Iran’s Foreign Minister Syed Abbas Araghchi has sharply escalated the war of words, saying Tehran’s response will be aimed at American bases and institutions after fresh US strikes. His remarks came as scrutiny deepened over a deadly school strike in southern Iran that, according to reports cited by CNN and Reuters, may have involved American forces.
The conflict, which began on February 28 after joint US-Israel strikes inside Iran, is now pulling in more countries across West Asia. India is tracking the fallout on aviation, its missions in the Gulf have issued fresh advisories, and global leaders are warning that the crisis could slip beyond control.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Assembly of Experts is likely to meet within one day to choose new Supreme Leader, Assembly member Ayatollah Mozafari said on Saturday, according to Iranian media.
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Countries hosting US bases will not enjoy peace
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Saturday said that countries hosting US bases in the region “will not enjoy peace”. He also said that the alleged US attack on the Qeshm desalination plant, was “carried out with the support of one of the air bases in the southern neighboring countries”. “This blatant crime will receive a proportionate response. American military bases in the region have become platforms for operations against Iran”, he added. “The origin of any attack is the destination of our response.”
Iran claims 220 American soldiers killed or wounded in its strikes
An Iranian Army spokesman on Saturday claimed that as many as 220 American soldiers have been killed or wounded and significant damage has been inflicted on American assets in the region in retaliatory attacks by the Iranian Armed Forces over the past 24 hours, reported Iranian local media. The spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Zolfaghari, said on Saturday that 21 American service members were killed and a number of others injured during Iranian attacks on the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and some 200 American personnel were also killed and wounded during strikes against the US military base in Al Dhafra Air Base.
The US has, so far, only confirmed six of its troops were killed in the Iranian strikes.
Sri Lankan MP expresses shock over IRIS Dena sinking by US Submarine
Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva expressed shock following the sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena by a U.S. submarine on March 4, 2026.
Harsha de Silva, MP, Chair of the Committee on Public Finance of the Parliament in Sri Lanka, while talking to ANI, said regional neighbours have traditionally viewed the Indian Ocean as a zone of peace and connectivity and torpedoing of a warship is seen as a dangerous escalation that brings the West Asian conflict directly into South Asian waters.
"Indian Ocean has always been a peaceful place, and we've always said, look, we need rules-based order and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific was the thing that everyone wanted to achieve and was driven really by the United States and allies," he said.
Gulf carriers resume limited flight operations
Major Gulf carriers, including Emirates and Etihad, have resumed limited flight operations as of Saturday, following regional airspace closures. Services are gradually restoring, with some restricted to "relief corridors" for stranded passengers. Emirates Airlines, in a statement, said that it has resumed operations. Passengers who have confirmed bookings for this afternoon's flights may proceed to the airport. This includes customers transiting in Dubai, if their connecting flight is also operating.
Customers can check the flight schedule for upcoming flights, as well as book seats to travel: emirat.es/nowoperating.
'Must take idea of us surrendering to their graves,' says Iran President after Trump calls for surrender from Iran
"Unfortunately, there is a trend where, disregarding all international laws, they bomb wherever they please, not refraining from targeting schools, hospitals, and various centres within the country...We must all join hands and powerfully defend our water, soil, and land. We stand ready to give our lives to pull our Iran proudly out of this crisis. As for the idea of us surrendering unconditionally, they must take such a dream to their graves," the Iranian President said.
'Must take idea of us surrendering to their graves,' says Iran President after Trump calls for surrender from Iran
"Unfortunately, there is a trend where, disregarding all international laws, they bomb wherever they please, not refraining from targeting schools, hospitals, and various centres within the country...We must all join hands and powerfully defend our water, soil, and land. We stand ready to give our lives to pull our Iran proudly out of this crisis. As for the idea of us surrendering unconditionally, they must take such a dream to their graves," the Iranian President said.
Trump says Iran 'lost' the war, apologised to its neighbours
Trump has claimed that Iran "lost" he war and apologised to its Gulf neighbours. He also vowed to hit Tehran the hardest tonight.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) navy launched a drone attack on the al-Dhafra airbase in the United Arab Emirates, according to the Tasnim news agency.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) navy launched a drone attack on the al-Dhafra airbase in the United Arab Emirates, according to the Tasnim news agency.
Iran Army today announced that 13 advanced drones of types MQ-9, Hermes, and Orbiter were destroyed by the integrated network of the Joint Air Defense Command in the past 24 hours.
‘Today, Iran will be hit very hard’: Trump
After Iran's President apologised to its neighbouring countries, US President Donald Trump claimed that this surrender to its Middle East neighbours was only made because of the relentless US and Israeli attack.
He posted on Truth Social: "Iran, which is being beaten to HELL, has apologized, and they were looking to take over and rule the Middle East. It is the first time that Iran has ever lost, in thousands of years, to surrounding Middle Eastern Countries."
