Israel-Iran war LIVE: Explosions heard in Abu Dhabi, says report

#### Key Updates

• Iran body selecting Supreme Leader reaches decision, name not announced: members

• Israeli military says it will pursue every successor of Iran's Khamenei

• Israeli strikes kill 12 people in Lebanon; Iran attacks Bahraini desalination plant

• U.S., Israel hit five oil sites in and near Tehran

• Iran 'will be forced to respond' if attacked from neighbouring country: President

• Israel renews assault on Lebanon after Netanyahu promises 'many surprises' in next phase of war

• March 08, 2026 21:12 Two Israeli soldiers killed in combat in southern Lebanon: army Israel’s military said Sunday that two of its soldiers were killed in combat in southern Lebanon, the first Israeli troops to have died since fighting flared with armed group Hezbollah.-- AFP

Israel’s military said Sunday that two of its soldiers were killed in combat in southern Lebanon, the first Israeli troops to have died since fighting flared with armed group Hezbollah.-- AFP

• March 08, 2026 20:55 Zelensky says Ukrainian drone experts 'on site' in West Asia next week Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that Kyiv’s drone experts will be “on site” in the West Asia “next week”, as he seeks U.S. air defence missiles in exchange for drone expertise.“I think that next week, when the experts are on site, they will look at the situation and help,” Mr. Zelensky told a press conference, when asked how the Ukrainians would be able to help the United States and the Gulf states to repel Iranian drones.--- AFP

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that Kyiv’s drone experts will be “on site” in the West Asia “next week”, as he seeks U.S. air defence missiles in exchange for drone expertise.

“I think that next week, when the experts are on site, they will look at the situation and help,” Mr. Zelensky told a press conference, when asked how the Ukrainians would be able to help the United States and the Gulf states to repel Iranian drones.--- AFP

• March 08, 2026 20:51 Arab League chief calls out Iran's reckless attacks on its Arab neighbours Arab League chief on Sunday lashed out at Iran for attacking Arab countries during its war against the U.S. and Israel.Secretary-General Ahmed Abouel Gheit told a virtual meeting of Arab foreign ministers that Iran’s strikes against its Arab neighbours “can’t be justified,” and reflect a “reckless policy.” He said Arab countries haven’t been part of the US-Israel war against Iran, and declared that their territories wouldn’t be used as launching pads for U.S. attacks.“This unjustified Iranian aggression reflects a confused understanding and further isolates Iran during this difficult and delicate period,” he said.-- AFP

Arab League chief on Sunday lashed out at Iran for attacking Arab countries during its war against the U.S. and Israel.

Secretary-General Ahmed Abouel Gheit told a virtual meeting of Arab foreign ministers that Iran’s strikes against its Arab neighbours “can’t be justified,” and reflect a “reckless policy.” He said Arab countries haven’t been part of the US-Israel war against Iran, and declared that their territories wouldn’t be used as launching pads for U.S. attacks.

“This unjustified Iranian aggression reflects a confused understanding and further isolates Iran during this difficult and delicate period,” he said.-- AFP

• March 08, 2026 18:53 Blasts heard over Tel Aviv after missiles from Iran detectedAt least 10 explosions were reported over Israel’s commercial hub Tel Aviv on Sunday, according to AFP journalists, following the Israeli military’s announcement that it had detected new missiles launched from Iran.“A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran towards the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat,” the military said.In a separate media briefing, military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said Iran’s “firepower has dropped dramatically all across the region, not only towards Israel”.--- AFP

At least 10 explosions were reported over Israel’s commercial hub Tel Aviv on Sunday, according to AFP journalists, following the Israeli military’s announcement that it had detected new missiles launched from Iran.

“A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran towards the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat,” the military said.

In a separate media briefing, military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said Iran’s “firepower has dropped dramatically all across the region, not only towards Israel”.--- AFP

• March 08, 2026 18:42 Pope prays 'roar of the bombs' in Middle East will cease Pope Leo XIV on Sunday prayed the “roar of bombs” in the Middle East will cease, as the war trigged by U.S.-Israeli air strikes on Iran extended into its ninth day.“We raise our humble prayer to the Lord, that the roar of the bombs may cease, the weapons may fall silent, and a space for dialogue may open in which the voices of the peoples may be heard,” the pope said at the end of the Angelus prayer.--- AFP

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday prayed the “roar of bombs” in the Middle East will cease, as the war trigged by U.S.-Israeli air strikes on Iran extended into its ninth day.

“We raise our humble prayer to the Lord, that the roar of the bombs may cease, the weapons may fall silent, and a space for dialogue may open in which the voices of the peoples may be heard,” the pope said at the end of the Angelus prayer.--- AFP

• March 08, 2026 18:38 Kuwait airport, Bahrain desalination unit struck as Iran presses Gulf attacks Iran struck Gulf infrastructure on Sunday, hitting fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport and damaging a desalination plant in Bahrain as Tehran pressed its missile and drone campaign against its neighbours into a second week.Two border guards were also killed “while performing their national duty”, Kuwait’s interior ministry said without elaborating on the circumstances.Neighbouring countries have borne much of Tehran’s response after the US and Israel launched a massive air campaign against Iran, with 16 people, eight of them civilians, killed in the Gulf states since the war began, according to an AFP tally.--- AFP

Iran struck Gulf infrastructure on Sunday, hitting fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport and damaging a desalination plant in Bahrain as Tehran pressed its missile and drone campaign against its neighbours into a second week.

Two border guards were also killed “while performing their national duty”, Kuwait’s interior ministry said without elaborating on the circumstances.

Neighbouring countries have borne much of Tehran’s response after the US and Israel launched a massive air campaign against Iran, with 16 people, eight of them civilians, killed in the Gulf states since the war began, according to an AFP tally.--- AFP

• March 08, 2026 18:09 Three Indonesian crew missing after UAE tugboat sinks in Strait of Hormuz Three Indonesian crew members are missing after the United Arab Emirates-flagged tugboat Mussafah 2 sank in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday (March 6, 2026), Jakarta’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.There have been numerous attacks on ships navigating the strait since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28.The Mussafah 2 had seven crew members from Indonesia, India and the Philippines, the ministry said, adding that four survived and three others, all Indonesians, were missing.The UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) also confirmed the incident but said it resulted in four fatalities and three others severely injured, the body said in a list on its website.--- AFP

Three Indonesian crew members are missing after the United Arab Emirates-flagged tugboat Mussafah 2 sank in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday (March 6, 2026), Jakarta’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

There have been numerous attacks on ships navigating the strait since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28.

The Mussafah 2 had seven crew members from Indonesia, India and the Philippines, the ministry said, adding that four survived and three others, all Indonesians, were missing.

The UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) also confirmed the incident but said it resulted in four fatalities and three others severely injured, the body said in a list on its website.--- AFP

• March 08, 2026 17:58 Iranians including diplomats evacuated from Beirut on Russian plane: Lebanese official More than 100 Iranians, including some diplomats, were evacuated from Beirut overnight on a Russian plane, a Lebanese official told AFP on Sunday.“A total of 117 Iranians, including diplomats and embassy staff, were evacuated on a Russian plane that left Beirut overnight from Saturday to Sunday,” the official said on condition of anonymity.-- AFP

More than 100 Iranians, including some diplomats, were evacuated from Beirut overnight on a Russian plane, a Lebanese official told AFP on Sunday.

“A total of 117 Iranians, including diplomats and embassy staff, were evacuated on a Russian plane that left Beirut overnight from Saturday to Sunday,” the official said on condition of anonymity.-- AFP

• March 08, 2026 17:47 Macron to visit Cyprus as France deploys warships to Mediterannean President Emmanuel Macron will visit Cyprus on Monday (March 9, 2026), his office said, as France deploys warships to the Mediterranean following a drone attack on Cyprus days ago.Mr. Macron will meet Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Paphos to show “solidarity” and detail moves to “strengthen security around Cyprus and in the eastern Mediterranean”, the Elysee said on Sunday.--- AFP

President Emmanuel Macron will visit Cyprus on Monday (March 9, 2026), his office said, as France deploys warships to the Mediterranean following a drone attack on Cyprus days ago.

Mr. Macron will meet Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Paphos to show “solidarity” and detail moves to “strengthen security around Cyprus and in the eastern Mediterranean”, the Elysee said on Sunday.--- AFP

• March 08, 2026 17:26 Iran Guards say targeted Israeli cities, airbase in Jordan Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday that they had launched missiles towards the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Bersheeva, as well as an airbase in Jordan.“The 28th wave of the Operation Honest Promise 4 was launched by the next-generation missiles of the Guards aerospace force against the areas of Beersheva, Tel Aviv, and the Al-Azraq airbase,” the Guards said in a statement, according to state TV.-- AFP

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday that they had launched missiles towards the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Bersheeva, as well as an airbase in Jordan.

