Iran vs US-Israel War News Highlights: Iranian strike reportedly injures 12 American soldiers at US base in Saudi; Rubio expects war to end in weeks
Kartavya Desk Staff
Iran vs US-Israel War News Highlights : US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with NATO’s response to the war on Iran, calling the alliance a “paper tiger” and stating that the US has always helped NATO, but received little support in return. Trump made these comments at a business conference, emphasizing that NATO countries did nothing to help the US during the conflict. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of a “heavy price” for Israel’s attacks on nuclear sites and steel factories, while Iran’s military cautioned the US and Israel against further attacks on energy infrastructure.
Earlier Donald Trump announced a 10-day pause on strikes against Iranian energy facilities, citing ongoing talks and a request from Tehran. The pause will run until April 6, with Trump stating that negotiations are “going very well”.
What all Trump said: Speaking later to Fox News, Trump said Iran had sought a shorter pause but he agreed to extend it further. “They asked for seven. I gave them ten,” he said, adding that discussions were progressing “fairly well”. He also repeated his claim that Iran’s leaders “are begging to make a deal, not me”, while signalling uncertainty over the outcome: “I don’t know if we’re willing to do that.” Trump said allowing oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz was a gesture from Iran during the talks. The pause delays further US action on energy infrastructure even as US-Israeli strikes on Iran continue and Iranian missile and drone attacks are reported across the region. Iran has denied it is seeking negotiations, while indirect contacts are said to be ongoing.
5 Key developments:
• Strikes continue in Iran and Lebanon: US and Israeli attacks on Iran continue, while Israeli forces step up strikes and ground operations in Lebanon.
• Iranian missiles intercepted across region: Missiles and drones launched by Iran were intercepted over Israel and Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
• IRGC naval chief reported killed: Israel says a strike killed Alireza Tangsiri, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy; Iran has not confirmed.
• Tensions around Strait of Hormuz: The US is pressing for the reopening of the Strait, a key shipping route, amid threats and counter-threats.
• Civilian impact widens: Deaths and injuries are reported across multiple countries, including casualties from debris in Abu Dhabi, as the conflict spreads.
Also Read:
• Iranian Leaders Killed: The Complete List
• What is Operation Epic Fury? Full Explainer
• Israel-Iran War: Full Timeline
The Indian Express Global Desk remains committed to rigorous verification. Follow our live blog below for real-time tracking of Operation Epic Fury, regional airspace status, and diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation.**
We’re closing this blog now but our coverage continues on a new blog Here, including a recap of the latest developments. Thanks for joining.
An Iranian attack on a base in Saudi Arabia has wounded at least 12 American soldiers, two of them seriously, US media reported on Friday.
Iran has kept up retaliatory attacks on Gulf nations it accuses of serving as a launchpad for US strikes on it. The attack on the Prince Sultan airbase in Saudi Arabia included at least one missile and several drones, the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal reported, citing unidentified officials.
The soldiers were inside a building at the base when it was struck, the Journal reported. Several aerial refuelling planes also reportedly suffered damage in the attack.
Saudi Arabia has previously intercepted several missiles fired near the base.
The Ministry of Defence has said the country’s air defence and fighter jets are responding to an “incoming missiles and [drones] threat from Iran”.
The ministry added that “sounds heard are the result of” the cruise missiles and drones being shot down.
The “No Kings” protest movement is planning a comeback on Saturday with more than 3,000 gatherings planned across the US to oppose President Trump.
The grassroots protest movement held demonstrations in June and October 2025, drawing five million people, followed by seven million, to thousands of events across the US.
Organisers say this Saturday could be among the largest days of protest in US history, with a wide range of grievances on display, from Trump’s anti-immigration crackdown to his war on Iran.
Major protests are expected in Washington DC, Minneapolis, Chicago and San Francisco.
The tiny state of Vermont, home to just 646,000 people, expects more than 40 protests, according to the Burlington Free Press.
Bahrain’s Interior Ministry has issued to two public notices in the past hour warning people to “head to the nearest safe place” and remain calm.
The warnings follow after the ministry said a fire at an unidentified facility in Bahrain was under control after being targeted in an earlier Iranian attack.
Israel’s military said the missile launch was detected a short while ago and air defence systems are working to intercept the incoming projectiles.
Warnings of the imminent attack have been sent to mobile phones throughout Israel and members of the public have been told to entered protected spaces and remain there “until further notice”.
The Reuters news agency, citing an unnamed US official, is reporting that 12 US troops have been injured, two of them seriously, in an Iranian strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
Reuters said the latest casualties add to the more than 300 US military service members who have been wounded since the war on Iran started four weeks ago.
Earlier on Friday, the US military said 273 of the 300 wounded service members had returned to duty.
Thirteen US troops have been killed in the conflict so far, Reuters said.
US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran is being "crushed" by US attacks and is now "begging" to negotiate a deal, despite Iranian officials' denials of ongoing talks. Trump stated that Iran's claims of not participating in negotiations are lies, and that they have offered oil shipments as a gesture of goodwill. He also accused Iranian officials of being afraid to admit to negotiations, fearing backlash from their own people or the US.
The US President has said that since NATO countries have not helped the US in its war on Iran the United States may no longer have to be there for its allies.
“We would have always been there for them, but now, based on their actions, I guess we don’t have to be, do we?” Trump told an investment forum in Miami, Florida.
“That sounds like a breaking story? Yes, sir. Is that breaking news? I think we just have breaking news, but that’s the fact. I’ve been saying that. Why would we be there for them if they’re not there for us? They weren’t there for us,” Trump said.
Washington’s European allies were not consulted by the US on its decision to attack Iran late last month together with Israel, and many leaders in the NATO alliance have opposed the action.
Twelve US troops were wounded, two of them seriously, in an Iranian military strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, a US official told Reuters on Friday.
The latest casualties add to the more than 300 US military service members who have been wounded since the war against Iran started on February 28. Earlier on Friday, the US military said 273 of them had already returned to duty. Thirteen US troops have been killed in the conflict.
A 15-year-old boy has succumbed to wounds suffered when he was shot in the abdomen by Israeli soldiers in the Dheisheh refugee camp, south of Bethlehem, the Palestinian Authority’s Ministry of Health said, according to Wafa news agency.
