world

US-Israel war on Iran day 15

President Donald Trump announced US strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island, hitting military facilities while sparing oil infrastructure, prompting Iran to threaten US-linked oil targets. Meanwhile, UAE air defences intercepted 7 ballistic missiles and 27 UAVs on March 13, with total engagements since the escalation reaching 285 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,567 UAVs. In the UAE, 10 defendants face expedited trials for sharing misleading or AI-generated videos online, while Abu Dhabi authorities arrested 45 individuals for filming incident sites and spreading false information, part of ongoing efforts to curb misinformation and protect national security. Stay informed with the facts as we navigate these challenging times together:

03:55 PM, 14 March 2026

Iran says US and Israeli strikes damaged about 43,000 residential and commercial units

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said the damaged structures included 36,469 residential units and 6,179 commercial facilities, according to state-run IRNA news agency.

Iran hasn’t provided any information about military losses and damage.

Mohajerani, meanwhile, said the war has taken a heavy toll on women, with 223 women and girls killed and 2,129 others wounded since Feb. 28. She didn’t provide an overall death toll, but previously authorities have said that 1,230 people have been killed.

03:40 PM, 14 March 2026

IndiGo adjusts Middle East flight schedule

IndiGo will operate 252 weekly flights to and from the Middle East from March 16 to March 28 as it cautiously realigns its network in response to the evolving regional situation. The airline plans 126 weekly flights to Saudi Arabia, 28 to Oman, and 98 to the UAE. IndiGo said it will continue monitoring developments, including geopolitical risks, airspace restrictions, airport constraints, and rising fuel and insurance costs, while maintaining essential connectivity and safe operations across the region.

03:13 PM, 14 March 2026

UAE air defenses deal with 9 ballistic missiles and 33 drones

UAE air defenses dealt with 9 ballistic missiles and 33 drones today. Since the start of the brazen Iranian attacks, UAE air defenses have dealt with 294 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1600 drones. These attacks have resulted in 6 deaths of Emirati, Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationalities, and 141 cases of minor and moderate injuries of Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nepalese, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, Indonesian, and Swedish nationalities. The Ministry of Defense affirms that it is on high alert and readiness to deal with any threats and to firmly confront everything that targets undermining the security of the state, in a manner that ensures the preservation of its sovereignty, security, stability, and protects its interests and national capabilities.

02:44 PM, 14 March 2026

02:31 PM, 14 March 2026

Macron urges Israel to hold ‘direct talks’ with Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said Lebanon was ready to engage in “direct talks” with Israel and offered to host negotiations in Paris.

“The Lebanese government has signalled its willingness to engage in direct talks with Israel,” he said on X, adding that “all sections of society must be represented in these talks.”

“France is ready to facilitate these talks by hosting them in Paris,” Macron said, adding he had spoken to the president and prime minister of Lebanon, a former French protectorate.

“Everything must be done to prevent Lebanon from descending into chaos,” Macron added.

“Hezbollah must immediately halt its reckless course. Israel must abandon plans for a large-scale offensive and cease its massive air strikes.”

02:23 PM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain Airport flight operations remain suspended

Bahrain International Airport has confirmed that flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the ongoing closure of Bahraini airspace. Authorities said operations will resume once the airspace reopens safely.

Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for the latest updates before travelling.

02:18 PM, 14 March 2026

UAE warns: Don’t circulate photos or clips from interception sites

The Ministry of Interior has reminded the public not to circulate rumours, photos, or video clips of vital or security sites.

Authorities stressed that promoting national and legal awareness around the prohibition of spreading such content helps maintain security and public safety. They added that security awareness starts with each individual in society, and everyone has a role in protecting the community.

02:09 PM, 14 March 2026

Iranian warship crew partly repatriated from Kochi

India has repatriated more than 100 non-essential crew members of an Iranian naval vessel that docked at Kochi earlier this month, even as the warship continues to remain berthed at the southern port, here amid escalating hostilities between Iran and the United States.

Officials familiar with the development said the sailors were flown out late on Friday night on a Turkish airline flight after India facilitated their departure on humanitarian grounds.

The repatriated sailors were part of the crew of the Iranian naval ship IRIS Lavan, which had docked at Kochi port the same day the naval confrontation unfolded in the Indian Ocean Region.

Sources said the vessel originally had 183 personnel on board, but with the departure of the non-essential crew members, around 50 sailors have remained with the ship for operational and maintenance requirements.

01:43 PM, 14 March 2026

US advises Americans in Qatar to stay vigilant

The US Department of State is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and has issued guidance for American citizens in Qatar. Officials emphasise that safety and security remain the top priority.

