Israel strikes Hezbollah’s civilian as well as military wings in an attempt to crush the group

In March 2026, Israel conducted airstrikes in Beirut, Lebanon, targeting both military and civilian infrastructure linked to Hezbollah. The strikes hit locations including the Al-Manar TV headquarters and a branch of Al-Qard Al-Hassan, a Hezbollah-run financial institution. These actions appear to be part of an Israeli effort to weaken or dismantle Hezbollah. The attacks occurred in Dahiyeh, a southern suburb of Beirut, and other areas of the city. Photographic evidence shows significant damage to the targeted buildings.

Since March 2nd, Israeli bombings in south Lebanon have allegedly targeted medical facilities and personnel, according to Lebanese healthcare workers and officials. They report at least 128 strikes on medical sites and ambulances, resulting in 40 deaths and 107 injuries among healthcare workers. The attacks, occurring amidst the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, include alleged double-tap strikes. Medical workers and facilities are protected under international law, and deliberately targeting them could constitute a war crime. The Israeli military has accused Hezbollah of using ambulances for military purposes, a claim the Lebanese Ministry of Health denies. The majority of attacks have been against the Islamic Health Association (IHA), a health service affiliated with Hezbollah.

US President Donald Trump met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House Oval Office, marking a high-stakes summit that appeared to get off to a positive start. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations and pledged cooperation on trade, global energy market stability, and regional security. Trump expressed support for Japan's role in addressing these issues, stating that they are "stepping up to the plate." Takaichi did not comment on the US-Israeli plans to attack Iran, which were kept secret from her. The meeting took place amid concerns about Trump's behavior towards other allies who have declined to help him clear the Strait of Hormuz. The two leaders agreed to work together and discussed future meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington for talks expected to be "difficult" due to the ongoing war and its impact on the Strait of Hormuz. The three-day visit, planned before the conflict escalated, was initially intended to focus on trade and strengthening the US-Japan alliance ahead of Trump's now-postponed trip to China. Trump had previously requested allies, including Japan, to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, citing their dependence on Middle Eastern oil, but later retracted the request after a limited response. Takaichi aims to represent Japan's interests during the discussions, acknowledging the challenges posed by Trump's shifting stance on international assistance. The meeting is a test of the relationship between the two leaders amidst the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Amidst the ongoing war with Iran, the US is seeking support from its East Asian allies, Japan and South Korea, to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump is expected to discuss the matter with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, despite previously stating that the US doesn't need assistance. Japan's pacifist constitution restricts the deployment of its Maritime Self-Defence Force, creating a legal challenge for potential involvement. Japan relies on Middle Eastern energy supplies, making the Strait of Hormuz a strategically important location. South Korea may face a similar request, raising questions about mutual defense obligations with the US.

Israeli air raids have intensified across Lebanon, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries over the past two days. The attacks, part of a wider conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, have targeted areas including Burj Shemali, Chihine, Marwahin, Jezzine, Beirut, Baalbek, and Sidon. According to Lebanese authorities, at least 45 people have been killed in the recent strikes, bringing the total to 968 since March 2, including over 100 children. The UN reports that over one million people have been displaced in Lebanon, with children comprising a third of the displaced population. Hezbollah claims to have destroyed six Israeli tanks during an Israeli advance into southern Lebanon.

Tensions have escalated in the Middle East, with Iran intensifying attacks on Gulf energy facilities following an Israeli strike on an Iranian gas field. Kuwait reported a drone attack that sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The conflict has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport, trapping a large percentage of crude and refined products within the Persian Gulf. Simultaneously, fighting has renewed between Israel and Hezbollah, with Israeli strikes hitting both southern Lebanon and Beirut, including city center neighborhoods. These events suggest a widening conflict with potential global economic consequences due to disruptions in oil supply.

