Holy city and political hub of central Iraq
President Donald Trump has declared the interim ceasefire with Iran over at a NATO summit after fresh Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. has carried out new strikes on Iranian targets, revoked a temporary oil waiver for Tehran and sent oil prices sharply higher, while mediators are racing to salvage talks.
Multiple outlets have reported that Israel has established covert military sites in Iraq's western desert to support air operations against Iran. Reports say the installations have hosted special forces, logistics and search-and-rescue teams; Iraqi patrols investigating were struck in early March, killing one soldier and injuring others.
A passenger bus crashed and burst into flames in Thi Qar province, southern Iraq, killing 21 and injuring 20. Officials say poor road conditions and a shortage of ambulances contributed to the death toll. Iranian nationals are among the dead; several bodies burned beyond recognition.
Authorities have mobilised for a three-day state funeral for Ali Khamenei, with millions expected to attend. Tehran lies in a hush as shops close and airspace tightens. The funeral will travel to Najaf, Karbala and Mashhad, with a Saudi-led war context looming over the proceedings.
Iran is coordinating a multi-city funeral for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Mojtaba Khamenei absent from public view. State media show three sons near the coffins as crowds gather, while officials plan mass processions to Qom, Najaf, Karbala and Mashhad amid a fragile ceasefire and renewed tensions with the US and Israel.
Iran has staged a multi-city funeral for Ali Khamenei, with vast crowds and renewed calls for justice. The events highlight Iran’s messaging of resilience amid ongoing US-Israel war and a ceaseless quest for retaliation.