Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Closed Only For Enemies; UK Seeks ‘Viable’ Plan to Reopen it, but Won’t be Drawn into Wider War

West Asia War Updates: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his government's decision to refrain from joining offensive military operations against Iran. Addressing the ongoing regional conflict, which has now entered its third week, Starmer emphasized that his priority remains the British national interest and the protection of UK citizens. He also noted that his political oppositions in UK would have dragged the country into war without an exit strategy.

West Asia War Updates: The Ministry of Health in Lebanon reported on Monday, March 16, 2026, that the death toll from Israeli airstrikes has risen to 886 people. This figure marks an increase from the 850 fatalities recorded as of Sunday. According to the ministry's latest daily report, the military campaign has resulted in the deaths of at least 111 children and 67 women since the current escalation began on March 2. Additionally, the number of wounded individuals has climbed to 2,141, a total that includes 332 children and 362 women.

West Asia War Updates: Iran Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that hundreds of Iranian civilians have been killed in Israel-U.S. bombings, including over 200 children. He added that as per some reports, some neighboring states which host U.S. forces are also actively encouraging this “slaughter”. 

West Asia War Updates: A fire that had broken out in a fuel tank near the Dubai International Airport has now been brought under control, officials said.

West Asia War Updates: Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters on Monday, March 16, 2026, that although some countries are actively working to mediate and host potential talks between Israel and Lebanon, Israel remains focused on a military objective. Danon stated that Israel is determined to “degrade” Hezbollah’s military capabilities before any formal negotiations can proceed. Addressing the Lebanese government directly, Danon remarked, “Our message to the Lebanese government is simple: step up. Step in.” He further criticized the Lebanese authorities, noting that since the ceasefire in November 2024, the government has not taken sufficient action to dismantle Hezbollah.

West Asia War Updates: The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Monday, March 16, 2026, officially denying that Romania is a party to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This response follows accusations from Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, who claimed that by allowing the United States to utilize Romanian airbases, the NATO nation has effectively involved itself in military aggression against Tehran.

West Asia War Updates: In a recently released statement, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, addressed inquiries from various government managers and institutional officials regarding their status following the transition of power. Khamenei announced that, for the time being, there is no requirement for these officials to renew their appointments. He instructed them to continue their duties in accordance with the established instructions and policies that were in place during the tenure of his father, the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

West Asia War Updates: Iran’s newly installed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has appointed former Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) commander Mohsen Rezaei as his military adviser. This appointment, reported by multiple news outlets on Monday, March 16, 2026, comes as Iran continues to navigate the ongoing regional conflict following the assassination of the late Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

West Asia War Updates: To manage the potential fuel crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Sri Lankan government has declared every Wednesday a public holiday. This measure, announced by the Commissioner-General of Essential Services, Prabath Chandrakeerthi, aims to conserve fuel and will apply to schools, universities, and judicial service institutions. Essential services, including health, ports, water services, and Sri Lanka Customs, will continue to function as usual.

West Asia War Updates: The 32 member countries of the International Energy Agency (IEA) could release additional oil from emergency stockpiles if market conditions require it, according to IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. This potential further action would come on top of the record 400 million barrels of oil announced last week. Birol noted on Monday that while the historic release announced last week has served as a "buffer for now" and helped restrain the sharp increase in global oil prices, the agency retains significant reserves.

West Asia War Updates: Fragments from an intercepted Iranian ballistic missile fell in several areas of Jerusalem on Monday, including near the historic Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City. According to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, the shrapnel struck the rooftop of their nearby offices, just meters from the site traditionally believed to be the location of Jesus's crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

West Asia War Updates: Financial markets showed signs of a recovery on Monday, March 16, 2026, as investors cautiously returned to equities following a tumultuous period driven by the ongoing conflict in Iran. Major U.S. indices moved higher during Monday's session. The S&P 500 rose 1% in early trading, attempting to break a three-week losing streak. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 325 points, or 0.7%, and the Nasdaq Composite climbed 1.2%.

West Asia War Updates: The Qatari Ministry of Defence announced on Monday, March 16, 2026, that the Qatar Armed Forces successfully intercepted a missile attack targeting the State of Qatar. This interception follows a series of regional escalations involving projectile and drone activity across the Gulf. Official reports confirm that the nation's air defence systems effectively neutralized the incoming threats, and authorities have stated that the security situation remains stable with no casualties or property damage reported from this specific incident.

West Asia War Updates: President Donald Trump has announced plans to hold a news conference this Monday morning. According to the president, the briefing is scheduled to take place prior to his lunch meeting with members of the Kennedy Center board.

Explosions heard in Qatar’s capital, Doha, amid attacks.

West Asia War Updates: Sirens sounded in Bahrain ahead of a potential attack, according to the country's Interior Ministry, which urged residents to head to the nearest safe place. Simultaneously, sirens were also activated in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas, warning of incoming missiles from Iran as regional tensions escalated further.

West Asia War Updates: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has confirmed that Washington is allowing Iranian oil tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz to help maintain global supplies.

"The Iranian ships have been getting out already, and we've let that happen to supply the rest of the world," Bessent said, adding that more vessels including from India and China are now passing through and traffic is expected to increase.

He also reiterated that President Trump's goal remains to degrade and destroy Iran's military capabilities, including its navy and ability to project power beyond its borders.

West Asia War Updates: The United Arab Emirates was targeted with six ballistic missiles and 21 drones launched by Iran on Monday, according to the Emirati Defence Ministry.

The attack brings the total since the war began to 304 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,627 drones.

Officials confirmed seven people have been killed in the strikes so far, including two troops.

West Asia War Updates: Iraqi Oil Minister Hayan Abdul-Ghani announced on Monday that a pipeline from Kirkuk to Turkey will be operational within a week, resuming oil exports halted after the Strait of Hormuz closure stopped shipments through Basra.

The pipeline, undergoing final testing, will bypass the Kurdish region and carry 200,000–250,000 barrels per day.

West Asia War Updates: The top U.S. commander in the Middle East says American forces are targeting Iran's ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes.

Admiral Brad Cooper of U.S. Central Command vowed on Monday to "rapidly deplete Iran's ability to threaten freedom of navigation" after Iranian strikes on vessels effectively halted traffic, driving up oil prices and increasing pressure on Washington to act.

West Asia War Updates: Italy has become the latest nation to respond cautiously to US President Donald Trump's demand that allies help secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told reporters in Brussels on Monday that while Italy supports reinforcing EU naval missions in the Red Sea, he does not believe those operations can be expanded to cover the Strait of Hormuz, noting that they are “anti-piracy and defensive missions.”