Following the assassinations of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and security chief Ali Larijani in March 2026, questions have arisen regarding Iran's leadership and power dynamics. The assassinations, which began with attacks by Israel and the US in late February, have created uncertainty about the chain of command. While Mojtaba Khamenei has been announced as the new Supreme Leader, his lack of experience and reported injuries raise concerns. Analysts suggest that lesser-known figures may rise to power, and Iran might delay naming a successor to Larijani for security reasons. Potential influential figures include Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Saeed Jalili. The situation remains fluid, with the exact power structure in Tehran unclear.

Israeli air attacks struck central Beirut and southern and eastern Lebanon, resulting in at least 20 deaths and 24 injuries on Wednesday. The attacks, part of a wider conflict, targeted a building in Beirut's Bashoura neighborhood, killing at least six people and injuring dozens. Israel claimed the targeted building was used by Hezbollah to store cash. The Israeli military also initiated ground operations in southern Lebanon, issuing evacuation orders for residents in towns near the Zahrani River and Tyre. Lebanon's National News Agency reported additional strikes on Tyre and Al-Burj Al-Shamali.

Recent events show escalating conflict as Iran launches attacks on Israel and Gulf neighbors, while Israel strikes Beirut. An Israeli airstrike flattened an apartment building in Bachoura, central Beirut, following warnings to residents. Earlier strikes on residential apartments in Beirut resulted in casualties. In response, Iran launched missile attacks on Israel, with one striking an apartment in Ramat Gan. Elsewhere, a drone strike near Dubai International Airport caused a fire and temporary suspension of flights. These events occurred in March 2026, with the Beirut strike happening on a Wednesday.

Israeli airstrikes destroyed two bridges over the Litani River in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, claiming they were used by Hezbollah to transport fighters and weapons. This action follows earlier strikes that damaged the Zrarieh Bridge on Friday. The Israeli military had warned civilians to evacuate the area near the Litani crossings prior to the attacks. These strikes are part of a broader escalation, with Israeli forces also hitting multiple locations in Beirut, resulting in at least 12 deaths and 27 injuries. The Lebanese health ministry reports that nearly 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon since March 2nd. The destruction of the bridges further exacerbates the displacement crisis, with over a million people already displaced, mainly in southern Lebanon and Beirut.

In March 2026, following the killings of Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted the stability of Iran's political system. Araghchi stated that the Islamic Republic is designed to endure disruptions, even the loss of high-ranking officials. He emphasized that the system's strength lies in its structure, preventing any single individual from destabilizing it. The statement was made in response to concerns about the potential impact of the targeted killings on Iran's internal affairs and regional influence. The foreign minister's comments aimed to reassure both domestic and international audiences about the resilience of the Iranian government.

On March 17, 2026, Al Jazeera reported that Israel assassinated Ali Larijani, Iran's security chief. According to Al Jazeera's senior political analyst Marwan Bishara, the assassination was carried out by Israel with the intention of disrupting potential talks between the United States and Iran. Bishara stated that this action is part of a broader Israeli strategy to prolong the war and potentially instigate regime change in Iran. The assassination and its alleged motivations are presented as a continuation of what Bishara describes as a pattern of targeted killings by Israel. The report highlights the potential impact of the assassination on diplomatic relations and regional stability.

In Tehran, Iran, funeral processions were held on March 18, 2026, for senior security officials Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. Large crowds of Iranian citizens attended the events. The funerals were held to honor the lives of Larijani and Soleimani, both prominent figures in the Iranian government and security apparatus. Ali Larijani was a high ranking official and Gholamreza Soleimani was also a senior security official. The article does not specify the cause of death for either man.

Israeli air strikes targeted three Beirut neighborhoods and southern Lebanon on Tuesday, as fighting intensifies between Israel and Hezbollah. Lebanese state media reports the attacks hit Kafaat, Haret Hreik, and Doha Aramoun in Beirut, with Israel confirming it targeted Hezbollah. The strikes in Aramoun hit a residential building, reportedly in an attempted targeted assassination. Since the renewed fighting began over two weeks ago, Israeli attacks have killed at least 886 people in Lebanon, including women and children, and wounded 2,141. Lebanon reports that over one million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.

