First contracts for oil deliveries from US Strategic Petroleum Reserve
The US Department of Energy announced on Friday that it had awarded contracts to companies for the loan of 45.2 million barrels of oil from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR).
Among the companies that secured these contracts are BP Products North America, Gunvor USA, Marathon Petroleum and Shell Trading Co, the Department of Energy said in a statement.
On March 11, members of the International Energy Agency (IEA) had decided to release 400 million barrels of crude oil from their emergency reserves to offset the surge in prices linked to the war in Iran, without specifying the details.
Hezbollah claims responsibility for four new attacks
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for four new attacks, including one carried out in the evening against Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for four new attacks carried out after 10 pm, one of which targeted Israeli soldiers in Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil), in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah lso claims to have targeted the Israeli site of al-Marj, opposite Markaba (Marjayoun), on two occasions, and to have fired rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona, where air-raid sirens sounded in the evening, according to Israeli media.
Hezbollah claims responsibility for 50th attack on Friday, record since early March
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for 50 attacks on Friday (some of which were carried out on Thursday), a record since early March.
In the evening, it announced that it had carried out seven new attacks against Israeli soldiers on Lebanese territory, all in the district of Marjayoun, including three during the day in the Jabal Warda area, located in Markaba.
The other soldiers targeted were positioned in the Dahr al-Tayara area, between the towns of Markaba and Robb Thalathin, at Khallet al-Mahafir and Khallet al-Aqsa, both near Odaisseh, and in the Mashrou’ Taybeh area.
Furthermore, Hezbollah claimed to have targeted the coastal surveillance radar at the Ras Naqoura site (Sour) and the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona in the evening.
Iran threatens UAE after attack on Kharg Island
Tehran has warned that it will target the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah if its islands in the Gulf are attacked again from that territory, state media reported.
The United States launched a massive bombing campaign on Kharg Island last week, without damaging the territory's energy infrastructure, which serves as the gateway for 90 percent of Iran's exported oil.
In an interview on the MS Now channel, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the use of a neighboring country to launch the attacks, which he said also targeted Abu Musa Island, disputed with the United Arab Emirates, and which he claimed were carried out with short- to medium-range munitions.
The Iranian foreign minister later clarified that it was Ras al-Khaimah, a territory near Dubai, both located in the Emirati federation.
Israeli order to evacuate Beirut southern suburbs: Shots fired into air to warn residents
Following Israel's order to evacuate Beirut's southern suburbs, heavy shots were heard in the affected neighborhoods to warn residents, according to local media.
While the Israeli army has been calling for the evacuation of the area, home to hundreds of thousands of residents, for the past two weeks, some are returning home due to a lack of alternative housing.
Warning sirens sounded in several northern Israeli cities
Warning sirens sounded in the cities of Nahariya, Kiryat Shmona and Margalit, which are regularly targeted by Hezbollah fire, Haaretz reports.
Bahrain ready to contribute to efforts around Strait of Hormuz
Manama has joined a statement by several European states, Japan, and Canada, expressing its willingness to contribute to efforts to ensure the safe passage of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the National News Agency reported.
Trump says the US is close to achieving goals in Iran war
The U.S. president said Friday that Washington was close to achieving its goals as he plans to gradually reduce its military involvement in the Iran war.
He also called on countries using the Strait of Hormuz to monitor and secure it "if necessary." "
If asked, we will assist these countries in their efforts on Hormuz, but this should no longer be necessary once the Iranian threat is eliminated," he added.
Israel again orders 'immediate' evacuation of 7 neighborhoods in Beirut's southern suburbs
Israel once again ordered the "immediate" evacuation of seven neighborhoods in Beirut's southern suburbs, namely Haret Hreik, Ghobeiri, Laylaki, Hadath, Burj al-Barajneh, Tahwitat al-Ghadir and Chiyah.
Israel has issued this order regularly since March 5.
"The Israeli army is continuing its operations and intensifying its strikes against Hezbollah military infrastructure throughout the southern suburbs," wrote Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, on X.
No strikes were reported in Beirut's southern suburbs as of Friday.
US diplomatic buildings near Baghdad airport targeted by drones
Drone attacks targeted U.S. diplomatic buildings near Baghdad airport, where smoke and a small fire were reported, security sources told Reuters.
This operation comes after the targeting of Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) headquarters in northern Iraq.
Iran claims it has no oil surplus to offer to global markets
Iran stated on Friday that it has no surplus crude oil to offer international markets, after the U.S. Treasury Secretary indicated that Washington might lift some sanctions on Iranian oil already stored at sea on ships, AFP reports.
"Currently, Iran effectively no longer has a surplus of crude, either at sea or to supply international markets, and the remarks of the U.S. Treasury Secretary are solely intended to give hope to buyers," wrote Saman Ghoddoosi, spokesperson for the Iranian Oil Ministry, on X.
Strike targets PMF in Iraq
Security sources told Reuters that an airstrike targeted the headquarters of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Tuz Khurmatu, northern Iraq.
Since the beginning of the war, the United States has been conducting operations against the coalition of pro-Iranian militias in response to its attacks on American interests in the country.
Gulf countries targeted again by Iranian attacks
Missile and drone attacks have been reported by the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia in the last hour.
Strikes in Deir al-Zahrani: Israel 'targeted 3 vehicles of Islamic Health Committee,' says Health Ministry
During a strike in Deir al-Zahrani (Nabatieh district), Israel “targeted three vehicles of the Islamic Health Committee as they were heading towards the site” of another strike, which injured 21 people, including two women, according to the Health Ministry.
“The rescue workers narrowly escaped death,” the Ministry stated, condemning the “continuous and repeated violations of international humanitarian law by the Israeli army.”
Nine rescue workers were injured in the second strike, according to an earlier report by our correspondent.
Hezbollah claims responsibility for 2 new attacks on Israel
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for two new attacks on Israeli territory, carried out today. One targeted the Eilit base, northeast of the Israeli city of Safed, and the other targeted Israeli soldiers at the al-Marj site, opposite the border town of Markaba (Marjayoun).
Iran issues new warning to Britain
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was endangering the lives of his citizens by allowing the use of his bases on British soil in the aggression against Iran.
Israeli strikes in Syria: Turkey denounces 'dangerous escalation'
Turkey has condemned Israeli strikes on a military headquarters and camps in southern Syria, denouncing a “dangerous escalation” and calling on the international community to intervene.
“We consider Israel’s attack targeting military infrastructure in southern Syria to be a dangerous escalation and strongly condemn it,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, urging the international community “to put an end to Israeli attacks.”
Iran: Trump says rules out any cease-fire
U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Friday that he rejected the idea of a cease-fire with Iran, nearly three weeks after the start of the war.
"I don't want to have a cease-fire. You know, you don't have a cease-fire when you're literally annihilating the adversary," the U.S. president told reporters as he left the White House for Florida.
The Republican billionaire also stated: "I think Israel will be ready to end the war in Iran when the United States wants to stop."
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Trump admitted that it required significant assistance, mentioning China, while asserting that "at some point, it will reopen on its own."
Explosions and air raid sirens heard from Jerusalem
Several explosions were heard Friday evening in Jerusalem by AFP journalists, after sirens sounded in northern Israel. The army reported Iranian missiles launched toward the territory.
"The Israeli army recently detected missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defense systems are in action to intercept this threat," the army said in a statement.
Shortly afterward, Magen David Adom, the Israeli equivalent of the Red Cross, indicated that "at this stage, there were no casualties."
Reward of up to $10 million for information on 5 senior Revolutionary Guard officials
“Five more opportunities to provide us with clues,” posted the Rewards for Justice account, affiliated with the U.S. State Department, on X.
Any information on these “terrorist leaders” who head “various elements of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps [IRGC]” could qualify for a reward and relocation, the poster states.
The targets include: Ahmad Vahidi, IRGC commander; Ali Abdollahi, head of Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KCHQ); Sa’id Aghajani, commander of drones in the Aerospace Force; Hamidreza Lashgarian, commander of cyber and electronic warfare for the IRGC; and Majid Khademi, commander of the intelligence bureau.
The State Department had already announced last week a list of 10 individuals for whom a reward of up to $10 million was being considered, including the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Hezbollah targets Israeli military base again
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for another attack on an Israeli military base, stating that it targeted the Michve Alon base, southwest of the occupied city of Safed, with a barrage of rockets at 6 p.m.
It also reported that the previous day it had shot down an Israeli drone over the town of Braasheet (Bint Jbeil) and targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers south of the border town of Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil) with drones.
Israel continues to bombard various areas of south Lebanon
The Israeli army continued its bombardment of various areas of southern Lebanon this evening, carrying out strikes on Jibsheet, Zibdin, Harouf (Nabatieh), Majdal Zoun, Siddiqine (Sour), Khiam (Marjayoun) – where fierce fighting against Hezbollah has been taking place for over a week – Kfar Shuba, Kfar Hammam (Hasbaya), and Rashaya al-Foukhar (West Bekaa), according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
Israeli helicopters were also seen heading east of Khiam after an Israeli tank was targeted and set on fire, according to our correspondent.
Iraq restricts crude oil exports
In the current context, Baghdad has invoked force majeure for all oil fields operated by foreign companies, thus preventing the shipment of most of the country's crude oil exports, Oil Ministry sources told Reuters.
London authorizes Washington to use bases to strike Iranian missile sites targeting ships
The British government today gave the United States permission to use military bases located in Britain to conduct strikes against Iranian missile sites targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported.
British ministers “confirmed that the agreement authorizing the United States to use British bases in the context of the collective self-defense of the region includes U.S. defensive operations aimed at neutralizing missile sites and capabilities used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz,” the Downing Street statement said.
White House: US can neutralize Kharg Island 'at any time' if Trump decides
The U.S. military can "neutralize" Kharg Island, a key oil site for Iran, "at any time if President Trump gives the order," White House spokesperson Anna Kelly asserted on Friday.
