Oil prices climbed on Thursday morning to $103 a barrel after Iran said it was still reviewing a US proposal to end the war, which has disrupted energy flows.
US president Donald Trump last night said Iranian leaders are negotiating with Washington but were afraid to admit due to fears of being “killed by their own people”. “...they want to make a deal so badly,” Mr Trump said.
Mr Trump’s 15-point proposal, sent through Pakistan, calls for removing Iran’s stocks of highly enriched uranium, halting enrichment, curbing its ballistic missile program, and cutting off funding for regional allies, according to three Israeli cabinet sources familiar with the plan.
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said messages had been exchanged via mediators, but this “does not mean negotiations” with the US were ongoing. He said Tehran had demanded a permanent end to the war and compensation for all destruction during the conflict.
Meanwhile, the US has confirmed the deployment of troops to the Middle East after Iran reportedly sent back the “excessive” demands of Mr Trump’s peace plan.
Key Points
- Leavitt refuses to confirm 15 point plan allegedly rejected by Iran
- Oil prices rise to $103 a barrel
- Trump: Iran wants to 'make a deal so badly'
- Iran rejects US plan to suspend fighting
- Israel launches heavy strikes on Isfahan
Japan begins release of oil reserves
05:30 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarJapan has begun releasing another portion of its strategic oil reserves as it seeks to cushion the impact of surging prices driven by the war in Iran.
“The release [of the national stockpile] started at 10.59am local time to oil refiners,” Kaname Morimoto, an official of the ministry of economy, trade and industry, told AFP news agency.
Japan is the world’s fifth-largest oil importer, sourcing more than 90 per cent of its crude from the Middle East.
China sees 'glimmer of hope'
05:15 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarChina’s top diplomat says Beijing sees a “glimmer of hope” for peace in the Middle East due to efforts being made to stop the war.
The Trump administration has sent Tehran a 15-point peace plan but warned it would “unleash hell” if the Islamic Republic refuses to accept.
China, an Iran ally which has been largely on the sidelines of the conflict, urged dialogue between Tehran and the Washington."With both the United States and Iran signalling a willingness to negotiate, a glimmer of hope for peace has emerged,” Wang Yi told Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty.
The statement came hours before Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said no negotiations had taken place so far, adding that Tehran’s position remained “completely principled".
White House staffers ‘baffled’ over Trump claiming Iran gave him a prize
05:10 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarWhite House staffers were reportedly left “baffled” by President Donald Trump’s claim Tuesday that he had received a gift from Iran, about which he then refused to disclose anything further.
“They’re gonna make a deal,” the president said of Tehran in the Oval Office as he swore in Markwayne Mullin as his new Homeland Security secretary, replacing Kristi Noem.
“They did something yesterday that was amazing, actually. They gave us a present and the present arrived today. It was a very big present, worth a tremendous amount of money,” he added. “I’m not going to tell you what that present is, but it was a very significant prize, and they gave it to us.”
More here.
White House staffers ‘baffled’ over Trump’s claim Iran gave him a mystery gift
Israel launches heavy strikes on Isfahan
04:59 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarActivists in Iran reported heavy strikes early this morning around Isfahan, a city some 330km south of Iran’s capital, Tehran.
The pro-reform newspaper Ham Mihan reported online about strikes in the area.Isfahan is home to a major Iranian air base and other military sites, as well as one of the nuclear sites bombed by the United States during the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June.
The semiofficial Fars news agency, close to the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, described the attacks as targeting “two residential areas,” without elaborating.
Earlier, Israel’s military said it had completed “a wide-scale wave of strikes” across Iran, including in Isfahan.
Russia sending drones to Iran - report
04:40 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarIran is about to receive a phased shipment of drones, medicine and food from Russia, the Financial Times reported, citing western intelligence reports.
Iranian and Russian officials began holding secret talks on supplying drones within days of US and Israeli strikes on Tehran last month, the report said.
Preparations for the deliveries started in early March and were expected to be completed by the end of the month.
Moscow has reportedly provided its ally with critical support, including satellite imagery, targeting data and wider intelligence assistance, according to people familiar with the matter.
More here.
Russia sending drones to Iran to help war effort, western intelligence says
Oil prices rise to $103 a barrel
04:38 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarOil prices climbed this morning, recovering some of the previous day's losses as investors reexamined prospects for de-escalation in the Middle East as Iran said it was still reviewing a US proposal to end the war, which has disrupted energy flows.
Brent futures rose $1.13, or 1.1 per cent, to $103.35 a barrel by, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were up $1.08, or 1.2 per cent, at $91.40 a barrel.
Both benchmarks slumped more than 2 per cent yesterday. Despite reviewing the proposal, Iran has no intention of holding talks to end the widening Middle East conflict, the country's foreign minister said.
Korea's Lee calls for electricity saving amid fuel price increases
04:20 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarSouth Korean president Lee Jae Myung this morning urged the public to conserve electricity, warning that rising fuel prices could drive increased demand for power, as electricity rates remain relatively stable under government-controlled tariffs.
Mr Lee was holding an emergency economic meeting to address the fallout of the Iran war on Asia’s fourth-largest economy, which relies almost entirely on energy imports.
US military shares photos of USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier
04:00 , Rachel DobkinUSS Abraham Lincoln continues flight operations against military targets in Iran while sailing in regional waters. pic.twitter.com/GsLQKNaTbN
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 26, 2026
UK to reopen Co2 plant amid fears of Iran-linked shortage
03:45 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarA mothballed carbon dioxide plant is to be reopened with a government grant of up to £100m amid fears of shortages caused by the Iran war.