Trump further said that Iran is no longer the “Bully of the Middle East,” they are, instead, “THE LOSER OF THE MIDDLE EAST,” and will be for many decades until they surrender or, more likely, completely collapse!
He asserted that Iran will be hit very hard today. He stated that, because of Iran’s bad behaviour, the United States is considering the destruction of areas and the certain death of groups of people that were not considered for targeting until this moment in time.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced the launch of the 25th wave of attacks using missiles and drones against US-Israel military and military support centres.
In the latest statement, the IRGC said the hypersonic Fatah missile and ballistic Emad missiles are being used in the operation.
Iran thanks India after naval vessel IRIS Lavan docks at Kochi
Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali today expressed gratitude towards the Government of India and the local authorities for their cooperation and humanitarian approach in facilitating the docking of the Iranian naval vessel, IRIS Lavan, at the port of Kochi in India to carry out technical and logistical arrangements.
He said, "The excellent coordination and cooperation of the Indian authorities in these difficult circumstances clearly reflect the long-standing and friendly relations between our two countries."
India docked the Iranian vessel following the tragic incident involving the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Dena in the waters of the Indian Ocean.
IDF's overnight operation in Lebanon
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) special forces operated overnight in Lebanon, in an attempt to locate findings related to the missing navigator Ron Arad.
No findings related to him were located at the search site and no IDF injuries were reported.
The IDF stated that it will continue to operate relentlessly, day and night, out of a "deep commitment to bringing all of Israel’s sons, the fallen and the missing, back home to Israel."
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DF's overnight operation in Lebanon
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) special forces operated overnight in Lebanon, in an attempt to locate findings related to the missing navigator Ron Arad.
No findings related to him were located at the search site and no IDF injuries were reported.
The IDF stated that it will continue to operate relentlessly, day and night, out of a "deep commitment to bringing all of Israel’s sons, the fallen and the missing, back home to Israel."
IDF's overnight operation in Lebanon
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) special forces operated overnight in Lebanon, in an attempt to locate findings related to the missing navigator Ron Arad.
No findings related to him were located at the search site and no IDF injuries were reported.
The IDF stated that it will continue to operate relentlessly, day and night, out of a "deep commitment to bringing all of Israel’s sons, the fallen and the missing, back home to Israel."
In the latest statement, Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, Spokesman of Iran's Armed Forces, warned that all the places where there is an origin of aggression against our country will be our legitimate target.
He said, "From the very first day of the US-Israel attacks on Iran, we declared that wherever the origin of aggression against our country is, that place will be our legitimate target, and we have acted accordingly."
Flight operations at Bahrain International Airport remain temporarily suspended due to the Bahraini airspace closure. Operations will resume once the airspace is safely reopened.
The airport authorities requested passengers to check with their airline for updates.
80 Israeli fighter jets used in Iran strike operation
The Israeli Defence Forces said about 80 fighter aircraft were involved in the latest wave of strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure. The operation was aimed at weakening Iran’s military capabilities and disrupting regime-linked operations.
Israeli airstrikes target missile facility and IRGC university
The Israeli military said it carried out fresh strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, including an underground ballistic missile storage facility. The IDF said the site contained bunkers and command centres where hundreds of Iranian personnel were operating.
Israel also confirmed that Imam Hossein University, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ main military academy, was hit in the latest round of attacks. According to the IDF, the university is used to train IRGC officers and military personnel.
Expert warns US may target another country after Iran
Former World Peace Forum secretary-general Yan Xuetong warned that Iran may not be the final focus of US military pressure. In an interview with UNI, he said the pattern of recent US actions suggests other countries could also become targets in the future.
Yan Xuetong said Iran cannot depend on other countries to shield it from potential American military action. He argued that global institutions currently lack strong mechanisms to protect national sovereignty when powerful states are involved.
The analyst also warned that Washington’s strategy of sanctions and economic pressure, seen in cases such as Iran and Venezuela, could increase geopolitical tensions if diplomatic solutions fail. He said prolonged conflicts could destabilise the wider Middle East.
Emirates resumes Dubai flight operations
Emirates said it has resumed flight operations after a temporary suspension caused by the deteriorating security situation in West Asia. In a post on X, the airline said passengers with confirmed bookings for afternoon flights may proceed to the airport, including those transiting through Dubai. Emirates added it will continue monitoring developments and adjust schedules accordingly.
Iran rules out attacks on neighbouring Gulf countries
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran has decided not to target neighbouring states as the conflict enters its seventh day. In a televised address, he apologised to Gulf nations and said missile launches would stop unless attacks were launched on Iran from their territory.
Pezeshkian also dismissed US calls for Iran’s “unconditional surrender”, saying Tehran would never capitulate under pressure. “They will take their dreams of us surrendering unconditionally to the grave,” he said, responding to remarks by US President Donald Trump.
