Iran To Receive Hundreds of Chinese Shoulder-Fired Missiles Amid Escalating War With US

Iran is set to receive between 300 and 400 Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 shoulder-fired air-defence missile systems within weeks, in a deal worth $60–70 million, Reuters reported.

The procurement underscores Tehran’s urgent effort to rebuild short-range defences amid its ongoing war with the United States and Israel, while raising questions about China’s role despite official denials.

Iran is expected to take delivery of hundreds of man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) from China. The contract, signed with Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based intermediary, covers QW-12 and FN-16 missiles.

These infrared-guided systems are designed to target low-flying aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles. Their portability allows rapid deployment by small teams, making them less vulnerable than fixed batteries.

The reported deal comes after months of intense fighting in which U.S. and Israeli strikes damaged Iranian missile, drone, and air-defence programs. Tehran responded with ballistic missile and drone barrages, but the conflict exposed gaps in its ability to defend strategic sites. Washington recently paused a two-week bombardment, though President Donald Trump warned strikes would resume if negotiations fail. He also expressed surprise at the reports, noting that Chinese President Xi Jinping had assured him Beijing would not support Iran militarily.

China’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the reports as “groundless,” while a defence ministry spokesperson claimed no knowledge of the matter. Pakistan, through its military public relations wing ISPR, denied involvement in facilitating transfers, despite sources indicating shipments would transit through Pakistan from Urumqi in western China. Tehran has also explored overland routes to discreetly move supplies and reduce risks of disruption.

Military experts highlight that MANPADS provide Iran with a flexible defensive layer. Unlike radar-guided systems, these weapons can be dispersed across multiple sites, including nuclear facilities, refineries, and command centres.

Analysts note that while the QW-12 is less advanced than newer QW-18 and QW-19 variants, the FN-16 offers stronger interception capabilities, with ranges up to 6 km and altitude ceilings of 4 km. The choice reflects Iran’s priority for immediate availability and numerical mass over cutting-edge seeker technology.

European and Middle Eastern security sources confirm Iran has been seeking QW-series systems for months. Western intelligence officials believe the acquisition could allow Iran to establish 50–100 firing positions depending on deployment structure, significantly expanding its short-range coverage. This procurement highlights Iran’s reliance on both domestic production and foreign suppliers despite sanctions.

The deal also signals deepening military ties between Tehran and Beijing. Reports suggest Iran has been negotiating separately for Chinese anti-ship cruise missiles, though it remains unclear if that agreement was finalised. The MANPADS purchase, however, represents one of Iran’s largest known efforts to strengthen its air defences since the war began.

The strategic implications are considerable. Portable systems could complicate U.S. and Israeli air operations, forcing them to adapt tactics against dispersed, mobile threats.

Yet the systems’ limited altitude and range mean they cannot replace Iran’s need for more advanced radar-guided batteries. Still, the acquisition marks a significant step in Tehran’s rearmament program and reflects its determination to sustain military resilience under pressure.

Agencies

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Iran Claims Destruction of US F-35 Jets In Jordan Retaliatory Strike

Iran has claimed responsibility for a major strike on US assets in Jordan, stating that three F-35 fighter jets were destroyed and three more heavily damaged at Al-Azraq Air Base.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its Aerospace Force launched ballistic missiles at the deployment ramp and maintenance facilities where the aircraft were stationed. According to Iranian state media, several US officers and technical personnel were also killed in the attack.

The IRGC described the operation as retaliation for a US airstrike on Qeshm Island the previous night. Iranian officials alleged that American forces operating from Jordan had targeted two residential houses with bunker-busting bombs, killing three members of a family, including a child, and injuring two other children. This claim was made alongside accusations of deliberate civilian targeting.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that its forces had conducted a large-scale wave of strikes against IRGC targets inside Iran on July 29. The operation reportedly struck dozens of military sites, including command centres, missile and drone facilities, coastal surveillance posts, and maritime defence capabilities. CENTCOM stated that the strikes were intended to reduce threats posed by Iran and its proxies to US forces, commercial shipping, and neighbouring Gulf states.

CENTCOM also reported that on July 28, Iranian forces had attempted a surprise attack by launching multiple ballistic missiles at US personnel stationed in the Middle East. All incoming missiles were successfully intercepted, preventing casualties or damage. The US military emphasised that more than 50,000 American service members remain deployed across the region, maintaining high vigilance and readiness.

Explosions were reported across southern Iran following the US strikes, with Iranian media citing damage in Bandar Abbas and Kish Island. These areas are strategically significant, given their proximity to the Strait of Hormuz and their role in Iran’s maritime operations.

