominantly Christian area of Hazmieh near Beirut, with Israel saying it targeted a member of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ foreign operations arm.AFPTV’s live broadcast showed a cloud of smoke over the capital’s southern suburbs, and Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported several strikes on the area.The Israeli military also announced it was “striking Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut” after having called on residents to leave the southern suburbs beforehand.-AFP
Israeli strikes hit Beirut’s southern suburbs on Monday, the first attack on the Hezbollah stronghold in days, as its military said it had captured two members of the Iran-backed group in southern Lebanon.
An earlier Israeli strike had hit the upscale, predominantly Christian area of Hazmieh near Beirut, with Israel saying it targeted a member of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ foreign operations arm.
AFPTV’s live broadcast showed a cloud of smoke over the capital’s southern suburbs, and Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported several strikes on the area.
The Israeli military also announced it was “striking Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut” after having called on residents to leave the southern suburbs beforehand.
• March 24, 2026 01:54 Trump announces 'very good' Iran talks denied by TehranPresident Donald Trump hailed on Monday “very good” talks with an unidentified Iranian official after abruptly shelving plans for fresh attacks, even as Washington’s ally Israel vowed to keep up strikes on the Islamic republic.The surprise disclosure -- denied by Tehran, which accused Mr. Trump of manipulating energy markets -- came ahead of a Monday night deadline imposed by Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane or see the U.S. “obliterate” its power plants.-AFP
President Donald Trump hailed on Monday “very good” talks with an unidentified Iranian official after abruptly shelving plans for fresh attacks, even as Washington’s ally Israel vowed to keep up strikes on the Islamic republic.
The surprise disclosure -- denied by Tehran, which accused Mr. Trump of manipulating energy markets -- came ahead of a Monday night deadline imposed by Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane or see the U.S. “obliterate” its power plants.
• March 24, 2026 00:34 Netanyahu says spoke with Trump, vows to protect Israel's interestsPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that he spoke with Donald Trump, saying that the U.S. President believed U.S.-Israeli military gains in Iran could be converted into a negotiated agreement that protected Israel’s interests.“President Trump believes there is a chance to leverage the tremendous achievements of the IDF and the U.S. military in order to realise the war’s objectives in an agreement - an agreement that will safeguard our vital interests,” Mr. Netanyahu said in a video statement.“We will protect our vital interests under any circumstances,” he said, adding: “At the same time, we continue to strike both in Iran and in Lebanon.” -AFP
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that he spoke with Donald Trump, saying that the U.S. President believed U.S.-Israeli military gains in Iran could be converted into a negotiated agreement that protected Israel’s interests.
“President Trump believes there is a chance to leverage the tremendous achievements of the IDF and the U.S. military in order to realise the war’s objectives in an agreement - an agreement that will safeguard our vital interests,” Mr. Netanyahu said in a video statement.
“We will protect our vital interests under any circumstances,” he said, adding: “At the same time, we continue to strike both in Iran and in Lebanon.”
• March 23, 2026 23:14 Vance, Netanyahu speak about Iran negotiations: reports U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance discussed efforts to open negotiations with Iran during a phone call on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the call.The source said the pair also discussed the components of a possible agreement to end the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, Axios reported. - Reuters
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance discussed efforts to open negotiations with Iran during a phone call on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the call.
The source said the pair also discussed the components of a possible agreement to end the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, Axios reported.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 23:13 EAM discusses West Asia conflict with U.S. Secretary of State
• March 23, 2026 23:06 Israel's David's Sling system failed to intercept Iranian missiles: Army A malfunction in the David’s Sling aerial interceptor system allowed two Iranian ballistic missiles to strike southern Israel, wounding dozens of people over the weekend, the military confirmed Monday.The towns of Dimona and Arad were hit on Saturday evening, with the former widely believed to hold Israel’s undeclared nuclear arsenal.Most of the wounded were injured by shrapnel or while rushing to shelters, Israeli first responders said.Several buildings were also damaged in the strikes.- AFP
A malfunction in the David’s Sling aerial interceptor system allowed two Iranian ballistic missiles to strike southern Israel, wounding dozens of people over the weekend, the military confirmed Monday.
The towns of Dimona and Arad were hit on Saturday evening, with the former widely believed to hold Israel’s undeclared nuclear arsenal.
Most of the wounded were injured by shrapnel or while rushing to shelters, Israeli first responders said.
Several buildings were also damaged in the strikes.
• March 23, 2026 23:04 Israel army says struck site in Tehran used for directing Basij force The Israeli military announced it struck a site in Tehran on Monday belonging to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and used for directing battalions of the Basij paramilitary force.The hit came days after Israel announced it had “eliminated” the intelligence chief of the Basij in a strike that had also killed the force’s top commander, Gholamreza Soleimani.Israel has been targeting the Basij force as part of efforts to try to undermine the Iranian authorities’ grip on power.“As part of a wave of strikes that was completed a short while ago in the heart of Tehran, the Israeli Air Force... struck the IRGC’s main security headquarters,” a military statement said, referring to Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guards.-
The Israeli military announced it struck a site in Tehran on Monday belonging to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and used for directing battalions of the Basij paramilitary force.
The hit came days after Israel announced it had “eliminated” the intelligence chief of the Basij in a strike that had also killed the force’s top commander, Gholamreza Soleimani.
Israel has been targeting the Basij force as part of efforts to try to undermine the Iranian authorities’ grip on power.
“As part of a wave of strikes that was completed a short while ago in the heart of Tehran, the Israeli Air Force... struck the IRGC’s main security headquarters,” a military statement said, referring to Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guards.
• March 23, 2026 22:52 Pakistan PM says held talks with Iranian president Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he spoke with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, and promised Islamabad’s help in bringing peace to the region.The pair have spoken several times in the last month, notably to exchange Ramadan and Eid greetings but also to reaffirm Pakistan’s hope for an end to the conflict with the United States and Israel.Sharif said he extended greetings to Pezeshkian for the Persian new year and they also discussed “the grave situation in the Gulf region and agreed on the urgent need for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy”.In a post on X, he said Pakistan was also committed to playing “a constructive role in advancing peace in the region”.- AFP
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he spoke with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, and promised Islamabad’s help in bringing peace to the region.
The pair have spoken several times in the last month, notably to exchange Ramadan and Eid greetings but also to reaffirm Pakistan’s hope for an end to the conflict with the United States and Israel.
Sharif said he extended greetings to Pezeshkian for the Persian new year and they also discussed “the grave situation in the Gulf region and agreed on the urgent need for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy”.
In a post on X, he said Pakistan was also committed to playing “a constructive role in advancing peace in the region”.
• March 23, 2026 22:38 Trump says Iran talks have been very good, Tehran wants to settle President Donald Trump on Monday said preliminary conversations between the United States and Iran had been “very, very good”, adding Tehran wanted to settle.- Reuters
President Donald Trump on Monday said preliminary conversations between the United States and Iran had been “very, very good”, adding Tehran wanted to settle.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 21:59 No negotiations have been held with the U.S.: Iran Parliament Speaker
• March 23, 2026 21:39 Pakistan acting as main go-between in Trump’s Iran crisis: reports Pakistan is positioning itself as the lead mediator trying to broker an end to the U.S.’s and Israel’s war against Iran, the Financial Times reported on Monday.Pakistani army chief Asim Munir spoke with U.S President Donald Trump on Sunday, the newspaper reported, citing two people briefed on the call.Reuters could not immediately verify the report.- Reuters
Pakistan is positioning itself as the lead mediator trying to broker an end to the U.S.’s and Israel’s war against Iran, the Financial Times reported on Monday.
Pakistani army chief Asim Munir spoke with U.S President Donald Trump on Sunday, the newspaper reported, citing two people briefed on the call.
Reuters could not immediately verify the report.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 21:38 U.S. asked for meeting with Iran's parliament speaker Qalibaf, Iranian official says The United States has requested a meeting with Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf on Saturday, a senior Iranian official told Reuters, without mentioning any proposed venue.The official, who asked not to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the Supreme National Security Council had yet to decide on any proposed talks and Iran had yet to respond.- Reuters
The United States has requested a meeting with Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf on Saturday, a senior Iranian official told Reuters, without mentioning any proposed venue.
The official, who asked not to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the Supreme National Security Council had yet to decide on any proposed talks and Iran had yet to respond.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 21:27 Iran's Foreign Ministry denies talks with U.S., state news agency says Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson denied holding any talks with the U.S. during the past 24 days, shortly after President Donald Trump said the two sides had found “major points of agreement” in the past few days.In recent days, friendly countries sent messages indicating that the U.S. had requested talks to end the war, but Iran had not responded, state news agency IRNA quoted the Ministry spokesperson as saying.- Reuters
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson denied holding any talks with the U.S. during the past 24 days, shortly after President Donald Trump said the two sides had found “major points of agreement” in the past few days.
In recent days, friendly countries sent messages indicating that the U.S. had requested talks to end the war, but Iran had not responded, state news agency IRNA quoted the Ministry spokesperson as saying.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 21:19 U.K. sending air defence systems to Gulf: PM Britain is sending short-range air defence systems to the Gulf to counter Iranian missile attacks, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.“We’re deploying short range air defence systems to Bahrain at speed,” Mr. Starmer told a parliamentary committee, adding that Britain was “doing the same with Kuwait and Saudi Arabia”.The UK is working with industry to “distribute air defence missiles to Gulf partners” and has embedded airspace specialists there, Mr. Starmer said.- AFP
Britain is sending short-range air defence systems to the Gulf to counter Iranian missile attacks, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.
