U.S. and Israel vs Iran: LIVE PHOTO / VIDEO / UPDATED

These live updates have now concluded. Follow here for further developments.

On February 28, Israel and the United States carried out a series of strikes on Iranian territory. Major cities and military infrastructure were targeted, including military bases and command centres. In response, Iran launched missile strikes on Israeli territory, as well as on several other countries in the region — including targets and airspace in the UAE, Jordan, Iraq, and Syria.

20:44

Any provocations in the Strait of Hormuz risk worsening the situation in the region. This warning was issued by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a phone call with his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot, according to Tasnim.

“Araghchi (…) added that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to vessels of parties involved in military aggression against Iran (…). He also emphasised that any provocative actions by the aggressors and their supporters, including at the UN Security Council, regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz would only complicate matters,” the report notes.

According to the agency, the French Foreign Minister, in turn, reaffirmed Paris’s position, opposing “a forced war against Iran and attacks on civilian targets.”

20:39

US President Donald Trump stated that America’s response to Iran’s attack on a refinery and port in one of Israel’s largest cities, Haifa, will be swift.

According to The New York Post, Trump said, “You’ll see shortly,” emphasising the promptness of the planned response.

The president reportedly warned Iran about the imminent reaction to the attack and urged Iranian authorities to “make a deal before it’s too late.”

17:50

Over 1,600 kilometers from Israeli territory, the Israeli Defense Forces struck air defense sites that were built near the Caspian Sea, the IDF press service has reported.

“The IDF continues to expand its aerial superiority to additional areas across Iran.

As part of the wave of strikes completed yesterday (Sunday), the Israeli Air Force, acting on IDF intelligence, struck a site where air defense systems belonging to the Iranian terrorist regime had been deployed near the Caspian Sea in northern Iran.

The site was concealed within a forested area, at a distance of more than 1,600 kilometers from the State of Israel. The air defense systems struck at the site posed a threat to Israeli Air Force aircraft. The strikes preserve, and further expand, the Israeli Air Force’s aerial superiority over Iranian airspace,” the army statement said.

16:58

 Satellite images show fires at two pumping stations on the Habshan–Fujairah oil pipeline, which carries crude from Abu Dhabi to the port of Fujairah, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, according to Clash Report.

Iran may be targeting alternative export routes used by U.S. allies to avoid Hormuz.

15:42

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has reported the discovery of military facilities disguised as a civilian site at the main university of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in central Tehran.

“Under civilian cover, research and development for advanced weaponry were conducted within the university, ” the IDF press service said, releasing a video of the operation.

15:18

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted the 87th wave of the “True Promise-4” operation, Tasnim reports, citing the IRGC press service.

According to the statement, the operation targeted command centres, drone hangars, weapons depots, troop shelters, and American–Israeli personnel.

Strikes hit five American bases and military sites across southern, central, and northern Israel, including Haifa Bay, Tel Aviv, Be'er Sheva, Dimona, Victoria, and other locations.

The operation employed Emad and Qiyam ballistic missiles, Khorramshahr-4 missiles, and strike drones.

The IRGC condemned Israel’s recent attack on Kuwait’s desalination plants and warned West Asian countries about “provocations” by the American–Israeli bloc aimed at destabilising the region.

14:49

An airstrike eliminated armed Hamas militants in the northern Gaza Strip, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

“Overnight (Monday), IDF troops identified an armed Hamas terrorist cell that operated in the northern Gaza Strip.

Following the identification, the IDF struck and eliminated the armed terrorists in order to remove the threat posed to IDF troops. 

IDF troops in the Southern Command remain deployed in accordance with the ceasefire agreement and will continue to operate to remove any immediate threat,” the statement said.

14:22

During a targeted operation against Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, IDF troops discovered a weapons depot and destroyed five advanced anti-tank missiles intended for launch toward Israeli territory, the army’s press service reports.

“In addition, the troops located weapons caches inside underground compounds. The weapons were dismantled immediately after their discovery by the troops.

The IDF will continue to operate decisively against the Hezbollah terrorist organization, which chose to join the attacks against Israel and operate under the patronage of the Iranian regime,” the statement said.

13:06

Iran’s military, in its 48th statement, announced a series of attacks targeting US strategic facilities in the United Arab Emirates.

According to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), overnight strikes hit enemy radar stations used for detecting and intercepting missiles and combat drones. Additionally, Iranian strike drones targeted US force locations across the UAE.

12:52

Iranian forces have struck an oil refinery in Haifa, Israel, according to the Clash Report Telegram channel.

12:19

A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat, the IDF press service reports.

11:57

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have begun striking Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut, the IDF press service has reported.

11:39

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has confirmed the death of IRGC Navy commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, according to the official IRGC Telegram channel.

“Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, who, after delivering heavy strikes on key enemy facilities and infrastructure and downing an American fighter jet, while organising and reinforcing forces and strengthening the defensive shield of islands and coastlines used by the enemy, has died from the wounds he sustained,” the statement reads.

11:19

Over the past two days, airstrikes in Tehran have struck around 40 weapons production and research facilities, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

“Yesterday, the Israeli Air Force, acting on precise IDF intelligence, completed a wave of strikes against infrastructure belonging to the Iranian regime across Tehran.

As part of the strikes, more than 80 munitions were deployed against the regime’s weapons production sites. Among the targets struck were:

* A facility used for assembling long-range surface-to-air missiles, which pose a threat to the Israeli Air Force’s freedom of aerial operation.

* A site for manufacturing weapon components required for the development of anti-tank missiles and small anti-aircraft missiles.

* A facility for the production, research, and development of ballistic missile engines.

Over the past two days, the IDF has intensified its strikes against the regime’s production sites in Tehran, targeting approximately 40 facilities involved in the production, research, and development of weaponry in large-scale aerial operations.

The IDF will continue to deepen the damage to the regime’s military industries in order to deny the production capabilities it has built over the years,” the statement said.

10:45

According to Iranian media, on March 29, the U.S. and Israel carried out airstrikes on industrial facilities, an airport, and a residential area in Iran.

Shafaq News, citing Iranian sources, reported that the airstrike on the petrochemical production complex in Tabriz did not result in any release of toxic substances.

State Iranian television reported that the strikes also targeted a branch of the National Bank and a cardboard factory south of Tehran, as well as Mehrabad Airport in western Tehran.

10:43

Iraq’s air defence system intercepted two drones that attempted to attack the U.S. consulate in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, Shafaq News reported on March 29, citing a security service source.

Debris from both drones fell in the Bahirka area, according to the source, with no further details provided.

10:27

New explosions were reported at the U.S. Victoria base in Baghdad, Iraq, Tasnim reports, citing sources.

According to the information, blasts occurred at the base, and plumes of smoke were seen rising from the site.

Details on casualties or the extent of the damage have not yet been released.

10:23

Kuwait’s air defence systems intercepted five unmanned aerial vehicles launched toward the country, KUNA reports, citing the Kuwaiti National Guard.

The Kuwait National Guard (KNG) stated Monday that it successfully intercepted five drones within its areas of responsibility.https://t.co/pBxxlu8x9G#KUNA #KUWAIT pic.twitter.com/UP935SgMAT

— Kuwait News Agency - English Feed (@kuna_en) March 30, 2026

The armed forces continue to make every effort to ensure the safety of citizens and protect critical infrastructure from “any potential threats.”

10:12

On the morning of March 30, Iran launched three waves of missiles at various points in the occupied territories within the span of one hour.

According to ISNA, citing Israeli media, hundreds of thousands of Israeli residents were forced to seek shelter.

09:53

Locations where military commanders and officials of countries engaged in hostilities against Iran reside are considered legitimate targets for Iranian forces.

According to Mehr, a spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated: “The residences of enemy commanders and responsible officials are legitimate targets for Iran.”

09:45

A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat, the army reports.

09:43

Reports of loud explosions are emerging from several cities across Iran early Tuesday morning local time, including Qom, Qazvin, Tehran and the Persian Gulf port city of Bandar Abbas, according to Iran International.

Earlier in the night, blasts were also reported in Karaj near Tehran, as well as at a petrochemical site in the northwestern city of Tabriz, according to reports circulating from Iran.

Details remain unclear and there has been no immediate official confirmation of the latest incidents.

09:08

U.S. Central Command stated that during Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Navy logistics and supply specialists demonstrated the highest level of professionalism.

“During Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Navy logisticians and sustainers have demonstrated unmatched proficiency in keeping warships across the Middle East replenished with food, fuel, ammunition and other supplies to stay in the fight,” the command said in a statement on X.

During Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Navy logisticians and sustainers have demonstrated unmatched proficiency in keeping warships across the Middle East replenished with food, fuel, ammunition and other supplies to stay in the fight. pic.twitter.com/EKItWj9kQx

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 30, 2026

09:05

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering the possibility of a military operation to remove stockpiles of enriched uranium from Iran, The Wall Street Journal reports.

If carried out, the operation would involve U.S. ground forces for several days. According to the report, Trump is weighing the option while carefully assessing the level of risks American troops could face.

The article also notes that the U.S. president has instructed his advisers to increase pressure on Iran, demanding that Tehran voluntarily hand over nearly 1,000 pounds (about 450 kg) of enriched uranium as part of the conditions for resolving the conflict.

00:32

The Israeli military said its air force carried out a series of strikes on Iran’s military industry facilities in the Tehran area.

According to a statement from the Israel Defence Forces press service, more than 150 fighter jets took part in the operation, deploying over 120 munitions.

The targets included facilities involved in the research, development and production of weapons. The statement also said strikes hit sites where, according to the Israeli side, ballistic missiles are produced and stored.

00:11

A ground operation by the United States in Iran could begin in early April, according to a report by i24 News citing a source.

“The United States is expected to deploy sufficient ground forces to the Middle East by early next week to enable a potential operation in Iran,” a US official told the channel.

The report says that Washington is expected to deploy ground troops to the Middle East by early next week to ensure the capability to conduct such an operation in Iran. The final decision on whether to proceed will be made by Donald Trump.

At the same time, according to the source, the administration is considering both military and diplomatic options to resolve the current crisis.

23:45 (March 29)

Israel’s air force has carried out a new wave of strikes targeting Iran’s capital, Tehran, the Israeli military’s press service said in a statement.

According to the statement, the strikes were directed at what it described as “enemy sites” in Tehran.

At the same time, reports emerging from Iran pointed to disruptions in electricity supply. The Fars News Agency reported that power outages were recorded in the nearby city of Karaj, as well as in several districts of the Iranian capital.

23:15

Tehran and several northern regions of Iran experienced widespread power outages following a military strike by the United States and Israel, Nour News reports, citing Iran’s Ministry of Energy.

The ministry stated that in some areas of Tehran city and Alborz province, electricity has been cut off, and specialists are working to restore power.

Officials said the outage was caused by shrapnel from an exploded projectile damaging a high-voltage transmission tower in Alborz province.

21:43

Over the past 24 hours, Israel has carried out 140 airstrikes in western and central Iran.

“Over the past 24 hours: The IDF completed more than 140 strikes targeting the firepower and missile arrays of the Iranian terror regime in central and western Iran,” the press service of the Israel Defense Forces said in a statement.

According to the statement, the strikes targeted “ballistic missile storage and launch sites,” as well as assets related to air defence systems.

20:00

The TV channel Al Araby has reported that its office located in Iran came under fire, the broadcaster stated on its  official website.

The channel condemned the shelling of its office in Tehran, calling it a violation of international law, as journalists were put at risk. Correspondent Hazem Kallas clarified that the strike occurred at 14:45 local time. According to him, the sudden attack took place during a live broadcast.

The journalist added that rescue teams from the Iranian Red Crescent Society and civil defence services arrived at the scene within minutes. Debris removal operations are currently underway.

Kallas concluded that while some parts of the building were not damaged, the structure may collapse completely, making it unsafe for further use.

19:44

As a result of an Iranian strike on a military camp in the emirate, 10 Kuwaiti armed forces personnel were injured.

According to Caliber.Az, citing foreign media, this was reported on social media platform X by the official spokesperson of the country’s Ministry of Defence, Colonel Saud Al Atwan.

“Over the past 24 hours, the armed forces have detected 14 hostile ballistic missiles and 12 drones in Kuwait’s airspace. As a result of a strike on one of the military camps, 10 servicemen were injured and are receiving the necessary medical assistance. The facility also sustained material damage,” the statement said.

Al Atwan added that warehouses belonging to a private logistics company were also targeted, causing material damage but no casualties.

According to updated data from the Ministry of Defence, since February 28, Kuwaiti forces have recorded a total of 307 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and 616 unmanned aerial vehicles in the country’s airspace.

19:28

The Isfahan University of Technology in Iran has once again been targeted by U.S. and Israeli strikes, leaving several people injured, according to the Iranian news agency Fars.

According to the agency, a number of university buildings were damaged in the attack, and at least four staff members sustained injuries.

The agency also noted that this is the second attack on the university since the escalation began. On March 26, Iranian media reported damage to the university building and surrounding structures as a result of U.S. and Israeli strikes.

17:58

Iran has launched a missile targeting an industrial facility near the Israeli city of Beersheba, Tasnim news agency reported.

“The Iranian missile hit an industrial zone in Beersheba,” the agency said, noting that a large fire broke out at the site.

The affected area, Neot Hovav, located south of Beersheba, is Israel’s main chemical industry hub, producing roughly half of the country’s chemicals. The zone also houses a power station and storage facilities.

According to The Times of Israel, emergency services and medical teams were dispatched to the site. No casualties have been reported.

Earlier, Iran reportedly targeted two aluminium plants in the Middle East linked to U.S. military and aerospace industries.

13:02

Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, has said that the United States, despite public statements of willingness to negotiate, is secretly planning a ground invasion in the Middle East.

Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB reported Ghalibaf’s comments on Telegram. He said Washington publicly seeks dialogue but simultaneously develops military plans. “Our people are waiting for American soldiers to attempt a ground invasion so we can strike them and permanently punish their regional partners,” Ghalibaf stated.

Speaking a month after the outbreak of conflict in the region, Ghalibaf also criticized the U.S. 15-point peace plan, suggesting that the White House is pursuing diplomacy only after the failure of military operations. He claimed Tehran is aware of weaknesses in the U.S. deployment and sees signs of declining morale.

“Our fire continues. Our missiles are ready. Our determination and faith have grown,” the parliament speaker added.

12:45

Qatari news channel Al Araby reported that its office in Tehran, Iran, has been struck by Israeli rockets. 

According to the channel post on X, the building sustained "extensive damage."

There is currently no information about any injuries.

11:55

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran has carried out missile and drone strikes on two industrial facilities — the EMAL plant (part of the Emirates Global Aluminium corporation) in the United Arab Emirates and the ALBA plant in Bahrain.

According to ISNA, Iranian military sources said the targets were linked to the United States’ military and aerospace presence in the region.

“Iran’s response to threats from enemies will no longer follow the principle of ‘an eye for an eye’ and will instead deliver a more lethal blow to the military and economic structure of its adversaries,” the statement read.

Both companies confirmed the attacks. ALBA reported two injured employees in Bahrain and is assessing the extent of the damage. In the UAE, the Al Taweelah aluminium plant (EGA) reported damage and several wounded employees, though none are in life-threatening condition.

11:30

Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, will host four-way diplomatic talks with the foreign ministers of Egypt, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia starting in the afternoon on March 29 local time.

According to CNN, discussions are centred on regional security and potential pathways to de-escalate the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Pakistan plays a key role in the current diplomatic setup, maintaining working relations with both Washington and Tehran. Sources indicate that a 15-point peace plan proposed by the U.S. was transmitted via Islamabad.

Experts, however, caution that rapid progress is unlikely. Retired Lt. Gen. Muhammad Saeed, a Pakistani military analyst, noted that a “quick breakthrough” should not be expected.

For the record, the four countries have been involved in mediation efforts as the war, now in its second month, threatens their energy security and borders.

09:51

The Iranian port city of Bandar-e Pol on the Persian Gulf coast has come under an aerial bombardment.

According to Al Hadath TV, at least two vessels caught fire as a result of the attack, and a minimum of five people were killed.

Information on the extent of the damage and the number of casualties is being clarified.

09:50

The Iranian army has carried out another missile launch toward Israeli territory.

According to the Mehr news agency, the latest salvo was directed at the southern regions of the Jewish state.

09:12

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened attacks on American universities in the region if Washington does not condemn the shelling of Iranian universities.

“If the US administration wants its universities in the region not be among the two targeted for retaliation in this stage, must by 12 noon on Monday, March 30, Tehran time, issue an official statement condemning the bombing of universities,” the IRGC said in a statement cited by the Tasnim news agency.

Iranian officials also stated that two American universities in the Middle East will be destroyed regardless of Washington’s position, “as retaliation for the bombing of Iranian universities.”

The statement does not specify which educational institutions are being referred to.

09:04

Several powerful explosions have been reported in the Iranian capital, with some occurring near a facility belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

According to the Fars news agency, two explosions took place in the southern part of Tehran, while strong blasts were also heard in the western sector of the city. It is noted that several explosions were recorded near an IRGC facility.

There is currently no information on damage or possible casualties.

08:58

The Pentagon is considering the possibility of conducting ground operations on Iranian territory that could last for several weeks and mark a new phase of the conflict, The Washington Post (WP) reports.

“As thousands of American soldiers and Marines arrive in the Middle East for what could become a dangerous new phase of the war should President Donald Trump choose to escalate,” the newspaper’s sources said.

