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- US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran claims second US F-35 fighter jet shot down
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 03, 2026, 11:32:06 IST
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US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran claims second US F-35 fighter jet shot down
Israel Iran War News: Tensions across the Middle East surged dramatically as the ongoing US-Iran conflict entered a more volatile phase, spilling across multiple countries and triggering global concern.
In Iraq, the US Embassy in Baghdad issued a high-alert warning, stating that Iran-backed militia groups could launch attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours. The advisory urged all American citizens to leave Iraq immediately, signalling fears of imminent escalation beyond direct battlefield zones.
Simultaneously, Israel faced an intense barrage of Iranian missile attacks. According to Israeli military statements, at least four waves of missiles were launched within a span of six hours, targeting multiple regions. Air defence systems were activated repeatedly, intercepting several threats, though some impacts were reported in central Israel, leaving a handful of people with light injuries.
The situation was further aggravated by Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, which claimed responsibility for launching rockets and drones into northern Israel. These attacks triggered widespread air raid sirens and forced civilians into shelters, raising fears of a broader regional war involving Lebanon.
The Gulf region also witnessed spillover effects. Authorities in Abu Dhabi confirmed that a missile was intercepted near the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), causing minor damage but no casualties. This marks a worrying expansion of the conflict footprint into key economic hubs.
On the diplomatic and military front, US President Donald Trump adopted an aggressive stance, announcing that American forces would intensify strikes on Iran over the next two to three weeks. He claimed that US operations had already severely weakened Iran’s military infrastructure and that victory was near. However, his remarks also reflected domestic pressure, acknowledging that American public patience for the war may be limited.
Economic repercussions were immediate, with oil prices jumping more than 4% and Asian markets declining amid fears of disruption to global energy supplies, especially through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
As missile exchanges, proxy attacks, and geopolitical rhetoric intensify, the conflict shows signs of widening further, with regional stability and global markets hanging in the balance.
In Iraq, the US Embassy in Baghdad issued a high-alert warning, stating that Iran-backed militia groups could launch attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours. The advisory urged all American citizens to leave Iraq immediately, signalling fears of imminent escalation beyond direct battlefield zones.
Simultaneously, Israel faced an intense barrage of Iranian missile attacks. According to Israeli military statements, at least four waves of missiles were launched within a span of six hours, targeting multiple regions. Air defence systems were activated repeatedly, intercepting several threats, though some impacts were reported in central Israel, leaving a handful of people with light injuries.
The situation was further aggravated by Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, which claimed responsibility for launching rockets and drones into northern Israel. These attacks triggered widespread air raid sirens and forced civilians into shelters, raising fears of a broader regional war involving Lebanon.
The Gulf region also witnessed spillover effects. Authorities in Abu Dhabi confirmed that a missile was intercepted near the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), causing minor damage but no casualties. This marks a worrying expansion of the conflict footprint into key economic hubs.
On the diplomatic and military front, US President Donald Trump adopted an aggressive stance, announcing that American forces would intensify strikes on Iran over the next two to three weeks. He claimed that US operations had already severely weakened Iran’s military infrastructure and that victory was near. However, his remarks also reflected domestic pressure, acknowledging that American public patience for the war may be limited.
Economic repercussions were immediate, with oil prices jumping more than 4% and Asian markets declining amid fears of disruption to global energy supplies, especially through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
As missile exchanges, proxy attacks, and geopolitical rhetoric intensify, the conflict shows signs of widening further, with regional stability and global markets hanging in the balance.
11:31 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Bahrain waters down UN Hormuz resolution amid China, Russia opposition to use of force
Bahrain has significantly watered down a proposed UN resolution on reopening the Strait of Hormuz amid opposition from China and Russia about allowing countries to use force to secure the critical waterway Iran has largely cut off to global shipping.
The final draft of the proposal, obtained Thursday by The Associated Press, authorizes defensive — but not offensive — action to ensure vessels can safely transit the strait. One-fifth of the world's oil typically passes through the waterway, where Iran's stranglehold during the war has sent energy prices soaring.
The final draft of the proposal, obtained Thursday by The Associated Press, authorizes defensive — but not offensive — action to ensure vessels can safely transit the strait. One-fifth of the world's oil typically passes through the waterway, where Iran's stranglehold during the war has sent energy prices soaring.
11:06 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Kin of India's first victim move HC, seek return of mortal remains
The family of seafarer Dixit Solanki, who died last month in a suspected attack on a merchant vessel off the coast of Oman, has approached the Bombay High Court seeking the return of his mortal remains.