Business secretary Peter Kyle signed off the grant to reopen the Ensus plant on Teesside, according to the Financial Times.
It is understood the grant will pay to get the plant up and running again for an initial three-month period.
The plant was mothballed last year after a trade deal with the US cut tariffs on bioethanol, its main product.
It will be reopened due to its ability to produce CO2 as a by-product. The gas is vital for several sectors, including drinks and the nuclear industry, but supply has been disrupted thanks to soaring energy costs on other sources such as fertiliser factories.
The grant for the Ensus plant is the first major intervention by the UK government aimed at tackling possible shortages caused by the Iran conflict.
But fears range much wider than CO2, with former BP executive Nick Butler telling Times Radio the UK could face oil and gas shortages in two to three weeks.
He said: "There will be shortages and I think the Government now should be seriously planning how they're going to handle that and part of that is maximising supply."
ANALYSIS: House Speaker Mike Johnson still says US isn’t at war with Iran — troop deployments be damned
03:30 , Bryony GoochIt may not have the official title, but US President Donald Trump’s military venture in Iran is beginning to have all the trappings of a capital-W war.
On Tuesday evening, news reports emerged that the Pentagon will dispatch members of the US Army’s 82nd Airborne. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned that Trump was prepared to “unleash hell” if Tehran did not come to the negotiating table.
Just don’t tell that to US House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Republicans. The same night, the US Senate voted down another War Powers Act resolution to force Congress to rein in the Trump administration on Iran.
On Wednesday, Johnson was less than forthcoming about it.
“The build up of troops is very different than boots on the ground”, Johnson told The Independent at his weekly press conference. “We don't have boots on the ground. I don't think that's the intention, but I think Iran should watch that build up, and they need to take note of that”.
Read more from Eric Garcia...
House speaker still says US isn’t at war with Iran — troop deployments be damned
Trump says Iran wants peace deal 'badly'
03:21 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarUS president Donald Trump last night said Iranian leaders wanted a peace deal and were negotiating with Washington.
Iranian is "negotiating, by the way, and they want to make a deal so badly, but they’re afraid to say it because they will be killed by their own people. They’re also afraid they’ll be killed by us," he said.
Mr Trump’s 15-point proposal, sent through Pakistan, calls for removing Iran’s stocks of highly enriched uranium, halting enrichment, curbing its ballistic missile program, and cutting off funding for regional allies, according to three Israeli cabinet sources familiar with the plan.
The White House declined to disclose specifics of its proposal and warned it could escalate its strikes.
Trump's former adviser doesn't think Iran will 'negotiate with any seriousness'
03:00 , Rachel DobkinJohn Bolton, US President Donald Trump's former national security adviser, has said he doesn't think Iran will “negotiate with any seriousness” an end to the war.
“I think the correct objective is to overthrow the regime. I don’t think it’s going to negotiate with any seriousness at all. I don’t think that’s what they want, and I don’t think that there’s anybody in this regime with whom we can negotiate”, Bolton told CNN.
PICTURED: IDF soldiers rest on a tank near the Israeli side of the border with Lebanon
02:30 , Bryony Gooch
CENTCOM gives update on 'Operation Epic Fury'
02:00 , Rachel DobkinUS Central Command shared an update Wednesday on it’s miilitary campaign against Iran, which it has dubbed “Operation Epic Fury.”
The war began more than three weeks ago. Here are some fast facts about the US military’s actions in the region:
- US forces struck more than 10,000 military targets.
- The military destroyed 92 percent of the Iranian Navy’s largest vessels.
- Iran’s drone and missile launch rates are down by more than 90 percent.
- US forces damaged or destroyed over two-thirds of Iran’s missile, drone and naval production facilities and shipyards.
Benjamin Netanyahu's adviser skeptical about Iran wanting peace deal
01:30 , Rachel DobkinOphir Falk, foreign policy adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, remains skeptical about Iran wanting a peace deal.
“Well, Iran always lies. We’ve learned that they always lie,” Falk told CNN.
Iran’s foreign minister said on state-run TV that Tehran has “no intention” of holding direct talks with the US.
Abbas Araghchi said while messages had been exchanged through mediators, it “does not mean negotiations” with the US were ongoing.
WATCH: Starmer promises to go 'further and faster' on renewable energy amid Iran conflict
01:00 , Bryony GoochTrump says high oil prices ‘didn’t matter’ in decision to strike Iran
00:43 , Rachel DobkinUS President Donald Trump has said high oil prices “didn’t matter” to him in the decision to begin striking Iran more than three weeks ago.
“I thought it would be much worse. I thought that the energy prices, oil prices would go up higher. I thought the stock market would go somewhat lower, but it didn't matter to me.
“Short term, what we had to do is get rid of the cancer. We had to cut out the cancer. The cancer was Iran with a nuclear weapon, and we've cut it out”, Trump said during a speech Wednesday night local time.
ANALYSIS: Iran is the winner as Trump’s desperate bid for peace shows he wants out of the war
00:30 , Bryony GoochDetermined to humiliate US President Donald Trump’s efforts to extract his country from a war he started, Tehran launched waves of attacks across the Arabian Gulf and sneered at his peaceful overtures.
No matter that a 15-point plan has been put forward by the US and Pakistan has said it hopes to host direct talks between the US and Iran sometime this week, Iran’s securocrats have seen an opportunity. Trump wants to get out of the conflict that Israel does not believe has achieved its aims.
