On the 26th day of the war, the White House warned that if Iran does not accept an end to the conflict, it will face a stronger response from the United States. A White House spokesperson emphasized that if “miscalculation” continues, more intense attacks will be carried out. U.S. officials have claimed that a significant portion of Iran’s military capabilities, including its air force, navy, and air defense systems, has been weakened. In response, Iran has continued missile and drone attacks and, by restricting passage through the Strait of Hormuz, has exerted counter-pressure on the energy market. Nevertheless, negotiations are still ongoing and have been described as “constructive.”

Day 25 of Iran War: Senior Tehran-Back Militia Commander Killed in Iraq

Iran’s regime has not accepted the 15-point U.S. proposal and has announced conditions for ending the war, including a halt to attacks, guarantees against the recurrence of war, payment of reparations, implementation of the agreement across all regional fronts, and recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, review of this proposal is still ongoing.

The war has had a widespread impact on the energy market, and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have caused a fuel crisis in countries such as India, with long lines forming at gas stations and some areas facing fuel shortages.

At the regional level, warnings have been issued that if U.S. attacks expand, a new front could open in the Bab al-Mandeb strait and attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea could resume. At the same time, reports have emerged about the deployment of additional U.S. forces, including units from the 82nd Airborne Division, although no decision has been announced regarding the deployment of ground troops.

At the global level, warnings have been raised about the economic consequences of the war. Rising energy prices and disruptions in supply chains have reduced industrial production in some countries, and there are even concerns about shortages of chemical fertilizers and threats to food security in the coming months.

On the diplomatic front, efforts are underway to end the war, and some countries view a cessation of hostilities as a way to control the energy crisis. Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Council has condemned Iran’s attacks on Persian Gulf countries and called for compensation for damages. In Europe, discussions have also been raised about forming a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

On the battlefield, attacks continue, and it has been reported that Israel has targeted a submarine development center in Isfahan, a major city in central Iran. These strikes have been described as part of a broader operation against Iran’s military infrastructure. The simultaneity of U.S. threats, ongoing attacks, and diplomatic movements indicates that the war has reached a sensitive stage where both escalation and negotiation remain possible paths.

Reports also indicate that the United States has presented a 15-point plan to end the war, which includes the complete halt of Iran’s nuclear program, ending support for regional groups, and guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The plan also includes a temporary ceasefire of about one month and even proposes the shutdown of key facilities such as Natanz, Fordow, and the Isfahan nuclear center. However, Iran has rejected direct negotiations, although indirect consultations continue.

Iran has announced that only ships deemed “non-hostile” and coordinated with it will be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and vessels linked to countries involved in the attacks are excluded from this rule.

In another development, it has been reported that Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, supports the continuation of the war and sees it as an opportunity to reshape the regional order. This reflects differing approaches regarding whether to end or continue the conflict.

Inside Iran, security measures have significantly increased, with thousands of checkpoints, widespread patrols, and the deployment of tens of thousands of police forces across the country.

In the region, attacks have also continued, including a drone strike on Kuwait Airport that caused a fire in a fuel tank and disrupted flights. At the same time, reports have emerged of strikes on targets in Tehran, the capital of Iran, and other cities such as Shiraz, Karaj, and Qazvin. The United States has also claimed that it has struck thousands of military targets in Iran and reduced the country’s combat capabilities.

On Tuesday, March 24, the war between the Iranian regime and the United States and Israel entered its 25th day. Regional developments, alongside the ongoing clashes between Iran and the United States and Israel, have taken on new dimensions, and in recent days a series of military, cyber, and political events have intensified tensions.

In the latest development, Reuters news agency reported that Amazon announced a disruption at one of its cloud service centers in Bahrain, caused by a drone attack. An Amazon spokesperson confirmed the attack but did not provide details on the extent of the damage, stating that services are being transferred to alternative centers to mitigate the impact. This is considered the second attack on Bahrain’s digital infrastructure since the start of the conflict.

Time to Correct the West’s Historic Mistake on Iran

At the same time, reports emerged of several heavy explosions in Bahrain. Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported that authorities in the country have asked citizens to seek shelter for safety. Bahrain, due to hosting the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, has in recent weeks become one of the sensitive points in this conflict.

The German government called for an immediate halt to attacks by Iran. A spokesperson for the German government, referring to discussions between German officials and U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasized that Berlin, together with its partners, is seeking an unconditional end to escalatory actions. He also warned about threats to freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, describing them as a violation of international law. At the same time, Germany announced that it will not participate in military operations to reopen this route while the conflict continues but will be ready to play a role afterward.

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported that European countries, contrary to their official positions, are playing a broad support role in military operations against Iran. According to the report, military bases across various European countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy, have become key centers for refueling, equipping, and directing operations. Among them, Ramstein Air Base in Germany has been identified as one of the main hubs for coordinating attacks.

