UAE and Iran Escalate Tensions Over Missile Threats and Energy System Attacks The United Arab Emirates has confirmed its air defense systems are actively countering incoming missile and drone threats from Iran, following a series of strikes targeting Gulf infrastructure. Iran warned on Sunday that it would retaliate by attacking the energy and water systems of its neighbors in the Gulf if the United States follows through on a threat to strike Iran’s electricity grid within 48 hours. The escalating conflict, which has persisted for three weeks, has drawn international condemnation and heightened regional tensions. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a statement on social media, asserting that Tehran is not intimidated by threats and reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil exports, remains open to all vessels except those violating Iranian sovereignty. This came in response to a joint statement by 22 countries, including the UAE, which condemned Iran for closing the strait and halting fuel and gas supplies to the world. Iran dismissed the accusations, claiming the situation was “normal” in the absence of aggression from U.S. and Israeli forces, and urged the countries to pressure Israel and the U.S. to cease their actions. The UAE’s Ministry of Defense reported that its systems intercepted 25 drones and four ballistic missiles launched by Iran on Sunday. The country has been under sustained attacks since the conflict began, with reports of multiple drone and missile strikes targeting military and energy installations. The UAE’s defense forces have consistently emphasized their readiness to neutralize threats, stating that the “sounds heard across parts of the city” were the result of successful interception operations.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #united_arab_emirates #masoud_pezeshkian #gulf_cooperation_council
Sky News Halts Broadcast for Breaking News on Trump-Iran Tensions Sky News presenter Matt Barbet interrupted the channel’s regular programming to report on a breaking story involving U.S. President Donald Trump and Iran. During the interruption, Barbet addressed the camera, announcing, “Breaking news to bring you now coming out of Iran.” He then displayed a social media post from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, which criticized Trump’s recent threats. Pezeshkian’s message stated, “The illusion of erasing Iran from the map shows desperation against the will of a history-making nation. Threats and terror only strengthen our unity, the Strait of Hormuz is open to all, except those who violate our soil. We firmly confront delirious threats on the battlefield.” Barbet summarized the post, noting that it appeared to be a response to Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump’s threat, posted on his Truth Social account, warned that Iran would face “hit and obliterate” its power plants, starting with the largest one, if it did not comply. Within an hour of Trump’s statement, Iran retaliated through its state-affiliated news network Fars. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KACHQ), Iran’s highest military command, declared that if the U.S. or regional regimes attacked Iran’s energy infrastructure, all U.S. and regional energy, information technology, and desalination facilities would be targeted. KACHQ oversees joint operations between Iran’s military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The situation follows statements from G7 foreign ministers, who condemned Iran’s attacks on energy infrastructure in several Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and Iraq.#donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian #sky_news #matt_barbet
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East during a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, marking their first direct contact since the war began last month. The call followed a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passes. Modi emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy to address the crisis, while highlighting India's commitment to peace and stability. The conflict, triggered by the assassination of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, has led to widespread attacks on Israeli and U.S. military targets in the Gulf region, including Dubai and Doha. Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has been severely disrupted, with three additional vessels attacked near the United Arab Emirates and Iraq. India, the world's second-largest buyer of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), relies heavily on this route for 90% of its imports, leading to cooking gas shortages in Indian restaurants. Modi reassured the public that there was "no need to panic" and announced a government committee to address supply issues. Modi has also engaged with leaders of Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and Qatar in recent days, expressing concern over attacks on their territories and condemning violations of sovereignty. Over 1 crore Indians reside in the Gulf and West Asia, with more than 40,000 living in Israel and around 10,000 in Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that approximately 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, professionals, and pilgrims, are in Iran and receiving assistance amid safety concerns.#iran #india #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian #narendra_modi
