Israel launched strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field, targeting key energy infrastructure and killing IRGC intelligence chief Majid Khademi, officials confirmed. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation aimed at “terrorist leaders.” The strikes were part of broader US-Israeli attacks that reportedly killed 25 people. Iran retaliated with drones and missiles, hitting targets in the Gulf and Israel, with casualties reported in Haifa. South Pars, the world’s largest gas reserve, supplies 70% of Iran’s gas. The International Atomic Energy Agency warned of strikes near Bushehr nuclear plant, raising serious nuclear safety concerns despite no confirmed damage.

As tensions escalate ahead of the Strait of Hormuz deadline, Iran has urged citizens to form symbolic “human chains” around key power plants to signal protection of national infrastructure. Youth groups, artists, and students are expected to participate in the coordinated action. The move comes amid heightened rhetoric from Donald Trump, who expanded threats to target Iran’s bridges and power facilities if demands are unmet. Tehran has rejected a temporary ceasefire, pushing instead for a permanent end to the conflict. Diplomatic efforts continue through intermediaries, but tensions remain high, raising concerns over potential escalation and risks to regional stability and global energy security.

Amid escalating tensions, Donald Trump said he would prefer to “keep the oil” from Iran and profit from it, but acknowledged Americans may not support such a move. Speaking during ongoing conflict discussions, he framed his stance as driven by business logic while noting domestic pressure to end the war. His remarks come as negotiations continue over reopening the Strait of Hormuz and amid rising global oil concerns. The statement highlights tensions between strategic, economic, and political considerations, as the US balances military objectives, public opinion, and energy market implications.

Amid escalating US-Iran tensions, Donald Trump claimed a potential “mole” within the United States government leaked sensitive details about a covert rescue mission in Iran. He warned a journalist to reveal their source or face jail, alleging the leak endangered a second stranded airman whose presence was previously unknown to Iranian forces. Trump said the complex operation involved 155 aircraft and relied on deception to mislead adversaries. The disclosure, he argued, compromised operational security and heightened risks. The administration is now investigating the leak, underscoring concerns over national security and press freedom during a volatile geopolitical crisis. (PC: Reuters)

Ahead of a critical truce deadline, Donald Trump issued a stark warning, stating that the United States could “take out” Iran in a single night if necessary. The remark underscores escalating rhetoric amid ongoing conflict and fragile diplomatic efforts. Trump’s statement comes as ceasefire negotiations remain uncertain and tensions intensify over key issues, including nuclear ambitions and regional security. While talks continue through intermediaries, the warning highlights the high-stakes environment surrounding the crisis, raising concerns over potential military escalation and its broader implications for global stability and energy markets. (PC: NDTV)

Iran has rejected a US ceasefire proposal, conveying its response via Pakistan and outlining a 10-condition framework for ending the conflict. Tehran insists on a permanent end to war across the region, including Lebanon and Gaza, along with guarantees against future attacks. It seeks sanctions relief, recognition of its uranium enrichment rights, and compensation for war damages. Iran also demands control over the Strait of Hormuz, including regulating maritime traffic. Donald Trump said alternatives remain as military operations continue. Mediation efforts involving Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are ongoing, reflecting intensified diplomacy amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Amid escalating tensions, Donald Trump said Iran is “not so strong” compared to a month ago, while acknowledging its forces remain “capable fighters.” His remarks come as negotiations continue over a potential ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump indicated Iran had made a “significant” proposal, though insufficient, as military operations persist. He reiterated that the conflict centres on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The statement reflects Washington’s dual stance of pressure and negotiation, even as Tehran maintains firm conditions for a permanent resolution, keeping geopolitical and energy market uncertainties elevated.

Amid escalating tensions, Iran has set firm conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, insisting it will remain closed until a permanent peace agreement is achieved. Rejecting temporary ceasefires, Tehran outlined four key demands: a complete end to war, no short-term truce, guaranteed non-aggression from the United States and Israel, and using Hormuz as leverage. Iran also dismissed negotiations under pressure and mocked Donald Trump’s deadline with sarcastic remarks online. As the strategic oil route remains restricted, the standoff intensifies, raising concerns over global energy stability and highlighting Hormuz’s central role in the geopolitical conflict. (PC: X)

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, warned that strikes near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant pose a serious nuclear safety risk and must stop immediately. The 1,000-megawatt facility has reportedly been targeted four times since the US-Israel conflict with Iran began, with the latest strike reported on Saturday. Grossi cautioned that attacks near an operational nuclear plant could trigger a severe radiological accident, endangering people and the environment beyond Iran’s borders. He stressed that nuclear facilities and their surrounding areas should never be targeted under any circumstances. (PC: CGTN)

Amid escalating tensions, Iran announced it has drafted a diplomatic response to US-mediated proposals, rejecting a reported “15-point plan” as illogical and overly ambitious. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran’s demands reflect its “interests” and “red lines” and will be revealed later. Iran accused the United States of targeting its nuclear programme, alleging the Isfahan operation was a failed “uranium theft plot.” Tehran dismissed claims of weakness and opposed any temporary ceasefire, calling it a prelude to renewed conflict. Instead, it demands a complete end to hostilities and guarantees against recurrence, while accusing Washington of sidelining diplomacy.