Rnews Crooked Bough News Round-up: South Front

South Front

— U.S. Says It Lost Aerial Refueling Tanker Aircraft Over Iraq Amid Deadly Escalation (Videos): at 3/12/26 4:28pm
Illustrative image. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew Seefeldt) The United States Central Command acknowledged on March 12 that a KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refueling tanker aircraft over Iraq. In a statement, the command said that the incident occurred in “friendly airspace” during Operation Epic Fury, the U.S. military’s codename for the ongoing attack with Israel against Iran. “Rescue efforts are ongoing. Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the second landed safely,” CENTCOM added, stressing that “this was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.” The KC-135, developed from the Boeing 367-80 prototype, typically has a crew of three: a pilot, a co-pilot, and a boom operator. Some missions require the addition of a navigator. Still, it was reported that six service members were aboard the aircraft when it crashed. The incident came following serious escalation in Iraq, which saw the U.S. launching strikes against Iran-backed armed factions in the country. The factions, unified within the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI), have been launching strikes against U.S. bases inside Iraq and in nearby countries in response to the war on Iran, and they are known to be armed with advanced air defense systems. In the morning, at least 30 people were killed and dozens injured in a series of strikes at the headquarters of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) — a government-recognized force that include many of the same factions found in the IRI — in Anbar in the west of the country. Shafaq News, citing a security source, said that the strikes targeted at least three sites of the PMF’s 19th Brigade in the town of Akashat. Later on in the day, the same news agency reported that one member from the PMF was killed and three others were wounded after a series of strikes on Camp Saker to the south of the capital, Baghdad. Videos posted to social networks showed A-10 Thunderbolt II close air support jets and Low-cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drones attacking the camp, which confirmed that the U.S. was behind the strike. Just before CENTCOM announced losing the tanker, at least six French soldiers ‌were wounded in a drone attack targeting ⁠a joint Peshmerga-French base in the Makhmour area in Iraq’s Kurdistan region, according to a statement Erbil Governor ‌Omed ⁠Koshnaw. Videos that surfaced online around the same time also suggest that a French military helicopter was destroyed as a result of the attack, which was blamed on the IRI. Several factions of the IRI warned before the war that they will not remain silent if the U.S. and Israel attacked the Islamic Republic. The last few days saw the IRI intensifying its attacks, especially against U.S. forces deployed in Kurdistan. The recent developments will likely lead to even more escalation by both sides. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Iran Struck GlobalEye AEW&C Aircraft, MQ-4C Drones, And Typhoon Jet At UAE And Kuwait (Photos) Thirteen Days Of Stalemate: How the U.S.’s ‘Quick Victory’ in Iran Turned Into A Costly Quagmire The post U.S. Says It Lost Aerial Refueling Tanker Aircraft Over Iraq Amid Deadly Escalation (Videos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #IRAQ, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— Flooding Of Kostiantynivka: How the Destruction of Dams Affects Ukrainian Defenses In The City: at 3/12/26 3:35pm
File image. In the Dobropillia area, Ukrainian units have launched counterattacks in the Bilytske region. Meanwhile, Russian troops have entrenched themselves in tree lines between the railway and the settlement. They have also captured Hryshyne, paving the way to Dobropillia. In the Kupyansk area, Russian troops advanced through the fields between Zahryzove and Lozova, capturing a significant stronghold. They are now advancing towards Nova Kruhliakivka. In the Zaporizhzhia area, Ukrainian forces are attempting to breach the defenses along the Andriivka-Novooleksandrivka lines. In the Slaviansk area, Russian troops captured the key chalk slope near Kryva Luka, completely cleared the center of Reznykivka, advanced toward Kalenyky, and fought for Fedorivka Druha. In the Sumy area, assault groups from the North captured Chervona Zoria and advanced 350–400 meters. They also captured five servicemen from the 21st Brigade and repelled counterattacks in the Sopych area. In the Kharkiv area, Russian troops advanced in Vovchanski Khutory, destroyed the 159th Brigades reserves while they were being transferred, attacked strongpoints, and advanced towards Velykyi Burluk. Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico warned NATO countries against sending military personnel to Ukraine, stating that this could lead to the activation of Article 5 and that it is impossible to defeat Russia in a conventional war. Dobropillia Direction In the direction of Dobropillia, evidence has emerged of Ukrainian counterattacks in the southern part of Bilytske, confirming previous reports of Russian units reaching this settlement. Bilytske is located on the highway that leads directly to Dobropillia. According to available footage, Russian units have established positions in several tree lines between the railway and Bilytske. Meanwhile, the pocket in the Suvorove area persists, and Ukrainian units can insert small groups there. The northern flank of the Dobropillia area remains a zone of engagements by small groups along the Novyi Donbas–Vilne–Kucheriv Yar line. Due to the intensification of clashes on the southern flank near Hryshyne and Udachne, attempts by Russian troops to advance toward Zolotyi Kolodiaz cannot be ruled out. Current combat conditions dictate infiltration tactics into the defensive formations of Ukrainian units. The spring thaw and snowmelt complicate movement through fields and tree lines; therefore, the intensity of combat operations has shifted to settlements. As spring progresses and vegetation grows, combat operations will shift back to tree lines. Kupyansk Direction Russian units are gradually expanding their presence on the left bank of the Oskol River. Near Hrekivka and Sverdlovka, positional battles are ongoing on the southern flank of the direction. To the north, assault groups are fighting their way to the outskirts of Bohuslavka. Recently, units of the West grouping advanced in the fields between Zahryzove and Lozova. A large strongpoint and several smaller positions have fallen under Russian control. Forward groups are advancing towards Nova Kruhliakivka. Capturing this settlement will require capturing several fortifications near the Kruhliakivskyi pond. An offensive on Nova Kruhliakivka or Bohuslavka itself is impossible without clearing these positions, which are located on an elevated area. According to preliminary information, Ukrainian units attacked from Borova towards Novoplatonivka and Borova Andriivka to cut off the Russian troops advance. document.createElement('video'); https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e1.mp4Download video Zaporizhzhia Direction In the Zaporizhzhia area, Ukrainian forces continue to attempt to break through the Russian defenses on the Andriivka–Novooleksandrivka and Vovche–Sosnivka lines. Infiltration groups are attempting to penetrate the Dnipropetrovsk region as deeply as possible to expand grey zones and disrupt supply routes. In the opposite sector, Russian units maintain the initiative. Small assault groups are advancing west from Horke and Zheleznodorozhne. Additionally, they are attempting to clear the wedge east of the railway through which Ukrainian units are attacking in the direction of Huliaipole. Regular assaults also continue in the Vozdvizhevka area. A notable aspect of the situation on the northern flank is that, during the offensive, Ukrainian units relied on both infantry groups and drones. These heavy unmanned systems serve as a means of striking and suppressing the positions of Russian troops and supplying infiltration groups. This partially works since, in modern combat operations, the first line is no longer a single line of trenches, but rather a network of cells with small numbers of fighters conducting observation from shelters. Ukrainian units use the same tactics. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/za.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e2.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e3.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e5.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e4.mp4Download video Slaviansk Direction In the southwest of Ozerne, Russian troops are attacking Ukrainian positions near the former military base. Neither side has firm control of the eastern part of the village; it is a grey zone. Northeast of the settlement, in the Kryva Luka area, Russian troops have captured the key chalk slope and approached the village. This advance provides a tactical advantage because it is easier to observe the surrounding area from the captured height. In Reznykivka, the central part of the village has been completely cleared, and movement continues toward Kalenyky. Between Reznykivka and Nykyforivka, progress has been made in closing the pocket and straightening the front line. Ukrainian units are being pushed out of Minkivka. Intensive combat operations are ongoing on the southern side of Fedorivka Druha. An offensive is developing from the southern sector towards Rai-Oleksandrivka, the last important logistical hub and large Ukrainian unit fortification in this area. After its capture, operational space will open up to Mykolaivka. In Berestok, Russian units have cleared most of the village and are advancing into the western part of the city. Fighting continues closer to the avenue. In Illinivka, the area up to the ravine and ponds has been secured, and the western part of the village is being cleared. Ukrainian units are trying to halt the advance by actively using drones in small groups. Regular strikes are being carried out on dams northwest of Kostiantynivka. This disrupts the logistics of Ukrainian units and deprives them of shelters due to flooding. Consequently, Ukrainian units are withdrawing to permanent buildings in Kostiantynivka, which makes them easier targets. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e6.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e7.mp4Download video Sumy Direction The North groupings assault units continue to fight fiercely as they advance deeper into the Sumy region. The Russian aviation, and strike drone operators struck concentrations of Ukrainian personnel and equipment in Katerynivka, Pisarivka, Velyka Rybytsia, Konotop, Nikolske, Luzhky, and Nova Sich. During the intense fighting, Russian assault troops advanced on seven sections in the Sumy district and two in the Hlukhiv district. The total advance over the day amounted to up to 350 meters. In the Sumy district, five Ukrainian servicemen from the 21st Separate Mechanized Brigade were captured. The 33rd Rifle Battalion of the 80th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of the 14th Army Corps captured the Chervona Zoria settlement in the Shostka district. The Ukrainian command transferred assault groups and drone crews from the 104th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade (Rivne region) to the Sopych area. Artillerymen and drone operators from the North grouping delivered precision strikes on the transferred reserves. Fierce fighting for control of the settlement continues. In the Krasnopillia district, Russian assault troops advanced 400 meters into forested areas. More than 40 servicemen from the training center of the 71st Separate Airmobile Brigade in Chernivtsi deserted before they could be sent to the Sumy region. Military police detained three of the deserters; the rest are presumably in Romania. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e8.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e9.mp4Download video Kharkiv Direction In the Kharkiv region, the North groupings assault groups are advancing deeper with intense fighting. The Russian aviation struck concentrations of Ukrainian personnel and equipment in Ternova, Rubizhne, Verkhnya Pysarivka, Kolodezne, and north of Budarky. In the Vovchansk area, Russian assault groups advanced up to 200 meters near Vovchanski Khutory. Crews operating heavy flamethrowers delivered a precision strike on a strongpoint of the 113th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade in a forested area of the Vovchansk district. Ukrainian units attempted to transfer reserves from the 159th Separate Mechanized Brigade to the eastern outskirts of Vovchanski Khutory, but the combat groups were destroyed by Russian army aviation in the Volokhivka area. In the Lyptsi area, there were no significant changes; artillerymen and drone operators struck identified targets. In the Velykyi Burluk area, Russian assault troops advanced 200 meters on two fronts. Crews of heavy flamethrower systems destroyed a concentration of 1st Separate Territorial Defense Brigade personnel in a forested border area. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e10.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e11.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e12.mp4Download video Conclusion Analysis of the operational situation indicates that high-intensity combat operations persist in all directions. In the direction of Dobropillia, Russian troops have consolidated their position in tree lines near Bilytske and captured Hryshyne. They are preparing for an offensive on Dobropillia despite the increased presence of Ukrainian drones and communication issues. In the Kupyansk area, advances in the fields between Zahryzove and Lozova, as well as attacks on Nova Kruhliakivka, are expanding the bridgehead. However, the sparse front and grey zones complicate consolidation efforts. In the Zaporizhzhia area, Ukrainian infiltration attempts and drone strikes have not achieved stable success, while Russian units maintain the initiative west of Horke. In the Slovyansk area, Russian troops are advancing towards Kalenyky and Rai-Oleksandrivka after capturing key heights near Kryva Luka and clearing Reznykivka. This brings them closer to operational space. In the Sumy area, the capture of Chervona Zoria and advances in forested areas are accompanied by the capture of Ukrainian soldiers and desertions. In the Kharkiv area, Russian units continue to advance slowly, destroying reserves and strongpoints, despite the active use of Ukrainian drones. An important event in the international political context was a new statement by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. During a meeting with students, he cautioned NATO countries against deploying troops to Ukraine, emphasizing that such a move could trigger the activation of Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which outlines collective defense measures. Fico emphasized that Russia cannot be defeated in a conventional war and urged the European Commission to make greater efforts toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Fico also stated that he would never agree to send Slovak military personnel to Ukraine, calling it too big a military adventure. Ficos statement reflects growing concerns in European capitals about the conflicts escalation and direct NATO involvement. Fico is already blocking EU loans for Ukraine and demanding the restoration of oil transit via Druzhba. He consistently opposes the militarization of the conflict and advocates a diplomatic settlement. His position contrasts with the rhetoric of some NATO member countries considering sending military personnel. His warning about the risks of invoking Article 5 highlights the potential for unintended escalation that could draw the entire alliance into direct confrontation with Russia. Against the backdrop of Russian troops successful offensive in multiple directions, such statements increase pressure on Kyiv and its Western allies, indicating the need for negotiations rather than continued military confrontation. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: US Aggression On Iran: Final Verdict On ‘Patriot’ System’s Atrocious Performance Energy Blackmail: Abandoned Ukraine Increases Attacks On Russian Facilities Pumping Gas To Europe The post Flooding Of Kostiantynivka: How the Destruction of Dams Affects Ukrainian Defenses In The City appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, Politics, Suggested Analyses]
