United News of Bangladesh

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has warned of a growing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, with around 2,000 vessels and 20,000 seafarers currently stranded, highlighting the severe challenges faced by the global shipping industry. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez told Al Jazeera that crews are under immense stress, facing fatigue and shortages of essential supplies as ships remain immobilized in the strategic waterway, reports Al Jazeera. “The longer that those ships stay there, the longer that the crews continue to suffer mentally, physically, and operationally,” he said. Dominguez also raised concerns over insurance coverage, noting that many companies have canceled contracts or imposed high premiums, leaving vessel operators vulnerable. He stressed that while a full humanitarian crisis has been averted so far due to international aid, the situation remains precarious. The IMO is pushing for the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to allow safe passage for stranded vessels. Dominguez also criticized the US plan to escort ships through the strait, describing it as “unsustainable” because it cannot guarantee the safety of merchant vessels or seafarers amid ongoing regional tensions. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply, has become a flashpoint amid escalating geopolitical conflict, affecting shipping, trade, and the livelihoods of thousands of seafarers.

The death toll from the ongoing Middle East war has reportedly surpassed 4,500, with Iran suffering the heaviest losses. Rights group HRANA estimates 3,291 people have died in Iran, including 1,455 civilians. In Lebanon, 1,072 people have been killed, mostly due to Israeli strikes against Hezbollah, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Iraqi authorities report at least 81 deaths, mainly members of the Hashed al-Shaabi forces linked to Iran. Israel has confirmed 18 deaths, including two soldiers in southern Lebanon. The US has lost 13 service members, six in a refuelling aircraft crash over Iraq. Other casualties include seven in Qatar from a helicopter accident, nine in the UAE, six in Kuwait, four each in Syria and the West Bank, and two each in Bahrain, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.   With inputs from BBC

The Pentagon has confirmed the deployment of US ground troops to the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran. A spokesperson said elements of the 82nd Airborne Division headquarters, some division enablers, and the 1st Brigade Combat Team will be sent to the region. No further details were given for security reasons. The 82nd Airborne, based in North Carolina, is a rapid-deployment unit trained to parachute or helicopter into target areas. Analysts say the troops could be used to seize strategic locations, such as Kharg Island. The 1st Brigade Combat Team from New York is fully equipped for sustained combat operations, giving the US a broader range of military options in the region.   With inputs from BBC

The Pentagon has reached framework agreements with major defence companies, including BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, and Honeywell Aerospace, to accelerate production of weapons systems and munitions as part of its shift to a “wartime footing.” Under the agreements, Honeywell Aerospace will “surge production of critical components for America’s munitions stockpile” through a $500 million multi-year investment, the Pentagon said, reports Al Jazeera. BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin will quadruple production of seekers for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptor, enhancing the U.S.’s missile defense capabilities. Additionally, a new framework agreement with Lockheed will speed up production of its Precision Strike Missile, further expanding the Pentagon’s arsenal. Pentagon officials said the agreements are intended to ensure that U.S. forces have adequate supplies of advanced systems and munitions as global tensions rise. The “wartime footing” initiative reflects a strategic effort to prepare for prolonged military operations while maintaining the country’s readiness and technological edge. The surge in production comes amid ongoing U.S.-led military operations in the Middle East, where troop deployments and escalating conflict have highlighted the need for rapid replenishment of critical defence resources.

Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has issued a stern warning to the United States, saying sending troops to the region will not fix what he described as failures by the U.S. and Israeli leadership. As the American military prepares to deploy at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, Ghalibaf said the soldiers “could become victims to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's 'delusions'.” Writing on X, he added, “We are closely monitoring all US movements in the region, especially troop deployments. What the generals have broke, the soldiers can't fix; instead, they will fall victim to Netanyahu's delusions. Do not test our resolve to defend our land.” His remarks come amid skepticism in Tehran over claims of diplomatic progress with Washington. Lieutenant Colonel Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for the Iranian military's Khatam Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, dismissed US President Donald Trump's 15-point ceasefire plan, asserting that Tehran “will never come to terms with Washington.” The deployment of the 82nd Airborne, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, adds elite troops trained to parachute into hostile or contested areas to secure key positions, including airfields. This comes as the Trump administration says it has begun negotiations with Iran, involving envoys Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President JD Vance. Trump said, “We have a number of people doing it. And the other side, I can tell you, they'd like to make a deal.” While Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has held discussions with several counterparts this week, Ghalibaf denied direct talks with the U.S. and emphasized Iran’s stance: “Our first and last word has been the same from day one, and it will stay that way: Someone like us will never come to terms with someone like you. Not now, not ever.” An Iranian military spokesman also reaffirmed that Iran will continue fighting “until complete victory.” Source: NDTV

U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), has been encouraging American actions against Iran, describing him as “a warrior fighting with us.” The comments came after a New York Times report that said the prince views the U.S.-Israeli campaign as a historic chance to reshape the Middle East. Speaking at the Oval Office, Trump confirmed MBS’ support for certain U.S. measures targeting Tehran. The NYT report noted that MBS has emphasized the long-term threat Iran poses to the Gulf and suggested that only removing the government could neutralize it. Analysts say while Israel may tolerate a weakened Iranian state, Saudi Arabia fears that a collapsed regime could empower militias and destabilize the region. Saudi officials, however, maintain a cautious public stance. In an official statement, the kingdom reiterated its support for peaceful resolution and emphasized protecting civilian infrastructure amid ongoing Iranian attacks. The war has already disrupted Saudi oil exports, with Iranian drone and missile strikes impacting key facilities. Analysts familiar with Saudi thinking say MBS is concerned that a U.S. withdrawal could leave Gulf nations facing an “emboldened and furious” Iran alone. The strait of Hormuz, a vital route for a fifth of the world’s oil, has been largely blocked due to the conflict, affecting Saudi, Emirati, and Kuwaiti energy shipments. Meanwhile, the U.S. is reportedly preparing to deploy at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the region. Trump has sent mixed signals on the war’s future, indicating both possible escalation and discussions of a “complete and total resolution” with Iran, an idea disputed by Tehran. MBS, who has maintained close ties with Trump, has reportedly suggested seizing Iranian energy infrastructure to force regime change, underscoring Riyadh’s concern over regional security and the global oil supply. Source: NDTV

Humanitarian organizations are facing severe strain due to steep U.S. foreign aid cuts, struggling to respond to the escalating conflict in the Middle East that has displaced millions. The dissolution of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) last year forced aid groups to lay off tens of thousands of staff and close critical programs. The United Nations’ refugee agency, UNHCR, reports 3.2 million people displaced in Iran and 1 million in Lebanon since U.S. and Israeli strikes began Feb. 28. The agency, which reduced 30% of its staff last year, says it urgently needs $61 million to support 600,000 people in Lebanon over three months. The World Food Program (WFP), which saw its funding cut by a third, warned nearly 45 million more people could face acute hunger if the conflict persists and oil prices remain high. Aid experts criticize the prioritization of military spending over humanitarian needs; the Pentagon spent $11.3 billion in the first week of the war, nearly matching total global humanitarian aid in 2024. The U.S. State Department said it is providing $40 million in additional emergency aid to Lebanon and working with the UN and partners, urging other countries to contribute. It also highlighted plans to establish 12 regional hubs for global disaster response. Aid groups, including the International Rescue Committee, report that disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, rising food and fuel costs, and delayed deliveries of critical supplies are worsening the crisis. Governments including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK have warned that a large-scale Israeli ground offensive in Lebanon could have devastating humanitarian consequences. Humanitarians stress that without prompt and flexible funding, millions already on the edge of starvation and displacement could face catastrophe.  

