West Asia War LIVE Updates: Operation Epic Fury a laser-focused mission, says US Defense Secretary
Hegseth, while talking about Operation Epic Fury, called it a laser-focused one. He said, "The mission is laser-focused: obliterate Iran`s missiles and drones and facilities that produce them, annihilate its navy and critical security infrastructure, and sever their pathway to nuclear weapons. Iran will never possess a nuclear bomb." Meanwhile, Tehran has been hit very hard by the bombardment. Karaj, to the west of Tehran, and the city of Isfahan have also been hit over the past few hours. There is talk of casualties across the board in many of those areas, including civilians. Twenty schools so far have been hit, as per Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Operation Epic Fury a laser-focused mission, says US Defense Secretary
Hegseth, while talking about Operation Epic Fury, called it a laser-focused one. He said, "The mission is laser-focused: obliterate Iran`s missiles and drones and facilities that produce them, annihilate its navy and critical security infrastructure, and sever their pathway to nuclear weapons. Iran will never possess a nuclear bomb." Meanwhile, Tehran has been hit very hard by the bombardment. Karaj, to the west of Tehran, and the city of Isfahan have also been hit over the past few hours. There is talk of casualties across the board in many of those areas, including civilians. Twenty schools so far have been hit, as per Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

West Asia War LIVE Updates: `Iran had intentions on trying to kill President Trump`
"Iran cannot outlast us. We`re going to ensure that we set the tone and tempo of this fight. That`s why stories that try to make it look like we`re limited; the only limits we have in this is US President Donald Trump`s desire to achieve specific effects on behalf of American people. We`ve known for a long time that Iran had intentions on trying to kill President Trump...while that was not the focus of the effort by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, never raised by the President...I ensured that those who were responsible for that were eventually part of the target list," he added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The First 100 Hours. <a href="https://t.co/uz8YOzgDPc">pic.twitter.com/uz8YOzgDPc</a>
&mdash; DOW Rapid Response (@DOWResponse) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOWResponse/status/2029195619248816565?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

West Asia War LIVE Updates: `Iran had intentions on trying to kill President Trump`
"Iran cannot outlast us. We`re going to ensure that we set the tone and tempo of this fight. That`s why stories that try to make it look like we`re limited; the only limits we have in this is US President Donald Trump`s desire to achieve specific effects on behalf of American people. We`ve known for a long time that Iran had intentions on trying to kill President Trump...while that was not the focus of the effort by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, never raised by the President...I ensured that those who were responsible for that were eventually part of the target list," he added.

The First 100 Hours. pic.twitter.com/uz8YOzgDPc
&mdash; DOW Rapid Response (@DOWResponse) March 4, 2026




West Asia War LIVE Updates: `Two most powerful air forces in world will have complete control of Iranian skies`
"Starting last night, and to be completed in a few days... the two most powerful air forces in the world will have complete control of Iranian skies," he said. 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu">https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wc1e0B0um7">pic.twitter.com/Wc1e0B0um7</a>
&mdash; Department of War ?? (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2029193757162139762?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

West Asia War LIVE Updates: `Two most powerful air forces in world will have complete control of Iranian skies`
"Starting last night, and to be completed in a few days... the two most powerful air forces in the world will have complete control of Iranian skies," he said.

https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu pic.twitter.com/Wc1e0B0um7
&mdash; Department of War ?? (@DeptofWar) March 4, 2026




West Asia War LIVE Updates: "Will have complete control of Iranian skies," says US Defense Secretary US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth on Wednesday announced that in a few days US and Israel will have complete control over Iranian skies. Hegseth said that Iran cannot outlast them. (ANI)

West Asia War LIVE Updates: "Will have complete control of Iranian skies," says US Defense SecretaryUS Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth on Wednesday announced that in a few days US and Israel will have complete control over Iranian skies. Hegseth said that Iran cannot outlast them. (ANI)

West Asia War LIVE Updates: `Metrics are shifting, dust is settling, and more forces are arriving,` says US Defense Secretary
&ldquo;First, we are only four days into this. Metrics are shifting, dust is settling, and more forces are arriving,&rdquo; Hegseth said. &ldquo;Second, we are only four days into this, and the results have been incredible - historic, really.&rdquo;

West Asia War LIVE Updates: `Metrics are shifting, dust is settling, and more forces are arriving,` says US Defense Secretary
&ldquo;First, we are only four days into this. Metrics are shifting, dust is settling, and more forces are arriving,&rdquo; Hegseth said. &ldquo;Second, we are only four days into this, and the results have been incredible - historic, really.&rdquo;

