Why Are Some Ships Still Passing Through the Strait of Hormuz During the US Blockade? The United States has declared its blockade of Iranian ports as fully implemented, effectively halting most of Tehran’s economic activity within days. Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command (CENTCOM), stated that the blockade has stopped nearly all international trade by sea, citing that 90% of Iran’s economy relies on maritime commerce. According to CENTCOM, no vessels have bypassed the blockade since its enforcement, though reports suggest some commercial traffic is still transiting the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, remains a critical route for 20% of global oil exports and 80% of Iran’s oil shipments. The confusion arises from the legal and operational boundaries of the blockade. While the US has targeted Iranian ports—both inside and outside the Strait—international waterways like the Hormuz are not subject to unilateral blockades under maritime law. This means ships not directly linked to Iran’s economy may still pass through the strait. Additionally, US forces have the capability to intercept vessels carrying Iranian-linked cargo even after they leave the region. For example, oil tankers have been seized in the Indian Ocean, thousands of miles from their origin, demonstrating the reach of the enforcement effort. Analysts emphasize that modern technology allows the US to monitor and intercept ships at great distances. Former Navy Captain Carl Schuster noted that the 12+ warships involved in the blockade are largely stationed far from the strait, equipped with advanced tracking and reconnaissance systems.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #us_central_command #us_navy #institute_for_the_study_of_war
Investors Lose Rs 2 Lakh Crore: Three Reasons Behind Market Crash Today Indian equity benchmarks opened sharply lower on Monday, marking a significant drop in market value as investors faced a sharp decline in asset prices. The total market capitalisation of all BSE Sensex companies fell by over Rs 2 trillion within the first hour of the trading session, with the market cap dropping from Rs 4,51,61,647 on Friday to Rs 4,47,86,459 by 10:40 am on Monday. While the indices pared losses by the closing bell, the total loss of market cap was recorded at Rs 2 trillion. The crash followed a weekend of geopolitical tensions, including the failure of US-Iran ceasefire talks and a surge in global oil prices. The market plunge was triggered by the collapse of ongoing peace negotiations between the United States and Iran, which had been held for nearly 21 hours in Islamabad. The talks, which had been expected to resolve lingering disputes, ended without an agreement, leaving investors concerned about the potential for renewed hostilities. This development, combined with other global market cues, contributed to the sharp decline in investor confidence. A key factor in the market crash was the sharp rise in oil prices, driven by a statement from the United States Central Command, which announced plans to enforce a naval blockade around Iranian ports. This move sent shockwaves through global energy markets, with US crude (West Texas Intermediate) surging 8 per cent to $104.24 per barrel and Brent crude jumping 7 per cent to $102.29 per barrel. The surge in oil prices heightened inflation concerns and increased the cost of energy for businesses and consumers, further dampening investor sentiment. The decline in global equity indices also played a role in the market rout. Australia's ASX 200 fell 0.#us_central_command #bse_sensex #us_iran_ceasefire #asx_200 #hang_seng
Missile Launched at Israel from Yemen as Regional Conflict Escalates The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the interception of a missile launched from Yemen, marking the first such attack since the conflict began. The strike, which triggered air defense sirens near Beersheba, comes amid heightened tensions as the Houthi movement in Yemen threatens direct military involvement if attacks on Iran continue. A Houthi military spokesperson warned that the group would enter the war if new alliances align with Washington and Israel against Iran or if the Red Sea is used for hostile operations against Iran. The conflict has already claimed significant civilian lives, with the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reporting 1,464 deaths in Iran, including at least 217 children, within the first month. Iranian state media cited casualties from strikes on residential areas and a sports hall in Lamerd, though details remain unclear. Meanwhile, the US military has deployed advanced weaponry, with analysts suggesting state-of-the-art US missiles were used in a deadly strike on Iran’s southern town. The US Central Command and Israeli strikes have targeted infrastructure, including police stations, military facilities, and civilian neighborhoods, raising concerns about collateral damage and civilian resentment. The war has also disrupted regional stability, with Gulf nations reporting fresh strikes and interceptions. The UAE confirmed its air defenses engaged ballistic missiles and drones from Iran, while Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Airbase suffered an Iranian strike that injured 12 US soldiers. The US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope for talks with Iran, though Washington awaits a response to a 15-point deal.#iran #saudi_arabia #us_central_command #israel_defense_forces #houthi_movement
