US-Israel War on Iran

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    Iran says US military weaker as Hormuz crisis deep…

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iran has intensified its rhetoric against the United States as attacks on commercial shipping and stalled peace efforts deepen uncertainty over the future of the war, with Tehran warning that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless Washington accepts its conditions. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, an adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said in an interview with PBS that the US military had proved “weaker than what we perceived” during the five-month conflict. Naqdi said Iran had gained valuable battlefield experience during the war and claimed Tehran would continue to emerge victorious. “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain,” he said, arguing that Iranian forces had learned how to confront the US military through direct experience. His comments came as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz dropped sharply. Shipping data showed only eight vessels were tracked through the waterway on Tuesday, below a 10-day average of about 12 and the lowest daily figure since August 5. Before the conflict, the strait typically handled around 130 to 140 vessels a day. The slowdown has heightened fears over global energy supplies because Hormuz is a crucial route for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The International Maritime Organization has previously warned of serious risks to vessels and seafarers operating in the area. Shipping attacks raise fresh alarm Tensions also spread to other maritime chokepoints. Four crew members were reportedly killed in a suspected Houthi attack on a cargo vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while two Yemeni rescuers were also killed, according to reports cited in the source material. The US military separately said an MH-60 helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at a Panama-flagged cargo ship after the vessel allegedly ignored warnings linked to a blockade of Iranian ports. Maritime sources said the incident occurred off Pakistan in the Gulf of Oman. The attacks have added to concerns that the conflict could disrupt shipping routes connecting the Gulf with the Red Sea and beyond. Iran sets conditions for reopening Hormuz Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would not reopen unless Washington agreed to Tehran’s demands, including the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to conflicts across the region. Iran’s parliament is also preparing legislation that would restrict military and commercial vessels from countries Tehran considers hostile from entering the Gulf without Iranian authorisation. The proposed law is intended to strengthen Iran’s control over the strategically important waterway. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has continued to combine threats with suggestions that negotiations could eventually produce a settlement. He has claimed the United States has control over the Strait and warned Iran against further escalation. Oil markets have already reacted to the uncertainty. Brent crude rose 1.4 per cent to $88.91 a barrel, while US crude gained 1.3pc to $83.20. Pakistan seeks diplomatic space Amid the worsening security situation, Pakistan has continued diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Iran and met President Masoud Pezeshkian, with both sides stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral political, economic, trade, cultural and security ties. Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s commitment to closer relations and said Tehran was ready to expand cooperation with Islamabad. Naqvi said his visit was aimed at following up on understandings reached between the two countries and accelerating implementation of existing agreements. With military rhetoric rising, shipping routes under pressure and negotiations at an apparent impasse, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of a crisis whose consequences could extend far beyond the Middle East.

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    Trump reveals why Secret Service changed his plane

    ByJustpaste.in

    WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has confirmed that his surprise plane switch during his departure from Turkey last month was carried out on the advice of the Secret Service, amid concerns over a potential threat linked to Iran. Trump said the aircraft he had initially been expected to travel on could have faced a “greater risk,” adding that he does not trust Iran. His remarks came after reports revealed that his departure from Ankara following the NATO summit involved an elaborate security operation. According to reports, Trump publicly boarded Air Force One in front of cameras, creating the impression that he would fly out of Turkey on the presidential aircraft. However, he was later secretly transferred to a smaller C-32A military aircraft. The move was reportedly carried out using an airport catering truck to conceal his transfer. Journalists and some White House staff reportedly remained under the impression that Trump was aboard Air Force One. Reporters were also instructed to keep their window shades closed, adding to the secrecy surrounding the operation. Trump said he followed the Secret Service’s instructions when the aircraft change was made and did not challenge the security decision. The unusual operation reportedly stemmed from heightened concerns over Iranian threats against the US president. Trump’s latest comments have now confirmed key details of the previously undisclosed flight arrangement. The episode has drawn attention because of the extraordinary measures used to conceal the president’s movements. It also highlights the heightened security concerns surrounding Trump amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran. For a president whose movements are normally tracked closely by the media and security officials, the covert transfer from one aircraft to another remains one of the most unusual presidential travel episodes of the year.

