Trump approved Iran operation ‘after Netanyahu argued for joint killing of Khamenei’

According to sources, Donald Trump approved a joint US-Israeli operation against Iran after a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reportedly urged Trump to authorize a "decapitation strike" targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his key lieutenants, who were believed to be meeting in Tehran. Netanyahu argued this was a unique opportunity to eliminate Khamenei and retaliate for alleged Iranian plots to assassinate Trump, including a 2024 murder-for-hire scheme. The intelligence suggesting the meeting had been moved forward prompted Netanyahu to push for the strike, despite Trump's previous opposition to such military interventions. The operation was approved less than 48 hours before its commencement.

Iran developed a vast network of street cameras for internal surveillance and control of dissent. According to the article, Israel repurposed this camera network, turning it into a targeting tool. The article suggests this surveillance system played a role in the killing of Iran's supreme leader. The article, originating from Tel Aviv, highlights the increasing use of surveillance systems for purposes beyond their original intent. The Associated Press reported this information with updates through the current day.

In 2026, an Associated Press report revealed that Israel utilized Iran's own hacked street camera network to track and assassinate Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28th. The article highlights the increasing vulnerability of global surveillance systems, many of which are internet-connected and poorly secured. Advances in artificial intelligence enable the sifting of vast amounts of footage, making these systems attractive targets for adversaries. Cybersecurity experts have warned for years about the potential for street cameras to be hacked. The incident underscores the potential for hacked surveillance systems to be weaponized in wartime.

Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran threatened on Monday to attack electrical plants across the region if the U.S. bombs Iranian power stations. This threat puts at risk electrical supplies and water in Gulf Arab states, which often combine power stations with desalination plants. Iran's Fars news agency published a list of potential targets, including the UAE's nuclear power plant. The warning follows Iranian missile strikes targeting Dimona in Israel over the weekend, near a facility suspected of being linked to Israel's atomic weapons program. The Israeli facility was not damaged in the attack.

U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke on Sunday regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East, specifically focusing on the blocked Strait of Hormuz. The leaders agreed that reopening the strait, a vital route for global oil supply, was essential for global energy market stability. The Strait has been blocked by Iran since coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian targets on February 28, triggering a broader regional war. Trump had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on March 21 demanding the strait's reopening, threatening further action if it was not met. The conversation signals a potential improvement in relations between Trump and Starmer, who previously disagreed on the use of UK military bases in the conflict.

Following "good and productive conversations" with Tehran, former President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he has ordered the US military to postpone strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. This decision comes after Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on Saturday, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz or face obliteration of its power plants. Iran threatened to close the strait, a critical oil transit point, and retaliate against energy facilities in Israel and Gulf countries. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that if the US attacked, they would target power plants supplying US bases and economic infrastructure where Americans have shares. Iran also threatened to mine Gulf shipping routes if its southern coast was attacked.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged support for potential US strikes on Iran's power grid if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking from the site of an Iranian strike in Arad, Netanyahu emphasized US-Israeli cooperation, stating actions would be taken "together, and as far as possible, in confidence." He also called on world leaders to join the effort against Iran. The article reports that joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran have already resulted in over 1,500 deaths and thousands of injuries. The context suggests escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran.

The United Arab Emirates is responding to incoming missile and drone attacks from Iran, intercepting and destroying three drones in its eastern region. More than 100 people were wounded in Israel after Iranian missile strikes hit two southern towns, with Israeli air defense systems failing to intercept the projectiles. Japan's foreign minister indicated that Japan might consider deploying its military for minesweeping in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire is reached in the US-Israeli war on Iran, particularly if naval mines become an obstacle to navigation. Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz during the war, impacting Japan, which relies on the strait for 90% of its oil shipments.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and Israel. Recently, Iranian missiles struck two communities in southern Israel, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in Dimona and Arad. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the international community to join the US and Israel against Iran. Israel has also targeted infrastructure in Lebanon, destroying a bridge over the Litani River amidst renewed conflict with Hezbollah. Amidst these events, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona, near a nuclear research center, wounding at least 180 people. Iran stated the attack was retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility. The incident marks a potentially more lethal phase in the ongoing Israeli-United States war on Iran, which began on February 28 and has already injured thousands in Israel. Analysts suggest the attack raises questions about whether Israel has underestimated Iran's military capabilities, particularly its extensive and varied missile program. Iran's missile arsenal includes short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles.

On March 21, 2026, Iran struck the Israeli cities of Dimona, home to a key nuclear facility, and nearby Arad, wounding at least 180 people. The Iranian government stated the missile strikes were retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear enrichment complex. Israeli officials reported that air defense systems were activated but failed to intercept all missiles. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which has been ongoing for four weeks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue attacking Iran in response.