अमेरिकी सेना के ईरान युद्ध में भाग लेने के बारे में राष्ट्रपति डोनाल्ड ट्रंप ने कहा कि अमेरिका अपने अभियानों को "धीरे-धीरे समाप्त करने" पर विचार कर रहा है, लेकिन युद्धविराम (सीज़फायर) नहीं चाहते। रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, अमेरिकी सेना ईरान में भूमि बलों की तैनाती के बारे में विचार कर रही है, लेकिन अमेरिकी रक्षा विभाग और यूएस सेंट्रल कमांड ने इस बारे में कोई पुष्टि नहीं की। अमेरिकी रक्षा विभाग ने बीबीसी के सवाल का जवाब नहीं दिया। ईरान युद्ध के बाद ऊर्जा संकट के कारण चीन दूसरे देशों से आगे रह गया है। इसके अलावा, ईरान ने हिंद महासागर में डिएगो गार्सिया पर मिसाइल हमला किया, जिससे भारत के लिए बड़ी चुनौती बन गई। अमेरिकी सुरक्षा गारंटी के बारे में चर्चा भी हो रही है, जिसमें दुबई जैसे शहरों के भ्रम के बारे में बताया गया है। इस आर्टिकल में अमेरिकी सेना के ईरान में भूमि बलों की तैनाती के बारे में अनिश्चितता बनी हुई है, जबकि अमेरिकी रक्षा विभाग और यूएस सेंट्रल कमांड ने इस बारे में कोई जवाब नहीं दिया। इसके अलावा, ईरान युद्ध के प्रभाव और चीन की स्थिति के बारे में भी चर्चा की गई है।#iran #dubai #us_central_command #america #diego_garcia
US F-35 Fighter Jet Makes Emergency Landing After Suspected Iranian Attack A U.S. F-35 fighter jet executed an emergency landing at a U.S. air base in the Middle East following what is believed to be an attack by Iranian fire, according to two sources with knowledge of the incident. The fifth-generation stealth aircraft was reportedly conducting a combat mission over Iran when it was forced to divert, according to Capt. Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command. Hawkins confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and that the pilot is in stable condition, though the incident is currently under investigation. The event marks the first known instance of Iran successfully engaging a U.S. military aircraft in the ongoing conflict, which began in late February. Both the United States and Israel have deployed F-35s to the region, with each aircraft costing over $100 million. The attack occurred amid continued U.S. claims of progress in its campaign against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted on Thursday that the U.S. is “winning decisively” and that Iran’s air defenses have been “flattened.” The emergency landing highlights the escalating tensions in the region, as the conflict has seen increasing clashes between U.S. and Iranian forces. While officials emphasize the effectiveness of U.S. military operations, the incident underscores the risks faced by pilots and the potential for unintended consequences in the volatile theater. The situation remains under review, with further details expected as the investigation unfolds. This incident adds to a series of developments in the conflict, which has already seen significant casualties and damage to infrastructure on both sides. The U.S. military’s assertion of dominance may now be tested by the reality of direct engagement with Iranian forces.#iran #middle_east #pete_hegseth #us_central_command #f_35
US Military Confirms Aircraft Crash in Iraq Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran The United States military has confirmed that one of its aircraft crashed in western Iraq during joint operations with Israel against Iran. US Central Command, which oversees military activities in the Middle East and parts of Asia, released a brief statement on Thursday acknowledging the incident and detailing ongoing rescue efforts. The statement noted that the crash occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, with no immediate indication of fatalities or survivors. The command’s statement suggested the crash involved two aircraft, possibly due to a collision or close maneuvering. It clarified that the second plane “landed safely” and that the incident was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. This marks another setback for the US military, which has already faced multiple casualties since the conflict began on February 28. Prior to the latest crash, the US military reported seven service members had died in the campaign, with 140 others wounded. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell noted eight of the injured faced severe injuries. The crash adds to a series of incidents, including three fighter jets being mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses on March 1. Those aircraft personnel ejected safely and were recovered in stable condition. Public opinion has been divided on the military campaign. A Quinnipiac University survey found 53 percent of voters opposed the offensive, with 74 percent rejecting the idea of ground operations. Ipsos research echoed these sentiments, showing 43 percent of Americans disapproved of the strikes, compared to 29 percent who supported them. The war has also sparked debate among Trump’s supporters, with figures like Tucker Carlson criticizing the conflict as “absolutely disgusting and evil.#iran #iraq #us_central_command #operation_epic_fury #us_military
Oil prices edged higher in volatile trading as tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalated, with U.S. forces reportedly sinking several Iranian ships near the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has disrupted global oil flows, prompting traders to anticipate emergency crude reserve releases from key countries to stabilize markets. Despite a sharp drop in oil prices earlier in the week, the market showed slight recovery, though concerns about further escalation and potential mine deployments in the strait continued to weigh on sentiment. The U.S. Central Command confirmed that American forces had targeted Iranian vessels, including 16 minelayers, following President Donald Trump’s warning that any mines in the strait would be removed “immediately.” However, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the U.S. had not escorted a tanker through the strait, contradicting a false claim by Energy Secretary Chris Wright. The confusion highlighted the uncertainty surrounding military actions and their impact on oil markets. Iran has maintained a steady flow of oil to China through the strait since the conflict began, with TankerTrackers reporting at least 11.7 million barrels shipped to the country. Kpler estimates that around 12 million barrels have passed through the waterway since the war started, underscoring Iran’s efforts to sustain its energy exports despite the risks. Meanwhile, oil prices fluctuated, with U.S. crude and Brent crude recovering slightly after a steep decline earlier in the week, though traders remained cautious about potential disruptions. The geopolitical tensions also spilled into broader markets, affecting investor confidence. U.S. stocks ended the day mixed as traders balanced the pullback in oil prices against fears of further conflict.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #us_central_command #chinese #oracle
