The funeral of Iran's former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei began in the holy city of Mashhad on Thursday, drawing thousands of mourners amid an intensifying military confrontation between Iran and the United States. Khamenei is expected to be buried near the revered Imam Reza Shrine following funeral prayers and a procession.

The funeral is taking place as the conflict between Washington and Tehran continues to escalate. Iranian authorities claimed they launched missile and drone attacks on US-linked military facilities across the Gulf, while the United States carried out a second consecutive day of large-scale airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure.

According to Iran's military, its latest operation targeted a Patriot missile defence system in Kuwait, an early warning satellite antenna in Qatar, and fuel storage facilities used by the US military in Bahrain. Officials said a large number of drones were deployed during the coordinated attacks.

US Conducts Fresh Airstrikes

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces struck around 90 Iranian military targets, including air defence systems, missile and drone storage facilities, surveillance installations, naval assets and logistics infrastructure. The operation followed an earlier wave of strikes on more than 80 Iranian military sites.

Iranian authorities reported that recent US strikes killed at least three people in Ahvaz, while another attack on the coastal city of Sirik reportedly claimed three lives and left 15 others injured. Tehran also accused Washington of targeting railway bridges and civilian infrastructure, calling the attacks a violation of international law and a "war crime."

Iran Responds Across the Gulf

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on dozens of US-linked military installations in Bahrain and Kuwait. Jordan confirmed that Iranian missiles entered its airspace before being intercepted, triggering air raid sirens across several regions. The US Embassy in Jordan advised American citizens to seek immediate shelter amid the developing threat.

Kuwait's Defence Ministry said its air defence systems intercepted three ballistic missiles, one cruise missile and ten drones. Debris from the interceptions reportedly injured one civilian, who remains in stable condition.

Fresh explosions were also reported in Bandar Abbas and Bushehr, although Iranian officials denied reports that the Bushehr nuclear power plant or Kharg Island had been directly targeted.

Trump Says Trust with Iran Is Gone

US President Donald Trump said Iran was interested in reaching a diplomatic agreement but insisted he no longer trusted Tehran to honour any future commitments. Trump also declared that the previous ceasefire understanding between the two countries had effectively ended following Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected calls to respond to Trump's remarks with similar rhetoric, saying Iran would continue defending its national interests without resorting to personal insults.

Maritime Security Concerns Rise

The conflict has further disrupted maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. According to international reports, nearly 6,000 seafarers remain stranded in and around the strategic waterway as security risks continue to grow.

An Indian-flagged crude oil tanker carrying approximately two million barrels of Kuwaiti oil reportedly reversed course near the Strait amid heightened tensions, highlighting growing concerns over the safety of global energy shipments.

Security Tightened for Funeral

Security has been significantly strengthened across Mashhad ahead of Khamenei's burial. Large crowds carrying red flags symbolising revenge gathered near the Imam Reza Shrine as funeral processions commenced.

Iranian media reported that Khamenei's body was flown from Iraq after funeral ceremonies in the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala before arriving in Mashhad for the final rites. Speculation continues over whether Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, will make his first public appearance during the private burial ceremony.

The rapidly escalating military exchanges have intensified fears of a wider regional conflict, with diplomatic efforts appearing increasingly uncertain as both Washington and Tehran continue to exchange military strikes.

Fresh military action by Washington after attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz has triggered another sharp escalation across West Asia, with Iran claiming missile and drone strikes on US-linked targets in the Gulf.

The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran suffered a major setback on Wednesday after American forces carried out large-scale airstrikes on more than 80 military targets across southern Iran. The operation, announced by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), marked one of the most significant military offensives since the recent truce and has raised fresh concerns over regional stability.

According to CENTCOM, the strikes were launched in response to attacks on three commercial vessels passing through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Washington blamed Iran for targeting the ships, including a Qatari tanker, although Tehran has not officially accepted responsibility for the incident.

