Iran strikes dent Qatar LNG output, ‘force majeure’ declared on China, Italy, Belgium and South Korea contracts

Iran strikes dent Qatar LNG output, ‘force majeure’ declared on China, Italy, Belgium and South Korea contracts



Missile attacks on Qatar’s Ras Laffan complex have disrupted LNG production, prompting ‘force majeure’ on supply contracts. — Reuters pic

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 8:41 AM MYT


RABAT (Morocco), March 25 — QatarEnergy said yesterday it has declared “force majeure” on some liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply contracts with four countries following Iranian missile attacks that damaged key facilities, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported.

The measure applies to contracts with China, Italy, Belgium and South Korea, it said in a statement cited by Qatari media, including Al Jazeera and Al Sharq.

“Force majeure” is a legal clause in contracts, particularly long-term oil and gas supply agreements, that allows suppliers to suspend obligations such as delivery schedules without penalties due to events beyond their control, such as attacks on key infrastructure.

Missile strikes targeted its Ras Laffan industrial complex March 18 and 19, causing significant damage, including to two LNG processing units and a gas-to-liquids facility, it said.


QatarEnergy added that it is continuing to assess the full effect of the attacks on operations and the timeline for repairs.


On March 19, Energy Minister and QatarEnergy CEO Saad al-Kaabi said the attacks reduced Qatar’s LNG export capacity by 17 per cent, and caused an estimated US$20 billion in annual revenue losses, according to a statement by the company.

He added that repairs could take up to five years, forcing the company to declare “a prolonged force majeure.”


The strikes damaged two production lines, trains 4 and 6, with a combined capacity of 12.8 million tonnes per year, accounting for 17 per cent of Qatar’s LNG exports, he added.

On March 4, QatarEnergy notified customers of “force majeure” after production was disrupted due to the war.

The US and Israel have maintained airstrikes on Iran since February 28, killing so far more than 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, along with Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure while disrupting global markets and aviation. — Bernama-Anadolu

Minister’s aide lodges police report over alleged defamatory post on Bukit Mertajam Hospital

A special officer to Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim has lodged a police report over the spread of allegedly defamatory and racially inflammatory content on social media involving Hospital Bukit Mertajam. — Scoop file pic, March 24, 2026


Minister’s aide lodges police report over alleged defamatory post on Bukit Mertajam Hospital


The Facebook post tarnishes Steven Sim's image and incites racial tension, says the report


Scoop Reporters
Updated 21 hours ago
24 March, 2026
12:14 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR — A special officer to Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim has lodged a police report over the spread of allegedly defamatory and racially inflammatory content on social media involving Hospital Bukit Mertajam.

Lim Zheng Han said the report was made following a Facebook post on March 22 that allegedly distorted facts surrounding Sim’s visit to the hospital. Sim is also the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives.

He said the visit was aimed at reviewing basic facilities and assessing upgrade needs, but the post carried an unfounded headline claiming that “Hospital Bukit Mertajam will be relocated so as not to disturb a temple — Steven Sim Chee Keong”.

“Such slander not only tarnishes Sim’s image but may also incite tension and undermine harmony in Malaysia’s multiracial society,” Lim said in a statement today, reported Bernama.

Lim added that the report was lodged at the Seberang Perai Tengah district police headquarters, and called on authorities to carry out an immediate investigation into the account owner.

Yesterday, the Hospital Bukit Mertajam visitors’ board denied claims that the hospital would be relocated to avoid disturbing a nearby temple, describing the allegation as defamatory and made with malicious intent.

Earlier, the Facebook post went viral, alleging the hospital would be moved, using Sim’s name and images from his visit to the facility.— March 24, 2026

Trump says Tehran wants deal to end war 'so badly'

Israel and Iran trade new strikes as Trump says Tehran wants deal to end war 'so badly'

Summary


President Donald Trump says negotiations to end the Iran war are happening "now" and the "people" the US are speaking to "want to make a deal so badly" - the price of oil has fallen by around 6%


His comments come a day after Iranian officials denied any contact with the US had taken place, calling claims of talks "fake news"


Israel and Iran are continuing to exchange strikes, while residents of southern Lebanon are warned by the Israeli military to evacuate


The Pentagon is expected to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne division to the Middle East, according to the BBC's US partner, CBS News


Iran saying it will allow "non-hostile vessels" to pass the Strait of Hormuz makes clear Tehran will continue to exert control over the waterway until a deal is struck, the BBC's diplomatic correspondent writes


Iranians tell BBC Persian they "just want to blink and have [the conflict] all done and over" - the Iranian Red Crescent says 82,000 sites have been damaged since the war began


US and Israeli media outlets are citing unnamed sources as saying the US has handed over a 15-point plan to Iran about ending the war - the BBC has not seen the document and is working to verify the reports.