Departure options: Limited commercial flights and overland routes to Saudi Arabia are available. The Department is coordinating additional flights for those who complete the crisis intake form.

Shelter in place: Americans who choose to stay should secure themselves in safe locations, stock essential supplies, and stay away from windows. Citizens are urged to avoid protests and demonstrations and follow local authority instructions.

Embassy support: Routine consular services are suspended, but the U.S. Embassy in Doha continues to provide assistance through a 24/7 Task Force. Emergency contact: ACSDoha@state.gov or dial 999 locally.

Safety tips: Enroll in STEP for updates, keep family informed, monitor official guidance, and stay alert to surroundings.

Americans are encouraged to stay informed, follow official channels, and take precautions as the situation evolves.

01:40 PM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain intercepts 124 missiles, 203 drones since Feb 28 attacks

The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force announced that through the unwavering vigilance of its personnel, the BDF’s air defence systems continue to successfully counter successive waves of hostile terrorist Iranian aggression. Since the onset of hostilities, air defences have intercepted and destroyed 121 ballistic missiles and 193 drones targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The General Command expressed its pride in the exceptional combat readiness and vigilance demonstrated by BDF personnel, and commended their sustained operational effectiveness in defending the Kingdom. The performance of Bahrain’s forces continues to inspire confidence that the Kingdom’s skies remain secure.

01:18 PM, 14 March 2026

Iran says museums and historic sites damaged in war

Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism ministry said Saturday at least 56 museums and historic sites across the country have been damaged, as the Middle East war entered its 15th day.

In Tehran, US-Israeli strikes damaged the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace in the early days of the conflict, local media reported.

The palace complex is one of the oldest sites in the Iranian capital and once served as the residence of the Qajar dynasty.

The ministry said Tehran has recorded the highest number of damaged monuments, with 19 suffering varying levels of harm.

The vast Naghsh-e Jahan Square, a 17th-century architectural jewel in the heart of the central Iranian city of Isfahan, has also been damaged.

In the port of Siraf, in Bushehr province, several houses were hit in the historic quarter, home to many century-old buildings.

UNESCO, the UN’s culture agency, said it was concerned about hundreds of historic sites in Iran, Israel and Lebanon that have been damaged or threatened by the war.

12:50 PM, 14 March 2026

Fire breaks out in Fujairah after drone interception, no injuries

Authorities in the Emirate of Fujairah reported that a fire broke out after debris fell following the interception of an unmanned aerial vehicle by air defence systems, confirming that no injuries were recorded.

12:02 PM, 14 March 2026

Dubai Police warn public about AI images and videos

Dubai Police have cautioned that in the age of artificial intelligence, some images and videos circulating online may appear real but are AI-generated.

Authorities urged the public to always verify sources before sharing content, stressing that awareness is the first line of defense against misinformation.

11:58 AM, 14 March 2026

At least 12 medical workers killed in Lebanon strike

An Israeli strike hit a healthcare center in Borj Qalaouiye, southern Lebanon, killing at least 12 medical staff, the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health said Saturday, according to CNN.

Doctors, nurses, and paramedics were among those killed. One healthcare worker was wounded, and rescue efforts are ongoing to locate any missing personnel.

The ministry noted that the strike followed an earlier attack on paramedics in Al Sawana, another town in southern Lebanon.

Authorities have condemned the attacks, highlighting the impact on critical medical services in the region.

11:55 AM, 14 March 2026

South Korea implements temporary fuel price cap

The Republic of Korea has introduced a temporary fuel price cap this week to help ease cost burdens amid supply concerns linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis, officials said.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the government announced the measure during a task force meeting of ministers responsible for managing market prices, as domestic fuel costs continue to fluctuate.

Under the system, the government will set maximum prices for oil products supplied by South Korean refineries to gas stations and distributors, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources.

11:46 AM, 14 March 2026

Six Iranians from same family killed in strike

The airstrike destroyed a residential building early Saturday in the western city of Eyvan, the judiciary’s official news agency Mizan reported, citing local authorities. The dead included a 6-month-old, it said.

11:36 AM, 14 March 2026

Two Indian LPG carriers allowed transit through Strait of Hormuz

Two Indian flagged vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have been granted transit through the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian authorities. One of them is the Shivalik which as per Vessel traffic monitoring site marinetraffic was last reported to be in the Gulf of Oman and expected to reach its destination by March 21.

