Yemen’s Houthis coordinate with Iran, but retain independence, despite war

In March 2026, the United States and Israel launched attacks against Iran. Despite these massive attacks, Iran remains a stubborn foe. The attacks and subsequent events included damage to an oil facility in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, heightened security in Tehran, and a Pentagon press briefing in Washington. Iran retaliated with an attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and a drone strike on fuel storage in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The article, originating from Beirut, highlights the continued tensions and conflict in the region.

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.

A Kuwaiti oil tanker, the Al Salmi, was struck in an apparent Iranian drone attack while anchored at Dubai Port in the United Arab Emirates, sparking a fire on board. The incident occurred overnight, with multiple explosions heard in Dubai between Monday evening and early Tuesday morning. Dubai authorities reported containing the fire with no oil leakage or injuries. The tanker, owned by Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, was loaded with two million barrels of oil from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and destined for Qingdao, China. Kuwaiti state news agency KUNA initially warned of a possible oil spill. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain also reported attacks.

Since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran on February 28th, the stock markets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates have experienced significant losses, totaling around $120 billion. The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) General Index has lost about $45bn in market capitalisation, while the larger ADX General Index has shed about $75bn. This decline is attributed to the conflict's impact on the UAE's status as a regional travel hub, with numerous flight cancellations affecting tourism, a key contributor to the UAE's GDP. While other Gulf exchanges saw mixed results, the UAE's losses are among the most substantial, though some analysts view this as a temporary shock rather than long-term economic damage.

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.

Amidst a month-old war in 2026, the US Department of Defense is reportedly preparing for limited ground operations in Iran, potentially involving raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz. These plans, revealed by unnamed US officials, aim to disrupt Iran's oil exports and cripple global energy markets, which have already seen Brent crude prices surge. President Trump has expressed interest in seizing Iranian oil and Kharg Island. In response, Iran's parliament speaker warned of fierce resistance against any US invasion. The US already had 40,000 to 50,000 soldiers stationed in the Middle East before the war began.

In March 2026, Yemen's Houthi group (Ansar Allah) launched missiles towards Israel, escalating regional tensions. This action, in support of Iran, fulfills a previous threat to join the conflict. The Houthis' involvement raises concerns about potential attacks on Red Sea shipping, which could further disrupt global trade already impacted by Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. Experts are now considering the likelihood and nature of potential retaliation from Israel and the United States. The situation is being analyzed by figures such as Hisham Al-Omeisy, H A Hellyer, and Michael Mulroy to determine the broader implications for the region.

In late March 2026, amidst escalating US-Israeli attacks on Iran, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the United States of plotting a ground invasion, despite ongoing negotiations. This accusation came as Iran experienced power outages in Tehran and surrounding areas, attributed to attacks on electricity infrastructure. While the cause of the attacks remains unclear, they occurred amidst President Trump's threats to target Iranian energy infrastructure if a deal to end the war was not reached. The Pentagon is reportedly preparing for potential limited ground operations in Iran, and the US is deploying thousands of additional troops to the Middle East. The US-Israeli war on Iran has now entered its fifth week.

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.

In a March 30, 2026, interview with Al Jazeera, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed the United States' demands for Iran. Rubio stated that the U.S. insists Iran must not develop nuclear weapons. He also asserted that Iran needs to cease its support for terrorism. Rubio further explained that Iran's short-range missiles are designed to pose a threat to countries in the region, specifically mentioning Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. The interview outlined the U.S. position on Iran's nuclear ambitions, regional influence, and military capabilities.

Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have entered the conflict by launching attacks on Israel, raising concerns about a potential blockade of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The Houthis announced their first attack on Israel on Saturday, March 29, 2026, and a second attack followed on Sunday, vowing further military operations until Israel ceases its attacks. While the Houthis are considered allies by Iran, their decision-making is largely independent. Analysts warn that a Houthi blockade of Bab al-Mandeb, a critical maritime route, would have disastrous consequences for the global economy. The Houthis' involvement raises the prospect of a broader regional 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.

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.

Diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt convened in Pakistan on Sunday to discuss ending the month-long conflict in the Middle East between Iran, the US, and Israel. The war, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has resulted in over 3,000 deaths and threatens global oil supplies due to Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US and Israel are not participating in the Islamabad talks, but the US has reportedly offered Iran a 15-point peace proposal via Pakistan. The meetings aim to establish direct dialogue between the US and Iran, who have primarily communicated through mediators during the conflict, which has been further complicated by the entry of Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Amidst a global energy crisis caused by the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, Pakistan is hosting talks in Islamabad with the foreign ministers of Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The meetings, which began on Sunday, March 29, 2026, aim to de-escalate the conflict. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is attempting to build a regional bloc, potentially including Indonesia and Malaysia, to encourage diplomacy. This diplomatic push follows a phone call between Dar and his Iranian counterpart, during which the Iranian minister detailed accusations of US-Israeli attacks on Iranian infrastructure. As a confidence-building measure, Iran has agreed to allow Pakistani ships passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Pakistan is hosting top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt in Islamabad for two-day talks focused on de-escalating the conflict between the US and Iran. The meetings, led by Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, aim to foster dialogue and diplomacy as a solution to the escalating tensions. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts. Pakistan is acting as a key communicator between the US and Iran, relaying messages in an attempt to find a resolution to the conflict. The talks are considered a critical step towards finding a viable diplomatic solution.

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.

The Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen launched missiles at Israel on Saturday, opening a third front in the conflict involving Israel, Hezbollah, and Iran. The Houthis claimed to target Israeli military sites, while the IDF stated they intercepted both a cruise and ballistic missile. Experts suggest the Houthi intervention is driven by Iran's need for leverage in potential negotiations and to prolong the conflict, raising costs for its adversaries. The Houthis' ability to disrupt maritime routes and potentially target Saudi Arabia further complicates the regional situation. Analysts believe the Houthi actions are influenced by pressure from Tehran, aiming to strengthen Iran's negotiating position with the U.S.

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.

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.

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.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to ships traveling to and from ports of countries allied with the U.S. and Israel. The IRGC stated they turned back three container ships after a warning, citing the prohibition of vessel movement to or from ports of "Zionist-American enemies." This action follows President Trump's claim that the Strait was open and his extension of a deadline for Iran to open the Strait or face consequences, now set for April 6. Trump asserted this extension was at Tehran's request, suggesting Iran desires a deal to end the regional conflict that began with attacks by the U.S. and Israel on February 28. The IRGC also cautioned civilians to avoid areas near U.S. forces.

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.

Amidst the US-Israel war, Iran has effectively blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for about 20% of global oil and gas supplies. Nearly 2,000 vessels are stranded near the strait, which is located between Iran, Oman, and the UAE. Iranian media reports indicate parliament is drafting legislation to collect tolls from ships traversing the strait, citing security concerns and comparing it to standard practice in other corridors. Even without the legal framework, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has allegedly implemented a "toll booth" system to control vessel traffic. This action has exacerbated an existing energy crisis, raising fears of a global recession, as Iran uses the strait as a geopolitical bargaining chip.

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.

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.

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.

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.

According to a high-ranking diplomatic source, Iran has rejected a 15-point ceasefire proposal from the United States aimed at ending the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, deeming it "maximalist and unreasonable." Despite Iranian denials, US President Trump claims negotiations are underway. No direct talks have occurred between Iran and the US since the war began, but messages have been exchanged through mediators. Pakistan, which shared the US demands with Iran, and Turkiye are attempting to mediate, with potential in-person talks possibly taking place in Pakistan. Egypt has also offered to host meetings related to Iran to de-escalate the conflict and supports Trump's initiative to negotiate with Iran.

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.

President Trump claimed "very good" talks with Iran were underway, potentially mediated by Pakistan, to avert a U.S. bombing ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement came shortly before U.S. markets opened, amidst concerns about Iran's closure of the strait. Trump vaguely described the deal's terms, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and potential regime change. However, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the reported Iranian interlocutor, denied any negotiations and accused Trump of manipulating markets. Despite the denials, Iran acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries, including Pakistan, suggesting a renewed diplomatic push involving regional powers like Egypt and Turkey. The goal appears to be de-escalation and preventing further economic damage.