Trump claims US has achieved ‘regime change’, ‘received present’ from Iran

US President Donald Trump has told reporters in the Oval Office that the US has achieved regime change in Iran and received a significant “present” from the new leadership. Iranian officials have denied claims that both sides are talking. 

Can locally grown/produced food cushion Malaysia from global shocks caused by the US-Iran conflict?

Can locally grown/produced food cushion Malaysia from global shocks caused by the US-Iran conflict?



Malaysians are facing rising grocery costs as global energy and shipping disruptions push up food prices, despite stable supply. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 7:00 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 — Food security and the impending rise in grocery costs are among growing concerns among Malaysians as the US–Iran conflict impacts global oil supply and trade flows.

While the country is unlikely to face immediate shortages, the bigger impact lies in rising costs, as Malaysia remains reliant on global markets for key staples and agricultural inputs that underpin even locally produced food.

However, Malaysia is also known for its local produce. Can this help act as a buffer against a shortage of food supplies?


What food is actually ‘local’?

The country’s first line of defence lies in domestically produced/grown essentials, particularly chicken, eggs and vegetables.

Chicken, among others, is supplied by producers such as Leong Hup International and QL Resources, and remains the country’s most accessible protein, while eggs are widely available through local farms including Teo Seng Capital.

Fish such as mackerel (kembung) and tilapia, supplied through local fisheries and aquaculture players like Blue Archipelago, provide an alternative source of protein, while vegetables grown in areas like Cameron Highlands ensure a steady supply of greens.


Together, these help keep essential food items available even during periods of global uncertainty.


Why ‘local’ food is not fully insulated

However, being produced locally does not mean such food products are fully shielded from global shocks.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu had said the country still depends on imported input to sustain domestic production, including animal feed and fertiliser.

This means that even locally produced food such as chicken and vegetables remain exposed to global price movements, particularly when fuel and commodity costs rise.


Exposed but stable

Several key food items remain heavily dependent on imports.

Rice, the country’s staple, is only partially produced locally, with significant imports sourced from Thailand, Vietnam and India, managed by Padiberas Nasional Berhad.

Mohamad had reportedly said that rice supply remains stable, with the government continuing to diversify import sources to ensure availability.

Wheat-based foods — including bread, noodles and biscuits — are entirely import-dependent, with manufacturers such as Gardenia Bakeries and Munchy’s relying on grain from Australia, Canada and the United States.

Beef and mutton are also largely imported from Australia and India, while dairy products such as milk and butter remain structurally dependent on imports despite the presence of local players like Farm Fresh.

Basic cooking ingredients — onions, garlic and potatoes — are mostly imported, with onions in particular heavily sourced from India.

“For now, the public need not worry. Supplies of rice, chicken, eggs, fish, beef, buffalo meat, fresh milk, vegetables and fruits are sufficient at least until May or June,” Mohamad said.

Malaysia’s dependence on wheat import

Unlike rice or vegetables, wheat is not cultivated in Malaysia.

The crop requires cooler temperatures and specific seasonal conditions, which are not suited to Malaysia’s tropical climate of consistent heat and humidity.

Wheat is typically grown in temperate countries such as Australia, Canada and the United States, where distinct seasons support its growth cycle.

As a result, Malaysia relies entirely on imported wheat to meet domestic demand.


How is Malaysia still affected

While Malaysia’s food imports from countries such as Australia and Thailand do not pass through the Middle East, the impact of the conflict is felt through global energy and shipping costs.

Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz — a key oil transit route — have pushed up fuel prices and freight costs, which in turn affect the price of transporting food into Malaysia.

This still affects Malaysia’s food as everything depends on oil and shipping costs.


How long can Malaysia hold out?

In the short term, the country remains on relatively firm ground.

Rice stockpiles held by Padiberas Nasional Berhad can last several months, while domestic production ensures a steady supply of key essentials.

Mohamad had said there is no immediate concern over food shortages, with supply levels remaining sufficient.

However, the longer global pressures persist, the more costs are likely to build across the supply chain.


No shortages, just higher prices

Malaysia’s domestic production is able to provide a crucial buffer against supply disruptions.

As Mohamad said, Malaysia’s reliance on imported staples and input means the country remains exposed to global shocks, but it is unlikely to face empty shelves, just higher food prices.