In a petition filed through advocates S B Talekar and Madhvi Ayyappan, Solanki’s father Amratlal Solanki and sister Mitali Solanki have urged the Union government to speed up the repatriation process, citing a lack of clarity and response from authorities.
In a petition filed through advocates S B Talekar and Madhvi Ayyappan, Solanki’s father Amratlal Solanki and sister Mitali Solanki have urged the Union government to speed up the repatriation process, citing a lack of clarity and response from authorities.
10:36 (IST) Apr 03
Iran war news: Kuwait oil refinery units on fire after drone attack
10:29 (IST) Apr 03
Iran war news: Iran claims second US F-35 fighter jet shot down over central Iran
10:17 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Putin says will make ‘every effort to help stabilise’ the Gulf
Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedlt told Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty that the current situation in the Middle East was a “shared concern” between the two countries, and that Moscow is ready to step in to help.
10:14 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Saudi says 'intercepted five drones'
Saudi Arabia said it has intercepted five drones since Thursday. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence said on X that it intercepted and destroyed a drone overnight without disclosing further details.
09:50 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Sirens blaring through Tel Aviv as residents warned of a strike towards Israel
09:18 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Israel issues rocket and missile warning for Upper Galilee
Israel’s Home Front Command has issued warnings of rocket and missile fire near Malkiya, Kiryat Shmona, Tel Hai, and Metula in the Upper Galilee region.
Earlier on Friday, the command, which is responsible for protecting civilians, also raised an alert over a “hostile aircraft intrusion” in the Western Galilee.
Earlier on Friday, the command, which is responsible for protecting civilians, also raised an alert over a “hostile aircraft intrusion” in the Western Galilee.
08:47 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Iran retains significant missile capability despite US-Israel strikes- report
Despite US President Donald Trump claiming that Iran’s missile programme had been destroyed after a month of US‑Israeli military strikes, intelligence reports suggest Tehran still maintains a significant part of its missile-launching capability. Sources familiar with the matter told CNN that weeks of sustained attacks have not fully crippled Iran’s arsenal.
08:42 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Iran releases ‘hit list’ of 8 major bridges in Gulf after deadly US strike on Karaj bridge claims civilian lives
Iranian media published a list of major bridges across the region on Thursday, hinting at a “tit-for-tat” retaliation following a US-Israeli attack on a key bridge in the northern city of Karaj.
According to Turkish media, the semi-official Fars News Agency said that several prominent bridges in regional countries could be possible targets after two strikes hit the B1 bridge early Thursday.
According to Turkish media, the semi-official Fars News Agency said that several prominent bridges in regional countries could be possible targets after two strikes hit the B1 bridge early Thursday.
08:36 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Iran's FM Araghchi says talks with US are 'over forever'
"Negotiations with the Americans are over forever.. a bitter experience and betrayal after promises of no attack!," Araghchi said
"There's no room any more for talking with the Americans, as they've deceived us with promises of no attack, and even after making major progress in the negotiations, they decided to attack us anyway. The experience is utterly bitter, and trust is completely gone. The regional war shuts the doors of diplomacy for good!," he said.
"There's no room any more for talking with the Americans, as they've deceived us with promises of no attack, and even after making major progress in the negotiations, they decided to attack us anyway. The experience is utterly bitter, and trust is completely gone. The regional war shuts the doors of diplomacy for good!," he said.
08:23 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Trump vows to hit Iran’s bridges and electric plants next, says US 'hasn’t even started destroying what’s left'
Trump posts on Truth Social: "Our Military, the greatest and most powerful (by far!) anywhere in the World, hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants! New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST! President DONALD J.TRUMP"
08:13 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Trump claims Israel will obey him, contradicting earlier talk of ‘mutual’ end to Iran war
US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Israel will follow his orders and halt fire if he decides to end the war against Iran. “They’ll do what I tell them,” Trump told Time Magazine. “They’ve been a good team player. They’ll stop when I stop. They’ll stop unless they’re provoked, in which case, they’ll have no choice, but they’ll stop when I stop,” he added.
08:04 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Omani ships appear to be transiting the Strait of Hormuz outside Iran’s 'approved corridor'
Three Omani ships have been spotted moving through the Strait of Hormuz without using Iran’s “approved corridor”, according to shipping data tracked by Lloyd’s List.