Iran has received a U.S. proposal to pause hostilities in the Middle East, officials said Wednesday, even as Washington continues to deploy paratroopers and additional Marines to the region. Tehran has not publicly confirmed receiving the plan and dismissed the diplomatic effort, while continuing attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab states, including an assault that caused a major fire at Kuwait International Airport. Key Points of the US Proposal Two Pakistani officials, who delivered the plan to Iran, described the 15-point proposal broadly. It reportedly covers sanctions relief, a rollback of Iran’s nuclear program, limits on missile development, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and restrictions on Iran’s support for armed groups, according to an Egyptian official involved in the mediation. Many of the points were already contentious before the war. Iran has long insisted it will not discuss its ballistic missile program or regional militias, which it views as central to its security. Control over the Strait of Hormuz also represents a major strategic advantage. US Military Reinforcements At least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division are scheduled to deploy to the Middle East in the coming days, sources told the AP. In addition, around 5,000 Marines trained for amphibious operations, along with thousands of sailors, are being sent to the region. Diplomatic Hurdles Egyptian and Pakistani officials suggested possible in-person talks between the U.S. and Iran could occur as soon as Friday in Pakistan. Special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President JD Vance are involved in the U.S. team. Iran, however, denies engaging in direct talks with the U.S., with its Khatam Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters warning, “Not now, not ever.” Israel, which has been urging continued military action against Iran, was reportedly surprised by the ceasefire proposal. Any negotiations face major challenges, including uncertainty over who in Iran has authority to negotiate, and Israel’s ongoing targeted strikes against Iranian leaders. Ongoing Conflict and Casualties The Israeli military reported multiple airstrikes in Tehran and a strike on an Iranian submarine development center in Isfahan. Missile alerts have sounded repeatedly in Israel, while Hezbollah rockets continue to target northern Israel. Iran also remains active against Gulf Arab neighbors. Saudi Arabia destroyed at least eight drones, and one Iranian drone hit a fuel tank at Kuwait International Airport. Casualties are significant: Iran reports over 1,500 dead, Israel 20 (including two soldiers in Lebanon), and U.S. forces at least 13 killed. Lebanon has seen over 1,000 deaths, mainly from Israeli strikes on Hezbollah, and 80 Iraqi security personnel have been killed. Impact on Energy Markets Oil prices remain high due to Iran’s partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude, which spiked near $120 a barrel during the conflict, dropped below $100 following news of potential negotiations but is still up roughly 35% since the war began. Iran confirms it charges ships for passage through the strait. The ceasefire plan represents a potential first step toward de-escalation, though analysts warn substantial hurdles remain before any agreement can be realized.

An Iranian military spokesperson on Wednesday ridiculed U.S. claims of ongoing ceasefire talks, casting doubt on the viability of a 15-point plan proposed by Washington. Lt. Col. Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for the Khatam Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters which oversees both Iran’s regular military and the Revolutionary Guard made the remarks in a recorded video broadcast on state television. He suggested there were no negotiations despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that officials were in talks with Tehran. “Have your internal conflicts reached the point where you are negotiating with yourselves?” Zolfaghari said. “Our first and last word has been the same from day one, and it will stay that way: someone like us will never come to terms with someone like you, not now, not ever.” The 15-point plan was submitted to Iran through intermediaries from Pakistan, who have offered to host renewed talks between Washington and Tehran, according to an anonymous source. The New York Times was the first to report delivery of the plan to Iranian officials. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is deploying two Marine units, adding roughly 5,000 Marines and thousands of sailors to the region, in what sources say is intended to give Trump “maximum flexibility” for his next steps. Israeli officials, who have encouraged continued U.S. action against Iran, were reportedly surprised by the ceasefire initiative. The White House declined to comment. The tensions continue to escalate on the ground. Airstrikes have targeted Iranian sites, while Iranian missiles and drones have struck Israel and other locations in the region. Tehran’s control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz has disrupted international shipping, caused global fuel prices to spike, and threatened economic stability. “The strategic power you used to talk about has turned into a strategic failure,” Zolfaghari said. “The one claiming to be a global superpower would have already gotten out of this mess if it could. Don’t dress up your defeat as an agreement. Your era of empty promises has come to an end.”