China Condemns US Starting 'Vicious Cycle' Of 'Chaos' In Attacking Iran

China Condemns US Starting 'Vicious Cycle' Of 'Chaos' In Attacking Iran

by Tyler Durden
Wednesday, Mar 25, 2026 - 02:35 AM


Chinese Special Envoy to the Middle East Zhai Jun has said at a briefing after his ​shuttle-diplomacy trip that included recent stops in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait that the US-Israeli operation against Iran must immediately cease or else a "vicious cycle" toward destabilizing the region and disrupt global trade would persist.

"Should hostilities continue to escalate and the situation deteriorate further, the entire region will be plunged into chaos. The use of force will only lead to a vicious cycle… the war should not have begun in the first place," Zhai declared.

via AFP


Washington's latest war of choice in the Middle East has been focus of growing condemnation from Beijing, with Zhai having added: "The one who tied the bell must be the one to untie it." Or this is another way of saying whatever the US broke it must quickly fix.

Separately, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated at the start of this week that continued military action risks deepening instability, and reminded Washington that its past wars in the same region "are not far behind us."

It was only days ago that President Trump called on China and Japan to assist in getting the Hormuz Strait back open, but something which especially China has little incentive to do, as its instead content to watch the US get bogged down in a quagmire amid Tehran's unexpected resilience under the bombs.

Iran has meanwhile held a phone call with China's foreign minister, per Bloomberg: "Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday called on all parties in the Iran war to seize every opportunity and window for peace and start peace talks as soon as possible, Xinhua reports. Wang made the appeal in a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi."

China has long been a powerful ally of Tehran providing with diplomatic cover, institutional support, military cooperation and an economic lifeline - especially as its major oil buyer; however, China is not expected to go further with any kind of direct military support.

There are claims that it could be, alongside Russia, providing some intelligence support though. If this is the case, there is not much Washington can do about it - also as the White House response to widespread reports of Russian intelligence-sharing has been met with some pretty mild and meager statements out of the White House.

Is Steven Sim’s Luck Running Out?

OPINION | Is Steven Sim’s Luck Running Out?


24 Mar 2026 • 10:00 AM MYT



TheRealNehruism
An award-winning Newswav creator, Bebas News columnist & ex-FMT columnist

Image credit : The Sun

For the past few years, much of the news surrounding Steven Sim has been overwhelmingly positive. His public image has been shaped by narratives of steady promotion, effective leadership, and a reputation as a minister who is both competent and people-oriented. Whether it was his handling of issues related to HRD Corp, his positioning as a “friend of workers,” or general praise for his administrative approach, the trajectory appeared, at least from the outside, to be consistently upward.


However, recent developments suggest a noticeable shift in tone.


In a relatively short span of time, a series of unfavourable headlines and public criticisms have begun to surface. Taken individually, each incident may be explainable. But taken together, they create a perception that is markedly different from the one that had been built over the years.


The first notable signal came during the cabinet reshuffle late last year. While Steven Sim’s move from the Human Resources Ministry to the Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Ministry was interpreted by some as a lateral move on paper, but by others, it was seen as a demotion.


I personally don't see the fact that Steven is the first Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Ministry we have had who is a non-Malay offers no advantage too. There is a reason why the Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Ministry ministry has always been Malay - the reason is that it is probably because it is only a Malay that can be effective in that position. That Steven is now in a position where a Malay minister is the one that can generally be effective, might just means that he has been “cold-storaged” to a position where he can't shine..


In the last couple of weeks, I am also hearing back to back bad news about Steven.


Last, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke publicly admonished Sim over his conduct in relation to discussions about the next Penang Chief Minister. Loke’s remarks were unusually firm, urging Sim to stop name-dropping and speculation, and emphasising that such decisions rest with the party’s central leadership rather than individual figures.


Now, Loke could have chosen to privately call Sim to admonish him or to admonish him gently in the public sphere, by not singling Sim out, but the fact that Loke chose the opposite is a decision, not an accident.


The jury is still out on why Loke has chosen to publicly puncture Sim's ego in such a way, but whatever the reason is, it doesn't bode well for Sim.


If that was not bad enough, just a couple of days ago, the high has also come out with a decision that has injured Sim's image and reputation.


According to the ruling, a high court has found that in his capacity as Human Resources Minister at the time, Sim had failed to maintain neutrality in a trade dispute involving banks and a workers’ union. The court determined that his engagement with the employers’ association—without equivalent engagement with the workers’ side—amounted to a compromise of his role as an impartial arbiter. In essence, the judgment suggested that the statutory expectations of neutrality attached to his office had not been upheld.