Adham Dahman was one of three Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank on Friday, Wafa added.
Israeli forces also shot and killed Sufian Ahmed Saleh Abu Leil, 46, and Mustafa Hamad, in the Qalandiya refugee camp, Wafa reported.
Washington says its military campaign against Iran could end within weeks, even as fighting continues across the Middle East and tensions rise over shipping routes and regional security.
US secretary of state Marco Rubio said the operation would not be prolonged.
“When we are done with them here in the next couple weeks, they will be weaker than they’ve been in recent history,” Rubio told reporters after meeting G7 foreign ministers in France. Read more
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday discussed the possibility of a diplomatic settlement in the Iran war with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, Lavrov’s ministry said.
“The ministers discussed in detail the most difficult military-political crisis in the Middle East, which erupted as a result of unprovoked American-Israeli aggression against Iran,” the statement on the ministry website said.
“There was an exchange of views on the prospects of shifting the conflict into a channel for a political-diplomatic settlement based on international law and taking into account the legitimate interests of all countries in the region.”
The statement also said Lavrov outlined details of Russia’s most recent shipment of humanitarian assistance to Iran.
US President Donald Trump said on Friday the United States does not "have to be there for NATO" given the alliance declined to provide material support to the US during its ongoing war on Iran.
Lebanon’s Public Health Ministry says the attack happened in the town of Sarafand, in Lebanon’s Sidon district, according to NNA.
NNA also reported that an Israeli drone targeted an ambulance belonging to the Islamic Health Authority, at the roundabout of the town of Kfar Tebnit in Nabatieh, without providing any details on injuries.
The attacks occurred as Israeli forces continued to bombard southern Lebanon and Israeli officials threaten to invade and occupy the country up to the Litani River.
Several US service members were injured by an Iranian missile fired at Prince Sultan air base in Saudi Arabia on Friday, two US officials have told NBC News.
None of the injuries are considered life-threatening. At least one aircraft was also damaged in the attack.
At least 303 Americans have now been injured in the war.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says it has been informed by Iran of the strike in the area of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, in the “third such incident in 10 days”.
“No damage to operating reactor nor any radiation release reported, and condition of plant is normal, Iran says,” the IAEA said on X.
“Director-General Rafael M Grossi again expresses deep concern about recent reports of military activity in the vicinity of a nuclear power plant, says it could cause major radiological incident if reactor were to be damaged. DG Grossi reiterates call for maximum military restraint to avoid risk of a nuclear accident,” it added.
IAEA informed by Iran of a new strike in the area of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, the third such incident in 10 days. No damage to operating reactor nor any radiation release reported, and condition of plant is normal, Iran says. DG @rafaelmgrossi again expresses deep… pic.twitter.com/cGIUSZJMyV— IAEA - International Atomic Energy Agency ⚛️ (@iaeaorg) March 27, 2026
IAEA informed by Iran of a new strike in the area of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, the third such incident in 10 days. No damage to operating reactor nor any radiation release reported, and condition of plant is normal, Iran says. DG @rafaelmgrossi again expresses deep… pic.twitter.com/cGIUSZJMyV
Lebanon’s Public Health Ministry says the attack happened in the town of Sarafand, in Lebanon’s Sidon district, according to NNA.
NNA also reported that an Israeli drone targeted an ambulance belonging to the Islamic Health Authority, at the roundabout of the town of Kfar Tebnit in Nabatieh, without providing any details on injuries.
The attacks occurred as Israeli forces continued to bombard southern Lebanon and Israeli officials threaten to invade and occupy the country up to the Litani River.
Israeli military says it has struck a uranium extraction facility from ore located in Yazd in central Iran. (Reuters)
"We expect the Iran operation to conclude at the appropriate time; we are talking weeks, not months," says US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
During the meeting with Chief Ministers on Friday, PM Narendra Modi said that the "situation arising out of West Asia conflict needs continuous monitoring, adopting strategies."
"India has prior experience in dealing with global disruptions like the current one," he added.
IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee said Israel has begun launching strikes on southern Beirut, targeting "Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure."
Israeli strikes have killed 1,116 people in Lebanon since March 2, when Iran's Shia militant proxy group started firing rockets at Israel.
Adraee has urged residents of several neighbours to "evacuate immediately". They include: Haret Hreik, Ghobeiri, Laylaki, Hadath, Burj al-Barajneh, Tahwita al-Ghadir and Chiyah. --BBC
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who was involved in a meeting of G7 foreign ministers Friday, said that Iran "cannot be able to just hold the global economy hostage" by blocking the Strait of Hormuz and called for a "swift resolution" to the conflict in West Asia. --BBC
There is no disagreement with the United States over Iran, Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told reporters at a G7 meeting in France on Friday, adding that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons or pose a regional threat.
"We are already feeling the economic repercussions everywhere, especially in Europe, quite significantly," Wadephul said.
"That's why we discussed these issues very thoroughly, and there is absolutely no disagreement. There was and is no request from the United States, especially to us, to make a military contribution before the end of hostilities."
Lebanese capital Beirut reported a loud air strike on the city’s southern suburbs and Israeli military said that it has begun a wave of strikes in Beirut, claiming to target Hezbollah’s infrastructure.
Al Jazeera
Iran-linked hackers have publicly claimed the breach of FBI Director Kash Patel’s personal inbox, publishing photographs of the director and his purported resume, news agency Reuters reported.
A Justice Department official confirmed to Reuters that Patel’s emails were compromised but did not go into detail. The FBI did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Read more
It is almost exactly a month since the United States and Israel started their military campaign in Iran — a move that has upended all markets, whether one trades in stocks, government bonds or commodities like gold or indeed, energy.
The war is currently in a state of slight lull as US President Donald Trump claims he has extended the deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz and allow the passage of fuel, but it appears nowhere near a resolution. Countries are bearing the economic brunt on a spectrum, based on their respective vulnerabilities. The Indian rupee, for instance, has rapidly lost value against the US dollar. In just the past month, the rupee has lost almost 4% of its value and is trading at 94.6 rupees to a dollar.