On Saturday, an Iranian missile struck Dimona, an Israeli town housing a nuclear facility, while a second missile hit Arad. The Israeli military confirmed a direct hit on a building in Dimona, despite the use of air defense interceptors. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued strikes against Iran following what he described as a "very difficult evening," referencing the missile strikes that wounded scores of people. Iranian state television claimed the missile attack on Dimona was a retaliatory response to an earlier strike on Iran's nuclear site at Natanz. The extent of the damage in Dimona included a large crater, rubble, and damaged surrounding buildings.

In March 2026, the war between the US, Israel, and Iran entered its fourth week, resulting in over 1,400 deaths in Iran, including many children. The conflict began with attacks on Iran, followed by Iranian retaliation against Israel and US bases, including a missile strike on the Diego Garcia base. Iran has threatened further action against Western countries, Gulf states, and global shipping, citing self-defense after the UK allowed the US to use its bases for strikes. The Iranian military has launched numerous attacks on Israel and US bases in the Gulf, escalating conflict at energy sites. Millions of Iranians observed Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz amidst the ongoing conflict and anti-Western protests. The US is reportedly considering winding down the conflict but has ruled out a ceasefire.

The US-Israeli war against Iran, ongoing for three weeks, is currently characterized by mixed messages and uncertainty. Despite President Trump's claims that the war is "very complete" and "winding down," the US is deploying additional ground forces and continuing airstrikes on Iranian targets. While Trump insists opening the Strait of Hormuz is a "simple military maneuver," only Iranian-approved ships are passing through. Trump threatened to target Iranian power plants if Hormuz isn't fully opened within 48 hours. His stated objectives for the war include degrading Iran's military, defense infrastructure, and nuclear program, as well as protecting US allies. Notably absent from his objectives is securing the Strait of Hormuz, which he believes should be the responsibility of other nations. Also absent are previous demands for Iranian regime change or "unconditional surrender."

Following Iranian attacks on Qatari gas facilities amid the US-Israeli war on Iran, the EU is urging member states to begin storing gas for next winter earlier than planned. The attacks, which followed an Israeli strike on an Iranian gas field, have caused a surge in global gas prices and threaten EU storage projections. Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen has requested that member states aim for 80% storage capacity, a 10% reduction from the original target, to mitigate price pressures and avoid a rush to fill reserves later in the year. While Asia will be most affected by Qatar's reduced export capacity, Europe faces increased competition for LNG as the conflict disrupts Gulf energy supplies. Natural gas prices in the EU have already risen significantly since the start of the war.

On day 21 of the US-Israel attacks against Iran, tensions are escalating, with Iran warning of "zero restraint" if its energy facilities are targeted again after Israel struck the South Pars gasfield. Iran retaliated with attacks on Haifa, Israel, and Ras Laffan, Qatar, also launching missile and drone strikes on US bases and Israeli cities. The conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian toll in Iran, with thousands injured and over 1,400 deaths reported. Disruptions to energy supplies have caused global oil and gas prices to surge. France is seeking UN Security Council action to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil and gas chokepoint. The role of the US Ramstein Air Base in Germany is also under scrutiny by Iran.

Following an Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield, Iran has warned it will show "zero restraint" if its energy infrastructure is targeted again. This statement comes after Iran retaliated with a strike on Qatar, which reportedly impacted almost 20% of Qatar's liquefied natural gas export capacity. According to an Iranian official, the retaliatory strike employed only a fraction of Iran's power, and restraint was shown only due to requests for de-escalation. The official stated that any future attacks on Iranian infrastructure will be met without restraint. The news also highlights a forecast predicting record-breaking temperatures in numerous cities by the end of the week.

Amid escalating tensions, a fire broke out at Kuwait's Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery on Friday following a drone attack, a day after Qatar's Ras Laffan facility was hit. These incidents occurred after Iran vowed retaliation for an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field on Wednesday. Despite calls from European leaders to cease targeting Gulf energy infrastructure, Iran has continued its strikes and asserted its missile production remains unaffected. The escalating damage to Gulf infrastructure has caused a spike in oil and gas prices, raising concerns about potential long-term disruptions to global supplies. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims Iran's missile manufacturing capabilities are diminished, Iran maintains otherwise.

In a social media post, former U.S. President Trump criticized NATO allies for their perceived lack of support in the ongoing U.S.-Israel war against Iran, which began on February 28th. Trump stated that NATO is a "paper tiger" without the United States. He called on NATO countries to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, controlled by Iran, claiming this would alleviate high oil prices. Trump asserted that the military conflict is won with little danger to NATO countries, and labeled them "cowards" for not participating in opening the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that the U.S. will remember their inaction. The conflict has reportedly disrupted global markets, resulted in thousands of deaths, and displaced millions.