On Friday, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the maritime situation in the Gulf region and the steps being taken to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels. As per the Ministry, 24 Indian-flagged vessels with 668 Indian seafarers are currently operating in the Arabian Gulf. 76 Indian seafarers remain on three vessels east of the Strait of Hormuz.

11:00 AM, 14 March 2026

NCEMA: Stay away from debris after air interceptions

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) has urged residents to keep a safe distance from any debris or fallen objects resulting from air interceptions and to let authorities assess the situation.

Officials cautioned that some objects may look harmless but can pose serious safety risks. Residents are advised to report locations immediately by calling 999.

NCEMA stressed that following these precautions is essential for public safety and reminded the public that their safety remains a top priority.

10:54 AM, 14 March 2026

Dubai’s Global Village cancels Eid Al Fitr fireworks

Global Village has announced that fireworks displays will not take place during the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holiday.

The organisers said the decision follows government directives issued as part of precautionary safety measures.

Global Village also confirmed that it will remain closed until further notice in line with official guidance.

Visitors are advised to check the official website and social media channels of Global Village for the latest updates, including announcements on reopening.

10:31 AM, 14 March 2026

Airstrike kills two in Baghdad

An airstrike hit a house in Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, early Saturday, killing at least one person, according to a security official and another affiliated with the Iranian-backed armed groups in the country.

The strike in Baghdad’s Karrada district also wounded two people, they said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorised to speak to the press.

In a statement, the Iraqi military condemned the strike as “a blatant violation of all humanitarian values and a disregard for international conventions.”

The strike happened before a missile attack hit the US Embassy compound in Baghdad.

10:20 AM, 14 March 2026

Israeli strike hits north Beirut suburb

An Israeli strike hit an apartment building in a northern Beirut suburb that had also been targeted a day earlier, Lebanese media reported on Saturday.

An AFP correspondent saw rescue workers at the scene and damage, including a hole, in a building in the Nabaa-Burj Hammoud area, outside Iran-backed Hezbollah’s strongholds in the capital’s southern suburbs.

The same building had been struck on Friday without causing casualties.

10:07 AM, 14 March 2026

No oil infrastructure damage at Kharg: Iranian media

No oil infrastructure was damaged in US strikes on Kharg Island, Iranian media reported on Saturday.

Fars news agency, citing sources on the ground, reported there had been no damage to oil facilities after President Donald Trump said US bombardment of the island had destroyed military targets.

Trump had threatened in a social media post to target oil infrastructure on the island, a crucial hub for Iran, if Tehran continued to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

According to Fars, the US operation “tried to damage the army’s defences, the Joshan naval base, the airport control tower and the helicopter hangar of the Iran Continental Shelf Oil Company.”

Kharg Island, a scrubby stretch of land in the northern Gulf around 30 kilometres (19 miles) off the Iranian mainland, handles roughly 90 percent of Iran’s crude exports.

09:59 AM, 14 March 2026

Hamas urges Iran to stop ‘targeting neighbouring’ countries

Hamas on Saturday called on Iran to refrain from targeting neighbouring countries, while affirming Tehran’s right to defend itself against Israel and the United States.

“While affirming the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to respond to this aggression by all available means in accordance with international norms and laws, the movement calls on the brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries,” Hamas said in a statement.

09:48 AM, 14 March 2026

Kuwait commerce ministry reports 36 violations

Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry said emergency teams in Farwaniya and Al-Ahmadi governorates conducted field inspections of commercial shops on Friday, recording 36 violations, according to KUNA.

Violations included:

Selling goods above approved prices
Failing to comply with price-fixing decisions on food items
Missing pricing or promotional information
Not issuing invoices
Failing to specify the country of origin

A separate notice was issued for mismatches between actual commercial activities and licensed activities. Legal action is being taken against violators. The ministry affirmed it will continue inspection campaigns to control prices and ensure compliance with market regulations.

09:46 AM, 14 March 2026

Saudi Arabia intercepts multiple drones across regions

The Ministry of Defense confirmed a series of drone interceptions across the country, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Over the past few hours, drones were intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Region, Al Jouf Region, and the Empty Quarter. In total, five drones were neutralised in the Eastern Region alone.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to maintaining national security and urged the public to follow official safety instructions.

09:42 AM, 14 March 2026

Kuwait air defences shoot down hostile drone

The Kuwait National Guard (KNG) confirmed that its Army Duty Force shot down a hostile UAV on Saturday morning in areas under its jurisdiction, according to spokesman Brig. Jadaan Fadhel.

The move is part of ongoing efforts by the Kuwaiti Armed Forces to protect national security and safeguard vital sites against external threats. Brig. Jadaan emphasised that the KNG maintain the highest levels of preparedness to defend the country’s security and stability.