Explosions near Tehran al-Quds Day march in solidarity with Palestinians Explosions rocked Tehran during an annual al-Quds Day rally, where thousands gathered to show support for Palestinians and protest Israeli occupation. At least one person was killed in the blasts, which occurred amid ongoing US-Israeli attacks on Iran. The incidents took place as demonstrators marched through the capital, marking the day’s commemoration of Jerusalem and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. A major explosion in Ferdowsi Square, a central location for the rally, was reported by Iranian state television. The blast occurred shortly after Israel had warned people to clear the area ahead of a planned strike. Press TV cited an airstrike as the cause, stating that a woman was killed by shrapnel. However, no further details about the attack’s origin or casualties were provided. Iran’s Health Ministry reported that over 1,444 people had been killed and 18,551 injured since February 28 due to US-Israeli attacks. Al Jazeera Arabic noted another air strike near a protest gathering in Tehran, though the exact location and casualty count remained unclear. Despite the violence, crowds turned out in Tehran and other cities, as reported by state media. Al-Quds Day, also known as “Quds Day,” is an international observance supporting Palestine and opposing Israeli occupation. The event has been held in Iran since 1979, following its declaration by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Iran’s founder. President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani attended the rally in Tehran. Larijani claimed Israel’s attacks on the day were driven by fear, while criticizing US President Donald Trump for lacking awareness of Iran’s resilience.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #tehran #ali_larijani #al_quds_day
Iran sets three conditions for talks with US as Middle East war rages on As the conflict between Iran and the United States intensifies, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has suggested that Tehran may be open to resuming negotiations with Washington, but only under specific conditions. Pezeshkian recently engaged with leaders from Russia and Pakistan, signaling that diplomatic channels could potentially reopen despite the ongoing war. According to Iranian officials, any renewed dialogue with the U.S. would require three key demands to be met: recognition of Iran’s sovereign rights, reparations for damages caused during the conflict, and assurances that future military aggression will not occur. Iranian leaders have expressed skepticism about the U.S.’s intentions, citing years of mistrust and the current war as factors that have eroded confidence in negotiations. The conflict has spread violence across the Gulf and the eastern Mediterranean, with attacks on shipping routes and critical infrastructure. A container ship near the United Arab Emirates was struck by a projectile, causing a small fire but leaving the crew unharmed. In the Strait of Hormuz, three crew members remained trapped aboard a Thai bulk carrier after it was hit, highlighting the growing risks to global shipping. Regional tensions escalated further with attacks on fuel tanks in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia intercepting drones targeting strategic areas, including one heading toward the Shaybah oil field. Kuwait also reported intercepting multiple drones. Israel claimed Iranian missiles were launched toward its territory, prompting air defense deployments. In response, Israeli forces conducted “wide-scale” strikes in Tehran and against Hezbollah positions in Beirut, resulting in casualties among displaced families sheltering in the area.#iran #united_states #brent_crude #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian
Iran War Live: Iraq Shuts Down Oil Port Operations; Israel Bombs Beirut Iraq has suspended operations at its oil ports following attacks on two foreign oil tankers, according to reports. The strikes, which targeted vessels operated by international energy companies, have prompted regional allies including Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia to intercept additional Iranian missiles and drones. The developments come amid escalating tensions in the region, with Israel conducting airstrikes in Beirut and Iran’s president outlining demands for an end to the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for three conditions to halt the war: recognition of Tehran’s “legitimate rights,” compensation for damages inflicted by Iranian actions, and international assurances against future aggression. These statements follow a series of military confrontations, including the bombing of a Beirut neighborhood by Israeli forces, which killed at least 15 people. The attack occurred days after the funeral of Father Pierre al-Rahi, a priest who died from injuries sustained during an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon. The funeral in Qlayaa drew mourners who criticized the violence, with medics and first responders confirming the priest’s death. Meanwhile, Iraq’s decision to halt oil port operations has raised concerns about the impact on regional energy supplies. Analysts suggest the move may be a strategic response to the attacks, which have disrupted critical infrastructure and heightened fears of further escalation. The conflict has seen rapid shifts in military activity, with Iran and its allies intensifying strikes against Israeli and U.S. targets, while Israel and its partners have responded with precision bombings.#iran #iraq #masoud_pezeshkian #beirut #iranian_president