The group includes two large oil supertankers and one liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier. Data shows the vessels are sailing unusually close to the Omani coastline instead of following the route near Iran’s Larak Island.
If the ships complete their journey through the strait, they would be the first tracked vessels in nearly three weeks to exit the key waterway without using the Iranian-designated corridor while keeping their Automatic Identification System (AIS) switched on.
The group includes two large oil supertankers and one liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier. Data shows the vessels are sailing unusually close to the Omani coastline instead of following the route near Iran’s Larak Island.
If the ships complete their journey through the strait, they would be the first tracked vessels in nearly three weeks to exit the key waterway without using the Iranian-designated corridor while keeping their Automatic Identification System (AIS) switched on.
07:42 (IST) Apr 03
Israel Iran War News: Iran says eight people were killed while celebrating the close of Persian new year near bridge hit by US
Iran decried the strike on the bridge, which also injured 95 people celebrating Nature Day, when Iranians gather for picnics and other celebrations outdoors on the last day of Nowruz, the Persian new year.
“Striking civilian infrastructure only conveys the defeat and moral collapse of an enemy in disarray,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote Thursday in a post on X.
“Striking civilian infrastructure only conveys the defeat and moral collapse of an enemy in disarray,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote Thursday in a post on X.
07:24 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Warning sirens sound in Bahrain
Bahrain's ministry of Interior has urged residents to remain calm and move to the nearest safe location after sirens sounded for the second time within an hour.
07:18 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Iran fires missiles at Israel, claims strikes in UAE and Bahrain
Israel's military warned Friday that its air defences were operating to down missiles fired from Iran, although there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. I
ran said its latest wave of attacks had struck targets in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Israel in retaliation for earlier US-Israeli strikes on its industrial facilities.
They included "American steel industries in Abu Dhabi, American aluminium industries in Bahrain, and the Rafael arms factories of the Zionist regime", it said.
ran said its latest wave of attacks had struck targets in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Israel in retaliation for earlier US-Israeli strikes on its industrial facilities.
They included "American steel industries in Abu Dhabi, American aluminium industries in Bahrain, and the Rafael arms factories of the Zionist regime", it said.
07:14 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Iran moves to ‘monitor’ Hormuz with Oman
Iran on Thursday said it is working on a draft proposal with Oman to “monitor” traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.
The remarks came from Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, who told state-run IRNA that the proposed framework is aimed at overseeing vessel movement through coordinated efforts between the two coastal nations.
The remarks came from Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, who told state-run IRNA that the proposed framework is aimed at overseeing vessel movement through coordinated efforts between the two coastal nations.
07:10 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: UN Chief Guterres calls for dialogue to end West Asia conflict
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Thursday delivered a “clear” message to the US, Israel and Iran to stop the war in West Asia, warning that the world is on the “edge of a wider war”.
06:56 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Kuwait says air defences intercept missiles and drones amid regional escalation
Kuwait’s military said its air defence systems were actively intercepting incoming missiles and drones targeting the Gulf nation, as tensions continue to rise across the region.
In a post on X, the army said it was responding to “hostile missile and drone threats,” adding that any explosions heard were the result of interception operations.
In a post on X, the army said it was responding to “hostile missile and drone threats,” adding that any explosions heard were the result of interception operations.
06:50 (IST) Apr 03
Israel-Iran War: US says Trump open to diplomacy with Iran even as war and threats continue
The United States has reiterated that US President Donald Trump remains open to diplomacy with Iran, even as the conflict drags on and rhetoric escalates. A State Department spokesperson said Trump had pursued talks before the war but accused Tehran of continuing its pursuit of a nuclear weapon. “The president is always open to diplomacy, but he’s also been clear we will see his objectives be fulfilled here,” spokesperson Pigott said, underscoring Washington’s dual approach of keeping negotiations on the table while maintaining pressure.
06:49 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Iraqi armed groups claim wave of drone attacks on US bases
Iraqi armed group Saraya Awliya al-Dam has claimed responsibility for five attacks on US bases in the past 24 hours, as part of a broader escalation by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq.
The umbrella group said it carried out 23 operations targeting American positions in Iraq and across the region within the same period, involving the deployment of dozens of drones. The claims point to intensifying pressure on US military assets amid the widening regional fallout of the Iran war.
The umbrella group said it carried out 23 operations targeting American positions in Iraq and across the region within the same period, involving the deployment of dozens of drones. The claims point to intensifying pressure on US military assets amid the widening regional fallout of the Iran war.
