Donald Trump has sent 9,000 US troops to the Middle East after warning that new strikes against Iran could be on the horizon.
The US president has refused to dispel reports that further bombing could take place before the US midterms in November.
He also said early indications suggest that Iran was most likely linked to the Israeli plane hijacking attempt on Wednesday.
President Trump warned that the US would retaliate if the link is established to Iran, telling reporters: “Oh they’ll be hit, very hard, don’t worry.”
On Thursday, he declared that Iran must sign a peace deal or it “won’t exist any longer” after Tehran announced it had received a US response to its proposal to end the war.
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.
Read More‘Strong indications’ Iran played role in suspected Fairford terror plot, PM says
India warns of major ‘food crisis’ in coming months amid El Nino and global conflicts
‘Every possible measure’ being considered to cut cost of driving, says Burnham
Oil prices surge after Trump denies he offered to ease Iran sanctions
Key Points
- Trump sends 9,000 troops to Middle East after threatening to hit Iran 'very hard'
- Iran must 'sign a fair deal or no longer exist' - Trump
- 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'
Trump blows up in TIME interview on DC makeover, Iran and cost of living: ‘I don’t know what the hell’s wrong’
03:00 , Harriette Boucher
Takeaways from Trump’s latest TIME interview on DC makeover, Iran and affordability
Watch: Trump Warns Decision On Whether To "Blow Up" Iran Is Near
02:00 , Harriette BoucherTrump admits Iran war could cost Republicans the midterms
01:00 , Harriette BoucherDonald Trump has admitted that the Iran war could cost Republicans the midterms, echoing similar statements from his daughter-in-law and political figure Lara Trump.
Asked if the seven month old war could impact his party at the November elections, the US president told reporters: “Well, it’s possible.”
He added: “It should help because Iran will not have a nuclear weapon.
“So when you say, ‘Is it OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon?’ I would say 100 per cent of the people say no, including worldwide.”
Earlier this week, Lara Trump told The Sun’s Harry Cole: “Well, it could cost him the midterms. I think Donald Trump’s legacy is yet to be written.”
Another poll conducted for CNN by SSRS found that Republican approval of the war fell from 73 per cent in March to 60 per cent in the latest survey.
Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’ ahead of RAF Fairford incident, Netanyahu claims
00:00 , Harriette Boucher
Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’ before RAF Fairford incident, Netanyahu claims
Trump claims Iran most likely behind Israeli plane hijacking attempt
23:00 , Harriette BoucherDonald Trump has said Iran is most likely responsible for the Israeli plane hijacking attempt and vowed to “hit them very hard” if they were.
He told reporters: “We're working on it right now, they're [UAE] being very open with us, I would say the answer based on what I'm hearing is yes, but we're working on it right now.”
Asked what would happen if Iran was found responsible, he said: “They'll be hit very hard, don't worry.”
Benjamin Netanyahu previously told CNN that it was too early to tell whether Iran was involved, but later said the alleged attacker “underwent Islamist radical indoctrination.”
US 'needs to get idea of bringing us to our knees out of its head', says Iran
22:00 , Harriette BoucherPresident Masoud Pezeshkian has said Iran will continue to defend itself but remains open to discussions with America.
According to state media, he said that the US needed to “get the idea of bringing us to our knees with terror and martyrdom out of its head.”
Pezeshkian added: “We defend the rights of our society with dignity and pride, and we have never run away from dialogue and will not do so, although the United States has targeted our country three times despite having signed the agreement.
“The enemies thought that with the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the people, commanders, and scientists - the country - would collapse, but our national and internal unity and cohesion increased.”
Trump sends 9,000 troops to Middle East after threatening to it Iran 'very hard'
20:53 , Harriette BoucherAround 9,000 US troops are being deployed to the Middle East aboard a group of ship after Donald Trump warned that new strikes against Iran could be on the horizon.
The group of ships now en route to the Middle East together carry over 7,000 sailors and 2,000 Marines.
It includes the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group, which recently deployed with the cruiser USS Chosin, and the USS Makin Island amphibious readiness group, which includes the USS John P. Murtha and USS Anchorage amphibious landing ships.
It could mean that three carriers are in the region as early as the end of October, according to a US official who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
President Trump also said early indications suggest that Iran is linked to the co-pilot who stabbed his captain and tried to crash an Israel-bound flight on Wednesday.
He warned that if the link is established to Iran, the US would retaliate.