— Iran Struck GlobalEye AEW&C Aircraft, MQ-4C Drones, And Typhoon Jet At UAE And Kuwait (Photos): at 3/12/26 2:09pm
File image. Multiple advanced warplanes of the United States and its allies were destroyed in recent Iranian strikes on the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, satellite images released by Persian media and others obtained from the European Sentinel-2 satellite indicate. Since the start of the ongoing American-Israeli war, the Islamic Republic has been launching strikes with missiles and drones against Israel and facilities housing or supporting U.S. forces in neighboring countries. Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE was hit more than once, but recent strikes were especially devastating, according to the satellite images, which were released on March 12. The air base is located around 32 kilometers to the south of the Emirate capital, Abu Dhabi. It is considered critical for the operations of the U.S. military in the Middle East. The base hosts advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft. The latest images revealed that three large hangars, where the UAE Air Force keeps at least three of its five GlobalEye multi-role airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, and one C-235 military transport plane, were all hit. While large burn marks appeared on the hangers, the C-235 was apparently hit outside. The GlobalEye AEW&C is equipped with a suite of sensors using Saabs Erieye ER radar and mission system, installed in the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 long-range business jet. The UAE bought its five aircraft from Sweden for little over $2,4 billion just a few years ago, which means a single one costs just little under $500 million. There is a good chance three were destroyed. Click to see full-size image. (X) Click to see full-size image. (X) In another part of Al Dhafra, two other large hangars used by the U.S. Navy to store MQ-4C Triton high-altitude long endurance drones was also hit. The MQ-4C was developed to provide real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions over vast ocean and coastal regions, continuous maritime surveillance, and to conduct search and rescue missions. A single drone of this type could cost upwards of $180 million. Click to see full-size image. (X) Click to see full-size image. (X) The images also show a massive crater, possibly caused by a ballistic missile, in an area where several small barracks were located at the air base. Click to see full-size image. (X) In Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, a number of additional hits were also spotted in two of the newly released satellite images. Ali Al Salem is considered one of the key airlift and logistics gateways for the U.S. military in the Middle East, hosting the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing. The air base is located in central Kuwait, roughly 15 kilometers west of the city of Al Jahra and approximately 37 kilometers from the border with Iraq. One of the images shows damage at three hangars where the U.S. military stored MQ-9 Reaper medium-altitude long-endurance drones. The MQ-9, which costs upwards of $30 million, is primarily used to collect intelligence, but has the ability to conduct pinpoint strikes. A fourth hangar nearby was also hit, and in front of it a fighter jet, identified as a Typhoon fighter jet of the Royal Air Force, can be seen in the same image. The image shows what appears to be an oil or fuel spill near the jet, which indicates that it was at least damaged in the attack. Click to see full-size image. (X) Click to see full-size image. (X) The second image revealed that a large hangar in Ali Al Salem, where U.S. military C-12 and UC-35 transport aircraft are usually deployed was wiped out. Click to see full-size image. (X) Click to see full-size image. (X) The latest wave of Iranian retaliatory strikes have clearly inflicted some heavy losses on the U.S. and its allies. It will likely take days, or even weeks for the full scale of destruction at Dhafra Air Base and Ali Al Salem Air Base to be revealed to the public. What is important to note that these losses are not just costing the U.S. money, but also degrading the capabilities currently available to its military in the Middle East. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Thirteen Days Of Stalemate: How the U.S.’s ‘Quick Victory’ in Iran Turned Into A Costly Quagmire Trump’s Iran Mistake Expands Beyond Middle East, With Impacts In Eurasia And Across The Globe The post Iran Struck GlobalEye AEWC Aircraft, MQ-4C Drones, And Typhoon Jet At UAE And Kuwait (Photos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, UAE]
— Serbia Armed Its MiG-29 Fighter Jets With Chinese Supersonic Missiles And Glide Bombs (Photos): at 3/12/26 11:58am
Click to see full-size image. (X) Serbia has armed its Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets with Chinese-made CM-400 supersonic standoff missiles, according to a photo that surfaced online on March 10. The photo shows a Serbian Air Force and Air Defense MiG-29 with a pair of CM-400 missiles loaded on its inboard underwing hardpoints. Currently, 11 to 14 such fighter jets are in service with the force, all upgraded to a standard known as MiG-29SM+. The CM-400 was developed by the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), and is believed to be a derivative of the SY-400 guided rocket. The missile has a range of 100–240 kilometers, and can reportedly carry either a 150 kg blast warhead or a 200 kg penetrator warhead. It has a high cruise altitude and a steep terminal dive, with a maximum terminal speed of Mach 4.5 up to Mach 5. All the versions of the CM-400 have a s inertial guidance system (INS). For the terminal guidance, it relies on an infrared/optoelectronic seeker for attacking naval targets, or a passive radar seeker to take out electromagnetic emitters, like radars. The circular error probability (CEP) for the first version is reported to be five meters, and for the other somewhere between five and ten meters. The missile was apparently integrated into the MiG-29 thanks to the Standalone Weapon Fire Control System (SWFCS), also designated as WZHK-1, which was developed by China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC). The launch rail was especially designed to allow foreign models of warplanes to operate Chinese missiles and bombs. It utilizes a wireless data system that connects to a tablet in the cockpit that can be worn by the pilot. The tablet acts as a portable wireless controller that the pilot can use to launch the missiles. Another photo that surfaced online shows another Serbian MiG-29 equipped with WZHK-1 rails on its inboard underwing hardpoints, armed with a CM-400 missile on one side and a Chinese-made LS-6/500 guided glide bomb on the other. The 500 kg munition, developed by Luoyang Optoelectro Technology Development Center (LOTDC), combines a general-purpose bomb with a strap-on upgrade package to provide a range up to 60 kilometers and precision strike capabilities with a satellite-aided INS. Click to see full-size image. (X) With its high speed, long range, and pinpoint accuracy, the CM-400 is ideal for deep standoff strikes day and night, and in all weather. Although much slower, the LS-6 also provides standoff strike capabilities and could be even as difficult to detect and intercept. This upgrade didn’t come as a surprise. According to Belgrade-based defense journalist Petar Vojinović, the chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces, Gen. Milan Mojsilović, stated last month that “in the air component, we have weapons of a similar maximum range and lethality [to the Israeli-made PULS rocket artillery system].” Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić also hinted to recently introduced military capabilities, stating: “…people couldn’t dream about everything we have, everything we are acquiring, they couldn’t dream.” Despite ordering 12 Dassault Rafale fighter jets from France, Serbia is clearly planning on keeping its MiG-29s in service for a good while. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Serbia Allegedly Made Massive Bomb For Egypt Which Could Use It To Hit Nile Dam Croatia And Slovenia Sign Military Cooperation Deal Aimed At Serbia The post Serbia Armed Its MiG-29 Fighter Jets With Chinese Supersonic Missiles And Glide Bombs (Photos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #CHINA, Balkans, Eastern Europe, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— US Aggression On Iran: Final Verdict On ‘Patriot’ System’s Atrocious Performance: at 3/12/26 11:10am
Click to see the full-size image How did the Neo-Nazi junta manage to intercept nearly 3,000 Russian missiles by August 2024 if they havent even used 700 Patriot interceptors by March 2026? Could it be the Ghost of Kiev (just like the Ghost of Kuwait is downing US jets)? Written by Drago Bosnic, independent geopolitical and military analyst For the last four years, the mainstream propaganda machine has been presenting the MIM-104 Patriot SAM/ABM (surface-to-air/anti-ballistic missile) system as one of the so-called wunderwaffen that were supposed to defeat the evil Russians. The United States insisted that even hypersonic weapons were regularly being shot down by these systems, rendering Moscows best weapons obsolete. However, as the NATO-orchestrated Ukrainian conflict dragged on, it became clear thats anything but true. This is confirmed by the fact that the Neo-Nazi junta failed to present a single shred of evidence that even supersonic missiles were shot down, let alone hypersonic ones. Namely, the 9-S-7760 of the 9-A-7660 Kinzhal, 9M723 of the 9K720M Iskander-M and 3M22 Zircon hypersonic missiles have never been shot down, while the same goes for the P-800 Oniks, Kh-22 and Kh-32 supersonic missiles. This demonstrates that the political West still doesnt have the means to intercept the most advanced Russian precision-guided weapons. However, this doesnt matter to the mainstream propaganda machine. The most important thing is to make sure Russian weapon systems get some bad PR. Over the years, Ive written many analyses debunking US/NATO myths about intercepting the Kremlins supersonic and hypersonic missiles. Namely, according to data published back in 2024, Moscow supposedly fired over 9,600 missiles of various types by August of that year. Nearly 2,900 of these were allegedly shot down by NATO-sourced SAM/ABM systems, meaning that their efficiency was around 30%. Although completely unsubstantiated, this figure still seemed surprisingly honest, especially given the fact that the Neo-Nazi junta tends to go over 100% success rate when reporting on its performance against the Russian military. Interestingly enough, the exact numbers were also published, revealing numerous inconsistencies in the official data. Listed under the missile kill efficiency tab was the following: Kinzhal: 25.23% Kalibr: 49.55% Kh-555/101: 78.06% Onyx: 5.69% Iskander-K: 37.62% Kh-35: 6.67% Kh-22: 0.55% Iskander-M/KN-23: 4.31% Zircon: 33.33% Tochka-U: 8.82% Kh-25/29/31/35/58/59/69: 22.17% S-300/400: 0.63% The list is strange, to say the least. Apart from certain missile types (specifically the Kh-35) being listed in two separate statistics, Russian SAM systems are also presented as targets for interception, despite being air defense/ABM weapons themselves. Also, listing the S-300/400 here is very vague, to put it mildly, as it doesnt specify which of their numerous missile types this refers to. Namely, all types from this family of SAM systems can fire a plethora of missiles designed to neutralize all sorts of targets. Putting all of them under one tab doesnt really make sense. However, whats far more intriguing is the comparative success rate against various high-speed missiles. For instance, the claim that over a quarter of all Kinzhals fired by Russia (111, according to this list) have been shot down. Flying at speeds far exceeding 4 km/s (at least Mach 12 or around 15,000 km/h), this hypersonic missile is one of the fastest in the world. This alone makes it effectively impossible to intercept. However, if we add its ability to maneuver into the mix, the Kiev regimes claims become all the more absurd. Nobody in the political West has a viable defense against the Kinzhal, let alone any of its many vassals and satellite states. The same goes for the Zircon with a maximum speed of over 11,000 km/h (around Mach 9 or over 3 km/s) and high maneuverability. On the other hand, the Kiev regime claims that it shot down only 8.82% of the old Soviet-era Tochka-U missiles, which are not only slower (around 6,500 km/h), but also have a regular ballistic trajectory that is far easier to predict and intercept. By August 2024, only 6 out of 68 of these were downed, compared to 28 out of 111 Kinzhals, which are decades ahead, both technologically and in terms of capabilities (nearly three times faster while also being highly maneuverable). If we add the Iskander-M/KN-23 (its North Korean derivative) to the equation, it reinforces the notion of just how illogical