“The 28th wave of the Operation Honest Promise 4 was launched by the next-generation missiles of the Guards aerospace force against the areas of Beersheva, Tel Aviv, and the Al-Azraq airbase,” the Guards said in a statement, according to state TV.-- AFP

• March 08, 2026 17:15 UAE Defense Ministry gives statement on death toll amid Iran's attacksUAE Defense Ministry says death toll from Iran’s attacks on the Gulf country rise to 4

UAE Defense Ministry says death toll from Iran’s attacks on the Gulf country rise to 4

• March 08, 2026 17:06 Macron to visit Cyprus as France deploys warships to Mediterannean President Emmanuel Macron will visit Cyprus on Monday (March 9, 2026), his office said, as France deploys warships to the Mediterranean following a drone attack on Cyprus days ago.Mr. Macron will meet Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to show “solidarity” and detail moves to “strengthen security around Cyprus and in the eastern Mediterranean”, the Elysee said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).The visit will happen as the nearby Middle East region is gripped by war pitting U.S. and Israel against Iran. Cyprus was targeted by drones, leading Mr. Macron to order France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean and a frigate and air defence units to Cyprus.- AFP

President Emmanuel Macron will visit Cyprus on Monday (March 9, 2026), his office said, as France deploys warships to the Mediterranean following a drone attack on Cyprus days ago.

Mr. Macron will meet Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to show “solidarity” and detail moves to “strengthen security around Cyprus and in the eastern Mediterranean”, the Elysee said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

The visit will happen as the nearby Middle East region is gripped by war pitting U.S. and Israel against Iran. Cyprus was targeted by drones, leading Mr. Macron to order France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean and a frigate and air defence units to Cyprus.

• March 08, 2026 16:56 Iran attacks breach international law, Swiss Defence Minister says The United States and Israel have broken international law with their attacks on Iran, Swiss Defence Minister Martin Pfister said in an ‌interview, the latest European leader to raise concerns about the conflict.Legal experts ⁠have said many countries will consider the attacks unjustified under the United Nations Charter, under which member countries must ‌refrain from using force or the threat of force without U.N authorisation or unless ‌acting in self-defence.“The Federal Council is of the ‌opinion ⁠that the attack on Iran constitutes a ⁠violation of international law,” Mr. Pfister told SonntagsZeitung, referring to the Swiss cabinet.“In our view it constitutes a violation on the prohibition of violence,” he added, ‌calling on all parties involved to halt the fighting to protect the civilian population.- Reuters

The United States and Israel have broken international law with their attacks on Iran, Swiss Defence Minister Martin Pfister said in an ‌interview, the latest European leader to raise concerns about the conflict.

Legal experts ⁠have said many countries will consider the attacks unjustified under the United Nations Charter, under which member countries must ‌refrain from using force or the threat of force without U.N authorisation or unless ‌acting in self-defence.

“The Federal Council is of the ‌opinion ⁠that the attack on Iran constitutes a ⁠violation of international law,” Mr. Pfister told SonntagsZeitung, referring to the Swiss cabinet.

“In our view it constitutes a violation on the prohibition of violence,” he added, ‌calling on all parties involved to halt the fighting to protect the civilian population.

• •Reuters

• March 08, 2026 16:32 Bangladesh rations fuel as West Asia war deepens energy crunch Bangladesh launched fuel rationing on Sunday (March 8, 2026) as the war in West Asia deepened an energy crunch, creating long queues at filling stations and boiling over into anger.Following the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, and Tehran’s retaliatory strikes throughout the Gulf, the national oil company, Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), restricted fuel sales for most vehicles.Authorities capped fuel purchases for several types of vehicles as panic buying and hoarding spread following warnings of possible supply disruptions.- AFP

Bangladesh launched fuel rationing on Sunday (March 8, 2026) as the war in West Asia deepened an energy crunch, creating long queues at filling stations and boiling over into anger.

Following the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, and Tehran’s retaliatory strikes throughout the Gulf, the national oil company, Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), restricted fuel sales for most vehicles.

Authorities capped fuel purchases for several types of vehicles as panic buying and hoarding spread following warnings of possible supply disruptions.

• March 08, 2026 16:02 Iran body selecting Supreme Leader reaches decision, name not announced: members The body tasked with selecting Iran’s new Supreme Leader has reached a decision, members said on Sunday (March 8, 2026), although the name has yet to be announced.“The most suitable candidate, approved by the majority of the Assembly of Experts, has been determined,” said Mohsen Heydari, a member of the selection body who represents Khuzestan province, according to Iran’s ISNA news agency.Another member, Mohammad Mehdi Mirbagheri, confirmed in a video carried by Iran’s Fars news agency that “a firm opinion reflecting the majority view has been reached”.- AFP

The body tasked with selecting Iran’s new Supreme Leader has reached a decision, members said on Sunday (March 8, 2026), although the name has yet to be announced.

“The most suitable candidate, approved by the majority of the Assembly of Experts, has been determined,” said Mohsen Heydari, a member of the selection body who represents Khuzestan province, according to Iran’s ISNA news agency.

Another member, Mohammad Mehdi Mirbagheri, confirmed in a video carried by Iran’s Fars news agency that “a firm opinion reflecting the majority view has been reached”.

• March 08, 2026 15:50 Israel Military issues another evacuation order in LebanonIsraeli Military issues evacuation warning for residents south of Litani River in southern Lebanon- Reuters

Israeli Military issues evacuation warning for residents south of Litani River in southern Lebanon

• •Reuters

• March 08, 2026 15:39 Iran players salute and sing national anthem at Women's Asian Cup Iran’s players sang the national anthem and saluted before their last group match at the Women’s Asian Cup on Sunday (March 8, 2026) in Australia, having stayed defiantly silent earlier in the tournament.When Iran faced South Korea on Monday in their opening game the players stood motionless, two days after the U.S. and Israel began a war against the country.But on Thursday (March 5, 2026) in their second game, against hosts Australia, all the Iranian players saluted and sang the anthem on Queensland’s Gold Coast.Against the Philippines on Sunday (March 8, 2026) they again sang and saluted as the rain came down on the Gold Coast.- AFP

Iran’s players sang the national anthem and saluted before their last group match at the Women’s Asian Cup on Sunday (March 8, 2026) in Australia, having stayed defiantly silent earlier in the tournament.

When Iran faced South Korea on Monday in their opening game the players stood motionless, two days after the U.S. and Israel began a war against the country.

But on Thursday (March 5, 2026) in their second game, against hosts Australia, all the Iranian players saluted and sang the anthem on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Against the Philippines on Sunday (March 8, 2026) they again sang and saluted as the rain came down on the Gold Coast.

• March 08, 2026 15:24 From The Hindu | THAAD– Hit to kill The Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system is one of the most advanced missile defence platforms developed by the United States to counter ballistic missile threats.Designed to intercept missiles during the final stage of their flight, THAAD can destroy incoming threats both inside and outside Earth’s atmosphere, providing a critical defensive layer against short-medium-and limited intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The U.S. deployed additional THAAD batteries to the West Asian region before it launched the invasion of Iran on February 28, along with other weapons.Click here to read a more about THAAD...

The Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system is one of the most advanced missile defence platforms developed by the United States to counter ballistic missile threats.

Designed to intercept missiles during the final stage of their flight, THAAD can destroy incoming threats both inside and outside Earth’s atmosphere, providing a critical defensive layer against short-medium-and limited intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The U.S. deployed additional THAAD batteries to the West Asian region before it launched the invasion of Iran on February 28, along with other weapons.

• March 08, 2026 14:50 Watch: Aftermath of a strike on a tower in Kuwait City

• March 08, 2026 14:24 Fuel distribution in Tehran 'temporarily' halted after oil depot strikes: Iranian official Fuel distribution in the Iranian capital has been “temporarily interrupted” after U.S. and Israeli strikes on oil depots in and near the city, an official said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).“Due to damage to the fuel supply network, distribution has been temporarily interrupted,” said Tehran’s governor Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian, as quoted by the official IRNA news agency.“The problem is being resolved,” he added.- AFP

Fuel distribution in the Iranian capital has been “temporarily interrupted” after U.S. and Israeli strikes on oil depots in and near the city, an official said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

“Due to damage to the fuel supply network, distribution has been temporarily interrupted,” said Tehran’s governor Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian, as quoted by the official IRNA news agency.

