Last UpdateApril 1, 2026, 2:52 AM EDT
President Donald Trump released footage of U.S. strikes on an Iranian munitions depot in the city of Isfahan on Monday night. Trump’s administration continues talks with Iranian leaders amid a pause on strikes against Iran’s energy infrastructure.
Covered by: Anders Hagstrom, Emma Bussey and Michael Sinkewicz
WHAT TO KNOW
- President Donald Trump shared footage of a US strike on an Iranian munitions depot late Monday night.
- The U.S. has given Iran 10 days to accept a peace agreement before the U.S. begins targeting the nation’s energy infrastructure.
- Trump is lashing out at the United Kingdomand France, among others, for failing to help the U.S. in the war against Iran.
- War Secretary Pete Hegseth says he made a covert visit to U.S. troops fighting in Operation Epic Fury this weekend.
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11 hours ago
PINNED
Trump to address nation Wednesday night with ‘important update’ on Iran
President Donald Trump is set to address the nation on Wednesday night, providing an update on the situation in Iran.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the address in a post on X, stating: “Tune in: Tomorrow night at 9 p.m. ET, President Trump will give an Address to the Nation to provide an important update on Iran.”
The announcement comes as tensions between the United States and Iran remain high, with ongoing military developments in the region.
Posted by Emma Bussey
4 hours ago
IDF kills top Quds Force engineering chief linked to Hezbollah tunnels
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday that it eliminated Mahdi Vafaei, the head of the Engineering Branch of the Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps in the Mahallat area of Iran.
According to the IDF, Vafaei “advanced underground projects” in Lebanon and Syria, and led efforts to “establish and manage underground terrorist infrastructure sites for Hezbollah and the Assad regime.”
The military said Vafaei managed dozens of subterranean projects in Lebanon used for the storage of advanced weaponry.
The IDF said Vafaei’s death “deals a significant blow” to Hezbollah’s ability to develop underground infrastructure and disrupts the Iranian regime’s efforts to carry out terror operations across the Middle East.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
5 hours ago
Missile strike in Israel leaves 11-year-old girl seriously injured, 2 others hurt: report
Damage is seen in central Israel following a missile strike. (Magen David Adom)
An 11-year-old girl was severely injured following a missile strike in Israel, according to Magen David Adom.
The agency said she was in serious condition and suffering from shrapnel injuries.
A 13-year-old boy and a 36-year-old woman were also wounded in the strike and sustained moderate injuries, MDA said.
Another 11 people suffered mild injuries.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
5 hours ago
Iran’s covert drone networks spark fears of sleeper cell attacks on US soil
Iran drone swarms threaten U.S. military assets in the Middle East region. (Iranian Army/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS)
Iran is building a decentralized drone warfare capability in Tehran’s apartment building basements powered by inexpensive technology sourced from China, a leading defense expert has warned.
Draganfly’s Cameron Chell also said this emerging system — centered on first-person-view (FPV) drones — could pose a threat not only across the Middle East but potentially to the U.S. homeland.
“The FPVs are Iran’s Hail Mary because they are very hard to defend, are incredibly effective and can be delivered in a manner without having to have a central command,” Chell told Fox News Digital.
“So, whether it’s the Iranian army, whether it’s militia groups or Iranian patriots, they can all create or procure their own FPVs and get offensive.”
He added that “Iran could be reiterating FPVs and churning out more than 100,000 a month over time.”
“Iran’s got either militias or sleeper cells in the states who can, in my estimation, already build this equipment,” Chell clarified.
Chell’s warning comes as recent incidents in Iraq highlight the growing use of FPVs.
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Emma Bussey
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
6 hours ago
Pope Leo urges Trump to seek ‘off-ramp’ to end Iran conflict
Pope Leo and President Donald Trump. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images; Albert Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images)
Pope Leo issued a direct appeal to President Donald Trump on Tuesday, urging him to look for an “off-ramp” to end the conflict in Iran.
“I’m told that President Trump has recently stated that he would like to end the war,” Leo told reporters.
“Hopefully he’s looking for an off-ramp,” he continued. “Hopefully he’s looking for a way to decrease the amount of violence.”
The pope said he hopes the war ends before Easter, which falls on Sunday, April 5.
“There have been so many deaths, including innocent children,” he said. “Let’s continually appeal for peace.”
“There are too many people who promote fighting, violence (and) war,” he added.
Trump said Tuesday that the U.S. could end its military operation in two to three weeks.
The president is expected to address the nation Wednesday evening with an “important update” on Iran.
Reuters contributed to this report.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
6 hours ago
JetBlue raises checked bag fees as Iran conflict drives up fuel costs
JetBlue is increasing checked bag fees as fuel costs rise.
JetBlue is raising its checked bag fees by up to $9 as the war in Iran continues to impact global oil supply and fuel prices.
The Associated Press reported that most domestic economy passengers will see the cost of a first checked bag rise from $35 to $39.
The fee will increase from $40 to $49 during peak travel periods, including spring break, major holidays and the summer.
The airline also increased its charge for a second bag from $50 to $59 during off-peak periods, and from $60 to $69 during peak travel times.
Jet fuel prices have risen nearly 85% since the conflict in Iran began late last month, adding to airlines’ operating costs.
In a statement to The Associated Press, JetBlue said, “While we recognize that fee increases are never ideal, we take careful consideration to ensure these changes are implemented only when necessary.”