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Iranian missile launches drop 86 per cent after strikes, claims Pentagon
Senior US military leaders on Wednesday said American and allied forces have sharply degraded Iran`s military capability in the first four days of the ongoing conflict, with Iranian missile launches dropping significantly and US forces expanding strikes deeper inside Iranian territory. (IANS)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Iranian missile launches drop 86 per cent after strikes, claims Pentagon
Senior US military leaders on Wednesday said American and allied forces have sharply degraded Iran`s military capability in the first four days of the ongoing conflict, with Iranian missile launches dropping significantly and US forces expanding strikes deeper inside Iranian territory. (IANS)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Any leader chosen by Iranian regime target for elimination: Israeli Defence Minister
Defence Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday threatened that any leader appointed by the Iranian regime, who would continue to lead with the plans to destroy Israel, will be a target for elimination by the Jewish state. Katz`s comments came on a day Iran is set to choose a Supreme Leader, the second time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The joint US-Israel strikes killed Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday, prompting the Islamic nation to vow revenge on Sunday.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Any leader chosen by Iranian regime target for elimination: Israeli Defence Minister
Defence Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday threatened that any leader appointed by the Iranian regime, who would continue to lead with the plans to destroy Israel, will be a target for elimination by the Jewish state. Katz`s comments came on a day Iran is set to choose a Supreme Leader, the second time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The joint US-Israel strikes killed Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday, prompting the Islamic nation to vow revenge on Sunday.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Spain`s Sanchez says `no to war` in Iran despite Trump`s trade threat
Spain`s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez again criticised the US and Israel`s military actions in Iran, standing firm on Wednesday against trade threats from Washington and warning that the war in the Middle East risked "playing Russian roulette" with millions of lives. "We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world and is also contrary to our values and interests, just out of fear of reprisals from someone," Sanchez said in a televised address.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Spain`s Sanchez says `no to war` in Iran despite Trump`s trade threat
Spain`s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez again criticised the US and Israel`s military actions in Iran, standing firm on Wednesday against trade threats from Washington and warning that the war in the Middle East risked "playing Russian roulette" with millions of lives. "We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world and is also contrary to our values and interests, just out of fear of reprisals from someone," Sanchez said in a televised address.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Iranian government agency says death toll in Iran from war has reached at least 1,045 people
The death toll in Iran from the ongoing war with the United States and Israel has reached at least 1,045 people, an Iranian government agency said on Wednesday. Iran`s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs offered the toll, saying it represented the number of bodies so far identified and prepared for burial.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Iranian government agency says death toll in Iran from war has reached at least 1,045 people
The death toll in Iran from the ongoing war with the United States and Israel has reached at least 1,045 people, an Iranian government agency said on Wednesday. Iran`s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs offered the toll, saying it represented the number of bodies so far identified and prepared for burial.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Iran`s Revolutionary Guard threatens `complete destruction of region`s military, economic infra`
Iran`s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard on Wednesday issued its most intense threat yet as the war in the Middle East escalated Wednesday, saying it was prepared for the "complete destruction of the region`s military and economic infrastructure." The Guard issued the statement via Iranian state television. "The continued mischief and deception by the United States in the region will come at the cost of the complete destruction of the region`s military and economic infrastructure," it said.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Iran`s Revolutionary Guard threatens `complete destruction of region`s military, economic infra`
Iran`s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard on Wednesday issued its most intense threat yet as the war in the Middle East escalated Wednesday, saying it was prepared for the "complete destruction of the region`s military and economic infrastructure." The Guard issued the statement via Iranian state television. "The continued mischief and deception by the United States in the region will come at the cost of the complete destruction of the region`s military and economic infrastructure," it said.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: China kicks off its annual political season amid US-Iran war, military purges, economic challenges
China on Wednesday commenced its annual parliament season amid international turmoil over the US-Iran war, massive purges of the military by President Xi Jinping and major plans to develop new productive forces like AI to revitalise the slowing-down economy. Xi, 72, who is into his unprecedented third term in office with little indication of any organised political challenge from within the ruling Communist Party and the powerful military, attended the opening session of the national advisory body - the Chinese People`s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), comprising over 2500 civil society, party, and military officials. The opening session marks the beginning of a fortnight-long annual political season in China during which the leadership appears in public and takes part in internal debates.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: China kicks off its annual political season amid US-Iran war, military purges, economic challenges
China on Wednesday commenced its annual parliament season amid international turmoil over the US-Iran war, massive purges of the military by President Xi Jinping and major plans to develop new productive forces like AI to revitalise the slowing-down economy. Xi, 72, who is into his unprecedented third term in office with little indication of any organised political challenge from within the ruling Communist Party and the powerful military, attended the opening session of the national advisory body - the Chinese People`s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), comprising over 2500 civil society, party, and military officials. The opening session marks the beginning of a fortnight-long annual political season in China during which the leadership appears in public and takes part in internal debates.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Pakistan says Saudi responded positively to its request for alternative oil supply route
Pakistan on Wednesday said that Saudi Arabia has responded positively to its request for an alternative oil supply route in the wake of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the attack on Iran. Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki during which the two discussed matters of mutual interest and bilateral cooperation, according to an official statement. Malik apprised the ambassador about the current situation and the implications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on global energy markets.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Pakistan says Saudi responded positively to its request for alternative oil supply route
Pakistan on Wednesday said that Saudi Arabia has responded positively to its request for an alternative oil supply route in the wake of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the attack on Iran. Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki during which the two discussed matters of mutual interest and bilateral cooperation, according to an official statement. Malik apprised the ambassador about the current situation and the implications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on global energy markets.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Indian returnees from Dubai recount `bombardment` amid West Asia Conflict
Passengers who arrived at the IGI Airport in Delhi from Dubai on Wednesday described a city on high alert following a wave of drone and missile strikes. Returnees like Vivek, a passenger, praised the Dubai government`s crisis management and safety protocols. Speaking to ANI, Vivek said, "A bit of bombardment happened. The Dubai government was very good in terms of taking care of everyone. Dubai is the safest country. We were asked to take precautions at all times in the advisory."