West Asia War Updates: Germany has rejected US President Donald Trump's demand that allies help secure the Strait of Hormuz, with Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stating, "This is not our war. We have not started it." 

West Asia War Updates: A vessel tracker says the first

 tanker carrying non-Iranian oil has transited through the Strait of Hormuz. The Pakistani-controlled tanker Karachi, which carries crude oil from Abu Dhabi, passed the strait on Sunday, according to data from MarineTraffic. The tanker is now sailing in the Gulf of Oman, it said.

West Asia War Updates: LPG tanker Shivalik, which crossed the strategic Strait of Hormuz, has arrived at Mundra Port, where 20,000 metric tonnes of LPG will be unloaded, and the remainder is scheduled to be unloaded at Mangalore Port.

Meanwhile, the second Indian LPG tanker, Nanda Devi, is expected to dock at Vadinar Port in Jamnagar.

Further, 2-3 tugboats have been deployed to assist Shivalik in docking. The vessel is commanded by Captain Sukhjit Singh, along with 27 crew members onboard.

West Asia War Updates: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer says Britain is working with allies on a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz but "will not be drawn into the wider war." Speaking after US President Donald Trump demanded allies send warships to secure the key oil route, Starmer indicated the UK is unlikely to deploy a vessel and is instead exploring the use of mine-hunting drones already in the region.

West Asia War Updates: Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday said that the Strait of Hormuz is "only closed to our enemies", specifically the United States, Israel, and their allies, while remaining open for others.  "From our perspective it is open," he told a press conference in Tehran, referring to those who carried out "unjust aggression" against Iran.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has clarified the United Kingdom's position regarding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, stating, “I have been attacked by some for my decision to not join offensive against Iran”, however, he made clear that "will not be drawn into the wider Iran war." 

Emphasizing a path toward peace, he added, "We will keep working towards a swift resolution," and noted, "When the fighting stops we will need some sort of negotiated agreement with Iran." Addressing the current UK military presence, he remarked, "We have 1000 of men and women in Cyprus." Regarding the ongoing Hormuz crisis, Starmer stated, "Opening it is not a simple task," and confirmed that his country is “working with allies to restore freedom of navigation in the region”.

West Asia War Updates: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has provided a series of statements regarding the ongoing regional conflict. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, he stated, "Strait of Hormuz is only closed to 'enemies and those supporting their aggression'. " On diplomatic contact, he asserted, "No messages has been exchanged with the U.S." 

Regarding conflict resolution, he remarked, “Tehran hasn't asked for a ceasefire, 'war needs to end in a way that ensures it doesn't happen again.'” In reflecting on the past year, he said, "The past year is unprecedented in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran. We have sacrificed many martyrs, the foremost of whom was the Supreme Leader, who deserved to reach this position. In this regard, it was a difficult year, but at the same time, it was full of pride, dignity, and honour. 

The Americans, who sought our unconditional surrender, are now resorting to other countries to open the Strait of Hormuz." Regarding his view on the United States, he stated, "I think the US has already learned a good lesson," and concluded on the conflict by saying, "War must end in a way that it doesn't repeat."

West Asia War Updates: Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health has confirmed that an Israeli airstrike on the southern village of Qantara has resulted in four deaths, including two children. This latest casualty report adds to the mounting humanitarian toll as Israeli military operations intensify across southern Lebanon.

Health officials have reported that Israeli forces killed 16 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip and the West Bank in one of the deadliest single-day tolls in recent weeks. The incidents occurred as Israel continues its broader military operations against targets in Lebanon and Iran.

West Asia War Updates: Excavators have begun clearing operations in the southern suburbs of Beirut as residents and cleanup crews start to address the widespread destruction left by recent Israeli airstrikes. This development follows a new wave of Israeli military activity early Monday, during which the IDF stated it was targeting Hezbollah infrastructure within the Lebanese capital. The commencement of cleanup efforts coincided with a powerful airstrike that hit the southern suburbs just moments before the military's official announcement; fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of casualties resulting from this latest strike.

West Asia War Updates: During an inter-ministerial briefing on Monday, March 16, 2026, the Indian government announced that it has prioritized LPG supplies for the hospital and education sectors to ensure essential services remain functional amid regional fuel constraints. Officials confirmed the safe passage of two Indian-flagged LPG carriers through the Strait of Hormuz, noting that the Shivalik is currently on schedule to reach an Indian port at 5:00 PM today. While these vessels have secured safe transit, the government continues to monitor the status of 22 other Indian-flagged vessels still located in the Persian Gulf, stating that it is actively working to facilitate their safe return home.

West Asia War Updates: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Monday it will be important for the U.S. and Israel to define “when they consider the military aims of their deployment to have been reached. ”Before meeting EU colleagues in Brussels, Wadephul said he told his U.S. and Israeli counterparts “we need more clarity here.”

West Asia War Updates: The United Kingdom has announced over £5 million ($6.6 million) in emergency funding to support humanitarian efforts in Lebanon. The aid is intended to provide essential supplies, including food, water, and shelter, to the hundreds of thousands of people displaced by the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.

West Asia War Updates: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported further tactical engagements in southern Lebanon as part of their ongoing effort to secure the northern border area. During recent operations, the Israeli Air Force targeted a structure identified as a hub for Hezbollah militants. Subsequent ground searches conducted on Sunday by IDF troops uncovered a significant weapons storage facility inside the area, containing dozens of rockets, various explosive devices, and small arms.

West Asia War Updates: The emergency services chief for Tehran Province has reported that more than 500 people have been killed in the region since the outbreak of hostilities between Iran and the U.S.-Israeli coalition on February 28. This figure follows two weeks of intense military activity, with officials describing the capital and its surrounding province as a primary focus of the ongoing air and missile campaign.

West Asia War Updates: The Israeli military announced on Monday that it has destroyed an estimated 70% of Iran’s missile launchers during the first two weeks of the conflict. Military spokesman Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani briefed reporters today, stating that while Iran persists in launching missiles toward Israeli territory, the frequency of these attacks has been significantly reduced due to the campaign.

West Asia War Updates: The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued a strict advisory today, March 16, 2026, reiterating its directive for all Indian nationals currently in Iran to refrain from attempting to cross any of the country’s land borders without prior and explicit coordination with the mission. The Embassy underscored that individuals who attempt to depart Iran via land routes without official guidance are highly likely to encounter severe logistical and immigration complications.

West Asia War Updates: The United Arab Emirates has suspended oil loading operations at the Port of Fujairah following a fresh drone attack that ignited a large fire in the emirate's petroleum industrial zone on Monday. This marks the second major disruption at the strategic facility in recent days. While operations had briefly resumed on Sunday following a weekend strike, the latest incident has forced authorities to halt activities again as emergency teams work to contain the blaze and assess potential damage to the infrastructure.