The plans do not involve a full-scale invasion; instead, they envision raids by special forces and conventional troops. Potential targets include the seizure of Khark Island and the destruction of weaponry in coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz. According to one source, these objectives could take “a couple of months” to accomplish.

The publication emphasises that it remains unclear whether the president will approve any of the Pentagon’s plans. If carried out, U.S. forces would face various threats, including missile and drone strikes.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, commenting on the report, said: “It’s the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality. It does not mean the President has made a decision.”

March 28, 23:56

On March 29, Iran launches seventh ballistic missile toward Israel since midnight, triggering air raid sirens across parts of southern Israel, according to the Israeli military.

Initial assessments by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) indicated that the missile was likely intercepted by the country’s air defense systems, Israeli media reports.

Authorities said there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage resulting from the strike.

At roughly the same time, the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah fired five rockets toward the Galilee region in northern Israel. The IDF said all of the projectiles were intercepted before reaching populated areas.

21:51

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has lowered the minimum age for participation in certain war-related support roles to 12, according to comments by a senior cultural official broadcast on state media.

Rahim Nadali, a Tehran-based IRGC cultural official, said the change was made as part of an initiative called “For Iran,” which aims to mobilize volunteers for non-combat activities such as patrols, checkpoint assistance and logistics, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

“Given that the age of those coming forward has dropped and they are asking to take part, we lowered the minimum age to 12,” Nadali said during the broadcast, adding that 12- and 13-year-olds could now participate if they choose.

The remarks, aired amid ongoing state media coverage of Iran’s broader war effort, have reignited concerns among child rights advocates and international observers about the potential involvement of minors in security-related operations.

Under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child — to which Iran is a signatory — the recruitment or use of children in military activities is restricted, particularly in roles connected to hostilities.

20:44

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on X that approximately 3,500 service members have arrived in the Middle East and may be deployed in a potential ground operation in Iran.

“US Sailors and Marines aboard USS Tripoli (LHA 7) arrived in the US Central Command area of responsibility, March 27,” CENTCOM stated.

The announcement also highlighted that, in addition to personnel, the America-class amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli carries military equipment, including transport aircraft and strike fighters.

17:37

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed it shot down a U.S. military drone and an F-16 fighter jet, according to a statement released by its press office.

The IRGC said its air defence units brought down a US MQ-9 drone over the skies near Shiraz using anti-aircraft fire. It also claimed that a U.S. F-16 fighter jet was hit in the southern part of Fars Province, sustaining damage before reportedly landing at an airport in Saudi Arabia, Fars News Agency reports.

16:49

Russia's nuclear state corporation Rosatom has confirmed reports from Iranian authorities regarding a new missile strike on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant site. 

The state corporation believes that “the situation at the site continues to deteriorate” and is preparing to evacuate additional groups of employees, Russian media reports. 

The nuclear agency previously reported this on March 24; the attack had been reported on March 17.

“Last night, for the third time, the site of the operational Unit 1 was attacked,” said Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev. “As in the second instance, the munition exploded in the immediate vicinity of the pumping station that supplies water, including to the reactor equipment.”

Likhachev added that “this poses a direct threat to nuclear safety.” He noted that “fortunately, there are no casualties.”

A third group of Russian nuclear power plant specialists has already returned home, Rosatom confirmed. The Russians were evacuated through Armenian territory.

“Preparations are underway to evacuate two more groups. We won’t delay; as soon as they are ready, we will send our colleagues home in the coming days,” Alexey Likhachev said.

15:34

Ukraine has rejected Iran’s claims that it struck a facility in Dubai allegedly housing Ukrainian anti-drone systems, calling the statement false and part of a broader disinformation effort.

A spokesperson for Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Heorhii Tykhyi, said the claims were untrue and formally denied the allegations, UNIAN reports. 

He added that the Iranian government frequently conducts such information campaigns and compared the claims to narratives commonly associated with Russia.

15:23

Iran has claimed it carried out a strike on a facility in Dubai that it described as a "depot housing Ukrainian anti-drone systems," Tasnim reports. 

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the operation was part of a broader set of coordinated strikes targeting U.S. military positions in Dubai. A representative of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Command stated that both aerospace and naval forces were involved in the operation.

According to the Iranian account, the strike destroyed a warehouse that allegedly contained Ukrainian anti-drone systems intended to support U.S. military operations. The statement further claimed that 21 Ukrainian nationals were present at the site at the time of the attack.

Iranian officials asserted that the broader strikes on shelters for U.S. commanders and personnel resulted in significant casualties.

14:50

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Forces have carried out strikes targeting two facilities said to house US military personnel in Dubai, according to statements by Iranian officials.

The claim was made by Brigadier General Ebrahim Zolfaghari, a representative of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, and reported by Khabar Fouri.

Zolfaghari said the operation involved both missiles and drones. He claimed that one of the targeted shelters housed more than 400 US service members, while another contained over 100 personnel.

“Already for several hours, ambulances have been transporting dead and wounded American commanders and soldiers. Donald Trump and the command of the US army must clearly understand that the region will turn into a graveyard for American soldiers, and they will have no choice but to submit to the divine will of the heroic people and the brave fighters of Islam,” he stated.

13:59

A US military support vessel was targeted by Iran’s armed forces early on March 28 at a considerable distance from the Omani port of Salalah, said Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters spokesperson, Iran International reports.

Ebrahim Zolfaghari added that Iran respected the national sovereignty of Oman despite the operation taking place near its coast.

13:07

A broadcasting transmitter in Haftkel in Iran’s Khuzestan province was hit in a strike on March 28, a provincial official said, Iran International reports.

The deputy governor of Khuzestan said one person was wounded in the strike and was taken to a medical centre.

13:05

Damage from overnight strikes into early Saturday affected buildings at the Iran University of Science and Technology, according to video shared with Iran International, showing impact across parts of the campus.

Damage from overnight strikes into early Saturday affected buildings at the Iran University of Science and Technology, according to video shared with Iran International, showing impact across parts of the campus. pic.twitter.com/SGNNa9ob0w

— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) March 28, 2026

11:57

At least six people have been killed and 56 others injured following airstrikes carried out by Israel and the United States on central districts of Kermanshah, the Iranian Red Crescent Society said via its official channel.

The strikes targeted the Hafeziyeh and Chagalan areas, resulting in the destruction of more than 10 residential buildings, 

11:32

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have said that over 50 Israeli Air Force fighter jets carried out coordinated strikes on multiple sites in Iran on March 27, targeting facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear programme and weapons production.

According to the IDF, the strikes were guided by intelligence and focused on three areas, including the heavy water plant in Arak, a facility associated with plutonium production, and a site in Yazd involved in producing materials used in uranium enrichment.

The operation involved three waves of airstrikes over several hours. Sites targeted included:

- A military industry facility used for producing a range of weapons.

- An Iranian Ministry of Defence site involved in developing explosive devices, which the IDF said supplied weapons to groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.

- A site producing components for ballistic missiles and anti-aircraft systems.

The IDF stated that the strikes aim to degrade Iran’s capabilities in both its nuclear and missile programmes. Officials emphasised that operations against Iranian military-industrial sites will continue to limit the regime’s long-term production capacities.

11:08

The Iraqi pro-militia news outlet Sabereen has reported attacks by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed groups, on several air bases and an airport in Jordan.

The targets included the King Faisal Air Base, King Abdullah Air Base, Queen Alia Airport, Prince Hassan Air Base and Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, Al Jazeera cites the report without elaborating on the results. 

10:47

Bahrain faced another wave of Iranian missile and drone attacks overnight.

A strike hit an oil facility (linked to BAPCO), causing a large fire, Clash Report informs.

Additionally, Oman's Port of Salalah was hit by two drones, again as per Clash Report.

One foreign worker was injured, and a crane was damaged.

10:19

A drone crashed near Baghdad International Airport on March 27, landing close to a logistics support site within the airport perimeter, a security source said, Shafaq News reports.

No casualties were reported. Authorities have not issued an official statement on the incident.

10:10

Iran said on March 27 that the head of intelligence for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, Behnam Rezaei, has been assassinated.

State television reported the killing without providing details on the circumstances or location, Shafaq News cites.

The announcement follows earlier Israeli claims that it killed senior IRGC naval commander Alireza Tangsiri and other officers, including Rezaei, in recent strikes.

Tangsiri had led the IRGC Navy since 2018.

09:33

The Israeli military said it carried out an airstrike on Iran’s Arak heavy water plant, describing the facility as a key component in the country’s nuclear infrastructure.

In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the Israeli Air Force, acting on military intelligence, targeted the site in central Iran after identifying what it described as reconstruction efforts. The strike follows earlier operations under “Operation Rising Lion.”

According to the IDF, heavy water is used in certain types of nuclear reactors, including the Arak reactor, which was originally designed with the capability to produce weapons-grade plutonium. Plutonium can be used in the development of nuclear weapons.

The Israeli military said the plant had previously been struck and that recent reconstruction attempts prompted the latest attack. It also described the facility as an economic asset linked to Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, alleging that it generated significant revenue.

Israel further accused Iran of failing to fully implement modifications to the Arak reactor required under international nuclear agreements, including provisions intended to prevent the production of weapons-grade plutonium.

09:31

Yemen has officially declared war on the United States, aligning itself with Iran, Lebanon and Iraq amid escalating tensions in the region, Russian state media outlet RT reported.

YEMEN ‘OFFICIALLY ENTER WAR AGAINST US, ALONGSIDE IRAN LEBANON & IRAQ’ https://t.co/Ld15LCTc6P pic.twitter.com/qtevw28pKL

— RT (@RT_com) March 28, 2026

Separately, Saudi-based broadcaster Al Hadath TV reported that a rocket launched from Yemen toward Israel was intercepted before entering Israeli airspace. According to the channel, the projectile was neutralised by air defence systems and did not reach Israeli territory.

09:20

The Israeli military said it carried out an airstrike on a uranium extraction facility in central Iran, describing the site as part of the country’s nuclear supply chain.

In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the Israeli Air Force, acting on military intelligence, targeted a plant in the city of Yazd. According to the statement, the facility processes raw materials mined from the earth through mechanical and chemical procedures, preparing them for use in uranium enrichment.

The IDF described the plant as the only facility of its kind in Iran and said it plays a significant role in Tehran’s nuclear weapons programme. The military said the strike focused on key infrastructure involved in the production process.

The statement said that uranium enrichment is a central component in the development of nuclear weapons and argued that targeting the site would disrupt the supply of raw materials required for enrichment, thereby undermining Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

"The IDF will not allow the Iranian terror regime to continue its efforts to advance its nuclear weapons program, which poses an existential threat to the State of Israel and the entire world," the IDF said. 

09:11

Twelve American service members were wounded in an Iranian attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 27, according to multiple US and Arab officials, an increase from the 10 injuries previously reported.

Two of the troops sustained significant injuries, while 10 others suffered concussions, one official told the Wall Street Journal. The injured personnel were inside a building on the base that was struck during the attack.

Officials said the assault also caused damage to several U.S. refueling aircraft stationed at the base. At least one missile hit the facility, along with multiple unmanned aerial vehicles, according to two of the officials.

The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Saudi Arabia and several Gulf states adopting a more assertive posture toward Iran, raising concerns about the risk of broader military escalation.

00:38

Iran has released satellite images confirming the destruction of three American KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft as a result of a strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.

The footage was published by the Tasnim news agency.

“The satellite image shows the destruction of three KC-135 refuelling aircraft and severe damage to several others at the American military base in Al-Kharj,” the report states.

March 28, 00:16

Any military action in the Strait of Hormuz could result in its full closure for an indefinite period, a senior Iranian security official warned, Tasnim reports.

“Any enemy military operation in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz will lead to its complete blockade for an indefinite period. If the United States decides to launch a ground offensive against Iran, Tehran reserves the full right to deliver a fully symmetrical response to eliminate the threat,” the official said, according to the agency.

The warning comes amid a Wall Street Journal report outlining Pentagon plans to deploy around 10,000 troops to the Middle East, in addition to 5,000 Marines and several thousand paratroopers already sent to the region. Meanwhile, Bloomberg cites sources saying Washington has no immediate plans for a ground operation in Iran, though U.S. President Donald Trump could change that decision.

20:27

There is no threat of radioactive leaks following the strike on a facility producing uranium concentrate in Iran, the Atomic Energy Organisation of the Islamic Republic has stated.

On March 27, it was reported that the United States and Israel had attacked a nuclear complex in Iran. It is noted that several strikes targeted the heavy-water research reactor in the Iranian city of Khondab. The Fars news agency, in turn, stated that the attacks did not result in any casualties and, given the safety measures taken in advance, posed no threat to the population of the region.

17:53

Hundreds of weapons were discovered at a school in the al-Khiyam area in southern Lebanon, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service reports.

“As part of targeted ground operations conducted by troops from the Givati Brigade to enhance the security zone in southern Lebanon, Shayetet 13 carried out a targeted operation following intelligence indicating the presence of weapons in a school in the area of al-Khiyam in southern Lebanon, alongside the unit’s activity across multiple arenas, both at sea and on land.

Inside the school, hundreds of weapons were located, including anti-tank rockets, mortar shells, grenades, launchers, light firearms, explosive devices, explosive materials, and explosive device mechanisms.

All of this was found alongside UNHCR markings of the United Nations.

The Hezbollah terrorist organization systematically embeds terrorist infrastructure within civilian areas, thereby continuing to endanger the residents of Lebanon. The presence of weapons inside the school in al-Khiyam serves as an additional example of the deliberate exploitation of the civilian population to advance Hezbollah’s terrorist objectives,” the statement said.

17:30

The United States can only determine with certainty that it has destroyed about a third ​of Iran's vast missile arsenal as the US and Israeli war on the country nears its one-month mark, five people familiar with the US intelligence told Reuters.

The status of around another third ‌is less clear but bombings likely damaged, destroyed or buried those missiles in underground tunnels and bunkers, four of the sources said. 

One of the sources said the intelligence was similar for Iran's drone capability, saying there was some degree of certainty about a third having been destroyed.

The assessment, which has not been previously reported, shows that while most of Iran's missiles are either destroyed or inaccessible, Tehran still has a significant missile inventory and may be able to recover ​some buried or damaged missiles once fighting stops.

17:04

In recent days, the IDF’s 401st Brigade has begun operations in southern Lebanon, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service reports.

“During their operations in the area, the soldiers identified a Hezbollah terrorist emerging from a shaft while opening fire toward them.

The soldiers quickly responded and engaged, returning fire and eliminating the terrorist. There were no IDF casualties.

Subsequently, the soldiers conducted searches in the area and located the shaft from which the terrorist emerged. In the compound, maps and various types of weapons were located, including firearms, RPG missiles, and equipment for extended stays.

The IDF will continue to operate with determination against Hezbollah, which chose to join the attacks on Israel and operate on behalf of the Iranian terror regime, and will not allow harm to the residents of Israel,” the statement said.

16:45

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has questioned the ability of the United States to ensure the safety of its military personnel, both in the region and on Iranian territory.

In a post published on social media platform X, as reported by Caliber.Az, Ghalibaf criticized Washington’s handling of security for its forces stationed in the Middle East.

“How can the US, which can't even protect its own soldiers at its bases in the region and instead leaves them stashed away in hotels and parks, protect them on our soil?” he wrote.

16:43

Iran’s military has carried out a drone strike targeting what it described as the largest support base and transportation hub of the Israel Defense Forces in Tel Aviv, according to a statement released by the army’s press service.

“The support base and transportation centre of the Zionist regime’s army (referring to Israel) in Tel Aviv were targeted by drones of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s army,” the statement said, as cited by Iran’s state broadcasting company.

The announcement provides no immediate details on damage or casualties, and independent confirmation of the strike has not been reported.

16:22

IDF spokesperson Major General Effie Defrin stated that “Contrary to the declaration by the Lebanese government earlier this year - Hezbollah is still operating and conducting attacks from southern Lebanon, ”the Israel Defense Forces’ press service reports.

“If the Lebanese government will not disarm Hezbollah, the IDF will,” Defrin added.

16:19

Air defence systems in the United Arab Emirates intercepted six ballistic missiles and nine drones launched from Iran on March 27, 2026, according to a statement issued by the country’s Ministry of Defence on social media platform X.

The ministry said that since the start of the Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have intercepted a total of 378 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,835 unmanned aerial vehicles.

"The attacks resulted in the martyrdom of 2 members of the armed forces while performing their national duty, in addition to the martyrdom of a Moroccan civilian contracted by the Armed Forces, as well as 8 fatalities of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian and Indian nationalities.

A total of 171 people were also injured, with injuries ranging from minor to moderate and severe. The injured included nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia.

The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it remains fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats and will firmly confront anything that aims to undermine the security of the country, in a manner that ensures the protection of its sovereignty, security and stability and safeguards its interests and national capabilities," the post reads.

15:46

More than 1,900 people have been killed and at least 20,000 injured in Iran since the start of US and Israeli attacks, said Maria Martinez of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) on March 27, citing figures provided by the Iranian Red Crescent.

Martinez said the Iranian Red Crescent continues to serve as the only nationwide humanitarian organisation operating across the country amidst the escalating conflict, The Jerusalem Post reports.

15:04

A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

14:50

Defence Minister Israel Katz says Israeli strikes on Iran will “intensify,” The Times of Israel reports.

“The prime minister and I warned the Iranian terror regime to stop the missile fire toward the civilian population in Israel. Despite the warnings, the fire continues, and therefore IDF strikes in Iran will intensify and expand to additional targets and domains that assist the regime in building and operating weapons against Israeli civilians,” he says during an assessment with military officials.

