Iran-Israel war updates on March 19, 2026: Netanyahu says Iran has no capacity to enrich uranium, make ballistic missiles
Kartavya Desk Staff
#### Key Updates
• Watch | Israel PM Netanyahu addresses press conference
• Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia issues advisory notice after alerts in Riyadh, Saudi regions
• Iran MPs propose tolls on shipping through Strait of Hormuz: media
• China offers to work with Southeast Asia on energy security
• Tehran intensifies attacks on Gulf energy facilities after Israel hits Iranian gas field
• Trump says Israel acted alone on Iran gas field, warns Iran against targeting Qatar
• Qatar says Iran missile attack on main gas hub causes damage
• March 20, 2026 05:50 Iran women’s soccer team greeted with a ’welcome ceremony’ in Tehran Members of Iran’s national women’s soccer team were greeted with a “welcome ceremony” upon their return to the Islamic Republic after several of the players had sought asylum in Australia.“First of all we are so happy to be in Iran, because Iran is our homeland,” midfielder Fatemeh Shaban said.People in the crowd waved flags while some of the players held bouquets of flowers and signed what appeared to be mini-soccer balls. Iranian media had reported that the team returned on Wednesday.“I wasn’t expecting this many people to come to welcome us, and I am happy to be the daughter of Iran,” Shaban said in translated comments.- AP
Members of Iran’s national women’s soccer team were greeted with a “welcome ceremony” upon their return to the Islamic Republic after several of the players had sought asylum in Australia.
“First of all we are so happy to be in Iran, because Iran is our homeland,” midfielder Fatemeh Shaban said.
People in the crowd waved flags while some of the players held bouquets of flowers and signed what appeared to be mini-soccer balls. Iranian media had reported that the team returned on Wednesday.
“I wasn’t expecting this many people to come to welcome us, and I am happy to be the daughter of Iran,” Shaban said in translated comments.
• March 20, 2026 05:09 Trump, Netanyahu split on gas field attack, raise questions about whether they're in sync on war President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s diverging language on Israel’s decision to attack a critical Iranian gas field marks the most notable difference of opinion between the two leaders since the start of the 20-day war against Iran.The aftermath of the strike left Trump and Netanyahu facing questions on whether they’re entirely in sync in prosecuting the war that began as a closely coordinated joint attack on the longtime regional foe. The emergence of daylight -- or at least the appearance of it -- between the two leaders could shape the balance of the conflict and any eventual endgame.Trump, during an Oval Office meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, told reporters that he neither agreed with nor approved of Israel’s attack on the world’s largest gas field, which is an energy lifeline for Iran.“I told him, ‘Don’t do that,’” Trump said of Netanyahu’s decision to strike. “We get along great. It’s coordinated, but on occasion he’ll do something. And if I don’t like it -- and so we’re not doing that anymore.” Netanyahu said that Israel “acted alone” and that he’s agreed to Trump’s request that Israel hold off on any further attack on Iran’s giant gas field. The prime minister also sought to downplay any space between him and Trump.- AP
President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s diverging language on Israel’s decision to attack a critical Iranian gas field marks the most notable difference of opinion between the two leaders since the start of the 20-day war against Iran.
The aftermath of the strike left Trump and Netanyahu facing questions on whether they’re entirely in sync in prosecuting the war that began as a closely coordinated joint attack on the longtime regional foe. The emergence of daylight -- or at least the appearance of it -- between the two leaders could shape the balance of the conflict and any eventual endgame.
Trump, during an Oval Office meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, told reporters that he neither agreed with nor approved of Israel’s attack on the world’s largest gas field, which is an energy lifeline for Iran.
“I told him, ‘Don’t do that,’” Trump said of Netanyahu’s decision to strike. “We get along great. It’s coordinated, but on occasion he’ll do something. And if I don’t like it -- and so we’re not doing that anymore.” Netanyahu said that Israel “acted alone” and that he’s agreed to Trump’s request that Israel hold off on any further attack on Iran’s giant gas field. The prime minister also sought to downplay any space between him and Trump.
• March 20, 2026 03:43 Blasts heard over Jerusalem after Israel detects Iran missile launch: AFP Multiple loud blasts were heard over Jerusalem late Thursday after Israel reported another round of Iranian missile fire and air raid sirens rang out in the city, AFP reporters said.Israel has detected multiple Iranian launches on Thursday, including one shortly before midnight (2200 GMT), followed by the explosions over Jerusalem.Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency services said it had not immediately received any emergency dispatch calls following the latest Iranian launch.- AFP
Multiple loud blasts were heard over Jerusalem late Thursday after Israel reported another round of Iranian missile fire and air raid sirens rang out in the city, AFP reporters said.
Israel has detected multiple Iranian launches on Thursday, including one shortly before midnight (2200 GMT), followed by the explosions over Jerusalem.
Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency services said it had not immediately received any emergency dispatch calls following the latest Iranian launch.
• March 20, 2026 02:52 Russia issues fresh call for end to hostilities in Gulf Russia issued a fresh call on Thursday for an end to hostilities in the Gulf, starting with a halt to U.S. and Israeli attacks, and made a new offer to use its diplomatic leverage to help end the fighting.“We call for the fastest possible cessation of hostilities, which resulted from the unprovoked aggression of the U.S. and Israel,” the foreign ministry said in a statement on its website.“Russia, alongside China, Turkey and other like-minded parties, is ready to help with a settlement to the conflict and the search to resolve differences by diplomatic-political means.“Let us stress that the first step on this path must be quick agreement by the United States and Israel to halt their military adventure.”- Reuters
Russia issued a fresh call on Thursday for an end to hostilities in the Gulf, starting with a halt to U.S. and Israeli attacks, and made a new offer to use its diplomatic leverage to help end the fighting.
“We call for the fastest possible cessation of hostilities, which resulted from the unprovoked aggression of the U.S. and Israel,” the foreign ministry said in a statement on its website.
“Russia, alongside China, Turkey and other like-minded parties, is ready to help with a settlement to the conflict and the search to resolve differences by diplomatic-political means.
“Let us stress that the first step on this path must be quick agreement by the United States and Israel to halt their military adventure.”
- •Reuters
• March 20, 2026 02:18 Qatar says attacks to disrupt 17% of LNG export capacity Qatar’s energy minister said Thursday the attacks on the country’s energy installations will slash the export capacity of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) by 17 percent, costing an estimated loss of $20 billion in annual revenue.“The damage sustained by the LNG facilities will take between three to five years to repair. The impact is on China, South Korea, Italy and Belgium,” said energy minister Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi in a statement.“This means that we will be compelled to declare force majeure for up to five years on some long-term LNG contracts,” the minister added, referring to the legal term meaning events beyond its control may lead it to miss export targets.- AFP
Qatar’s energy minister said Thursday the attacks on the country’s energy installations will slash the export capacity of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) by 17 percent, costing an estimated loss of $20 billion in annual revenue.
“The damage sustained by the LNG facilities will take between three to five years to repair. The impact is on China, South Korea, Italy and Belgium,” said energy minister Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi in a statement.
“This means that we will be compelled to declare force majeure for up to five years on some long-term LNG contracts,” the minister added, referring to the legal term meaning events beyond its control may lead it to miss export targets.
• March 20, 2026 01:15 Netanyahu says seeing 'cracks' in Iran leadership Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that he was “seeing cracks” in the Iranian leadership, with the country’s new supreme leader yet to make a public appearance.“I’m not sure who’s running Iran right now. Mojtaba the replacement ayatollah has not shown his face. What we see is that there is a lot of tensions inside the people who are edging for the top,” Netanyahu said in a televised press conference.“We’re seeing cracks, and we’re trying to propagate them as fast as we can, not only in the top command, we’re seeing cracks in the field.”- AFP
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that he was “seeing cracks” in the Iranian leadership, with the country’s new supreme leader yet to make a public appearance.
