The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has reached a critical juncture, with over 1,900 people killed in Iran due to military actions by US and Israeli forces. This alarming death toll underscores the severe humanitarian impact of the hostilities, which have also seen Iran retaliate by launching missiles and drones targeting Israel and several Gulf states, including Kuwait, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.

In a notable development, former President Donald Trump has delayed planned attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure until April 6, citing that negotiations are progressing well. However, Iran has dismissed the US proposal for a ceasefire as “one-sided and unfair,” instead presenting its own five-point plan which includes demands for reparations and maintaining sovereignty over the critical Strait of Hormuz.

The conflict has also spilled over into Lebanon, where the Israeli army has reported the deaths of two soldiers in southern regions. The situation in Lebanon is dire, with the death toll from Israeli attacks now reaching 1,116. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by ongoing military actions, as civilians bear the brunt of the violence.

In a tragic incident, debris from an intercepted projectile in Abu Dhabi resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to three others. This incident highlights the far-reaching consequences of the conflict, as regional stability continues to be threatened.

Despite the ongoing violence, diplomatic efforts are still in play. Trump’s assertion that talks are “going very well” may provide a glimmer of hope for de-escalation, but skepticism remains. As tensions persist, the international community watches closely, particularly the G7 nations and regional players like Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

As the situation evolves, the uncertainty surrounding future military actions and diplomatic negotiations looms large. Civilians are paying the highest price for this war — it must end, as noted by humanitarian leaders like Jan Egeland. The stakes are high, and the potential for further escalation remains a pressing concern.

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“They want peace,” declared Donald Trump, as the Iran War, now in its 24th day, shows no signs of abating. This statement comes amidst a backdrop of escalating violence and significant casualties, raising questions about the veracity of such claims.

The war, launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, has resulted in over 2,000 deaths so far, with Iran’s Health Ministry reporting that the death toll within its borders has surpassed 1,500. Israeli strikes have also devastated Lebanon, claiming more than 1,000 lives and displacing over 1 million people.

While Trump insists that Iran is eager for a deal to end the hostilities, Iranian officials have firmly denied any negotiations with the U.S. since the conflict began. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, a prominent Iranian leader, stated, “No negotiations have been held with the US.” This stark contradiction raises doubts about the potential for peace.

In a further escalation, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened retaliation against U.S. attacks that target critical infrastructure, including power plants. This statement underscores the precarious nature of the situation, where military actions could lead to broader regional instability.

Compounding the tensions, Iran has reportedly completed 99% of the centrifuge work needed to produce weapons-grade uranium for nine nuclear weapons. This alarming development has drawn international scrutiny and heightened fears of a nuclear arms race in the region.

Trump’s administration has extended a five-day deadline for Iran to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. However, the Tasnim news agency cautioned that with ongoing psychological warfare, neither the Strait nor energy markets would return to prewar conditions.

As the conflict continues, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at further military actions, stating, “There’s more to come.” This statement suggests that the current phase of the war may only be the beginning of a prolonged engagement.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the nature of the talks Trump referenced, and the effectiveness of international mediation efforts remains unclear. The outcome of ongoing discussions is uncertain, leaving the region in a state of heightened tension.

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The ongoing war raises a critical question: Is Iran genuinely seeking a deal to end the conflict, or is this merely a strategic ploy? U.S. President Donald Trump asserts that Iran is eager for negotiations, claiming, “Iran wants ‘to make a deal.'” However, Iranian officials, including Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, counter that no negotiations have taken place with the U.S., suggesting a significant disconnect between the two nations’ narratives.

The war, which has seen the U.S. and Israel launch military actions against Iran, has resulted in over 2,000 deaths, with Iran’s Health Ministry reporting more than 1,500 casualties within its borders. Israeli strikes have also devastated Lebanon, killing over 1,000 and displacing more than 1 million. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by Iran’s aggressive military posture, as its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has vowed retaliation against any U.S. threats.

Compounding the situation, Iran has made substantial progress in its nuclear program, having completed 99% of the centrifuge work necessary to produce weapons-grade uranium for nine nuclear weapons. As of June 2025, Iran possesses 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of highly enriched uranium, raising alarms about its potential military capabilities.

In the broader geopolitical landscape, countries like Pakistan have strategic ties with both Saudi Arabia and Iran, complicating the regional dynamics. Pakistan’s trade volume with Saudi Arabia is nearly US$5 billion, while its bilateral trade with Iran stands at approximately US$3 billion. The presence of a significant Shia population in Pakistan, which constitutes around 20% of the country, adds another layer of complexity to its foreign relations.

