【Iran Crisis】Oil prices plummet by 10% (updating)

Oil prices plummeted by 10%, with Brent crude falling 9% to $90.3, and WTI dropping 8% to $87.

President Trump held a press conference, stating that the Iran war will end soon, and that the Strait must remain open. We have more oil and natural gas than needed. The final outcome of the Iran war will be a drop in oil prices. The Strait of Hormuz will remain secure. Iran should choose a peaceful leader.

$1 or less for Monday news====

Iran: If oil prices can withstand rising above $200, “then continue this game” G7 has no consensus on releasing strategic reserves Oil prices once surged 30% to nearly $120

The Strait of Hormuz remains nearly blocked, with Gulf countries planning production cuts. International oil prices once soared 30%, approaching $120 per barrel. But after reports that G7 will discuss jointly releasing oil reserves, the price gains narrowed.

France’s finance minister said that the consensus is to use all necessary tools to stabilize the market if needed, including possibly releasing reserves.

The surge in oil prices has intensified global market turbulence, triggering circuit breakers in Japan and South Korea markets. U.S. stock futures on Monday once fell more than 1,000 points; the Dow futures dropped over 600 points at market open, the Nasdaq down 1.2%, and the S&P 500 down 80 points. The U.S. dollar index stands at 99.185.

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has caused oil storage facilities to fill rapidly, with Kuwait and UAE beginning to cut production. External reports cite that two oil fields under Saudi Aramco have started reducing output, though the extent is not specified; some Chinese media suggest Aramco is merely reallocating export supplies.

Additionally, Macron stated at Paphos Air Force Base in Cyprus that France plans to work with European and non-European countries to establish a “purely defensive” mission to escort container ships and oil tankers, aiming to gradually reopen the Strait of Hormuz after the most intense phase of conflict.

Iran: If oil prices can endure above $200, “then keep playing” — oil may stay in triple digits for a period

Hatem Ambyia Central Command spokesperson issued a video message warning the U.S. and Israel to stop “inhuman actions.” The spokesperson told the U.S. and Israel that if they can tolerate oil prices rising above $200 per barrel, “then keep playing this game.”

Iranian Parliament Speaker Kalibaf said that if the current conflict further expands to infrastructure, its economic impact will persist regionally and globally for a long time. He indicated that under such circumstances, international oil prices could remain in the triple digits for some time.

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a statement saying they have carried out the 31st wave of “Real Commitment 4” strikes, attacking U.S.-related targets with heavy missiles. The IRGC also said that early that morning, IRGC Navy used multiple drones and cruise missiles to strike and “destroy” U.S. military helicopter bases in Kuwait, describing the operation as “extremely critical,” including destroying fuel tanks, helicopter ramps, and other logistics and support facilities.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “Short-term oil prices will drop rapidly once the Iran nuclear threat is eliminated. This is a very small price for U.S. and global security and peace. Only fools would think otherwise.”

Hojjat Moojtaaba, son of Khamenei, appointed Iran’s Supreme Leader

According to Iranian state media, the Expert Assembly has elected Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s new Supreme Leader.

The IRGC issued a statement welcoming Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment. The statement describes him as “a comprehensive jurist, a young thinker, and highly knowledgeable on political and social issues.” The IRGC also expressed respect, loyalty, and obedience toward him, stating members are “ready to fully obey and sacrifice themselves in executing the sacred command of the Guardian Jurist.”

$1 or less for Monday news====

Iran: Will choose new leader within 24 hours, UK plans to send two aircraft carriers, Trump: Those who don’t need to fight only after victory

Trump, speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One, said unconditional surrender means “they surrender, or when they can no longer fight, and no one around to surrender, that might happen because you know we have eliminated their leadership multiple times.” Regarding the absence of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “That’s their choice. But we’ve cleared it; we’ve destroyed their navy. Their navy is now at the bottom of the sea.”

He continued, “We expect oil prices to rise, and that’s expected. But they will also fall. They will fall very quickly.” Trump indicated that strategic reserves will be used when appropriate.

Regarding deploying ground troops, Trump said it must be for a very compelling reason, “If we do that, they will face devastating strikes so they cannot fight on the ground.” He also said he does not want the Kurds involved, nor does he want this war to become more complicated, “I’ve told them I don’t want them to go in.”

Trump said, “We’ve taken out one leadership layer, then the second, and now they are at the third or fourth layer, and they have leaders whose identities are unknown.”