For perspective, the Indian rupee has historically lost 2 to 3% of its value against the dollar in a year. Over the past year, as trade and tariffs played havoc, the rupee has lost more than 10% against the dollar. Over the past month, the rupee has also lost against most other currencies as well — be it the Chinese yuan, Japanese yen, the euro, or the British pound. Udit Misra explains
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a video conference with Chief Ministers of States on the situation emerging in the wake of the West Asia conflict. The virtual meeting began around 6:30 pm saw participation of CMs of all states except five poll-bound states—Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry.
US-Israeli air strikes target steel plants in southwestern Iran and in central city of Isfahan, semi official news agency Mehr reported.
Citing four intelligence sources, Reuters said the US Intelligence Community has assessed that an additional third of Iran's missile arsenal has likely been damaged, destroyed, or rendered inaccessible in deeply buried underground facilities since the beginning of the war.
Amid missile strikes in Iran, residents of Tehran grapple for their lives and safety.
"I couldn’t sleep at all. It was so scary. I think it’s been the worst night of the war so far. The sound of missiles was mixed with the thunderstorm," a woman, 20, told the BBC. Further, she said she is so "sick of everything" that she wants the war to end "now".
"They hit somewhere near my house so hard that the whole room and its windows were shaking… twice in a row. I could hear the rain throughout the night. I slept and woke up several times and I didn’t know whether it was the thunderstorm or the explosions," said a woman in her 40s in Tehran.
Four people were injured during a stampede as residents rushed to shelters following Iranian missile strikes on Israel.
Al Jazeera report
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said government is active and responding to evolving situation in West Asia. Addressing Rajya Sabha, Sitharaman said, “We shall be on our toes; keep fiscal stance carefully managed.”
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, told UN Human Rights Council that the February 28 US strike on an elementary school in southern Iran that killed dozens of children was not a mistake, but a “calculated” assault. “They are targeting civilians and civilian infrastructures with no regard for laws of war and basic principles of humanity and civility,” Araghchi said by video to a session of the council focusing on the strike.
The New York Times
Israeli Defence Minister Katz says, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I warned the Iranian terror regime to stop firing missiles at the civilian population in Israel. Despite the warnings, the firing continues; therefore, strikes in Iran will escalate and expand."
Al Jazeera
Saudi Defense Ministry says debris fell in vicinity of military site. No casualties reported.
Reuters
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Iran will pay "heavy and increasing prices" for its continued missile attacks on Israeli civilians
Reuters input
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that military strikes on Iran will escalate and expand to additional "targets and domains" involved in the production and operation of weapons used against Israeli civilians.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is in France for a G7 meeting, said “I’m not there to make them happy. I get along with all of them on a personal level, and we work with those governments very carefully. But the people I’m interested in making happy are the people of the United States. That’s who I work for. I don’t work for France or Germany or Japan."
US President Donald Trump had complained about NATO countries not joining the US and Israel in their attack on Iran. “Frankly, I think countries around the world, even those that are out there complaining about this a little bit, should actually be grateful that the United States has a president that’s willing to confront a threat like this,” Rubio said at a cabinet meeting on Thursday.
Al Jazeera report
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met the Minister of Defense of Saudi Arabia and signed an agreement on defence cooperation.
After the meeting, Zelenskky wrote on X, "We have reached an important Arrangement between the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine and the Ministry of Defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on defense cooperation. The document was signed ahead of our meeting with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. It lays the foundation for future contracts, technological cooperation, and investment. It also strengthens Ukraine’s international role as a security donor.
We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives. Now into the fifth year, Ukrainians are resisting the same kind of terrorist attacks – ballistic missiles and drones – that the Iranian regime is currently carrying out in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Saudi Arabia also has capabilities that are of interest to Ukraine, and this cooperation can be mutually beneficial. We also discussed the situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region as a whole, Russia’s assistance to the Iranian regime, developments in fuel markets, and potential energy cooperation."
Amid G7 summit in France, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called for “swift resolution” to the conflict, slamming Iran for holding “the global economy hostage” by restricting the Strait of Hormuz.
“We are very clear we need to see a swift resolution to this conflict that restores regional stability,” Cooper was quoted as saying by Al Jazeera.
Commenting on Iran prohibiting transmit through Strait of Hormuz: “Frankly, Iran cannot be able to just hold the global economy hostage as a result of a strait which is about international shipping routes and the freedom of navigation.”
Even though US President Donald Trump announced a 10-day pause on strikes against Iranian energy facilities, oil prices witnessed a spike. The price of Brent crude, the global benchmark for oil, surged to about $110, The New York Times reported.
The Centre says it's in touch with the family of the Indian killed in Abu Dhabi amid the West Asia conflict and procedures are being followed to move the body to the country. The inter-ministerial press conference is underway.
On the 28th day of the US-Israel-Iran war, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said shipping "to and from ports of allies and supporters of the Israeli-American enemies" is prohibited through any corridor or to any destination, Iranian state media reported.
The IRGC added that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and any transit through the waterway will face "harsh measures".
An inter-ministerial briefing is underway and the Centre continued to rubbish LPG shortage claims. The government also said cases have been registered against those involved in hoarding of LPG.
Explosions heard in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, Tehran Times reported.
UN rights chief Volker Turk, while addressing the attack on an Iranian girls’ school on February 28, said that “the bombing of the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab evoked a visceral horror”.
“The onus is on those who carried out the attack to investigate it promptly, impartially, transparently and thoroughly,” he said in Geneva, reported Al Jazeera.
Johann Wadephul, German foreign minister said that based on indirect contacts, preparations have been made for the US and Iran to meet directly adding the meeting would be “very soon in Pakistan.”
The United States and Iran could meet soon in Pakistan following indirect contacts, Germany’s foreign minister said on Friday, according to Reuters.“Based on my information there have been indirect contacts, and preparations have been made to meet directly,” Johann Wadephul… pic.twitter.com/jYWuMeplsm— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) March 27, 2026
The United States and Iran could meet soon in Pakistan following indirect contacts, Germany’s foreign minister said on Friday, according to Reuters.“Based on my information there have been indirect contacts, and preparations have been made to meet directly,” Johann Wadephul… pic.twitter.com/jYWuMeplsm
Six ballistic missiles were fired towards the Riyadh area, says Defence Ministry of Saudi Arabia. Air defences shot down two of the missiles, while the other four fell in uninhabited areas or the Arabian Gulf waters, the ministry added.
