Iran attacks Kuwait, Israel after Trump sets deadline for deal

A Kuwaiti oil tanker anchored at Dubai port was struck by an Iranian drone, causing a fire and damage to the vessel's hull. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, hours after former President Trump threatened to target Iran's energy infrastructure if it didn't open the Strait of Hormuz. No injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished. The attack is the latest in a series of strikes on merchant vessels in the region. The US has accused Iran of using diplomacy as a cover for further attacks, while continuing to give mixed messages about ending the war that the US started together with Israel. The Philippines, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil imports, is particularly vulnerable to economic shocks resulting from the conflict.

On day 32 of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, air strikes continue in Tehran and Isfahan. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US war objectives would be achieved in weeks, while communication with Tehran continues through intermediaries. President Trump threatened to destroy Iran's oil export hub and energy infrastructure if a deal isn't reached soon. Iran's parliament approved tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, effectively closed by the war, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed the death of its naval commander in an Israeli strike. Iran also launched its 87th regional attack in a month, signaling continued naval strength despite US claims.

Several Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are reportedly urging President Trump to prolong the US-led military campaign against Iran. These nations believe Iran has not been sufficiently weakened and see an opportunity to cripple the current Iranian leadership. Officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain have privately communicated their desire for the military operation to continue until significant changes occur in Iranian leadership or behavior. This push comes as Trump publicly alternates between claiming Iran is ready to negotiate and threatening further escalation, despite struggling to gain domestic support for the war. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and destabilized the global economy.

European officials report that Iran is pressuring the Houthi rebels in Yemen to prepare for renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping. This action is reportedly contingent on further escalation by the US against Iran. Houthi leaders are considering more aggressive actions after launching ballistic missiles at Israel. Internal divisions exist within the Houthi leadership regarding the extent of aggression. While the Houthis announced they would continue military operations until US-Israeli attacks on Iran and its proxies cease, they did not explicitly state they would target Red Sea vessels. US and Saudi Arabian officials believe the Houthis currently aim to avoid further escalation and attacks on American and Saudi assets.

Experts warn that President Trump's threat to seize Iran's Kharg Island, the hub of 90% of its oil exports, carries significant risks. Military analysts suggest a naval blockade might be a better option to pressure Iran. Seizing the island could escalate the ongoing conflict, prompting retaliation from Iran and its proxies, potentially disrupting global energy supplies. Experts highlight the difficulty of securing and holding the island, which is close to the Iranian mainland and vulnerable to attack. While Trump faces pressure to end the month-long conflict, analysts caution that seizing Kharg Island may not force Iran to capitulate and could endanger American troops.

In a March 31, 2026, interview with Al Jazeera, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed the United States' stance on Iran. Rubio stated that US objectives regarding Iran would be achieved "within weeks, not months." He revealed that discussions between Iranian parties and the US were ongoing, primarily through intermediaries. Rubio warned that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened following the conclusion of a military operation. He also asserted that Iran must verifiably abandon any nuclear weapons aspirations. The interview provides insight into the US's strategy and timeline concerning Iran.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump criticized NATO allies, specifically France, Spain, and the UK, in a series of online posts. The attacks focused on their involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz. The criticism comes amidst mounting pressure regarding security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. Al Jazeera's Alan Fisher reported on the significance of Trump's remarks and their potential implications for US relations with these NATO members. The reason for the attacks was not explicitly stated in the provided information.

In a March 30, 2026 interview with Al Jazeera, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the war on Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and regional issues with journalist Hashem Ahelbarra. The exclusive interview covered key aspects of the ongoing conflict. Rubio addressed the geopolitical significance of the Strait of Hormuz in relation to the war. The discussion also focused on the broader implications of the conflict for the wider region. The interview provided insights into the US perspective on these critical matters.

The US-Israeli war against Iran has intensified, with Israel striking targets across Tehran and Iran launching strikes on Israel, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. This escalation follows attacks on Iranian electrical facilities, causing widespread power outages. The conflict has severely impacted the global economy, leading to fuel shortages in Asia, stock market instability, and soaring oil prices. Amidst the fighting, an Indonesian peacekeeper was killed in southern Lebanon, prompting a UN investigation. US President Trump claimed "regime change" had been achieved in Iran due to the deaths of Iranian leaders and expressed optimism about reaching a deal with the new, "more reasonable" leadership soon.

