Iran War News: Trump Says He Got 'Gift' From Iran's Speaker Ghalibaf, Hints At Kharg Seizure For Taking Oil US President Donald Trump has suggested the United States could seize Iran’s oil and Kharg Island, a critical export hub, as the Middle East conflict enters its fifth week. Speaking to the Financial Times, Trump emphasized his preference for taking control of Iran’s oil resources, drawing parallels to Washington’s actions in Venezuela earlier this year. He claimed the move would disrupt Tehran’s economy and described the operation as a potential “gift” from Iran’s leadership. Kharg Island, located 16 miles from Iran’s coast in the northern Gulf, serves as the primary outlet for 90% of Iran’s oil exports. Seizing the island, Trump argued, would allow the US to cripple Iran’s energy trade and exert significant pressure on its economy. However, experts have warned that a ground operation on the island could place US troops in extreme danger, potentially prolonging the conflict rather than resolving it. The island’s strategic location, about 300 miles northwest of the Strait of Hormuz, makes it a key target for disrupting Iran’s oil shipments. Trump also hinted at indirect negotiations between the US and Iran, facilitated by Pakistani “emissaries,” which he claimed are making progress. He set an April 6 deadline for Tehran to agree to terms to end the conflict or face strikes on its energy infrastructure. “We’ve got about 3,000 targets left, we’ve bombed 13,000 targets and another couple of thousand targets to go,” Trump stated, suggesting a potential deal could be reached quickly. The president further claimed that Iran’s speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, had authorized an increase in Pakistan-flagged oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.#donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mohammad_khamenei #kharg_island #mohammad_bagher_ghalibaf
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated there is "no intention of negotiating for now," as the U.S. claims it is "very close" to achieving its objectives in the conflict. The White House asserts that Iran's regime is seeking an "exit ramp," while Araghchi emphasizes Iran's commitment to "defending" itself. Araghchi acknowledged that "friendly countries" may have facilitated communication between the U.S. and Iran, but he dismissed these exchanges as lacking the substance of "dialogue" or "negotiation." Meanwhile, U.S. officials, including White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, have described ongoing "productive conversations" with Iran, stating the operation is "ahead of schedule." President Trump has also claimed Iran is "negotiating," though he warned that Tehran fears "being killed by their own people" or the U.S. Iran has outlined five conditions for ending the war, including a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts and reparations for damages. The country reportedly rejected a 15-point U.S. proposal but later indicated it would "take a position" if necessary. On the ground, reports describe an Iranian missile attack on an Israeli power station, with smoke rising from the site and Iranian air defense systems active in Tehran. Conflicting accounts persist regarding the status of negotiations. While the U.S. insists talks are progressing, Iran denies any willingness to engage, citing mistrust rooted in past failed attempts. Iranian officials have criticized the U.S. for "negotiating with itself," and the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has remained largely absent from public view since assuming power. The situation underscores deepening tensions, with both sides presenting starkly different narratives.#iran #mohammad_khamenei #president_trump #iranian_foreign_minister_abbas_araghchi #white_house_press_secretary_karoline_leavitt
Iran War: Trump Accuses NATO of Cowardice Over Hormuz Security US President Donald Trump criticized NATO allies for their reluctance to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, calling them "cowards" during a post on his Truth Social platform. He accused the alliance of avoiding military action to counter Iran's influence, despite the strait's critical role in global oil trade. Trump claimed that the absence of NATO support had allowed Iran to maintain control over the region, contributing to high oil prices. He argued that securing the strait was a "simple military maneuver" that would pose minimal risk to European nations. Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, addressed the nation during the Nowruz holiday, emphasizing the need for a "Resistance Economy" amid ongoing conflicts with Israel and the United States. He acknowledged the sacrifices of those killed in recent wars and framed the economic challenges as a test of national unity and security. Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, also extended condolences to the families of casualties. Israeli media reported that an Iranian missile struck an area near the Old City of Jerusalem's wall, though no injuries were confirmed. Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the death of Esmail Ahmadi, head of Iran's Basij intelligence, in a strike that also killed commander Gholam Reza Soleimani. The IDF described Ahmadi as a key figure in Iran's repressive systems. Iran's armed forces spokesperson, Abolfazl Shekarchi, warned that Tehran would target US and Israeli officials in recreational and tourist areas, stating that such zones would no longer be safe for adversaries. This follows the killing of several high-ranking Iranian officials by US and Israeli strikes, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and security chief Ali Larijani.#iran #nato #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mohammad_khamenei