West Asia War Updates: European Union foreign ministers are meeting in Brussels today to debate how the bloc can help secure the vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked amid the ongoing war.

West Asia War Updates: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that Iranian forces launched a barrage of missiles toward Israel earlier today. Defensive systems are currently active to intercept the incoming threats. The IDF’s Home Front Command has issued urgent precautionary directives directly to mobile devices in the affected areas, urging residents to follow safety protocols.

West Asia War Updates: China’s Foreign Ministry has issued a renewed call for an immediate halt to all military operations in the Middle East. Beijing warned that the continued expansion of the conflict poses a severe threat to international stability and could have profound, negative consequences for the global economy.

West Asia War Updates: An Israeli ambassador has highlighted what they characterize as the surprising nature of Iran's ongoing military actions against Gulf states. During a recent briefing, the envoy noted that these attacks have backfired, resulting in significant, intensified pressure on Iran from the nations within the Gulf region.

West Asia War Updates: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a formal warning declaring that all logistical and service centers supporting the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford in the Red Sea are now considered legitimate military targets. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated on Sunday that the carrier’s presence in the Red Sea constitutes a direct threat to the Islamic Republic.

West Asia War Updates: Officials in Fujairah have confirmed that a drone strike triggered a large fire at the emirate's petroleum industries area. Emergency response teams from the Civil Defense are currently on the scene and actively working to contain the blaze. Authorities have reported no injuries and are strongly urging the public to refrain from spreading rumors, emphasizing that updates should be sought exclusively through official channels.

West Asia War Updates: Bahrain's Defence Ministry on Monday confirmed that its air defence systems responded to incoming attacks, intercepting four missiles and three drones fired during the morning.

West Asia War Updates: The Israeli ​military said on ‌Monday it had destroyed a plane used ​by Iran's late ​Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei ⁠at Tehran's Mehrabad ​airport overnight.

Senior Iranian officials and military figures used the aircraft for domestic and international travel, as well as for coordination with allied countries, according to the Israeli military.
 

West Asia War Updates: The Israeli military says it has destroyed an estimated 70% of Iran's missile launchers and knocked out 85% of its air defences during the first two weeks of the war while carrying out some 7,600 strikes, including on nuclear sites.

Military spokesman Lt Col Nadav Shoshani said Monday that Iranian missile launches have been greatly reduced, but warned the war will continue "for as long as needed" with thousands of targets still prepared to strike.
 

West Asia War Updates: According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency, an Israeli airstrike early Monday hit a home in the southern village of Kfar Sir, killing one person, and a second strike reportedly took place after paramedics from the Islamic Health Society, the health arm of Hezbollah, had arrived at the scene, killing two of the medical workers and wounding another individual. 

West Asia War Updates: Dismissing viral rumours about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's health and status, Israel's ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, confirmed that Netanyahu is "very much alive" and that recent footage of him at a cafe is authentic.

West Asia War Updates: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu brushed aside viral death rumours with a touch of humour on Sunday by sharing a video of himself casually sipping coffee at a cafe. The light-hearted clip comes amid a wave of conspiracy theories falsely claiming that Netanyahu had been killed in an airstrike amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. 

West Asia War Updates: Another Indian crude oil vessel, Jag Laadki, is being escorted by the Indian Navy out of the Gulf of Oman after operating close to a port recently attacked in the UAE.

The crude oil tanker is currently located in the Arabian Gulf, according to a live update reported just two minutes ago, and is expected to dock at its destination by 8:00 PM tomorrow.

West Asia War Updates: A fire broke out at an industrial oil facility in Fujairah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, following a drone attack on Monday, authorities confirmed.

The Fujairah Media Office stated that a drone targeted the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, sparking an "advanced" fire at the site. Officials reported no casualties in the incident.

West Asia War Updates: LPG tankers Shivalik and Nanda Devi have both entered Indian waters after passing through the Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over LPG supplies. While Shivalik is nearing Mundra Port and expected to dock shortly, Nanda Devi is currently positioned off India's west coast, according to a live update reported three minutes ago.

West Asia War Updates: Another children's school in Khomein city has been reduced to rubble in a new wave of US-Israeli airstrikes, according to the local media reports.

This would be the third attack on a school, following strikes on Shahr-e-Rey and a devastating incident on the first day of the war in Minab, where an ‘Shajareye Tayabeh' elementary girls' school was  hit, killing 165 schoolgirls.

West Asia War Updates: Crew members rescued from a Thai cargo ship that was struck and set ablaze near the Strait of Hormuz have arrived in Bangkok after being flown in from Oman. 

West Asia War Updates: A Palestinian national has been killed after a missile struck a civilian vehicle in Abu Dhabi's Al Bahyah area, authorities confirmed. In an official statement, Abu Dhabi's media office said emergency services responded to the incident, which resulted in the casualty. 
 

West Asia War Updates: The United States has reportedly carried out strikes on military facilities near the vital Chabahar port in Iran's Sistan-Balochistan province. This port, a vital hub for Iran's trade with India and Central Asia, now sits at the epicenter of rising tensions.

West Asia War Updates: The IDF has launched limited, targeted ground operations against Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon to bolster its forward defense. The operations aim to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, eliminate militants, and enhance security for residents of northern Israel.

West Asia War Updates: Saudi Arabia intercepted three drones over Riyadh and its oil-rich western region on Monday morning, the Saudi Defence Ministry confirmed, adding that no casualties or damages were reported.

The ministry further revealed that more than 60 drones had targeted the Gulf country within a few hours. 
 

West Asia War Updates: The LPG tanker Shivalik, which recently entered Indian waters, has been tracked off the country's west coast as it proceeds toward its destination. According to the latest live location update reported just three minutes ago, the vessel is currently positioned along the west coast of India and is estimated to arrive at Mundra Port by 3:00 PM IST. 

West Asia War Updates: Dubai International Airport has gradually resumed select flight operations hours after a drone strike caused disruption, United Arab Emirates officials confirmed.

According to the Dubai Media Office, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announced that flights are now operating to chosen destinations.

West Asia War Updates: Iran's exiled crown prince, Reza Pahlavi, has issued a stirring call to his "compatriots" ahead of the ancient festival of Charshanbeh Suri, accusing the Iranian leadership of attempting to suppress the national ritual.

West Asia War Updates: President Donald Trump on Monday stated that he is uncertain about pursuing a deal with Iran following recent US strikes. "I don't know if I want to make a deal," questioning the stability of Iran's leadership by adding, "Nobody even knows who you're dealing with because most of their leadership has been killed."