Despite the claims of a willingness to negotiate, the reality on the ground suggests a different story. The Tasnim news agency warns that with ongoing psychological warfare, neither the Strait of Hormuz will return to prewar conditions nor will calm be restored to energy markets. This highlights the precarious nature of the situation and the potential for further escalation.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the identity of the Iranian leader who engaged in discussions with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as well as the exact nature of the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, aware that the stakes are higher than ever.

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The conflict between the United States and Iran, which erupted in late February 2026, has escalated into a devastating war marked by heavy casualties and widespread destruction. As the situation deteriorated, the death toll has surged, with over 1,500 people reported dead in Iran and more than 1,000 in Lebanon. The violence has also spilled over into Israel, where two IDF soldiers and 19 civilians have lost their lives, and nearly 4,700 others have been injured due to ballistic missile attacks since February 28. The toll on U.S. forces has also been significant, with 11 soldiers reported killed in the ongoing conflict.

In a surprising development, President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause on military strikes targeting Iranian energy infrastructure. This decision follows what Trump described as “very good and productive conversations” between U.S. and Iranian officials aimed at resolving hostilities in the Middle East. The pause is seen as a strategic move, potentially influenced by Iran’s firm warnings regarding the targeting of its power plants.

Trump’s announcement came after two days of talks that he characterized as detailed and constructive. He stated, “Based on the tenor and tone of these in-depth conversations, I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days.” This pause is contingent upon the success of the ongoing discussions, highlighting the precarious nature of the situation.

Iranian state television has reported that the U.S. backed down from its aggressive stance following Iran’s warnings, suggesting that the pause may be a tactical retreat rather than a genuine shift in policy. The conflict has already inflicted severe damage on both sides, and the humanitarian crisis is deepening, with many civilians caught in the crossfire.

As the pause takes effect, observers are closely monitoring the situation for any signs of a broader ceasefire. However, uncertainties loom large, as the outcome of the ongoing talks remains uncertain. The potential for a lasting resolution to the conflict is still unclear, and the stakes are high for all parties involved.

With the Gulf nations watching closely, the geopolitical implications of this conflict extend far beyond the immediate region. The war has not only strained U.S.-Iran relations but has also raised concerns among neighboring countries about the stability of the entire Middle East. The focus now shifts to whether the pause in military action can lead to meaningful negotiations or if it will merely serve as a temporary respite in a protracted conflict.

As the world awaits further developments, the situation remains fluid, and details remain unconfirmed. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this conflict and whether diplomatic efforts can pave the way for a more peaceful resolution.

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The Iran War, initiated by the United States and Israel, has now entered its 24th day as of March 23, 2026. The conflict has seen a series of intense military actions, with both sides suffering significant casualties and infrastructure damage.

On March 22, a tragic incident occurred when a US-Israeli attack targeted a radio transmitter in Bandar Abbas, resulting in one fatality. This attack is part of a broader strategy that has seen Iran retaliate with thousands of drone strikes aimed at Israel, particularly following the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026.

In a separate incident, an airstrike in Urmia city flattened residential buildings, prompting rescue operations to search for survivors amidst the rubble. Such attacks have drawn international condemnation, with the UK summoning Iran’s ambassador to express criticism of Tehran’s actions.

As the conflict escalates, regional tensions have also heightened. Saudi Arabia reported that two ballistic missiles were launched towards Riyadh, with one successfully intercepted. Additionally, the UAE reported minor injuries to an Indian national from debris after intercepting a missile, highlighting the conflict’s spillover effects on neighboring countries.

In Qatar, a helicopter crash in territorial waters resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, further complicating the regional security landscape. The Pentagon has responded to the ongoing conflict by requesting an additional $200 billion in funding from Congress to sustain military operations.

Political responses within the United States are also evolving. The Senate’s minority leader has called for an end to the military operation against Iran, reflecting growing concerns about the prolonged conflict’s implications for US military resources and strategy.

As of now, Iran officials maintain that no negotiations or discussions with the United States have taken place since the war began, despite conflicting claims regarding potential peace talks. Details remain unconfirmed.

The situation remains fluid, with at least 1,029 people reported killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon since March 2, 2026. The ongoing military actions underscore the complexities of the conflict, as both sides utilize a mix of advanced weaponry and cost-effective arms.