06:49 (IST) Apr 03
Iran Israel War News: Israel says Iran launches fresh wave of missiles as air defences respond
The Israeli military said a new wave of missiles has been launched from Iran toward its territory, with air defence systems actively working to intercept the incoming projectiles.
The development marks a further escalation in ongoing hostilities between the two sides, as repeated exchanges continue to heighten tensions in the region.
The development marks a further escalation in ongoing hostilities between the two sides, as repeated exchanges continue to heighten tensions in the region.
04:07 (IST) Apr 03
US Iran War: Pentagon offers no reason for Army chief’s exit amid Iran war
The Pentagon has given no explanation for the abrupt departure of US army chief of staff general Randy George, who will retire effective immediately, even as the United States remains engaged in the Iran war.
Announced by top spokesperson Sean Parnell, the move marks the latest in a series of more than a dozen dismissals of senior military leaders by defence secretary Pete Hegseth.
George, who had held the role since August 2023 under the Biden administration, was expected to serve a four-year term. A West Point graduate and infantry officer, he served in the Gulf War as well as in Iraq and Afghanistan, and previously worked as a top aide to former defence secretary Lloyd Austin.
Announced by top spokesperson Sean Parnell, the move marks the latest in a series of more than a dozen dismissals of senior military leaders by defence secretary Pete Hegseth.
George, who had held the role since August 2023 under the Biden administration, was expected to serve a four-year term. A West Point graduate and infantry officer, he served in the Gulf War as well as in Iraq and Afghanistan, and previously worked as a top aide to former defence secretary Lloyd Austin.
03:37 (IST) Apr 03
US-Iran War: US strike on Iran bridge kills 8, wounds 95 as Tehran condemns civilian hit
A US strike on a major bridge in Iran killed at least eight people and wounded 95 others who had gathered nearby to celebrate “Nature Day,” according to Iranian state media citing authorities in Alborz province.
The attack targeted the under-construction B1 bridge, described by US President Donald Trump as Iran’s biggest, with the US leader warning in a social media post that there was “much more to follow.” Iranian officials condemned the strike as an attack on civilian infrastructure.
The attack targeted the under-construction B1 bridge, described by US President Donald Trump as Iran’s biggest, with the US leader warning in a social media post that there was “much more to follow.” Iranian officials condemned the strike as an attack on civilian infrastructure.
03:13 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Dubai denies Iran's claim of Oracle data centre strike
Dubai’s media office has denied Iran’s claim that it struck an Oracle-linked data centre in the emirate, pushing back against assertions by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that it had targeted US tech infrastructure in the Gulf.
The denial comes after Iranian state media reported a fresh attack on Oracle facilities, following an earlier IRGC claim of a strike on an Amazon cloud site in Bahrain.
Tehran had previously warned it would expand its response to include American companies and digital infrastructure in the region, accusing them of supporting US military operations. The conflicting accounts highlight growing concerns over the spread of the conflict into commercial and technology sectors, even as such claims remain unverified.
The denial comes after Iranian state media reported a fresh attack on Oracle facilities, following an earlier IRGC claim of a strike on an Amazon cloud site in Bahrain.
Tehran had previously warned it would expand its response to include American companies and digital infrastructure in the region, accusing them of supporting US military operations. The conflicting accounts highlight growing concerns over the spread of the conflict into commercial and technology sectors, even as such claims remain unverified.
02:56 (IST) Apr 03
US Army chief asked to step down amid Iran war, latest in Pentagon shake-up
US defence secretary Pete Hegseth has asked army chief of staff general Randy George to step down, CBS News reported citing the Pentagon, marking the latest high-level military shake-up as Washington remains engaged in the Iran war.
A Pentagon official confirmed George has been asked to take early retirement from the role he has held since August 2023. His removal is part of a broader pattern, with more than a dozen top generals and admirals reportedly dismissed since Hegseth took office last year.
A Pentagon official confirmed George has been asked to take early retirement from the role he has held since August 2023. His removal is part of a broader pattern, with more than a dozen top generals and admirals reportedly dismissed since Hegseth took office last year.
02:40 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War: UN Security Council to vote on ‘defensive means’ to secure Strait of Hormuz
The UN Security Council is set to vote on Friday on a Bahrain-sponsored resolution authorising the use of “all defensive means” to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely blocked by Iran.
The revised draft, scheduled for a vote at 11 am EDT, marks a significant dilution from earlier proposals that called for “all necessary means,” language that could have enabled offensive military action. The toned-down version limits any response to defensive measures for an initial period of at least six months, reflecting strong opposition from Russia and China to more forceful provisions.
