Iran’s military mocks Trump’s claims of ceasefire talks, strikes Gulf states overnight

Middle East crisis live: Iran’s military mocks Trump’s claims of ceasefire talks, strikes Gulf states overnight


Iran says it fired missiles at Israel and US forces in bases in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain; military spokesman asks US if it is ‘negotiating with yourselves’

Smoke rises from Kuwait international airport after a drone strike on fuel storage. Photograph: AP


Taz Ali (now) and Eva Corlett (earlier)
Wed 25 Mar 2026 20.45 AEDT


From 4h ago

17.56 AEDT


An Iranian military spokesperson mocked US attempts at a ceasefire deal, insisting Americans were only negotiating with themselves. Lt Col Ebrahim Zolfaghari’s statement came after the Trump administration reportedly sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran through Pakistan.

Even as Donald Trump claimed productive negotiations to end the war were ongoing with Tehran, Iran’s relentless bombardment of the Gulf states showed no sign of relenting. Kuwait and Bahrain were both hit with damaging strikes on Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning, as the patience of the Gulf states after rebuffing constant attacks for almost a month began to wear thin.


The World Trade Organisation warned disruptions to international fertiliser supplies caused by the closing of the strait of Hormuz will cause food scarcity and high prices. A third of the world’s fertilisers normally transit the strait.


Oil prices fell nearly 6% and Asian shares gained, after reports Donald Trump had sent a peace plan to Iran fuelled optimism in the market. A barrel of Brent crude was down 5.92% at $98.30, while benchmark US oil contract, West Texas Intermediate, was down 5.01% at $87.72.


Israeli strikes on Lebanon killed nine people, state media reported. Citing the health ministry, Lebanon’s official National News Agency said strikes had killed people across towns and a Palestinian refugee camp.


News that Trump had approved the deployment of more than 1,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East further undermined the US president’s repeated claims of successful peace talks. Iran has previously threatened to mine the gulf surrounding the island if the US appeared to be landing troops.

Singapore says no action against father-son duo over Israel-linked volunteering, warns such involvement now unacceptable

Singapore says no action against father-son duo over Israel-linked volunteering, warns such involvement now unacceptable



Singapore authorities say no action was taken against a father and son over past overseas volunteering, but warn similar involvement today could breach the law. — Reuters pic

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 10:08 AM MYT


SINGAPORE, March 25 — Singapore authorities have cleared a father and son who volunteered with an Israel-linked organisation nearly a decade ago, but warned that similar involvement today would not be tolerated under current laws.

Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of Defence (Mindef) said the pair’s 2016 stint with the Sar-El Volunteer Corps did not amount to military service, after investigations found they “were not involved in any military activity with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)”, according to The Straits Times.

The clarification came after a blog post written by the son resurfaced online earlier this month, prompting scrutiny over Singaporeans’ possible links to foreign military groups.

Authorities said the duo had volunteered for about two weeks in December 2016, performing non-combat tasks such as “packing, painting, sorting, cleaning, washing and cooking”.

At the time, the father had written to Singapore authorities to check if his son could take part in the programme as part of a school volunteering requirement. Based on the information available then, officials assessed that participation “did not constitute service in a foreign military”.

However, by the time a response was issued, both had already completed the stint.

The ministries stressed that the son’s participation “was not endorsed or authorised” and was undertaken “of his own volition, with full awareness of the risks involved”.


The issue resurfaced after a blog post written between 2018 and 2019 — which included references to Sar-El and encouraged volunteering — began circulating again on social media in March. Following engagement by Singapore’s Internal Security Department in 2025, the post was taken down.

Despite the renewed attention, authorities said no action was taken against the pair based on the facts known at the time.

Still, Singapore has drawn a sharper line going forward.

MHA and Mindef noted that Sar-El’s current positioning — including statements that volunteers “work side by side with soldiers on IDF bases” and contribute directly to Israel’s security — would make such involvement unacceptable today.

They warned that any Singaporean found engaging in activities linked to foreign military organisations in a way that prejudices national security “would be dealt with in accordance with our laws”.

The case comes amid wider concerns about Singaporeans’ potential involvement in overseas conflicts. Earlier reports had suggested that individuals with links to Singapore may have joined the Israeli military, though authorities said there was “no substantial information to confirm” those claims.

Coordinating Minister for National Security K. Shanmugam reiterated the government’s longstanding position in Parliament: “Singaporeans should not participate in any foreign armed conflict not involving Singapore. Our loyalties as Singaporeans should only be to Singapore.”