“We’re deploying short range air defence systems to Bahrain at speed,” Mr. Starmer told a parliamentary committee, adding that Britain was “doing the same with Kuwait and Saudi Arabia”.
The UK is working with industry to “distribute air defence missiles to Gulf partners” and has embedded airspace specialists there, Mr. Starmer said.
• March 23, 2026 21:06 Air France extends suspension of its flights to and from Dubai, Riyadh, Tel Aviv, Beirut Air France has extended the suspension of its flights to and from Dubai and Riyadh until March 31, and to and from Tel Aviv and Beirut until April 4, it said on Monday.“Due to the security context at the destination and the closure of certain airspaces, the company is forced to extend the suspension of its flights”, the airline said. - Reuters
Air France has extended the suspension of its flights to and from Dubai and Riyadh until March 31, and to and from Tel Aviv and Beirut until April 4, it said on Monday.
“Due to the security context at the destination and the closure of certain airspaces, the company is forced to extend the suspension of its flights”, the airline said.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 20:31 UAE oil giant chief says targeting Hormuz is 'economic terrorism' The chief of UAE state energy company ADNOC on Monday slammed Tehran’s actions to effectively blockade the Strait of Hormuz after US-Israeli strikes -- a move that squeezed supplies and caused a surge in oil prices.“Weaponizing the Strait of Hormuz is not an act of aggression against one nation,” Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said in virtual remarks to the CERAWeek conference in Houston.“It’s economic terrorism against every nation. And no country should be allowed to hold Hormuz hostage,” he added.- AFP
The chief of UAE state energy company ADNOC on Monday slammed Tehran’s actions to effectively blockade the Strait of Hormuz after US-Israeli strikes -- a move that squeezed supplies and caused a surge in oil prices.
“Weaponizing the Strait of Hormuz is not an act of aggression against one nation,” Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said in virtual remarks to the CERAWeek conference in Houston.
“It’s economic terrorism against every nation. And no country should be allowed to hold Hormuz hostage,” he added.
• March 23, 2026 20:30 EAM Jaishankar meets Ambassadors of Gulf countires, amid ongoing West Asia crisis
• March 23, 2026 20:28 EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Sri Lankan counterpart on West Asia crisis
• March 23, 2026 19:56 Have had very strong talks with Iran: Trump
• March 23, 2026 19:54 Trump claims 'regime change' underway in Iran President Donald Trump said Monday that “regime change” was effectively underway in Iran, while warning that if talks with Iranian figures contacted by the United States do not succeed then bombing will continue.Trump made clear talks were not with Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei but with people he described as “very reasonable,” while so many top officials had already been killed in the conflict that “there’s automatically a regime change.”If talks fail, he told reporters, “we’ll just keep bombing our little hearts out.”- AFP
President Donald Trump said Monday that “regime change” was effectively underway in Iran, while warning that if talks with Iranian figures contacted by the United States do not succeed then bombing will continue.
Trump made clear talks were not with Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei but with people he described as “very reasonable,” while so many top officials had already been killed in the conflict that “there’s automatically a regime change.”
If talks fail, he told reporters, “we’ll just keep bombing our little hearts out.”
• March 23, 2026 19:48 Trump says he wants 'as much oil in system as possible' President Donald Trump on Monday told reporters he wanted there to be “as much oil in the system as possible” when asked about the U.S. Treasury’s decision last week to ease sanctions on Iranian oil stranded in sea. - Reuters
President Donald Trump on Monday told reporters he wanted there to be “as much oil in the system as possible” when asked about the U.S. Treasury’s decision last week to ease sanctions on Iranian oil stranded in sea.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 19:27 U.S., Iran talks have 'major points of agreement': Trump President Donald Trump told reporters the United States has held talks with Iran and that the two sides had “major points of agreement.”Trump said the conversations that took place on Sunday would to continue on Monday and that if the negotiations continued productively, there would be a deal very soon.Trump added that his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner held the talks.Earlier Trump said he had given orders to postpone any military strikes against Iranian power plants for five days, hours ahead of a deadline that threatened further escalation in the conflict now in its fourth week. - Reuters
President Donald Trump told reporters the United States has held talks with Iran and that the two sides had “major points of agreement.”
Trump said the conversations that took place on Sunday would to continue on Monday and that if the negotiations continued productively, there would be a deal very soon.
Trump added that his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner held the talks.
Earlier Trump said he had given orders to postpone any military strikes against Iranian power plants for five days, hours ahead of a deadline that threatened further escalation in the conflict now in its fourth week.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 19:24 Two injured in Northern Israel, from Hezbollah rocket fireHezbollah shot four rockets at Kiryat Shmona (north Israel), one of which hit a bus injuring two peoplePhoto: Israel Embassy- Kallol Bhattacharjee
Hezbollah shot four rockets at Kiryat Shmona (north Israel), one of which hit a bus injuring two people
- •Kallol Bhattacharjee
• March 23, 2026 19:12 U.S. stocks surge after Trump says Iran talks 'very good' Wall Street stocks mostly rose early Monday (March 23, 2026) after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington and Tehran had held “very good” talks on the war in the Middle East -- despite Iran denying negotiations took place.Oil prices -- which have spiked since February 28 when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran -- were sharply down on Monday (March 23, 2026).Brent crude was trading down 9.8%, and its US-equivalent West Texas Intermediate had dropped 8.7% by around 1315 GMT.U.S. stocks meanwhile surged, with the broad-based S&P 500 up 1.4% to 6,596.00 about five minutes into trading.The Nasdaq Composite Index was up 1.6% to 21,982.16, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.4% to 46,232.45.- AFP
Wall Street stocks mostly rose early Monday (March 23, 2026) after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington and Tehran had held “very good” talks on the war in the Middle East -- despite Iran denying negotiations took place.
Oil prices -- which have spiked since February 28 when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran -- were sharply down on Monday (March 23, 2026).
Brent crude was trading down 9.8%, and its US-equivalent West Texas Intermediate had dropped 8.7% by around 1315 GMT.
U.S. stocks meanwhile surged, with the broad-based S&P 500 up 1.4% to 6,596.00 about five minutes into trading.
The Nasdaq Composite Index was up 1.6% to 21,982.16, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.4% to 46,232.45.
• March 23, 2026 19:05 Merz 'grateful' Trump delaying Iran power plant strikes German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Monday he was “grateful” to US President Donald Trump for delaying previously threatened strikes on Iranian power plants.“I expressed my concerns to him regarding the announced attacks on the power plants in Iran,” Merz told a Berlin press conference about their phone call the previous day. “I am grateful that he said today he is postponing them for another five days.”- AFP
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Monday he was “grateful” to US President Donald Trump for delaying previously threatened strikes on Iranian power plants.
“I expressed my concerns to him regarding the announced attacks on the power plants in Iran,” Merz told a Berlin press conference about their phone call the previous day. “I am grateful that he said today he is postponing them for another five days.”
• March 23, 2026 18:54 Trump tells AFP 'things are going very well' on Iran U.S. President Donald Trump told AFP on Monday that “things are going very well” with Iran, shortly after announcing talks with Tehran and a five-day pause on targeting the Islamic republic’s power plants.“Things are going very well,” Trump said in brief comments by telephone to AFP when asked about Iran, following an earlier Truth Social post on the negotiations that immediately sent oil prices tumbling.- AFP
U.S. President Donald Trump told AFP on Monday that “things are going very well” with Iran, shortly after announcing talks with Tehran and a five-day pause on targeting the Islamic republic’s power plants.
“Things are going very well,” Trump said in brief comments by telephone to AFP when asked about Iran, following an earlier Truth Social post on the negotiations that immediately sent oil prices tumbling.
• March 23, 2026 18:28 Trump says Iran wants to make a deal badly, could be within five days or sooner Iran wants to make a deal badly and that could come within five days or less, U.S. President Donald Trump told Fox Business Network .Mr. Trump said the most recent talks between U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and their counterparts took place on Sunday night, Trump said in a telephone interview, according to the host of the “ Mornings with Maria” program. - Reuters
Iran wants to make a deal badly and that could come within five days or less, U.S. President Donald Trump told Fox Business Network .
Mr. Trump said the most recent talks between U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and their counterparts took place on Sunday night, Trump said in a telephone interview, according to the host of the “ Mornings with Maria” program.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 18:23 Gas tankers sail through Hormuz to India, most ships still stuck, data shows Two Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers on Monday sailed through the Strait of Hormuz although overall traffic through the critical waterway remained blocked, according to data and sources.The Pine Gas tanker sailed through the Strait with the Jag Vasant following close by, shiptracking data on the MarineTraffic platform showed.The Pine Gas tanker broadcast a message of “India ship and crew”, according to separate LSEG ship tracking data.- Reuters
Two Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers on Monday sailed through the Strait of Hormuz although overall traffic through the critical waterway remained blocked, according to data and sources.