Experts warn that the longer the conflict persists, the more it exposes the limits of the US industrial base and the strain on military resources. As Stephen Flynn noted, “We are using them far quicker than we can replace them,” indicating a potential sustainability issue for US military operations.

As the conflict continues to unfold, the implications for regional stability and international relations remain significant, with all parties closely monitoring developments.

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The war between Iran and Israel has escalated significantly since it began on February 28, 2026, leading to heavy casualties and widespread disruption across the region. As of now, at least 13 people have been killed and nearly 2,000 injured in Israel, while Iranian officials report that 1,395 people have lost their lives due to the conflict.

Iran has set three conditions for ending the war: recognition of its rights, payment of reparations, and guarantees against future aggression. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that Tehran remains committed to peace but insists the conflict can end only if its demands are accepted by Washington and Tel Aviv.

Military actions have intensified, with Iran targeting Israeli military bases and the Shin Bet headquarters. In retaliation, US-Israeli strikes have reportedly caused damage to hospitals and health facilities across Iran, as noted by Iranian Deputy Health Minister Ali Jafarian.

Since the onset of the war, nearly 20,000 civilian buildings have been affected, including at least 16,000 residential units. In one tragic incident, at least 168 people, including children, were killed at a primary school in Minab when it was struck by a munition identified as a US Tomahawk missile.

Concerns about public health and infrastructure are rising, with reports of electricity shortages in cities like Karaj. Tohid Asadi highlighted the serious health risks posed by the air quality in Iranian cities, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.

Iranian parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has warned that any US aggression against Iranian islands will prompt Tehran to abandon all restraint, indicating a potential escalation in hostilities. Ali Jafarian lamented the high number of civilian casualties, stating, “Unfortunately, there are a lot of victims who are killed at the scene because [the US and Israel] are carpet bombing civilian infrastructure.”

As the situation develops, observers are closely monitoring the conflict, particularly the responses from both Iran and Israel, as well as the involvement of the United States. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of military actions and their impact on civilian populations.

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The conflict between Israel and Iran has significantly escalated, extending beyond their borders to involve the Gulf region, Lebanon, and Iraq. Tensions have been mounting for years, driven by Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its support for militant groups like Hezbollah. The situation reached a critical point when the United States and Israel initiated large-scale strikes on Iran, targeting key infrastructure such as oil storage depots and refining facilities.

Recent Developments

Since the onset of these attacks on February 28, at least 1,332 people have been reported killed in Iran. In response, Iran has retaliated with strikes on US military assets located in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The Iranian military has confirmed that while the Strait of Hormuz remains open, they will target US or Israeli ships that enter the area.

Statements from Key Parties

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the United States’ commitment to retaliate against threats to American lives, stating, “If you kill Americans, if you threaten Americans anywhere on earth, we will hunt you down without apology and without hesitation, and we will kill you.” Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has expressed his unwillingness to settle with Tehran, declaring that the war would continue for “a little while.”

Humanitarian Concerns

The conflict has also raised significant humanitarian concerns. Human Rights Watch has called for an investigation into a tragic attack on a primary school in southern Iran, which resulted in the deaths of at least 160 people. Additionally, the UAE’s Defence Ministry has reported that the death toll from Iran’s attacks on the UAE has risen to four.

Implications for Regional Stability

The ongoing violence has led to a 27 percent increase in Brent crude oil prices within just one week of the conflict, reflecting the broader economic implications of the war. Observers are concerned about the potential for further destabilization in the Gulf region, particularly as the conflict draws in various regional players, including the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League.

As the situation continues to develop, uncertainties remain regarding the exact number of casualties and the overall impact of the ongoing strikes. Ayatollah Mohammad-Mahdi Mirbagheri has indicated that a decision on a successor to the slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is nearing, which could further influence Iran’s strategic decisions moving forward.

The Israel Iran attack marks a significant escalation in a long-standing conflict, with both sides demonstrating their willingness to engage in military action. As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring stability back to the region. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the conflict’s impact.

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In the chaos, the U.S. military reported that Kuwait “mistakenly shot down” three American F-15E Strike Eagles during a combat mission.

Iran and Iranian-backed militias have launched missiles at Israel and neighboring Arab states, reportedly striking the U.S. Embassy compound in Kuwait. In retaliation, Israel and the United States have targeted various locations in Iran, marking an escalation in the conflict with rising casualties.

