How Trump’s plan to take Iran’s Kharg Island could come unhinged

Analysts suggest that Donald Trump's plan to seize Iran's Kharg Island, a crucial oil hub handling 90% of Iran's crude shipments, carries significant risks due to its strategic location in the Persian Gulf. Kharg Island is located 33km off the Iranian mainland, placing it within range of Iranian missiles and drones, and 660km from the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration is considering this action to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait, which has been effectively shut in response to US-Israeli strikes that began on February 28. Trump's recent speech hinted at further strikes and the nearing completion of "Operation Epic Fury," raising concerns about a potential US seizure of Kharg Island amidst increasing American troop presence in the region. Trump has repeatedly threatened to seize the island since the start of the US-Israeli military campaign.

Yemen's Houthis have entered the regional conflict between Iran and its enemies, the US and Israel, with a confirmed attack on Israel in March 2026. While the Houthis align with Iran's broader strategy as part of the "Axis of Resistance," they maintain a degree of independence in their decision-making. Iran provides support, expertise, and political cover, but the Houthis prioritize their domestic objectives in Yemen, where they control Sanaa and much of the northwest. This allows them to leverage regional escalations to serve their own project within Yemen, without directly mirroring the actions of other Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah. The Houthis' relationship with Iran is an unequal partnership that allows them to act in their own interests.

On day 34 of the US-Israel war against Iran, the conflict intensifies with continued US-Israeli bombing campaigns and Iranian missile counterattacks. Despite President Trump's claim that the US has "destroyed the Iranian military" and is close to achieving its objectives, Iran launched a new wave of missiles at Israel. Iran denies requesting a ceasefire, as claimed by Trump, and describes US demands as "irrational." Diplomatic efforts remain stalled due to a lack of trust. President Pezeshkian appealed to the American public to question the US's motives for continuing the war. Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi was seriously wounded in a strike on his Tehran home.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump threatened to seize or destroy Iran's Kharg Island, its main oil export hub, if Tehran does not agree to a deal with the US. Nearly all of Iran's oil exports depend on Kharg Island. The potential takeover, possibly involving ground troops, is part of escalating tensions between the US and Iran. Analysts suggest the US may be trying to gain leverage in negotiations with Iran by threatening its oil exports. The strategic importance of Kharg Island raises concerns about the potential impact on the conflict and global energy markets.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Iran has the "will" to end the ongoing war with the US and Israel, seeking guarantees against future conflict. This statement followed recent strikes on Iran and threats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to retaliate against US tech companies, including Google, Meta, and Apple, for alleged complicity in the assassinations of Iranian leaders. The Guards threatened to target these companies' units if further assassinations occur. The war, initiated on February 28 by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with the killing of Iran's supreme leader, has triggered regional retaliation. Trump's stance on further escalation, including potential ground troop deployment, versus negotiation remains unclear.

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.

Pakistan and China have jointly proposed a five-part peace plan for the Middle East, following a meeting between Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministers in Beijing. Pakistan is seeking to play a peacemaking role between the United States and Iran amidst ongoing conflict. The proposal emphasizes dialogue and diplomacy as the solution, calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection of waterways. Pakistan has been actively communicating with leaders from the US, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, positioning itself as a mediator and offering Islamabad as a location for peace talks. China, while maintaining neutrality, has expressed concern for the safety of its oil tankers and called for a ceasefire.

In March 2026, amidst a month-long war with Iran that disrupted global markets and increased energy prices, former US President Donald Trump urged countries to either purchase oil from the United States or take it from the Strait of Hormuz. Trump criticized nations like the United Kingdom and France for not supporting US-Israeli strikes against Iran. He suggested these countries, facing jet fuel shortages due to the Strait's closure, should assert themselves and seize oil, implying the US would no longer provide assistance. Trump also cited France's refusal to allow military supply flights to Israel as further justification for his stance. His statements were made via a Truth Social post.