The Pine Gas tanker sailed through the Strait with the Jag Vasant following close by, shiptracking data on the MarineTraffic platform showed.
The Pine Gas tanker broadcast a message of “India ship and crew”, according to separate LSEG ship tracking data.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 18:03 Britain welcomes Trump's productive talks with Iran Productive talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Iran are welcome as Britain wants de-escalation in the Middle East and the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday.Asked about Trump’s announcement that he would postpone strikes against Iranian power plants following “very good” conversations with Tehran, Starmer’s spokesperson said: “Any reports of productive talks are welcome.”“We’ve always said that swift resolution to the war is in global interests and the Strait of Hormuz specifically needs to be reopened,” the spokesperson told reporters.- Reuters
Productive talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Iran are welcome as Britain wants de-escalation in the Middle East and the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday.
Asked about Trump’s announcement that he would postpone strikes against Iranian power plants following “very good” conversations with Tehran, Starmer’s spokesperson said: “Any reports of productive talks are welcome.”
“We’ve always said that swift resolution to the war is in global interests and the Strait of Hormuz specifically needs to be reopened,” the spokesperson told reporters.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 17:38 Iran's Tasnim, citing official, says Hormuz won't return to pre-war conditions, no talks underway with U.S. Iran’s Tasnim news agency, citing an Iranian official, said that the strait of Hormuz will not return to pre-war conditions and energy markets will remain unsettled, adding that no negotiations with the U.S. are under way.Tasnim said U.S. President Donald Trump backed down from attacking critical Iranian infrastructure amid financial market pressure, warning Tehran would continue to defend itself until it achieves deterrence. - Reuters
Iran’s Tasnim news agency, citing an Iranian official, said that the strait of Hormuz will not return to pre-war conditions and energy markets will remain unsettled, adding that no negotiations with the U.S. are under way.
Tasnim said U.S. President Donald Trump backed down from attacking critical Iranian infrastructure amid financial market pressure, warning Tehran would continue to defend itself until it achieves deterrence.
- •Reuters
• March 23, 2026 17:27 Closely monitoring the developments: MEAReacting to Donald Trump’s announcement postponing the strikes on Iran, Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs of India said: “We are closely monitoring the developments.”- Saptaparno Ghosh
Reacting to Donald Trump’s announcement postponing the strikes on Iran, Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs of India said: “We are closely monitoring the developments.”
- •Saptaparno Ghosh
• March 23, 2026 17:19 Oil prices plunge over 10% on Trump's Iran remarks Oil prices tumbled on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump said the US was postponing strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure after “very good” talks with Iran.International benchmark Brent North Sea crude plunged more than 14% to $96.00 per barrel.The main U.S. oil contract West Texas Intermediate also shed more than 14% to $84.37 per barrel.- AFP
Oil prices tumbled on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump said the US was postponing strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure after “very good” talks with Iran.
International benchmark Brent North Sea crude plunged more than 14% to $96.00 per barrel.
The main U.S. oil contract West Texas Intermediate also shed more than 14% to $84.37 per barrel.
• March 23, 2026 17:18 Iranian state television says: 'US president backs down following Iran's firm warning.' - AP
• March 23, 2026 16:23 Asia faces crisis from Gulf disruption, Singapore Foreign Minister warns The war against Iran threatens to send Asian economies into crisis, Singapore’s Foreign Minister said on Monday (March 23, 2026), a stark warning in a region that is acutely exposed to the massive disruption of West Asian energy supplies.“Right now the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is, in a sense, an Asian crisis,” Vivian Balakrishnan told Reuters.In remarks made over an hour-long interview, he also raised questions about the necessity and legality of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran that is now entering its fourth week, saying the “entire global economy has been taken hostage” by a conflict that could usher in a financial crisis.- Reuters
The war against Iran threatens to send Asian economies into crisis, Singapore’s Foreign Minister said on Monday (March 23, 2026), a stark warning in a region that is acutely exposed to the massive disruption of West Asian energy supplies.
“Right now the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is, in a sense, an Asian crisis,” Vivian Balakrishnan told Reuters.
In remarks made over an hour-long interview, he also raised questions about the necessity and legality of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran that is now entering its fourth week, saying the “entire global economy has been taken hostage” by a conflict that could usher in a financial crisis.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 16:21 Iraqi PM says accelerating withdrawal of U.S. anti-jihadist coalition forces Iraqi leader Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said he would accelerate the dismantling of a US-led international anti-jihadist coalition, in an interview with an Italian newspaper published on Monday (March 23, 2026) .The Prime Minister’s comments come as the country finds itself unwillingly drawn into the conflict in West Asia, which began with Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran on February 28.Pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for near-daily attacks on U.S. interests in Iraq and across the region, while strikes have also targeted these groups.The end of the international anti-jihadist coalition’s mission was initially planned for September 2026 in Iraq, with the drawdown launching in 2024.- AFP
Iraqi leader Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said he would accelerate the dismantling of a US-led international anti-jihadist coalition, in an interview with an Italian newspaper published on Monday (March 23, 2026) .
The Prime Minister’s comments come as the country finds itself unwillingly drawn into the conflict in West Asia, which began with Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran on February 28.
Pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for near-daily attacks on U.S. interests in Iraq and across the region, while strikes have also targeted these groups.
The end of the international anti-jihadist coalition’s mission was initially planned for September 2026 in Iraq, with the drawdown launching in 2024.
• March 23, 2026 15:31 Watch: At least 40 energy facilities ‘severely’ affected: IEA Chief Watch: At least 40 energy facilities ‘severely’ affected: IEA Chief“No country will be immune to the effects of this crisis if it continues to go in this direction,” Fatih Birol told Australia’s National Press Club in Canberra. He said the crisis in West Asia has had a worse combined impact than the two oil shocks of the 1970s and the effect on gas markets of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Watch: At least 40 energy facilities ‘severely’ affected: IEA Chief
“No country will be immune to the effects of this crisis if it continues to go in this direction,” Fatih Birol told Australia’s National Press Club in Canberra. He said the crisis in West Asia has had a worse combined impact than the two oil shocks of the 1970s and the effect on gas markets of the Russia-Ukraine war.
• March 23, 2026 15:27 Russia calls for 'political and diplomatic' settlement after Trump Iran ultimatum Russia on Monday (March 23, 2026) called for “political and diplomatic” settlement to the Middle East war after US President Donald Trump’s ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.“We believe that the situation should have transitioned to a political and diplomatic settlement,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists at a briefing.“This is the only thing that can effectively contribute to defusing the catastrophically tense situation that has now developed in the region,” Mr. Peskov said.- AFP
Russia on Monday (March 23, 2026) called for “political and diplomatic” settlement to the Middle East war after US President Donald Trump’s ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
“We believe that the situation should have transitioned to a political and diplomatic settlement,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists at a briefing.
“This is the only thing that can effectively contribute to defusing the catastrophically tense situation that has now developed in the region,” Mr. Peskov said.
• March 23, 2026 15:27 Kremlin denies Politico report on Russian proposal to U.S. on cutting intelligence sharing with Iran The Kremlin on Monday (March 23, 2026) cast as false a Politico report that Russia had offered to cut off intelligence sharing with Iran in exchange for the United States ending its support for Ukraine.“This report - we have seen it,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. “It belongs to the category of untruthful, or rather, false.”- Reuters
The Kremlin on Monday (March 23, 2026) cast as false a Politico report that Russia had offered to cut off intelligence sharing with Iran in exchange for the United States ending its support for Ukraine.
“This report - we have seen it,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. “It belongs to the category of untruthful, or rather, false.”
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 15:17 Kremlin says strikes near Bushehr nuclear plant in Iran are dangerous U.S.-Israeli strikes near the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran are extremely dangerous and Russia has shared its concerns with the United States, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday (March 23, 2026).Such strikes could have irreparable consequences, Mr. Peskov said. - Reuters
U.S.-Israeli strikes near the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran are extremely dangerous and Russia has shared its concerns with the United States, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday (March 23, 2026).
Such strikes could have irreparable consequences, Mr. Peskov said.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 15:17 U.K. sees no evidence of Iran targeting Britain, says Starmer British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday (March 23, 2026) there had been no assessment that mainland Britain was being targeted by Iran.“We carry out assessments all the time in order to keep us safe, and there’s no assessment that we’re being targeted in that way,” Mr. Starmer told reporters.He was asked if Britain could be targeted by Iran after reports at the weekend that Iran had fired two ballistic missiles at the U.S.-U.K. military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.Mr. Starmer also said that any attempt to reopen the Strait of Hormuz needed careful consideration and a viable plan, and that his number one priority was to protect British interests and de-escalate.- Reuters
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday (March 23, 2026) there had been no assessment that mainland Britain was being targeted by Iran.
“We carry out assessments all the time in order to keep us safe, and there’s no assessment that we’re being targeted in that way,” Mr. Starmer told reporters.
He was asked if Britain could be targeted by Iran after reports at the weekend that Iran had fired two ballistic missiles at the U.S.-U.K. military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.