Trump Says Iran Ready to Negotiate Ceasefire, But Not Ready to Make Deal President Donald Trump stated Saturday that Iran is willing to negotiate a ceasefire but that he is not prepared to finalize a deal, citing unsatisfactory terms. During a nearly 30-minute telephone interview with NBC News, Trump emphasized that while Iran has expressed interest in ending the conflict, the proposed conditions remain inadequate. He declined to specify what those terms would be, though he acknowledged that a commitment from Iran to abandon nuclear ambitions would be a key component. The president also outlined the potential trajectory of the U.S. military operation in Iran, which began last month with joint strikes by Israeli and U.S. forces. Iran has since retaliated by launching attacks on Israel and U.S. targets in neighboring countries. Trump noted that the operation has already significantly degraded Iran’s military capabilities, including its missile and drone infrastructure, and predicted that the nation’s ability to threaten the region would be “closed off relatively quickly.” He added that the strikes on Kharg Island, a strategic oil terminal, had “totally demolished” the site, though he hinted at the possibility of further attacks. In addition to addressing the conflict with Iran, Trump discussed efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil shipments. He claimed that several countries affected by Iran’s actions have pledged to collaborate with the U.S. in safeguarding the strait, though he did not name them. The president also mentioned that the U.S. Navy might escort ships through the strait, though he avoided confirming the details. Iran, meanwhile, has vowed to keep the strait closed and has called for higher oil prices amid the conflict.#iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mohammad_khamenei #kharg_island
Iran-US-Israel War: Trump Claims Iran 'About To Surrender' Amid New Leader's Vow Of Revenge US President Donald Trump told G7 leaders during a virtual meeting that Iran is "about to surrender" following military operations, including Operation Epic Fury. During the call, Trump boasted about the results of the campaign, calling it a victory against a "cancer threatening us all." He claimed Iran could not officially announce its surrender due to uncertainty about the country's leadership, stating, "Nobody knows who is the leader." G7 leaders, however, urged Trump to end the conflict and prioritize securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route. Trump acknowledged the situation was improving and suggested commercial ships would soon resume operations in the area. Yet, the same day, Iranian explosive-laden boats attacked two fuel tankers in Iraqi waters, setting them ablaze and killing one crew member. Iran showed no signs of backing down. Within 24 hours of Trump's remarks, the country's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a stark warning. In his first public statement, Khamenei declared that Iran would seek revenge for US-Israeli strikes, stating, "Every citizen killed by the enemy is a case for vengeance in itself." He also vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed as leverage against the US and warned that attacks on Middle East neighbors would continue. Trump criticized Khamenei, mocking him as a "lightweight" and calling him "unacceptable" to the US. He argued that appointing someone to continue Khamenei's policies would force the US into another war within five years. Trump had previously insisted the US should have a role in selecting Iran's next leader, drawing parallels to past US involvement in Venezuela.#iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mohammad_khamenei #g7
Iran War: Escalating Conflict and Regional Fallout on Day 14 Heavy Israeli strikes have intensified in Tehran, Iran, as the conflict with the US and Israel spreads across the Gulf, disrupting critical oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and driving global oil prices to record highs. The situation has also sparked growing political pressure in Washington, with domestic opposition mounting over the escalating military engagement. Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a stark warning, vowing to continue attacks on Israel and US military infrastructure in the Middle East unless bases hosting US forces are closed. Israeli air strikes have targeted Tehran, leaving the city shrouded in smoke, while Iran claims civilian casualties have surged, with at least 1,348 deaths reported, including children and elderly individuals. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil exports, has been effectively closed, with Iranian authorities asserting control over the route. This has led to a sharp spike in Brent crude oil prices, surpassing $100 per barrel. The strait, shared between Iran and Oman, is the sole passage for Gulf oil and gas producers, and Iran has barred US and Israeli-linked vessels from using it, requiring permission for others to transit. Regional tensions have escalated as Iran launches drone and missile attacks on Gulf states hosting US military assets. Bahrain has intercepted 114 missiles and 190 drones since the conflict began on February 28, while Saudi Arabia has downed 28 drones after intercepting 10. The UAE has condemned Iranian strikes, reporting attacks on Dubai International Airport and hotels. Australia has ordered non-essential officials to leave the UAE and Israel, urging citizens to evacuate the Middle East.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #bahrain #saudi_arabia #mohammad_khamenei
Gold, Silver Prices Rise Amid War Uncertainty: Check Rates In Your City On March 13 Gold and silver prices surged on Friday amid heightened global uncertainty, driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and rising crude oil prices. The conflict in the region has kept demand for safe-haven assets like gold and silver elevated, while geopolitical risks and inflation concerns have kept investors cautious. In international markets, gold prices edged higher as the US dollar weakened and Treasury yields declined, with spot gold trading around $5,118.75 per ounce. Silver also gained, rising about 1.4% to $84.96 per ounce, while platinum and palladium saw modest increases. However, bullion markets remain volatile, with expectations of a weekly decline due to persistent inflation fears and uncertainty over US interest rate policy. Domestically, gold prices in India remained sensitive to global trends, currency fluctuations, and local demand. On March 13, 24-carat gold was priced at Rs 16,221 per gram, while 22-carat gold traded near Rs 14,869 per gram. In the domestic commodities market, MCX gold futures dipped 0.27% to Rs 1.59 lakh per 10 grams, and MCX silver futures fell 0.71% to Rs 2.66 lakh per kilogram. Silver prices in India also declined slightly, with one kilogram of the metal trading at Rs 2,79,900. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, has kept oil prices above $100 per barrel, further fueling inflation worries and dampening hopes for near-term US interest rate cuts. The war in the region has become a key driver of commodity markets, with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, warning of potential disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz if attacks by the US and Israel continue.#iran #middle_east #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mohammad_khamenei