***

Was that you, TS? Wakakaka😂😂😂

Israel hammers Tehran as Trump claims US closing in on war deal

Israel hammers Tehran as Trump claims US closing in on war deal



Rocket trails are seen in the sky above the Israeli coastal city of Netanya amid a fresh barrage of Iranian missile attacks on March 25, 2026. — AFP pic

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 11:56 AM MYT


CAIRO, March 25 — Israel struck the Iranian capital Tehran today, Israeli military and Iranian media said, as President Donald Trump said the US was making progress in its efforts to negotiate an end to the war, with reports of a 15-point plan sent to Tehran.

The Israeli Defence Forces said in a Telegram post it had launched a wave of strikes targeting infrastructure across Tehran. The semi-official Iranian SNN News Agency said the strikes hit a residential area in the city, with rescuers searching the rubble.


Kuwait and Saudi Arabia said today they had repelled fresh drone attacks, without stating where they originated. Drones targeted a fuel tank at Kuwait International Airport, causing a fire but no casualties, Kuwait’s Civil Aviation Authority said.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said it had launched a new wave of attacks against locations in Israel including Tel Aviv and Kiryat Shmona, as well as US bases in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain, Iranian state media reported.


Trump said yesterday the US was in “negotiations” to end the war, which has already killed thousands and created the worst energy shock in history, leading to global fuel shortages and roiling markets.


Stocks rose and oil prices fell today on reports the US is seeking a month-long ceasefire and had sent a 15-point plan to Iran for discussion, raising hopes for a resumption of oil exports out of the Persian Gulf.

Trump told reporters at the White House the US was talking to “the right people” in Iran to end hostilities, adding the Iranians wanted to reach a deal very badly.


Iran’s powerful parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf on Monday dismissed such reports as “fake news.”

15-point plan sent to Iran

The New York Times reported yesterday that Washington sent Iran a 15-point plan to end the war in the Middle East. Israel’s Channel 12, quoting three sources, said the US was seeking a month-long ceasefire to discuss the 15-point plan.

A source familiar with the matter confirmed that the US had sent a plan to Iran but provided no further details.

The Israeli media outlet said the plan would include the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme, ceasing support for proxy groups, such as Lebanon’s Hezbollah, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The US 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 programme, although mediator Oman said significant progress had been made.

Since then, Iran has attacked countries that host US bases, struck Gulf energy infrastructure and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, conduit for a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas.

Iran has told the United Nations Security Council and the International Maritime Organization that “non-hostile vessels” may transit the Strait of Hormuz if they coordinate with Iranian authorities, according to a note seen by Reuters yesterday.

The effective closure of the waterway, where 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas normally transits, has created the worst energy supply shock in history, sent fuel prices soaring, and disrupted global aviation.

Pakistan offers to hold US-Iran talks

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said yesterday he was willing to host talks between the US and Iran on ending the war, a day after Trump postponed threats to bomb Iranian power plants after what he called “productive” talks.

Pakistan has long-standing ties to neighbouring Iran’s Islamic Republic and has been building a relationship with Trump.

Despite reports of negotiations, the Pentagon is expected to send thousands of soldiers from the US Army’s elite 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters yesterday, adding to a massive US military buildup.

The forces will add to the 50,000 US troops already in the region and accelerate Washington’s massive US military buildup there, fuelling fears of a longer conflict. — Reuters

***

Shailoks have been able to bombard Iran only with wankee supplied planes and ammo. Without logistic support of its wankee slave, Israel is pretty useless and just your average parasite.

Japan calls break-in ‘regrettable’ after soldier breaches China embassy in Tokyo

Japan calls break-in ‘regrettable’ after soldier breaches China embassy in Tokyo



A policeman stands guard at an entrance to the Chinese embassy in Tokyo March 25, 2026. — AFP pic

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 2:13 PM MYT


TOKYO, March 25 — Japan said today it was “regrettable” that a member of the Japanese military broke into the Chinese embassy in Tokyo, after Beijing expressed shock over the incident.

The break-in has further soured relations between Beijing and Tokyo that have suffered since comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about the self-ruled island of Taiwan.


China lodged a protest following the incident yesterday, in which Beijing’s foreign ministry said the man threatened to kill diplomats.

Japan’s top government spokesman Minoru Kihara said: “It is truly regrettable that a Self-Defence Forces member, who is expected to comply with the law, has been arrested on suspicion” of entering the embassy premises.

“Police are already conducting an investigation to clarify what happened and have implemented necessary measures to strengthen security” of the embassy, he told a press conference.


“We will take necessary steps to prevent any recurrence of such incidents,” he added.