On March 16, 2026, Israel launched strikes on Tehran and Beirut, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in the Lebanese capital. In response, Iran fired missiles that sent shrapnel falling on Jerusalem. The conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, has also seen Iran target Gulf neighbors, with a drone strike hitting a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing flight disruptions. The airport has been repeatedly targeted by Iranian drones and shut down for several days since the start of the war. The U.S. has also been involved, with a U.S.-Israeli strike hitting a police station in Tehran on Friday, March 15, 2026.

Israel claims to have killed Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, in recent airstrikes. If confirmed, Larijani would be the highest-ranking Iranian official killed since the start of the war, potentially removing a key figure from Iran's political and security establishment. The alleged killing comes amidst rising oil and gas prices, triggered by Iran's successful attacks on production facilities. Brent crude reached $103.2 a barrel on Tuesday. Confirmation of Larijani's death could have significant implications for the region.

The article reports on the potential assassination of Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, allegedly by Israel. The author argues that Larijani's death would be a significant blow to Iran, possibly greater than the loss of Supreme Leader Khamenei, due to Larijani's influence and connections within Iran and with foreign powers like China and Russia. His removal eliminates a potential figure who could have facilitated a ceasefire or transition in leadership, similar to Delcy Rodríguez in Venezuela. The article suggests this loss also highlights the lack of viable alternative leaders within Iran recognized by the US, as Trump has refused to endorse Reza Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah.

Ali Larijani, a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a top security official in Iran. Following Khamenei's death, Larijani has become a prominent figure in the Iranian government. He is now the face of the government, stepping into a leadership role after the death of the previous leader. Larijani's close relationship with Khamenei positions him as a key player in Iran's political landscape. His emergence signifies a potential shift in power dynamics within the country.

Ali Larijani is a top security official in Iran and a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following Khamenei's death, Larijani has become the prominent face of the Iranian government. He is a key figure in Iranian politics and national security. The article highlights Larijani's rise to prominence after a significant event, positioning him as a central figure in the country's leadership. His close relationship with the former leader underscores his influence and importance within the Iranian political system.

Ali Larijani, a powerful and central figure in Iranian politics for decades, has been assassinated. The Iranian government confirmed the death of Larijani, who held the position of security chief, on March 17, 2026. This marks the highest-ranking Iranian official assassination since Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Larijani's death is a significant event due to his long-standing influence and high-level position within the Iranian government. The assassination occurred amidst ongoing tensions in the region, although the article does not specify the location.

Ali Larijani, Iran's security chief and a key figure in shaping national strategy, was killed in an Israeli air strike. As secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Larijani was central to decisions on war, diplomacy, and national security, especially regarding the US and Israel. His death, confirmed by state media, follows a series of killings of senior Iranian officials, suggesting a deliberate effort to weaken Iran's leadership during wartime. Larijani was managing the ongoing war, domestic unrest, and stalled nuclear negotiations at the time of his death. His removal leaves these crises unresolved and creates a leadership vacuum amid a fragile situation, with any successor facing immediate risk.

The head of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) stated that military escorts for tankers in the Strait of Hormuz are not a long-term solution to ongoing risks. This statement comes after calls from the US for an international naval operation to secure oil shipments in the region. However, several countries, including Germany, Britain, and Japan, have distanced themselves from joining such an operation. The IMO Secretary General also expressed concern about the safety and operational limitations faced by ship crews in the Gulf, citing restricted access to ports and the targeting of port facilities. The situation is impacting the free operation of ships in the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf region.