“The problem is being resolved,” he added.

• March 08, 2026 14:15 UAE tugboat sank in Strait of Hormuz; three Indonesian crew missing Three Indonesian crew members are missing after the United Arab Emirates-flagged tugboat Musaffah 2 sank in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday (March 6, 2026), Jakarta’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.There have been numerous attacks on ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28.The Musaffah had seven crew members from Indonesia, India and the Philippines, the ministry said, adding that four survived and three others, all Indonesians, are missing.Before it sank, the boat experienced an explosion that caused it to catch fire, the statement said, adding that an investigation is ongoing by local authorities.The security firm Vanguard said the tugboat was struck by two missiles while attempting to provide assistance to the Malta-flagged container ship Safeen Prestige.That ship was struck by a missile on Wednesday (March 4, 2026), Vanguard said in a statement.- AFP

Three Indonesian crew members are missing after the United Arab Emirates-flagged tugboat Musaffah 2 sank in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday (March 6, 2026), Jakarta’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

There have been numerous attacks on ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28.

The Musaffah had seven crew members from Indonesia, India and the Philippines, the ministry said, adding that four survived and three others, all Indonesians, are missing.

Before it sank, the boat experienced an explosion that caused it to catch fire, the statement said, adding that an investigation is ongoing by local authorities.

The security firm Vanguard said the tugboat was struck by two missiles while attempting to provide assistance to the Malta-flagged container ship Safeen Prestige.

That ship was struck by a missile on Wednesday (March 4, 2026), Vanguard said in a statement.

• March 08, 2026 14:13 Watch: Anti-war protesters demonstrate outside U.K.'s RAF Fairford

• March 08, 2026 13:52 Explosions hit Iran's central Yazd province: state mediaExplosions hit Iran’s central Yazd province on Sunday (March 8, 2026), state media reported, as war raged with the United States and Israel.It was not immediately clear what was hit in the strikes but the official IRNA news agency said the blasts occurred on the periphery of Yazd city.Earlier explosions were reported in other parts of the country including the Iranian capital Tehran and the central Isfahan province.-AFP

Explosions hit Iran’s central Yazd province on Sunday (March 8, 2026), state media reported, as war raged with the United States and Israel.

It was not immediately clear what was hit in the strikes but the official IRNA news agency said the blasts occurred on the periphery of Yazd city.

Earlier explosions were reported in other parts of the country including the Iranian capital Tehran and the central Isfahan province.

• March 08, 2026 13:45 Pakistan condoles death of citizen in UAE due to missile debris

• March 08, 2026 13:43 Israeli military says it will pursue every successor of Iran's KhameneiThe Israeli military ‌warned it would continue pursuing ⁠every successor of Iran’s ‌next supreme leader.In ‌a ‌post ⁠on X ⁠in Farsi, the Israeli military ‌also warned it would pursue every person ‌who seeks to appoint a ⁠successor for Ayatollah Ali ‌Khamenei, referring to the clerical body charged with ‌choosing the Islamic Republic’s supreme leader. -Reuters

The Israeli military ‌warned it would continue pursuing ⁠every successor of Iran’s ‌next supreme leader.

In ‌a ‌post ⁠on X ⁠in Farsi, the Israeli military ‌also warned it would pursue every person ‌who seeks to appoint a ⁠successor for Ayatollah Ali ‌Khamenei, referring to the clerical body charged with ‌choosing the Islamic Republic’s supreme leader.

-Reuters

• March 08, 2026 13:33 Israeli strikes kill 12 people in Lebanon; Iran attacks Bahraini desalination plantIsrael has struck southern Lebanon and Beirut again early on Sunday (March 8, 2026) and killed 12 more people, the Lebanese Health Ministry said, as the war in West Asia keeps escalating. Israeli officials said the strikes targeted commanders of the Lebanese branch of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised “many surprises” for the next phase of the conflict.Meanwhile, two border guards in Kuwait were killed when a swarm of missiles and drones hit the Gulf country.On Saturday (March 7), an Israeli attack hit an oil storage facility in Tehran, which sent up pillars of fire that could be seen in Associated Press video as a glow against the night sky. It appeared to be the first time a civil industrial facility has been targeted in the war.-AP

Israel has struck southern Lebanon and Beirut again early on Sunday (March 8, 2026) and killed 12 more people, the Lebanese Health Ministry said, as the war in West Asia keeps escalating.

Israeli officials said the strikes targeted commanders of the Lebanese branch of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised “many surprises” for the next phase of the conflict.

Meanwhile, two border guards in Kuwait were killed when a swarm of missiles and drones hit the Gulf country.

On Saturday (March 7), an Israeli attack hit an oil storage facility in Tehran, which sent up pillars of fire that could be seen in Associated Press video as a glow against the night sky. It appeared to be the first time a civil industrial facility has been targeted in the war.

• March 08, 2026 13:30 Saudi index extends gains as Riyadh warns Tehran over attacksGulf stock markets rose in ‌early trading on Sunday (March 8, 2026), with the ⁠Saudi index extending gains to a fifth session, after ‌Riyadh warned Tehran that continued attacks ‌on the kingdom ‌and ⁠its energy sector ⁠could bring a response in kind, four sources familiar with the ‌matter told Reuters.Saudi ⁠Arabia’s benchmark index .TASI climbed 1.1%, with ‌most of its constituents posting gains, led by energy and materials stocks.Oil prices surged more than 8% ‌on Friday, due to disruptions to global oil supplies because of ⁠the expanding U.S.-Israeli war with ⁠Iran.Saudi Aramco advanced 4% and Yanbu ‌National Petrochemical surged 10%.-Reuters

Gulf stock markets rose in ‌early trading on Sunday (March 8, 2026), with the ⁠Saudi index extending gains to a fifth session, after ‌Riyadh warned Tehran that continued attacks ‌on the kingdom ‌and ⁠its energy sector ⁠could bring a response in kind, four sources familiar with the ‌matter told Reuters.

Saudi ⁠Arabia’s benchmark index .TASI climbed 1.1%, with ‌most of its constituents posting gains, led by energy and materials stocks.

Oil prices surged more than 8% ‌on Friday, due to disruptions to global oil supplies because of ⁠the expanding U.S.-Israeli war with ⁠Iran.

Saudi Aramco advanced 4% and Yanbu ‌National Petrochemical surged 10%.

-Reuters

• March 08, 2026 13:13 Two Kuwait fire officers killed 'while performing duties,' Fire Force saysKuwait’s Fire ‌Force said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) that ⁠two of its officers ‌were killed “while ‌performing duties,” ‌according ⁠to a ⁠post on X.It did not ‌provide details on the circumstances of ‌their deaths, but Kuwait has ⁠been intercepting drones and ‌missiles launched from Iran following U.S. and ‌Israeli attacks on the Islamic Republic. -Reuters

Kuwait’s Fire ‌Force said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) that ⁠two of its officers ‌were killed “while ‌performing duties,” ‌according ⁠to a ⁠post on X.

It did not ‌provide details on the circumstances of ‌their deaths, but Kuwait has ⁠been intercepting drones and ‌missiles launched from Iran following U.S. and ‌Israeli attacks on the Islamic Republic.

-Reuters

• March 08, 2026 13:02 United Nations calls for peace

• March 08, 2026 13:00 Trump praises Italy PM Meloni's willingness to help in U.S.-Israel war with IranU.S. President Donald Trump praised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni ‌and said she was willing to help the United ⁠States and Israel in their war with Iran, Italy’s Corriere ‌della Sera reported on Sunday (March 8, 2026).Speaking to the ‌newspaper in a telephone ‌call ⁠on Saturday (March 7), Mr. Trump described ⁠Ms. Meloni as “a great leader” and said Italy was doing what it could to assist.-Rueters

U.S. President Donald Trump praised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni ‌and said she was willing to help the United ⁠States and Israel in their war with Iran, Italy’s Corriere ‌della Sera reported on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

Speaking to the ‌newspaper in a telephone ‌call ⁠on Saturday (March 7), Mr. Trump described ⁠Ms. Meloni as “a great leader” and said Italy was doing what it could to assist.