According to expert assembly member Ayatollah Mozafari, citing Fars News Agency, Iran plans to hold a meeting within 24 hours to elect a new Supreme Leader. IRGC spokesperson told state TV that Iran is “completely prepared to continue intense, full-scale war for at least six months at the current pace.”

Additionally, Iran’s president said he has instructed the military not to attack any countries that have not attacked Iran, despite attacks on UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others.

Dubai media office issued a statement saying that Dubai International Airport has temporarily suspended all operations for safety reasons.

UAE President issued a rare warning to the country’s “enemies” not to mistake UAE’s prosperity for weakness. As Iran continues attacks on this Gulf country, he said, “UAE is tough and resilient, not an easy target,” and visited a hospital where injured civilians from Iran attacks are being treated.

Several European officials have revealed that Saudi Arabia has increased direct contacts with Iran, trying to curb Middle East war, which has caused serious turmoil and pressure on global markets.

On the oil production front, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, the largest oil producer in the UAE, said it is “managing” offshore oil output levels to meet storage demands. The company continues to utilize export routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz and its international storage facilities to ensure supply reaches global customers.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “The UK, our once-great ally, perhaps the greatest, is finally seriously considering sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East. No problem, Prime Minister Sunak, we no longer need them — but we will remember. We don’t need to fight only after we’ve already won the war.” He also claimed Iran, suffering heavy blows, has apologized to neighboring Middle Eastern countries and surrendered, promising not to fire on them again. This promise was made solely because of relentless US and Israeli attacks. They once dreamed of taking over and ruling the entire Middle East. This is Iran’s first defeat by neighboring Middle Eastern countries in thousands of years. They said, “Thank you, President Trump.” I replied, “You’re welcome!” Iran is no longer “the bully of the Middle East”; instead, they are “the losers of the Middle East,” and will remain so for decades until they surrender or, more likely, collapse completely! Today, Iran will face a heavy blow! Due to Iran’s malicious actions, some areas and populations that have not yet been targeted are being seriously considered for total destruction and inevitable death.

$1 or less for Saturday news====

The U.S. provides $20 billion reinsurance for oil tankers, Trump: Weapons production accelerated threefold

After Trump announced a guarantee for insurance on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), led by CEO Ben Black and Treasury Secretary Yellen, announced that the reinsurance mechanism will provide up to approximately $20 billion in loss coverage, covering oil tankers and other maritime traffic, to promote safe passage through the Strait.

Due to Iran war causing oil tanker traffic in the Persian Gulf to halt, U.S. crude prices surged over 13%, breaking $91 per barrel. Some Gulf countries, unable to export oil via the strait, have begun production cuts.

Ben Black stated, “We are confident this reinsurance plan will ensure the smooth flow of oil, gasoline, LNG, aviation fuel, and fertilizers through the Strait of Hormuz, back into global markets.”

Source: https://www.dfc.gov/media/press-releases/dfc-announces-20b-plan-maritime-reinsurance-gulf

Meanwhile, Qatar is loading LNG.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “Had a very successful meeting with our top defense manufacturers, discussing capacity and production timelines. They agreed to increase the ‘Exquisite Class’ weapons production by four times, as we want to reach maximum capacity as soon as possible.”

“The expansion efforts started three months ago, and many factories for these weapons are already under construction and in production. We have nearly unlimited supplies of intermediate and upper-tier munitions, such as those currently used against Iran and recently in Venezuela. Still, we are increasing orders for these types of weapons.”

“Representatives from BAE Systems, Boeing, Honeywell Aerospace, L3Harris Missile Solutions, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon attended. A second meeting is scheduled in two months. States across the country are bidding for these new factories.”

Additionally, Yellen indicated that the U.S. might lift sanctions on further Russian oil supplies, “The Treasury has agreed to let our allies in India start purchasing Russian crude already at sea, to help alleviate the temporary global oil shortage. We are allowing them to receive this Russian oil. We may lift sanctions on other Russian oil.”

$1 or less for Friday news====

US visits White House, Trump: B-2 bombers dropped dozens of 2,000-pound precision-guided bombs, LOCUS drones indispensable

The seventh day of US bombing Iran. Trump met with US soccer champion Inter Miami, led by the US, at the White House. Trump said, “Messi (cheered by crowd) is… my son asked, Dad, do you know who’s coming today? I said, I don’t know, I have a lot to do. He said, Messi. I said, really? He’s your biggest fan,” “You might say I’m old, but I’ve watched Billy play, he’s with the Cosmos. You might be better than Billy. Billy’s pretty good. Who’s better? Him or Billy? (pointing at Messi, crowd laughs) Messi! I agree. But… Billy’s also pretty good.”