Iran Threatens Energy Infrastructure as Middle East Conflict Roils Global Economy Iranian state media released the first public message attributed to the country’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who called for the Strait of Hormuz to remain closed as a tool of pressure amid escalating tensions. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that it would set the region’s oil and gas infrastructure on fire if Iranian energy sites were attacked, intensifying fears of a global oil crisis. Oil prices surged as the threat loomed, with analysts warning of historic disruptions to the market. The conflict, which began with a U.S.-Israel attack on Iran on February 28, has seen Iran retaliate with missile and drone strikes against Israel and U.S. allies. Khamenei’s purported statement emphasized the need to keep the vital Strait of Hormuz closed, a move that could further destabilize global energy markets. Meanwhile, the Iranian ambassador to the UN denied claims that the waterway would remain blocked, creating confusion about Iran’s strategic intentions. In Lebanon, Israel expanded its operations against Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed paramilitary group, with fresh strikes hitting Beirut’s suburbs. Hezbollah responded by firing rockets that damaged homes in central Israel, escalating the conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Khamenei not to appear publicly, hours after Tehran released his first statement. The U.S. military confirmed that a refueling aircraft, a KC-135 Stratotanker, crashed in western Iraq on Thursday. The incident occurred during Operation Epic Fury, the Pentagon’s designation for U.S. operations against Iran. The military stated the crash was not due to hostile or friendly fire, though details about casualties remained unclear.#iran #israel #strait_of_hormuz #hezbollah #mohammad_khamenei
Did Israel Attack North Korea Embassy? Fact-Checking Viral Claim About Missile Strike Amid Iran War A viral claim circulating on social media alleged that Israel had launched a missile strike against the North Korean embassy in Tehran, Iran. The claim was accompanied by an attributed statement from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, reportedly condemning the attack as a "huge mistake." However, multiple fact-checking efforts have found no credible evidence to support the assertion that Israel targeted the embassy or that Kim Jong Un made such a statement. The rumors emerged amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where Israel and the United States have been engaged in a conflict with Iran. The situation escalated after joint Israeli and U.S. strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, leading to retaliatory attacks on energy infrastructure and other targets. Despite the ongoing hostilities, there are no verified reports of the North Korean embassy in Tehran being struck. Fact-checkers, including Grok, have analyzed the social media claims and concluded they are unverified. The AI chatbot noted that while the rumor suggested Israel damaged the embassy, no major news outlets such as Reuters, NK News, or KCNA confirmed the incident. Additionally, North Korea’s official statements have not specifically referenced the embassy being attacked. Instead, the country has condemned U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran as "illegal aggression" and expressed support for Iran’s new leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. North Korea’s foreign ministry spokesperson reiterated its stance, stating, “We express grave concern and strongly condemn the aggression of the United States and Israel, which, by launching an unlawful military attack against Iran, are undermining the foundations of regional peace and security.#tehran #mohammad_khamenei #ayatollah_khamenei #kim_jong_un #north_korea_embassy
Strategic Blunder: On the U.S., the Iran War The U.S. must pull back instead of tailing Israel in this reckless war. Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli strike on February 28, Iran elevated his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader. This decision signaled defiance and continuity, as the 57-year-old ayatollah, who lost other family members in the attack, was chosen by Iran’s Assembly of Experts. Mojtaba Khamenei, a veteran of the Iran-Iraq war and a key figure in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has maintained strong ties to the clerical establishment. His elevation underscored Iran’s resolve to resist foreign aggression, despite the ongoing conflict. The U.S. and Israel’s initial belief that the strike would destabilize Iran proved incorrect, as all branches of the Iranian state rallied behind the military and clergy. The war has since expanded, with Iran targeting U.S. bases and energy infrastructure in the Persian Gulf, as well as Israel. The new leadership in Tehran has reinforced the country’s determination to endure the conflict. The war was a wholly unnecessary escalation. Israel and the U.S. launched attacks on Iran shortly after Oman, which had mediated talks between Tehran and Washington, indicated a potential nuclear deal was within reach. President Donald Trump’s objectives shifted rapidly during the conflict. On the first day, he declared the overthrow of the Iranian state as his goal. By the fifth day, he expressed interest in selecting Iran’s new leader. By the eleventh day, he claimed the war was already won and that it would end “soon,” despite Iranian missiles continuing to strike Israel and U.S. bases. The U.S.#iran #israel #iranian_revolutionary_guard_corps #mohammad_khamenei #iranian_assembly_of_experts