Separately, a police spokesman told AFP that the suspect, Kodai Murata, 23, was arrested yesterday on suspicion of trespassing after he broke into embassy grounds around 9am (0000 GMT).


The suspect told police investigators that he was “hoping to meet the ambassador to tell him to refrain from making hardline remarks, and if that request was rejected, I wanted to surprise him by killing myself,” the Yomiuri Shimbun reported, citing unnamed sources.

Japan’s national broadcaster NHK said a knife was later found at the scene.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said yesterday that Beijing was “deeply shocked” by the incident and had “lodged solemn representations and a strong protest with the Japanese side”.

Ties between Japan and China have deteriorated since Takaichi suggested in November that Japan might intervene militarily in any Chinese attempt to take Taiwan.

China, which regards the democratic island as part of its territory and has not ruled out force to annex it, was furious over the comments. — AFP

Iran launches strikes on US bases in Gulf; oil prices drop after Trump ‘peace plan’ report

Middle East crisis live: Iran launches strikes on US bases in Gulf; oil prices drop after Trump ‘peace plan’ report

A woman in Lebanon stands among the ruins of her family home, which was destroyed by an Israeli strike, as the US-Israel war on Iran continues into a fourth week. Photograph: Manu Brabo/Reuters


Taz Ali (now) and Eva Corlett (earlier)

Wed 25 Mar 2026 18.39 AEDT

From 4h ago

15.15 AEDT
Opening summary

Welcome to our ongoing coverage of the US-Israeli war on Iran and its wider repercussions in the Middle East and globally.

More American troops are prepared to head to the Middle East. At least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division will be sent in the coming days, three people with knowledge of the plans told the Associated Press. The 82nd airborne is an elite infantry division that can typically be deployed on short notice and specialises in forcible entry parachute assaults. Donald Trump has reportedly approved the deployment.

Meanwhile, crude oil prices fell sharply in early Wednesday trading after Trump sent a peace plan to Iran and voiced optimism about ending nearly a month of war.

After rising in Europe and the US on Tuesday, Brent crude was down 6% at $98.30, and the contract, West Texas Intermediate, was down 5% at $87.72.

Early on Wednesday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said it had launched a new wave of attacks against locations in Israel including Tel Aviv and Kiryat Shmona, as well as US bases in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain, according to Iranian state media.

In Lebanon, state media reported Israeli strikes had killed at least six people in a town and a Palestinian refugee camp in the southern Sidon area, and three more in another town. In addition, Israel, which occupied southern Lebanon for nearly two decades until 2000, has said its military would take control of the border area up to the Litani river, around 30km (20 miles) from the frontier.

The Israeli campaign has killed at least 1,072 people in Lebanon, with more than one million people displaced, according to Lebanese authorities.

Here are the key developments:

The US has sent Iran a 15-point plan to end the war, sources told Reuters, with the New York Times saying the plan was delivered by way of Pakistan. It is unclear if Israel is on board with the proposal, nor if Iran is likely to accept it as a basis for negotiations.


Donald Trump claimed negotiations to end the Iran war are happening “right now” and that Tehran had agreed to “never” have a nuclear weapon, declaring that “we’ve won this war” to reporters in the Oval Office. He further claimed Tehran gave him a “gift” which was “oil and gas-related” which involved the strait of Hormuz, without giving further details.

This comes a day after Iranian officials denied any contact with the US had taken place and called claims of such talks “fake news” designed to “manipulate” oil markets.

News that Trump had also approved the deployment of more than 1,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East further undermined the US president’s repeated claims of successful peace talks. The extra troops have not yet left the US but will be sent overseas in the coming days, sources told AP. Iran has previously threatened to mine the gulf surrounding the island if the US appeared to be landing troops.


Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have fired missiles at Israel and US forces in bases in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain, state media reported. Kuwaiti officials reported a fire at the airport after a drone hit a fuel tank.


Approximately 290 US troops have been wounded so far, CNN reports, with 13 soldiers killed in action. Over 1,500 Iranians have been killed, Iran’s state broadcaster said on 21 March.


Lebanon faces an “existential crisis” after Israel announced plans to seize and occupy large swathes of the country’s south to create a so-called “security zone”, officials say. Many Lebanese fear that IDF plans to create a “buffer” south of the Litani River — 20 miles from the current Israel-Lebanon border — will become a long-term occupation.


A projectile has hit the premises of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency, who were informed of the strike by Iran. There was no damage to the facility or staff and conditions at the plant remain normal, the IAEA said on X.