She was responding to an Axios article reporting that the U.S. government was considering occupying or blockading the island, while several U.S. media outlets announced the deployment of thousands of additional U.S. troops to the Middle East.
US military to deploy additional troops to Middle East, according to several media outlets
The U.S. military will deploy additional troops from the Marine Corps to the Middle East, according to U.S. media reports, which could foreshadow a possible ground operation in Iran after three weeks of war.
This information comes as Axios reports that U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration are considering seizing Kharg Island, from which approximately 90 percent of Iran's crude oil exports depart, to force Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This mission is likely to be entrusted to the Marines.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Washington will send between 2,200 and 2,500 Marines based in California to the region, capable of conducting amphibious operations. CNN, also citing anonymous military sources, has stated that thousands of Marines and sailors will be deployed there.
The Marine Corps, when questioned about these press reports, simply replied that the units in question were "deployed at sea."
American media had already reported last week another deployment to the Middle East involving three ships and 2,500 Marines, based in Japan.
Trump says having difficulty contacting Iran because there are no leaders to talk to
The U.S. president declared at a White House event that the United States was struggling to establish contact with Iran, asserting that there was no longer any leadership, Haaretz's Washington correspondent reported.
"Nobody wants to be in charge of this country anymore. We're having a lot of trouble," Donald Trump stated. "We want to talk to them, but there's nobody to talk to — and that suits us just fine."
He added that the United States "will not let them have nuclear weapons, because if they had them, they would use them," boasting that they "can do whatever they want, they have a lot of very good equipment — Russian, Chinese, a lot of money, but it's been useless against us."
At least 9 Hezbollah-affiliated medics injured in strike on Deir al-Zahrani
Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike on Deir al-Zahrani (Nabatieh district) in the early evening, followed by a second strike as medics from the Islamic Health Committee, affiliated with Hezbollah, arrived, wounding at least nine of them.
Also in the same district, a strike targeted Zawtar Gharbieh and Kfar Tibnit, while another targeted Majdal Selm (Sour district).
For its part, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted groups of Israeli soldiers in Maroun al-Ras and Aitaroun, near Jabal al-Blat, using drones, and claims to have clashed with an Israeli force attempting to infiltrate the Randa area, between Alma al-Shaab and Dhaira.
The group also indicated that it had targeted the city of Nahariya, in northern Israel, with a salvo of rockets.
Drones targeted US diplomatic facilities near Baghdad airport, according to security sources cited by Reuters
Qatar energy minister warned Washington of dangers of provoking Iran
In an interview with Reuters, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi, who also heads the national oil company QatarEnergy, said he had warned his American counterpart and business leaders that Tehran might target its neighbors' energy infrastructure if it attacked its own facilities.
"They were aware of the threat, and I reminded them constantly, almost daily, that it was essential to ensure the security of oil and gas facilities," he stated.
Ras Laffan, Qatar's first liquefied natural gas (LNG) production site, was recently hit by Iranian retaliation following Israeli strikes on the South Pars field.
Doha estimates that Iranian attacks on its energy facilities will reduce its LNG export capacity by 17 percent over three to five years, resulting in annual revenue losses of $20 billion.
U.S. President Donald Trump has denied any involvement in the Israeli strike on Iran’s main gas field, despite leaks from some Israeli officials to the media outlet Axios.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his position at his press conference yesterday, stating that the operation was solely Israeli.
Clashes between Hezbollah, Israeli army in Khiam, Markaba, Aita al-Shaab, Dhaira
On the ground, fighting is taking place between Hezbollah fighters and the Israeli army in the eastern neighborhoods of Khiam and on the outskirts of the northern part of the town (Marjayoun), reports our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
Clashes are also reported on the outskirts of Markaba (Marjayoun district), Aita al-Shaab (Bint Jbeil district), and Dhaira (Sour district). Automatic weapons are being used, while Israeli positions are being targeted by rocket and artillery fire. The explosions are being heard in neighboring towns.
Earlier in the day, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted Israeli army positions in southern Lebanon, in these villages as well as in Alma al-Shaab.
Update on south Lebanon
In the Sour district, two Israeli airstrikes targeted Bazourieh. Intensive artillery shelling also hit Mansouri, as well as the area between Qleileh and Hannieh.
In the Bint Jbeil district, two airstrikes targeted Tiri, causing no casualties.
In the Nabatieh district, a drone strike targeted Qa'aqayit al-Jisr, while Israeli aircraft bombed Zibdine and an area between Zawtar Sharqieh and Mayfadoun.
In the Marjayoun district, three airstrikes hit Taybeh, and a woman was killed in an attack on her home in Qantara.
Gideon Saar: Lebanon 'not taking any significant measures against Hezbollah'
Following his meeting with the French foreign minister, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that “the Lebanese government and the Lebanese army are not taking any significant measures against Hezbollah, neither militarily nor otherwise.”
After a meeting with Jean-Noël Barrot, who was visiting Beirut on Thursday, the Israeli minister explained that he had briefed his French counterpart on “the extent of the attacks against Israel launched from Lebanese territory since March 2, particularly from the area south of the Litani River, which the Lebanese government and army boasted of controlling just two and a half months ago.”
Saar also stated that he had proposed that “France and the European Union designate the entire Hezbollah organization as a terrorist organization, and not just its armed wing, as several European countries have already done.”
He added that “a complete delegitimization of Hezbollah is essential in the face of this Iranian branch, which has been conducting military operations against Israel for decades and is progressively destroying Lebanon and its future.”
London 'warned' Iran against any 'direct' attack targeting its bases or interests
British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned Iran against any direct attack on its bases or interests in a phone call with her Iranian counterpart, a Foreign Office spokesperson reported Friday.
Cooper warned Iran against any direct attack on British bases, territory, or interests and reiterated that the U.K.'s priority remains regional stability and security, the spokesperson said, adding that the call took place on Thursday.
Earlier in the day, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a statement that he had spoken with Cooper to condemn the United States' use of British military bases, which he saw as complicity.
Mojtaba Khamenei denies Iranian involvement in attacks against Oman, Turkey
Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, also stated in his New Year's message that Iran was not responsible for recent attacks against Oman and Turkey.
"I emphasize that the attacks that took place in Turkey and Oman — both of which maintain good relations with us — were in no way carried out by the armed forces of the Islamic Republic or by other forces of the 'Resistance Front,'" he said, implicating Israel.
Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed 1,021, injured 2,641 since start of war
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that since March 2, Israeli attacks have killed 1,021 people, including 118 children, and wounded 2,641, including 370 children.
According to this report, 20 people were killed and 57 were wounded by Israel today.
Hezbollah says targeted Israeli forces in several villages in south Lebanon
Hezbollah has stated that it targeted Israeli soldiers in villages in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have been conducting a ground incursion for several days.
According to the party, its fighters targeted Israeli army positions in southern Lebanon, including in Markaba, where several strikes targeted military deployments in Jabal Wardeh, at a newly established site on the southern outskirts of the town, as well as on the Qabaa Heights, on its southeastern outskirts, using rockets and artillery fire.
Other attacks targeted Israeli troop concentrations in Aita al-Shaab (Khallet Wardeh sector), Aita al-Shaab, and Dhaira, both on their southern outskirts.
Hezbollah also claims to have targeted several sites in Israeli territory, including the Tefen airbase, east of Acre and about 20 kilometers from the border, using explosive drones, as well as the Filon airbase, south of Rosh Pina, with rocket fire.
Furthermore, in a “warning” to localities in northern Israel, the party reports having targeted Kiryat Shmona five times with explosive drones and rocket attacks.
Israel denounces Tehran's 'madness' after impact near holy sites in Jerusalem
Israel denounced "the madness of the Iranian regime" after a projectile, debris from a missile or interceptor, struck Jerusalem's Old City following a warning of a missile launch from Iran.
"Iran's 'gift' for Eid al-Fitr: missiles on Al-Aqsa Mosque," the third holiest site in Islam, just a few hundred meters from the impact site, wrote Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on X.
"The Iranian attack on holy sites sacred to the three religions reveals the madness of the Iranian regime, which claims to be religious," he added.
Iran: Mojtaba Khamenei claims 'enemy' is 'defeated'
Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, proclaimed victory over the enemies of the Islamic Republic in the war against the United States and Israel in a written message for the Persian New Year, Nowruz.
"At this moment, due to the special unity that has been forged among you, our compatriots, despite all your differences in religious, intellectual, cultural, and political backgrounds, the enemy has been defeated," declared the Ayatollah, who has still not appeared in public since being designated to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an airstrike on the first day of the war.
Explosions heard in Tehran on day of Persian New Year, according to AFP journalist
Residents of Maarakeh receive threatening calls
The mayor of Maarakeh (Sour district) reported receiving phone calls asking him to evacuate the village, as well as dozens of other residents.
Update on south Lebanon
In the Nabatieh district, Israeli aircraft carried out airstrikes on Nabatieh Fawqa. One strike targeted the area between Habboush and Kfar Roummane, while another hit the outskirts of Habboush.
Israeli artillery shelling also targeted Arnoun, Yohmor and the Hamra area, on the outskirts of Zawtar Sharqieh.
In the Marjayoun district, two waves of strikes targeted Tallousseh, while strikes also targeted Qantara, Touline and Khiam, the latter being hit twice. Artillery fire also targeted the northern part of Khiam, where exchanges of fire were reported.
In the Tyre district, three Israeli airstrikes targeted the area of Suwayda, between Tayr Debba and Bazouriyeh.
Drones were also launched toward Israeli territory.
No crude oil tankers crossed Strait of Hormuz in past 24 hours: Reuters, market data
Trump calls NATO allies ‘cowards’ over reluctance to join Iran war
U.S. President Donald Trump lashed out at NATO allies on Truth Social Friday, criticizing them for not joining the Iran war or deploying forces to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.
“Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!” Trump wrote. “They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a Nuclear Powered Iran.”
He added: “Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices.”