“I’m not sure who’s running Iran right now. Mojtaba the replacement ayatollah has not shown his face. What we see is that there is a lot of tensions inside the people who are edging for the top,” Netanyahu said in a televised press conference.
“We’re seeing cracks, and we’re trying to propagate them as fast as we can, not only in the top command, we’re seeing cracks in the field.”
• March 20, 2026 00:55 Netanyahu says Israel 'acted alone' in striking Iran gasfield Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel had acted unilaterally in striking Iran’s massive South Pars gas field.“Israel acted alone against the Asaluyeh gas compound... President Trump asked us to hold off on future attacks and we’re holding out,” Netanyahu said at a televised press conference.-AFP
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel had acted unilaterally in striking Iran’s massive South Pars gas field.
“Israel acted alone against the Asaluyeh gas compound... President Trump asked us to hold off on future attacks and we’re holding out,” Netanyahu said at a televised press conference.
• March 20, 2026 00:31 Israel didn't drag U.S. into this conflict: NetanyahuIsrael PM Netanyahu notes the different areas that Israel and U.S. are jointly targeting in Iran. He says that the two are jointly wiping out the industrial base like it hasn’t been done before. Further, Mr. Netanyahu adds that there are fake rumours going around that Israel dragged U.S. into this conflict “Can anyone tell President Trump what to do?”
Israel PM Netanyahu notes the different areas that Israel and U.S. are jointly targeting in Iran. He says that the two are jointly wiping out the industrial base like it hasn’t been done before.
Further, Mr. Netanyahu adds that there are fake rumours going around that Israel dragged U.S. into this conflict “Can anyone tell President Trump what to do?”
• March 20, 2026 00:28 Iran attacking entire Middle East: NetanyahuIsrael PM Netanyahu notes that the Iran is attacking the entire Middle East. “The death cult in Iran is trying to blackmail the world by closing the Strait of Hormuz. It won’t work,” he says. Today Israel, and the United States are protecting Israel, United States, the Middle East and the entire world, Mr. Netanyahu says. “We are winning,” the PM adds.
Israel PM Netanyahu notes that the Iran is attacking the entire Middle East. “The death cult in Iran is trying to blackmail the world by closing the Strait of Hormuz. It won’t work,” he says.
Today Israel, and the United States are protecting Israel, United States, the Middle East and the entire world, Mr. Netanyahu says.
“We are winning,” the PM adds.
• March 20, 2026 00:26 "I am alive": NetanyahuIsrael PM Netanyahu begins the press conference by saying “I am alive”, as he addresses the foreign press. He provides an update on Operation Roaring Lion, noting the three goals: removing the nuclear threat, removing ballistic missile threat, creating conditions for Iranians to “grasp freedom”
Israel PM Netanyahu begins the press conference by saying “I am alive”, as he addresses the foreign press.
He provides an update on Operation Roaring Lion, noting the three goals: removing the nuclear threat, removing ballistic missile threat, creating conditions for Iranians to “grasp freedom”
• March 20, 2026 00:24 Iran has no capacity to enrich uranium or make ballistic missiles after 20 days of war: NetanyahuAddressing a press conference, Israel PM Netanyahu said Iran has no capacity to enrich uranium or make ballistic missiles after 20 days of war.He added that it is too soon to tell if Iranians will take to the streets.
Addressing a press conference, Israel PM Netanyahu said Iran has no capacity to enrich uranium or make ballistic missiles after 20 days of war.
He added that it is too soon to tell if Iranians will take to the streets.
• March 20, 2026 00:12 Watch | Israel PM Netanyahu addresses press conference
• March 19, 2026 23:25 Iran's Revolutionary Guards say they attacked and 'damaged' a U.S. F-35 fighter jet
• March 19, 2026 23:05 Iran creating corridor for safe exit of India-bound ships: Lloyds ListIran creating corridor for safe exit of India-bound ships: Lloyds ListIran establishes a safe corridor for India-bound ships in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions.
Iran creating corridor for safe exit of India-bound ships: Lloyds List
Iran establishes a safe corridor for India-bound ships in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions.
• March 19, 2026 23:03 U.S. F-35 damaged by Iranian fire makes emergency landing, reports say
• March 19, 2026 22:58 Footage of an F-35 being targeted by the IRGC Aerospace Force’s air defense.
• March 19, 2026 22:33 We stand in solidarity with Qatar and strongly condemn the attacks on the region’s energy infrastructure: PM Modi
• March 19, 2026 22:28 PPAC asked to ‘collect, compile, analyse’ data about domestic fuel and energy stocksPPAC asked to ‘collect, compile, analyse’ data about domestic fuel and energy stocksPPAC designated as nodal agency to enhance data collection on domestic fuel and energy stocks for improved mandate enforcement.
PPAC asked to ‘collect, compile, analyse’ data about domestic fuel and energy stocks
PPAC designated as nodal agency to enhance data collection on domestic fuel and energy stocks for improved mandate enforcement.
• March 19, 2026 21:46 Trump says 'not putting troops' in IranU.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he was not sending ground troops to Iran, weeks after he launched massive missile and bombing attacks alongside Israel.“If I were, I certainly wouldn’t tell you. But I’m not putting troops,” Trump told reporters as he met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.--- AFP
U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he was not sending ground troops to Iran, weeks after he launched massive missile and bombing attacks alongside Israel.
“If I were, I certainly wouldn’t tell you. But I’m not putting troops,” Trump told reporters as he met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.--- AFP
• March 19, 2026 21:24 UN maritime body urges 'safe maritime corridor' in Gulf The UN’s maritime body called Thursday for a safe shipping “corridor” in the Gulf to evacuate stranded vessels and seafarers, in a declaration following an emergency meeting that also condemned Iran.Following two days of urgent talks in London convened because of the Middle East war, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) said in formal declaration that the “safe maritime corridor” should be established as “a provisional and urgent measure”.The UN agency -- responsible for regulating international shipping safety -- added that the corridor must “facilitate the safe evacuation of merchant ships from the high-risk and affected areas to a safe place”.--- AFP
The UN’s maritime body called Thursday for a safe shipping “corridor” in the Gulf to evacuate stranded vessels and seafarers, in a declaration following an emergency meeting that also condemned Iran.
Following two days of urgent talks in London convened because of the Middle East war, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) said in formal declaration that the “safe maritime corridor” should be established as “a provisional and urgent measure”.
The UN agency -- responsible for regulating international shipping safety -- added that the corridor must “facilitate the safe evacuation of merchant ships from the high-risk and affected areas to a safe place”.--- AFP
• March 19, 2026 21:11 Qatar PM says Iran attack on gas hub has 'significant repercussions for global energy supplies'Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Thursday (March 19) condemned Iran’s attacks on the state’s main gas hub after Tehran sent waves of attacks against Gulf energy infrastructure a day earlier.“This attack has significant repercussions for global energy supplies. Such attacks bring no direct benefit to any country, rather, they harm and directly impact populations,” he told a press conference following extensive damage to the Ras Laffan facility.- AFP
Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Thursday (March 19) condemned Iran’s attacks on the state’s main gas hub after Tehran sent waves of attacks against Gulf energy infrastructure a day earlier.