“They will pay heavy and increasing prices for this war crime,” Katz adds, according to remarks provided by his office.

14:47

Overnight, the Israeli Air Force, acting on IDF intelligence, completed a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting infrastructure belonging to the Iranian terror regime, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

“As part of the strikes, the IDF further degraded production capabilities and struck dozens of weapons production sites.

Among the sites targeted:

* A base used by the Iranian army to train operatives and store missile systems intended to target aircraft

* A site for the manufacturing and development of ballistic missile components

* A site for manufacturing batteries for weapons

* A weapons production site of the IRGC

At the same time, the IDF continues to operate relentlessly against the regime’s firepower arrays, with the aim of reducing the scope of launches toward the State of Israel. Overnight, a staging and launch complex of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was struck, along with ballistic missile launch sites, air defense systems, and observation posts belonging to both the IRGC and the Iranian military.

In addition, the IDF identified several operatives from the ballistic missile array operating from a military structure in Tehran. Minutes after the identification, the Israeli Air Force struck and eliminated the terrorists who were planning to advance launches against the State of Israel.

The completed strikes are part of the effort to further degrade the Iranian terror regime’s core systems and capabilities,” the statement said.

14:42

A senior Israeli official told N12 TV that a significant intensification of strikes against Iran is expected next week, according to Clash Report.

14:41

Over the four weeks of armed conflict with Iran, the United States has launched more than 850 Tomahawk cruise missiles at the Islamic Republic, The Washington Post reports, citing sources.

According to sources, the pace of these high-precision weapons usage has raised concerns among U.S. military officials and sparked discussions on how to increase Pentagon readiness. Most of the missiles were reportedly fired in the first days of the operation against Tehran.

While the Pentagon does not publish exact numbers of Tomahawks in service, the newspaper notes that only a few hundred are produced annually.

Sources highlighted that the military monitors the number of missiles used and assesses how the rate of expenditure affects Washington’s campaign against Iran and potential future operations. One official described the current stock as “alarmingly low,” while another warned that the Pentagon could soon exhaust its Tomahawk reserves in the Middle East.

U.S. forces have also reportedly used over 1,000 interceptor missiles in response to Iranian strikes in the region, including missiles for Patriot air defence systems and THAAD anti-missile systems. The exact numbers of these weapons are not disclosed and are considered limited.

14:40

Three container ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz turned back following warnings from the IRGC Navy, the elite branch of Iran’s armed forces, the IRGC press service reported.

“This morning, in response to false claims by the corrupt U.S. president that the Strait of Hormuz is open, three container ships under different flags attempted to transit the corridor reserved for authorised vessels but departed after warnings from the IRGC Navy,” Tasnim agency cited the IRGC statement.

The IRGC reiterated that passage of any vessels associated with the U.S., Israel, or any other countries supporting aggression against Iran is strictly prohibited.

13:48

Saudi Arabia has called on the United States to intensify military action against Iran, The Guardian reports, citing a source in Saudi intelligence. According to the source, Riyadh is urging not just the continuation of the military campaign but its escalation.

The Saudi source also confirmed a report by The New York Times, which stated that the de facto leader of the kingdom, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, urged Donald Trump not to end the war against Iran, describing the U.S.-Israeli campaign as a “historic opportunity” to reshape the Middle East.

12:51

On March 27, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) urged civilians in the region to stay away from areas where U.S. forces are deployed, according to the official IRGC press Telegram channel.

“We urge you to immediately leave areas where American forces are present to avoid harm,” the IRGC statement said.

The statement also accuses U.S. forces of using civilian sites as cover and warns that Iran will strike them wherever they are located.

11:46

A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat, the IDF has reported.

11:13

The Israeli Air Force, acting on intelligence from the IDF and Navy, carried out a strike on a major Iranian facility producing missiles and naval mines in the city of Yazd, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

“The site was used for the planning, development, assembly, and storage of advanced missiles intended for launch from cruise platforms, submarines, and helicopters toward both mobile and stationary maritime targets.

This is the site in which the Iranian Navy develops the majority of their missiles and sea mines.

This strike adds to a series of eliminations of the senior leadership of the IRGC Navy and constitutes a significant blow to the production capabilities of naval forces.

The IDF continues to operate against the regime’s military industries in order to degrade the production capabilities it has built over many years,” the statement said.

10:54

On March 27, Kuwait reported that Shuwaikh Port in Al-Kuwait was attacked and suffered “material damage,” according to the Associated Press.

According to authorities, no one was injured in the attack, but no further details have been provided so far.

10:20

The Israel Defence Forces said its air force carried out a series of overnight strikes targeting Iran’s ballistic missile production infrastructure and air defence-related facilities across the country.

In a statement, the military said that in the Tehran area, Israeli forces struck sites and infrastructure used by what it described as the Iranian regime to manufacture weapons, with a primary focus on ballistic missiles.

The Israel Defence Forces added that in western Iran, the Israeli Air Force conducted additional strikes based on military intelligence, targeting assets linked to Iran’s offensive capabilities. According to the statement, the targets included missile launchers and storage facilities that were considered a threat to Israel.

“In strikes carried out throughout Tehran, the IDF targeted sites and infrastructures that were used by the Iranian terror regime to produce weapons, primarily ballistic missiles.

In western Iran, the Israeli Air Force acting on IDF intelligence struck various targets related to the Iranian terror regime’s firepower arrays. Among the targets that were struck were missile launchers and missile storage sites, which posed a threat to the State of Israel.

The IDF continues to operate relentlessly against the regime’s ballistic missile array, with the aim of reducing the scope of fire directed at Israeli civilians,” the statement said.

09:36

The head of the emergency management department of Iran’s West Azerbaijan province spoke about the consequences of the overnight attack on the region, Tasnim News Agency reports.

“Israeli-American forces once again carried out a missile strike on a residential building in Urmia. As a result of the attack, four apartments were completely destroyed, with civilians killed and injured.

The strike hit a residential area on Shahriyari Street in Urmia. Emergency services are working at the scene, and search and rescue operations are ongoing,” the statement said.

08:54

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a series of strikes on central Tehran, the Iranian capital, the IDF reports on its Telegram channel.

“A short while ago, the IDF completed a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime in the heart of Tehran. Details to follow,” the statement said.

According to Al Jazeera, a residential area in the Iranian city of Urmia was also hit, with four residential buildings completely destroyed and casualties reported.

Earlier, Iran announced the start of the 83rd wave of strikes targeting key U.S. and Israeli military facilities in the Middle East.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that it had struck Israeli military positions near the city of Modiin in central Israel using missiles and strike drones.

08:50

The United States is considering deploying up to 10,000 troops to the Middle East to strengthen its position, despite ongoing peace talks with Iran being weighed by Donald Trump, The Wall Street Journal reports.

Additional forces, including infantry, armoured units, and other formations, are expected to be sent to the region. This would add to the 5,000 Marines and paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division who have already arrived. The exact locations of the troops have not been disclosed, but they are believed to be stationed near Iran and Khark Island, a key oil export hub.

01:20

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will continue pursuing senior Iranian figures deemed a threat to Israel, military spokesman Effie Defrin said following the killing of Alireza Tangsiri, head of the naval arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in an overnight strike in Bandar Abbas.

“The eliminations will not stop; we will continue to pursue anyone who threatens Israel,” he says.

The spokesman also said the Israeli military has struck more than 1,000 targets connected to Iran’s weapons production network since the start of the war, Israeli media reports.

These include facilities involved in the manufacturing of missiles, drones, and air defense systems.

“We are talking about the factories that produce the missiles, the drones and defense systems,” he says in a press conference.

According to Defrin, the IDF is expanding its operations beyond primary production sites. “We are striking all assets of the weapons [industries]. We will also reach the sub-contractors.”

He added that the military intends to intensify operations in the coming days to further weaken Iran’s capabilities. “In the coming days, we will deepen the achievement and distance this threat for a long time,” he adds.

March 27, 00:38

Donald Trump announced a temporary halt to US strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure, saying the pause would last for 10 days.

The statement was published on Truth Social, where Trump indicated the decision followed a request from Tehran and was linked to ongoing diplomatic efforts.

“As per Iranian Government request, please let this statement serve to represent that I am pausing the period of Energy Plant destruction by 10 Days to Monday, April 6, 2026, at 8 P.M., Eastern Time. Talks are ongoing and, despite erroneous statements to the contrary by the Fake News Media, and others, they are going very well. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” he wrote.

March 26, 23:53

Iran is prepared to deploy more than one million fighters in the event of a U.S. ground invasion of the Islamic Republic, Tasnim News Agency reports, citing a source.

According to the report, not only trained Iranian military personnel but also young people are ready to fight against U.S. forces in the event of an invasion. The agency noted a massive influx of applications to join the army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

“The US wants to open the Strait of Hormuz with suicide and self-destructive tactics; that's fine. We are ready for both their suicide strategy to be executed and for the Strait to remain closed,” the source said.

19:55

The U.S. administration says there has been a positive response to a 15-point proposal presented to Iran as a basis for a possible peace agreement.

“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, and this has resulted in strong and positive messaging in talks, as you just indicated to the press,” said Steve Witkoff, the U.S. president’s special envoy.

“Finally, we have told Iran one last thing: don't miscalculate again,” he added during a Cabinet meeting at the White House.

19:16

U.S. President Donald Trump said that it is Iran, not him, that is “begging” for a deal.

He made the remarks during a Cabinet meeting, the broadcast of which is available on the White House’s YouTube channel.

“They are begging to make a deal. Not me. They're begging to make a deal. And anybody that saw what was happening over there would understand why they want to make a deal,” the president said.

The American leader noted that Iranians are strong negotiators but said he is not sure he is ready to make a deal with them. He also stressed that Tehran must reach an agreement or face continued pressure from the United States.

The president added that the operation could take approximately four to six weeks to complete, but U.S. forces are significantly ahead of schedule.

18:45

Iran has sent an official response to the United States regarding the proposed 15-point plan, Tasnim News Agency reports, citing a source.

According to the report, in its reply, Tehran put forward counter-demands, including a complete cessation of U.S.-Israeli actions, compensation for damages, and full Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz.

17:24

On March 26, 2026, UAE air defence systems intercepted 15 ballistic missiles and 11 drones launched from Iranian territory, the UAE Ministry of Defence has reported on X.

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

“Since the start of the blatant Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have engaged 372 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,826 UAVs.

The attacks resulted in the martyrdom of 2 members of the armed forces while performing their national duty, in addition to the martyrdom of a Moroccan civilian contracted by the Armed Forces, as well as 8 fatalities of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian and Indian nationalities.

A total of 169 people were also injured, with injuries ranging from minor to moderate and severe. The injured included nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia.

The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it remains fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats and will firmly confront anything that aims to undermine the security of the country, in a manner that ensures the protection of its sovereignty, security and stability and safeguards its interests and national capabilities,” the statement said.

16:46

Overnight, the Israeli Air Force, acting on precise intelligence from the IDF and naval forces, carried out a targeted strike on Bandar Abbas, killing Alireza Tangsiri, who had served as commander of the IRGC Navy for eight years, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

“Tangsiri served in several key positions within the IRGC Navy, during which he oversaw the regime’s activities and coordinated efforts between the Iranian military forces in the Persian Gulf area. Over the years, Tangsiri was responsible for attacks on oil tankers and commercial vessels and personally threatened the freedom of navigation and trade in the Strait of Hormuz and the international maritime domain.

Throughout Operation Roaring Lion, Tangsiri led efforts to close the Strait of Hormuz and advanced terror attacks in the maritime domain, one of the primary figures responsible for disrupting the global economy.

Additionally, Tangsiri had been subject to numerous international sanctions due to his direct involvement in carrying out terror attacks against vessels in international waters and in the transfer of air defense systems and UAVs to Russia and Syria.

Alongside Tangsiri, the IDF eliminated the Head of the IRGC Navy Intelligence Directorate, Behnam Rezaei.

Rezaei served as the Head of the IRGC Navy Intelligence Directorate for a number of years and constituted a central knowledge authority in maritime intelligence. As part of his role, Rezaei was responsible for intelligence collection on regional countries and led cooperation with various intelligence organizations.

The elimination of the IRGC Navy senior leadership adds to the list of dozens of Iranian regime commanders who have been eliminated, and constitutes an additional significant blow to the command-and-control arrays of the IRGC and its abilities to orchestrate terror activities in the maritime domain against countries in the region.

The IDF will continue to operate with determination against commanders of the Iranian regime wherever required,” the statement said.

16:00

“U.S. forces continue to eliminate threats presented by the Iranian regime, striking over 10,000 targets since the start of Operation Epic Fury,” U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated in a post on X.

U.S. forces continue to eliminate threats presented by the Iranian regime, striking over 10,000 targets since the start of Operation Epic Fury. pic.twitter.com/6rTIWG9NBC

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 26, 2026

15:57

Early this morning, the air defence forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) “Hazrat Saheb al-Amr” shot down a U.S. and Israeli reconnaissance drone that had violated the airspace of Qazvin province, Tasnim reports, citing the IRGC press service in Qazvin province.

According to the agency, the drone was downed in the Avaj area.

15:22

The Israel Defence Forces said it detected missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of Israel, prompting the activation of air defence systems to counter the threat.

According to the IDF press service, the launches were identified shortly before defensive measures were initiated. Air defence units are currently operating to intercept the incoming missiles.

13:45

Hezbollah has said its forces have targeted and hit two Israeli tanks with missiles near the town of Qantara in southern Lebanon’s Marjayoun district. In total, the group says it has targeted seven tanks in the area today, Al Jazeera reports.

As it was reported on March 25, Israeli forces have launched a ground offensive in southern Lebanon, with Defense Minister Israel Katz saying the military intends to control the area south of the Litani River.

13:20

Soldiers from the 91st Division of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) are continuing targeted ground operations to reinforce Israel’s forward defense line in southern Lebanon.

According to the IDF Spokesperson’s Office, cited by Iran International, the operations have so far resulted in the destruction of more than 350 Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure sites and the elimination of over 330 militants, including dozens from the specialized Radwan Forces unit.

Military forces also uncovered a substantial cache of weapons and equipment in the area. Among the items seized were night vision devices, bulletproof vests, rocket and grenade launchers, magazines, Kalashnikov rifles, and a machine gun. These weapons were reportedly intended for planning and executing attacks against IDF forces and Israeli civilians.

“The IDF will continue to take decisive action against Hezbollah, which has chosen to join attacks on Israel and operate on behalf of the Iranian terrorist regime. We will not allow harm to be inflicted on the citizens of the State of Israel,” the statement added.

12:44

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards navy commander Alireza Tangsiri was targeted in Bandar Abbas, Iran International reports via Israeli media.

The official said Tangsiri was responsible for the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

12:36

A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat, the Israel Defense Forces’ press service has reported.

12:30

As part of the 82nd wave of the IRGC’s “True Promise-4” operation, a Patriot radar in Sheikh Isa, a P-8 reconnaissance aircraft hangar, U.S. fuel tanks, an MQ-9 hangar, and an Ali-Salem drone satellite antenna were destroyed, Khabar Fouri reports.

According to the IRGC, this wave was dedicated to residents of northern Iran — East Azerbaijan, Ardabil, Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan — and targeted pre-determined sites in Arifjan, Al-Kharj, and the U.S. logistics and defence complex (kGL) in response to the attack on Khorramshahr.

The IRGC press service noted that the operation was fully successful using strike drones. The wave is ongoing, and official results will be released in the coming hours.

12:23

The Golani Brigade of the Israel Defense Forces destroyed around 200 “terrorist targets” of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, the IDF said on its Telegram channel.

12:12

A building was destroyed in Bandar Abbas as a result of overnight strikes, the Israeli media outlet Yediot News reports.

12:04

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed a direct missile hit on the Israeli city of Beit Shemesh, the IRGC’s press service said on its Telegram channel.

No information has yet been released regarding casualties or the extent of the damage.

12:02

At dawn today, the IRGC conducted the 82nd wave of “True Promise 4” operations, according to the IRGC press service.

11:59

Iran is deploying additional military personnel and air defence systems on Khark Island in the Persian Gulf in preparation for a potential U.S. ground operation.

CNN, citing U.S. intelligence sources, reported that Iranian forces have also placed anti-personnel and anti-tank mines around the island and along the coastline in areas where a U.S. landing could occur.

American officials warn of high risks associated with any ground operation, including potentially significant losses due to layered Iranian defences.

11:19

Residents of central Iran reported that early Thursday morning, several consecutive explosions shook buildings across the city of Najafabad.

According to Iran International, the massive bombings also sparked numerous fires in the nearby mountains close to Khomeini-Shahr.

09:47

Iran struck central Israel. Footage, citing Iranian channels, has been published by Israel’s Channel 9.

09:31

The Lebanese group Hezbollah reported a nighttime attack on the headquarters of the Israel Defense Forces in Tel Aviv.

According to Caliber.Az, related footage has been published by Telegram channels affiliated with the group.

09:12

On the morning of March 26, Gulf countries continued to repel attacks that have now entered their fourth week, Caliber.Az reports, citing statements from official agencies.

The United Arab Emirates said it had intercepted Iranian drones and missiles on Thursday morning, reassuring the public that the sounds being heard were the result of the country’s air defence systems in operation.

تتعامل حالياً الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية مع اعتداءات صاروخية وطائرات مسيرة قادمة من إيران وتؤكد وزارة الدفاع أن الأصوات المسموعة في مناطق متفرقة من الدولة هي نتيجة اعتراض كل من منظومات الدفاع الجوي للصواريخ البالستية، والمقاتلات للطائرات المسيرة والجوالة.