Iran's new leader has never been tested. He now faces an existential battle Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has ascended to the position of Iran's third supreme leader since the 1979 revolution, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike. The new leader, who has never held a prominent public role, now faces a critical challenge as the Islamic Republic confronts a conflict that many view as its most severe in five decades. His rise to power is marked by both continuity and controversy, as he inherits a system under immense pressure from external threats and internal dissent. Khamenei's selection by the Assembly of Experts, a body of 88 Shia clerics, was celebrated by large crowds who chanted "Allahu Akbar" in the streets. Security forces pledged unwavering loyalty to the new leader, with state media depicting him as a figure of command. However, the transition has not been without resistance. Some protesters who had previously criticized his father's leadership now openly oppose Khamenei, chanting "Death to Mojtaba!" in the same streets where they once rallied against his father. The new leader's path to power is deeply personal. He lost his father, mother, wife, and son in the Israeli strike that killed Ayatollah Khamenei. The attack, which occurred during a period of heightened tensions, has left Khamenei with a profound sense of loss and a desire for retribution. His family's suffering has intensified his resolve to lead, even as he faces scrutiny from both domestic and international actors. Khamenei's leadership is also shaped by his long-standing ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful institution that has expanded its influence over Iran's security and economic systems.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #islamic_revolutionary_guard_corps #mojtaba_khamenei
Pezeshkian grilled after apologizing for ‘fire at will’ strikes on neighbors Iranian political and media figures criticized President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday after he apologized for what he described as “fire at will” attacks by Iran’s armed forces on neighboring countries. Pezeshkian announced that the temporary leadership council had ordered the military to cease targeting neighboring nations and to halt missile strikes unless an attack on Iran originated from those countries. He emphasized that the armed forces had previously operated under a “fire at will” directive but were now instructed to avoid such actions. Pezeshkian also issued a personal apology for the situation. Lawmakers and officials responded with sharp criticism, accusing the president of undermining national defense. Mohammad Manan Raeisi, a Qom representative, called the apology “humiliating” and questioned the need for the Assembly of Experts to select a new leader. He argued that Iran’s military had a justified role in striking enemy assets in neighboring countries, including those supporting adversaries. Ebrahim Azizi, head of the parliament’s national security committee, stated that all U.S. and Israeli bases in the region were “legitimate targets” in the ongoing conflict, asserting that Iran’s defense of national interests had no red lines. Media figures also expressed skepticism about Pezeshkian’s message. Ezzatollah Zarghami, a former culture minister, claimed the apology created confusion about Iran’s military conduct. He noted that neither the armed forces nor the regional conflict described by the “martyred imam” could be interpreted in multiple ways. Another critic, Nili, accused the president of showing weakness, arguing that an apology implied a mistake, which he claimed did not exist.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #mohammad_manan_raeisi #ezzatollah_zarghami #ezra_zarif
Iran President Apologizes for Strikes on Neighboring Countries, Attributes Attacks to Miscommunication Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Saturday that his government had approved a temporary suspension of attacks against neighboring countries, contingent on Iran facing an attack from those nations. The decision followed a series of strikes by Iran on regional targets, which the president described as the result of internal miscommunication rather than deliberate aggression. Pezeshkian also issued an apology for the attacks, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to halting further hostilities. The announcement came amid ongoing tensions in the region, as Iran continued its military operations in response to U.S.-backed Israeli strikes on the country. Pezeshkian’s remarks were delivered in a prerecorded address broadcast by state television, where he criticized the United States for demanding Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” calling the demand a “dream that they should take to their grave.” The president’s comments underscored Iran’s refusal to comply with U.S. demands, framing the conflict as a defensive struggle rather than an offensive campaign. The situation escalated further as U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration approved a $151 million arms sale to Israel, signaling continued support for Tel Aviv’s military actions. Trump’s stance, which included a refusal to negotiate with Iran without its “unconditional surrender,” prompted U.S. officials to warn of an impending bombing campaign, described as the most intense in the conflict’s history. Meanwhile, Iran’s UN Ambassador reiterated the country’s resolve to defend itself, stating that Tehran would “take all necessary measures” to protect its sovereignty.#united_states #israel #donald_trump #masoud_pezeshkian #iran_president
