Donald Trump sharply criticised NATO, calling it a “paper tiger” dependent on the United States, amid the escalating conflict with Iran. He accused member nations of cowardice for refusing to join military operations or help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump argued that allies complain about rising oil prices but avoid contributing to what he described as a low-risk military task. Several European countries, however, have declined involvement, favouring diplomacy. The remarks highlight growing divisions within NATO as tensions rise and energy disruptions deepen global concerns. (PC: AP)

Donald Trump said the United States military is performing “extremely well” in the ongoing conflict with Iran, claiming significant naval success. Speaking at the White House, he asserted that Iran’s navy is “at the bottom of the sea” and praised American military strength, particularly its naval power. Trump reiterated that Washington would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, arguing such capability would pose a serious global threat. His remarks come amid escalating tensions and continued military exchanges, reflecting the administration’s confidence in its operations while reinforcing its stance on preventing Iran’s nuclear advancement.

Mojtaba Khamenei declared that Iran’s “enemy” was being defeated in the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel in a message marking Nowruz. He credited national unity across religious, cultural, and political lines for strengthening resistance. Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since succeeding Ali Khamenei after his death in an airstrike, used the statement to project confidence amid rising tensions. The message underscores Iran’s effort to maintain morale domestically as the regional conflict intensifies and uncertainty continues over its leadership visibility and wartime strategy. (PC: Reuters)

Benjamin Netanyahu sparked controversy after invoking Jesus Christ and Genghis Khan during a wartime press conference on the Iran conflict. Quoting historian Will Durant, he argued morality alone cannot ensure survival, defending Israel’s military campaign. The remarks triggered backlash online and criticism from Iranian officials, including Abbas Araghchi, who accused him of disrespect. Netanyahu later clarified he meant no offence and was citing historical analysis. The episode comes amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions, with Netanyahu reiterating efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities alongside the United States.

Donald Trump criticised several members of the NATO for refusing to join a U.S.-led military effort against Iran to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Posting on his social media platform, Trump called allies “cowards” and warned that their reluctance would be remembered. He argued that countries complaining about rising oil prices should contribute militarily to reopening the strait and stabilising global energy flows. The remarks highlight growing rifts within NATO as the conflict widens and underline Washington’s frustration over limited allied participation in operations aimed at countering Iran’s maritime pressure. (PC: 

Donald Trump is reportedly considering seizing or blockading Kharg Island to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of global oil flows. The plan, reported by Axios, could involve expanded US military deployment, with Marine units already moving to the region. Kharg Island, located 30 km off Iran’s coast, handles roughly 90% of its crude exports. While officials say no final decision has been made, analysts warn such a move could escalate the conflict, risk US troops, and may not guarantee reopening of the crucial shipping route. (PC: X)

Downing Street said the United Kingdom will not be drawn into a wider war despite tensions with Iran. The statement followed warnings from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who told Yvette Cooper that allowing the United States to use UK bases would amount to “participation in aggression” and risk escalation. Responding, the UK clarified it did not take part in initial strikes and only authorised limited, defensive use of bases. Officials said the move aims to counter threats from Iran while maintaining a path toward diplomacy. (PC: X)

Ali Mohammad Naini, spokesman of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was killed in strikes attributed to the United States and Israel, Iranian state media reported. His death came hours after he warned of “surprises” for adversaries and asserted Iran’s missile production remained strong during wartime. The killing marks another major blow to Iran’s leadership, following recent deaths of key figures including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. The escalating conflict has intensified missile exchanges and targeted strikes, raising fears of further instability and deepening the ongoing regional war. (PC: X/Erfan Kouchari via @clashreport)

Sri Lanka reaffirmed neutrality in the West Asia conflict as President Anura Kumara Dissanayake rejected a United States request to station missile-armed warplanes at Mattala International Airport. He also declined an Iran request for warships to dock, maintaining a balanced stance. The decision followed a US strike that sank Iranian frigate IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka, killing sailors, while Colombo rescued survivors and offered humanitarian aid. Sri Lanka abstained from a UN resolution condemning Iran, stressing fairness. The government emphasised it will not allow its territory for military use, balancing ties with both Washington and Tehran. (PC: ANI)

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson Gen. Ali Mohammad Naini was killed in an airstrike, reportedly by US‑Israel forces, just hours after issuing a defiant warning about a “missile surprise” targeting Israel amid the ongoing Iran‑Israel‑US war, state media reported. Iranian authorities described his death as martyrdom and later released a statement in his name asserting that missile and rocket production would continue unabated. The incident underscores the volatile escalation of the conflict, with high‑ranking military figures being targeted and killed even as Tehran vows ongoing resistance and capability to strike back. (PC: NDTV)