Iran’s regime has fomented instability across the Middle East for decades. It has killed Americans and many other Westerners, run Hezbollah in Lebanon, and backed Hamas in Gaza.
And yet the global perspective is that the war, which is already hobbling global fuel supplies and will have far greater economic consequences, is all the fault of America and Israel.
Read more from Sam Kiley...
Iran’s the clear winner as Trump’s desperate bid for peace shows he wants out of war
Trump says US is 'decimating' Iran
00:05 , Rachel DobkinPresident Donald Trump said during a speech Wednesday night local time the US is “decimating” Iran.
“They've got no Navy, they've got no anything”, Trump said.
Lebanon 'must be included in truce deal', says Tehran
Wednesday 25 March 2026 23:59 , Jane DaltonIran has told intermediaries that Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire agreement with the United States and Israel, sources have said, linking an end of the war with a halt to Israel's offensive on Hezbollah.
Iran's Press TV cited an Iranian official as saying Tehran wanted any deal to secure an end to the war both on Iran and other "resistance groups" in the region.
The six regional sources said Tehran had informed mediators as early as mid-March that it sought a deal that would also stop Israel's attacks on Hezbollah.
The Lebanese armed group opened fire on Israel on March 2 in solidarity with Tehran, triggering an Israeli air and ground campaign in Lebanon.
Trump: Iran wants to 'make a deal so badly'
Wednesday 25 March 2026 23:49 , Bryony GoochDonald Trump has said that Iran wants to make a deal “so badly” but fears being killed by their own people and by the United States.
“We settled eight wars people sort of forget, and we're winning another one. I tell you, we're winning so big. Nobody has ever seen anything like we're doing in the Middle East with Iran.
“And they are negotiating, by the way, and they want to make a deal so badly, but they're afraid to say it, because they figure they'll be killed by their own people.
“They're also afraid they'll be killed by us.There's never been head of a country that wanted that job less than being the head of Iran.”
He went on that nobody wants to be the supreme leader of Iran.
“I don't want it.”
White House’s Leavitt testily denies existence of 15-point Iran ceasefire plan that Trump touted just days ago
Wednesday 25 March 2026 23:00 , Bryony Gooch
White House denies existence of 15-point Iran ceasefire plan touted by Trump days ago
Russia sought to blackmail US by offering to stop sharing intelligence with Iran, says Zelensky
Wednesday 25 March 2026 22:00 , Bryony GoochRussia sought to blackmail the United States by offering to stop sharing military intelligence with Iran if, in return, Washington would cut off Ukraine from its intelligence data, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday.
Zelensky, who said on Monday that Ukraine's military intelligence has "irrefutable" evidence that Russia is continuing to provide intelligence to Iran, told Reuters he had seen the data but provided no further details.
Widower of US soldier killed by Iranian missiles shares desperate final text he sent her
Wednesday 25 March 2026 21:45 , Bryony Gooch
Widower of US soldier killed by Iranian fire shares desperate final text he sent her
IMF running scenarios on which nations may need aid due to Iran war - Bloomberg News
Wednesday 25 March 2026 21:30 , Bryony GoochThe International Monetary Fund is running scenarios on countries to gauge which economies could be in need of fresh financing if the Iran war drags on, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
The IMF has asked country desks at the IMF to share their analysis on areas from current account status to potential funding needs, the report said, adding the assessment is focused on nations with active financing programs.
Watch: Leavitt says WH 'never confirmed' the 15-point peace plan Trump revealed
Wednesday 25 March 2026 21:15 , Bryony GoochIran official describes control of Strait of Hormuz as a counter sanction against the US
Wednesday 25 March 2026 21:00 , Bryony GoochThe Mayor of Tehran has described Iran’s current closure and control of the Strait of Hormuz as a “new sanction framework” against the US and allies.
He said: “Rather than bargaining to lift sanctions, we’re focused on shaping a new sanction framework against the US and its allies in the Strait of Hormuz.
“Lifting US unilateral sanctions doesn’t need a negotiation table, our missiles have already delivered results.”
Rather than bargaining to lift sanctions, we’re focused on shaping a new sanction framework against the US and its allies in the Strait of Hormuz.
— AliReza Zakani | علیرضا زاکانی (@arzakani4) March 25, 2026
Lifting US unilateral sanctions doesn’t need a negotiation table, our missiles have already delivered results.
Trump 'vetoed Netanyahu call for Iranian uprising'
Wednesday 25 March 2026 20:45 , Jane DaltonIsraeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu wanted to call on Iranians to flood the streets to protest against their government last week, but President Trump told him it was too risky, it’s been reported.
"Why the hell should we tell people to take to the streets when they'll just get mowed down," Mr Trump told Mr Netanyahu during their call, according to Axios, which cited a US source.
In January, Mr Trump urged protesters in Iran to keep going, and promised that “help” was on its way but has not encouraged street protests during the war.
Iran rejects US plan to suspend fighting
Wednesday 25 March 2026 20:11 , Jane DaltonIran has dismissed an American plan to suspend the war, and launched more attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab countries.
They included an assault that sparked a huge fire at Kuwait International Airport.
Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi told state television that his government had not engaged in talks to end the war, "and we do not plan on any negotiations".
Iranian state TV's English-language broadcaster had quoted an anonymous official as saying Iran rejected America's ceasefire proposal and has its own demands for an end to the fighting.