Mr. Starmer also said that any attempt to reopen the Strait of Hormuz needed careful consideration and a viable plan, and that his number one priority was to protect British interests and de-escalate.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 14:47 Israel army confirms own artillery fire killed civilian on northern border on Sunday The Israeli military said on Monday (March 23, 2026) that its own artillery fire killed an Israeli civilian a day earlier near the northern border with Lebanon, where its forces are fighting Hezbollah.After opening an investigation, the military said “the initial findings suggest that the Israeli civilian was killed by IDF artillery fire conducted to support IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon”, adding that “several severe issues and operational errors took place during the incident, including both the planning and execution of the fire”.- AFP
The Israeli military said on Monday (March 23, 2026) that its own artillery fire killed an Israeli civilian a day earlier near the northern border with Lebanon, where its forces are fighting Hezbollah.
After opening an investigation, the military said “the initial findings suggest that the Israeli civilian was killed by IDF artillery fire conducted to support IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon”, adding that “several severe issues and operational errors took place during the incident, including both the planning and execution of the fire”.
• March 23, 2026 14:41 Two more Indian-flagged LPG tankers set to cross Strait of Hormuz Two more Indian-flagged LPG tankers have started their journey from the Persian Gulf and are expected to cross the war-hit Strait of Hormuz before heading to Indian ports, ship tracking data showed.LPG tankers Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, sailing close to each other, on Monday (March 23, 2026) afternoon, were near the waters between Iran’s Larak and Qeshm islands -- possibly to make their identity clear to Iranian authorities before they cross the Strait.The two ships were among the 22 Indian flagged vessels that were stranded in the Persian Gulf after the war in West Asia nearly closed the Strait of Hormuz -- the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman that connects the oil and gas-producing Gulf countries to the rest of the world.- PTI
Two more Indian-flagged LPG tankers have started their journey from the Persian Gulf and are expected to cross the war-hit Strait of Hormuz before heading to Indian ports, ship tracking data showed.
LPG tankers Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, sailing close to each other, on Monday (March 23, 2026) afternoon, were near the waters between Iran’s Larak and Qeshm islands -- possibly to make their identity clear to Iranian authorities before they cross the Strait.
The two ships were among the 22 Indian flagged vessels that were stranded in the Persian Gulf after the war in West Asia nearly closed the Strait of Hormuz -- the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman that connects the oil and gas-producing Gulf countries to the rest of the world.
• March 23, 2026 14:03 Japan Petroleum Association eyes North America for crude supply optionsJapan Petroleum Association President Shunichi Kito said on Monday (March 23, 2026) that North America was one potential source for alternative crude oil supplies, with Ecuador, Colombia and Mexico cited as possible options.Oil buyers elsewhere, including from Japan, are looking for options to substitute for supplies on tankers stuck in the Gulf region due to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz.Oil prices have spiked to more than $100 per barrel as the strait, a major route for global oil and LNG supplies, remains closed. In addition, the Donald Trump administration has temporarily waived sanctions on the purchase of Russian and Iranian oil that is currently stranded at sea to soften the supply crisis.- Reuters
Japan Petroleum Association President Shunichi Kito said on Monday (March 23, 2026) that North America was one potential source for alternative crude oil supplies, with Ecuador, Colombia and Mexico cited as possible options.
Oil buyers elsewhere, including from Japan, are looking for options to substitute for supplies on tankers stuck in the Gulf region due to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil prices have spiked to more than $100 per barrel as the strait, a major route for global oil and LNG supplies, remains closed. In addition, the Donald Trump administration has temporarily waived sanctions on the purchase of Russian and Iranian oil that is currently stranded at sea to soften the supply crisis.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 13:57 Crude oil climbs ₹359 to ₹9,617 per barrel in futures trade Crude oil prices rose sharply by ₹359 to ₹9,617 per barrel on Monday (March 23, 2026), marking their fourth straight session of gains in futures trade amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and supply concerns.On the Multi Commodity Exchange, crude oil for the April contract climbed ₹359, or nearly 4%, to ₹9,617 per barrel.The May-delivery increased by ₹436, or nearly 5%, to hit a lifetime high of ₹9,407 per barrel on the commodities bourse.Analysts said crude oil prices rallied in domestic and international markets as investors assessed the impact of rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route.- PTI
Crude oil prices rose sharply by ₹359 to ₹9,617 per barrel on Monday (March 23, 2026), marking their fourth straight session of gains in futures trade amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and supply concerns.
On the Multi Commodity Exchange, crude oil for the April contract climbed ₹359, or nearly 4%, to ₹9,617 per barrel.
The May-delivery increased by ₹436, or nearly 5%, to hit a lifetime high of ₹9,407 per barrel on the commodities bourse.
Analysts said crude oil prices rallied in domestic and international markets as investors assessed the impact of rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route.
• March 23, 2026 13:54 West Asia war threatens energy crisis worse than 1970s oil shocks The world faces an energy crisis worse than both 1970s oil shocks combined if the West Asia war drags on, the head of the International Energy Agency warned Monday (March 23, 2026), as Israel launched fresh strikes on Tehran and threatened weeks more fighting.As the war grinds into its fourth week, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to “obliterate” Iranian power plants if Iran failed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours -- setting an effective deadline of 23:44 GMT Monday (March 23, 2026).Tehran has retaliated against US-Israeli assaults by throttling traffic in the vital waterway, conduit for a fifth of global crude oil, hitting energy sites and U.S. embassies across the Gulf as well as firing missiles and drones at Israel.The Islamic republic issued a firm response to the new ultimatum, with powerful parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowing vital infrastructure across the region will be “irreversibly destroyed” if Mr. Trump acts on his threat.- AFP
The world faces an energy crisis worse than both 1970s oil shocks combined if the West Asia war drags on, the head of the International Energy Agency warned Monday (March 23, 2026), as Israel launched fresh strikes on Tehran and threatened weeks more fighting.
As the war grinds into its fourth week, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to “obliterate” Iranian power plants if Iran failed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours -- setting an effective deadline of 23:44 GMT Monday (March 23, 2026).
Tehran has retaliated against US-Israeli assaults by throttling traffic in the vital waterway, conduit for a fifth of global crude oil, hitting energy sites and U.S. embassies across the Gulf as well as firing missiles and drones at Israel.
The Islamic republic issued a firm response to the new ultimatum, with powerful parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowing vital infrastructure across the region will be “irreversibly destroyed” if Mr. Trump acts on his threat.
• March 23, 2026 13:43 Iran’s Defence Council threatens to deploy naval mines if a land invasion happens An attack on Iran’s southern coast and islands will lead to Gulf routes being cut with the laying of sea mines, the country’s Defence Council said on Monday (March 23, 2026) according to state media.The U.S. is considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export hub, to pressure Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping, according to Axios.“Any attempt to attack Iran’s coasts or islands will cause all access routes in the Gulf (...) to be mined with various types of sea mines, including floating mines that can be released from the coast,” the statement read.“In this case, the entire Gulf will practically be in a situation similar to the Strait of Hormuz for a long time (...) One should not forget the failure of more than 100 minesweepers in the 1980s in removing a few sea mines.”- Reuters
An attack on Iran’s southern coast and islands will lead to Gulf routes being cut with the laying of sea mines, the country’s Defence Council said on Monday (March 23, 2026) according to state media.
The U.S. is considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export hub, to pressure Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping, according to Axios.
“Any attempt to attack Iran’s coasts or islands will cause all access routes in the Gulf (...) to be mined with various types of sea mines, including floating mines that can be released from the coast,” the statement read.
“In this case, the entire Gulf will practically be in a situation similar to the Strait of Hormuz for a long time (...) One should not forget the failure of more than 100 minesweepers in the 1980s in removing a few sea mines.”
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 13:40 Investors brace for turbulent India equity derivatives expiry as Trump ultimatum looms Indian equity markets are positioning for a volatile derivatives expiry on Tuesday (March 23, 2026), as concerns over an escalation in the Iran conflict worsen sentiment and lift demand for costly hedges against market swings.U.S. President Donald Trump has set a Monday deadline of around 23:45 GMT (05:15 IST, Tuesday) for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face potential strikes on its power infrastructure. Iran has warned it would respond by targeting energy and water assets across the Gulf.At-the-money options on the Nifty 50 maturing on Tuesday (March 23, 2026) imply a move of more than 2%, well above typical levels seen before expiry days, signalling investors are preparing for outsized swings, brokerages said.- Reuters
Indian equity markets are positioning for a volatile derivatives expiry on Tuesday (March 23, 2026), as concerns over an escalation in the Iran conflict worsen sentiment and lift demand for costly hedges against market swings.
U.S. President Donald Trump has set a Monday deadline of around 23:45 GMT (05:15 IST, Tuesday) for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face potential strikes on its power infrastructure. Iran has warned it would respond by targeting energy and water assets across the Gulf.
At-the-money options on the Nifty 50 maturing on Tuesday (March 23, 2026) imply a move of more than 2%, well above typical levels seen before expiry days, signalling investors are preparing for outsized swings, brokerages said.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 13:34 China warns of 'vicious cycle' if war escalates in West AsiaChina on Monday (March 23, 2026) urged all parties involved in the West Asian conflict affecting the Strait of Hormuz to end military operations to prevent a “vicious cycle” and return to negotiations.“Should hostilities continue to escalate and the situation deteriorate further, the entire region will be plunged into chaos,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said when responding to a question about U.S. President Donald Trump pressuring Iran to reopen the key shipping waterway.“The use of force will only lead to a vicious cycle,” he said adding that the war should not have begun in the first place.- Reuters
China on Monday (March 23, 2026) urged all parties involved in the West Asian conflict affecting the Strait of Hormuz to end military operations to prevent a “vicious cycle” and return to negotiations.
