UPDATE: Trump considers sending troops to take Kharg island: ‘Axios’; Iranian Revolutionary Guard spokesman assassinated
According to recent reports, the following story has emerged from the international scene.
Global Energy Crisis: IEA Director Warns of 6-Month Delay in Gulf Oil Supply
13:43 – March 20, 2026
In a significant warning, Fatih Birol, the Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), stated that restoring the flow of oil and gas from the Gulf could take up to six months. In an interview with the Financial Times, Birol explained that some energy facilities may take even longer to become operational, urging that the current disruption could lead to one of the most serious energy crises in history.
“Some facilities will take six months to be operational, others much more,” Birol told the FT.
“We are facing an unprecedented energy crisis, with about a fifth of the world’s oil and gas reserves stranded in the region.”
International Espionage: British Police Arrest Alleged Iranian Spies
13:29 – March 20, 2026
Two alleged Iranian spies were arrested on Thursday after attempting to infiltrate the British nuclear submarine base in Scotland. The suspects were detained by British authorities and are believed to have been attempting to gather intelligence.
This latest incident comes amidst heightened tensions following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Sri Lanka Rejects Military Visits from Iran and the US
13:24 – March 20, 2026
Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake confirmed that his government rejected simultaneous requests for military visits from Iran and the United States in early March. The requests were made just days before the start of the war, and Sri Lanka’s decision came amid growing concerns over the US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
“We rejected both requests,” Dissanayake stated before Sri Lankan Parliament.
“Iran asked to send three warships to our waters, and the US requested permission for naval aircraft to visit Hambantota airport.”
Israeli Army Launches New Attacks on Tehran
13:21 – March 20, 2026
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have begun launching new attacks on eastern Tehran, marking an intensification of military operations in the wake of the war initiated by Israel and the US against Iran.
Details about the specific targets remain unclear, but the escalation suggests further deterioration of relations in the region.
Trump Weighs Military Action to Seize Kharg Island
13:04 – March 20, 2026
In an exclusive report, Axios revealed that Donald Trump’s administration is considering a military strategy to seize or block the Iranian island of Kharg, a critical oil terminal. This move aims to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for global oil trade.
The potential operation comes as Iran has effectively blocked the strait, causing a spike in oil prices. However, such an action could result in significant military risks and potential political backlash for Trump as he faces the upcoming midterm elections.
Iran Attacks Kuwaiti Oil Refineries
13:01 – March 20, 2026
In a retaliatory move, Iran launched another drone attack on the Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery in Kuwait, causing a fire in one of the facility’s units. The refinery had been targeted earlier this week, with Kuwaiti firefighters working throughout the night to control the flames.
Although the damage was reportedly minor, the attack adds to the escalating series of strikes on vital oil infrastructure across the region.
US-Israeli Airstrike Kills IRGC Spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini
12:53 – March 20, 2026
In a devastating blow to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Ali Mohammad Naini, the chief spokesman for the IRGC, was killed in a joint airstrike conducted by the United States and Israel. Naini was reportedly a key figure in spreading Iranian propaganda and promoting terrorist attacks against Israel.
The Israeli Army released a statement noting that Naini’s efforts had primarily been focused on influencing allies across the Middle East, while pushing anti-Israeli rhetoric.
Minute-by-Minute Coverage:
As the Middle East crisis continues to unfold, we are bringing you the latest developments. Stay with us for continuous updates on this rapidly evolving conflict.
The Bigger Picture:
This report highlights significant developments in the international landscape that could reshape diplomatic relations in the coming weeks.
As the situation continues to evolve, analysts are closely watching for further developments.
We encourage our readers to follow this developing story for the latest information.
Source: This article was originally published in another language by France 24 – Noticias y actualidad internacional en vivo and has been translated and adapted for our global English-speaking audience. Read the original article here.