All Headlines

Japan gasoline prices hit record high on Middle East turmoil

Japan's average gasoline price surged to an unprecedented 190.8 yen ($1.20) per liter this week, driven by escalating Middle East tensions and supply disruption fears following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The 18% weekly jump marks the highest level since comparable records began in 1990, intensifying pressure on households and businesses already grappling with persistent inflation. Tokyo has begun releasing oil reserves to stabilize markets.

Trump suggests 'finishing off what's left' of Iran, pressures allies

President Donald Trump escalated rhetoric Wednesday, suggesting the US could "finish off what's left of the Iranian Terror State" while demanding that nations dependent on the Strait of Hormuz take responsibility for securing the strategic waterway. In a Truth Social post, Trump criticized "non-responsive allies" as Iran maintains its closure of the strait since March 1. The comments come amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran that have killed approximately 1,300 people, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Damascus bans alcohol sales across most of city after public outcry

Municipal authorities respond to citizen complaints with new restrictions limiting alcohol to three Christian districts, with strict distance rules from religious sites and schools.

Sirens wail across northern Israel as Iran launches new missile barrage

Haifa and Galilee regions under alert following "limited" Iranian strikes, Israeli media reports, as cross-border attacks continue amid escalating war.

Zelenskyy warns Ukraine facing missile shortage as Iran war drains supplies

Ukrainian president tells BBC Middle East conflict depleting US reserves and Patriot stocks, benefiting Russia with higher energy prices and delayed peace talks.

Saudi Arabia shoots down 13 Iranian drones over Riyadh, Eastern Province

Defense ministry confirms interceptions but provides no details on casualties or damage as Gulf states face sustained aerial attacks.

NATO deploys additional Patriot system to Türkiye's Adana province

German-based battery joins Spanish Patriot already stationed in Incirlik as part of allied measures to protect Turkish airspace amid regional tensions.

Bahrain says it shot down 364 Iranian missiles and drones since war began

Armed forces report intercepting 130 ballistic missiles and 234 UAVs, warn citizens to avoid debris as attacks continue to target kingdom.

Erdogan hails Canakkale Victory as epic of faith and sacrifice

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan commemorated the 111th anniversary of the Canakkale Naval Victory and March 18 Martyrs' Remembrance Day, describing the historic triumph as "a unique epic" that proclaimed the Turkish nation's faith, sacrifice, and homeland devotion to the entire world. In his message, Erdogan honored the heroes who made Canakkale "impassable," emphasizing that their resistance became a turning point symbolizing the nation's unwavering commitment to freedom and independence.

Fidan attends Riyadh meeting on regional crisis with Arab, Islamic ministers

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday to participate in a high-level consultative meeting hosted by Saudi Arabia, bringing together foreign ministers from Arab and Islamic nations to address the escalating regional crisis. The gathering comes as the US-Israeli offensive on Iran continues to reverberate across the Middle East, with Gulf states facing repeated drone and missile attacks and global markets disrupted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Bayraktar K2: Türkiye's new answer to modern warfare challenges

Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar has unveiled the Bayraktar K2 loitering munition, a domestically developed system with over 2,000 kilometers range and 200-kilogram warhead capacity. The platform reflects hard lessons from Ukraine and the Middle East, where low-cost, mass-producible strike systems have demonstrated the ability to grind down expensive defenses through economic pressure and sustained attrition. With AI integration and swarm capability, the K2 positions Türkiye at the forefront of emerging battlefield dynamics.

Iraq restarts oil exports through Türkiye's Ceyhan terminal

Iraq's North Oil Company announced Wednesday the resumption of crude exports via Türkiye's Ceyhan port, restarting flows from Kirkuk fields at an initial capacity of 250,000 barrels per day after nearly three years of suspension. The move follows an agreement between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government to reactivate the northern export route, gaining strategic importance as the Strait of Hormuz closure disrupts southern shipping lanes amid ongoing US-Iran conflict.

Rubio offers condolences to UAE for Iran attacks, vows support

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation Tuesday with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan following deadly strikes attributed to Iran. The State Department confirmed Rubio expressed condolences for Emirati casualties and reaffirmed Washington's security commitment to the Gulf nation. The call comes as regional tensions escalate, with Iran targeting multiple Gulf states hosting US military assets in retaliation for the US-Israeli offensive.