Regarding the Iran war, Trump said, “I again call on all members of the IRGC, military, and police to lay down their weapons. Accept immunity, we will give you immunity. Otherwise, you face absolute guaranteed death. And I don’t want to see that.”

“We also urge Iranian diplomats worldwide to seek asylum and help us shape a new, better Iran. It’s a country with huge potential, with us.”

“Iran’s missiles are targeting these countries: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and many others. Those who are not really involved are being targeted. They’ve been aiming at those targets long before the conflict started. They’re targeting the entire Middle East. Then we came. We destroyed their party.”

The expansion of Middle East conflict and supply disruptions have raised concerns over global supply. U.S. benchmark crude (WTI) first broke above $80 per barrel in over a year. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Bagham said the Trump administration is considering options to address soaring oil and gasoline prices during the Iran war, “all options are under consideration.” So far, the U.S. has not taken measures to deploy strategic petroleum reserves.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Hagseth said, “We are not short of munitions. Our stockpiles of defensive and offensive weapons enable us to sustain this campaign when needed. Munitions will only increase as advantage grows,” “The combat power we can project over Iran, combined with Israel’s capabilities, is currently several times greater.”

The commander of CENTCOM, General Cooper, leading the “Epic Fury” operation, said that over 50,000 troops are currently executing the mission. In the past hour, B-2 bombers dropped dozens of 2,000-pound guided bombs targeting buried ballistic missile launchers. They also struck an organization equivalent to space command in Iran, weakening their ability to threaten Americans.

He said that compared to day one, Iran’s ballistic missile attacks have decreased by 90%, drone attacks by 83%. About 30 ships have been sunk or destroyed. In recent hours, a drone carrier about the size of a WWII aircraft carrier was hit and is now on fire. The next phase is to systematically dismantle Iran’s future missile production capacity.

He responded to questions, saying they are adjusting Ukraine deployments to counter Iran’s drones.

He also said that reports of F-15 being shot down are false; Iran claims 500 Americans have been killed, which is a lie.

Using $10,000 worth of weapons to shoot down $10,000 worth of drones.

As for LOCUS drones, he said, new capabilities have been deployed for interceptors. Over time, the cost curve of drones has been somewhat reversed. Looking back a few years, it was often said that a $2 million missile could shoot down a $50,000 drone. Now, a lot of time has been spent using $10,000 weapons to shoot down $100,000 drones.

But LOCUS drones are indispensable. They are originally designed by Iran. The U.S. captured one, disassembled its parts, sent it back to America, labeled it “Made in USA,” and is now deploying them against Iran.

$1 or less for Thursday news====

White House: Complete control of Iran’s airspace in the coming hours Spain agrees to cooperate with U.S. military

Sixth day of U.S. bombing Iran. White House spokesperson Levin said that so far, over 20 Iranian vessels have been destroyed, including the first use of torpedoes since WWII last night, destroying Iran’s top submarine. Currently, no Iranian ships are operating in the Arabian Gulf, Hormuz Strait, or Oman Gulf.

Levin pointed out that the U.S. military has targeted over 2,000 targets, destroying hundreds of ballistic missiles, launchers, and drones. Complete and thorough control of Iran’s airspace is expected within hours.

Levin responded to who is giving orders in Iran, saying intelligence agencies are closely monitoring and paying attention to this.

Spain, which initially refused to allow U.S. bases, agreed to cooperate after Trump’s pressure to cut trade.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Levin said that when “appropriate,” the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the strait.

As for increasing munitions stockpiles, Levin said he has not heard the president consider this.

$1 or less for March 4 news====

Hojjat Khamenei’s son reportedly elected new Supreme Leader Iran’s IRGC: Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

Senior clerics responsible for electing Iran’s next Supreme Leader convened on Tuesday (March 3). Iranian media cited sources saying Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is likely elected as the new Supreme Leader. Mojtaba, 56, is the second son of Khamenei and currently heads Iran’s Basij militia.