In western Iraq, a base belonging to Hashd al-Shaabi, a paramilitary group affiliated with the Iranian regime, was targeted in an airstrike, resulting in at least six people, including a senior commander, and 15 injured. This group, described as one of Iran’s tools of regional influence, has in recent months been involved in attacks against U.S. bases.

In this context, the U.S. Department of State announced the creation of a new body called the Office of Emerging Threats, tasked with countering complex threats, particularly in cyber and advanced technology domains. U.S. officials have emphasized that Iran, along with countries such as China, Russia, and North Korea, is a primary focus of this new structure.

These developments come as analysts say that the increase in cyberattacks, military operations, and diplomatic movements indicates that the conflict has entered a more complex phase—one that has significantly impacted not only the military sphere but also critical infrastructure, cyberspace, and the geopolitical balance of the region.

On Monday, March 23, 2026, the war entered its twenty-fourth day, and concerns about its future increased. Attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure and reciprocal threats against regional infrastructure have become a widespread concern.

Donald Trump stated that the talks have been “constructive” and that Tehran seeks an agreement, adding that a deal could be reached within a few days. He also announced a conditional five-day delay in attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure and emphasized that negotiations are ongoing.

This decision led to a drop in oil and gas prices; U.S. oil fell to about 89 dollars and Brent crude approached 100 dollars. Analysts attribute this decline to reduced tensions.

Trump also claimed that “regime change in Iran has effectively already happened” and, referring to the killing of some officials, spoke of changes in the power structure and the possibility of a model similar to Venezuela. He once again emphasized “peace through strength.”

In contrast, the Israeli military announced the start of a new wave of attacks on Tehran and related infrastructure and stated that it had targeted a force affiliated with the IRGC Quds Force in Beirut.

A report by The Washington Post indicates the uncertain status and isolation of Mojtaba Khamenei, described as the new leader of Iran’s regime and the son of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, and reports that he has been injured.

Overall, alongside the intensification of military clashes, signs of diplomatic activity are also visible. However, Iran’s regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have denied negotiations, and the situation remains complex and unclear. Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan are mediating between Tehran and Washington and have exchanged messages between the two sides. Sources report progress in this process.

Reiterating “peace through strength,” Trump warned that if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours, Iran’s power plants will be targeted. In response, the armed forces of Iran’s regime threatened retaliation.

The U.S. Department of State warned its citizens worldwide about flight disruptions and threats to American interests and is facilitating the evacuation of nationals from high-risk areas.

Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia group in Iraq, extended the suspension of attacks on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad for five days but warned it would respond if targeted.

Reports indicate widespread airstrikes on Tehran (districts one, four, 11, 13, and 21) as well as the cities of Tabriz, Khorramabad, Yazd, and Karaj, along with heavy explosions and the activation of air defense systems.

Iran’s missile and drone attacks against Israel and regional countries continue, while Gulf states report intercepting threats. In Jordan, the passage of a missile has been reported, and the release of images showing missile launches in Mashhad has sparked reactions.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Iran’s destabilizing capability has decreased and that 22 countries have coordinated to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the president of the United Arab Emirates, said Iran’s attacks carry geopolitical consequences and added that these actions have strengthened security cooperation between Gulf countries and the United States.

Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and described it as vital for energy market stability.

Gulf countries warned the United States that attacks on Iran’s infrastructure could trigger retaliatory responses and threaten regional facilities.

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Iran’s attacks, expressed support for Saudi Arabia, and emphasized the security of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. officials stated that all options, including strikes on nuclear facilities, remain on the table and that operations against Iranian fortifications in the Strait of Hormuz are ongoing.

Reports of explosions in Tehran, Isfahan, and Khorramabad have been published, but independent verification is difficult due to media restrictions.

Lebanon’s prime minister stated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is directing Hezbollah’s operations and that Lebanon has been drawn into an unwanted war.

As the war between the United States and Iran’s regime has entered an unprecedented phase, Trump stated in a message that if the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened without threat within 48 hours, the United States will target Iran’s power plants with military strikes. This explicit threat is considered one of Washington’s most severe official positions in recent weeks. The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital energy transit routes, is currently facing serious disruption in ship traffic, and much of the shipping through it has effectively been halted.

22nd Day of the War; The United Nations Security Council Has Ordered the Reopening of Strait of Hormuz

According to reports, the main potential targets if this threat is carried out would be Iran’s major power plants, including the Damavand power plant near Tehran, the Kerman power plant, and the Ramin power plant in Khuzestan province in southwestern Iran. The Bushehr nuclear power plant, located along the Persian Gulf, is also considered one of the country’s key energy infrastructures. This threat comes as more than 20 countries around the world have called for ensuring the security of shipping through this vital route and have condemned Iran’s move to close the waterway.