In March 2026, amidst an escalating US-Israel war on Iran, Pakistan offered to host peace talks between Iran and the United States. Pakistan's Foreign Minister convened a meeting with Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, expressing Islamabad's readiness to broker meaningful discussions. Given Pakistan's close ties with both Tehran and Washington, it is seen as a potential facilitator for ending the conflict that began the previous month. Experts suggest this initiative could mark the beginning of a diplomatic effort to achieve a peaceful resolution. The feasibility of reaching a peace deal was discussed with analysts including a former Pakistani UN representative and directors from the International Crisis Group and TEPAV.

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.

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.

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 March 2026, US President Donald Trump expressed his desire to seize Iran's oil by taking control of Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub. He stated that some within the US opposed the plan, but he dismissed them as "stupid people." The US has deployed Marines to the Middle East amidst ongoing tensions, including a US-Israel war on Iran. US officials have discussed the possibility of seizing Kharg Island, which is vital to Iran's energy sector. In response, Iran threatened to retaliate with attacks on the infrastructure of a regional country assisting the US.

Amidst increased US military presence in the Middle East, Iran alleges that the US is secretly planning a ground assault, despite publicly discussing ceasefire talks. Former President Trump has made statements threatening Iran's energy infrastructure, suggesting the US could seize Iranian oil and its Kharg Island export hub. He also claimed to be in talks with a new "reasonable regime" in Iran. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of Yemen's Houthi forces, raising concerns about potential damage to the global economy. Jonathan Freedland discusses these developments on Politics Weekly America, available on YouTube and as a podcast.

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.

A meeting of the foreign ministers of Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey in Islamabad signals the potential formation of a new four-nation bloc focused on de-escalating tensions in the Middle East. The group aims to establish a ceasefire amid escalating disputes, particularly between Iran and Israel, and prevent further conflict. The immediate goal is to persuade all sides to stop escalation and agree to a ceasefire. The group will act as an intermediary with Iran, maintaining indirect negotiating channels with the US. Following the meeting, Pakistan briefed China on the crisis, suggesting a possible role for China as a guarantor of any agreement.

In late March 2026, Pakistan hosted a meeting with the foreign ministers of Turkiye, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to address the US-Israel war on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory strikes. The four nations formed a committee to facilitate direct talks between the US and Iran, with Pakistan acting as the primary channel. Both the US and Iran have expressed confidence in Pakistan's ability to mediate. The goal is to contain the conflict, de-escalate military tensions, and establish a framework for structured negotiations. This initiative follows an earlier meeting in Riyadh and aims to build on Pakistan's history as a backchannel between rival powers. However, the success of these efforts remains uncertain amid military build-up and other factors.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio anticipates the US operation against Iran, conducted jointly with Israel, will conclude in "weeks, not months." This statement comes amid escalating violence, including Israeli strikes in Beirut and Iranian missile attacks on Israel, following an initial strike on February 28 that killed Iran's supreme leader. Israel has threatened to escalate attacks, targeting additional areas aiding Iran's weapons development. The conflict has caused economic disruption, including Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil shipments. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has blocked ships from transiting the strait to and from ports of countries allied with Israel and the US. Rubio acknowledged that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open will be an immediate challenge.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Pakistan is attempting to mediate peace talks between the US and Iran to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered Islamabad as a venue for negotiations, potentially as early as this week. Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, discussed the conflict with Donald Trump, and Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian about de-escalation. While Pakistan has expressed its readiness to host talks, neither the US nor Iran has formally agreed, and Iran has dismissed reports of talks as "fake news." Iran has indicated a preference for Islamabad as a venue but has expressed distrust in Washington and rejected Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as potential US negotiators.

Pakistan has offered to host talks between the United States and Iran, following reports of mediation efforts by Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt. This offer comes amid conflicting claims, with US President Donald Trump asserting ongoing negotiations while Iran denies any such talks. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have publicly stated their willingness to facilitate discussions in Islamabad. Reports suggest potential meeting formats involving high-level officials from both countries. These efforts follow recent communications between Pakistani and Iranian leaders, as well as discussions between the Pakistani army chief and President Trump, aiming to de-escalate tensions and address the ongoing conflict.

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.

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.