US Considers Hypersonic Missile Deployment as Iran Accuses Pentagon of Hiding War Costs

Tehran has hit back sharply at Washington over the ongoing costs of the US-Iran conflict, even as reports emerge of American military leaders presenting fresh strike options to President Donald Trump. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed on Friday that US spending has already reached $100 billion, far exceeding official Pentagon figures, and accused Israel’s actions of dragging America into an expensive gamble.

Araghchi posted on X that “the Pentagon is lying” and that Netanyahu’s approach has directly cost the US $100 billion so far—four times what has been publicly claimed. He added that American households are bearing roughly $500 in monthly costs, with indirect expenses likely much higher. The remarks came amid a fragile ceasefire that has held since early April but shows signs of strain.

Tensions Over War Costs and Narratives

Iranian officials have repeatedly challenged the US framing of the conflict as self-defence. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei criticised a State Department document that justified American action as collective self-defence for Israel and the US’s own inherent right. “Self-defence against what?” Baghaei asked on social media, calling it a war of aggression.

On the ground, the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt global energy flows and supply chains. Oil prices rose again on Friday, with Brent crude climbing about 1% to around $111 per barrel, reflecting persistent uncertainty. The blockade has also affected fertiliser shipments, prompting warnings from industry leaders that nearly 10 billion meals a week could be at risk for the world’s poorest nations if disruptions continue.

Internal Rifts in Iranian Leadership

Adding to the complexity, reports suggest growing friction inside Iran’s government. President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf are reportedly seeking the removal of Foreign Minister Araghchi. According to Iran International, the two leaders believe Araghchi has bypassed the presidency and followed directives more aligned with the Revolutionary Guard, particularly from figures like Ahmad Vahidi.

These claims remain unconfirmed by Iranian state media, but they point to possible differences over how to handle negotiations and the military track. Meanwhile, Iran’s chief justice insisted Tehran has never left the negotiating table, stating the country welcomes talks based on “logic and rationality” while remaining unafraid of conflict if its dignity is threatened.

US Military Weighs Renewed Options

Late on Thursday, President Trump received a high-level briefing from US Central Command Commander Admiral Brad Cooper and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine. Sources told outlets including Axios that the roughly 45-minute session included discussions on potential renewed action against Iran.

Separately, Bloomberg reported that CENTCOM has requested deployment of the Army’s Dark Eagle hypersonic missile system to the Middle East. The long-range weapon is seen as necessary to reach ballistic missile launchers that Iran has reportedly moved beyond the range of existing US systems like the Precision Strike Missile. If approved, this would mark the first operational deployment of America’s hypersonic capability, though the system is still limited in production and has faced development delays.

Impact on Global Economy and Region

The ripple effects are being felt far beyond the Gulf. The United Arab Emirates announced its exit from OPEC and the broader OPEC+ alliance effective May 1, a move that could reshape oil production dynamics at a sensitive time. For India, a major importer, the development carries both risks from higher prices and potential opportunities if Gulf producers increase output independently.

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong warned that prolonged Hormuz tensions would slow his country’s economy, given Asia’s dependence on Gulf energy. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the strait’s closure as “strangling” global markets for energy, transport, manufacturing and food, urging dialogue to avoid further escalation.

In southern Lebanon, Israeli forces reported striking dozens of Hezbollah sites despite a nominal ceasefire, while Lebanese officials reported civilian casualties from fresh raids. These developments add layers of regional volatility even as the core US-Iran standoff dominates headlines.

What Lies Ahead

Talks mediated by Pakistan appear stalled, with sources indicating Iran may submit a revised peace proposal soon. Trump has suggested Iran is eager for a deal but also indicated that restarting military pressure remains on the table if needed. He has pushed back against European and other allies criticising Washington’s approach, at times hinting at adjustments to US troop presence in Europe.

For now, the ceasefire holds, yet military preparations continue on both sides. Analysts note that any resumption of direct strikes could further inflame oil markets and humanitarian concerns linked to supply disruptions. Iranian officials, meanwhile, maintain they did not initiate the broader conflict and retain the right to defend themselves.

The coming days will be critical as Washington weighs its next moves, Tehran manages internal and external pressures, and the world watches the economic fallout from one of the most significant disruptions to Gulf shipping in recent memory. Whether diplomacy gains traction or military options are exercised again remains uncertain, but the stakes—for energy security, regional stability and global food chains—could hardly be higher.

India may play role in US-Iran peace efforts, says Rajnath Singh

New Delhi signals readiness for larger diplomatic engagement as West Asia faces critical juncture

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has indicated that India could play a constructive role in future peace efforts between the United States and Iran. Speaking in Berlin, the minister said such a possibility cannot be ruled out as the West Asia crisis continues to impact global stability.