“This attack has significant repercussions for global energy supplies. Such attacks bring no direct benefit to any country, rather, they harm and directly impact populations,” he told a press conference following extensive damage to the Ras Laffan facility.- AFP
• March 19, 2026 21:10 Russia says strike that wounded TV crew in Lebanon not 'accidental'Russia on Thursday (March 19) condemned an airstrike that wounded a TV crew from state-run RT in Lebanon as not “accidental”, amid ongoing Israeli strikes and ground operations in the south of the country.Video agency Ruptly -- a subsidiary of RT -- posted footage showing an explosion and plumes of smoke rising through the air metres behind RT’s reporter, who was wearing a bulletproof vest with a sign “Press” on it as he delivered an on-air report.The reporter and a cameraman “were injured in an Israeli attack in southern Lebanon, while they were reporting,” Ruptly said on Telegram, adding both were “conscious and receiving medical attention”.- AFP
Russia on Thursday (March 19) condemned an airstrike that wounded a TV crew from state-run RT in Lebanon as not “accidental”, amid ongoing Israeli strikes and ground operations in the south of the country.
Video agency Ruptly -- a subsidiary of RT -- posted footage showing an explosion and plumes of smoke rising through the air metres behind RT’s reporter, who was wearing a bulletproof vest with a sign “Press” on it as he delivered an on-air report.
The reporter and a cameraman “were injured in an Israeli attack in southern Lebanon, while they were reporting,” Ruptly said on Telegram, adding both were “conscious and receiving medical attention”.- AFP
• March 19, 2026 20:29 Israeli military says it has struck Iranian targets in Caspian Sea Israel said Thursday it struck Iranian targets in the Caspian Sea for the first time. Israeli military spokesman Lt Col Nadav Shoshani said the strikes hit dozens of targets, including ships, a shipyard and a command centre-- AP
Israel said Thursday it struck Iranian targets in the Caspian Sea for the first time. Israeli military spokesman Lt Col Nadav Shoshani said the strikes hit dozens of targets, including ships, a shipyard and a command centre
• March 19, 2026 19:49 Six allies ready to help 'efforts to ensure safe passage' through Hormuz Strait Six major international powers, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, said Thursday they were ready “to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz”.“We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning” the grouping -- which also includes Italy and the Netherlands -- said in a joint statement, as they condemned “in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf”.The declaration came as an effective Iranian blockade of the strait has paralysed commercial shipping through the crucial maritime chokepoint, which in peacetime sees a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas pass through it.--- AFP
Six major international powers, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, said Thursday they were ready “to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz”.
“We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning” the grouping -- which also includes Italy and the Netherlands -- said in a joint statement, as they condemned “in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf”.
The declaration came as an effective Iranian blockade of the strait has paralysed commercial shipping through the crucial maritime chokepoint, which in peacetime sees a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas pass through it.--- AFP
• March 19, 2026 19:35 Iran FM vows 'zero restraint' if energy infrastructure hit again Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday that Tehran will not excercise any restraint if energy facilities were attacked in the war with United States and Israel again.“Our response to Israel’s attack on our infrastructure employed FRACTION of our power. The ONLY reason for restraint was respect for requested de-escalation,” said Araghchi in a post on X.“ZERO restraint if our infrastructures are struck again.”-- AFP
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday that Tehran will not excercise any restraint if energy facilities were attacked in the war with United States and Israel again.
“Our response to Israel’s attack on our infrastructure employed FRACTION of our power. The ONLY reason for restraint was respect for requested de-escalation,” said Araghchi in a post on X.
“ZERO restraint if our infrastructures are struck again.”
• March 19, 2026 19:29 Vessels carrying Russian Urals crude to reach India on March 21 Vessels carrying Russian Urals crude to reach India on March 21Russian Urals oil vessels will reach India on March 21 amid stable fuel prices and diversified LPG imports.
Vessels carrying Russian Urals crude to reach India on March 21
Russian Urals oil vessels will reach India on March 21 amid stable fuel prices and diversified LPG imports.
• March 19, 2026 19:28 Pentagon seeks $200 billion in additional funds for Iran war No ‘definitive time frame’ for ending Iran war, say Pentagon; seeks $200 billion in additional fundsPentagon sees no end date for Iran war, requests $200 billion more funding; President Trump to decide conflict’s conclusion.
No ‘definitive time frame’ for ending Iran war, say Pentagon; seeks $200 billion in additional funds
Pentagon sees no end date for Iran war, requests $200 billion more funding; President Trump to decide conflict’s conclusion.
• March 19, 2026 19:02 Israeli attack on Iran gas field was coordinated with U.S., Israeli officials say Israel’s attack on Iran’s South Pars gas facilities on Wednesday was coordinated with the United States but will likely not be repeated, three Israeli officials said on Thursday.Mr. Trump said in a social media post that Washington “knew nothing about this particular attack”, which has drawn widespread Iranian attacks on energy installations in the Gulf. --- Reuters
Israel’s attack on Iran’s South Pars gas facilities on Wednesday was coordinated with the United States but will likely not be repeated, three Israeli officials said on Thursday.
Mr. Trump said in a social media post that Washington “knew nothing about this particular attack”, which has drawn widespread Iranian attacks on energy installations in the Gulf. --- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 18:48 UN's Guterres urges U.S., Israel to end war and Iran to stop attacking neighbours United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres on Thursday urged the United States and Israel to stop the war and called on Iran to stop attacking its neighbours.“It is high time to end this war that is risking to get completely out of control,” Mr. Guterres told reporters in Brussels after he met with European Union leaders.He also called for the end to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which threatens the world economy. --- Reuters
United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres on Thursday urged the United States and Israel to stop the war and called on Iran to stop attacking its neighbours.
“It is high time to end this war that is risking to get completely out of control,” Mr. Guterres told reporters in Brussels after he met with European Union leaders.
He also called for the end to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which threatens the world economy. --- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 18:05 U.S. may remove sanctions on Iranian oil stranded in tankers, Bessent says The U.S. may soon remove sanctions from Iranian oil that is stranded on tankers to help lift global supplies and reduce prices, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Thursday.“In the coming days, we may unsanction the Iranian oil that’s on the water. It’s about 140 million barrels,” Mr. Bessent told Fox Business Network’s “Mornings with Maria” programme.--- Reuters
The U.S. may soon remove sanctions from Iranian oil that is stranded on tankers to help lift global supplies and reduce prices, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Thursday.
“In the coming days, we may unsanction the Iranian oil that’s on the water. It’s about 140 million barrels,” Mr. Bessent told Fox Business Network’s “Mornings with Maria” programme.--- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 18:01 U.S. striking Iran-aligned militia in Iraq, top U.S. general says U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Thursday that the United States’ objectives in the war against Iran have not changed since strikes started on February 28.Mr. Hegseth told reporters that the objectives remained to destroy Iran’s missile launchers, its defense industrial base and navy as well as never allowing Iran to get a nuclear weapon.-- Reuters
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Thursday that the United States’ objectives in the war against Iran have not changed since strikes started on February 28.
Mr. Hegseth told reporters that the objectives remained to destroy Iran’s missile launchers, its defense industrial base and navy as well as never allowing Iran to get a nuclear weapon.-- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 17:37 Rajnath cites global conflicts, says India must become self-reliant in drone manufacturing India must develop a robust ecosystem for drone manufacturing to enhance its defence preparedness, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday, highlighting lessons from the Russia-Ukraine and Iran-Israel conflicts.In an address at an event, Mr. Singh asserted that the two conflicts prove that drones and counter-drone technologies will play a “pivotal role” in future warfare.The Defence Minister said India must work in mission mode to emerge as a global hub for indigenous drone manufacturing in the next few years to ensure strategic autonomy and boost military prowess.--- PTI
India must develop a robust ecosystem for drone manufacturing to enhance its defence preparedness, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday, highlighting lessons from the Russia-Ukraine and Iran-Israel conflicts.
In an address at an event, Mr. Singh asserted that the two conflicts prove that drones and counter-drone technologies will play a “pivotal role” in future warfare.