Prior to claiming responsibility for the strike on Al-Azraq, the IRGC issued a warning to countries assisting the United States, threatening harsh retaliation unless they altered their policies. The IRGC also asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remained under its control, declaring that the waterway would not be reopened while US threats and interference in regional maritime traffic continued. This statement underscores Tehran’s strategy of leveraging control over one of the world’s most vital energy trade routes.

The escalation highlights the intensifying confrontation between Washington and Tehran, with both sides trading strikes across multiple theatres. The targeting of advanced US aircraft such as the F-35, if confirmed, would represent a significant blow to American military assets in the region and mark a sharp escalation in the conflict.

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Global Oil Supply Wobbles As West Asia Attacks Intensify

A drone strike that damaged two gas tankers in Egyptian waters has renewed energy security concerns about the Suez Canal and the Sumed pipeline.

These routes have been vital for Saudi Arabian oil exports since the beginning of the Iran war, offering alternatives to the increasingly dangerous Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb.

The attack occurred at Egypt’s port of Damietta, located on a branch of the Nile Delta close to the Mediterranean. While no group has claimed responsibility, the incident has raised fears that the Suez Canal, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, could also be at risk.

Iran and its Houthi allies have already targeted tankers transiting Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb. In response, Egypt’s canal and pipeline have become safe northbound export routes for Saudi Red Sea cargoes. The Damietta strike, however, has unsettled markets by highlighting vulnerabilities in these alternatives.

Saul Kavonic, head of energy research at MST Marquee, warned that up to five million barrels per day of oil supply currently bypassing Hormuz could be threatened if the Red Sea passage is compromised. Hardly any tankers are now transiting Hormuz, which previously carried about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supply.

Saudi Arabia rerouted most of its oil to the Red Sea and Yanbu terminal after the war began. Yet Houthi threats and attacks since last week have forced many tankers to avoid this route. Increasing volumes of Saudi oil are instead heading north towards the Suez Canal and Sumed pipeline.

Data from Kpler shows crude loadings from the Sumed pipeline rose to 28.79 million barrels in July, compared to 19.52 million in April, before the Houthis threatened to block Saudi oil at Bab el-Mandeb. This reflects a significant shift in traffic patterns.

Ship-tracking data from MarineTraffic revealed around 30 ships clustered at Port Said anchorage at the canal’s Mediterranean end on Thursday, compared to about 20 earlier in the week. Analysts attribute this surge to Houthi threats.

George Morris of Vortexa confirmed a clear increase in crude and condensate tankers heading north after loading in the Red Sea. Crude is still flowing south through Bab el-Mandeb, but volumes have halved compared to the start of the month. Only 43% of Yanbu loadings are heading south now, compared to 81% in June.

Some tankers, including Chinese vessels, have received permission from the Houthis to pass. Others are travelling with their trackers switched off, a tactic that complicates monitoring and raises safety concerns.

Despite the Damietta attack, Aly Blakeway of S&P Global Energy noted that the market is not yet pricing in disruption to the canal. Oil prices even fell on Thursday, influenced by Iranian-Omani talks on Hormuz.

The Suez Canal Authority has not responded to requests for comment. The incident underscores the fragility of global energy flows, where multiple chokepoints are simultaneously under threat.

Agencies

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US And Iran Exchange Missile Barrages As Regional War Expands

The United States and Iran exchanged missile barrages on Thursday, reigniting fears of a wider war in the Middle East and dimming hopes for a quick resolution to the five‑month conflict.

The renewed fighting followed a brief pause over the weekend that had raised expectations among mediators of possible diplomatic progress. Instead, the resumption of strikes has spread instability across the region, drawing in multiple countries.

Jordan reported intercepting Iranian missiles for the second consecutive day, while Kuwait confirmed that a strike in its northern region killed one person and severely damaged a building belonging to a Chinese firm.

The attacks came after the U.S. military carried out a heavy wave of strikes against Iran in response to an earlier missile attack on a U.S. base in Jordan. Central Command said dozens of targets belonging to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard were hit, including command centres, missile and drone facilities, and coastal defence sites.

Iran’s state media reported three deaths and two injuries from a U.S. strike on Qeshm Island, located in the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway, through which one‑fifth of global energy supplies normally pass, has been at the centre of the conflict since Iran began targeting shipping early in the war.

The latest barrage followed joint U.S.‑Saudi strikes against Iran‑backed militias in Iraq, which killed at least 20 fighters and six Iranian advisers.

Elsewhere, drone strikes ignited fires on two natural gas vessels at Egypt’s Damietta port. The vessels, one U.S.‑owned and the other Greek‑owned, sustained damage but no casualties were reported. 

Egyptian authorities said initial investigations confirmed the fires were caused by drones. If Iran or its allies were behind the attack, it would mark a significant widening of the conflict, as Egypt has so far avoided direct military involvement. The Houthis in Yemen denied responsibility.