Iranian cleric Alireza Arafi, in his first public comments since joining Iran’s temporary leadership council, expressed hope for a swift appointment of a new supreme leader to succeed Ali Khamenei.

6:35 p.m. EST

Number of wounded troops in Iran grows

The conflict has resulted in 18 American service members suffering serious injuries, according to Capt. Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command. This figure has increased from five troops reported as seriously wounded on Sunday morning.

Additionally, six soldiers have been killed in Kuwait, all from the same logistics unit, as confirmed by a U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Commenting on the fatalities, Hegseth noted that an Iranian weapon had breached allied air defenses and struck a fortified tactical operations center.

— By Konstantin Toropin

Bahrain ambassador criticizes Iran for targeting his country, Gulf nations at UN meeting chaired by U.S. First Lady

Bahrain’s U.N. Ambassador Jamal Alrowaiei addressed the U.N. Security Council, stating that “Iranian aggression is causing significant material and psychological damage that threatens the safety and security of residents and citizens.” He highlighted that ongoing Iranian attacks on civilian infrastructure in Bahrain, which hosts a major U.S. naval base, have led to temporary school closures to protect children.

In a broader context, he informed the council that UNICEF estimates 30 million children in the Middle East and North Africa are out of school or not receiving formal education, equating to one in every three children being deprived of education.

State Department urges Americans to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries

The State Department issued a warning on Monday, advising all U.S. citizens to evacuate more than a dozen Middle Eastern nations due to escalating safety risks amid the ongoing conflict. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar urged Americans in countries like Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Israel to “DEPART NOW” using any available commercial transportation.

This advisory comes as several major airlines have canceled flights to and from the region following the outbreak of hostilities that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on Saturday, which have since spiraled into a wider regional conflict affecting nearly every neighboring country.

Voters in Texas wonder why U.S. attacked Iran

In Texas, voters expressed concerns about the implications of the U.S. attack on Iran during a primary election. Charles Padmore, a 45-year-old independent contractor, remarked, “This could drag on for years if there isn’t a clear exit strategy. It feels like they went in without a plan.” He suggested that former President Trump acted on Israel’s whims.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old college student Sophia Morales and her mother, Dina, voiced their confusion over the situation, questioning the rationale behind the U.S. involvement. Sophia noted, “I thought Iran was at war with Israel, but now we’re involved too,” particularly in light of reports about a girls’ school being bombed. Her mother added, “I haven’t heard any clear plans for what happens next after the bombing, similar to the situation in Venezuela.”

Alex Diaz, a 31-year-old high school teacher, criticized the lack of congressional authorization for military action, stating, “If Iran was a legitimate threat, Trump should have sought Congress’s approval. Are we trying to provoke World War III?”

Two Trump voters trust the president on Iran

Conversely, two Trump supporters in Texas expressed confidence in the president’s actions regarding Iran, asserting that they see no conflict with his campaign promises for peace. Connie Stamps from Waco stated, “I expected him to do what needs to be done to protect America. He cares about the whole world, so he’s the peace president.”

Mollie Leutwyler Smith, also from Waco, acknowledged that while she didn’t vote specifically for war with Iran, she appreciates Trump’s decisive actions, preferring his approach over the previous administration’s deal with Iran.

Israel says it will reopen a Gaza border crossing closed since Iran war began

COGAT, the Israeli military body managing civilian affairs in Gaza, announced that one crossing into the territory would reopen on Tuesday for the gradual entry of humanitarian aid. Initially, Israel had stated that it could not safely operate the Gaza crossings under fire. However, the U.N. humanitarian office monitoring Gaza warned that a total closure would exacerbate shortages of food, water, and fuel, inflating prices of basic goods in the already devastated Palestinian territory.

In its late Monday announcement, COGAT indicated it would coordinate with the American Civil Military Coordination Center and operate under certain security restrictions to reopen the Kerem Shalom Crossing.

U.S. Embassy in Jordan temporarily evacuates staff

U.S. diplomatic staff in Jordan have evacuated the embassy compound in Amman due to a security threat. While the U.S. diplomatic mission did not provide further details, this decision follows threats from Iranian-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah to attack American military bases in Jordan. The announcement of the embassy personnel’s departure suggests a potential larger evacuation of diplomatic staff from Jordan.

Jordanian police have advised residents living near the embassy to remain indoors, close windows, and take other precautionary measures.