- •Al Jazeera
Kuwait reports fresh strikes on key infrastructure, with Mubarak Al Kabeer port on Bubiyan Island hit by “hostile drones and cruise missiles”, causing material damage but no casualties, the Ministry of Public Works said. Authorities also confirmed a separate attack earlier in the day on Shuwaikh Port, which similarly resulted in material damage without casualties.
- •Al Jazeera
At least 15 people have been arrested in Isfahan province for allegedly sending sensitive information to media networks that Iran deems hostile. The detained individuals are accused of sharing the location of military sites, photographs of attack damage, and other sensitive information, as per Iran’s IRIB broadcaster.
- •Al Jazeera
The Israel military says it has detected a wave of missiles from, the first salvo this morning.
-Al Jazeera
The Israel’s military conducted a wave of strikes “in the heart of Tehran” after US President Donald Trump delayed his threat to obliterate Iran’s energy plants over its effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The German Foreign Minister on Friday said that there is a lack of communication and not weapons in Iran conflict. Germany is making a contribution to overcome this, he said. He also added: "There has been indirect contact between US and Iran, its a positive sign."
Hezbollah's relentless pressure on northern Israel has raised questions about the Israeli army's strategy in southern Lebanon. Israel's Defence Minister has been pushing for a security buffer zone in Lebanon, with plans to occupy areas south of the Litani River, potentially taking up 15% of Lebanese soil.
This comes as Israel faces intense war with Iran, with millions of Israelis displaced and life disrupted. However, Israeli defence officials acknowledge that disarming Hezbollah won't be achieved through ground invasion alone, but rather through an agreement with the Lebanese government, which seems unlikely.
The military said residents of the village of Sajd in southern Lebanon should leave immediately as Israeli forces will “act against it forcefully”.
Residents must evacuate the village – located in the Jezzine district of Nabatieh governorate – and “move north of the Zahrani River”, the military said.
The Zahrani River is located some 50km (31 miles) north of southern Lebanon’s border with Israel, and Israeli forces have warned all residents of southern Lebanon to move north of this location.
The United States Embassy in India on Friday shared a remark by US President Donald Trump praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a leader who "gets things done," while expressing confidence that bilateral ties will grow stronger in the future. The post on the embassy’s official social media handle has drawn attention for its timing and messaging amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
"Our amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward. Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that get things done, something that cannot be said for most. - President Donald J. Trump," the US Embassy in India posted on X, along with a photo of PM Modi and Trump during their last meeting at the White House.
Our amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward. Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that get things done, something that cannot be said for most. - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/NEJCjGBXps— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) March 27, 2026
Our amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward. Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that get things done, something that cannot be said for most. - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/NEJCjGBXps
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is urging "maximum restraint" to avoid a nuclear accident in Iran.
The warning comes after a reported strike near the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in southwest Iran on Tuesday.
"Given that it is an operating nuclear power plant with a large amount of nuclear material, [Director General] Rafael Mariano Gross warns that damage to the facility could result in a major radiological accident affecting a large area in Iran and beyond," the UN agency says in a statement.
India is closely monitoring global developments and taking necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel, energy, and essential commodities, Minister Hardeep Singh Puri assures.
Under PM Narendra Modi's leadership, the government is prepared to handle emerging challenges. Puri dismisses lockdown rumors as "completely false", urging citizens to remain calm and united.
The global situation remains in flux, and we are closely monitoring developments across energy, supply chains, and essential commodities on a real-time basis.Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM @narendramodi Ji, all necessary steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted…— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) March 27, 2026
The global situation remains in flux, and we are closely monitoring developments across energy, supply chains, and essential commodities on a real-time basis.Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM @narendramodi Ji, all necessary steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted…
Vietnamese airlines plan to cancel flights on domestic and international routes from next month due to fuel supply constraints caused by the Middle East conflict, state media reported citing a report from the regulator.
Flag carrier Vietnam Airlines will suspend seven domestic routes from April 1 and reduce flight volumes by 10% to 20% per month in the next quarter if jet fuel prices rise to $160-$200 per barrel, state-run Nhan Dan newspaper reported.
The airline could cut up to 18% of its international flights and as much as 26% of its domestic operations, the paper said citing the report.
The Houthi-founded Humanitarian Operations Coordination Centre (HOCC) – which manages Houthi maritime security in the Red Sea – has told maritime intelligence company Lloyd’s List that there is no reason for concern regarding oil tankers transiting the waterway via the Bab-al Mandeb Strait.
“There is no cause for concern in this regard, and at present there is no reason to prevent this trade from continuing,” the HOCC was quoted as saying in a Lloyd’s report on Friday.
“As you can see, dozens of vessels, including oil tankers, transit the Bab al-Mandeb Strait every day. In this context, the Republic of Yemen remains committed to safeguarding navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab-al Mandeb Strait, as well as ensuring the free flow of trade,” the centre said.
A Thai-flagged cargo ship that was hit by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this month has run aground off Iran's Qeshm Island, Iran's Tasnim news agency said on Friday.
Thailand said 20 crew members were rescued by the Omani navy, while three were missing after an explosion in the stern of the ship, Mayuree Naree, caused a fire in the engine room.
British consumer sentiment weakened to its lowest in nearly a year in March as households fretted about the potential impact of the Iran war on the economy and the possibility of sharp price rises, according to a closely watched monthly survey.
GfK's consumer confidence index, the longest-running survey of its kind in Britain, fell to -21 in March from -19 in February.
This was its lowest reading since Britons were hit by a wave of increases in household bills in April 2025 but less of a decline than economists polled by Reuters had forecast.
An Israeli airstrike hit Beirut's southern suburbs early Friday, with multiple explosions reported and smoke rising from the area, according to Lebanese media reported by The Guardian. Israel had previously issued evacuation warnings for the area but provided no specific warning before the strike.