-Rueters

• March 08, 2026 12:37 Majority consensus reached on Iran's next supreme leader, Mehr news reportsA majority consensus over ‌a successor to Iran’s slain Supreme ⁠Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has more ‌or less been reached, ‌Assembly of ‌Experts ⁠member Ayatollah Mohammadmehdi ⁠Mirbaqeri said on Sunday (March 8, 2026), according to Mehr news agency.He ‌said, though, that “some obstacles” need to be ‌resolved regarding the process, according to the report.Iranian ⁠media said the body ‌tasked with appointing Iran’s supreme leader had a minor disagreement over whether ‌their final decision must follow an in-person meeting ⁠or instead be ⁠issued without adhering to this ‌formality.Read the story hereMajority consensus reached on Iran's next Supreme LeaderMajority consensus achieved in Iran's Assembly of Experts for the next Supreme Leader, with final decisions pending resolution of obstacles.

A majority consensus over ‌a successor to Iran’s slain Supreme ⁠Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has more ‌or less been reached, ‌Assembly of ‌Experts ⁠member Ayatollah Mohammadmehdi ⁠Mirbaqeri said on Sunday (March 8, 2026), according to Mehr news agency.

He ‌said, though, that “some obstacles” need to be ‌resolved regarding the process, according to the report.

Iranian ⁠media said the body ‌tasked with appointing Iran’s supreme leader had a minor disagreement over whether ‌their final decision must follow an in-person meeting ⁠or instead be ⁠issued without adhering to this ‌formality.

Read the story here

Majority consensus reached on Iran's next Supreme Leader

Majority consensus achieved in Iran's Assembly of Experts for the next Supreme Leader, with final decisions pending resolution of obstacles.

• March 08, 2026 12:28 Escalating tensions in West Asia to impact Indian, other steel markets: BigMintThe global steel industry, including India, is expected to face multiple market-related issues in the coming days as the escalating crisis in West Asia impacts fuels cost that has lead to increased freight rates, according to BigMint Research.BigMint analysts said crude oil, LNG, and freight costs are rising simultaneously, transmitting cost pressure directly into steel and steel-related commodity markets.From an average of $70 a barrel before the war, crude oil prices have risen to about $90/per barrel, an analyst said, adding that the cost is expected to continue to rise in the coming days.War has also impacted freight cost, which jumped almost 40% in recent times. In the absence of insurance cover, marine operators are also offering freight at non-negotiable prices as per the availability of the vessel.On the impact of the U.S.-Iran conflict on steel markets, including India, they said the industry would face sustained input cost inflation across coal, scrap and ore, with freight and energy reinforcing one another.-PTI

The global steel industry, including India, is expected to face multiple market-related issues in the coming days as the escalating crisis in West Asia impacts fuels cost that has lead to increased freight rates, according to BigMint Research.

BigMint analysts said crude oil, LNG, and freight costs are rising simultaneously, transmitting cost pressure directly into steel and steel-related commodity markets.

From an average of $70 a barrel before the war, crude oil prices have risen to about $90/per barrel, an analyst said, adding that the cost is expected to continue to rise in the coming days.

War has also impacted freight cost, which jumped almost 40% in recent times. In the absence of insurance cover, marine operators are also offering freight at non-negotiable prices as per the availability of the vessel.

On the impact of the U.S.-Iran conflict on steel markets, including India, they said the industry would face sustained input cost inflation across coal, scrap and ore, with freight and energy reinforcing one another.

• March 08, 2026 12:12 U.S., Israel hit five oil sites in and near TehranThe United States and Israel hit five oil facilities in overnight strikes in and near the Iranian capital, an official told state TV.“Last night, four oil depots and a petroleum products transport centre in Tehran and the Alborz were attacked by enemy aircraft,” the CEO of the National Iranian Oil Products Distribution Company Keramat Veyskarami told state TV.He added that the five facilities “were damaged” but the “fire was brought under control”.Read the story here​U.S., Israel hit five oil sites in and near Tehran: officialU.S. and Israel strike five oil sites near Tehran, resulting in four deaths and significant damage amid ongoing conflict.​

The United States and Israel hit five oil facilities in overnight strikes in and near the Iranian capital, an official told state TV.

“Last night, four oil depots and a petroleum products transport centre in Tehran and the Alborz were attacked by enemy aircraft,” the CEO of the National Iranian Oil Products Distribution Company Keramat Veyskarami told state TV.

He added that the five facilities “were damaged” but the “fire was brought under control”.

Read the story here

U.S., Israel hit five oil sites in and near Tehran: official

U.S. and Israel strike five oil sites near Tehran, resulting in four deaths and significant damage amid ongoing conflict.

• March 08, 2026 12:07 Bahrain says water desalination plant damaged in Iran drone attackBahrain’s Interior Ministry said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) an Iranian drone attack had damaged a water desalination plant as the Islamic republic presses an air campaign against its Gulf neighbours.“The Iranian aggression randomly bombs civilian targets and causes material damage to a water desalination plant following an attack by a drone,” the Ministry said in a statement, after Tehran earlier accused the U.S. of striking one of its own desalination plants from a base in Bahrain.Read the story hereIranian drone damages desalination plant in BahrainIranian drone attack damages Bahrain's desalination plant, marking a first in the ongoing conflict, but water supplies remain unaffected.

Bahrain’s Interior Ministry said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) an Iranian drone attack had damaged a water desalination plant as the Islamic republic presses an air campaign against its Gulf neighbours.

“The Iranian aggression randomly bombs civilian targets and causes material damage to a water desalination plant following an attack by a drone,” the Ministry said in a statement, after Tehran earlier accused the U.S. of striking one of its own desalination plants from a base in Bahrain.

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Iranian drone damages desalination plant in Bahrain

Iranian drone attack damages Bahrain's desalination plant, marking a first in the ongoing conflict, but water supplies remain unaffected.

• March 08, 2026 11:59 Iran 'will be forced to respond' if attacked from neighbouring country: President Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said his country “will be forced to respond” to any attack or invasion attempt from a neighbouring country, in remarks aired by state TV on Sunday (March 8, 2026).If Iran’s enemies “try to use any country to attack or invade our land, we will be forced to respond to that attack. Responding does not mean we have disputes with that country or wish to harm its people -- we would be responding out of necessity,” said Mr. Pezeshkian.On Saturday (March 7), the President apologised to neighbouring countries hosting U.S. military bases for attacks on their territory.-AFP

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said his country “will be forced to respond” to any attack or invasion attempt from a neighbouring country, in remarks aired by state TV on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

If Iran’s enemies “try to use any country to attack or invade our land, we will be forced to respond to that attack. Responding does not mean we have disputes with that country or wish to harm its people -- we would be responding out of necessity,” said Mr. Pezeshkian.

On Saturday (March 7), the President apologised to neighbouring countries hosting U.S. military bases for attacks on their territory.

• March 08, 2026 11:55 Spain gets last embassy staff out of Tehran: MinistrySpain on Saturday (March 7, 2026) got the last of its embassy staff out of Tehran, Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares announced.The Iranian capital was targeted again Saturday (March 7) by Israel and the United States with a fresh barrage of air strikes.“We have just finished successfully evacuating the Spanish embassy in Iran,” Mr. Albares posted on X.“The ambassador and essential staff who were still in Tehran have just crossed the border into Azerbaijan and are safe,” he added.-AFP

Spain on Saturday (March 7, 2026) got the last of its embassy staff out of Tehran, Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares announced.

The Iranian capital was targeted again Saturday (March 7) by Israel and the United States with a fresh barrage of air strikes.

“We have just finished successfully evacuating the Spanish embassy in Iran,” Mr. Albares posted on X.

“The ambassador and essential staff who were still in Tehran have just crossed the border into Azerbaijan and are safe,” he added.

• March 08, 2026 11:41 ICC postpones Doha meeting due to West Asia conflictThe International Cricket Council’s (ICC) three-day meet from March 25 to 27 in Doha, Qatar has been postponed in the wake of the ongoing conflict involving U.S., Israel, and Iran.According to a ICC source, the meeting has been rescheduled for next month in the same continent.The source said a formal communication was sent to ICC members on Saturday (March 7, 2026), a day before the T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand in Ahmedabad.-PTI

The International Cricket Council’s (ICC) three-day meet from March 25 to 27 in Doha, Qatar has been postponed in the wake of the ongoing conflict involving U.S., Israel, and Iran.

According to a ICC source, the meeting has been rescheduled for next month in the same continent.

