US Senator moves to block Diego Garcia

IANS | March 14, 2026 8:31 AM

Washington, March 14 (IANS) A US senator has introduced legislation to block any transfer of sovereignty over the Chagos Islands — including the strategic Diego Garcia military base — unless the US Senate formally approves changes to the long-standing defence treaty between Washington and London.

Democratic US lawmakers demand probe into Iran school strike

IANS | March 14, 2026 7:26 AM

Washington, March 14 (IANS) Democratic lawmakers in the US Congress are pressing the Pentagon for answers after reports that a US strike during Operation Epic Fury hit a girls’ elementary school in Iran, killing at least 175 civilians — many of them children — prompting calls for a full investigation, accountability, and stronger safeguards to prevent civilian casualties.

Chemical odour halts Washington-area flights

IANS | March 14, 2026 7:19 AM

Washington, March 14 (IANS) A strong chemical odour at a key air traffic control facility in Virginia forced authorities to halt flights at several Washington-area airports, disrupting air travel across the region.

US unveils $500 million push for critical minerals

IANS | March 14, 2026 7:17 AM

Washington, March 14 (IANS) The United States announced up to $500 million in funding to expand domestic processing of critical minerals and strengthen the battery supply chain that supports industries ranging from defense to transportation and energy.

White House calls CNN report ‘false’ on Iran

IANS | March 14, 2026 7:14 AM

Washington, March 14 (IANS) The White House accused CNN of publishing false claims about US planning for a possible Iranian move to close the Strait of Hormuz, pushing back strongly against a report questioning whether American officials had prepared for the scenario during the ongoing military campaign against Tehran.

US carried out major bombing raid on Iran’s strategic Kharg Island: Trump

IANS | March 14, 2026 7:09 AM

Washington, March 14 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said the United States carried out a major bombing raid on Iran’s strategic Kharg Island, claiming American forces “totally obliterated” military targets at the country’s key oil export hub while deliberately sparing energy infrastructure.