“Should hostilities continue to escalate and the situation deteriorate further, the entire region will be plunged into chaos,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said when responding to a question about U.S. President Donald Trump pressuring Iran to reopen the key shipping waterway.
“The use of force will only lead to a vicious cycle,” he said adding that the war should not have begun in the first place.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 13:31 Greece to announce new aid to tame impact of Iran war on consumers Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will announce on Monday (March 23, 2026) new aid to support consumers from rising energy prices stemming from the Iran conflict, his office said. The government this month imposed a three-month cap on profit margins on fuel and dozens of products on supermarket shelves to avert profiteering. - Reuters
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will announce on Monday (March 23, 2026) new aid to support consumers from rising energy prices stemming from the Iran conflict, his office said. The government this month imposed a three-month cap on profit margins on fuel and dozens of products on supermarket shelves to avert profiteering.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 13:28 Israel's El Al Airlines says reviewing operations after government limits traffic El Al Israel Airlines said on Monday (March 23, 2026) it was reviewing its continued operations after the Transportation Ministry ordered a reduction of traffic at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.Israel’s flag carrier, which has been operating repatriation flights since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli led air war with Iran on February 28, called on authorities to open Ramon Airport near the Red Sea city of Eilat as an alternative to Ben Gurion.- Reuters
El Al Israel Airlines said on Monday (March 23, 2026) it was reviewing its continued operations after the Transportation Ministry ordered a reduction of traffic at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.
Israel’s flag carrier, which has been operating repatriation flights since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli led air war with Iran on February 28, called on authorities to open Ramon Airport near the Red Sea city of Eilat as an alternative to Ben Gurion.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 12:54 Japan 'not thinking about' discussing Hormuz passage with Iran Tokyo is “not thinking about” calling on Iran to let Japanese tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, the Foreign Minister has said, after Tehran said it was ready to help.Asked about whether the government would urge Iran to let Japanese ships transit Hormuz, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Sunday (March 23, 2026) on a Fuji Television programme that “for the time being, we are not thinking about that”.His comment came after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday (March 20, 2026) that Tehran 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
Tokyo is “not thinking about” calling on Iran to let Japanese tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, the Foreign Minister has said, after Tehran said it was ready to help.
Asked about whether the government would urge Iran to let Japanese ships transit Hormuz, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Sunday (March 23, 2026) on a Fuji Television programme that “for the time being, we are not thinking about that”.
His comment came after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday (March 20, 2026) that Tehran 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 23, 2026 12:51 Russia opposes Hormuz blockade: Reports Russia opposes any blockade of the Strait of Hormuz but says such issues must be viewed in the context of the broader global situation, Interfax reported on Monday (March 23, 2026), citing the Russian Foreign Ministry. - Reuters
Russia opposes any blockade of the Strait of Hormuz but says such issues must be viewed in the context of the broader global situation, Interfax reported on Monday (March 23, 2026), citing the Russian Foreign Ministry.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 12:49 South Korean shares tumble, won hits 17-year low on West Asian conflict South Korean shares dropped more than 6% on Monday (March 23, 2026) to close at their lowest level in two weeks, while the won weakened to a 17-year low, as heightened West Asian tensions dampened appetite for riskier assets.The won was quoted 0.83% lower at 1,517.3 per dollar on the onshore settlement platform, hitting its lowest level since March 2009.- Reuters
South Korean shares dropped more than 6% on Monday (March 23, 2026) to close at their lowest level in two weeks, while the won weakened to a 17-year low, as heightened West Asian tensions dampened appetite for riskier assets.
The won was quoted 0.83% lower at 1,517.3 per dollar on the onshore settlement platform, hitting its lowest level since March 2009.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 12:47 Asian shares decline as hopes dim for resolution in Iran Asian shares dipped Monday (March 23, 2026), as oil prices continued to climb after U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest comments dashed hopes for an early end to the war in Iran.South Korea’s Kospi dove 6.5% to 5,404.77. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng slipped 4.0% to 24,279.23, while the Shanghai Composite declined 3.7% to 3,811.62.Donald Trump over the weekend warned the U.S. will “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if it doesn’t fully open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, prompting Tehran to say it would respond to any such strike with attacks on U.S. and Israeli energy and infrastructure assets in the region.“Trump’s ultimatum and Iran’s retaliatory warnings point to a widening conflict that keeps energy disruption and market volatility elevated with no clear off-ramp in sight,” said Ng Jing Wen, analyst at Mizuho Bank in Singapore.- APRead more here
Asian shares dipped Monday (March 23, 2026), as oil prices continued to climb after U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest comments dashed hopes for an early end to the war in Iran.
South Korea’s Kospi dove 6.5% to 5,404.77. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng slipped 4.0% to 24,279.23, while the Shanghai Composite declined 3.7% to 3,811.62.
Donald Trump over the weekend warned the U.S. will “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if it doesn’t fully open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, prompting Tehran to say it would respond to any such strike with attacks on U.S. and Israeli energy and infrastructure assets in the region.
“Trump’s ultimatum and Iran’s retaliatory warnings point to a widening conflict that keeps energy disruption and market volatility elevated with no clear off-ramp in sight,” said Ng Jing Wen, analyst at Mizuho Bank in Singapore.
• March 23, 2026 12:19 Iran issues indirect threat at West Asian electrical, water stations, including a UAE nuclear plant After Iran threatened power plants across West Asia, news outlets published a list of such facilities, including the United Arab Emirates’ nuclear power plant.The report by the semiofficial Fars news agency, close to its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, appeared to be an indirect threat to the sites, including desalination plants in West Asia.The list also included the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant, which has four reactors out in the western deserts of the country near its border with Saudi Arabia.The judiciary’s Mizan news agency also published the list.The threat by Tehran puts at risk both electrical supplies and water in the Gulf Arab states, particularly as the desert nations commingle their power stations with desalination plants crucial for supplying drinking water.Donald Trump’s self-declared 48-hour deadline expires just before midnight GMT Tuesday (March 24, 2026), further raising the stakes of the ongoing war with Iran that has disrupted global energy supplies, sending natural gas and gasoline prices soaring. - AP
After Iran threatened power plants across West Asia, news outlets published a list of such facilities, including the United Arab Emirates’ nuclear power plant.
The report by the semiofficial Fars news agency, close to its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, appeared to be an indirect threat to the sites, including desalination plants in West Asia.
The list also included the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant, which has four reactors out in the western deserts of the country near its border with Saudi Arabia.
The judiciary’s Mizan news agency also published the list.
The threat by Tehran puts at risk both electrical supplies and water in the Gulf Arab states, particularly as the desert nations commingle their power stations with desalination plants crucial for supplying drinking water.
Donald Trump’s self-declared 48-hour deadline expires just before midnight GMT Tuesday (March 24, 2026), further raising the stakes of the ongoing war with Iran that has disrupted global energy supplies, sending natural gas and gasoline prices soaring.
• March 23, 2026 12:06 European gasoline heads to Asia as Iran war sparks supply fears European and U.S. gasoline cargoes are heading to the Asia Pacific after Asian prices surged on tightening supply due to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, according to trade sources and shipping data. The war has disrupted crude and oil product shipments from West Asia to Asia, causing Asian refineries to cut output and forcing fuel distributors to seek supply from as far as the United States and buy more Russian fuel. The extra shipping costs will exacerbate already soaring fuel prices for consumers and businesses.- Reuters
European and U.S. gasoline cargoes are heading to the Asia Pacific after Asian prices surged on tightening supply due to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, according to trade sources and shipping data.
The war has disrupted crude and oil product shipments from West Asia to Asia, causing Asian refineries to cut output and forcing fuel distributors to seek supply from as far as the United States and buy more Russian fuel.
The extra shipping costs will exacerbate already soaring fuel prices for consumers and businesses.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 12:02 Iron ore miners could face billions more in fuel costs due to Iran war, Austrialian metal company says Iron ore miners are at risk of incurring billions of dollars more in fuel costs if diesel prices continue to rise, a senior executive at Australia’s Fortescue said on Monday (March 23, 2026).The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has all but stopped shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil and gas prices higher and tightening the supply of diesel, a main transport fuel for the mining sector.“A 10-cent change in the price of diesel impacts us by $70 million,” said Dino Otranto, metals and operations chief executive officer at global miner Fortescue, in an interview on Monday (March 23, 2026). “If you look at our competitors, the top four, every 10-cent movement has a half a billion U.S. dollar impact on the cost structure.”- Reuters
Iron ore miners are at risk of incurring billions of dollars more in fuel costs if diesel prices continue to rise, a senior executive at Australia’s Fortescue said on Monday (March 23, 2026).
The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has all but stopped shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil and gas prices higher and tightening the supply of diesel, a main transport fuel for the mining sector.
