A viral TikTok video by San Diego-based dancer Charm Daze has triggered debate over operational security and troop morale amid the Iran war. She claimed young US soldiers visiting clubs near bases appeared “depressed” and revealed upcoming deployments, sparking concerns about potential leaks of sensitive information. The video fuelled speculation of escalating US military action, as deployments reportedly increase under Donald Trump’s administration. Critics warned such disclosures could compromise security, while others highlighted the emotional toll on troops. The situation unfolds alongside growing domestic opposition, with polls indicating many Americans favour ending involvement in the conflict despite ongoing military preparations.

Masoud Pezeshkian issued an open letter to Americans amid the ongoing conflict, rejecting claims that Iran poses a security threat and asserting that the country has never initiated war in modern history. He described Iran as a long-standing civilisation focused on self-defence rather than aggression. Pezeshkian blamed strained relations on US actions, including the 1953 coup, support for the Shah, backing Iraq in the 1980s war, sanctions, and recent military strikes. He argued that American military presence around Iran fuels instability and questioned the purpose of the war. The letter urged Americans to look beyond political narratives and consider diplomacy over continued confrontation.

US President Donald Trump warned that Iran could be pushed “back to the Stone Age” if it fails to reach a deal, as the conflict enters its fifth week. In a national address, he said US forces are close to achieving core objectives, including dismantling Iran’s military capabilities and preventing nuclear weapon development. Trump highlighted rapid battlefield gains but signalled intensified strikes within two to three weeks if negotiations fail. He also warned of potential attacks on critical infrastructure and urged global powers to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Despite progress claims, concerns persist over escalation, oil supply disruption, and prolonged regional instability. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has denied a claim by Donald Trump that it sought a ceasefire. Iran’s foreign ministry called the statement “false and baseless”, according to state media. Trump had said Iran’s “new regime president” requested a ceasefire but gave no details. He also said the US would consider a truce only if the Strait of Hormuz is “open, free, and clear”. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian made no mention of any ceasefire in a message to Americans. He said Iran “never initiated a war” and spoke about choosing between “confrontation and engagement”. (PC: BBC)

Donald Trump said the US will be “out of Iran pretty quickly” after meeting its goals. He said American strikes have stopped Iran from getting nuclear weapons. Trump added the US could return for “spot hits” if needed. His comments suggest a short and limited military role. He also criticised NATO and said he is considering a US withdrawal from the alliance. The remarks came before his national address. Officials say the US does not want a long war. However, tensions remain high as military action continues and concerns grow among allies in Europe.

Amazon’s cloud facility in Bahrain was damaged in an Iranian strike as tensions escalate between Tehran and US-linked technology firms. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned it would target major American companies, including Apple, Google and Meta, if further Iranian officials are killed. The statement alleged these firms assist in tracking and designing assassination operations. Employees and nearby residents were urged to evacuate areas around such facilities. The incident follows earlier drone strikes on Amazon data centres in the region. The developments highlight a widening conflict scope, with corporate infrastructure increasingly drawn into the confrontation amid ongoing US-Iran hostilities and rising regional instability concerns. (PC: Times Now)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain will not be drawn into the Iran-US-Israel conflict while announcing a 35-nation meeting to address the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. The talks, to be hosted by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, will focus on diplomatic and political measures to restore navigation, ensure safety of vessels, and resume movement of vital commodities. Starmer warned the war’s economic impact will affect the UK but said the country is prepared to withstand the disruption. He emphasised closer cooperation with European allies and reaffirmed commitment to NATO amid rising global tensions and energy market instability. (PC: Reuters)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the Iran war shows the need for “closer ties with Europe”. He announced a new summit with EU leaders. Starmer said the UK is “well-placed to weather” the crisis, but warned it “will not be easy”. He stressed the UK will not join the war. “This is not our war,” he said. He added the country remains committed to NATO. Starmer said stronger EU links will help security and the economy. Critics asked what the UK may give up. Rising energy prices remain a major concern for people.

A Russian military plane crashed in Crimea, killing 29 people on board. The aircraft lost contact during a “routine flight”, officials said. Wreckage was later found after a search. Russia’s defence ministry blamed a “technical failure” and ruled out any external attack. The plane was an Antonov An-26, a Soviet-era transport aircraft. It carried seven crew members and 23 passengers. Authorities have opened an inquiry into flight safety. Ukraine has not commented on the crash. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 and remains a conflict zone. Fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces continues in the region. (PC: AirTeamImages)

The United States is considering two ground assault plans in Iran, awaiting approval from Donald Trump. According to a report, one plan targets Kharg Island, a key oil hub. Another aims to seize “highly enriched uranium” linked to Iran’s nuclear programme. Officials warned both options are “highly risky”. Around 7,000 US troops are being moved to the region. Special forces are also on standby. The report said such action could escalate the conflict. It may not end the war or reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has not made a final decision yet, as tensions remain high.