Trump talks with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi off to positive start

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has blamed the US and Israel for disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, amid an ongoing war that began on February 28th. Araghchi called on the UN and other nations to condemn the "military aggression" and demand an end to it. The conflict has caused a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude rising over 40%. While Iran claims the strait is open to allies, a senior IRGC advisor previously threatened to close it. The US has called for a naval coalition to secure the waterway, but France has refused to participate. Several nations are reportedly negotiating with Iran for safe passage.

On March 17, 2026, a drone attack sparked a fire at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone in the UAE, part of sustained attacks by Iran on Gulf countries. This follows another fire at the same oil hub on Saturday due to intercepted drone debris. Abu Dhabi also reported falling debris from a intercepted ballistic missile, resulting in one death. The UAE's air defenses are actively repelling incoming missiles and drones from Iran, causing airspace closures. Iran justifies these attacks by citing the presence of US military bases in Gulf countries after joint US-Israeli air attacks on Tehran began on February 28, but civilian infrastructure has been hit. The UAE, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020, has faced the most attacks, with over 1,800 missiles and drones fired by Iran.

A recent podcast by The Guardian discusses the potential impact of the US and Israel's conflict with Iran on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supply. Iran has threatened to close the strait, which normally sees 20% of the world's oil flow, potentially disrupting global energy markets. According to the podcast, such a closure could lead to increased costs for everyday goods and services due to rising energy prices. The podcast explores whether this economic disruption might influence the US president's approach to the conflict. The Guardian's energy correspondent suggests that Iran holds significant leverage in the situation despite the US's unwillingness to admit defeat.

Following rebuffs from NATO members regarding his request for a multinational naval force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Donald Trump stated the U.S. does not need NATO. Trump expressed disappointment that allies like the UK, Japan, Australia, and South Korea declined to send warships. His comments come amid an escalating crisis in the Middle East, where Iran has attacked cargo vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil shipments and raising global oil prices above $100 per barrel. The strait is a critical passageway for approximately a fifth of the world's oil supply. Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing disappointment in the UK's stance.

Following attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz amid conflict between the US/Israel and Iran, Donald Trump called on allies, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, to send ships to secure the vital waterway. Despite this request, Trump stated that most NATO allies informed the US they did not want to get involved. The UK is in discussions with the US, European, and Gulf partners to develop a plan, but no decisions have been made. Germany stated the conflict is not a NATO matter and questioned the value of European frigates when the US Navy is present. France has expressed readiness to participate in an escort mission for container ships and tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.

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.

In March 2026, Andreas Krieg, Associate Professor at King's College London, commented on the potential impact of a US military deployment in the Gulf. Krieg stated that deploying 2,500 US Marines would likely be insufficient to forcibly reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He suggested that any attempt to open the Strait of Hormuz by force would be an extremely dangerous undertaking. The statement highlights concerns about the effectiveness of the US military presence in securing this vital waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically important passage for global oil transportation.

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.

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, tensions escalated in the Middle East, raising concerns about a potential global energy crisis. Iran maintained control over oil shipping routes and a drone strike hit a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing temporary flight suspensions. The Israeli military conducted strikes against Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut, Lebanon, and a U.S.-Israeli strike hit a police station in Tehran, Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump demanded that several countries dependent on Middle Eastern oil form a coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Protests against Trump's demand occurred near the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, South Korea.

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.

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.

President Trump is pressuring European allies and China to contribute to securing the Strait of Hormuz after its de facto closure by Iran disrupted global oil supplies. He warned that a lack of support from NATO members would be "very bad" for the alliance's future. While EU foreign ministers are considering bolstering a naval mission in the Middle East, several countries, including Australia, France, Japan, and the UK, have declined to send ships to the strait. Trump suggested he might delay a summit with China's Xi Jinping unless Beijing helps secure the waterway, as China relies heavily on it for oil imports. The US has reportedly contacted seven countries for support, but no commitments have been made.