“A 10-cent change in the price of diesel impacts us by $70 million,” said Dino Otranto, metals and operations chief executive officer at global miner Fortescue, in an interview on Monday (March 23, 2026). “If you look at our competitors, the top four, every 10-cent movement has a half a billion U.S. dollar impact on the cost structure.”
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 12:00 Global economy faces ‘major, major threat' because of Iran war: IEA head The head of the International Energy Agency said on Monday (March 23, 2026) that the global economy faces a “major, major threat” because of the Iran war.“No country will be immune to the effects of this crisis if it continues to go in this direction,” Fatih Birol told Australia’s National Press Club in Canberra on Monday (March 23, 2026).He said the crisis in West Asia has had a worse combined impact than the two oil shocks of the 1970s and the effect on gas markets of the Russia-Ukraine war.His comments came as Israel launched a new wave of attacks early Monday (March 23, 2026) against Tehran.- APRead more here
The head of the International Energy Agency said on Monday (March 23, 2026) that the global economy faces a “major, major threat” because of the Iran war.
“No country will be immune to the effects of this crisis if it continues to go in this direction,” Fatih Birol told Australia’s National Press Club in Canberra on Monday (March 23, 2026).
He said the crisis in West Asia has had a worse combined impact than the two oil shocks of the 1970s and the effect on gas markets of the Russia-Ukraine war.
His comments came as Israel launched a new wave of attacks early Monday (March 23, 2026) against Tehran.
• March 23, 2026 11:01 India bonds under fire as oil, U.S. yields compound supply woesIndian government bonds plummeted on Monday (March 23, 2026), as surging oil prices and rising U.S. Treasury yields weighed on sentiment. The benchmark 6.48% 2035 bond yield was at 6.8261% as of 10:30 a.m. IST, up 9 basis points, and after closing at 6.7369% on Friday. Bond yields move inversely to prices.The market is already grappling with heavy debt supply and uncertainty over the central bank’s continued support. Indian rupee plunged to a fresh record low of 93.94 against the dollar amid pressure from oil and U.S. yields.The benchmark Brent crude hovered near $113 a barrel after Tehran said it would target its Gulf neighbour’s energy and water infrastructure if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through on threats to strike Iran’s electricity grid, intensifying the conflict in the Middle East, now in its fourth week.- Reuters
Indian government bonds plummeted on Monday (March 23, 2026), as surging oil prices and rising U.S. Treasury yields weighed on sentiment. The benchmark 6.48% 2035 bond yield was at 6.8261% as of 10:30 a.m. IST, up 9 basis points, and after closing at 6.7369% on Friday. Bond yields move inversely to prices.
The market is already grappling with heavy debt supply and uncertainty over the central bank’s continued support. Indian rupee plunged to a fresh record low of 93.94 against the dollar amid pressure from oil and U.S. yields.
The benchmark Brent crude hovered near $113 a barrel after Tehran said it would target its Gulf neighbour’s energy and water infrastructure if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through on threats to strike Iran’s electricity grid, intensifying the conflict in the Middle East, now in its fourth week.
- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 10:26 Iran threatens to attack West Asian electrical plantsAs U.S. President Donald Trump’s deadline on Strait of Hormuz approaches, Iran threatens to attack West Asian electrical plants powering U.S. bases. -- APIran threatens to attack West Asia electrical plants powering U.S. basesIran threatens retaliation on West Asia power plants supplying U.S. bases amid escalating tensions with the Trump administration.
As U.S. President Donald Trump’s deadline on Strait of Hormuz approaches, Iran threatens to attack West Asian electrical plants powering U.S. bases. -- AP
Iran threatens to attack West Asia electrical plants powering U.S. bases
Iran threatens retaliation on West Asia power plants supplying U.S. bases amid escalating tensions with the Trump administration.
• March 23, 2026 10:22 Stock markets dive as West Asia conflict, crude oil prices continue to dent sentiment Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty dropped sharply in early trade on Monday (March 23, 2026) as West Asia conflict entered its fourth week driving crude oil prices higher.A massive bearish trend in global equity markets and relentless foreign fund outflows also made investors jittery.Stock markets dive as West Asia conflict, crude oil prices continue to dent sentimentGlobal equity markets plummet as West Asia tensions rise and oil prices surge, triggering significant investor anxiety.
Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty dropped sharply in early trade on Monday (March 23, 2026) as West Asia conflict entered its fourth week driving crude oil prices higher.
A massive bearish trend in global equity markets and relentless foreign fund outflows also made investors jittery.
Stock markets dive as West Asia conflict, crude oil prices continue to dent sentiment
Global equity markets plummet as West Asia tensions rise and oil prices surge, triggering significant investor anxiety.
• March 23, 2026 10:11 Rupee nears 94, down 41 paise to record low of 93.94The rupee continued its slide in the early trade on Monday (March 23, 2026), losing 41 paise to slump to a record low of 93.94 against the US dollar as the raging war in West Asia kept global crude oil prices elevated, and the greenback remained strong.Sustained foreign fund outflows and a crash at the domestic equity markets in the morning session further weakened the local unit, forex traders said.Rupee nears 94, down 41 paise to record low of 93.94The rupee hits a record low of 93.94 against the dollar amid foreign fund outflows and a crashing equity market.
The rupee continued its slide in the early trade on Monday (March 23, 2026), losing 41 paise to slump to a record low of 93.94 against the US dollar as the raging war in West Asia kept global crude oil prices elevated, and the greenback remained strong.
Sustained foreign fund outflows and a crash at the domestic equity markets in the morning session further weakened the local unit, forex traders said.
Rupee nears 94, down 41 paise to record low of 93.94
The rupee hits a record low of 93.94 against the dollar amid foreign fund outflows and a crashing equity market.
• March 23, 2026 09:56 Iran media says one dead in attack on broadcaster in coastal regionA strike on a broadcast station in southern Iran killed at least one person, state television reported on Monday (March 23, 2026).“The 100-kilowatt AM transmitter of the Persian Gulf Radio and Television Centre was attacked by the American-Zionist terrorist army,” the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting reported.“In this attack, which was against international laws, one of the centre’s security colleagues was martyred and another person was injured.” -- AFP
A strike on a broadcast station in southern Iran killed at least one person, state television reported on Monday (March 23, 2026).
“The 100-kilowatt AM transmitter of the Persian Gulf Radio and Television Centre was attacked by the American-Zionist terrorist army,” the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting reported.
“In this attack, which was against international laws, one of the centre’s security colleagues was martyred and another person was injured.” -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 09:53 LPG crisis: Kerala’s critical sectors face gas shortage despite 20% relief allocation by CentreAlthough the Centre has allocated an additional 20% of commercial LPG to the States, taking the total allocation to 50%, the critically affected sectors in Kerala are yet to receive a proportional share, despite prioritisation by both the Central and State governments.LPG crisis: Kerala’s critical sectors face gas shortage despite 20% relief allocation by CentreKerala's critical sectors face LPG shortages despite a 20% relief allocation, impacting restaurants and hotels significantly.
Although the Centre has allocated an additional 20% of commercial LPG to the States, taking the total allocation to 50%, the critically affected sectors in Kerala are yet to receive a proportional share, despite prioritisation by both the Central and State governments.
LPG crisis: Kerala’s critical sectors face gas shortage despite 20% relief allocation by Centre
Kerala's critical sectors face LPG shortages despite a 20% relief allocation, impacting restaurants and hotels significantly.
• March 23, 2026 09:13 IRGC claims strikes on Israeli military sites, US air base in Saudi ArabiaIran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that it carried out the 75th wave of missile strikes of the ongoing retaliatory operation True Promise 4, targeting Israeli military positions and a key United States military installation in Saudi Arabia, the U.S. Prince Sultan Air Base, according to a report by Press TV.In an official statement, the IRGC said the operation was conducted “in honour of martyred commanders” and described it as a response to what it termed continued aggression by Israel and the United States. It added that the strikes were carried out using “advanced ballistic missiles” and were based on “accurate reconnaissance” by its intelligence units.The statement further claimed that the targets included “new military deployments and hiding places of Israeli troops” across multiple locations. It also asserted that the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia was struck as it serves as a “key hub for US aggressors’ deployments and air operations” against Iran.Reiterating its stance, the IRGC warned that Israeli and US forces remain under “constant surveillance” and cautioned that attempts to conceal military assets in civilian areas would not provide protection. It said that “no hiding place or defensive measure will shield the aggressors from accountability,” underscoring its intent to continue operations. -- ANI
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that it carried out the 75th wave of missile strikes of the ongoing retaliatory operation True Promise 4, targeting Israeli military positions and a key United States military installation in Saudi Arabia, the U.S. Prince Sultan Air Base, according to a report by Press TV.
In an official statement, the IRGC said the operation was conducted “in honour of martyred commanders” and described it as a response to what it termed continued aggression by Israel and the United States. It added that the strikes were carried out using “advanced ballistic missiles” and were based on “accurate reconnaissance” by its intelligence units.
The statement further claimed that the targets included “new military deployments and hiding places of Israeli troops” across multiple locations. It also asserted that the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia was struck as it serves as a “key hub for US aggressors’ deployments and air operations” against Iran.
