President Donald Trump declared that he would decide very soon whether to “blow up” Iran or make a peace deal, after Tehran said it had received a US response to its proposal to end the war.
“We have to make that decision: we blow them up or make a deal,” Trump told reporters. "But the time is coming. It's going to end very soon, one way or another.”
Asked how he planned to negotiate with Iranian officials he had called "crazy", Trump said: "Maybe you blow them up."
The president had publicly rejected Iran’s peace offer just days earlier. On Wednesday, however, Iranian officials suggested the two sides largely differed over the timeline for its implementation.
Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi presented the US response to president Masoud Pezeshkian at a cabinet meeting, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani told the state news agency IRNA.
“We will make every effort to bring the agreement to fruition and will firmly stand up for the rights of the Iranian people,” Pezeshkian said. “The agreement must now be based on a win-win strategy.”
Key Points
- Trump threatens to 'blow up' Iran if deal can't be reached
- Iran's economy spirals further after months-long war
- Oil prices barely changed as investors assess US-Iran peace talks
- Iran doubles down threats on to UAE over hosting 'Butcher of Gaza'
- Houthis are forging a 'dangerous Red Sea Axis,' claims Yemeni minister
Watch: Trump says decision coming ‘very soon’ on whether to ‘blow up’ Iran
10:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Trump threatens to 'blow up' Iran if deal can't be reached
10:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
US president Donald Trump has warned that Washington faces a choice between tougher military action in Iran or a peace deal.
“We have to make that decision: We blow them up or make a deal,” Trump told reporters yesterday. "But the time is coming. It's going to end very soon, one way or another," he added.
When asked how he planned to negotiate with Iranian officials he called "crazy", Trump said: "Maybe you blow them up."
Rubio orders visiting Iranian UN delegation to leave NYC
09:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Secretary of state Marco Rubio ordered Iran's foreign minister and his delegation to the UN General Assembly to leave New York earlier than they had planned, two US officials said.
The Trump administration had granted visas, albeit with severe restrictions, to Iran's president and foreign minister and their delegations to attend the annual meeting of world leaders despite the hostilities between the two countries.
While president Masoud Pezeshkian left New York a day after speaking at the UN last week, foreign minister Abbas Araghchi had remained behind ostensibly to participate in indirect talks with the US on opening the Strait of Hormuz, ending the conflict and resuming negotiations over Iran's nuclear program.
Six killed as Iranian forces raid ‘terrorists’ planning attack near Tehran
08:46 , Mehraj
Iranian forces killed six members of a “terrorist group” who were allegedly planning an operation in Manjilabad near Tehran, state media reported, according to Al Jazeera.
Soldiers with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also recovered explosives from a home and “clearance operations” were underway in the village about 44km southwest of the capital.
“The operation is ongoing with the aim of completely clearing the site and confronting the terrorist elements,” Tasnim news agency reported.
Iran has repeatedly accused the US and Israel of fomenting unrest by arming and funding opposition groups in the country.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard issues direct appeal to American voters
08:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has issued an explicit appeal urging U.S. voters to vote out Congressional allies of president Donald Trump.
A 26-page letter published by the Guards on Tuesday calls on the American public to exercise their political power to remove incumbent leaders, reject US backing for Israel, and oppose foreign military interventions.
While the message is unlikely to influence American voters who may never see the Iranian media release, analysts point out that it highlights domestic political vulnerabilities facing Trump and the Republican Party ahead of the November 3 congressional elections, in which Democrats could reclaim legislative control and obstruct Trump's agenda.
More here.
Vote out Trump allies: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard issues direct appeal to US voters
Iran executes two men on charges of violence
07:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Iran has executed two men over their role in violence during nationwide anti-government protests in January, the state-run IRNA news agency reported.
Citing the country's judiciary, IRNA said the men took part in unrest in the northeastern city of Mashhad that left four members of the security forces dead earlier this year.
Their death sentences were upheld by Iran's Supreme Court before being carried out Wednesday morning.
The unrest began on 28 December amid anger over Iran's collapsing currency and worsening economy and quickly spread across the country, with demonstrators increasingly calling for the overthrow of the Islamic Republic. Iranian authorities responded with a deadly crackdown.
Iran's economy spirals further after months-long war
06:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Iran's economy, under heavy strain before the war started, has been in a free fall since the conflict began in late February.
The country's currency fell to a record low on Tuesday, with traders in Tehran exchanging more than 2.5 million rials to the US dollar in a stark reflection of how the war in the Middle East has steadily eroded the Iranian economy.
The latest decline came just 27 days after the rial hit its previous record low of 2.2 million to the dollar on 2 September. The currency has repeatedly reached new lows since the war began in February.