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    Israeli raids, settlement plans deepen West Bank t…

    ByJustpaste.in

    RAMALLAH: Tensions across the occupied West Bank intensified on Monday as Israeli forces reportedly destroyed water pipelines, detained Palestinians and ordered families to leave their homes ahead of a planned demolition. While a new settlement plan near Jerusalem raised fresh concerns over the expansion of Israeli settlements. The latest developments have added to growing pressure on Palestinian communities already facing restrictions on movement, damage to agricultural land and disruptions to basic services. Palestinian human rights activist Aref Daraghmeh said Israeli forces destroyed water pipelines in the Atouf and Ras al-Ahmar areas of Tubas governorate. The areas, located in the northern Jordan Valley, have experienced repeated military operations in recent months. According to Daraghmeh, agricultural land has been cleared, water networks damaged and artesian wells filled in, causing significant losses for farmers who depend on the land and water supplies for their livelihoods. The destruction of water infrastructure has particular significance in the Jordan Valley, where Palestinian farming communities rely heavily on limited water resources. Brothers detained during raid In another operation in the northern Jordan Valley, Israeli forces detained two Palestinian brothers in the Ein al-Hilweh area, according to local sources cited by Anadolu. Meanwhile, Israeli troops raided the village of Tell, southwest of Nablus, and ordered residents to leave several homes ahead of the planned demolition of a house belonging to Palestinian Farouq Ramadan. Ramadan was killed on July 24 during an attack in the village, according to Palestinian sources. They said he had disarmed and killed one of the attackers before being shot dead. Three other members of his family were also killed and four Palestinians were injured during the incident, the sources said. Near Ramallah, agricultural land east of Jaljaliya village was also set on fire, Palestinian official news agency Wafa reported. Palestinian civil defence crews later brought the blaze under control. Village council head Osama Nazmi said an Israeli outpost had been established in the area about a year ago and that Palestinian homes belonging to residents from nearby Al-Mazraa Al-Sharqiya had subsequently been seized. New settlement plan raises alarm At the same time, Palestinian officials said Israel had advanced plans for a new settlement containing approximately 650 housing units south of Jerusalem. The Palestinian Jerusalem Governorate said Israel’s District Planning and Building Committee had deposited the plan for the proposed “Nofei Rachel” settlement. The project would cover approximately 27 dunams, or 6.7 acres, near Palestinian homes, according to the governorate. Palestinian authorities warned that the consequences would extend beyond the construction of the housing units, arguing that the development could affect Palestinian movement, urban growth and the ability of local communities to expand. They described the plan as part of a broader Israeli policy of expanding settlements and restricting Palestinian development. Israeli rights organisation Ir Amim separately said Israel had advanced three major settlement projects involving more than 3,400 housing units in East Jerusalem in recent weeks. The developments have renewed international concerns about settlement expansion. The United Nations and most countries regard Israeli settlements established in territory occupied since 1967 as illegal under international law. Critics say continued settlement construction threatens the possibility of establishing a viable Palestinian state alongside Israel. West Bank caught in wider conflict The latest events come as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to reverberate across the region. According to figures cited by Palestinian authorities, violence in the West Bank has intensified alongside the wider war that began after the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. The situation has also drawn attention to the issue of Palestinian remains held by Israel. Report: Israel holds 1,700 Palestinian bodies Israel is holding the remains of around 1,700 Palestinians for possible use in future exchanges, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported, citing two unnamed sources familiar with recent discussions within Israel’s security establishment. According to the report, Shin Bet chief David Zini supports retaining the bodies in case Israeli citizens are captured or disappear in the future. The Israeli military is also reportedly supportive of the position. Haaretz reported that most of the remains are believed to belong to Palestinians from Gaza who participated in the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel or subsequent fighting. However, the newspaper also reported that some of the bodies belong to Palestinians who were not involved in combat. The issue has raised legal questions inside Israel. Legal experts cited by Haaretz questioned whether authorities have the power to retain the remains of Palestinians who have not been proven to have taken part in fighting. The Palestinian National Campaign for the Retrieval of Martyrs’ Bodies and Disclosure of the Fate of the Missing said in October 2025 that Israel was holding around 1,500 bodies of Palestinians from Gaza at the Sde Teiman military facility in southern Israel. A crisis extending beyond borders The developments in the West Bank are unfolding against the backdrop of the devastating Gaza conflict. Palestinian health authorities say tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed and injured since October 2023, while much of Gaza’s infrastructure has been destroyed or severely damaged. The reported destruction of water pipelines in the West Bank, the proposed settlement expansion and the continued disputes over Palestinian remains highlight how the conflict affects not only major political centres but also ordinary families, farmers and communities. For Palestinians living in areas such as Tubas, Nablus and the outskirts of Jerusalem, the immediate concerns are often deeply personal: access to water, the safety of their homes, the ability to farm their land and the uncertainty of what another military raid may bring. As settlement plans move forward and military operations continue, hopes for a reduction in tensions remain overshadowed by developments that are reshaping the landscape of the occupied West Bank.