West Asia War Updates: Air India and Air India Express have cancelled all their flights to and from Dubai for the day following the temporary suspension of operations at Dubai International Airport. Affected passengers can either rebook to a future date or opt for a full refund at no extra cost.

West Asia War Updates: Due to the closure of Dubai International Airport, the Emirates flight operating from Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) to Dubai (DXB) has returned to Thiruvananthapuram.

The flight has landed safely, and all passengers will now be moved to the terminal building for further assistance. 

US President Donald Trump called on allies over the weekend to help secure the Strait of Hormuz as Iranian forces continue attacks on the vital waterway amid the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, now in its third week.

Trump said his administration has already contacted seven countries, but declined to identify them. In an earlier social media post, he said that he hoped China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain and others would participate.

Iran has effectively shut the Strait, a narrow passage of water between Iran and Oman, choking off a fifth of global oil supply in the biggest disruption ever.

Here are how some countries have responded to Washington's call to send ships to the region - Read

Indian-flagged LPG carrier Shivalik, carrying approximately 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG, have safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz. Chartered by the Indian Oil Corporation, they are scheduled to reach Gujarat's Mundra and Kandla ports on March 16, 2026, easing energy supply concerns. Another Indian-flagged LPG carrier Nanda Devi will also reach the coast on March 17. 

The Ministry of Defence of Saudi Arabia claimed that it has intercepted and destructed 12 drones in the eastern region.

The Dubai International Airport has announced the diversion of some flights from Dubai to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) after flights operations got temporarily suspended due to Iranian drone strikes targeting a fuel tank within the airport premises.

After an Iranian drone strike on fuel tank sparking a massive fire, the Dubai Airport has announced the temporary suspension of all flight operations effective March 16, 2026.

Emirates has issued a critical advisory urging all passengers to avoid traveling to the airport until further notice - 

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) on Sunday (local time) said it struck more than 200 targets across western and central Iran over the past day, targeting military infrastructure including missile systems, defence installations and operational headquarters.
In a post on X, the IAF said, "In the past day: The Air Force struck more than 200 targets in western and central Iran and continues to strike the ballistic missile array and defence systems of the Iranian terror regime in western and central Iran. Among the targets attacked--headquarters in which soldiers of the Iranian terror regime operated, defence systems, and sites for the production and storage of means of combat."

The Israeli military said the strikes were part of its ongoing campaign targeting Iran's ballistic missile network and air defence systems in multiple locations across the country.

In a post on X earlier, the IAF also shared footage of its stealth fighter jets heading toward Iran for the mission.

Taking to X on Monday, Foreign Minister, Islamic Republic of Iran Seyed Abbas Araghchi calls out Israel for its bombings on fuel depots in Tehran violating the international law and constitute ecocide.

“Residents face long-term damage to their health and well-being. Contamination of soil and groundwater could have generational impacts. Israel must be punished for its war crimes,” Araghchi wrote in his post.

US-Israel-Iran War: A massive fire broke out in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport on Monday after an Iranian drone targeted the area and crashed near the facility, damaging one of the airport’s fuel tanks. Dubai Civil Defense teams rushed to the scene and are currently working to control the blaze. Authorities have confirmed that no injuries have been reported so far; however, flight operations have been temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure.

Officials said that  the competent authorities are handling the incident and taking necessary safety measures in line with the highest standards. The attack marks the third confirmed drone-related incident near the world’s busiest international airport since the war began. Earlier, two drones struck near the airport on March 11, injuring four people, while another drone attack on March 1 targeted AWS data centres in the same corridor. 

In a stern diplomatic intervention, French President Emmanuel Macron dialled Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian to halt the 'unacceptable' wave of strikes carried out by Iran and its regional proxies on the other countries in the region.

"I reminded him that France is acting within a strictly defensive framework aimed at protecting its interests, its regional partners, and freedom of navigation, and that it is unacceptable for our country to be targeted," he wrote on X.

The French leader called for a comprehensive new political and security framework that prevents Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and curbs its ballistic missile programme. 

In another significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, US Central Command conducted have operated its B-1B Lancers over the Middle East in support of Operation Epic Fury. The Rockwell B-1B Lancer (BONE) is a supersonic, variable-sweep wing, heavy bomber used by the US Air Force since 1986.

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that he has demanded about seven countries send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, but his appeals have brought no commitments as oil prices soar during the Iran war.

The president declined to name the countries heavily reliant on Middle East crude that the administration is negotiating with to join a coalition to police the waterway where about one-fifth the world’s traded oil normally flows.

“I’m demanding that these countries come in and protect their own territory, because it is their own territory,” Trump said about the strait, claiming the shipping channel is not something the United States needs because of its own access to oil. Trump spoke while answering reporters’ questions as he flew back to Washington from Florida aboard Air Force One.

Trump said China gets about 90% of its oil from the strait, while the U.S. gets a minimal amount. He declined to discuss whether China will join the coalition.

“It would be nice to have other countries police that with us, and we’ll help. We’ll work with them,” Trump said. Previously, he has appealed to China, France, Japan, South Korea and Britain.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi earlier told CBS that Tehran has been “approached by a number of countries” seeking safe passage for their vessels, “and this is up to our military to decide.” He said a group of vessels from “different countries” had been allowed to pass, without providing details.

Iran has said the strait is open to all except the United States and its allies.

Araghchi added that “we don’t see any reason why we should talk with Americans” about finding a way to end the war, noting that Israel and the U.S. started the fighting with coordinated attacks on Feb. 28 during indirect U.S.-Iran talks on Iran's nuclear program. He also said Tehran had “no plan to recover” the enriched uranium that is under rubble following U.S. and Israeli attacks last year.

(AP Inputs)

West Asia War Updates: US has so far spent $12 billion on Iran war so far, White House economic chief reveals. Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, during an interview said that the most recent figure he had been briefed on was $12 billion.

West Asia War Updates: Three drones targeted Kuwait International Airport and damaged the airport’s radar system, the Kuwait Ministry of Defence stated.

West Asia War Updates: US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said that the US has specialised forces capable of dealing with weapons of mass destruction if Donald Trump decides to secure Iran’s enriched uranium.

Speaking on Fox News Sunday, Waltz said that the US has units specifically tasked with handling such weapons and those forces could be deployed if Washington determines that nuclear material must be taken from a hostile state.

West Asia War Updates: The International Energy Agency (IEA) said it will release more than 400 million barrels from its emergency reserves to ease the rising crude prices. The energy body said that stocks held by countries in Asia and Oceania will be available immediately. Reserves from Europe and the Americas will be released by March end, reports indicated .

West Asia War Updates: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a conversation with foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the UAE on developments in the West Asia conflict.

Jaishankar said that his conversation with the Saudi foreign minister centered on “ongoing developments related to the conflict in West Asia.”