The war has severely disrupted global energy markets. Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has plunged, with Lloyd’s List Intelligence reporting a drop from 82 ships in mid‑July to just 39 the following week.

Saudi Arabia has accused Iraqi militias of targeting its oil facilities with drones, while the Houthis have declared a blockade of Saudi shipping and threatened the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait, another critical trade route. Saudi oil exports have been rerouted through costly and complex alternatives, including pipelines across Egypt to the Mediterranean.

The Houthis also claimed responsibility for drone attacks on Saudi facilities used to transport oil to Yanbu, saying the strikes were retaliation for Saudi drones breaching Yemeni airspace.

Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman met President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance in Washington, signalling Riyadh’s intent to stand firm against Iranian aggression while also pressing for de‑escalation and renewed negotiations.

The conflict, which Trump initially suggested might last only weeks, has now dragged on for months, fuelling global economic turmoil and raising concerns about U.S. weapons stockpiles.

Domestically, the war remains unpopular, with polls showing declining approval for Trump’s handling of Iran. Mediators such as Pakistan continue to push for talks, particularly focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but the latest exchanges underscore how fragile the situation remains.

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Drone Strike Hits US LNG Vessel At Egypt’s Damietta Port

An explosion struck a US‑owned liquefied natural gas vessel at Egypt’s Damietta Port on Wednesday after a drone attack, raising fears that the Middle East conflict is expanding into new energy hubs beyond its traditional Gulf theatre.

According to maritime security firm Ambrey, the blast occurred during cargo discharge operations at the port. The UK‑based company identified the ship as the US‑owned floating storage vessel Energos Winter, confirming that it was hit by an unmanned aerial vehicle while berthed at the facility.

Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources later confirmed that a fire broke out involving a storage vessel and a tugboat at Damietta Port. The ministry stressed that no casualties were reported and that the situation was handled immediately under emergency plans, with firefighting and safety teams deployed at the site. However, the statement did not specify the cause of the blaze.

The incident capped one of the most volatile days in recent weeks. Just hours earlier, US and Saudi forces launched coordinated strikes against Iran‑backed Popular Mobilisation Forces positions across Iraq.

The joint operation marked Riyadh’s first official acknowledgement of direct combat alongside Washington against Tehran‑aligned groups, following renewed attacks on American positions and the collapse of a brief operational pause.

In a parallel escalation, Iran confirmed that it had fired missiles at US military installations in Jordan and conducted maritime operations against vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran also rejected a diplomatic proposal from Oman for joint administration of the strategic waterway, signalling a complete breakdown in de‑escalation efforts.

Reacting to the developments, US President Donald Trump issued a fierce warning. “We’ll be hitting them hard,” he told Fox News, adding, “We’re going to beat the fucking shit out of them.” His remarks came shortly after he had halted bombardment campaigns, claiming the initial phase of operations was complete, a pause that now stands fully revoked.

The strike on Damietta underscores the vulnerability of energy infrastructure across the Middle East. The port is one of Egypt’s primary natural gas export hubs, and any disruption there sends immediate shockwaves through global markets. Brent crude futures surged by more than 8 per cent, climbing back above USD 90 per barrel, reversing earlier losses when traders had briefly priced in hopes of a diplomatic thaw.

The attack highlights how the conflict is no longer confined to the Gulf but is now threatening critical energy programs and facilities across the wider region. Analysts warn that the targeting of LNG terminals could have severe implications for global energy security, particularly as Europe and Asia increasingly rely on diversified supply routes through Egypt’s Mediterranean ports.

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Hadi Matar Convicted In Terrorism Trial Over Salman Rushdie Stabbing

A 28-year-old man has been found guilty in a landmark terrorism trial connected to the 2022 stabbing of acclaimed author Salman Rushdie.

The United States Department of Justice confirmed the conviction, marking a significant development in a case that drew global attention.

The federal jury determined that Hadi Matar, a resident of Fairview, New Jersey, was guilty of attempting to provide material support to Hezbollah, committing an act of terrorism transcending national boundaries, and supplying material support to terrorists. Hezbollah is a US-designated terrorist organisation, and the charges reflect the severity of Matar’s actions.

Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg stated that Matar had spent more than a year immersing himself in Hezbollah’s ideology while preparing to act on a fatwa issued by Iran’s Ayatollahs calling for Rushdie’s murder. Eisenberg described the attack as a chilling reminder of the global reach of Iranian terrorism, adding that justice had been served with the verdict.

The assault occurred in August 2022 in New York, moments before Rushdie was scheduled to deliver a lecture. Matar struck the author in the neck, inflicting severe injuries that required life-support treatment. The co-moderator of the session was also injured during the incident, though Rushdie’s wounds were far more critical.