Israel says it targeted Iranian Intelligence Minister Khatib in airstrike

Israel announced Wednesday that an airstrike targeted Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib, as hostilities between the two regional foes continue to escalate. Israeli media reported Tel Aviv is assessing the results of the attack, part of the ongoing US-Israeli campaign that has killed over 1,300 people since Feb. 28.

Palestinian FM: Israel exploiting crises to expand settlements

Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin has accused Israel of exploiting regional turmoil to accelerate illegal settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, warning that international focus on wider conflicts has enabled accelerated annexation efforts. Speaking to diplomats Tuesday, she detailed daily settler attacks on Palestinians under Israeli army protection and reported seven Palestinian deaths since the US-Israeli offensive on Iran began. Shahin also condemned the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan as a violation of religious freedom.

Israel orders immediate evacuation of residents south of Lebanon's Zahrani River

The Israeli military issued an urgent warning Wednesday to residents south of the Zahrani River in southern Lebanon to evacuate immediately and move north, citing safety concerns. The order comes as Israel's ground incursion into southern Lebanon, launched March 3, continues amid the broader US-Israeli war with Iran.

Ray Dalio warns Iran war could trigger US empire collapse, end of dollar dominance

Billionaire investor Ray Dalio warned that the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closure could trigger a US "collapse scenario," drawing parallels to Britain's 1956 Suez Crisis. Dalio argues that if oil trade shifts from dollars to yuan, the petrodollar system could collapse, ending America's global economic dominance.

South Korea secures 24 million barrels of UAE oil with priority supply deal amid Iran war

South Korea has secured 24 million barrels of crude oil from the UAE with a priority supply agreement, a presidential official announced, as the Iran war disrupts global energy markets. The UAE "clearly promised that no country will receive crude oil before South Korea," ensuring energy security amid Middle East turmoil.

Japan eyes role in US 'Golden Dome' missile defense at Trump summit

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to discuss cooperation on the US "Golden Dome" next-generation missile defense system during her Thursday summit with President Donald Trump in Washington, according to Japanese media. The $175 billion initiative aims to intercept hypersonic missiles in space. Talks will also cover Japanese purchases of Alaskan crude oil, a $100 million joint shipbuilding project, and Tokyo's response to the Strait of Hormuz crisis amid US-Iran conflict.

Trump to NATO allies: No need for your help in Iran operation

President Donald Trump launched a blistering critique of NATO allies Thursday after most declined to participate in the US military campaign against Iran, saying he is "not surprised" by their reluctance and has always viewed the alliance as a "one-way street." Trump declared that American forces have "obliterated" Iran's military capabilities, adding: "We no longer need or want NATO countries' help. We never did."

UAE, Jordan leaders hold crisis talks as region braces for wider war

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted Jordan's King Abdullah II in Dubai for urgent consultations on escalating regional tensions, as Gulf nations find themselves increasingly caught in the crossfire of the US-Iran conflict. The leaders reiterated that Arab states are not party to the war and stressed the need for de-escalation. Meanwhile, a photograph of the two rulers meeting during Ramadan with water bottles and refreshments sparked controversy on social media.

Bernie Sanders slams $22.8B cost of US strikes on Iran

US Senator Bernie Sanders has condemned the staggering cost of America's military campaign against Iran, revealing that operations have already consumed $22.8 billion. In a social media post, the Vermont lawmaker detailed how those funds could have expanded healthcare, built public housing, hired teachers, and reduced student debt. His criticism comes as the US-Israeli offensive continues to claim lives across the region, with Iran retaliating against American assets in Gulf countries.

Iran: Political system strong despite killing of senior officials

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed suggestions that the killing of senior officials in US-Israeli strikes weakens the Islamic Republic, emphasizing that the country's political structure remains resilient regardless of individual losses. In an Al Jazeera interview, Araghchi stated that established institutions ensure continuity. His remarks follow confirmation that Ali Larijani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, was killed alongside his son and aide in an Israeli airstrike near Tehran.

