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WASHINGTON, March 27 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- US President Donald Trump said Thursday that he is delaying his deadline to bomb Iran's energy infrastructure until April 6, citing progress in negotiations, Anadolu Ajansi reported. "As per Iranian Government request, please let this statement serve to represent that I am pausing the period of Energy Plant destruction by 10 Days to Monday, April 6, 2026, at 8 P.M., Eastern Time," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. "Talks are ongoing and, despite erroneous statements to the contrary by the Fake News Media, and others, they are going very well," he added. Trump signalled uncertainty earlier about whether the US is willing to strike a deal with Iran, even as he claimed Tehran is eager to negotiate. “They're not fools. They're very smart, actually, in a certain way. And they're great negotiators," he said at a Cabinet meeting at the White House, but called the Iranian side "lousy fighters." Iran is "begging" to make a deal, he added. "They're great negotiators, and they are begging to work out a deal. I don't know if we'll be able to do that. I don't know if we're willing to do that," he said. Trump boasted about eliminating Iran's entire leadership and said survivors are unable to communicate. Indicating that he is "the opposite of desperate" to make a deal with Tehran, he said, "In fact, we have other targets we want to hit before we leave. We're hitting them on a daily basis." Regional tensions have escalated since Feb. 28, when the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran that has killed more than 1,340 people so far, including then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries that are home to US military assets. Thirteen US service members have been killed and around 290 others have been injured since the operation began.

Trump Delays Iran Energy Strike Deadline Until April 6

WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump said Thursday that he is delaying his deadline to bomb Iran’s energy infrastructure until April 6, citing progress in negotiations, Anadolu Ajansi reported. “As .... read more

TEHRAN: Iran has reportedly mobilized more than a million military personnel in preparation for a possible US ground attack, a military source told the Tasnim news agency. Speculation about Washington's potential "historic mistake" of launching an invasion from southern Iran is said to have sparked a wave of preparedness among the country's ground forces. According to the source, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian army have received a large influx of applications from youth who want to join the national defense. "If the US chooses the suicidal tactic of opening the Strait of Hormuz, we are ready. Whether they want to implement that strategy or leave the strait closed, the decision is in their hands," the source said. Tensions escalated after the US and Israel launched a massive military operation against Iran following the assassination of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with several military commanders and civilians on February 28. Airstrikes targeting military and civilian facilities across Iran reportedly resulted in heavy casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. In response, the Iranian armed forces launched counterattacks using missiles and drones against US and Israeli targets in the occupied territories and regional bases.

1 million Iranian troops ready to face US ground attack

TEHRAN: Iran has reportedly mobilized more than a million military personnel in preparation for a possible US ground attack, a military source told the Tasnim news agency. Speculation about Washington’s .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with China following a courtesy call by China’s Minister of Internal Security, Chen Yixin, who is on his first visit to the country this year. The visit by the senior Chinese leader was described as a significant gesture reflecting the close and friendly relations between both nations, with the MADANI Government expressing appreciation for the continued engagement at the highest levels. Discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the area of security, as well as addressing current global geopolitical developments that require closer collaboration between Malaysia and China to ensure regional stability. Both sides also underscored the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations and security partnerships in facing future challenges, with the aim of preserving the social and economic prosperity enjoyed by the people of both countries. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further deepen cooperation across various sectors, reinforcing the longstanding ties between Malaysia and China.

Malaysia, China Strengthen Security Cooperation in Courtesy Call by Minister Chen Yixin

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with China following a courtesy call by China’s Minister of Internal Security, Chen Yixin, who is on his .... read more