US president Donald Trump yesterday, in an Oval Office exchange with reporters, threatened to "blow them up" if the US and Iran don't forge a deal soon.
"It's going to end very soon, one way or the other," Trump said.
Trump threatens to 'blow up' Iran if deal can't be reached
05:35 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
US president Donald Trump has warned that Washington faces a choice between tougher military action in Iran or a peace deal.
“We have to make that decision: We blow them up or make a deal,” Trump told reporters yesterday. "But the time is coming. It's going to end very soon, one way or another," he added.
When asked how he planned to negotiate with Iranian officials he called "crazy", Trump said: "Maybe you blow them up."
Oil prices barely changed as investors assess US-Iran peace talks
05:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Oil prices were nearly flat in early Asia trade this morning, following the previous day's gains and steep monthly rises, as investors assessed the outcome of US-Iran peace talks and the outlook for Middle East crude exports.
Brent crude futures rose 12 cents or 0.1 per cent, to $98.15 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude was at $90.35 a barrel, down 7 cents, or 0.1 per cent.
Both benchmarks rose about $1 a barrel yesterday. Brent recorded a monthly gain of around 14 per cent in September, its biggest since July, while WTI increased by about 5 per cent on the month.
Burnham says ‘strong indications’ Iran played part in suspected RAF Fairford bomb plot
03:56 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Andy Burnham said there are “strong indications that Iran played a part” in a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford.
The UK is working closely with US and the authorities have the situation under “the strongest grip”, the prime minister insisted after Donald Trump criticised the decision to release the suspects.
Five British nationals, all in their mid-20s, were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism near the military base over the weekend before being bailed under investigation on Monday.
More here.
Burnham says ‘strong indications’ Iran played part in suspected RAF Fairford plot
Iran doubles down threats on to UAE over hosting 'Butcher of Gaza'
03:00 , Suha Kidwai
Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has issued a warning to the UAE following Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Abu Dhabi.
Posting on social media on Wednesday, Rezaei cautioned that welcoming the Israeli leader would carry severe repercussions, drawing a direct comparison to Western military deployments in the region.
He wrote: “Just as hosting US military bases has not brought you security, hosting the ‘Butcher of Gaza’ will also not have favourable consequences. Learn from the last war, stop igniting wars, and cease issuing baseless claims regarding the Iranian islands.”
The visit comes amid heightened regional scrutiny over Abu Dhabi’s dual-track foreign policy and long-standing territorial disputes over strategic Persian Gulf islands.
Houthis are forging a 'dangerous Red Sea Axis,' claims Yemeni minister
02:00 , Suha Kidwai
Yemen’s foreign minister Afrah al-Zouba has warned that Houthi rebels are expanding their alliance network across the Horn of Africa, creating what she described as a "dangerous Red Sea Axis."
In an official statement released on X on Wednesday, the Yemeni foreign ministry warned that the group is forging operational ties with allied militant groups across the narrow Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.
Foreign Minister Dr. @afrah_alzouba writes in @Telegraph on the evolving threat to Yemen, the Red Sea and global trade
— وزارة خارجية الجمهورية اليمنية (@yemen_mofa) September 30, 2026
The Iran-backed Houthis have expanded their cooperation with terrorist groups across the Horn of Africa, building what is emerging as a dangerous "Red Sea… pic.twitter.com/DMM7B9nvVM
The warning highlights growing international concern over the conflict, with Western and Gulf intelligence agencies tracking increased Houthi arms smuggling and maritime coordination along East African shipping routes.
Lebanese minister calls for Hezbollah disarmament
01:00 , Suha Kidwai
Lebanon’s foreign minister has called for an end to what he termed Iranian interference in Lebanese affairs, linking regional stability to the handover of Hezbollah’s weapons and an end to Israeli military strikes.
Speaking at a event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington on Wednesday, Youssef Raggi stressed that sovereign authority must be restored under state control.
“We want peace with all our neighbours, and we stress the need for Iran to stop interfering in our affairs ... Stability requires ending the [Israeli] occupation and the handover of Hezbollah’s weapons.”
Raggi confirmed that Lebanon remains committed to direct, US-sponsored negotiations, describing bilateral diplomacy as the "only way to reclaim our land and secure the return of the displaced."
The remarks highlight growing pressure on Tehran's regional network as Beirut pushes to disarm non-state militias amid broader Middle East peace efforts.
Saudi's MBS vows 'decisive' response to Houthi attacks
Thursday 1 October 2026 00:00 , Suha Kidwai
Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has said Riyadh will respond "decisively" to any security threats from Iran-backed Houthis, balancing military warnings with calls for regional diplomacy.