Strategic balancing act

Singh noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already appealed to both sides to end the conflict. New Delhi has maintained a “balanced approach” in all diplomatic engagements throughout the war. The defence minister added that India’s role in peace initiatives may grow over time. This expansion, he clarified, would depend entirely on global circumstances and regional requirements.

Fresh firing in Hormuz

The statement came shortly after fresh escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fired upon a container ship early Wednesday. The incident occurred 15 nautical miles northeast of Oman. A Guard gunboat reportedly did not issue any radio warning before opening fire. The vessel sustained heavy damage to its bridge, though all crew members remained safe.

Trump extends ceasefire

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the existing ceasefire with Iran. Trump claimed Tehran is now “starving for cash” and losing approximately $500 million daily due to the naval blockade. He added that Iranian military and police personnel are not receiving salaries. The extension came at the request of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to Trump.

Iranian conditions for talks

Tehran has linked any fresh negotiations to the lifting of US port restrictions. Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir-Saeid Iravani stated that the United States must halt what he called “violation of the ceasefire” before any new round. “As soon as they lift the blockade, the next round will be held in Islamabad,” Iravani told Iranian media. He added that Iran is prepared for any scenario, political or military.

Chinese warning on escalation

China has warned that West Asia stands at a “very critical juncture.” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the region could either move toward peace or slip back into full-scale conflict. Beijing urged all efforts to be made to prevent a resumption of hostilities. This warning followed reports of a second ship coming under attack in the same waters shortly after the first incident.

What lies ahead

Military planners from nearly 30 countries are now meeting in London to flesh out details of a potential Hormuz security mission. Britain and France are leading the two-day gathering at a UK command centre. The plan remains dependent on a sustainable ceasefire holding between Washington and Tehran. For India, officials suggested that any formal peace role would likely emerge only after the second round of Islamabad talks concludes. As an English News Portal India update confirmed, New Delhi is watching the situation closely while ensuring safe passage for its own tankers through the conflict zone.

US-Iran Negotiations: Pakistan Army Chief Meets Iranian Officials in Tehran; Turkiye Urges ‘Constructive’ Dialogue

As global markets face unprecedented turbulence due to the ongoing West Asia conflict, Pakistan’s military leadership has landed in Tehran to mediate a potential ceasefire extension between Washington and Tehran.

TEHRAN/ANKARA – In a high-stakes diplomatic move to avert a total global energy collapse, Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran on Thursday to hold critical discussions with Iranian leadership. The visit aims to facilitate a secondary round of negotiations between the United States and Iran, seeking to extend a fragile ceasefire that has briefly paused seven weeks of devastating warfare.

Diplomatic Push in Tehran

The Pakistani delegation's arrival coincides with a period of extreme volatility in the Gulf region. General Munir met with Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf earlier today to discuss de-escalation strategies.

Islamabad has emerged as a central mediator in the conflict, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also coordinating with Qatar’s Emir to ensure a "close international coordination" for regional stability.

Turkiye Urges Constructive Talks

Adding weight to the peace efforts, the Turkish Defence Ministry issued a stern call for both the US and Iran to remain "constructive" during the negotiation process.

As a NATO member and a direct neighbor to Iran, Turkiye emphasized its commitment to transforming the current temporary pause into a permanent truce to prevent the regional security architecture from becoming "more complex and difficult to manage."

Trump Announces Direct Dialogue

In a surprising development on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump announced that the leaders of Israel and Lebanon are scheduled to speak later today.

If successful, this would mark the first direct communication between the two nations in over 34 years. While the White House remains optimistic about "getting a little breathing room," official sources in Beirut and Tel Aviv have yet to confirm the conversation.

Global Energy Crisis Looms

The urgency of these talks is underscored by a dire warning from the International Energy Agency (IEA). IEA chief Fatih Birol stated that Europe has "maybe six weeks of jet fuel left" due to the continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The closure of this strategic waterway has triggered what experts call the "largest energy crisis" in modern history, leading to inflated petrol prices and potential flight cancellations across the continent.

Military Escalation Continues

Despite the diplomatic maneuvers, the ground situation remains critical. The Israeli military reportedly destroyed the strategic Qasmiyeh Bridge in southern Lebanon, effectively severing the last link between the Tyre and Sidon regions.

Simultaneously, the US Department of War confirmed that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth will hold a news conference today to address the ongoing military operations and the Navy's recent loss of an MQ-4C Triton drone over the Persian Gulf.

Internal Political Deadlock

In Washington, domestic efforts to curb the executive's war powers have hit a wall. A resolution aimed at limiting President Trump’s ability to wage war against Iran failed in the Senate for the fourth time.

The US Treasury has further tightened the screws by announcing new sanctions targeting 17 entities and nine vessels linked to Iranian oil trade, signaling that the "maximum pressure" campaign remains in full effect alongside the naval blockade.