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SYDNEY — The Australian government announced on Thursday a six-month ban on visitors holding Iranian passports, citing heightened risks that temporary visa holders may refuse or be unable to return home amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Department of Home Affairs said the ban applies to individuals seeking to enter Australia for tourism or work purposes, with some exceptions considered on a case-by-case basis, such as parents of Australian citizens. “The conflict in Iran has increased the risk that some temporary visa holders may be unable or unwilling to leave Australia when their visa expires,” the department said in a statement. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasized that visitor visas issued prior to the conflict would likely not be approved now. “The decision to settle permanently in Australia should be made in a planned manner by the government, not a random consequence of who books a holiday,” he said. Australia is home to over 85,000 people born in Iran, with significant diaspora communities in Sydney and Melbourne. Tensions between the two countries escalated earlier this month when Australia granted asylum to seven members of an Iranian women’s soccer team visiting the country. The players were branded “traitors” in Iran after refusing to sing the national anthem before an Asian Cup match — a protest against the Islamic Republic. Five of the seven individuals later withdrew their asylum applications, amid concerns that their families may have faced pressure or threats from Iranian authorities.

Australia Bans Iranian Visitors Amid Middle East Conflict, Citing Visa Risks

SYDNEY — The Australian government announced on Thursday a six-month ban on visitors holding Iranian passports, citing heightened risks that temporary visa holders may refuse or be unable to return .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has expressed concern over the escalating security situation in southern Lebanon and rising regional tensions following a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Lebanese counterpart, Nawaf Salam. During the call, Anwar extended Hari Raya Aidilfitri 1447H greetings while discussing the latest developments in Lebanon, particularly the worsening security and humanitarian conditions. He also conveyed Malaysia’s appreciation to the Lebanese Government for its continued support in ensuring the safety and welfare of Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) personnel serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), enabling them to carry out their duties effectively despite challenging circumstances. Anwar noted that Malaysia is advocating for the expansion of the current ceasefire to include Lebanon, highlighting the severe impact of the conflict, which has reportedly displaced about one million people and resulted in over 1,000 casualties. Reaffirming Malaysia’s stance, he stressed the country’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, strongly condemned attacks on public infrastructure, and called on all parties involved to de-escalate tensions and return to diplomatic dialogue. He also raised concerns over the increasingly urgent humanitarian situation in the region. The conversation concluded with Malaysia reiterating its commitment to continue working closely with Lebanon and international partners to help restore peace and stability in the region.

Malaysia Calls for Lebanon Ceasefire Expansion, Reaffirms Support in PM’s Call with Nawaf Salam

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has expressed concern over the escalating security situation in southern Lebanon and rising regional tensions following a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim .... read more

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KUALA LUMPUR — Anwar Ibrahim held talks with Lawrence Wong on the escalating conflict in West Asia, expressing concern over its growing impact on the global economy and Southeast Asia. Both leaders supported the United Nations call for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to return to negotiations, emphasising that disputes must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. They also voiced concern over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing attacks on critical infrastructure, warning of potential disruptions to global oil markets and regional energy security. Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to supporting efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote peace, justice and stability in the region.

PM Anwar Ibrahim, Lawrence Wong Discuss West Asia Conflict, Urge Ceasefire

KUALA LUMPUR — PM Anwar Ibrahim held talks with PM of Singapore, Lawrence Wong on the escalating conflict in West Asia, expressing concern over its growing impact on the global .... read more

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KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- Malaysia maintains its stance that all disputes in West Asia must be resolved through peaceful means to ease escalating tensions in the region, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said dialogue, diplomacy and close cooperation among nations remained the only way forward to de-escalate tensions and restore stability, in line with humanitarian imperatives and the principles of universal justice. Anwar said this in a Facebook post after holding telephone conversations with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, Prince Salman Hamad Al Khalifa, and the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed Zayed Al Nahyan, today. “I expressed deep concern over the prolonged tensions and their implications for regional security and the well-being of the people, while also conveying condolences over the loss of lives and damage to property resulting from the retaliatory attacks,” he said. Apart from discussing regional security issues, Anwar said he and the two leaders also exchanged Aidilfitri greetings and expressed hope for the well-being, peace and prosperity of their respective nations. Regional tensions have continued to escalate since the United States (US) and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran on Feb 28. Tehran responded by launching drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as Jordan, Iraq and Gulf states hosting US military assets, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage, in addition to disrupting global markets and the aviation sector.