The Defence Minister said India must work in mission mode to emerge as a global hub for indigenous drone manufacturing in the next few years to ensure strategic autonomy and boost military prowess.--- PTI
• March 19, 2026 17:36 Iran slams France's Macron over West Asia war stanceIran slams France's Macron over West Asia war stanceIran criticizes France's Macron for ignoring Israel-US attacks amid escalating West Asia conflict over shared gas fields.
Iran slams France's Macron over West Asia war stance
Iran criticizes France's Macron for ignoring Israel-US attacks amid escalating West Asia conflict over shared gas fields.
• March 19, 2026 17:12 PM Modi speaks to Sultan of Oman, Malaysian PM; discusses West Asia situation Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim, and discussed with them the West Asia situation, favouring de-escalation of the conflict in the region and subsequent restoration of peace and stability.In his separate telephonic conversations with the two leaders, Mr. Modi also stressed the need for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.“Had a productive conversation with my brother Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and conveyed advance Eid greetings to the people of Oman. We agreed on the need to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and subsequent restoration of peace and stability,” Mr. Modi said in a post on X.-- PTI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim, and discussed with them the West Asia situation, favouring de-escalation of the conflict in the region and subsequent restoration of peace and stability.
In his separate telephonic conversations with the two leaders, Mr. Modi also stressed the need for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
“Had a productive conversation with my brother Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and conveyed advance Eid greetings to the people of Oman. We agreed on the need to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and subsequent restoration of peace and stability,” Mr. Modi said in a post on X.-- PTI
• March 19, 2026 17:00 Iran arrests 97 people accused of working with Israel, state media reportsIran’s Iintelligence Ministry has arrested 97 people for being “soldiers of Israel”, state media reported on Thursday, in the latest round of a security sweep that has seen hundreds detained over alleged linked to Israel and the U.S. since the start of the war.Earlier on Thursday, state media quoted the police commander of Alborz province as saying that 41 people were arrested for sending videos to foreign-based opposition media channels.-- Reuters
Iran’s Iintelligence Ministry has arrested 97 people for being “soldiers of Israel”, state media reported on Thursday, in the latest round of a security sweep that has seen hundreds detained over alleged linked to Israel and the U.S. since the start of the war.
Earlier on Thursday, state media quoted the police commander of Alborz province as saying that 41 people were arrested for sending videos to foreign-based opposition media channels.-- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 16:45 Two containers are headed to Oman and UAE respectively: Rajesh Kumar SinhaAt present, two container vessels, namely, CMA CGM Vitoria and SSL Godavari, are operating in the Eastern part of the Strait of Hormuz. They are headed to Oman and UAE respectively: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways--- Saptaparno Ghosh
At present, two container vessels, namely, CMA CGM Vitoria and SSL Godavari, are operating in the Eastern part of the Strait of Hormuz. They are headed to Oman and UAE respectively: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways--- Saptaparno Ghosh
• March 19, 2026 16:38 We import 47% of our LNG from Qatar, there is bound to be an impact: Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary, MoPNG“We have diversified our sources and are picking cargoes from elsewhere,” said Sujata Sharma.“Have not increased retail prices of petrol, diesel till date,” said Ms. Sharma on increasing Brent crude prices. “Two container vessels are operating in the Strait of Hormuz,” she added.“Vessel Aqua Titan chartered by Mangalore Refineries and Petrochemical is carrying Russian Urals crude. It is expected to reach its destination New Mangalore Port on March 21,” said Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.--- Saptaparno Ghosh
“We have diversified our sources and are picking cargoes from elsewhere,” said Sujata Sharma.
“Have not increased retail prices of petrol, diesel till date,” said Ms. Sharma on increasing Brent crude prices. “Two container vessels are operating in the Strait of Hormuz,” she added.
“Vessel Aqua Titan chartered by Mangalore Refineries and Petrochemical is carrying Russian Urals crude. It is expected to reach its destination New Mangalore Port on March 21,” said Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.--- Saptaparno Ghosh
• March 19, 2026 16:35 Iran slams France’s Macron over West Asia war stanceIran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday (March 19, 2026) criticised French President Emmanuel Macron, accusing him of failing to condemn Israel and the United States’ war with the Islamic republic, while voicing concern over Tehran’s retaliation.“It is in our common interest to implement, without delay, a moratorium on strikes targeting civilian infrastructure,” Mr. Macron said in a post on X, in which he referenced calls with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and U.S. President Donald Trump.Mr. Araghchi responded in a post on X by accusing Macron of ignoring earlier U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran.He said the French President “has not uttered one word of condemnation of the Israel-U.S. war on Iran”, and that he had failed to denounce strikes on fuel storages in Tehran on March 7.“His current ‘concern’ didn’t follow Israel’s attack on our gas facilities. It follows our retaliation. Sad!” Mr. Araghchi said.- AFP
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday (March 19, 2026) criticised French President Emmanuel Macron, accusing him of failing to condemn Israel and the United States’ war with the Islamic republic, while voicing concern over Tehran’s retaliation.
“It is in our common interest to implement, without delay, a moratorium on strikes targeting civilian infrastructure,” Mr. Macron said in a post on X, in which he referenced calls with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Mr. Araghchi responded in a post on X by accusing Macron of ignoring earlier U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran.
He said the French President “has not uttered one word of condemnation of the Israel-U.S. war on Iran”, and that he had failed to denounce strikes on fuel storages in Tehran on March 7.
“His current ‘concern’ didn’t follow Israel’s attack on our gas facilities. It follows our retaliation. Sad!” Mr. Araghchi said.
• March 19, 2026 16:31 Understand government's desire to take cautious stand, India must make call for peace: Tharoor on West Asia conflictUnderstand government's desire to take cautious stand, India must make call for peace: Tharoor on West Asia conflictShashi Tharoor urges India to call for peace in West Asia, balancing energy security and diplomatic caution amid the conflict.
Understand government's desire to take cautious stand, India must make call for peace: Tharoor on West Asia conflict
Shashi Tharoor urges India to call for peace in West Asia, balancing energy security and diplomatic caution amid the conflict.
• March 19, 2026 16:24 Iran again threatens to destroy region’s energy facilities if own attackedIran’s military renewed threats on Thursday (March 19, 2026) to destroy the region’s energy infrastructure were its facilities to be attacked again during the U.S.-Israel war with the Islamic republic.“We warn the enemy that you made a major mistake in attacking the energy infrastructure of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the response is underway and not yet finished,” the military’s operational command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, said in a statement carried by the Fars news agency.“If it is repeated, subsequent attacks against your energy infrastructure and that of your allies will not stop until their complete destruction, and our response will be far more severe than” last night’s attacks.- AFP
Iran’s military renewed threats on Thursday (March 19, 2026) to destroy the region’s energy infrastructure were its facilities to be attacked again during the U.S.-Israel war with the Islamic republic.
“We warn the enemy that you made a major mistake in attacking the energy infrastructure of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the response is underway and not yet finished,” the military’s operational command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, said in a statement carried by the Fars news agency.
“If it is repeated, subsequent attacks against your energy infrastructure and that of your allies will not stop until their complete destruction, and our response will be far more severe than” last night’s attacks.
• March 19, 2026 15:56 Macron slams energy strikes in West Asia as ‘reckless escalation’French President Emmanuel Macron warned Thursday (March 19, 2026) of a “reckless escalation” as Iran struck a series of Gulf energy sites after an Israeli attack on its South Pars gas field.Speaking on arrival at EU talks in Brussels, Mr. Macron warned that if energy “production capacities themselves are destroyed, this war will have a much more lasting impact,” calling for “direct talks between the Americans and Iranians on this matter.”- AFP
French President Emmanuel Macron warned Thursday (March 19, 2026) of a “reckless escalation” as Iran struck a series of Gulf energy sites after an Israeli attack on its South Pars gas field.