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Indian returnees from Dubai recount `bombardment` amid West Asia Conflict
Passengers who arrived at the IGI Airport in Delhi from Dubai on Wednesday described a city on high alert following a wave of drone and missile strikes. Returnees like Vivek, a passenger, praised the Dubai government`s crisis management and safety protocols. Speaking to ANI, Vivek said, "A bit of bombardment happened. The Dubai government was very good in terms of taking care of everyone. Dubai is the safest country. We were asked to take precautions at all times in the advisory."

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Spain`s Sanchez stands firm on opposition to war in Iran despite Trump`s trade threat
Spain`s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez once again criticised the US and Israel`s military actions in Iran, standing firm on Wednesday against fresh trade threats from Washington and warning that the Iran war risked "playing Russian roulette" with millions of lives. President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened to end US trade with Spain because of Spain`s refusal to allow the US to use joint military bases in the country in its attacks on Iran. "We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world and is also contrary to our values and interests, just out of fear of reprisals from someone," Sanchez said in a televised address.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Spain`s Sanchez stands firm on opposition to war in Iran despite Trump`s trade threat
Spain`s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez once again criticised the US and Israel`s military actions in Iran, standing firm on Wednesday against fresh trade threats from Washington and warning that the Iran war risked "playing Russian roulette" with millions of lives. President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened to end US trade with Spain because of Spain`s refusal to allow the US to use joint military bases in the country in its attacks on Iran. "We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world and is also contrary to our values and interests, just out of fear of reprisals from someone," Sanchez said in a televised address.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: US announces withdrawal of non-emergency staff from consulates in Karachi and Lahore
The United States announced on Wednesday the withdrawal of non-emergency staff from its consulates in the Pakistani cities of Karachi and Lahore due to security concerns. The decision came just days after protestors tried to storm US consulates and the embassy after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli joint air strikes.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: US announces withdrawal of non-emergency staff from consulates in Karachi and Lahore
The United States announced on Wednesday the withdrawal of non-emergency staff from its consulates in the Pakistani cities of Karachi and Lahore due to security concerns. The decision came just days after protestors tried to storm US consulates and the embassy after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli joint air strikes.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Can`t play Russian roulette with destiny of millions," Spanish PM Sanchez criticises US-Israel led strikes on Iran
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Wednesday reiterated his opposition to the US-Israel led attack on Iran saying the West Asia conflict risked playing "Russian roulette" with the lives of millions, reported Reuters. "This is how humanity`s great disasters start ... You cannot play Russian roulette with destiny of millions," Sanchez said in his address to the Spanish people.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Can`t play Russian roulette with destiny of millions," Spanish PM Sanchez criticises US-Israel led strikes on Iran
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Wednesday reiterated his opposition to the US-Israel led attack on Iran saying the West Asia conflict risked playing "Russian roulette" with the lives of millions, reported Reuters. "This is how humanity`s great disasters start ... You cannot play Russian roulette with destiny of millions," Sanchez said in his address to the Spanish people.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: UK charters first repatriation flight for Brits stranded due to West Asia conflict
The UK government said it has chartered a commercial flight out of Oman on Wednesday to help British nationals wanting to leave following the attacks across West Asia in the wake of the US-Israel strikes on Iran. The Foreign, Development and Commonwealth Office (FCDO) said the flight will leave the Omani capital of Muscat at 2300 local time (1900 GMT) on Wednesday for British nationals who are keen to return home. "British nationals and their spouse or partner, and children under the age of 18 are eligible," the FCDO said in a statement.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: UK charters first repatriation flight for Brits stranded due to West Asia conflict
The UK government said it has chartered a commercial flight out of Oman on Wednesday to help British nationals wanting to leave following the attacks across West Asia in the wake of the US-Israel strikes on Iran. The Foreign, Development and Commonwealth Office (FCDO) said the flight will leave the Omani capital of Muscat at 2300 local time (1900 GMT) on Wednesday for British nationals who are keen to return home. "British nationals and their spouse or partner, and children under the age of 18 are eligible," the FCDO said in a statement.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Leader will be appointed at earliest opportunity," Iran`s Leadership Council tells state media
Iran`s leadership council on Wednesday told state media that a leader to success the late Ayatollah Khamenei would be appointed at the earliest. In a video posted by News Agency Tasnim, an official told state Television, "I bring good news to the people that no problem has arisen in the field of leadership. The leadership council is currently running the country and, God willing, at the earliest opportunity, a leader will be appointed. Praise be to God, we have come closer, but the situation is one of war. Sometimes some loved ones ask how did you choose the Supreme Leader immediately after the Imam (Ayatollah Khomeini)? Our answer is that the situation was not a war situation. Now the situation is one of war, we are all striving. The Assembly of Experts is striving; no one is resting."

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Leader will be appointed at earliest opportunity," Iran`s Leadership Council tells state media
Iran`s leadership council on Wednesday told state media that a leader to success the late Ayatollah Khamenei would be appointed at the earliest. In a video posted by News Agency Tasnim, an official told state Television, "I bring good news to the people that no problem has arisen in the field of leadership. The leadership council is currently running the country and, God willing, at the earliest opportunity, a leader will be appointed. Praise be to God, we have come closer, but the situation is one of war. Sometimes some loved ones ask how did you choose the Supreme Leader immediately after the Imam (Ayatollah Khomeini)? Our answer is that the situation was not a war situation. Now the situation is one of war, we are all striving. The Assembly of Experts is striving; no one is resting."