these claims are, as 4.31% of these were shot down, even though their speed is comparable to the Zircons. Although it can maneuver, the Iskander is less maneuverable than the more advanced scramjet-powered Zircon, which the Kiev regime allegedly intercepts at a rate of 33.33%, meaning that its nearly eight times more effective against it than the less capable Iskander-M. However, the illogic continues, as the claim for the much older Kh-22 (maximum speed nearly 5,700 km/h) is just 0.55% (a mere two out of 362 launched by August 2024). The Neo-Nazi junta forces regularly complain about this missile, even admitting that they never shot down a single one until recently, even though the Kh-22, albeit fantastic, is still far less capable than either the Kinzhal or Zircon. In addition, the P-800 Onyx, for which the Kiev regime also claimed its impossible to shoot down, is also listed, with an alleged interception rate of 5.69% (12 out of 211). The missiles top speed is around 3,600 km/h. As previously mentioned, while theres zero evidence that a single Onyx was ever shot down (the same goes for the Kh-22), just for the sake of argument, lets say the statistics are on point. Namely, the Zircon is at least three times faster than the Onyx, once again showing that the Neo-Nazi juntas numbers simply dont add up. In addition, both missiles can be fired by virtually the same platforms (the Russian military has already augmented them with ground-based Zircons. Moscow certainly wouldnt be doing that if the Onyx were more capable, as the Kiev regime is claiming. Either way, its always been perfectly clear that NATO and its Neo-Nazi puppets are terrified to admit that Russian weapons are far superior and will do anything to denigrate them. However, the narrative definitely fell apart after the US launched its aggression against Iran. Namely, it turns out that its military forces fired at least 800 interceptors from Patriot SAM/ABM systems, which failed against regular Iranian ballistic missiles. The high command in Tehran even stated that the vast majority of those were old weapons (in other words, 60-year-old Soviet-era ballistic missile technology). Now, heres the definite kicker. The Kiev regime said that it fired approximately 600-700 Patriot interceptors in about four years, which is less than what the Pentagon fired in three days of war with Iran. And yet, according to the aforementioned statistics from August 2024, the Neo-Nazi junta forces shot down nearly 3,000 Russian missiles. Now, lets forget about all the illogic surrounding the old claims of the Kiev regime and focus on one simple question – how did they manage to intercept nearly 3,000 Russian missiles by August 2024 if they havent even used 700 Patriot interceptors by March 2026? Could it be the Ghost of Kiev (just like the Ghost of Kuwait is downing US jets)? MORE ON THE TOPIC: Iran Hit More Tankers As New Supreme Leader Vows To Keep Strait Of Hormuz Shut (Videos) Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, And Saudi Arabia Targeted In Overnight Iranian Strikes (Videos) Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos) The post US Aggression On Iran: Final Verdict On Patriot Systems Atrocious Performance appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #EU, #RealWarInUkraine, #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, #USA, All articles, Editor's choice, Europe, Military, Politics]
— Thirteen Days Of Stalemate: How the U.S.’s ‘Quick Victory’ in Iran Turned Into A Costly Quagmire: at 3/12/26 11:08am
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function(){ var player = videojs('content_video', { autoplay: false, loop: false, fluid: true, controlBar: { liveTracker: false } }); var shareOptions = { socials: ['fb', 'tw', 'reddit', 'messenger', 'linkedin', 'telegram', 'whatsapp', 'viber', 'vk'], url: window.location.href, title: "Thirteen Days Of Stalemate", description: "Thirteen days into the conflict between Israel and the U.S. on one side and Iran on the other, there have been no critical changes to the situation. The parties continue to exchange strikes on each other's targets. This is the essence of the current conflict. Iran has achieved its main goal in this confrontation. The allies have been drawn into prolonged and costly military operations. The original objectives of the operation have not been achieved. The assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Kha", image: "https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Quick_Victory.jpg", // required for Facebook and Messenger fbAppId: '12345', // optional for Facebook redirectUri: window.location.href + '#close', // optional for VK isVkParse: true, // optinal embed code embedCode : "" }; player.share(shareOptions); player.downloadButton(); }); Download video Thirteen days into the conflict between Israel and the U.S. on one side and Iran on the other, there have been no critical changes to the situation. The parties continue to exchange strikes on each others targets. This is the essence of the current conflict. Iran has achieved its main goal in this confrontation. The allies have been drawn into prolonged and costly military operations. The original objectives of the operation have not been achieved. The assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei paved the way for his son to take power. He is ready to avenge his murdered father and nearly his entire family. Most of the senior leaders who were eliminated have already been replaced. Contrary to analysts predictions that mass protests would break out if instability arose in the country, the people have rallied together. It can be assumed that the Iranian navy and air force have been destroyed, as the allies representatives regularly remind us. However, these components were never key to Irans armed forces and existed only nominally. After the theocrats came to power in 1979, the Islamic Republic prepared for war with the U.S. by creating thousands of underground bases and storage facilities. Despite the fact that the war was being fought in the air, Israel and the US found themselves in a stalemate. A quick decapitation operation was expected to be a triumph that would force Iran to surrender. But this remained just a plan. President Donald Trump clearly did not expect a protracted conflict; the successful operation in Venezuela had inspired him too much. Now, the allies are faced with a difficult choice. They cannot increase the number of airstrikes because nearly a third of the entire US combat aircraft fleet is already involved. Moreover, experience shows that air strikes do not achieve the desired result of changing the countrys regime. The only other option is to launch a ground operation, for which no one is prepared. Even the most mobile units would take at least two to three weeks to deploy. Every minute of war costs a fortune. Iran understands that time is on its side. Therefore, it is systematically destroying the oil industry facilities of Arab countries in the Gulf. Tehran has already demonstrated that American military bases in these countries cause more trouble than they prevent. The White House lacks the political will to either end or further escalate the conflict. Donald Trump can only declare a public victory over Iran. Meanwhile, the price of oil and gas continues to rise inexorably around the world. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ DEAR FRIENDS. IF YOU LIKE THIS TYPE OF CONTENT, SUPPORT SOUTHFRONT WORK: MONERO (XMR): 86yfEHs6pkoDEKCxc6MAnQX8cVHmzhYxMVrNuwKgNmqpWK8dDxjgGnK8PtUNJMACbn6xEGxmRauNTHJhUJpg9Mwz8htBBND BITCOIN (BTC): bc1qgu58lfszcpqu6fd8l98m378wgzugyg9y93lcym BITCOIN CASH (BCH): qr28d80s5juzv2793k5jrq59xrl5fxd8qg9h3zlkk2 PAYPAL, WESTERN UNION etc: write to info@southfront.press , southfront@list.ru If you face any problems sending funds to the addresses given above, please contact us: info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. Also be aware that many email services such as Hotmail, Yahoo etc. may block correspondence from info@southfront.press and some others put it in spam. If you want to support SouthFront but have no opportunity to do it via cryptocurrency, please contact us: info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS The post Thirteen Days Of Stalemate: How the U.S.s Quick Victory in Iran Turned Into A Costly Quagmire appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #FROMTHEFRONT, #IRAN, #ISRAEL, #MIDDLEEAST, #USA, Military Report, SouthFront TV, iran, israel, middle east, usa]
— Trump’s Iran Mistake Expands Beyond Middle East, With Impacts In Eurasia And Across The Globe: at 3/12/26 10:55am
Click to see the full-size image Escalation with Iran is generating worldwide consequences. Oil market volatility, regional instability, and Eurasian security concerns beyond the Middle East highlight the broader geopolitical stakes. Iran’s resilience and the risk of prolonged conflict challenge Washington’s objectives. The war may thus prove far more costly than expected. Written by Uriel Araujo, Anthropology PhD, is a social scientist specializing in ethnic and religious conflicts, with extensive research on geopolitical dynamics and cultural interactions The past weekend offered, once again, a blunt reminder that the US-Israel war against Iran is not unfolding as many in Washington and Tel Aviv had hoped. Iranian missile and drone strikes have caused casualties inside Israel, while attacks on Gulf facilities and US allies have intensified. Reports of mounting US military casualties are circulating, even as the Pentagon attempts to limit details. Meanwhile, despite American naval deployments, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue, reducing tanker transits dramatically and basically keeping global energy markets on edge. Moreover, perhaps most importantly, Iran’s political system has not collapsed. The Islamic Republic stands in fact defiant and fully operational. This has wider consequences, even globally. US President Donald Trump’s decision to escalate the conflict alongside Israel marked a dramatic departure from the “no more wars” narrative that used to energize his “MAGA” (“Make America Great Again”) political base. I’ve recently argued that entering a large-scale war against Iran could destroy this very political coalition. The core promise of “America First” was, after all, precisely to avoid endless Middle Eastern wars while rebuilding the American economy at home. In June 2025, I warned that direct US intervention in an Iran-Israel war would likely send oil prices toward $120–$150 per barrel and push American gasoline prices into the politically dangerous $4–$5 per gallon range . Well, on Monday (March 9), Brent crude briefly surged past $119 per barrel, the highest level since June 2022 The spike followed weeks of escalating tensions and fears that the Strait of Hormuz could effectively close completely. At one point, tanker transits dropped from roughly two dozen per day to only a handful, while overall ship traffic through the Strait fell from about one hundred vessels daily to single digits. Prices have since retreated somewhat, hovering around $84–$86 on Tuesday, but the market remains extremely volatile. Energy traders are reacting to every military development, with options markets still betting on scenarios where crude climbs toward $135 or even $150. Thus, even if oil stabilizes for now, the geopolitical risk premium is here to stay for as long as the conflict continues. Hormuz remains the world’s most sensitive energy chokepoint, and the attacks on Gulf infrastructure have added further uncertainty. That being said, Trump may still try to extract advantages from the situation. Trump’s foreign policy style often is bluntly “transactional”. One just needs to point out how he has repeatedly attempted to leverage previous US aid to Ukraine in order to obtain political concessions (regarding rare-earth minerals and so on). Similarly, he has also angered the Israeli right with proposals such as his Gaza “development” plan. In the context of the current war, a similar logic could emerge. Analysts have noted that the conflict is already costing Washington billions of dollars in munitions and logistical support. If the campaign drags on, Trump may seek to “reimburse” the United States by demanding expanded basing rights or economic concessions in the region. The US President, in his typical manner, has already floated the idea of “taking over” the strait. In other words, if Washington and Tel Aviv were to declare victory, Trump could push for expanded US military bases, control of strategic infrastructure, and privileged access to Iran’s energy sector. Such an outcome, in this scenario, would carry considerable strategic costs for Israel, naturally. A prolonged US military presence across Iranian territory would shift the regional balance in Washington’s favor. The Jewish state might then win the war (in this scenario) but find itself sharing the geopolitical spoils with its superpower ally: I’ve written before about how Trump was apparently seeking to “recalibrate” the complex US-Israeli relationship. Be as it may, emerging reports already suggest divergences between Washington and Tel Aviv. Trump in any case already seems eager to limit the war’s duration due to domestic political risks and rising oil prices, while Israeli leaders seem determined to continue until Iranian military capabilities are fully degraded. The stakes of course go beyond US and regional actors: China, for one thing, is being severely impacted, there being no broad exception for Chinese vessels in the Strait. Moscow in turn has long regarded its Iranian ally as also a crucial buffer state helping stabilize Russia’s southern strategic arc. If the United States were to gain military access to Iran, the implications would thus be profound enough. American forces could, in such a scenario, position themselves near the Caspian basin, within logistical reach of the Caucasus and Central Asia and much closer to southern Russia. This would amount to further layers of the geopolitical “encirclement” of Russia. In addition, from an American perspective, a weakened Iran would ripple across Eurasia: accelerating Western influence in the South Caucasus, also potentially pushing Central Asian states toward greater Western cooperation A decisive US-Israeli victory, however, is very far from assured. Iran’s asymmetric capabilities (missiles, maritime disruption) remain potent, and prolonged Hormuz instability could inflict massive economic costs globally, thereby turning tactical wins into strategic failures. And yet, there may be no easy exit, for the Rubicon has already been crossed, so to speak. The ongoing war may very well be Trump’s greatest strategic mistake (perhaps motivated by Israeli pressures, including blackmail a possibility that even political scientist John Mearsheimer concedes). The consequences, however, should be global and long-lasting, with unpredictable enough outcomes. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Iran Hit More Tankers As New Supreme Leader Vows To Keep Strait Of Hormuz Shut (Videos) Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, And Saudi Arabia Targeted In Overnight Iranian Strikes (Videos) Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos) The post Trump’s Iran Mistake Expands Beyond Middle East, With Impacts In Eurasia And Across The Globe appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #EU, #IRAN, #MIDDLEEAST, #USA, All articles, Americas, Editor's choice, Europe, Military, No Category, Politics]