Speaking on arrival at EU talks in Brussels, Mr. Macron warned that if energy “production capacities themselves are destroyed, this war will have a much more lasting impact,” calling for “direct talks between the Americans and Iranians on this matter.”
• March 19, 2026 15:55 Iran urges regional vigilance against U.S., Israeli ‘destabilisation’, state media reportsIran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi called for vigilance and coordination among regional countries to counter what he described as “destabilising and escalatory actions” by the United States and Israel, Iranian state media reported on Thursday (March 19, 2026).Mr. Araqchi made the remarks in separate phone calls with his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt and Pakistan.He said recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iranian infrastructure were aimed at escalating tensions and added that Iran would spare no effort in defending its sovereignty and security.- Reuters
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi called for vigilance and coordination among regional countries to counter what he described as “destabilising and escalatory actions” by the United States and Israel, Iranian state media reported on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
Mr. Araqchi made the remarks in separate phone calls with his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt and Pakistan.
He said recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iranian infrastructure were aimed at escalating tensions and added that Iran would spare no effort in defending its sovereignty and security.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 15:48 Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia issues advisory notice after alerts in Riyadh, Saudi regionsThe Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia urged the resident to stay calm in Riyadh after alerts, advising adherence to Saudi authorities and official information sources.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia urged the resident to stay calm in Riyadh after alerts, advising adherence to Saudi authorities and official information sources.
• March 19, 2026 15:36 Kremlin says widening war in West Asia has global energy impact The Kremlin said on Thursday (March 19, 2026) that the widening of the war in West Asia was destabilising energy markets, with global consequences, including for Russia.- Reuters
The Kremlin said on Thursday (March 19, 2026) that the widening of the war in West Asia was destabilising energy markets, with global consequences, including for Russia.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 15:33 Iran MPs propose tolls on shipping through Strait of Hormuz: media Iranian lawmakers have proposed a plan to impose tolls and taxes on ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, local media reported on Thursday (March 19, 2026).“We in parliament are pursuing a plan under which countries will pay tolls and taxes to the Islamic republic if the Strait of Hormuz is used as a secure route for transit, energy and food security,” Tehran lawmaker Somayeh Rafiei was quoted as saying by the ISNA news agency.- AFP
Iranian lawmakers have proposed a plan to impose tolls and taxes on ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, local media reported on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
“We in parliament are pursuing a plan under which countries will pay tolls and taxes to the Islamic republic if the Strait of Hormuz is used as a secure route for transit, energy and food security,” Tehran lawmaker Somayeh Rafiei was quoted as saying by the ISNA news agency.
• March 19, 2026 14:28 Energy prices surge, stocks sink amid rising energy shock fears Energy prices soared Thursday (March 19, 2026) and stocks sank as Iran attacked several Gulf energy facilities and warned of more in retaliation for a strike on one of its key gas fields.Brent crude soared past $115 per barrel as Tehran threatened to target regional installations after an Israeli hit on a site serving its massive South Pars field, which it shares with Qatar.Fears over global energy supplies sent European gas prices up more than 30%, while Brent crude jumped 7%.- AFP
Energy prices soared Thursday (March 19, 2026) and stocks sank as Iran attacked several Gulf energy facilities and warned of more in retaliation for a strike on one of its key gas fields.
Brent crude soared past $115 per barrel as Tehran threatened to target regional installations after an Israeli hit on a site serving its massive South Pars field, which it shares with Qatar.
Fears over global energy supplies sent European gas prices up more than 30%, while Brent crude jumped 7%.
• March 19, 2026 14:25 Saudi Arabia says drone hits SAMREF refinery in Yanbu on Red Sea Saudi Arabia said a drone hit the country’s SAMREF refinery in the port city of Yanbu on the Red Sea on Thursday (March 19, 2026).The Saudi Defence Ministry said damage assessment was underway, without elaborating.The strike comes after drones hit two oil refineries in Kuwait. Overnight, Iranian attacks also hit natural gas sites in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, spiking global prices.Iran is retaliating over an Israeli strike on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) on its South Pars natural gas field in the Persian Gulf that it shares with Qatar.- AP
Saudi Arabia said a drone hit the country’s SAMREF refinery in the port city of Yanbu on the Red Sea on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
The Saudi Defence Ministry said damage assessment was underway, without elaborating.
The strike comes after drones hit two oil refineries in Kuwait. Overnight, Iranian attacks also hit natural gas sites in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, spiking global prices.
Iran is retaliating over an Israeli strike on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) on its South Pars natural gas field in the Persian Gulf that it shares with Qatar.
• March 19, 2026 14:23 Fire erupts after drone hits second Kuwait oil refinery: authorities A fire erupted at a second refinery owned by Kuwait’s national oil company after a drone attack, the Information Ministry said.“One of the operational units of the Mina Abdullah refinery, belonging to the Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC), was targeted by a drone attack, triggering a fire at the site,” the Ministry said on X.The company’s other oil refinery, Mina Al-Ahmadi, was also struck by a drone on Thursday (March 19, 2026), sparking a small blaze.- AFP
A fire erupted at a second refinery owned by Kuwait’s national oil company after a drone attack, the Information Ministry said.
“One of the operational units of the Mina Abdullah refinery, belonging to the Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC), was targeted by a drone attack, triggering a fire at the site,” the Ministry said on X.
The company’s other oil refinery, Mina Al-Ahmadi, was also struck by a drone on Thursday (March 19, 2026), sparking a small blaze.
• March 19, 2026 14:23 China offers to work with Southeast Asia on energy securityChina, home to the world’s biggest oil refining sector, said it was ready to work with Southeast Asia in addressing energy problems stemming from the war in Iran and called on the parties involved to immediately cease military operations.China’s show of willingness to work with the region of more than 700 million people would be welcome relief to Southeast Asian oil importers after an order by Beijing earlier this month to ban Chinese exports of diesel, gasoline and jet fuel.“The situation in the Middle East has disrupted global energy security,” said Lin Jian, spokesperson at the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told a regular news conference when asked if Southeast Asian nations had reached out to China for help.- Reuters
China, home to the world’s biggest oil refining sector, said it was ready to work with Southeast Asia in addressing energy problems stemming from the war in Iran and called on the parties involved to immediately cease military operations.
China’s show of willingness to work with the region of more than 700 million people would be welcome relief to Southeast Asian oil importers after an order by Beijing earlier this month to ban Chinese exports of diesel, gasoline and jet fuel.
“The situation in the Middle East has disrupted global energy security,” said Lin Jian, spokesperson at the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told a regular news conference when asked if Southeast Asian nations had reached out to China for help.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 14:22 Russia to supply energy at market prices despite sanctions, says Deputy Minister Russia will continue to supply energy at market prices without taking sanctions into consideration, Pavel Sorokin, its Deputy Energy Minister, said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).Washington last week issued a 30-day waiver for countries to buy sanctioned Russian oil and petroleum products currently stranded at sea in a step to stabilise global energy markets roiled by the Iran war.- Reuters
Russia will continue to supply energy at market prices without taking sanctions into consideration, Pavel Sorokin, its Deputy Energy Minister, said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
Washington last week issued a 30-day waiver for countries to buy sanctioned Russian oil and petroleum products currently stranded at sea in a step to stabilise global energy markets roiled by the Iran war.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 13:37 Arab, Islamic countries issue joint statement on Iranian attacks on Gulf nationsCondemning the drone and ballistic missile attacks by Iran on Gulf nations, a group of Arab and Islamic countries -- Qatar, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkiye, and UAE -- affirmed that the attacks cannot be ‘justified under any pretext’.The Foreign Ministers of the countries held a ‘consultative ministerial meeting’ on March 18, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement on X. The Ministers stressed on the right of states to defend themselves in accordance with Article (51) of the UN Charter, the statement added.
