By Desmond Nleya
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has demanded that the United States and Israel withdraw from the Middle East, saying both countries must accept an end to what it described as their “vile and criminal presence” in the region.
The statement comes amid continuing military tensions between Iran, the US and Israel, with the conflict placing further pressure on regional security, energy supplies and diplomatic efforts.
US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said Washington remained determined to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, while maintaining that the door remained open for Tehran to return to negotiations if it was prepared to engage in good faith.
The escalating confrontation has also affected Iraq, with Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi telling US media that Iran had prevented Iraqi tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He said Iraq had lost an estimated $60 billion in revenue since the conflict between Iran, the US and Israel began.
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Iranian airlines would be shut down worldwide from Wednesday as Washington intensified economic pressure on Tehran.
Iran Air later announced that flights from Tehran, Mashhad and Isfahan to Najaf in Iraq would continue despite the threatened restrictions.
The developments underscore the widening regional impact of the conflict as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military and economic pressure.
