The KC-135, primarily used for aerial refueling during military operations, had taken off from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. It was on an operational mission—indicating the stakes were high.

Flight tracking data revealed that the aircraft was moving in a circular pattern before descending for landing. However, the exact cause of the emergency remains unclear. Officials have not confirmed any hostile action linked to this incident.

Concerns mount as a similar incident occurred in March when another KC-135 was lost due to an Iranian attack in western Iraq. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility then, which adds context to the current situation.

Key facts:

• A Boeing KC-135 went missing after issuing a 7700 emergency distress signal.
• The aircraft had taken off from Al Dhafra Air Base.
• The KC-135 is crucial for aerial refueling in military operations.
• The cause of the emergency has not been disclosed.
• No confirmation of any crash or loss has come from CENTCOM or the Pentagon.

Radar drops and 7700 squawks are common in this region due to heavy GPS and electronic jamming. This raises questions about the safety of military operations over the Persian Gulf. What does this mean for US forces and their allies?

As investigations proceed, uncertainties linger. No statements have emerged from Iran suggesting involvement in this latest emergency involving a US military aircraft. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated.

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The central question emerging from the current political turmoil in Iran is: How has the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) managed to consolidate power so effectively? The answer lies in a combination of strategic maneuvering and a significant power struggle with President Masoud Pezeshkian, who now finds himself in a “complete political deadlock.”

Since the IRGC has assumed control, it has taken charge of key state functions, effectively sidelining Pezeshkian. Reports indicate that a military council composed of senior IRGC officers is making daily decisions, further entrenching their influence. This shift has raised alarms, particularly as Pezeshkian expressed concerns about the IRGC’s approach to escalating tensions in the region, especially towards neighboring Gulf countries.

Adding to the intrigue, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was recently named Supreme Leader, has not been seen or heard from, leading to speculation about his health. Some reports suggest he may be in a coma or critical condition, leaving a power vacuum that the IRGC is eager to fill. The IRGC has established a strict security cordon around him, indicating their desire to maintain control over the leadership transition.

Ahmad Vahidi, a prominent IRGC figure, has publicly insisted that all vital leadership positions should be managed by the IRGC, further solidifying their grip on power. This has led to the blocking of presidential appointments, showcasing the military’s growing dominance in Iran’s political landscape.

The IRGC’s influence extends beyond politics; it has developed a robust business empire that finances its operations and the regime. This economic power, combined with military might and an intelligence network, has allowed the IRGC to emerge as a “state-within-a-state.”

In a striking move, the IRGC has labeled 18 US companies as “terrorist” and warned their employees to leave their workplaces immediately to save their lives. This escalation of rhetoric is indicative of the IRGC’s willingness to confront external threats while consolidating its internal power.

As the situation unfolds, the long-term implications of the IRGC’s consolidation of power remain uncertain. The dynamics of Iran’s leadership and governance may shift dramatically, depending on the health of Mojtaba Khamenei and the IRGC’s continued influence. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his condition, leaving the nation in a precarious state.

The IRGC’s actions and the political deadlock faced by Pezeshkian suggest a significant transformation in Iran’s governance structure, one that could redefine the country’s future trajectory.

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Kuwait has confirmed its air defenses are actively intercepting hostile missile and drone attacks as of March 25, 2026. This development comes amid rising tensions in the region, particularly linked to Iran’s retaliatory actions against Gulf Arab nations.

In a related incident, a drone attack ignited a fuel tank at Kuwait International Airport, further emphasizing the precarious security situation. The Kuwaiti authorities reported that seven overhead power lines have been taken out of service due to debris from intercepted projectiles, illustrating the immediate impact of these hostilities.

In a contrasting development, the Lulu Group successfully airlifted 50 tonnes of fresh vegetables from Kochi to Kuwait on a special flight operated by Kuwait Airways. This shipment arrived without passengers, underscoring the focus on maintaining essential supplies amidst the turmoil.

Yusuffali M. A., a prominent figure in the Lulu Group, assured the public that there will be no price increase for vegetables in their stores, stating, “There will be no price increase and that sufficient stocks are available across all Lulu stores.” This reassurance aims to mitigate any potential panic among consumers regarding food supplies.

The backdrop of these events is marked by a significant death toll in Lebanon, where Israeli strikes have resulted in 1,039 fatalities and 2,876 injuries. The conflict’s consequences are affecting countries beyond frontline states, creating a ripple effect throughout the region.

Bezalel Smotrich, an Israeli official, has made provocative statements regarding territorial claims, asserting, “The new Israeli border must be the Litani River.” Such declarations only add to the complexity of the ongoing conflict and its implications for neighboring countries.

