Iran launched two medium-range ballistic missiles toward the US-British military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal citing multiple US officials. The missiles failed to hit their target; one malfunctioned mid-flight, while the other was intercepted by a US warship using an SM-3 missile, though it remains unclear whether the interception was successful. The report, published Friday, did not specify the exact time of the launch.

A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defence told CNBC that a statement on the incident was being prepared. The White House and the British Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment. The Wall Street Journal described the launch as Iran’s first real-world use of medium-range ballistic missiles and a significant attempt to demonstrate its ability to strike far beyond the Middle East, potentially threatening US interests.

The report also noted that Diego Garcia lies about 3,800 to 4,000 kilometers from Iran, far exceeding Iran’s previously declared 2,000-kilometer missile range.

A US F-35 stealth fighter jet was reportedly damaged by an Iranian missile during an operation over Iran’s airspace on March 19, 2026. The aircraft, one of the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighters, made an emergency landing at a US base in the Middle East, according to a US statement. The exact location of the base was not disclosed. The incident marks the first reported damage to a US fighter jet since the conflict that began with a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the aircraft was forced to land after sustaining damage during the mission. Spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins said the F-35 landed safely and the pilot was in stable condition, adding that an investigation is underway. The event demonstrates that even stealth aircraft can be detected by advanced sensor systems.

In a separate statement, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility, saying it had successfully targeted a US warplane over central Iran.

An Israeli warplane came under the target of an Iranian surface-to-air missile during an operation inside Iran, both countries confirmed. The exact timing of the incident was not disclosed. Israel stated via Telegram that its crew followed standard procedures, the aircraft was unharmed, and the mission was completed as planned.

Tehran claimed responsibility for a drone strike near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, hitting a fuel tank and a refueling jet, which it said severely disrupted Israel’s military flight and fuel operations. Iran’s military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said the attacks would continue with full force until threats from Israel were eliminated.

Earlier, an American F-35 fighter jet was damaged by Iranian air defenses and forced to make an emergency landing, which Iranian officials described as a major success for their defense system.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that it carried out its 70th retaliatory strike, targeting more than 55 locations linked to U.S. and Israeli interests across the Gulf region and beyond. According to a statement broadcast by Press TV, the attacks caused loud explosions, fires, and thick smoke in the affected areas.

The report said that the strikes, conducted early Saturday using drones and missiles, prompted several regional countries including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Israel to activate their air defense systems. Additionally, Iran reportedly launched at least two medium-range ballistic missiles toward the joint U.S.-British military base on Diego Garcia Island in the Indian Ocean.

The announcement marks another escalation in Iran’s ongoing campaign of retaliatory operations, reflecting heightened regional tensions involving multiple states and military assets.

Iran has launched two ballistic missiles targeting the joint U.S.-U.K. military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing U.S. officials on March 20. Neither missile hit its target, and one failed during flight. The other was reportedly intercepted by a missile defense system from a U.S. warship, though it remains unclear whether the interception was successful. The Pentagon has declined to comment on the incident.

The base, located about 4,000 kilometers from Iranian territory, is a key hub for U.S. operations in Asia and was previously used during air campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq. Analysts cited by Al Jazeera said the launch demonstrates Iran’s possession of longer-range missiles than previously known, potentially exceeding 4,000 kilometers. This development could alter U.S. strategic calculations and raise concerns in London and the European Union.

The report also notes that Britain retains the lease of Diego Garcia despite agreeing to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a decision criticized by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

A US-based human rights organization, Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), has reported that at least 3,220 people have been killed in Iran since February 28 following joint attacks by the United States and Israel. According to HRANA, the victims include 1,398 civilians, among them 210 children, 1,165 military personnel, and 657 others whose identities or roles have not yet been confirmed.

The report highlights a significant discrepancy between HRANA’s figures and official Iranian government data. Iran’s Ministry of Health stated that 1,444 people have been killed and 18,551 injured in the same attacks. HRANA said it gathered its data from field reports, local sources, medical and emergency centers, and civil society networks, as well as reviewing publicly available materials such as photos, videos, and official statements.

Qatar-based media outlet Al Jazeera noted that it could not independently verify the casualty figures provided by the human rights organization.

Iran’s state media reported that Israel and the United States carried out another attack on the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility in central Iran on Saturday. The Tasnim News Agency said the strike did not cause any radioactive leakage, and residents near the site, located between Tehran and Isfahan, were not at risk.

Earlier this month, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that the Natanz facility had already been damaged following a series of attacks across Iran on February 28, which were also attributed to the United States and Israel. The latest incident marks a continuation of those hostilities targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

The report did not mention any immediate international response or further details about the extent of the new damage.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that his country is prepared to consider any effective proposal to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking to Japan’s Kyodo News, Araghchi stated that Iran welcomes any initiative that could lead to a genuine cessation of hostilities. However, he claimed that the war had been imposed on Iran and that the United States is not yet ready to stop the fighting.

The interview, also published by Iran’s state-run Mehr News Agency, highlighted Araghchi’s view that while some countries are attempting to find a resolution, Washington’s stance remains an obstacle. He emphasized that Iran does not support a temporary ceasefire but seeks a final solution that ensures long-term stability in the region.

The remarks come amid reports of escalating regional tensions, including attacks on military bases in the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, and calls for international investigations into incidents such as the strike on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility.