“So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!” Trump concluded.
Hezbollah denies UAE accusations, criticizes Lebanese foreign ministry
Hezbollah has formally denied any involvement in a foiled terrorist plot reported by the United Arab Emirates, following the UAE authorities’ announcement that they had dismantled a “terror network” allegedly financed and run by Hezbollah and Iran.
In a statement, Hezbollah said: “Hezbollah formally denies the fabricated accusations issued against it by the UAE security authorities and categorically affirms that these claims are entirely unfounded and have no basis in fact or reality. Hezbollah has no presence in the UAE or any other country under any cover or commercial name. These allegations are part of repeated attempts to harm the party and tarnish its image, for motives now obvious to all.”
Hezbollah also criticized the Lebanese foreign ministry, accusing it of “irresponsibly rushing to adopt these foreign narratives and condemn a core component of Lebanon before any verification, instead of exercising the minimum national responsibility, especially amid the brutal Israeli aggression currently affecting Lebanon and its people.”
Fire breaks out at Haifa container terminal after Iranian missile fragment lands
A fire erupted overnight at a container terminal in Haifa after a fragment from an Iranian missile reportedly struck the site, the Fire and Rescue Services said.
Flames spread through at least 15 containers and ignited a piece of construction equipment, which was quickly extinguished. No injuries were reported, according to Haaretz.
Engineering teams are removing containers to give firefighters direct access, and authorities said the fire is under control, with full containment expected later tonight. Yuval Barak, spokesperson for Haifa Fire Station, confirmed operations are ongoing and emphasized that safety measures remain in place.
French FM sees no short-term end to Middle East war, pledges continued diplomacy
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Friday that he sees “no obvious short-term way out of the ongoing regional escalation,” but stressed that “this must in no way serve as a pretext for inaction.”
Speaking after meeting his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in Tel Aviv, Barrot arrived amid Iranian missile strikes toward Israel that triggered sirens and sent officials and press into a bomb shelter.
Barrot, who visited Lebanon on Thursday, is pushing for a cease-fire while also urging the Lebanese army to disarm Iran-backed Hezbollah. He acknowledged Paris’ reservations about a possible Israeli ground operation in southern Lebanon but emphasized the need to prevent Hezbollah from acting as an armed power.
Israel has rejected direct talks with Beirut as “too little, too late,” while President Joseph Aoun has expressed willingness to negotiate. Barrot said France continues to work with the U.S. and other allies on proposals to end the conflict, despite lukewarm responses from Washington and rejection by Israel.
Ministers visit shelters for displaced people
Transport Minister Fayez Rasamny and Social Development Minister Haneen Sayed visited shelters in Beirut and Saida to check on living conditions for displaced residents.
Rasamny visited Al-Ikhaa al-Watani School in Beirut, while Sayed went to the Kuwaiti School in Sidon.
The visits come as more than one million people have been displaced since the start of the war in Lebanon on March 2.
Rasamny emphasized that “our unity is our strength” and that “the state remains the essential reference for serving citizens,” while Sayed said the government “stands with the displaced” and is committed to “strengthening support and meeting the needs of the shelters.”
NATO says 'adjusting' Iraq mission
NATO said Friday it was "adjusting" its mission in Iraq, after officials in the country said the non-combat force had been temporarily withdrawn due to the war in the Middle East.
"We can confirm that we are adjusting our posture in the context of NATO Mission Iraq," alliance spokesperson Allison Hart told AFP in a statement, declining to provide fuller details for security reasons.
NATO was "working in close coordination with Allies and partners" on the matter, she said.
Israel claims killing of senior Iranian military official
The Israeli army said in a statement that it has killed Ismail Ahmadi, described as the “head of the Basij intelligence branch,” the paramilitary force linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.
Ahmadi was reportedly killed overnight during the latest wave of Israeli airstrikes against Iran. His death follows that of General Gholamreza Soleimani, the former Basij commander, who was killed 48 hours earlier.
“His elimination, along with that of the unit’s chief, adds to the dozens of senior commanders of Iran’s armed forces who have been taken out during the operation and delivers an even harder blow to the regime’s security command and control systems,” the Israeli army said.
Israeli artillery and airstrikes hit multiple locations in southern Lebanon
Over the past hour, several Israeli artillery strikes targeted Markaba (Marjeyoun district) as well as areas near Kfar Shuba (Hasbaya) and Khiam (Marjayoun).
Israeli warplanes also struck the outskirts of Taybeh (Marjayoun) at least twice. Another strike hit the area between Bani Hayyan and Rab el Thalathin (Marjeyoun), followed by two more near Nabatieh.
Meanwhile, rocket salvos have been observed being fired from Lebanon toward Israel
New rocket salvo fired from southern Lebanon toward Israel
Our correspondent reports that another round of rockets was launched from southern Lebanon targeting Israeli territory.
Hezbollah claims multiple attacks on Israeli targets in Lebanon and northern Israel
Hezbollah published 10 new statements Friday reporting operations against Israeli military targets in Lebanese territory and towns in northern Israel.
The Iran-backed militia said it fired rocket salvos at five Israeli towns: Yiftah, Kiryat Shmona, Shomera, Ramot Naftali, and Hanita, justifying the strikes by citing prior warning messages similar to those issued by the Israeli army for towns within five kilometers south of the Blue Line.
Hezbollah also claimed two drone attacks on Israeli military positions, identified as the “Yara and Metat barracks.” Additionally, the group said it targeted a “gathering of Israeli soldiers” in Khiam (Marjayoun district) with rockets, noting that fighting continues around the village amid Israel’s ongoing ground offensive in southern Lebanon, launched over two weeks ago.
Tehran warns Israeli and US officials could be targeted in tourist areas
An Iranian military spokesperson said Friday that Israeli and U.S. officials and military personnel “will not be safe in resorts or tourist sites around the world,” according to state media.
The warning follows multiple assassinations of senior Iranian political and military figures since the start of Israeli-American strikes on Feb. 28. The latest was Revolutionary Guards spokesperson Ali Mohammad Naeini, killed overnight in a strike claimed by Israel.
Israeli army says it has targeted over 2,000 sites in Lebanon since Hezbollah joined conflict
As part of what it calls a “forward defense effort,” the Israeli army said via spokesperson Avichay Adraee that its 36th, 91st, and 146th divisions continue targeted ground operations and incursions in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah.
According to the statement, operations have struck over 2,000 “terrorist targets”, including around 120 Hezbollah command centers, over 100 weapons depots, and more than 130 rocket launch platforms.
The army also claimed to have “eliminated more than 570 Hezbollah fighters,” including roughly 220 members of the elite Radwan force, about 150 rocket operators, two commanders equivalent to major general, four equivalent to brigadier general, eight colonels, and 22 battalion commanders.
'An assassination attempt': Sheikh accuses Hezbollah of shooting at his home
Shiite Sheikh Abbas Hoteit, known for criticizing Hezbollah, accused the party of firing at his home Thursday night in Choukine, Nabatieh district, calling it an “assassination attempt.”
In a video posted on Facebook, Hoteit said, “the bullets were meant to kill,” claiming Hezbollah militiamen took positions nearby before opening fire. “They started shooting toward the kitchen, where the shadow from outside is visible, while I was preparing iftar for my two children.”
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Tehran threatens to target Israeli and U.S. officials and troops in tourist locations
An Iranian military spokesperson said Friday that Israeli and U.S. officials and military personnel “will not be safe in resorts or tourist sites around the world,” according to state media.
The warning comes after a series of assassinations of senior political and military figures from the Iranian regime since Israeli-American strikes began on Feb. 28. The latest was Revolutionary Guards spokesperson Ali Mohammad Naeini, who was killed overnight in a strike claimed by Israel.
UK police arrest suspected Iranian spies for trying to enter submarine base, Sun newspaper says
Two suspected Iranian spies have been arrested after attempting to enter Britain's nuclear submarine base in Scotland on Thursday, the Sun newspaper reported on Friday.
Ukraine deploys interception units to protect Middle Eastern infrastructure
Ukraine has sent interception units to safeguard critical and civilian infrastructure across five Middle Eastern countries, Security Council Secretary Rustem Umerov said following a regional visit. “Efforts are also underway to expand coverage areas,” he wrote on X.
President Volodymyr Zelensky added that 228 Ukrainian specialists are assisting Middle Eastern nations with drone defense and that Kyiv is working with regional leaders to sign “serious agreements.”
Zelenskiy also noted that Ukrainian and U.S. working groups will continue drafting bilateral documents and discuss a broad drone deal during a weekend meeting in the United States.
Switzerland suspends arms exports to the US over war with Iran
Switzerland announced Friday that it will not issue licenses for companies to export weapons to the United States due to the ongoing attacks on Iran, citing its neutral stance.
“The export of military equipment to countries involved in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorized for the duration of the conflict,” the government said in a statement.
“Exports of military equipment to the United States cannot currently be authorized,” it added.
Israeli army renews forced evacuation orders in southern Lebanon up to the Zahrani River
As it does daily, the Israeli army has reiterated its forced evacuations orders for residents of all towns in southern Lebanon located south of the Zahrani River.
In recent days, the army has expanded the perimeter of the evacuation zone, which was previously limited to areas south of the Litani River.
The zone now includes urban areas with tens of thousands of residents, including Nabatieh and Sour, which were specifically targeted by such orders earlier this week, and covers nearly 12 percent of Lebanese territory.
These repeated threats across southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and the southern suburbs of Beirut have caused the forced displacement of over one million people since the escalation began on March 2, although some local populations remain in place.
Pentagon sends 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit to Middle East
The U.S. Pentagon has deployed the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a rapid-response force of roughly 2,200 Marines, to the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Officials have not detailed the specific missions for the Marines, who join an already significant U.S. presence in the region, including naval forces aimed at protecting shipping and monitoring Iranian activity in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies.