As the Iran war enters its fifth day, it has become a battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz between the U.S. and Iran. Trump posted on Truth Social: “Effective immediately, I have ordered the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide political risk insurance and guarantees at very reasonable prices for all maritime trade (especially energy) passing through the Gulf region. This service will be available to all shipping companies.”

“Heads up, when necessary, the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. In any case, the U.S. will ensure the free flow of energy to the world. Our economic and military strength is the strongest on Earth—more actions are coming.”

The IRGC issued a statement: “The IRGC Navy has sent messages to the global shipping network, clearly stating that the Strait of Hormuz is now in a state of war from start to finish, and ships may face any damage risks from missiles or uncontrolled drones; therefore, ships should not pass through this area.”

“Given the multiple warnings issued by the IRGC Navy that the Strait of Hormuz is unsafe, more than 10 ships ignoring these warnings have been hit by projectiles and caught fire.”

“As is evident, Iran has always pursued a policy of de-escalation, striving to create safety and stability in the Persian Gulf, region, and globally. However, Trump and Netanyahu’s foolish actions have triggered this war, causing regional turmoil and disrupting the global economic order.”

“Currently, the entire Strait of Hormuz is under the control of the Islamic Republic Navy.”

“It is worth noting that this significant and strategic action by Iran has caused a sharp rise in global oil prices, impacting economies worldwide—especially the U.S. and EU member states. Energy experts say if this continues for three weeks, the global economy will face a severe crisis.”

$1 or less for Tuesday news====

Trump: Four main targets for attacking Iran U.S. Defense: Tens of thousands of rounds fired in two days, including from U.S. aircraft

U.S. President Trump and the Department of Defense held two press conferences overnight. Trump pointed out that after the “Midnight Hammer” operation destroyed Iran’s nuclear program, warnings were issued to Iran not to attempt reconstruction at different sites, but they ignored these warnings and refused to stop pursuing nuclear weapons. Moreover, Iran’s conventional missile program is rapidly developing, posing a clear and significant threat to the U.S. and stationed overseas forces. Iran already has missiles capable of striking Europe.

Trump said the targets are very clear: first, destroy Iran’s missile capability, which will be seen happening every hour, and their ability to produce new missiles, which are quite good.

Second, eliminate their navy, which has already sunk ten ships.

Third, ensure that the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism can never acquire nuclear weapons.

Finally, ensure the Iranian regime cannot continue arming, funding, and commanding its terrorist forces abroad.

Regarding the duration of the conflict, Trump said, “It has gone far beyond our expected timeline, but it doesn’t matter how long it takes. Whatever is needed, we will do it,” “From the start, we expected to end their military leadership within four to five weeks, but it was done in about an hour. So we are well ahead of schedule.”

“Some say today that ‘the president wants to finish quickly, too long would be boring,’ I won’t be bored; there’s nothing boring about this. If I were bored, I wouldn’t be standing here now, I guarantee you, going through everything I have to go through.”

Department of Defense: Action led by Admiral Cooper

At the press conference, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Cain attended.

Cain said that on Saturday, February 28, at 01:15 EST (09:45 Tehran time), under the order of the U.S. president, the U.S. Central Command, commanded by Admiral Brad Cooper, began executing “Epic Fury.”

“U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard, and reserve units, integrated across combatant commands, are conducting unprecedented coordination with Israeli armed forces.”

Thousands of personnel, hundreds of fighters, two aircraft carrier strike groups, and their carrier air wings are involved

“This deployment includes thousands of service members from all branches, hundreds of advanced fourth- and fifth-generation fighters, dozens of aerial refueling aircraft, the Lincoln and Ford carrier strike groups and their air wings, ongoing munitions and fuel resupply, all supported by command, control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance networks, with troop movements still ongoing today.”

“The Ford strike group has been redeployed across the Atlantic to position in the theater, integrating reserve and National Guard units, including the Wisconsin Army National Guard in Kuwait and Iraq, and Air National Guard units from Vermont and Virginia. The 158th Fighter Squadron of the Vermont Air National Guard, originally mobilized for ‘Absolute Resolve,’ has been assigned to support this operation with F-35 fighters, crossing the Atlantic instead of returning home. Similarly, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve refueling and transport aircraft are deployed directly from civilian bases to protect the region.”

“As regional tensions escalate, joint forces have increased protective measures under the secretary’s orders, carefully redeploying civilians and non-essential personnel to ensure the safety and security of joint forces. At the start of the operation, only necessary forces remain at our bases and in the theater, ready to respond.”