The ‘zombie’ ships appearing in the Strait of Hormuz after they were scrapped for parts
Wednesday 25 March 2026 20:00 , Bryony Gooch
‘Zombie’ ships appear in the Strait of Hormuz after they were scrapped for parts
Iran builds up Kharg Island defences – report
Wednesday 25 March 2026 19:50 , Jane DaltonIran has been laying traps and moving military personnel and air defences to Kharg Island in preparation for possible US moves to take control of the island, according to CNN.
Sources told the broadcaster Tehran has been laying traps including anti-personnel and anti-armour mines around the island, including on the shoreline where US troops could potentially stage an amphibious landing.
The Iranians have moved additional shoulder-fired, surface-to-air guided missile systems known as MANPADs there in recent weeks, the sources also said.
The Trump administration has been considering using US troops to seize the tiny island in the Persian Gulf, which is an economic lifeline for Iran that handles most of the country’s crude oil exports.
Watch: Johnson asked how US sending thousands of troops to Iran is not 'US boots on the ground'
Wednesday 25 March 2026 19:00 , Bryony GoochSome Gulf states and Jordan urge Iraq to stop attacks launched from its territory
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:45 , Bryony GoochA joint statement by Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan on Wednesday called on Iraq to take the necessary measures to immediately stop attacks launched against neighbouring countries from Iraqi territory.
The statement said the call comes to preserve "brotherly relations" and avoid further escalations. Since the start of the Israeli-US war on Iran, Iran-backed Iraqi militias have claimed responsibility for attacks on several US bases in the region.
Iran threatens attack on regional country if Iranian island occupied
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:30 , Bryony GoochIran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, said on Wednesday that intelligence suggests "enemies" are planning to occupy an Iranian island with support from a regional country which he did not name.
"Iranian forces are monitoring enemy movements and if they take any step, we will attack vital infrastructure in that regional country in continuous and relentless attacks," he said in a post on X.
Centcom denies reports the IRGC struck a US fighter jet
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:27 , Bryony GoochUS Central Command (CENTCOM) has denied reports from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that a US F/A-18 fighter was struck over Chabahar using new advanced air defence systems.
“No US fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran.”
🚫FALSE: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced a U.S. F/A-18 fighter was struck over Chabahar using new advanced air defense systems.
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 25, 2026
✅TRUE: No U.S. fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran. pic.twitter.com/I25QFjYo0l
Vance has been central to discussions about Iran, White House says
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:20 , Bryony GoochJD Vance has been part of national security discussions related to Iran throughout the entirety of the Trump administration, White House press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Wednesday.
"The vice president has been by the president's side every step of the way, and any reporting otherwise is just completely false," Ms Leavitt told reporters.
Press briefing with Karoline Leavitt finishes. Here are the key points:
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:14 , Bryony GoochAs a media briefing with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt finishes, here are some of the key points she made:
- She said that the US was decimating Iran, echoeing statements already made by the likes of President Trump and defense secretary Pete Hegseth.
- Trump will “unleash hell” on Iran if they are unwilling to negotiate, she added, but she would not confirm exactly who the US was negotiating with in the regime.
- She challenged alleged “misinformation” in the media, especially around news of a US 15 point plan to end the war, which was rejected by the Tehran regime, according to Iranian state media.
Leavitt: Trump will give diplomats 'freedom' to negotiate without litigation through the media
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:05 , Bryony GoochWhite House press secretary Karoline Leavitt refused to give further details about who the US was directly negotiating with in the Iranian regime, amid statements from top Tehran officials that no negotiations were ongoing.
Instead, she said: “President Trump is going to give his diplomats the freedom that they need to have these sensitive diplomatic discussions without negotiating and litigating them through the news media.”
Mike Johnson defends Trump sending 2,000 troops to Middle East as message that Iran needs to ‘get their act together’
Wednesday 25 March 2026 18:00 , Bryony Gooch
Mike Johnson’s message to Iran as US sends 2,000 troops: ‘Get their act together’
Leavitt refuses to confirm 15 point plan allegedly rejected by Iran
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:59 , Bryony GoochResponding to questions about a 15 point plan to end the war allegedly rejected by the US, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has said they never confirmed the 15 point plan.
She said: “Talks continue. They are productive, as the President said on Monday, and they continue to be.
However, I saw a 15 point plan that was floated in the media. I would caution reporters in this room from reporting about speculative points or speculative plans from anonymous sources, the White House never confirmed that full plan.
“There are elements of truth to it, but some of the stories I read were not entirely factual.
“So I am not going to negotiate on behalf of the President here at the podium. What I will tell you is these talks are ongoing.
“We're not going to get into the nitty gritty details that have been exchanged between the United States and Iran at this time.”
Leavitt: Trump will 'unleash hell' on Iran if they don't negotiate
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:52 , Bryony GoochWhite House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has said President Trump will “unleash hell” on Iran if they are unwilling to talk.
She said: “President Trump is willing to listen. As President Trump announced on Monday, the United States has been engaged over the last three days in productive conversations which led the President to temporarily instruct the Department of War to postpone planned strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure.
She said that Iran would have to abandon nuclear ambitions and “ cease actively threatening America” and allies.
“The President's preference is always peace,” she added. “There does not need to be any more death and destruction. But if Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment, if they fail to understand that they have been defeated militarily and will continue to be President Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have ever been hit before.
“President Trump does not bluff and he is prepared to unleash hell. Iran should not miscalculate again. Their last miscalculation cost them their senior leadership, their navy, their air force and their air defense system.
“Any violence beyond this point will be because the Iranian regime refused to understand they have already been defeated and refused to come to a deal here.”