— Iran Hits More Tankers As New Supreme Leader Vows To Keep Strait Of Hormuz Shut (Videos): at 3/12/26 10:30am
File image. Iran will fight on and keep the Strait of Hormuz shut, new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said on March 12, in his first remarks since he succeeded his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the opening strikes of the American-Israeli war on the Islamic Republic. In a statement read out on state television, Mojtaba said that neighboring countries should close all United States bases on their territory, or Iran would continue to attack. I assure everyone that we will not neglect avenging ‌the blood of your martyrs, the supreme leader said. The popular demand is to continue our effective defense and make the enemy regret! The lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be used, he added. The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most critical maritime chokepoint, with roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption passing through. The waterway serves as the primary gateway for energy exports from major producers like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Kuwait. Iranian officials reported earlier that Mojtaba was lightly wounded in the war’s opening strike. He confirmed in his statement that his wife, sister and other family members were killed along with his father. Shortly after his address, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that, in keeping with his orders, they would keep the Strait of Hormuz shut. A day earlier, three other ships were struck in the Persian Gulf close to the waterway. The IRGC claimed responsibility for at least two attacks, one of which set a Thai bulk carrier ablaze close to Oman. Three of the ship’s crew were reported missing after the attack. Two tankers were also set ablaze near Iraqs southern port of Basra overnight, forcing a pause of operations at the countrys oil terminals. Irans official IRNA news agency reported that the IRGC struck one of the two ships — a U.S. -owned vessel, the Safesea Vishnu — because it had ignored warnings and failed to comply with orders. Indian authorities earlier said that the Safesea Vishnu, which sails under the Marshall Islands flag, was attacked by an unmanned speed boat. A second vessel, Greek-owned and Maltese-flagged Zefyros, was struck while it was in the middle of a ship-to-ship transfer with the Safesea Vishnu, the vessels manager Benetech Shipping said. The Iraqi News Agency, citing a military official, reported after the attack that 38 crew members were rescued and one person died. Later in the morning, a Chinese-owned container ship off the coast of the United Arab Emirates was struck by an unknown projectile causing a small fire onboard, according to the United Kingdom’s Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre. As a result of these Iranian attacks, oil prices climbed on March 12, reaching over $100 per barrel. This happened despite the International Energy Agency agreeing to release a record 400 million barrels of oil. The IRGC has already warned that oil could reach $200 per barrel. “Get ready for oil to be $200 a barrel, because the oil price depends on regional security, which you have destabilized,” Ebrahim Zolfaqari, a spokesperson for the IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, told Reuters. Iran’s new supreme leader clearly views the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as a way to increase the economic cost of the war on the U.S. and its allies. Without a direct and costly naval intervention, the U.S. military will not likely be able to challenge the Islamic Republic’s grip on the waterway. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, And Saudi Arabia Targeted In Overnight Iranian Strikes (Videos) Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos) The post Iran Hits More Tankers As New Supreme Leader Vows To Keep Strait Of Hormuz Shut (Videos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #ISRAEL, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— Iran Hit More Tankers As New Supreme Leader Vows To Keep Strait Of Hormuz Shut (Videos): at 3/12/26 10:30am
File image. Iran will fight on and keep the Strait of Hormuz shut, new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said on March 12, in his first remarks since he succeeded his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the opening strikes of the American-Israeli war on the Islamic Republic. In a statement read out on state television, Mojtaba said that neighboring countries should close all United States bases on their territory, or Iran would continue to attack. I assure everyone that we will not neglect avenging ‌the blood of your martyrs, the supreme leader said. The popular demand is to continue our effective defense and make the enemy regret! The lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be used, he added. The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most critical maritime chokepoint, with roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption passing through. The waterway serves as the primary gateway for energy exports from major producers like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Kuwait. Iranian officials reported earlier that Mojtaba was lightly wounded in the war’s opening strike. He confirmed in his statement that his wife, sister and other family members were killed along with his father. Shortly after his address, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that, in keeping with his orders, they would keep the Strait of Hormuz shut. A day earlier, three other ships were struck in the Persian Gulf close to the waterway. The IRGC claimed responsibility for at least two attacks, one of which set a Thai bulk carrier ablaze close to Oman. Three of the ship’s crew were reported missing after the attack. The two tankers were also set ablaze near Iraqs southern port of Basra overnight, forcing a pause of operations at the countrys oil terminals. Irans official IRNA news agency reported that the IRGC struck one of the two ships — a U.S. -owned vessel, the Safesea Vishnu — because it had ignored warnings and failed to comply with orders. Indian authorities earlier said that the Safesea Vishnu, which sails under the Marshall Islands flag, was attacked by an unmanned speed boat. A second vessel, Greek-owned and Maltese-flagged Zefyros, was struck while it was in the middle of a ship-to-ship transfer with the Safesea Vishnu, the vessels manager Benetech Shipping said. The Iraqi News Agency, citing a military official, reported after the attack that 38 crew members were rescued and one person died. Later in the morning, a Chinese-owned container ship off the coast of the United Arab Emirates was struck by an unknown projectile causing a small fire onboard, according to the United Kingdom’s Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre. As a result of these Iranian attacks, oil prices climbed on March 12, reaching over $100 per barrel. This happened despite the International Energy Agency agreeing to release a record 400 million barrels of oil. The IRGC has already warned that oil could reach $200 per barrel. “Get ready for oil to be $200 a barrel, because the oil price depends on regional security, which you have destabilized,” Ebrahim Zolfaqari, a spokesperson for the IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, told Reuters. Iran’s new supreme leader clearly views the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as a way to increase the economic cost of the war on the U.S. and its allies. Without a direct and costly naval intervention, the U.S. military will not likely be able to challenge the Islamic Republic’s grip on the waterway. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, And Saudi Arabia Targeted In Overnight Iranian Strikes (Videos) Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos) The post Iran Hit More Tankers As New Supreme Leader Vows To Keep Strait Of Hormuz Shut (Videos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #ISRAEL, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— Energy Blackmail: Abandoned Ukraine Increases Attacks On Russian Facilities Pumping Gas To Europe: at 3/12/26 7:28am
File image. Russian energy giant Gazprom revealed on March 11 that over the past two weeks, 12 attacks on its facilities that ensure export supplies via the TurkStream and Blue Stream gas pipelines towards Türkiye have been repelled. In a statement, the company said that the Russkaya compressor station in southern Russia was again attacked via air, and the day before, attacks on the Beregovaya and the Kazachya stations were registered. In total, over the past two weeks, starting February 24, Gazprom facilities in southern Russia have been attacked 12 times. These facilities are part of the critically important energy infrastructure and ensure the reliability of export gas supplies via the TurkStream and Blue Stream gas pipelines, it said. The latest Ukrainian attack on Russkaya was confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defense, which said in a statement that the goal was to halt gas supplies to European consumers. The compressor station, located near the town of Gai-Kodzor in Krasnodarsky Krai, ensures gas supplies via the TurkStream pipeline. “From 23:47 on 10 March until 05:08 on 11 March, four attacking Ukrainian fixed-wing UAVs [unmanned aerial vehicles] were shot down by Russian surface-to-air missile units in the airspace adjacent to the station, two Ukrainian UAVs were intercepted by fighter aircraft, and three—including two directly over the compressor station (at 04:04 and 05:08)—were destroyed by mobile fire teams,” the ministry said in a statement. It reported that another UAV was shot down over the compressor station during the day on March 11, exactly at 15:58 Moscow time. “Simultaneously with the attempts to disable the Russkaya gas compressor station, the Kiev regime attempted to launch an attack during the night of 11 March using 14 fixed-wing UAVs against the Beregovaya compressor station of the Blue Stream pipeline in the area of Tuapse,” the ministry added. Ukraine stopped deliveries of oil via the Druzhba pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia. In response, Budapest blocked a 90 billion euro European Union loan to Kiev. Currently, Hungary continues to receive Russian gas via TurkStream and deliver it to Slovakia. This is likely the reason why Ukraine is so keen on targeting the pipeline. Hungarian Foreign Minister Minister Szijjártó described recent Ukrainian attempts to hit TurkStream in particular as a serious attack on Hungary’s sovereignty, noting that the pipeline is currently one of the most important gas supply routes in Hungary. “Without TurkStream, Hungary simply cannot be supplied with gas safely from a geographical and physical standpoint,” the minister wrote on X. “Ukraine’s oil blockade through the Druzhba pipeline and this strike against TurkStream are serious attacks on our sovereignty,” he added. There is little doubt that the recent Ukrainian attacks on TurkStream and Blue Stream are meant to blackmail Hungary into approving the EU loan. These attacks also came amid a de facto Iranian blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a major waterway that transports 20% of global oil from the Persian Gulf, caused by the American-Israeli war on the Islamic Republic. The war left Ukraine very much abandoned, with both the EU and the United States rushing their military assets to the Middle East to protect Israel and wealthy Gulf countries. Kiev, desperate to regain the attention and support of its allies, likely believes that inflaming the global energy crisis would allow it to extort something. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Blood For Headlines: Why Ukraine’s Strike On Bryansk Was A Calculated Provocation Fields Of Death Near Mala Slobidka: Why Ukrainian Reserves Are Not Reaching The Front The post Energy Blackmail: Abandoned Ukraine Increases Attacks On Russian Facilities Pumping Gas To Europe appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, Politics]
— Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, And Saudi Arabia Targeted In Overnight Iranian Strikes (Videos): at 3/12/26 4:46am
