A report by US-based media outlet Drop Site News claims that President Donald Trump may authorize a military operation against Iran as early as this weekend. Citing multiple sources, the report says top US military officials have informed allied Middle Eastern governments that strikes could begin on Sunday, February 1. The operation would reportedly target Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities, as well as the leadership and infrastructure of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

According to the report, a former senior US intelligence officer, now advising several Arab governments, stated that the campaign’s main objective is regime change rather than solely addressing Iran’s nuclear or missile programs. The Trump administration allegedly believes that a successful strike on Iran’s leadership could trigger public protests leading to government collapse. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is described as optimistic about the plan, assuring Trump that Israel could assist in forming a new, pro-Western government in Iran.

Senior Arab intelligence officials cited in the report warned that a US attack could begin “at any moment,” heightening regional anxiety and uncertainty across the Middle East.

Widespread fear of war has gripped Iranians at home and abroad since the night of January 30, following rumors of an imminent US military strike. Many residents across Iran, particularly in Tehran, have begun stockpiling dry food, water, and basic medical supplies. Some are sealing their windows with tape to minimize potential damage from bomb blasts. The anxiety has persisted into early February, with social media flooded by advice on how to survive missile attacks and prepare for emergencies.

Residents describe sleepless nights and growing uncertainty. A 68-year-old woman from eastern Tehran said her friends warned of a possible attack that same night. Younger Iranians, like 27-year-old student Soroush, recalled earlier wartime fears but noted that people now seem mentally prepared. He criticized both Iranian leaders and Western powers, saying ordinary lives have become part of a geopolitical game. Reports also mention online betting on potential US strikes, reflecting the tense atmosphere.

The continuing rumors have left citizens bracing for the worst, with many preparing for at least ten days of self-sufficiency.

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck the town of Mohr in Iran’s Fars province on Sunday morning, February 1, 2026. The tremor occurred at 8:11 a.m. local time at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The German Research Centre for Geosciences confirmed the event, noting that many residents near the epicenter felt the quake. No reports of major damage have been received so far.

According to earthquake experts, tremors of this magnitude can cause minor incidents such as items falling from shelves or windows breaking, but they are unlikely to trigger a large-scale natural disaster. The Volcano Discovery website also reported the same preliminary magnitude and depth.

Authorities and monitoring agencies continue to assess the situation, though early indications suggest limited impact in the affected area.

China has expanded its intelligence and defense cooperation with Iran to counter Israeli Mossad infiltration following the June 2025 Israeli attacks that exposed major gaps in Iran’s air defense systems. Beijing views Mossad’s penetration of Iran’s security and intelligence networks as a direct threat to its strategic interests in the Middle East. In response, China has begun assisting Tehran in identifying and arresting active Mossad agents, strengthening Iran’s cyber defenses, and supplying advanced surveillance satellites and radar systems.

Reports indicate that China and Russia are helping Iran investigate how Israeli agents accessed sensitive government databases. Beijing is also supporting Iran’s shift from Western GPS systems to China’s Beidou navigation network to reduce vulnerability to hacking. Under its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), China has prioritized cyber and artificial intelligence cooperation to protect Iran’s digital sovereignty from Israeli and American interference.

China’s broader strategy includes rebuilding Iran’s missile defense, transferring key rocket fuel and guidance technologies, and promoting intelligence coordination through the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Beijing considers these steps essential to maintaining regional stability and safeguarding its Belt and Road Initiative interests.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Al Thani met with Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, in Tehran on Saturday. The meeting focused on regional developments and efforts to reduce tensions at a time when concerns are rising over a possible U.S. attack on Iran.

In a statement released the same day, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said the country supports any initiative aimed at de-escalation and achieving peaceful solutions that contribute to regional security and stability. The Qatari Prime Minister emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to protect the region’s people from war and reiterated Doha’s commitment to working diplomatically with friendly and brotherly nations.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump told Fox News that Gulf allies had not been informed about Washington’s plans regarding Iran, saying, “We cannot tell them the plan.”

Tensions between the United States and Iran have reached a new peak, with Iranian authorities confirming preparations for thousands of graves near Tehran. According to the semi-official Mehr News Agency, the graves are being dug at Behesht-e Zahra, the capital’s largest cemetery, as a precautionary measure in anticipation of a potential military conflict. Iranian officials described the move as part of readiness efforts should U.S. attacks result in casualties.

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of possible military action against Iran if it fails to halt its nuclear program and continues suppressing anti-government protests. A U.S. strike group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln is reportedly moving toward Iranian waters. Trump stated that while the United States does not seek war, it will act if compelled by circumstances.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful and civilian in nature, while keeping the door open for fair and balanced dialogue. The country has also added around one thousand new tactical drones to its forces, and reports of mysterious explosions in Tehran have heightened public anxiety. Analysts warn that the mutual threats and military buildup could destabilize the Middle East further.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has called on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to conduct its announced two-day live-fire naval exercise in the Strait of Hormuz safely and professionally. In a statement released on Friday, CENTCOM acknowledged Iran’s right to operate in international airspace and waters but warned that any unsafe or unprofessional behavior could have serious consequences.

CENTCOM emphasized that unsafe actions near US forces, regional partners, or commercial vessels increase the risk of conflict, tension, and instability. The command stated it remains prepared to ensure the safety of US personnel, ships, and aircraft operating in the Middle East. It also declared that it would not tolerate unsafe maneuvers by the IRGC, including low or armed overflights of US military assets, high-speed approaches toward US ships, or pointing weapons at US forces.

