Iran state media claimed its forces downed two US fighter jets, including an F-15E Strike Eagle, amid the escalating conflict with the United States. Reports allege one pilot ejected over southwestern Iran and may have been captured, though this remains unverified. Iranian broadcasters urged citizens to capture or even shoot downed pilots, offering rewards. Separately, claims emerged that a F-35 Lightning II was also destroyed, with its pilot unlikely to have survived. These assertions, circulated by agencies like Mehr and Tasnim, have not been independently confirmed, highlighting the fog of war and competing narratives surrounding the conflict.

Global food prices rose in March 2026 to their highest level since September 2025, according to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The FAO Food Price Index increased by 2.4% from February, driven mainly by rising energy costs linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Wheat prices surged due to poor crop outlooks, while vegetable oils and sugar also saw sharp increases. Despite ample cereal supplies cushioning immediate impacts, the FAO warned that prolonged conflict could raise fertiliser costs, reduce crop production, and push global food prices higher into 2027. (PC: Reuters)

As the Iran war intensifies, the Kapıköy border crossing between Iran and Turkey has emerged as a critical transit point for civilians caught in the conflict. Many Iranians are fleeing nightly bombardments, infrastructure damage, and economic disruption, while others are returning to reunite with family despite the risks. Witnesses describe fear, grief, and frustration, alongside hopes for political change. Despite the crisis, crossings remain below pre-war levels, with most people opting for temporary relocation rather than permanent migration. Turkish authorities remain on alert for a potential refugee surge, though large-scale displacement has not yet occurred. (PC: The Guardian)

The US-Israel-Iran conflict continues to intensify, with Iran launching drone and missile attacks on key Gulf infrastructure, including Kuwait’s oil refinery and power facilities, causing fires and damage. Israel reported fresh missile launches from Iran, while Tehran claimed it downed a US fighter jet—claims denied by Washington. The Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint, with restricted shipping disrupting global energy supplies and prompting international diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, the US has signalled further strikes, raising fears of wider regional escalation and prolonged economic and humanitarian fallout. 

Iran has claimed it shot down two US F-35 stealth fighter jets within 24 hours during the ongoing conflict, asserting that advanced air defence systems brought down the aircraft over central Iran. Iranian media suggested the pilots were unlikely to have survived. However, there has been no official confirmation from the United States, and defence analysts have questioned the authenticity of images and evidence released by Iran. Reports also highlight conflicting narratives, including AI tool Grok casting doubt on Tehran’s claims. The incident, if verified, would mark a major escalation in the war and raise concerns about the vulnerability of advanced stealth technology. (PC: X)

Following a US‑Israeli airstrike that partially destroyed the B1 bridge near Tehran—one of the Middle East’s tallest and strategically vital under-construction bridges—Iran has released a list of eight major bridges across Gulf states and Jordan as potential targets for retaliation. The strike reportedly killed at least eight civilians and wounded dozens, marking a sharp escalation in tensions. Iranian officials cited the attack as justification for targeting key infrastructure in Kuwait, the UAE, Saudi Arabia–Bahrain, and Jordan, signaling Tehran’s readiness to expand the conflict regionally if further strikes occur. (PC: NDTV)

The US‑Israel conflict with Iran continued to escalate on April 3 as attacks swept across the Middle East with no signs of de‑escalation. Iran launched missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf states, including strikes on Kuwait’s oil refinery, while US‑Israeli airstrikes hit Iranian infrastructure. The vital Strait of Hormuz remains effectively blocked, driving oil prices above $109 a barrel and disrupting global energy supplies. Iran vowed continued “crushing” attacks, targeting military and civilian infrastructure, as the war entered its 35th day. International efforts to reopen shipping routes and seek a ceasefire gained momentum, with UN warnings of a broader regional war. (PC: Reuters)

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed it shot down a second U.S. F‑35 fighter jet near Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz as the US–Israel war with Iran intensifies. Tehran asserts the advanced jet was downed by its air defenses amid heavy conflict, though the U.S. Central Command has rejected such claims, saying all its aircraft are accounted for and dismissing the reports as false. The alleged shootdown follows earlier Iranian strikes on U.S. and allied assets amid escalating regional hostilities affecting global security. (PC: X)

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George to step down and retire immediately, a highly unusual move that comes as the United States continues its military engagement against Iran. Gen. George, appointed in August 2023, was expected to serve a four‑year term but was told to leave his post early without an official reason. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell announced George’s immediate retirement, thanking him for his decades of service. The change adds to a series of senior leadership shakeups under Hegseth’s tenure. (PC: Reuters)

Iran condemned the US‑Israeli strike that destroyed the B1 bridge near Tehran and Karaj, one of the Middle East’s tallest structures, killing at least eight civilians and injuring about 95 others, according to Iranian state media. U.S. President Donald Trump shared footage of the collapse, warning of “much more to follow” and urging Tehran to “make a deal before it’s too late,” framing the attack as part of ongoing military pressure. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi vowed the bridge and other infrastructure would be rebuilt “stronger” and said the strike damaged America’s global standing. Iran insists such attacks won’t force its surrender. (PC: X)