In late March 2026, tensions escalated in the Gulf region as Iran launched attacks across the area, including a strike on a power and desalination plant in Kuwait that killed an Indian worker. Gulf states reported intercepting drones and missiles amidst the ongoing conflict. Simultaneously, United States President Donald Trump stated his desire to "take the oil in Iran" during an interview. Iran accused Washington of planning a ground attack, despite the U.S. publicly advocating for a negotiated resolution. These events occurred against the backdrop of ongoing US-Iran negotiations and broader concerns about regional stability. The attacks and statements heightened fears of further escalation in the region.

Iran has accused the United States of secretly planning a ground assault while publicly seeking negotiations, amidst ongoing tensions. This accusation comes as the conflict, which has already caused significant global energy disruption, enters its second month. President Trump stated in an interview that he would prefer to seize Iranian oil and suggested that taking Kharg Island, a crucial Iranian export hub, would be easy. The situation is developing, and the potential seizure of Iranian crude oil is significant for Cuba, which is currently experiencing severe fuel shortages due to a lack of imports. Cuba's president has stated that the country has not received any oil imports for three months.

In an interview with Al Jazeera on March 30, 2026, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that regional stability hinges on dismantling Iran's capacity to launch missiles and drones. Rubio asserted that Iran has utilized these weapons to attack neighboring countries' infrastructure and civilian populations. He emphasized the necessity of eliminating this capability to ensure peace and security in the region. The interview focused on the perceived threat posed by Iran's missile and drone program and its impact on neighboring nations. Rubio's statement highlights the US government's stance on addressing Iran's military capabilities.

Donald Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's energy grid and water plants if a ceasefire is not reached "shortly" in the ongoing conflict instigated by the US and Israel. This threat, made via social media, includes targeting Kharg Island, a major oil export facility. Trump claims to be in "serious discussions" with a "more reasonable regime" in Tehran to reach a deal, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has described US peace proposals as "excessive" and acknowledged receiving a 15-point proposal from the Trump administration after talks with other nations. The White House indicated Trump would seek financial assistance from Arab countries to cover the war costs, while also expressing a preference to "take the oil in Iran," potentially requiring a US troop seizure of Kharg Island.

The article discusses the possibility of the U.S. seizing Iran's Kharg Island, its main oil export terminal, located in the northern Gulf. President Trump has indicated he may send troops to take control of the island, through which 90% of Iran's oil exports pass. The potential operation aims to pressure Iran into relinquishing control of the Strait of Hormuz and conceding to U.S. demands. The U.S. has nearly 5,000 Marines and 2,000 paratroopers in the region, who could potentially be used in an airborne or amphibious assault. However, Iran has reinforced its defenses on Kharg Island and warned of retaliation, making any such operation highly risky.

According to U.S., Gulf, and Israeli officials, Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are privately lobbying President Trump to persist in the war against Iran. These allies believe that the month-long U.S.-led bombing campaign has not sufficiently weakened Tehran. The Gulf states initially expressed discontent over the lack of advance notice regarding the U.S.-Israeli attack. They also felt the U.S. had previously disregarded their warnings concerning the war. The Gulf allies are advocating for continued military action to achieve a more decisive defeat of Iran. The events described in the article are dated in March of 2026.

As Donald Trump plans a trip to China in May, a surge in US troops in the Middle East suggests a potential for a drawn-out, low-intensity conflict with Iran. Recent reports indicate the US has deployed several hundred Army Rangers and Navy Seals to the region, bringing the total number of American troops to over 50,000. This deployment provides Trump with military options, such as securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Kharg Island, or extracting enriched uranium from Iran. Analysts believe a full-scale US ground invasion of Iran is unlikely, suggesting the US is trying to avoid a costly, protracted war. The troop increase and potential actions are viewed in the context of Trump's upcoming visit to China.

One month after the US and Israel began military operations against Iran on February 28, 2026, Yemen's Houthi rebels have opened a new front by attacking Israel. The Houthis launched missile and drone attacks on Israel, which were reportedly intercepted, pledging further action in support of allies. This escalation raises concerns about the conflict spiraling out of control, as Iran has already disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis' involvement also threatens to disrupt Red Sea traffic via the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, potentially impacting Israeli trade. The US anticipates concluding its military operations against Iran within weeks, even as further deployments arrive in the region.