UAE air defences are… pic.twitter.com/Ot8jGSi0jE

— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 26, 2026

Kuwait issued a similar statement, noting that the explosions that may be heard are the result of air defence systems intercepting hostile targets. However, it did not specify the origin of the missile and drone threats.

تتصدى حالياً الدفاعات الجوية الكويتية لهجمات صاروخية وطائرات مسيرة معادية.

تنوه رئاسة الأركان العامة للجيش أن أصوات الانفجارات إن سمعت فهي نتيجة اعتراض منظومات الدفاع الجوي للهجمات المعادية.

يرجى من الجميع التقيد بتعليمات الأمن والسلامة الصادرة عن الجهات المختصة.… pic.twitter.com/uY89yuYmRR

— KUWAIT ARMY - الجيش الكويتي (@KuwaitArmyGHQ) March 26, 2026

Bahrain announced that warning sirens had been activated and urged residents to take shelter in the “nearest safe place.”

The siren has been sounded. Citizens and residents are urged to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place

— Ministry of Interior (@moi_bahrain) March 26, 2026

09:07

On March 25, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln continues to carry out strikes against military targets in Iran while operating in regional waters.

CENTCOM released corresponding photos.

USS Abraham Lincoln continues flight operations against military targets in Iran while sailing in regional waters. pic.twitter.com/GsLQKNaTbN

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 26, 2026

March 26, 00:48

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) states that the claim made by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC, the elite forces of Iran) about shooting down an American F/A-18 fighter over the Iranian city of Chabahar is false.

“FALSE: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced a U.S. F/A-18 fighter was struck over Chabahar using new advanced air defense systems. TRUE: No U.S. fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran,” CENTCOM said in a statement.

23:49

Iran must receive clear guarantees from the United States in order to conclude a ceasefire agreement; otherwise, a truce would be meaningless.

According to Tasnim News Agency, this view was expressed by Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

“It is necessary for the United States to learn a lesson from this conflict and never again contemplate attacks on our country. A ceasefire without guarantees means entering a vicious cycle of endless war, and we want it to end — but on our terms,” the minister stressed.

Araghchi added that although foreign ministers from regional countries had contacted Tehran to discuss a ceasefire, “no negotiations have taken place so far.”

23:21

The Pentagon has officially confirmed plans to deploy part of the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, BBC reports, citing data from the U.S. Department of Defense.

For security reasons, a Pentagon spokesperson declined to provide further details.

The report notes that the 82nd Airborne Division is considered one of the most combat-ready formations in the U.S. Army.

19:36

Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) has released an image showing an Iranian missile featuring a printed image of Donald Trump.

The photograph, broadcast by the state media outlet, appears to be linked to ongoing military activity referenced as Operation “True Promise – 4.” In its accompanying caption, IRIB described the image as “footage from the 81st phase” of the operation, suggesting it forms part of a broader, multi-stage campaign.

18:42

Iran has presented the United States with five conditions for ending the conflict in the Middle East, Press TV reports, citing a senior official of the Islamic Republic.

In particular, Tehran has put forward the following demands:

• A complete cessation of hostilities and targeted killings of leadership figures by the United States and Israel;

• The establishment of mechanisms to prevent the outbreak of new hostilities against the Islamic Republic;

• A guaranteed and clearly defined system for compensation for damage caused by the conflict;

• An end to hostilities on all fronts and with all “resistance groups” across the region;

• International recognition of Iran’s right to control the Strait of Hormuz.

The source also emphasised that the Islamic Republic will cease hostilities only when it deems appropriate and once its conditions are met. He added that Iran is prepared to defend itself until its demands are taken into account by Washington.

17:36

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that overnight they completed a series of airstrikes on Iranian regime weapons production facilities in the Tehran area.

According to the press service, the strikes were carried out by the Air Force in coordination with military intelligence. The targets included facilities involved in the production of aerial and naval weaponry.

It was noted that these facilities were also used to manufacture weapons intended for Iran-aligned groups in the Middle East, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and other organisations.

Additionally, Israeli forces targeted air defence systems and a surface-to-air missile launcher.

The IDF emphasised that it will continue striking Iran’s military industry to undermine production capabilities that have been developed over many years.

17:32

An Iranian missile hit the Rotem industrial zone (Negev Desert in southern Israel) near the Dimona nuclear facility, Tasnim reports.

17:18

Pakistan and Türkiye are being considered as venues for negotiations to resolve the Middle East conflict, Reuters reports, citing an Iranian source.

“Pakistan has delivered a proposal from the United States to Iran, and either Pakistan or Turkey could be venues for discussions to de-escalate the war in the Gulf,” Reuters writes.

16:48

Europe may face the need to ration gasoline, diesel, and other fuels as early as April if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to tanker traffic, according to the head of the largest European oil company, Shell, Wael Sawan, speaking at a conference in Texas.

“South Asia was first to get that brunt. That’s moved to south-east Asia, north-east Asia and then more so into Europe as we get into April,” said Shell executive Wael Sawan. He noted that the price of aviation fuel has already doubled, with diesel expected to rise next, followed by gasoline as the summer season approaches, bringing increased car travel in the U.S. and Europe.

Sawan’s assessment was supported by Germany’s Minister of Economics, Katherina Reiche. At the same conference, she said that an energy shortage could become apparent at the end of April or in May if the conflict in the Middle East does not end. According to the minister, Germany made a major mistake by phasing out nuclear energy, and part of the solution could be increasing gas imports.

16:16

As a result of US and Israeli strikes in Iran, 13 children under the age of five and 21 medical personnel have been killed, Iran’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ali Bahreini, reported in a letter to World Health Organisation Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Bahreini also noted that 108 additional Iranian medical workers have been injured.

“Seven hospitals have been evacuated and are no longer operational. Forty-nine emergency service units, 38 ambulances, one medical helicopter, and one rescue boat have been either destroyed or severely damaged,” the representative said.

According to the Iranian Red Crescent Society, as of March 6, more than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran since the start of US and Israeli military actions. Additionally, over 3,600 civilian facilities have been damaged, including 3,000 residential buildings and 13 medical and pharmaceutical centres.

Data from the US-based Iranian human rights organisation Human Rights Activists News Agency, as of March 19, indicate that 3,186 people have died in Iran since the beginning of the US-Israeli strikes. Among the dead are 1,153 military personnel and 1,394 civilians, including 210 children. Another 639 fatalities have not yet been identified.

14:32

Since the start of the war, the Israeli Air Force has dropped more than 15,000 munitions on targets in Iran, according to Voice of Israel, citing the country’s Ministry of Defence.

13:51

Iranian armed forces launched several cruise missiles from the country’s coastline at the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB reports, citing the army’s press service.

Some of the missiles reportedly struck the warship, according to the statement.

13:08

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Telegram the elimination of a Hezbollah militant unit that fired rockets at Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon.

“Overnight (Wednesday), Israeli Air Force aircraft identified and eliminated a cell of Hezbollah terrorists who fired rockets toward IDF troops operating in southern Lebanon,” the IDF’s press service said.

The military added that no injuries among Israeli soldiers have been reported.

13:05

A total of 85,176 civilian facilities in Iran have been damaged in strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, including 64,583 residential homes, TASS reports, citing the Iranian Red Crescent.

12:58

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is in good health, and the country’s state system continues to function efficiently, a spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Esmaeil Baghaei, said in an interview with India Today.

Baghaei stated that the Supreme Leader feels well and that the state system is functioning effectively. He added that the armed forces are acting in strict accordance with Iran’s defence plans and emphasised that the people remain united in the face of what he described as a barbaric act of aggression.

12:04

Internet connectivity in Iran has been virtually non-existent for over 600 hours, according to the global internet monitoring service NetBlocks.

“The internet blackout in Iran has now entered its 26th day after passing the 600-hour mark,” NetBlocks reported on X. Data shows that connectivity remains at just 1% of normal levels.

The outage follows the start of the U.S. and Israeli military operation against Iran on February 28.

11:33

The Israeli Air Force struck two missile factories in Tehran during operations targeting Iran, the IDF spokesperson’s office has reported.

According to Israeli military sources, the facilities were operated by Iran’s Ministry of Defense and were involved in the development and production of long-range, sea-launched cruise missiles.

11:31

Iranian authorities hope that the efforts of friendly countries acting as mediators between Tehran and Washington will lead to a resolution of the conflict with the United States, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Amiri Moghadam, said.

“Of course, it is clear that friendly countries are constantly consulting with both sides to end this usurping aggression. However, these efforts cannot be called direct negotiations between Iran and the United States. Rather, they are an attempt to create a basis for dialogue between Tehran and Washington. We hope these efforts will bring an end to this imposed war,” he told IRNA.

In recent days, the U.S. has reported contact with Iran through intermediaries, including Pakistan. However, Tehran denies claims by U.S. officials that productive negotiations are taking place.

10:55

Iranian officials told Pakistan, Egypt, and Türkiye — countries offering to mediate U.S.-Iran talks — that they do not trust President Donald Trump’s proposals for negotiations, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the discussions.

According to the source, Iranian representatives stressed that “they have now been tricked twice by President Trump” and they do not want to be “fooled again.” The officials noted that the U.S. troop movements and Trump’s reported plan to send large reinforcements to the Middle East only deepen suspicions that the White House’s negotiation proposals are a ruse.

10:37

The United States has no plans to scale back its military operation against Iran while diplomatic contacts with the Islamic Republic continue, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told The New York Times (NYT).

“As President Trump and his negotiators explore this newfound possibility of diplomacy, Operation Epic Fury continues unabated to achieve the military objectives laid out by the commander in chief and the Pentagon,” she said.

Citing two unnamed officials, the newspaper noted that the U.S. transmitted a 15-point plan to Iran through Pakistan aimed at ending the military conflict. It remains unclear whether Tehran is willing to treat these proposals as a basis for negotiations or fully agrees with the U.S. and Israel’s ideas, NYT added.

The U.S. and Israel launched their operation against Iran on February 28.

10:28

The Pentagon has ordered roughly 2,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to deploy to the Middle East, The New York Times reports, citing two U.S. military sources.

The deployment comes from the Immediate Response Force (IRF), a brigade of about 3,000 troops capable of global deployment within 18 hours. The contingent includes two battalions, each around 800 soldiers. Additional IRF forces may be sent to the region in the coming days, the sources added.

Along with approximately 4,500 Marines already en route, the addition of 2,000 paratroopers raises the total number of extra ground forces deployed since the start of the conflict to nearly 7,000, marking a new escalation, the report notes. Overall, around 50,000 troops from the U.S., Europe, and Middle Eastern nations are participating in Operation “Epic Fury.”

The paratroopers are being positioned within striking distance of Iran and could be used to seize Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub in the northern Persian Gulf.

09:40

Pro-Iranian forces in Iraq attacked a U.S. base in Baghdad using drones, reports Israel’s Channel 12.

The strike reportedly destroyed an AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar system and a UH-60 helicopter.

09:21

Iran announced the launch of its 80th wave of rocket strikes since the start of the escalation, targeting Israeli territory and U.S. military bases in the region, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported, according to Tasnim.

The IRGC stated that the main targets include “assembly points of forces in northern Israel,” which, they claimed, “will be subjected to massive rocket and drone attacks without any limitations.”

Key targets reportedly include Tel Aviv, Kiryat Shmona, and four U.S. military bases in the Gulf countries.

According to the IRGC, the strikes involved liquid- and solid-fuel rockets, precision-guided bombs, and armed drones.

09:16

New investments in the Persian Gulf region, as well as stable oil prices, depend solely on guarantees provided by Iran’s armed forces, according to Iran’s General Staff.

As reported by foreign media, the statement said: “There will be no new investments in the region and no return to previous energy and oil prices until it becomes clear that stability in the region is guaranteed by the strength of Iran’s armed forces. Stability will be achieved through power.”

Addressing its adversaries, the Iranian military added that “the situation will not return to the previous order; it will only be restored when the very idea of acting against the Iranian people is completely erased and forgotten.”

According to the General Staff, the “strategic power [of its opponents] has turned into a strategic defeat,” and “failure should not be described as any kind of agreement.”

08:59

Israel activated alerts in Western Galilee due to a suspected drone infiltration, according to Ynet.

Sirens were also heard in Upper Galilee, the report said.

The Israel Defense Forces have not yet commented on the situation.

08:54

Drones struck a fuel tank at Kuwait Airport, sparking a fire, the country’s Civil Aviation Authority said in a post on X.

According to the agency’s spokesperson, Abdullah Al-Rajhi, there are no preliminary reports of casualties. Emergency services are working at the scene.

This marks the third such strike since the start of the U.S. and Israeli military operation against Iran on February 28.

Kuwait International Airport has suspended operations since the outbreak of hostilities, with all flights redirected to Saudi Arabia.

01:52

The United States has sent Iranian authorities a 15-point plan aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, The New York Times reports, citing officials from the U.S. administration.

According to the report, Pakistan acted as a mediator in delivering the plan. It remains unclear how widely the document was circulated within Iran’s leadership or whether Tehran is prepared to use it as a basis for negotiations. The plan reportedly addresses Iran’s missile and nuclear programmes, as well as the issue of freedom of navigation.

01:17

U.S. President Donald Trump has called on NATO countries to become more involved in the U.S. operation in Iran, Reuters reports.

Responding to journalists who asked whether U.S. allies in the Persian Gulf should play a greater role in operations against Iran, Trump said: “Yes, a little, but it applies more to NATO.”

He also noted that Washington’s allies in the Middle East have performed well under the current circumstances.

00:33

President of the United States Donald Trump has once again warned that American forces could destroy a major power plant in Iran, which he said is worth $10 billion, per CNBC.

“We can do whatever we want,” he claimed, suggesting that the United States could strike Iran without restraint. “And as you know, today we were going to have the privilege of shooting down a very big electric generation plant — one of the biggest in the world,” he added.

“And one shot to the right location ends the plant. It collapses. We held off based on fact that we are negotiating.”

Speaking about ending the conflict, he said: "If we can end this without more lives being down, without knocking out $10 billion electric plants that are brand new and the apple of their eye, I'd like to be able to do that."

The US president did not specify the name of the power plant.

00:10

The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran reported a new strike on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, according to the IRNA news agency.

It was noted that on March 24, a projectile hit the plant’s territory. “According to preliminary reports, the incident did not cause any material, technical, or human damage, and no parts of the facility were affected,” the statement said.

March 24, 23:32

The United States and a group of intermediary countries are awaiting Iran’s response regarding the possibility of holding high-level talks on March 26 aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East, Axios reports.

According to its sources, “the U.S. and a group of regional mediators are discussing the possibility of holding high-level peace talks with Iran as soon as Thursday, but are still waiting for a response from Tehran.” The outlet adds that “If the plans for a summit firm up, Vice President Vance is likely to be involved.”

Sources also noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is concerned that U.S. President Donald Trump “might strike a deal [with Tehran] that falls well short of Israel's objectives, includes significant concessions, and limits Israel's ability to conduct strikes against Iran.”

22:59

U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House that Iranian authorities have agreed to permanently abandon any plans to acquire nuclear weapons.

“I don't have to go over the list but it starts with no nuclear weapons and they've agreed to that. They're not going to have enrichment or any of those things,” he said.

The American leader did not specify who exactly Washington is holding consultations with. Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that they do not seek to obtain nuclear weapons.

22:29

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), an elite branch of Iran’s armed forces, claims it has targeted satellite communication stations used by the Israeli military, as well as several U.S. bases in the Middle East, the Tasnim news agency reports.

“Strikes were carried out against satellite communication stations used by Israeli forces, as well as the Al-Azraq and Sheikh Isa bases (located in Jordan and Bahrain, respectively), and Ali Al-Salem and Arifjan (both in Kuwait),” the statement said.

The IRGC claims that its missiles and drones “successfully hit their targets,” but did not provide details on the extent of the damage.

21:41

The Pentagon plans to deploy around 3,000 troops from the elite 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East to support operations against Iran, with a written order expected in the coming hours, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing two U.S. officials.

According to the report, officials warn that a decision to deploy ground troops directly into Iran has not yet been made. However, the deployment of the 82nd Airborne Division provides President Trump with several strategic options.

20:25

Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), an elite unit of Iran’s armed forces, turned back the container ship SELEN in the Strait of Hormuz due to the absence of transit authorization, the IRGC Navy commander Alireza Tangsiri said.

“The container ship SELEN was turned back by IRGC naval forces for failing to comply with legal protocols and lacking permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz,” he wrote on X. He stressed that any vessel transiting this waterway must fully coordinate with Iranian authorities.

19:06

The Strait of Hormuz remains open for safe international navigation, but this does not apply to countries that are in a state of war with Iran.

This position was outlined by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a phone call with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

“The Strait of Hormuz is open to all, and vessels can pass safely; however, states that are at war are not included in this list,” China Central Television quoted Araghchi as saying. The Iranian minister thanked Beijing for its emergency humanitarian assistance and emphasised that Tehran seeks a comprehensive, rather than temporary, ceasefire.

For his part, Wang Yi stated that Beijing opposes violations of state sovereignty and calls on all sides to seize any opportunity to launch a peace process. “Dialogue is always better than continuing war,” he noted, adding that China will continue to play an active role in de-escalating tensions in the Middle East.

17:16

Bahrain’s air defence systems continue to successfully repel waves of Iranian attacks.