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    Trump claims US controls Iran’s finances 

    ByJustpaste.in

    WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has claimed that Washington has control over Iran’s financial resources as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues. In an interview, Trump said the US was effectively acting as a banker for Iran. He claimed Washington had control over a large amount of Iranian money. Trump also described Iran’s economic situation as extremely difficult. He alleged that the country was facing very high inflation and that its currency had lost much of its value. The US president further claimed that Iran was struggling to pay its soldiers and suggested that the economic pressure could become increasingly difficult for Tehran to sustain. Trump outlined several possible approaches toward Iran. He said Washington could maintain the current economic pressure, launch further military action or rely more heavily on financial measures. He said his main objective in the conflict was to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Trump also claimed that US military action had stopped Tehran from obtaining such a capability. Qatar urges reopening of Strait of Hormuz Meanwhile, Qatar said talks between Iran and Oman on arrangements for reopening the Strait of Hormuz had reached an advanced stage. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari said the negotiations had reached a critical point. He expressed hope that the strategically important waterway would reopen as soon as possible. Qatar said it supports diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and resolving the dispute. Iran and Oman have been discussing legal and technical arrangements for the resumption of maritime traffic through the strait. Shipping activity in the area has been disrupted following the military confrontation between Iran and the United States. Tehran has linked the reopening of the waterway to the resolution of disputes surrounding what it describes as US violations of a June memorandum of understanding. Araghchi says US sought negotiations Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has claimed that Washington eventually sought negotiations with Tehran after initially demanding Iran’s unconditional surrender. Speaking during a televised press conference, Araghchi said the US had initially taken a hard-line position but later sought talks. He claimed that the change demonstrated Iran’s ability to withstand military and political pressure. Araghchi also said Iran had surprised countries around the world by resisting the United States. The Iranian foreign minister said Washington had support from Israel and several Western countries during the conflict. He also discussed the situation with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul during a telephone conversation. According to Iranian state media, Araghchi told his German counterpart that the insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz was the result of US and Israeli military actions against Iran. He briefed Wadephul on Iran’s discussions with Oman regarding the creation of a safe route for maritime traffic through the strategic waterway. The two officials also discussed bilateral relations and wider regional and international developments. Araghchi called on the international community to hold Washington accountable for what he described as the security and economic consequences of the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. He maintained that lasting security in the waterway would require an end to what Tehran considers US military aggression, maritime restrictions and violations of previous commitments.

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    Trump says US controls Strait of Hormuz

    ByJustpaste.in

    US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States is now controlling the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said the US Navy had cleared the entire waterway of naval mines. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters at the Oval Office. The Strait of Hormuz is a major international shipping route. It is also an important passage for global energy supplies. Any disruption in the area can affect international trade and energy markets. Trump was asked about the next steps following recent talks with Iran. However, he declined to provide details about what the United States would do next. The US president also indicated that Washington could increase pressure on Iran. He did not give specific details about what further action could be taken. Trump has also announced plans to seek compensation from Iran. The demand is linked to Americans who were killed or injured in various conflicts involving Iran. He had earlier said that Iran should provide compensation to the families of those killed aboard the US Navy destroyer USS Cole. Trump said his administration was seeking compensation for people who had been killed or wounded in different conflicts. He argued that Iran should be held responsible for the losses. According to Trump, Iran had not previously demanded compensation during earlier negotiations or discussions at different levels. He said Tehran had now unexpectedly raised such a demand. Trump said his decision to seek compensation from Iran would be made in response to the Iranian demand. The latest statements come as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high. Trump has continued to signal that the United States is prepared to take further action if necessary. However, he did not reveal whether the US would pursue additional military or diplomatic measures.