Future Outlook Uncertain

The international community now looks toward Pakistan as a potential venue for the next formal round of US-Iran talks. While Iranian officials admit "fundamental disagreements" remain over nuclear stockpiles and enriched uranium, the involvement of regional heavyweights like Turkiye and Pakistan offers a narrow window for de-escalation.

Failure to reach a consensus could see Iran fulfilling its threat to indefinitely block the Red Sea and the Sea of Oman, a move that would Cripple global trade and National and International News cycles for months to come.

Latest News Today confirms that while the path to peace is narrow, the cost of continued conflict has become unsustainable for the global economy. This remains a Trending News India story as regional stability directly impacts domestic fuel prices and trade.

US-Iran Ceasefire: Trump Suspends Strikes For Two Weeks After Pakistan’s Intervention

Tehran agrees to conditional truce and reopening of Strait of Hormuz; talks scheduled for April 10 in Islamabad

In a dramatic last-minute reversal, US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of bombing and attacks against Iran on Tuesday, just hours before a midnight deadline that threatened “a whole civilisation will die tonight.” The conditional truce, which also involves Israel, was brokered by Pakistan following urgent appeals from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir.

Pakistan’s Diplomatic Intervention

Sources indicated that Pakistan emerged as the central intermediary in backchannel talks, with Field Marshal Munir reportedly in contact with US Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi throughout the night. Trump acknowledged on his Truth Social platform that he agreed to hold off “the destructive force being sent tonight to Iran” after conversations with Sharif and Munir, who requested an extension to allow diplomacy to run its course.

Conditional Ceasefire Terms

The two-week pause is contingent upon Iran’s agreement to the complete, immediate and safe reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Trump stated that US military objectives had “already been met and exceeded”, framing the decision as a strategic recalibration rather than a retreat. Tehran confirmed it would cease “defensive operations” if attacks against it stop, and promised safe passage through the strait under coordination with Iranian armed forces.

Iran’s 10-Point Plan And Victory Claims

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council declared the outcome a “victory” for Tehran, claiming that Washington had accepted in principle its 10-point peace framework. The proposal reportedly includes guarantees against future aggression, continued Iranian oversight of the Strait of Hormuz, acceptance of Iran’s uranium enrichment rights, and the lifting of all sanctions. However, Trump described the plan only as “a workable basis on which to negotiate”, while cautioning that nothing was final until announced by the White House.

Israel’s Position And Regional Divergence

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel supports the temporary truce, subject to Iran immediately reopening the straits and halting all attacks. However, Netanyahu made it clear that the ceasefire “does not include Lebanon”, indicating that Israeli operations against Hezbollah are expected to continue. This position contradicts the announcement by Pakistan’s Prime Minister, who had claimed the ceasefire would apply “everywhere including Lebanon”.

International Reaction And Market Impact

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the truce and called on all parties to comply with their obligations under international law. Iraq also welcomed the development, calling for “serious and sustainable dialogue” between the nations. Global oil prices plunged by nearly 15 per cent following the announcement, while stock markets rallied sharply as fears of a wider regional conflagration eased.

What Next

Negotiations between Washington and Tehran are scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday, 10 April, with the stated goal of finalising a comprehensive agreement. Iranian officials said the talks could extend beyond 15 days if both sides agree. Tehran has stressed that the temporary ceasefire does not mean an end to the war, pending negotiations on the details of its 10-point proposal. Observers note that the coming days will test whether the fragile truce can hold amid deeply entrenched positions and a complete lack of trust between the two adversaries.

US, Iran Discuss 45-Day Truce as Haifa, UAE Hit in Fresh Attacks

Diplomatic push intensifies to end 38-day war as Tehran rejects Trump’s ‘Tuesday night’ deadline; over 10 sites targeted in northern Israel

As the US-Israel versus Iran war entered its 38th day, American and Iranian officials, along with regional mediators, are locked in urgent discussions over a potential 45-day ceasefire that could pave the way for a permanent end to hostilities, according to sources familiar with the talks[reference:0].

Mediators Race Against Time

The last-ditch diplomatic effort comes as US President Donald Trump extended his deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 20 hours, setting a new Tuesday night 8pm ET deadline. 

“There is a good chance, but if they don’t make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there,” Trump told Axios, threatening to destroy Iranian power plants and bridges. 

The negotiations are being conducted through Pakistani, Egyptian and Turkish mediators, as well as via text messages between Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. 

Fresh Missile Barrage Hits Haifa

Even as talks progressed, Iran launched a fresh wave of missile attacks on northern Israel, striking more than 10 sites in Haifa. 

According to Israeli authorities, an Iranian ballistic missile hit a residential building in the port city, leaving at least two people dead and two others missing. Emergency teams continue search operations under rubble. 

“We are focusing all efforts on the four family members who are supposed to be here, using all means at our disposal,” Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levy told reporters at the scene. 