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Senior aide to late Ayatollah Khamenei says, "Iran has no intent of negotiating with US, can continue war"
The Iranians have hardened their position as the conflict in West Asia entered Day 5. On Wednesday, Mohammad Mokhber, a senior aide to the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei told state TV that Iran has no intention of negotiating with the United States and can continue the Middle East war for as long as needed. Iran`s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) earlier said that it had launched what it said was the 17th wave of strikes against US, Israeli targets, Press TV reported.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Senior aide to late Ayatollah Khamenei says, "Iran has no intent of negotiating with US, can continue war"
The Iranians have hardened their position as the conflict in West Asia entered Day 5. On Wednesday, Mohammad Mokhber, a senior aide to the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei told state TV that Iran has no intention of negotiating with the United States and can continue the Middle East war for as long as needed. Iran`s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) earlier said that it had launched what it said was the 17th wave of strikes against US, Israeli targets, Press TV reported.

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Smoke billows after Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon`s Beirut amid Middle East escalation 
Smoke rose from the site of an Israeli airstrike in the Al Lailaki neighbourhood of Beirut&rsquo;s southern suburbs on Wednesday, with the city&rsquo;s international airport visible in the background. <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/photo/in-photos-west-asia-war-smoke-billows-after-israeli-airstrikes-in-beirut-amid-middle-east-escalation-109952/1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">See Photos.</a>
&nbsp;

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Smoke billows after Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon`s Beirut amid Middle East escalation
Smoke rose from the site of an Israeli airstrike in the Al Lailaki neighbourhood of Beirut&rsquo;s southern suburbs on Wednesday, with the city&rsquo;s international airport visible in the background. See Photos.
&nbsp;

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Israel Air Force says `extensive` wave of strikes against Iran regime targets on 
The Israeli Air Force says it is carrying out an "extensive" wave of strikes against Iranian regime targets in Tehran. The IDF further said that it has carried out a series of strikes on the Basij and internal security command centres in Tehran belonging to the Iranian terror regime. The IDF said the targeted command centres were used by the Iranian regime to maintain control throughout Iran. The IDF said it had also struck the regime`s missile launchers and other systems. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Israel Air Force says `extensive` wave of strikes against Iran regime targets on
The Israeli Air Force says it is carrying out an "extensive" wave of strikes against Iranian regime targets in Tehran. The IDF further said that it has carried out a series of strikes on the Basij and internal security command centres in Tehran belonging to the Iranian terror regime. The IDF said the targeted command centres were used by the Iranian regime to maintain control throughout Iran. The IDF said it had also struck the regime`s missile launchers and other systems. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Sri Lanka Navy rescues 30 sailors from Iranian naval ship "IRIS Dena" 
The Sri Lankan Navy on Wednesday rescued 30 sailors from the Iranian naval ship "IRIS Dena", which was in distress with around 180 sailors onboard, according to Sri Lankan media reports. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Sri Lanka Navy rescues 30 sailors from Iranian naval ship "IRIS Dena"
The Sri Lankan Navy on Wednesday rescued 30 sailors from the Iranian naval ship "IRIS Dena", which was in distress with around 180 sailors onboard, according to Sri Lankan media reports. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Iran`s judiciary chief threatens those who say or do anything` in support of US-Israeli airstrikes 
Iran`s judiciary chief on Wednesday threatened "those who say or do anything" in support of the US-Israeli airstrike campaign now targeting the Islamic Republic. Gholam Hosseini Mohseni Ejehei made the comments in an interview with Iranian state television. (AP)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Iran`s judiciary chief threatens those who say or do anything` in support of US-Israeli airstrikes
Iran`s judiciary chief on Wednesday threatened "those who say or do anything" in support of the US-Israeli airstrike campaign now targeting the Islamic Republic. Gholam Hosseini Mohseni Ejehei made the comments in an interview with Iranian state television. (AP)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Trump betrayed diplomacy," says Iran`s Foreign Minister Syed Araghchi 
Iran`s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has attacked US President, accusing him of bombing Iran out of spite, even as negotiations were on between the two sides. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Trump betrayed diplomacy," says Iran`s Foreign Minister Syed Araghchi
Iran`s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has attacked US President, accusing him of bombing Iran out of spite, even as negotiations were on between the two sides. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Israel to reopen airspace overnight March 4-5, resume limited flights from Ben Gurion Airport 
Israel will open its airspace on the night between March 4 and March 5, resuming limited flights from Ben Gurion Airport to safely evacuate Israeli`s stuck in the Gulf region. Israel Transport Minister Miri Regev announced this decision in a press conference, as the conflict in West Asia escalates after the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Israel to reopen airspace overnight March 4-5, resume limited flights from Ben Gurion Airport
Israel will open its airspace on the night between March 4 and March 5, resuming limited flights from Ben Gurion Airport to safely evacuate Israeli`s stuck in the Gulf region. Israel Transport Minister Miri Regev announced this decision in a press conference, as the conflict in West Asia escalates after the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;3-day farewell ceremony for late Ayatollah Khamenei to begin in Tehran tonight; Israel warns, "new leader will be target for elimination" 
Iran`s state media has reported that Iranians will bid farewell to late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a ceremony later tonight at Tehran`s Imam Khomeini prayer ground. The ceremony will last for three days, and the funeral procession will be announced when it is finalised. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;3-day farewell ceremony for late Ayatollah Khamenei to begin in Tehran tonight; Israel warns, "new leader will be target for elimination"
Iran`s state media has reported that Iranians will bid farewell to late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a ceremony later tonight at Tehran`s Imam Khomeini prayer ground. The ceremony will last for three days, and the funeral procession will be announced when it is finalised. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Congress taking first votes on Iran war as debate rages about US goals 
The US Senate is headed towards a vote on Wednesday on President Donald Trump`s decision to embark on a war against Iran, an extraordinary test in Congress for a conflict that has rapidly spread across the Middle East with no clear US exit strategy. (AP)