Military infrastructure targeted

The US military said the operation focused on degrading Iran's military capabilities along the Gulf coast. Targets reportedly included air defence systems, command and control facilities, coastal radar installations, surface-to-air and anti-ship missile sites, drone launch locations, and more than 60 fast attack boats belonging to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Iranian state media reported explosions in several southern locations, including Sirik, Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas, with fires breaking out at multiple sites following the strikes. However, Iranian authorities have not released any official casualty figures.

Iran announces retaliation

Shortly after the American operation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed it had launched missile and drone attacks on more than 85 targets associated with US military installations in Bahrain and Kuwait.

The IRGC said the headquarters of the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait were among the intended targets. Neither the United States nor the governments of Bahrain and Kuwait immediately confirmed the extent of the claimed attacks, although air raid sirens were activated in Bahrain and Kuwait reported intercepting incoming missiles and drones.

Iran maintained that its military action was a direct response to what it described as repeated US violations of the ceasefire and earlier bilateral understandings.

Diplomatic tensions deepen

The renewed confrontation has prompted strong reactions from countries across the region. Qatar condemned attacks on commercial shipping and urged all parties to pursue dialogue to prevent further escalation. Egypt also criticised the attacks on Gulf states, calling them a threat to regional security and stability.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that Tehran would not negotiate under pressure and insisted that Washington must honour previous commitments before diplomatic engagement could resume.

Meanwhile, several international leaders stressed the importance of preventing a broader conflict in the Gulf, warning that continued military exchanges could disrupt global energy supplies and maritime trade.

Strait of Hormuz remains under focus

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of the world's oil shipments pass, has once again become the centre of geopolitical tensions. Following the attacks on commercial vessels, several oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers reportedly altered their routes or delayed transit due to rising security concerns.

Energy markets reacted cautiously as fears of prolonged instability in one of the world's busiest shipping corridors resurfaced.

Uncertainty over next steps

With both Washington and Tehran accusing each other of violating the ceasefire, prospects for immediate de-escalation remain uncertain. While the United States has defended its military response as necessary to protect international shipping, Iran has vowed to continue responding to any future attacks.

The latest developments have significantly heightened tensions in West Asia, raising fresh concerns over regional security, international trade, and global energy markets.

Tehran warns it will leave no attack 'unanswered' as crude prices climb and Gulf nations activate air defences

US forces carried out strikes against Iran on Wednesday in what President Donald Trump said was retaliation for the downing of an American Apache helicopter by the Islamic Republic a day earlier. Iranian media reported at least two series of explosions along Iran's southern coast near the Strait of Hormuz, with US forces targeting several Iranian air defence systems and radar systems around the strategic waterway, according to Axios.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards strike back

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it attacked the United States Fifth Fleet in Bahrain with drones, and an airbase in Jordan with missiles in response to the US strikes on southern Iran earlier, state media reported. The IRGC's Aerospace Force claimed its long-range, solid-fuel missiles hit and destroyed four critical targets at the Jordanian base, including F-35 fighter jet hangars and a primary command and control centre in Al-Azraq.

Tehran warns of further retaliation

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US had chosen to "test our determination" and the Iranian armed forces would "leave no attack or threat unanswered". In a sharp message to Washington, he added: "Leave our region if you want to be safe." The foreign ministry also said Gulf nations bore a "legal and moral responsibility" to prevent US and Israeli forces from using their territory or facilities for hostile actions against Iran.

Regional air defences activated

The escalating confrontation triggered air defence responses across the Gulf. Bahrain's interior ministry issued an air raid alert, urging people "to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place". Kuwait's military said its air defences were engaging "hostile aerial targets" in accordance with established operational procedures, though officials did not specify their origin. The Jordanian military confirmed it shot down five missiles launched from Iran as the tit-for-tat strikes unfolded.

Oil markets react to conflict

Crude oil prices climbed about one percent, rebounding from a seven-week low as markets absorbed the news of fresh US military strikes against Iran. Brent crude futures gained 83 cents to reach $92.29 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate increased by 68 cents to settle at $88.97. The price rally was further fuelled by market data revealing a substantial decline in US crude inventories.