The vote comes amid mounting global concern over disruptions to a key oil and gas transit route.
The revised draft, scheduled for a vote at 11 am EDT, marks a significant dilution from earlier proposals that called for “all necessary means,” language that could have enabled offensive military action. The toned-down version limits any response to defensive measures for an initial period of at least six months, reflecting strong opposition from Russia and China to more forceful provisions.
The vote comes amid mounting global concern over disruptions to a key oil and gas transit route.
02:12 (IST) Apr 03
Iran War News: Gulf bloc urges UN to take 'all necessary measures' as Hormuz crisis splits Security Council
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has called on the UN Security Council to authorise the use of force to protect the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Iran of effectively shutting down the critical shipping lane and threatening global energy supplies.
Speaking in New York, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi said Tehran had blocked commercial vessels and imposed conditions on transit, urging the Council to take “all necessary measures” to secure maritime routes. "We call upon the Security Council to assume its full responsibility and take all necessary measures to protect maritime routes and ensure the safe continuation of international navigation," AlBudaiwi said.
Bahrain has proposed a resolution allowing states to use “all necessary means,” but the move has sharply divided the Council, with Russia, China and France opposing it over fears of escalation.
While the US has backed a revised draft framing any action as defensive, others have stressed that a political solution remains the only viable path. The near-total disruption of the strait, through which about a fifth of global oil and LNG flows, has already driven up energy prices and raised concerns over wider economic fallout.
Speaking in New York, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi said Tehran had blocked commercial vessels and imposed conditions on transit, urging the Council to take “all necessary measures” to secure maritime routes. "We call upon the Security Council to assume its full responsibility and take all necessary measures to protect maritime routes and ensure the safe continuation of international navigation," AlBudaiwi said.
Bahrain has proposed a resolution allowing states to use “all necessary means,” but the move has sharply divided the Council, with Russia, China and France opposing it over fears of escalation.
While the US has backed a revised draft framing any action as defensive, others have stressed that a political solution remains the only viable path. The near-total disruption of the strait, through which about a fifth of global oil and LNG flows, has already driven up energy prices and raised concerns over wider economic fallout.
01:51 (IST) Apr 03
US-Iran War: Iran foreign minister jabs Trump, warns Middle East risks ‘stone age’ regression
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, took a sharp swipe at US President Donald Trump amid the escalating conflict, warning that current policies risk dragging the Middle East backwards.
Criticising the war's consequences and its impact on energy infrastructure, he questioned Washington’s direction and the broader implications for global stability.
In a post on X, Araghchi wrote, “There's one striking difference between the present and the Stone Age: there was no oil or gas being pumped in the Middle East back then." He further added, “Are POTUS and Americans who put him in office sure that they want to turn back the clock?”
Criticising the war's consequences and its impact on energy infrastructure, he questioned Washington’s direction and the broader implications for global stability.
In a post on X, Araghchi wrote, “There's one striking difference between the present and the Stone Age: there was no oil or gas being pumped in the Middle East back then." He further added, “Are POTUS and Americans who put him in office sure that they want to turn back the clock?”
01:11 (IST) Apr 03
US-Iran War: Iran’s IRGC claims fresh strike on Oracle data centre in Dubai
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy has claimed a fresh attack on a data centre linked to US tech firm Oracle in Dubai, according to state media, in what appears to be a continued escalation of its targeting of American-linked infrastructure in the Gulf.
The claim follows an earlier IRGC statement that it had struck an Amazon cloud computing facility in Bahrain.
Tehran had previously warned it would target US companies and assets in the region in response to the ongoing US-Israel war, accusing them of aiding military operations.
The claim follows an earlier IRGC statement that it had struck an Amazon cloud computing facility in Bahrain.
Tehran had previously warned it would target US companies and assets in the region in response to the ongoing US-Israel war, accusing them of aiding military operations.
00:35 (IST) Apr 03
US-Iran War: US-born Pope Leo breaks silence, publicly urges Trump to end Iran war
Pope Leo has directly named US President Donald Trump for the first time since becoming the first American leader of the catholic church, marking a sharp shift in tone as he steps up criticism of the Iran war.
In a pointed appeal, Leo urged Trump to find an “off-ramp” to end the escalating conflict, signalling what experts see as an effort to act as a global counterweight to Washington’s stance. The intervention follows increasingly forceful remarks from the pontiff, including saying God rejects the prayers of leaders with “hands full of blood.”