“The KNG are always ready to sacrifice themselves for the homeland and stand united to protect national security under our wise leadership,” he said.

Brig. Jadaan also urged the public to follow safety instructions issued by competent authorities and cooperate with military and police forces to maintain national stability.

09:39 AM, 14 March 2026

Evacuation alert in Qatar affects only notified residents

The Ministry of Interior clarified that the precautionary evacuation affects only residents in specified areas who received alerts through the National Alert System, according to the Qatar News Agency.

Safe alternative accommodations have been arranged, while some residents have chosen to relocate independently. Those affected can call 40442999 for assistance or enquiries.

The Ministry urged the public to follow official updates and comply with instructions from the competent authorities.

Earlier, the ministry has announced temporary precautionary evacuation measures in specified areas to ensure public safety.

The measure is being carried out by the concerned authorities as a temporary precaution aimed at safeguarding citizens and residents until the threat subsides.

09:37 AM, 14 March 2026

Qatar intercepts missile targeting the country

The Ministry of Defence confirmed the successful interception of a missile aimed at Qatar, according to the Qatar News Agency.

The Ministry of Interior has urged residents to stay clear of any unidentified objects or debris, avoid touching them, and report sightings immediately by calling 999 to ensure public safety.

09:34 AM, 14 March 2026

Israel tells residents in parts of Iran’s Tabriz to leave

The Israeli army told people in an industrial zone in the west of Iran’s northern city of Tabriz to leave ahead of military operations on Saturday.

“Urgent warning to all people located in the industrial area west of Tabriz,” the Israeli military posted on X, adding it would “continue to operate in the area in the coming hours”.

Internet shutdowns in Iran since US-Israeli strikes late last month triggered a war in the Middle East meant that residents were unlikely to be able to access online evacuation warnings.

08:25 AM, 14 March 2026

Trump says Iran ‘totally defeated’, ‘wants a deal’ he won’t accept

US President Donald Trump said Friday that Iran has been “totally defeated” in the US-Israeli military campaign against the country and wanted a deal he would not accept, despite Iranian officials pledging to continue the fight.

“The Fake News Media hates to report how well the United States Military has done against Iran, which is totally defeated and wants a deal – But not a deal that I would accept!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, without elaborating.

07:47 AM, 14 March 2026

Missile strikes helipad inside US Embassy compound in Iraq

A missile struck a helipad inside the US Embassy compound in Baghdad, two Iraqi security officials said.

There was no immediate comment from the US Embassy in Baghdad. On Friday, the embassy renewed its Level 4 security alert for Iraq, warning that Iran has previously carried out attacks against US citizens, interests and infrastructure, and “may continue to target them.”

The sprawling embassy complex, one of the largest US diplomatic facilities in the world, has been repeatedly targeted by rockets and drones in the past.

07:36 AM, 14 March 2026

Lebanon says Israeli strike in south kills 12 medics

An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed a dozen medical staff at a clinic, Lebanese health authorities said Saturday, after Iran-backed Hezbollah’s leader said his group was ready for a long confrontation with Israel.

Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war last week when the Tehran-backed militant group attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes.

Lebanese health authorities said an Israeli strike killed 12 doctors, paramedics and nurses working at a healthcare centre in the town of Burj Qalawiya, following another strike on the town of Sawaneh that left two paramedics affiliated with Hezbollah and its ally Amal dead.

07:24 AM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain arrests footballer Ahmed Mirza Musa over posts

Bahraini authorities have arrested six people, including international footballer Ahmed Mirza Musa, on charges of misleading public opinion and publishing content deemed to violate the law on social media, the Interior Ministry said.

In a statement, the ministry said the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security, represented by the cybercrime unit, had identified and detained the individuals.

Authorities said the arrests followed the filming and publication of videos related to the “effects of the Iranian aggression”, as well as content expressing sympathy with and praise for what it called hostile acts.

07:22 AM, 14 March 2026

Two US Air Force B-1 bombers take off from RAF Fairford

Fairford is one of two bases that the UK has given the US permission to use for “specific defensive operations into Iran”, British Defence Minister John Healey has said

Two US Air Force B-1 bombers take off from RAF Fairford in England.

Fairford is one of two bases that the UK has given the US permission to use for “specific defensive operations into Iran”, British Defence Minister John Healey has said pic.twitter.com/EB2cRnWYHV

06:57 AM, 14 March 2026

Debris from intercepted projectile hits Dubai building

Dubai Media Office confirmed that debris from a successful interception struck the façade of a building in central Dubai. Authorities said the situation has been fully contained, with no fire or injuries reported.