Several European countries, including Germany, Italy, and the UK, have rejected Donald Trump's call for military assistance to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump requested NATO members send warships to protect commercial vessels and ensure oil shipments through the vital waterway, which has been effectively closed by Iran amidst a wider regional conflict. European leaders emphasized diplomatic solutions, with Germany explicitly ruling out military participation, stating "This is not our war." While the UK is working on a plan to reopen the strait, they are not looking to be drawn into a wider war. Other countries, including Australia, France and Japan have also stated they have no plans to send warships.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that multiple countries were joining a US-led naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israel war on Iran. Trump did not identify the specific countries, stating an official announcement would follow. He had previously called on nations including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and NATO members to participate, citing their reliance on oil transported through the Strait. However, several countries, including Australia, Japan, Poland, Sweden, Spain and Germany, have rejected military involvement. South Korea and the UK are reportedly reviewing the situation, with the UK considering offering mine-hunting drones.

The article discusses the strained relationship between the US and its NATO allies regarding the ongoing Iran crisis. President Trump suggested NATO should help secure the Strait of Hormuz, but this proposal has been met with resistance. European allies, particularly Germany, assert that the conflict is not a NATO matter and question the effectiveness of European naval contributions. Despite disagreements, there is a consensus on the urgency to resolve the crisis, triggered by Trump's actions, due to its potential global economic impact. The UK Prime Minister indicated ongoing discussions with international partners to find a solution, but no decisions have been made yet.

The conflict in Iran and potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz highlights vulnerabilities in global energy and maritime sectors, particularly for Asian economies. The Strait is a critical route for oil and liquefied natural gas, and disruptions lead to increased shipping costs and reduced capacity as companies reroute vessels. Countries like Japan and South Korea, heavily reliant on energy imports through the Strait, are more exposed than China, which has diversified its energy sources. While Hong Kong benefits from energy imports from mainland China, its role as a global shipping hub is threatened by potential disruptions to international bunkering. The situation underscores the urgency for Hong Kong and other regions to transition to greener shipping and enhance energy security.

In March 2026, Japan began releasing oil from its emergency reserves in response to a global energy crisis. This crisis was triggered by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, amid a war with the US and Israel. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced Japan would unilaterally release 80 million barrels, preceding a coordinated effort by the IEA to release 400 million barrels globally. The move aims to stabilize the market amid concerns about disrupted oil supplies through the Strait, a critical waterway for global oil transport. Despite the IEA's efforts, oil prices have remained elevated, with Brent crude rising significantly since the start of the conflict. Japan has stated it will not deploy its navy to the Strait.

Oil prices are surging, with Brent crude reaching over $106 a barrel on March 16, 2026, due to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran halted shipping in the strait in response to US and Israeli strikes, causing a major disruption to global energy supplies. US President Trump has called for international assistance to reopen the Strait, a critical waterway for about one-fifth of the world's oil supply, but has received a muted response from countries like China, Japan, France, and the UK. The disruption has significantly reduced daily ship transits and contributed to a 40% increase in global oil prices since the start of the war, raising concerns about a global economic slowdown.

Amidst a Middle East crisis, Iran's foreign minister accuses Israel of "ecocide" due to strikes on Tehran fuel depots, citing health and environmental consequences. Donald Trump is pressuring allies to join a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route effectively closed due to the conflict. Japan and Australia have declined to send warships, while the UK considers deploying minesweeping drones. Trump aims to unveil the coalition list this week, but responses from countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia have been muted. The Strait's closure is causing global energy supply concerns.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump called for nations including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to send naval ships to the Strait of Hormuz to ensure its safety and openness amidst rising oil prices due to the US and Israel's war on Iran. This call comes as Iran's military effectively blocks the strait in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes. While the US Secretary of Energy claimed to be in dialogue with some countries, no immediate commitments have been made. China stated its responsibility to ensure stable energy supply and willingness to communicate for de-escalation. Iran claims the strait is open to all except the US and its allies, with the decision for safe passage of other vessels left to its military.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated the conflict with Iran could persist for several weeks, impacting global oil and petrol prices. Wright defended the military action as necessary to eliminate Iran's threat to the Middle East and its ability to destabilize energy markets. He stated the administration aims to prevent further attacks on American soldiers and halt Iran's nuclear weapons program. Oil prices have risen, exceeding $103 per barrel, due to Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for oil and LNG. President Trump has called on countries like China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to deploy warships to ensure the Strait remains open.