Condemning the drone and ballistic missile attacks by Iran on Gulf nations, a group of Arab and Islamic countries -- Qatar, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkiye, and UAE -- affirmed that the attacks cannot be ‘justified under any pretext’.
The Foreign Ministers of the countries held a ‘consultative ministerial meeting’ on March 18, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement on X.
The Ministers stressed on the right of states to defend themselves in accordance with Article (51) of the UN Charter, the statement added.
• March 19, 2026 13:02 China calls killing of Iran’s Larijani, leaders ‘unacceptable’China condemned on Thursday (March 19, 2026) the killing of Iranian national security chief Ali Larijani by an Israeli air strike, calling it “unacceptable”.“We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable,” China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a press conference, when asked about Larijani’s death.- AFP
China condemned on Thursday (March 19, 2026) the killing of Iranian national security chief Ali Larijani by an Israeli air strike, calling it “unacceptable”.
“We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable,” China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a press conference, when asked about Larijani’s death.
• March 19, 2026 13:01 Tehran intensifies attacks on Gulf energy facilities after Israel hits Iranian gas fieldIran intensified its attacks on its Gulf Arab neighbours’ energy infrastructure on Thursday (March 19, 2026), setting Qatari liquified natural gas facilities ablaze as it hit back following an Israeli attack on its main natural gas field, a major escalation in the war in West Asia that has sent global fuel prices soaring.A ship burnt off the coast of the United Arab Emirates and another was damaged off of Qatar, underscoring the ever-present danger facing vessels due to Iran’s stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz.Read the full story belowTehran intensifies attacks on Gulf energy facilities after Israel hits Iranian gas fieldIran escalates attacks on Gulf energy sites and ships after Israel strikes its major gas field, raising regional tensions and fuel prices.
Iran intensified its attacks on its Gulf Arab neighbours’ energy infrastructure on Thursday (March 19, 2026), setting Qatari liquified natural gas facilities ablaze as it hit back following an Israeli attack on its main natural gas field, a major escalation in the war in West Asia that has sent global fuel prices soaring.
A ship burnt off the coast of the United Arab Emirates and another was damaged off of Qatar, underscoring the ever-present danger facing vessels due to Iran’s stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz.
Read the full story below
Tehran intensifies attacks on Gulf energy facilities after Israel hits Iranian gas field
Iran escalates attacks on Gulf energy sites and ships after Israel strikes its major gas field, raising regional tensions and fuel prices.
• March 19, 2026 12:03 Iran seeks compensation from UAE over U.S. strikes on its territory, UN ambassador letter says Iran seeks compensation from the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of enabling U.S. attacks against Iranian territory, Iran’s UN Ambassador told the UN Secretary General in a letter, according to a Nournews report published on Thursday (March 19, 2026).In the letter, Amir Saeid Iravani said the UAE’s decision to allow its territory to be used for the strikes constituted “an internationally wrongful act that entailed state responsibility.”Tehran said the UAE had an international responsibility to provide reparation, including compensation for all material and moral damages incurred.- Reuters
Iran seeks compensation from the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of enabling U.S. attacks against Iranian territory, Iran’s UN Ambassador told the UN Secretary General in a letter, according to a Nournews report published on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
In the letter, Amir Saeid Iravani said the UAE’s decision to allow its territory to be used for the strikes constituted “an internationally wrongful act that entailed state responsibility.”
Tehran said the UAE had an international responsibility to provide reparation, including compensation for all material and moral damages incurred.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 11:35 European Union summit will focus on Iran war and a loan to Ukraine blocked by Hungary European Union leaders are holding a summit in Brussels on Thursday (March 19, 2026) for talks on the Iran war, energy prices, migration and an enormous loan for war-ravaged Ukraine being held up by Hungary.Rising energy prices because of the war and fears in Europe of a new refugee crisis have pushed leaders to make West Asia one of the top priorities at the summit.- AP
European Union leaders are holding a summit in Brussels on Thursday (March 19, 2026) for talks on the Iran war, energy prices, migration and an enormous loan for war-ravaged Ukraine being held up by Hungary.
Rising energy prices because of the war and fears in Europe of a new refugee crisis have pushed leaders to make West Asia one of the top priorities at the summit.
• March 19, 2026 11:25 Nearly 1,000 Indians still in Iran; 23,000 students in Gulf could not appear in CBSE exams: MEANearly 1,000 Indians are still in Iran amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia while 23,000 school students based in Gulf region could not appear in the CBSE final examinations due to the turmoil.This was conveyed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs at a meeting held in New Delhi on Wednesday (March 18, 2026).“Well, there are about 1,000 still in Iran, but not all of them necessarily wish to leave,” chairman of the panel Shashi Tharoor told reporters here after the meeting.Read the full story below1,000 Indians still in Iran; 23,000 students in Gulf could not appear in CBSE exams: External Affairs MinistryNearly 1,000 Indians remain in Iran and 23,000 Gulf-based students missed CBSE exams amid West Asia conflict, says MEA.
Nearly 1,000 Indians are still in Iran amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia while 23,000 school students based in Gulf region could not appear in the CBSE final examinations due to the turmoil.
This was conveyed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs at a meeting held in New Delhi on Wednesday (March 18, 2026).
“Well, there are about 1,000 still in Iran, but not all of them necessarily wish to leave,” chairman of the panel Shashi Tharoor told reporters here after the meeting.
Read the full story below
1,000 Indians still in Iran; 23,000 students in Gulf could not appear in CBSE exams: External Affairs Ministry
Nearly 1,000 Indians remain in Iran and 23,000 Gulf-based students missed CBSE exams amid West Asia conflict, says MEA.
• March 19, 2026 10:45 Pacific nations fear fuel shortages as West Asian war sends oil prices soaring Leaders of Samoa and Tonga appealed for help this week as the import-reliant Pacific nations raised fears over possible fuel shortages and escalating costs caused by war in West Asia.Oil prices have surged to nearly $110 a barrel following strikes against energy infrastructure in Iran and the Gulf states.The crisis in global energy markets has been felt as far away as the south Pacific, where nations like Samoa and Tonga are heavily reliant on imported petroleum.In Samoa, about two thirds of the country’s energy generation comes from imported diesel fuel.Speaking after a meeting with New Zealand leader Christopher Luxon, Samoan Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said he had asked if it was possible to divert fuel to his country in case of crisis.“We don’t know what’s going to happen next,” La’aulialemalietoa said.- AFP
Leaders of Samoa and Tonga appealed for help this week as the import-reliant Pacific nations raised fears over possible fuel shortages and escalating costs caused by war in West Asia.
Oil prices have surged to nearly $110 a barrel following strikes against energy infrastructure in Iran and the Gulf states.
The crisis in global energy markets has been felt as far away as the south Pacific, where nations like Samoa and Tonga are heavily reliant on imported petroleum.
In Samoa, about two thirds of the country’s energy generation comes from imported diesel fuel.
Speaking after a meeting with New Zealand leader Christopher Luxon, Samoan Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said he had asked if it was possible to divert fuel to his country in case of crisis.
“We don’t know what’s going to happen next,” La’aulialemalietoa said.
