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Today’s top stories
The Iranian government…

Good morning. You’re reading the Up First newsletter. Subscribe here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news you need to start your day.
The Iranian government…

DEVELOPING STORYDEVELOPING STORY,
Defence Minister claims Israel killed Alireza Tangsiri, citing his role in blocking the Strait of Hormuz.
Published On 26 Mar 2026
Israel’s defence minister says that an Israeli air strike has killed…

After infection with SARS-CoV-2, up to 10 percent of people in Germany go on to develop Long COVID. Symptoms can include persistent fatigue, difficulty concentrating, breathing problems, and neurological issues, and they may last for months or…

Introduction
The 2026 U.S.–Israel war against Iran has challenged the fundamental realities that have dictated the last few decades of Middle Eastern history. It has disrupted Iran’s internal power dynamics and raised critical…

How the partial government shutdown is affecting more than just airports. Tensions flare during a briefing with lawmakers about the Iran war. And the AI-generated reality show starring fruit captivating social media audiences.
Here’s what to…

European lawmakers cleared the way Thursday for tougher penalties for irregular migrants and their potential deportation to so-called “return hubs” outside the bloc.
The measures, criticised by human rights groups, are part of a tightening of…

Caught in the crossfire of the United States and Israel’s war with Iran, America’s allies in the Persian Gulf face a stark choice: maintain their defensive posture or join the fight against the Islamic republic.
Iran has fired thousands of…

The commander of the Army Ground Force warns that Iranian forces will “incapacitate” the United States and the Israeli regime if they wage a ground invasion of the country.

“We are monitoring the enemy’s movements round the clock meticulously. We are ready for any scenario anywhere anytime,” General Jahanshahi said on Thursday.
“The enemy must know that any ground aggression will be costlier and more…

Vehicles were washed away in floods in Oman and homes were flooded in Syria as storms brought torrential rain and hail to countries across the Middle East.
Published On 26 Mar 2026