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    Iran names battle-tested commanders

    ByJustpaste.in

      Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker and senior negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf have defended the country’s latest military appointments, saying the newly selected commanders bring extensive battlefield experience to their new positions. Their comments came after Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei approved the appointment of six senior military commanders to key positions within Iran’s armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In a post on his Telegram channel, Araghchi said the six commanders had demonstrated their capabilities during the two recent wars imposed on Iran. He described their combat experience as an important factor behind their selection for senior military roles. Ghalibaf also welcomed the appointments, according to a statement carried by Iranian state media. He specifically highlighted General Ahmad Vahidi, saying Vahidi led the IRGC during the recent 40-day war and gained significant operational experience during the conflict. Ghalibaf said the IRGC should continue its mission while drawing on the guidance and direction of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. He also stressed the importance of maintaining the force’s capabilities and experience as Iran faces continued regional security challenges. The latest appointments cover some of Iran’s most influential military positions. They include the chief and deputy chief of staff of the Armed Forces, the commander and deputy commander of the IRGC, the commander of the IRGC Navy, and the commander of the Basij paramilitary force. Iranian officials have presented the appointments as part of an effort to place experienced military figures in strategic command positions. The emphasis on commanders with recent battlefield experience also reflects the security pressures Iran has faced during the latest period of regional conflict. The appointments are expected to shape Iran’s military leadership and operational strategy in the period ahead, particularly as Tehran continues to deal with heightened tensions and evolving security challenges across the region.

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    Trump reportedly left Türkiye on secret flight amid Iran threat

    ByJustpaste.in

    US President Donald Trump reportedly left Türkiye on a military aircraft during a covert security operation last month. The move was allegedly made because of an Iranian assassination threat. According to a report citing US officials and people familiar with the operation, Trump initially boarded the older Air Force One aircraft in Ankara. Television cameras were present as he departed. Minutes later, however, Trump was reportedly moved to a smaller Air Force C-32A aircraft. The transfer was allegedly carried out using an airport catering truck. The unusual operation was designed to keep Trump’s actual location hidden. The report said the information was not shared publicly. Some journalists and even members of the White House staff were also reportedly unaware of the change. Trump had travelled to Ankara for a NATO summit held on July 7 and 8. The reported security threat emerged during his visit. The operation reportedly took place shortly after US forces resumed strikes against Iran. The strikes followed the collapse of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the security arrangements. He said the aircraft being used as Air Force One had been equipped with advanced security measures. Cheung said the president faced threats from several enemies of the United States. He added that the administration was using all available measures to protect him. The reported security operation comes as tensions between the United States and Iran remain high. Trump has continued to leave open the possibility of stronger military action against Tehran. Oil prices rise amid escalation fears Global oil prices also climbed sharply as markets reacted to Trump’s latest comments on Iran. Brent crude rose around 5% on Monday. It reached about $87.70 per barrel, its highest level in nearly two weeks. US West Texas Intermediate crude also gained around 5.1%. It reached approximately $82.20 per barrel. The rise came after Trump said the United States still had the option of taking stronger action against Iran. Trump told reporters that Washington had the capability to pursue a major escalation if it decided to do so. His comments increased uncertainty over efforts to end the conflict. They also raised concerns about the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has claimed that the strategic waterway is open and fully under US control. However, he acknowledged that Iran could still attempt to interfere with maritime traffic. Iran has taken a different position. Tehran has reportedly demanded that the US lift its blockade before it agrees to fully restore the waterway’s operations. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes. Large volumes of crude oil and liquefied natural gas pass through the waterway. Any prolonged disruption could therefore put further pressure on global energy prices. Oil prices were also supported by reports of attacks involving energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and a tanker operated by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. Meanwhile, US crude reserves remained under pressure. Stocks in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell below 300 million barrels last week. The reserve was reported at around 298.7 million barrels. It was the lowest level recorded since 1983.

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    US forces to leave Iraqi Kurdistan by September 30

    ByJustpaste.in

    BAGHDAD: The Iraqi government has announced that US forces will complete their withdrawal from Iraq’s Kurdistan region by September 30, marking another step in the planned transition of the American military mission in the country. According to foreign media reports, Iraqi and US officials held discussions in the Kurdistan region regarding the withdrawal and the transfer of military responsibilities. Under the plan, US military bases in Kurdistan will be handed over to Iraqi security forces following the departure of American personnel. The Iraqi government said the movement of US military equipment and personnel out of the region is already underway. The withdrawal is expected to take place in coordination with Iraqi authorities to ensure an orderly transition. The announcement comes as Baghdad and Washington continue implementing an agreement reached in 2024 on the gradual transition of the US-led military mission in Iraq. The agreement envisaged a phased reduction of the international coalition’s military role while strengthening Iraq’s own security capabilities. US forces have played a significant role in supporting Iraqi forces in the fight against Islamic State militants and in providing training, intelligence and logistical assistance. The latest withdrawal from Kurdistan is therefore likely to attract attention as Iraq assumes greater responsibility for securing military facilities previously used by US forces. The Iraqi government has not provided further details on the exact number of American troops or equipment involved in the latest phase of the withdrawal.