According to BNA, citing the General Command of the Bahrain Defence Forces (BDF), a total of 153 ballistic missiles and 301 drones targeting Bahrain have been intercepted and destroyed since the start of hostilities.

The command highlighted the high readiness and effectiveness of BDF personnel, emphasising that the country’s airspace remains secure.

16:19

New satellite images from Soar Atlas show the destruction of a large Iranian ammunition depot near the city of Sirjan in Kerman province, capturing the aftermath of a powerful strike on March 18.

The development was reported on Telegram by Yigal Levin, a reserve officer in the Israel Defense Forces and military commentator.

The depot, located in the southeastern part of the country, serves as a logistical hub linking central Iran with southern направления.

According to satellite data, the site exhibits clear signs of complete destruction caused by aerial bombs or cruise missiles, followed by secondary detonations. Such patterns typically indicate the presence of large stockpiles of ammunition, rather than fuel or military equipment.

The area around Sirjan has previously been identified as part of a distributed network of storage facilities used for the stockpiling and redistribution of munitions, including supplies for various направления via internal transport corridors.

16:12

The Israeli and U.S. Air Forces carried out strikes on an Iranian naval base in Bushehr, the Israeli media outlet Intelli News reports.

An attack on a military base in the city of Shiraz was also reported.

15:31

A short while ago, the Israel Defense Forces completed a large-scale wave of strikes on production facilities of the Iranian terrorist regime in several areas of Iran, the IDF stated in an announcement on Telegram.

 13:58

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced an operation targeting Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, according to a statement from the IDF.

“Troops of the ‘Mountains’ Brigade (810), under the command of Division 210, are operating in the Lebanese section of the Mt. Dov area, as part of the forward defensive posture.

During a targeted operation, IDF troops located a Hezbollah tunnel shaft. In an additional operation, the troops destroyed a Hezbollah weapons compound.

The IDF is operating decisively against the Hezbollah terrorist organization in response to its deliberate decision to attack Israel on behalf of the Iranian terror regime. The IDF acts to remove threats to civilians of the State of Israel,” the statement reads.

13:26

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Bahrain released satellite images showing “before” and “after,” claiming that a missile struck two key U.S. radar systems in the kingdom.

The footage was shared by Clash Report, citing the IRGC.

Iran’s IRGC released before-and-after satellite images claiming it hit two key U.S. radar systems in Bahrain—a Patriot AN/MPQ-65 fire-control radar and a TPS-75 early-warning radar—showing visible damage.

These systems are critical for missile defense and detection. pic.twitter.com/uusorvbTwe

— Clash Report (@clashreport) March 24, 2026

The images show visible damage to a Patriot AN/MPQ-65 fire-control radar and a TPS-75 early-warning radar.

Both systems are noted as playing a key role in missile defense and threat detection, making them strategically important for the U.S. defensive infrastructure in the region.

12:57

The United States has begun deploying its own versions of Iran’s “Shahed”-type drones.

Online footage shows Iran shooting down a LUCAS (Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System) drone, which was unveiled by the U.S. last summer.

According to media reports, the drone costs approximately $35,000 and bears a strong resemblance to the Iranian “Shahed.”

12:20

There were air raid sirens throughout the night in the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait.

Saudi Arabia said it intercepted more than 20 drones in the eastern part of the country, Al Jazeera reports.

In Kuwait, some of their energy infrastructure was hit and there were partial power outages.

The damage from falling debris has been incredibly dangerous in multiple cities in the GCC.

In the UAE, its media office had to put out an alert on social media that due to the current weather conditions, thunder may be heard, basically reminding people that not everything they hear is an explosion or an interception.

People here are on a knife’s edge and it’s become all too familiar in the UAE and around the GCC.

12:02

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue strikes on Iranian targets: since the start of Operation “Roaring Lion,” more than 3,000 sites linked to the Iranian regime have been hit.

According to the IDF, dozens of Israeli Air Force jets conducted large-scale strikes on central Tehran based on real-time intelligence.

“Yesterday (Monday), dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets, acting on IDF intelligence, completed a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting Iranian terror regime infrastructure sites in the heart of Tehran.

During the strikes, the IDF targeted several key Iranian terror regime command centers, including two IRGC Intelligence Organization command centers and an Iranian Intelligence Ministry command center.

Simultaneously, the IDF struck weapons storage facilities and aerial defense systems, with the aim of broadening the Israeli Air Force's aerial superiority over Iranian skies.

Additionally, overnight, the Israeli Air Force struck more than 50 targets, including ballistic missile storage and launch sites.

The completed strikes are part of the effort to further degrade the Iranian terror regime’s core systems and capabilities,” the statement said.

11:37

At least six Peshmerga fighters were killed, and 22 were wounded in a rocket attack on their base north of Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan on March 24.

The perpetrators of the attack remain unknown, Reuters reports, citing security and Peshmerga sources.

11:28

On March 23 in Tabriz, an airstrike on a residential building killed IRGC Aerospace Force commander Hamid Mirzadeh along with members of his family, according to Israel’s Channel 12.

11:20

Hezbollah says it launched attacks on five Israeli targets early on March 24, Al Jazeera reports.

In a series of statements, the group said it targeted Israeli troop gatherings, a barracks, a radar site, and artillery positions at dawn.

It said, among those targeted with rockets were Israeli soldiers at the Fatima Gate in the town of Kfar Kila in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah said it also used drones and rockets to target a radar site near Ma’alot-Tarshiha and artillery positions in the settlements of Sasa and Ein HaKovshim in northern Israel.

10:45

A strike in East Azerbaijan province in northwest Iran killed six people and wounded nine others, provincial authorities said, according to Iran International.

The governor’s office said the strike hit a residential area in the Shahid Mofatteh district.

10:07

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is considering new military options regarding Iran, including the possible seizure of Kharg Island, home to the country’s main oil export terminal, The New York Times reports, citing U.S. and Israeli officials.

According to the report, the U.S. president has ruled out one of the military scenarios but continues to authorise strikes on targets in Iran. Additional U.S. forces are being deployed to the region, while more aggressive operations are being discussed at the White House.

Among the options under consideration is a ground operation to secure sites containing highly enriched uranium. U.S. officials emphasised that military pressure on Tehran will continue to intensify regardless of decisions on specific scenarios.

10:01

Air raid sirens were activated in central Israel following a military warning about a new missile launch from Iran.

Sirens were heard in Tel Aviv and surrounding areas, TASS reports.

09:55

Overnight in Iraq’s western Anbar province, U.S. forces killed Saad al-Baiji, a leader of a pro-Iranian armed group, along with several of his associates, according to the Israeli media outlet Intelli News.

09:27

Israeli forces carried out seven airstrikes across the southern Beirut suburbs during the night, French media reports.

The state-run National News Agency of Lebanon reported that the strikes hit the districts of Bir al-Abed, Al-Ruwais – on the outskirts of Al-Manshiyya, Haret Hreik, the Saïda Hadi Nasrallah highway, Sainte Thérèse, Burj al-Barajne, and Al-Kafaat.

09:24

Iranian authorities reported attacks on two key energy facilities in Isfahan and Khorramshahr.

In Isfahan, the administration building and a gas reduction station on Kaveh Street were struck, causing damage to parts of the facilities and nearby residential properties, Fars reports.

Iranian officials described the incident as part of ongoing assaults by what they called “American-Zionist forces.”

Simultaneously, reports emerged of a strike on the gas pipeline serving the Khorramshahr power plant.

The governor of Khorramshahr confirmed that a projectile hit an area outside the gas station, causing no casualties.

09:11

“Flight operations aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) continue in support of Operation Epic Fury, as the aircraft carrier sails across regional seas,” U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has reported in a post on X.

CENTCOM also released footage showing U.S. Air Force combat operations.

Flight operations aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) continue in support of Operation Epic Fury, as the aircraft carrier sails across regional seas. pic.twitter.com/qb68B132ju

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 24, 2026

March 24, 00:57

Mohsen Rezaei, military adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), commented on the conditions for ending the war with the United States, the SNN channel reports.

Rezaei stated that the conflict would continue until the United States compensates for all damages, lifts all economic sanctions, and provides guarantees of non-interference in Iran’s internal affairs.

“This is the decision of our nation, our leader, and our armed forces,” he emphasised.

22:57

Iran sees no need to mine the Persian Gulf, as Tehran maintains full control over both the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Tasnim, this was stated by Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for the central headquarters of the Khatam al-Anbiya command.

“Iran exercises very smart and strong control over the Strait of Hormuz. Given this level of control and strength, there is no need to mine the Persian Gulf,” he said.

The official added that Iran will use all means necessary to ensure security and that, at present, the initiative in the Persian Gulf region lies with Iranian forces.

22:25

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced that it had carried out a strike on a main security headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps located within civilian infrastructure in central Tehran.

“As part of a wave of strikes that was completed a short while ago in the heart of Tehran, the Israeli Air Force, guided by IDF intelligence, struck the IRGC’s main security headquarters,” the military said in a statement.

According to the IDF, the targeted facility was used by the IRGC to coordinate operational activities and conduct situational assessments. It added that the headquarters also directed the Basij battalions, which form part of the IRGC’s armed structure.

“The headquarter was used by the IRGC to synchronize unit activities and to conduct situational assessments. It was also responsible for directing the Basij Battalions,” the statement said. “The Basij Forces are part of the IRGC’s Armed Forces and have been responsible for the execution of terror attacks for years.”

The IDF further alleged that Basij forces have played a key role in suppressing internal protests in Iran, including recent demonstrations, “with the use of severe violence, arrests, and physical force.”

“Prior to the strike, steps were taken to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions, aerial surveillance, and additional intelligence,” the statement added.

22:14

The United States is reportedly planning to announce the end of the war with Iran on April 9, allowing U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Israel to receive a national Israeli award, Ynet reports, citing an Israeli source.

“The Americans have set April 9 as the date for ending the war. Ending the war on April 9 would allow Trump to come for Israel’s Independence Day to receive the Israel Prize,” the source was quoted as saying.

20:27

Iran has carried out its 76th series of missile and drone strikes on American and Israeli military infrastructure in the Middle East.

According to Press TV, this was reported in a statement by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the elite unit of Iran’s armed forces.

The statement said the new wave of strikes targeted “military infrastructure belonging to the U.S. and Israel.”

20:10

Negotiations with the United States under the current conditions are pointless.

According to Tasnim, this was stated on social media X by Ebrahim Rezaei, a representative of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission.

“Negotiations under current circumstances are irrational. The enemy understands only the language of force and missiles,” he wrote.

19:03

Iran struck Israel’s Tel Nof Air Base and American F-35 and F-15 fighter jets at Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan, Mehr reports, citing the Iranian Army’s press service.

“The Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran, since dawn today, using drones from various regions of the country, carried out strikes on the Tel Nof Air Base of the Israeli regime, as well as on the location of American F-35 and F-15 fighter jets at Al-Azraq Air Base, employing attack drones,” the agency cited from the statement.

17:25

American and Israeli forces have struck missile storage and launch facilities in Ahvaz, Iran, Channel 12 reports.

16:35

Tehran has categorically denied holding any direct or indirect talks with Washington, describing recent claims by US President Donald Trump as part of a broader attempt to influence global energy markets and buy time for potential military operations. 

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told local media that initiatives by regional countries to reduce tensions exist, but Tehran’s response is clear: it is not the party that initiated the conflict, and all such requests should be directed to the United States.

Earlier, Trump posted on Truth Social, retracting previous threats of strikes against Iranian energy facilities, and claimed that “very good and productive conversations” had taken place with Iranian officials over the past two days. He described the discussions as extensive, constructive, and detailed, and suggested that talks would continue throughout the week.

The Iranian ministry, however, dismissed these assertions, emphasising that no communication had occurred and warning that Washington’s statements should not be taken as a reflection of Tehran’s position.

16:22

Iran has indicated that the rules governing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will not return to their pre-attack conditions, following recent strikes by the United States and Israel, despite claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that talks with Iran are underway.

The report, carried by the Iranian news agency Tasnim and citing an unnamed source, warned that “at this level of psychological warfare, neither the Strait of Hormuz will revert to its pre-war state, nor will calm return to energy markets.”

16:00

Iran has had no direct or indirect contact with the United States, an unnamed Iranian source told the Fars News Agency, dismissing recent remarks by Donald Trump about “productive negotiations” over the past two days.

The source said there had been “no communication whatsoever” with Trump, either directly or through intermediaries.

Responding to the US president’s comments, the source added that Trump had “backed down” after hearing that all power plants could become potential targets.

15:37

President Donald Trump shared an update on Truth Social, stating that the United States and Iran have had "very good and productive conversations" focused on resolving their hostilities in the Middle East.

“I am pleased to report that the United States of America, and the country of Iran, have had, over the last two days, very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East,” Trump wrote.

Trump also confirmed that, based on the constructive tone of the ongoing talks, he has ordered a temporary delay in military actions.

“Based on the tenor and tone of these in-depth, detailed, and constructive conversations, which will continue throughout the week, I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions,” he stated.

14:12

More than 120 registered cultural and historical monuments across Iran have been damaged as a result of airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel, Iranian state media reports.

Ahmad Alavi, head of the Committee for Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Tehran City Council, stated that the strikes, which began as part of what he described as a "forced invasion," have caused extensive damage to historical landmarks across the country.

Among the damaged sites are several in the capital, Tehran, including the Golestan Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

"According to the latest reports, over 120 registered historical monuments across the country have been affected, with 43 of them located in Tehran," Alavi said in a statement. "This includes the Golestan Palace, which is not only a significant cultural heritage site but also an emblem of our national identity."

The Golestan Palace, a landmark of Persian architecture, has stood for centuries and was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List due to its historical importance and stunning design.

14.04

The Royal Navy’s Type 45 Destroyer, HMS Dragon, has yet to arrive in Cyprus three weeks after the Iranian drone strike on RAF Akrotiri, despite being dispatched from Portsmouth on March 10, the Daily Mail reports.

The ship, which had been undergoing a six-week refit, was reportedly made seaworthy in just six days. However, it has not yet reached the region, leaving Cyprus to rely on French, Italian, and Greek naval forces in the interim.

Labour Housing Minister Steve Reed stated that the HMS Dragon is "on its way to the region," but offered few details on its whereabouts. The delayed deployment has raised concerns, as the UK government had not positioned a warship in the area prior to the conflict, which erupted on February 28.

In addition to the warship, the UK has stationed Typhoon fighter jets, Merlin and Wildcat helicopters, and additional personnel in Cyprus. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the deployment of HMS Dragon, equipped with the advanced Sea Viper missile system, which is designed to counter drones and missiles. The Royal Navy's nuclear-powered submarine, HMS Anson, has also arrived in the Arabian Sea, adding to the UK's military presence.

The delayed response has sparked frustration in Cyprus, with President Nikos Christodoulides indicating that a “frank discussion” with the British government would take place once the situation in the Middle East stabilizes.

13:40

In a recent briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov strongly refuted claims made by Politico that Moscow had allegedly offered Washington a deal to stop providing intelligence to Kyiv in exchange for a similar pledge regarding Tehran.

Peskov categorically dismissed the report as not just inaccurate, but “false” and “dishonest,” Tass reports.

"We have seen this report, and we can confidently say that it falls under the category of misleading, or more precisely, false information," Peskov told journalists.

13:39

Bahrain’s air defence systems intercepted two ballistic missiles and 36 drones launched from Iran on March 23, according to the Kingdom's Armed Forces Command.

"Since the beginning of this brutal aggression, 147 missiles and 282 drones targeting Bahrain have been intercepted and destroyed," the Ministry of Defence said in a statement posted on X.

On the evening of March 22, the Defence Ministry had reported the destruction of 145 missiles and 246 drones from Iran since the escalation in the Persian Gulf region.

13:30

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has extended its partial airspace closure for an additional week, now set to last until 30th March, Russian media reports citing sources within Middle Eastern air traffic control services.

The restriction, which has disrupted air travel across the region, limits flights over UAE airspace, with six designated flight routes established for arrivals and departures to local airports. These routes lead to border crossing points into the airspace of neighbouring Oman and Saudi Arabia.

In response to the ongoing closure, flight crews have been instructed to closely monitor operational updates from air traffic control authorities.

The airspace restrictions have been implemented in light of the military campaign led by US and Israel against Iran.

13:22

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has called on the United Nations to hold the United States and Israel accountable for recent military assaults on the country’s nuclear installations, urging full reparations, Fars News Agency reports.

In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General and members of the Security Council, Araghchi described the attacks on Iran’s civilian nuclear sites as “instances of war crimes and aggression against international peace,” stressing that Tehran must be fully compensated for the assaults.

The minister singled out attacks on facilities in Natanz, in central Iran, and areas near the Bushehr nuclear power plant on the Persian Gulf coast, stating they were “a violation of the UN Charter, the Statute of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and peremptory norms of international law.”

The letter follows an announcement that part of Iran’s Natanz nuclear facilities had come under attack amid an ongoing US-Israeli campaign targeting the country. The escalation comes in the wake of a 12-day conflict in June 2025, during which the two countries launched a large-scale campaign against Iran’s nuclear heartland. Despite the unprecedented nature of these attacks, the IAEA remained silent—a stance Tehran views as tacit approval for continued Western-backed operations.

Citing UN legal obligations, Araghchi stated:

“The State responsible for such internationally wrongful act is under an obligation 'to cease that act', 'to offer appropriate assurances and guarantees of non-repetition,' and 'to make full reparation for the injury caused by the internationally wrongful act' and 'to compensate for the damage caused.'”