As Kuwait navigates these challenges, the resilience of its air defenses and the commitment to maintaining essential services will be crucial in the coming days. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated as regional tensions continue to escalate.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the drone attacks and their implications for Kuwait’s security strategy.

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As the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament approached, scheduled to take place from March 28 to April 16, 2026, in Cyprus, the chess community was abuzz with anticipation. However, just before the tournament’s commencement, a significant development emerged: Koneru Humpy announced her withdrawal from the event, citing safety concerns that had been exacerbated by regional tensions and a recent drone attack near the tournament venue.

On March 27, 2026, Humpy confirmed her decision, stating, “No event, no matter how important, can come before personal safety and well-being.” This sentiment resonated deeply within the chess world, as players and fans alike grappled with the implications of her withdrawal. Humpy’s concerns were not unfounded; she was the only high-profile player to publicly express apprehensions about the safety of the tournament location.

FIDE, the governing body for international chess, quickly acknowledged Humpy’s withdrawal and announced that Anna Muzychuk would replace her in the tournament. The organization emphasized that it was monitoring the situation in Cyprus daily but did not support the idea of relocating the tournament, despite the safety issues raised by Humpy. FIDE’s stance reflects a commitment to maintaining the tournament schedule, even in the face of potential risks.

Criton Tornaritis, President of the Cyprus Chess Federation, expressed disappointment regarding Humpy’s decision, criticizing her comments about the safety of Cyprus. He stated, “As President of the Cyprus Chess Federation, I am sincerely disappointed by Koneru Humpy’s decision to withdraw, citing that Cyprus ‘is not safe.’” This reaction highlights the tension between the local chess authorities and the players’ concerns, particularly in a tournament that is crucial for qualifying for the Women’s World Championship match.

Humpy’s withdrawal raises questions about the potential penalties she may face under FIDE rules, which stipulate that players who withdraw without a satisfactory reason could incur fines up to 10,000 euros. While Humpy’s concerns are valid, the financial implications of her decision remain uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether her safety concerns will be deemed satisfactory by FIDE.

Adding to the discourse, Hikaru Nakamura, a prominent figure in the chess community, voiced his own concerns about the situation in Cyprus, particularly regarding power outages in parts of the country. He remarked, “It’s not a good sign when power goes out completely in parts of Cyprus and doesn’t come back for an extended period of time.” Nakamura’s comments further illustrate the precarious conditions surrounding the tournament and the broader implications for players’ safety.

As the tournament draws closer, the chess community is left to ponder the ramifications of Humpy’s absence. Her withdrawal not only alters the competitive landscape but also highlights the ongoing issues of player safety in international events. The tournament remains a significant event, being the only route to the Women’s World Championship match, and Humpy’s decision casts a shadow over its proceedings.

In summary, the unfolding events surrounding Koneru Humpy’s withdrawal from the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament underscore the critical intersection of safety and competitive integrity in the world of chess. As players prepare to compete in Cyprus, the chess community watches closely, aware that the stakes have never been higher.

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The recent missile incident in Abu Dhabi raises a critical question: How prepared is the UAE to handle escalating threats from Iran? The answer is clear; the UAE’s air defense systems are actively engaged and have proven effective in intercepting missiles aimed at the region.

On March 22, 2026, an Indian national sustained minor injuries from falling debris after UAE air defenses intercepted four ballistic missiles and 25 UAVs launched from Iran. This incident occurred in the Al Shawamekh area of Abu Dhabi, prompting a swift response from emergency teams.

The UAE Ministry of Defence has reiterated its commitment to national security, stating that the country is fully prepared to deal with any threats. Since the onset of the Iran attacks, UAE air defense systems have engaged a staggering 345 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1773 UAVs, showcasing the scale of the ongoing conflict.

In a broader context, this incident is part of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly amid the ongoing Iran-US-Israel war, which has now entered its fourth week. The conflict has already claimed the lives of six Indian nationals, raising alarms about the safety of expatriates in the region.

UAE’s ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, emphasized the importance of safeguarding Indian nationals, stating, “The safety of the Indian nationals living in the country is a personal responsibility that the UAE’s leadership carries every day.” He further reassured families, saying, “What I would say to Indian families is this: the UAE’s commitment to protecting the people who have built their lives here is absolute.”

In light of these developments, authorities have urged the public to rely on official sources for information and to avoid spreading rumors. The Abu Dhabi Media Office reminded citizens, “The public is reminded to obtain information from official sources only and avoid spreading rumours or unverified information.” This call for caution underscores the seriousness of the situation.

