U.S. Increases Military Presence in Middle East Amid Escalating Conflict
As the conflict in the Middle East escalates, the United States is significantly increasing its military presence in the region. U.S. officials confirmed that additional Marines and warships are being deployed in response to ongoing aerial bombardments and artillery strikes. This military maneuver comes as Iran's response to these strikes has demonstrated a surprising resilience, challenging initial expectations set during previous administrations. The recent escalation of hostilities, particularly involving strikes by Israel and the U.S. against Iranian targets, has contributed to heightened tensions in the region. Reports indicate that the strikes have created a chaotic environment for international shipping routes,... [Continue Reading]
Trump Orders Deployment of 5,000 Marines to Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions with Iran
In response to escalating tensions following the ongoing conflict with Iran, President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of approximately 5,000 United States Marines to the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic move comes as the United States seeks to secure its interests in the region amid rising oil prices and instability stemming from military actions. The deployment was formalized after Secretary of War Pete Hegseth approved a request for an amphibious ready group. This group is composed of multiple warships, including the USS Tripoli, an amphibious assault ship weighing 18,500 tons, which carries around 2,000 Marines. In addition to the... [Continue Reading]
US military KC-135 refuelling aircraft crashes in western Iraq after suspected mid-air collision, rescue efforts underway
A US military KC-135 refuelling aircraft has crashed in western Iraq after a suspected mid-air collision involving another KC-135. The incident occurred during US operations in the region, prompting immediate rescue efforts to locate the crew members on board the downed aircraft, which is reported to have had at least five personnel. The second aircraft involved in the incident managed to land safely, according to US Central Command (Centcom). Central Command has stated that neither hostile nor friendly fire was a factor in the aircraft's loss. Instead, the crash was described as a tragic event occurring “in friendly airspace during... [Continue Reading]
UK to Fast-Track Nuclear Projects to Boost Energy Security and Cut Costs
The UK government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to reform the country's nuclear regulatory framework to speed up the delivery of nuclear power projects. The overhaul seeks to address the current system's complexity and bureaucratic delays that have hindered timely and cost-effective construction. By streamlining regulations, nuclear plants can be built faster and more cheaply, strengthening the nation’s energy infrastructure. This initiative affects a broad range of stakeholders, including energy companies tasked with delivering nuclear projects, UK households dependent on stable energy prices, and the wider economy vulnerable to fossil fuel market swings. Given recent instability in the Middle East... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 13 Mar 2026 07:18
Australia walks ‘very fine line’ with Gulf deployment amid Iran war
Australia’s decision to send a surveillance aircraft and air-to-air missiles to the Gulf highlights the difficult position the country now faces: supporting US and regional partners while trying to avoid being drawn deeper into the widening conflict. Analysts said the government was “walking a very fine line” with the deployment, signalling support for partners under Iranian attack while stopping short of committing Australia to offensive operations. At the same time, they said Canberra was... [Continue Reading]
Serbia confirms possession of advanced Chinese supersonic cruise missiles amid online photo leak
Serbia's President, Aleksandar Vucic, has confirmed the country's possession of advanced Chinese supersonic cruise missiles following a leak of photographs that surfaced online. These images, showcasing the Chinese-manufactured CM-400AKG missiles mounted on Serbian MiG-29 fighter jets, began circulating earlier this week, prompting significant media attention and public speculation regarding the implications of this development. President Vucic expressed a confident stance regarding Serbia's military capabilities, revealing that the nation currently holds a "significant number" of these missiles and intends to acquire even more in the future. He emphasized their effectiveness and high cost, indicating a strategic enhancement of Serbia's military arsenal.... [Continue Reading]
Pentagon briefs lawmakers on cost of war on Iran – but true price tag remains unknown
US already spent more than $11.3bn in first six days of conflict, but price tag does not include all spendingMiddle East crisis – live updatesPentagon officials told top lawmakers in a closed-door briefing on Tuesday that the cost of the war against Iran has already exceeded $11.3bn in its first six days, but the true cost of the opening days of the conflict is likely far greater, according to two people familiar with the matter.The estimate, presented during a classified briefing on Capitol Hill, appeared largely limited to munitions expenditures and does not capture the full cost of the opening... [Continue Reading]
U.S. sailors injured in fire aboard aircraft carrier supporting Iran war
The incident, in a laundry room on the USS Gerald R. Ford, is another setback during the ship’s extended deployment. [Continue Reading]
Israeli Forces Maintain 13-Day Closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque Amid Rising Tensions
Israeli forces have extended the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem for a continuous 13 days, denying Muslim worshippers access under the stated pretext of heightened security related to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The move follows a heavy deployment of Israeli troops surrounding the Old City, restricting entry to one of Islam’s holiest sites during the important Ramadan period. This closure has prevented key religious activities including Taraweeh prayers and Itikaf, affecting thousands of Palestinians and Muslims worldwide who regard the mosque as a vital spiritual center. The Jerusalem Governorate criticized extremist groups, describing their incitement against Al-Aqsa as... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 12 Mar 2026 13:42
Demand for AI talent in China outpaces job postings in other ‘new-economy’ sectors
China’s spring hiring season is revealing a sharp surge in demand for artificial intelligence talent as companies speed up the deployment of related technologies, turning it into one of the country’s hottest professional fields. The number of AI-related job postings in China in the first two months of the year grew about 12-fold year on year, far outpacing growth in other “new-economy” industries such as healthcare, renewable energy and semiconductors, People’s Daily reported on Tuesday, citing... [Continue Reading]
Listen: Which European countries are sending forces to the Middle East?