As of March 13, U.S. media reported that roughly 2,500 Marines and three additional ships, including the Japan-based USS Tripoli, were already being sent to the Middle East to reinforce operations related to the Iran conflict.
Trump mulls Kharg Island takeover to force Iran to open Hormuz Strait, Axios reports
The Trump administration is considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran's Kharg Island to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Axios reported on Friday, citing four sources with knowledge of the issue.
👉More info on Kharg Island, the gateway for 90 percent of Iranian oil exports, in Trump’s sights.
Israel will not allow anyone to harm the Druze and will strike Syria 'even harder if necessary,' warns Katz
Defense Minister Israel Katz commented on the Israeli army’s strike in southern Syria overnight, saying, “The message to the Syrian regime is clear and unmistakable: Israel will not stand idly by and will not allow anyone to harm the Druze.”
He added, “If necessary, we will strike with greater force. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have clearly stated and warned: anyone who harms the Druze in Syria, the brothers of our Druze brothers in Israel, will be punished,” the minister further warned.
Russia summons Israeli ambassador after strike injures RT journalist crew in Lebanon
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has called in Israeli ambassador Oded Joseph in Moscow following an Israeli missile strike that wounded a Russia Today (RT) television crew reporting in southern Lebanon, Al Jazeera reports.
On Thursday, ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the circumstances suggest the attack on the journalists was “deliberate and targeted,” describing it as a “gross violation of international law.”
Update on the situation in southern Lebanon
In the morning, the Israeli air force carried out three strikes on Kfar Tebnit (Nabatieh) and Zibqin (Sour), while its artillery shelled Yohmor al-Shaqif and Arnoun (Nabatieh).
Earlier in the day, since midnight, the Israeli army had also bombarded Deir al-Zahrani, Kafra, Bint Jbeil, Tiri, Naqoura, Kfar Sir, Der Serian, Habboush Bafliyeh, Srifa, Zawtar Gharbieh, Zawtar Sharqieh, Shamaa, al-Qlaylieh, al-Samaaieh, Majdel Zoun, and Ebba.
The toll from the strike on Baflieh (Sour) now stands at two killed and one injured.
2 loud explosions heard in Beirut and surrounding areas
According to initial reports and local media, the sounds were likely caused by fighter jets breaking the sound barrier at low altitude.
Sharaa says he is working to keep Syria out of conflict
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa stated that he is working to keep his country out of any conflict amid the Middle East war affecting neighboring states, emphasizing that Damascus maintains good relations with all countries in the region. He made the remarks after Eid al-Fitr prayers in Damascus.
“What is happening now is a major and rare event in history … We evaluate our steps with extreme precision and work to keep Syria out of any conflict. It is important to remember that Syria has always been a theater of conflicts and struggles over the past 15 years and before, but today it is in agreement with all neighboring countries, both regionally and internationally, while expressing full solidarity with Arab nations,” he said.
Sharaa also highlighted that his country has entered “a new phase, transforming Syria from a conflict zone into an influential actor for stability and security, both internally and regionally.”
The Syrian president’s comments come following Israeli strikes on the Sweida province, as U.S. and Israeli pressure on Syria continues in an effort to push it into a military confrontation with Hezbollah.
👉 Syria says no to action against Hezbollah despite US and Israeli pressure.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announce death of spokesperson
A spokesperson for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its deputy of public relations, Ali Mohammad Naini, has been killed in strikes launched by the U.S. and Israel, Iranian state TV reported on Friday.
There is no mention of the time he was killed or whether it is during the waves of strikes that we have been reporting on since midnight. Some of the strikes hit eastern Tehran, some of them in other cities like Karaj, Kerman, Bandar Lengeh port and Kashan.
Naini is from Kashan and he’s a 68-year-old second brigadier general in the IRGC … he was appointed in 2024 as a spokesman for the IRGC.
Earlier in the morning, hours before the announcement of his killing, the spokesman had said that “missile production is doing wonderfully” in Iran and that “there is no concern about it, because even in wartime we continue to manufacture missiles.”
Six more countries designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization
Israel’s Foreign Ministry announced that six additional countries have officially recognized Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
The new countries include Iceland, Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Liechtenstein.
These nations join Ukraine and Albania, which recently took similar steps, according to Haaretz.
The designation comes with measures including freezing the IRGC’s assets and economic resources, as well as restrictions on movement and residence for members and affiliated entities.
Israeli officials say the move is aimed at increasing international pressure on Iran amid ongoing regional conflicts and the IRGC’s involvement in military operations across the Middle East.
Update on Israeli strikes overnight in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army conducted multiple airstrikes and artillery attacks on southern Lebanese towns overnight during Eid, marking the end of Ramadan, according to our correspondent in the region.
Israeli air forces carried out an intensive bombing campaign targeting at least 39 towns throughout Thursday, with some locations hit multiple times — sometimes more than four strikes.
Residential areas were particularly affected, including Deir Seryan (Marjayoun district), Baflieh (Sour), between Srifa and Shhour, as well as Kfar Sir and Sair Gharbieh (Nabatieh).
Other raids struck neighborhoods and infrastructure in the Nabatieh district, including the al-Arid area in Habboush, the al-Wadi district in Abba, a playground in Kfar Jouz, and an area between Zawtar Sharqieh and Zawtar Gharbieh.
In addition, low-altitude flights by Israeli warplanes were reported across southern Lebanese airspace.
Rescue teams reported at least one death and several injuries in Baflieh, with search operations ongoing under the rubble to locate possible additional victims.
Hezbollah claims around 15 artillery and rocket attacks on Israeli targets in southern Lebanon and northern Israel
Hezbollah said in a series of statements that it carried out roughly 15 operations against Israeli forces on Thursday evening and overnight in several sectors along the southern Lebanon border, including rocket attacks on targets inside Israeli territory.
Hezbollah reported targeting “gatherings of soldiers” with artillery shells four times in the areas of Taybeh village (Marjayoun district), Mhaysbat hill, al-Khazzan hill, Adaisseh, and the town of Jdeidet Mais al-Jabal.
It also claimed to have struck “gatherings of military vehicles” twice near Taybeh, as well as a combined gathering of soldiers and vehicles in Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil).
Additionally, Hezbollah said that over the previous two days it carried out explosive attacks on an Israeli D9 military bulldozer in the Taybeh sector — an area of intense fighting for 48 hours — as well as against a gathering of soldiers in the al-Zouqaq neighborhood of Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil), claiming to have “caused direct losses” among Israeli forces.
The Iran-backed group also stated that it launched rocket salvos against several Israeli military positions, including Misgav Am and Mount Hermon, as well as a military-industrial site in Yodfat, east of Haifa.
Finally, Hezbollah said it repeatedly targeted northern Israeli localities, including Margaliot, Kiryat Shmona (reportedly for the seventh time), Malkiya, and Shlomi.
Iran says missile production ongoing despite war pressures
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated that missile production has continued since the start of the war and that the country is not experiencing any shortage of stockpiles, Reuters reports.
EU calls for de-escalation and halt to strikes on key infrastructure
Leaders of the European Union’s 27 member states on Thursday urged de-escalation in Iran and across the wider region, along with a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure, amid growing concern about the war’s impact on the global economy, Reuters reports.
They discussed the Middle East situation and its broader implications during a regular summit in Brussels.
“The European Council calls for de-escalation and maximum restraint, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and full respect for international law by all parties,” leaders said in written conclusions.
“In this regard, it calls for a moratorium on strikes targeting energy and water facilities,” they added.
Missile interceptors light up sky in Haifa
(Credit: Odd Andersen/AFP)
“Streaks and flashes from missile defense interceptors are visible in the sky, while excess gas is being flared at the oil refinery in the northern Israeli city of Haifa late on March 19, 2026.
Hezbollah and Iran continue to regularly fire missiles at Israeli territory. Air raid sirens sounded again in the Tel Aviv area as well as in the occupied West Bank following new missile launches attributed to Iran, according to Haaretz.
According to Israeli authorities, one of the missiles was not intercepted and fell in an open area. No injuries or significant damage have been reported so far.
Amid growing concerns over the economic damage linked to the war in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump said there would be no repeat of Israel’s attack on Iran’s main gas field, South Pars, while warning of a strong American response if Tehran did not halt strikes against Qatar. Iran responded that it would show “zero restraint” if its energy infrastructure were targeted again.”
Israel says it struck Syrian government targets after attacks on Druze civilians
The Israeli military struck infrastructure sites belonging to the Syrian government overnight in response to attacks against Druze civilians in Sweida, the Israeli military said on Friday.
The Israeli military said it targeted a command center and weapons in military compounds in southern Syria and said it will not tolerate harm toward the Druze population, adding it will continue to operate to defend them and monitor developments in the region.
Israel launches new wave of strikes on Iran
Israel launched new strikes on Iran on Friday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming the country is being “decimated,” as missile and drone attacks continue to target Gulf states.
“We are winning and Iran is being decimated,” Netanyahu said Thursday in a televised press conference, asserting that Tehran no longer has “the ability to enrich uranium” or “produce ballistic missiles.”
“I also think this war will end much faster than people imagine,” he added, without giving a timeline.
On the 21st day of the war, the remarks helped calm markets. Wall Street closed moderately lower, while oil prices edged down, with Brent crude hovering around $107 a barrel.
Despite this, strikes continued on Friday, which coincides with Nowruz and Eid al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia and most Muslim countries. Iran, a majority Shiite country, will mark the end of Ramadan on Saturday.
War enters 16th day on Lebanese front
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East, particularly the escalation on the Lebanese front, now in its 16th day and with over 1,000 people killed.
We will follow developments in Lebanon, two days after intensified Israeli strikes hit central Beirut, bridges over the Litani River and gas stations belonging to a company linked to Hezbollah.
We will also report on developments across the wider Middle East, amid Iranian strikes on energy infrastructure in Gulf countries.
Catch up on what you missed yesterday and whatt to keep an eye out for today by reading our 👉Morning Brief.