06:10 AM, 14 March 2026

Abu Dhabi arrests 45 over incident footage, false info

The Criminal Investigation and Investigation Directorate at Abu Dhabi Police has apprehended 45 individuals of various nationalities for filming locations during ongoing incidents and publishing the footage online, alongside circulating inaccurate and misleading information.

Police said such posts could provoke public concern and spread rumours within the community.

06:38 AM, 14 March 2026

Two killed in strikes on Iraq capital

Explosions rocked Iraq’s capital Baghdad on Saturday after two strikes targeted the powerful Iran-backed group Kataeb Hezbollah, killing two members including a “key figure”, security sources said.

The strikes are the first in the heart of Baghdad to kill Iran-backed fighters since the start of the Middle East war on February 28, which has not spared Iraq, long a proxy battleground between the US and Iran.

“At 02:15 am (2315 GMT Friday), a missile struck a house that was being used by Kataeb Hezbollah,” said a security source, adding that “a key figure was martyred,” and two members of the group were wounded.

AFP journalists heard blasts in the capital followed by ambulance sirens, with witnesses saying they saw smoke rising from the Arasat neighbourhood, where several Iran-backed groups are known to be present.

Two hours later, an airstrike hit a vehicle in eastern Baghdad that killed “a member of the Hashed al-Shaabi,” another security source said.

A Hashed al-Shaabi official told AFP the member killed belongs to Kataeb Hezbollah.

05:52 AM, 14 March 2026

New explosion heard in Baghdad

An explosion was heard in Iraq’s capital Baghdad on Saturday, an AFP journalist reported, hours after a missile struck a powerful Iran-backed group in the city.

Residents in the Zayouna district in eastern Baghdad told AFP that the force of the blast shook their houses.

Explosions were heard earlier in Baghdad, which appeared to be a missile strike on a house used by the powerful Iran-backed group Kataeb Hezbollah, killing “a key figure” and wounding two others, according to a security source.

05:49 AM, 14 March 2026

Saudi Arabia intercepts 6 drones

The Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that it has intercepted and destroyed six drones.

05:45 AM, 14 March 2026

Qatar intercepts missile attack

The Qatari Ministry of Defence announced today that the Qatar Armed Forces have intercepted a missile attack targeting the State of Qatar, according to the Qatari News Agency.

05:35 AM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain destroys 121 missiles, 193 drones since start of Iranian attacks

The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force announced that air defence systems continue to successfully counter successive waves of hostile Iranian aggression.

Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported that since the onset of hostilities, air defences have intercepted and destroyed 121 ballistic missiles and 193 drones targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain.

02:29 AM, 14 March 2026

Iran military threatens US-linked oil targets after Trump says Kharg bombed

Iran’s military has threatened US-linked oil targets after US President Donald Trump said Kharg oil facilities in the Arabian Gulf was bombed.

Kharg Island is Iran’s primary and most crucial crude oil export terminal in the Gulf, handling 90–95% of its crude exports.

Located near the northern end of the Gulf, this critical facility receives oil from major fields via subsea pipelines, storing and loading it onto tankers for international, mostly Asian, markets.

12:38 AM, 14 March 2026

UAE issues safety advisory on debris from aerial interceptions

Abu Dhabi: The UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has urged the public to keep a safe distance from any debris and report sightings immediately to authorities.

In a public safety advisory issued on social media, the authority warned residents not to approach, touch or photograph any objects that may have fallen following aerial interception operations, stressing that specialised teams are responsible for handling such incidents.

12:34 AM, 14 March 2026

US sends 2,500 Marines, one more ship to Mideast

Roughly 2,500 Marines and at least one amphibious assault ship are headed for the Middle East, a US official told The Associated Press.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans, said elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli have been ordered to the Middle East. The move marks a major addition of troops to the region.

12:40 AM, 14 March 2026

Trump vows intense strikes as Iran war heads into third week

President Donald Trump said in an interview aired Friday that American forces would strike Iranian targets “very hard” in the coming days, signalling an intensification of the US-Israeli campaign as the war in the Middle East approaches its third week.

“We’re going to be hitting them very hard over the next week,” Trump told Fox News Radio, adding that he believed Iran’s leadership could eventually be toppled by its own people.

“I really think that’s a big hurdle to climb for people that don’t have weapons,” Trump said. “I think it’s a very big hurdle… It’ll happen, but it probably will be, maybe not immediately.”

world

4-Year Stay Limit: What It Means for International Students

A sweeping change to US immigration rules could soon reshape how international students plan their education in the country, with a proposed policy introducing a fixed four-year limit on student stays.