A report published by Axios, a U.S.-based news website, indicates that the Trump administration has begun preliminary discussions about initiating peace negotiations with Iran. Figures such as Jared Kushner, former senior advisor to Trump, and Steve Witkoff, a businessman involved in diplomatic efforts, are playing roles in this process. These individuals have previously participated in negotiations between the two sides.

According to the report, the main U.S. conditions for any agreement include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a complete halt to uranium enrichment, limiting Iran’s missile program, and imposing strict international oversight on Iran’s nuclear activities. It has also been proposed that Iran dismantle damaged reactors at facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow—key sites in the country’s nuclear program—and commit to regional arms control agreements.

In contrast, Iran’s regime has called for an immediate ceasefire, guarantees to prevent a recurrence of conflict, and compensation. However, reports indicate that no direct contact has yet been established between Tehran and Washington, and mediating countries such as Egypt, Qatar, and the United Kingdom are attempting to facilitate the process.

In a rare move, Saudi Arabia declared four diplomats of Iran’s regime, including a military attaché, persona non grata and gave them 24 hours to leave the country. This decision followed recent attacks on energy facilities and U.S. military bases on Saudi soil.

A British maritime monitoring organization has reported an explosion near a cargo ship in the waters of the United Arab Emirates. The incident, which occurred near Sharjah, caused no casualties but has increased concerns about maritime security in the region.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia announced that three ballistic missiles were launched toward Riyadh; one was intercepted, and the other two fell in uninhabited areas. Additionally, five attacking drones were destroyed by the country’s defense systems. In another development, a Qatari military helicopter crashed in regional waters, and search operations for its occupants are ongoing.

Inside Iran, numerous reports have emerged of explosions in various cities. Tehran, Karaj (near the capital), Shiraz in the south, Ahvaz in Khuzestan province, and several other cities have witnessed attacks and explosions which, according to local sources, occurred in some non-residential areas. However, in certain regions such as Ramsar (a city on the Caspian Sea coast) and Gilan province in northern Iran, there have also been reports of casualties.

In Khuzestan province, several explosions have also been reported, which local officials say mostly occurred in uninhabited areas. At the same time, there are reports of damage to some buildings in Andimeshk and other locations. Attacks have also been reported in Yazd and Kerman provinces, targeting areas outside urban centers.

Despite the scale of these reports, widespread internet shutdowns in Iran have made access to independent information and verification of news extremely difficult. Many reports on social media have not yet been independently confirmed, and official sources are providing limited information.

In response to U.S. threats, the spokesperson for the foreign ministry of Iran’s regime stated that expecting restraint from a country under attack is meaningless. Military officials also warned that if Iran’s energy infrastructure is targeted, U.S. interests and facilities, along with those of its allies in the region, will be subjected to retaliatory attacks.

On Saturday, March 21, on the 22nd day of the war, and following escalating military and security tensions in the Middle East, a series of political and military developments occurred at the international level, including at the United Nations Security Council, indicating the expansion of the crisis and growing concerns about energy security and regional stability.

The Security Council’s order to reopen the Strait of Hormuz

Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, announced that the Security Council has ordered the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in response to escalating conflicts. After meeting with European Union leaders in Brussels, he warned that continuation of this situation could push the crisis out of control. Referring to the global consequences of the closure of this vital passage, Guterres emphasized that it would place widespread pressure on people around the world. He also called for a halt to attacks by the United States and Israel and an end to the Iranian regime’s military actions against countries in the region and warned about targeting energy infrastructure—an act that, according to him, could constitute a war crime.

Ten-million-dollar reward for information on IRGC commanders

The U.S. Department of State, continuing its maximum pressure policy, has announced rewards of up to 10 million dollars for information on senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Iranian regime’s main military force. This action is part of the Rewards for Justice program and includes key individuals in military, intelligence, and cyber sectors. The statement emphasized that these individuals have played roles in designing and executing regional and international operations. It also noted that those who provide information may receive, in addition to financial rewards, assistance in relocating. This measure continues a trend that has previously targeted other senior officials.

According to this announcement, rewards of up to 10 million dollars have been set for information on Ahmad Vahidi, Ali Abdollahi, Saeed Aghajani, Hamidreza Lashgarian, and Majid Khademi—individuals active in various branches of the IRGC, including aerospace, cyber, and intelligence sectors.

Continuation of retaliatory attacks and regional threats

In the early hours of the Iranian New Year, reports emerged of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on cities such as Tehran, Karaj, and Isfahan. At the same time, the IRGC announced the start of a new round of missile attacks against Israel. In another development, this military body threatened to target the city of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates and urged residents to leave the area. These threats come as tensions are increasingly spreading to other countries in the region.