US-Israel-Iran War Escalates as Iran Targets Gulf States and Oil Infrastructure The Middle East conflict, which began on February 28 with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, entered its 11th day on Tuesday. The US Central Command reported that over 5,000 targets had been struck in Iran, with more than 50 Iranian ships damaged or destroyed. The military also disclosed the deployment of assets, including Tomahawk missiles, which are among the most powerful weapons in the US arsenal. President Donald Trump mentioned the Tomahawk’s use, noting that Iran may also possess some of the weapons, though details remain under investigation. The controversy centers on an explosion that hit an elementary school in Minab, southern Iran, on February 28, the first day of the conflict. Iranian authorities claim the attack killed over 150 people, many children, and blame the US and Israel. Washington has denied the accusations, stating the incident is under review. Footage reportedly shows smoke rising from the school area shortly after explosions near a nearby military facility. Iran has retaliated by targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting US bases, as well as civilian infrastructure. On Saturday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized and stated Iran would only target Gulf countries if attacked first. Meanwhile, Iran named Mojtaba Khameini, son of late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the new supreme leader. Khameini was killed in a US-Israeli strike on his Tehran residence, along with several family members of Khamenei. Pakistan has launched naval operations to protect its maritime trade amid regional tensions. The navy is escorting merchant vessels to ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies, as 90% of Pakistan’s trade relies on sea routes. The country recently raised fuel prices by 20%, causing long lines at petrol stations.#us #iran #israel #mohammad_khamenei #minab
Market Volatility and Global Tensions Shape Early Trading Outlook Stock futures are declining ahead of Monday’s market open, following a turbulent week on Wall Street. The downturn comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions and shifting economic dynamics, with investors closely monitoring key developments that could influence market sentiment. Here are five critical factors shaping the trading environment: Oil Prices Surge Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty U.S. crude futures reached above $100 per barrel for the first time since late 2022, driven by a combination of geopolitical tensions and supply constraints. The U.S.-Iran conflict has intensified, with Iran vowing to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated that resolving the situation could stabilize prices, but President Donald Trump defended the recent spike, calling it a “small price to pay.” The sharp rise in oil prices has rattled equity markets, contributing to the Dow Jones’ worst weekly performance in nearly a year. Meanwhile, Iran announced the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of its former Supreme Leader, as its new leader, further escalating regional tensions. Affordability Concerns Intensify Amid War Costs The U.S.-Iran conflict has heightened concerns about rising living costs, particularly for everyday consumers. Democrats are framing the war as a catalyst for inflation, citing surging gas prices, while some Republicans argue the conflict is short-lived and unlikely to cause significant economic harm. The timing of the latest negative jobs report has also complicated the administration’s messaging, as a tight labor market combined with higher fuel costs could pressure President Trump to reconsider his stance on the war.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #us_president_donald_trump #mohammad_khamenei #food_and_drug_administration
Wall St futures slide as oil extends surge amid Middle East war U.S. stock index futures fell on Sunday evening as escalating tensions in the Middle East drove crude oil prices above $100 a barrel, raising concerns about potential economic slowdowns and inflationary pressures in the United States. The S&P 500 Futures dropped 1.7% to 6,632.75 points, while Nasdaq 100 Futures declined 1.8% to 24,234.0 points. Dow Jones Futures also fell 1.7% to 46,696.0 points. The decline followed a surge in oil prices, fueled by fears of supply disruptions and risks to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil trade. The spike in crude prices has intensified worries that a renewed energy shock could push inflation higher and dampen consumer spending. Analysts noted that sustained oil price increases could complicate the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook by keeping inflationary pressures elevated even as economic growth slows. The U.S. energy secretary described the current oil rally as a “fear premium” driven by geopolitical tensions, suggesting it is likely to fade as the situation stabilizes. Geopolitical developments over the weekend further unsettled markets. Iran announced the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader. Mojtaba, viewed as a hardliner, is expected to maintain Iran’s confrontational stance toward Western nations. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump tweeted that the rise in oil prices was an acceptable consequence of military action against Iran’s nuclear program, calling the short-term price increase a “very small price to pay” for addressing the perceived nuclear threat. The conflict has also disrupted oil exports, with Iraq reporting a 60% drop in output due to attacks on tankers by Iranian forces.#iran #middle_east #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #mohammad_khamenei
