The US Pentagon is seeking over $200 billion in additional funding to sustain its ongoing war in Iran, reflecting the scale and intensity of the conflict. The request, sent to the White House for approval before being presented to Congress, aims to cover operational costs and replenish depleted weapons stockpiles. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated the war has no fixed end date, with thousands of targets already struck. The proposal is expected to face political resistance due to its massive size, even as officials warn of rising costs, global instability, and the need to maintain military readiness.(PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has stated that America will not deploy ground troops to Iran despite intensifying conflict in the region. Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “I’m not putting troops anywhere,” while also adding that if such a move were considered, it would not be disclosed publicly. The remarks reflect a strategy of maintaining military pressure without direct ground involvement, while keeping operational decisions confidential. The statement comes amid ongoing US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, rising regional tensions, and growing global concerns over a wider war. (PC: X)

An Iranian missile strike targeted the Bazan oil refinery in Haifa, Israel, causing limited damage, fires, and a temporary power outage in surrounding areas. The attack, part of escalating Iran-Israel hostilities, reportedly involved missile fragments rather than a direct hit, with emergency teams quickly containing the blaze. Authorities confirmed no major casualties and minimal environmental risk, though some disruptions to electricity supply were reported. The strike is seen as retaliation for earlier Israeli attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure, marking a dangerous escalation as both sides increasingly target critical oil and gas facilities, raising global concerns over energy security.

Iran has issued a strong warning that it will show “zero restraint” if its energy infrastructure is targeted again, following recent Israeli strikes on the crucial South Pars gas field. Tehran said its previous retaliation—targeting energy sites in Gulf countries—used only a fraction of its military capability. Officials warned that further attacks could trigger a far more aggressive response and “uncontrollable consequences.” The escalation marks a dangerous new phase in the conflict, with both sides increasingly targeting vital energy assets, raising global concerns over oil supplies, regional stability, and the risk of a wider war. (PC: X)

The United States has sought a massive $200 billion funding package to sustain its ongoing war efforts against Iran, reflecting the conflict’s rising scale. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its military operations, reportedly targeting Iran’s naval assets in the Caspian Sea. The escalation follows earlier strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field, which triggered retaliatory attacks by Tehran on key energy infrastructure across Gulf nations. Despite intensifying hostilities, President Donald Trump stated that no US ground troops will be deployed. Global concerns are mounting over energy security and maritime safety, especially around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. (PC: HT)

A US F-35 stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing at a military base in the Middle East after reportedly coming under Iranian fire during a combat mission over Iran. The pilot is safe and in stable condition, while the extent of damage to the aircraft remains unclear. US officials have confirmed the incident and launched an investigation, though details are limited. Reports suggest this could be one of the first instances of Iran successfully striking an advanced US fighter jet, highlighting rising risks and intensifying tensions in the ongoing conflict. (PC: NDTV)

European nations—Britain, France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands—along with Japan have pledged to help ensure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz following escalating tensions. In a joint statement, they strongly condemned Iran’s attacks on commercial ships and energy infrastructure, warning of severe disruptions to global oil and gas supplies. The countries expressed readiness to support coordinated maritime security efforts and stabilise energy markets. Iran’s actions, including drone and missile strikes, have significantly reduced shipping traffic, leaving vessels stranded and triggering supply concerns worldwide, including in India. (PC: X)

Russia warned the United States and Israel against striking the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in Iran, citing catastrophic radiation risks. Alexei Likhachev said any major incident would impact multiple countries, noting large quantities of nuclear material at the site. Rosatom has begun evacuating staff, leaving minimal personnel. A recent strike hit near the reactor but caused no damage or injuries, while the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed limited impact. Moscow condemned the attack, warning of regional disaster if escalation continues around critical nuclear infrastructure. (PC: Reuters)

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it struck oil refineries in Haifa and Ashdod amid escalating conflict with Israel. Reports confirm a missile attack hit Haifa’s refinery, causing limited damage and temporary disruptions but no casualties, with operations largely continuing. Shrapnel impact and smoke were also reported at the site. The strikes are part of Iran’s retaliation after Israeli attacks on its energy infrastructure, marking a widening focus on critical oil and gas facilities. The escalation heightens risks to regional energy security and adds pressure on already volatile global oil markets. (PC: Reuters)

Five European nations United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Netherlands along with Japan pledged coordinated action to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions involving Iran. In a joint statement, they condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure, warning of severe global energy disruptions. The crisis has halted shipping traffic, stranded vessels and triggered supply shortages in several countries, including India. The group also plans to work with energy producers to boost output and stabilise markets, urging Iran to halt attacks threatening global trade and security. (PC: Reuters)