“Oh they’ll be hit, very hard, don’t worry," he said. “You just ask them. They know what happened. They’ll be hit very hard.”
Trump claims to have eradicated Iran nuclear threat in one night
20:30 , Harriette BoucherDonald Trump has claimed he eradicated Iran’s nuclear threat in one night.
The US president wrote on Truth Social: “I stated, numerous times, that it would take 4-6 weeks to get rid of THE IRAN NUCLEAR THREAT, and I did it in one night!
“The rest of the time is just to make sure it stays that way.”
Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’ ahead of RAF Fairford incident, Netanyahu claims
20:00 , Harriette BoucherIran must 'sign a fair deal or no longer exist' - Trump
19:34 , Harriette BoucherIran must “sign a very fair deal” if it wants to continue to exist, Donald Trump has said in his latest threat to the country.
Speaking to reporters as he boarded the Marine One for a trip to Texas and Oklahoma, he said: “Now I have to make a decision. They'll either sign a very fair deal, or they won't exist any longer.”
It follows earlier comment from the US president today when he declared that he would decide very soon whether to “blow up” Iran or make a deal.
“We have to make that decision: we blow them up or make a deal,” he told reporters. “But the time is coming. It's going to end very soon, one way or another.”
UK in emergency talks with EU over diesel supplies after Trump threat
19:30 , Harriette BoucherBritain and its European allies are discussing tapping into emergency stockpiles of diesel after Donald Trump threatened a ban on US exports.
Officials from the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Ireland held crunch talks on Thursday morning to discuss the possible need to release their emergency stocks.
President Trump had reportedly told Germany and France to draw down emergency diesel inventories to help to ease global fuel prices, as he threatened to cut off American supply.
The US president is said to be frustrated with the two countries for not fully following through on earlier commitments to release emergency oil and petroleum stocks.
His ongoing war with Iran, along with the Russian-Ukraine conflict, continues to choke off global oil supplies.
UK in emergency talks with European allies over releasing diesel stocks
US imposes fresh sanctions on Iran
19:00 , Harriette BoucherDonald Trump has imposed a series of fresh sanctions on Iran, targeting its rail and automotive sectors as it looks to “drain the regime’s revenue”.
“Iran’s automotive and rail industries have been coopted by the regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), whose corruption and self‑serving interests have pushed Iran’s economy to the brink,” the US Treasury said.
Major automotive companies Iran Khodro Company and SAIPA IranianAutomobile Manufacturing Company have come under the sanctions due to their “close ties” to the IRGC.
Key Iranian rail companies like the state-owned Islamic Republic of Iran Railway Company (RAI), which provides passenger and freight services, and the Raja Passenger Trains Company, serves as a primary passenger rail company, have also been sanctioned.
Treasury secretary Scott Bessent said: “Today’s action directly targets Iran’s enablers and lays the groundwork for the United States and our partners to drain the regime’s revenue once and for all.”
Putin hopes Hormuz will be open for shipping, says Iran uranium proposal still valid
18:30 , Harriette BoucherVladimir Putin said on Thursday he hoped the Strait of Hormuz would be open to shipping and that sanctions on Iran would eventually be lifted.
The Russian president told a forum of Russia experts that Russia’s proposal to receive enriched uranium from Iran, if it was removed from the country, remained on the table.
British-Iranian national arrested n on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts a
17:57 , Harriette BoucherA 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national has been arrested in London on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts as part of the investigation into a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford, counter terror police said.
Police are also interviewing a 26-year-old Britihsh national under caution.
Andy Burnham said on Wednesday there were “strong indications that Iran played a part” in the suspected plot against the airbase which is used by US forces to strike Iran.
Senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing Vicki Evans said: “The investigation into circumstances surrounding events in Gloucestershire is hugely complex, and our specialist teams are interrogating multiple lines of enquiry.
“As we’ve made clear, we’re looking at all possible angles – including possible foreign state involvement. I’d like to thank the public for their continued support and patience whilst we work through this investigation.”
Five men in their 20s, who were arrested on Sunday 27 September, remain on police bail.
Iran summons British ambassador over 'false accusations' of suspected RAF terror plot
17:30 , Harriette BoucherTehran has summoned the British ambassador amid claims that the suspected terror plot at RAF Fairford was linked to Iran.
Andy Burnham said there are “strong indications that Iran played a part” in the suspected plot against the airbase which is used by US forces to strike Iran.
On Sunday, five British nationals were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism before being bailed under investigation the following day.