The administration of Donald Trump has put forward a 15-point ceasefire proposal to Iran, according to a source familiar with the plan who was not authorised to speak publicly. The proposal was conveyed to Tehran through intermediaries from Pakistan, which has also offered to host fresh negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The initiative comes as the United States prepares to deploy at least 1,000 additional troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, adding to roughly 50,000 American personnel already stationed in the region. Earlier on Tuesday, The New York Times reported that the ceasefire plan had been delivered to Iranian officials. At the same time, the Pentagon is moving to deploy two Marine Expeditionary Units, which would bring around 5,000 Marines along with thousands of sailors to the Middle East. According to the source, Israeli officials — who have been urging the US to continue military operations against Iran — were caught off guard by the submission of a ceasefire proposal. However, with Washington simultaneously reinforcing its military presence, the move is being seen as an effort by Trump to maintain “maximum flexibility” in determining his next course of action. The White House has not commented on the development. In a related development, Trump said for a second consecutive day that the US is engaged in discussions with Iran aimed at ending the war, even as Iran denied that any such negotiations are underway. Military tensions continue to escalate, with ongoing airstrikes hitting Iran while Iranian missiles and drones target Israel and other sites across the region. Meanwhile, additional US troops are preparing for deployment. Officials told The Associated Press that at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division will be sent in the coming days, while thousands of Marines are already en route. Israeli strikes kill 2 paramedics in southern Lebanon Iran has rejected claims of negotiations and Trump has postponed his self-imposed deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s control over the vital shipping route has disrupted global trade, driven up fuel prices and raised concerns about the global economy. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his country is ready to facilitate “meaningful and conclusive talks” to end the conflict. According to multiple officials, the US has agreed in principle to participate in talks in Pakistan, while mediators are still trying to persuade Iran to join. A regional diplomat indicated that discussions could begin as early as next week, with US representatives expected to include envoy Steve Witkoff, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance. Speaking at the White House, Trump said multiple officials are engaged in negotiations and expressed confidence that Iran is interested in reaching a deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has held discussions with several counterparts this week. However, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf denied any direct talks with the US, while a military spokesperson reaffirmed that Iran would continue fighting until “complete victory.” Efforts led by regional mediators are focused on building trust between Washington and Tehran, with priorities including halting attacks on energy infrastructure and developing a mechanism for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Israel is not involved in these diplomatic efforts. Oil markets briefly responded to reports of possible negotiations, but prices soon rebounded, with Brent crude rising above $100 per barrel — nearly 40% higher since the conflict began. On the battlefield, Israel reported launching extensive strikes on Iranian production facilities, though details were not disclosed. Explosions were heard across Tehran, including in northern districts and the city centre. Iran, in turn, launched multiple waves of missile attacks on Israel. Emergency responders said three people were injured in southern Israel, while four others sustained minor injuries in Tel Aviv. Regional fallout has also intensified. A Moroccan contractor working with the United Arab Emirates military was killed in Bahrain during an Iranian strike, while Kuwait experienced temporary power outages after air defence debris hit power lines. Saudi Arabia said it intercepted Iranian drones targeting its Eastern Province. Israel also carried out heavy airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting infrastructure linked to the Iran-backed Hezbollah. A strike on a residential building southeast of the Lebanese capital killed at least three people, including a three-year-old girl, while five others were killed in southern Lebanon. In northern Israel, a woman was killed by shrapnel during cross-border attacks from Lebanon. China urges early peace talks; Iran discusses war fallout with Malaysia Lebanon has declared Iran’s ambassador persona non grata and ordered him to leave by Sunday. The country has also banned Iranian flights amid concerns they could transport weapons or funds to Hezbollah, with some Lebanese officials accusing Tehran of drawing the country deeper into the conflict. The violence has taken a heavy toll. Israeli strikes have killed more than 1,000 people in Lebanon and displaced over one million. Iran’s death toll has exceeded 1,500, according to its Health Ministry. In Israel, 16 people have been killed, while at least 13 US service members and more than a dozen civilians in the occupied West Bank and Gulf states have also lost their lives.