The upcoming meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and US President Donald Trump is complicated by escalating Middle East tensions. Trump is expected to press Takaichi to send Japanese warships to the Strait of Hormuz following recent attacks on vessels, aiming to demonstrate allied support against Iran. However, Japan's constitution restricts its participation in overseas military operations, placing Takaichi in a difficult position. The summit at the White House this week is intended to deepen economic cooperation and shipbuilding collaboration, but the Hormuz issue threatens to overshadow these goals. Analysts believe Trump will seek a visible commitment from Japan, while Takaichi likely hopes to avoid making any military pledges.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump threatened further strikes on Iran's Kharg Island, a major oil export hub, stating the US might hit it "just for fun." This followed previous US strikes on the island, which Trump claimed had "totally demolished" much of it. He also urged allies to deploy warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran would retaliate against any attacks on its energy facilities, alleging the US launched the Kharg Island strikes from locations in the UAE. Subsequently, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes on targets in Israel and US bases in the region, citing retaliation for workers killed in Iran's industrial areas.

Donald Trump stated the U.S. is not ready to negotiate a deal to end the U.S.-Israeli offensive against Iran, despite believing Iran desires a ceasefire. His comments followed renewed missile and drone attacks by Iran on Gulf countries and Israel, met by further U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran. The escalating conflict has disrupted global air travel, oil exports, and caused rising fuel prices. Trump indicated the U.S. may further target Iranian oil facilities and increase attacks to clear a path for oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran's supreme leader vowed to keep closed. Iran urged other nations to avoid actions that could escalate the conflict, while Trump called for international naval assistance to protect tankers in the Strait.

Following a US strike that killed a top Iranian leader, former President Trump is urging US allies to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's joint military command has threatened retaliation, specifically mentioning potential attacks on cities in the UAE, claiming the US launched strikes on Iran's Kharg Island from there, though without providing evidence. The Trump administration has offered varying justifications for the strike, citing concerns ranging from Iran's nuclear program to its ballistic missile capabilities. US Central Command released video purportedly showing US forces destroying targets on Kharg Island, Iran. Tensions are high in the region as Iran vows to respond.

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.

Following the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran in retaliation for bombings by the US and Israel, causing significant disruption to global energy and trade, former US President Trump urged countries to send warships to secure the vital shipping route. The UK, Japan, China, and South Korea are among those considering their options, but have been reluctant to commit to a military response. Iran has declared oil tankers heading to the US, Israel, or their allies as legitimate targets. The UK Ministry of Defence stated they are in discussions with allies, considering options like mine-hunting drones. Japan has also indicated it might send warships to the region. The US has not yet deployed its own navy ships to escort tankers.

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.

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.

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.

Amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, Israel declared the war against Iran was entering a "decisive phase." On Saturday, explosions occurred across the region, including strikes on the US embassy in Baghdad and a major Emirati energy facility in Fujairah. The US embassy in Iraq was hit by a drone, marking the second attack since the US and Israel initiated strikes against Iran, plunging the Gulf into conflict. The ongoing conflict, now in its third week, has resulted in reported deaths of over 1,200 people in Iran, mass displacement, and a surge in oil prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian military warned UAE civilians to avoid port areas following the attack on the Fujairah oil terminal.

In March 2026, an Iranian military spokesperson threatened to target ports, docks, and "American hideouts" within the United Arab Emirates, urging residents to evacuate those areas. This warning followed reported US strikes on Iran's Kharg Island. The threat was seemingly a response to President Trump's warning that the US would strike Iranian oil infrastructure, specifically on Kharg Island, if Tehran did not cease attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian statement implied a retaliatory response to potential or actual US military action. The situation highlights escalating tensions between Iran and the US in the region.

Hamas, the ruling group in Gaza, has made a rare public appeal to its key ally Iran, urging it to cease attacks on Gulf states. The call comes amidst escalating regional tensions, with Iran conducting retaliatory strikes that have impacted civilian infrastructure and resulted in casualties in the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. While affirming Iran's right to self-defense against the US and Israel, Hamas emphasized the need for regional cooperation and an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict. Hamas, a member of Iran's "axis of resistance," receives significant financial, military, and political support from Tehran, even as countries like Turkey and Qatar, also targeted by Iran, provide support to Hamas. The group expressed deep concern over the regional war and called for international intervention to end it.

Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist movement, publicly appealed to Iran on Saturday to avoid targeting neighboring countries in its response to aggression from Israel and the United States. While affirming Iran's right to defend itself, Hamas urged restraint to prevent further regional escalation. This marks a rare public statement from Hamas directed towards Tehran. The appeal comes amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Hamas also called on the international community to intervene and halt the ongoing war, acknowledging Khamenei's significant support for the Palestinian cause.

In March 2026, Hamas urged Iran to cease attacks on neighboring Gulf states amidst the ongoing war initiated by the US and Israel on February 28. While affirming Iran's right to defend itself against this aggression, Hamas called on Iran to avoid targeting neighboring countries. The Palestinian group emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to halt the conflict and maintain unity. This statement comes as Gulf nations, particularly Qatar, have played a role in mediating and providing aid during the conflict, which began after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Iran has long supported Hamas, which is part of the "axis of resistance." Recently, Gulf countries pledged financial support towards resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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.

In March 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed Iranian leaders were "desperate and hiding" following U.S.-Israeli strikes. This statement was made by Hegseth in the United States. However, news reports from Tehran showed Iranian President and Foreign Minister participating in Quds Day rallies. The article highlights a potential contradiction between the U.S. assessment of the Iranian leadership's behavior and their public appearances in Tehran. The article does not specify the reason for the U.S. strikes. The article's purpose is to report on the conflicting narratives surrounding the Iranian leadership's actions.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Friday that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is reportedly injured. Hegseth claimed Khamenei's written public address on Thursday indicated fear, injury, and a lack of legitimacy. Hegseth also announced a significant increase in US airstrikes over Iran and Tehran on Friday. Despite Khamenei's defiant statement that the Strait of Hormuz must remain blocked, Hegseth downplayed concerns about its closure. The US pledged to continue escalating attacks against Iran.

On day 14 of the US-Israel conflict (March 13, 2026), tensions escalated as Israel launched heavy strikes on Tehran, Iran, following retaliatory attacks by Iranian allies across Gulf states. Iran's new Supreme Leader issued a warning demanding the closure of US bases in the region to halt further attacks. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil transport, is now closed, causing oil prices to surge. Iran claims control of the strait, banning US- and Israel-linked ships. Civilian casualties in Iran are reported to be over 1,300. Iran has also launched attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military assets, targeting oil tankers and facilities.

Oil prices have risen above $100 a barrel due to disruptions in global energy supplies amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28, 2026. The surge follows Iran's pledge to maintain the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for about one-fifth of global oil supplies. Traffic through the strait has significantly decreased, with only a few vessels passing through daily compared to the pre-war average. The US President has prioritized preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons over concerns about rising oil prices. Asian stock markets have declined following the oil price increase and overnight losses on Wall Street.

In March 2026, Iran's UN ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, stated that Tehran would maintain the Strait of Hormuz open for navigation. This announcement clarified a previous statement by Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who suggested the waterway might be closed to exert pressure on Iran's adversaries. Iravani emphasized Iran's continued commitment to freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically important waterway for global oil transportation. The ambassador's statement aimed to reassure international actors regarding Iran's intentions concerning this vital shipping lane.

In his first statement since succeeding his father, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed. Khamenei stated that blocking the Strait, a vital waterway for global oil supplies, "must definitely be used." He also demanded the United States close all its bases in the region. The statement, broadcast on state television on Thursday, follows the death of his father at the start of the US-Israel war against Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic location through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes.

Amidst ongoing conflict between the US and Iran in March 2026, the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, causing rising oil prices. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the US military is currently "not ready" to escort oil ships through the Strait, as military assets are focused on dismantling Iran's offensive capabilities. This contradicts earlier suggestions that the US Navy would provide escort. Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has declared the Strait should remain closed as a defensive tactic. The Iranian military has indicated it is prepared to engage US forces in the Strait.