The Iranian foreign minister also urged the Security Council to require Israel to join the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

“The UN Security Council must enforce its previous resolutions regarding the regime, and accordingly demand that the Israeli regime must renounce the possession of nuclear weapons, accede without delay to all international legally-binding instruments banning weapons of mass destruction,” Araghchi added.

12:54

Iran has issued a warning that it will mine all maritime routes in the Persian Gulf if the United States proceeds with a ground operation on Iranian territory or islands, as reported by the country's Defence Council, according to Fars News.

The Council stated, "Any attempt by the enemy to encroach on Iran's coasts or islands will result in the mining of all maritime routes and communication lines in the Persian Gulf and along the coast. This will include various types of naval mines, including floating mines, which can be deployed from the shore."

However, the Council clarified that countries not regarded as hostile to Iran would still be able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, provided they coordinate with Tehran.

The warning comes after US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to target energy infrastructure if the passage remains closed. Tehran swiftly rejected the ultimatum, reaffirming its willingness to strike US assets in the region.

12:35

Two Indian-flagged vessels, carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), have been observed navigating the Strait of Hormuz, closely following the Iranian coastline, according to recent ship-tracking data.

The vessels, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, both of which are very large gas carriers, made their way northward from the UAE coast early Monday (March 23) towards Iran's Qeshm and Larak islands,  Bloomberg reports.

The ships displayed Indian ownership signals rather than a clear destination, though analysts believe the cargo is likely en route to India, which is currently grappling with severe LPG shortages.

This marks the latest in a series of LPG shipments to India, as the country has faced growing challenges in meeting its cooking gas demand. Earlier this month, two other Indian-flagged LPG vessels followed a similar route through the vital waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil and gas shipments, has become increasingly perilous since US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran began at the end of February, which has led to heightened tensions in the region. Despite the risks, India is one of the few nations to have secured safe passage for its vessels in this increasingly volatile environment.

12:31

As the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign intensifies in Iran, it has severely impacted the country's prison system, including the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran.

This facility houses a significant number of political prisoners, including dissidents, human-rights activists, and foreign nationals, many of whom are held on espionage charges they deny, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports.

Among the detainees are several Americans, such as Kamran Hekmati and Reza Valizadeh, both wrongfully imprisoned by Iran.

Airstrikes targeting military and security infrastructure near prisons, including Evin, have caused widespread damage. Windows shattered, walls crumbled, and prisoners were forced to take shelter from explosions and toxic fallout.

The situation in these prisons is dire, with inmates enduring overcrowded conditions, limited food, and inadequate medical care. Reports suggest that the psychological toll on prisoners has increased due to the chaos of bombings, fears of being used as human shields, and growing uncertainty about their futures.

12:26

The internet connection in Iran has been almost completely cut off for over 550 hours, marking one of the most extensive internet shutdowns ever recorded globally, according to the international internet monitoring service, NetBlocks.

"It's now day 24 of Iran's internet blackout, with the measure passing 552 hours among the most severe registered in any country," the service stated.

International connectivity remains unavailable to the general public while authorities maintain a selective whitelist for global access.

The shutdown follows the military operations launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28.

11:38

A recent survey conducted by CBS News has revealed that more than half of the American public believes the ongoing military operation in Iran, led by the United States and Israel, is not going according to plan.

The poll, carried out between March 17 and 20 with over 3,300 participants, suggests that a significant portion of the population is dissatisfied with the current trajectory of the mission.

The survey found that 57% of respondents believe the operation is going "poorly" or "very poorly." Among the key reasons cited for this perception were unclear explanations from the US administration regarding the operation’s objectives, as well as concerns over the negative impact the conflict is having on the US economy.

In addition, 53% of those surveyed expressed opposition to the idea of a ground invasion of Iran, a move that has been discussed by some policymakers.

Conversely, 47% of respondents were in favour of seeking a peaceful resolution, with many advocating for a diplomatic approach and negotiations directly with the Iranian government.

10:48

Iranian missiles struck Qatar’s Pearl gas-to-liquids facility, severely damaging one of Shell Plc’s crown jewels and knocking out one of its two production lines for at least a year.

The $20 billion plant, the world’s largest gas-to-liquid operation, is a top-performing asset for the U.K. oil giant and personally tied to CEO Wael Sawan, who oversaw its planning and construction, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) writes.

The attack highlights how Western oil companies, long betting on Middle East partnerships, are now exposed to escalating geopolitical risks. Exxon Mobil, which generates roughly 20% of its oil and gas from the Middle East, faces an estimated $5 billion annual revenue loss.

Shell, TotalEnergies, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and Occidental Petroleum all hold significant stakes in the region, from Qatar’s North Field to gas fields in the UAE and off Israel’s coast.

Despite the disruption, soaring oil prices have boosted stock values. Exxon shares have climbed 5%, Shell 9%, and ConocoPhillips 12% since the conflict began. Analysts warn, however, that companies may need to rethink overseas investment strategies in light of mounting geopolitical risks.

“This has been a cash cow for U.S. international oil companies,” said Jim Krane, energy specialist at Rice University’s Baker Institute. “It’s intensely frustrating. They’re going to have to rebuild, often at insanely high expense.”

With Qatar being the world’s second-largest LNG supplier, the strike on Pearl threatens energy markets globally, especially as demand for natural gas is expected to rise even amid a global push for cleaner fuels.

The attack underscores the fragility of critical energy infrastructure in a region increasingly at the centre of international tensions, forcing oil majors to balance profits against risk in a volatile geopolitical landscape.

10:05

European leaders are increasingly worried that U.S. President Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran could distract him from supporting Ukraine in its war with Russia, Politico writes.

According to EU diplomats, there is fear that Trump might retaliate against allies who do not fully back his Middle East policies by scaling back or cutting off U.S. aid to Kyiv. European governments are thus offering limited support for U.S. actions in Iran in hopes of keeping Trump engaged in Ukraine.

“The concern is obviously that the Middle East is taking attention away from Ukraine,” added a second diplomat from a mid-sized EU country. “The Emiratis are shooting out Patriot [air defence missiles] like candies, whereas Ukraine desperately needs them. It can’t become an either-or situation” in which the U.S. only has enough bandwidth for one conflict and abandons Ukraine, one of the diplomats said.

“When you see what Trump did on Greenland, how he cut off intelligence-sharing with Ukraine on a whim, there’s always a risk [that Trump could remove U.S. support for Ukraine],” another diplomat stated.

09:49

The US Department of State has issued a new advisory urging Americans around the world, particularly in the Middle East, to exercise heightened caution due to escalating security risks.

In its warning, the department emphasised that U.S. citizens abroad should follow the guidance provided in security alerts from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Travellers are also advised to prepare for potential disruptions, as periodic airspace closures may occur.

The alert comes amid reports that U.S. diplomatic facilities have been targeted, including locations outside the Middle East. The Department of State also noted that groups supportive of Iran may attempt to target other U.S. interests overseas or sites associated with Americans globally.

09:24

The Islamic Republic of Iran could end the ongoing conflict immediately by halting its attacks, Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), has said.

Speaking in his first interview since the outbreak of hostilities with Iran International, he emphasised that the US is targeting the Iranian regime, not its people.

Admiral Cooper accused the Iranian government of putting civilians at risk by launching missiles and drones from densely populated areas, citing incidents in Bushehr, Shiraz, Bandar Abbas, Abu Musa, Konarak, Jask, and Chabahar.

He added that senior military officials are in secure shelters, while ordinary forces and civilians remain “unprotected.”

He also claimed that Iran has targeted more than 300 civilian sites and called for an immediate halt to these attacks. Admiral Cooper urged the people of Iran to follow safety warnings and stay in secure locations until the situation changes.

09:00

Iran has moved to limit its attacks on Saudi Arabia amid concerns that continued strikes could provoke a direct military response from Riyadh, The Jerusalem Post reports.

Since the start of the conflict, Iran has launched more than 430 missiles and drones toward Saudi Arabia. The majority of drone strikes have targeted the kingdom’s Eastern Province, home to key oil refining infrastructure, as well as Shaybah, a major oil field in the Empty Quarter. Missile attacks have largely been directed at Al-Kharj, located about 80 kilometres southeast of Riyadh and the site of Prince Sultan Air Base.

The scale and targeting of these strikes have raised tensions, but sources indicate that Tehran is now recalibrating its approach. Iranian officials reportedly believe that “the Saudis are on edge,” and fear that sustained large-scale attacks could trigger a significant escalation.

According to the sources, Iran is particularly wary of crossing thresholds that could prompt Saudi Arabia to abandon restraint and respond with direct strikes against Iranian territory—an outcome both sides have so far avoided.

Saudi officials have previously communicated clear red lines, including in discussions with Tehran. Chief among these is any attack on critical civilian infrastructure, specifically electricity generation and water desalination facilities, which are vital to the kingdom’s population and economic stability.

08:42

The Israel Defence Forces have announced the launch of a broad wave of strikes against infrastructure in Tehran. According to a military spokesperson, the operation is targeting sites linked to Iran’s military and strategic infrastructure.

◾️One person was injured in Abu Dhabi after debris fell following the interception of a missile. The incident occurred amid a major escalation involving drone and missile attacks. The country’s Ministry of Defence stated that its air defence systems are repelling “missile and drone attacks originating from Iran.”

◾️In Saudi Arabia, officials reported intercepting drones in eastern and northern border regions. Two ballistic missiles heading towards the capital, Riyadh, were also destroyed.

◾️Kuwait’s air defence systems have also been activated to intercept “hostile missile and drone threats,” according to the country’s armed forces.

◾️Air strikes have been recorded on Iranian territory. State media report a series of strikes in Tehran following the Israel Defence Forces’ announcement of a “broad wave of attacks” on the capital.

◾️Earlier, it was reported that one person was killed and another injured in Bandar Abbas as a result of a strike on a radio transmitter at the Persian Gulf Broadcasting Centre. The Iranian Red Crescent Society said it was responding to a strike on a residential area in Urmia in the country’s north-west.

◾️In addition, according to the Fars news agency, strikes were carried out on a residential district in the city of Khorramabad, where there are casualties and injured.

March 22, 18:43

Iran will close the Strait of Hormuz if the United States attacks Iranian power plants.

This was stated by a representative of the central headquarters of the Islamic Republic’s armed forces, “Khatam al-Anbiya.”

“However, if the United States carries out its threats against Iran’s power plants, the following retaliatory measures will be taken immediately: the Strait of Hormuz will be completely closed and will not reopen until the destroyed power plants are restored. All power plants, energy infrastructure, and information technology of the Zionist regime (referring to Israel) will be extensively targeted,” the Tasnim news agency quoted him as saying.

17:27

Iran has moved from a defensive to an offensive strategy in its confrontation with the United States and Israel, signaling a shift in its warfare tactics, senior military official Ali Abdollahi said.

The commander of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated that Iranian forces are operating at maximum effectiveness, according to foreign media. 

He said that the armed forces, with the support of young and determined scientists, are producing advanced weapons capable of disrupting the enemy’s calculations. Abdollahi added that opposing forces have already begun to recognise this shift, and emphasised that the development will continue, bringing new surprises on the battlefield.

Tehran has previously warned that it would target all US energy and information infrastructure in the Middle East if Washington and Israel carry out further strikes on Iran’s fuel and energy facilities. In addition, Tasnim, citing a source, reported that Iran is preparing an “unprecedented” response if the United States proceeds with a plan to occupy Kharg Island.

16:58

Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi reported significant damage to the country’s electricity and water facilities following strikes by the US and Israel, according to ISNA.

“Critical water and power infrastructure in Iran has suffered substantial damage as a result of terrorist attacks carried out by the US and Israel,” Aliabadi said.

He added that the attacks targeted “dozens of water supply and desalination facilities and destroyed part of strategic distribution networks.”

16:55

At least 15 people were injured during a morning rocket attack on Tel Aviv and surrounding areas from Iranian territory, the national emergency service reported.

One man was hospitalized in moderate condition, while 14 others sustained minor injuries, according to the service. All victims were taken to hospitals in Tel Aviv and nearby suburbs.

Israeli forces recorded four rocket launches toward the central part of the country from Iran in the morning hours. Air raid alerts were issued three times in Tel Aviv and its environs, with missile debris falling in various parts of the city, including the downtown area.

15:59

Iran has carried out its 74th series of missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. military infrastructure in the Middle East, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced.

The operation “was conducted against American bases in the region, in central and southern occupied Palestinian territories,” IRNA reports.

Targets included Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, as well as military bases and security centers in Tel Aviv, Petah Tikva, Holon, and Ramat Gan.

15:19

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that energy and fuel infrastructure across the region would become legitimate targets if attacks are carried out against Iran’s power plants and infrastructure.

“Immediately after strikes on our country’s power plants and infrastructure, critical infrastructure, as well as energy and fuel facilities across the region, will be considered legitimate targets,” he wrote on X.

13:47

The Iranian military has intercepted another F-15 fighter jet amid ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) reported, citing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

“Several hours ago, an enemy F-15 fighter was intercepted off the country’s southern coast near the Strait of Hormuz,” the statement said.

The report noted that the aircraft was subsequently struck by an Iranian surface-to-air missile. According to the IRGC, details regarding the fate of the fighter are still being confirmed.

12:08

The Iranian Armed Forces have announced an attack on Ben-Gurion International Airport in Israel using Arash‑2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Tasnim news agency reported, citing an official military spokesperson.

According to the spokesperson, the operation primarily employed Arash‑2 drones, an advanced version of the Kian and Arash‑1 drones. Iranian sources claim that these drones have a flight range of approximately 2,000 km.

The military official emphasised that the operation was successful.

10:37

Iran is ready to facilitate the passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, provided that it is coordinated with Iranian authorities and conducted with full respect for its sovereignty and security, Iran's Ambassador to Britain Ali Mousavi said in an interview with Xinhua.

Mousavi, who also acts as Iran's permanent representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), made the remarks in an interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 36th Extraordinary Session of the IMO Council on March 19, to discuss the situation in the Gulf region, particularly the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran, as an IMO member, is fully aware of its commitments and obligations in international shipping, the envoy said, stressing that these should be respected alongside Iran's rights, including respect for its territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and dignity.

The Strait of Hormuz is open to all the vessels except those that "belong to our enemies," the envoy said, noting that Iran remains willing to provide facilitation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, but such arrangements must be coordinated in light of security conditions.

09:58

Saudi Arabia has announced the expulsion of five Iranian diplomats in response to attacks on its territory, the kingdom’s Foreign Ministry said in a post on X on March 22.

According to the post, Iran’s military attaché, his assistant, and three other diplomatic staff must leave the country within 24 hours and have been declared persona non grata.

The ministry said the decision was made in response to “clear attacks by Iran against Saudi Arabia, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and several Arab and Islamic states.”

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry emphasised that the kingdom “unequivocally condemns Iran’s actions” and is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, territory, airspace, and the interests of its citizens.

09:54

Iran’s army has threatened to retaliate against potential US attacks on its fuel infrastructure after the US president vowed to “obliterate” power plants in the Islamic Republic if the Strait of Hormuz is not swiftly reopened.

“If Iran’s fuel and energy infrastructure is violated by the enemy, all energy, information technology and desalination infrastructure belonging to the US and the regime in the region will be targeted,” the Iranian military’s operational command Khatam Al-Anbiya said in a statement carried by Fars news agency.

The statement comes after Donald Trump gave Iran a 48-hour deadline to open the vital route in the Gulf to shipping traffic after it was effectively closed in response to the Middle East war. 

09:35

Saudi Arabia is making efforts to prevent the Shiite movement Ansar Allah (Houthis), which controls northern Yemen, from becoming involved in the conflict with Iran, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing sources.

“If the Houthis enter the conflict, it really raises the stakes,” said Adam Baron, a fellow at think tank New America who specializes in Yemen and the Gulf. “It pulls the Suez Canal and the Egyptians in, it brings Saudi further in.” 

According to the WSJ report, the U.S. and Israel are also trying to avoid actions that could provoke retaliatory responses from the Houthis.

Sources noted that Saudi Arabia has a 2022 agreement with the Houthis under which they pledged not to attack the kingdom’s territory or its ships.

09:16

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Arab countries have sent Iran a “final warning” following missile strikes on their territories, TRT Haber reported.

According to Fidan, Gulf states are questioning why Iran is carrying out attacks on their soil, stressing that they are not involved in the conflict.

He added that if the strikes continue, these countries will take retaliatory measures.

“The Arab states of the Gulf say that if the current situation with the strikes continues, they will be forced to respond. At the last meeting [in Riyadh], they issued a final warning on this matter,” Fidan said.

09:09

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to strike Iran’s power plants if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.

“If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” Trump wrote on his platform Truth Social.

The message was posted on March 21 at 23:44 GMT, giving Iran until 23:44 GMT on March 23 (03:14 Tehran time on March 24) to meet the demand.

09:00

As many as 88 people were injured in the missile strike on the Israeli city of Arad, according to Israel’s National Emergency Medical Service Magen David Adom (MDA).

No fatalities have been reported after the attack hit the city on March 21.

The number of seriously wounded has increased from seven to ten. Another 19 people are in moderate condition, while 55 have been diagnosed with minor injuries. Four individuals were hospitalised due to shock.

Search and rescue units from the Israel Defense Forces are operating at the site of the strike. Dozens of ambulances and helicopters have been deployed to evacuate the injured.

01:05

At least 30 people were injured to varying degrees after an Iranian missile fell in the area of Arad in southern Israel, the national emergency medical service has reported.

According to the Israeli public broadcaster Kan, the condition of two people is critical.