4:34 p.m. EST

Rubio warns ‘hardest hits’ are still to come on Iran

Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed reporters before a scheduled briefing on Iran, stating that the U.S. military’s focus on Iran will continue “as long as it takes.” He warned that the most severe strikes are yet to come, indicating that the next phase of military action will be even more punishing for Iran.

Rubio did not provide a timeline for the operation but emphasized that the U.S. has clear objectives and will persist until those goals are achieved.

He clarified that regime change is not the objective, stating, “We would love for there to be an Iran that’s not governed by radical Shia clerics, but that’s not the goal of this operation.” The initial U.S.-Israeli strikes resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials.

Rubio reiterated that the mission aims to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities and prevent the country from rebuilding its nuclear program.

U.S. death toll rises to 6 troops

The U.S. military confirmed on Monday that two additional service members were killed during operations against Iran, raising the total death toll to six. U.S. Central Command announced that the remains of the two previously unaccounted service members were recovered from a facility struck during Iran’s initial attacks in the region. Their identities will be disclosed 24 hours after their families are notified.

Iran’s top diplomat shares a photo of graves dug for girls killed in apparent airstrike

Iran’s foreign minister posted an aerial image showing rows of freshly dug graves for over 160 girls allegedly killed by an airstrike on an elementary school in southern Iran. Abbas Araghchi stated, “Their bodies were torn to shreds,” criticizing the U.S. for its military actions.

The photo depicted mourners among orderly rows of graves, with white chalk rectangles marking burial plots as excavators dug into the earth. Iranian state media reported that the airstrike on the girls’ school resulted in at least 165 fatalities and numerous injuries. The Israeli military claimed it was unaware of any strikes in that area, while the U.S. military stated it was investigating the reports.

3:47 p.m. EST

Senior UN official highlights impact of recent Middle East escalations on children

U.N. political chief Rosemary DiCarlo addressed the U.N. Security Council, emphasizing the immediate impact of the U.S.-Israel strikes and Iranian retaliation on children in the region. She noted that schools in Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have closed or shifted to remote learning due to ongoing military operations.

DiCarlo acknowledged reports of the deaths at the girls’ school in southern Iran, which Iran claims killed dozens of children, stating that both the U.S. and Israel are investigating the incident.

Mourners grieve Israeli teens killed in Iranian missile attack

Three siblings, Yaakov, 16, Avigail, 15, and Sarah Biton, 13, were buried Monday night at the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem after being killed in an Iranian missile strike in central Israel. Their deaths marked the deadliest attack on Israelis since the conflict began. Rescuers continued to search the rubble late into the night.

Israeli rescue services reported that 65 individuals were hospitalized, including two with serious injuries. President Isaac Herzog visited one of the injured, Penina Cohen, at Hadassah Hospital, where she recounted the traumatic experience of losing her husband and mother-in-law in the strike.

Iran accuses U.S. of hypocrisy before Melania Trump’s UN meeting on protecting kids during conflict

Just before U.S. First Lady Melania Trump led a U.N. Security Council session on protecting children in armed conflict, Iranian ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani criticized the U.S. for its military actions, calling it “deeply shameful and hypocritical” to convene a meeting on child protection while simultaneously launching missile strikes against Iranian cities.

He asserted that the U.S. approach to “protecting children” and “maintaining international peace” starkly contrasts with the principles outlined in the U.N. Charter.

U.S. military says it’s taken out 11 Iranian warships in the Gulf of Oman

U.S. Central Command announced that the Iranian regime’s naval presence in the Gulf of Oman has been completely eliminated, stating, “Two days ago, the Iranian regime had 11 ships in the Gulf of Oman; today they have ZERO.” This statement followed President Trump’s declaration that U.S. forces had “destroyed and sunk 9 Iranian Naval Ships,” with plans to target the remaining vessels.

UN says Israel’s Gaza closure causes fuel rationing and water shortages

The U.N. humanitarian office reported that Israel’s closure of all crossings into Gaza has led to severe shortages of food, inflated prices of basic goods, and halted municipal services. Humanitarian workers are struggling to ration fuel supplies, while reduced water production has left some residents in Gaza City with as little as two liters of water per day.

COGAT, the Israeli military body overseeing civilian affairs in Gaza, had initially closed crossings at the start of the conflict, stating they could not operate safely under fire. They indicated that crossings would reopen once the security situation allowed.