The new fees are expected to take effect Monday.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
7 hours ago
Iranian drone attack sparks massive fire at Kuwait International Airport
Smoke rises from Kuwait international airport after a drone strike on fuel storage in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Friday, Wednesday, March 25, 2026. (AP Photo)
An Iranian drone attack on Wednesday sparked a large fire at Kuwait International Airport, according to the state-run KUNA news agency.
KUNA reported that the airport’s fuel depots were hit by drones, igniting a “massive blaze.”
The attack caused “significant damage” to the fuel tanks, the agency said. No casualties were reported.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
7 hours ago
IDF says it has carried out 800+ airstrikes in Iran campaign, killed 2,000 troops
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced late Tuesday that it has carried out more than 800 airstrikes and used roughly 16,000 munitions since it began its military campaign against Iran more than a month ago.
More than 2,000 Iranian military personnel have been killed during “Operation Roaring Lion,” according to the IDF.
The Israeli military said it has struck more than 4,000 targets since the war began.
Most recently, the IDF said it struck an Iranian research and development facility used to transfer lethal chemical substances.
The military said the facility, owned by the Tofiq Daru Company, supplied fentanyl to the SPND Organization, which it said is responsible for developing chemical weapons.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
8 hours ago
UAE bars Iranians from air travel amid ongoing conflict, airlines say
An Emirates aircraft flies past plumes of smoke from an ongoing fire near Dubai International Airport in Dubai on March 16, 2026. (AFP via Getty Images)
The United Arab Emirates has reportedly barred Iranians from air travel amid the ongoing conflict in Iran.
Airlines Emirates, Etihad and Flydubai announced that Iranian nationals would no longer be allowed to enter or transit through the UAE.
The airlines said travelers with a 10-year Golden Visa residency would still be permitted to enter the country.
The travel ban comes after Dubai previously shut down the city-state’s Iranian Hospital and Iranian Club.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
8 hours ago
Tanker struck by ‘unknown projectile’ off Qatar coast, crew safe
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said Tuesday that a tanker was struck by an “unknown projectile” off the coast of Qatar.
The incident occurred about 17 nautical miles north of Doha, according to UKMTO.
A projectile struck the port side of the vessel, damaging its hull above the waterline, the agency said.
UKMTO added that the crew was safe and there was no environmental impact.
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
8 hours ago
CENTCOM spokesman refutes reports of US strike on civilian areas in Iran
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) on Tuesday evening refuted media reports that U.S. forces struck a sports hall and residential area in Iran late last month.
“Several media outlets recently reported accusations of U.S. forces striking a sports hall and residential area in the city of Lamerd, Iran, on Feb. 28. After looking into the reports, U.S. Central Command has confirmed the accusations are false,”CENTCOM spokesman U.S. Navy Capt. Tim Hawkins said in a statement.
“U.S. forces did not launch any strikes at any time into the city of Lamerd or anywhere within 30 miles during the opening day of Operation Epic Fury,” Hawkins continued. “Furthermore, video footage circulated by media outlets alleging U.S. involvement does not show a Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). A PrSM is 13 feet in length. The munition depicted in the video appears to be twice as long, consistent with the dimensions and silhouette of an Iranian Hoveyzeh cruise missile”
Hawkins added, “U.S. forces do not target civilians, unlike the Iranian regime which has attacked civilian locations in neighboring countries more than 300 times.”
Posted by Michael Sinkewicz
9 hours ago
Rubio warns against ‘fake negotiations’ as US signals openness to direct talks with Iran
Rubio / Jonathan Ernst/POOL / AFP via Getty Images
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that Tehran and Washington could have a “direct meeting” at some point, signaling a future thaw even as the Trump administration maintains a hard line on Iran.
Speaking on “Hannity,” Rubio also emphasized that the U.S. remains cautious about Tehran’s intentions.
“There is the potential for a direct meeting at some point,” Rubio said.
“We’re always going to be open to that, but what President Trump is not going to allow is that he’s not going to allow fake negotiations to be used as a delay tactic, to buy more time, to buy themselves space,” he warned.
“That’s what he’s not going to allow.”
“We’re going to finish the job here,” he confirmed before reiterating that the U.S. is “very, very close to achieving our objectives on all of these things that I’ve outlined.”
Rubio’s comments come amid U.S. efforts to achieve its objectives in dealing with Iran.
Posted by Emma Bussey
9 hours ago
Iran aimed to become next North Korea, now weaker than ever: Rubio
Marco Rubio Screenshot / Politico
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that Iran had been moving toward becoming “the next North Korea,” while arguing the country is now at its weakest point in decades.
In an appearance on “Hannity”, Rubio pointed to recent U.S. actions against Tehran roughly five weeks ago as a key factor in Iran’s current position.
He claimed Iran had been developing missile capabilities that could eventually reach the continental United States.
“That’s what they were aiming to do,” Rubio told host Sean Hannity. “They were aiming to become the next North Korea.”
Rubio also described the Iranian regime as difficult to interpret, calling it “troublesome and hard to understand.” He emphasized that, in his view, Iran’s current condition marks a historic low point.
“This is the weakest Iran has been in 25 years,” he said. “This is the weakest Iran has ever been.”