The White House has cleared a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulation that would replace the long-standing “Duration of Status” (D/S) system with a time-bound admission model for foreign students and exchange visitors.

According to Bloomberg reports, under the proposed changes, most international students would be permitted to stay in the US for up to four years. After this period, those continuing their studies would be required to obtain formal approval to extend their stay.

Currently, students can stay for the full length of their academic programme as long as they maintain valid status, without a fixed expiry date.

If implemented, the change could affect F-1 student visa holders, J-1 exchange visitors and other categories, requiring more frequent interaction with US immigration authorities.

The rule has cleared review by the White House Office of Management and Budget and is expected to move toward publication in the Federal Register, with implementation likely within 30 to 60 days of final notification.

What is the proposed change?

Under current plans reported by Bloomberg, international student stays could be capped at around four years, regardless of how long their academic programme runs.

The rule would apply to multiple visa categories, including:

F-1 student visas
J-1 exchange visitor visas
Other related study-based visa categories

If implemented, students whose programmes extend beyond the limit would need to apply for formal extensions through US immigration authorities.

The regulation has already cleared review by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and is expected to be published in the Federal Register, with an implementation window of 30 to 60 days after publication.

How the current ‘Duration of Status’ system works

At present, international students in the US are admitted under the Duration of Status (D/S) framework.

This allows students to stay in the country for as long as they:

Remain enrolled full-time
Maintain valid student status
Comply with visa conditions

There is no fixed end date attached to their stay.

This system allows flexibility to:

Extend academic programmes
Switch universities or courses
Progress from undergraduate to postgraduate studies
Complete Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT

What would change under the new rule?

The proposed system would replace this flexible model with a fixed admission period, likely around four years for most students.

Key implications include:

Students would no longer have automatic stay based on enrolment
Extensions would require approval from USCIS
Additional documentation and biometric checks may be required
Processing delays could affect academic timelines
Overstaying without approval could lead to legal consequences

In effect, continued study in the US would depend on periodic immigration approvals rather than academic enrolment alone.

Why the US government is proposing the change

The Department of Homeland Security argues that the current system makes it harder to track compliance and identify visa overstays.

A fixed end-date model, officials say, would:

Improve monitoring of foreign students
Strengthen immigration enforcement
Standardise visa oversight across categories

Why Indian students could be most affected

India is the largest source of international students in the United States.

According to the Open Doors 2024 report, more than 331,000 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions in the 2023–24 academic year — nearly 30% of all international students.

Many of these students are in programmes that exceed four years, including:

PhD and doctoral research programmes
Long-duration master’s degrees
Technical and professional courses

Under the proposed system, these students may face:

More extension applications
Increased immigration scrutiny
Greater uncertainty around long-term academic planning

Key concerns raised by experts and institutions

Organisations such as the Association of American Universities (AAU), American Council on Education (ACE) and NAFSA have warned that fixed stay limits could:

Increase administrative burden
Create uncertainty for research-based programmes
Make it harder to maintain legal status in longer academic tracks

They also caution that changes could affect transitions into work pathways such as OPT.

What happens if a visa stay expires?

A major concern under the proposed framework is enforcement.

If a student’s authorised stay expires:

They may begin accruing unlawful presence immediately
Delays in extension processing could create legal risks
Immigration penalties could affect future US travel eligibility

According to immigration firm Fragomen, this could significantly raise the stakes for administrative delays or paperwork errors.

Impact on OPT and post-study work pathways

The effect on Optional Practical Training (OPT) is still unclear.

However, experts warn that moving away from the D/S system could:

Complicate transitions from study to employment
Add procedural steps before work authorisation
Increase pressure on visa timelines for STEM OPT participants

OPT remains a key pathway for international graduates seeking US work experience.

What about the grace period?

Earlier versions of the proposal suggested reducing the post-study grace period for F-1 students from 60 days to 30 days.

This period is currently used to:

Apply for OPT
Transfer universities
Change visa status
Prepare for departure

Any reduction would tighten post-graduation timelines significantly.

When could the rule take effect?

The rule is not yet in force.

OMB review has been completed
Final publication in the Federal Register is pending
Implementation could begin 30–60 days after publication

Experts suggest rollout may occur later in 2026, though timelines remain uncertain.

What should students do now?

There is no immediate change for current or prospective students.