West Asia war LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Congress taking first votes on Iran war as debate rages about US goals
The US Senate is headed towards a vote on Wednesday on President Donald Trump`s decision to embark on a war against Iran, an extraordinary test in Congress for a conflict that has rapidly spread across the Middle East with no clear US exit strategy. (AP)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Asian shares swoon, Kospi sinks 12 pc, as war with Iran widens, oil surges higher 
Asian shares tumbled on Wednesday, with South Korea`s benchmark plunging more than 12 per cent, while oil prices climbed even higher as the war with Iran widened. (AP)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Asian shares swoon, Kospi sinks 12 pc, as war with Iran widens, oil surges higher
Asian shares tumbled on Wednesday, with South Korea`s benchmark plunging more than 12 per cent, while oil prices climbed even higher as the war with Iran widened. (AP)

West Asia war LIVE Updates | "War in Iran must end now": Senators Ed Markey, Elizabeth Warren slam Trump after classified briefing 
Two Democratic senators from Massachusetts on Tuesday (local time) sharply criticised President Donald Trump`s handling of the conflict with Iran after attending a classified briefing, calling the war "illegal" and warning that the situation is worsening. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates | "War in Iran must end now": Senators Ed Markey, Elizabeth Warren slam Trump after classified briefing
Two Democratic senators from Massachusetts on Tuesday (local time) sharply criticised President Donald Trump`s handling of the conflict with Iran after attending a classified briefing, calling the war "illegal" and warning that the situation is worsening. (ANI)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Israel says whoever is chosen as Iran`s next supreme leader will be `target for elimination` 
Israel`s defence minister on Wednesday threatened whoever Iran picks to be the country`s next supreme leader, saying he will be "a target for elimination." Israel Katz made the statement on X.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
כל מנהיג שימונה ע"י משטר הטרור האיראני כדי להמשיך ולהוביל את התוכנית להשמדת ישראל, לאיים על ארה"ב והעולם החופשי ומדינות האזור, ולדכא את העם האירני - יהיה יעד חד משמעי לחיסול. לא חשוב מה שמו והמקום בו יסתתר. רה"מ ואני הנחינו את צה"ל להיערך ולפעול בכל האמצעים למימוש המשימה כחלק&hellip;
&mdash; ישראל כ&rdquo;ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/2029080566872580134?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Israel says whoever is chosen as Iran`s next supreme leader will be `target for elimination`
Israel`s defence minister on Wednesday threatened whoever Iran picks to be the country`s next supreme leader, saying he will be "a target for elimination." Israel Katz made the statement on X.

כל מנהיג שימונה ע"י משטר הטרור האיראני כדי להמשיך ולהוביל את התוכנית להשמדת ישראל, לאיים על ארה"ב והעולם החופשי ומדינות האזור, ולדכא את העם האירני - יהיה יעד חד משמעי לחיסול.לא חשוב מה שמו והמקום בו יסתתר.רה"מ ואני הנחינו את צה"ל להיערך ולפעול בכל האמצעים למימוש המשימה כחלק&hellip;
&mdash; ישראל כ&rdquo;ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) March 4, 2026