The source said a formal communication was sent to ICC members on Saturday (March 7, 2026), a day before the T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

• March 08, 2026 11:34 Russia sits back as the Iran war escalates, expecting long-term gains As U.S. and Israeli missiles and bombs rain on Iran, Russia has responded with words of indignation but no visible action to support its West Asian ally.That cautious stance is driven by President Vladimir Putin’s focus on Ukraine and his apparent hope that the Iran war will play into Moscow’s hands by boosting its oil revenues and eroding Western support for Kyiv.Mr. Putin sent his condolences to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, condemning the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei last weekend as a “cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.”While Moscow’s failure to help another ally after the 2024 ouster of former Syrian ruler Bashar Assad and January’s U.S. arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro highlighted the limits to its influence, the Kremlin expects to reap benefits from the Iran war.-AP

As U.S. and Israeli missiles and bombs rain on Iran, Russia has responded with words of indignation but no visible action to support its West Asian ally.

That cautious stance is driven by President Vladimir Putin’s focus on Ukraine and his apparent hope that the Iran war will play into Moscow’s hands by boosting its oil revenues and eroding Western support for Kyiv.

Mr. Putin sent his condolences to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, condemning the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei last weekend as a “cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.”

While Moscow’s failure to help another ally after the 2024 ouster of former Syrian ruler Bashar Assad and January’s U.S. arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro highlighted the limits to its influence, the Kremlin expects to reap benefits from the Iran war.

• March 08, 2026 11:24 Iran's President says his remarks were 'misinterpreted by enemy': state TV Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said ‌his remarks were “misinterpreted by the ⁠enemy that seeks to sow division ‌with neighbours”, state TV ‌reported on Sunday (March 8, 2026), after ⁠they were ⁠viewed as a decision to suspend attacks on Gulf ‌countries while strikes did not stop.“It has ‌repeatedly been said we are brothers and ⁠must have good relations with ‌neighbours. However, we are forced to retaliate to attacks but this does ‌not mean we have a dispute with a (neighbouring) ⁠country or want ⁠to upset their people,” Mr. Pezeshkian ‌said.-Reuters

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said ‌his remarks were “misinterpreted by the ⁠enemy that seeks to sow division ‌with neighbours”, state TV ‌reported on Sunday (March 8, 2026), after ⁠they were ⁠viewed as a decision to suspend attacks on Gulf ‌countries while strikes did not stop.

“It has ‌repeatedly been said we are brothers and ⁠must have good relations with ‌neighbours. However, we are forced to retaliate to attacks but this does ‌not mean we have a dispute with a (neighbouring) ⁠country or want ⁠to upset their people,” Mr. Pezeshkian ‌said.

-Reuters

• March 08, 2026 11:21 3 injured after Iranian missile hits university building in BahrainKuwait’s Interior Ministry says three people were injured and material damage was inflicted on a university building in the Muharraq area after missile fragments fell on the building due to Iran’s ‘blatant aggression’. ​​

Kuwait’s Interior Ministry says three people were injured and material damage was inflicted on a university building in the Muharraq area after missile fragments fell on the building due to Iran’s ‘blatant aggression’.

• March 08, 2026 11:17 UAE air defences respond to missile, drone threats from Iran, Defence Ministry says

• March 08, 2026 11:13 Sri Lanka hospital releases 22 rescued Iranian sailors Sri Lanka discharged from hospital 22 Iranian sailors who were plucked from life rafts after their warship was sunk by a U.S. submarine, officials said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).The sailors were treated at Karapitiya Hospital in the southern port city of Galle since Wednesday (March 4) after the IRIS Dena was torpedoed just outside Sri Lanka’s territorial waters.“Another 10 are still undergoing treatment,” a medical officer at the hospital told AFP.Read the full story hereSri Lanka hospital releases 22 rescued Iranian sailorsSri Lanka discharges 22 Iranian sailors rescued after their warship sank, while 10 others and 84 bodies remain hospitalized.

Sri Lanka discharged from hospital 22 Iranian sailors who were plucked from life rafts after their warship was sunk by a U.S. submarine, officials said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

The sailors were treated at Karapitiya Hospital in the southern port city of Galle since Wednesday (March 4) after the IRIS Dena was torpedoed just outside Sri Lanka’s territorial waters.

“Another 10 are still undergoing treatment,” a medical officer at the hospital told AFP.

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Sri Lanka hospital releases 22 rescued Iranian sailors

Sri Lanka discharges 22 Iranian sailors rescued after their warship sank, while 10 others and 84 bodies remain hospitalized.

• March 08, 2026 11:12 Iran says can fight for months as Israel strikes Beirut hotelIran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) that the country’s forces could fight an intense war for six months against the United States and Israel, which said it struck Tehran’s commanders at a seaside hotel in the heart of Beirut.As the conflict spilled into its second week, the regional repercussions spiralled, with Saudi Arabia intercepting a wave of drones headed for targets including the diplomatic quarter in capital Riyadh and Kuwait saying an attack hit fuel tanks at its international airport.Read the full story hereIran says can fight for months as Israel strikes Beirut hotelIran vows to sustain prolonged conflict as Israel targets military sites amid escalating tensions and regional repercussions.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) that the country’s forces could fight an intense war for six months against the United States and Israel, which said it struck Tehran’s commanders at a seaside hotel in the heart of Beirut.

As the conflict spilled into its second week, the regional repercussions spiralled, with Saudi Arabia intercepting a wave of drones headed for targets including the diplomatic quarter in capital Riyadh and Kuwait saying an attack hit fuel tanks at its international airport.

Read the full story here

Iran says can fight for months as Israel strikes Beirut hotel

Iran vows to sustain prolonged conflict as Israel targets military sites amid escalating tensions and regional repercussions.

• March 08, 2026 10:54 How an Indian in UAE opened the doors of his farm for stranded Indians As disruptions in regional airspace continue to affect flight schedules due to a conflict in West Asia, a private farm in Ajman has emerged as a temporary shelter for nearly 200 passengers unable to secure hotel accommodation. The initiative was organised by Dhiraj Jain, a businessman based in the UAE, who offered his property to those left stranded.Among those who sought refuge at the facility is Mamta Jain, a resident of Mumbai. She arrived in Dubai on February 25 and was scheduled to return on March 1. Following the cancellation of her flight, she faced difficulty finding affordable accommodation. “We did not know what to do. Hotels were either full or too expensive,” she said. After being informed about the arrangement in Ajman, she decided to move to the farm. Her flight has now been rescheduled for March 9.Read the full story hereWest Asia conflict: How an Indian in UAE opened the doors of his farm for stranded IndiansIndian businessman Dhiraj Jain offers his farm in UAE as shelter for stranded Indians amid West Asia conflict airline disruptions.

As disruptions in regional airspace continue to affect flight schedules due to a conflict in West Asia, a private farm in Ajman has emerged as a temporary shelter for nearly 200 passengers unable to secure hotel accommodation. The initiative was organised by Dhiraj Jain, a businessman based in the UAE, who offered his property to those left stranded.

Among those who sought refuge at the facility is Mamta Jain, a resident of Mumbai. She arrived in Dubai on February 25 and was scheduled to return on March 1. Following the cancellation of her flight, she faced difficulty finding affordable accommodation. “We did not know what to do. Hotels were either full or too expensive,” she said. After being informed about the arrangement in Ajman, she decided to move to the farm. Her flight has now been rescheduled for March 9.

Read the full story here

West Asia conflict: How an Indian in UAE opened the doors of his farm for stranded Indians

Indian businessman Dhiraj Jain offers his farm in UAE as shelter for stranded Indians amid West Asia conflict airline disruptions.

• March 08, 2026 10:42 Israel renews assault on Lebanon after Netanyahu promises 'many surprises' in next phase of warIsrael renewed its assault on southern Lebanon on early on Sunday (March 8, 2026), including targeting commanders of the Lebanese branch of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised “many surprises” for the next phase of the conflict.The Israeli military said in a statement that it would “not allow Iranian terrorist elements to establish themselves in Lebanese territory.” The latest strikes in Lebanon followed an Israeli attack on Saturday (March 7) on an oil storage facility in Tehran, which sent up pillars of fire that could be seen in Associated Press video as a glow against the night sky.It appeared to be the first time a civil industrial facility has been targeted in the war. State media blamed “an attack from the U.S. and the Zionist regime” at the site that supplies the capital and neighbouring provinces in the north.-AFP

Israel renewed its assault on southern Lebanon on early on Sunday (March 8, 2026), including targeting commanders of the Lebanese branch of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised “many surprises” for the next phase of the conflict.

The Israeli military said in a statement that it would “not allow Iranian terrorist elements to establish themselves in Lebanese territory.”

The latest strikes in Lebanon followed an Israeli attack on Saturday (March 7) on an oil storage facility in Tehran, which sent up pillars of fire that could be seen in Associated Press video as a glow against the night sky.

