Latest Politics News
Trump Threatens Further Strikes on Iran's Kharg Island Oil Hub
US President Donald Trump threatened additional strikes on Iran's main oil export hub, Kharg Island, amid the ongoing war that has closed the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global energy markets. He stated he is not ready for a deal, despite claims Iran wants to negotiate, while Iranian FM denied seeking ceasefire.
Oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel due to the disruptions.
US Officials Predict Quick End to Iran War Despite Tehran's Defiance
US officials forecasted the US-Israeli war on Iran ending in weeks, anticipating lower energy costs post-conflict. Iran asserts it can outlast foes and defend itself indefinitely, rejecting negotiations.
The conflict has triggered a 400-million-barrel emergency oil reserve release by the IEA.
Mojtaba Khamenei Issues First Message as Iran's New Leader
Mojtaba Khamenei, new supreme leader, released his first message emphasizing war continuation, Strait of Hormuz threats, and Basij mobilization amid internal crisis. Observers see it as consolidating power under war pressures.
It signals potential domestic instability despite aggressive rhetoric.
Global Allies Cautious on Trump's Call for Strait of Hormuz Warships
Trump urged allies like China, UK, Japan to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz against Iranian threats. Responses remain cautious; UK discussing options, South Korea reviewing, China stressing stability.
No US naval escorts have started yet despite pledges.
Iran Launches Strikes on Gulf States After US Threats
Iran struck Gulf states following US threats to its oil assets, heightening regional tensions. UAE minister warned Iran must not hold global economy hostage via disruptions.
The attacks coincide with surging oil prices and Hormuz closure impacts.
European Parliament Condemns Iran's Regime Amid Escalating Crisis
The European Parliament strongly condemned Iran's regime for repression, terrorism, and destabilization during a March 12 session. This occurs against Middle East instability and war fears.
It reflects growing international isolation for Tehran.
Afghan Asylum-Seeker Dies in US ICE Custody Under Trump Crackdown
Afghan veteran Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal, who aided US forces, died in ICE detention shortly after arrest in Texas. He is the 12th such death in 2026 amid mass deportations.
Advocacy groups highlight risks in Trump's immigration policy.
Trump's Iran War Jolts Global Central Banks on Inflation Fears
Central banks worldwide, including Fed and BOJ, assess war-driven inflation from spiking oil prices. G7 and major currencies face decisions this week amid economic damage.
Japan's oil import reliance heightens concerns.
US Eases Russian Oil Sanctions Boosting Moscow Amid Iran War
Trump eased some Russian oil sanctions, aiding Putin despite Ukraine war efforts, as Iran disruptions raise prices. NATO leaders call for reversal; Canada maintains its sanctions.
This undercuts prior pressure on Russia.
Balkan Leaders Slam Iran War at Global Baku Forum
Ex-presidents from Balkans criticized the Iran war at the Global Baku Forum on March 13. Albanian PM plans parliamentary vote declaring Iran a terrorism sponsor.
Regional condemnation grows amid energy crisis.
Zelenskyy Ready for Ukraine Peace Talks but Awaits US, Russia
Ukraine's Zelenskyy expressed readiness for another peace round, pending US and Russia amid Iran distractions. US postponed related talks due to Middle East war.
Ukraine seeks US drone deal.
Geopolitical Risks Elevate as US Reshapes Alliances in 2026
BlackRock notes elevated risks from US transactional foreign policy accelerating fragmentation. Iran war exposes Western alliance fractures.
Global markets react to oil surge and tensions.