Responding to the prime minister’s comments, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said: “I can confirm Iran's belief that releasing supposed terrorists working for foreign states really says it all. You're barking up the wrong tree.”
Iranian media has reported that the foreign ministry has now summoned British envoy Hugo Shorter to Tehran over “false accusations”.
Watch: Trump warns decision on whether to 'Blow Up' Iran is near
17:00 , Joe MiddletonICYMI: Iran's Revolutionary Guard hails US withdrawal from Iraq as ‘historic victory’
16:30 , Joe MiddletonIran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps described the withdrawal of US forces from Iraq as a “historic victory”.
The IRGC said Washington’s wider military presence in West Asia had been destabilising and should also come to an end.
“The US must leave the region and leave security management to the nations themselves,” it said in a statement to ISNA news agency, according to Al Jazeera.
“The experience of two decades of occupation has shown that the US presence not only did not bring security, but was itself the source of insecurity, terrorism, and instability in West Asia.”
Iran denies Rubio’s claim that he ordered delegation to leave U.N. General Assembly
15:57 , Joe MiddletonTehran has rejected reports the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio asked its delegation to leave the UN General Assembly.
Axios reported that Mr Rubio asked the delegation to leave after negotiations between the two countries stalled.
However, in a post on X, Iran’s mission to the UN said: “The Iranian delegation left New York on Monday evening, in accordance with the schedule that had also been communicated to the U.S. Department of State in advance on September 17.
“Having achieved nothing, the State Department has resorted to propagating baseless and worthless news.”
The Iranian delegation left New York on Monday evening, in accordance with the schedule that had also been communicated to the U.S. Department of State in advance on September 17. Having achieved nothing, the State Department has resorted to propagating baseless and worthless…
— I.R.IRAN Mission to UN, NY (@Iran_UN) October 1, 2026
Trump refuses to deny further bombing could hit Iran before US midterms
15:31 , Joe MiddletonThe US president refused to dispel reports that further bombing could hit Iran before the US midterms in November.
He told Time it was “possible”. When asked for further clarification he added:
“I can't tell you that because look, you know, you're asking, where are you going to bomb?”
Pushed further on if bombing Iran was a consideration, he said: “We have a lot of weapons. You know, we've been stocking up for the last six months.
“Biden gave away massive amounts of munitions to Ukraine. Much more so than what we spent, and—but we're in great shape. And we're in great shape, but we're also now stocking up big and making—and we're keeping it. You know, we'll get it out to others, you know, our allies.”
Trump reveals why he rejects Iranian ceasefire proposal
15:15 , Joe MiddletonIn an interview with Time, the US president revealed why he rejected the recent ceasefire deal from Tehran.
He said: Because things that I wouldn't have approved a year ago I wouldn’t have today.
Asked to provide an example, he added: “I mean, it was—they made an offer to open up the Strait. You know, you saw some aspects of it, not all. But it's just, it's just, it's not good enough. Nearly.”
Trump: Oil prices will drop when I make a deal with Iran
15:01 , Joe MiddletonThe US president has claimed that oil prices will plummet as soon as he is able to make a deal with Iran.
The ongoing conflict has spiked global oil prices and in turn impacted the price of diesel.
Trump told Time: “As soon as I make a deal, oil prices will drop to what they were.”
He then claimed prices of fuel were already going down below the $2 in a number of states, such as Iowa.
Chinese refiners suspend October fuel exports
15:00 , Adam WithnallChinese refiners have suspended oil product exports for October, four people briefed on the matter told Reuters, as Beijing looks to preserve domestic stocks, a move that will further crimp war-constrained fuel markets.
Beijing restricted fuel exports in March after the outbreak of the Iran war disrupted Middle Eastern crude supplies. The world's top importer relaxed the curbs in July and is managing diesel, gasoline and jet fuel shipments on a monthly basis. However, China started a week-long holiday on Thursday without giving major refiners in the world's largest refining hub a green light to export fuel products to regions other than Hong Kong and Macau in October, the sources said.
It was not clear whether Beijing would resume permitting refiners exports after the holiday ends on 7 October, the sources said, adding it could depend on domestic fuel inventories and refining output.
Trump claims it's 'possible' he could 'annihilate Iran'
14:50 , Joe MiddletonIn an interview with Time, the US president doubled down on his comments last week that he could ‘annihilate Iran’.
When asked about the comments, he said: “Yeah, I would do that. It's possible.”