It appeared to be the first time a civil industrial facility has been targeted in the war. State media blamed “an attack from the U.S. and the Zionist regime” at the site that supplies the capital and neighbouring provinces in the north.

• March 08, 2026 10:29 Kuwait airport, Saudi Arabia targeted as Iran presses Gulf attacksGulf nations reported missile and drone attacks on Sunday (March 8, 2026), while Iran vowed to press on with strikes against neighbouring countries as the regional war entered its second week.Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait all reported new attacks, after loud explosions were heard in Dubai and Bahrain’s Manama a day earlier.Kuwait’s national oil company announced a “precautionary” cut to its crude production, as the country’s military said on Sunday (March 8) it had responded “to a wave of hostile drones that penetrated the country’s airspace”.Fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport were targeted in a drone attack, the military added.-AFP

Gulf nations reported missile and drone attacks on Sunday (March 8, 2026), while Iran vowed to press on with strikes against neighbouring countries as the regional war entered its second week.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait all reported new attacks, after loud explosions were heard in Dubai and Bahrain’s Manama a day earlier.

Kuwait’s national oil company announced a “precautionary” cut to its crude production, as the country’s military said on Sunday (March 8) it had responded “to a wave of hostile drones that penetrated the country’s airspace”.

Fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport were targeted in a drone attack, the military added.

• March 08, 2026 10:24 New strikes light up the night in Tehran as Israel vows 'many surprises' The Iran war exploded further late on Saturday (March 7, 2026) as pillars of flame rose above an oil storage facility in Tehran, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised “many surprises” for the next phase of the week-old conflict.Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said he has ruled out having Kurds join the Iran war. Trump said Kurdish fighters in the region are willing to assist in efforts to topple the Iranian government, but their involvement would make the conflict more complicated.“The war is complicated enough without having -- getting the Kurds involved,” Mr. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One.Iranian state media confirmed the strike on the oil facility as Associated Press video showed the horizon glowing against the night sky. Israel’s military confirmed new strikes that shook neighbourhoods in Tehran’s east and south but did not comment on targets.-AP

The Iran war exploded further late on Saturday (March 7, 2026) as pillars of flame rose above an oil storage facility in Tehran, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised “many surprises” for the next phase of the week-old conflict.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said he has ruled out having Kurds join the Iran war. Trump said Kurdish fighters in the region are willing to assist in efforts to topple the Iranian government, but their involvement would make the conflict more complicated.

“The war is complicated enough without having -- getting the Kurds involved,” Mr. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One.

Iranian state media confirmed the strike on the oil facility as Associated Press video showed the horizon glowing against the night sky. Israel’s military confirmed new strikes that shook neighbourhoods in Tehran’s east and south but did not comment on targets.

• March 08, 2026 10:19 India advises nationals in UAE against unauthorised filming of incident sites

• March 08, 2026 10:11 Trump grieves with families during return of soldiers killed in warPresident Donald Trump on Saturday (March 7, 2026) joined grieving families at Dover Air Force Base at the dignified transfer for the six U.S. soldiers killed in the war in West Asia. The dignified transfer, a ritual that returns the remains of U.S. service members killed in action, is considered one of the most sombre duties of any commander in chief. During his first term, Mr. Trump said bearing witness to the transfer was “the toughest thing I have to do” as President.“It is a very sad day,” Mr. Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he returned to Florida later on Saturday afternoon, saying that he was “glad we paid our respects”. He said the relatives of the deceased are “great people, great parents, wives, family” and said that the “parents were so proud”.-AP

President Donald Trump on Saturday (March 7, 2026) joined grieving families at Dover Air Force Base at the dignified transfer for the six U.S. soldiers killed in the war in West Asia.

The dignified transfer, a ritual that returns the remains of U.S. service members killed in action, is considered one of the most sombre duties of any commander in chief. During his first term, Mr. Trump said bearing witness to the transfer was “the toughest thing I have to do” as President.

“It is a very sad day,” Mr. Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he returned to Florida later on Saturday afternoon, saying that he was “glad we paid our respects”. He said the relatives of the deceased are “great people, great parents, wives, family” and said that the “parents were so proud”.

• March 08, 2026 10:01 Turkiye warns over 'dangerous' bid to stir civil war in Iran Turkiye’s Foreign Minister advised on Saturday (March 7, 2026) against efforts to cause a civil war inside Iran, while warning Tehran after NATO intercepted a Turkey-bound ballistic missile launched from Iran this week.Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said any effort to stir up a civil war inside Iran in a bid to bring about regime change would be a “historic” mistake.“We are against all scenarios that aim to instigate a civil war in Iran, that target ethnic or religious fault lines,” Mr. Fidan told journalists in Istanbul.“This is the most dangerous scenario,” he added.He was speaking after reports that Washington was looking to arm Kurdish guerrillas to infiltrate Iran, with U.S. President Donald Trump expressing support for such an offensive.-AFP

Turkiye’s Foreign Minister advised on Saturday (March 7, 2026) against efforts to cause a civil war inside Iran, while warning Tehran after NATO intercepted a Turkey-bound ballistic missile launched from Iran this week.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said any effort to stir up a civil war inside Iran in a bid to bring about regime change would be a “historic” mistake.

“We are against all scenarios that aim to instigate a civil war in Iran, that target ethnic or religious fault lines,” Mr. Fidan told journalists in Istanbul.

“This is the most dangerous scenario,” he added.

He was speaking after reports that Washington was looking to arm Kurdish guerrillas to infiltrate Iran, with U.S. President Donald Trump expressing support for such an offensive.

• March 08, 2026 09:56 Gulf Cooperation Council denounces "nefarious" Iranian attacks on Bahrain and KuwaitThe ongoing Iranian offensives against Bahrain and Kuwait represent “dangerous acts of aggression” that jeopardise the security and stability of the entire region.The head of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) warned that these strikes have exposed Tehran’s “escalatory approach” amidst the current regional conflict. In a formal statement published on the GCC’s official website, Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi expressed in the “strongest” terms the council’s “condemnation and denunciation of the nefarious Iranian attack” which specifically aimed at Gulf territories.Mr. Albudaiwi condemned the deliberate targeting of vital infrastructure, stating that striking civilian sites “constitutes a flagrant and unacceptable violation of all international norms and charters.”-ANI

The ongoing Iranian offensives against Bahrain and Kuwait represent “dangerous acts of aggression” that jeopardise the security and stability of the entire region.

The head of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) warned that these strikes have exposed Tehran’s “escalatory approach” amidst the current regional conflict. In a formal statement published on the GCC’s official website, Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi expressed in the “strongest” terms the council’s “condemnation and denunciation of the nefarious Iranian attack” which specifically aimed at Gulf territories.

Mr. Albudaiwi condemned the deliberate targeting of vital infrastructure, stating that striking civilian sites “constitutes a flagrant and unacceptable violation of all international norms and charters.”

• March 08, 2026 09:51 Watch | Trump suggests U.S. troops could be sent to Iran

• March 08, 2026 09:36 China FM blasts West Asia war, urges U.S. to manage tiesChina’s top diplomat condemned on Sunday (March 8, 2026) the war in West Asia and urged the United States to iron out its differences with Beijing.Mr. Wang Yi told a press conference in the Chinese capital that the war, which was sparked by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, “should never have happened”.“A strong fist does not mean strong reason. The world cannot return to the law of the jungle,” he told reporters.Read the story hereChina FM blasts West Asia war, urges U.S. to manage tiesChina's diplomat Wang Yi condemns West Asia war, urging the U.S. to improve ties and avoid a return to chaos.

China’s top diplomat condemned on Sunday (March 8, 2026) the war in West Asia and urged the United States to iron out its differences with Beijing.

Mr. Wang Yi told a press conference in the Chinese capital that the war, which was sparked by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, “should never have happened”.

“A strong fist does not mean strong reason. The world cannot return to the law of the jungle,” he told reporters.

Read the story here

China FM blasts West Asia war, urges U.S. to manage ties

China's diplomat Wang Yi condemns West Asia war, urging the U.S. to improve ties and avoid a return to chaos.