Four others were hospitalised with smoke inhalation, including two five-year-old girls, Magen David Adom confirmed. 

Drone Attack Targets UAE Telecom Facility

In a significant escalation, an Iranian drone struck a building belonging to telecommunications company Du in Fujairah, on the UAE’s eastern coast, on Monday. 

The state-run WAM news agency reported no injuries, but authorities confirmed the drone originated from Iran. 

Separately, falling debris from an intercepted projectile in Abu Dhabi left a Ghanaian national moderately injured, officials said. 

Tehran Rejects Ultimatum

Iranian officials have firmly rejected Trump’s deadline, warning they will not negotiate under pressure. 

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei said the Iranian military is fully prepared for any potential attack, adding that in a retaliatory response, “all bases belonging to the US or those assisting it in any way would be targeted.” 

Former Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif condemned Trump’s “vulgar outburst” and warned that attacking civilian infrastructure would constitute war crimes under the Rome Statute. 

Global Energy Crisis Deepens

The near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz – through which roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments pass – has triggered soaring energy prices and fuel shortages worldwide. 

Brent crude topped $110 a barrel on Monday, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate rose nearly two percent to $113.62. 

India-flagged vessel Green Asha successfully transited the strait on Monday, marking the ninth Indian ship to navigate the corridor since the war began on 28 February. Air India has suspended flights on the New Delhi-Tel Aviv route till 31 May.

What Next

Diplomatic sources say the chances of reaching a partial deal in the next 48 hours remain slim. 

Mediators are pushing for a two-phased agreement: an initial 45-day ceasefire during which a permanent end to the war would be negotiated, with the possibility of extension. However, Tehran has made clear it does not want a temporary truce like Gaza or Lebanon, where hostilities can resume at will. 

As Trump’s deadline ticks closer, the region braces for either a breakthrough – or a dramatic and destructive escalation.

Trump’s 48-Hour Ultimatum Expires as Iran Threatens Strait of Hormuz Closure

Tensions Escalate in West Asia

Tensions in West Asia reached a critical point on Monday as a 48-hour ultimatum issued by United States President Donald Trump to Iran officially expired. The deadline, which demanded Tehran reopen the Strait of Hormuz without conditions, lapsed amid a significant escalation of military action across the region. Reports of fresh airstrikes and retaliatory threats have placed global energy markets and international diplomacy on edge.

Israel Conducts Fresh Strikes on Tehran

In a dramatic escalation, the Israeli military announced a “wave of extensive strikes” targeting Iranian government infrastructure in Tehran. Explosions were reported across the capital by Iranian state media. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated the operation was focused on “terrorist infrastructure.” This attack followed earlier missile strikes that reportedly hit residential areas, including Khorramabad and Karaj, resulting in casualties, with Iranian media confirming at least one child killed.

Iran Warns of Retaliation and Canal Closure

Responding to the military actions, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a stark warning. He stated that any further attacks, particularly on Iranian power plants or nuclear facilities, would be met with direct retaliation. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) specifically threatened to completely shut the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil passes. Iran also warned it would target regional energy and water infrastructure if its assets are struck.

Global Markets Rattled by Conflict Fears

The escalating conflict sent shockwaves through global financial markets. Asian stock markets tumbled sharply on Monday, with Japan’s Nikkei index falling by approximately 3.5% and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropping around 3.3%. Investors fled to safe-haven assets as fears mounted that the war could drag on for weeks. The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that the global economy is facing a “major, major threat” due to the energy crisis sparked by the hostilities.

Oil Prices Surge Past $100 Mark

Concerns over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz triggered a sharp surge in global crude oil prices. US benchmark WTI crude crossed the $100 per barrel mark, while Brent crude climbed to $113.44 per barrel before stabilizing slightly. The volatility underscores the market’s anxiety over supply disruptions. The South Korean won also weakened sharply, slipping to its lowest level since 2009, reflecting the broader economic impact of the geopolitical instability.

Diplomatic Efforts Stalled by Preconditions

Despite the military escalation, diplomatic backchannels remain active. Aides to President Trump, including Jared Kushner, are reportedly exploring ceasefire options. However, Tehran has set strict preconditions for any talks, including an immediate halt to the war, compensation for damages, and guarantees against future attacks. Washington is currently unwilling to accept these terms, and there are no direct talks between the US and Iran, with countries like Egypt, Qatar, and the UK acting as mediators.

Outlook Remains Uncertain Amid Hostilities

With the ultimatum expired and both sides showing no signs of backing down, the immediate future remains volatile. The US has reiterated its demands for Iran to suspend its missile program and halt uranium enrichment. Meanwhile, Iran’s military has vowed to continue its operations until it “teaches its enemies a lesson.” As the Strait of Hormuz remains a key flashpoint, the global community watches closely for the next move, with the risk of a wider regional conflict looming large.