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US President Donald Trump has confirmed 'very good' talks to end combat with Iran, leading to a delay in US strikes and a rise in markets, though Iran denies these discussions, outlines 'red lines' for peace, and continues its strikes, even firing rockets at Israel and mocking Trump.
The Middle East conflict continues to cause significant volatility in global energy markets and broader economic slowdowns. Western powers are struggling to secure shipping in the Red Sea, and the Strait of Hormuz remains a treacherous battleground, with Iran setting new conditions for passage, banning US, Israel, and their allies. Oil prices have fluctuated as Iran stated 'non-hostile' ships can pass, though vessel transits remain significantly reduced.
Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan are intensifying mediation efforts to bring U.S. and Iranian officials together for negotiations, with reports of a US ceasefire proposal denied by Iranian officials who claim the US is 'talking to itself'.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un defended his nation's nuclear arsenal, citing the ongoing Iran war as justification for strong military deterrence, accusing the US of "terrorism and invasions" and vowing to advance North Korea's "defensive nuclear" capabilities.
The French economy is showing resilience to the Middle East conflict, but inflation is now projected to jump, eroding household purchasing power and slowing growth in early 2026.
Government teams have been on the ground since the start of the war to provide assistance to citizens whose homes and property have been damaged.
Israel's parliament is set to vote on an additional €8.3 billion military budget to fund operations in Iran and Lebanon, amidst ongoing bombardments and reservist call-ups.
Israel has announced that it carried out a strike on a naval missile site located in Tehran, amidst ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Iran war continues to cause a global energy shock, driving fuel prices up and shaking the world economy, with Asia looking to COVID-era playbooks to tackle the crisis from the Strait of Hormuz blockage. Daily life in Asia is disrupted by the fuel crisis, and poor countries face catastrophe as the global economy pays a high price for the conflict.
Tensions are escalating between Israel and Lebanon as the IDF continues its military campaign, occupying areas south of the Litani river and engaging in fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.
Iran has hardened its negotiating stance by demanding an end to the war, including the closure of all US military bases in the Persian Gulf, taxes for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, reparations, and the lifting of all sanctions.
UK inflation has dropped from record highs but remains above the Bank of England's 2% target, with February's data considered stale and unlikely to significantly influence the Bank of England's policy decisions, as the economic effects of the Iran war are expected to become apparent only from March onwards.
Donald Trump has reiterated his claim that Pete Hegseth was the first high-ranking US official to advocate for war with Iran, now adding that Hegseth does not want the conflict to be settled.
Five freight wagons carrying Russian wheat were sent through Azerbaijan to Armenia, while the Israeli government issued a travel warning for countries bordering Iran, including Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The Israeli parliament is set to vote on an additional €8.3 billion military budget before the end of the month, intended to fund ongoing operations in Iran and Lebanon.
An analysis suggests that former President Trump's shift in policy regarding Iran indicates a constrained presidency, reflecting a change in his administration's approach to the nation.
Iran's permanent mission to the UN and its Ministry of Foreign Affairs have reiterated that 'non-hostile' ships, including those not involved in aggression against Tehran, are permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz, a stance also confirmed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Following Ali Larijani's death, Iran has appointed retired Brigadier General Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, a hard-line commander with extensive military and political background including IRGC leadership, as the new Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council.
According to reports, Volkswagen is considering manufacturing parts for Israel's Iron Dome defense system in collaboration with Israeli defense company Rafael, potentially saving 2,300 jobs at its Osnabrück plant.
Iranian officials continue to deny any peace talks, despite claims from Donald Trump about diplomatic progress and reports that the US sent Iran a 15-point ceasefire proposal.
Images online show banners quoting Hitler in Persian as Tehran continues arrests and executions of those accused of aiding Israel.
An analysis explores the 'cultural logic driving Iran' and argues that traditional American foreign policy, which relies on economic pressure, often fails when leaders prioritize survival over compromise in certain societies.
Following recent synagogue shootings in Toronto and an attempted attack in Detroit, Jewish leaders are warning of an increased terror threat potentially inspired by Iran.