Hezbollah joins fray from Lebanon

In a related development, Hezbollah claimed it launched 14 separate attacks on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. According to statements detailing operations from Monday night through Tuesday, the group said its forces repeatedly targeted gatherings of Israeli soldiers and armour in the Lebanese towns of Biyyada, Rachaf, al-Qawzah, and Qantara using drones, missiles, and rockets.

The US military's Central Command said it had "completed self-defence strikes against Iran", describing the attacks as a proportional response to the downing of the Apache helicopter and recent attacks on US forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters. Iranian media reported that strikes in Sirik's Bemani district destroyed two water tanks and damaged a telecommunications tower on Qeshm Island.

Israel launched strikes on military targets in western and central Iran early Monday, according to the Israeli military, after Iran fired a wave of missiles at northern Israel — a significant escalation that has reverberated across the region and pushed oil prices higher.

Strikes reported across Iran
The Israeli armed forces said the strikes hit military installations in western and central provinces. State media in Iran and local broadcasters reported explosions in Tehran, Tabriz and Isfahan in the early morning hours, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said Israel used air-launched ballistic missiles in the attacks, the IRNA news agency reported.

Iranian emergency services and the Iranian Red Crescent said they were on standby to deal with any fallout. “Rapid response teams, logistical, relief and medical facilities are standing by following this morning’s strikes,” the Red Crescent said on X. There were no immediate independent confirmations of casualty figures.

Why it happened
Initial reports indicate the Israeli strikes were retaliatory. Earlier on Monday Iran launched missiles at northern Israel — the first such barrage since the April ceasefire — citing repeated Israeli actions in Lebanon that Tehran said violated the truce. Iranian officials described the missile fire as a response to what they called ongoing Israeli aggression.

According to regional analysts and Western officials, the sequence of attacks marks one of the sharpest direct exchanges between Israel and Iran since the broader round of hostilities began in spring. “This is a rapid escalation in a conflict that has largely been proxied through militia groups until now,” a Western diplomat familiar with the situation said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

US and allies respond
The United States reported shooting down two Iranian drones over the Strait of Hormuz in the past 48 hours, citing threats to international shipping, and CENTCOM said those actions were taken to protect commercial vessels. US President Donald Trump, in a telephone interview with the Financial Times, said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would have “no choice” but to accept any deal the United States negotiates with Iran. “He won’t have any choice. I call the shots,” Trump said, adding the strikes would not derail US-Iran negotiations.

Regional disruptions
Several countries moved quickly to protect civil aviation and shipping. Iran closed western airspace until further notice; neighbouring Iraq closed its airspace for 72 hours and Syria for 12 hours. Saudi authorities issued alerts in parts of Riyadh province after reports of an explosion near Al Kharj, though Iranian state media denied firing on the Saudi base.

Markets reacted immediately. Brent crude rose about 3.6% within an hour of the strikes being reported, trading near $96–97 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate climbed more than 3%.

Ground-level picture
Residents in Tehran and Isfahan reported hearing explosions early on Monday; social media carried video clips of shockwaves and emergency responders at sites around the affected cities. Local hospitals and civil defence agencies were placed on alert as authorities assessed damage.

Analysts warned the risk of miscalculation is high. “When both sides begin striking each other’s territory directly, there’s a narrower margin to prevent wider conflict,” said a regional security analyst in New Delhi. “Escalation can spread quickly through allied militias and third-party actors.”

What happens next
Diplomatic channels are expected to be active in coming hours and days. Western capitals and regional powers are likely to call for restraint while assessing whether the strikes were targeted at military infrastructure only or intended to undermine Iran’s wider capabilities.

Iran has long demanded guarantees over its right to enrich uranium and the release of frozen assets as part of talks with the US; Tehran also accused shifting US positions of stalling negotiations. How the strikes influence those talks remains unclear — President Trump said they would not alter his push to conclude a deal.

For ordinary people in the region the immediate concern is safety and disruption: flights, cross-border trade and oil shipments may face short-term interruptions, and any sustained exchange could compound an already fragile security situation.