Iran significantly escalated attacks on civilian infrastructure and transport networks across the Gulf on Wednesday, targeting commercial ships and Dubai's international airport. These actions occurred as US and Israeli warplanes launched new strikes. The UAE, particularly Dubai, has borne the brunt of these attacks, facing an existential threat as foreigners flee. The escalation has caused oil prices to rise above $100 a barrel, with Iran threatening a long "war of attrition." Meanwhile, a review revealed the US defense secretary has voiced extreme antipathy towards Iran for years. A bill addressing the situation has passed the House, but lacks the necessary votes in the Senate due to filibuster rules.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that the ongoing war in Iran is causing the "largest supply disruption in history" for oil markets due to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This disruption surpasses the crises following the Yom Kippur war and the war in Ukraine. Iran's new supreme leader called for the vital trade artery to remain closed, further escalating the situation. In response, global oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel. The IEA ordered a historic release of 400 million barrels of emergency crude, with the US contributing 172 million barrels from its strategic petroleum reserve. Despite these efforts, oil prices remain volatile, and global stock markets have reacted negatively to the escalating conflict.

Despite the International Energy Agency's (IEA) plan to release 400 million barrels of oil, the largest emergency reserve release in history, global oil prices continue to surge. The IEA's action, announced on Wednesday, aimed to stabilize prices amid the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. However, Brent crude rose about 15% and oil prices hovered around $100 a barrel on Thursday. Analysts suggest the release will have a limited impact if the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, disrupting about one-fifth of the global oil supply. Iran has threatened to block oil passage through the strait, potentially driving prices to $200 a barrel, following attacks on commercial ships in the region.

Despite the International Energy Agency's (IEA) agreement to release a record 400 million barrels of oil reserves, Brent crude prices surged to $100 a barrel in Asia trading. The IEA's move, involving all 32 member countries, aimed to address supply concerns amid heightened tensions. Iran warned that oil prices could reach $200 a barrel if its attacks on ships intensify in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global energy shipments. The rising oil prices have led to increased fuel costs worldwide, with the US average petrol price exceeding $3.50 a gallon. Asian countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam are particularly affected, experiencing long queues at petrol stations. In response, some countries are implementing measures like four-day work weeks and work-from-home policies to conserve energy.

In March 2026, Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, released his first public statement. The statement addressed the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel. Khamenei declared that Iran would maintain the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He further threatened to initiate new fronts in the conflict if the US and Israel continued their military actions. The statement signals a potentially escalating role for Iran in the existing war. The reasons behind the threat were cited as a response to the continued war efforts of the US and Israel.

The International Energy Agency (IEA), comprised of 32 member countries, is preparing to release 400 million barrels of oil from its stockpiles. This marks only the fifth time in the IEA's history that it has taken such action. The move is intended to alleviate pressure on global oil prices, which have been affected by geopolitical events such as the conflict in Iran. The IEA was originally formed in response to the 1970s oil crisis to mitigate the impact of disruptions in the oil market. However, there is no certainty that this release will successfully lower prices.

Recent Iranian attacks in the Gulf have expanded beyond traditional oil and gas infrastructure to include data centers, signaling a shift in targeting strategic assets. On March 1st, drone attacks damaged three Amazon Web Services data centers in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. These attacks suggest a deliberate effort to undermine the Gulf's post-oil future, particularly its ambitions in artificial intelligence. The region's AI investments, supported by partnerships and cloud providers, rely on cheap and reliable power, which is now threatened. This new focus on data centers poses a risk to the Gulf's economic diversification efforts.

Reports from Iranian and Israeli officials indicate that Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, sustained leg injuries early in the Iran-Iraq War. The circumstances surrounding the injuries and their severity remain unclear. Mojtaba Khamenei was announced as the new Supreme Leader three days ago. Since his appointment, he has not been seen publicly. The reasons for his absence are unknown, but the reports of his war-related injuries may offer an explanation.

