Iran-US tensions

Global shippers sound alarm over Strait of Hormuz amid Iran-US-Israel tensions

The critical waterway, which connects the Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, sees about a quarter of the world's oil shipments pass through it.

Iran

Analysis

As Israel eyes Iran attack, US scrambles to shield its troops

Senior general says Iran still retains credible missile deterrents despite significant blows by Israel’s military last year.

By Jared Szuba

In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military

Live Updates

As IRGC vows response, IAEA says Iran breached non-proliferation obligations

The UN nuclear watchdog found that Iran is in breach of its obligations — a rare move that risks further escalating tensions over Iran's nuclear program.

Iran

US to evacuate personnel from Iraq following Iran threats

A State Department official said the US “will reduce the footprint of [its] mission in Iraq” to ensure the safety of American personnel. 

Iraq

Hegseth tells Congress ‘indications’ Iran moving toward nuclear weapon

Iran has continued to enrich uranium up to 60% purity, just a step away from weapons-grade, but the US’ top intelligence office concluded earlier this year that it is not building a nuclear weapon.

Iran

As Trump gets 'less confident' about deal, Iran threatens US bases in region

The US has maintained military bases across the Middle East for decades, with the largest—by personnel count—being Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Iran

US general says Israeli strike on Iran would risk troops in region

Outgoing CENTCOM Gen. Michael 'Erik' Kurilla said he has provided a broad range of military options to the Trump White House should diplomacy fail to rein in Tehran's nuclear enrichment.

Iran

Analysis

Israeli military poised for ‘order’ to strike as US awaits Iran's reply

If Tehran decides to reject the Washington proposal for a new nuclear deal, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will have to make a decision of his own: whether or not to strike Iran.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

Trump says Iran response to nuclear proposal 'unacceptable,’ alternative ‘dire’

As talks with Iran appear to have reached an impasse, President Donald Trump said Monday that the alternative to a nuclear deal would be "very, very dire."

United States

Analysis

How the US drawdown in Syria is expected to play out

Senate Foreign Relations Chair Jim Risch called the US troop presence in Syria "critical" to contain ISIS and urged a Russian withdrawal, as sources said US troops are expected to eventually draw down to a single base in Hasakah province.

By Jared Szuba

In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military

Analysis

Looking East: How Iran is leveraging Asia ties to offset Western pressure

With sanctions still in place and nuclear talks stalled, Iran is using its SCO membership to forge economic and strategic ties across Central and South Asia.

By Sabena Siddiqui

In Karachi, reporting on South Asia, Middle East, Iran

Analysis

As US nuclear talks stall, Iran ups military planning, turns to China for missile fuel

Amid uncertainties in the recent US-Iran nuclear diplomacy, Tehran is gearing up for a showdown with Israel, reportedly rebuilding its missile capabilities and threatening Israel with a devastating response.

By A correspondent in Tehran

In Tehran, reporting on politics