The casualties are unclear. This comes as Israel pushes to establish a "defensive buffer" zone in south Lebanon, with ground troops deployed and Hezbollah fighters continuing attacks on Israeli troops.
The Saudi Ministry of Defence said the drones were detected and destroyed in the kingdom’s eastern region, which is home to key oil facilities and has been constantly targeted by Iran since the outbreak of war.
The United Arab Emirates’ air defense systems intercepted 15 ballistic missiles and 11 drones launched from Iran on Thursday, the UAE Ministry of Defense said, as part of an ongoing wave of attacks.
"Since the start of the Iranian assaults, UAE air defenses have engaged 372 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,826 drones," UAE defense ministry posted on X.
"The attacks have killed two UAE service members and a Moroccan civilian contractor, along with eight foreign nationals from Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Palestine and India," the post said. "Another 169 people were injured, ranging from minor to severe, including nationals from more than 25 countries."
UAE air defences engaged 15 ballistic missiles and 11 UAVs The UAE air defences systems on 26th March 2026 engaged 15 ballistic missiles and 11 UAVs launched from Iran.Since the start of the blatant Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have engaged 372 ballistic missiles, 15… pic.twitter.com/DYfNfPuEzO— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 26, 2026
UAE air defences engaged 15 ballistic missiles and 11 UAVs The UAE air defences systems on 26th March 2026 engaged 15 ballistic missiles and 11 UAVs launched from Iran.Since the start of the blatant Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have engaged 372 ballistic missiles, 15… pic.twitter.com/DYfNfPuEzO
Iran has banned its sports teams from traveling to countries it considers "hostile," Iranian state TV reported Thursday ahead of Tractor FC's scheduled soccer game in Saudi Arabia.
The ban announced by Iran's Ministry of Sports in Tehran didn't mention the World Cup which starts June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The ministry's statement singled out the Tractor game against Shabab Al Ahli of Dubai that was set to be played in Saudi Arabia. It's a playoff game in the Asian Champions League Elite.
"The presence of national and club teams in countries that are considered hostile and are unable to ensure the security of Iranian athletes and team members is prohibited until further notice," it said.
Oil prices have fallen as US President Donald Trump pushed back a deadline for US attacks on Iran’s energy facilities.
The gains on Friday only partially pared the previous day’s price surge amid growing anxiety that the conflict will last far longer than first thought.
Brent crude was down 1.5 percent at 02:30 GMT on Friday, selling at $93.07 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was down 1.8 percent at $106.12.
Brent is up almost 50 percent in price since the war on Iran began, while WTI has risen around 40 percent.
A US-Israeli air strike targeting three residential houses in the Iranian city of Qom has killed six people, according to a local media report.
Qom’s deputy governor told the Fars News Agency that the number of injured remains unknown.
Iran's Aerospace Force expresses gratitude to the people of Spain, Pakistan, India, and Germany for their support and solidarity, particularly during the 83rd wave of missile response to the US and Israel.
Gratitude from Iran’s Aerospace Force to the people of #spain, #pakistan, #india, and #germany for their support and solidarity; especially during the 83rd wave of missile response to the U.S. and #israel.#iran#us#war pic.twitter.com/5QjqIBFiXj— Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) March 27, 2026
Gratitude from Iran’s Aerospace Force to the people of #spain, #pakistan, #india, and #germany for their support and solidarity; especially during the 83rd wave of missile response to the U.S. and #israel.#iran#us#war pic.twitter.com/5QjqIBFiXj
The Reuters news agency reports that Vietnam’s Finance Ministry has suspended an environmental protection tax and special consumption tax on fuels to stabilise the domestic market amid rising oil and gas prices due to the war on Iran.
The removal of the taxes on petrol, diesel and jet fuel will be effective until April 15, the ministry said in a statement.
Yemen's Houthis have downplayed concerns about potential attacks on Red Sea shipping, saying there's "no cause for concern" despite fears that Iran might ask them to disrupt traffic if the US seizes Kharg Island.
The Houthi entity managing Red Sea navigation, Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC), assured that dozens of vessels, including oil tankers, transit the Bab el Mandeb strait daily, and Yemen remains committed to safeguarding navigation and free trade.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio slammed NATO allies for not supporting the US in its conflict with Iran, saying "The US is constantly asked to help in wars and we have.
But when we had a need, it didn’t get positive responses from NATO." Rubio pointed out the hypocrisy, noting that while Ukraine isn't America's war, the US has contributed more to that fight than any other country.
SECRETARY RUBIO: The U.S. is constantly asked to help in wars and we have. But when we had a need, it didn’t get positive responses from NATO. A couple leaders said that Iran was not Europe’s war. Well, Ukraine isn’t our war, yet we’ve contributed more to that fight than anyone. pic.twitter.com/AEDMLBbLFQ— Department of State (@StateDept) March 26, 2026
SECRETARY RUBIO: The U.S. is constantly asked to help in wars and we have. But when we had a need, it didn’t get positive responses from NATO. A couple leaders said that Iran was not Europe’s war. Well, Ukraine isn’t our war, yet we’ve contributed more to that fight than anyone. pic.twitter.com/AEDMLBbLFQ
Hezbollah has launched several attacks on Israeli soldiers who crossed into Lebanese territory, including rocket attacks on Qantara town in Marjayoun District and a guided missile attack near Beit Lit in Bint Jbeil District.
An Israeli airstrike hit Beirut's southern suburbs early Friday, with multiple explosions reported and smoke rising from the area, according to Lebanese media. The strike, part of Israel's ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, targeted a building in the Hezbollah stronghold, with no specific warning issued beforehand, despite previous evacuation warnings for the area.
Stocks fell sharply Thursday, and oil prices rose as doubt took over again from hope on Wall Street about a possible end to the war with Iran.
The S&P 500 slumped 1.7% for its worst day since January and is back on track for a fifth straight losing week. That stretches back to before the Iran war began, and it would be the longest such losing streak in nearly four years.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 469 points, or 1%, and the Nasdaq composite sank 2.4% to fall more than 10% below its all-time high set early this year. That’s a steep enough drop that professional investors have a name for it: a “correction.”