Iran has launched a strategic diplomatic move amid Middle East tensions by offering Japan a special proposal allowing Japanese-flagged vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without security risks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed direct talks with his Japanese counterpart, describing the offer as part of Tehran’s effort to attract Tokyo and prevent it from joining U.S.-led military coalitions. Analysts view this as a calculated attempt by Iran to assert control over the vital waterway and reassure nations that avoid conflict with it.

At the same time, the U.S. Treasury has temporarily relaxed sanctions on Iranian oil, granting a 30-day “safe passage” for shipments loaded before March 20. This has prompted Indian refineries to prepare for renewed imports, with reports indicating that around 170 million barrels of Iranian oil have gained legal clearance for sale. Much of this oil remains stored in tankers near Chinese waters.

Traders in Singapore warn that logistical and financial hurdles, including banking reluctance and insurance issues, could delay deliveries beyond the April 19 deadline, complicating the short-term benefits of the sanction relief.

Iran’s military on Saturday warned the United Arab Emirates not to allow any attacks from its territory targeting two disputed islands near the strategic Strait of Hormuz. According to a statement released through Tasnim News Agency, the operational command of Khatam al-Anbiya said that if aggression against Iran’s Abu Musa and Greater Tunb islands originates from UAE soil, Iran’s armed forces would launch strong strikes on Ras al-Khaimah in the UAE.

The Abu Musa and Greater Tunb islands have long been a source of dispute between Iran and the UAE. The islands are currently under Iranian control, but the UAE continues to claim ownership. Located near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, the area is a vital route through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply is transported.

The warning comes amid regional conflict that began on February 28 with a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, which has since spread across the Middle East. Iran has accused Gulf states of allowing U.S. forces to operate from their territories and has carried out missile and drone strikes against what it describes as U.S. interests in those countries.

Iran has fired two ballistic missiles targeting the joint US-British military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing US officials. The incident occurred recently and was reported on Friday. Both missiles failed to hit their targets, falling short of the base located about 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers) from Iran. The attack suggests Tehran may now possess longer-range missile capabilities. AFP reported that the Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

One missile reportedly malfunctioned mid-flight, while the other was intercepted by a defensive missile launched from a US warship. It remains unclear whether the second missile was destroyed. Diego Garcia, part of the Chagos Archipelago, is one of two bases the United Kingdom has allowed the United States to use for defensive operations against Iran. The base hosts US bombers and other military assets and has been a key hub for operations in Asia, including past missions in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The report also noted that Britain recently returned control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius but retained a lease for the Diego Garcia base. Former US President Donald Trump criticized that decision.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Japan’s Kyodo News that Iran is ready to assist Japan-linked ships in transiting the Strait of Hormuz. According to the report, discussions between the two sides have already begun, and Iran is considering a temporary relaxation of the blockade.

A Japanese government official told Kyodo that direct talks with Iran are the most effective way to ease the blockade but emphasized the need for caution to avoid provoking the United States. The official also noted that even if Japanese vessels are allowed passage, it would not resolve the ongoing energy crisis. Another Japanese Foreign Ministry official said Araghchi’s statement should be carefully evaluated to understand its true intent.

The development highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts between Tokyo and Tehran to manage maritime access and regional tensions while balancing relations with Washington.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced the 70th phase of its retaliatory operations, claiming to have struck more than 55 locations linked to US and Israeli interests. According to a statement published by Iran’s English-language outlet Press TV, the latest attacks caused powerful explosions, flashes of fire, and rising smoke columns in targeted areas.

Several regional countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Israel, reported activating their air defense systems early Saturday to intercept incoming drones and missiles. The report also stated that Iran launched at least two medium-range ballistic missiles toward the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia Island in the Indian Ocean.

The overall situation across the Gulf and the wider Middle East has become increasingly tense following these developments, signaling a further escalation of regional hostilities.

Iran has threatened to expand its attacks to entertainment and tourism centers worldwide as its conflict with the United States and Israel enters the third week. The warning came from General Abolfazl Shekarchi, Iran’s top military spokesperson, who stated that parks, leisure areas, and tourist destinations across the world would no longer be safe for Iran’s enemies. The announcement has sparked renewed concern in international circles.

Analysts cited in the report suggest that Iran may employ asymmetric tactics beyond the Middle East to increase pressure on its adversaries. The situation intensified after Israel reportedly struck Iran’s large South Pars gas field on Wednesday, prompting Tehran to escalate attacks on energy facilities in the Gulf region.

In a related development, two drone strikes hit Kuwait’s Mina al-Ahmadi oil refinery early Friday, causing a fire at one of the region’s largest refineries, which has a daily capacity of about 730,000 barrels. The incidents underscore rising regional tensions and fears of broader instability.

Iran’s Supreme Religious Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has proposed Iran’s mediation to improve relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. In a national address on March 20, 2026, he emphasized that national unity would force adversaries to retreat and highlighted Pakistan’s strategic importance from a regional perspective. Khamenei said Iran was ready to facilitate dialogue between the two neighboring countries to promote stability and cooperation in the region.

He accused Iran’s opponents of trying to damage its relations with neighboring states, particularly Pakistan, and described Pakistan as a vital partner for Iran. Khamenei also identified the United States and Israel as Iran’s external enemies, asserting that the unity of the Iranian people would defeat their ambitions. He praised the Iranian public’s resilience during fasting and struggle, claiming it had already weakened adversaries.

Khamenei concluded that internal unity within Iranian society plays a decisive role in resisting external pressure and will continue to guide Iran’s response to regional and international challenges.