Israel says 80 jets struck missile factory in Iran
The Israeli military said more than 80 fighter jets carried out airstrikes across Tehran and central Iran overnight. According to the IDF, the operation targeted an underground ballistic missile production site and other military facilities. The strikes involved the dropping of around 230 bombs.
Iran launches new wave of missile attacks
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it launched the 23rd wave of Operation True Promise 4, using new-generation missile systems. The strikes were aimed at Israeli targets and US bases in the region, the IRGC said in a statement.
US military says 3,000 targets hit in Iran campaign
US Central Command said thousands of strikes have already been carried out inside Iran in the first week of the operation. In a post on X, it said over 3,000 targets had been hit during the ongoing campaign named Operation Epic Fury.
Iran’s envoy in India calls conflict ‘battle of values’
Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, described the current escalation as more than a military dispute. Speaking in New Delhi, he said the conflict represented a struggle between justice and domination, accusing the US and Israel of violating international law.
Emirates suspends all Dubai flights
Emirates airline said it has suspended all flights to and from Dubai until further notice because of the worsening regional security situation. Passengers have been advised not to travel to the airport, while the airline said flexible rebooking and refund options will be offered.
US approves sale of 12,000 bombs to Israel
The US State Department has approved a possible $151.8 million arms sale to Israel, including 12,000 BLU-110A/B 1,000-pound aerial bombs, according to a statement cited by Xinhua. Washington said the emergency sale was cleared by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who waived the usual congressional review citing US national security interests. The department said the package would strengthen Israel’s defence capability and help deter regional threats amid the escalating conflict with Iran.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warn US over Strait of Hormuz
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they are waiting for US forces to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, where maritime traffic has been severely disrupted amid the conflict. In a statement cited by AFP, they warned Washington to remember the burning of the American supertanker Bridgeton in 1987 before making any decisions about the strategic waterway.
Explosion heard near Dubai airport as Gulf tensions rise
An explosion was heard over Dubai airport on Saturday, followed by a cloud of smoke in the sky, according to a witness cited by AFP. Flight-tracking platform Flightradar24 showed several aircraft circling above the airport in a holding pattern, suggesting possible disruption to air traffic.
Iran accuses US of war crime over naval attack
Iran’s UN envoy Amir-Saeid Iravani also accused the United States of committing a “war crime” at sea, alleging that the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena was attacked in international waters during a goodwill mission. He said nearly 100 Iranian sailors were killed and called on the UN Security Council to intervene and halt the conflict.
Iran launches new missile-drone wave targeting US bases
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had launched the 23rd phase of “Operation True Promise 4”, carrying out a combined missile and drone attack against American bases in the region. Iranian media reported that facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan were among the targets struck during the barrage.
Iran says over 1,300 civilians killed in US-Israel strikes
Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, said at least 1,332 civilians have been killed in the ongoing US-Israeli air campaign and thousands more injured. Speaking at UN headquarters, he said the toll included more than 180 children, and that over 20 schools and 13 healthcare facilities had been damaged in the strikes.
Oil prices surge as war fuels fears of supply disruption
Global crude prices have jumped sharply amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran. WTI crude rose about 12 per cent to around USD 90.90, marking its biggest weekly surge since April 2020. Analysts say fears of disruption through the Strait of Hormuz are driving volatility in energy markets.
UAE seeks stronger UK support amid missile strikes
The United Arab Emirates has called for greater backing from Britain after what it described as “unjustified attacks” linked to the expanding conflict. UAE Ambassador to the UK Mansoor Abulhoul said London had offered support but additional assistance would be welcome during the crisis. Missile debris has reportedly damaged buildings in Dubai, including parts of Dubai International Airport and other civilian locations.
Saudi air defences intercept drones targeting major oil field
Saudi Arabia said its air defence systems intercepted 16 drones launched in multiple waves toward the strategic Shaybah oil field in the Empty Quarter. The Kingdom’s defence ministry also reported shooting down a ballistic missile and a cruise missile aimed at Prince Sultan Air Base. The attempted strike marks a widening of attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure.
Heavy air strikes reported at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport
Iran’s Tasnim News Agency said that Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport was hit by heavy air attacks. The report has been cited by Reuters.
Iran tells UN over 1,300 civilians killed in ongoing strikes
Iran’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, accused the US and Israel of launching what he called large-scale attacks on Iranian civilians and infrastructure. Addressing the UN, he said at least 1,332 civilians, including women and children, have been killed so far and thousands injured. He also alleged that airports, schools, hospitals and residential areas had been hit, and said over 180 children and more than 20 schools were among the casualties of the war.
Iran says response will target US bases
Iranian Foreign Minister Syed Abbas Araghchi accused the United States of launching attacks from the “lands of our Arab friends” and said Tehran’s answer would be aimed at American bases and institutions. In a post on X, he said Iran and Arab nations had lived together for centuries in friendship and mutual respect. His remarks came amid growing anger over strikes that he said had hit children and other innocent people.