First contracts for oil deliveries from US Strategic Petroleum Reserve
The US Department of Energy announced on Friday that it had awarded contracts to companies for the loan of 45.2 million barrels of oil from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR).
Among the companies that secured these contracts are BP Products North America, Gunvor USA, Marathon Petroleum and Shell Trading Co, the Department of Energy said in a statement.
On March 11, members of the International Energy Agency (IEA) had decided to release 400 million barrels of crude oil from their emergency reserves to offset the surge in prices linked to the war in Iran, without specifying the details.
Hezbollah claims responsibility for four new attacks
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for four new attacks, including one carried out in the evening against Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for four new attacks carried out after 10 pm, one of which targeted Israeli soldiers in Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil), in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah lso claims to have targeted the Israeli site of al-Marj, opposite Markaba (Marjayoun), on two occasions, and to have fired rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona, where air-raid sirens sounded in the evening, according to Israeli media.
Hezbollah claims responsibility for 50th attack on Friday, record since early March
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for 50 attacks on Friday (some of which were carried out on Thursday), a record since early March.
In the evening, it announced that it had carried out seven new attacks against Israeli soldiers on Lebanese territory, all in the district of Marjayoun, including three during the day in the Jabal Warda area, located in Markaba.
The other soldiers targeted were positioned in the Dahr al-Tayara area, between the towns of Markaba and Robb Thalathin, at Khallet al-Mahafir and Khallet al-Aqsa, both near Odaisseh, and in the Mashrou’ Taybeh area.
Furthermore, Hezbollah claimed to have targeted the coastal surveillance radar at the Ras Naqoura site (Sour) and the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona in the evening.
Iran threatens UAE after attack on Kharg Island
Tehran has warned that it will target the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah if its islands in the Gulf are attacked again from that territory, state media reported.
The United States launched a massive bombing campaign on Kharg Island last week, without damaging the territory's energy infrastructure, which serves as the gateway for 90 percent of Iran's exported oil.
In an interview on the MS Now channel, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the use of a neighboring country to launch the attacks, which he said also targeted Abu Musa Island, disputed with the United Arab Emirates, and which he claimed were carried out with short- to medium-range munitions.
The Iranian foreign minister later clarified that it was Ras al-Khaimah, a territory near Dubai, both located in the Emirati federation.
Israeli order to evacuate Beirut southern suburbs: Shots fired into air to warn residents
Following Israel's order to evacuate Beirut's southern suburbs, heavy shots were heard in the affected neighborhoods to warn residents, according to local media.
While the Israeli army has been calling for the evacuation of the area, home to hundreds of thousands of residents, for the past two weeks, some are returning home due to a lack of alternative housing.
Warning sirens sounded in several northern Israeli cities
Warning sirens sounded in the cities of Nahariya, Kiryat Shmona and Margalit, which are regularly targeted by Hezbollah fire, Haaretz reports.
Bahrain ready to contribute to efforts around Strait of Hormuz
Manama has joined a statement by several European states, Japan, and Canada, expressing its willingness to contribute to efforts to ensure the safe passage of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the National News Agency reported.
Trump says the US is close to achieving goals in Iran war
The U.S. president said Friday that Washington was close to achieving its goals as he plans to gradually reduce its military involvement in the Iran war.
He also called on countries using the Strait of Hormuz to monitor and secure it "if necessary." "
If asked, we will assist these countries in their efforts on Hormuz, but this should no longer be necessary once the Iranian threat is eliminated," he added.
Israel again orders 'immediate' evacuation of 7 neighborhoods in Beirut's southern suburbs
Israel once again ordered the "immediate" evacuation of seven neighborhoods in Beirut's southern suburbs, namely Haret Hreik, Ghobeiri, Laylaki, Hadath, Burj al-Barajneh, Tahwitat al-Ghadir and Chiyah.
Israel has issued this order regularly since March 5.
"The Israeli army is continuing its operations and intensifying its strikes against Hezbollah military infrastructure throughout the southern suburbs," wrote Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, on X.
No strikes were reported in Beirut's southern suburbs as of Friday.
US diplomatic buildings near Baghdad airport targeted by drones
Drone attacks targeted U.S. diplomatic buildings near Baghdad airport, where smoke and a small fire were reported, security sources told Reuters.
This operation comes after the targeting of Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) headquarters in northern Iraq.
Iran claims it has no oil surplus to offer to global markets
Iran stated on Friday that it has no surplus crude oil to offer international markets, after the U.S. Treasury Secretary indicated that Washington might lift some sanctions on Iranian oil already stored at sea on ships, AFP reports.
"Currently, Iran effectively no longer has a surplus of crude, either at sea or to supply international markets, and the remarks of the U.S. Treasury Secretary are solely intended to give hope to buyers," wrote Saman Ghoddoosi, spokesperson for the Iranian Oil Ministry, on X.
Strike targets PMF in Iraq
Security sources told Reuters that an airstrike targeted the headquarters of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Tuz Khurmatu, northern Iraq.
Since the beginning of the war, the United States has been conducting operations against the coalition of pro-Iranian militias in response to its attacks on American interests in the country.
Gulf countries targeted again by Iranian attacks
Missile and drone attacks have been reported by the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia in the last hour.
Strikes in Deir al-Zahrani: Israel 'targeted 3 vehicles of Islamic Health Committee,' says Health Ministry
During a strike in Deir al-Zahrani (Nabatieh district), Israel “targeted three vehicles of the Islamic Health Committee as they were heading towards the site” of another strike, which injured 21 people, including two women, according to the Health Ministry.
“The rescue workers narrowly escaped death,” the Ministry stated, condemning the “continuous and repeated violations of international humanitarian law by the Israeli army.”
Nine rescue workers were injured in the second strike, according to an earlier report by our correspondent.
Hezbollah claims responsibility for 2 new attacks on Israel
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for two new attacks on Israeli territory, carried out today. One targeted the Eilit base, northeast of the Israeli city of Safed, and the other targeted Israeli soldiers at the al-Marj site, opposite the border town of Markaba (Marjayoun).
Iran issues new warning to Britain
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was endangering the lives of his citizens by allowing the use of his bases on British soil in the aggression against Iran.
Israeli strikes in Syria: Turkey denounces 'dangerous escalation'
Turkey has condemned Israeli strikes on a military headquarters and camps in southern Syria, denouncing a “dangerous escalation” and calling on the international community to intervene.
“We consider Israel’s attack targeting military infrastructure in southern Syria to be a dangerous escalation and strongly condemn it,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, urging the international community “to put an end to Israeli attacks.”
Iran: Trump says rules out any cease-fire
U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Friday that he rejected the idea of a cease-fire with Iran, nearly three weeks after the start of the war.
"I don't want to have a cease-fire. You know, you don't have a cease-fire when you're literally annihilating the adversary," the U.S. president told reporters as he left the White House for Florida.
The Republican billionaire also stated: "I think Israel will be ready to end the war in Iran when the United States wants to stop."
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Trump admitted that it required significant assistance, mentioning China, while asserting that "at some point, it will reopen on its own."
Explosions and air raid sirens heard from Jerusalem
Several explosions were heard Friday evening in Jerusalem by AFP journalists, after sirens sounded in northern Israel. The army reported Iranian missiles launched toward the territory.
"The Israeli army recently detected missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defense systems are in action to intercept this threat," the army said in a statement.
Shortly afterward, Magen David Adom, the Israeli equivalent of the Red Cross, indicated that "at this stage, there were no casualties."
Reward of up to $10 million for information on 5 senior Revolutionary Guard officials
“Five more opportunities to provide us with clues,” posted the Rewards for Justice account, affiliated with the U.S. State Department, on X.
Any information on these “terrorist leaders” who head “various elements of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps [IRGC]” could qualify for a reward and relocation, the poster states.
The targets include: Ahmad Vahidi, IRGC commander; Ali Abdollahi, head of Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KCHQ); Sa’id Aghajani, commander of drones in the Aerospace Force; Hamidreza Lashgarian, commander of cyber and electronic warfare for the IRGC; and Majid Khademi, commander of the intelligence bureau.
The State Department had already announced last week a list of 10 individuals for whom a reward of up to $10 million was being considered, including the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Hezbollah targets Israeli military base again
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for another attack on an Israeli military base, stating that it targeted the Michve Alon base, southwest of the occupied city of Safed, with a barrage of rockets at 6 p.m.
It also reported that the previous day it had shot down an Israeli drone over the town of Braasheet (Bint Jbeil) and targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers south of the border town of Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil) with drones.
Israel continues to bombard various areas of south Lebanon
The Israeli army continued its bombardment of various areas of southern Lebanon this evening, carrying out strikes on Jibsheet, Zibdin, Harouf (Nabatieh), Majdal Zoun, Siddiqine (Sour), Khiam (Marjayoun) – where fierce fighting against Hezbollah has been taking place for over a week – Kfar Shuba, Kfar Hammam (Hasbaya), and Rashaya al-Foukhar (West Bekaa), according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
Israeli helicopters were also seen heading east of Khiam after an Israeli tank was targeted and set on fire, according to our correspondent.
Iraq restricts crude oil exports
In the current context, Baghdad has invoked force majeure for all oil fields operated by foreign companies, thus preventing the shipment of most of the country's crude oil exports, Oil Ministry sources told Reuters.
London authorizes Washington to use bases to strike Iranian missile sites targeting ships
The British government today gave the United States permission to use military bases located in Britain to conduct strikes against Iranian missile sites targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported.
British ministers “confirmed that the agreement authorizing the United States to use British bases in the context of the collective self-defense of the region includes U.S. defensive operations aimed at neutralizing missile sites and capabilities used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz,” the Downing Street statement said.
White House: US can neutralize Kharg Island 'at any time' if Trump decides
The U.S. military can "neutralize" Kharg Island, a key oil site for Iran, "at any time if President Trump gives the order," White House spokesperson Anna Kelly asserted on Friday.