In response, Sim has maintained that he has always stood on the side of workers, pointing to his policy record and past actions as evidence of his alignment.


But I think Steven simply believing that he is someone who stands on the side of the worker or giving examples of his past work in regards to the workers is not enough for him to restore his image and reputation.


At the end of the day, when you are called to referee a trade dispute but choose to engage with the employers’ side and not the workers’ side, it is difficult to see how your belief that you are a friend of the worker can stand the test of reality.


Merely claiming that one has done much for workers, without offering a clear and convincing explanation for why one engaged with employers—especially in private and without engaging the workers’ side—is not sufficient to establish that position.


Afterall, nobody is claiming that Steven is not intelligent. We all understand that intelligent people will hedge.


If I were in Steven’s position, and I were inclined more towards the interests of owners and employers rather than workers, but I also still need the support of workers, I would also take steps that appear favourable to workers in many cases, to win their approval, while in key moments, supporting the employers.


However, if one is truly on the side of workers, or genuinely aims to act in what is right and fair, then there should be either no occasion where one is not seen to support workers, or no situation where one cannot adequately explain one’s actions when questions of ones impartiality arise from reasonable observers.


Engaging with one party but not the other, when one is expected to act as a neutral arbiter in a dispute between both, is not conduct that would satisfy a reasonable person. If Steven is himself a reasonable and fair person, this should be obvious to him, and being obvious to him, he should understand why it is incumbent upon him to provide further explanation to justify his actions, rather than simply insisting on his position as if it is self-evident to everyone that he is who he says he is , just because he says so.


That said, ups and downs are a natural part of life. No one wins or loses forever, so a downturn after a long period of success may simply be a natural phase in Steven’s career.


At the same time, what we do today shapes our future. It may therefore be worthwhile for Steven to use this period to reflect on whether what he has done so far is right or wrong.


If his actions have been right, then he should continue with confidence and not allow this downturn to discourage him. It may be that the good he has done has not yet borne fruit, and with persistence, he will eventually taste the benefit from the results of his good efforts.


On the other hand, if his past actions have been wrong, then this downturn might signal the beginning point of him tasting the bitter fruits of his wrong actions. In that being the case, perhaps now would be a good time to recognise one’s mistakes and correct them, so that their impact is minimised.


Knowing whether one is right or wrong, and whether one should persist or to change course, is a matter of wisdom.


In this period of changing fortunes for Steven, I end by hoping that he is a person of wisdom and is surrounded by wise people.

***

Sim is a politician who knows how to regularly 'promote' his image. But what puzzles me is that he, having been already anointed the next CM of Penang, yet suggested that Lim Hui Ying and Yeoh Soon Hin could possibly be the next Penang CM?

Why?

Being humble? 

Bodeking the Lim Family?

Or, he prefers to be in Federal Government as a minister rather than as the Penang CM?

Malaysia facing fuel shortages

Murray Hunter
Mar 22, 2026


Malaysia facing fuel shortages



Picture Mail Mail


As Malaysians are travelling all over the Peninsula for the Hari Raya break in their cars, major changes to Malaysia’s fuel situation have just become apparent.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahaim said that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz has tightened global supply and the country is feeling the impact of rising global prices triggered by the Gulf conflict. Malaysia is a net importer of crude oil and 80 percent of Malaysia’s imports goes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Petrol rationing along with price increases is already occurring in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Australia. There is a flood of subsidized Malaysian RON95 coming across to Thailand which is now being sold between Baht 25-37 per litre as smugglers are making bumper profits.

International media reports claim that the Singapore Refining and Malaysia’s Pengerang Refining facilities are beginning to reduce output and shutting down units as the crude supplies from the Gulf are waning. Malaysia has promised to supply extra fuel to Cambodia as there are acute shortages in the country, and has other export commitments.

This means that Malaysian consumers may not be guaranteed a steady flow of fuel, particularly if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked. There are rumors that Malaysian authorities are already talking to Iranian authorities for permission for vessels to pass through to Malaysia. This means Malaysia will not host any further US military ships to its ports.

What is sure is that the cost of crude will rise substantially and there will be pressure upon the government to pass on some of these increases to Malaysian consumers. The government is already subsidizing Malaysian motorists RM 3.2 billion per month at current prices.

It is estimated the Malaysian refinery may have around 30 day buffer inventories of crude. If Malaysia does not get an alternative source of crude or stop exports to overseas customers, then there will be fuel shortages in Malaysia.

Changing the source of supply is not as straightforward as it sounds, as the refinery will have to be recalibrated to suit the new specifications of incoming crude.