• March 08, 2026 09:25 India must act to stop West Asia conflict, says Salman KhurshidCongress leader Salman Khurshid stressed that India must intervene to stop the military escalation in West Asia and said that the prior visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel raised questions “somehow connected to foreign policy”.The former Union Minister pointed out that the sinking of an Iranian warship by a U.S. submarine near Sri Lankan waters was a “failure”.“When such a major tragedy occurs anywhere in the world, it will affect every country... This war must stop immediately. India must make every effort to stop it. We regret that we don’t see that effort today... If it’s not a failure, then what is it if a submarine comes near your home and destroys a boat that came to your home for your programme?... The Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) visited Israel. Immediately after that visit, Israel attacked Iran. Did he inform the Prime Minister or not? And if not, did the Prime Minister complain? All these questions arise, and they are somehow connected to foreign policy...,” Mr. Khurshid told reporters a day earlier.-ANI

Congress leader Salman Khurshid stressed that India must intervene to stop the military escalation in West Asia and said that the prior visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel raised questions “somehow connected to foreign policy”.

The former Union Minister pointed out that the sinking of an Iranian warship by a U.S. submarine near Sri Lankan waters was a “failure”.

“When such a major tragedy occurs anywhere in the world, it will affect every country... This war must stop immediately. India must make every effort to stop it. We regret that we don’t see that effort today... If it’s not a failure, then what is it if a submarine comes near your home and destroys a boat that came to your home for your programme?... The Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) visited Israel. Immediately after that visit, Israel attacked Iran. Did he inform the Prime Minister or not? And if not, did the Prime Minister complain? All these questions arise, and they are somehow connected to foreign policy...,” Mr. Khurshid told reporters a day earlier.

• March 08, 2026 09:17 Israelis head to shelters after Iran fires missilesAir raid sirens sounded across northern Israel early on Sunday (March 8, 2026), warning of incoming missiles from Iran, with no reports of damage or casualties.An Israeli military statement said air defences were responding to “missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel”.Alerts were activated across much of northern Israel including the port city of Haifa, according to the army’s Home Front Command, which ordered residents to go into shelters or safe rooms.The alerts were later lifted, with the military saying “it is now permitted to leave protected spaces in all areas of the country”.-AFP

Air raid sirens sounded across northern Israel early on Sunday (March 8, 2026), warning of incoming missiles from Iran, with no reports of damage or casualties.

An Israeli military statement said air defences were responding to “missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel”.

Alerts were activated across much of northern Israel including the port city of Haifa, according to the army’s Home Front Command, which ordered residents to go into shelters or safe rooms.

The alerts were later lifted, with the military saying “it is now permitted to leave protected spaces in all areas of the country”.

• March 08, 2026 08:53 Iran Guards say can fight 'intense war' for six monthsIran can fight an intense war against the United States and Israel for at least six months, the Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by the Fars news agency on Sunday (March 8, 2026). “The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are capable of continuing at least a 6-month intense war at the current pace of operations,” said Guards spokesperson Ali Mohammad Naini, according to Fars.The Guards, Iran’s elite force, also said they had targeted “more than 200” locations related to American and Israeli bases and facilities across the region.-AFP

Iran can fight an intense war against the United States and Israel for at least six months, the Revolutionary Guards said in a statement carried by the Fars news agency on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

“The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are capable of continuing at least a 6-month intense war at the current pace of operations,” said Guards spokesperson Ali Mohammad Naini, according to Fars.

The Guards, Iran’s elite force, also said they had targeted “more than 200” locations related to American and Israeli bases and facilities across the region.

• March 08, 2026 08:37 Don’t need people to join wars after it’s won: Trump tells U.K.’s Starmer over Iran U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday (March 7, 2026) that Britain is giving “serious thought” to ‌sending two aircraft carriers to West Asia, but added that the U.S. does not ⁠need them to win the war with Iran, in the latest clash between the military allies.Mr. Trump has repeatedly criticised ‌British Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggesting this week that he helped “ruin” the countries’ historically close ‌relationship after London blocked the U.S.’s initial use ‌of ⁠British bases to attack Iran.Read the story hereDon’t need people to join wars after it’s won: Trump tells U.K.’s Starmer over IranTrump asserts the U.S. doesn't need Britain's help in the Iran war, criticizing Prime Minister Starmer’s military decisions.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday (March 7, 2026) that Britain is giving “serious thought” to ‌sending two aircraft carriers to West Asia, but added that the U.S. does not ⁠need them to win the war with Iran, in the latest clash between the military allies.

Mr. Trump has repeatedly criticised ‌British Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggesting this week that he helped “ruin” the countries’ historically close ‌relationship after London blocked the U.S.’s initial use ‌of ⁠British bases to attack Iran.

Read the story here

Don’t need people to join wars after it’s won: Trump tells U.K.’s Starmer over Iran

Trump asserts the U.S. doesn't need Britain's help in the Iran war, criticizing Prime Minister Starmer’s military decisions.

• March 08, 2026 08:35 Australia could help protect Gulf states from Iran attacks: FM Australia will consider a request by Gulf states for assistance against Iranian drone and missile attacks, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on Sunday (March 8, 2026). Speaking to national broadcaster ABC, Ms. Wong said “we’ve had many countries which are non-participants have been attacked by Iran through this... we have been asked for assistance”.Asked whether that meant assistance in protecting them from Iranian drone and missile attacks, Ms. Wong said “correct”.“We will work through that in accordance with the position I have outlined, which is, we are not participating in offensive action against Iran, and we’ve made clear we would not participate in any ground troop deployment into Iran,” she said.-AFP

Australia will consider a request by Gulf states for assistance against Iranian drone and missile attacks, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

Speaking to national broadcaster ABC, Ms. Wong said “we’ve had many countries which are non-participants have been attacked by Iran through this... we have been asked for assistance”.

Asked whether that meant assistance in protecting them from Iranian drone and missile attacks, Ms. Wong said “correct”.

“We will work through that in accordance with the position I have outlined, which is, we are not participating in offensive action against Iran, and we’ve made clear we would not participate in any ground troop deployment into Iran,” she said.

• March 08, 2026 08:18 Ali Larijani — the philosopher who seeks vengeanceOn March 1, a day after the U.S. and Israel started bombing Iran, Donald Trump said in an interview that the Iranian leaders wanted to resume negotiations. “I have agreed to talk,” he said. A response came swiftly from Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. “We will not negotiate with the Americans,” he wrote in a social media post.“You have set ablaze the hearts of the Iranian people,” he said in an interview, referring to the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader. “We will burn the hearts of our enemies.”In the days that followed, the U.S. and Israel pounded Iran. Mr. Trump asked the Iranians to take over state institutions. It did not happen. Iran retaliated by launching missiles at American bases in the Persian Gulf, and Israel. On March 6, both President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran was not immediately seeking a ceasefire. Mr. Trump then demanded “an unconditional surrender”.Read the full story hereAli Larijani — the philosopher who seeks vengeanceExplore Ali Larijani's pivotal role in Iran's security landscape amid escalating tensions with the U.S. and Israel.

On March 1, a day after the U.S. and Israel started bombing Iran, Donald Trump said in an interview that the Iranian leaders wanted to resume negotiations. “I have agreed to talk,” he said. A response came swiftly from Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. “We will not negotiate with the Americans,” he wrote in a social media post.

“You have set ablaze the hearts of the Iranian people,” he said in an interview, referring to the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader. “We will burn the hearts of our enemies.”

In the days that followed, the U.S. and Israel pounded Iran. Mr. Trump asked the Iranians to take over state institutions. It did not happen. Iran retaliated by launching missiles at American bases in the Persian Gulf, and Israel. On March 6, both President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran was not immediately seeking a ceasefire. Mr. Trump then demanded “an unconditional surrender”.

Read the full story here

Ali Larijani — the philosopher who seeks vengeance

Explore Ali Larijani's pivotal role in Iran's security landscape amid escalating tensions with the U.S. and Israel.

• March 08, 2026 08:17 Trump suggests U.S. troops could be sent to secure Iran's uraniumU.S. President Donald Trump evoked on Saturday (March 7, 2026) the idea of sending ground troops into Iran to secure the country’s stockpiles of enriched uranium, as part of efforts to dismantle Tehran’s nuclear program.“At some point maybe we will. That would be a great thing,” he told reporters during a briefing aboard Air Force One.“We haven’t gone after it but it’s something we could do later,” he said.Asked about the use of ground troops in general, Mr. Trump did not rule it out, saying: “Could there be? Possibly, for a very good reason -- it’d have to be a very good reason.”-AFP

U.S. President Donald Trump evoked on Saturday (March 7, 2026) the idea of sending ground troops into Iran to secure the country’s stockpiles of enriched uranium, as part of efforts to dismantle Tehran’s nuclear program.

“At some point maybe we will. That would be a great thing,” he told reporters during a briefing aboard Air Force One.