West Asia war LIVE Updates: Explosions heard in Tehran, Jerusalem on fifth day of war Explosions sounded in Tehran on Wednesday as Iran`s war with the US and Israel entered a fifth day following earlier strikes on an Iranian nuclear site and retaliatory strikes by the Islamic Republic across the Gulf region. The explosions around Tehran came at dawn, according to Iran`s state television, while Israel`s military said its air defences had been activated to intercept incoming Iranian missiles, and explosions were heard around Jerusalem. Five days into a war that US President Donald Trump suggested could last a month or longer, nearly 800 people have been killed in Iran, including some Trump said he had considered as possible future leaders of the country: AP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Explosions heard in Tehran, Jerusalem on fifth day of warExplosions sounded in Tehran on Wednesday as Iran`s war with the US and Israel entered a fifth day following earlier strikes on an Iranian nuclear site and retaliatory strikes by the Islamic Republic across the Gulf region. The explosions around Tehran came at dawn, according to Iran`s state television, while Israel`s military said its air defences had been activated to intercept incoming Iranian missiles, and explosions were heard around Jerusalem. Five days into a war that US President Donald Trump suggested could last a month or longer, nearly 800 people have been killed in Iran, including some Trump said he had considered as possible future leaders of the country: AP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Saudi Arabia says intercepted two cruise missiles
The Saudi defence ministry said two cruise missiles were intercepted Wednesday over an area south of the capital Riyadh, and state media reported a separate drone attack was thwarted. "Two cruise missiles were intercepted and destroyed in Al-Kharj" district, a defence ministry statement said, while the official Saudi Press Agency cited a ministry spokesman as saying "nine drones were intercepted and destroyed immediately upon entering the Kingdom`s airspace". The statements did not say who may be behind the attacks: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Saudi Arabia says intercepted two cruise missiles
The Saudi defence ministry said two cruise missiles were intercepted Wednesday over an area south of the capital Riyadh, and state media reported a separate drone attack was thwarted. "Two cruise missiles were intercepted and destroyed in Al-Kharj" district, a defence ministry statement said, while the official Saudi Press Agency cited a ministry spokesman as saying "nine drones were intercepted and destroyed immediately upon entering the Kingdom`s airspace". The statements did not say who may be behind the attacks: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Non-emergency staff granted permission to leave Saudi Arabia, Oman, says US
The US State Department has given its non-emergency personnel and their families in Saudi Arabia and Oman permission to leave, the US embassies in both Gulf states said Tuesday, as Iran launches retaliatory strikes in response to US-Israeli air raids: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Non-emergency staff granted permission to leave Saudi Arabia, Oman, says US
The US State Department has given its non-emergency personnel and their families in Saudi Arabia and Oman permission to leave, the US embassies in both Gulf states said Tuesday, as Iran launches retaliatory strikes in response to US-Israeli air raids: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Israeli strikes hit hotel, residential building, says Lebanon
Israeli strikes hit a Beirut hotel and residential complex in Lebanon`s east, Lebanese state media said Wednesday, as Israel announced broad strikes: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Israeli strikes hit hotel, residential building, says Lebanon
Israeli strikes hit a Beirut hotel and residential complex in Lebanon`s east, Lebanese state media said Wednesday, as Israel announced broad strikes: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: SpiceJet to operate 8 flights from UAE on Wed
SpiceJet will operate eight special flights from Fujairah in the UAE on Wednesday to bring passengers who are stranded due to the Middle East crisis. In a statement on Wednesday, the airline said it would operate four services to Delhi, three to Mumbai and one to Kochi from Fujairah. On Tuesday, the carrier operated four special flights from Fujairah to Delhi, Mumbai and Kochi. The escalating Middle East conflict involving US, Israel and Iran has significantly disrupted flight operations in the region: PTI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: SpiceJet to operate 8 flights from UAE on Wed
SpiceJet will operate eight special flights from Fujairah in the UAE on Wednesday to bring passengers who are stranded due to the Middle East crisis. In a statement on Wednesday, the airline said it would operate four services to Delhi, three to Mumbai and one to Kochi from Fujairah. On Tuesday, the carrier operated four special flights from Fujairah to Delhi, Mumbai and Kochi. The escalating Middle East conflict involving US, Israel and Iran has significantly disrupted flight operations in the region: PTI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Russia, China object to US UNSC Presidency`s Programme of Work over Iran In a development highlighting polarisation in the UN Security Council, the monthly programme of work for the US Presidency of the powerful UN organ could not be adopted after Russia and China raised objections concerning Iran. The United States, a veto-wielding permanent member, assumed the Presidency of the 15-nation UN Security Council for the month of March. As is customary, a monthly programme of work that outlines the Council`s anticipated meetings and events for the month is adopted by the UN body at the commencement of the Presidency: PTI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Russia, China object to US UNSC Presidency`s Programme of Work over IranIn a development highlighting polarisation in the UN Security Council, the monthly programme of work for the US Presidency of the powerful UN organ could not be adopted after Russia and China raised objections concerning Iran. The United States, a veto-wielding permanent member, assumed the Presidency of the 15-nation UN Security Council for the month of March. As is customary, a monthly programme of work that outlines the Council`s anticipated meetings and events for the month is adopted by the UN body at the commencement of the Presidency: PTI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Curbs remain in force in Kashmir after protests against Khamenei`s killing
Strict restrictions remained imposed in many areas of Kashmir for the third consecutive day on Wednesday following massive protests across the valley against the killing of Iran`s Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, officials said. As a precautionary measure, the government shut educational institutions till Saturday, while mobile internet speed continued to remain throttled. "Restrictions on the movement and assembly of the people continued in many parts of Kashmir on Wednesday," the officials said. They said strict restrictions were being enforced especially in the parts having large Shia population and those areas which have witnessed massive protests over the last three days. A large number of police and paramilitary CRPF personnel were deployed across the city to prevent gatherings of protestors, the officials said: PTI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Curbs remain in force in Kashmir after protests against Khamenei`s killing
Strict restrictions remained imposed in many areas of Kashmir for the third consecutive day on Wednesday following massive protests across the valley against the killing of Iran`s Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, officials said. As a precautionary measure, the government shut educational institutions till Saturday, while mobile internet speed continued to remain throttled. "Restrictions on the movement and assembly of the people continued in many parts of Kashmir on Wednesday," the officials said. They said strict restrictions were being enforced especially in the parts having large Shia population and those areas which have witnessed massive protests over the last three days. A large number of police and paramilitary CRPF personnel were deployed across the city to prevent gatherings of protestors, the officials said: PTI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Russia urges Iran to protect civilians across Middle East
Russian top diplomat Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday urged ally Iran to ensure safety of civilians across the Middle East during a call with Iranian counterpart: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Russia urges Iran to protect civilians across Middle East
Russian top diplomat Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday urged ally Iran to ensure safety of civilians across the Middle East during a call with Iranian counterpart: AFP