The Pentagon is considering the deployment of up to 10,000 additional ground troops to the Middle East to give US President Donald Trump more military options, even as he talks up peace negotiations with Iran, US media report.
According to The Wall Street Journal, citing Department of Defense officials with knowledge of the planning, the force, which would likely include infantry and armoured vehicles, would be added to the roughly 5,000 Marines and some 2,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division who have already been ordered to the region.
Explosions have been heard in Tehran and air defences are "confronting hostile targets", according to Iran's semi-official Mehr news agency.
While Israel has not announced a fresh wave of attacks, Avichai Adraee, an IDF spokesperson, wrote on X in the last couple of hours that Israel was "intensifying its strikes against the Iranian regime's weapons production industries, targeting over 1,000 production facilities".
A Thai-flagged cargo ship that was hit by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this month has run aground off Iran's Qeshm Island, Iran's Tasnim news agency said on Friday.
Thailand said 20 crew members were rescued by the Omani navy, while three were missing after an explosion in the stern of the ship, Mayuree Naree, caused a fire in the engine room.
A poll by the right-leaning network, seen as largely friendly to US President Trump, suggested that 64 percent of Americans disapprove of the war on Iran.
Israel's opposition leader, Yair Lapid, has accused the government of sending the army into a war without a strategy and with too few soldiers.
In a video statement delivered in Hebrew, Lapid says: "The IDF is stretched to the limit and beyond. The government is leaving the army wounded out on the battlefield."
Lapid says the government is sending the army into a "multi-theat war without a strategy, without the necessary means, and with far too few soldiers". He adds that reservists are "worn out and exhausted and can no longer meet our security challenges".
He calls on the government to draft men from the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community - those who devote themselves full-time to the study of sacred Jewish texts and who since the creation of Israel in 1948 are often exempt from mandatory military service in Israel.
His statement follows military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir warning the security cabinet yesterday that "the IDF is on the verge of collapse", according to Israeli media reports.
US President Donald Trump has declared that the US military has effectively neutralised Iran’s primary combat capabilities, claiming the war “militarily” has already been won.
During an interview with Fox News, the US president stated that the US has “just about completely knocked out” both the Iranian navy and air force, specifically citing the destruction of 154 ships.
He asserted that the Iranian military has been heavily degraded, and noted the targeting of missile launchers and telecommunications infrastructure.
“We knocked out their missile launchers, which is a big deal, because without the missile launchers, the missiles don’t do very well, and we knocked out all their communications and telecommunications,” he said.
The chief of staff of the Israeli military has warned that it will “collapse in on itself” due to growing demand and a shortfall of manpower as it fights multiple fronts.
“I am raising 10 red flags before you,” Eyal Zamir told a security cabinet meeting on Wednesday, according to Israeli media reports. He said that it wouldn’t be long before the military was unable to perform routine missions.
He said the military needs a “conscription law, a reserve duty law, and a law to extend mandatory service”.
The Israeli military says more missiles have been launched from Iran towards Israel’s territory.
In a statement, the military said air defence systems are operating to intercept the attack.
The International Atomic Energy Agency’s director general, Rafael Grossi, has reiterated his “deep concern” about recent military strikes near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.
Grossi warned that “damage to the facility could result in a major radiological accident affecting a large area in Iran and beyond,” the IAEA said.
He called for maximum restraint and stressed the importance of the seven pillars for ensuring nuclear safety.
US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was pausing attacks on Iran's energy plants for 10 days at the Iranian government's request and said talks with Tehran were going "very well".
"As per Iranian Government request... I am pausing the period of Energy Plant destruction by 10 Days to Monday, April 6, 2026, at 8 P.M., Eastern Time," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
Indian Embassy in UAE condoled the death of an Indian national in Abu Dhabi on Thursday and said that they are providing all possible support and assistance.
In a post on X, the Indian embassy wrote, "Embassy of India expresses its deepest condolences at the tragic demise of an Indian national due to falling debris in Abu Dhabi today. The Embassy is closely coordinating with the UAE authorities to render all possible support and assistance."
Embassy of India expresses its deepest condolences at the tragic demise of an Indian national due to falling debris in Abu Dhabi today. The Embassy is closely coordinating with the UAE authorities to render all possible support and assistance.— India in UAE (@IndembAbuDhabi) March 26, 2026
Embassy of India expresses its deepest condolences at the tragic demise of an Indian national due to falling debris in Abu Dhabi today. The Embassy is closely coordinating with the UAE authorities to render all possible support and assistance.
France said its military chief held talks with around 35 countries on Thursday as it sought partners and proposals for a mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once the US-Israeli war on Iran ends.
The United States' Western allies have said they will not take part in the ongoing conflict. But the behind-the-scenes activity underscores concern that, after the fighting, Iran could continue to threaten the waterway which carries about a fifth of global oil supplies.
- •Reuters
The Iranian embassy in Spain said on Thursday that Iran would be receptive to any request from Madrid related to the Strait of Hormuz because Spain respects international law, in what is the first such concession offered to an EU state.
Spain has a relatively small merchant fleet but was among the first countries to condemn US-Israeli attacks on Iran, denouncing the war as reckless and illegal.
- •Reuters
US President Donald Trump, during the first cabinet meeting amid the war in West Asia on Thursday, was asked about the Friday deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, and said, "I don’t know yet. I don’t know. Mr. Witkoff and JD and Jared will tell me whether or not they think it’s going along, and if it’s not going along, maybe not."
"We have a lot of time, you know what? It’s a day in ‘Trump time.’ A day – you know what it is? That’s an eternity," Trump further added.
US Vice President JD Vance on Thursday echoed President Donald Trump's stance, saying the “conventional military” in Iran has been “effectively destroyed” during the war.
“And what that does is that gives us options,” Vance added.
US President Donald Trump, during a cabinet meeting in the White House, suggested on Thursday that Iran let ten tankers of oil transit the Strait of Hormuz, including some Pakistan-flagged vessels.
US President Donald Trump, during the first cabinet meeting amid the war in West Asia, on Thursday said that "Taking control of Iran's oil is an option."