“We haven’t gone after it but it’s something we could do later,” he said.

Asked about the use of ground troops in general, Mr. Trump did not rule it out, saying: “Could there be? Possibly, for a very good reason -- it’d have to be a very good reason.”

• March 08, 2026 08:13 Why does the Strait of Hormuz’s closure matter? The Strait of Hormuz, only 33 kilometres wide at its narrowest, lies between Iran, Oman, and the UAE. It is a vital route for oil and gas from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and Iran leaving the Persian Gulf to various destinations.Other important shipping chokepoints in the world include the natural Malacca Strait off Singapore through which almost the entire west-bound Chinese maritime trade takes place; the Bab-al-Mandab at the mouth of the Red Sea, which has come under Houthi influence; the artificial Suez Canal connecting Europe and Africa-Asia; the artificial Panama Canal linking the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans; and the straits of Bosphorus and Dardanelles connecting the Mediterranean and Black Sea via the Sea of Marmara, which are crucial not just for nations such as Romania but also for Russia.Read the full story hereIran Israel War | Why does the Strait of Hormuz’s closure matter?Explore the significance of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global oil trade, especially for India amidst rising tensions.

The Strait of Hormuz, only 33 kilometres wide at its narrowest, lies between Iran, Oman, and the UAE. It is a vital route for oil and gas from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and Iran leaving the Persian Gulf to various destinations.

Other important shipping chokepoints in the world include the natural Malacca Strait off Singapore through which almost the entire west-bound Chinese maritime trade takes place; the Bab-al-Mandab at the mouth of the Red Sea, which has come under Houthi influence; the artificial Suez Canal connecting Europe and Africa-Asia; the artificial Panama Canal linking the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans; and the straits of Bosphorus and Dardanelles connecting the Mediterranean and Black Sea via the Sea of Marmara, which are crucial not just for nations such as Romania but also for Russia.

Read the full story here

Iran Israel War | Why does the Strait of Hormuz’s closure matter?

Explore the significance of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global oil trade, especially for India amidst rising tensions.

• March 08, 2026 08:04 Lebanon says Israeli strike on Beirut hotel kills fourLebanon’s Health Ministry said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) that an Israeli strike on a hotel in central Beirut killed at least four people, with Israel saying it had targeted commanders from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.Lebanon was drawn into the West Asian war on Monday, when Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during U.S.-Israeli strikes.Israel, which has kept up strikes targeting Hezbollah despite a 2024 ceasefire, launched multiple waves of strikes this week across Lebanon and sent ground troops into border areas.The Lebanese Health Ministry said an Israeli air strike hit Beirut’s city centre, targeting “a hotel room”, killing four people and wounding 10 others.-AFP

Lebanon’s Health Ministry said on Sunday (March 8, 2026) that an Israeli strike on a hotel in central Beirut killed at least four people, with Israel saying it had targeted commanders from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

Lebanon was drawn into the West Asian war on Monday, when Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during U.S.-Israeli strikes.

Israel, which has kept up strikes targeting Hezbollah despite a 2024 ceasefire, launched multiple waves of strikes this week across Lebanon and sent ground troops into border areas.

The Lebanese Health Ministry said an Israeli air strike hit Beirut’s city centre, targeting “a hotel room”, killing four people and wounding 10 others.

• March 08, 2026 07:45 Kuwait airport, Saudi Arabia targeted as Iran presses Gulf attacksGulf nations reported on Sunday (March 8, 2026) missiles and drone attacks, while Iran vowed to press on with strikes against neighbouring countries as the regional war entered its second week.Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait all reported new attacks, after loud explosions were heard in Dubai and Bahrain’s Manama a day earlier.Kuwait’s national oil company announced a “precautionary” cut to its crude production, as the country’s military said Sunday it had responded “to a wave of hostile drones that penetrated the country’s airspace”.Fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport were targeted in a drone attack, the military added.-AFP

Gulf nations reported on Sunday (March 8, 2026) missiles and drone attacks, while Iran vowed to press on with strikes against neighbouring countries as the regional war entered its second week.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait all reported new attacks, after loud explosions were heard in Dubai and Bahrain’s Manama a day earlier.

Kuwait’s national oil company announced a “precautionary” cut to its crude production, as the country’s military said Sunday it had responded “to a wave of hostile drones that penetrated the country’s airspace”.

Fuel tanks at Kuwait’s international airport were targeted in a drone attack, the military added.

• March 08, 2026 07:25 Israel says targeted commanders from Iran Guards in Beirut strikeThe Israeli military said it carried out a “precise strike” in Beirut on Sunday (March 8, 2026), targeting commanders from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards operating in Lebanon.Israeli forces “conducted a precise strike targeting key commanders” in the Guards’ Quds Force, its foreign operations arm, the military said in a statement, accusing the unidentified commanders of planning “terror attacks against the State of Israel and its civilians”.-AFP

The Israeli military said it carried out a “precise strike” in Beirut on Sunday (March 8, 2026), targeting commanders from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards operating in Lebanon.

Israeli forces “conducted a precise strike targeting key commanders” in the Guards’ Quds Force, its foreign operations arm, the military said in a statement, accusing the unidentified commanders of planning “terror attacks against the State of Israel and its civilians”.

• March 08, 2026 07:12 Trump downplays importance of Russia reportedly sharing intel with Iran to help it hit U.S. targetsPresident Donald Trump said on Saturday (March 7, 2026) that it was inconsequential if Russia has provided Iran with information to help Tehran target U.S. military personnel and assets in West Asia as the week-old war rages.The President dismissed the import of such information-sharing after he attended the dignified transfer for six Army reservists who were killed in a drone strike in Kuwait the day after the U.S. and Israel launched a war on Iran that has unsettled the global economy.“If you take a look at what has happened to Iran in the last week, if they are getting information, it is not helping them much,” Mr. Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he flew to Miami, where he is spending the rest of the weekend.Read the story hereTrump downplays importance of Russia reportedly sharing intel with Iran to help it hit U.S. targetsTrump downplays Russia's intelligence sharing with Iran, asserting it has minimal impact on the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.

President Donald Trump said on Saturday (March 7, 2026) that it was inconsequential if Russia has provided Iran with information to help Tehran target U.S. military personnel and assets in West Asia as the week-old war rages.

The President dismissed the import of such information-sharing after he attended the dignified transfer for six Army reservists who were killed in a drone strike in Kuwait the day after the U.S. and Israel launched a war on Iran that has unsettled the global economy.

“If you take a look at what has happened to Iran in the last week, if they are getting information, it is not helping them much,” Mr. Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he flew to Miami, where he is spending the rest of the weekend.

Read the story here

Trump downplays importance of Russia reportedly sharing intel with Iran to help it hit U.S. targets

Trump downplays Russia's intelligence sharing with Iran, asserting it has minimal impact on the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.

• March 08, 2026 06:54 Saudi Arabia says thwarts drone attack on Riyadh's diplomatic quarterThe Saudi Defence Ministry says it has intercepted a drone attack targeting the diplomatic quarter in the capital Riyadh, reporting no casualties or damage.“An attempt to target the diplomatic quarter in Riyadh with a drone was thwarted; no material damage or civilian injuries resulted from shooting down the drone,” the Ministry says in a statement posted on X.-AFP

The Saudi Defence Ministry says it has intercepted a drone attack targeting the diplomatic quarter in the capital Riyadh, reporting no casualties or damage.

“An attempt to target the diplomatic quarter in Riyadh with a drone was thwarted; no material damage or civilian injuries resulted from shooting down the drone,” the Ministry says in a statement posted on X.

• March 08, 2026 06:54 Trump says school strike 'done by Iran'U.S. President Donald Trump blames Iran for what the country’s authorities said was a deadly strike on a school in the southern county of Minab.“We think it was done by Iran. Because they are very inaccurate, as you know, with their munitions. They have no accuracy whatsoever,” says Mr. Trump to the reporters aboard Air Force One.According to Iranian authorities, a strike hit a girls’ elementary school last Saturday, killing more than 150 people, mostly students.-AFP

U.S. President Donald Trump blames Iran for what the country’s authorities said was a deadly strike on a school in the southern county of Minab.

“We think it was done by Iran. Because they are very inaccurate, as you know, with their munitions. They have no accuracy whatsoever,” says Mr. Trump to the reporters aboard Air Force One.

According to Iranian authorities, a strike hit a girls’ elementary school last Saturday, killing more than 150 people, mostly students.

Published - March 08, 2026 06:54 am IST

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