Israeli airstrikes kill 6 in central Beirut residential areas

Israeli warplanes struck residential apartments in central Beirut early Wednesday, killing at least six people and wounding 24 others, according to Lebanon's Health Ministry. The attacks targeted the Zoqaq al-Blat and Basta al-Fawqa neighborhoods, with rescue teams recovering human remains from the rubble. Simultaneous strikes also hit Beirut's southern suburbs following Israeli evacuation orders for residents of Tyre and nearby Palestinian refugee camps.

Saudi air defenses intercept missile, down 13 drones

Saudi air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile targeting the Al-Kharj governorate south of Riyadh on Wednesday, with debris landing near Prince Sultan Air Base without causing damage. A Defense Ministry spokesman also confirmed the downing of 13 drones in the Eastern Province throughout the day. The attacks are part of ongoing retaliatory strikes by Iran targeting US military assets across Gulf nations since the Feb. 28 US-Israeli offensive began.

Large fire erupts in Erbil after drone attack near US base

A kamikaze drone strike ignited a major fire in Erbil's Koya district on Wednesday, targeting a commercial warehouse. Simultaneously, three explosions near Erbil International Airport triggered air defense systems, with debris landing in a residential park. The incidents are part of a daily pattern of attacks since Iran began retaliatory operations, with no immediate statement from Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government.

Erdoğan demands end to 'senseless, unlawful' US-Israel war on Iran

Turkish president condemns attacks violating international law, says Ankara working to prevent conflict from spreading as regional crisis deepens.

Erdoğan: Israel dragging region toward disaster beyond 'security concerns'

Turkish president says attacks on Gaza, Yemen, Lebanon and Iran reveal broader agenda as conflict expands to new fronts.

Fidan launches regional tour to end Middle East war, slams 'illegal' assassinations

Turkish foreign minister says political killings of Iranian officials violate laws of war, announces diplomatic push starting Wednesday as conflict spreads to Lebanon.

Iran confirms top security official Larijani killed in Israeli strike

Supreme National Security Council chief, his son, aide and companions die in overnight attack near Tehran as conflict claims another senior figure.

Türkiye, Russia discuss ending Iran war, future Ukraine peace talks

Fidan tells Lavrov prolonged conflict threatens regional and global order, reaffirms Ankara's readiness to host next round of Russia-Ukraine negotiations.

Explosions near US Consulate in Erbil as drones intercepted

Multiple explosions were heard late Tuesday near the US Consulate and in Erbil's Serbesti neighborhood as air defense systems activated against suicide drone attacks. Local media reported the drones were intercepted, with no immediate statement from Kurdish authorities, as Iran continues retaliatory strikes against US assets.

Israeli strikes kill 14 in Lebanon including three soldiers as Hezbollah vows resistance

At least 14 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon and Beirut's suburbs Tuesday, including three Lebanese soldiers, authorities reported. Hezbollah's new leader outlined four conditions for resolution as ground operations deepen, with over 912 killed and one million displaced since March 2.

Iraq, KRG reach deal to resume oil exports via Türkiye's Ceyhan port

Agreement comes as Hormuz closure disrupts global energy supplies, with US praising Erbil and Baghdad for cooperation at "critical time."

Ukraine deploys anti-drone specialists to Gulf to counter Iranian Shaheds

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Tuesday that 201 Ukrainian anti-drone specialists have been deployed across the Middle East to help counter Iranian Shahed drones, with 34 more ready. Speaking in the UK parliament, Zelenskyy said Ukraine can produce 2,000 low-cost interceptors daily and offered cooperation to allies.

US carrier Ford heads to Crete for repairs after fire, leaving 600 sailors homeless on ship

USS Gerald R. Ford to undergo week-long repairs at Souda Bay following laundry room blaze that displaced hundreds of crew members now sleeping on floors.

Iran confirms Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani killed in US-Israeli strike

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed Tuesday that Basij forces commander Gholamreza Soleimani was killed in a US-Israeli strike, Fars News Agency reported. The killing follows the confirmation of top security official Ali Larijani's death, as the US-Israeli campaign against Iran continues with over 1,300 killed.

Germany rejects regime change in Iran, warns of 'chaos' and refugee crises

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul rejected regime change in Iran Tuesday, warning that resulting chaos would destabilize the region and trigger new refugee crises. Citing Iraq and Libya as "bad examples," Wadephul said there can be no military solution and urged intensified diplomacy for a post-war security framework.