The attack was directly linked to the fatwa issued in 1989 by Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ruhollah Khomeini, who had called for Rushdie’s execution following the publication of his novel The Satanic Verses. The book had sparked outrage among sections of the Muslim community, with many deeming it blasphemous.

Evidence presented by prosecutors revealed that Matar had spent over twelve months researching the religious decree before carrying out the knife attack. His preparation demonstrated a deliberate and calculated effort to act on the fatwa decades after it was first proclaimed.

Matar now faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Formal sentencing is scheduled for November, when the court will determine the exact punishment for his crimes. The verdict underscores the continuing threat posed by extremist ideologies and the enduring impact of the fatwa against Rushdie.

The case has reignited debate over the intersection of free expression, religious extremism, and international terrorism. It highlights how ideological directives issued decades earlier can continue to inspire violence across borders, with devastating consequences.

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India Urges UNSC To Balance Focus On Hormuz With Gaza Humanitarian Crisis

India has urged the United Nations Security Council to ensure that the world’s attention on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz does not overshadow the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. 

Speaking at the UNSC’s Quarterly Open Debate on the Middle East, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish emphasised that West Asia remains of immense strategic importance to India due to its trade, energy and people-to-people ties.

He noted that India’s annual bilateral trade with the region amounts to around USD 180 billion, with cumulative FDI exceeding $31 billion and remittances from the GCC surpassing USD 52 billion. With nearly 10 million Indians living and working in the Gulf, their safety and well-being are a priority.

Harish expressed concern over the resumption of hostilities after a brief pause, calling for urgent de-escalation. He condemned recent attacks on commercial vessels including GFS Galaxy, MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa in the Strait of Hormuz, which resulted in injuries to several Indian citizens, one death, and one missing person.

India reiterated its consistent condemnation of violence targeting seafarers and disrupting free navigation through international waterways, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy must prevail to restore peace and stability.

He underlined that targeting commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must cease, and free, unimpeded navigation through international waterways must be restored in accordance with international law.

At the same time, Harish highlighted that the global focus on maritime security should not divert attention from the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. He warned that the loss of civilian lives and destruction of infrastructure in the enclave demand urgent international action.

He called for full implementation of UNSC Resolutions, including UNSCR 2803, which established a temporary governance and security framework for Gaza in November 2025.

India reaffirmed its longstanding support for the Palestinian people, noting that its development assistance amounts to around USD 175 million. This includes humanitarian aid, contributions to UNRWA, and various development projects. India has been recognised as a top emerging donor to UNRWA, granting operational flexibility for the use of its contributions.

Earlier this month, India announced new commitments at the Palestine donor group meeting in Brussels, including the establishment of a specialty hospital, an artificial limb fitment centre, and a vocational training institute. Ongoing projects also include the construction of the Palestinian Institute of Diplomacy.

Harish reiterated India’s support for a two-state solution, stressing that a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine living side by side with Israel within secure and recognised borders is essential for lasting peace.

He also addressed other regional concerns, condemning attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers in Lebanon and stressing that they must never become targets. He urged preparation for a post-UNIFIL scenario by strengthening the Lebanese Armed Forces.

On Syria, Harish reaffirmed India’s support for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process in line with UNSC Resolution 2254, which outlines a roadmap for ceasefire and political settlement. He emphasised the principles of sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria.

On Yemen, he reiterated India’s commitment to the country’s unity and sovereignty, condemning Houthi attacks on maritime navigation and stressing that the protection of the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Southern Red Sea is a shared international responsibility.

Harish concluded by stating that India’s approach is guided by its civilizational philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family. He said the people of the Middle East deserve normalcy and lasting peace, and India remains committed to global well-being and stability through this doctrine.

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Trump Says Would Be 'Quite Disappointed' If China Arms

US President Donald Trump has expressed that he would be “quite disappointed” if China were to supply weapons to Iran, stressing that Chinese President Xi Jinping had personally assured him that Beijing would not engage in such transfers.

His remarks came during an Oval Office interaction in Washington, where he addressed reports suggesting Tehran could soon receive up to 400 Chinese-manufactured shoulder-fired missiles.

Trump told reporters that such a development would be surprising, reiterating that Xi had strongly conveyed his refusal to partake in such activities. He emphasised that Xi was aware of the disappointment it would cause him should China proceed with arms sales to Tehran.

The President’s comments followed earlier intelligence assessments indicating Beijing was preparing to deliver new air defence systems to Iran, at a time when Tehran is actively seeking to replenish its military stockpiles with foreign support.

The Oval Office remarks also built upon Trump’s warnings issued the previous week to both Beijing and Moscow against supplying arms to Iran.