US President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday said Washington has presented a 15-point "action list" to Iran, delivered through Pakistan as a framework for a possible peace deal.
US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday confirmed that Pakistan is acting as intermediary between America and Iran.
"I can report to you today that we have, along with your foreign policy team, presented a 15-point action list that forms the framework for a peace deal. This has been circulated through the Pakistani government acting as the mediator," Witkoff said during a Cabinet meeting at the White House.
The United States has sent Iran a "15-point action list" as a basis for negotiations to end the current conflict, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said on Thursday during a cabinet meeting at the White House.
Witkoff further added that there are signs that Tehran is interested in making a deal and is "seeking an off-ramp."
US President Donald Trump, while holding the first cabinet meeting amid the Iran war on Thursday, downplayed the impact of the West Asia conflict on the prices of oil and gases.
"Frankly, I thought the oil prices would go up more, and I thought the stock market would go down more. Hasn’t been nearly as severe as I thought," Trump said at the White House.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that "Iran is defeated" and "they can't make a comeback."
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said Washington and other Gulf countries were "shocked" with Iran's retaliatory attacks in the Middle East.
"They start shooting at Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman. They start shooting at them…Everybody was shocked, including us. You know why? Because they’re sick. And they had a plan to take over the Middle East," Trump said.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday called the Iranians "great negotiators" but "lousy fighters" as he added that Tehran is "begging to make a deal."
"They are begging to work out a deal. I don’t know if we’ll be able to do that. I don’t know if we’re willing to do that. They should have done that four weeks ago. They should have done it two years ago," Trump said.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday talked about the western military alliance NATO and said that "NATO allies need US and we don't need them."
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he's not sure if he's willing to make a deal with Iran to end the war in West Asia, adding that Iranians are great negotiators.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that "Iran is begging to make a deal, not me."
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday confirmed the killing of Iran navy chief Alireza Tangsiri in a post on X.
Statement from Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander: pic.twitter.com/oVqhVjgIDL— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 26, 2026
Statement from Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander: pic.twitter.com/oVqhVjgIDL
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday accused the United States of “double standards” and said international law “is not tool of convenience”.
In a post on X, Araghchi wrote, "The US backed Israel’s Gaza blockade, cutting aid under “security” claims, yet condemns Iran for defending itself in Strait of Hormuz. Double standard: Israel’s crimes are OK while Iran’s defense against aggressors is condemned. International law is not tool of convenience."
The U.S. backed Israel's Gaza blockade, cutting aid under "security" claims, yet condemns Iran for defending itself in Strait of Hormuz. Double standard: Israel's crimes are OK while Iran's defense against aggressors is condemned. International law is not tool of convenience.— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) March 26, 2026
The U.S. backed Israel's Gaza blockade, cutting aid under "security" claims, yet condemns Iran for defending itself in Strait of Hormuz. Double standard: Israel's crimes are OK while Iran's defense against aggressors is condemned. International law is not tool of convenience.
An Iranian official on Thursday responded to US' 15-point peace proposal to end the conflict in West Asia and said that it was "one-sided and unfair", Reuters reported.
"In brief, the proposal suggests that Iran would relinquish its ability to defend itself in exchange for a vague plan to lift sanctions," the official added.
NATO chief Mark Rutte, during a press briefing in Brussels, said the NATO alliance has "long recognised the threat Iran's missile programme poses to allies and their interests".
Iran now has "capabilities increasingly dangerous for allies," Rutte added.
Iran has officially responded to US' 15-point peace proposal to end the conflict in West Asia, Tehran's Tasnim news agency reported citing sources.
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said, "Last night, we eliminated the Commander of the IRGC Navy. This man had a great deal of blood on his hands; he was also the one who led the closure of the Strait of Hormuz."
Netanyahu added, "We continue to forcefully strike the targets of the Iranian terrorist regime."
Prime Minister Netanyahu:"We continue to forcefully strike the targets of the Iranian terrorist regime.Last night, we eliminated the Commander of the IRGC Navy. This man had a great deal of blood on his hands; he was also the one who led the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. pic.twitter.com/XZPXK4ivXt— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) March 26, 2026
Prime Minister Netanyahu:"We continue to forcefully strike the targets of the Iranian terrorist regime.Last night, we eliminated the Commander of the IRGC Navy. This man had a great deal of blood on his hands; he was also the one who led the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. pic.twitter.com/XZPXK4ivXt
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday confirmed that Iranian Navy chief Alireza Tangsiri has been killed in the strike.
The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert on Thursday stating that the current situation has made departures difficult.
In a post on X, the embassy wrote, "The Government of Israel currently limits Ben Gurion Airport to one departing flight per hour with no more than 50 passengers."
The security situation in Israel makes departures difficult. The Government of Israel currently limits Ben Gurion Airport to one departing flight per hour with no more than 50 passengers. Read the full message here: https://t.co/uNF2YCjJPx pic.twitter.com/9zL2gomKBd— U.S. Embassy Jerusalem (@usembassyjlm) March 26, 2026
The security situation in Israel makes departures difficult. The Government of Israel currently limits Ben Gurion Airport to one departing flight per hour with no more than 50 passengers. Read the full message here: https://t.co/uNF2YCjJPx pic.twitter.com/9zL2gomKBd
The Abu Dhabi media office on Thursday confirmed that an Indian national and a Pakistani national were killed after debris fell from an intercepted ballistic missile.
In a post on X, the Abu Dhabi media office said, "In the context of the ongoing follow-up to the previously announced incident resulting from the fall of debris following the successful interception of a ballistic missile by air defenses, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals of Pakistani and Indian nationality, and injuries ranging from severe to moderate sustained by three individuals of Emirati, Jordanian, and Indian nationality."
PM Narendra Modi's meeting with Chief Ministers on West Asia conflict will focus on ensuring synergy of efforts in the spirit of 'Team India', PTI reported quoting sources.
Air defences were activated and heard in Iran's capital Tehran on Thursday, however, no explosions took place, BBC reported quoting sources.
Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Thursday he had spoken to the leaders of Iran, Egypt, Turkey and other regional countries and said Malaysian vessels were now being allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Anwar in a televised address thanked Iran's president for allowing the passage of Malaysian ships.