Leavitt: US close to meeting objectives of Operation Epic Fury on time
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:48 , Bryony GoochPress secretary Karoline Leavitt has claimed that the US military is close to meeting the core objectives of Operation Epic Fury, in line with the estimation it would take four to six weeks to achieve.
She says: “For all of these reasons, we are very close to meeting the core objectives of Operation Epic Fury and this military mission continues unabated.
“From the outset, President Trump and the Department of War estimated it would take approximately four to six weeks to achieve this critical mission.
“25 days in, the greatest military the world has ever known is ahead of schedule and performing exceptionally day by day, the Iranian regime is being crippled, and their ability to threaten the United States and our allies is being significantly weakened.
“Their ambitions of building a nuclear weapon have also been crushed to an even greater degree than they were in Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025.”
Leavitt: US military continues to 'decimate' Iran forces
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:46 , Bryony GoochWhite House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the US military continues to “decimate” Iran’s “offensive and defensive capabilities” three weeks into the war.
She says: “It's abundantly clear that operation epic fury has been a resounding military triumph.
“More than 9,000 enemy targets have been struck to date compared to the start of the operation, Iran's ballistic missile attacks and drone attacks are down by roughly 90 per cent.
The United States is also annihilating the Iranian regime's navy. We have destroyed more than 140 of their naval vessels, including almost 50 mine layers. This is the largest elimination of a navy over a three week period since World War Two.”
The Independent has not been able to independently verify Ms Leavitt’s statements.
Trump trip to China announced after delays due to Iran War
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:44 , Bryony GoochWhite House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has announced the long-awaited date President Donald Trump will go to China.
It is believed the visit was delayed after President Trump’s concentration changed to Iran at the end of February.
Ms Leavitt said: “Also, I'm pleased to announce that President Trump's meeting and long awaited meeting with President Xi in China will now take place in Beijing on May 14 and 15th.
“First Lady Melania and President Trump will also host President Xi and Madame pain for a reciprocal visit in Washington, DC at a later date to be announced this year.”
Press briefing with Karoline Leavitt
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:38 , Bryony GoochWe’re waiting on White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt to begin a conference as thousands of US troops head to Iran.
We’ll bring you the latest lines.
Iran could take action in Bab al-Mandab Strait if provoked, Tasnim news agency says
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:30 , Bryony GoochIran could open a new front in the Bab al-Mandab Strait if attacks are carried out on Iranian territory or its islands, Iran's semi-official Tasnim cited an unnamed Iranian military source as saying on Wednesday.
Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group has previously launched attacks in the region where the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait is located.
ADNOC CEO tells US vice president that free passage through Strait of Hormuz only solution to stabilising markets
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:15 , Bryony GoochAbu Dhabi state oil company ADNOC's Group CEO Sultan Al Jaber told US vice president JD Vance on Wednesday that free passage through the Strait of Hormuz was the only durable solution to stabilising global markets.
The US-Israeli war against Iran has all but halted shipments of about one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas through the strait, causing oil supply disruption.
Iran oil insider trader concern after hundreds of millions are wagered minutes before Trump’s ‘peace talks’ post
Wednesday 25 March 2026 17:00 , Bryony Gooch
Concern after traders bet millions on oil minutes before Trump’s peace talks’ post
Israel to expand buffer zone in Lebanon
Wednesday 25 March 2026 16:42 , Bryony GoochIsrael will expand its buffer zone in Lebanon to “distance the threat of Hezbollah” from its settlements.
A statement on X read: “We are expanding this security strip in order to distance the threat of Hezbollah from our settlements and our territory. We're simply creating a larger buffer zone.
“Now, the issue of dismantling Hezbollah is right before our eyes. This matter is also tied to the overall campaign against Iran, which is still in full swing, contrary to what the media reports.”
אנחנו מרחיבים את רצועת הביטחון הזאת כדי להרחיק את האיום של הנ"ט על יישובינו ועל שטחנו. אנחנו פשוט מייצרים אזור חיץ גדול יותר.
— ראש ממשלת ישראל (@IsraeliPM_heb) March 25, 2026
עכשיו סוגיית פירוק החיזבאללה, היא עומדת לנגד עינינו. הדבר הזה קשור גם במערכה הכוללת עם איראן, שהיא עדיין בעיצומה בניגוד למה שמדווח בתקשורת.
In pictures: Iranian missiles hit Israel
Wednesday 25 March 2026 16:29 , Jane Dalton
Bereaved military families blast Trump meme use that 'trivializes sacrifice'
Wednesday 25 March 2026 15:59 , Jane Dalton
Families of fallen soldiers and veterans blast Trump’s use of memes during Iran war
Inside the 82nd Airborne: The US Army division set to deploy in the Middle East
Wednesday 25 March 2026 15:48 , James ReynoldsThe U.S. military is preparing to deploy soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division, a specialised parachute assault force, to the Middle East in the coming days.
The move comes as the Iran war enters its fourth week and as President Donald Trump considers options to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route.
Here’s what to know about 82nd Airborne:
Inside the 82nd Airborne: The US Army division set to deploy in the Middle East
Pentagon confirms deployment of paratroopers to Middle East
Wednesday 25 March 2026 15:32 , James ReynoldsThe Pentagon tells The Independent that the US is planning to deploy paratroopers to the Middle East.
Elements of the 82nd Airborne Division HQs, some division enablers and the 1st Brigade Combat Team will be deploying to Central Command’s area of responsibility.
Trump adviser says amassing of troops shows he's serious about deal
Wednesday 25 March 2026 15:30 , James ReynoldsIranian officials are said to have told mediators that they believe the US sending troops to the region shows Trump is not serious about peace talks.