Iran War Escalates as Trump Threatens Escalation, Tehran Apologizes to Gulf Neighbors The conflict between Iran and the United States has intensified, with President Donald Trump signaling a potential escalation of military actions against Iran. In a televised address, Trump warned that Iran “will be hit very hard” this weekend, with new areas of the country under consideration for “complete destruction and certain death.” Iranian officials have responded by vowing to continue targeting U.S. assets in retaliation for attacks on their territory. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an apology to neighboring Gulf states, acknowledging that Tehran’s strikes had caused harm. However, he emphasized that Iran would continue targeting areas where U.S. attacks originate. Fresh strikes were reported in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Saturday, with sirens sounding across the region and security alerts sent to mobile phones in Doha, Qatar. Despite the apology, Iranian military officials confirmed that missile and drone attacks on U.S. and Gulf targets had resumed. The escalation coincided with the one-week anniversary of the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in strikes by the United States and Israel. Pezeshkian, a reformist leader, has repeatedly expressed regret over the country’s economic decline, the deaths of protesters during demonstrations, and government inefficiencies. In his latest statement, he defended Iran’s military actions, claiming they were necessary to “defend our homeland with dignity and strength.” However, tensions remain within Iran’s leadership, as the Revolutionary Guards have independently launched attacks, raising questions about whether the Leadership Council, which Pezeshkian now belongs to, aligns with the goals of the armed forces.#iran #united_states #donald_trump #supreme_leader_ali_khamenei #masoud_pezeshkian
Trump Labels Iran 'Loser of the Middle East' Amid Escalating Tensions US President Donald Trump on Saturday denounced Iran as the "loser of the Middle East" in a post on Truth Social, following Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s apology to neighboring countries for attacks during the ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States. Trump claimed Iran had "surrendered" to its neighbors after apologizing and promising not to launch further attacks unless provoked. The Republican leader also warned that Iran would face "very hard" retaliation, asserting that the Islamic Republic had been "beat to HELL" and was no longer the "Bully of the Middle East." In his social media post, Trump accused Iran of seeking to dominate the region and described the country as a "loser" destined to remain in that position for decades unless it "surrendered" or collapsed. He further demanded "unconditional surrender" from Iran as the only acceptable path to end hostilities, promising to assist in rebuilding the country’s economy if Tehran complied and replaced its leadership. "We will bring Iran back from the brink of destruction, making it economically bigger, better, and stronger than ever before," Trump stated. Pezeshkian, however, emphasized that Iran would not "surrender" and reiterated his government’s stance that attacks on neighboring countries would only occur if Iran itself faced aggression. In a separate statement, he apologized for past strikes but conditioned the apology on the premise that Iran’s enemies would "take their wish for the surrender of the Iranian people to their graves." The conflict has seen intensified military actions, with the US and Israel launching strikes targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, leadership, and nuclear facilities.#iran #donald_trump #masoud_pezeshkian #truth_social #us_treasury_secretary_scott_bessent
Trump takes credit for Iran's apology to neighbors; hints at targeting more leaders US President Donald Trump on Saturday claimed credit for Iran’s recent apology to its Middle Eastern neighbors, asserting that the country had been “beat to hell” by US and Israeli military actions. He warned that Iran would face “very hard” consequences, including potential “complete destruction and death,” for its “bad behaviour.” Trump suggested that Tehran’s decision to apologize and halt attacks on regional countries was a direct result of sustained pressure from the United States and Israel. The apology followed a week of intense conflict in the region, triggered by joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and destroyed multiple strategic infrastructure sites. In response, Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting US military bases, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The attacks damaged critical infrastructure and bases linked to the United States and its allies, escalating tensions across the Middle East. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that Iran had been “hit very hard” and forced to apologize after what he described as relentless attacks by the US and Israel. He claimed that Tehran’s pledge to stop targeting neighboring countries was a sign of “defeat” and called it the first time in “thousands of years” that Iran had lost to its Middle Eastern neighbors. Trump also hinted at considering new targets within Iran for “complete destruction,” suggesting that the country’s leadership had failed to assert dominance in the region. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a rare apology to Gulf states on Saturday, acknowledging the damage caused by Iran’s attacks.#iran #israel #donald_trump #supreme_leader_ali_khamenei #masoud_pezeshkian