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    Mohsin Naqvi begins official visit to Iran

    ByJustpaste.in

      Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has arrived in Iran on an official visit, where he is set to hold meetings with senior Iranian officials, according to Iranian media reports. Naqvi’s visit is expected to focus on strengthening relations between Pakistan and Iran and improving coordination on issues of mutual interest. During his stay, the interior minister will meet high-ranking Iranian officials and exchange views on matters concerning the two neighbouring countries. The visit comes amid continued diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Tehran, with both sides seeking to enhance cooperation and maintain regular contact at the leadership and ministerial levels. Discussions during Naqvi’s meetings are likely to cover bilateral relations as well as regional developments that have implications for both Pakistan and Iran. The two countries share a long border and have close historical, cultural and economic ties, making regular coordination between their governments important. Pakistan and Iran have also been working to improve cooperation on border management and other issues affecting communities along their shared frontier. High-level visits and official meetings provide an opportunity for both sides to review progress, address outstanding concerns and explore new areas of cooperation. Iranian media said Naqvi will meet senior officials during his visit, although further details about his schedule and the specific issues to be discussed were not immediately disclosed. The minister’s visit is part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to maintain engagement with neighbouring countries and strengthen bilateral ties through diplomatic and official channels. His meetings in Tehran are expected to contribute to continued dialogue between the two countries and provide a platform for discussing matters of shared concern.

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    Iran says Pakistan ties gaining greater importance

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iran has described its relationship with Pakistan as increasingly important, saying Islamabad has played a significant role as a mediator since the outbreak of the regional conflict. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the two neighbouring countries were maintaining close diplomatic contacts. He also confirmed that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf had been invited to visit Islamabad. Baghaei said the two officials would travel to Pakistan at a suitable time. He did not announce a specific date for the visit. He described reciprocal visits between the two countries as a natural part of their growing bilateral relationship. The Iranian official also played down concerns that the recently signed defence agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye was aimed at Tehran. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement on August 7. The agreement seeks to strengthen collective defence cooperation and provides for a joint response if any member comes under attack. Baghaei said Tehran did not consider the agreement a direct threat to Iran. He said regional countries were increasingly seeking security arrangements based on their own regional realities rather than relying entirely on external powers. He maintained that regional cooperation could contribute to stability if such arrangements remained inclusive and focused on preventing conflict. Baghaei also said Iran was not prepared to resume direct negotiations with the United States while Tehran believed Washington was violating an interim agreement. The Iranian government has also linked the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to a number of demands. These include compensation for damage caused during the conflict and an end to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. Meanwhile, Iran and Oman are continuing discussions on arrangements for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Baghaei said the talks were progressing in a constructive manner. He said the two sides had reached an understanding on a proposed map for shipping traffic and were working on several technical details. According to the Iranian official, the proposed arrangement would establish mechanisms for safer maritime movement. It would also address environmental protection and maritime crimes. He stressed that the discussions with Oman were focused on ensuring safe international shipping and were separate from broader political disputes. Baghaei nevertheless reiterated that Tehran would not allow the full reopening of the strategic waterway unless its conditions concerning Washington were addressed. In a separate development, Iran has appointed former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Mohsen Rezaei to a senior position in the Supreme National Security Council. Rezaei has replaced Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr as secretary of the body responsible for coordinating Iran’s security and foreign policy. No official reason was immediately given for the change. It also remains unclear whether the appointment will lead to any major shift in Iran’s security policy. Rezaei, 71, commanded the Revolutionary Guards from 1981 to 1997. He later served for more than two decades as secretary of Iran’s Expediency Discernment Council and also held the position of vice president for economic affairs. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council brings together senior military, intelligence and government officials. It is formally chaired by the president, while the supreme leader retains ultimate authority over major state matters. A separate decree appointed Rezaei as the supreme leader’s representative on the council. Zolqadr was instead named as a political adviser. The developments come as Iran faces heightened regional tensions and continues efforts to manage its relations with neighbouring countries and major international powers.