But a Trump advisor says the reinforcements show Trump is serious - and that’s how he ‘makes a deal’.
“Trump has a hand open for a deal and the other is a fist, waiting to punch you in the f***ing face,” the advisor explained to Axios, on condition of anonymity.
Axios reports that the White House has sent messages to Iran reassuring them that Trump is serious about peace.
US proposal 'not beautiful even on paper', says Iranian diplomat
Wednesday 25 March 2026 15:17 , James ReynoldsA high-ranking diplomatic source tells Al Jazeera that Iran finds the US plan “extremely maximalist and unreasonable”.
“It is not beautiful even on paper,” the source said.
An Israeli minister told the BBC earlier the proposal is "beautiful on paper", but said Iran was “probably” unlikely to agree to it.
Mapped: Strikes across Middle East as war approaches four weeks
Wednesday 25 March 2026 15:00 , James Reynolds
Inside the 82nd Airborne: The US Army division set to deploy in Middle East
Wednesday 25 March 2026 14:45 , Jane DaltonInside the 82nd Airborne: The US Army division set to deploy in the Middle East
Trump receives two-minute highlight reel of war each day: report
Wednesday 25 March 2026 14:34 , James ReynoldsDonald Trump receives a two-minute montage of the biggest and most successful US strikes on Iran each day, according to three current and one former official, raising concerns he may not be getting a full picture of the war.
NBC reports that the highlight reel is not the only briefing Trump receives. But officials said the video briefing in particular was driving concerns Trump was receiving a distorted view of the conflict.
Officials said the videos were driving Trump’s frustration with news reporting on the war.
Official US channels have come under fire in recent weeks for publishing edited clips mixing US attacks and large explosions with video game footage
Iranian assessment of proposal 'not positive': official
Wednesday 25 March 2026 14:28 , James ReynoldsA senior Iranian tells Reuters that Iran’s initial response to the US proposal is ‘not positive’ - but Tehran is still reviewing it.
Iran has reviewed US proposals and considers them excessive, official says
Wednesday 25 March 2026 14:25 , James ReynoldsIran has reviewed a US proposal to end the war and considers its conditions excessive, Iran's Press TV cited an official as saying on Wednesday, saying Tehran will end the war only at a time of its own choosing and if its conditions are met.
Iran demands recognition over its sovereignty over Strait of Hormuz
Wednesday 25 March 2026 14:25 , James ReynoldsIran demands recognition of Tehran's sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, as its "natural, legal right", Iran's Press TV cited an official as saying on Wednesday, after Tehran reviewed a US proposal to end the war and considered its conditions excessive.
UK welcomes reported talks between US and Iran
Wednesday 25 March 2026 14:02 , Jane DaltonDowning Street says it welcomes “any productive talks” between the US and Iran as Britain works to develop a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The prime minister’s official spokesman said reports between the two countries were welcomed and said it supported bringing the conflict to “a swift resolution”.
“We are working closely with international partners to bring security and stability in the region,” they said, adding the UK was working with partners to develop a viable plan to safeguard shipping through the key oil route.
Recap: US negotiating with itself, says Tehran after Trump proposes 15-point peace plan
Wednesday 25 March 2026 13:59 , James ReynoldsIran has ridiculed Donald Trump’s bid to get peace talks back on track, suggesting the US is only “negotiating with itself” amid reports the US has offered Iran a 15-point plan to end the war.
Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari said on Wednesday that “someone like us will never come to terms with someone like you - not now, not ever” as Tehran continued to dismiss Trump’s claims he was actively negotiating peace.
Trump told reporters late on Tuesday that Iran “want to make a deal so badly” and has agreed to “never have a nuclear weapon” as US and Israeli media reported on a rumoured plan to dismantle Iran’s nuclear facilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials apparently believe peace talks are a ruse, however, amid reports the Pentagon has ordered some 2,000 soldiers to the Middle East.
Iran meanwhile said that it has opened the Strait of Hormuz for "non-hostile vessels" so long as they coordinate with the Iranian authorities, offering a lifeline to markets disrupted by the war.
Iranian attacks pose existential threat, Gulf states warn
Wednesday 25 March 2026 13:45 , Jane DaltonGulf Arab states have told the UN Human Rights Council they face an existential threat from Iranian attacks on their infrastructure, which the UN human-rights chief said might constitute war crimes.
The war on Iran has sparked large-scale Iranian retaliation in the form of drone and missile strikes on energy and civilian infrastructure in Gulf countries, killing civilians and driving up oil prices.
"We are seeing an existential threat to international and regional security. This aggressive approach is undermining international law and sovereignty," Kuwait's ambassador Naser Abdullah HM Alhayen told the council.
Other Gulf states said Iran's actions were designed to spread terror. The United Arab Emirates' ambassador Jamal Jama al Musharakh denounced Iran's "attempt to destabilise the international order through reckless adventures of expansionism”.
Countries at the 47-member council adopted a motion condemning Iran's "unprovoked and deliberate" strikes, seeking reparations from Iran and asking the UN to monitor the situation.
Iran defended its actions, saying more than 1,500 civilians had been killed in the US-Israeli strikes so far.
Iran's ambassador to the UN Ali Bahreini, referring to Israel, said: "We fight on behalf of all of you against an enemy that, if not restrained today, will be beyond containment tomorrow."
Pictured: Moment Tel Aviv struck by Iranian missile
Wednesday 25 March 2026 13:32 , James Reynolds
How has Iran responded to reports of a peace plan in the works?