In Malaysia petrol rationing and rising prices at the pump might be inevitable.

Azam Baki Should Stop Preaching New Laws While Selective Enforcement Destroys Public Trust

Murray Hunter


Azam Baki Should Stop Preaching New Laws While Selective Enforcement Destroys Public Trust

Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo) views MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki’s latest call for three new laws with deep scepticism and open disbelief.

Mar 24, 2026







PRESS STATEMENT

BORNEO’S PLIGHT IN MALAYSIA FOUNDATION (BoPiMaFo)

23 March 2026

Azam Baki Should Stop Preaching New Laws While Selective Enforcement Destroys Public Trust

Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo) views MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki’s latest call for three new laws with deep scepticism and open disbelief.

Let us be blunt:

Malaysia does not mainly suffer from a shortage of laws. Malaysia suffers from a shortage of equal, fearless, and impartial enforcement. Azam’s proposal for laws on misconduct in public office, NGO fundraising, and political funding comes at a time when his own credibility is under heavy public scrutiny. That is precisely why his sermon rings hollow.

The first and most obvious question is this:

Who exactly is Azam trying to impress?

Before demanding new powers, new controls, and new legal machinery, the MACC must first answer for the public perception that corruption enforcement in this country is selective. In Sabah, the mining scandal became a national embarrassment. Yet the public saw charges brought in June 2025 against only three individuals — two Sabah assemblymen and businessman Albert Tei — while wider public questions about the broader scandal did not simply disappear. That is exactly how suspicion of selective prosecution grows.

BoPiMaFo therefore says this plainly:

A new law in the hands of selective enforcers is not reform. It is merely a new instrument of selective pressure.

That is why Azam’s proposal is so troubling. He speaks about “misconduct in public office” and tighter control over NGOs and fundraising, but Malaysians are entitled to ask whether these laws would be enforced impartially, or whether they would become convenient tools against easier targets while politically connected actors remain untouched. The real crisis is not legislative scarcity. The real crisis is trust.

This credibility problem is not abstract. It is personal.

Azam is currently burdened by serious controversy over his own position. In February 2026, reporting highlighted allegations regarding his shareholdings, including reports that he held 17.7 million shares in a financial-services company, prompting a Cabinet-ordered probe. Azam has denied wrongdoing and has since filed a defamation suit over parts of the reporting. But whatever his defence may be, the fact remains that a man under such public scrutiny cannot pretend that the central problem in Malaysia is everyone else’s ethics.

The wider context makes this even worse. Reports this month said Azam’s contract is expected not to be extended when it ends on 12 May 2026, amid mounting pressure and allegations surrounding MACC’s conduct. Whether or not the extension issue is finally decided, it shows one undeniable fact: public confidence in the MACC leadership has been badly shaken.

So Azam should stop acting as though Malaysia’s anti-corruption problem begins with missing statutes.

Malaysia already has the MACC Act 2009, criminal breach of trust provisions under the Penal Code, and other fiscal and public-finance laws that can be used against misuse of funds. Azam himself acknowledged that these laws already exist. The real question is whether they are being used consistently, fairly, and without fear or favour.

BoPiMaFo therefore rejects this latest performance for what it appears to be: an attempt to shift attention from selective enforcement to legislative theatre.

The public is tired of lectures from officials who cannot first resolve the crisis of confidence surrounding their own institutions.

The public is tired of hearing that more laws are needed, when existing laws already seem to be applied unevenly.

The public is tired of seeing anti-corruption rhetoric used as a shield while serious questions remain unanswered.

Our position is simple:

If prosecution is selective, new laws will not clean the system. They will only deepen fear, cynicism, and abuse.

Before proposing new laws for NGOs, public officers, and political funding, Azam Baki should first answer the more basic national demand:

Can the MACC enforce existing laws equally against everyone — or not?

Until that question is answered convincingly, Azam has no business lecturing the nation about integrity.

Daniel John Jambun President

Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo)

Iran pours missiles into Israel and mocks Trump's talk of joint control of strait

Iran pours missiles into Israel and mocks Trump's talk of joint control of strait

By Humeyra Pamuk, Rami Ayyub and Alexander Cornwell

March 24, 2026

3:32 PM GMT+11

Updated 1 hour ago


Summary

• Missiles trigger air raid sirens in Tel Aviv
• Trump: 'Complete and total resolution of hostilities' discussed
• Iranian official says Trump using 'fakenews' to manipulate markets
• Global markets slam brakes on relief rally

WASHINGTON/JERUSALEM/TEL AVIV, March 24 (Reuters) - Iran launched waves of missiles at Israel on Tuesday, the Israeli military said, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said there had ​been "very good and productive" talks aiming at halting the conflict raging across the Middle East.