On his conversation with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, Jaishankar said that they “exchanged views on various aspects of the regional situation.”

West Asia War Updates: A joint Italy-US military base in Kuwait was reportedly hit by a drone strike. No injuries were reported in the incident. The drone hit a shelter at the Ali Al Salem air base that housed a remotely piloted aircraft belonging to the Italian task force.

West Asia War Updates: The highly anticipated "Finalissima" match between South American champion Argentina and European champion Spain has been officially cancelled. The marquee showdown, which was scheduled to take place at the Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on March 27, was called off by UEFA on Sunday due to the escalating instability in the Middle East.

West Asia War Updates: The International Energy Agency (IEA) announced on Sunday that oil from a record-breaking emergency stockpile release will begin flowing to global markets immediately to counteract severe energy supply disruptions caused by the conflict in the Middle East. Following the submission of implementation plans from its 32 member countries, the Paris-based agency confirmed that stocks in Asia and Oceania are set to be released right away. Reserves held by member nations in Europe and the Americas are scheduled to become available starting at the end of March.

West Asia War Updates: The Israeli prime minister’s Facebook post on Sunday appeared to be a direct response to viral social media claims alleging he had been killed. These rumors had been fueled by earlier footage from a press conference, where some users speculated that the video was an AI-generated fabrication because his hands appeared to have more than ten fingers.

West Asia War Updates: An Israeli military source told The Associated Press on Sunday that the country has enough interceptors to continue defending its skies against missiles from Iran. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity in line with military protocol, directly contradicted reports circulating in international media—including a report by the U.S. news site Semafor—that suggested Israel had warned Washington of a "critically low" supply of ballistic missile interceptors as the war enters its third week.

West Asia War Updates: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi held a series of high-level telephone consultations on Sunday with regional leaders, including Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Jordanian King Abdullah II, and UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

West Asia War Updates: In an interview on CBS’s “Face the Nation” on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the possibility of negotiating with the United States to end the current conflict. Araghchi stated that Iranian negotiators were actively in talks with U.S. envoys when the military campaign against Iran commenced, leading the government to conclude there is “no reason why we should talk with Americans.” Expressing deep skepticism, he added that Iran has had “no good experience” in previous diplomatic engagements with the U.S.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Israel's Foreign Ministry has condemned the attack on Jewish sites in the Netherlands and Belgium, accusing the IRGC of sponsoring global terrorism. The post read, “Bomb attacks on Jewish sites in Belgium and the Netherlands. A jihadi group tied to an Iranian proxy claims responsibility. The IRGC continues to sponsor and export terror across the globe.”

West Asia War Updates: The Israeli military has confirmed it conducted an airstrike in Lebanon that killed Ibrahim Ghazali, the brother of Ayman Ghazali—the man who carried out a vehicle-ramming and shooting attack on a Michigan synagogue last week. According to the Israeli military, Ibrahim Ghazali was targeted because he managed weapons for a Hezbollah unit that had fired rockets into Israel. A Lebanese official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that Ibrahim Ghazali was killed in the March 5 strike in Mashgharah, which also claimed the lives of his brother Kassim, as well as Ibrahim's two young children, Ali and Fatima.

West Asia War Updates: State media in Turkmenistan reported Sunday that four refrigerated trucks carrying medicine, medical supplies, clothing, and food have departed the capital, Ashgabat, bound for Iran. The shipment was funded by the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. According to official state reports, the aid was sent "to the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran, primarily children, as a sign of friendly and fraternal relations."

West Asia War Updates: U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright addressed the ongoing energy market volatility during an interview on NBC’s "Meet the Press" on Sunday. He acknowledged that there has been a “short-term disruption” to the flow of energy due to the conflict, noting that "Americans are feeling it right now. Americans will feel it for a few more weeks."

West Asia War Updates: Displaced families in Beirut faced a harrowing ordeal on Sunday as a violent storm struck the capital’s waterfront area. Pouring rain and fierce winds hammered the city’s downtown, severely impacting those already forced from their homes by the ongoing regional conflict. The displaced struggled to keep their makeshift shelters intact against the relentless weather.

West Asia War Updates: During an interview on CNN Sunday, U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz declined to rule out potential American strikes against Iranian oil facilities on Kharg Island, which handles 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports. When asked if the administration was concerned that targeting such critical infrastructure might trigger further escalation in the conflict, Waltz emphasized that the White House remains focused on its strategic objectives.

West Asia War Updates: Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the world’s largest single-site aluminium smelter outside of China, announced on Sunday that it is implementing a controlled shutdown of nearly one-fifth of its production capacity. This decision comes as ongoing conflict and shipping blockades in the Strait of Hormuz prevent the company from exporting its metal and receiving necessary raw materials.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The United Arab Emirates announced on Sunday that its territory was targeted by four ballistic missiles and six drones launched from Iran. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that its air defense systems were engaged in neutralizing these incoming threats throughout the morning.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Pope Leo XIV has escalated his appeal for peace by directly addressing the leaders who launched the war. “On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East and all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict,” Leo said. “Cease fire so that avenues for dialogue may be reopened. Violence can never lead to the justice, stability, and peace that the people are waiting for.”