Wednesday 25 March 2026 13:00 , James ReynoldsIranian officials indicate the regime is not considering the US plans for a peace deal.
Ebrahim Zolfaqari, the top spokesperson for Iran’s joint military command, said on Wednesday: "Has the level of your inner struggle reached the stage of you (Trump) negotiating with yourself?"
"People like us can never get along with people like you. As we have always said ... no one like us will make a deal with you. Not now. Not ever."
Iran's leadership has previously said it cannot negotiate with the U.S. as Washington has attacked the country twice during high-level negotiations in the past two years.
Iran had a "very bad experience with American diplomacy," Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei told India Today on Tuesday.
There was no dialogue or negotiations with Washington, as Iran's armed forces are focused on defending the country, he added.
More US troops are on the way to the region - despite talk of peace
Wednesday 25 March 2026 12:45 , James ReynoldsAt least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division will be sent to the Mideast in the coming days, three people with knowledge of the plans told The Associated Press.
They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans.
The paratroopers are trained to jump into hostile or contested areas to secure key territory and airfields.
The Pentagon is also in the process of sending about 5,000 more Marines, trained in amphibious assaults, and thousands of sailors to the region.
What we know about Trump’s 15-point plan to end the Iran war
Wednesday 25 March 2026 12:30 , James ReynoldsDonald Trump has reportedly offered Iran a 15-point plan aimed at ending the war for good, as the month-long conflict continues to inflict pain on global markets and the president’s popularity at home.
US and Israeli media have reported on a proposal addressing longstanding concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme and reversing the fallout from the war.
A source told Reuters it was passed to Iran via Pakistan late on Tuesday, as Trump said - without reference to the rumoured plan - that the US and Iran have already agreed on several key points, including that Iran would give up any ambitions for nuclear weapons.
Here’s what’s said to be in the plan and what it means:
What we know about Trump’s 15-point plan to end the Iran war
Israel claims attack on research facility in Isfahan
Wednesday 25 March 2026 12:17 , James ReynoldsIsrael claims it carried out an “extensive” wave of strikes across Iran’s underwater research facility in the city of Isfahan on Tuesday.
The IDF says the centre is responsible for producing submarines and other support for the Iranian navy.
Prime minister to face questions over Iran war
Wednesday 25 March 2026 12:00 , James ReynoldsKeir Starmer is set to face questions over the UK’s response to the Iran war in the final PMQs before parliamentary recess.
You can follow our UK politics blog here:
Politics latest: Starmer to face fresh questions over response to Iran war at PMQs
Israel continues bombardment of Tehran despite US diplomacy efforts
Wednesday 25 March 2026 11:50 , James ReynoldsThe Israeli military announced this morning that “a short while ago” it carried out several waves of strikes on Tehran.
Iran's military claims it fired at USS Abraham Lincoln
Wednesday 25 March 2026 11:47 , James ReynoldsIran claims to have fired upon the American aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln.
“The Iranian Navy’s Qader cruise missiles (shore-based anti-ship missile) targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier belonging to the US and forced it to change its position,” read a statement from the military carried by Iranian state TV.
Navy chief Admiral Shahram Irani said: “As soon as this hostile fleet comes within range of our missile systems, it will be subjected to powerful strikes by the Iranian Navy.”
Shopping bill could soar by £150 due to Iran war, grocery expert warns
Wednesday 25 March 2026 11:30 , James ReynoldsFood inflation could more than double by the summer if the Iran war continues, adding hundreds of pounds to grocery bills for already stretched families.
That is the warning from trade body the Institute of Grocery Distribution – figures that will alarm consumers and a government already concerned about a heavy dose of inflation due to the crisis.
Read the full story:
Shopping bill could soar by £150 due to Iran war, grocery expert warns
What do we know about the reported 15-point peace plan?
Wednesday 25 March 2026 11:00 , James ReynoldsThe US is reported to have sent Iran a 15-point peace plan aimed at ending the war, now approaching its second month.
We have not had any official confirmation of what such a proposal might contain at this stage. Trump says Iran has agreed to never have a nuclear weapon.
Israel’s Channel 12 had reported that the plan includes the following demands:
- Iran’s major nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow - the targets of last year’s 12-day war - will be taken out of use and destroyed;
- The UN’s nuclear watchdog will be able to oversee activity in Iran again;
- Iran will abandon the use of armed proxies in the region and stop funding regional affiliates, like Hezbollah;
- Iran will dismantle existing nuclear capabilities and commit to never trying to procure nukes;
- No nuclear material will be enriched in Iran and all enriched material will be handed to the IAEA;
- The Strait of Hormuz will remain open;
- Iranian missiles will be limited in quantity and range, only used for defence.
Iran in return would receive the following assurances from the US:
- American help in developing a civilian nuclear project for electricity production;
- The removal of all sanctions;
- The removal of the threat of renewing sanctions.
American A-10s being used to strike Iranian naval vessels, says Centcom
Wednesday 25 March 2026 10:57 , James ReynoldsUS Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs have been used to strike Iranian naval vessels during Operation Epic Fury, Centcom says, sharing pictures of the iconic warplanes.
The aircraft was introduced in the 1970s and has been a mainstay of the USAF, used to provide close air support to ground forces by attacking armoured vehicles with its massive 30mm GAU-8/A Gatling Gun, firing 3,900 rounds per minute.
Last week, US general Dan Caine announced the warplanes had entered the war in missions along Iran’s southern flank, “hunting and killing fast-attack watercraft in the Straits of Hormuz”.
