Latest news with #SupremeDefenseCouncil
Time of India
03-08-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Khamenei's Big WAR Move: Tehran Activates Supreme War Council, Army Chief Thunders Missiles Power
Iran activates a new "Supreme Defense Council" as part of significant structural changes within the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) days after it fought war with Israel. President Masoud Pezeshkian will chair a newly revived defense council, a top-tier military body that has not operated in any meaningful way since the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s. Meanwhile, the Iranian army chief, Major General Amir Hatami, on August 3 said that threats from Israel still persist. Watch this video to know more. Read More
Kuwait Times
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Amir chairs Supreme Defense Council
Kuwait welcomes truce • UK sends letter of support • Food supplies abundant KUWAIT: HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the Supreme Defense Council that discussed regional developments and the latest events in the area, following a ceasefire between Iran and the Zionist entity. During the meeting, HH the Amir was briefed on efforts exerted by various authorities in the country and the coordination between them to face any emergency. HH the Amir also provided the council members with directives to take all necessary measures and precautions to preserve national security and stability. HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, along with senior ministers and defense officials, attended the meeting. Kuwait welcomes US President Donald Trump's announcement of the ceasefire between Iran and the Zionist entity, the foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday, applauding the United States' and Qatar's efforts that led to the agreement. This announcement is a first step towards de-escalation and restoring security and stability in the region, the ministry said, expressing hope that it would reflect positively on efforts to stop the Zionist aggression on the occupied Palestinian territories. Kuwait reiterates its strong support for dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional and international conflicts, the ministry concluded. During the past two days, the defense council held meetings under the chairmanship of HH the Crown Prince and HH the Prime Minister. Authorities in Kuwait have stepped up emergency measures at all levels during the armed hostilities to ensure the security and protection of the country. Specialized centers have been closely monitoring radiation and pollution levels following Zionist and US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear plants. HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad received on Tuesday a letter from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In the letter, the UK prime minister stressed his country's support to the Kuwait in light of the current regional circumstances, affirming the need to reach a final solution to end the ongoing conflict for the sake of the region's stability. HH the Prime Minister commended this gesture, expressing his appreciation for the role played by the UK. Meanwhile, the civil aviation authority reopened Kuwait's airspace late Monday night following a brief closure after Iran fired ballistic missiles on a US airbase in Qatar. National carrier Kuwait Airways announced on Tuesday it has resumed its regular flight schedule after the ceasefire following a change in some flights during the fighting that lasted 12 days. KAC had made some changes to flights to Jordan and Lebanon during the confrontation. Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ajeel, along with Minister of Social Affairs and Minister of Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah, inspected the central operations room of the ministry's control sector. This room is directly linked to the interior ministry through a live monitoring system, enhancing the ministry's ability to promptly and effectively monitor and follow up on market activity. Al-Ajeel stressed that maintaining market stability is a national responsibility that requires concerted efforts from all relevant entities. He affirmed that the ministry continues its around-the-clock efforts through its inspection teams, which are intensifying their field visits to ensure that suppliers and commercial outlets comply with laws and regulations, in order to preserve market stability and protect consumer rights. During the visit, the two ministers were briefed on the operations inside the room and the reports submitted by field teams. Al-Ajeel emphasized the importance of continuous readiness and full coordination with relevant authorities to ensure the availability of goods and to monitor the movement of food markets and other related sectors. He noted that the ministry of social affairs has been requested to instruct cooperative societies to cooperate and coordinate with the central operations room. This collaboration would support inspection efforts and facilitate market monitoring and the flow of goods, while maintaining each party's responsibilities within a framework of institutional coordination. Al-Ajeel reassured citizens that essential goods are available and that the strategic stock remains stable, confirming that the situation is under control according to approved plans and that markets are well-supplied to meet consumer needs.