• March 19, 2026 10:43 Iran hangs three convicted of killing police in recent unrest: judiciary Iran executed three people on Thursday (March 19. 2026) convicted of killing police officers and carrying out operations in favour of the United States and Israel during unrest earlier this year, the judiciary said.These would be the first executions related to the protests which broke out in Iran late December against the rising cost of living before morphing into nationwide anti-government demonstrations that peaked on January 8 and 9.“Three individuals convicted in the Dey (January) unrest, on charges of murder and operational actions in favour of the Zionist regime and the United States, were hanged this morning,” the judiciary’s Mizan Online website said.- AFP
Iran executed three people on Thursday (March 19. 2026) convicted of killing police officers and carrying out operations in favour of the United States and Israel during unrest earlier this year, the judiciary said.
These would be the first executions related to the protests which broke out in Iran late December against the rising cost of living before morphing into nationwide anti-government demonstrations that peaked on January 8 and 9.
“Three individuals convicted in the Dey (January) unrest, on charges of murder and operational actions in favour of the Zionist regime and the United States, were hanged this morning,” the judiciary’s Mizan Online website said.
• March 19, 2026 10:41 Strait of Hormuz blockage drives up Gulf food billsIn a supermarket in Bahrain, Mahmoud Ali fills his cart as usual. The shelves remain stocked despite the war in West Asia, but the blockade of the main shipping routes into the Gulf is now being felt at checkout.“There’s no shortage”, but over the past few days “there has been a noticeable increase in the price of certain food products”, the father of four said.The price of meat in particular has almost doubled, he added.Like most of its neighbours in this arid region, the small Gulf monarchy depends heavily on imports, especially for its food supply.But the war, triggered on February 28 by Israeli-U.S. strikes against Iran, has severely disrupted the transport of goods through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which is effectively closed.- AFP
In a supermarket in Bahrain, Mahmoud Ali fills his cart as usual. The shelves remain stocked despite the war in West Asia, but the blockade of the main shipping routes into the Gulf is now being felt at checkout.
“There’s no shortage”, but over the past few days “there has been a noticeable increase in the price of certain food products”, the father of four said.
The price of meat in particular has almost doubled, he added.
Like most of its neighbours in this arid region, the small Gulf monarchy depends heavily on imports, especially for its food supply.
But the war, triggered on February 28 by Israeli-U.S. strikes against Iran, has severely disrupted the transport of goods through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which is effectively closed.
• March 19, 2026 10:40 Iranian strikes cause extensive damage at major Qatar gas hub Two waves of Iranian strikes caused “extensive damage” at Qatar’s main gas hub, the country’s state-run energy firm said on Thursday (March 19, 2026), with President Donald Trump warning Iran against further attacks on the facility.Missile strikes on the Ras Laffan Industrial City on Qatar’s north coast on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) caused damage to a gas-to-liquids facility and early on Thursday sparked “sizeable fires and extensive further damage” to several liquified natural gas facilities, QatarEnergy said in a statement.Qatar’s interior ministry said crews brought all fires under control at the Ras Laffan site, without reporting any injuries.- AFP
Two waves of Iranian strikes caused “extensive damage” at Qatar’s main gas hub, the country’s state-run energy firm said on Thursday (March 19, 2026), with President Donald Trump warning Iran against further attacks on the facility.
Missile strikes on the Ras Laffan Industrial City on Qatar’s north coast on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) caused damage to a gas-to-liquids facility and early on Thursday sparked “sizeable fires and extensive further damage” to several liquified natural gas facilities, QatarEnergy said in a statement.
Qatar’s interior ministry said crews brought all fires under control at the Ras Laffan site, without reporting any injuries.
• March 19, 2026 10:36 Japan’s PM meets with Trump as he seeks help securing the Strait of HormuzThe meeting that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will have at the White House on Thursday (March 19, 2026) originally seemed like a prime opportunity to have President Donald Trump’s ear before he embarked on a trip to China.But now, the war in Iran and Trump’s unsuccessful call for Japan and other nations to help protect the Strait of Hormuz means the China trip has been delayed and Takaichi may be likely to get an earful.Mr. Trump has repeatedly complained on camera and online that U.S. allies, including Japan, have rejected his request to help safeguard the critical waterway for oil and gas transport.- AP
The meeting that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will have at the White House on Thursday (March 19, 2026) originally seemed like a prime opportunity to have President Donald Trump’s ear before he embarked on a trip to China.
But now, the war in Iran and Trump’s unsuccessful call for Japan and other nations to help protect the Strait of Hormuz means the China trip has been delayed and Takaichi may be likely to get an earful.
Mr. Trump has repeatedly complained on camera and online that U.S. allies, including Japan, have rejected his request to help safeguard the critical waterway for oil and gas transport.
• March 19, 2026 09:57 Qatar says 'all fires' at major gas hub contained Qatari civil defence teams have contained fires that erupted at a major gas facility in the Gulf state’s north following an Iranian attack, the interior ministry said on Thursday.“Civil Defence has fully brought all fires under control in the Ras Laffan Industrial Area without any reported injuries. Cooling and sites-securing operations are still ongoing,” the ministry said in a post on X.- AFP
Qatari civil defence teams have contained fires that erupted at a major gas facility in the Gulf state’s north following an Iranian attack, the interior ministry said on Thursday.
“Civil Defence has fully brought all fires under control in the Ras Laffan Industrial Area without any reported injuries. Cooling and sites-securing operations are still ongoing,” the ministry said in a post on X.
• March 19, 2026 09:55 Iran missile fire kills 3 Palestinians in West Bank, foreign worker in IsraelIranian missile attacks have killed three Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank and a foreign worker in central Israel, medics said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).Falling shrapnel struck a hair salon in the West Bank town of Beit Awa near Hebron late Wednesday (March 18, 2026), killing the three women, according to the Palestine Red Crescent Society, marking the first Palestinian deaths from Iranian attacks in the ongoing war in West Asia.The victims include a teenager, 17-year-old Mays Ghazi Masalmeh, according to the official Palestinian news agency, Wafa.The Red Crescent said at least eight others were injured, including one woman in critical condition.- AFP
Iranian missile attacks have killed three Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank and a foreign worker in central Israel, medics said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
Falling shrapnel struck a hair salon in the West Bank town of Beit Awa near Hebron late Wednesday (March 18, 2026), killing the three women, according to the Palestine Red Crescent Society, marking the first Palestinian deaths from Iranian attacks in the ongoing war in West Asia.
The victims include a teenager, 17-year-old Mays Ghazi Masalmeh, according to the official Palestinian news agency, Wafa.
The Red Crescent said at least eight others were injured, including one woman in critical condition.
• March 19, 2026 09:45 Hollowed-out State Department strains to manage the Iran war, say officialsIn the escalating war in Iran, the State Department’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs would ordinarily be at the centre of the geopolitical fray.The bureau’s role would be to coordinate U.S. foreign policy across an 18-country region, much of which has become a chaotic battlefield scarred by drone and missile strikes as the U.S. and Israel remain locked in conflict with Iran.But now that the bureau is also working with fewer resources. The administration’s most recent budget proposed a 40% cut to the bureau, though Congress eventually enacted less dramatic cuts. The administration also eliminated the dedicated Iran office, merging it with the Iraq office.Personnel and management choices — coupled with President Donald Trump’s moves to shrink government and confine decision-making to a tight circle — are limiting the ability of the United States to handle a global emergency, according to interviews with more than a dozen current and former U.S. officials.- AP
In the escalating war in Iran, the State Department’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs would ordinarily be at the centre of the geopolitical fray.
The bureau’s role would be to coordinate U.S. foreign policy across an 18-country region, much of which has become a chaotic battlefield scarred by drone and missile strikes as the U.S. and Israel remain locked in conflict with Iran.
But now that the bureau is also working with fewer resources. The administration’s most recent budget proposed a 40% cut to the bureau, though Congress eventually enacted less dramatic cuts. The administration also eliminated the dedicated Iran office, merging it with the Iraq office.