Trump approved the operation last Friday

“The moment the operation began, on Friday, February 27, at 15:38 EST, the U.S. Central Command received the final approval order from President Trump. The president said, ‘Epic Fury is authorized. Go, good luck.’”

“The first wave was launched by Cyber Command and Space Command, providing non-kinetic effects to disrupt, degrade, and block Iran’s communications and response capabilities.”

First 24 hours: 1,000 targets struck

“The war officially began at 01:15 EST, dawn in Tehran. Over 100 aircraft (fighters, refuelers, early warning, electronic warfare, bombers, and drones) appeared in synchronized waves. This was a daylight assault triggered by Israel, facilitated by U.S. intelligence. The Navy launched ‘Tomahawk’ cruise missiles against Iran’s naval forces; ground forces launched precise land attack weapons. In the first 24 hours, over 1,000 targets were hit. The operation has now been ongoing for about 57 hours.”

“The current focus is systematically targeting Iran’s command and control infrastructure, navy, and ballistic missile bases. We have established ‘local air superiority,’ which not only enhances our forces’ protection but also allows subsequent operations.”

Tens of thousands of rounds fired over two days, including from U.S. aircraft

“In the past two days, we have launched tens of thousands of rounds. This includes B-2 bombers flying from the U.S. mainland, taking 37 hours round-trip, dropping precise bunker-busting bombs on underground facilities deep in Iran’s south. Israel has also conducted hundreds of missions independently.”

“Defense is equally important. Integrated air defense systems performed flawlessly. Patriot, THAAD, and naval destroyers with anti-ballistic missile capabilities intercepted hundreds of missiles aimed at our forces and allies.”

“Threats from suicide drones (One-way attack UAVs) still exist, but our systems are highly effective. Air defense units from Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia have also joined the fight, demonstrating years of cooperation.”

$1 or less for Monday news====

Iran: No negotiations with the U.S. Israel launches new airstrikes, front expands to Lebanon

Israel Defense Forces announced early March 2 that the air force launched a new large-scale strike on Tehran’s core areas and began targeting Hezbollah positions in Lebanon in response to rocket attacks on Israel. Iran responded by continuing strikes on U.S. military bases across the Middle East, with explosions reported in the UAE, Bahrain’s Manama, and Doha.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Larijani said Iran will not negotiate with the U.S. He also said the death of Iran’s top leader Khamenei is very painful for Iran, and that Israel and the U.S. cannot just attack Iran and walk away. Iran’s heart has been pierced, and Iran will pierce the enemy’s heart. Larijani also said Israel is a small country with few people and lacking key resources, surrounded by hostile Islamic countries, so Israel hopes to divide Iran, but the Iranian people have united and will not allow the country to be divided.

Iran’s state broadcaster quoted IRGC saying Iran’s air force launched missile strikes on Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE, destroying Israel’s deployed “Iron Dome” missile defense system there.

Iraq’s Shia militia claimed to have launched drone attacks on U.S. targets at Baghdad airport.

As the front expands to Lebanon, multiple Middle Eastern media report that Hezbollah senior leader Muhammad Raad was killed in the Israeli attack.

Trump: Khamenei and three Americans dead, fighting continues until goals are achieved

Trump posted a 6-minute video early Monday (March 2, Hong Kong time), stating that hundreds of targets inside Iran have been hit, nine ships and naval structures destroyed, Khamenei is dead, three Americans killed, and “the fighting continues vigorously and will continue until all our objectives are achieved.” Trump told The Daily Mail that the war could last four weeks.

NBC quoted U.S. officials saying the goal is to destroy Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs, while Israel targets Iran’s political and military leaders. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on U.S. bases in Israel, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, triggering chain reactions across the Middle East.

Bloomberg experts estimate that if the Strait of Hormuz is blocked by Iran, Brent crude could surge to $108, as about 1/5 of global oil shipments pass through this waterway. Last Friday, Brent closed at $72.48, implying a potential increase of 49%.

President Donald J. Trump provides an update on Operation Epic Fury: pic.twitter.com/Vte8QpISn

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 1, 2026

Below is the full transcript of Trump’s video:

“In the past 36 hours, the U.S. and its partners launched Operation Epic Fury, one of the largest, most complex, and most overwhelming military campaigns ever seen in the world. No one has seen anything like this.”