Arab Times
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait Cabinet discusses national security, regional developments, and legal reforms
KUWAIT CITY, June 25: The Council of Ministers held its weekly meeting on Tuesday afternoon at Bayan Palace, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Following the session, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sherida Abdullah Al-Muasherji issued a detailed statement on the outcomes of the meeting. At the outset, the Cabinet was briefed on a Supreme Defense Council meeting held earlier in the day, presided over by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The meeting was attended by His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and the Prime Minister. His Highness the Amir reviewed the latest regional developments and was updated on the efforts and preparedness of Kuwait's security and emergency agencies to respond to any potential threats. The Cabinet praised the Amir's guidance to the Supreme Defense Council members, urging all necessary measures to preserve Kuwait's security and stability. With deep concern, the Cabinet addressed rising regional tensions, condemning in the strongest terms the recent attack on Al-Udeid Air Base in the State of Qatar. The attack was described as a blatant violation of Qatari sovereignty and a breach of international law and the UN Charter. The Cabinet reaffirmed Kuwait's full support for Qatar and its right to take all necessary steps to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and stability. Kuwait also expressed its readiness to extend all available support to the Qatari government and people. Furthermore, the Cabinet reiterated Kuwait's firm stance against military escalation and emphasized the need for peaceful resolutions and diplomatic dialogue to maintain regional stability. In this context, the Cabinet welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire by the United States and praised President Donald Trump's efforts to de-escalate tensions through phased diplomatic engagement. The Cabinet also listened to a briefing from Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, Chair of the current session of the GCC Ministerial Council, on the 49th extraordinary meeting of GCC Foreign Ministers held in Doha. The meeting focused on expressing solidarity with Qatar in light of the recent events. Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdullatif Hamed Al-Mishari presented a visual report on the current conditions in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area and proposed solutions to improve services and infrastructure. In a related initiative, Minister Al-Mishari announced the launch of a new electronic service aimed at facilitating housing-related transactions for elderly citizens and people with severe disabilities. The service, accessible via video communication through the unified government app 'Sahel,' is a significant step in Kuwait's digital transformation in public services. Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment Noura Sulaiman Al-Fassam briefed the Cabinet on the coordination efforts led by the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) concerning the investment portfolios of the General Secretariat of Endowments, the General Authority for Minors' Affairs, and the Zakat House. The KIA is working in collaboration with the Fatwa and Legislation Department to oversee the transfer and management of these financial and real estate assets. The Cabinet reviewed the report of the Ministerial Committee for Legal Affairs and approved several legal measures, including: A draft decree-law to cancel Article (29 bis) of Law No. 47 of 1993 related to housing care, commonly known as the 'who sold his house' law.n A draft decree-law on international judicial cooperation in criminal matters, aiming to regulate extradition, judicial assistance, and the transfer of convicts. The draft law underscores Kuwait's leadership in combating cross-border crime and fulfilling its international obligations. Both drafts are to be submitted to His Highness the Amir for final approval.n The Cabinet also approved the minutes of the Higher Committee for the Investigation of Kuwaiti Nationality, which included decisions related to the withdrawal and loss of Kuwaiti nationality in accordance with Decree-Law No. 15 of 1959 and its amendments. Several other agenda items were reviewed and either approved or referred to specialized ministerial committees for further study and procedural completion.