Houthi rebels in Yemen, backed by Iran, launched missile attacks on Israel on Saturday, marking their entry into the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Houthis claimed to target sensitive Israeli military sites, while Israel reported intercepting a missile. This action raises concerns about potential disruptions to global shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait off the Red Sea, a crucial passage for approximately 12% of global trade. The Houthis, controlling much of northern Yemen, are a key part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance," and their involvement could exacerbate the existing tensions and further impact international trade routes. The Israeli military stated they are preparing for a multifront war.

The Houthis in Yemen, backed by Iran, have entered the conflict, raising concerns about potential disruptions to Red Sea shipping. The Houthis control a significant portion of Yemen and possess the capability to target the Bab al-Mandab strait, a crucial waterway. While a ceasefire mediated by Oman had halted Houthi attacks on US shipping since May 2025, attacks on Israel continued. The extent of Houthi involvement, whether limited missile strikes or a full closure of the Red Sea, remains to be seen. The Bab al-Mandab strait has always been vulnerable to Houthi attacks, and major carriers have been slow to resume traffic through the Red Sea.

Reports indicate the Pentagon is preparing options for potential ground operations in Iran, including special forces raids or infantry deployments. This comes as the US increases its military presence in the Middle East, with an additional 3,500 troops arriving recently, joining the roughly 50,000 already stationed in the region. Potential objectives for military action could include securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Iranian uranium, or targeting oil facilities. Lawmakers are debating the necessity and scope of any potential ground involvement, with Senator Lankford emphasizing the need for clear objectives and a defined exit strategy. The White House stated that the Pentagon's preparations are for optionality and do not indicate a presidential decision has been made.

The Pentagon is reportedly preparing plans for weeks of limited ground operations in Iran, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz. According to The Washington Post, the plans involve special operations and conventional infantry troops, but fall short of a full-scale invasion. These preparations come as the war in Iran stretches into its fifth week, with the US deploying additional Marines and soldiers to the Middle East, including approximately 3,500 soldiers who recently arrived on the USS Tripoli. Discussions within the administration have considered seizing Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, and raiding coastal areas to destroy weapons targeting commercial and military shipping. While the Pentagon is preparing options, it remains uncertain whether President Trump will approve any of these plans.

Iranian strikes targeted Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) facilities on Saturday, injuring two Alba employees and causing significant damage to EGA's site. The attacks are part of a broader Iranian assault on Gulf economic infrastructure, including oil refineries, ports, and shipping lanes. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps claimed responsibility, citing retaliation for attacks on Iranian steel plants with ties to US military and aeronautics firms. The Strait of Hormuz closure, due to the US-Israeli war on Iran, has already disrupted shipments from Gulf aluminium producers, who account for approximately 9% of global supply. Alba operates the world's largest single-site smelter, while EGA is the Middle East's largest aluminium producer.

Chinese analysts believe the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its second month, is unlikely to be prolonged despite escalating tensions. The conflict has expanded geographically, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen firing missiles at Israel, one of which was intercepted. The Houthis operate near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping lane for Eurasian trade. Analysts warn that Houthi obstruction of this strait could significantly impact the global economy and potentially cause another increase in oil prices, which have already risen. The Houthi missile attack was reportedly issued as a warning.

Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting "sensitive Israeli military sites" in southern Israel on Saturday, marking their first direct strikes since the US-Israeli war on Iran began. Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier-General Yahya Saree announced the attack, stating it would continue until objectives are achieved and aggression against the resistance ceases. The Israeli military reported intercepting one missile, with sirens sounding in Beersheba and near Israel's nuclear research center. The Houthis, who have controlled Yemen's capital since 2014, had previously stayed out of the conflict, though they disrupted Red Sea shipping during the Israel-Hamas war. This attack signals a potential escalation of the broader regional conflict.

The conflict between the US-Israeli alliance and Iran has escalated with the entry of Houthi forces from Yemen, who launched missile attacks on Israeli military sites. This expansion threatens key maritime routes like the Bab al-Mandab strait, potentially amplifying the war's impact on the global economy. While Israel claims to have intercepted one missile, the Houthis vow to continue operations until aggression ceases. A meeting of Middle Eastern powers in Pakistan aims to find a regional solution, but excludes the warring parties. Attacks have also been reported on a Saudi airbase and Kuwait airport, raising concerns about further regional involvement, including potential direct intervention by Saudi Arabia if its Red Sea oil export route is threatened.