Three senior Israeli officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Trump appeared determined to reach a deal, ‌but that they thought it highly unlikely that Iran would agree to U.S. demands in any new round of negotiations.

After Trump's Truth Social comment on Monday, Iran said no talks had yet been held. Iran's embassy in South Africa posted an image on X showing a child's pink steering wheel placed on a car dashboard in front of the passenger seat, apparently mocking Trump's idea, aired to reporters, that he could control the Strait of Hormuz alongside Iran's supreme leader.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who spoke to Trump less ​than 48 hours before their countries began the war, was expected to convene a meeting of security officials for talks on Trump's bid for a deal with Iran, two senior Israeli officials said.

A Pakistani ​official has said direct talks may be held in Islamabad this week.

The U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28 after saying they had failed to ⁠make enough headway in talks aimed at ending Iran's nuclear program, even though mediator Oman said significant progress had been made.

The crisis has escalated across the Middle East. Iran has attacked countries that host U.S. bases, struck ​key energy infrastructure and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, conduit for a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas.

AIR RAID SIRENS SOUND IN TEL AVIV

On Tuesday, Iranian missiles triggered air raid sirens in Israel's biggest city, ​Tel Aviv, where gaping holes were torn through a multi-storey apartment building. It was not immediately clear if the damage had been caused by a direct hit or debris from an interception.

Israel's Fire and Rescue Service said they were searching for civilians trapped in one building in Tel Aviv and discovered civilians in a shelter in another damaged building.

Israel's military said its fighter jets had carried out a large wave of strikes in central Tehran on Monday, targeting key command centres, including facilities associated with the ​Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ intelligence arm and the Intelligence Ministry. It said it had also hit more than 50 other targets overnight, including ballistic missile storage and launch sites.

Air defence systems were activated across Tehran as explosions were ​heard simultaneously in several areas of the capital, according to the Iranian news agency Nournews.

Trump said on Monday he was postponing for five days a plan to attack Iran's power plants unless it reopened the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran had promised to ‌respond to such ⁠attacks by hammering the infrastructure of U.S. allies in the Middle East.


IRAN DENIES NEGOTIATIONS WITH U.S.

Trump's step-back sent share prices higher and oil prices sharply lower to below $100 a barrel, a sudden reversal to a market swoon caused by his weekend threats and Iran's vows to respond.

Those gains were in jeopardy on Tuesday, however, after Iran's powerful parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf - the interlocutor on the Iranian side, according to an Israeli official and two other sources familiar with the matter - said no talks had taken place.

"No negotiations have been held with the U.S., and fakenews is used to manipulate the financial and oil markets and escape the quagmire in which the US and Israel are trapped," he ​wrote on X.

Iran's foreign ministry did, however, mention initiatives to ​reduce tensions.

U.S. Treasury yields pushed higher and the ⁠dollar regained lost ground as the world continues to grapple with what the International Energy Agency has called the biggest-ever disruption to energy supplies.

Brent crude futures rose to over $100 a barrel, reversing some of their 10% slide from Monday, while U.S. crude rose 4.3% to $91.93 per barrel.

"The underlying situation is still incredibly fragile or flammable," said IG ​market analyst Tony Sycamore.

S&P 500 vs other international stock indexes since Iran war began

TRUMP SPEAKS OF 'MAJOR POINTS OF AGREEMENT'

Trump told reporters his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner, who had been negotiating with Iran ​before the war, had held discussions ⁠with a top Iranian official into the evening on Sunday and would continue on Monday.

A European official said that, while there had been no direct negotiations between the two nations, Egypt, Pakistan and Gulf states were relaying messages.

A Pakistani official and a second source told Reuters that direct talks on ending the war could be held in Islamabad as soon as this week.

The Pakistani official said U.S. Vice President JD Vance, as well as Witkoff and Kushner, were expected to meet ⁠Iranian officials in ​Islamabad this week, following a call between Trump and Pakistani defence forces chief Asim Munir.