Despite these warnings, Trump maintained that he accepted assurances from both Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin that neither nation was currently providing military support to Tehran.

On his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote that in his opinion both countries were abstaining from arms transfers, adding that any such move would be “very bad for them” and not in their best interests.

Washington’s scrutiny has intensified amid investigations into whether Russian and Chinese intelligence networks have been providing targeting data to Tehran following a series of strikes on American military installations.

Trump recalled his summit with Xi in Beijing in May, noting that the Chinese leader had given him an explicit commitment not to arm Tehran under any circumstances. He said that considering their relationship, he took Xi at his word.

The President also revealed that Putin had extended a similar commitment despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

He explained that the Russian leader understood U.S. arms policy, stating that Washington does not sell weapons to Ukraine but only to NATO countries, which pay full price. He added that he had no knowledge of how those weapons were distributed once purchased.

Affirming his reliance on the personal commitments conveyed by both foreign leaders, Trump reiterated to reporters that he trusted Xi and Putin. He concluded by saying that he did not believe either leader would want to risk disappointing him, underscoring his confidence in their assurances.

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US Renews Air Strikes On Iran After Missile Attack On Base In Jordan

The United States resumed air strikes on Iranian targets on Thursday, ending a short pause in operations. Axios reported that a senior American official confirmed the renewed bombardment, which followed Iran’s launch of ballistic missiles against a US military base in Jordan earlier this week.

US Central Command stated that all incoming missiles were intercepted, describing the incident as an attempted surprise attack originating from Iranian territory. While CENTCOM did not specify the installation, American outlets reported that the target was a US base in Jordan.

This marked Tehran’s first direct ballistic missile strike on an American compound since Washington temporarily halted its aerial campaign to allow space for diplomatic engagement. President Donald Trump reacted sharply, warning that Iran would face a severe counter-offensive.

In remarks to Fox News, he declared that the United States would respond forcefully to any aggression against its personnel, using unusually blunt language to underscore his position.

Parallel to the renewed strikes in Iran, US and Saudi forces conducted joint air raids late Tuesday against Iran-backed militias in Iraq. The Popular Mobilisation Forces reported at least 20 fatalities. 

CENTCOM confirmed that the operation targeted logistics depots and arms storage facilities in eastern Iraq, framing it as retaliation for over 30 drone sorties launched by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps against US troops and Saudi energy infrastructure.

Saudi authorities separately announced that their air defence systems had intercepted multiple drones aimed at oil installations in the kingdom’s Eastern Province, attributing the attacks to Iran-aligned groups operating from Iraq.

The escalation highlights a sharp rise in cross-border tensions between Washington and Tehran, even as indirect diplomatic contacts continue through regional intermediaries.

The strikes followed a suspension of the US air campaign last week, when officials said operations were paused to assess strategic conditions and explore diplomatic prospects. Earlier in the week, President Trump had expressed optimism about ongoing talks, suggesting there was a chance of progress, but warning that military operations would resume if dialogue failed.

The timing of the resumption also coincided with Trump’s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Discussions reportedly focused heavily on regional strategy concerning Iran, with US officials describing the talks as positive and productive.

The combination of renewed military action and diplomatic manoeuvring underscores the fragile balance between confrontation and negotiation in the current phase of US-Iran relations.

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Iran To Acquire Hundreds of Chinese Air-Defence Missiles Amid US Conflict

Iran is set to receive Chinese-made air-defence missile launchers within weeks, marking one of its largest known efforts to strengthen short-range defences since the outbreak of its war with the United States and Israel.

The deal, valued at between $60 and $70 million, involves the purchase of 300 to 400 man-portable air defence systems, including the QW-12 and FN-16 models. Deliveries are expected to begin by air from Urumqi in western China, transiting through Pakistan before reaching Iran, though schedules and quantities may still change.

The contract was signed with Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based intermediary linked to the Beijing-based Zhong Qing Bao Shang Group.

While Iran’s foreign ministry has not commented, China’s foreign ministry dismissed the reports as groundless, insisting Beijing continues to promote peace. Pakistan’s military has also denied involvement in facilitating the transfers, calling such speculation false.

Iran’s need to rearm follows months of intense fighting in which U.S. and Israeli strikes targeted facilities tied to its missile, drone and air-defence programs. Tehran retaliated with barrages of ballistic missiles and drones, exposing vulnerabilities in defending fixed military and strategic sites against advanced aircraft and precision-guided weapons. Portable systems like MANPADS are valued for their mobility, allowing small teams to disperse and relocate them quickly, making them less vulnerable than fixed batteries.

The QW-12 and FN-16 are shoulder-fired, infrared-guided surface-to-air missiles designed to engage low-flying aircraft, helicopters and drones. Defence analysts note that while the QW-12 is less advanced than newer QW variants such as the QW-18 and QW-19, it still provides effective short-range protection.