Deadly Iran school strike under sharper focus
International outrage has grown after strikes hit Minab Girls’ Primary School in Hormozgan province, killing more than 160 people and injuring another 100. A CNN report, citing expert analysis, satellite imagery, geolocated videos and public remarks by US officials, said the US was likely responsible for the February 28 strike near an IRGC naval base. American officials have not confirmed or denied responsibility so far.
According to CNN, the most likely explanation is that the school was hit during an American strike on the nearby naval facility. Munitions expert Trevor Jenzen-Jones was cited as saying it was “probably a targeting failure”, suggesting the target set may not have been updated in time. CENTCOM told CNN it would be inappropriate to comment while the matter is under investigation.
Trump says Iran’s military strength has been shattered
US President Donald Trump, speaking at the White House during a round table on collegiate sports, strongly praised the military campaign in Iran. He claimed Iran had lost its army, navy, communications network and senior leadership, and said all 32 of its ships were now “at the bottom of the ocean”. Trump also said the US military was being respected like never before.
White House signals interest in Iran’s future leadership
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also said it was in the best interest of the United States that Iran no longer be led by what she called a “radical terrorist regime”. She said President Trump wants to take an interest in who Iran’s next leader will be and is discussing the issue. Earlier, Trump had said there would be “no deal” with Iran short of unconditional surrender.
White House says operation could run four to six weeks
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the “achievable objectives” of Operation Epic Fury are expected to last around four to six weeks. She said the US had enough ammunition and stockpiles not just for the current mission, but beyond it. Leavitt also said Washington was well on its way to taking control of Iranian airspace.
Fire reported at Tehran airport, explosions heard in Tel Aviv
As the fighting spread further, Press TV posted an image it said showed a huge fire at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport after US-Israeli attacks. Al Jazeera Breaking also reported that loud explosions were heard in Tel Aviv, while Saudi forces reportedly intercepted an incoming ballistic missile. Another drone attack was said to have caused fire at Halliburton and KBR locations in Basra.
Iraq base near Baghdad airport targeted: Report
Reuters, citing Iraqi security sources, reported that a rocket attack targeted a military base housing a US diplomatic centre near Baghdad international airport. Iraqi military sources also said two Katyusha rockets were fired at Taji Military Base, north of Baghdad. The conflict is now clearly spilling into more corners of the region.
Israel says fresh strikes carried out in Beirut
The Israeli Defence Forces said its air force had completed another wave of strikes in Beirut, including in the Dahiyeh district. According to the IDF, the targets included an IRGC Air Force command centre and facilities linked to Hezbollah’s naval, financial, and operating units. Israel also said missiles had been launched from Iran towards Israeli territory.
UN chief warns situation could slip beyond control
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an end to the fighting and urgent diplomatic negotiations. In a post on X, he said the unlawful attacks were causing major civilian suffering across the region and posed a serious risk to the global economy, especially for the most vulnerable. He warned that the crisis could spiral beyond anyone’s control.
India monitors West Asia air travel, watches fares
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation said it is closely tracking the developing situation in West Asia and the impact on air travel. Airlines, it said, are making operational adjustments to keep passengers safe and maintain orderly flight movement. The ministry also said it was keeping a close eye on fares to ensure there is no undue spike during the crisis.
Indian Embassy in Doha issues extra helpline numbers
The Indian Embassy in Doha said it has activated an additional set of helpline numbers for Indian nationals in Qatar. It also shared its email, cons.doha@mea.gov.in, for queries and assistance. The mission said ICC and ICBF have also set up support services for the Indian community from 9 am to 9 pm.
Kuwait mission urges Indians to follow local military guidance
The Embassy of India in Kuwait urged citizens and residents to follow instructions issued by the General Staff of the Armed Forces if missiles or unknown falling objects are seen. The advisory came as attacks and counter-attacks continued to spread across multiple countries in the region.
US lawmaker blames Russia for aiding Iran
US Representative Joe Wilson accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of helping Iran with intelligence. In a post on X, Wilson alleged that Russia was contributing to chaos and deaths and said Moscow must be held accountable. The comment came after Iranian President Pezeshkian’s telephonic conversation with Putin.
Russia says contact with Tehran will continue
The Russian Foreign Ministry said Pezeshkian thanked Moscow for standing with the Iranian people as they defend their sovereignty and independence. He also briefed Putin on the latest phase of the conflict. Both sides agreed to remain in touch through various channels.
Putin speaks to Iran President, calls for end to hostilities
Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed condolences over the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Putin reiterated Moscow’s support for an immediate end to hostilities and a return to diplomacy. It also said he has been in regular contact with leaders of Gulf Cooperation Council states.