Reiterating its stance, the IRGC warned that Israeli and US forces remain under “constant surveillance” and cautioned that attempts to conceal military assets in civilian areas would not provide protection. It said that “no hiding place or defensive measure will shield the aggressors from accountability,” underscoring its intent to continue operations. -- ANI
• March 23, 2026 09:10 Indian national injured by falling debris after missile incident in Abu DhabiAn Indian national has sustained minor injury in Abu Dhabi after the debris of a ballistic missile fell in the Al Shawamekh area following successful interception, authorities said on Monday (March 23, 2026).Emergency teams responded to the scene after air defence systems dealt with the incoming missile, with debris landing in a residential area, authorities added.“Relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi have responded to an incident involving debris falling in the Al Shawamekh area following the successful interception of a ballistic missile by air defence systems. The incident resulted in a minor injury to an Indian national,” the Abu Dhabi media Office said in a post on X.“The public is reminded to obtain information from official sources only and avoid spreading rumours or unverified information,” it added. -- PTI
An Indian national has sustained minor injury in Abu Dhabi after the debris of a ballistic missile fell in the Al Shawamekh area following successful interception, authorities said on Monday (March 23, 2026).
Emergency teams responded to the scene after air defence systems dealt with the incoming missile, with debris landing in a residential area, authorities added.
“Relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi have responded to an incident involving debris falling in the Al Shawamekh area following the successful interception of a ballistic missile by air defence systems. The incident resulted in a minor injury to an Indian national,” the Abu Dhabi media Office said in a post on X.
“The public is reminded to obtain information from official sources only and avoid spreading rumours or unverified information,” it added. -- PTI
• March 23, 2026 08:52 Saudi Arabia says detected two ballistic missiles Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense said it detected two incoming ballistic missiles on Monday (March 23, 2026), as the kingdom and its Gulf neighbours face Iranian strikes.“Two ballistic missiles were launched towards the Riyadh region, one of which was intercepted and the other fell in an uninhabited area,” the ministry posted on social media. -- AFPSaudi Arabia and the UAE targeted in fresh attacksSaudi Arabia and the UAE face missile attacks, with casualties reported and air defenses engaged amid escalating regional tensions.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense said it detected two incoming ballistic missiles on Monday (March 23, 2026), as the kingdom and its Gulf neighbours face Iranian strikes.
“Two ballistic missiles were launched towards the Riyadh region, one of which was intercepted and the other fell in an uninhabited area,” the ministry posted on social media. -- AFP
Saudi Arabia and the UAE targeted in fresh attacks
Saudi Arabia and the UAE face missile attacks, with casualties reported and air defenses engaged amid escalating regional tensions.
• March 23, 2026 08:35 Asian stocks tumble as Trump gives Iran 48-hour ultimatumStocks tumbled on Monday (March 23, 2026) and oil prices rose after Donald Trump and Iranian leaders traded threats over the key Strait of Hormuz, while Israel said the Middle East war could last several more weeks.With the conflict now in its fourth week and showing no sign of ending, the head of the International Energy Agency warned of the worst global energy crisis in decades and said the world economy was under “major threat” from the crisis.Meanwhile, observers have also raised the prospect of a surge in inflation that could force central banks to hike interest rates, while the choking off of fertiliser shipments has also fanned concerns about global food security.The US president on Saturday gave Iran 48 hours to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping or face the destruction of its energy infrastructure. -- AFP
Stocks tumbled on Monday (March 23, 2026) and oil prices rose after Donald Trump and Iranian leaders traded threats over the key Strait of Hormuz, while Israel said the Middle East war could last several more weeks.
With the conflict now in its fourth week and showing no sign of ending, the head of the International Energy Agency warned of the worst global energy crisis in decades and said the world economy was under “major threat” from the crisis.
Meanwhile, observers have also raised the prospect of a surge in inflation that could force central banks to hike interest rates, while the choking off of fertiliser shipments has also fanned concerns about global food security.
The US president on Saturday gave Iran 48 hours to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping or face the destruction of its energy infrastructure. -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 08:20 Israel army says launched 'wide-scale wave of strikes' in TehranIsrael’s military said it launched a “wide-scale wave” of strikes on the Iranian capital early Monday (March 23, 2026) morning.“The IDF has begun a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting Iranian terror regime infrastructure in Tehran,” the Israeli military posted on Telegram using its official acronym. -- AFP
Israel’s military said it launched a “wide-scale wave” of strikes on the Iranian capital early Monday (March 23, 2026) morning.
“The IDF has begun a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting Iranian terror regime infrastructure in Tehran,” the Israeli military posted on Telegram using its official acronym. -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 08:09 Blasts heard in Tehran: Iran media reportsIranian news agencies reported explosions in capital Tehran early Monday (March 23, 2026) morning, with Fars saying airstrikes had occurred in multiple locations. “Explosion heard in Tehran,” local media Mehr posted on Telegram.Fars reported that “airstrikes targeted areas of Tehran”, specifying five areas and that “terrible sounds of explosions have been reported”. -- AFP
Iranian news agencies reported explosions in capital Tehran early Monday (March 23, 2026) morning, with Fars saying airstrikes had occurred in multiple locations.
“Explosion heard in Tehran,” local media Mehr posted on Telegram.
Fars reported that “airstrikes targeted areas of Tehran”, specifying five areas and that “terrible sounds of explosions have been reported”. -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 07:23 Gold slides over 3% as Middle East tensions stoke inflation fearsGold prices slipped more than 3% on Monday (March 23, 2026), extending their drop to a roughly four-month low, as an escalating Middle East conflict stoked inflation concerns and expectations of higher global interest rates. -- Reuters
Gold prices slipped more than 3% on Monday (March 23, 2026), extending their drop to a roughly four-month low, as an escalating Middle East conflict stoked inflation concerns and expectations of higher global interest rates. -- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 07:22 West Asia crisis 'very severe', says IEA boss BirolThe crisis in the West Asia is “very severe” and worse than the two oil shocks of the 1970s put together, International Energy Agency boss Fatih Birol said on Monday (March 23, 2026). -- ReutersWorld could face worst energy crisis in decades, IEA chief warnsIEA chief warns of a potential energy crisis worse than the 1970s, with 11 million barrels lost daily amid regional conflicts.
The crisis in the West Asia is “very severe” and worse than the two oil shocks of the 1970s put together, International Energy Agency boss Fatih Birol said on Monday (March 23, 2026). -- Reuters
World could face worst energy crisis in decades, IEA chief warns
IEA chief warns of a potential energy crisis worse than the 1970s, with 11 million barrels lost daily amid regional conflicts.
• March 23, 2026 07:11 West Asia war to dominate Houston's 'Davos of Energy'Energy industry leaders will converge on Texas this week for an annual conference dominated by oil and gas supply disruptions from the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.More than 10,000 attendees are expected for CERAWeek, the spring gathering in Houston that has taken on unexpected importance as fuel prices soar since the Mideast war began in late February.“It will be a CERAWeek for the ages,” said Mark Brownstein, senior vice president of energy at the Environmental Defense Fund.The attacks on critical energy facilities in Iran, Qatar and other Gulf countries have exacerbated a global oil and gas supply picture already upended by the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz.“We’re looking at the biggest disruption in world oil in history,” said Daniel Yergin, vice chairman of S&P Global and the chair of the conference. “Nothing like this is on this scale has occurred before.” -- AFP
Energy industry leaders will converge on Texas this week for an annual conference dominated by oil and gas supply disruptions from the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.
More than 10,000 attendees are expected for CERAWeek, the spring gathering in Houston that has taken on unexpected importance as fuel prices soar since the Mideast war began in late February.
“It will be a CERAWeek for the ages,” said Mark Brownstein, senior vice president of energy at the Environmental Defense Fund.
The attacks on critical energy facilities in Iran, Qatar and other Gulf countries have exacerbated a global oil and gas supply picture already upended by the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
“We’re looking at the biggest disruption in world oil in history,” said Daniel Yergin, vice chairman of S&P Global and the chair of the conference. “Nothing like this is on this scale has occurred before.” -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 07:04 Iraqi group extends pause in U.S. embassy attacks Kataeb Hezbollah — an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq — says it will extend its five-day pause on attacking the US embassy in Baghdad, announced.Since the start of the war in the Middle East, pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for near-daily attacks on US interests in Iraq and across the region, while strikes have also targeted these groups. -- AFP
Kataeb Hezbollah — an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq — says it will extend its five-day pause on attacking the US embassy in Baghdad, announced.
Since the start of the war in the Middle East, pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for near-daily attacks on US interests in Iraq and across the region, while strikes have also targeted these groups. -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 07:01 Donald Trump’s changing course on Strait of Hormuz strategy raises questions about U.S. war preparationAt war with Iran, President Donald Trump is cycling through an increasingly desperate list of options as he searches for a solution to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.He has jumped from calls to secure the waterway through diplomatic means to lifting sanctions and now escalating to a direct threat against civilian infrastructure in the Islamic Republic.Donald Trump’s changing course on Strait of Hormuz strategy raises questions about U.S. war preparationTrump's shifting strategy on the Strait of Hormuz raises concerns about U.S. war readiness and the potential for escalation.
At war with Iran, President Donald Trump is cycling through an increasingly desperate list of options as he searches for a solution to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.