West Asia War LIVE Updates: South Korea’s Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday that it is "taking note" of President Donald Trump’s public calls for major oil-importing nations to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. Seoul stated that it will carefully review the situation and coordinate closely with Washington as it navigates the request.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: U.K. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband told Sky News on Sunday that Britain is in intensive discussions with allies regarding the possible deployment of minesweepers or mine-hunting drones to the Persian Gulf. The move would aim to clear the strategic waterway, allowing commercial shipping to resume normal operations.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Expectations are high that U.S. President Donald Trump could ask Japan to deploy warships to the Persian Gulf when Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi meets him this Thursday at the White House. The request follows recent calls from the U.S. administration for allies—including Japan, South Korea, and France—to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed due to the ongoing conflict with Iran.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran's Cultural Heritage Ministry reported Sunday that 56 historic sites, including museums, bazaars, and mosques, have been damaged over the last two weeks. The damage affects several high-profile landmarks, such as the Golestan Palace in Tehran. Significant impacts were also reported at the Shah Abbas Mosque and the 17th-century Chehel Sotoun palace in Isfahan.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Magen David Adom reported on Sunday that two men were lightly wounded in central Israel during a ballistic missile attack from Iran. The injuries occurred in the city of Holon, where the victims, both in their 50s, were struck by fragments.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran’s top diplomat has signaled that his country is prepared to consider any proposal that guarantees a complete end to the U.S.-Israeli conflict with the Islamic Republic. In an interview with the London-based newspaper Al-Araby al-Jadeed, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said mediation efforts by regional neighbors are underway.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Satellite imagery from Sunday shows a tanker loading oil at Kharg Island, just two days after U.S. forces targeted military facilities at the site. This activity suggests a rapid effort to resume operations despite the recent military engagement in the area. The vessel-tracking platform TankerTrackers reports that seven additional tankers are currently at the anchorage. Five of those vessels have already completed loading fuel oil, while two others are waiting to begin. Ownership of the tankers remains unconfirmed.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Bahrain reported on Sunday that its air defense systems have successfully intercepted 125 missiles and 211 drones since the onset of the conflict with Iran. The island nation, which hosts the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, continues to be a primary target in the region.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran’s Health Ministry says U.S. and Israeli strikes have killed 223 women and 202 children since the start of the war on Feb. 28, according to Mizan, the official Iranian judiciary news agency.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard vowed Sunday to hunt down Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to the state-run IRNA news agency. “If the criminal Zionist prime minister is still alive, we will continue to pursue and kill him with full force,” the IRGC said in a statement.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The IRGC said it launched 10 missiles and an unspecified number of drones at US forces stationed at the UAE’s Al Dhafra airbase, according to a statement carried by Iranian news agencies.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Israeli military says “a short while ago” its forces began “a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime in western Iran”.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian authorities have arrested at least 20 people in the country’s northwest on suspicion of cooperating with Israel, according to a report on Sunday, citing local media, more than two weeks into the Middle East war.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Thick smoke rises over Iran’s Isfahan after air attacks. There have been more raids in the central Iranian city during the early hours of this morning.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it targeted Israel and three US bases in Iraq and Kuwait.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: IndiGo and Air India announced flight disruptions to the UAE due to the West Asia crisis. IndiGo reported restrictions in Dubai, altering schedules, while Air India and Air India Express canceled numerous flights.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Tehran's IRGC executed the 51st wave of Operation True Promise 4, targeting US military installations in response to ongoing American-Israeli aggression.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi accused the US of launching HIMARS rocket attacks on Kharg and Abu Musa islands from the UAE, warning Tehran will retaliate by targeting US bases and interests.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump said he is unwilling to make a deal with Tehran at this stage despite indications the country wants negotiations. "Iran wants to make a deal, and I don't want to make it because the terms aren't good enough yet," he said, adding that any terms will have to be "very solid".

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi jabs US regional security role in the Middle East, saying it's failed and now begging others, including China, to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli Army Radio says the military has intercepted the latest missile barrage from Iran, while some of the projectiles fell in open areas.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya headquarters has accused the US and Israel of using a replica of the Iranian Shahed drone, the Lucas drone, for regional attacks and attributing these to Iranian forces.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denied reports that the French Navy is preparing to deploy 10 warships to the Middle East. In a post on X, the ministry said, “No. The aircraft carrier strike group remains in the Eastern Mediterranean. France’s posture is unchanged: Defensive, Protective”.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Dubai Media Office said authorities in the city have confirmed that sounds heard in the Marina and Al Sufouh areas were the result of “successful air defence interceptions”.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US President Donald Trump asked major global powers to deploy naval forces to protect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning that Washington will escalate military strikes along Iran’s coast if Tehran attempts to disrupt traffic.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: India has sought safe passage for 22 of its vessels stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz, a foreign affairs ministry spokesperson said on Saturday, after Iran allowed a few Indian ships to sail through, in a rare exception to the blockade.

Randhir Jaiswal told a press conference that India has stayed in touch with all major parties in the Middle East - including Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Iran, the U.S. and Israel - to convey its priorities, particularly on energy security.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: A fire has occurred in the United Arab Emirates' Fujairah emirate, a major bunkering hub, after debris fell during the interception of a drone, but no injuries were reported, the emirate's media office said on Saturday.

Civil defense forces are handling the incident to contain the fire, it added. 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The US embassy in Baghdad has been hit by an attack following strikes that killed two members of a powerful Iran-backed group in the capital, as per multiple media reports. 

However, the exact cause of the attack is still unclear.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The United States is deploying around 2,500 additional Marines and an amphibious assault ship to the Middle East nearly two weeks into the war with the Iran, an American official said, according to Associated Press.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Amid the escalating West Asia war, Iran is all set to deploy ballistic missiles and other types of missiles with greater destructive power and higher precision, a spokesperson for the country’s defence ministry said, according to Reuters.

The spokesperson said Iran plans to use a range of advanced missile systems as the conflict intensifies, signalling a potential escalation in its military response.
 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Two Indian flagged LPG carrying vessels have transited through the Strait of Hormuz and now are on their way to India with approximately 92,700 Metric Tons of LPG. 

Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Shipping Ministry on Saturday informed that the vessels Shivalik and Nanda Devi are now expected on March 16 and 17.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: United States Central Command released a video showing a large-scale precision strike carried out by US forces on Kharg Island, targeting multiple Iranian military facilities.

West Asia War LIVE Updates:  Iran's Army chief has issued a stern warning that the deaths of crew members from the IRIS Dena warship in the Indian Ocean "will not go unanswered", as reported by Al Jazeera, citing Iran's state news agency IRNA.

Paying tribute to the fallen personnel, Hatami stated, "The name of Dena and the sacrifice of its crew will remain a symbol of courage and dedication in Iran's naval history."
 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has informed the United Arab Emirates that it considers US "hideouts" to be "legitimate targets" after the US struck Iran's Kharg island, reports Al Jazeera.
 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran’s Defense Ministry spokesperson said that they will increase usage of ‘upgraded weapons’, according to state media.

He said that Iran will use “ballistic missiles and different types of missiles with greater destructive power” and greater precision.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The escalation of the Middle East conflict reached a harrowing new peak today as a US-owned oil tanker erupted in flames off the coast of Sharjah following a targeted Iranian drone strike. 

The strike occurs as the United States and Israel intensify operations against Iranian military infrastructure, and Tehran retaliates by targeting global energy supplies.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: An explosion ​damaged a Jewish school in Amsterdam ‌early on Saturday, in what the city's mayor described as "a deliberate attack against the Jewish ​community".