Posted by Emma Bussey
10 hours ago
Syria to stay out of Iran conflict unless directly targeted, interim president says
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa / Salwan Georges / The Washington Post via Getty Images
Syria will keep out of the ongoing conflict in Iran unless it is targeted, the country’s interim president confirmed on Tuesday.
President Ahmad al-Sharaa made the remarks during an event hosted by the Chatham House think tank while visiting London, according to The Associated Press.
“Certainly, unless it is directly targeted by any party, Syria will stay out of this conflict,” he said responding to a question about the war.
“Fourteen years of war are enough for Syria, during which we have paid a very high price. We are not ready to go through a new experience. Anyone who has been through war knows the value of peace.”
Syria is one of the few countries in the Middle East that has stayed on the sidelines of the war.
Posted by Emma Bussey
10 hours ago
Iran ‘upset’ over Chinese-Pakistani peace plan, cites lack of consultation: report
China flag / Adek Berry
Iran is reportedly “upset” over a five-point peace plan initiated Tuesday by the foreign ministers of China and Pakistan, according to Al Jazeera.
Citing an informed source, the outlet said Tehran’s concern centers on not being consulted in advance of the proposal.
“As both are friendly countries, we expected prior consultation,” the source said.
The five-point plan calls for restoring “normal passage” through the Strait of Hormuz and safeguarding civilian sites and critical infrastructure, including energy, desalination, and power facilities, as well as peaceful nuclear infrastructure.
The proposal also urges initiating “peace talks as soon as possible” as part of broader efforts to de-escalate tensions and stabilize the region.
Posted by Emma Bussey
11 hours ago
Trump says Iran doesn’t have to make a deal to end war, warns of stark alternative
President Trump / Will Oliver / EPA / Bloomberg via Getty Images
Tehran does not have to make a deal with Washington to end the war in Iran, President Donald Trump said Tuesday.
But speaking to reporters at the White House, the president also stressed that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon.
“Iran doesn’t have to make a deal, no,” Trump said when asked if successful diplomacy was a prerequisite to the U.S. ending the war.
“No, they don’t have to make a deal with me,” he said before explaining that winding down the military operation would mean Iran would be “put into the Stone Age,” without the ability to acquire a nuclear weapon.
“Then we’ll leave,” Trump added.
Posted by Emma Bussey
11 hours ago
Iran eyes UK military bases as targets after Starmer agrees US bomber use
Starmer / Kin Cheung / POOL / AFP via Getty Images
Iran is assessing whether UK military bases could be targets for strikes, the Islamic regime’s ambassador to the UK warned Tuesday.
The remarks came after Prime Minister Keir Starmer allowed American bombers to carry out “defensive strikes” against Iran’s missile launchers from RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia.
“This is a very important matter we are considering. This is a very important matter for our self-defense,” Seyed Ali Mousavi told The Times of London.
“The military sections of our system will decide appropriately. It depends on your activities.
“It depends on the British decision on this matter. Every option should be considered. We are very careful and delicate about how to defend ourselves,” he said.
The comments came as tensions reignited between President Donald Trump and Starmer.
Trump said Tuesday the UK had “refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran” and needed to “start learning how to fight for itself.”
Posted by Emma Bussey
12 hours ago
IDF strikes Iranian factory linked to lethal chemical weapons program
Chemical facility Iran / Israel Defence Forces
An Iranian research and development facility used to transfer lethal chemical substances to the Iranian regime was struck Tuesday, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed.
The factory, owned by the Tofiq Daru Company, was a major supplier of fentanyl to the SPND Organization, which is responsible for the development of chemical weapons for the Iranian regime, the IDF said.
Although operating under the guise of a civilian company, the facility supplied chemical substances — including fentanyl — for use in chemical weapons research and development.
The Tofiq Daru Company knowingly and consistently supplied this substance to the SPND Organization for use in its chemical weapons program, the IDF said.
“The strike on the Tofiq Daru Company impaired the Iranian terror regime’s chemical weapons production capabilities,” the IDF added.
The IDF also said that before the strike, “precautionary measures were taken to minimize harm to civilians to the greatest extent possible.”
As previously reported by Fox News Digital, concerns existed about Iran’s chemical weapons program.
A new report from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) said policymakers paid little attention compared with Iran’s highly scrutinized nuclear weapons program.
The FDD report outlined how the Iranian regime may have resorted to the unconventional use of chemical weapons while it faced protests in 2025.
Any use of chemical weapons by Iran would be in defiance of its obligations under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention
Posted by Emma Bussey
12 hours ago
Rubio says US strike on Iran was ‘the final, best chance to wipe out Iran’s threat for good’
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that the U.S. attack on Iran was intended to eliminate what he described as Iran’s nuclear threat permanently.
In a video shared on X, Rubio said that from day one, the mission was “crystal clear.”
“This was the final, best chance to wipe out Iran’s threat for good — so they can never have a nuclear weapon,” he said.
“They could have nuclear energy like all the other countries in the world have it. And that is, you import the fuel and you build reactors above ground. That’s not what Iran has done,” he said in the video shared by the White House.
“They build their reactors and their facilities deep in mountains away from the public glare, and they want to enrich that material, the same equipment that they could use to enrich material for energy they could use to quickly enrich it to weapons-grade.”
“We were on the verge of an Iran that had so many missiles and so many drones that no one could do anything about their nuclear weapons program,” Rubio said, calling it an “intolerable risk.”