The United States’ dual stance on continuing the war

Donald Trump stated that Washington is considering a gradual reduction of military operations, but at the same time emphasized that it has no interest in establishing a ceasefire. He claimed that much of the Iranian regime’s military capability has been destroyed and that key U.S. objectives—such as weakening missile capabilities and preventing access to nuclear weapons—are close to being achieved. Trump also stressed full alignment with Israel, stating that both sides seek total victory.

The United Kingdom’s alignment and reactions of Western allies

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reversing his previous position, authorized the United States to use British military bases to strike targets related to the Strait of Hormuz. This decision was made following attacks by the Iranian regime on the interests of London’s allies. However, the British government has still emphasized the need to reduce tensions. At the same time, several European countries, along with Japan and Canada, issued a joint statement condemning attacks on commercial vessels and expressing readiness to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Overall, these developments indicate that the current crisis has entered a sensitive and complex phase—one in which efforts to contain the conflict are being pursued simultaneously with escalating military actions by various actors, leaving its future uncertain.

On Friday, March 20, coinciding with Nowruz (the Persian New Year) in Iran, and on the twenty-first day of the war, political, military, and security developments continued at a rapid pace. A combination of international positions, military attacks, and domestic consequences presented a complex picture of the ongoing situation.

Donald Trump, the President of the United States, stated in a sharp tone that no effective leadership remains in Iran with whom negotiations would be possible. These remarks were made as U.S. and Israeli attacks on targets linked to the Iranian regime continued, indicating a diminishing prospect for a diplomatic solution under current conditions.

At the same time, Mai Sato, a United Nations human rights expert, emphasized that the human rights crisis in Iran is deeply rooted and not limited to the recent war. According to her, this crisis will persist even after the conflict ends, further intensifying international concerns about Iran’s internal situation.

Mai Sato: The Human Rights Crisis in Iran Is Not Limited to the War

Reports indicate that several officials and commanders associated with the Iranian regime’s military structure have been killed. Among them, the deaths of Esmail Ahmadi, a Basij commander (a paramilitary force under the IRGC), and Gholamreza Soleimani have been confirmed. In addition, the death of Ali-Mohammad Naeini, spokesperson for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has also been announced.

At the same time, the scope of the conflict has expanded to a regional level. Drone and missile attacks on Persian Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, have been reported, and these countries are working to counter these threats. In this context, attacks on Fujairah port in the UAE and the Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery in Kuwait caused fires and disruptions in energy operations. Qatar also reported several billion dollars in damage to the Ras Laffan gas facilities, one of the world’s most important centers for liquefied natural gas production.

Efforts to control the economic consequences of the war are also ongoing. A report published by The Wall Street Journal, a major U.S. newspaper, indicates that the United States and its allies have intensified operations to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. This move aims to prevent disruptions in global energy flows and to secure one of the most vital oil transit routes in the world.

The U.S. Department of Justice announced the seizure of four websites linked to the Iranian regime’s intelligence entities. This action was taken as part of efforts to counter cyberattacks and threatening activities against opponents. There are also reports of arrests of individuals connected to networks affiliated with the Iranian regime in several Persian Gulf countries, reflecting growing concerns about the cross-border activities of these networks.

Inside Iran, the situation—especially in terms of communications and social conditions—is critical. A report by NetBlocks, an organization that monitors internet access worldwide, shows that the widespread internet shutdown has entered its twenty-first day, placing the country in a state of “digital darkness.” This situation, coinciding with the Iranian New Year, has heightened concerns. Additionally, multiple reports indicate a rising wave of arrests across various cities. Observers say these measures are being taken in response to fears of expanding public protests and the potential emergence of new uprisings.

The state security apparatus of the United Arab Emirates announced the identification and dismantling of an organized network which, according to officials, was involved in money laundering and terrorism financing and had ties to Lebanon’s Hezbollah and the Iranian regime. According to the UAE’s official news agency, members of this network—who operated under the cover of commercial companies—have been arrested. UAE security officials emphasized that the group, with foreign direction and support, had attempted to infiltrate the country’s economic structure and target financial stability. Such actions, they stated, constitute a direct threat to national security and will be met with a decisive response.

Meanwhile, another report on developments along the Iran–Turkey border indicates that the Iranian regime has imposed restrictions on citizens leaving for Turkey. According to Turkish officials, since the beginning of the conflict, the number of Iranians entering Turkey has significantly decreased to about one-quarter to one-third of previous levels. Turkey’s Interior Minister stated that while Turkish citizens can enter Iran without obstacles, Iranians face restrictions when attempting to leave.

In another development, continuing military attacks inside Iran have reportedly resulted in the deaths of 13 Basij forces during an attack on a checkpoint in the Qaramalek area of Tabriz. According to regime sources, the attack—caused by the impact of a projectile—also injured 18 individuals. In a separate attack at the entrance of Malekan County (in East Azerbaijan Province), one military personnel and one civilian were killed, and three others were wounded.