Part 1: Results of the strikes:

“We have targeted hundreds of sites inside Iran, including Revolutionary Guard facilities and Iran’s air defense systems. Just now, we announced the destruction of nine ships and their naval structures. All of this happened within minutes.”

Part 2: The current situation of the Iranian regime:

“Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran’s former top leader, is dead. This man’s hands are stained with the blood of hundreds or thousands of Americans, and he is responsible for the slaughter of countless innocent civilians in many countries. Last night, across Iran, when the news of his death was announced, Iranians cheered and celebrated in the streets.”

“The entire military command system has also collapsed. Many want to surrender to save their lives. Thousands are calling to surrender. The fighting is ongoing and will continue until all our goals are achieved. We have very firm objectives. They could have taken action two weeks ago (referring to negotiations), but they simply couldn’t.”

Part 3: Possible more casualties:

“Earlier today, CENTCOM announced that three U.S. service members have died in action. As a nation, we mourn these true American patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. As they continue this righteous mission, we pray for the wounded to recover fully and extend our deepest love and gratitude to the families of the fallen.”

“Regrettably, there may be more casualties. That’s the reality before it ends. There could be more, but we will do everything possible to prevent this. But America will avenge their deaths and strike the terrorists who are essentially waging war against civilization itself. They have declared war on civilization. Our resolve, and Israel’s, has never been stronger.”

Part 4: Declaring strong national defense:

“America is now again the wealthiest and strongest nation on Earth, far ahead. But the reason we enjoy our current quality of life, freedom, and security is because we did what others could not. Because we have brave warriors willing to stand up and even sacrifice their lives to fight the enemies. And they are better at fighting than anyone.”

“A regime with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a terrifying threat to every American. We cannot allow a country that nurtures terrorist armies to have such weapons, which would enable them to blackmail the world with their evil will. We will not let this happen. We will not let this happen to us or others.”

“The U.S. has the most powerful military in the world. I rebuilt our military during my first term. Never before have we had such military strength. Frankly, no one can match us. But now we are using this force for good, for noble purposes.”

“We are taking this large-scale action not only to ensure our safety in this era and place but also for our future generations, just as our ancestors did for us many years ago. It is the duty and burden of a free nation. These actions are right and necessary to ensure Americans never face a regime armed with nuclear weapons and bloodthirsty radical terrorists.”

“For nearly 50 years, these evil extremists have attacked America, shouting ‘Death to America’ or ‘Death to Israel,’ sometimes both. They are the world’s top state sponsors of terrorism. We are the greatest and strongest nation, so we can act against their deeds. These intolerable threats will no longer continue.”

Part 5: Urging Iran’s military to surrender:

“I again urge the Revolutionary Guard, Iranian military, and police to lay down their weapons and accept full immunity, or face inevitable death. That’s a dead end, and the outcome will not be good.”

“I call on all patriotic Iranians seeking freedom to seize this historic moment. Be brave, bold, and show heroism—take back your country! America stands with you. I made a promise to you, and I have kept that promise. The rest depends on you, but we will be there to assist.”

$1 or less for Monday news====

Iran confirms Khamenei is dead, 40 days of national mourning BBC: His daughter and son-in-law also died, market risk sentiment drops, Bitcoin rebounds

U.S. President Trump announced early this morning on Truth Social that Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei has died. Major global media outlets like BBC, CNN, NBC quickly picked up the news, and photos allegedly showing Khamenei’s body circulated, reportedly held by Israel. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Fars News Agency quoted “insiders” denying Trump’s claim as “baseless.” Around 9:40 Hong Kong time, Iran’s state TV reported Khamenei’s death, announcing a 40-day national mourning, calling him “Leader of the Islamic Revolution.”

The 86-year-old Supreme Leader has ruled Iran for over 36 years since 1989, serving as the second Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.

Satellite images show an attack on a building in Tehran associated with Khamenei. BBC cited Fars News Agency, quoting “insiders” from the Supreme Leader’s office, that Khamenei’s daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were killed in the attack. Fars also reported that “a daughter-in-law of Khamenei” was killed.

Earlier reports of the death of Khamenei’s daughter-in-law and son-in-law were later denied.

The U.S. has launched further strikes on hundreds of targets inside Iran, with Israel also launching new attacks on Iran’s ballistic missile arrays and air defense systems.