Arab Times
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
KUWAIT AMIR PRESIDES OVER DEFENSE COUNCIL
KUWAIT CITY, June 24: His Highness the Amir and Supreme Commander of Kuwait Armed Forces Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on Tuesday presided over the meeting of the Supreme Defense Council in the presence of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to follow up the latest regional developments. During the meeting, His Highness the Amir was briefed on all the efforts exerted by the concerned authorities in the country, their coordination, the extent of their readiness, and the high level of preparedness among various sectors to deal with any emergency. His Highness instructed all concerned parties to take the necessary measures and precautions to maintain national security and stability. In a related development, His Highness the Amir on Monday evening called Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in the aftermath of the missile attack launched by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Al-Udeid air base. During the telephone call, His Highness the Amir voiced Kuwait's emphatic denunciation of this aggression; as it is a clear breach of the sovereignty and airspace of Qatar, as well as the international law and the United Nations Charter. His Highness reiterated that the State of Kuwait totally stands side by side the Qatari leadership, government and people; and fully supports all measures and decisions the latter is taking to safeguard its sovereignty, security and stability. He also affirmed that Kuwait is ready to use its capabilities and resources to support the State of Qatar, stressing that Qatar's security and stability are an integral part of Kuwait's security and stability. Meanwhile, the Amir of Qatar expressed deep gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir; wishing His Highness good health and the State of Kuwait and its people progress and development. Moreover, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah on Monday chaired the meeting of the Supreme Defense Council at Bayan Palace, with His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah in attendance. The council condemned the attack on Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar; describing it as a blatant violation of Qatari sovereignty and airspace, in addition to the international law and the UN Charter. It also reviewed the major efforts that Kuwait exerted in various sectors to deal with potential emergencies, stressing that the country is fully prepared for emergencies and there is a high level of coordination among the relevant authorities. The Civil Defense Committee also held a meeting on Monday, chaired by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, to enhance preparedness in view of the recent regional developments. In a press statement, the committee revealed that the meeting took place at the Crisis and Disaster Management Center in Nawaf Al-Ahmad Building. Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior Major General Ali Al-Adwani and 32 representatives of various government institutions attended the meeting. During the meeting, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef stressed the need to 'maintain maximum level of readiness and work in a spirit of unity, as the current phase requires collective national efforts and enhanced field and information coordination among all relevant entities.' They discussed the operational mechanisms of specialized field evacuation and shelter teams, emphasizing the importance of strengthening effective communication among concerned authorities. They stressed the need to unify efforts within an integrated system that ensures swift response and the highest level of coordination in crisis and emergency management. They also underscored the need to activate early warning systems and unified control centers to expedite decisionmaking and resource allocation in order to reinforce national readiness and achieve the highest standards of safety and stability. The committee stated that Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef called on all participating bodies to 'continue conducting joint exercises, updating databases, and intensifying qualification and training programs in line with the best international practices in crisis management.' Furthermore, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya said on Monday evening that the State of Kuwait absolutely stands with Qatar, its leadership, government and people in facing threats to its security and stability. In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Yahya disclosed that he contacted Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad bin Abdulrahman to express Kuwait's official and public support for everything that will safeguard the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Qatar. He added that the State of Kuwait, as per the directive of the political leadership, puts all its capabilities and resources at the disposal of Qatar out of belief in the 'same destiny and coherence of the Gulf house.' He also confirmed the commitment to maintain regional stability and safeguard its assets. He asserted that Qatar's security is an integral part of Kuwait's security, indicating that such times require a further consolidation of bonds of cooperation and solidarity in dealing with common challenges. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement on Sunday strongly condemning the attacks on Al-Udeid air base in Qatar. The ministry described the attacks as a serious escalation that undermines regional peace, security and stability. It emphasized that the State of Kuwait stands with Qatar's leadership, government and people and backs all measures it is taking to safeguard its sovereignty, security and stability; including its right to direct response in a way that aligns with this blatant aggression. It added that Kuwait is ready to harness all its potential and capabilities to support Qatar, while reiterating that Qatar's security and stability is an integral part of Kuwait's security and stability. While commending the Qatari defense systems' interception of this missile attack, the ministry reiterated Kuwait's call for halting regional military operations and conflict spillover due to the Israeli occupation attacks. It also underscored the necessity of unifying efforts and promoting regional and international coordination to settle mattes in a diplomatic manner. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced on Monday the temporary closure of the country's airspace, as a precautionary measure to ensure its security and safety, in light of similar precautionary steps taken by several neighboring countries. In a statement, the DGCA pointed out 'the relevant authorities affirm that this decision is part of efforts to maintain the highest levels of safety and security amid recent regional developments.' It confirmed that it is fully coordinating with the competent authorities locally and internationally to monitor developments and take all necessary measures. It then urged travelers and airlines to closely monitor official updates and to cooperate with the relevant authorities in implementing this decision. The DGCA announced later that air traffic at Kuwait International Airport has returned to normal, following the stabilization of the airspace surrounding the country. According to data from Flight Radar, 15 flights were diverted to neighboring airports, most of which were to Jeddah and Cairo airports, before flights resumed normal operations at the end of the temporary suspension period. The directorate explained that the temporary closure, which lasted for approximately two hours, led to the delay and cancellation of a number of flights. These flights were rescheduled to depart at later times or return to Kuwait International Airport. It stated that the decisions taken affirm its commitment to ensure the highest standards of safety and security in Kuwaiti airspace, and are based on careful assessments conducted by specialized teams in cooperation with relevant local and international authorities. It praised the passengers and airlines for their understanding and cooperation during the past period, stressing that the safety of everyone and the State of Kuwait was and remains a top priority and will not be compromised. On the other hand, the Kuwaiti Army General Staff denied rumors spread on some social media platforms regarding a missile attack on a military airbase, affirming that 'Kuwait's sovereignty remains safe from any violation or attack'. In a press statement, the Army General Staff urged everyone to obtain news from credible and official sources, and to refrain from believing or spreading misinformation on social media. On the other hand, the Ministry of Social Affairs confirmed the stability of the strategic stock of basic food commodities in cooperative societies throughout the country, stressing that there is no cause for concern amid the current regional situation. In a press release, the ministry stated that cooperative societies continue to operate regularly and all commodities are available in sufficient quantities. It affirmed that strategic and alternative plans are in place to ensure stability of the local market and availability of commodities under various circumstances. It highlighted ongoing monitoring and coordination with relevant authorities to meet the needs of citizens and residents. The Ministry of Health reassured the public that the healthcare system and its staff are fully prepared, based on well-studied rapid response plans to ensure everyone's safety, in full cooperation and coordination with the relevant official institutions. The Ministry of Information emphasized the importance of local media outlets in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and credibility. In a statement issued Monday evening, the ministry stressed the need for accuracy in reporting and broadcasting news. It urged all media institutions to refrain from spreading rumors or publishing unreliable information, warning of the negative impact such actions could have on societal security. Kuwait General Administration of Customs (KGAC) confirmed its full readiness 24/7 at all customs locations at full capacity. The administration explained that the documentation departments are working in complete coordination to ensure the smooth flow of goods and passengers, and enhance security and inspection procedures to preserve Kuwait's security and facilitate trade and transportation. Elsewhere, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed a ceasefire between Iran and Israel was 'in effect' on Tuesday, after expressing deep frustration with both sides and accusing them of violating the agreement he brokered. Israel earlier accused Iran of launching missiles into its airspace after the truce was supposed to take effect. The Iranian military denied firing on Israel, state media reported. Trump expressed anger and frustration as he told reporters at the White House that both Israel, a close ally, and Iran had violated the ceasefire plan. But later he said the deal was saved, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said he held off on tougher strikes against Iran after speaking to Trump. 'Following President Trump's conversation with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel refrained from additional attacks,' Netanyahu's office says. Trump told reporters at the White House before departing for a NATO summit that, in his view, both sides had violated the nascent agreement. He had particularly strong words for Israel, a close ally, while suggesting Iran may have fired on the country by mistake. But later he said the deal was saved. 'ISRAEL is not going to attack Iran. All planes will turn around and head home, while doing a friendly 'Plane Wave' to Iran. Nobody will be hurt, the Ceasefire is in effect!' Trump said in his Truth Social post. Indeed, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said he held off on tougher strikes against Iran after speaking to Trump. The conflict, now in its 12th day, began with Israel targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites, saying it could not allow Tehran to develop atomic weapons and that it feared the Islamic Republic was close. Iran has long maintained that its program is peaceful. Many worried the war might widen after the U.S. joined the attacks by dropping bunker-buster bombs over the weekend and Israel expanded the kinds of targets it was hitting. But after Tehran launched a limited retaliatory strike on a U.S. military base in Qatar on Monday, Trump announced the ceasefire.