She was responding to an Axios article reporting that the U.S. government was considering occupying or blockading the island, while several U.S. media outlets announced the deployment of thousands of additional U.S. troops to the Middle East.
US military to deploy additional troops to Middle East, according to several media outlets
The U.S. military will deploy additional troops from the Marine Corps to the Middle East, according to U.S. media reports, which could foreshadow a possible ground operation in Iran after three weeks of war.
This information comes as Axios reports that U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration are considering seizing Kharg Island, from which approximately 90 percent of Iran's crude oil exports depart, to force Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This mission is likely to be entrusted to the Marines.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Washington will send between 2,200 and 2,500 Marines based in California to the region, capable of conducting amphibious operations. CNN, also citing anonymous military sources, has stated that thousands of Marines and sailors will be deployed there.
The Marine Corps, when questioned about these press reports, simply replied that the units in question were "deployed at sea."
American media had already reported last week another deployment to the Middle East involving three ships and 2,500 Marines, based in Japan.
Trump says having difficulty contacting Iran because there are no leaders to talk to
The U.S. president declared at a White House event that the United States was struggling to establish contact with Iran, asserting that there was no longer any leadership, Haaretz's Washington correspondent reported.
"Nobody wants to be in charge of this country anymore. We're having a lot of trouble," Donald Trump stated. "We want to talk to them, but there's nobody to talk to — and that suits us just fine."
He added that the United States "will not let them have nuclear weapons, because if they had them, they would use them," boasting that they "can do whatever they want, they have a lot of very good equipment — Russian, Chinese, a lot of money, but it's been useless against us."
At least 9 Hezbollah-affiliated medics injured in strike on Deir al-Zahrani
Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike on Deir al-Zahrani (Nabatieh district) in the early evening, followed by a second strike as medics from the Islamic Health Committee, affiliated with Hezbollah, arrived, wounding at least nine of them.
Also in the same district, a strike targeted Zawtar Gharbieh and Kfar Tibnit, while another targeted Majdal Selm (Sour district).
For its part, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted groups of Israeli soldiers in Maroun al-Ras and Aitaroun, near Jabal al-Blat, using drones, and claims to have clashed with an Israeli force attempting to infiltrate the Randa area, between Alma al-Shaab and Dhaira.
The group also indicated that it had targeted the city of Nahariya, in northern Israel, with a salvo of rockets.
Drones targeted US diplomatic facilities near Baghdad airport, according to security sources cited by Reuters
Qatar energy minister warned Washington of dangers of provoking Iran
In an interview with Reuters, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi, who also heads the national oil company QatarEnergy, said he had warned his American counterpart and business leaders that Tehran might target its neighbors' energy infrastructure if it attacked its own facilities.
"They were aware of the threat, and I reminded them constantly, almost daily, that it was essential to ensure the security of oil and gas facilities," he stated.
Ras Laffan, Qatar's first liquefied natural gas (LNG) production site, was recently hit by Iranian retaliation following Israeli strikes on the South Pars field.
Doha estimates that Iranian attacks on its energy facilities will reduce its LNG export capacity by 17 percent over three to five years, resulting in annual revenue losses of $20 billion.
U.S. President Donald Trump has denied any involvement in the Israeli strike on Iran’s main gas field, despite leaks from some Israeli officials to the media outlet Axios.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his position at his press conference yesterday, stating that the operation was solely Israeli.
Clashes between Hezbollah, Israeli army in Khiam, Markaba, Aita al-Shaab, Dhaira
On the ground, fighting is taking place between Hezbollah fighters and the Israeli army in the eastern neighborhoods of Khiam and on the outskirts of the northern part of the town (Marjayoun), reports our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
Clashes are also reported on the outskirts of Markaba (Marjayoun district), Aita al-Shaab (Bint Jbeil district), and Dhaira (Sour district). Automatic weapons are being used, while Israeli positions are being targeted by rocket and artillery fire. The explosions are being heard in neighboring towns.
Earlier in the day, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted Israeli army positions in southern Lebanon, in these villages as well as in Alma al-Shaab.
Update on south Lebanon
In the Sour district, two Israeli airstrikes targeted Bazourieh. Intensive artillery shelling also hit Mansouri, as well as the area between Qleileh and Hannieh.
In the Bint Jbeil district, two airstrikes targeted Tiri, causing no casualties.
In the Nabatieh district, a drone strike targeted Qa'aqayit al-Jisr, while Israeli aircraft bombed Zibdine and an area between Zawtar Sharqieh and Mayfadoun.
In the Marjayoun district, three airstrikes hit Taybeh, and a woman was killed in an attack on her home in Qantara.
Gideon Saar: Lebanon 'not taking any significant measures against Hezbollah'
Following his meeting with the French foreign minister, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that “the Lebanese government and the Lebanese army are not taking any significant measures against Hezbollah, neither militarily nor otherwise.”
After a meeting with Jean-Noël Barrot, who was visiting Beirut on Thursday, the Israeli minister explained that he had briefed his French counterpart on “the extent of the attacks against Israel launched from Lebanese territory since March 2, particularly from the area south of the Litani River, which the Lebanese government and army boasted of controlling just two and a half months ago.”
Saar also stated that he had proposed that “France and the European Union designate the entire Hezbollah organization as a terrorist organization, and not just its armed wing, as several European countries have already done.”
He added that “a complete delegitimization of Hezbollah is essential in the face of this Iranian branch, which has been conducting military operations against Israel for decades and is progressively destroying Lebanon and its future.”
London 'warned' Iran against any 'direct' attack targeting its bases or interests
British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned Iran against any direct attack on its bases or interests in a phone call with her Iranian counterpart, a Foreign Office spokesperson reported Friday.
Cooper warned Iran against any direct attack on British bases, territory, or interests and reiterated that the U.K.'s priority remains regional stability and security, the spokesperson said, adding that the call took place on Thursday.
Earlier in the day, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a statement that he had spoken with Cooper to condemn the United States' use of British military bases, which he saw as complicity.
Mojtaba Khamenei denies Iranian involvement in attacks against Oman, Turkey
Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, also stated in his New Year's message that Iran was not responsible for recent attacks against Oman and Turkey.
"I emphasize that the attacks that took place in Turkey and Oman — both of which maintain good relations with us — were in no way carried out by the armed forces of the Islamic Republic or by other forces of the 'Resistance Front,'" he said, implicating Israel.
Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed 1,021, injured 2,641 since start of war
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that since March 2, Israeli attacks have killed 1,021 people, including 118 children, and wounded 2,641, including 370 children.
According to this report, 20 people were killed and 57 were wounded by Israel today.
Hezbollah says targeted Israeli forces in several villages in south Lebanon
Hezbollah has stated that it targeted Israeli soldiers in villages in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have been conducting a ground incursion for several days.
According to the party, its fighters targeted Israeli army positions in southern Lebanon, including in Markaba, where several strikes targeted military deployments in Jabal Wardeh, at a newly established site on the southern outskirts of the town, as well as on the Qabaa Heights, on its southeastern outskirts, using rockets and artillery fire.
Other attacks targeted Israeli troop concentrations in Aita al-Shaab (Khallet Wardeh sector), Aita al-Shaab, and Dhaira, both on their southern outskirts.
Hezbollah also claims to have targeted several sites in Israeli territory, including the Tefen airbase, east of Acre and about 20 kilometers from the border, using explosive drones, as well as the Filon airbase, south of Rosh Pina, with rocket fire.
Furthermore, in a “warning” to localities in northern Israel, the party reports having targeted Kiryat Shmona five times with explosive drones and rocket attacks.
Israel denounces Tehran's 'madness' after impact near holy sites in Jerusalem
Israel denounced "the madness of the Iranian regime" after a projectile, debris from a missile or interceptor, struck Jerusalem's Old City following a warning of a missile launch from Iran.
"Iran's 'gift' for Eid al-Fitr: missiles on Al-Aqsa Mosque," the third holiest site in Islam, just a few hundred meters from the impact site, wrote Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on X.
"The Iranian attack on holy sites sacred to the three religions reveals the madness of the Iranian regime, which claims to be religious," he added.
Iran: Mojtaba Khamenei claims 'enemy' is 'defeated'
Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, proclaimed victory over the enemies of the Islamic Republic in the war against the United States and Israel in a written message for the Persian New Year, Nowruz.
"At this moment, due to the special unity that has been forged among you, our compatriots, despite all your differences in religious, intellectual, cultural, and political backgrounds, the enemy has been defeated," declared the Ayatollah, who has still not appeared in public since being designated to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an airstrike on the first day of the war.
Explosions heard in Tehran on day of Persian New Year, according to AFP journalist
Residents of Maarakeh receive threatening calls
The mayor of Maarakeh (Sour district) reported receiving phone calls asking him to evacuate the village, as well as dozens of other residents.
Update on south Lebanon
In the Nabatieh district, Israeli aircraft carried out airstrikes on Nabatieh Fawqa. One strike targeted the area between Habboush and Kfar Roummane, while another hit the outskirts of Habboush.
Israeli artillery shelling also targeted Arnoun, Yohmor and the Hamra area, on the outskirts of Zawtar Sharqieh.
In the Marjayoun district, two waves of strikes targeted Tallousseh, while strikes also targeted Qantara, Touline and Khiam, the latter being hit twice. Artillery fire also targeted the northern part of Khiam, where exchanges of fire were reported.
In the Tyre district, three Israeli airstrikes targeted the area of Suwayda, between Tayr Debba and Bazouriyeh.
Drones were also launched toward Israeli territory.
No crude oil tankers crossed Strait of Hormuz in past 24 hours: Reuters, market data
Trump calls NATO allies ‘cowards’ over reluctance to join Iran war
U.S. President Donald Trump lashed out at NATO allies on Truth Social Friday, criticizing them for not joining the Iran war or deploying forces to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.
“Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!” Trump wrote. “They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a Nuclear Powered Iran.”
He added: “Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices.”