The Houthi movement in Yemen, backed by Iran, poses a significant threat to Red Sea shipping lanes. While their missile attacks on Israel have been limited, the Houthis' potential targeting of vessels in the Bab al-Mandab strait could severely disrupt global trade and energy supplies. This action, taken in support of Hamas, risks escalating tensions and further damaging the global economy, especially if coupled with Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis have previously targeted Gulf Arab neighbors and faced retaliatory strikes. Increased Houthi involvement could reignite Yemen's internal conflict and broaden the ongoing regional war. The extent of the Houthis' future actions remains uncertain.

A month into the US and Israel's war with Iran, President Trump's initial expectations of a swift resolution are unmet. Despite assassinating Iranian leaders and conducting extensive airstrikes, the Iranian regime has not collapsed, and its missile capabilities remain a regional threat. Diplomatic efforts, mediated by Pakistan, have stalled as Iran has hardened its stance against US demands. Washington seeks the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program, the surrender of its enriched uranium stockpile, the elimination of most Iranian missiles, and the cessation of support for allied militias like Hezbollah and the Houthis. The conflict continues, raising concerns about prolonged chaos in the region.

The Houthis in Yemen warned they are prepared to militarily intervene if other countries join the US and Israel in a war against Iran, or if the Red Sea is used to attack Iran. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated their "fingers are on the trigger" for direct military intervention under those circumstances. This warning raises concerns about a broader regional conflict, given the Houthis' ability to strike targets and disrupt shipping lanes. The Houthis have controlled much of Yemen since 2014 and have previously targeted vessels in the Red Sea and Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. While a truce was agreed upon in May, this new statement suggests a potential shift in Houthi involvement in the region.

According to an intelligence source, Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to intensify its attacks on Iran, viewing the current US-Israeli campaign as a crucial opportunity to reshape the Middle East. While not currently involved militarily in the conflict that began in late February, Saudi Arabia is considering direct intervention if peace efforts fail and Iran continues its attacks. Recent Iranian drone strikes, including one targeting an oil refinery in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast, have heightened tensions. Despite possessing a pipeline to transport oil via the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia faces potential threats to its economic lifeline and from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Saudi Arabia claims it is calibrating its response and preparing for potential escalation, while maintaining that it has not been pushing for war.

On day 28 of the US-Israel war on Iran, March 27, 2026, President Trump delayed attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure until April 6, citing progress in peace talks, despite Iran's description of the US proposal as unfair. Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt are mediating to prevent a wider regional conflict. US and Israeli forces continue to bombard Iranian cities, resulting in over 1,900 deaths, while Iran retaliates with missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states. Iran's five demands, including war reparations and control over the Strait of Hormuz, are considered unacceptable by the US. Despite claims of progress, Iran focuses on ongoing attacks, viewing them as evidence of US insincerity, as Israel strikes infrastructure in Tehran.

Yemenis fear potential economic consequences as they could be drawn into the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. While Iran's allies, such as Hezbollah, are actively involved, the Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen have not yet engaged. However, the Houthis possess the capability to target shipping in the Red Sea, and an Iranian official suggested they could destabilize the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. attacks Iranian oil facilities. Analysts warn that Houthi involvement, such as blockading Bab al-Mandeb, would devastate Yemen economically and humanitarianly, and could reignite Yemen's internal conflict. Abdulsalam Mohammed suggests the Houthis would likely target energy facilities and ports in Gulf countries.

The US and Israel's war on Iran is escalating, with increased strikes reported by Al Jazeera on March 26, 2026. Despite US President Trump's claims of ongoing peace talks, Iran denies negotiations and vows to continue resisting US aggression. Iran retaliated with strikes against Israel and Gulf countries, further destabilizing the Middle East and driving up global energy and food prices. The US has reportedly targeted a significant portion of Iran's missile and drone production facilities. Iran has warned of potential attempts to occupy one of its islands and is considering levying tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could give them leverage in any future negotiations. Civilian casualties have been reported, including the deaths of two teenagers in a US-Israeli strike.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and the US in the Strait of Hormuz region as of March 2026. Despite Iran's denial, the US claims ongoing talks are occurring, but warns of potential strikes if negotiations fail. The US has threatened Iran with significant retaliation if provoked. In Iran, pro-government rallies have taken place in Tehran. Meanwhile, Israel has activated its Iron Dome defense system to intercept missiles launched from Iran towards Tel Aviv. Israeli airstrikes have also been reported in Lebanon.