3:01 p.m. EST

Tense calm in Jerusalem during a lull in Iranian missile fire

A tense calm has settled over central Jerusalem after a period of no sirens indicating incoming missiles from Iran. The streets remain largely empty in West Jerusalem, where most Israelis reside.

NATO chief calls on European allies to support war against Iran

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the importance of the U.S. and Israel’s war against Iran for European security. He stated that allies could support the effort without direct military involvement, through logistics and access. Rutte expressed strong approval of Trump’s decision to attack Iran and eliminate its supreme leader, citing the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran as a potential danger to Israel.

When asked about NATO’s potential involvement, Rutte clarified that no one expected NATO to engage, as the conflict is outside its territory.

Iran says it shot down 20 drones since the war began

Iranian state-run IRNA reported that the country’s military has successfully shot down 20 “enemy drones” since the onset of U.S. and Israeli attacks.

Iraqi militias threaten U.S. military presence in Jordan

A prominent Iran-backed Iraqi militia has threatened to target American military bases in Jordan. Kataib Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for attacks on U.S. bases in northern Iraq in solidarity with Tehran.

For years, the Iraqi government has attempted to maintain a delicate balance between its relationships with both Washington and Tehran.

Israel strikes a Hezbollah-linked financial institution in Lebanon

The Israeli military announced it has completed a series of strikes targeting branches of al-Qard al-Hasan, a quasi-banking system allegedly used to fund Hezbollah’s military operations. These strikes occurred amid a day of intense Israeli bombardment in southern Lebanon and its capital, following Hezbollah’s rocket fire into Israel.

Al-Qard al-Hasan, officially a non-profit charity, has been previously targeted by Israel during its conflicts with Hezbollah.

More U.S. adults oppose initial airstrikes on Iran, early polling suggests

Initial reactions from Americans regarding Trump’s airstrikes against Iran appear more negative than positive, according to a recent snap poll conducted by The Washington Post. Approximately half of those surveyed opposed the strikes, while 39% supported them. Disapproval was primarily driven by Democrats and independents, with nearly 90% of Democrats and about 60% of independents opposing the military action.

In contrast, 81% of Republicans expressed support for the strikes, with only about 10% opposed. Respondents were more likely to advocate for halting military strikes rather than continuing them.

1:54 p.m. EST

Spain says joint U.S. bases were not used in attack on Iran

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the U.S. attack as “unjustifiable” and “dangerous.” Defense Minister Margarita Robles clarified that no assistance had been provided from the Rota and Morón bases, which are shared with the U.S. but remain under Spanish command. She emphasized that operations must comply with international legal frameworks and require international support.

Flight data indicated that several U.S. military aircraft had departed from the bases in southern Spain since the weekend attack, including nine tankers that left for Germany.

Israel says it intercepted a drone from Lebanon

The Israeli military reported intercepting a hostile drone, although it did not attribute the incident to Hezbollah or any other group. Hezbollah had previously fired rockets into northern Israel, prompting Israeli strikes throughout Lebanon that resulted in at least 31 fatalities and displaced thousands.

Drone hits at a fuel terminal in the UAE but fire is contained

Authorities in Abu Dhabi swiftly responded to a drone attack on the Musaffah fuel terminal, managing to contain the fire without any reported injuries or disruption to operations.

12:24 p.m. EST

Russia’s Putin speaks to Saudi crown prince

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the escalating situation in the Middle East due to U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran. Both leaders expressed serious concern over the risks of the conflict spreading, which has already impacted several Arab nations.

Putin emphasized the urgent need for a political and diplomatic resolution to the current dangerous situation, while the Crown Prince suggested that Russia could play a stabilizing role given its friendly relations with both Iran and Gulf countries.

Tennis stars in Dubai and Paralympians face travel issues due to war

Former U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev reported that he is among a small number of players and team members the ATP Tour is trying to assist in leaving Dubai. The ongoing travel shutdown has also affected athletes heading to the Paralympics.

Medvedev’s Instagram account shared that he is safe and staying with a friend in Dubai, amid flight cancellations following his recent ATP event victory. The Winter Paralympics are set to begin in Italy, with some athletes facing travel difficulties, including one Iranian cross-country skier expected to compete.

12:14 p.m. EST

Trump articulates his four objectives for the U.S. war in Iran

The president outlined four objectives for U.S. forces in Iran: to destroy Iran’s missile capabilities, eliminate its naval capacity, prevent the country from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and ensure that the Iranian regime cannot continue to fund and direct armies outside its borders.

