Kharg Island, Iran’s crucial oil export hub in the Persian Gulf, was targeted during US strikes amid the escalating Iran–Israel War 2026. Former US President Donald Trump called the island Iran’s “crown jewel,” while renowned Iranian writer Jalal Al-e-Ahmad once described it as the “orphan pearl of the Persian Gulf.” The island handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, making it central to the country’s economy. Although strikes reportedly focused on military targets, Kharg Island’s strategic role in global energy supply means any disruption could significantly impact Iran’s economy and international oil markets. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has reportedly deployed its elite counter-terrorism unit known as NOPO to protect newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei amid escalating regional conflict and security threats. The force, famous for its black tactical gear and specialized training, is tasked with guarding the leader at a highly secure and undisclosed location. Reports suggest Mojtaba Khamenei may have been injured during the strike that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israel operation. Since assuming power earlier in March 2026, he has largely remained out of public view. The deployment of the secretive NOPO unit highlights Iran’s concerns about assassination attempts and the fragile security situation surrounding its leadership. (PC: Getty Images)

A US-owned oil tanker, Safesea Vishnu, was attacked near Iraq’s Khor Al Zubair port by two explosive-laden unmanned boats, according to early investigation findings. The vessel, flagged in the Marshall Islands, was transferring about 53,000 metric tons of naphtha when the boats struck, causing a massive fire. The 28-member crew was forced to abandon the ship, with one sailor killed and the rest rescued by Iraqi authorities. Another tanker, Zefyros, was also damaged in the incident but its crew survived. The attack is part of escalating maritime violence linked to the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, threatening shipping in the Gulf region. (PC: X)

Israel is reportedly backing Palestinian militias in Gaza to weaken Hamas by carrying out raids, assassinations and kidnappings in areas such as Rafah and Khan Younis. These militias are said to operate from Israeli-controlled zones and receive weapons, intelligence and logistical support from Israel. The groups, including the Popular Forces and Counter-Terrorism Strike Force, have increasingly targeted Hamas members within Gaza. The strategy aims to undermine Hamas’s control from inside the territory. However, human rights organisations have raised concerns over alleged abuses by these militias, warning that such tactics could fuel instability and increase sympathy for Hamas among Gaza residents. (PC: X)

Two India-flagged LPG tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have successfully crossed the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and are now heading toward India amid the ongoing Iran-U.S. conflict. The ships were allowed safe passage after diplomatic talks between New Delhi and Tehran. The vessels are carrying large quantities of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), crucial for India’s domestic energy supply. One tanker reportedly crossed the strait under escort and both are expected to reach Indian ports soon. The passage is significant because tensions in the region have disrupted shipping through the Hormuz route, which normally handles a major share of global oil and gas trade. (PC: X)

Just hours before the United States launched strikes linked to Iran’s oil network, U.S. President Donald Trump said in a media interview that Kharg Island was “not high on the list” of targets. Shortly afterward, U.S. forces carried out major airstrikes hitting military facilities on the island, a crucial hub responsible for about 90% of Iran’s oil exports. Trump later stated that the bombing destroyed military targets but deliberately avoided damaging the oil infrastructure for now. Analysts say the attack marks a major escalation in the ongoing U.S.–Iran conflict and increases tensions around global energy supplies and shipping routes in the Persian Gulf. (PC: X)

Amid rising geopolitical tensions, Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of Iran, accused the United States of hypocrisy over Russian oil. He claimed Washington had previously pressured countries like India to stop buying crude from Russia but is now “begging” nations to purchase it due to global energy disruptions caused by the ongoing regional conflict. Araghchi said the shift reflects changing realities in global oil markets and criticised Western policies toward Iran. The remarks come as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz and energy supply concerns grow worldwide. (PC: India Today)

The United States Department of State has announced rewards of up to $10 million for information on 10 senior Iranian leaders, including Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei. The move is part of the “Rewards for Justice” programme targeting figures linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Washington designates as a terrorist organisation. Other officials on the list include Ali Larijani, Esmail Khatib, and Eskandar Momeni. The US says these leaders command IRGC networks involved in global militant operations. Individuals providing credible information may also receive relocation assistance, reflecting escalating tensions between the US and Iran amid the ongoing regional conflict. (PC: X)

Five U.S. Air Force refueling aircraft were reportedly damaged in an Iranian missile strike targeting the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia amid the escalating Iran-U.S. conflict. According to reports citing U.S. officials, the aircraft were hit while stationed on the ground but were not completely destroyed and are currently undergoing repairs. No casualties were reported from the attack. The strike highlights Iran’s expanding retaliation against U.S. military assets in the region following recent American and Israeli operations against Iranian targets. The incident underscores rising tensions across the Middle East, with several Gulf bases and infrastructure increasingly vulnerable as the conflict intensifies. (PC: Mint)

US President Donald Trump announced that American forces carried out a powerful bombing raid on Iran’s strategic Kharg Island, claiming that all military targets on the island were “totally obliterated.” The island is Iran’s main oil export hub and a vital part of its economy, handling most of the country’s crude shipments. Trump said the US deliberately avoided hitting the oil infrastructure but warned it could be targeted if Iran interferes with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The strike marks a major escalation in the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran in the Middle East. (PC: India Today)