'Non hostile vessels' free to pass Strait of Hormuz, says Iran
Wednesday 25 March 2026 10:28 , James ReynoldsForeign vessels may safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz, so long as they comply with Iran and do not support acts of aggression against the regime, Iran’s mission to the UN says:
Non-hostile vessels, including those belonging to or associated with other States, may—provided that they neither participate in nor support acts of aggression against Iran and fully comply with the declared safety and security regulations—benefit from safe passage through the…
— I.R.IRAN Mission to UN, NY (@Iran_UN) March 24, 2026
Pakistan delivers US proposal to Iran, source says
Wednesday 25 March 2026 10:16 , James ReynoldsPakistan has delivered a US proposal to Iran, a senior Iranian source told Reuters on Wednesday.
The source, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, did not disclose details of the proposal and whether it was the 15-point US framework proposal to end the war reported by news outlets.
The source also said Turkey was helping to find ways to end the way and "either Turkey or Pakistan are under consideration as the venue for such talks".
The venue of any talks between Tehran and Washington to end the war has yet to be decided.
Iranian ambassador says no talks have taken place 'so far'
Wednesday 25 March 2026 10:15 , James ReynoldsNo direct or indirect talks between Tehran and Washington have taken place yet, Iran's ambassador to Pakistan was quoted as saying on Wednesday by state media, contradicting Donald Trump's remarks about Iran seeking a deal.
"Based on my information, contrary to Trump's claim, no direct or indirect negotiations have taken place between the two countries so far," Reza Amiri Moghadam said.
He added that "friendly countries seek to lay the ground for dialogue between Tehran and Washington, which we hope will be fruitful in ending this imposed war".
US pushing for peace talks as soon as tomorrow: report
Wednesday 25 March 2026 10:01 , James ReynoldsWashington is pushing for peace talks through Pakistan as soon as Thursday, according to a report.
Islamabad has offered to mediate between the US and Iran if both countries are open. Donald Trump says both sides want a deal, but Iran publicly says it will not consider US plans.
Citing two unnamed sources with knowledge of diplomatic efforts, Axios reports that the US and regional mediators are discussing the possibility of high-level talks tomorrow.
The report says Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains concerned that Trump might strike a deal that falls short of Israel’s objectives, limiting Iran’s ability to conduct strikes against Iran.
Germany takes on Britain's Nato commitments as HMS Dragon diverted to defend Cyprus
Wednesday 25 March 2026 09:50 , James ReynoldsGermany said on Tuesday that its frigate, the Sachsen, will take over from HMS Dragon as Nato’s maritime task group flagship while the British Destroyer is sent to the Mediterranean.
Moving HMS Dragon to defend Cyprus has left the UK with just one other Type 45, HMS Duncan, in service - from six. Duncan cannot fill in as it is due to take part in Operation Firecrest in the High North.
Tory MP Ben Obese-Jecty told The i Paper: “It is a national embarrassment that the Royal Navy has run out of ships. Britannia most definitely does not rule the waves.
“I have repeatedly raised the issue of a potential lack of Type-45s to fulfil our Nato flagship commitment. Earlier this month in response to me asking the Defence Secretary if he could guarantee a Royal Navy ship would conduct this role he assured me that we would fulfil our Nato commitments. It doesn’t look like it now.”
Turkey passing messages between US and Iran, says official
Wednesday 25 March 2026 09:43 , James ReynoldsA senior official with the ruling Justice and Development Party says that Turkey is passing messages between the US and Iran to encourage de-escalation and direct talks.
Iran threatens to target US aircraft carrier once in range
Wednesday 25 March 2026 09:39 , James ReynoldsIran’s navy commander says that the country is constantly monitoring the USS Lincoln strike group, and that it will be targeted as soon as it comes within range of missiles.
Egyptian official says 15-point plan a 'comprehensive deal' - but questions remain
Wednesday 25 March 2026 09:25 , James ReynoldsThe 15-point plan now in Iranian hands is, in essence, "a comprehensive deal" to reach a ceasefire in the war, according to an Egyptian official involved in the mediation efforts.
In addition to allowing traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, it includes restrictions on Iran's missile program and its arming of armed groups, and "is being treated" as the basis for further negotiations between the nations, according to the official.
Any talks between the US and Iran would face monumental challenges. Many of Washington's shifting objectives, particularly over Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programs, remain difficult to achieve.
Also, it's not clear who in Iran's government has the authority to negotiate — or would be willing to, as Israel has vowed to continue killing the country's leaders.
Mediators are pushing for a possible in-person negotiation between the Iranians and the Americans, perhaps as soon as Friday in Pakistan, the Egyptian official and two Pakistani officials said.
Axios reported earlier that the US is aiming for talks on Thursday.
How has Iran responded to reports of a peace plan in the works?
Wednesday 25 March 2026 09:00 , James ReynoldsIranian officials indicate the regime is not considering the US plans for a peace deal.
Ebrahim Zolfaqari, the top spokesperson for Iran’s joint military command, said on Wednesday: "Has the level of your inner struggle reached the stage of you (Trump) negotiating with yourself?"
"People like us can never get along with people like you. As we have always said ... no one like us will make a deal with you. Not now. Not ever."
Iran's leadership has previously said it cannot negotiate with the U.S. as Washington has attacked the country twice during high-level negotiations in the past two years.
Iran had a "very bad experience with American diplomacy," Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei told India Today on Tuesday.
There was no dialogue or negotiations with Washington, as Iran's armed forces are focused on defending the country, he added.