European and Middle Eastern security sources have confirmed Iran’s interest in acquiring QW-series systems, with discussions covering QW-12, QW-18 and QW-19. Western intelligence sources also suggest Tehran has explored overland routes to discreetly move Chinese military supplies and dual-use components, reducing the risk of disruption.

The procurement underscores Iran’s reliance on both domestic production and foreign suppliers despite years of sanctions. It also highlights deepening military ties with China, which extend beyond air-defence systems.

Reuters previously reported that Iran was close to securing a separate agreement with China for anti-ship cruise missiles, though it remains unclear if that deal was finalised. The delivery of hundreds of MANPADS would significantly expand Iran’s inventory and bolster its ability to defend sensitive sites, energy infrastructure and military installations.

The conflict remains volatile. Washington suspended bombardments temporarily, but President Donald Trump warned that strikes would resume if negotiations failed to end the five-month-old war. For Iran, the new Chinese systems represent both a tactical reinforcement and a strategic signal of its growing partnership with Beijing, even as the battlefield continues to evolve.

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India Becomes World’s Second-Largest Supplier of Seafarers

India has officially become the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, contributing over 311,936 maritime professionals and accounting for 12.16 per cent of the global workforce, according to the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026. This marks a decisive leap from fifth position in 2015 to second place today, behind only the Philippines.

India’s rise in the global maritime labour market is one of the most remarkable transformations in its shipping history. In 2015, India supplied just 5.2 per cent of the world’s seafarers, ranking behind China, the Philippines, Indonesia and Russia.

By 2021, the share had grown modestly to 6 per cent, but the country remained in fifth place. The 2026 report records a breakthrough, with India’s share more than doubling over the past decade to 12.16 per cent.

The strength of India’s contribution is particularly visible in the officer cadre. The country now supplies 1,40,718 officers, representing 13.41 per cent of the global officer workforce, alongside 1,71,218 ratings, which account for 11.29 per cent of global ratings serving aboard merchant vessels. Together, Indian seafarers form one of the largest and most skilled maritime workforces supporting international trade.

Globally, the supply of seafarers is estimated at 2.57 million, while demand stands at 2.55 million, reflecting a tight labour market. The report highlights a continuing shortage of qualified officers worldwide, positioning India as a critical partner in meeting future manpower requirements for the shipping industry.

India’s emergence as a maritime manpower hub reflects sustained reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past twelve years. The Government has expanded maritime education and skilling, modernised training infrastructure, increased the capacity of training institutes, digitised certification and regulatory services through the Directorate General of Shipping, and strengthened compliance with international STCW standards. These measures have significantly enhanced the employability and global competitiveness of Indian seafarers.

Since 2021, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has accelerated reforms through landmark legislation, including the Inland Vessels Act 2021, Merchant Shipping Act 2025, Indian Ports Act 2025, Coastal Shipping Act 2025, Bills of Lading Act 2025, and the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 2025. Collectively, these laws modernised maritime governance, strengthened seafarer welfare, aligned India’s shipping laws with international conventions, and simplified regulatory processes.

Welcoming the report, Sonowal described India’s rise from fifth place in 2015 to second place in 2026 as a story of vision and transformative leadership. He credited Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to reshaping India’s maritime ecosystem, from investing in world-class education and training infrastructure to digitising services and reforming laws. He emphasised that this achievement reflects New India’s growing global credibility and the confidence international shipping companies place in Indian talent.

Looking ahead, the Government is pursuing Mission 20 per cent, an ambitious vision to increase India’s share of the global seafaring workforce from 12.16 per cent to 20 per cent. This involves expanding training capacity, strengthening shipboard training opportunities, fostering industry-academia partnerships, leveraging digital technologies, and creating greater opportunities for young Indians, especially women, to pursue careers at sea.

The goal is to ensure that one in every five seafarers worldwide is Indian, recognised for professionalism and excellence.

India’s expanding maritime education ecosystem, internationally recognised training standards, and progressive policy framework place the country in a strong position to meet future global demand. This aligns with the long-term objectives of Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aim to consolidate India’s role as a leading maritime nation.

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'No Plans To Negotiate With US' Says Iran, Warns Europe Over Hormuz

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has firmly declared that Tehran has no plans to negotiate with the United States, dismissing claims made by President Donald Trump.

He stressed that while discussions are proceeding step by step with Oman, Washington will not be allowed to dictate the terms of engagement. His remarks were broadcast on State TV and carried by Al Jazeera.

Gharibabadi emphasised that the US cannot be permitted to fight whenever it chooses and then sit at the negotiating table whenever it pleases. He claimed that it was Washington itself that sent messages pleading for an end to the conflict, contradicting Trump’s assertion that Iran had asked the US to pause strikes.