As the US-Israeli war on Iran escalates in March 2026, Gulf countries are increasingly targeted by Iranian strikes, including drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. While Gulf states maintain their defenses are sufficient, they also have military partnerships that could provide assistance. Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the region, Al Udeid, serving as the forward headquarters for US Central Command. Qatar is also the second-largest Foreign Military Sales partner to the US, having recently purchased missile systems, early warning systems, and attack helicopters. In September 2025, Israel struck a residential area in Qatar's capital, Doha, targeting Hamas leaders. The US has reaffirmed its support for Qatar, stating that an attack on its territory would be viewed as an attack on the US.

In a press conference on March 20, 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed both Israeli citizens and international media regarding the ongoing war with Iran. Netanyahu stated that substantial advancements had been achieved in the first 20 days of the conflict. While acknowledging these gains, he also suggested that further military action is anticipated. Al Jazeera's Rob McBride analyzed Netanyahu's statements, highlighting the Prime Minister's assertion that a "ground component" is necessary for the war effort. The purpose of the address was to update the public and international community on the progress and future direction of the war.

President Trump stated he is considering "winding down" US military operations against Iran, three weeks into the conflict. He indicated the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passage, would need to be policed by other nations, not the United States. Trump listed objectives for the war, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, destroying its military capabilities, and protecting Gulf allies. Despite the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the deployment of additional Marines to the Middle East, Trump signaled a potential end to the conflict. His statement marks the strongest indication yet of a possible de-escalation of US military involvement in the region.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured US support for strikes against Iran, a long-sought goal. The attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Lebanon, with regional spillover effects. The conflict has triggered economic consequences, including rising oil prices, and political divisions within the US and between the US and its allies. Despite these global repercussions, the article suggests the war could benefit Netanyahu by addressing his long-standing concerns about the Iranian threat. Netanyahu has consistently portrayed Iran as an existential threat to Israel, and this conflict allows him to confront it with US backing, something he has sought for years. The ultimate outcome of the war remains uncertain.

The article reports on escalating tensions in the Middle East and their global impact. Donald Trump threatened to destroy the South Pars gas field, shared by Iran and Qatar, if Iran retaliates against Qatar's LNG facilities. Trump stated the US was unaware of Israel's prior attack on the field and warned against further Iranian aggression towards Qatar. The conflict is impacting global markets, with concerns of stagflation unsettling investors, particularly in Asia. Cathay Pacific has suspended flights to and from Dubai until the end of April due to the ongoing crisis. Additionally, a ship was attacked off the coast of the UAE near the Strait of Hormuz, further highlighting the instability in the region.

Donald Trump has distanced the US from an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield in Bushehr province. Trump stated the US had "nothing to do" with the attack, which was followed by Iranian threats to strike energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Qatar's LNG export facility and UAE gas/oil facilities were subsequently damaged in missile attacks. Trump promised no further Israeli attacks on South Pars if Iran refrains from attacking Qatar, threatening massive retaliation against the gasfield if Iran does attack Qatar. Trump denied US knowledge of the Israeli plan, despite reports that he had approved it.

In a news conference on March 20, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles following 20 days of US-Israeli air strikes. He stated that the strikes are decimating Iran's missile and drone arsenal by destroying factories producing components for missiles and nuclear weapons. The US and Israel launched the air attacks on February 28 after mediated talks regarding Iran's nuclear program collapsed. Iran has retaliated by firing missiles at Israel and other Gulf countries and limiting tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu noted that it is too soon to determine if the conflict will lead to the overthrow of the Iranian government.

In March 2026, gas prices increased following an attack by Iran on Qatari gas facilities. This action was reportedly in response to an earlier Israeli attack on Iran's main gas field. According to Al Jazeera's Zein Basravi, the attack on Qatar is significant due to its impact on global gas prices. The article explains the reasons behind the spike in gas prices following the events. The attacks and their repercussions highlight the interconnectedness of energy infrastructure and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The South China Morning Post reports that escalating conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran is threatening global energy infrastructure and causing oil price volatility. Recent events include strikes on Iran's South Pars natural gas field and retaliation against Qatar's LNG facility, alongside threats to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy waterway, is reportedly closed. As a result, international oil prices have surged, with Brent futures reaching between $113 and $115. US officials warn of potential economic hardship for consumers due to rising oil prices. The article examines these developments and their potential impact on the global economy.