Trump claimed that U.S. attacks have already “knocked out” 10 ships and emphasized the importance of destroying Iran’s missile capacity to prevent future threats.

He projected that the operation would last four to five weeks but stated that the U.S. has the capability to extend the timeline if necessary.

Iranian missiles filmed flying over Jerusalem skies

On the afternoon of the conflict’s third day, Iranian missiles were seen flying over Jerusalem, with interceptions by Israel’s advanced aerial defense system visible as the projectiles lost course and fell from the sky. Loud booms accompanied the missile interceptions, and residents were advised to take shelter during the day.

Israeli military says airstrike in Beirut targeted a senior Hezbollah official

The Israeli military conducted an airstrike in Beirut, targeting a senior Hezbollah official and causing significant damage to a building near the Iranian embassy compound. This strike is part of a broader military response to Hezbollah’s rocket fire into Israel.

Medal of Honor Ceremony begins at the White House

Trump attended the ceremony alongside top administration officials, which commenced with a prayer.

4 Greek warplanes land in Cyprus after a drone strike on air base

Four Greek F-16 fighter jets arrived in Cyprus to enhance security following a drone strike on a U.K. military base. The drone strike caused minor damage, according to Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. The Greek government is also sending two navy frigates equipped with anti-drone systems.

Iran’s deadly strikes in the Gulf highlight vulnerability of migrant workers

The five reported casualties from Iranian strikes in Gulf nations were foreign nationals, underscoring the vulnerability of migrant workers in the region. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait heavily rely on labor from South and Southeast Asia.

The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs has raised its travel advisory for the UAE and several other Gulf nations, triggering a deployment ban on newly hired workers.

Reports indicate that three deaths occurred in the UAE, with one each from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, while Kuwait’s Health Ministry reported one fatality among foreign nationals.

The International Labor Organization estimates over 24 million foreign workers were employed across the Gulf states in 2024, forming a crucial part of the region’s economy while often remaining among its most vulnerable populations.

Medal of Honor Ceremony begins at White House

Trump is attending with top members of his administration. The event began with a prayer.

WATCH LIVE: Trump may address war with Iran at Medal of Honor ceremony

Israeli military says airstrike in Beirut targeted senior Hezbollah official

The Israeli military conducted an airstrike in Beirut, targeting a senior Hezbollah official and causing significant damage to a building near the Iranian embassy compound. This strike is part of a broader military response to Hezbollah’s rocket fire into Israel.

Qatar says its air force shot down 2 Iranian warplanes

The Gulf state of Qatar reported that its air force shot down two Iranian Sukhoi Su-24 bombers. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates intercepted multiple ballistic and cruise missiles and drones, successfully repelling hundreds of Iranian attacks since the conflict began.

No fatalities were reported in the UAE on Monday, although three people were killed in Iranian attacks on Sunday.

Trump says he doesn’t ‘have the yips’ about sending U.S. ground troops into Iran

In a brief interview, Trump stated he is not ruling out the deployment of U.S. ground troops in Iran if deemed necessary. He expressed confidence in the military’s capabilities and indicated that he does not shy away from the prospect of boots on the ground.

Trump has acknowledged the likelihood of American military casualties in any conflict but has not committed to a long-term ground presence.

Israel launches a new wave of strikes on Lebanon

The Israeli army announced it has completed a broad wave of strikes on numerous targets in southern Lebanon, including weapons storage facilities and missile launchers associated with Hezbollah. At least 31 individuals were killed in overnight strikes following Hezbollah’s rocket fire into Israel.

11:16 a.m. EST

British prime minister defends letting U.S. use bases in the country

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his decision to allow U.S. forces to utilize British bases for defensive strikes against Iran, emphasizing the need to support allies in the region. He stated that the government is focused on ensuring the swift and safe return of British citizens at risk due to indiscriminate Iranian attacks.

Starmer also clarified that the U.K. would not participate in offensive actions aimed at regime change, citing lessons learned from the Iraq War and the necessity of legal justification for military action.

Pakistan’s president urges restraint

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the ongoing military actions against Iran, calling for restraint and expressing condolences for the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. He criticized the attacks on neighboring Gulf countries and urged for diplomatic solutions.

Demonstrators in Pakistan supportive of the Iranian government attempted to storm a U.S. consulate in response to the escalating conflict.

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