“So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!” Trump concluded.
Hezbollah denies UAE accusations, criticizes Lebanese foreign ministry
Hezbollah has formally denied any involvement in a foiled terrorist plot reported by the United Arab Emirates, following the UAE authorities’ announcement that they had dismantled a “terror network” allegedly financed and run by Hezbollah and Iran.
In a statement, Hezbollah said: “Hezbollah formally denies the fabricated accusations issued against it by the UAE security authorities and categorically affirms that these claims are entirely unfounded and have no basis in fact or reality. Hezbollah has no presence in the UAE or any other country under any cover or commercial name. These allegations are part of repeated attempts to harm the party and tarnish its image, for motives now obvious to all.”
Hezbollah also criticized the Lebanese foreign ministry, accusing it of “irresponsibly rushing to adopt these foreign narratives and condemn a core component of Lebanon before any verification, instead of exercising the minimum national responsibility, especially amid the brutal Israeli aggression currently affecting Lebanon and its people.”
Fire breaks out at Haifa container terminal after Iranian missile fragment lands
A fire erupted overnight at a container terminal in Haifa after a fragment from an Iranian missile reportedly struck the site, the Fire and Rescue Services said.
Flames spread through at least 15 containers and ignited a piece of construction equipment, which was quickly extinguished. No injuries were reported, according to Haaretz.
Engineering teams are removing containers to give firefighters direct access, and authorities said the fire is under control, with full containment expected later tonight. Yuval Barak, spokesperson for Haifa Fire Station, confirmed operations are ongoing and emphasized that safety measures remain in place.
French FM sees no short-term end to Middle East war, pledges continued diplomacy
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Friday that he sees “no obvious short-term way out of the ongoing regional escalation,” but stressed that “this must in no way serve as a pretext for inaction.”
Speaking after meeting his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in Tel Aviv, Barrot arrived amid Iranian missile strikes toward Israel that triggered sirens and sent officials and press into a bomb shelter.
Barrot, who visited Lebanon on Thursday, is pushing for a cease-fire while also urging the Lebanese army to disarm Iran-backed Hezbollah. He acknowledged Paris’ reservations about a possible Israeli ground operation in southern Lebanon but emphasized the need to prevent Hezbollah from acting as an armed power.
Israel has rejected direct talks with Beirut as “too little, too late,” while President Joseph Aoun has expressed willingness to negotiate. Barrot said France continues to work with the U.S. and other allies on proposals to end the conflict, despite lukewarm responses from Washington and rejection by Israel.
Ministers visit shelters for displaced people
Transport Minister Fayez Rasamny and Social Development Minister Haneen Sayed visited shelters in Beirut and Saida to check on living conditions for displaced residents.
Rasamny visited Al-Ikhaa al-Watani School in Beirut, while Sayed went to the Kuwaiti School in Sidon.
The visits come as more than one million people have been displaced since the start of the war in Lebanon on March 2.
Rasamny emphasized that “our unity is our strength” and that “the state remains the essential reference for serving citizens,” while Sayed said the government “stands with the displaced” and is committed to “strengthening support and meeting the needs of the shelters.”
NATO says 'adjusting' Iraq mission
NATO said Friday it was "adjusting" its mission in Iraq, after officials in the country said the non-combat force had been temporarily withdrawn due to the war in the Middle East.
"We can confirm that we are adjusting our posture in the context of NATO Mission Iraq," alliance spokesperson Allison Hart told AFP in a statement, declining to provide fuller details for security reasons.
NATO was "working in close coordination with Allies and partners" on the matter, she said.
Israel claims killing of senior Iranian military official
The Israeli army said in a statement that it has killed Ismail Ahmadi, described as the “head of the Basij intelligence branch,” the paramilitary force linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.
Ahmadi was reportedly killed overnight during the latest wave of Israeli airstrikes against Iran. His death follows that of General Gholamreza Soleimani, the former Basij commander, who was killed 48 hours earlier.
“His elimination, along with that of the unit’s chief, adds to the dozens of senior commanders of Iran’s armed forces who have been taken out during the operation and delivers an even harder blow to the regime’s security command and control systems,” the Israeli army said.
Israeli artillery and airstrikes hit multiple locations in southern Lebanon
Over the past hour, several Israeli artillery strikes targeted Markaba (Marjeyoun district) as well as areas near Kfar Shuba (Hasbaya) and Khiam (Marjayoun).
Israeli warplanes also struck the outskirts of Taybeh (Marjayoun) at least twice. Another strike hit the area between Bani Hayyan and Rab el Thalathin (Marjeyoun), followed by two more near Nabatieh.
Meanwhile, rocket salvos have been observed being fired from Lebanon toward Israel
New rocket salvo fired from southern Lebanon toward Israel
Our correspondent reports that another round of rockets was launched from southern Lebanon targeting Israeli territory.
Hezbollah claims multiple attacks on Israeli targets in Lebanon and northern Israel
Hezbollah published 10 new statements Friday reporting operations against Israeli military targets in Lebanese territory and towns in northern Israel.
The Iran-backed militia said it fired rocket salvos at five Israeli towns: Yiftah, Kiryat Shmona, Shomera, Ramot Naftali, and Hanita, justifying the strikes by citing prior warning messages similar to those issued by the Israeli army for towns within five kilometers south of the Blue Line.
Hezbollah also claimed two drone attacks on Israeli military positions, identified as the “Yara and Metat barracks.” Additionally, the group said it targeted a “gathering of Israeli soldiers” in Khiam (Marjayoun district) with rockets, noting that fighting continues around the village amid Israel’s ongoing ground offensive in southern Lebanon, launched over two weeks ago.
Tehran warns Israeli and US officials could be targeted in tourist areas
An Iranian military spokesperson said Friday that Israeli and U.S. officials and military personnel “will not be safe in resorts or tourist sites around the world,” according to state media.
The warning follows multiple assassinations of senior Iranian political and military figures since the start of Israeli-American strikes on Feb. 28. The latest was Revolutionary Guards spokesperson Ali Mohammad Naeini, killed overnight in a strike claimed by Israel.
Israeli army says it has targeted over 2,000 sites in Lebanon since Hezbollah joined conflict
As part of what it calls a “forward defense effort,” the Israeli army said via spokesperson Avichay Adraee that its 36th, 91st, and 146th divisions continue targeted ground operations and incursions in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah.
According to the statement, operations have struck over 2,000 “terrorist targets”, including around 120 Hezbollah command centers, over 100 weapons depots, and more than 130 rocket launch platforms.
The army also claimed to have “eliminated more than 570 Hezbollah fighters,” including roughly 220 members of the elite Radwan force, about 150 rocket operators, two commanders equivalent to major general, four equivalent to brigadier general, eight colonels, and 22 battalion commanders.
'An assassination attempt': Sheikh accuses Hezbollah of shooting at his home
Shiite Sheikh Abbas Hoteit, known for criticizing Hezbollah, accused the party of firing at his home Thursday night in Choukine, Nabatieh district, calling it an “assassination attempt.”
In a video posted on Facebook, Hoteit said, “the bullets were meant to kill,” claiming Hezbollah militiamen took positions nearby before opening fire. “They started shooting toward the kitchen, where the shadow from outside is visible, while I was preparing iftar for my two children.”
More info👉here.
Tehran threatens to target Israeli and U.S. officials and troops in tourist locations
An Iranian military spokesperson said Friday that Israeli and U.S. officials and military personnel “will not be safe in resorts or tourist sites around the world,” according to state media.
The warning comes after a series of assassinations of senior political and military figures from the Iranian regime since Israeli-American strikes began on Feb. 28. The latest was Revolutionary Guards spokesperson Ali Mohammad Naeini, who was killed overnight in a strike claimed by Israel.
UK police arrest suspected Iranian spies for trying to enter submarine base, Sun newspaper says
Two suspected Iranian spies have been arrested after attempting to enter Britain's nuclear submarine base in Scotland on Thursday, the Sun newspaper reported on Friday.
Ukraine deploys interception units to protect Middle Eastern infrastructure
Ukraine has sent interception units to safeguard critical and civilian infrastructure across five Middle Eastern countries, Security Council Secretary Rustem Umerov said following a regional visit. “Efforts are also underway to expand coverage areas,” he wrote on X.
President Volodymyr Zelensky added that 228 Ukrainian specialists are assisting Middle Eastern nations with drone defense and that Kyiv is working with regional leaders to sign “serious agreements.”
Zelenskiy also noted that Ukrainian and U.S. working groups will continue drafting bilateral documents and discuss a broad drone deal during a weekend meeting in the United States.
Switzerland suspends arms exports to the US over war with Iran
Switzerland announced Friday that it will not issue licenses for companies to export weapons to the United States due to the ongoing attacks on Iran, citing its neutral stance.
“The export of military equipment to countries involved in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorized for the duration of the conflict,” the government said in a statement.
“Exports of military equipment to the United States cannot currently be authorized,” it added.
Israeli army renews forced evacuation orders in southern Lebanon up to the Zahrani River
As it does daily, the Israeli army has reiterated its forced evacuations orders for residents of all towns in southern Lebanon located south of the Zahrani River.
In recent days, the army has expanded the perimeter of the evacuation zone, which was previously limited to areas south of the Litani River.
The zone now includes urban areas with tens of thousands of residents, including Nabatieh and Sour, which were specifically targeted by such orders earlier this week, and covers nearly 12 percent of Lebanese territory.
These repeated threats across southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and the southern suburbs of Beirut have caused the forced displacement of over one million people since the escalation began on March 2, although some local populations remain in place.
Pentagon sends 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit to Middle East
The U.S. Pentagon has deployed the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a rapid-response force of roughly 2,200 Marines, to the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Officials have not detailed the specific missions for the Marines, who join an already significant U.S. presence in the region, including naval forces aimed at protecting shipping and monitoring Iranian activity in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies.