File image. Another wave of Iranian strikes hit Gulf countries over the night of March 11 and 12, mainly targeting facilities housing or supporting the United States military in response to the ongoing American-Israeli war on the Islamic Republic. Bahrain’s Interior Ministry said early in the morning that fuel storage tanks at a facility in Muharraq governorate were targeted in an attack attributed to Iran, adding that authorities have begun taking measures to handle the incident and secure the site. Muharraq is home to Bahrain International Airport. Videos posted to social networks revealed that the fuel storage tanks hit were located there. The airport functions as a dual-use facility, serving as a primary civilian aviation hub while also hosting a permanent military installation known as Muharraq Airfield, mainly run by the United States Navy. Meanwhile in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai Media Office reported responding to a series of drone incidents in separate statements. A drone hit a hotel in Dubai Creek Harbour in the early morning. Later, the media office reported a minor incident involving a drone that fell onto the façade of a building on Sheikh Zayed Road, with no injuries there either. Images on social media showed some damage to the outside of UP Tower. An incident was also reported by the media office in the Al Bada district, which is close to Satwa and Sheikh Zayed Road, without specifying what happened. Iran has repeatedly accused the U.S. of sheltering its troops and setting up intelligence operations centers at high-rise buildings and hotels in Gulf states. In Saudi Arabia, the kingdom’s Ministry of Defense announced the interception of three ballistic missiles and 34 drones in separate statements overnight. The missiles targeted Prince Sultan Air Base, according to the ministry. Multiple U.S. warplanes are currently based there, including airborne early warning and control aircraft, as well as communication relay planes. These warplanes are certainly aiding the attack on Iran. The ministry also said that eight of the drones were intercepted over the Empty Quarter, while heading towards Shaybah field. The field is one of Saudi Arabia’s largest oil and gas fields, producing over one million barrels per day of premium crude, in addition to natural gas liquids critical for the kingdoms petrochemical industry. The remaining drones were all intercepted over the Eastern Province, where multiple military sites, important fields, and key infrastructure facilities are located, except for one which was shot down over the embassies district in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. Later in the morning, Kuwait’s Public Authority for Civil Aviation acknowledged that the capital’s international airport took damage after being targeted by Iran. “The civil aviation announces that Kuwait International Airport was targeted by several drones, resulting only in material damage,” authorities said in a statement, adding that there are no casualties. Kuwait International Airport hosts Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base, which includes Cargo City, a logistics hub for the U.S. Air Force. Iran escalated its retaliatory strikes in recent days, with Gulf countries hit the worst. There is still no sign that Arabs will respond by joining the American-Israeli war. This could, however, change if the war dragged on, especially that many of these countries were forced to cut down on the production and export of oil and gas. With time, the cost of joining the war for countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE for example could become less than that of tolerating Iranian strikes. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos) U.S. Is Worried Iranian Drones Could Hit California The post Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, And Saudi Arabia Targeted In Overnight Iranian Strikes (Videos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #SAUDIARABIA, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, UAE]
— Blood For Headlines: Why Ukraine’s Strike On Bryansk Was A Calculated Provocation: at 3/12/26 4:21am
Click to see the full-size image On the afternoon of March 10, Bryansk, a Russian city located 100 kilometers from the border, was struck. Ukraine used British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles in the attack. Six civilians were killed and 42 others were injured as a result of the strike on a busy street. According to Ukrainian authorities, the intended target was a facility producing goods for the Russian Ministry of Defense. At first glance, this incident appears to be yet another act of war, which has now become commonplace. The average person may see this as just another strike on a defense plant during which civilians were mistakenly killed. However, this is not the case. The roots of this attack go much deeper than routine military operations. This article will discuss why the incident in Bryansk can be regarded as a terrorist attack and the actual objectives of the Ukrainian leadership. Fading popularity The media is one of the main pillars of Ukrainian power. Thanks to successful information campaigns, Ukraine has positioned itself as a victim of unjustified aggression. Due to its martyr status and its role as the last defender of Europe against aggressive Russia, Kyiv has been able to justify the need for military aid. It was much easier for Western politicians to make decisions about allocating funding and weapons to Ukraine under the guise of helping freedom fighters. Taxpayers did not ask unnecessary questions because the Russian side was portrayed as completely evil in the media. Click to see the full-size image This system only works like clockwork under one important condition: the subject of the PR campaign must always be at the center of the information agenda. Therefore, whenever the noise around the Ukrainian conflict begins to subside, Kyiv makes every effort to return to the front pages of publications. A striking example is the invasion of Russias Kursk region in August 2024. From a military standpoint, this operation made no sense. As a result, some of the Ukrainian armys best brigades suffered heavy losses in personnel and equipment. However, the operation had a significant media impact, keeping the Ukrainian issue in the top 10 for a long time. The war in the Persian Gulf, which began at the end of February 2026, has overshadowed the situation in Ukraine. The military crisis in the worlds most oil-rich region concerns global players and the general population alike. The entire planet depends on hydrocarbon supplies from this region. Ultimately, the price of gasoline and gas will affect ordinary citizens standard of living. Most consumer prices will rise significantly. Therefore, global attention has shifted entirely to news reports from the Persian Gulf. Under these circumstances, it will be challenging for Western leaders to justify allocating funds to support Ukraine instead of their own citizens. Click to see the full-size image This is why it is crucial for Kyiv to regain the spotlight. The best way to do so is through bloody provocations, preferably in broad daylight. Ukraine is forcing Russia to take harsh retaliatory measures. Kyiv can then present these measures to the Western public as unjustified cruelty, thereby increasing its chances of receiving financial and military support. More blood is needed The daytime attack on the city of Bryansk can be classified as a terrorist act for several reasons. First, the attack was deliberately organized during the day. This increases the likelihood of obtaining a large amount of video footage from city cameras or car dashcams. Additionally, the destruction is more visible during the day, and passersby are more likely to film the bodies of the dead and wounded. These objectives distinguish a terrorist attack from a purely military strike. This message is primarily aimed at the domestic Russian audience. Public discontent should force Moscow to take retaliatory action, which is exactly what Ukraine needs. Click to see the full-size image The video footage shows that the desired effect was achieved. Many cars passed by on the road, allowing the scene of the incident to be viewed from different angles. document.createElement('video'); https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/1-3.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-3.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2.mp4Download video The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense does not deny attacking civilians. However, the ministrys official account on a social networking site mocks and threatens individuals who sympathize with the victims. This behavior is outrageous. No government agency has ever allowed itself to act in such a manner before. However, these actions clearly demonstrate the nature of the Ukrainian state. Click to see the full-size image Translation: Tula is with you! Well, if thats the case, then well attack Tula. Ukraine struck the city with British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles. The warhead contains 450 kilograms of explosives. This explains the significant destruction seen in the footage. Click to see the full-size image In general, Kyiv could have employed standard tactics involving large aircraft-type UAVs to strike Russian targets at night. Militarily speaking, the outcome would have been nearly identical. It should be noted, however, that the Ukrainian army has a limited supply of these missiles. The declared plant was not a highly protected target, so cheaper means of destruction could have been used. However, this did not happen for certain reasons. The Russian Foreign Ministry accurately identified the reasons for the use of British missiles. We also note that the use of British weapons systems is taking place against the backdrop of intensified political and diplomatic efforts by Russia, the United States, and Ukraine to resolve the Ukrainian crisis in a trilateral format. London and other Western capitals goal is obvious: to disrupt the peace process and escalate hostilities through large-scale provocations involving civilian casualties. This tactic is not new, and it is used by the sponsors of the Kyiv regime every time there is a real prospect of a settlement, the ministry said. Overall, this aligns with the UKs strategy throughout the last four years of conflict. London has constantly pushed for further escalation. Back in 2022, during negotiations in Istanbul, Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered Volodymyr Zelenskyy to break off talks and escalate to a full-scale war. Zelenskyy openly stated this in one of his interviews. Since then, Foggy Albion has remained true to its traditions. Click to see the full-size image It is vitally important for Kyiv and its British sponsors to interrupt the current peace process. The preconditions for establishing relations between Moscow and Washington are already apparent. The US could benefit greatly from close cooperation with Russia, which has also demonstrated openness to dialogue. US President Donald Trump has considerable leverage over Zelensky. Therefore, if there is the political will, the Ukrainian conflict can be resolved. In this scenario, however, Ukraine will remain the losing side. The European Union, with its own major internal problems, simply wont have the strength or desire to help rebuild Ukraine. Britains multibillion-dollar investments will be worthless. This is not at all in line with the plans of the government and big business, which are profiting handsomely from the current conflict. Therefore, while the worlds attention is on the Persian Gulf, Kyiv may be planning new, high-profile provocations. We can expect attacks on the civilian population or critical infrastructure. As part of this strategy, Ukraine launched a massive attack on Russias Krasnodar Krai on March 11. The Russkaya compressor station of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline and the Beregovaya compressor station of the Blue Stream pipeline were the targets of the strikes. The main objective is to stop gas supplies from Russia to European countries. Additionally, there is recent information about the UK and Frances plans to transfer tactical nuclear weapons to Ukraine. A nuclear scenario would be ideal for these parties. In the context of Pandoras box being opened, a war between the U.S. and Israel against Iran would no longer seem so terrible. Ukraine would dominate the front pages of newspapers for a long time. MORE ON THE TOPIC: 2 Million Wanted, 20,000 Flee Monthly: The Numbers Behind Ukraine’s Mobilization Collapse Russia-Ukraine Strike Exchange: British Storm Shadow Missiles Hit Bryansk Fields Of Death Near Mala Slobidka: Why Ukrainian Reserves Are Not Reaching The Front The post Blood For Headlines: Why Ukraines Strike On Bryansk Was A Calculated Provocation appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #EU, #FROMTHEFRONT, #RealWarInUkraine, #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, #USA, All articles, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, Politics, Russian Armed Forces, UK]
— Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos): at 3/11/26 5:48pm
Illustrative image. Hezbollah launched more than 150 rockets in addition to an unknown number of drones at targets in northern Israel over the night of March 11 and 12, with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announcing that the launches were a part of a joint operation. In a series of statements, Hezbollah said it targeted “the settlements that had been warned to evacuate within a 5-kilometer area” of the border, along with a number of Israeli military sites located as deep into northern Israel as the port city of Haifa and the town of Safad. The group said that the launches were a part of a new series of operations, codenamed “Devoured Straw,” after a phrase from the Quran. As Hezbollah was launching rockets and drones, a number of ballistic missiles were fired from Iran at central, northern, and southern Israel. The IRGC later announced that the missile strike was a “joint and integrated operation” with Hezbollah. In a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency, the guards said that they had launched several ballistic missiles, while Hezbollah launched drones and rockets at over 50 targets in Israel. This was the first time such a joint operation has been officially announced since the start of the American-Israeli war on Iran, which saw Hezbollah resuming attacks in support of the Islamic Republic. Multiple impacts were reported in northern Israel amid the joint operation. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) didn’t provide details on the rocket and drone attacks carried out by Hezbollah, but said that all ballistic missiles launched from Iran were intercepted Additional launches were reported by Hebrew media later, including “long-range rockets” from Lebanon, with warnings sounding in the city of Tel Aviv in central Israel. There were also reports of impacts. In the first monuments of the operation, Hebrew media reported that a man was lightly wounded in the town of Biina in northern Israel. It is unclear if there were any additional casualties. IDF censorship has been extremely strict since the start of the war, unlike previous confrontations. In an initial response, the IDF launched strikes against the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, Beirut, a stronghold of Hezbollah more known as Dahiyah. Earlier in the day, the military said it had so far struck over 70 targets there during the war with Iran, including demolishing 50 multi-story buildings used by the group. Israeli strikes on Lebanon have so far have killed 634 people, wounded 1,586 others, and uprooted 700,000 more, according to Lebanese authorities. The latest joint operation was surprising considering that all assessments before the war suggested that Hezbollah’s capabilities were heavily degraded. The operation will likely encourage the IDF to move forwards with its plan to invade southern Lebanon. A ground battle may be, however, exactly what Hezbollah is waiting for. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: U.S. Is Worried Iranian Drones Could Hit California U.S. Deploys Air Defenses At Key Base In Syria, Damascus Could Join Israeli War On Hezbollah (Video) The post Hezbollah Targets Israel With Over 150 Rockets In First Joint Operation With Iran’s IRGC (Videos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #ISRAEL, #LEBANON, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— Fields Of Death Near Mala Slobidka: Why Ukrainian Reserves Are Not Reaching The Front: at 3/11/26 3:38pm
