Welcome to our live coverage of the US and Israel’s war with Iran.
Britain’s Financial Times reports Russia – which has benefited from the Iran war more than anyone else, probably, with America easing sanctions on its oil despite the ongoing invasion of Ukraine – is planning to ship drones, medicine and food to Iran to help it fight the Americans and Israelis.
“Russia is close to completing a phased shipment of drones, medicine and food to Iran, according to Western intelligence reports that detail Moscow’s efforts to keep its embattled partner fighting,” the FT reports.
“Senior Iranian and Russian officials began secretly discussing delivering drones days after Israel and the US attacked Tehran, two officials briefed on the intelligence said.
“The processing of deliveries began in early March and was expected to be completed by the end of the month. Moscow has close ties with Tehran and has provided its ally with crucial support including satellite imagery, targeting data and intelligence support, people familiar with the matter said.
“The shipments of weaponry such as drones would be the first evidence Moscow has been willing to provide lethal support to Iran since the start of the war.”
The story quotes Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who said: “There are a lot of fakes going around right now.”
He added that Russia is “continuing our dialogue with the Iranian leadership”.
Meanwhile, Iran is reportedly “laying traps” on Kharg Island, the hub of its economy, in anticipation of a US invasion. The below comes from CNN.
“Here is what sources tell CNN tonight. They say Iran is actively preparing for an invasion of Kharg Island. It’s an island that Trump has long talked about invading,” said host Erin Burnett.
“Now the traps that we understand are being put there, anti-personnel and anti-armour mines, we understand, being placed around the island. And Tehran also, apparently, quickly moving a large number of actual troops and air defences to this island.
“All of these things could clearly result in a large number of US casualties, according to US military experts, and some in Trump’s inner circles are sounding the alarm.”
This comment, on social media, is from an Iranian military adviser.
“When they haven’t gotten any results from their air force, which is their strong point; what do they expect from ground action? Do American soldiers want to die for Israel? We’re waiting,” said Mohsen Rezaie, a former commander in the Revolutionary Guard.
Read on below for updates.