Al Jazeera News Updates Sanctions on Iranian oil temporarily eased, Damage near Al-Aqsa Mosque
Mar 21, 2026
Coverage of shifting sanctions that let stuck Iranian oil tankers deliver cargo for 30 days. Reports of missile, drone and air defense activity across the Gulf and Israel. Accounts of strikes, displacement and damage near central Israel and close to the Al-Aqsa compound.
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Trump Signals Wind Down While Military Expands
- President Donald Trump signalled the U.S. may be close to winding down operations in the Israel‑Iran war.
- He declared victory while the Pentagon requested an additional $200 billion and sent more Marines and warships to the region, showing political statements and military moves diverge.
Temporary Easing Brings 140 Million Barrels
- The U.S. temporarily eased sanctions to allow stranded Iranian‑loaded vessels to deliver oil for 30 days.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Besant said this will quickly add about 140 million barrels to global markets to ease supply shortages.
Drone Strike Near Baghdad Diplomatic Facility
- A drone attack caused a fire near a U.S. diplomatic facility at Baghdad's Victory Base inside the international airport perimeter.
- The area has faced repeated attacks as Iraq becomes entangled in the wider Middle East conflict.