File image. In the Sumy region, Russian troops crossed the border near Krasna Zoria, cleared the tree line near Bobylivka, and advanced on Sopych. This threatens to isolate the Ukrainian forces east of the Loknya River. In the eastern part of Zaporizhzhia, Ukrainian forces are carrying out large-scale attacks in the areas around Andriivka, Hai, and to the west of Haichur. However, they are sustaining casualties due to the actions of the East group. Meanwhile, Russian troops have regained control of the Ternovate–Pridorožne–Rizdvianka road. In the Kharkiv area, Russian assault troops advanced in Vovchanski Khutory, repelled Ukrainian attempts to cross the Vovcha River, and attacked Ukrainian strongpoints. In the Dobropillia salient, fighting continues for Sukhetske, Bilytske, and Novopavlivka, and there has been an increase in the range of Ukrainian FPV drones. In the Zaporizhzhia area, positional battles are ongoing near Zaliznychne and Bilohiria, and Russian troops are attacking Ukrainian logistics on the road from Omelnyk. In the Slaviansk area, Russian units have taken control of the chalk slope northeast of Kryva Luka and are advancing toward Kalenyky. They are also engaged in combat in the Krasnyi Lyman area. Zoltán Kovács, a representative of the Hungarian government, stated that intelligence services have provided evidence of Ukrainians financing the Hungarian opposition party Tisza. Sumy Direction In the Sumy area, units of the North grouping have intensified offensive operations in a new border sector. Russian assault groups crossed the border and forced Ukrainian troops out of Krasna Zoria. Forward groups have cleared tree lines in areas adjacent to the former Bobylivka settlement. Russian troops had previously captured a wide strip of forested areas in this sector, from Kharkivka to Sidorivka, pushing Ukrainian units back to poorly fortified positions in the Ulanovo area. Russian assault troops advanced on seven sections in the Sumy district and two in the Hlukhiv district. The total advance over the day amounted to up to 350 meters. There is ongoing fierce fighting southeast of Bobylivka, where Ukrainian units are trying to hold their positions. The Ukrainian command is transferring reserves from the 5th Border Detachment to the Sopych area. Reports that this settlement is under control are premature. In the Krasnopillia district, Russian units are continuing to successfully carry out offensive operations. As a result of the engagement, over 40 servicemen from the 119th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade abandoned their positions in the tree lines south of Hrabovske. To the north, small assault groups initiated fighting for Sopych during several attacks from the direction of Neklystyia. Neither side currently has firm control of the village, though the Ukrainian side has already conceded defeat. The civilian population of the area has been evacuated to Russian territory. Due to the areas poorly developed road network, Ukrainian units must deliver personnel and supplies across open fields from Mala Slobidka. This leads to heavy losses because moving without cover makes Ukrainian fighters easy targets for drones. In the near future, Russian units are expected to attempt to establish control over the Bachivsk checkpoint, which would allow them to accumulate reserves in the area and advance west along the M-02 highway. Assault groups will then be able to bring the crossing in Tolstodubove under fire control, threatening to isolate the Ukrainian grouping east of the Loknya River. document.createElement('video'); https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j1.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j2.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j3.mp4Download video Zaporizhzhia Direction Heavy fighting continues in the Zaporizhzhia area. There is a high concentration of Ukrainian forces on the Andriivka–Otradne line. Ukrainian units are attempting to consolidate their position in the northern part of Andriivka and one of the adjacent fortified areas. The Ukrainian side is using drones in settlements to the south. North of Hai, Ukrainian forces launched a large-scale attack that was thwarted by drone operators and artillerymen of the East grouping. In the vicinity of Vyshneve, Ukrainian groups that were previously inserted remain active. There are also ongoing fierce clashes west of the Haichur River. Ukrainian troops are attempting to push Russian forces out of Rozhdestvenske and are attacking from Vozdvizhevka toward Priluky. Previously, Ukrainian forces crossed the river and attempted to infiltrate the rear of Russian units. Despite the ongoing onslaught, Ukrainian units are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain the current pace of the offensive. Transferring the most combat-capable assault regiments only temporarily slowed the advance of Russian troops. Attacks on the northern flank have been successfully contained by drone operators and infantry. Russian assault groups constantly move out to clear Ukrainian survivors after landings, preventing them from infiltrating the rear. In the Huliaipole sector, west of Danylivka, fighting continues on the banks of the Yanchur River. Ukrainian units are counterattacking, but they cannot consolidate because Russian drone operators are targeting them. South of Novooleksandrivka, incursions by small groups of Ukrainian soldiers dispersed up to Vyshneve are being recorded. However, these groups have no established logistics or clear consolidation. A similar situation is observed in the Sosnivka-Berezove sector. Near Rizdvianka, Russian troops advanced, restoring control over the Ternovate–Pridorožne–Rizdvianka road. Previously, Ukrainian units used this logistical artery to attack with armored vehicles and transfer infantry. They have now lost the ability to supply and rotate their groups. Near Zheleznodorozhne and Bilohiria, positional battles continue. Russian troops are striking Ukrainian equipment on the road from Omelnyk, which the Ukrainian side uses to transport reinforcements to Huliaipole and launch counterattacks. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j4.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j5.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j6.mp4Download video Kharkiv Direction In the Kharkiv region, the North groupings assault groups are advancing deeper with intense fighting. Russian aviation forces struck Ukrainian unit personnel and equipment concentrations in the Vesele, Rubizhne, Verkhnya Pysarivka, Pishchane, Kolodezne, and northern Budarky areas. In the Karaichne area, the Ukrainian command prepared another assault group from the 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade to cross the Vovcha River. In the Vovchansk area, Russian assault troops advanced up to 200 meters near Vovchanski Khutory. Crews operating heavy flamethrower systems conducted a precision strike on a strongpoint belonging to the 113th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade in a forested area of the Vovchansk district. In the Velykyi Burluk area, Russian troops advanced 200 meters along two fronts. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j7.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j8.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j9.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j10.mp4Download video Dobropillia Salient Fighting has shifted to Sukhetske on the Dobropillia salient, and the village is being cleared. Ukrainian units are reinforcing the area with drones. There is ongoing fighting on the approaches to Bilytske. Russian troops have cleared part of the railway line and tree plantations, cutting off supply routes for Ukrainian troops. In the Ivanivka area, Russian troops advanced westward and seized control of the railway junction. The territory east of Novyi Donbas has become a grey zone. The eastern part of Novyi Shakhove is under the control of Russian units, while Ukrainian units are attacking from the direction of Vilne. The 150th Motorized Rifle Division continues to hold its positions in Novopavlivka and is repelling attacks from Pavlivka. It should be noted that Ukrainian units have increased the flight range of FPV drones, which complicates the actions of Russian troops. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j11.mp4Download video Slaviansk Direction In the Siversk sector, Russian troops seized control of the chalk slope northeast of Kryva Luka. This improved their observation of the surrounding area and strengthened their tactical position. They are building on this success by advancing on the sector between Kryva Luka and Kalenyky. They are gradually expanding their control zone and putting pressure on the defensive positions of Ukrainian units. There has also been an advance from Reznykivka towards Kalenyky, which poses a threat of further expansion of the bridgehead. In the Krasnyi Lyman sector, combat operations continue near Krasnyi Lyman. The contact line remains unstable, and neither side has a stable tactical advantage. There are ongoing heavy engagements west of Dibrova and in the Ozerne area, where Russian units are trying to advance. However, a significant part of the sector remains a grey zone. Ukrainian units are positioned in the Stavky area and to the northwest. The front line resembles a layered cake, with Ukrainian units positioned even in the Zarechne area. Ukrainian units are pulling up reserves via secondary supply roads from Raihorodok, Svyatohirsk, Drobysheve, and Brusivka. In Krasnyi Lyman, Ukrainian units are present in the citys central and southern areas; the surrounding territory is contested. Ukrainian units have established firing points in residential buildings. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j12.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j13.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j14.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/j15.mp4Download video Conclusion Analysis of the operational situation indicates the persistence of high-intensity combat operations in all directions. In the Sumy area, Russian units that have crossed the border are threatening to isolate the Ukrainian forces east of Loknya and cut off key logistical routes by exploiting the Ukrainian formations poorly developed road network. In the eastern part of the Zaporizhzhia region, Ukrainian offensive attempts are met with organized resistance from the East grouping. This grouping not only repels attacks, but also restores control over important roads, cutting off Ukrainian troops supply lines. In the Kharkiv area, Russian troops continue to advance slowly, destroying reserves and strong points despite the active use of Ukrainian drones. In the Dobropillia salient, Russian units are clearing settlements and cutting communications despite the increased range of Ukrainian FPV drones. In the Zaporizhzhia area, positional battles are combined with strikes on the rear logistics of Ukrainian units. In the Slaviansk area, Russian troops are consolidating their positions on key heights and advancing on Kalenyky while simultaneously engaging Ukrainian forces near Krasnyi Lyman. In the context of international politics, a notable event was the statement made by Zoltán Kovács, a representative of the Hungarian government. During the broadcast of the program Hour of Truth, he reported that Hungarys national security services had provided the parliamentary committee on national security with evidence that the Ukrainian government was financing the opposition party Tisza. He claimed that the funds, which were allegedly transported to Ukraine and confiscated from Oschadbank, coincided suspiciously with the amount that party leader Péter Magyar said was necessary for the election campaign. The Hungarian government has repeatedly accused Ukraine of interfering in the countrys internal affairs with the aim of bringing an opposition government to power that would approve the allocation of Hungarian funds to the corrupt Kyiv regime and Ukraines accelerated accession to the EU. This statement exacerbates the already tense relations between Budapest and Kyiv. Hungary and Slovakia are already blocking EU loans for Ukraine and demanding the restoration of oil transit via Druzhba. These allegations of election interference and opposition party financing are unprecedented and could lead to Ukraines further isolation within the European Union. Against the backdrop of growing skepticism among Western allies and war fatigue, such scandals undermine trust in the Ukrainian leadership and strengthen the position of countries that advocate reassessing the policy of supporting Kyiv. Combined with the successful offensive of Russian troops in multiple directions, this creates an increasingly complex foreign policy and military situation for Ukrainian authorities. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Information Oblivion: Ukraine’s Message To A World That Stopped Watching 2 Million Wanted, 20,000 Flee Monthly: The Numbers Behind Ukraine’s Mobilization Collapse The post Fields Of Death Near Mala Slobidka: Why Ukrainian Reserves Are Not Reaching The Front appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, Politics, Suggested Analyses]
— U.S. Is Worried Iranian Drones Could Hit California: at 3/11/26 2:17pm
Illustrative image. (Islamic Republic of Iran Army) The United States’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warned police departments in the state of California in recent days that Iran could retaliate for American attacks by launching drones at the West Coast, according to an alert reviewed by ABC News. “We recently acquired information that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United State Homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the U.S. conducted strikes against Iran,” according to the alert distributed at the end of February. “We have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack.” The warning came just as the U.S. and Israel launched their ongoing attack against the Islamic Republic, according to the report. Iran has launched hundreds of retaliatory strikes with missiles and drones since the start of the war, targeting Israel, as well as bases housing or supporting the U.S. military across the Middle East. It has also repeatedly warned that it could escalate further. There are more than 40 major military installations located on the U.S. West Coast, mainly across California and Washington. The Islamic Republic has developed mulpile types of long-range suicide drones, the most known of is the Shahed-136, which carries a warhead weighting 30-50 kg and can strike a target located up to 2,500 kilometers away from its launch point. Less than two years ago, Iran unveiled a completely new version of the drone, the Shahed-136B, with 90 kg warhead and a range over 4,000 kilometers. With such suicide drones, Iran could in theory launch strikes against the U.S. West Coast from commercial vessels sailing from ports in Latin America, or even from Eastern and Southern Asia. Smuggling such large drones, and hiding the nature of the real nature of the vessels would be extremely difficult, however. And even if such a covert operation was carried out successfully, the early warning assets of the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard could detect the incoming drones early on, allowing for a quick response. Of course, as seen in drone warfare so far, there will likely be a margin of error. An early warning, even a very early one, does not mean that a few of the drones will not end up slipping in and hitting their targets. The last attack by a country on U.S. territories took place during World War II, a war Americans fought with full force, even going as far as using nuclear weapons. Any attack by Iran could end up giving the administration of President Donlad Trump an execution to escalate the ongoing war. Due to this reason, as well as to the technical difficulty of such an operation, it is highly unlikely that the Islamic Republic would even attempt such a thing. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: U.S. Deploys Air Defenses At Key Base In Syria, Damascus Could Join Israeli War On Hezbollah (Video) Drones Set Omani Fuel Facility Ablaze, Iran Declares Economic Interests In Gulf Targets (Videos) The post U.S. Is Worried Iranian Drones Could Hit California appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— Military Situation In Ukraine On March 11, 2026 (Maps Update): at 3/11/26 12:20pm
