Category: Europe-Asia

ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) MARCH 14 — The United States Army Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed a large-scale precision strike on Iran’s oil-rich Kharg Island and the epicentre of its oil and industry.

In a statement on Saturday, CENTCOM said the operation destroyed naval mine storage facilities, missile bunkers, and multiple military sites, successfully hitting more than 90 Iranian targets while deliberately preserving the island’s oil infrastructure.

Following the attack, US President Donald Trump warned that any further Iranian attempt to block vessels in the Strait of Hormuz would trigger the destruction of Iran’s oil and gas assets on Kharg Island. The island, which handles about 90% of Iran’s crude exports, sits near the Strait of Hormuz — a strategic chokepoint through which 20% of global oil flows. Control or disruption of Kharg directly impacts global energy markets and regional security.

A portion of the CENTCOM statement read: “Last night, U.S. forces executed a large-scale precision strike on Kharg Island, Iran. The strike destroyed naval mine storage facilities, missile storage bunkers, and multiple other military sites. U.S. forces successfully struck more than 90 Iranian military targets on Kharg Island, while preserving the oil infrastructure.”

Iran has vowed to retaliate by targeting energy production facilities across the region if its oil and gas infrastructure comes under attack.

The escalation between the United States, Israel, and Iran shows no sign of easing. The confrontation began two weeks ago, with Iran launching missile strikes on Gulf nations and energy infrastructure in a bid to drive up global energy costs as part of its war strategy.

Meanwhile, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has expressed concern over the rising tensions, warning that any prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz or Kharg Island could destabilise global oil supply and trigger sharp price increases. OPEC urged restraint from all parties, stressing the need to safeguard energy infrastructure critical to the stability of international markets.

Tehran (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), has accused the United States and Israel of attempting to fragment Iran through the ongoing military conflict. In a televised interview marking the war’s eighth day, Larijani said their “problem is ‘Iran’ itself… not a minor change but the total breakdown of the country.”

He claimed the initial attacks, including the “martyrdom of Imam Khamenei and other children of the revolution,” were designed to trigger collapse. According to Larijani, Washington’s strategy relied on “shock” tactics to overthrow the government and divide Iranian territory. “Even today, Mr Trump’s published message claimed Iran is being torn apart,” he noted.

Larijani argued the U.S. miscalculated: “They wanted to trap the people in a state of shock and awe, but they failed because the Iranian people have seen such trials before.” He added, “They did not expect the Iranians not to let go; now they are desperate.”

He dismissed rumours of military defections, insisting the IRGC, Army, and Basij remain active. He accused the U.S. of trying to incite ethnic divisions, particularly among Kurds, but said they “know the Americans treat them transactionally and have no loyalty.”

Condemning attacks on schools and hospitals, Larijani said, “Trump does not understand. Iranians may have differences, but they stand by Iran.” He also mocked Trump’s suggestion of deciding Iran’s future leader, calling it “backwards” and insulting.

On U.S. casualties, Larijani alleged figures were understated and claimed American soldiers had been captured in some countries. He warned regional states against hosting U.S. bases: “If Israel has attacked us, why do you allow it to use your bases? It is Iran’s right to respond.”

Larijani vowed to continue missile strikes until compensation is paid. “Our missile reservoirs are upright,” he said, rejecting claims of weakened capabilities. He concluded by thanking Iranians for their “zeal and pride” and warned: “Any talk that creates division is a deadly poison… We are passing through the peak of the war.”

INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 8, 2026 — After days of speculation, Iran’s Assembly of Experts announced on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric and the second son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been formally selected as the country’s new Supreme Leader.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following remarks by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who warned that any successor to the late Ayatollah would be considered a target for elimination. 

Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has long been regarded as an influential figure within Iran’s political and religious establishment, despite never holding elected office. His appointment marks a historic moment, as Iran’s system traditionally discourages hereditary succession. However, his close ties to the Revolutionary Guards and clerical networks positioned him as a strong candidate.

Born in Mashhad in 1969, Mojtaba studied at the Qom Seminary and rose to prominence as a mid-ranking cleric. He briefly served in the Iran–Iraq War before gaining influence through his role in the Basij militia and his proximity to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 

Known for his behind-the-scenes influence, he was widely believed to have played a role in shaping Iran’s domestic politics during the 2009 Green Movement protests. His leadership is expected to consolidate power within the Khamenei family.