He also said the operation aims to destroy Iran’s missile and drone capabilities so it “can’t hide behind it” and must engage with the international community over its nuclear ambitions.
Posted by Emma Bussey
13 hours ago
Araghchi says no response to US 15-point proposal, no negotiations underway
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi / Vahid Salemi / AP
Iran has not officially responded to the United States’ 15-point proposal and has yet to decide whether to enter negotiations, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tuesday.
In remarks to Al Jazeera, Araghchi also added that Iran has not submitted any counterproposals or outlined its own conditions.
He clarified that messages between the two sides have been exchanged, either directly or through intermediaries.
“I receive messages from Witkoff directly, as before, and this does not mean that we are in negotiations,” he said.
“There is no truth to the claim of negotiations with any party in Iran. All messages are conveyed through the Foreign Ministry or received by it, and there are communications between security agencies,” he said.
Addressing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said the waterway falls within the territorial boundaries of Iran and Oman and can therefore be used “strategically.”
“Only for the ships of those who are at war with us, this strait is closed. That is normal during war — we cannot let our enemies use our territorial waters for commerce,” he explained.
“Ships linked to other countries — because of security concerns, because of high insurance prices, or whatever other reason — they have decided not to use the Strait,” he said, adding that some of those countries have negotiated with Iran.
Posted by Emma Bussey
13 hours ago
Iran war ‘coming to an end,’ Trump says
Trump / AP Photo / Mark Schiefelbein
President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the war with Iran is “coming to an end,” signaling possible de-escalation after weeks of conflict.
In an interview with NBC News, Trump struck an optimistic tone about the state of the war.
“We’re doing great,” he said. “And it’s coming to an end.”
His comments are the latest in a series of remarks suggesting tensions between the two countries may soon ease.
Earlier Tuesday, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth told reporters during a war briefing that the coming days would be decisive.
He also warned Tehran that the conflict could escalate further if Iran does not agree to a deal.
Posted by Emma Bussey
14 hours ago
IRGC aerospace chief appears in state TV footage after criticism over absence
Footage aired by Iran’s state-run television Tuesday appeared to show Majid Mousavi, commander of the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), visiting underground missile facilities and meeting with launch operators.
The broadcast comes amid reports from Iran International that Mousavi has faced criticism from senior IRGC officials for his alleged absence during ongoing clashes, with some accusing him of leaving his forces without direct leadership.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
14 hours ago
IDF captures Hezbollah operative as four soldiers killed, Beirut strike takes out top commander
South Lebanon / Mohammed Zaatari / AP Photo
Four Israeli soldiers were killed and several others were wounded during a clash with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Tuesday, as fighting with the Iran-backed group continues in the region.
A civilian was also injured in a rocket attack on the border community of Avivim.
Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces would maintain control over large areas of southern Lebanon until the threat from Hezbollah is eliminated, adding that “all homes in Lebanese villages near the border will be destroyed.”
In separate incidents, four additional IDF soldiers and three reservists were wounded in Hezbollah attacks, including injuries caused by rocket shrapnel and a drone strike near Israeli troops.
According to The Times of Israel, Hezbollah operatives also launched an anti-tank missile at Israeli forces, though no further injuries were reported.
The IDF also captured a Hezbollah operative, the outlet said, following a strike in Beirut that killed senior Hezbollah commanders.
Posted by Emma Bussey
14 hours ago
US deploys third aircraft carrier to Middle East, expanding naval presence: report
USS George H.W. Bush / US Navy
The United States is sending a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, increasing its military presence in the region, according to reports.
The USS George H.W. Bush is set to join the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford, which are already operating in the area, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal, citing U.S. officials.
If completed, the latest deployment would result in three U.S. aircraft carriers stationed in the Middle East.
Posted by Emma Bussey
15 hours ago
Pentagon reports 349 US troops injured in Middle East under Operation Epic Fury
Epic Fury / U.S. Navy / Handout via Reuters
The Pentagon reported Tuesday that 349 U.S. service members have been injured in the Middle East since the start of Operation Epic Fury, according to newly released data on the Defense Casualty Analysis System website.
Of those injured, data showed that 315 have since returned to duty, reflecting a high rate of recovery among affected personnel.
Defense officials noted that the majority of injuries sustained have been traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, a pattern often associated with exposure to blasts and other combat-related incidents.
Operation Epic Fury is part of the ongoing U.S. military engagement in the Middle East against Iran.
Posted by Emma Bussey
15 hours ago
Iran bomb would make nuclear disaster harder to avoid, says Warren Buffett
Warren Buffett / Photo by Daniel Zuchnik / WireImage
The spread of nuclear weapons is making the world more dangerous, Warren Buffett warned Tuesday, while cautioning that Iran gaining a bomb would raise the risk of a catastrophic conflict.
In an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” the Berkshire Hathaway chairman said the growing number of nuclear-armed states has changed the global risk landscape, raising concerns about proliferation.
“Now you’ve got … nine countries,” Buffett said.
“We worried enormously about it when there were two. … You were not dealing with unstable people or anything like that. The ship’s turned around.”
“Just think of how you’d feel with North Korea having it and Iran wanting to get it,” he added.