On March 9, 2026, Iran launched new attacks at Gulf Arab countries, escalating pressure in the Middle East. These events occurred alongside internal political developments in Iran, including the announcement of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late supreme leader, as the Islamic Republic's next ruler. Pro-government supporters gathered across Iran to pledge allegiance to the new leader. Simultaneously, an Israeli airstrike hit Dahiyeh, a suburb of Beirut, Lebanon. In Or Yehuda, a man was seriously injured in an explosion. Funerals were held in Tehran for Mehdi Hosseini, who was killed in a U.S.-Israeli strike.

On March 10, 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that the US and Israel are nearing their war objectives in Iran and that the conflict could end soon. This announcement comes as US and Israeli forces continue their bombardment of Iran. Simultaneously, large gatherings have occurred throughout Iran in support of the newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. The ongoing conflict involves the US, Israel, and Iran, with the US and Israel conducting attacks while Iranians rally in support of their new leader. The reasons behind the conflict and the specific objectives of the US and Israel were not detailed in this report.

On March 10, 2026, some Iranians rallied in downtown Tehran to express their support for Mojtaba Khamenei. The demonstrations occurred amid speculation about his potential succession to the role of Supreme Leader. The rallies suggest a segment of the Iranian population is in favor of Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the position. The news article highlights these public displays of support, indicating a development in the ongoing discussion surrounding Iran's future leadership. The reason for the rallies is to show support for Mojtaba Khamenei as the new supreme leader.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, top clerics selected Mojtaba Khamenei as his successor. This decision occurred despite prior warnings from former U.S. President Trump deeming Khamenei "unacceptable." The selection signals a continuation of the existing political direction in Iran. Simultaneously, global oil markets reacted strongly to the ongoing war, with prices reaching their highest levels since the pandemic began. The price surge reflects increasing concerns about the potential for a protracted conflict and its impact on oil supplies. The events highlight a period of political transition in Iran amidst international tensions.

Amidst an ongoing war with the United States and Israel, Iran's Assembly of Experts has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026. The 56-year-old, with strong ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is seen as a figure of continuity for the theocratic establishment. The IRGC, along with the Iranian army, police, Defence Council, and Intelligence Minister, have pledged their allegiance to the new leader. The IRGC stated its forces are ready to obey Khamenei's commands to uphold the values of the Islamic revolution. This transition occurs as Iran faces external conflict, signaling a potential continuation of existing policies.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been elevated to the position, a move presented by Iran as a sign of stability. However, Mojtaba's ascension introduces uncertainty due to his relative obscurity both domestically and internationally. Unlike his predecessors, he lacks significant public presence and experience, having primarily worked behind the scenes. His appointment was reportedly backed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), suggesting a potential strengthening of the security state. The IRGC reportedly overcame internal opposition and concerns regarding Mojtaba's qualifications and health to secure his leadership. This transition occurs during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East.

The US and Israel launched airstrikes on targets across Iran on Monday, marking an escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict, now in its second week. These strikes coincided with Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, US bases in the Middle East, and Gulf energy infrastructure. The attacks and counter-attacks occurred as large crowds gathered in Tehran to support Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's newly appointed supreme leader. The reason for the strikes is the ongoing conflict between the involved nations. The strikes and public support for the new leader signal a deepening crisis in the region.

The U.S. and Israel continued their military campaign against Iran as of March 7-8, 2026, resulting in attacks on Tehran, Iran, and airstrikes in Sir al-Gharbiyeh village in south Lebanon. The conflict has led to casualties, including the death of a U.S. Army Reserve soldier in Kuwait. The remains of the soldier were returned to the U.S. at Dover Air Force Base. Iran has appointed a new commander for its war strategy and named a son of its late supreme leader as his successor, a move criticized by U.S. President Donald Trump. The Revolutionary Guard has pledged allegiance to the new commander. The ongoing conflict has also caused oil prices to surge above $100 a barrel.

On March 9, 2026, global oil prices surged past $100 a barrel, exceeding a 20% increase, due to the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Brent crude reached over $114 a barrel before settling around $107.50. The conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, has disrupted global energy supplies, with Iran halting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. In response, Iraq, the UAE, and Kuwait, major OPEC producers, have cut production. US President Trump dismissed concerns, predicting a rapid price drop after the conflict ends, while the Energy Secretary called any price increases temporary.