Trump had earlier stated that the US halted recent military operations against Iran after Tehran requested a ceasefire, warning that attacks could resume if no new agreement is reached. Gharibabadi rejected this narrative, insisting that Iran will not allow America to pick and choose between war and diplomacy.

He reiterated Iran’s refusal to recognise alternative southern shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. He maintained that mine removal operations must remain exclusively under Tehran’s control, reinforcing Iran’s claim of sovereignty over the strategic waterway.

The deputy minister adopted a hardline stance against foreign naval forces. In remarks highlighted by Press TV, he warned that any European naval vessel approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be considered a legitimate target. His comments came amid reports that some European countries may join US efforts to reopen Hormuz, five months after it came under Iranian control following a US‑Israeli war of aggression.

Gharibabadi stressed that Iran’s fixed policy is that the Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre‑war state. He noted that Tehran has discovered a new defensive capability by securing control over the corridor. He argued that if the strait were to revert to its pre‑war status, Iran’s success in the conflict would not be complete.

Defending earlier actions to block ships sailing through a southern corridor near Oman, he declared that Iran is not concerned about any adversarial action, including the resumption of war. He insisted that Iran seeks to consolidate its sovereignty over the strait and has upgraded its defensive tools to ensure this outcome.

He concluded by stressing that the corridor is an essential component of national defence. He warned that the international community must understand that Iran cannot, under any circumstances, abandon these capacities. His remarks underline Tehran’s determination to maintain control over the strait as a symbol of its strategic victory.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) highlighted the scale of its ongoing military operations to secure maritime trade routes. CENTCOM reported that more than 20 US Navy warships are currently operating across the Middle East, enforcing America’s steel wall blockade against Iran.

As of 28 July, CENTCOM confirmed that it had redirected 18 commercial vessels, disabled two, and boarded two to ensure full compliance with its enforcement measures. These operations reflect Washington’s determination to maintain pressure on Tehran despite its refusal to negotiate.

The confrontation over the Strait of Hormuz has become a defining feature of the broader conflict. Iran’s insistence on sovereignty and its threats against foreign naval forces signal a dangerous escalation, while US military operations continue to intensify.

The situation remains volatile, with both sides entrenched in their positions and regional stability under severe strain.

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Iran’s ‘Surprise’ Strike Against US Forces Stopped Cold: US CENTCOM Claims 100% Intercepts

Iran’s attempted surprise attack with ballistic missiles against US forces in the Middle East was thwarted after all projectiles were intercepted by American air defence systems, according to the US Central Command.

The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from Gulf states and renewed warnings from President Donald Trump of further military action against Tehran.

CENTCOM confirmed that at 5:45 p.m. ET on Tuesday, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in what was described as an attempted surprise strike on US forces stationed in the Middle East.

All incoming missiles were successfully intercepted, with no reported casualties or damage. CENTCOM emphasised that US forces remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness.

Axios reported that the missiles were aimed at a US military base in Jordan, marking Iran’s first direct attack on an American installation in the region since Trump halted strikes against Tehran last Friday to allow space for diplomatic resolutions. The timing of the attack underscored the fragility of ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions.

Governments across the Gulf swiftly denounced the strikes. Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued its strongest condemnation, calling the attack a flagrant violation of Jordan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as a direct threat to regional security and stability. In its statement, Kuwait affirmed full solidarity with Jordan and pledged support for all measures taken to protect its security and the safety of its people.

Qatar also condemned the strikes, describing them as repeated hostile actions that violated Jordan’s sovereignty and threatened its stability. The Qatari Foreign Ministry underscored its solidarity with Jordan and expressed backing for all security measures adopted by the Jordanian leadership to defend the country against further aggression.

The attack came only hours after US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House for high-level talks focused heavily on Iran. The meeting highlighted the strategic coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv in countering Tehran’s regional activities.

Earlier in the day, Trump warned that the United States could resume military operations against Iran if diplomatic efforts fail. Speaking to Fox News, he said that if Tehran refuses to agree to a deal, the US could target key infrastructure such as bridges and power plants. He stressed that such strikes would cripple Iran’s ability to rebuild, noting that it would take many years for the country to recover from sustained attacks.

Trump’s remarks reinforced Washington’s position that while diplomacy remains the preferred path, military options are firmly on the table should Iran continue its hostile actions. His warning followed weeks of escalating tensions, with repeated exchanges of strikes between US and Iranian forces across the region.

The interception of Iran’s missiles prevented casualties and damage, but the incident highlighted the volatility of the situation. With Gulf states rallying behind Jordan and the US signalling readiness to escalate, the confrontation risks widening into a broader regional conflict. The episode also underscores the strategic importance of Jordan as a frontline state in the US military posture against Iran.