According to CENTCOM, the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway vital to regional economic prosperity, with about 100 commercial vessels passing through daily.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said his government is prepared to listen to the problems of the Iranian people. He made the remarks in a televised speech on Saturday, during which he accused former U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and European countries of inciting recent protests in Iran. Pezeshkian claimed these foreign actors sought to divide the nation and spread hatred among its people.

He stated that normal protests do not involve violence, killings of military personnel, or attacks on ambulances and markets. According to him, the government should sit with demonstrators, hear their concerns, and find solutions. Pezeshkian added that foreign powers exploited Iran’s internal issues to provoke unrest and divide society.

Iranian authorities have acknowledged that more than 3,000 people were killed in the recent protests, saying most victims were security forces or bystanders killed by “rioters.” However, rights groups have claimed the actual death toll is likely much higher.

Iran announced on Sunday that it will conduct a two-day naval exercise in the Strait of Hormuz, including live-fire drills, amid ongoing tensions with the United States. The announcement prompted a stern warning from the US Central Command (CENTCOM), which cautioned Tehran against any unsafe actions near American warships.

Washington stated that it would not tolerate any unsafe behavior such as Iranian drones or aircraft flying over US vessels or high-speed Iranian boats provoking collisions. The warning came as Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that his country was ready for a “fair and proper” negotiation but rejected President Trump’s main demands, making clear that Iran’s defense strategy and missile program were non-negotiable.

The exchange underscores the continuing strain between Tehran and Washington, with both sides signaling firmness over military and strategic issues in the Gulf region.

A powerful explosion struck an eight-story residential building on Moallem Boulevard in Bandar Abbas, Iran, causing severe structural damage and widespread panic. Rescue teams, firefighters, and emergency personnel rushed to the scene to assist residents, assess the extent of the destruction, and provide medical support. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the blast and have launched an investigation.

Two floors of the building were destroyed, and nearby shops and vehicles suffered heavy damage. Residents were evacuated as a precaution, and local businesses reported significant losses. Officials confirmed that no specific individuals were targeted, and Iranian media dismissed reports linking the incident to a Revolutionary Guards commander. The government has pledged assistance for affected families.

Emergency teams continue search and rescue operations while engineers evaluate the building’s stability. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm and follow safety instructions as investigations proceed to identify the cause and prevent future incidents.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that Iran will not compromise on its defense capabilities. He made the statement on Friday during a joint press conference in Ankara with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, according to The Dawn. Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s missile and defense programs will never be subjects of negotiation.

Turkey has expressed interest in mediating between Iran and the United States to resolve ongoing tensions. The Pentagon stated that the U.S. military is ready to implement any decision by President Trump regarding Iran. However, Trump recently softened his tone, suggesting that an Iranian attack might not be necessary and that dialogue remains possible.

Araghchi welcomed the possibility of dialogue but reiterated Iran’s firm stance on national defense. He said Iran is ready for fair and balanced talks with the United States but insisted that no discussions can take place under threats.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country is ready for 'fair and balanced' talks with the United States amid escalating tensions. Speaking to reporters during a visit to Turkey on Friday, Araghchi emphasized that Iran has no problem with dialogue but will not negotiate under threats. He made the remarks at a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara.

Araghchi firmly stated that Iran’s missile and defense capabilities will never be part of any negotiation. He added that the security of the Iranian people is not a matter for others and that Iran will continue to preserve and expand its defense capacity as needed. He stressed that no country compromises on its security, saying Iran is prepared both for dialogue and for war.

Tensions between Tehran and Washington have intensified in recent weeks following U.S. threats over Iran’s nuclear program and its crackdown on anti-government protests. U.S. President Donald Trump warned that a powerful naval fleet is heading toward Iran and cautioned Tehran to return to nuclear talks or face severe measures.

The United States announced sanctions on Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni and several senior Iranian officials, citing their alleged involvement in deadly crackdowns on anti-government protests in recent weeks. The decision was made public on Friday, according to a statement from the U.S. Treasury Department.

The Treasury said Momeni oversees Iran’s Law Enforcement Forces (LEF), which Washington identified as a key agency responsible for the deaths of thousands of peaceful demonstrators. U.S. officials accused Iranian security forces of using widespread violence and repressive tactics during the protests, resulting in a large number of civilian casualties.

According to the U.S. government, the sanctions aim to hold those responsible for human rights abuses accountable and to send a message against the suppression of peaceful dissent in Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday emphasized the necessity of close coordination and regular dialogue between Iran and Turkey to address regional challenges. Speaking during his visit to Istanbul, Araghchi told Iranian state television that he would discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Araghchi stated that Iran and Turkey have always maintained close consultations and share strong political, economic, social, and cultural ties. He highlighted the importance of aligning positions in the face of threats from the United States and other parties, reviewing regional developments, and exchanging views on how to confront current challenges.

Commenting on Europe’s move to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, Araghchi called it a major strategic mistake, claiming that Europe is losing its role on the international stage and accelerating its own decline.

The European Union’s 27 member states have designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, prompting strong condemnation from Tehran. Iran’s Foreign Ministry called the move illegal, politically motivated, and a violation of international law, describing it as interference in the country’s internal affairs. The announcement was made by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in a post on social media platform X.

According to the EU, the decision follows Iran’s violent suppression of recent anti-government protests, during which demonstrators were reportedly killed and subjected to widespread repression. The EU Council stated that targeted individuals include Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni and Prosecutor General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad.

Iran warned that it reserves the right to take appropriate measures within international law to protect its sovereignty and national interests, holding the EU and its member states responsible for any consequences of the decision.