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
US Airstrikes Target Iran Aircraft, Drones The United States has conducted airstrikes against Iranian military assets, including parked fighter jets and drones, as part of a broader effort to counter perceived threats from the Iranian regime. U.S. Central Command released visuals of the strikes, depicting U.S. forces bombing aircraft and drone hangars at an Iranian facility. The operation is described as a "bold action" to neutralize imminent dangers posed by Iran’s military capabilities. The attacks, which occurred amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, were part of a coordinated effort between the U.S. and its ally Israel. The strikes targeted key Iranian cities, including Tehran and Isfahan, causing significant damage. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, was reportedly killed in the attacks, prompting Tehran to vow retaliation. In response, Iran launched airstrikes against U.S. allies in the region, including the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, as a strategic move to escalate the conflict and signal the consequences of opposing Iran. The conflict has disrupted stability in the Middle East, a region holding over 50% of the world’s oil reserves. The escalation has led to airspace closures across 11 Gulf nations, with Dubai’s airport—one of the busiest in the world—temporarily shut down. The situation has raised concerns about potential global economic repercussions due to the region’s critical role in energy markets. India, which has a significant diaspora in the Middle East, is closely monitoring the crisis. Over 900,000 Indian expatriates are currently stranded in the region, prompting the country’s Cabinet Committee on Security to direct government agencies to assist affected citizens.#iran #united_arab_emirates #us_central_command #tehran #isfahan
Weapons of 'Epic Fury': Fighters, Missiles, and 'Special Capabilities' The U.S. military launched over 1,000 strikes against Iran in the opening 24 hours of Operation Epic Fury, according to U.S. Central Command. The air campaign, which began on February 28, 2026, coincided with a parallel Israeli offensive, Operation Roaring Lion, following failed diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions over Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. Intelligence confirmed the precise location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting the coordinated strikes. President Donald Trump announced the operation via social media, vowing a “massive” attack and urging Iranian civilians to oppose their government. The U.S. and Israel targeted Iran’s military infrastructure, including command centers, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, ballistic missile sites, and naval assets. Iranian retaliation included missile and drone strikes against U.S. bases and civilian targets, resulting in three American service members killed, five injured, and at least a dozen civilian casualties. CENTCOM emphasized its focus on dismantling Iran’s security apparatus, prioritizing threats to regional stability. The operation featured a mix of advanced aircraft and weaponry. B-2 bombers conducted strikes on hardened missile sites using guided bombs, with four B-2s reportedly involved in the initial mission. F-22 Raptors, deployed to Israel and RAF Lakenheath, likely provided air superiority and escorted strike aircraft. F-16s, including SEAD-capable “Wild Weasels,” and A-10s, used in previous strikes against ISIS, were also deployed. F-15E Strike Eagles and airborne early warning systems supported coordination, while E-11 BACN relay aircraft managed communications.#iran #donald_trump #us_central_command #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #operation_epic_fury
Warships, explosive drones and stealth bombers: The high-tech weapons and hardware the US is using to attack Iran Before the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, Washington deployed its largest military force and most advanced weaponry in the Middle East in decades. President Donald Trump had warned the US was “locked and loaded,” and the strikes that killed Iran’s supreme leader gave this force a destructive purpose. US Central Command (CENTCOM) released a list of the weapons used in the conflict, which the Pentagon calls “Operation Epic Fury.” The operation included the use of B-2 stealth bombers, priced at over a billion dollars each, which are the most powerful platforms in the US Air Force. These bombers, powered by four jet engines, can carry conventional or nuclear weapons and have intercontinental range and aerial refueling capabilities. Piloted by a crew of two, the B-2s typically fly from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. During the strikes, they used 2,000-pound bombs to target Iranian ballistic missile facilities, according to CENTCOM. Earlier in 2026, seven B-2s had used the 30,000-pound massive ordnance penetrator to attack three Iranian nuclear sites in a 34-hour mission. The operation also marked the first combat use of LUCAS one-way drones by the US. Task Force Scorpion Strike (TFSS), a drone unit activated in the Middle East late last year, was designed to deliver low-cost, effective drone capabilities to warfighters. The LUCAS drones, modeled after Iran’s Shahed 136, are now being used to counter Iranian attacks. CENTCOM highlighted their role in delivering “American-made retribution.” US warships, including two aircraft carriers—the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea and the USS Gerald R. Ford in the Mediterranean—were deployed during the strikes.#us_central_command #uss_abraham_lincoln #b_2_stealth_bombers #lucas_drones #uss_gerald_r_ford