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian media denied U.S. President Donald Trump's claim that Kharg Island was "totally obliterated" in American airstrikes, stating that the bombing targeted military facilities and left the island's crucial oil infrastructure undamaged.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Two complete weeks have now gone by since Iran plunged into digital silence due to a government-imposed internet blackout. The public stays disconnected from the outside world with just a restricted domestic intranet after 336 hours, while state-sanctioned accounts receive whitelisted access.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: A massive fire engulfed a tanker in the Persian Gulf, with Iranian media claiming a US-owned vessel was attacked in Sharjah, UAE.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: After Iran granted Indian-flagged tankers safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israel war, the Indian-flagged LPG tanker ‘Shivalik’ has successfully crossed the Strait and the second LPG vessel, ‘Nanda Devi’, has also safely exited the key oil route.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel’s military has warned people to evacuate an industrial area west of Tabriz, a city in northwestern Iran, in a post on its Farsi-language X account. The military said all people located in the area must urgently leave for their “safety and well-being”.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Sri Lanka has repatriated the remains of 84 Iranian sailors who were killed when their frigate was sunk by a US submarine, an official said. "Human remains were sent by the Iranian embassy on Friday - all 84", a foreign ministry spokesman said. The Iranian embassy confirmed sending the remains via a chartered Turkish airliner from Mattala international airport on Friday.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The American military has ordered 2,500 Marines and an amphibious assault ship to the Middle East, a U.S. official said Friday, in a major addition of forces in the region after nearly two weeks of war with Iran.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has asserted that his organisation is prepared for a "long confrontation" with Israel, as Israeli authorities warned that Lebanon would face an "increasing price" through extensive damage to its national infrastructure, according to a report.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Iranian armed forces warned that any attack on Iran's oil infrastructure would lead to retaliation against energy facilities linked to U.S. companies in the region. This threat followed President Trump's announcement of a significant bombing raid on Iran's Kharg Island, crucial for oil exports.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian missile strikes damaged at least five KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. The aircraft were not destroyed and are under repair. No casualties have been reported.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: A drone attacked the US embassy in Baghdad, confirmed by Iraqi security officials. Smoke was observed rising from the complex. This incident followed the deaths of two Iran-backed fighters due to airstrikes in Iraq's capital.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Dubai Media Office has said that falling debris struck the facade of a building in central Dubai, after an aerial attack was “successfully” intercepted. No fire occurred and no injuries were reported, and the situation was now contained, the media office said.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US President Donald Trump said the United States carried out a major bombing raid on Iran’s Kharg Island, claiming that American forces “totally obliterated” military targets there while choosing not to destroy the island’s oil infrastructure.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: India’s two biggest carriers, Air India and Indigo, have announced that they will charge passengers additional fuel surcharge fees amid the global energy crisis sparked by the US-Israel war on Iran. In effect, Air India will hike ticket fares by up to $90 to cover this fuel cost increase. Meanwhile, Indigo, announced that it too would be raising fares by up to almost $30 to cover the increased costs of aviation fuel.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: El Al, Israel’s flag carrier said it will begin operating six special non-stop flights at “full capacity” from Tel Aviv to New York. It will contact U.S. citizens on Sunday who hold valid El Al tickets that were canceled and not yet reassigned. The flights were arranged with the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Embassy, to help Americans stuck in Israel whose return flights were canceled due to the war.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that shipping disruptions would drive up costs for food, medicine and other lifesaving supplies. Aid chief Tom Fletcher told the Security Council the disruptions are already affecting Gaza, where flour prices have surged 270%, while global shipping costs are 16% higher than a year ago.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel said that its air force struck an Iranian intelligence directorate while senior Iranian officials were present, along with other command centers and missile production and storage sites. It added that it has struck more than 7,600 sites in Iran and more than 1,100 in Lebanon.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry has released a statement claiming that more than 100 Lebanese children have been killed by Israeli airstrikes in the ongoing Iran war. It added that a total of 773 people have been killed, 62 of whom are women. The Ministry added that over 1,900 people have been wounded.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, after meeting U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, criticised Hezbollah for firing rocket into Israel. He also called for an end to Israeli airstrikes.

“Lebanon did not choose this war…There is no justification in holding an entire nation hostage," the PM said. He added that more than 500 Hezbollah military positions and weapons depots in southern Lebanon have been dismantled.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US President Donald Trump has stated that the Iran war will be over when he “feels it in his bones”. Trump added that American economy and life will “soon” bounce back to normal when the war is over, adding, “I don't think it is going to be long.”

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The US military has confirmed that all six crew members aboard the U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq are now confirmed deceased. The aircraft was lost while flying over friendly airspace on March 12 during Operation Epic Fury.

Iranian Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Friday confirmed Iran's commitment to safe passage to Indian vessels amid tensions over the reported closure of Strait of Hormuz. “Because India is our friend. You will see it within two or three hours. We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region," Fathali said.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf equated today's ‘epic’ Quds Day March with the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

In a post on X, the Speaker said, “Since this morning, and in gratitude for the national epic of Quds Day—a uprising on par with the 1979 Revolution—through the valiant struggles of Iran's devoted soldiers and the proud nation's resilient fighters, a new chapter has been written in the system of war management, the effects of which will soon become apparent.”

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that two India nationals were killed after a downed drone fell in an industrial area in the Sohar province. Of the total of 11 people injured in the incident, 10 are Indians.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: As many as 60 residents were injured and nearly 300 homes were damaged after an Iranian missile hit an Arab village in north Israel.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that an officer has been appointed to probe the airstrike on a girls' elementary school in Minab, Iran, that killed as many as 165 children.

"We'll get to the truth and we'll share it when we have it."

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Israeli military suggested Friday that the strike near a major demonstration in Iran’s capital came from its forces. An airstrike hit near the Quds, or Jerusalem, Day parade in Tehran after the Israeli military put out a warning in Farsi on X the area could be struck. The Israeli military has posted a second message in Farsi, noting the head of Iran’s judiciary was there at the time of the attack.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: A French soldier was killed in a drone attack on a Kurdish military base in Iraq's Irbil region, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to declare that "nothing could ever justify attacks against us" while vowing France would remain "reliable toward our partners" and defend its citizens and security with "composure, calm, and determination." 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says ending Iran’s nuclear weapons programme remains a “core mission” as U.S. and Israeli strikes on the country continue. 

Iran War LIVE UPDATES:  Pete Hegseth on Friday stated that America will keep bombing Iran. This comes as the Iran war entered the 14th day today, with US President Donald Trump claiming that Tehran will soon surrender.

Iran War LIVE UPDATES: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a Pentagon briefing on Friday stated that Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei “is wounded and likely disfigured”. Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen in public since his appointment to the post of Iran Supremo.

Iran War LIVE UPDATES: An explosion was captured live on TV as Iran's Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje'i was giving interview at the Quds march in Tehran.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has also joined the march. Speaking to reporters, he said, “Today is Quds Day in Iran, and despite the brutal attacks by the Zionist regime and the United States, millions of Iranians have taken to the streets in Tehran and other cities, demonstrating their strong will and determination. The enemies will be forced to acknowledge the power of the Iranian people.”