While the White House defended calls to pray for US troops, Leo’s comments have resonated widely, with Vatican officials and allies framing them as part of a broader push for peace. The pope is expected to amplify his message in his upcoming Easter address, a key moment for major global appeals, Reuters reported.
In a pointed appeal, Leo urged Trump to find an “off-ramp” to end the escalating conflict, signalling what experts see as an effort to act as a global counterweight to Washington’s stance. The intervention follows increasingly forceful remarks from the pontiff, including saying God rejects the prayers of leaders with “hands full of blood.”
While the White House defended calls to pray for US troops, Leo’s comments have resonated widely, with Vatican officials and allies framing them as part of a broader push for peace. The pope is expected to amplify his message in his upcoming Easter address, a key moment for major global appeals, Reuters reported.
00:15 (IST) Apr 03
Israel-Iran War News: 40 nations demand reopening of Strait of Hormuz as crisis chokes global supplies
A UK-led virtual meeting of around 40 countries called for the “immediate and unconditional” reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as the vital shipping route remains effectively shut since the US-Israel war with Iran began on February 28.
British foreign secretary Yvette Cooper accused Iran of “holding the global economy hostage,” warning that the blockade is disrupting supplies of oil, LNG and fertiliser, and driving up energy prices. While 37 countries backed a joint statement supporting safe passage, divisions persist over next steps, with options ranging from sanctions to UN action. A Bahrain-backed proposal to authorise force has split the UN Security Council, facing opposition from Russia, China and France, while President Emmanuel Macron called military intervention “unrealistic.”
The crisis has slashed shipping traffic by 94 per cent, intensifying fears of a global economic and food security fallout, even as calls grow for ceasefire-linked solutions and humanitarian corridors.
British foreign secretary Yvette Cooper accused Iran of “holding the global economy hostage,” warning that the blockade is disrupting supplies of oil, LNG and fertiliser, and driving up energy prices. While 37 countries backed a joint statement supporting safe passage, divisions persist over next steps, with options ranging from sanctions to UN action. A Bahrain-backed proposal to authorise force has split the UN Security Council, facing opposition from Russia, China and France, while President Emmanuel Macron called military intervention “unrealistic.”
The crisis has slashed shipping traffic by 94 per cent, intensifying fears of a global economic and food security fallout, even as calls grow for ceasefire-linked solutions and humanitarian corridors.
23:07 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Iranian President Pezeshkian says 'what message do hospital attacks send'
22:48 (IST) Apr 02
Two drones target US diplomatic facility near Baghdad airport: Security sources
22:33 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Trump warns Tehran, shares Karaj bridge strike video
22:24 (IST) Apr 02
Iran War News: Medical needs surging in Iran, Red Cross warns
Emergency medical needs in Iran are rising sharply, and stocks of trauma kits and other essential medical supplies could run low if the war continues, the head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) delegation in the country has warned.
More than 2,000 people have been killed and over 26,500 injured since US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran began on February 28, as cited by Al Jazeera.
More than 2,000 people have been killed and over 26,500 injured since US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran began on February 28, as cited by Al Jazeera.
22:00 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Iran claims drone strike on US jets in Jordan; flags Gulf targets
Iran said it carried out a drone attack on US fighter jets at the Al Azraq base in Jordan, according to Mehr news agency. Separately, Iran’s Fars news agency listed several bridges in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Jordan as potential targets of future military operations, signaling a possible expansion of strikes across the region.
21:58 (IST) Apr 02
Iranian deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi said that Tehran has nearly completed its first draft to establish a new navigation regime in the Strait of Hormuz. In an interview with the Sputnik, Gharibabadi said that Tehran is planning to begin talks with Oman to develop a joint solution."
The draft of this protocol is currently in the final stages of preparation. Once we have it ready, we will begin negotiations with Oman so that we can draft a joint protocol," Gharibabadi said.
The draft of this protocol is currently in the final stages of preparation. Once we have it ready, we will begin negotiations with Oman so that we can draft a joint protocol," Gharibabadi said.
21:36 (IST) Apr 02
Iran hangs 18-year-old over protests in latest wartime execution: activists
Iranian authorities executed a teenager convicted over January protests after a fast-track trial rights groups labelled as "grossly unfair", as the Islamic republic ramps up executions during the war with the US and Israel.