Some EU member states have defence agreements with Gulf countries, requiring mutual assistance in case of attack. That’s why several EU countries have announced military deployments to the region, including France and the Netherlands. But what is the scale of European forces sent to the region? [Continue Reading]
Pentagon reports 140 U.S. troops injured amid escalating tensions with Iran
The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has escalated, with the Pentagon reporting approximately 140 troops injured as tensions mount in the region. While most injuries are said to be minor, eight individuals sustained severe wounds. This update comes as discussions intensify regarding potential military action involving U.S. forces in Iran, particularly in light of the country's nuclear capabilities. According to a Pentagon spokesman, the count of wounded personnel is higher than previously acknowledged. The injuries have emerged amid a backdrop of heightened military engagement and strategic operations aimed at countering Iran's activities. The current troop injury numbers... [Continue Reading]
US Executes Most Intense Day of Strikes Against Iran Amid Escalating Military Operations
In a dramatic escalation of military operations, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is currently executing the "most intense" day of strikes against Iran since the beginning of hostilities. This surge in military activity underscores the growing tension in the region, where both sides are engaged in an aggressive exchange of fire. Hegseth's assessment reflects a broader shift in the US military strategy aimed at achieving decisive victory in the ongoing conflict. As the conflict unfolds, Iran has responded with renewed missile attacks targeting Israeli cities, including key locations such as Tel Aviv. The Iranian Revolutionary... [Continue Reading]
Drone strikes in Haiti linked to security forces and contractors result in over 1,200 fatalities, including 60 civilians
A recent report by Human Rights Watch has revealed that drone strikes conducted by Haitian security forces and private military contractors have resulted in at least 1,243 fatalities in and around Port-au-Prince. This staggering tally includes approximately 60 civilians, of which 17 are children, raising urgent concerns over the tactics employed in the ongoing antigang operations. The operations, which began in March last year, have been carried out in collaboration with Vectus Global, a United States-licensed private military firm. These drone strikes employ quadcopter technology armed with explosives, targeting suspected gang activities in densely populated areas of the Haitian capital.... [Continue Reading]
Military Intervention Against Iran Enters Second Week Amid Ongoing U.S. and Israeli Operations
The military intervention against Iran, which began with significant operations on February 28, continues into its second week, highlighting ongoing U.S. and Israeli military objectives in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump recently addressed congressional Republicans, asserting that the conflict could conclude “pretty quickly” as he lauded the successes of military actions undertaken during the campaign, termed Operation Epic Fury. Trump characterized the military engagement as a necessary measure to eliminate perceived threats. Initial phases of the conflict saw large-scale air and missile assaults targeting Iranian military assets, including crucial air-defense systems, missile launching sites, and naval facilities. The operation's... [Continue Reading]
France Deploys Naval Force to Middle East Amid Intensified Iran Conflict
The ongoing conflict involving Iran has intensified, prompting President Emmanuel Macron of France to announce the deployment of a significant naval force to the Middle East. This move aims to bolster the security of France's allies in the region, particularly regarding maritime navigation through the vital Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for global oil shipments. The Iranian conflict, which has been brewing for an extended period just reached a critical phase, leading to increased tensions that are affecting global economic stability. President Macron indicated that this military presence could last "several days, maybe several weeks,” underlining the seriousness of... [Continue Reading]
Australia to deploy surveillance aircraft and missiles to UAE amid escalating threats from Iran
In a significant development regarding international military support, Australia has announced the deployment of a surveillance aircraft and air-to-air missiles to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in response to escalating threats from Iran. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) would send an E-7A Wedgetail aircraft and supporting personnel to the region for at least one month, emphasizing a focus on protecting Australian citizens living in the UAE. According to Albanese, approximately 24,000 Australians reside in the country, which has recently faced missile attacks originating from Iranian forces. Albanese's announcement follows a formal request for assistance... [Continue Reading]
Ukraine Deploys Interceptor Drones to Jordan to Support US Military Installations Amid Regional Tensions
Ukraine has responded decisively to recent geopolitical tensions by dispatching interceptor drones and operators to Jordan. This move came after a request from United States officials to bolster security for American military installations in the region, particularly at the Muwaffaq Salti airbase. This deployment marks a significant step in Ukraine's broader strategy to engage with Middle Eastern nations dealing with Iranian aggression, as president Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed via social media and interviews with news outlets. Zelenskyy noted that the request for assistance originated last week, amid the ongoing US-Israeli military actions against Iran, which have intensified over the past ten... [Continue Reading]
Emmanuel Macron visits Cyprus to enhance military cooperation amid regional tensions and recent drone strike incident
In a move signaling heightened military cooperation amid regional tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Cyprus on March 9. His visit comes on the heels of a drone strike on a British air base in southern Cyprus attributed to Iranian forces, showcasing a dynamic military response from France aimed at fostering security in the eastern Mediterranean. Macron's trip marks a significant moment in the context of escalating conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and U.S. interests in the region. The drone attack, executed using an Iranian-made Shahed drone, occurred recently as Iran's military posture strengthens in response to ongoing hostilities with... [Continue Reading]