West Asia war LIVE Updates: India to operate 58 flights from Gulf cities as Middle East airspace remains closed
Indian carriers have taken initiatives to operate 58 flights on Wednesday to repatriate passengers stranded in the Middle East, even as most regional airspace remained closed or restricted amid escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. "Indian carriers are further planning 58 flights on 4th March, including 30 by IndiGo and 23 by Air India and Air India Express. Foreign carriers operating between India and the Gulf region are also undertaking limited operations, subject to operational and airspace considerations," said Civil Aviation Ministry: IANS

West Asia war LIVE Updates: India to operate 58 flights from Gulf cities as Middle East airspace remains closed
Indian carriers have taken initiatives to operate 58 flights on Wednesday to repatriate passengers stranded in the Middle East, even as most regional airspace remained closed or restricted amid escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. "Indian carriers are further planning 58 flights on 4th March, including 30 by IndiGo and 23 by Air India and Air India Express. Foreign carriers operating between India and the Gulf region are also undertaking limited operations, subject to operational and airspace considerations," said Civil Aviation Ministry: IANS

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Iran`s IRGC says 16th wave of Operation True Promise launched
Iran`s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced the execution of the 16th wave of Operation True Promise 4 against the US-Israel forces in the region after they struck Iran. In a statement IRGC claimed that it had struck the "heart and the northern parts of the occupied territories" with "effective" missile and drone operations conducted by its Aerospace Division. It cited some of the targets as the general staff of the Israeli regime`s army and its ministry of war in Hakiriya, the strategic infrastructures lying in Bnei Brak, military targets stationed in Beit Hakfa, northeast of Tel Aviv, and the military centre in Western Galilee: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Iran`s IRGC says 16th wave of Operation True Promise launched
Iran`s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced the execution of the 16th wave of Operation True Promise 4 against the US-Israel forces in the region after they struck Iran. In a statement IRGC claimed that it had struck the "heart and the northern parts of the occupied territories" with "effective" missile and drone operations conducted by its Aerospace Division. It cited some of the targets as the general staff of the Israeli regime`s army and its ministry of war in Hakiriya, the strategic infrastructures lying in Bnei Brak, military targets stationed in Beit Hakfa, northeast of Tel Aviv, and the military centre in Western Galilee: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: MEA sets up control room for Indians in West Asia, Gulf
A Control Room has been set up in the Ministry of External Affairs in view of the current situation in West Asia and the Gulf region. The Control Room can be contacted from 9 am to 9 pm at:
1800118797 (Toll Free) +91 11 2301 2113 +91 11 2301 4104 +91 11 2301 7905
Emergency contact numbers of Indian Embassies in the region are:
Bahrain: +973 39418071
Iran: +989128109115 / +989128109102 /+989128109109 / +989932179359
Iraq: +964 771 651 1185 / +964 770444 4899
Israel: +972 54 7520711 / +972 54 2428378
Jordan: +962 770 422 276
Kuwait: + 965 65501946
Lebanon: +961 76860128
Oman: +968 98282270 (Whatsapp) / 80071234 (Toll free)
Qatar: +974 55647502
Ramallah, Palestine: +970 592916418
Saudi Arabia (Riyadh): +966 11 4884697 / 800 247 1234 (toll free)
Saudi Arabia (Jeddah): +966 126648660 / +966 12 2614093
United Arab Emirates: +971 543090571 (Whatsapp) / 800 46342 (Toll free)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: MEA sets up control room for Indians in West Asia, Gulf
A Control Room has been set up in the Ministry of External Affairs in view of the current situation in West Asia and the Gulf region. The Control Room can be contacted from 9 am to 9 pm at:
1800118797 (Toll Free)+91 11 2301 2113+91 11 2301 4104+91 11 2301 7905
Emergency contact numbers of Indian Embassies in the region are:
Bahrain: +973 39418071
Iran: +989128109115 / +989128109102 /+989128109109 / +989932179359
Iraq: +964 771 651 1185 / +964 770444 4899
Israel: +972 54 7520711 / +972 54 2428378
Jordan: +962 770 422 276
Kuwait: + 965 65501946
Lebanon: +961 76860128
Oman: +968 98282270 (Whatsapp) / 80071234 (Toll free)
Qatar: +974 55647502
Ramallah, Palestine: +970 592916418
Saudi Arabia (Riyadh): +966 11 4884697 / 800 247 1234 (toll free)
Saudi Arabia (Jeddah): +966 126648660 / +966 12 2614093
United Arab Emirates: +971 543090571 (Whatsapp) / 800 46342 (Toll free)