"We are now in the process of releasing the Malaysian oil tankers and the workers involved so that they may continue their journey home," he said.
- •Reuters
An Israeli military spokesperson on Thursday said that their "mission is to further degrade Iran's capabilities" and that "we have many more targets left".
In a post on X, US President Donald Trump wrote, “The Iranian negotiators are very different and “strange”. They are “begging” us to make a deal, which they should be doing since they have been militarily obliterated, with zero chance of a comeback, and yet they publicly state that they are only “looking at our proposal. WRONG!!! They better get serious soon, before its too late, because once that happens, there is NO TURNING BACK, and it won’t be pretty!”
US President Donald Trump said Iranian negotiators were "begging" for a deal despite what he described as having been "militarily obliterated," rejecting Tehran's public stance that it is only reviewing Washington's proposal.
"They better get serious soon, before it is too late, because once that happens, there is NO TURNING BACK, and it won't be pretty," he said in a Truth Social post on Thursday.
The Gulf Cooperation Council meeting is underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and the group says Iran’s attacks on countries in the region “is not just another escalation in the region, it is a change, a turning point in the relationship and situation between Iran and the GCC countries”.
“Iran is purposefully targeting and launching direct attacks at the GCC countries,” says Secretary General of the GCC, Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi was quoted as saying by Al Jazeera
“These attacks are against civilian targets. The Iranian attacks with missiles and drones led to the killing of civilians among the residents and citizens.”
Explosions were heard near Birjand city in South Khorasan province, eastern Iran, Al Jazeera reported.
On Thursday, air strikes continued to pound parts of Israel with Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) saying it began wave 82 of its operation against the US and Jerusalem. According to the IRGC, the latest wave started today, which involved a widespread assault of drones and missiles against the military control centre of Israel’s command, as well as industries related to its nuclear infrastructure in the south of the Dead Sea.
Al Jazeera reported
Iran-US War News Live Updates: Houthi rebels are set to join Iran's war against the United States and Israel, said news agency Tasnim claimed, citing “an informed source.”
Iran-US War News Live Updates: IDF said that a new missile salvo was launched by Iran targeting central Israel
Iran-US War News Live Updates: Israeli local media said that the army "eliminated" Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps navy commander.
Iran-US War News Live Updates: China's foreign ministry spokesperson emphasised the need for all parties to work together to create conditions for meaningful peace talks between Iran and the US, said the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on being asked about ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US.
“The pressing priority is to actively promote peace talks, seize the opportunity of peace and promote the cessation of the war,” Lin Jian, the ministry spokesperson, says during a regular press briefing.
US-Israel-Iran War Live: Israel removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf from its target list, after Pakistan requested Washington to spare them, a Pakistani official told news agency Reuters.
“The Israelis had their… coordinates and wanted to take them out, we told the US if they are also eliminated, then there is no one else to talk to, hence the US asked the Israelis to back off,” the official said.
US-Israel-Iran War Live: Two people were killed in Abu Dhabi after debris fell on Sweihan Road following a missile interception, the emirate’s media office said. Several vehicles were damaged in the incident, and three people were wounded.
US-Israel-Iran War Live: Iran announced that the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz will remain open for “friendly nation” India, along with other countries like China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
“Many of the shipowners, or the countries that own these vessels, have contacted us and requested that we ensure their safe passage through the strait. For some of these countries that we consider friendly, or in cases where we have decided to do so for other reasons, our armed forces have provided safe passage,” Araghchi said while talking to Iranian State TV.
Read full story
US-Israel-Iran War Live: Iran launched a fresh barrage early morning, targeting Gulf nations. The United Arab Emirates, on Thursday morning, said that it intercepted and destroyed missiles from Iran, with authorities confirming that the sounds heard were from aerial interceptions.
Kuwait said, “Any explosions that may be heard are the result of air defense systems intercepting hostile targets.”
US-Israel-Iran War Live: The IDF detected another ballistic missile attack from Iran.
US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: The Israeli Air Force launched an "extensive" wave of airstrikes in Iran, said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The military said that it targeted Iranian regime infrastructure sites.
US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi said that his country did not and will not negotiate with the United States while it is under attack.
US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, said, “The prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz is choking the movement of oil, gas & fertiliser at a critical moment in the global planting season. Across the region & beyond, civilians are enduring serious harm & living under profound insecurity. The UN is working to minimise the consequences of the war. And the best way to minimise those consequences is clear: End the war – immediately.”
The shock waves of the conflict in the Middle East are falling hardest on those who bear no responsibility: the poorest & the most vulnerable.War is not the answer. We need a way out of this disaster.Diplomacy, full respect of international law & peace are the way out.— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) March 26, 2026
The shock waves of the conflict in the Middle East are falling hardest on those who bear no responsibility: the poorest & the most vulnerable.War is not the answer. We need a way out of this disaster.Diplomacy, full respect of international law & peace are the way out.
US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: On the ongoing West Asia conflict, US President Donald Trump said, “… We had an attack. 100 missiles were shot by Iran at a very important thing that we had… 100 missiles going 2,000 miles an hour were coming at this element of tremendous power and importance. Of the 100 missiles coming at us, 100 missiles were immediately shot down, shot out of the air, and fell into the sea…”
#watch | On the ongoing West Asia conflict, US President Donald Trump says, "... We had an attack. 100 missiles were shot by Iran at a very important thing that we had... 100 missiles going 2,000 miles an hour were coming at this element of tremendous power and importance. Of the… pic.twitter.com/kbrLlLDW3H— ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2026
#watch | On the ongoing West Asia conflict, US President Donald Trump says, "... We had an attack. 100 missiles were shot by Iran at a very important thing that we had... 100 missiles going 2,000 miles an hour were coming at this element of tremendous power and importance. Of the… pic.twitter.com/kbrLlLDW3H
US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi said that “friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan” have been allowed passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing regional tensions.
#iran FM Abbas #araghchi: We permitted passage through the Strait of #hormuz for friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/RvLtiwYB4v— Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) March 25, 2026
#iran FM Abbas #araghchi: We permitted passage through the Strait of #hormuz for friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/RvLtiwYB4v
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