Amidst an ongoing war that began in late February 2026, the possibility of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran has emerged, though Iran denies any talks are underway. The U.S., under President Trump, has presented a 15-point plan to Iran through Pakistan, while Pakistan, Egypt, and Gulf Arab nations are attempting to facilitate discussions. Despite these efforts, Israel vows to continue attacks, and military deployments from both the U.S. and Iran are increasing, suggesting an escalation of the conflict. The U.S. war objectives have shifted, including degrading Iran's missile capabilities, preventing nuclear weapon development, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump hints at engagement with Iranian leaders, Israel maintains the goal of regime change in Iran.

Reports suggest that backchannel talks between the United States and Iran are unlikely to produce a peace deal, with Chinese analysts citing unmet core conditions for a ceasefire. Conflicting accounts exist regarding the talks, with Iran dismissing reports of discussions with former Trump aide Steve Witkoff as false. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly attempting to mediate a ceasefire between the US and Iran. Pakistan is considered a potential location for direct talks, though the White House has not confirmed US participation, describing the situation as fluid. The reasons behind the unlikelihood of a peace deal are the unmet core conditions for a ceasefire.

Amidst ongoing US and Israeli air raids and Iranian retaliatory attacks, the possibility of talks between the US and Iran to end the conflict has emerged. While some Iranian officials deny any negotiations, the US claims discussions are underway. The BBC reports on the divided opinions within Iran regarding these potential talks. Government supporters and officials largely echo the sentiment against negotiating with the US. However, other Iranians, while desiring an end to the war, are wary of a deal that would preserve the current Islamic government's power. They fear the regime, even weakened, would maintain control over the population. The situation is further complicated by government-imposed internet outages, limiting access to information for ordinary citizens.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump claimed that the US and Iran were engaged in productive negotiations to end the war that began with Israel a month prior. However, Iranian officials have denied that any such talks have taken place. Trump's announcement coincided with the start of the US trading week, leading to speculation that his claims were intended to calm financial markets amidst fluctuating oil prices. An Iranian parliamentary speaker refuted Trump's claims, accusing the US of spreading "fakenews" to manipulate markets and escape their current predicament. Iran's strategy appears to be to inflict economic pain on the US as a deterrent against future attacks.

On March 24, 2026, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and Gulf Arab states. This occurred despite US President Donald Trump's claim that the US was in talks with Iran to end the ongoing conflict. Trump also delayed a deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, averting potential strikes on Iranian power stations. However, Iran denied Trump's claims of negotiations, with parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf dismissing them as "fakenews" intended to manipulate financial markets. The strikes and conflicting reports highlight the continued tensions and uncertainty surrounding the conflict.

Following claims by US President Donald Trump of "productive" talks with Iran to end the ongoing war, senior Iranian officials have denied that any such discussions have taken place. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that the claim is "fakenews" used to manipulate markets and help the US and Israel escape their current predicament. This denial was echoed by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, who acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries about US requests for negotiations. The denials come as the US-Israeli war on Iran enters its fourth week, with continued attacks and rising global energy prices due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump had previously threatened to attack Iranian power plants but postponed strikes for five days pending the supposed talks.

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.

A U.N. official warned that Iran is threatening to strike desalination plants across the Middle East within days, potentially triggering a regional water crisis and global economic fallout. The threat is in response to President Trump's warning that the U.S. would target Iranian power infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Iranian officials stated that if their energy infrastructure is attacked, they will target U.S. and regional desalination infrastructure. Desalination plants in Qeshm Island and Bahrain have allegedly already been struck. The destruction of these plants, critical for providing drinking water in arid regions, could have catastrophic and lasting consequences.

Donald Trump extended a deadline regarding Iran by five days, claiming productive talks between the US and Iran had occurred. Trump suggested a potential deal to end the conflict was possible. However, Iran denied these claims, stating no talks with the US have taken place since the recent bombing campaign. The extension followed heightened tensions, including threats from both sides regarding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and potential retaliatory attacks. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly involved in efforts to mediate. Despite Trump's claims, violence continues across the Middle East.

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.

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.