At this stage, students should:

Continue under existing visa rules
Monitor updates from DHS and USCIS
Stay in touch with university international offices

What happens next

The regulation is not yet in force. It still requires formal publication before becoming law.

Once published, the government is expected to announce an implementation timeline, which experts say could begin later in 2026.

Until then, the current Duration of Status system remains unchanged, allowing students to stay in the US for the full length of their academic programme as long as they comply with visa conditions.

Agencies

world

Who Is Colombia’s New Right-Wing President?

Colombia elected nationalist lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella as its new president on Sunday, according to an initial vote count, marking a sharp political turn and ‌bringing a hardline security agenda and market-friendly policies to the fore.

Nicknamed “The Tiger” by his followers, De La Espriella portrayed himself as an anti-establishment savior capable of reviving Colombia’s ailing economy and restoring order in a country rattled by illegal armed groups and drug trafficking.

De La Espriella began gaining popularity early in the year with his tough-on-crime discourse. He pulled off a victory in the first round in late May with 43.7% of the vote and then beat leftist senator Ivan Cepeda in the runoff with 49.66% to Cepeda’s 48.7%, according to the national registrar’s ⁠tally.

De La Espriella, who blames outgoing President Gustavo for Colombia’s economic and security woes, won over a plurality of voters with pledges to reduce the size of the state by 40%, broaden the tax base and end peace efforts with armed groups in favor of a hardened military response.

He plans to restart oil exploration and allow fracking to nearly double production to 1.3 million barrels per day.

De La Espriella claims to have self-financed his campaign and says his “Defenders of the Homeland” movement grew without support from outside political parties or business groups. Reuters could not independently verify this claim.

Aside from being an attorney, De La Espriella has a sprawling business empire that includes wine, rum, clothing and real estate. An investigative journalism outlet, La Silla Vacia, found that many of his businesses have been dissolved, are in debt and lost money overall in 2024, with his law firm being his most profitable endeavor. De La ‌Espriella’s campaign ⁠declined to answer La Silla Vacia’s questions about the candidate’s businesses, the outlet said, but later questioned its funding in a public letter. La Silla Vacia rejected allegations of bias.

LUXURY WATCHES ON AN IRON FIST

De La Espriella, 47, used a military salute throughout his campaign despite never having served in the military.

Often seen wearing luxury watches, designer sunglasses and with a well-groomed beard, De La Espriella has drawn comparisons to El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele, who calls himself the “world’s coolest dictator.”

Bukele has implemented heavy-handed ⁠security policies and mega-prisons that pushed crime rates in El Salvador to among the lowest in Central America and prompted calls for other countries to adopt similar policies. He has detained more than 90,000 people in the process, drawing criticism from human rights groups.

De La Espriella denies he is imitating Bukele but has proposed 10 mega-prisons ⁠in Colombia.

De La Espriella has also faced criticism for legally representing Alex Saab, who faces charges in the U.S. of laundering money for ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He has also represented people linked to corruption scandals, financial embezzlement and right-wing paramilitaries and says his professional relationships as an attorney ⁠do not involve any complicity or crime.

De La Espriella, a married father of four, grew up in the Caribbean city of Monteria and is a known singer of the region’s traditional vallenato folk music. A citizen of the United States, Italy and Colombia, De La Espriella is set to assume the presidency on August 7.

Thomson Reuters

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US-Iran talks move to technical phase

High-level talks in Switzerland to permanently end the Iran war wrapped up early Monday after a tense start. While top officials left, lower-level teams will stay to detail a new ‘de-confliction cell’ aimed at stopping fighting in Lebanon. The move comes despite President Trump trading sharp threats with Tehran over social media, even as negotiators try to salvage a lasting peace deal over the next 60 days. Follow all the latest developments here:

06:51 AM, 22 June 2026

Iran FM Araghchi says ‘major progress’ in US talks

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Monday there was “major progress” in talks with the United States.

“Pakistani and Qatari mediation has delivered major progress to end Lebanon War,” Araghchi posted on X.

“Oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and major reconstruction & development plan launched for Iran.”

06:01 AM, 22 June 2026

Brent crude drops to $79 — oil markets mixed as Iran, Israel announce halt of offensive, easing war fears

Oil prices were mixed in Asian trading Monday as markets weighed fresh Middle East de-escalation signals against lingering supply and security risks, with WTI edging up while Brent fell sharply and Murban also slipped, as of 10:33 am Tokyo time on June 22, 2026.

WTI crude was quoted at $75.91 a barrel, up 6 cents or 0.08%.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, stood at $79.71, down 86 cents or 1.07%, while Murban crude was at $73.63, down 30 cents or 0.41%.