As of March 13, U.S. media reported that roughly 2,500 Marines and three additional ships, including the Japan-based USS Tripoli, were already being sent to the Middle East to reinforce operations related to the Iran conflict.
Trump mulls Kharg Island takeover to force Iran to open Hormuz Strait, Axios reports
The Trump administration is considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran's Kharg Island to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Axios reported on Friday, citing four sources with knowledge of the issue.
👉More info on Kharg Island, the gateway for 90 percent of Iranian oil exports, in Trump’s sights.
Israel will not allow anyone to harm the Druze and will strike Syria 'even harder if necessary,' warns Katz
Defense Minister Israel Katz commented on the Israeli army’s strike in southern Syria overnight, saying, “The message to the Syrian regime is clear and unmistakable: Israel will not stand idly by and will not allow anyone to harm the Druze.”
He added, “If necessary, we will strike with greater force. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have clearly stated and warned: anyone who harms the Druze in Syria, the brothers of our Druze brothers in Israel, will be punished,” the minister further warned.
Russia summons Israeli ambassador after strike injures RT journalist crew in Lebanon
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has called in Israeli ambassador Oded Joseph in Moscow following an Israeli missile strike that wounded a Russia Today (RT) television crew reporting in southern Lebanon, Al Jazeera reports.
On Thursday, ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the circumstances suggest the attack on the journalists was “deliberate and targeted,” describing it as a “gross violation of international law.”
Update on the situation in southern Lebanon
In the morning, the Israeli air force carried out three strikes on Kfar Tebnit (Nabatieh) and Zibqin (Sour), while its artillery shelled Yohmor al-Shaqif and Arnoun (Nabatieh).
Earlier in the day, since midnight, the Israeli army had also bombarded Deir al-Zahrani, Kafra, Bint Jbeil, Tiri, Naqoura, Kfar Sir, Der Serian, Habboush Bafliyeh, Srifa, Zawtar Gharbieh, Zawtar Sharqieh, Shamaa, al-Qlaylieh, al-Samaaieh, Majdel Zoun, and Ebba.
The toll from the strike on Baflieh (Sour) now stands at two killed and one injured.
2 loud explosions heard in Beirut and surrounding areas
According to initial reports and local media, the sounds were likely caused by fighter jets breaking the sound barrier at low altitude.
Sharaa says he is working to keep Syria out of conflict
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa stated that he is working to keep his country out of any conflict amid the Middle East war affecting neighboring states, emphasizing that Damascus maintains good relations with all countries in the region. He made the remarks after Eid al-Fitr prayers in Damascus.
“What is happening now is a major and rare event in history … We evaluate our steps with extreme precision and work to keep Syria out of any conflict. It is important to remember that Syria has always been a theater of conflicts and struggles over the past 15 years and before, but today it is in agreement with all neighboring countries, both regionally and internationally, while expressing full solidarity with Arab nations,” he said.
Sharaa also highlighted that his country has entered “a new phase, transforming Syria from a conflict zone into an influential actor for stability and security, both internally and regionally.”
The Syrian president’s comments come following Israeli strikes on the Sweida province, as U.S. and Israeli pressure on Syria continues in an effort to push it into a military confrontation with Hezbollah.
👉 Syria says no to action against Hezbollah despite US and Israeli pressure.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announce death of spokesperson
A spokesperson for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its deputy of public relations, Ali Mohammad Naini, has been killed in strikes launched by the U.S. and Israel, Iranian state TV reported on Friday.
There is no mention of the time he was killed or whether it is during the waves of strikes that we have been reporting on since midnight. Some of the strikes hit eastern Tehran, some of them in other cities like Karaj, Kerman, Bandar Lengeh port and Kashan.
Naini is from Kashan and he’s a 68-year-old second brigadier general in the IRGC … he was appointed in 2024 as a spokesman for the IRGC.
Earlier in the morning, hours before the announcement of his killing, the spokesman had said that “missile production is doing wonderfully” in Iran and that “there is no concern about it, because even in wartime we continue to manufacture missiles.”
Six more countries designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization
Israel’s Foreign Ministry announced that six additional countries have officially recognized Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
The new countries include Iceland, Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Liechtenstein.
These nations join Ukraine and Albania, which recently took similar steps, according to Haaretz.
The designation comes with measures including freezing the IRGC’s assets and economic resources, as well as restrictions on movement and residence for members and affiliated entities.
Israeli officials say the move is aimed at increasing international pressure on Iran amid ongoing regional conflicts and the IRGC’s involvement in military operations across the Middle East.
Update on Israeli strikes overnight in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army conducted multiple airstrikes and artillery attacks on southern Lebanese towns overnight during Eid, marking the end of Ramadan, according to our correspondent in the region.
Israeli air forces carried out an intensive bombing campaign targeting at least 39 towns throughout Thursday, with some locations hit multiple times — sometimes more than four strikes.
Residential areas were particularly affected, including Deir Seryan (Marjayoun district), Baflieh (Sour), between Srifa and Shhour, as well as Kfar Sir and Sair Gharbieh (Nabatieh).
Other raids struck neighborhoods and infrastructure in the Nabatieh district, including the al-Arid area in Habboush, the al-Wadi district in Abba, a playground in Kfar Jouz, and an area between Zawtar Sharqieh and Zawtar Gharbieh.
In addition, low-altitude flights by Israeli warplanes were reported across southern Lebanese airspace.
Rescue teams reported at least one death and several injuries in Baflieh, with search operations ongoing under the rubble to locate possible additional victims.
Hezbollah claims around 15 artillery and rocket attacks on Israeli targets in southern Lebanon and northern Israel
Hezbollah said in a series of statements that it carried out roughly 15 operations against Israeli forces on Thursday evening and overnight in several sectors along the southern Lebanon border, including rocket attacks on targets inside Israeli territory.
Hezbollah reported targeting “gatherings of soldiers” with artillery shells four times in the areas of Taybeh village (Marjayoun district), Mhaysbat hill, al-Khazzan hill, Adaisseh, and the town of Jdeidet Mais al-Jabal.
It also claimed to have struck “gatherings of military vehicles” twice near Taybeh, as well as a combined gathering of soldiers and vehicles in Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil).
Additionally, Hezbollah said that over the previous two days it carried out explosive attacks on an Israeli D9 military bulldozer in the Taybeh sector — an area of intense fighting for 48 hours — as well as against a gathering of soldiers in the al-Zouqaq neighborhood of Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil), claiming to have “caused direct losses” among Israeli forces.
The Iran-backed group also stated that it launched rocket salvos against several Israeli military positions, including Misgav Am and Mount Hermon, as well as a military-industrial site in Yodfat, east of Haifa.
Finally, Hezbollah said it repeatedly targeted northern Israeli localities, including Margaliot, Kiryat Shmona (reportedly for the seventh time), Malkiya, and Shlomi.
Iran says missile production ongoing despite war pressures
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated that missile production has continued since the start of the war and that the country is not experiencing any shortage of stockpiles, Reuters reports.
EU calls for de-escalation and halt to strikes on key infrastructure
Leaders of the European Union’s 27 member states on Thursday urged de-escalation in Iran and across the wider region, along with a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure, amid growing concern about the war’s impact on the global economy, Reuters reports.
They discussed the Middle East situation and its broader implications during a regular summit in Brussels.
“The European Council calls for de-escalation and maximum restraint, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and full respect for international law by all parties,” leaders said in written conclusions.
“In this regard, it calls for a moratorium on strikes targeting energy and water facilities,” they added.
Missile interceptors light up sky in Haifa
(Credit: Odd Andersen/AFP)
“Streaks and flashes from missile defense interceptors are visible in the sky, while excess gas is being flared at the oil refinery in the northern Israeli city of Haifa late on March 19, 2026.
Hezbollah and Iran continue to regularly fire missiles at Israeli territory. Air raid sirens sounded again in the Tel Aviv area as well as in the occupied West Bank following new missile launches attributed to Iran, according to Haaretz.
According to Israeli authorities, one of the missiles was not intercepted and fell in an open area. No injuries or significant damage have been reported so far.
Amid growing concerns over the economic damage linked to the war in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump said there would be no repeat of Israel’s attack on Iran’s main gas field, South Pars, while warning of a strong American response if Tehran did not halt strikes against Qatar. Iran responded that it would show “zero restraint” if its energy infrastructure were targeted again.”
Israel says it struck Syrian government targets after attacks on Druze civilians
The Israeli military struck infrastructure sites belonging to the Syrian government overnight in response to attacks against Druze civilians in Sweida, the Israeli military said on Friday.
The Israeli military said it targeted a command center and weapons in military compounds in southern Syria and said it will not tolerate harm toward the Druze population, adding it will continue to operate to defend them and monitor developments in the region.
Israel launches new wave of strikes on Iran
Israel launched new strikes on Iran on Friday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming the country is being “decimated,” as missile and drone attacks continue to target Gulf states.
“We are winning and Iran is being decimated,” Netanyahu said Thursday in a televised press conference, asserting that Tehran no longer has “the ability to enrich uranium” or “produce ballistic missiles.”
“I also think this war will end much faster than people imagine,” he added, without giving a timeline.
On the 21st day of the war, the remarks helped calm markets. Wall Street closed moderately lower, while oil prices edged down, with Brent crude hovering around $107 a barrel.
Despite this, strikes continued on Friday, which coincides with Nowruz and Eid al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia and most Muslim countries. Iran, a majority Shiite country, will mark the end of Ramadan on Saturday.
War enters 16th day on Lebanese front
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East, particularly the escalation on the Lebanese front, now in its 16th day and with over 1,000 people killed.
We will follow developments in Lebanon, two days after intensified Israeli strikes hit central Beirut, bridges over the Litani River and gas stations belonging to a company linked to Hezbollah.
We will also report on developments across the wider Middle East, amid Iranian strikes on energy infrastructure in Gulf countries.
Catch up on what you missed yesterday and whatt to keep an eye out for today by reading our 👉Morning Brief.
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