“The most dangerous thing is, actually, somebody that’s got their hand on the switch, who is dying themselves or is facing enormous embarrassment. … I don’t know the answer for it, but I do know that … it’ll be more difficult if Iran has the bomb than if they don’t.”
Asked what advice he would give a U.S. president confronting the issue of enriched uranium, Buffett said something will happen “to cause it to be used.”
“I would say that one way or another … in the next 100 years — maybe it’s 200 years, who knows — something will happen to cause it to be used,” he said. “And we can’t take what’s out there now.”
Posted by Emma Bussey
16 hours ago
US orders Americans in Saudi Arabia to shelter in place, Iran missile and drone threats escalate
Riyadh / AFP via Getty Images
The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh urged Americans in Saudi Arabia to shelter in place Tuesday as missile and drone threats from Iran persist across the region.
In a statement, U.S. officials said there were no changes to departure guidance or embassy operations, but updated shelter-in-place instructions to reflect further security concerns.
The State Department also said it continues to prioritize the safety of American citizens, advising those who remain in the Kingdom to stay indoors, monitor official alerts, and prepare essential supplies as regional tensions continue.
The statement said that commercial flights are still operating out of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, though delays, cancellations, and airline suspensions are ongoing.
“Airspace remains open but subject to restrictions due to missile and drone threats,” it said before explaining that the embassy is “tracking reports of threats against locations where American citizens gather.”
“We advise U.S. citizens that hotels and other gathering points, including U.S. businesses and U.S. educational institutions, may be potential targets.”
A worldwide caution alert issued March 22 advises increased vigilance for Americans globally, the embassy said.
Posted by Emma Bussey
16 hours ago
Mojtaba Khamenei avoiding appearances in Iran “for understandable reasons,” Russian envoy says
Mojtaba Khamenei / Hamed JAFARNEJAD / ISNA / AFP via Getty Images
Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei remains in Iran but will not be making public appearances “for understandable reasons,” Russia’s ambassador to Iran said Tuesday, according to the RTVI news outlet, the Jerusalem Post reported.
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed power after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed when Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran on Feb. 28.
U.S. officials have since indicated they believe that Mojtaba Khamenei may have been wounded in those attacks, though Iran has not confirmed those claims.
Since taking over as Supreme Leader, Khamenei has issued only four public statements.
His first message came in the form of a letter reportedly written by him, while subsequent communications have been delivered through unspecified channels, further fueling speculation about his health and ability to appear publicly.
Posted by Emma Bussey
16 hours ago
China and Pakistan issue a joint Middle East peace initiative following Beijing talks
Pakistan Flag / ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images
China and Pakistan released a five-point plan for peace in the Middle East on Tuesday following a meeting between their foreign ministers in Beijing.
“The meeting was held in an exceptionally warm and cordial atmosphere, featuring hours of engagement from restricted talks to delegation-level discussions,” Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a post shared on X.
“The two sides reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, exchanged views on regional developments in the West Asia, and discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest,” it added.
On the evolving situation in West Asia, both sides underscored their shared commitment to peace, stability and dialogue, and issued a five-point initiative “aimed at promoting regional peace and stability,” the statement said.
“The two sides also reaffirmed their close coordination at multilateral fora and agreed to remain in regular and close contact,” the ministry said.
The plan calls for an immediate ceasefire, the resumption of peace talks, an end to attacks on nonmilitary targets and the restoration of shipping activity in the Strait of Hormuz.
Posted by Emma Bussey
16 hours ago
IRGC warns US tech company employees across region to evacuate workplaces or face consequences
Google Offices / Mike Kemp / In Pictures
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a warning Tuesday to employees of U.S. technology companies to leave their workplaces.
“From now on, the main institutions involved in such operations will be considered legitimate targets,” the IRGC said in a statement that named 18 companies, including Apple, Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Intel, HP and Cisco.
The statement shared by Iranian state media warned employees of the companies “in all countries of the region” to evacuate their workplaces and stay a kilometer away from their offices.
The statement described the companies as “key institutions involved in terrorist espionage operations” and said they would be considered targets.
Posted by Emma Bussey
17 hours ago
More key US allies block military flights as Iran war rift widens with Trump
More key European allies are restricting U.S. military access as the Trump administration presses ahead with its war against Iran, with both France and Italy moving to block U.S.-linked aircraft from using their airspace or bases.
Italy denied permission for U.S. military aircraft to land at the Sigonella Air Base in Sicily before heading to the Middle East, Reuters reported Tuesday, saying Washington had not sought prior authorization from Rome.
France has also refused overflight for planes carrying U.S. military supplies to Israel, according to President Donald Trump, marking a rare disruption to routine military coordination between Washington and key European allies.
Their refusals carry operational weight because U.S. bases in Europe — including those in Italy — are “essential” for supporting Middle East operations, acting as critical staging and transit hubs for military aircraft.
The move marks the latest sign of growing friction between the United States and European allies as President Donald Trump ramps up pressure on NATO partners to support operations tied to the war with Iran.
John Hemmings, director of the National Security Centre at the Henry Jackson Society, a London-based foreign policy think tank, told Fox News Digital the decision reflects deeper tensions.
“The news that Italy has blocked U.S. overflight and base use for aircraft taking part in the conflict in Iran is the visible sign of a transatlantic crisis bubbling over,” Hemmings said. “U.S. political and military authority is at rock bottom in Europe. Italy’s defection is a worrying indicator since Italy currently has a right-leaning populist government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a known ‘Trump Whisperer,’ the only European leader to attend Trump’s inauguration.”