Click to see the full-size image Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolayev, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, Sumy, Chernihiv, Kherson and the DPR regions; The Russian offensive continues in the Konstantinovka, Pokrovsk, Sumy, Seversk, and Dnipropetrovsk directions; Russian forces struck several temporary deployment points for AFU UAV operators, a UAV assembly facility, and a UAV warehouse in the Kharkiv region; Russian forces carried out an airstrike on AFU personnel stationed on Snake Island in the Black Sea; Russian forces struck a locomotive depot during the unloading of a railway train carrying heavy military equipment in Konotop, Sumy region; Russian forces struck an AFU UAV control point in Yantarnе, Kherson region; Russian forces struck railway infrastructure in Snihurivka, Mykolaiv region. Click to see the full-size image Russian forces took control of Grishino; Russian forces advanced and entered the outskirts of Sergeevka. Click to see the full-size image Russian forces advanced south of Reznikovka. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Information Oblivion: Ukraine’s Message To A World That Stopped Watching 2 Million Wanted, 20,000 Flee Monthly: The Numbers Behind Ukraine’s Mobilization Collapse Russia-Ukraine Strike Exchange: British Storm Shadow Missiles Hit Bryansk The post Military Situation In Ukraine On March 11, 2026 (Maps Update) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #FROMTHEFRONT, #MAPS, #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, All articles, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, No Category, Politics, Russian Armed Forces]
— U.S. Deploys Air Defenses At Key Base In Syria, Damascus Could Join Israeli War On Hezbollah (Video): at 3/11/26 12:13pm
File image. The United States has deployed air defenses at its largest base in Syria, amid growing signs that Damascus could soon join the ongoing American-Israeli war on Iran by attacking the Islamic Republic’s ally in Lebanon, Hezbollah. RT released video footage showing the reinforcements, which included two Centurion C-RAM systems and an AN/TPQ-53 radar, heading towards Qasrak base, located between the towns of Tell Tamr and Tell Baidar in the northeastern Syrian governorate of al-Haskah. Qasrak is the U.S. largest base in Syria, used to support forward operations and as a logistics hub. The base includes a runway capable of supporting large American military cargo planes. The Centurion, built around the M61A1 30 mm gun, is a counter-rocket, artillery, and mortar air defense system that is also used against drones, with a range of around two kilometers. Meanwhile, the AN/TPQ-53 is an active electronically scanned array radar with a range up to 60 kilometers. The deployment of these systems at Qasrak came as a surprise as just a few weeks earlier it was reported by The Wall Street Journal and other outlets that the U.S. is working to withdraw its remaining troops from Syria — numbered around 1,000 — within two months. U.S. troops did leave al-Tanf garrison, a key outpost near the borders of Syria, Jordan and Iraq, as well as a base near the town of al-Shadadi in al-Hasakah. This limited withdrawal was likely, however, related to the preparations for the war on Iran, which broke out on February 28. Iran has launched hundreds of retaliatory strikes with missiles and drones since the start of the war, targeting Israel, as well as bases housing or supporting the U.S. military across the region. The Islamic Republic’s allies also joined in after the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq began carrying out similar strikes, and Hezbollah resumed operations against Israel, ending a ceasefire in Lebanon that was brokered by the U.S. more than 15 months ago. Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman were all hit. There were even reports of Iranian attacks on Turkey and Azerbaijan. Still, not a single strike from Iran or its allies targeted Syria, or U.S. forces deployed there. U.S. attempts to reinforce its largest base in Syria may be linked to growing signs that Damascus could join the war on Iran by attacking Hezbollah. The Syrian government began deploying reinforcements along the border with Lebanon weeks before the start of the war, and last month Lebanese Al Akhbar reported that high-ranking officials in Lebanon received information indicating that the country’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa said during a closed meeting with his senior officials: “Now it is Hezbollah’s turn, and we will not forget our revenge.” Hezbollah, a Shia group, was a close ally to Syria’s former president, Bashar al-Assad, who was overthrown more than a year ago by a coalition of Sunni Islamist rebels led by Sharaa. While Syria remained silent when the war first broke out, it began escalating against Hezbollah earlier this week, accusing the group of shelling the town of Serghaya, west of Damascus, over the night of March 9 and 10. On that day, the group said that its fighters clashed with an Israeli commando unit that landed from helicopters close to Serghaya. “The Syrian Arab Army will not tolerate any aggression targeting Syria,” the Syrian military said in a statement to SANA. Following this threat, Sharaa declared his support to efforts to disarm Hezbollah during a phone call with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. He affirmed that this step is “essential for solidifying Lebanese state sovereignty and shielding the region from the repercussions of ongoing regional armed conflicts,” according to a readout of the call published by SANA. Hezbollah, which is currently facing an intense aerial campaign and a ground operation by Israel, will be easily overwhelmed by a Syrian invasion. Nevertheless, such a move would likely be met with a fierce response from Iran and the other allies of the group. Syria’s infrastructure, or rather what’s left of it after 14 years of civil war, would be completely exposed to retaliatory strikes from Lebanon, Iraq and Iran. U.S. bases in the country will also be targeted, which explains why air defenses are now being deployed at Qasrak despite the reported withdrawal plans. Sharaa is likely aware of the heavy price Syria will be for joining the war on Iran and its allies. That’s being said, he is not in a position to refuse if the U.S. or Israel asked him to jump in. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Thunder In The Gulf: Why The Iran War Will Reshape The World Order New Shadowy Sunni Armed Group Vows To Fight Israel In Southern Syria The post U.S. Deploys Air Defenses At Key Base In Syria, Damascus Could Join Israeli War On Hezbollah (Video) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #ISRAEL, #LEBANON, #SYRIA, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— Information Oblivion: Ukraine’s Message To A World That Stopped Watching: at 3/11/26 10:38am
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function(){ var player = videojs('content_video', { autoplay: false, loop: false, fluid: true, controlBar: { liveTracker: false } }); var shareOptions = { socials: ['fb', 'tw', 'reddit', 'messenger', 'linkedin', 'telegram', 'whatsapp', 'viber', 'vk'], url: window.location.href, title: "Ukraine Message To A World That Stopped Watching", description: "By March 2026, the war in the Persian Gulf had eclipsed Ukraine as the world's main focus. With the U.S. rushing interceptor missiles to the region, Kyiv now faces a dangerous new reality: Western supplies could soon dry up entirely. To escalate the current conflict, the Russian city of Bryansk was hit with British Storm Shadow missiles. Forty-two people were injured and six were killed. In , the Russian military continues to adhere to a strategy of 'a thousand cuts.' According to reports, un", image: "https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Information_Oblivion.jpg", // required for Facebook and Messenger fbAppId: '12345', // optional for Facebook redirectUri: window.location.href + '#close', // optional for VK isVkParse: true, // optinal embed code embedCode : "" }; player.share(shareOptions); player.downloadButton(); }); Download video By March 2026, the war in the Persian Gulf had eclipsed Ukraine as the worlds main focus. With the U.S. rushing interceptor missiles to the region, Kyiv now faces a dangerous new reality: Western supplies could soon dry up entirely. To escalate the current conflict, the Russian city of Bryansk was hit with British Storm Shadow missiles. Forty-two people were injured and six were killed. In Sumy region, the Russian military continues to adhere to a strategy of a thousand cuts. According to reports, units of the Russian 33rd Battalion occupied the Krasnaya Zarya forest area east of Glukhov. Now, Russian troops control a large section of the border. Konstantinovka is the focal point for the opposing forces in the Slavyansk area. The Ukrainian army has deployed substantial forces to this area to secure the city. The backbone of the Ukrainian defense consists of the 28th, 5th, and 36th brigades. These brigades are the best equipped in terms of personnel and equipment and are therefore considered elite. Their main task is to hold back the advance of Russian troops in the most critical areas. The Ministry of Internal Affairs Lyut Brigade and the 49th Karpatskaya Sich Assault Battalion support these brigades. Their function is to support the second echelon and prevent desertion among military personnel. The first echelon of the citys defense is not as elite. Units of the 44th, 100th, 156th, and 157th brigades hold the front line. These units are supported by two territorial defense brigades: the 109th and the 117th. The main task of these forces is to engage the advancing enemy, slowing their advance. There is a reason why as many as six units are defending a relatively small town with a pre-war population of only 78,000. The fiercest fighting on the front line in the Dobropillya area is taking place for control of Grishino. Russian army assault units have cleared the eastern part of the settlement. Russian aviation is actively supporting the advancing units. A large UAV control point of the Ukrainian 152nd Brigade was reportedly destroyed in a bombing raid. In the current climate of information oblivion and operational pause on the front line, Kyiv may take serious steps. In order to return to the top of the agenda, a loud and bloody provocation is needed. It does not matter whether this takes place on Russian or Ukrainian territory. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ DEAR FRIENDS. IF YOU LIKE THIS TYPE OF CONTENT, SUPPORT SOUTHFRONT WORK: MONERO (XMR): 86yfEHs6pkoDEKCxc6MAnQX8cVHmzhYxMVrNuwKgNmqpWK8dDxjgGnK8PtUNJMACbn6xEGxmRauNTHJhUJpg9Mwz8htBBND BITCOIN (BTC): bc1qgu58lfszcpqu6fd8l98m378wgzugyg9y93lcym BITCOIN CASH (BCH): qr28d80s5juzv2793k5jrq59xrl5fxd8qg9h3zlkk2 PAYPAL, WESTERN UNION etc: write to info@southfront.press , southfront@list.ru If you face any problems sending funds to the addresses given above, please contact us: info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. Also be aware that many email services such as Hotmail, Yahoo etc. may block correspondence from info@southfront.press and some others put it in spam. If you want to support SouthFront but have no opportunity to do it via cryptocurrency, please contact us: info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS The post Information Oblivion: Ukraines Message To A World That Stopped Watching appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #DONBASS, #FROMTHEFRONT, #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, SouthFront TV, Ukraine Military Report, donbass, dpr, konstantinovka, russia, ukraine]
— Drones Set Omani Fuel Facility Ablaze, Iran Declares Economic Interests In Gulf Targets (Videos): at 3/11/26 9:13am