Iran War Escalates: Trump Threatens 'Very Hard' Strikes; Iran Refuses to Surrender The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its second week with no signs of de-escalation. U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to launch "very hard" strikes against Iran, asserting that the country has effectively "surrendered" to its neighbors following statements from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Pezeshkian, however, has rejected the notion of capitulation, insisting that Iran will not yield to external pressure. The operation, referred to by U.S. Central Command as "Epic Fury," has seen coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian military and infrastructure targets. A still image released by CENTCOM, accompanied by a press statement, depicted a rocket launch from a ship, highlighting the scale of the offensive. The strikes have targeted Iranian positions in the Gulf region and Israel, with Iran retaliating by launching drones and missiles at Israeli and regional targets. Pezeshkian’s remarks, which emphasize Iran’s resolve to resist foreign aggression, have been met with Trump’s insistence that Iran has already compromised its stance. The U.S. leader claimed that Iran’s refusal to target regional countries unless attacked first signifies a form of surrender, a claim that has been widely disputed. Iranian officials have maintained that their actions are a direct response to sustained attacks, framing the conflict as a defensive measure rather than an aggressive stance. As the war intensifies, both sides continue to exchange strikes, with no immediate indication of a pause in hostilities. The situation has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation, with analysts warning of the broader implications for regional stability and international relations.#iran #donald_trump #masoud_pezeshkian #us_central_command #gulf_region
Iran to suspend strikes on neighbours unless attacks come from them Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Saturday that the country’s temporary leadership council had approved a decision to halt attacks against neighboring nations, provided those nations do not launch attacks on Iran. The statement was made amid ongoing regional tensions, as Iran continues to conduct strikes in response to U.S.-Israeli military actions targeting the Islamic Republic. The announcement emphasized that Iran’s military operations would cease unless provoked by attacks from its neighbors. This comes as the country remains engaged in a series of retaliatory strikes against perceived aggressors, including Israel and the United States. The decision reflects a strategic shift in Iran’s approach to regional conflicts, balancing deterrence with a potential de-escalation of hostilities. The move was framed as a response to the broader geopolitical context, where Iran has faced sustained pressure from Western allies and regional adversaries. The temporary leadership council’s approval of the suspension underscores internal consensus on the need to manage escalating tensions while safeguarding national interests. However, the decision does not preclude Iran from taking defensive measures if its sovereignty is threatened. The announcement coincided with reports of continued military activity in the region, highlighting the complex interplay of alliances and rivalries. Analysts suggest that Iran’s stance may aim to reduce the risk of further escalation while maintaining leverage in ongoing negotiations. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for renewed conflict depending on the actions of neighboring states and external powers.#iran #united_states #israel #masoud_pezeshkian #temporary_leadership_council
Iran’s president apologises for attacking neighbouring countries Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an apology for attacks targeting neighboring countries in a pre-recorded address broadcast on state television. The statement came amid escalating tensions in the region, as reports of explosions and military strikes continued to surface. Shortly after the apology was released, an explosion was heard over Doha, Qatar, marking another incident in a series of attacks on Gulf nations. The apology followed a wave of strikes attributed to Iran, which have intensified in recent days. These attacks have drawn widespread condemnation and raised concerns about regional stability. Pezeshkian’s remarks were part of an effort to address the fallout from the violence, though the immediate impact of his statement remains unclear. The situation has further complicated diplomatic relations in the Middle East, with neighboring countries facing both physical threats and the challenge of navigating political alliances. The explosions in Doha and other incidents highlight the ongoing volatility of the conflict, which has drawn involvement from multiple regional and global actors. As the crisis unfolds, the international community continues to monitor developments closely, with calls for de-escalation and dialogue growing louder. However, the persistence of military actions suggests that tensions are far from resolved, leaving the region in a state of heightened uncertainty.#middle_east #iran_president #masoud_pezeshkian #doha_qatar #gulf_nations