Arab Times
22-06-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
AMIR HOLDS CRISIS TALKS WITH SAUDI CROWN PRINCE, UAE LEADER
KUWAIT CITY, June 22: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on Sunday received a phone call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud. During the telephone call, they touched on the solid ties between the two countries and the latest developments in the Middle East; particularly the ongoing conflict between Iran and the usurping Israeli entity. His Highness the Amir also received a phone call from President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al-Nahyan on the same day. The two sides reviewed the brotherly relations between the two countries; and discussed the latest developments in the Middle East, the conflict between Iran and Israel, and the regional and international developments. On the other hand, His Highness the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Supreme Defense Council Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on Sunday presided over the meeting of the Supreme Defense Council at Seif Palace, during which they tackled the most recent regional developments. The council members followed the coordination by authorities to ensure swift action and enhance their level of preparedness. The council decided to be in session to follow up the regional developments. Meanwhile, as part of the State of Kuwait's commitment to guarantee the safety of its citizens abroad and their safe return to the homeland, the second batch of flights arrived Sunday to evacuate Kuwaiti citizens from Iran. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is implementing this evacuation plan through the Republic of Turkmenistan in coordination with the concerned authorities. The concerned authorities are working round the clock to complete the evacuation phases and provide all the necessary facilities to the evacuees, in accordance with the directives of the political leadership and the ongoing commitment to ensure the safety of citizens abroad and their safe return to the country. In addition, Kuwait expressed its deep concern over the latest developments in Iran, specifically the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Kuwait's position as outlined in its statement issued on June 13, 2025; condemning the aggression against the sovereignty of Iran and the violation of international laws and conventions. It also urged the international community and the United Nations Security Council to assume their responsibilities toward halting these violations in order to maintain security and stability in the region. The ministry called for immediate halt to all forms of escalation and all military actions, and for resorting to dialogue, as well as intensifying efforts aimed at finding political solutions that can ensure regional security and stability. Kuwait National Guard (KNG) announced on Sunday that radiation levels in the air and water throughout the country remain stable, confirming that the situation is 'normal.' In a press statement, the Moral Guidance Directorate at KNG said the Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Center for Chemical Defense and Radiation Monitoring carries out accurate and continuous radiation level readings through its monitoring networks, installed in various parts of the country. Earlier, the US launched military strikes on the nuclear facilities in Iran with President Donald Trump deeming the operation as 'successful'. Vice Chief of Staff of the Kuwaiti Army Air Vice Marshal Sheikh Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah conducted a field visit at the Amiri Guard on Sunday to personally look into the level of readiness at the Army, and ensure combative ability and bolster State security. Major General Bader Al-Sahloul and Amiri Guard Commander Major General Adel Al-Kandari welcomed Sheikh Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah during the visit. He was briefed on readiness levels and the duties of Amiri Guard units, and was taken to a number of sites to look into the latest security and preventative measures. He commended the discipline and efforts of Amiri guard personnel in performing their duties. Furthermore, Abdally border has received more than 39,000 people since Saturday -- easing their entry and departure to their countries through Kuwait, as per the directive of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah to facilitate the passage of travelers stranded in Iran due to the regional developments. Director of the border Colonel Waleed Al-Azmi confirmed that Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef issued instructions to facilitate entry and departure procedures through the border for all Kuwaiti travelers, citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, members of diplomatic missions and embassy staff. Al-Azmi disclosed in an interview with Al-Akhbar Channel that some humanitarian exceptions have been made at the border, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to overcome all difficulties for the entry of certain nationalities. He said these exceptions include granting them a seven-day transit visa to pass through the border to Kuwait International Airport and then travel to their home countries. 'This is in addition to travelers who entered the country through the airport and then crossed through Abdally border,' he stated. He added that, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, comprehensive medical services have been provided at the border; indicating ambulances are available round the clock and a doctor is on duty to examine patients arriving at the border. 