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The US claims that many Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, military, and police personnel no longer want to fight and are seeking amnesty. “Now they can be granted amnesty, but later they will have only death,” Trump said, hoping IRGC and police will peacefully merge with patriotic Iranians to bring the country back to its greatness. This process should start soon, as not only has Khamenei died, but the country has been severely destroyed or even wiped out in just one day. However, intense and precise bombing will continue throughout the week or as needed until our goals are achieved: peace in the Middle East and worldwide!

The White House released images showing Trump supervising U.S. military actions in Iran, called “Operation Epic Fury” (tentative translation: Epic Fury).

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The market’s risk aversion has decreased; Bitcoin (BTC) rebounded 2.2% in the past 24 hours to $67,098, reflecting the dollar’s decline. The world’s largest gold-backed stablecoin, Tether Gold (XAUT), narrowed its gain to 0.8%, trading at $5,313.

Iran retaliated by hitting the Dubai Sail Hotel with drones; footage shows the hotel on fire, and attack weapons appeared over Dubai’s skies, reportedly intercepted by air defense systems. In Israel, a residential building was hit, with reports of one death.

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The previous reports of Iran’s attack on the Sail Hotel and other targets are confirmed. The attack was intercepted by air defense systems.

$1 or less for Saturday news====

U.S. and Iran failed to reach an agreement last week. On Saturday (28th), the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Tehran, with multiple explosions reported. President Trump later confirmed that U.S. forces have launched “major combat operations” inside Iran.

According to Fars News Agency, targets were aimed at U.S. bases in Kuwait, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. AFP reports explosions in Riyadh, Manama, and Doha.

Bahrain confirmed that the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Manama was attacked. Bahrain’s official news agency issued a brief statement: “Fifth Fleet service center was hit by missiles.”

UAE’s defense ministry confirmed missile strikes by Iran; air defenses intercepted “multiple” missiles. A residential area in Abu Dhabi was attacked, causing property damage and one death of an Asian individual.

Videos of explosions in Bahrain’s Juffair area

Explosions hit Juffair, Bahrain, home to the US Fifth Fleet headquarters. pic.twitter.com/YjXTCeykOY

— Josep Goded (@josepgoded) February 28, 2026

Trump responds strongly: Iran regime must not have nuclear weapons

Trump posted a video on Truth Social: “Our goal is to defend the American people by eliminating the imminent threat posed by the Iran regime. The Iran regime is a very stubborn, terrible bunch of thugs.”

Trump emphasized that the U.S. will maintain its consistent policy, especially during his administration, that Iran must not have nuclear weapons.

Over the past 47 years, the Iran regime has shouted ‘Death to America,’ launched one bloody slaughter after another, and targeted the U.S., our forces, and countless innocent civilians in many countries.

Imagine if this regime ever truly acquires and deploys nuclear weapons to send their message—they would become utterly reckless.

Trump called on the Iranian people: “Tonight is your moment of freedom. Stay in shelters, do not leave your homes; it’s very dangerous outside, bombs are falling everywhere.” Trump said that after taking control of the local government, it would be a government for the Iranian people.

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【Iran Situation】 Reports: US and Israel bomb Tehran (ongoing updates)

Iran Situation: Preparing for a destructive counterattack

Reuters quoted an Iranian official saying Tehran is preparing to respond with a “destructive counterattack” to US and Israeli strikes.

According to Iran’s Shargh newspaper, smoke rose near the residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei. The presidential palace and national security council are also in the area. Reuters sources said Khamenei was not in Tehran at the time of the airstrike and had been moved to a secure location.

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Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced the airstrike, saying Israel launched a preemptive strike to eliminate threats, and declared a state of emergency. The New York Times reports that U.S. and Israeli officials discussed national security issues anonymously.

Multiple cities reported explosions; Iran closed its airspace

Airspace clearing after strikes by the United States and Israel in Iran. pic.twitter.com/Oub4T6SrkF

— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) February 28, 2026

According to Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency, three major explosions occurred in central Tehran. Casualties and targets are unknown. Nationwide, Israel’s air raid sirens sounded, warning of possible Iranian retaliation.

Other Iranian cities, including Qom, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Karaj, also reported explosions. Iran has closed its airspace.

Trump previously threatened: Limit nuclear program or face military strikes

U.S. President Trump previously threatened that if Iran’s leaders do not accept his demands, including limiting their nuclear program, the U.S. will launch military strikes. The region remains tense. Since the 2003 invasion of Iraq, the U.S. has assembled its largest military force in the Middle East to pressure Iran into compliance.

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