International
Iran Rejects US 15-Point Peace Plan, Issues Own Demands for War End
Iran Rejects US 15-Point Peace Plan, Issues Own Demands for War End
The Middle East conflict has entered a critical stage as the United States and Iran exchange competing ceasefire proposals while hostilities continue to escalate. US President Donald Trump unveiled a 15-point plan aimed at ending the war that began three weeks ago, alongside Israel, targeting a halt to violence and regional destabilisation. The plan called for the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, and demanded strict oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It also required Tehran to cease support for regional proxy forces and halt funding and arming of allies, while ensuring no future pursuit of nuclear weapons. The White House highlighted the plan as a pathway to stabilising the Strait of Hormuz, reducing tensions in the Gulf, and protecting global energy supplies. According to officials, the proposal reflects Washington’s desire to find an offramp from the war, while mitigating economic fallout from prolonged conflict.
Tehran swiftly rejected the US proposal, describing it as “excessive and unrealistic”. Iranian officials stressed that any cessation of hostilities would occur only on Iran’s own terms. The demands outlined by Iran include the closure of US military bases in the Middle East, a new regime for the Strait of Hormuz allowing Iran to collect transit fees similar to the Suez Canal, guarantees against renewed conflict, an end to Israeli attacks on Hezbollah, lifting of all sanctions, and preservation of Iran’s missile program. A senior Iranian military spokesperson mocked the US efforts, claiming Washington was negotiating with itself and had failed to craft a credible path to peace.
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Meanwhile, the US Defense Department has placed missile production on a wartime footing. Contracts with Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, and Honeywell Aerospace aim to accelerate the manufacture of interceptor missiles, Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), and critical navigation components. The Pentagon cited extensive use of THAAD missile systems and other interceptors in response to Iranian attacks, stressing the need to replenish stocks.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the war in the Middle East is “out of control”, threatening widespread human suffering and economic shocks. He cautioned that the conflict risks regional spillover, urging leaders to avoid a repeat of the Gaza model in Lebanon.
The war has disrupted global oil markets, with energy prices rising amid supply uncertainty. Gulf states, including Qatar, have expressed skepticism over US-led diplomatic initiatives, reflecting a lack of trust in Washington’s ability to mediate effectively. Despite the public rejection, reports indicate that indirect diplomatic communication continues between the US and Iran, suggesting that backchannel negotiations may still be underway to prevent further escalation. Analysts warn that without serious dialogue, the Middle East war could intensify, exacerbating global energy volatility and deepening humanitarian crises.
Iran Rejects US 15-Point Peace Plan, Issues Own Demands for War End
International
Iranian Missiles, Drones Strike US Air Base in Saudi Arabia
Iranian Missiles, Drones Strike US Air Base in Saudi Arabia
On Friday, Iranian missiles and drones targeted the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict, as tensions rise between Iran, the United States, and their regional allies.
According to U.S. and Saudi officials cited by The Wall Street Journal, the attack involved a combination of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. Open-source imagery and data circulating online verified the strike. At least 12 U.S. troops were wounded, with two reported in critical condition, while others suffered minor injuries. The assault also damaged several U.S. Air Force refueling aircraft, essential to regional operations. This is the latest in a series of attacks on Prince Sultan Air Base, which has previously sustained damage from Iranian strikes. The Pentagon has not publicly commented on the incident, but the attack underscores the growing vulnerability of U.S. military assets in the Gulf region.
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The conflict is widening across the Gulf. The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting ballistic missiles and drones, although debris from interceptions caused fires in Abu Dhabi, prompting authorities to warn civilians to stay clear of affected areas. In Bahrain, a missile strike ignited a facility, demonstrating that Iranian strikes are not limited to Saudi Arabia. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a warning urging civilians to avoid areas where U.S. forces are stationed, accusing American troops of using locals as “human shields.” This statement frames Iran’s attacks as part of a broader campaign against U.S. presence in the Gulf.
The strikes highlight both the growing reach of Iranian ballistic and drone capabilities and the challenges faced by U.S. and allied air defenses. Military officials are reviewing force protection measures to safeguard personnel and critical infrastructure. The attacks raise concerns about regional stability, the safety of U.S. forces, and potential disruptions to global energy markets. With the conflict showing signs of escalation, analysts warn that ongoing attacks could intensify hostilities and draw in additional regional actors. The situation remains fluid, and U.S. military and allied authorities continue to monitor threats across the Gulf.