West Asia war LIVE Updates: CIA station in Riyadh targeted by drones, no damage; US says Iran`s `ability to hit back declining`
Fox News, citing a source, has reported that a CIA station inside the US Embassy compound in Riyadh was hit in a drone attack. Two drones caused structural damage and smoke inside the compound, officials said. There were no immediate reports of injuries, said the news report. Earlier, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following military strikes on Iran, a fire that broke out near the premises of the US Consulate General in Dubai late Tuesday night, following a suspected drone strike, has been fully extinguished, with authorities confirming that no injuries were reported: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: CIA station in Riyadh targeted by drones, no damage; US says Iran`s `ability to hit back declining`
Fox News, citing a source, has reported that a CIA station inside the US Embassy compound in Riyadh was hit in a drone attack. Two drones caused structural damage and smoke inside the compound, officials said. There were no immediate reports of injuries, said the news report. Earlier, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following military strikes on Iran, a fire that broke out near the premises of the US Consulate General in Dubai late Tuesday night, following a suspected drone strike, has been fully extinguished, with authorities confirming that no injuries were reported: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: India monitering West Asia airspace situation amid escalating tension
India is continuously monitoring the evolving airspace situation in parts of West Asia and its impact on international flight operations. 1,221 flights by Indian carriers and 388 flights by foreign carriers have been cancelled to date due to the ongoing Iran conflict. Furthermore, a total of 24 flights were operated by Indian carriers on Tuesday, while Emirates and Etihad operated 9 flights from the Gulf: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: India monitering West Asia airspace situation amid escalating tension
India is continuously monitoring the evolving airspace situation in parts of West Asia and its impact on international flight operations. 1,221 flights by Indian carriers and 388 flights by foreign carriers have been cancelled to date due to the ongoing Iran conflict. Furthermore, a total of 24 flights were operated by Indian carriers on Tuesday, while Emirates and Etihad operated 9 flights from the Gulf: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Fire caused by drone strike near US Consulate in Dubai extinguished; no casualties
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following military strikes on Iran, a fire that broke out near the premises of the US Consulate General Dubai late Tuesday night, following a suspected drone strike, has been fully extinguished, with authorities confirming that no injuries were reported. Dubai authorities have confirmed that a fire resulting from a drone-related incident near the US Consulate has been successfully contained. Emergency teams responded immediately. No injuries have been reported: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Fire caused by drone strike near US Consulate in Dubai extinguished; no casualties
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following military strikes on Iran, a fire that broke out near the premises of the US Consulate General Dubai late Tuesday night, following a suspected drone strike, has been fully extinguished, with authorities confirming that no injuries were reported. Dubai authorities have confirmed that a fire resulting from a drone-related incident near the US Consulate has been successfully contained. Emergency teams responded immediately. No injuries have been reported: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: If we didn`t do it, they would`ve attacked first, says US President Trump
US President Donald Trump has defended the recent American strikes against Iran, asserting that the action was necessary to prevent a potential nuclear catastrophe and claimed that "Tehran was preparing to launch an attack first." The conflict in the Middle East has entered its fourth day following the US and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, along with other key figures in the Persian Gulf country. In retaliation, Tehran has responded with counter-strikes targeting American military bases in Gulf countries and other Israeli assets across the region: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: If we didn`t do it, they would`ve attacked first, says US President Trump
US President Donald Trump has defended the recent American strikes against Iran, asserting that the action was necessary to prevent a potential nuclear catastrophe and claimed that "Tehran was preparing to launch an attack first." The conflict in the Middle East has entered its fourth day following the US and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, along with other key figures in the Persian Gulf country. In retaliation, Tehran has responded with counter-strikes targeting American military bases in Gulf countries and other Israeli assets across the region: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Trump orders maritime insurance to safeguard Gulf shipping
Amid escalating tensions in West Asia and growing concerns over disruptions to global oil supplies, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would take "immediate steps to safeguard maritime trade" in the Gulf region, including offering political risk insurance and potentially deploying naval escorts through the Strait of Hormuz: ANI

West Asia war LIVE Updates: Trump orders maritime insurance to safeguard Gulf shipping
Amid escalating tensions in West Asia and growing concerns over disruptions to global oil supplies, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would take "immediate steps to safeguard maritime trade" in the Gulf region, including offering political risk insurance and potentially deploying naval escorts through the Strait of Hormuz: ANI

West Asia war LIVE updates: US open to deal with &lsquo;new government&rsquo; in Iran: White House
Senior Trump administration officials signalled that Washington could move quickly to reach a diplomatic agreement with Iran if a new government emerges in Tehran and abandons nuclear weapons ambitions, ballistic missile threats, and support for militant proxy groups. In fact, the United States would be prepared to offer sanctions relief and economic engagement if a future Iranian leadership integrates into the regional security framework and complies with strict nuclear restrictions, according to two senior administration officials familiar with the current thinking of the Trump Administration: IANS

West Asia war LIVE updates: US open to deal with &lsquo;new government&rsquo; in Iran: White House
Senior Trump administration officials signalled that Washington could move quickly to reach a diplomatic agreement with Iran if a new government emerges in Tehran and abandons nuclear weapons ambitions, ballistic missile threats, and support for militant proxy groups. In fact, the United States would be prepared to offer sanctions relief and economic engagement if a future Iranian leadership integrates into the regional security framework and complies with strict nuclear restrictions, according to two senior administration officials familiar with the current thinking of the Trump Administration: IANS

West Asia war LIVE Updates: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday announced that in a few days US and Israel will have complete control over Iranian skies. Hegseth said that Iran cannot outlast them. We are closing the LIVE blog now

West Asia war LIVE Updates: "Iran cannot outlast us. We`re going to ensure that we set the tone and tempo of this fight," says US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

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West Asia war LIVE: `US will have complete control of Iranian skies`

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West Asia war LIVE: `US will have complete control of Iranian skies`

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