Delivering the annual royal address to the Shura Council on Wednesday, the Crown Prince reaffirmed support for the coalition in Yemen, warning that the kingdom "will not hesitate to respond firmly" to rebel drone and missile strikes.
He pointed to the newly formed "Mecca Defence Pact" as a vital shield against widening regional conflict, while announcing plans for a new defensive maritime coalition to protect Red Sea shipping.
Bahrain joins US-led drone unit targeting Iran
Wednesday 30 September 2026 23:00 , Suha Kidwai
Bahrain has formally joined Task Force Falcon Strike, becoming the first regional Gulf partner to sign on to the US military's new multinational attack drone initiative, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Wednesday.
The task force, launched by Washington in mid-August, operates one-way attack drones across air, surface, and underwater domains.
CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper welcomed Manama’s inclusion, calling the kingdom a "steadfast partner in strengthening regional security."
"We're excited to welcome Bahrain to Task Force Falcon Strike after the kingdom affirmed its commitment to join CENTCOM in building the world's first multinational attack drone unit. Bahrain is a steadfast partner in strengthening regional security and stability." - Adm. Brad… https://t.co/OpkrH1GF1R
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) September 30, 2026
The unit builds directly on Task Force Scorpion Strike, the US military's dedicated kamikaze drone squadron used during July airstrikes against Iranian naval assets and port facilities at Bandar Abbas.
Bahrain’s formal integration comes after repeatedly coming under fire from Iranian missile and drone strikes since the conflict erupted in February, including early attacks on the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.
UK prime minister says ‘strong indication’ of Iran involvement in RAF Fairford incident
Wednesday 30 September 2026 22:00 , Suha Kidwai
UK prime minister Andy Burnham has said there are "strong indications" Iran was involved in a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford, a key airbase that is used by US forces to launch strikes on Iran.
Five UK nationals were arrested in London on Sunday on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act, with US President Donald Trump claiming the suspects intended to cause "big damage."
British Counter Terrorism police released the men on bail on Monday as complex investigations continue alongside US authorities.
Tehran has denied any involvement in the alleged plot.
Tehran frames US troop exit from Iraq as victory for 'axis of resistance'
Wednesday 30 September 2026 21:00 , Suha Kidwai
Iran and its regional armed allies are celebrating the final withdrawal of US military forces from Iraq, framing the departure after more than two decades as a landmark triumph for Tehran's "axis of resistance."
The pullout of the final American troops formally concludes US military operations in Iraq, fulfilling a longstanding strategic goal for Tehran to expel US forces from its western border.
Supporters of pro-Iranian militia groups gathered in Baghdad on Wednesday to celebrate, carrying portraits of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei.
While Iraqi authorities marked the exit as a transition to full national sovereignty, analysts and local residents warn that the resulting security vacuum could allow Iran-backed militias to further consolidate control over state institutions and key security apparatuses.
Iranian rial plunges to record low as war and blockade hit critical supplies
Wednesday 30 September 2026 20:00 , Suha Kidwai
Iran’s currency has crashed to a historic low as seven months of war with the US and Israel send the country’s economy into freefall.
The latest plunge — of 2.54 million rials per dollar on Tuesday — comes less than a month after the currency hit its previous record low of 2.2 million on September 2.
The rapid currency collapse and the ongoing US naval blockade are triggering severe domestic shortages, with basic medicine prices more than tripling as hospitals report of stocks running dangerously low.
US President Donald Trump claimed on Tuesday that Iran is "failing very badly," predicting the conflict could end after the US midterm elections in November.
Iran receives US response on plan to end seven-month war
Wednesday 30 September 2026 19:00 , Suha Kidwai
Iranian officials say Tehran has received a formal US response to its proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, despite Donald Trump’s public rejection of the deal last week.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi presented the American reply — relayed via Qatari mediators — to president Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday. While details were not disclosed, Pezeshkian signaled talks remain active, insisting any deal must be based on a "win-win strategy."
The diplomatic movement coincides with fresh US financial pressure. The US Treasury Department has unveiled sanctions against 10 individuals and entities across Iran, Hong Kong, and Pakistan for procuring weapons components for Tehran under its "Operation Economic Outcast" campaign.
Upcoming Israeli election threatens to prolong Middle East conflict
Wednesday 30 September 2026 18:00 , Suha Kidwai
Israel is entering the final weeks in the run-up to its October 27 general election, with latest polls showing current prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leader, Gadi Eisenkot locked in a tight race.
A survey published on Wednesday projects Eisenkot’s opposition Yashar party to secure 23 seats in the 120-seat Knesset, closely followed by Netanyahu’s Likud on 20 seats. Neither side currently commands the 61-seat majority required to form a government without complex coalition bargaining.