'This is part of the government's emergency plan under the current circumstances. Some patients have been transferred to hospitals,' he revealed. In light of the rumors and misinformation circulating on unofficial social media, he urged the public to obtain information from official and reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information. Also, in a press statement Sunday, the Ministry of Finance confirmed the activation of its emergency plan to ensure financial service continuity with high efficiency and to maintain government performance under all circumstances. The ministry indicated that it has taken a number of precautionary measures; such as equipping shelters in the eastern and southern ministries complex with full technical and service capabilities to accommodate about 900 people. These shelters are classified as C4 and are in excellent condition. Storage facilities in the eastern parking lot are also allocated for use when needed. The measures include activating the financial systems (Oracle and GFMIS) using alternative devices, while enabling remote work in a secure electronic environment through specialized protection programs. In addition, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jassem Mohammad Al-Budaiwi stressed that targeting Iranian nuclear facilities by the US will escalate tensions and affect the security and stability in the region. He said the GCC affirmed the contents of the statement issued at the 48th Extraordinary Ministerial Meeting of the GCC Ministerial Council regarding developments in the region, and the GCC's condemnation of everything that threatens the security and stability of the region. He also underscored the need for an immediate ceasefire, for all parties to exert joint efforts to de-escalate tensions, adopt diplomacy as an effective means of resolving conflicts, and exercise the highest level of self-restraint to spare the region and its people the dangers of war. Elsewhere, Bahrain activated on Sunday a remote working policy for 70 percent of employees in ministries and government entities, citing regional tensions. The decision excludes sectors where physical presence is essential or which have specific procedures in place for emergencies, as reported by the Bahrain News Agency. The policy will be implemented in line with public safety requirements until further notice. Meanwhile, Bahrain's Interior Ministry urged the public on social media platform X to use main roads only when necessary, so as to maintain public safety and allow the relevant authorities to use the roads efficiently. Additionally, the Bahraini Education Ministry activated digital platforms for educational activities as a precautionary measure under an approved plan for all educational institutions. in oil prices as a result of the dependence of most countries -- including Europe -- on Gulf oil. He cited as evidence the role of Saudi Arabia in the 1973 War when King Faisal made his historic decision to ban the export of oil in the heat of that war, which led to the cessation of the use of cars in Europe and made the residents of European countries return to riding bicycles. Continued from Page 1 The United States inserted itself into Israel's war against Iran early Sunday by dropping 30,000-pound bombs on an uranium enrichment site buried under a mountain, a risky gambit that aimed to destroy the Islamic Republic's nuclear program after months of failed diplomacy. The attack prompted fears of a wider regional conflict as Iran lashed out at the U.S. for crossing 'a very big red line.' The U.S. also fired dozens of missiles, and President Donald Trump said in a televised address from the White House that the combination of strikes 'completely and fully obliterated' three nuclear sites. However, U.S. defense officials said an assessment of the damage wrought by the attack still was ongoing. Hours later, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the time for diplomacy had passed and that his country had the right to defend itself. Araghchi said he would immediate fly to Moscow to coordinate positions with its ally, Russia. 'The warmongering and lawless administration in Washington is solely and fully responsible for the dangerous consequences and far-reaching implications of its act of aggression,' he told reporters in Turkey in the first comments by a high-ranking Iranian official since the strikes. 'They crossed a very big red line by attacking nuclear facilities.' The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran confirmed that attacks took place on the Fordo and Natanz enrichment facilities as well as its Isfahan nuclear site, but it insisted that its nuclear program will not be stopped. Both Iran and the U.N. nuclear watchdog said there were no immediate signs of radioactive contamination around the three locations following the strikes. Countries around the globe are calling for diplomacy and no further escalation. It was not clear whether the U.S. would continue attacking Iran alongside its ally Israel, which has been engaged in a war with Iran for nine days. But U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the U.S. does not 'seek war' and that the operation would not be 'open-ended,' though Trump earlier warned there would be additional strikes if Tehran retaliated against U.S. forces. 'There will either be peace or there will be tragedy for Iran,' said Trump, who acted without congressional authorization. With the attack, the United States has inserted itself into a war it spent decades trying to avoid because of the dizzyingly high stakes. Success would mean ending Iran's nuclear ambitions once and for all and eliminating the last significant threat to Israel's security. But failure - or overreach - could plunge the U.S. into the vortex of another long and unpredictable conflict in the Middle East. For Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this is the culmination of a decades long campaign to get the U.S. to strike Israel's chief regional rival and its disputed nuclear program. For Iran's supreme leader, the 86-year-old Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, it could mark the end of a similarly ambitious campaign to transform the Islamic Republic into a regional power and counterweight to the West.