He has jumped from calls to secure the waterway through diplomatic means to lifting sanctions and now escalating to a direct threat against civilian infrastructure in the Islamic Republic.
Donald Trump’s changing course on Strait of Hormuz strategy raises questions about U.S. war preparation
Trump's shifting strategy on the Strait of Hormuz raises concerns about U.S. war readiness and the potential for escalation.
• March 23, 2026 06:50 Crude oil prices up following Trump ultimatum on IranBenchmark U.S. oil contract WTI was up Monday (March 23, 2026) after U.S. President Donald Trump gave Iran a 48-hour ultimatum to open the Strait of Hormuz or face decimation of its energy infrastructure and Israel warned the war would continue for several more weeks.At 0015 GMT, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was up 0.44 percent to $98.66 per barrel. It had climbed to just over $100 a barrel earlier Monday (March 23).South Korea’s benchmark Kospi index and Japan’s Nikkei sharply dropped in early trade.The Kospi was down 4.69% at 5,509.88 points. The Nikkei 225 was down 3.54% at 51,483.91 points.The price of North Sea Brent crude, the global market benchmark, was down 0.02 at $112.17 per barrel.On February 27, the day before the US-Israeli attacks began on Iran, WTI had stood at $67.02 and Brent was at $72.48 per barrel. -- AFP
Benchmark U.S. oil contract WTI was up Monday (March 23, 2026) after U.S. President Donald Trump gave Iran a 48-hour ultimatum to open the Strait of Hormuz or face decimation of its energy infrastructure and Israel warned the war would continue for several more weeks.
At 0015 GMT, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was up 0.44 percent to $98.66 per barrel. It had climbed to just over $100 a barrel earlier Monday (March 23).
South Korea’s benchmark Kospi index and Japan’s Nikkei sharply dropped in early trade.
The Kospi was down 4.69% at 5,509.88 points. The Nikkei 225 was down 3.54% at 51,483.91 points.
The price of North Sea Brent crude, the global market benchmark, was down 0.02 at $112.17 per barrel.
On February 27, the day before the US-Israeli attacks began on Iran, WTI had stood at $67.02 and Brent was at $72.48 per barrel. -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 06:46 Saudi Aramco tells buyers to lift only Arab Light crude from Yanbu in AprilSaudi Aramco, the world’s top oil exporter, has cut crude supply to Asian buyers in April, two sources with knowledge of the matter said today, after the war with Iran disrupted trade via the Strait of Hormuz.The producer is supplying only Arab Light crude exported from the Yanbu port to term customers in April, the sources said. -- Reuters
Saudi Aramco, the world’s top oil exporter, has cut crude supply to Asian buyers in April, two sources with knowledge of the matter said today, after the war with Iran disrupted trade via the Strait of Hormuz.
The producer is supplying only Arab Light crude exported from the Yanbu port to term customers in April, the sources said. -- Reuters
• March 23, 2026 06:24 Trump's changing course on Strait of Hormuz strategy raises questions about U.S. war preparationAt war with Iran, President Donald Trump is cycling through an increasingly desperate list of options as he searches for a solution to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.He has jumped from calls to secure the waterway through diplomatic means to lifting sanctions and now escalating to a direct threat against civilian infrastructure in the Islamic Republic.Trump and his allies insist they were always prepared for Iran to block the strait, yet the Republican president’s erratic strategy has fueled criticism that he is grasping for answers after going to war without a clear exit plan. On Saturday came his latest attempt, via an ultimatum to Iran: Open the strait within 48 hours or the United States will “obliterate” the country’s power plants.Trump’s aides defended the threat as a hard-edged tactic to press Iran into submission. Opponents framed it as the failure of a president who miscalculated what it would take to get out of a geopolitical mire. -- AP
At war with Iran, President Donald Trump is cycling through an increasingly desperate list of options as he searches for a solution to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.
He has jumped from calls to secure the waterway through diplomatic means to lifting sanctions and now escalating to a direct threat against civilian infrastructure in the Islamic Republic.
Trump and his allies insist they were always prepared for Iran to block the strait, yet the Republican president’s erratic strategy has fueled criticism that he is grasping for answers after going to war without a clear exit plan. On Saturday came his latest attempt, via an ultimatum to Iran: Open the strait within 48 hours or the United States will “obliterate” the country’s power plants.
Trump’s aides defended the threat as a hard-edged tactic to press Iran into submission. Opponents framed it as the failure of a president who miscalculated what it would take to get out of a geopolitical mire. -- AP
• March 23, 2026 06:05 Iraqi pro-Iran group extends pause in U.S. Embassy attacksAn Iran-backed armed group announced on Monday (March 23, 2026) that it would continue its five-day pause on attacking the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.Since the start of the war in the Middle East, pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for near-daily attacks on U.S. interests in Iraq and across the region, while strikes have also targeted these groups.On Thursday, Kataeb Hezbollah, designated a “terrorist organisation” by Washington, said it would stop attacking the Baghdad embassy under certain conditions, including an end to attacks on residential parts of Iraq and the southern suburbs of Beirut.The latter area is a bastion of Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which is also Iran-backed and is at war with Israel.“The deadline given to the embassy of American evil will be extended by an additional five days,” Kataeb Hezbollah said in a statement on Monday (March 23, 2026). -- AFP
An Iran-backed armed group announced on Monday (March 23, 2026) that it would continue its five-day pause on attacking the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.
Since the start of the war in the Middle East, pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for near-daily attacks on U.S. interests in Iraq and across the region, while strikes have also targeted these groups.
On Thursday, Kataeb Hezbollah, designated a “terrorist organisation” by Washington, said it would stop attacking the Baghdad embassy under certain conditions, including an end to attacks on residential parts of Iraq and the southern suburbs of Beirut.
The latter area is a bastion of Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which is also Iran-backed and is at war with Israel.
“The deadline given to the embassy of American evil will be extended by an additional five days,” Kataeb Hezbollah said in a statement on Monday (March 23, 2026). -- AFP
• March 23, 2026 06:03 How Trump's stated reasons, goals and timeline for Iran war have shifted U.S. President Donald Trump and his top officials have offered shifting objectives and reasons for the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, which critics say shows a lack of planning for the conflict and its aftermath.How Trump's stated reasons, goals and timeline for Iran war have shiftedExplore how Trump's objectives and timeline for the Iran war have evolved amidst shifting political narratives and military strategies.
U.S. President Donald Trump and his top officials have offered shifting objectives and reasons for the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, which critics say shows a lack of planning for the conflict and its aftermath.
How Trump's stated reasons, goals and timeline for Iran war have shifted
Explore how Trump's objectives and timeline for the Iran war have evolved amidst shifting political narratives and military strategies.
• March 23, 2026 06:02 Trump and Iran step up threats over energy targets as war escalates The Iranian military on Sunday (March 22, 2026) threatened to completely shut down the strategic Strait of Hormuz and attack U.S. infrastructure, including energy facilities in the Gulf, if U.S. President Donald Trump acts on threats to target the country’s power plants.Mr. Trump on Saturday (March 21) threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, suggesting a significant escalation barely a day after he talked about “winding down” the war, now in its fourth week.Trump and Iran step up threats over energy targets as war escalatesIran's military threatens to target U.S. energy and desalination infrastructure in response to American threats over the Strait of Hormuz.
The Iranian military on Sunday (March 22, 2026) threatened to completely shut down the strategic Strait of Hormuz and attack U.S. infrastructure, including energy facilities in the Gulf, if U.S. President Donald Trump acts on threats to target the country’s power plants.
Mr. Trump on Saturday (March 21) threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, suggesting a significant escalation barely a day after he talked about “winding down” the war, now in its fourth week.
Trump and Iran step up threats over energy targets as war escalates
Iran's military threatens to target U.S. energy and desalination infrastructure in response to American threats over the Strait of Hormuz.
• March 23, 2026 06:01 U.S. says 'took out' Iran base threatening blocked Strait of Hormuz oil route The U.S. military declared on Saturday (March 21, 2026) it had taken out an Iranian bunker housing weapons threatening oil and gas shipments in the Strait of Hormuz, as thousands of Iranians marked Id al-Fitr with prayer.The U.S. statement appeared designed to calm the concerns of energy markets and of Washington’s sceptical international allies, more than 20 of whom issued a statement vowing to back efforts to re-open the key sea lane.U.S. says 'took out' Iran base threatening blocked Strait of Hormuz oil routeThe U.S. military strikes an Iranian base threatening the Strait of Hormuz, prompting international condemnation and escalating tensions.
The U.S. military declared on Saturday (March 21, 2026) it had taken out an Iranian bunker housing weapons threatening oil and gas shipments in the Strait of Hormuz, as thousands of Iranians marked Id al-Fitr with prayer.
The U.S. statement appeared designed to calm the concerns of energy markets and of Washington’s sceptical international allies, more than 20 of whom issued a statement vowing to back efforts to re-open the key sea lane.
U.S. says 'took out' Iran base threatening blocked Strait of Hormuz oil route
The U.S. military strikes an Iranian base threatening the Strait of Hormuz, prompting international condemnation and escalating tensions.
Published - March 23, 2026 06:32 am IST
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