ANI

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Iran Issues Stern Warning To Block Vessels Over US Use of Frozen Assets

Iran has issued a stern warning that it will block the passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz if companies or countries act on United States plans to use its frozen assets to compensate for damages linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

The statement was delivered by the spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters and carried by state broadcaster IRIB.

The spokesperson accused Washington of attempting to exploit Iran’s frozen funds to pay for vessels damaged during what Tehran described as the “imposed war” against the Islamic Republic.

The statement emphasised that damages caused to ships during the conflict, which Iran blames on US military actions and the violation of what it calls an illegal and unsafe route south of the Strait of Hormuz, would be covered by Iranian assets held abroad.

Iran warned that if any country or company accepted this plan and used Iranian funds under this title, its armed forces would prevent their vessels from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The spokesperson directly cautioned US President Donald Trump about the consequences of what Tehran considers an unlawful move, declaring that Iran’s military would enforce restrictions on passage for those who comply with the American proposal.

This warning follows Trump’s recent post on Truth Social, where he announced that any future damages to ships, cargo, or related maritime assets would be paid for using Iranian money controlled by the United States. He acknowledged that such damages could be “very substantial” but insisted that the measure was “the fair and equitable thing to do.”

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has already condemned Trump’s plan, labelling it an “incendiary precedent.” In a post on X, Araghchi argued that confiscating another nation’s assets to settle unrelated claims would undermine international norms and destabilise the global order.

He warned that once governments normalise such confiscation, no nation’s assets would remain safe, and the resulting chaos would be neither peaceful nor manageable.

The dispute over frozen Iranian assets has become a central issue in the escalating maritime tensions. Tehran has long demanded the release of these funds, estimated by analysts to be worth between $124 billion and $167 billion, as part of negotiations with Washington.

The collapse of earlier agreements has left the matter unresolved, and the latest US move has triggered sharp backlash from Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, with a significant portion of global oil trade passing through its waters. Iran’s threat to block vessels raises the stakes in an already volatile region, where tit-for-tat strikes, rebel attacks, and competing maritime security initiatives have created a precarious environment for international shipping and energy flows.

ANI

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Trump And PM Netanyahu Hold Productive White House Talks On Iran And Security Partnership

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held talks in the White House on Tuesday, which both sides described as “productive.” The meeting took place during Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, where he also coordinated with senior US officials.

US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt posted on X that Trump’s consecutive meetings with Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were “positive and productive.” She confirmed that both discussions concluded successfully in the Oval Office.

Netanyahu hailed his meeting with Trump as one of the finest partnerships of his tenure. He emphasised that the talks centred on preventing a nuclear Iran and securing Israel’s future. In a video message shared on Instagram, he described the discussions as far more than routine diplomacy, highlighting a profound alignment between the two administrations and their national security teams.

He said the conversation was marked by full partnership, mutual support, and a shared goal of ensuring Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. Netanyahu called it “one of the best conversations I have ever had with a President of the United States, our friend Donald Trump.” He added that the talks allowed both sides to exchange ideas and tightly coordinate critical security measures.

Although the meeting was closed to the press, Netanyahu’s office released images from the Oval Office showing him and Trump smiling side by side. Other photographs revealed the presence of US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Israeli ambassador Yechiel Leiter, and Netanyahu’s national security adviser Shmuel Ben Ezra.

Additional visuals showed Netanyahu and his team preparing for the meeting at the White House. These images underscored the high-level nature of the engagement and the involvement of senior officials from both governments.

Trump, in an interview with Fox News, dismissed reports that Netanyahu intended to share intelligence about Iran’s nuclear program.

He insisted that the US was already monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities. “I don’t need Bibi to tell me that. Bibi is telling me that because he wants me to stay involved,” Trump said. He added, “I heard Bibi announce that. I said, ‘Why didn’t you just tell it me, why do you have to announce it to the world?’”

Referring to the Pickaxe Mountain site, believed to be linked to Iran’s nuclear activities, Trump said, “I know exactly what is going on at Pickaxe Mountain. It’s not a big problem.” He further stated, “We took out their nuclear sites, and we’ll have to take out Pickaxe Mountain if they don’t make a deal.”

The meeting comes amid renewed escalation in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The collapse of a ceasefire established under a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Washington and Tehran has reignited tensions. Israel had opposed the accord from the outset, and its military actions in Lebanon repeatedly hindered regional diplomatic initiatives.

The talks between Trump and Netanyahu therefore carried significant weight, as both leaders sought to reinforce their partnership while addressing the challenges posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the broader instability in the Middle East.

ANI

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