Qatar has accused Iran of attacking its natural gas facilities, following a strike on Iran's primary natural gas source the previous day. These incidents have heightened concerns about the stability of energy supplies in the region. As a result of this uncertainty surrounding the war's impact, the price of oil has risen sharply, reaching $114 a barrel. The attacks on energy infrastructure in both Qatar and Iran are contributing to increased volatility in global oil markets. The situation is being closely monitored for further developments and potential disruptions to energy production and distribution.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran no longer possesses the ability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles. The statement was made nearly three weeks into the US-Israeli war. Netanyahu also claimed that Israel is actively working to create divisions within Iran's leadership. The context of the statement is the ongoing US-Israeli war, although the specific reasons for making the claim at this time were not detailed in the article. The location of these alleged actions and capabilities is within Iran.

In March 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that the United States was achieving its goals regarding Iran, despite recent attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf region. These attacks, attributed to Iran, targeted Qatar's Ras Laffan gas facility, as well as energy sites in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The strikes caused a surge in oil prices, exceeding $100 per barrel. Hegseth's statement came amidst escalating tensions and followed the reported Iranian attacks on key Gulf energy facilities. The Defense Secretary's insistence on meeting objectives suggests a continued U.S. strategy despite the increased volatility in the region.

In March 2026, the United States and Israel have been conducting relentless attacks on Iran, resulting in the deaths of senior officials and thousands of airstrikes across the country. Iran has retaliated by targeting Israel and its Gulf neighbors, specifically energy facilities and supply routes. The program "Inside Story" on March 18, 2026, examined Iran's options in the face of these ongoing attacks. The discussion, led by Imran Khan, included insights from military and political analyst Elijah Magnier, University of Tehran professor Setareh Sadeqi, and Mehran Kamrava from the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies, who specialize in Iranian studies. The program aimed to analyze Iran's potential responses to the continued US and Israeli aggression.

Iran's Pars gas field, a major energy infrastructure site in the Gulf, was struck on Wednesday, marking the first reported attack on Iranian energy infrastructure during the US-Israeli war. The attack, allegedly carried out by Israel with US consent, caused a fire and prompted evacuations. In response, Iran threatened to retaliate with attacks on oil and gas targets throughout the Gulf region. The incident led to a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude rising approximately 5%, and a decline in stock markets. The Pars gas field is the Iranian portion of the world's largest natural gas deposit, shared with Qatar.

Following an alleged Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gas field, its largest, Iran's Revolutionary Guards threatened retaliatory strikes on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. The targeted facilities include major refineries and petrochemical complexes. This escalation marks the first direct attack on Iran's fossil fuel production since the war began, raising concerns about global energy security. Qatar condemned the targeting of energy infrastructure as a threat to regional stability and the global economy. The price of oil climbed towards $110 a barrel and gas prices also rose sharply amid fears of further disruptions to supply.

Oil prices surged after an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield, the world's largest, located off the coast of Bushehr province. Brent crude rose 5% to $108.66 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 2.5% to $98.65. The attack prompted Iran to threaten retaliatory strikes on energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and Qatar reported a fire at its Ras Laffan gas facility after an Iranian missile attack. Disruptions to Middle Eastern oil and gas exports, including halted shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, have led to estimated output cuts of 7-10 million barrels per day. Experts fear prolonged elevated prices could trigger global inflation.

Saudi Arabia is activating its Red Sea contingency plan, diverting oil tankers through the port of Yanbu to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows Iran's closure of the strait in response to recent military strikes, disrupting global energy markets. A China-bound VLCC, New Vista, recently loaded crude oil at Yanbu after avoiding the Strait of Hormuz due to safety concerns. Saudi Aramco is redirecting a larger share of crude flows through its East-West Pipeline to the Red Sea. While the Yanbu route is open to all buyers, China-bound cargoes are expected to be significant due to China's status as a major customer of Saudi Aramco. Analysts caution that the Red Sea route has limited capacity.

Despite ongoing conflict, Iran continues to export millions of barrels of oil. Approximately 90 ships, including oil tankers, have traversed the Strait of Hormuz since the war began. The Associated Press reported the activity on March 12, 2026, with images showing ships in the Strait of Hormuz and at the Mumbai Port in India. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil transport, remains a key route for Iranian exports despite the ongoing war. The continued oil exports suggest Iran's efforts to maintain its economy amidst conflict.

Qatar's Foreign Ministry condemned an Iranian missile attack on the Ras Laffan Industrial City, a major gas facility, causing a fire and "extensive damage." The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, prompted a response from civil defense teams, though QatarEnergy reported no casualties. This incident follows Iran's threat to target Gulf region oil and gas facilities, including Ras Laffan, in retaliation for alleged Israeli attacks on Iranian gasfields. Qatar considers the attack a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to its national security. The incident also follows Qatar's suspension of LNG production on March 2 after attacks on the Ras Laffan facility and a power plant in Mesaieed Industrial City.