Malaysia Calls For Peaceful Resolution To West Asia Conflict – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia maintains its stance that all disputes in West Asia must be resolved through peaceful means to ease escalating tensions in the region, says Prime Minister Datuk .... read more

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Hundreds of journalists at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) will stage a 24-hour strike on Wednesday, marking the broadcaster’s first industrial action in two decades. The walkout comes after a majority of union members rejected a pay offer that falls below inflation, with workers also raising concerns over job security, working conditions and the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) to replace staff. The strike, set to begin at 11am local time, is expected to disrupt key programmes including the 7.30 current affairs show and breakfast broadcasts, while radio services such as Triple J and ABC Classic will have limited live content. ABC management said its proposed salary increase — totalling 10 percent over three years — is the maximum it can sustainably offer, but unions are demanding better pay, improved career progression and firm limits on AI use to protect jobs and editorial integrity. Mass rallies are planned in Sydney and Melbourne, as the dispute is set to be taken to the Fair Work Commission for resolution.

Journalists at Australian Broadcasting Corporation to Strike Over Pay, Conditions and AI Concerns

SYDNEY — Hundreds of journalists at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) will stage a 24-hour strike on Wednesday, marking the broadcaster’s first industrial action in two decades. The walkout comes .... read more

TEHRAN: Iran continues to maintain its stance of fully controlling ship movements in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, only allowing ships deemed “non-hostile” to transit as long as they coordinate with Tehran authorities. This was stated in an official letter from Iran to member states of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). In the letter, Iran stressed that foreign ships can pass through the Strait of Hormuz provided they comply with announced safety regulations and are not involved in any form of support for aggressive actions against the country. Iran added that ships linked to the United States, Israel or parties involved in the current conflict are not eligible for passage. Ship tracking data in recent days shows that Iran has allowed a small number of ships to transit through its territorial waters, including ships from China, India and Pakistan. This route is often used to allow Iranian authorities to verify the identity and purpose of ships before they are allowed to pass, according to maritime analysts. Due to the risk of attacks and tensions in the narrow waters near Oman, many commercial ships are now changing their routes to routes closer to the Iranian coast, including the area around Larak Island. The move gives Iran a monitoring advantage as well as strengthening its control over maritime traffic in the strategic route. The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz peaked after the US-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28, causing shipping traffic to almost come to a standstill and affecting global oil supplies. The Strait of Hormuz previously handled around one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. With rising shipping costs and global oil prices, Iran is now trying to balance its economic interests while maintaining pressure on its perceived enemies. Free navigation access in the Strait of Hormuz is also one of the main points in the 15-point peace plan developed by the United States and sent to Iran via Pakistan. But so far, there is no sign that Tehran is willing to give up its strategic advantage without comprehensive security guarantees. Iran has said it will not relax control over the maritime route as long as the conflict continues, with several government sources insisting that pressure on the enemy will continue until there is a full ceasefire.

West Asia conflict: Iran insists on controlling the Strait of Hormuz, passage only for ‘non-enemy’ ships

TEHRAN: Iran continues to maintain its stance of fully controlling ship movements in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, only allowing ships deemed “non-hostile” .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated Malaysia’s firm stance calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic negotiations amid escalating tensions in West Asia. In a phone conversation with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Anwar strongly condemned military actions against Iran and rejected unilateral measures that violate international law. He stressed the need to protect civilians and prioritise peaceful resolution through dialogue. Both leaders also discussed the broader impact of the conflict on global security and the economy, including rising fuel prices affecting New Zealand’s energy sector. Anwar welcomed Wellington’s efforts to enhance energy security and accelerate its transition to renewable energy. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Malaysia–New Zealand relations under the Strategic Partnership framework, particularly in trade, investment and energy cooperation, while pledging continued engagement to address shared global challenges.

Malaysia Reaffirms Ceasefire Call, Strengthens Ties with New Zealand

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated Malaysia’s firm stance calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic negotiations amid escalating tensions in West Asia. In .... read more

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