The White House confirmed Trump's call with Munir. The Pakistani ​prime minister's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Reporting by Phil Stewart, Idrees Ali, Gram Slattery and Humeyra Pamuk in Washington, Maayan Lubell in Jerusalem ​and Alexander Cornwell in Tel Aviv, Ariba Shahid in Karachi and Saad Sayeed in Bangkok; Additional reporting by Reuters bureaus; Writing by David Brunnstrom, Michael Perry and Sharon Singleton; Editing by Cynthia Osterman, Stephen Coates and Kevin Liffey

Iran war: Casualties in attack on Tel Aviv, Israel hits Lebanon

By Stephen Quillen and Yashraj Sharma

• Iranian missiles have created impacts in several areas of Tel Aviv, causing major building damage and at least four casualties.
• US President Donald Trump announced that discussions are ongoing with Iran to “determine whether a broader agreement can be reached”, saying that “this time, Iran means business; they want to settle. They want peace”.
• Tehran denied that talks with the US are taking place, with Iran’s parliamentary speaker saying such claims are “fake news” and being “used to manipulate financial and oil markets”.
• Despite Trump’s comments, US Central Command says US forces “continue to aggressively strike” targets in Iran, as Iranian missiles and drones continued to target Gulf countries – including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait – overnight.

• 21s ago

   (11:32 GMT)

  

  Up to Iran to ‘rebuild trust’, says Qatar’s ministry spokesperson

  Continuing his remarks on Iran, Qatar’s al-Ansari said the “brotherly relationship” between the people of Qatar and Iran should take precedence “over any other political consideration.”

  “It’s now open to the Iranians – post this war, of course – to decide how they are going to rebuild the trust that was lost due to their attack on our sovereignty.”
• 1m ago

   (11:30 GMT)

  

  Explosions reported in Tehran, Isfahan

  Iranian media is reporting loud explosions in central and western Tehran as well as in Isfahan.
• 9m ago

   (11:23 GMT)

  

  Gulf states, Iran have to ‘find ways to live next to each other’, says Qatari FM spokesman

  Asked about future relations between the Gulf states and Iran, Qatar’s al-Ansari said all people in the region have deep ties and their countries will have to find a way to coexist.

  “Iran has been here for a millennia. The people in this region have been here for a millenia. Nobody’s going anywhere. Total annihilation is not an option,” said al-Ansari.

  “We will live next to each other, we will be neighbours for the future of humankind and we have to find ways of living next to each other.”

33m ago

 (11:00 GMT)

Explosions reported west of Jerusalem after missile interception

Explosions have been reported west of Jerusalem after attempts to intercept missiles from Iran, Israeli media are reporting.

When Trump repulsively maligned late ex-FBI director

When Trump repulsively maligned late ex-FBI director

Hanipa Maidin
Published: Mar 24, 2026 10:04 AM
Updated: 1:04 PM



COMMENT | On March 21, 2026, it was reported that former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director and special counsel Robert Mueller died at the age of 81 following a battle with Parkinson's disease.

Following the announcement, Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, stating, “Robert Mueller just died. Good, I'm glad he's dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!"

Critics and even some Republican lawmakers quickly characterised such an irresponsible response as a "callous" and "disturbing" reaction to the death of a former law enforcement official.

Needless to say, the reaction drew broad condemnation and was interpreted by many as an expression of his long-standing disdain for the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

By openly expressing joy over the passing of Mueller, Trump appeared to be in a state of acute delirium. His rhetoric stood in stark contrast to the standard of offering sympathy to a grieving family, showing a deep-seated personal animosity instead.


Treat deaths with solemnity

As far as I know, even in Christianity - let alone Islam - the death of an individual is always treated with solemnity, and celebrating the demise of any person - even an enemy - is generally discouraged as a departure from the heart of the faith.

Robert Mueller


In Islam, we are often taught to respect the deceased and show compassion to the grieving. Expressing joy at someone's passing contradicts the “adab” (etiquette) of a believer, which calls for mercy and dignity even toward those we disagree with.

Islamic tradition teaches and guides Muslims that once a person dies, they are beyond human judgment. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) notably stood up out of respect for a passing Jewish funeral procession.

Some of the companions tried to remind the Prophet under the assumption that he had not realised the deceased was not a Muslim. The Prophet simply stated, "Is it not a human soul?” (تﺳﯾﻟا ﺎﺳﻔﻧ ).

The aforesaid story drives home some key lessons. While Muslims may feel relief when an oppressor's harm ends, openly mocking the dead is stricto sensu (in the strict sense) forbidden as it causes unnecessary pain to the living and reflects a lack of character.


‘Don’t revile the dead’

In his renowned biography, “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources”, Martin Lings (Abu Bakr Siraj ad-Din ﷲ ﮫﻣﺣر ) describes the atmosphere following the Conquest of Mecca.