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has joined the Quads Day March and was seen enthusiastically marching on the streets of Tehran along with other top leaders.
 

The U.S. Central Command has confirmed that four of the six crew members on board the crashed KC-135 have been killed. The crash took place in Iraq. The US military said, “The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire. The identities of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.”

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian Culture Minister Reza Salehi Amiri and Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani have joined the Quads Day March in Tehran.

Minister of Communications Sattar Hashemi and Minister of Industry Mohammad Atabak are also in attendance.

Atomic Energy Chief Mohammad Eslami and Expediency Council Chairman Sadegh Larijani have also joined the march.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Several iranian officials have been spotted at a pro-establishment Quds Day rally today, including SNSC secretary Ali Larijani, Atomic energy chief Mohammad Eslami, Police chief Ahmadreza Radan and expediency council chairman sadegh larijani.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran’s Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani joins the massive International Quds Day rallies in Tehran despite heavy American-Israeli attacks on the city.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran's IGC intelligence urges citizens in Arab countries to locate 11,000 American soldiers staying in hotels and private residences across West Asia. Warns that Americans may use local citizens as human shields. Says it's an islamic duty to report the whereabouts of these soldiers.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Cybersecurity watchdog Netblocks says a near-total internet blackout in Iran is continuing for a 14th day. Connectivity to the global internet remains at 1 percent of its usual level.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Indonesia has postponed next month's D-8 summit of eight major Muslim developing nations in Jakarta due to the Middle East war, a foreign ministry official said Friday.

The D-8 grouping: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey—was founded in 1997 to boost economic cooperation across Southeast Asia and Africa.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel issued a strike warning Friday for Tehran University's Quds Day rally, urging protesters in a Farsi alert to evacuate Enghelab Street immediately, warning of imminent military operations and that “your presence puts your life at risk” hours before noon prayers at the university. 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Thousands of people across Iran participated in the annual Quds Day rallies on Friday, with state television airing footage of demonstrators chanting "Death to Israel" and "Death to America" while waving Iranian flags in support of military forces fighting against the U.S. and Israel. 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran launched multiple attacks early Friday on Gulf Arab states, including dozens of drones at Saudi Arabia, following warnings from its new supreme leader about hosting American bases. 
 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Sri Lanka's foreign ministry has announced that the remains of 84 Iranian sailors killed in a US submarine attack on March 4 was handed over to Iranian representatives for repatriation.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Thushara Rodrigo confirmed that the ministry has completed the procedures for returning the bodies of foreign nationals, specifically the crew members of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena.

They will be flown to Iran from Hambantota airport in southern Sri Lanka on Friday, he said.
 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel's military announced on Friday that it has launched a series of strikes targeting key infrastructure across Iran.

In a post on X, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) detailed the locations and objectives of the ongoing operation. 

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Oman's defence ministry has confirmed that two foreigners were killed in a drone attack in the Al-Owhi Industrial Area of the country's Sohar district. According to officials, the drone "crashed" in the area, resulting in the deaths of two residents.

West Asia War LIVE Updates:  Israel’s army says it has carried out a strike on the Zrariyeh bridge, which crosses the Litani River in southern Lebanon, It claimed Hezbollah members had used the bridge as “a central crossing” and recently positioned launchers near it.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Saudi Defence Ministry says a drone was shot down while attempting to approach the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The IAF said, "Dozens of Air Force fighter jets, guided by Military Intelligence, completed extensive strike sorties over the past day in western and central Iran, during which numerous munitions were dropped on more than 200 targets of the Iranian terror regime, including ballistic missile launchers, defence systems, and production sites for means of combat".

West Asia War LIVE Updates: U.S. President Donald Trump issued a new threat online to Iran, writing: “Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today.” In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that “Iran’s Navy is gone, their Air Force is no longer, missiles, drones and everything else are being decimated, and their leaders have been wiped from the face of the earth”.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US President Donald Trump stated he believes Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the killed Ali Khamenei, is alive but "damaged" from war injuries. Trump had earlier said he is 'disappointed' with his appointment.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that "Operation Rising Lion" strikes killed senior Iranian nuclear scientists, damaged missile stockpiles and nuclear facilities, and targeted IRGC leaders, aiming to weaken the regime amid escalating Israel-Iran war.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Trump administration reportedly underestimated Iran's potential to close the Strait of Hormuz in response to US military strikes. Sources revealed that while planning for the ongoing military operation, the Pentagon and the National Security Council did not fully anticipate that Iran would attempt to close the waterway, despite long-standing contingency plans developed by the US military for such a scenario.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Dubai Media Office has said that falling debris, after an aerial attack was “successfully” intercepted, caused “a minor incident on the facade of a building in central Dubai”. No injuries were reported in the attack, the media office said.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel’s military said it struck the Lebanese capital a short time ago in an attack targeting a Hezbollah “operative”. Areas in Beirut and other parts of the country have been under days of devastating Israeli bombing.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced its 44th wave of attacks against Israeli and US forces in the region, according to Iran’s semi-official, reports.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: A strike on a building in Israel’s Zarzir city has injured 30 people, with two seriously hurt by shrapnel and others suffering minor injuries from broken glass, according to Kan News. Six people, including two children aged 12 and 13, have been hospitalized.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The spokesperson for Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry said in the past hour that the country’s air defences have intercepted and shot down 10 drones over the eastern region of the country.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed factions, has claimed responsibility for downing a US KC-135 refuelling aircraft in western Iraq. In a statement posted to its official Telegram channel, the group asserted that its fighters targeted the aircraft with air defence systems, causing it to crash.

West Asia War LIVE Updates:  One French soldier has been killed and six others wounded after a drone strike targeted a base in northern Iraq’s Erbil region where coalition forces are stationed. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that Chief Warrant Officer Arnaud Frion died in the attack, describing him as having “died for France” during the strike in Iraq.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon, calling them a “blatant violation of international humanitarian law”. The ministry urges the international community to pressure Israel to stop these attacks and respect international laws, stating Qatar’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has been sending mobile phone alerts to people in affected areas, urging them to seek shelter immediately. They’re emphasizing the importance of following these directives to stay safe.

West Asia War LIVE Updates:  The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday (local time) confirmed the loss of a US Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft over Iraq while supporting military operations, according to an official press release.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli forces have continued to bombard southern Lebanon, killing three people in the town of Ain Ebel, Lebanon’s Public Health Ministry said, according to the country’s National News Agency (NNA).

West Asia War LIVE Updates: The Israeli military announced it conducted a new series of airstrikes in Tehran on Thursday night, persistent in its assault on Iran as the conflict reached its 13th consecutive day. "The IDF has just begun a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting infrastructure of the Iranian terror regime across Tehran," the military said.