He also doubled down on the claims he was the ‘president of peace’, despite making various threats aimed at Tehran.
When asked how he can be the ‘president of peace’ while also calling for the annihilation of Iran, he said: “Because by annihilating Iran, we've created peace in the world. With Iran, I don't think you could ever have peace.”
Iran prepares to hit back hard if US resumes hostilities
14:00 , Adam WithnallIran is preparing a broader and more forceful response if the United States resumes large-scale military attacks, sources have told Reuters, while continuing a diplomatic push that Iranian officials privately see as unlikely to succeed.
Senior commanders are reviewing plans to expand potential targets beyond US-linked assets to countries that support US military operations and possibly to locations outside the Middle East, according to three senior Iranian officials and an insider familiar with the discussions.
Hamidreza Azizi, a senior Iran analyst at the International Crisis Group, said Tehran remained uncertain whether president Donald Trump would launch another major campaign or opt for more limited attacks, such as strikes on nuclear facilities.
"But they seem determined not to respond symbolically to a symbolic move and instead to escalate in the hope of reestablishing deterrence," Azizi said. Tehran is also weighing the political risks for Trump of a prolonged conflict. Polls show the war has been unpopular with Americans, while higher fuel prices remain a concern ahead of the midterm elections.
Two of the officials said Tehran had instructed allied groups in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq to be ready to support Iran in the event of a renewed large-scale US attack. The guidance, they said, was to prepare for a coordinated response stretching "from the Strait of Hormuz to US interests in the region and outside the Middle East."
Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’
13:00 , Adam WithnallBenjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel had warned the UK about an “Iranian-sponsored attack” ahead of the incident at RAF Fairford.
Asked about the “recent scare in Britain”, Mr Netanyahu told US broadcaster Fox News the situation was “wild” and “absurd”.
Read more:
Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’ before RAF Fairford incident, Netanyahu claims
US sanctions more people under Trump's plan to cut off Iran's economy
12:00 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarThe US treasury department has unveiled new sanctions targeting people and companies around the globe that it accuses of being financial facilitators or enablers of Iran’s military supply chain.
The latest action is part of the Trump administration’s Operation Economic Outcast campaign aimed at severing “critical financial lifelines” for the already heavily sanctioned Iranian government.
Ten people and entities based in Iran, Hong Kong and Pakistan now face sanctions over accusations of procuring weapons and weapon components for Iran’s defence ministry as it fights its now seven-month war against the US.
US forces are finally withdrawing from Iraq. But what does that mean for its future?
11:00 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarAmerican forces withdraw from their final bases in Iraq on Wednesday, triggering fears of a security vacuum that could embolden Iranian-backed Shi'ite militias and afford the reviving Islamic State group an opportunity to regroup.
Celebrated as a victory by Tehran and its allies, the departure was agreed in 2024 under President Joe Biden and executed by Donald Trump's administration, even while waging war against Iran.
The exit comes 23 years after US-led forces ousted Saddam Hussein, sparking widespread turmoil that culminated in the rise of Islamic State.
More here.
US forces are finally withdrawing from Iraq. But what does that mean for its future?
Iran's Revolutionary Guard hails US withdrawal from Iraq as ‘historic victory’
10:33 , MehrajIran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps described the withdrawal of US forces from Iraq as a “historic victory”.
The IRGC said Washington’s wider military presence in West Asia had been destabilising and should also come to an end.
“The US must leave the region and leave security management to the nations themselves,” it said in a statement to ISNA news agency, according to Al Jazeera.
“The experience of two decades of occupation has shown that the US presence not only did not bring security, but was itself the source of insecurity, terrorism, and instability in West Asia.”
Watch: Trump says decision coming ‘very soon’ on whether to ‘blow up’ Iran
10:00 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarTrump threatens to 'blow up' Iran if deal can't be reached
10:00 , Alisha Rahaman SarkarUS 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 SarkarSecretary 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 , MehrajIranian 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 SarkarIran’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 SarkarIran 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 SarkarIran'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 SarkarUS 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 SarkarOil 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 SarkarAndy 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 KidwaiMohsen 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 KidwaiYemen’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 KidwaiLebanon’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 KidwaiSaudi 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 KidwaiBahrain 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 KidwaiUK 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 KidwaiIran 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 KidwaiIran’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 KidwaiIranian 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 KidwaiIsrael 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 KidwaiState-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 ElvinThe 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 ElvinIranian 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 WithnallVote 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 WithnallIran'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 WithnallThe 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.”