Rafizi says ‘it’s not me’ amid RM9.5m PKR MP claim, jokes only Aidilfitri weight gained in Instagram post

Rafizi says ‘it’s not me’ amid RM9.5m PKR MP claim, jokes only Aidilfitri weight gained in Instagram post



The former PKR deputy president responded with humour, saying the only thing he had “received” during the Aidilfitri period was an increase in body weight rather than any cash, as alleged. — Bernama pic

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 3:13 PM MYT



KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 — Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has denied allegations linking him to claims that a PKR MP received RM9.5 million to resolve a corporate mafia-related issue, saying “it’s not me” in a brief Instagram post.

The former PKR deputy president responded with humour, saying the only thing he had “received” during the Aidilfitri period was an increase in body weight rather than any cash, as alleged.

“But since I’m still in the festive mood, I will comment tomorrow instead,” he said in the Instagram post.

The response comes amid growing controversy following allegations by businessman Victor Chin Boon Loong, who in a 40-page document detailed a chronology of events claiming a PKR MP had demanded RM10 million to settle a corporate mafia-related matter.

According to various media reports, Chin alleged he was only able to provide RM9.5 million initially, while the remaining RM500,000 was never handed over as the issue was not resolved as promised.

The corporate mafia allegations centre on claims that senior officials from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) orchestrated intimidation campaigns and pressured executives and shareholders of listed companies to resign or divest their stakes at discounted prices to connected businessmen.


MACC has denied the allegations, describing them as an attempt to undermine the credibility of its investigations and enforcement actions, and said the claims appeared to originate from an anonymous online blog lacking clear authorship or accountability.

Separately, police confirmed that several premises linked to Victor Chin in Kemensah and Sungai Long in Kajang were raided on March 16 to assist investigations under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act, Malaysiakini reported

MOE directs schools to boost preparedness for hot weather, postpone outdoor activities if temperatures exceed 35°C

MOE directs schools to boost preparedness for hot weather, postpone outdoor activities if temperatures exceed 35°C



In a statement today, the MOE said key measures include postponing outdoor activities if temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius and monitoring activities that may expose students to hot conditions to safeguard their health. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 2:14 PM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, March 25 — All educational institutions under the Ministry of Education (MOE) have been instructed to enhance preparedness and take appropriate measures to cope with hot weather when schools reopen this Monday (March 30).

In a statement today, the MOE said key measures include postponing outdoor activities if temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius and monitoring activities that may expose students to hot conditions to safeguard their health.

“Institutions must ensure an adequate supply of clean drinking water and encourage students to consume sufficient fluids to regulate body temperature,” the statement said.

The ministry also stressed that schools must provide drinking water to boarding students in critical situations where no other sources are available, and remain vigilant by coordinating with nearby clinics and hospitals in the event of heat-related health complications.


School management may also consider allowing students, teachers and support staff to wear appropriate sports attire during hot weather, depending on prevailing conditions.


The ministry emphasised that all institutions must remain alert to current hot weather conditions in their respective areas and comply with guidelines issued from time to time.

According to the academic calendar, Group A states — Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu — are on holiday from March 20 to 28.


Group B states — Melaka, Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya, are on holiday from March 21 to 29. — Bernama

***

Time to aircon classrooms - nuclear power helps, with trains also running on nuclear juice

MetMalaysia places Pokok Sena, Pendang and Baling under Level 2 heat‑wave alert, with 16 other areas at Level 1

 

MetMalaysia places Pokok Sena, Pendang and Baling under Level 2 heat‑wave alert, with 16 other areas at Level 1



Three districts in Kedah are currently recording a Level 2 heat wave, while 16 other areas across Peninsular Malaysia are at Level 1 which is on alert as of this morning. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Wednesday, 25 Mar 2026 1:47 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 — Three districts in Kedah are currently recording a Level 2 heat wave, while 16 other areas across Peninsular Malaysia are at Level 1 which is on alert as of this morning.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) in its hot weather status update as of 6am today announced that the districts affected by Level 2 in Kedah are Pokok Sena, Pendang and Baling.

Meanwhile, the 16 areas placed under Level 1 are Sik, Padang Terap, Kubang Pasu, Langkawi, Kuala Muda, Kulim and Bandar Baharu in Kedah; the entire Perlis as well as the North East and North areas in Penang.

Also recording the same status are Hulu Perak, Selama, Kinta and Kuala Kangsar in Perak, in addition to the Jerantut and Raub districts in Pahang.


Level 2 status or heat wave is declared when the maximum temperature is in the range of 37 to 40 degrees Celsius for a period of at least three consecutive days.


Meanwhile, Level 1 status refers to daily maximum temperatures reaching 35 to 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. — Bernama

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.