Following a call from former U.S. President Donald Trump, the UK is considering sending ships and mine-hunting drones to the Strait of Hormuz to help reopen the vital waterway. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed the UK is in discussions with allies, including the U.S., about how to secure the strait, which is crucial for global oil supply. The potential deployment comes after the strait's effective closure led to a surge in oil prices, raising concerns about energy costs and inflation in Western countries. Trump urged the UK, China, and other nations affected by the disruption to send naval vessels to the region, while also making claims about the U.S. military's actions in the area. The UK is exploring all options to contribute to reopening the strait.

Donald Trump is urging countries that rely on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz to send warships to help keep the waterway open and safe, claiming Iran's actions threaten global oil supply. Trump stated on Truth Social that the U.S. has significantly weakened Iran but needs assistance securing the Strait from potential Iranian attacks. He specifically called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to contribute ships. Trump vowed a strong U.S. response, including bombing the shoreline and targeting Iranian vessels, until the Strait is open and secure. He emphasized that countries benefiting from the oil passage should share the responsibility, with the U.S. offering coordination and support.

The UK is considering sending minesweeping drones to the Strait of Hormuz to help reopen the vital waterway for oil exports. This plan is in response to rising concerns about escalating the crisis by sending ships, as requested by US President Trump. The UK government is exploring options to contribute to the strait's reopening, including mine-hunting drones, in collaboration with its allies. Iran's threat to target ships in the strait has caused oil prices to surge, raising concerns about higher inflation and lower economic growth. Prime Minister Starmer and President Trump discussed the situation, with Starmer emphasizing de-escalation.

Following a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, President Trump has called on China, Britain, France, Japan, and South Korea to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. This request aims to reopen the waterway, a critical passage for global oil supplies. The call for assistance comes despite these nations not being involved in the initial U.S.-Israeli action against Iran. The article suggests that the response from these nations has been cautious, though specific details of their reactions are not provided. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically important location due to its role in international oil trade.

Donald Trump is urging countries including the UK, China, France, Japan, and South Korea to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz to secure the vital shipping route. This call comes after reported attacks on sixteen ships in the strait since the US and Israel began their war against Iran. Trump stated his belief that Iran could still pose a threat to the waterway despite its military capabilities being largely destroyed. He also threatened to bomb the shoreline and target Iran's oil infrastructure if it interferes with ships in the Strait. Iran has responded by threatening to destroy oil and energy infrastructure belonging to firms working with the US should Kharg Island be attacked and has warned that any tanker bound for the US, Israel or its partners is a legitimate target.

Amid the ongoing US and Israel war on Iran, President Trump announced that "many countries" would send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed. Trump stated that nations affected by the closure, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, would join the US in ensuring the strait remains open and safe. He claimed the US had destroyed Iran's military capabilities but acknowledged Iran's potential to disrupt the waterway. An Iranian official responded that the Strait of Hormuz was under control, not militarily closed, and refuted Trump's claims about destroying Iran's navy. Iran's Foreign Minister clarified that the strait was only closed to enemy ships, not all shipping.

Donald Trump urged the UK and other nations via his Truth Social platform to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil trading route, following recent attacks on ships and its effective closure amid conflict with Iran. Trump claimed the US has already destroyed Iran's military capabilities but that Iran still poses a threat to the waterway. He suggested countries affected by the closure, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, should contribute ships to ensure the Strait remains open and safe. Iran has refuted Trump's claims about its military being destroyed. The UK's Ministry of Defence stated they are discussing options with allies to secure shipping in the region.

Following disruptions to global oil supplies due to conflict in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump called on nations, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait, located between the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, is a crucial trade route for oil and liquefied natural gas. The US aims to collaborate with these countries to ensure the Strait remains open and safe, as it carries approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply. Trump indicated that the US would also begin escorting tankers through the Strait soon.