Ukrainian drone experts to assist Gulf states amid rising drone threats from Iran
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukrainian drone experts will be deployed to the Middle East this week to provide assistance to Gulf states facing drone attacks from Iran. The Iranian military has increasingly utilized Shahed drones in recent operations across the region, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of current air defenses among Gulf nations. Reports indicate that these patrols mark a significant escalation in Iran's regional military posture. The recent increase in drone activity from Iran has put pressure on Gulf states to enhance their aerial defense capabilities. The Ukrainian team will share their expertise gained from four... [Continue Reading]
Middle East conflict escalates into tenth day with rising casualties and oil prices surpassing $100 a barrel
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has significantly escalated, entering its tenth day with increasing casualties and geopolitical implications. The situation has seen both Iran and Israel targeting new military and civilian locations over the weekend, heightening tensions in the region. The latest developments come alongside a surge in oil prices, which have now exceeded $100 a barrel for the first time in four years. This escalation has been marked by a series of military actions, including Bahrain's accusations against Iran for striking one of its crucial desalination plants, a key facility for drinking water in the Gulf. In... [Continue Reading]
US and South Korea launch military exercise Freedom Shield with thousands of troops from March 9 to March 19
The United States has commenced a major military exercise in conjunction with South Korea, involving thousands of troops. This exercise, named Freedom Shield, began on March 9 and is scheduled to run through March 19. The exercise takes place during a time when the US is also engaged in escalating military actions in the Middle East, particularly against Iran, heightening tensions in both regions. According to reports from South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, approximately 18,000 South Korean troops are participating in the drills. However, US Forces Korea has not disclosed the exact number of American service members involved. The... [Continue Reading]
Fire near Glasgow Central railway station causes service cancellations and station closure
A fire that broke out near Glasgow Central railway station has led to significant disruption for train passengers, with dozens of services cancelled and the station closed indefinitely. The blaze commenced at approximately 15:45 local time, specifically at a vape shop located on Union Street, adjacent to one of the prime entrances of Scotland's busiest train station. Emergency responses included the deployment of six fire crews and a specialist vehicle by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Firefighters have been actively combatting the flames for over five hours, with National Rail announcing that the station will remain closed until further... [Continue Reading]
Trump Asserts US Military Efforts Against Iran Are Successful, Downplays Need for UK Support
United States President Donald Trump has expressed confidence in the ongoing military efforts against Iran, stating that the conflict is "already won" and signaling that US forces do not require the assistance of the United Kingdom. His statement comes in response to reports about the UK's Ministry of Defence placing the HMS Prince of Wales on "high readiness" for potential deployment to the Middle East. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump indicated that he does not see a need for the Royal Navy's support, alluding to the UK as a former ally that has joined... [Continue Reading]
Two Iranian vessels depart Chinese port carrying materials linked to rocketry amid escalating US-Iran tensions
In a significant development amidst escalating tensions, two Iranian vessels have left a Chinese port reportedly carrying materials linked to rocketry. Experts believe these ships are transporting a crucial precursor for rocket fuel, raising concerns about their potential role in the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The departure of these vessels occurs while military hostilities between the United States and Iran continue to unfold, marking a potential pivot in the geopolitical landscape of the region. Official confirmations surrounding the specific contents of the vessels remain sparse. However, the fact that they were permitted to depart from China during a time of... [Continue Reading]
UK Ministry of Defence prepares HMS Prince of Wales for potential deployment to Middle East amid rising regional tensions
The UK Ministry of Defence has announced that preparations are underway for the potential deployment of the HMS Prince of Wales to the Middle East. Naval personnel in Portsmouth are working to ensure the aircraft carrier can be mobilised rapidly. This decision reflects increasing tensions in the region, with no final deployment orders yet issued. A spokesperson from the Ministry confirmed that the carrier could also undertake its previously planned missions. According to reports, Royal Navy crews have been alerted about the possible deployment, with the HMS Prince of Wales' notice for movement being reduced from ten days to five.... [Continue Reading]
US B-1 Lancer Bomber Lands at RAF Fairford Amid Rising Tensions with Iran
A US B-1 Lancer bomber has landed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, marking a significant escalation in US military operations in response to increasing tensions with Iran. The B-1 Lancer arrived on the evening of Friday, with sources indicating a dramatic increase in potential strikes against Iranian missile sites. This follows a directive from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorizing "defensive" US action from British bases. The B-1 Lancer, measuring 146 feet in length and capable of carrying up to 24 cruise missiles, is strategically positioned to respond to recent US warnings regarding Iran. On Thursday, US Defense Secretary Pete... [Continue Reading]