Amir Hossein Hatami, 18, was sentenced to death in February along with six others by a Tehran revolutionary court and was hanged at dawn in the notorious Ghezel Hesar prison outside the capital, according to Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights.
The Iranian judiciary's Mizan Online website said he acted "against national security" on behalf of Israel and the United States by breaking into "a military centre and destroying it in order to seize the weapons stored there" during the protests.
Amir Hossein Hatami, 18, was sentenced to death in February along with six others by a Tehran revolutionary court and was hanged at dawn in the notorious Ghezel Hesar prison outside the capital, according to Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights.
The Iranian judiciary's Mizan Online website said he acted "against national security" on behalf of Israel and the United States by breaking into "a military centre and destroying it in order to seize the weapons stored there" during the protests.
21:27 (IST) Apr 02
Israel-Iran war: European nations say Israel, Hezbollah fighting 'must cease'
Eighteen European countries urged Israel and Hezbollah to stop fighting as their latest conflict reached one month and with fears over Israeli plans to control part of southern Lebanon post-war.
"Israeli military operations in Lebanon and Hezbollah's attacks must cease," the foreign ministers of the countries including Italy, Spain, Belgium, Poland and Ireland said in a joint statement.
"We urge Israel to fully respect Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and call on all parties, both Hezbollah and Israel, to halt military action," the statement said.
Lebanon was sucked into the Middle East war after Tehran-backed Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel to avenge the US-Israeli attack that killed Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Israel has responded with massive strikes across Lebanon and a ground offensive.
Lebanese authorities say the hostilities have so far killed more than 1,200 people and displaced more than one million others.
The European ministers said they were "appalled by the dramatic situation" in Lebanon and called for an end to "unjustified and unacceptable" attacks on civilian targets such as healthcare personnel, aid workers and journalists.
They pledged to continue providing humanitarian relief for the Lebanese population and called on the international community "to mobilise further" to help the country.
"Israeli military operations in Lebanon and Hezbollah's attacks must cease," the foreign ministers of the countries including Italy, Spain, Belgium, Poland and Ireland said in a joint statement.
"We urge Israel to fully respect Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and call on all parties, both Hezbollah and Israel, to halt military action," the statement said.
Lebanon was sucked into the Middle East war after Tehran-backed Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel to avenge the US-Israeli attack that killed Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Israel has responded with massive strikes across Lebanon and a ground offensive.
Lebanese authorities say the hostilities have so far killed more than 1,200 people and displaced more than one million others.
The European ministers said they were "appalled by the dramatic situation" in Lebanon and called for an end to "unjustified and unacceptable" attacks on civilian targets such as healthcare personnel, aid workers and journalists.
They pledged to continue providing humanitarian relief for the Lebanese population and called on the international community "to mobilise further" to help the country.
21:04 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Iran drafting protocol with Oman to monitor traffic in Hormuz Strait, foreign ministry official says
Iran is working on a protocol with Oman to monitor vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, state-run IRNA reported, citing deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi.
The proposed framework aims to oversee and coordinate ship movements through the strategic waterway, with both countries acting as coastal states to facilitate safer transit.
The proposed framework aims to oversee and coordinate ship movements through the strategic waterway, with both countries acting as coastal states to facilitate safer transit.
20:48 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Blasts rock Jerusalem after Iran missile alert
Several explosions were heard across Jerusalem after the military warned of incoming Iranian missiles, AFP journalists reported. At least four blasts were heard as sirens sounded across the city, with authorities urging residents to take cover.
The military said it had detected missiles launched from Iran towards Israel and added that its air defence systems were actively working to intercept the threat.
The military said it had detected missiles launched from Iran towards Israel and added that its air defence systems were actively working to intercept the threat.
20:43 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Austria has rejected all US requests for military overflights of its territory since the start of the war on Iran, its defence ministry spokesman told AFP
20:30 (IST) Apr 02
'Locked & loaded': Iran Speaker claims 7 million citizens 'ready to take up arms' against US
20:06 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: UN chief warns world on 'edge of a wider war'
UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that the Middle East conflict risked spiraling into a wider war, as he called for an immediate halt to US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian attacks on its neighbors.
"We are on the edge of a wider war that would engulf the Middle East with dramatic impacts around the globe," the secretary-general told reporters in New York.
"We are on the edge of a wider war that would engulf the Middle East with dramatic impacts around the globe," the secretary-general told reporters in New York.