An Italian government statement pushed back on reports of a rupture, saying: “With reference to media reports regarding the use of military bases, the government reiterates that Italy acts in full compliance with existing international agreements and with the policy guidelines set out by the government to parliament.”
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Efrat Lachter.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
17 hours ago
The race against time to destroy Iran’s illicit nuclear weapons program heats up amid fresh strikes
The Iranian regime’s retention of key nuclear weapons sites and material for building atomic bombs — highly enriched uranium — has led to new efforts by the U.S. and Israel to take out the last vestiges of the regime’s program.
On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement that its “Air Force Struck the Arak Heavy Water Plant — A Key Plutonium Production Site for Nuclear Weapons.” The Arak plant is located in central Iran.
Prior to Friday’s attack, an IDF spokesperson, speaking in reference to Arak, told Fox News Digital there is a “high estimation” that attacks on “uranium enrichment sites are part of the plan.”:
The IDF declined to answer more specific questions about its target list and if any ground operations to retrieve the nuclear weapons-grade uranium were being considered.
Reuters, quoting regime media outlet Fars, reported that joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Friday hit the Khondab heavy water research reactor.
A statement released by the IDF said, “Heavy water is a unique material used to operate nuclear reactors, such as the inactive Arak reactor, which was originally designed to have weapons-grade plutonium production capabilities. These materials can also be used as a neutron source for nuclear weapons.
“The plant was a significant economic asset for the terror regime and served as a source of income for the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization, generating tens of millions of dollars for the regime each year.”
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Benjamin Weinthal.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
18 hours ago
Jamie Dimon says US must ‘finish this thing’ with Iran to protect the global economy
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon is calling for a decisive end to the conflict with Iran, saying the U.S. must “finish this thing” to protect the global economy and remove the threat to the region.
Dimon appeared on “Fox & Friends” Tuesday, saying American strength depends on decisive action in the Middle East and embracing the artificial intelligence revolution.
“It’s much more important that this be successfully completed than what the market does,” Dimon said.
Threats to Middle East oil flows have added uncertainty to markets, as the United States, Israel and Iran continue to exchange strikes. On Tuesday, Iran struck an oil tanker off the coast of Dubai and continues to block shipments in the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Dimon said Americans should be hoping the United States wins the latest conflict and acts to “clean up the straits,” minimizing future threats to the U.S. and its allies.
“These people have been doing something bad for 47 years. They’ve been killing people. They’ve been killing Americans,” Dimon said.
“I think people are surprised to find out they had a ballistic missile and go 3,000 miles. These are bad people, and they needed to be stopped,” he added.
Dimon advocated for the country to “finish this thing,” warning that if the U.S. fails to act, the cycle of threats will continue.
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox Business’ Madison Colombo.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
18 hours ago
Nikki Haley calls Russia the ‘biggest winner’ as oil prices rise amid Iran conflict
Former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haleyjoined ‘America’s Newsroom’ to discuss President Donald Trump’s potential next moves in Iran and the impact of rising oil prices and more.
Haley said Operation Epic Fury has already been hugely successful in eliminating Iran’s traditional military capabilities, such that a “win” now for Iran would simply be to survive.
She went on to argue that Russia has gained most from the conflict as it has taken attention away from the war in Ukraine and diverted Western resources.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
19 hours ago
Pakistan’s ambassador warns Iran too ‘war-torn’ to respond quickly as Trump extends strike deadline
Pakistan’s U.S. ambassador warned Monday on “Special Report” that Iran is too “war-torn” to respond quickly in negotiations as President Donald Trump extends his strike deadline, while Islamabad pushes to facilitate talks aimed at ending U.S.-Iran hostilities.
Amb. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh cast Pakistan as an active facilitator in de-escalation talks, but warned that the process is complicated by Tehran’s diminished ability to communicate amid the chaos of war and damaged infrastructure.
“Iran is a war-torn country with the communication channels certainly disrupted, and it is not even easy to get responses in a good time from the system that currently is in place there,” Sheikh said.
While he said “diplomacy is a gradual process,” he also expressed hope that peace talks would soon proceed for the good of the region. He pointed to Iran’s willingness to allow some oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as evidence that confidence was being built in the possibility of negotiations.
Trump also delayed his 48-hour deadline for Iran to clear the Strait of Hormuz, which was set to expire Monday evening, and ordered the Department of War to pause attacks on Iranian power infrastructure amid negotiations with Tehran. He said the U.S. has had “very good” talks that could lead to a “complete” end of hostilities.
Sheikh said a ceasefire is a good start to any negotiation process, “but it is, of course, upon the conflicting parties to reach an understanding there and indicate something good on that scope.”
Pakistan faces its own hostilities with neighboring India and Afghanistan, and has a strong alliance with Saudi Arabia. But as the war grinds on and Islamabad tries to maintain relations with its regional neighbors as well as the U.S., China and Iran, analysts warn the nation’s room for neutrality is shrinking.
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Max Bacall.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
19 hours ago
Democrats pounce on $4 a gallon gas, blame Trump’s Iran war for ‘broken promise’
The House Democrats’ campaign committee chair charges that “skyrocketing” gas prices sparked by the Iran war are “another broken promise” by President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans.