Personnel and management choices — coupled with President Donald Trump’s moves to shrink government and confine decision-making to a tight circle — are limiting the ability of the United States to handle a global emergency, according to interviews with more than a dozen current and former U.S. officials.
• March 19, 2026 09:41 U.S. detects drones over base where Rubio, Hegseth live: Washington PostU.S. officials detected unidentified drones above an army base in Washington where Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth live, the Washington Post reported on Wednesday (March 19, 2026), citing three people briefed on the situation.The officials have not determined where the drones came from, the report said, citing two of the people.The drones over Fort McNair prompted officials to weigh relocating Mr. Rubio and Mr. Hegseth, the report said. However, the secretaries have not moved, the report added, citing a senior administration official.The newspaper said the U.S. military was monitoring potential threats more closely because of the heightened alert level over the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran.- Reuters
U.S. officials detected unidentified drones above an army base in Washington where Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth live, the Washington Post reported on Wednesday (March 19, 2026), citing three people briefed on the situation.
The officials have not determined where the drones came from, the report said, citing two of the people.
The drones over Fort McNair prompted officials to weigh relocating Mr. Rubio and Mr. Hegseth, the report said. However, the secretaries have not moved, the report added, citing a senior administration official.
The newspaper said the U.S. military was monitoring potential threats more closely because of the heightened alert level over the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 09:32 Saudi Arabia reserves 'right to take military actions' over Iran attacks: FM Saudi Arabia has not ruled out military action in response to repeated missile and drone attacks from Iran, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).Speaking to reporters following a meeting in Riyadh of Foreign Ministers from the region, Prince Faisal said that Iran “tries to pressure its neighbours” with attacks.“The kingdom is not going to succumb to pressure, and on the contrary, this pressure will backfire... and certainly, as we have stated quite clearly, we have reserved the right to take military actions if deemed necessary,” he said.- AFP
Saudi Arabia has not ruled out military action in response to repeated missile and drone attacks from Iran, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
Speaking to reporters following a meeting in Riyadh of Foreign Ministers from the region, Prince Faisal said that Iran “tries to pressure its neighbours” with attacks.
“The kingdom is not going to succumb to pressure, and on the contrary, this pressure will backfire... and certainly, as we have stated quite clearly, we have reserved the right to take military actions if deemed necessary,” he said.
• March 19, 2026 08:50 Oil rises 3% after Iran strikes energy facilities in West AsiaOil prices rose as much as 3% on Thursday after Iran attacked several energy facilities across West Asia following a strike on its South Pars gas field, a major escalation in Tehran’s war with the U.S. and Israel.- Reuters
Oil prices rose as much as 3% on Thursday after Iran attacked several energy facilities across West Asia following a strike on its South Pars gas field, a major escalation in Tehran’s war with the U.S. and Israel.
- Reuters
• March 19, 2026 08:13 Trump says Israel acted alone on Iran gas field, warns Iran against targeting QatarU.S. President Donald Trump said that Israel carried out the attack on Iran’s South Pars gas field, and the U.S. and Qatar were not involved in it.Mr. Trump also said Israel would not make any more attacks on Iranian facilities in South Pars unless Iran attacked Qatar, warning that the U.S. would attack those facilities if Iran acted against Doha.“The United States knew nothing about this particular attack, and the country of Qatar was in no way, shape, or form, involved with it, nor did it have any idea that it was going to happen,” Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social.Read the full story belowTrump says Israel acted alone on Iran gas field, warns Iran against targeting QatarTrump confirms Israel’s solo Iran gas field attack, warning Iran against targeting Qatar or facing U.S. retaliation.
U.S. President Donald Trump said that Israel carried out the attack on Iran’s South Pars gas field, and the U.S. and Qatar were not involved in it.
Mr. Trump also said Israel would not make any more attacks on Iranian facilities in South Pars unless Iran attacked Qatar, warning that the U.S. would attack those facilities if Iran acted against Doha.
“The United States knew nothing about this particular attack, and the country of Qatar was in no way, shape, or form, involved with it, nor did it have any idea that it was going to happen,” Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Read the full story below
Trump says Israel acted alone on Iran gas field, warns Iran against targeting Qatar
Trump confirms Israel’s solo Iran gas field attack, warning Iran against targeting Qatar or facing U.S. retaliation.
• March 19, 2026 07:15 Ex-counterterrorism official says he wasn't allowed to share concerns about Iran war with Trump Joe Kent, the former counterterrorism director who resigned this week over concerns about the Iran war, said on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) that he and other senior officials with doubts about the airstrikes “were not allowed” to share them with President Donald Trump.Speaking on Tucker Carlson’s show, Kent said the President relied on a small circle of advisers in making his decision to strike Iran. Mr. Kent claimed Israel forced Mr. Trump’s hand despite what he said was no evidence that Iran posed an imminent threat to the U.S.“A good deal of key decision makers were not allowed to come and express their opinion to the President,” Mr. Kent told the prominent conservative commentator. “There wasn’t a robust debate.” Mr. Kent’s comments offer an inside glimpse into Trump’s decision to strike Iran on Feb. 28 and underscore the risk that the war could divide his political base. They also suggest there were concerns about the strikes within the administration.- AP
Joe Kent, the former counterterrorism director who resigned this week over concerns about the Iran war, said on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) that he and other senior officials with doubts about the airstrikes “were not allowed” to share them with President Donald Trump.
Speaking on Tucker Carlson’s show, Kent said the President relied on a small circle of advisers in making his decision to strike Iran. Mr. Kent claimed Israel forced Mr. Trump’s hand despite what he said was no evidence that Iran posed an imminent threat to the U.S.
“A good deal of key decision makers were not allowed to come and express their opinion to the President,” Mr. Kent told the prominent conservative commentator. “There wasn’t a robust debate.”
Mr. Kent’s comments offer an inside glimpse into Trump’s decision to strike Iran on Feb. 28 and underscore the risk that the war could divide his political base. They also suggest there were concerns about the strikes within the administration.
• March 19, 2026 07:08 Children have borne the brunt of Israel-U.S. aggression Children have borne the brunt of Israel-U.S. aggressionChildren have borne the brunt of military strikes, with data showing Israel and the United States responsible for a large share of external attacks ending in child fatalities since 1996, raising UN concerns over civilian harm.
Children have borne the brunt of Israel-U.S. aggression
Children have borne the brunt of military strikes, with data showing Israel and the United States responsible for a large share of external attacks ending in child fatalities since 1996, raising UN concerns over civilian harm.
• March 19, 2026 07:06 Qatar says Iran missile attack on main gas hub causes damage An Iranian missile attack caused damage at Qatar’s main gas facility on its north coast, the defence ministry said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).The “State of Qatar was attacked [by] ballistic missiles, from Iran, which targeted Ras Laffan Industrial City and caused damages”, the Qatari defence ministry posted on X.Qatar had said overnight that attacks on the gas facility were a “direct threat” to its national security.- AFP
An Iranian missile attack caused damage at Qatar’s main gas facility on its north coast, the defence ministry said on Thursday (March 19, 2026).
The “State of Qatar was attacked [by] ballistic missiles, from Iran, which targeted Ras Laffan Industrial City and caused damages”, the Qatari defence ministry posted on X.
Qatar had said overnight that attacks on the gas facility were a “direct threat” to its national security.
• March 19, 2026 07:04 Ali Larijani: Iran's ultimate backroom powerbroker Ali Larijani: Iran's ultimate backroom powerbrokerAli Larijani, Iran's influential politician, played a key role in both security policy and the violent suppression of protests.
Ali Larijani: Iran's ultimate backroom powerbroker
Ali Larijani, Iran's influential politician, played a key role in both security policy and the violent suppression of protests.
Published - March 19, 2026 07:04 am IST
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