Civilians in Iran voiced anxiety and uncertainty to BBC Persian as conflict continues. A woman in her 20s said she wants the war to end immediately, expressing emotional exhaustion and fear about the future. She warned that even if strikes stop, the regime could remain weak yet potentially more repressive. A man from Tehran questioned official narratives, noting consistent denial of negotiations with the US. He stressed concern over how the war ends rather than when. Despite restrictions and jamming by authorities, BBC Persian continues reaching millions, highlighting public sentiment amid escalating tensions and limited access to independent information.

Israel plans to establish a buffer zone in southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, potentially occupying nearly a tenth of the country, according to its defence minister, citing security needs. Meanwhile, Masoud Pezeshkian claimed a growing global “awakening” against the US and Israel, asserting that people across multiple regional countries are increasingly opposing their actions. He emphasised that lasting stability depends on cooperation and respect for national sovereignty. The developments reflect intensifying geopolitical tensions in West Asia, with military posturing and political rhetoric escalating simultaneously, raising concerns over regional stability and broader international implications.

Shehbaz Sharif invited the US and Iran to hold peace talks in Pakistan, with Donald Trump signalling approval by sharing the proposal online. The move suggests a possible venue in Islamabad for negotiations to end the ongoing conflict. While Iran initially dismissed talks, it later acknowledged indirect messages via intermediaries. Potential US negotiators include Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, with JD Vance possibly attending. Mediation efforts also involve Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey. Despite diplomatic momentum, hostilities between Iran and Israel continue, raising doubts about immediate breakthroughs. (PC: HT)

Mohsen Rezaei warned Donald Trump that the “final deadlines” for saving America are approaching, threatening severe retaliation if the US attacks Iran’s infrastructure. In a televised interview on Islamic Republic News Agency, he said Iran would “paralyse” the US and sink its ships in the Arabian Gulf. Rezaei called the war illegal and demanded sanctions removal, compensation, and guarantees against future aggression. Trump earlier claimed productive talks with Iran and delayed strikes for five days, but Iranian officials, including Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, dismissed negotiations as fake news. (PC: X)

US and Israeli forces struck Iran’s energy sites hours after Donald Trump announced a five-day pause. Iran said the attacks hit Isfahan and Khorramshahr early Monday. A gas building and pipeline were damaged. Nearby homes were also affected. No casualties were reported. Trump had said strikes would be delayed for five days after talks. Iran rejected claims of any talks. Officials called the move contradictory. A senior source warned of strong retaliation if attacks continue. The strikes raise tensions and may widen the conflict. Iran said it is ready to respond quickly to any further targeting.

Seven village dogs in northeast China escaped suspected meat traders and walked 17 km back home. A resident filmed them moving together on a busy highway in Changchun. The group stayed close, even helping an injured dog. A corgi appeared to lead them. The video went viral. A rescue group used a drone to guide them safely. Volunteers later confirmed all seven dogs reached their village. Owners were relieved and emotional. One said the dogs were lucky to survive. The story touched many online, showing loyalty, intelligence, and strong bonds among the dogs.

Israel and Iran continued to exchange strikes even as the US said plans for talks with Tehran remain “fluid.” The White House said discussions were not fixed, while Iran denied any direct contact with the US. An Iranian official said messages had been shared through mediators as a possible step toward talks. Fresh strikes were reported in Tehran and nearby areas. An Iranian missile hit Tel Aviv, injuring several people. Israel also issued evacuation warnings in southern Lebanon. Oil prices rose again after earlier drops. Qatar said no new attacks had targeted it but warned the region remains tense. (PC: BBC)

Israel said it will take control of a large buffer zone in southern Lebanon as part of its campaign against Hezbollah. Defence Minister Israel Katz said troops will push up to the Litani River, about 30 km from the border. He said displaced residents will not be allowed to return until northern Israel is safe. “The principle is clear: there is terror and missiles, no homes and no residents,” he said. Israel also said five bridges used by Hezbollah were destroyed. Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun called the plan “collective punishment.” Over 1,000 people have been killed and more than a million displaced. (PC: BBC)

Iran has appointed Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as the new secretary of its Supreme National Security Council after Ali Larijani was killed in a strike last week. Zolghadr is a former Revolutionary Guard commander and had been serving in the Expediency Council. The appointment comes amid ongoing conflict in the region. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Washington was holding “productive” talks with Tehran, raising hopes of easing tensions. Iran, however, denied any negotiations. Trump also extended a deadline on action linked to the Strait of Hormuz, giving more time for diplomacy. Fighting in the region has continued despite these developments. (PC: NDTV)

Seven pet dogs in China escaped after being stolen for the meat trade and travelled about 17 km back home. The group stayed together for nearly two days after jumping from a moving truck in Jilin. A Corgi appeared to lead the pack, often turning back to check on others. An injured German Shepherd was protected in the middle as the group moved slowly. A man who filmed them said, “They resemble a band of little brothers in distress.” The video went viral, prompting volunteers and a drone search. By March 19, all seven dogs were safely reunited with their owners.