When Ikrimah ibn Abi Jahl - who had been a staunch enemy himself - decided to embrace Islam, the Prophet gave a specific command to his companions to ensure a gracious welcome.

The Prophet was reported to have said to his companions, "Ikrimah, the son of Abu Jahl, shall come to you as a believer and a refugee (Muhajir). Do not revile his father, for reviling the dead causes grief to the living and does not reach the dead”.

As far as Islam is concerned, mocking the father would only create a barrier to the son's heart and his transition into the community.

The story also reinforces the Islamic principle that the dead have already gone to their Creator for judgment. Humans continuing to "score points" against them serves no spiritual purpose.

Anyway, the harm caused to Ikrimah’s feelings (the living) was weighed more heavily than the "truth" of Abu Jahl’s (the dead) misdeeds.

MOHAMED HANIPA MAIDIN is former deputy law minister.

***

The moronic idiot is not even a human being, but an uncivilised, uncouthly, low-level scumbag, an evil monstrosity.

From ultimatum to indulgence – the anxiety deepens

FMT:

From ultimatum to indulgence – the anxiety deepens

5 hours ago
Phar Kim Beng

The uncertainty from Trump’s flip is forcing markets to react to an expanding horizon of danger and swings in oil prices, making conditions even more destabilising

What was once framed as a 48-hour ultimatum is now stretching into a five-day window of uncertainty.

Rather than ease tensions, the extension has deepened them.


Time, in this case, is not calming the situation. It is amplifying risk.

The original demand was stark. Reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes. It was meant to force a quick resolution.


But geopolitics rarely obeys deadlines.

Instead, the additional days have created a prolonged state of suspense.

Potentially, there is contempt from Iran since Tehran insists no one is talking to the Trump administration. The situation has descended into a case of he-said-she-said.

Markets are no longer reacting to a single deadline, but to an expanding horizon of danger. This is far more destabilising.


Oil prices are not just rising – they are swinging. Traders are pricing in multiple scenarios at once: compliance, limited strikes, or full escalation.

Uncertainty has become the dominant force.

Iran, for its part, has not backed down. It continues to maintain a position of selective access.

The strait is open – but not fully. This ambiguity is strategic. It avoids outright closure while still exerting pressure.


Yet it also increases the risk of miscalculation.

A vessel denied passage, a naval escort misread, or a warning shot misinterpreted – any of these could trigger a rapid escalation.

The longer this grey zone persists, the higher the probability of an incident.

The US now faces a dilemma.

Act too quickly, and it risks igniting a broader war.

Wait too long, and the credibility of its ultimatum weakens.

This is the paradox of coercive diplomacy. The more it relies on time pressure, the more dangerous delay becomes.

Meanwhile, the economic consequences are beginning to cascade.

Fuel prices are rising, but the impact does not stop there.

Fertilisers, heavily dependent on natural gas, are becoming more expensive. This feeds directly into agriculture.

Animal feed costs are climbing as supply chains tighten. Food prices, inevitably, will follow. This is how a geopolitical crisis becomes a global inflationary shock.

For Malaysia, the picture is mixed.

As an energy exporter, higher prices offer short-term gains. Revenues improve. The ringgit strengthens.

But Malaysia also needs the fertilisers at an affordable price to keep its agricultural products competitive too. That’s not happening.

Similarly, food imports become costlier. Inflation spreads across the economy. The benefit quickly turns into strain.

Across Asean, the same pattern holds. No country is insulated from a prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.

The extension from 48 hours to five days therefore marks a critical shift. It is no longer a countdown to decision.

It is a widening window of instability.

Three outcomes remain possible.

A diplomatic breakthrough could still emerge, restoring access and calming markets.

Military exchanges could occur, prolonging volatility without full-scale war, which Al Jazeera has reported anyway, soon after Donald Trump declared the new five-day deadline. The bombing of Iran, especially Tehran, went on and on.

Invariably, the situation could spiral, drawing in regional actors and severely disrupting global trade.

The danger lies in how easily the second scenario can slide into the third.

Asean must, therefore, remain vigilant.

Preparation, coordination, and diplomacy are essential to make the voice of Asean and East Asia – comprised of China, Japan, and South Korea – count.

Malaysia, in particular, must confront this dire situation with caution. While member states of GCC would like Iran to stop its attacks against them, Iran is not obliged to listen when it is still under attack, even as GCC affirms that it is not coordinating with the US and Israel to launch any attacks against Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz is no longer just a chokepoint for energy. It is a tipping point. It is now a test of whether the global system can manage crisis without tipping into chaos.

The extension of time has not reduced the stakes.

It has raised them.