00:21

The police headquarters complex in the southern Iranian city of Shiraz was targeted in an airstrike.

According to Al Arabiya, several explosions occurred within the compound, causing significant damage to some buildings. There is currently no information on possible casualties resulting from the attack.

March 21, 23:50

Iranian armed forces reportedly launched four missile attacks on Israeli territory almost simultaneously.

According to Al Hadath, all the missiles were fired toward the southern part of the country.

23:48

The Israeli military announced that it had struck a facility located at Malek Ashtar University of Technology in Tehran. According to the Israeli side, the site was involved in the development of components for nuclear weapons.

The statement described it as a “strategic research and development facility belonging to the Iranian military industries and the ballistic missiles array.” “The ‘Malek-ashtar’ University facility was utilized by the Iranian terror regime’s military industries and ballistic missiles array to develop nuclear weapon components and weapons,” the statement said.

Iranian authorities have consistently denied the existence of any nuclear weapons programme in the Islamic Republic.

22:48

At least 39 people were injured to varying degrees in a rocket attack on the city of Dimona in southern Israel, the national emergency medical service has reported.

According to their data, among the injured is a child who is in serious condition.

Dimona is located in the Negev Desert in southern Israel and is home to a national nuclear research centre.

22:35

At least six explosions occurred in the city of Isfahan, located in central Iran, the Al Hadath news channel reports.

There is currently no information on which facilities were targeted in the air attack, the possible damage caused, or any casualties.

22:32

The Iranian navy attacked two U.S. bases in the region that are used by the United States as launch points for operations against islands in the Persian Gulf under Iranian control.

This claim was made by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC, the elite branch of the Iranian military).

“In the course of the 72nd wave of missile strikes on enemy targets, the IRGC Navy destroyed a hangar and fuel storage tanks at Al-Minhad [in the UAE] and Ali Al-Salem Air Base [in Kuwait],” the corps said in a special statement. It was noted that “a large number of ballistic missiles and drones” were used in the attacks.

According to the IRGC, “these two bases in recent days have become the launch points for aggression against Iranian islands.”

22:18

During the ongoing regional conflict, Iranian armed forces have launched over 4,900 missiles and drones at various targets in the Arab states of the Persian Gulf, and 850 missiles and drones at Israel, Al Hadath news channel has reported.

According to the channel, since the start of the escalation, “Iran has fired a total of 4,911 missiles and drones at Persian Gulf states, and 850 missiles and drones at Israeli territory.”

The channel also notes that Iranian forces launched 1,119 missiles at targets in neighbouring countries, and 300 missiles at Israeli territory.

21:39

Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mike Johnson (Republican from Louisiana), stated that the U.S. mission regarding Iran is nearly complete.

“I do think the original mission is virtually accomplished now. We were trying to take out the ballistic missiles, and their means of production, and neuter the navy, and those objectives have been met,” he told the Associated Press.

According to the congressman, the conflict is “dragging it out a little bit” because Tehran still has the ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. “As soon as we bring some calm to the situation, I think it’s all but done,” Johnson said.

21:34

An explosion occurred in the city of Dimona, Israel, where a nuclear facility is located, Tasnim agency has reported on its Telegram channel.

“According to news sources, an explosion occurred in Dimona following Iranian missile strikes on the southern part of occupied Palestine,” the report stated.

21:01

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the start of the 72nd wave of “True Promise – 4” operations, conducted against Israel and U.S. military bases in the region, the Tasnim news agency has reported.

According to the report, the new wave included strikes on northern and western parts of Israel. Additionally, “Qadr” and “Emad” missiles were fired toward the U.S. Fifth Fleet.

19:45

In Iran’s western Ilam province, 60 people have died since the start of the U.S. and Israeli operation on February 28, the local Tasnim agency reports, citing the provincial administration.

“During the U.S.-Israeli attacks, 93 facilities were hit, and 61 buildings sustained damage,” the report said.

The fatalities include civilians of all ages.

19:34

The Israeli military reported detecting another missile launch from Iran and began intercepting the rockets.

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

18:10

Since the start of the Middle East conflict, the U.S. military has struck more than 8,000 targets in Iran, including 130 ships, according to Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

“So far we have struck over 8,000 military targets, including 130 Iranian vessels constituting the largest elimination of a navy  over a three-week period since World War II,” he said in a video address published on X.

Cooper also claimed that the U.S. Air Forces maintain air superiority over Iran and have conducted more than 8,000 combat sorties.

17:28

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has said it carried out airstrikes on multiple sites in Tehran, targeting facilities linked to Iran’s ballistic missile programme.

According to the IDF statement, the strikes focused on locations used for the production and storage of missile components, including a compound associated with Iran’s Ministry of Defence responsible for missile fuel.

As part of the strike sortie, facilities utilised for the production of critical components for the development of ballistic missiles, belonging to the the Iranian regime’s security apparatus were targeted. 

The IDF stated that the operation aimed to degrade Iran’s missile development capabilities and struck several other defence-related sites in the capital.

14:22

Iran’s Tasnim news agency says a US-Israeli air attack targeted the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility this morning, Al Jazeera reports.

The report said “no leakage of radioactive materials has been reported in this complex and no danger threatens the residents of the areas surrounding this site”.

12:48

An Israeli strike on the Iranian town of Ramsar in Mazandaran Province has killed three people, including a child, according to the Iranian Tasnim news agency.

The victims were members of the same family. The strike targeted a residential building in the morning.

12:40

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has affirmed that Tehran does not seek conflict with neighbouring countries or other Islamic states.

“To Islamic countries and our dear neighbours: you are our brothers, and we have no intention of entering into conflict with you,” Pezeshkian wrote on X.

The president also suggested that Israel benefits from divisions among Middle Eastern nations.

12:29

Explosions were heard on the morning of March 21 in eastern Tehran, according to reports from Al Hadath TV.

The blasts reportedly occurred along Piruzi Street, where facilities linked to the Iranian Basij militia are located.

Witnesses described a series of loud detonations, while local authorities activated air defence systems in the area, suggesting attempts to intercept a potential missile attack.

12:10

Iranian attacks on U.S. military installations across the Middle East have caused an estimated $800 million in damage during the first two weeks of the conflict, according to a new analysis by the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) reviewed by BBC.

The strikes targeted U.S. air-defense and satellite-communication systems in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries across the Middle East. A major portion of the damage came from an attack on a U.S. radar for a THAAD missile defense system at an air base in Jordan. The AN/TPY-2 radar alone is valued at approximately $485 million. Additional damage to buildings, facilities, and other infrastructure on U.S. and allied bases is estimated at $310 million.

Satellite imagery analyzed by BBC Verify shows that at least three air bases—Ali Al-Salim in Kuwait, Al-Udeid in Qatar, and Prince Sultan in Saudi Arabia—were hit multiple times, reflecting Iran’s focus on key U.S. assets. Reports suggest that Russia has provided Tehran with intelligence on American forces in the region.

12:01

Iranian authorities have confirmed the launch of two ballistic missiles toward the joint UK-US air base on Diego Garcia Island in the Indian Ocean, Mehr reports. 

According to the source, this move is viewed as a “significant step” in the standoff with the United States.

09:08

Iran launched two ballistic missiles toward the joint UK–U.S. air base located on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, The Wall Street Journal reports.

According to the publication, the missiles did not reach their target. One fell into the sea, while the other was intercepted by a U.S. vessel using an SM-3 interceptor missile.

01:30

U.S. President Donald Trump believes that Israel will conclude its military operation against Iran when the United States is ready to take a similar step.

According to Caliber.Az, citing foreign media, he expressed this view while speaking to journalists on the South Lawn of the White House before departing for the state of Florida.

“I think so,” the president said when asked whether the Jewish state would end its military operation against the Islamic Republic once the American side is prepared to do the same. According to him, the United States and Israel “want roughly the same thing.”

March 21, 00:12

The United Kingdom has authorised the United States to use British bases to carry out strikes on Iranian facilities involved in attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the BBC, Downing Street had previously allowed US forces to use these bases to prevent Iranian missile attacks that could threaten British interests and citizens’ lives. However, at today’s ministerial meeting, approval was given to expand the use of British bases by the United States, including for the protection of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

At the same time, the United Kingdom stated that it would not directly participate in the strikes. Downing Street emphasised that the country’s core approach to the conflict remains unchanged.

A government spokesperson said ministers had authorised the use of British bases by the United States for defensive operations. These operations will target facilities used for attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Ministers also stressed the importance of immediate de-escalation and a swift resolution to the conflict.

23:38

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that Iran had carried out the 69th wave of Operation “True Promise-4” against Israel and US bases in the region.

According to Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, the targets included facilities in the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv, Acre, and Haifa, as well as military supply companies and radar systems. In addition, strikes were carried out on US bases in the region, including a hangar housing aircraft that provided refuelling support for F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

“The attack on US bases in Al-Kharj (southeast of the Saudi capital Riyadh) and the Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait using ‘Gadr’, ‘Kheibar Shekan’, ‘Zolfaghar’, and ‘Qiam’ missiles was successful.”

The IRGC also stated that drones were used in the attacks.

It is worth noting that just hours earlier, the IRGC conducted the 68th wave of Operation “True Promise-4,” targeting several US and Israeli facilities.

22:52

The amphibious ready group centred around the USS Boxer and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit is heading to the Middle East from California, the Financial Times and Newsmax report, citing a US official.

According to the official, the task force, comprising about 4,500 sailors and Marines, is currently crossing the Pacific Ocean.

It is noted that the USS Boxer may take about a month to reach the region. The ship departed San Diego Bay on Wednesday, 18 March.

The USS Boxer carries F-35B Lightning II aircraft, MV-22B Osprey, AH-1Z Viper, UH-1Y Venom, and MH-60S Seahawk helicopters.

The amphibious ready group includes three ships: the USS Boxer, the amphibious transport dock USS Portland, and the dock landing ship USS Comstock.

Upon arrival in the Middle East, this group will operate alongside the amphibious ready group led by the USS Tripoli and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, before fully replacing it in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Tripoli ARG / 31st MEU group continues its movement toward the Middle East from Japan and is expected to arrive in the region as early as next week.

22:18

Iran’s army reportedly struck 25 enemy targets in Tel Aviv and Haifa during a recent missile attack, including equipment belonging to Patriot missile system units.

According to Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, the claim was made by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the elite branch of Iran’s armed forces.

The IRGC said that during the 68th wave of attacks on Israeli territory and US bases in the region, “25 sites in Haifa and Tel Aviv were destroyed.” The statement added that, at the same time, Iran’s air force struck “a wide range of American bases in the region in an operation involving more than a dozen attack drones.”

According to the IRGC, naval units using drones and cruise missiles also targeted “six shelters housing Patriot air defence systems.” “Part of the equipment of these air defence systems was completely destroyed,” the statement said.

21:10

US President Donald Trump said that an immediate withdrawal of American forces from the conflict zone with Iran remains possible, but stressed the need for long-term containment of the adversary.

This was reported by Stephanie Ruhle, a host on MS Now, following an interview with the US leader.

“I think I could leave right now and it would take them 10 years to rebuild. But I don’t think that’s an acceptable situation,” Trump told Stephanie Ruhle, host of “The 11th Hour.” “If we stay longer, they’ll never rebuild,” Ruhle quoted the president as saying.

Trump identified preventing the adversary from acquiring nuclear weapons as the key condition for maintaining the US presence. “The major thing is that they cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Ruhle quoted the president.

19:41

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei denied that Iran was behind the attacks in Türkiye and Oman.

His statement was published by Fars News Agency on its Telegram channel.

“The terrorist acts that took place in Türkiye and Oman were not carried out by the Iranian army,” Khamenei said, adding that Iran maintains good relations with both countries.

19:32

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Mojtaba Khamenei, stated that the United States and Israel are conducting psychological operations against Iran in an attempt to undermine the country’s national unity.

His address was published by Fars News Agency on its Telegram channel.

“One of the enemy’s methods is media operations. By deliberately targeting the minds and psyche of individuals, the United States and Israel seek to undermine national unity and security,” Khamenei said.

He urged citizens of the Islamic Republic, regardless of political views or ethnic differences, to remain vigilant and not fall for the enemy’s actions.

19:19

A fragment of an Iranian missile fell in the Old City of Jerusalem, causing damage, the press service of the Israeli Foreign Ministry reports.

According to the statement, the munition landed “just a few hundred metres from the Al-Aqsa Mosque.”

“That is why access to the mosque, as well as to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall, has been closed,” the ministry said.

“A street near the Jewish Quarter was damaged. No one was injured in the incident,” a representative of Israel’s fire and rescue service told Kan.

18:43

Iran does not carry out surprise attacks against any country during negotiations, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said.

As reported by Caliber.Az, Araghchi made the statement on his account on X, commenting on remarks by US President Donald Trump.

“We are men and women of principles. Iranians do not sneak attack adversaries while engaged in dialogue,” he said, adding that any attack on Iran would be met with a decisive response.

Araghchi also said that Iran possesses intelligence indicating that Israel is planning strikes on the country’s infrastructure.

“We have intelligence on Israeli plans to strike infrastructure. Once again: ZERO restraint if our infrastructure is attacked,” he stressed.

12:06

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran’s elite military force, announced that its spokesman, General Ali Mohammad Naeini, was killed on March 20 during airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian territory.

“Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini, spokesperson for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has died,” the IRGC said.

09:37

A fire erupted at an oil refinery in Kuwait’s Al-Ahmadi port following multiple drone strikes, the Kuna news agency reports.

The facility, managed by Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, was hit in a series of attacks earlier in the morning, causing several sections to ignite.

Authorities confirmed that no casualties occurred. Emergency crews were dispatched to control the flames, and certain refinery operations have been temporarily suspended as a safety measure.

09:07

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed Iranian military forces struck the US Al-Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, according to Iranian media.

“During the 66th phase of ‘True Promise- 4’ operations against Israel and the US, we successfully hit targets in Jerusalem, Haifa, and the US base at Al-Dhafra,” the IRCG said.

Iranian armed forces reported that the strikes involved “super-heavy” Khorramshahr, Qadr, and Emad missiles.

March 20, 01:11

The United States and Israel have conducted more than 16,000 strikes on Iranian territory since the start of their military operation, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing data from US Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Israeli military.

US forces hit at least 7,800 targets and damaged or destroyed more than 120 Iranian vessels. Israel, in turn, carried out around 8,500 strikes, according to the source.

In addition, Israel struck approximately 2,000 targets in Lebanon and intercepted upward of 90% of threats directed toward its territory.

March 19, 21:40

Iran deployed its latest Nasrallah guided missiles during the 65th wave of strikes against Israel, Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reports, citing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

“For the first time, the Nasrallah system (an upgraded and guided Qadr missile) was used,” the IRGC stated.

21:01

Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that it has carried out its 65th round of missile and drone strikes against Israel and US targets, hitting key infrastructure and military facilities across the region.

Targets included oil refineries in Ashdod and Haifa in Israel, as well as US military bases at Al-Harj in Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Isa in Bahrain, and Al-Dhafra in the United Arab Emirates, Iranian media reports.

In a statement cited by Iran’s state broadcaster, the IRGC said:

"The oil refineries in Haifa and Ashdod, some of the largest refining facilities of the Zionist regime, as well as several military bases of the regime in the area, were struck with guided missiles during the 65th phase of Operation True Promise – 4."

The IRGC added:

"Medium-range Qiam and Zolfaghar missiles accurately hit US targets and interests at the Al-Harj base—the main refueling point for F-16 and F-35 fighters and AWACS reconnaissance aircraft—at Sheikh Isa, which serves as a command centre, data processing hub, and combat management facility of the US forces, and at the Al-Dhafra base."

20:49

A US F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing  at an American military base in the Middle East after being struck by Iranian fire over Iranian territory, two sources familiar with the matter said, Ynet reports.

20:47

United States Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has told lawmakers that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was badly injured in an Israeli attack.

Testifying before the United States House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Gabbard said Khamenei sustained serious injuries in the strike. She acknowledged under questioning that the new Iranian leader is considered more hardline than his slain father, Ali Khamenei, NYT reports.

However, Gabbard told lawmakers that, given the extent of his reported injuries, it remains unclear how decisions are currently being made within Iran’s leadership structure.

20:43

An Iranian missile struck the Bazan oil refinery complex in Haifa Bay, damaging parts of the facility and prompting safety checks for possible hazardous material exposure. Sirens sounded across much of Israel following the launches from Iran and additional rocket fire from Lebanon, Ynet reports.

Officials confirmed the refinery site was hit, though the full extent of the damage was not immediately clear. Plumes of smoke were seen rising from the complex after the impact. Preliminary reports suggested the missile carried a cluster warhead, scattering fragments across multiple locations in the Haifa area. Power outages were reported in parts of the city, apparently caused by damage to local infrastructure.

20:21

US President Donald Trump has said the US is not planning to put boots on the ground in Iran.

"I'm not putting troops anywhere - and if I was, I wouldn't tell you," the US president said in resoinse to a question from a reporter during a White House meeting with Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Sky News reports.

18:00

As a result of Iranian attacks on Qatar, facilities accounting for 17% of the country’s LNG export capacity were damaged.

According to QatarEnergy CEO Saad al-Kaabi, repairs will take three to five years, Reuters reports.

"I never in my wildest dreams would ⁠have thought that Qatar would be - Qatar and the region - in such an ​attack, especially from a brotherly Muslim country in the month of Ramadan, attacking us ​in this way," Kaabi said in an interview.

The damage is expected to have a significant impact on global liquefied natural gas supplies.