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee(DCCC) Chair Rep. Suzan DelBene told Fox News Digital that House Democrats will keep spotlighting gas prices as part of their affordability messaging as they aim to win back the chamber’s majority from Republicans in this year’s midterm elections.
The average price of gasoline in the U.S. topped $4 per gallon on Tuesday, according to national averages from AAA and GasBuddy, the highest level in four years.
The surge in gas prices comes amid the monthlong attacks on Iran by the U.S. and Israel. In response, Iran has targeted energy facilities with missile and drone attacks in a number of Persian Gulf nations. It has also made the Strait of Hormuz nearly impassable to commercial shipping, bringing roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply to a halt and sending global fuel prices sharply higher.
The White House says the surge in prices is temporary.
“When Operation Epic Fury is complete, gas prices will plummet back to the multiyear lows American drivers enjoyed before these short-term disruptions,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement on Tuesday.
Leavitt emphasized that “President Trump remains committed to fully unleashing American energy dominance, lowering costs, and putting more money back in the pockets of hardworking American families.”
The gas price surge is giving Democrats more political ammunition to target the GOP.
“BREAKING: National Gas Prices Skyrocket to $4 Per Gallon,” read the headline from an email Tuesday morning from the Democratic National Committee.
The DCCC last week launched digital ads showing prices at the pump going up and an image saying “D.C. Republicans Did That!” Sources say to expect another round of ads on gas prices in the coming weeks.
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Paul Steinhauser.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
20 hours ago
JetBlue hikes baggage fees by up to $9, citing rising fuel prices amid Iran war
JetBlue is raising baggage fees by $4–$9 for economy passengers, citing increasing jet fuel prices due to global oil supply shortages amid the Iran war.
“As we experience rising operating costs, we regularly evaluate how to manage those costs while keeping base fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experience our customers value,” JetBlue wrote in a statement to FOX Business. “Adjusting fees for optional services used by select customers, such as checked baggage, allows us to continue offering more competitive fares while delivering the onboard experience our customers love, including complimentary snacks and drinks, unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi and seatback entertainment screens.”
“While we recognize that fee increases are never ideal, we take careful consideration to ensure these changes are implemented only when necessary,” the statement continued.
For domestic, Caribbean and Latin America flights, the first checked bag will now cost $39 during off-peak travel, up from $35, and $49 during peak periods, up from $40. Travelers who pay less than 24 hours before departure will still face an added $10 charge.
Passengers with eligible JetBlue co-branded credit cards or elite frequent flyer status remain exempt from the bag fees.
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Eric Mach.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
21 hours ago
Israel carries out over 230 airstrikes against Iran in 24 hours
Israeli Defense forces released video of airstrikes against Iran on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Israeli Defense Forces say they completed over 230 strikes against Iranian infrastructure over the past 24 hours on Tuesday.
The IDF released footage of three strikes that hit Iranian air defense systems in the capital of Tehran. Other targets included ballistic missile launchers that were “ready for launch,” and weapon production sites.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
21 hours ago
Hegseth answers whether reopening Strait of Hormuz is among core Epic Fury objectives
War Secretary Pete Hegseth did not say reopening the Strait of Hormuz is a core objective for the U.S. in Operation Epic Fury on Tuesday.
Hegseth was asked about the Hormuz issue during Pentagon press conference, and he reiterated that the core goals of Epic Fury are to eliminate Iran’s nuclear capabilities, cripple its ballistic missile manufacturing, and destroy the nation’s navy.
Hegseth said the Hormuz issue is “not just a United States of America problem set,” referencing a statement from President Donald Trump earlier Tuesday calling on European nations to pick up the slack.
“We’ve been willing to lead–President Trump’s led the entire time–but it’s not just us. So ultimately, I think other countries should pay attention when the president speaks. He’s proven that when he speaks, he means something. And he’s pointing out, you know, you might want to start learning how to fight for yourself,” he said.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
22 hours ago
Hegseth shares images from his covert visit to US troops making war on Iran
(Pete Hegseth on X/Pentagon)
War Secretary Pete Hegseth shared images from his covert visit to U.S. troops in the Middle East on Tuesday.
Hegseth met with U.S. servicemembers as they continued to carry out Operation Epic Fury on Saturday.
“I witnessed warriors. A brotherhood of men and women – warriors all,” Hegseth wrote.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
22 hours ago
Hegseth confirms talks with Iran are ‘ongoing’ and ‘gaining strength’
War Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that talks with Iran are still “very real” and ongoing on Tuesday.
“So on the talks, I can tell you, having been with with Steve [Wikoff] and Jared [Kushner] and the vice president and Marco [Rubio] and many others yesterday, they are very real. they are ongoing. they’re active, and I think gaining strength. And we appreciate that,” Hegseth said.
Hegseth went on to say that the U.S. wants Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions, but added that his role is to put as much pressure on Iranian leaders as possible.
“I didn’t mean it flippantly when I said, in the meantime, we’ll negotiate with bombs. Our job is to ensure that we compel Iran to realize that this new regime, this regime in charge, is in a better place if they make that deal. And so we’ll continue. We’re working hand in hand. But the primary effort is a deal. We want that deal to be accomplished if at all possible. If not, then we’re prepared to continue.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
22 hours ago
US deploys B-52 bombers over Iran for first time
A United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber takes off from RAF Fairford on March 19, 2026 in Fairford, England. Since UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer back-tracked on his initial refusal to allow the U.S. to use British bases to launch defensive strikes against Iranian missile sites, a variety of U.S. military aircraft, including B52 and B-1 bombers, have been spotted at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)
The U.S. has deployed B-52 Stratofortress bombers to the skies over Iran for the first time since Operation Epic Fury began, Pentagon officials say.
Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine made the announcement Tuesday morning during a press conference alongside War Secretary Pete Hegseth. Caine said the U.S. and Israel have dismantled Iran’s air fighting capability to such an extent that the lumbering bombers can now operate safely in the region.
“Given the increase in air superiority, we’ve successfully started to conduct the first overland B-52 missions, which allow us, as we’ve said before, to continue to get on top of the enemy,” Caine said.
U.S. forces have hitherto relied on speed and stealth to carry out strikes within Iranian airspace, deploying more sophisticated weapons like the B-2 and B-1 bombers.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
22 hours ago
Hegseth reveals covert visit to troops fighting in Operation Epic Fury
War Secretary Pete Hegseth says he made a covert visit to U.S. troops engaged in Operation Epic Fury this weekend.
Hegseth made the revelation during a Tuesday press conference at the Pentagon, saying he and other officials spent roughly half the day on Saturday visiting with U.S. troops overseas.
The secretary said he witnessed troops’ commitment to the mission of destroying the Iranian regime.
“I witnessed sheer competency,” Hegseth said of the visit, recounting conversation with pilots as well as watching teams call out enemy missiles to be shot down.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
23 hours ago
Pentagon officials hold press briefing on Iran conflict
War Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to hold a press conference at the Pentagon early Tuesday morning.
Hegseth will be joined by Join Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
23 hours ago
Trump accuses France of closing airspace to Israel-bound planes: ‘VERY UNHELPFUL’
President Donald Trump lashed out at France for allegedly closing its airspace to planes bound for Israel and loaded with military supplies.
Trump made the statement in a post on Truth Social, ominously saying that the U.S. will “remember” France’s move.
“The Country of France wouldn’t let planes headed to Israel, loaded up with military supplies, fly over French territory. France has been VERY UNHELPFUL with respect to the “Butcher of Iran,” who has been successfully eliminated!” Trump wrote.
“The U.S.A. will REMEMBER!” he added.
The statement came a day after Spain blocked U.S. military aircraft involved in the Iran conflict from using its airspace.
Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles confirmed the move, saying Spain has denied both airspace access and the use of joint U.S.-Spanish bases for any operations tied to the Iran conflict.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
23 hours ago
Trump tells aides he is willing to end war against Iran without reopening Strait of Hormuz: report
President Donald Trump has told White House aides that he is willing to end military action against Iran even without reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Tuesday report from the Wall Street Journal.
Trump’s administration is engaged in ceasefire talks with Iran this week as the president’s 10-day pause on attacks against Iranian energy infrastructure ticks by.
According to the Journal, Trump and his close aides determined that forcing a reopening of the Strait would push military demands beyond the initially announced window of four to six weeks.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
23 hours ago
Trump tells fuel-starved countries to fight to free Strait of Hormuz
President Donald Trump called on nations feeling the strain from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to fight and fix the situation themselves.
Trump made the statement in a Truth Social post on Tuesday, calling out the United Kingdom in particular.
“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” Trump wrote.
“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” he added.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
March 31
US gas prices surge past $4 a gallon amid war with Iran
U.S. gas prices jumped past an average of $4 a gallon for the first time since 2022 as fuel prices continue to soar worldwide thanks to the war in Iran.
Motor club AAA put the price of a gallon of gas at $4.02 on Tuesday, up more than $1 from a month ago.
Prices are climbing across nearly every region, with some states already well above the national average.
On Sunday, West Coast drivers were seeing the highest costs, with prices reaching $5.87 per gallon in California and $5.32 in Washington.
Along the East Coast, gas prices were already approaching or exceeding $4 in several areas, including $4.16 in Washington, D.C., and $3.93 in New York.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
March 31
Trump shares video showing massive military strike in Iran at night
President Donald Trump shared a video on Truth Social on Monday showing a military strike in Iran at night.
The video showed explosions lighting up the sky.
According to reports, the U.S. carried out a massive strike on an ammunition depot in Isfahan Monday.
A U.S. official told The Wall Street Journal the depot contained a high volume of 2,000-pound penetrator munitions.
Fox News’ Emma Bussey contributed to this report.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
March 31
Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei mourns IRGC Navy commander
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Monday mourned IRGC Navy Chief Commodore Alireza Tangsiri, calling him a “brave commander” who “attained martyrdom after years of struggle,” according to state news agency IRNA.
Khamenei also described Tangsiri as courageous and central to Iran’s role in the Persian Gulf, adding that he “died for his country” so its military “may continue on the path of Iran’s maritime authority and resistance, stronger and more firmly than in the past.”
Tangsiri, 64, died of injuries sustained while on duty, the IRGC said, after working to strengthen Iran’s coastal defenses, though Israel says he was killed in an airstrike targeting a naval base in Bandar Abbas.
This marks only the fourth public written message from Khamenei since succeeding his father, who died in a strike Feb. 28.
Fox News’ Emma Bussey contributed to this report.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom
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