Trump lashes out at UK's Starmer for not supporting Iran war: 'A big mistake'

US President Donald Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Tuesday for not supporting the war against Iran, calling it "a big mistake" and expressing disappointment. Trump suggested Starmer was willing to send two aircraft carriers "after we won" and contrasted him unfavorably with Winston Churchill.

Trump boasts of 'knocking out' Iran's military as Irish leader pleads for diplomacy

At St. Patrick's Day event, US president claims forces destroyed Iran's navy, air force and leadership while Martin urges dialogue and de-escalation.

Trump says Iran war ending 'very soon' but US 'not ready to leave yet'

President Donald Trump said Tuesday the Iran war would end in the "very near future" but insisted "we're not ready to leave yet," claiming the US has "decimated" Iran and its leaders are "gone." Trump confirmed the killing of top official Ali Larijani, accusing him of responsibility for protest deaths.

Germany, France offer post-war political plan for Middle East

Ministers tell Berlin panel they stand ready to help build new security architecture with Gulf states once US-Israel military campaign ends.

Top US counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war, citing Israeli pressure and 'misinformation'

National Counterterrorism Center director Joe Kent resigned Tuesday, citing opposition to the "ongoing war in Iran" and claiming Israel and its American lobby drove the conflict through "misinformation." Trump dismissed Kent as "weak on security" as the White House defended the president's war-making authority.

Colombia's Petro escalates Ecuador bombing claims, says 27 'charred bodies' found

Colombian President Gustavo Petro escalated allegations against Ecuador Tuesday, claiming cross-border bombings left "27 charred bodies" and dismissing Ecuadorian denials as "not credible." The discovery of an unexploded device near the frontier has triggered a diplomatic crisis, with Petro appealing to Trump to intervene and prevent war.

Türkiye warns prolonged Middle East war risks 'deepening hostilities'

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz tells Canadian counterpart Ankara is working to prevent escalation and strengthen diplomatic channels amid widening conflict.

Missiles fired from Iran streak over Hebron sky in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes

Missiles launched from Iran toward Israel in retaliation for US-Israeli attacks were seen streaking over the skies of Hebron in the occupied West Bank on March 17, 2026. The images capture the ongoing exchange of fire as the conflict between Iran and US-Israeli forces enters its third week.

US sends more warships to Middle East as Iran war intensifies

A US Navy vessel carrying thousands of Marines is heading toward the Middle East amid escalating conflict with Iran, according to maritime tracking data. The warship was detected approaching the strategic Strait of Malacca, though American officials have not disclosed its precise destination or mission. The deployment marks a significant military buildup as regional hostilities enter their fourth week.

Israel claims killing Iran's security chief Larijani in strike

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Tuesday that Iran's top security official Ali Larijani was "eliminated" in overnight airstrikes near Tehran, along with a senior Basij commander. However, Iranian authorities have not confirmed the deaths, and a message was posted on Larijani's official social media account shortly after Israel's claim, raising questions about the accuracy of the announcement.

Iran fires new missile barrage, sirens sound across central Israel

Air raid sirens wailed across central Israel, including the Jerusalem area, on Tuesday following what Israeli media described as a "limited barrage" of missiles launched from Iran. The attack came just hours after Israeli officials claimed they had killed top Iranian security chief Ali Larijani in overnight airstrikes near Tehran. No immediate reports of casualties or damage were available.

Türkiye provides naval training to Senegal in cooperation drive

Türkiye's Naval Forces personnel are conducting search and rescue training flights in Senegal as part of a broader effort to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations. The Turkish Defense Ministry announced Tuesday that training missions are being carried out over Senegalese airspace and maritime jurisdiction areas. The initiative includes joint reconnaissance flights with Senegalese aircrew to enhance mutual operational capabilities.

Türkiye welcomes Kazakhstan's constitutional referendum, praises peaceful vote

Türkiye's Foreign Ministry welcomed Monday Kazakhstan's constitutional referendum, noting the vote took place in a "peaceful and calm" environment with Turkish observers present. The referendum, approved by over 87% of voters with 73% turnout, streamlines Parliament and restores the vice president office.

Türkiye warns war in Iran could trigger global inflation, supply chaos

Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek says conflict in key energy corridor driving up oil, gas prices, warns of stagflation risks while positioning Türkiye as stable alternative for global supply chains.