Click to see full-size image. (X) A drone attack targeted oil storage facilities in the Omani port of Salalah causing a massive fire on March 11, as Iran declared a new phase in the war with the United States and Israel. Citing a security source, Oman’s official news agency said that multiple drones were shot down before others managed to hit the port’s oil storage facilities. It added that there were no casualties, noting that “authorities are working to exert all efforts to monitor and counter these brutal attacks.” Click to see full-size image. (X) Videos posted online showed columns of dark smoke rising from fuel tanks at Salalah, Oman’s largest maritime hub and a premier global transshipment center. The attack on Salalah port was the second to target Oman during the day. Earlier, the country’s news agency said that a drone was shot down and another splashed in the water off the coast of the town of Duqm, where another port is located. No casualties or damage was reported. Iran escalated its retaliatory strikes in recent days, especially against Gulf states, with multiple infrastructure facilities hit. Further escalating, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened to attack “economic centers and banks” related to U.S. and Israeli entities in the region after what it called an attack on an Iranian bank. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters said on March 11 that “the enemy left our hands open to targeting economic centers and banks belonging to the United States and the Zionist regime in the region”. It warned that “people of the region should not be within a one-kilometer radius of banks,” adding that “Americans should await our countermeasure and our painful response.” Iran’s state broadcaster said that an Israeli attack overnight on a bank branch in Tehran was an “illegitimate and unusual act in war.” According to state television, several employees were killed in the incident. Meanwhile, the semi-official Tasnim news agency released a list of offices and infrastructure run by top U.S. companies with Israeli links whose technology has been used for military applications, describing them as “Iran’s new targets”. “As the scope of the regional war expands to infrastructure war, the scope of Iran’s legitimate targets expands,” the agency said. The companies include Google, Microsoft, Palantir, IBM, Nvidia and Oracle, and the listed offices and infrastructure for cloud-based services are located in multiple Israeli cities, as well as in some Gulf countries. Following these threats, Reuters reported that Standard Chartered has begun evacuating staff from offices in Dubai in the United Arab Emirate and told them to work from home. Separately, HSBC closed all branches in Qatar until further notice, according to the report. The war is clearly about to enter a new phase where both sides will prioritize economic targets, from infrastructure, to energy facilities and banks. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Three Vessels Hit Near Strait Of Hormuz As Iran Renews Threats (Photos) Drones Hit UAE’s Dubai Airport Following Massive Overnight Attack On Saudi Arabia (Videos) The post Drones Set Omani Fuel Facility Ablaze, Iran Declares Economic Interests In Gulf Targets (Videos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, No Category]
— Three Vessels Hit Near Strait Of Hormuz As Iran Renews Threats (Photos): at 3/11/26 7:28am
Click to see full-size image. (X) At least three vessels have been hit in the Strait of Hormuz, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), other maritime security agencies and news agencies reported on March 11, amid a de facto Iranian blockade on the strategic waterway. The Japan-flagged container ship One Majesty had sustained minor damage from an unknown projectile 25 nautical miles northwest of Ras Al ⁠Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, according to Asharq Al Awsat and Al Arabia, who cited maritime security sources. The ship’s crew members are safe and the vessel is sailing towards a safe anchorage, according to the sources. Later, a Thailand-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree was targeted and damaged approximately 11 nautical miles north of Oman. UKMTO said, referring to the ⁠incident, that the ⁠fire had been extinguished and that there was no environmental impact. Thailand’s Transport Ministry said that 20 crew members were rescued, but three remain missing. Click to see full-size image. (X) Click to see full-size image. (X) Click to see full-size image. (X) A third vessel, a bulk carrier, was also hit by an unknown projectile approximately 50 miles northwest of Dubai in the UAE, UKMTO and other security firms said. The projectile had damaged the hull of the Marshall Islands-flagged Star Gwyneth, maritime risk management company Vanguard ⁠said, adding ⁠that the vessels crew were safe. In a statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that it was behind the attack on Mayuree Naree, and said that its forces also struck a Liberian-flagged container ship “owned by Israel,” the Express Room, after repeated warnings. “The Strait of Hormuz remains under the constant and intelligent management of the brave naval forces of the IRGC. American aggressors and their partners have no right to passage,” the guards said. Commenting on the attacks, Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, wrote on his X account: “Were the ships assured they could freely pass through the Strait of Hormuz? You should ask the crews of EXPRESS ROOM and MAYUREE NAREE, who today trusted empty promises, ignored warnings, and attempted passage—but were caught. Any vessel intending to transit must obtain permission from Iran.” The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most critical maritime chokepoint, with approximately 20.9 million barrels of oil per day — roughly one-fifth of global consumption passing through. The waterway serves as the primary gateway for energy exports from major producers like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Kuwait. The IRGC previously warned that any ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz would be attacked, and the waterway has effectively been closed since the start of the American-Israeli war on the Islamic Republic, with multiple tankers hit by Iranian fire nearby. The latest incidents increase the number of ships that have been attacked in the waterway and in nearby waters since the war began to at least 14. A day earlier, American media reports claimed that U.S. intelligence had started seeing indications that Iran is taking steps to deploy mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump responded by threatening the Islamic Republic, and the Central Command said that it destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels near the waterway. The latest attacks show that the Strait of Hormuz remains firmly under Iranian control. The U.S. military, which targeted more than 60 Iranian warships, has been way less successful when it comes to the Islamic Republic’s other anti-shipping capabilities. With Iran possessing the ability to deploy mines, unmanned one-way-attack boats, and underwater vessels, in addition to coastal anti-ship missiles batteries, the waterway will likely remain closed until the war ends, or some side agreement is reached. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Drones Hit UAE’s Dubai Airport Following Massive Overnight Attack On Saudi Arabia (Videos) U.S. Military Says It Struck 16 Iranian Mine-Laying Wessels Near Strait of Hormuz (Videos) The post Three Vessels Hit Near Strait Of Hormuz As Iran Renews Threats (Photos) appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #IRAN, #USA, Editor's choice, Hot, Military]
— 2 Million Wanted, 20,000 Flee Monthly: The Numbers Behind Ukraine’s Mobilization Collapse: at 3/11/26 5:44am
Click to see the full-size image In the current reality, any careless trip outside could be a Ukrainian mans last in civilian life. The hunt for recruits continues unabated. Forcible abductions, public beatings, extortion, and torture in recruitment center dungeons have become commonplace. The Verkhovna Rada has stated that approximately 2 million draft dodgers are wanted, and nearly all of them must be apprehended and sent to the frontlines. The front line requires new reinforcements every day to continue fighting. During the off-season operational pause, especially now, the Ukrainian command will do its utmost to replenish the units that have been battered in battle. When the summer campaign begins, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will need to demonstrate some degree of success on the battlefield. This is necessary, first and foremost, as a report to the Ukrainian conflicts foreign sponsors. This means that the restored brigades and regiments will face new personnel losses. The depleted units will, of course, be replenished with forcibly mobilized men. Dangerous symptoms The Ukrainian mobilization system is facing many challenges. It is ineffective and does not provide the army with enough recruits. Kyiv is trying its best to solve this problem. Reforms planned for March aim to improve the efficiency of the Territorial Recruitment Centers (TRCs) and tighten the screws on draft dodgers. Similar measures to those used against alimony defaulters and debtors are likely to be implemented, such as freezing accounts and seizing property. Click to see the full-size image One of the key problems for the Ukrainian authorities is desertion. Statistics show that most deserters flee before being sent to the front lines. Among those already sent to the combat zone, the desertion rate drops sharply to an average of 10%. This is due to blocking detachments that return deserters. If 20,000 to 30,000 people are forcibly mobilized per month, up to 20,000 of them immediately flee, while the rest join the Armed Forces of Ukraine. While there is a real influx of soldiers into the Ukrainian army, it appears that it barely covers the losses, if it covers them at all. In other words, the Ukrainian army has now reached a plateau and cannot increase its numbers using existing methods. At best, it can only maintain them. At the same time, the quality of the army is declining—a problem that everyone knows about but few talk about because it is difficult to measure. This can indirectly be seen in the increase in the average age of obituaries and missing persons reports. After the initiative was transferred to the Russian Armed Forces, the Ukrainian army realized that many of their losses were still missing because it was difficult to evacuate bodies due to the large kill zones and slow retreat. Initially, the ratio of obituaries to missing persons was 3 to 1. In June 2022, for instance, there were 1,500 obituaries and 500 missing persons in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Now, the ratio has reversed; in June 2025, there were 1,300 obituaries and nearly 3,500 missing persons. According to obituaries, the average age of those killed is 38.6 years, while for missing persons it is 39.9 years. Click to see the full-size image Ukraine has significant problems with its remaining mobilization resources. It is estimated that Ukrainian authorities can mobilize 3 to 3.5 million people, but 2 million of them are already enlisted. These figures have been confirmed by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. Forced mobilization is one of the tools used to replenish the Ukrainian army, and Ukrainian deputies said society has no way of avoiding it. These are only the official statistics. In reality, the situation may differ greatly from the published information. Attempts to survive Accumulated fatigue from the current situation is forcing potential conscripts to take risks. Some have not left their homes in a long time to avoid being caught. The more active ones are trying to leave the country via the Carpathian Mountains to flee to Romania. There, they can receive political asylum and protection from being deported back to their homeland. There are also some very radical cases. To flee forced mobilization, a Ukrainian man flew to Romania on a motorized hang glider. The 31-year-old was detained in the Suceava district for illegally crossing the border. He was taken to the border police headquarters in Vicov de Sus for further investigation. Criminal proceedings have been initiated against him for illegally crossing the border and operating an aircraft without the proper documentation. It is reported that he flew about 40 kilometers. Click to see the full-size image Surprisingly, the actions of Territorial Recruitment Center employees do more to shape Ukrainian civil society than official authorities do. There are an increasing number of cases of people helping each other rescue individuals from abduction. In Odessa, for example, a street food vendor hid a young passerby from a TRC raid. Thus, the young mans life was saved. document.createElement('video'); https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/1-2.mp4Download video According to Ukrainian Telegram channels, police officers and the TRC tried to restrain the Ukrainian man. At some point, he stopped breathing, and attempts to revive him were unsuccessful—he died of heart disease. This occurred in front of his wife. A second similar case was recorded in the Kyiv region. During his arrest, the man became ill and lost consciousness. After that, his pulse stopped. Despite this, the recruiters did not call an ambulance but instead took the body away in an unknown direction. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-2.mp4Download video https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-1.mp4Download video Lawlessness and violent actions by the military are increasingly prompting Ukrainian citizens to engage in direct resistance. In Volyn, for example, a group of civilians chased TRC employees transporting a conscript. One of the civilians cut off the minibus, sending it into a ditch. The conscript was ultimately rescued, and a military registration office employee suffered a head injury. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1.mp4Download video Such trends are a serious wake-up call for Ukrainian society. As the authorities have decided to tighten mobilization measures, recruiters will soon have more power. There is already discussion about providing combat weapons to TRC employees. This will undoubtedly result in more incidents involving shooting and deaths or injuries among men trying to avoid conscription. So far, large groups of people have been able to resist when the TRCs are outnumbered. This is clearly seen in the video below. In it, an angry crowd forcibly throws a group of recruiters off a bus, preventing them from mobilizing several young men. https://s1.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/5-1.mp4Download video Public discontent has been expressed through unusual flash mobs. There has been a sharp increase in attacks on recruitment centers and their vehicles in the Odessa and Dnipropetrovsk regions of Ukraine. Angry citizens have organized to overturn minibuses belonging to recruiters. Click to see the full-size image Click to see the full-size image Thus, current trends in Ukraine will lead to an increase in social tension in the long term. Society is already exhibiting signs that could escalate into mass unrest. The inhumane treatment of recruits, deaths during detention, and similar incidents undermine trust in the state. Society cannot ignore these threats. Consequently, people are organizing and clashing with the TRC. At the same time, providing combat weapons to recruits may have the opposite effect that the Ukrainian authorities expect. Due to the war, the number of combat weapons stolen from the front lines has significantly increased in society. This means that, in the long term, TRC employees may become targets. MORE ON THE TOPIC: The Invisible War Within: Why Violence Against TRC Staff is Growing in Ukraine There’s More Than Meets The Eye: The TRC-Criminal Nexus – A Dual Threat To Ukrainian Civilians The Cost of Mobilization: Deaths Behind the Walls of TRCs and Rising Public Anger in Ukraine The post 2 Million Wanted, 20,000 Flee Monthly: The Numbers Behind Ukraines Mobilization Collapse appeared first on South Front.
[Category: #EU, #FROMTHEFRONT, #RealWarInUkraine, #RUSSIA, #UKRAINE, All articles, Editor's choice, Hot, Military, Politics, Russian Armed Forces]

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