17:41

Hezbollah says it has fired rockets at a military base and a village in Israel, as well as attacked Israeli troops in southern Lebanon.

In posts on Telegram, the group said it had aimed for the Israeli military’s Tefen base east of Acre, and at the settlement of Even Menachem in northern Israel, Al Jazeera reports.

It said it had also fired rockets at a newly established Israeli military position in Nimr al-Jamal, opposite the border town of Alma ash-Shaab, and had attacked a group of Israeli soldiers in the Labbouneh area of southern Lebanon.

17:20

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said American forces have severely degraded Iran’s air defence systems, missile production capacity and naval assets, as Washington intensifies its military campaign against Tehran.

Speaking at a briefing, Hegseth said Iran’s defensive and industrial infrastructure had been extensively damaged in sustained strikes, foreign media reports.

“We've damaged or sunk over 120 of their Navy ships, with battle damage assessments pending for many more... Their submarines, they once had 11, are gone. Their military ports are crippled,” he said.

He added that Iranian naval forces had also suffered significant losses, with many vessels destroyed or rendered inoperable.

“Iran's air defence is flattened. Iran's defence industrial base, the factories, the production lines that feed their missile and drone programs, being overwhelmingly destroyed. We've hit hundreds of their defence industrial bases directly. Their ability to manufacture new ballistic missiles has probably taken the hardest hit of all,” Hegseth said.

16:47

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the world and US allies should be thanking President Donald Trump for the ongoing military campaign against Iran, sharply criticising European partners and segments of the American press during a Pentagon briefing.

“The world, the Middle East, our ungrateful allies in Europe, and even segments of our own press should be saying one thing to Trump: thank you,” Hegseth said, as per Clash Report.

His remarks came as he outlined the scale and trajectory of joint US-Israeli operations, which he said had struck more than 7,000 targets across Iran and its military infrastructure. Hegseth argued that despite criticism, the campaign was progressing as planned and degrading Tehran’s capabilities. To date, he said, American forces had applied what he described as overwhelming and precise force, with the largest strike package yet scheduled for later in the day.

“To date, we’ve struck over 7,000 targets across Iran and its military infrastructure. That is not incremental—that is overwhelming force applied with precision. And again today will be the largest strike package yet. Yet, just like yesterday, as I’ve said from day one, our capabilities continue to build while Iran’s continue to degrade. We’re hunting and striking—death and destruction from above,” he added.

Hegseth also accused parts of the US media of attempting to undermine the operation for political reasons.

“A dishonest and anti-Trump press will stop at nothing—we know this by now—to downplay progress, amplify every cost, and call every step into question. Sadly, TDS [Trump Derangement Syndrome] is in their DNA. They want President Trump to fail. But you, the American people, know better,” he said.

He stressed that there was no fixed timeline for ending the campaign, saying the decision would rest with the president.

“Ultimately, it will be the president’s decision when we say, ‘We’ve achieved what we need to on behalf of the American people to ensure our security.’ So, no—there is no set timeline. But we are very much on track. Absolutely,” he added.

Hegseth said several Gulf states had increased their engagement following Iranian attempts to strike civilian infrastructure, bringing them “squarely into our orbit.”

“The Gulf States have stepped up incredibly. In fact, Iran’s reckless attempt to strike civilian infrastructure and other targets has brought countries—who might not have been as fully engaged before—squarely into our orbit. We’re proud to be defending alongside them and standing with them. You name it—UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia—and others who have been right there with us. And we are grateful for that kind of support,” he said.

Hegseth added that while Iran continued to launch attacks, its operational capacity was diminishing under sustained US strikes.

Also speaking at the briefing, General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said US aircraft were flying deeper into Iranian airspace to target one-way attack systems and maritime threats in the Strait of Hormuz.

“We’re now flying further east and penetrating deeper into Iranian airspace to hunt and destroy one-way attack systems. The A-10 Warthog is now engaged across the southern flank, targeting fast attack watercraft in the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, AH-64 Apaches have joined the fight on the southern flank, continuing operations alongside allies—including missions to counter one-way attack drones,” Caine said.

16:18

“U.S. forces are destroying Iranian naval targets that threaten international shipping in and near the Strait of Hormuz,” the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) wrote on X.

U.S. forces are destroying Iranian naval targets that threaten international shipping in and near the Strait of Hormuz. pic.twitter.com/qR6FJyI5ZS

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 19, 2026

16:00

On March 19, the United Arab Emirates’ air defence systems intercepted seven ballistic missiles and 15 drones launched from Iranian territory, the UAE Ministry of Defence announced on X.

UAE air defences engage 7 ballistic missiles, 15 UAVs

The UAE air defence systems on 19th March 2026 engaged 7 ballistic missiles and 15 UAVs launched from Iran.

Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 334 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise… pic.twitter.com/2A8iqo5D3r

— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 19, 2026

“Since the start of Iran’s shameless attacks, UAE air defences have intercepted 334 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,714 drones,” the statement said.

The ministry added that the attacks have killed two military personnel and six civilians, while 158 people sustained injuries of varying severity.

15:38

Bahrain’s air defence systems intercepted and destroyed four missiles and four drones today, BNA reports, citing the General Command of the Bahrain Defence Forces.

Since the start of hostilities, 134 missiles and 238 drones targeting the kingdom’s territory have been intercepted and destroyed, the agency noted.

The General Command emphasised that using ballistic missiles and drones to strike civilian targets and private property violates international humanitarian law and the UN Charter.

14:50

“Strikes against Basij forces continue in western Iran: footage shows the elimination of a Basij fighter while on duty at a checkpoint at one of the unit’s bases,” the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reported.

“Throughout Operation Roaring Lion, the IDF has conducted a concerted effort to target Basij Force infrastructure.

Yesterday (Wednesday), the Israeli Air Force identified a Basij Force soldier guarding an entrance post to a Basij Force base in western Iran. After the identification, the Israeli Air Force struck and eliminated the soldier.

The IDF is operating with determination against the Iranian regime’s operatives, including the Basij Forces. Earlier this week (Tuesday), Basij soldiers operating at over 10 posts across Tehran were targeted,” the statement added.

הפגיעה בכוחות הבסיג׳ נמשכת גם במערב איראן: צפו בתיעוד מחיסול חייל מיחידת הבסיג' בעת ששמר בעמדת כניסה באחד מבסיסי היחידה

לאורך מבצע "שאגת הארי", צה"ל מנהל מאמץ סדור ומתמשך לפגיעה בכוחות יחידת הבסיג' ובתשתיותיו.

אתמול (ד'), חיל האוויר זיהה ותקף חייל מיחידת הבסיג' בעת שפעל בעמדת… pic.twitter.com/NSz8EBW0Db

— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) March 19, 2026

14:40

A French military base in Dubai has sustained serious damage following attacks by Iranian drones and missiles, NAYA reports.

14:37

Air defence systems in western Iran have intercepted and destroyed an Israeli tactical drone near the city of Hamadan.

The aircraft, identified as an Orbiter-5 tactical drone, was shot down west of the nearby area of Gol-Tepe, Tasnim reports. 

No further details were provided on potential damage or casualties.

14:18

On the 19th day of the conflict between Iran and Israel and the US, Iran launched a large barrage of ballistic missiles and drones in retaliation for the killing of its intelligence minister, World Insights wrote on X.

The strikes were reportedly carried out on Tel Aviv, where, according to available information, cluster munitions were used. The attacks also targeted the Jubail petrochemical complex in Saudi Arabia and the Al Hasan gas field in the UAE.

DAY 19 👇

IRAN MISSILE & DRONE LAUNCHES:

🚀 BALLISTIC MISSILES:
🔴 Day 1 — 350
🔴 Day 2 — 175
🔴 Day 3 — 120
🔴 Day 4 — 50
🔴 Day 5 — 40
🔴 Day 6 — 32
🔴 Day 7 — 28
🔴 Day 8 — 15
🔴 Day 9 — 21
🔴 Day 10 — 18
🔴 Day 11 — 24
🔴 Day 12 — 14
🔴 Day 13 — 11
🔴 Day 14 — 16
🔴 Day 15… pic.twitter.com/SALuKYU9Rb

— World Insights (@World_Insights1) March 18, 2026

13:36

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israeli Security Agency said they struck and killed Muhammad Abu Shaleh, the Military Intelligence Commander of Hamas’ Khan Yunis Brigade, in Gaza on March 18.

"Yesterday (Wednesday), the IDF and ISA struck and eliminated Muhammad Abu Shaleh, the Military Intelligence Commander of Hamas’ Khan Yunis Brigade," the IDF said in a statement. 

13:15

The Israeli military said its air force carried out strikes in the town of Tzur in southern Lebanon.

Footage showing the incident was published by the Israeli media outlet Intelli News.

12:11

The Israeli Air Force struck an Iranian military Mi-17 helicopter in western Iran, in Hamadan.

According to the IDF, on the night of March 18, an Israeli combat aircraft, acting on precise real-time intelligence, located and destroyed a Mi-17 helicopter belonging to the IRGC Air Force at Sanandaj Airport.

The Israeli military noted that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to reduce the IRGC Air Force’s military capabilities and to expand Israel’s air superiority in western Iran.

חיל האוויר השמיד מסוק מסוג "MI-17" בשדה התעופה "סנדאג'" שבהמדאן

צה"ל ממשיך להעמיק את הפגיעה ביכולות הצבאיות של חיל האוויר במשמרות המהפכה ולהרחיב את העליונות האווירית במערב איראן.

אתמול (ד'), בהכוונה מודיעינית מדויקת בזמן אמת, כלי טיס של חיל האוויר זיהה ותקף מסוק מסוג "MI-17"… pic.twitter.com/8EdjjIeYUs

— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) March 19, 2026

12:06

On the night of March 19 at 23:50, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intercepted and destroyed an Orbiter drone over Tehran, Tasnim reports, citing the IRGC press office.

It was also noted that an advanced Heron drone was intercepted over Nazarabad.

According to the press office, both drones were armed and were attempting an operation involving the launch of a cruise missile targeting Qazvin.

The interceptions and destruction were carried out by the IRGC air defence systems under the supervision of the joint national air defence network.

11:57

Explosions, air activity and security measures were reported in several parts of Iran from late Wednesday into early Thursday, according to eyewitness accounts sent to Iran International.

The southwestern city of Ahvaz, the main city in Khuzestan province, saw fighter jet activity at 5:53 a.m. followed by an explosion around 6:30 a.m. in the Golestan area.

In northern Iran, a strong blast was heard at 5:16 a.m. in Sari, the capital of Mazandaran province. The port city of Bandar Anzali was also hit by what was described as two drone attacks followed by heavy bombardment targeting naval units of the IRGC and the army. Reports said fuel storage sites were damaged and several warships were destroyed.

In central Iran, a police station in Shahin Shahr, near Isfahan, was reported hit on Wednesday evening. Separately, in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, Basij forces were reported to have set up nighttime checkpoints in an area at the city’s entrance, with armed patrols causing traffic and fear.

11:47

A fire broke out at a naval base in southern Iraq after it was hit by a drone overnight.

An Iraqi security source told Al Jazeera that a drone crashed into a water treatment station at the Umm Qasr naval base near the border with Kuwait.

مصادر أمنية: هجوم بطائرة مسيرة على قاعدة تابعة للقوات البحرية العراقية بالقرب من ميناء أم قصر ولا أنباء عن وقوع إصابات أو أضرار

تابعونا على تيلغرام: https://t.co/xx4hh8LPGe#أخبار_UTV pic.twitter.com/aaLMxUmKdV

— Utv (@UtvIraq) March 18, 2026

Footage from the scene, circulated on social media and verified by Al Jazeera, showed flames and smoke rising from the site of the drone impact.

No information on casualties has been reported.

11:41

Hezbollah says its fighters have clashed with Israeli ground troops who were attempting to advance in south Lebanon, from the town of Taybeh towards the Baydar al-Fuqani area, deploying missiles and destroying six Israeli Merkava tanks, Al Jazeera reports.

It claimed the Israeli military “brought in several helicopters to evacuate the wounded under heavy fire and smoke cover”.

Hezbollah also said it launched three separate rocket attacks on the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and targeted Israeli troops in Khirbet al-Manara, opposite the border town of Hula, and at the Misgav Am site opposite the border town of Odaisseh.

11:36

An Iraqi security source has told Al Jazeera that there’s been an attack involving two drones on a US camp near the airport in the Iraqi capital.

The report came amid several deadly attacks on sites belonging to the paramilitary Popular Mobilisation Forces. The umbrella group includes factions that are aligned with Iran.

11:13

As a result of a U.S.-Israeli strike, a residential area in the western Iranian district of Dorud was hit, Tasnim reports, citing a representative of the local security service.

According to the official, at least 12 people were killed in the attack, and 116 others were injured.

11:09

Over the past 24 hours, units of the 36th Division of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israeli Air Force carried out large-scale operations in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of more than 20 Hezbollah fighters and the destruction of dozens of the group’s facilities.

As reported by Caliber.Az, IDF spokesperson Colonel Avichay Adraee wrote this in Arabic on X.

#عاجل قوات الفرقة 36 وسلاح الجو قضت على أكثر من 20 عنصرًا إرهابيًا من حزب الله خلال الساعات الاربع والعشرين الماضية في جنوب لبنان

🔸تواصل قوات الفرقة 36 نشاطها البري المركز في جنوب لبنان حيث رصدت قوات لواء غولاني امس في حادثتين منفصلتين خلايا مسلحة تابعة لحزب الله الإرهابي. في… pic.twitter.com/P6SPXDcGcA

— افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) March 19, 2026

According to the press service, in one incident, Hezbollah members attempted to launch anti-tank missiles at Israeli forces. Five militants were killed by ground forces, and three more were struck in an airstrike.

In addition, the troops discovered and confiscated large quantities of weapons, including RPGs, anti-tank missiles, ammunition, hunting rifles, and other military equipment.

 

10:50

The Samref oil refinery in Saudi Arabia was targeted in an aerial attack.

The impact was minimal, according to Reuters, citing a source.

Samref is a joint venture between Saudi Aramco and ExxonMobil, located on the Red Sea coast in the port city of Yanbu. This port currently serves as Saudi Arabia’s sole oil export hub.

Iranian state television claimed last night that a missile strike had hit the refinery in Yanbu.

10:32

A satellite image of the fire at Dubai Airport following an Iranian attack is published by the Israeli media outlet Intelli News.

10:16

On March 19, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement containing a direct threat, urging people to stay away from energy facilities and promising to “wreak hell” with its attacks.

According to Caliber.Az, the message was posted on the IRGC’s page on X.

پیرامون #جهنم بسیار شنیده اید، ما برای شما به تصویرش می کشیم.
از تاسیسات انرژی #فاصله بگیرید…

— کانال سپاه پاسداران | پشتیبانی (@Sepah___Fa) March 19, 2026

09:55

Early in the morning, Kuwait’s National Guard shot down one drone and four unmanned aerial vehicles in areas under the responsibility of the “Duty Force” unit, the Kuwaiti agency stated in a post on X.

الحرس الوطني: إسقاط مسيرة و 4 طائرات "درون" في مواقع المسؤولية التي تتولى ( قوة الواجب ) تأمينها

أعلن المتحدث الرسمي باسم الحرس الوطني العميد د.جدعان فاضل جدعان ان ( قوة الواجب ) تمكنت فجر اليوم من إسقاط مسيرة و 4 طائرات "درون" في مواقع المسؤولية التي تتولى تأمينها.
وقال المتحدث… pic.twitter.com/Fp8FV1jdvi

— الحرس الوطني الكويتي (@kng_kw) March 19, 2026

Brigadier General Jadaan Fadhel Jadaan noted that the actions were carried out as part of ongoing measures to protect critical infrastructure and counter potential threats. He stressed that the National Guard, together with the army, police, and fire services, remains on full alert to respond to any incidents, ensuring the country’s sovereignty, security, and stability.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence announced the interception and destruction of nine drones in the Riyadh and Eastern regions. Major General Turki al-Maliki stated that four drones were destroyed in the Eastern region, while a total of five UAVs were neutralised across both regions.

المتحدث الرسمي لـ #وزارة_الدفاع: اعتراض وتدمير 5 مسيّرات في منطقتي الرياض والشرقية. pic.twitter.com/WLBdNRauJ1

— وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) March 19, 2026

09:21

Militants of the “Islamic Resistance of Iraq” carried out an attack on a U.S. military base in Jordan the previous day.

Footage of the attack was published by Tasnim, citing the organisation’s press service.

08:36

A civilian vessel was attacked off the coast of Qatar,  the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported.

“UKMTO has received a report of an incident 4 nautical miles east of Ras Laffan, Qatar. It has been reported to UKMTO that a vessel has been hit by an unknown projectile. All crew are reported safe and well. Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO while authorities continue to investigate,” the statement said.

UKMTO WARNING 025-26

Click here to read the full Warning⤵️https://t.co/DkFBhbw6sr#MaritimeSecurity #MarSec pic.twitter.com/2QPThr1pNc

— UKMTO Operations Centre (@UK_MTO) March 19, 2026

08:27

“Operation Epic Fury stands as a reminder of what the United States military uniquely delivers: the ability to project power on a global scale with speed, surprise, precision, and overwhelming force when and where our nation requires it,” U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated in a post on X.

Operation Epic Fury stands as a reminder of what the United States military uniquely delivers: the ability to project power on a global scale with speed, surprise, precision, and overwhelming force when and where our nation requires it. pic.twitter.com/RRqjK6trhs

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 18, 2026