The market reaction came after Iran’s military joint command said it was halting offensive operations against Israel, following hours of retaliatory strikes that had raised fears of a broader regional conflict.

05:31 AM, 22 June 2026

Iran, US to set up ‘de-confliction cell’ with Lebanon to stop military operations: mediators

Iran and the United States have agreed to set up a “de-confliction cell” with Lebanon to stop military operations, mediators Pakistan and Qatar said in a joint statement on Monday.

“The parties agreed on the creation of a de-confliction cell, between the parties, the Lebanese Republic and facilitated by the Mediators, to ensure the adherence of the termination of military operations in Lebanon,” the joint statement read.

05:27 AM, 22 June 2026

Iran, US agree roadmap to ‘final deal within 60 days’, lay foundation for immediate commencement of further technical talks: Qatar, Pakistan mediators

Iran and the United States agreed on a roadmap towards reaching a final deal to end the war within 60 days, meditors Pakistan and Qatar said in a joint statement on Monday.

“The High Level Committee has agreed upon a roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days, laying the foundation for the immediate commencement of further technical talks,” the joint statement read.

03:41 AM, 22 June 2026

US-Iran talks expected to continue through the night

The first round of direct US-Iran talks since deal expected to continue through the night. US President Donald Trump, who is not at the talks, had earlier exchanged warnings with Iran’s negotiator over clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

01:40 AM, 22 June 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye affirm US-Iran MoU should ensure security, stability of Gulf region

The foreign ministers of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan, emphasised that the US-Iran agreement should take into account the csecurity and stability of countries across the region.

In a joint statement after a consultative meeting held in Cairo, the ministers described it as “a constructive step towards de-escalation and towards ending a conflict which posed significant risks to regional security and stability, as well as to energy markets, international maritime routes, global supply chains, and international trade.” Building on the memorandum of understanding, the ministers emphasised the need for a swift conclusion to the next phase of negotiations to reach “a lasting, verifiable, and mutually acceptable solution” to the remaining issues.

01:13 AM, 22 June 2026

Iraq pressing ahead with plans to export crude oil through Syria

Iraq is pressing ahead with plans to export crude oil through Syria’s Mediterranean coast even as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz gradually returns to normal, underscoring how this year’s Gulf crisis has permanently reshaped energy security calculations across the Middle East.

The move follows the disruption caused by the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz during the U.S.-Iran conflict, which exposed Iraq’s heavy dependence on a single maritime chokepoint. Iraqi officials told Reuters that Baghdad intends to maintain the new export corridor through Syria’s port of Baniyas as a permanent alternative rather than merely an emergency contingency.

The decision reflects a broader strategic lesson from the conflict: even if Hormuz is reopened, countries that rely on it are no longer willing to assume the world’s most important oil shipping lane will always remain accessible.

Iraq, the second-largest producer in OPEC, typically exports about 3.6 million barrels of crude oil per day, with roughly 3.4 million barrels traditionally shipped through its southern Gulf terminals connected to the Strait of Hormuz. When the waterway was effectively closed earlier this year, exports slowed sharply and crude inventories accumulated as storage facilities filled.

To reduce that vulnerability, Baghdad is developing an alternative outlet through Syria. Initial crude exports from the Mediterranean port of Baniyas are expected to begin as early as July at around 50,000 barrels per day, while fuel oil is already being trucked across the border for shipment to buyers in Europe and Africa. Syrian authorities are expanding storage and unloading facilities at Baniyas to accommodate higher export volumes.

01:09 AM, 22 June 2026

Iranian military’s joint command said it is halting its offensive operations vs Israel

The Iranian military’s joint command said that it is halting its offensive operations hours after Israel and Iran began trading fire early Monday in retaliatory strikes that threatened to drag the wider Middle East back into a full-scale regional war.

01:07 AM, 22 June 2026

Netanyahu acknowledges halt in fighting with Iran but vows to respond ‘with force’ to future attacks

Israel struck Iran on Monday after being targeted by missiles, while a U.S. military base in Saudi Arabia came under fire in the most serious exchange of hostilities since an April ceasefire, raising the possibility of a return to heavy fighting and complicating mediation efforts to end the war, AP reported.

In a brief statement, Netanyahu said the fighting has stopped “after we hit the terror regime in Tehran.” But he said, “If the terror regime in Iran makes the mistake and returns to attacking us, we will respond with force.”

Netanyahu also said that Israel is continuing to operate against Iran’s ally, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, and that Israel “has full right to self-defense and we will exercise it to the full extent necessary.”