Oil prices surged, with Brent crude topping $104 a barrel on Thursday, after Iran denied engaging in direct talks with the United States regarding de-escalation of the conflict. The price increase reverses a dip from the previous day when reports suggested a potential peace plan. Asian stock markets also reacted negatively to the news. Iran's denial and the White House's warning of further consequences if Iran doesn't accept defeat have heightened concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil supply route. Since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, oil prices have risen over 40%, leading to energy conservation measures globally, and analysts predict further increases until the Strait is secure.

On March 25, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is not currently engaged in negotiations with the United States and will not negotiate while under attack. This statement directly contradicts claims made a day prior by U.S. President Trump, who asserted that the U.S. was already in talks with Iranian officials. The Iranian government denies President Trump's claim and maintains its position of refusing dialogue with the U.S. under present circumstances. The location of these alleged talks was not specified in either statement. The reason for Iran's refusal is due to the ongoing perceived aggression from the U.S.

In March 2026, amidst the ongoing war between the US/Israel and Iran, the US, under President Trump, reportedly sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran via Pakistan. The plan aims to establish a one-month ceasefire for negotiations to end the conflict, which began in late February and has caused significant casualties, disrupted shipping, and roiled global markets. Iran has consistently denied engaging in talks with the US, dismissing Trump's claims of productive conversations. The war was initiated by the US and Israel while negotiations with Iran were ongoing. Iran's response included closing the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on US assets, leading to soaring oil prices. While reports of the US plan have slightly calmed markets, the possibility of successful negotiations remains uncertain due to the conflicting demands of both sides.

Reports indicate potential US-Iran peace talks, though Iran denies direct negotiations, admitting only to indirect message exchanges. The conflict, ongoing since February 28th, has resulted in thousands of deaths in Iran, according to HRANA. The US and Israel initially hoped for Iran's collapse or capitulation, but the regime's survival has complicated matters. A proposed US 15-point plan demands Iran cease its nuclear and missile programs, and end support for regional militias in exchange for sanctions relief and shared control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran initially rejected the plan as "excessive" but later signaled openness to considering "some ideas," while listing conditions including war reparations. The situation resembles the Russia-Ukraine war stalemate, with both sides desiring an end but on vastly different terms.

Amid ongoing conflict, Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal, offering its own negotiation plan, though stating it has "no intention of negotiating for now." Despite this, President Trump claimed Iran desires a deal but fears internal and external repercussions. China urged dialogue between the US and Iran, seeing a "glimmer of hope for peace." Israel conducted strikes across Iran, including in Isfahan, targeting Iranian infrastructure. Kuwait arrested six individuals allegedly involved in a Hezbollah plot to assassinate Gulf leaders. The US military reported hitting over 10,000 targets in Iran, claiming significant damage to Iranian naval and missile capabilities.

Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and launched further attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab countries, including a strike at Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday. Simultaneously, Israel launched air strikes on Tehran, and the US deployed additional troops to the region. An Iranian official stated that Iran has not engaged in ceasefire talks and has its own demands to end the fighting. The US proposal, transmitted via Pakistan, reportedly included sanctions relief, limitations on Iran's nuclear program and missiles, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also included restrictions on Iran’s support for armed groups.

Amidst ongoing Middle East tensions, Iran has reportedly dismissed a US proposal for a ceasefire and denied engaging in negotiations, despite claims from the White House that talks are ongoing. Iranian officials stated they have no plans for negotiations. The US, through Pakistan, presented a 15-point proposal to Iran. Meanwhile, other key developments include Israel conducting strikes in Iran, Hezbollah rejecting truce talks, and reports of Russia sending drones to Iran. The UN chief has called for an end to the "out of control" war, while Israel is reportedly expanding its occupation of southern Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with the US warning of severe consequences if talks fail.

Amidst ongoing conflict initiated by a US-Israeli attack on February 28, 2026, Iran's negotiating position appears to have strengthened. Despite claims from the US and Israel that Iran's military capabilities have been significantly degraded, Iran has demonstrated its ability to retaliate, including attacks on Qatar's gas site and Israeli cities. Indirect communication channels between the US and Iran have been established through Egypt, Turkiye, and Pakistan. Iran now seeks not only a ceasefire but also long-term economic and security guarantees, including payment repatriations, assurances against future attacks, and a new regulatory framework for the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts caution that Iran will likely seek concessions that the US and Gulf nations will be unable to agree to.