The vote is expected to carry profound regional consequences for the ongoing war with Iran.
Analysts have noted that Netanyahu’s election strategy relies heavily on maintaining a hardline military posture, limiting scope for US-brokered ceasefires or diplomatic compromises in the Persian Gulf and Red Sea before Israelis go to the polls.
The uncertainty continues as regional actors calculate how the makeup of Israel's next government will shape the trajectory of military operations across West Asia.
UAE's conduct may 'impose costs' on itself, Iranian media warns
Wednesday 30 September 2026 17:00 , Suha Kidwai
State-linked Iranian outlet, Nour News has issued a sharp warning to the United Arab Emirates, cautioning that Abu Dhabi's attempt to "play both sides" could ultimately carry severe consequences for its own stability.
In a lengthy commentary, the outlet pointed to a growing contradiction between the UAE's diplomatic calls for de-escalation at the UN General Assembly and its physical security actions.
Tehran has specifically highlighted Abu Dhabi's hosting of Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu on September 27 and its ongoing military and security alignment with Israel and the US.
The warning comes amid heightened regional friction, with Tehran accusing the UAE of compromising Persian Gulf security by permitting an active Israeli presence on its soil.
EU aviation agency issues Saudi airspace advisory
Wednesday 30 September 2026 16:32 , Sian Elvin
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (Easa) issued an advisory to airlines over Saudi airspace on Wednesday following a recent increase in attacks by the Houthis.
The latest advisory bulletin on Saudi Arabia does not mention the incident involving a diverted Flydubai airliner, and Easa said it will continue to monitor the situation to assess the risk for EU airlines in the country.
Easa further recommends flights do not operate within the airspace of Jordan at all altitudes and flight levels, which is a change from a previous advisory to exercise caution.
Iran says it has received response on latest proposal from US
Wednesday 30 September 2026 16:12 , Sian Elvin
Iranian officials indicated on Wednesday they have received an official US response to their latest proposal to end the war, which Donald Trump had rejected just days earlier.
The officials did not say what the response contained, and whether it was a rejection or not.
Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi presented the US response to President Masoud Pezeshkian at a cabinet meeting, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani told the state-run IRNA news agency.
Mr Pezeshkian said: “We will make every effort to bring the agreement to fruition and will firmly stand up for the rights of the Iranian people.
“The agreement must now be based on a win-win strategy.”
Iran’s appeal to American voters: Vote out Trump's allies
Wednesday 30 September 2026 16:00 , Adam Withnall
Vote out Trump allies: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard issues direct appeal to US voters
Iran hangs two protesters accused of taking part in 2026 unrest
Wednesday 30 September 2026 15:00 , Adam Withnall
Iran's judiciary says it has executed two men for taking part in anti-government protests and over their involvement in the deaths of four security personnel in January this year.
The two, Ali Hemmati and Majid Nik-Andish, were involved in what the judiciary's Mizan Online website called "the riots of January" and "the martyrdom of four security personnel". It said they were hanged on Wednesday morning after the country's supreme court upheld their sentences.
The brutal crackdown on the protests early this year saw thousands of those taking part killed by the Iranian security forces. Estimates for the death toll from the episode vary, with a rights group saying just over 7,000 deaths were confirmed, the overwhelming majority of them being protesters.
The regime then began hanging protesters who had been detained, though there was a brief stay on executions after Donald Trump expressed outrage and before the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran.
US military says its withdrawal of troops from Iraq is complete
Wednesday 30 September 2026 14:00 , Adam Withnall
The US military announced today that it had completed the withdrawal of all American troops from Iraq, ending a 12-year mission to fight Isis. The last US troops left an air base in northern Iraq under a deal between Baghdad and Washington.
The withdrawal, agreed on two years ago, comes against the backdrop of the ongoing war between the United States and Iran that has also sometimes spilled over into Iraq, with Iran-backed militias firing on US troops and the US striking the groups' strongholds.
Baghdad touted the end of the US mission as a sign of the country's increasing strength and sovereignty.
The withdrawal was also celebrated by Iran-backed groups but raised concerns among some other Iraqis, particularly in the Kurdish region. Questions loom around the future of the Iraqi militias, which the Baghdad government has sought – with little success so far – to disarm.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a statement that US troops and equipment had completed an “orderly departure” from the air base in Irbil, in northern Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdish region.
“This milestone reflects the success of a 12-year campaign that defeated Isis as an organised military threat in Iraq and across the region,” he said. “It also marks a transition from a wartime coalition mission to an Iraqi-led security effort supported by a more normal bilateral security relationship.”