As the situation unfolds, the UAE continues to bolster its defense capabilities while navigating the complexities of regional geopolitics. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this incident and the potential for further escalations.

The post Iran Abu Dhabi: Missile Incident Raises Alarms appeared first on bangalinews.

Flight disruptions in Dubai have raised significant concerns among travelers, particularly as families find themselves stranded due to ongoing regional tensions. A family from the United States, initially planning a brief one-day stay in Dubai, faced multiple rescheduling of their Emirates flight back home.

After their flight was delayed repeatedly, the family opted for an alternative route. They traveled by road to Oman, where they were able to secure a visa on arrival after explaining their predicament to immigration officials. This decision allowed them to board a Gulf Air flight from Muscat to Mumbai, showcasing the lengths travelers are going to avoid being stuck indefinitely.

What factors are contributing to these disruptions?

The disruptions are linked to escalating regional conflicts, with over 1,700 missiles and drones fired towards the UAE since the onset of the war, of which more than 90% have been intercepted. This ongoing threat has not only affected flight schedules but has also led to a sharp increase in jet fuel prices, rising from around $85-$90 per barrel to between $150-$200.

As a result, thousands of British citizens are currently stranded in the UAE, with the UK government reporting that approximately 170,000 British citizens are registered in the Middle East. The UK has also begun conducting defensive air sorties in support of the UAE amid these missile threats.

What are the implications for airlines and travelers?

Airlines are feeling the impact of these disruptions, with Air India and Air India Express planning to operate a total of 60 flights to and from various cities in the Middle East to accommodate affected travelers. However, the situation remains fluid, and many travelers are left uncertain about their next steps.

As Fawaz Gerges noted, “Dubai is really the epicenter of globalization,” emphasizing the city’s significance in international travel and commerce. Yet, the current crisis underscores the vulnerabilities that can arise in such interconnected systems.

UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan has reassured citizens and travelers alike, stating, “The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh – we are no easy prey.” This sentiment reflects the resilience of the UAE amidst the ongoing challenges.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term effects of these disruptions on travel patterns and airline operations. As the situation evolves, travelers are advised to stay informed and explore alternative routes if necessary.

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On March 5, 2026, Azerbaijan reported a significant escalation in tensions with Iran following a drone attack that injured four civilians in the Nakhchivan exclave. This incident marks a troubling development in the already complex geopolitical landscape of West Asia, where Azerbaijan has been strengthening its military and economic ties with Israel and the United States, while Iran’s influence in the region appears to be waning.

The drone attack specifically targeted the Nakhchivan exclave, which is geographically isolated from the rest of Azerbaijan by a 40-kilometer wide swath of Armenia. The attack not only resulted in civilian injuries but also caused damage to an airport building, raising concerns about the safety and security of the region. In response, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry lodged an official protest with the Iranian embassy, condemning the act as a violation of international law.

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev characterized the drone strike as a “groundless act of terror and aggression,” emphasizing that such actions would not be tolerated. He demanded that Iranian officials clarify the situation promptly and called for accountability for those responsible for the attack. Aliyev’s strong rhetoric reflects the heightened sensitivities surrounding Azerbaijan’s national security and its relationships with neighboring countries.

Following the drone attack, Azerbaijan took immediate measures by halting truck traffic across its border with Iran. This decision underscores the seriousness with which Baku is treating the incident and its implications for bilateral relations. Azerbaijan’s military has also been instructed to prepare and implement retaliatory measures, indicating a potential escalation in military readiness.

Iran, on the other hand, has denied any involvement in the drone attack, with its general staff asserting that no drones were launched toward Azerbaijan’s territory. This denial adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry has stated that Iran’s actions contradict international law and contribute to increased regional tension.

The backdrop of this conflict includes a significant Azeri population within Iran, which has historically led to frictions between the two nations. Iran has accused Azerbaijan of permitting Israeli intelligence operations from its territory, further complicating the dynamics at play. As Azerbaijan continues to develop its ties with Israel, the potential for conflict with Iran remains a pressing concern.

The drone attack on March 5 is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of escalating tensions in the region. The situation is particularly sensitive given the strategic importance of Nakhchivan, which accounts for approximately 6% of Azerbaijan’s territory. The exclave’s separation from the main part of Azerbaijan by Armenian territory makes it a focal point for potential military confrontations.

As of now, the situation remains tense, with both nations on high alert. The international community is closely monitoring developments, as the implications of this conflict extend beyond Azerbaijan and Iran, potentially affecting regional stability in the South Caucasus. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the next steps from either side, but the potential for further escalation is evident.

The post Azerbaijan Accuses Iran of Drone Attack Amid Rising Tensions appeared first on bangalinews.

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.

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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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