19:35 (IST) Apr 02
Iran War: Several wounded in US-Israeli strikes on Tehran-Karaj bridge
Several people were injured after US-Israeli strikes hit a major highway bridge linking Tehran and Karaj, described as the “highest bridge in the Middle East,” Iran’s Fars news agency reported. Additional strikes were also reported in other parts of Karaj, west of Tehran.
19:35 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: Italy calls for Hormuz 'humanitarian corridor' for fertiliser
Italy's foreign minister called for a "humanitarian corridor" for fertiliser and other essentials through the Strait of Hormuz to avoid a food disaster in Africa.
Antonio Tajani, who participated by video in a meeting on Iran coordinated by Britain, said in a statement that "ensuring the transport of fertilisers and other humanitarian goods through the Strait of Hormuz is vital.
"Tajani, together with colleagues such as the Dutch Minister and the Deputy Minister of the United Arab Emirates, advocated for the need to work with the UN to establish a 'humanitarian corridor' as soon as possible, primarily for fertilisers and all other goods necessary to prevent a new food crisis, particularly in African nations," the statement said.
Antonio Tajani, who participated by video in a meeting on Iran coordinated by Britain, said in a statement that "ensuring the transport of fertilisers and other humanitarian goods through the Strait of Hormuz is vital.
"Tajani, together with colleagues such as the Dutch Minister and the Deputy Minister of the United Arab Emirates, advocated for the need to work with the UN to establish a 'humanitarian corridor' as soon as possible, primarily for fertilisers and all other goods necessary to prevent a new food crisis, particularly in African nations," the statement said.
18:44 (IST) Apr 02
Iran war news: 10 million Indians in Gulf safe; 8 dead, 1 missing
18:42 (IST) Apr 02
Israel-Iran war: ‘War reshaping world order, no nation safe anymore,' says MJ Akbar
On the Gulf War Crisis, former minister of state for external affairs, MJ Akbar says, "... The present war is the violent pregnancy of a new world order. Sometimes the world needs chaos to create something new. It took the extraordinary casualties of the Second World War to bring about the United Nations. The UN Charter, defined in 1946, placed the sanctity of national sovereignty at the heart of global stability. That sanctity has now eroded."
"People cross borders to fight wars without hesitation, just as Mrs Thatcher once warned: no people will be safe once the international order of rules is violated. Today, no one is safe again, and a new world order must be fashioned. It will take time, but India is well-positioned to be among the partners shaping it. No single nation can create a new world order alone — those days are gone..." he added.
"People cross borders to fight wars without hesitation, just as Mrs Thatcher once warned: no people will be safe once the international order of rules is violated. Today, no one is safe again, and a new world order must be fashioned. It will take time, but India is well-positioned to be among the partners shaping it. No single nation can create a new world order alone — those days are gone..." he added.
27 More Updates
The Middle East conflict, now stretching beyond a month, intensified sharply with multiple flashpoints involving the United States, Iran, Israel and regional actors. The US Embassy in Baghdad issued an urgent advisory warning of possible attacks by Iran-aligned militias within 24–48 hours, urging American citizens to leave Iraq immediately.
Meanwhile, hostilities between Iran and Israel escalated, with Israel reporting at least four waves of Iranian missile attacks within six hours. Air defence systems intercepted several projectiles, though some caused minor damage and injuries in central regions. Iran also launched fresh strikes despite US claims that its military capabilities had been significantly degraded.
Hezbollah widened the conflict by launching rockets and drones into northern Israel, triggering air raid sirens. In the Gulf, a missile was intercepted near Abu Dhabi’s KEZAD zone, causing minor damage but no casualties.
US President Donald Trump signalled further escalation, vowing “extremely hard” strikes on Iran over the next two to three weeks while also claiming that US operations were nearing completion.
Global markets reacted nervously, with oil prices surging over 4% amid fears of supply disruptions, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, hostilities between Iran and Israel escalated, with Israel reporting at least four waves of Iranian missile attacks within six hours. Air defence systems intercepted several projectiles, though some caused minor damage and injuries in central regions. Iran also launched fresh strikes despite US claims that its military capabilities had been significantly degraded.
Hezbollah widened the conflict by launching rockets and drones into northern Israel, triggering air raid sirens. In the Gulf, a missile was intercepted near Abu Dhabi’s KEZAD zone, causing minor damage but no casualties.
US President Donald Trump signalled further escalation, vowing “extremely hard” strikes on Iran over the next two to three weeks while also claiming that US operations were nearing completion.
Global markets reacted nervously, with oil prices surging over 4% amid fears of supply disruptions, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.
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