Iranian Missiles, Drones Strike US Air Base in Saudi Arabia
International
Millions to March Across US in Largest Anti-Trump Demonstrations
Millions to March Across US in Largest Anti-Trump Demonstrations
Millions of Americans are expected to take to the streets Saturday in nationwide protests against Donald Trumpebue, Alaska.
Key demonstrations are planned in Washington, D.C., New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Minnesota, particularly St. Paul and Minneapolis, will be a focal point, months after the state became central to the national debate over Trump’s immigration policies. Legendary rocker Bruce Springsteen is scheduled to perform in St. Paul, debuting his song “Streets of Minneapolis,” written in memory of protesters killed during demonstrations against the administration’s immigration enforcement.
The protests are designed not only to challenge Trump’s domestic policies but also to express outrage over the war in Iran, launched alongside Israel. Critics argue that shifting objectives and unclear timelines for the military operation have deepened economic burdens for Americans, heightened geopolitical tensions, and fueled public discontent.
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Broad Base of Participation
Organizers note that two-thirds of participants live outside major urban areas, indicating that anti-Trump sentiment is growing beyond traditional Democratic strongholds. The movement emphasizes peaceful but visible civic engagement, aiming to pressure lawmakers ahead of the November midterm elections, when Trump’s Republicans risk losing control of Congress.
Speakers and activists cite multiple grievances, including the administration’s treatment of immigrants, attacks on civil liberties, climate policy, and perceived executive overreach. “Masked secret police terrorizing our communities. An illegal, catastrophic war putting us in danger and driving up our costs. Attacks on our freedom of speech, our civil rights, our freedom to vote,” the No Kings movement said in a statement.
Labor leaders, veterans groups, and civil rights organizations have also joined, underscoring a wide coalition opposed to Trump’s policies. “America is at an inflection point,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. “People are afraid, and they can’t afford basic necessities. It’s time the administration listened and helped them build a better life rather than stoking hate and fear.”
The scale of the protests highlights the intensity of political engagement in the United States and the polarized climate of public opinion. Organizers say they hope sustained pressure and visibility will shape political discourse and influence policy decisions.
Millions to March Across US in Largest Anti-Trump Demonstrations
International
Israel Intercepts Missile From Yemen, Raising Fears of Wider Middle East Conflict
Israel Intercepts Missile From Yemen, Raising Fears of Wider Middle East Conflict
The Israeli military has confirmed the interception of a missile launched from Yemen, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict and heightening fears of a broader regional war.
According to the Israel Defense Forces, the missile was detected early Saturday and successfully intercepted by air defence systems, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage. The incident is the first of its kind since the current phase of hostilities began, raising concerns about the expansion of the conflict beyond its initial fronts.
The development came shortly after warnings from Iran-aligned Houthi forces in Yemen, who signalled readiness to act if escalation against Iran and allied groups continues. Although the Houthis did not officially claim responsibility, the timing has intensified speculation about their involvement.
Security analysts warn that Houthi participation could significantly widen the war, given the group’s ability to launch long-range missiles and drones. The group has previously targeted international shipping routes in the Red Sea and surrounding waters, contributing to disruptions in global trade and energy supply chains.
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These concerns are amplified by the proximity of key maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial portion of the world’s oil passes. Any sustained threat to these routes could have major implications for oil prices and global economic stability.
The latest incident underscores growing fears of a wider confrontation, as Iran-backed groups across the region increase their level of engagement. Armed factions in Lebanon and Iraq have already intensified attacks, including rocket and drone strikes targeting Israeli and US-linked positions.
The conflict was triggered by joint military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iranian targets in late February, setting off a wave of retaliatory strikes across multiple regions.
Military officials say defence systems across the region remain on high alert, while the Pentagon continues to evaluate its military posture, including possible troop deployments and naval reinforcements to secure strategic waterways.
Experts caution that the entry of Yemen into the conflict—either directly or through sustained proxy attacks—could significantly complicate containment efforts. A multi-front war involving Iran-backed groups would increase pressure on Israel’s defences and heighten the risk of miscalculation.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation remains highly volatile. Analysts warn that further escalation could disrupt global trade routes, trigger spikes in energy prices, and draw more international actors into the crisis.
Israel Intercepts Missile From Yemen, Raising Fears of Wider Middle East Conflict
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