Sources and attribution
Details in this report are based on statements from the Israeli military, Iranian state agencies including IRNA, the Iranian Red Crescent, CENTCOM briefings, and statements from US officials and media interviews. Local eyewitness accounts and market data on crude prices were also consulted.

Tehran escalates rhetoric after fresh military exchanges in the Gulf

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a stern warning to the United States, stating that any threat to security in the Strait of Hormuz will come at a “heavy price.” The statement follows a night of direct military exchanges, including Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting US-linked sites in Kuwait and Bahrain.

According to officials, the latest flare-up began after US forces conducted what they described as self-defence strikes on a communications tower on Iran’s Qeshm Island. In response, Iran launched multiple waves of missiles and drones toward American military installations in the region.

IRGC spokesperson’s firm message

Ibrahim al Fiqar, an IRGC spokesperson, posted on X that Iran had delivered on earlier warnings of a “different and more forceful response.” He described the recent actions as a lesson for potential aggressors. “We reiterate that any threat to the security of the Strait of Hormuz will cost the aggressor U.S. military a heavy price,” he added.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint through which nearly a fifth of global oil passes, remains at the centre of rising tensions. Any prolonged disruption here could send energy prices spiralling further.

US forces intercept attacks

US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American and Bahraini air defence systems successfully intercepted most of the Iranian projectiles aimed at Kuwait and Bahrain. No American casualties or major damage were reported. CENTCOM described its own strike on Qeshm Island as a measured response to Iranian aggression.

Initial reports indicate that Iranian missiles also targeted areas near US naval assets, though claims of direct hits on the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain were rejected by Washington as false.

Oil prices surge amid uncertainty

Crude oil prices jumped more than one percent in early Asian trading on Wednesday. Brent crude rose to around $97 per barrel while WTI climbed near $95. Market analysts linked the spike directly to fears over potential closure or disruption of the Strait of Hormuz.

The fresh clashes come even as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran appear to continue, despite public posturing. President Donald Trump earlier dismissed reports of a breakdown in communications, calling them “fake news.”

Wider regional fallout

The Hormuz tensions are part of a broader conflict involving Israel, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and spillover effects across the Gulf. Israeli strikes continued in southern Lebanon, including the port city of Tyre, even after claims of de-escalation. Meanwhile, Japan approved a $19 billion supplementary budget to cushion its economy from rising energy and commodity costs triggered by the Middle East crisis.

Local observers in Gulf capitals report heightened alert levels at military bases and increased naval patrols near key shipping lanes. Shipping companies have begun rerouting some vessels, adding to global supply chain concerns.

Questions over de-escalation prospects

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasised that Iran must stop actions in the Strait and reopen it fully for normal traffic. He described Tehran’s behaviour as “unlawful and illegal,” noting that the international community stands united against it.

Iran, for its part, insists its actions are retaliatory and aimed at defending its territorial waters and sovereignty. The IRGC has also claimed responses to US strikes on Iranian oil tankers near the strait.

As of Wednesday morning, the situation remains fluid. Diplomatic channels are reportedly still active, though both sides continue military posturing. Any further escalation in the Strait of Hormuz could have severe consequences for global energy security and push oil prices well above the $100 mark.

Analysts say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the latest exchanges lead to a dangerous cycle or create space for renewed talks.

Rubio says deal possible within days as explosions rock strategic port city near Hormuz

Even as American warplanes struck targets in southern Iran, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that a deal with Tehran remains possible, suggesting that diplomacy and military action may be running on parallel tracks.

"There were some talks going on in Qatar today, so we'll see if we can make progress," Rubio told reporters in Jaipur, where he is on an official visit to India. He acknowledged that negotiators are haggling over "specific language in the initial document," adding that a breakthrough could take "a few days."

The comments came just hours after the US military confirmed fresh "self-defence" strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly attempting to lay mines near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Explosions Rock Bandar Abbas

Multiple blast reports emerged from the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas, a critical naval hub along the strait. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps acknowledged three explosions early Tuesday local time, without immediately specifying the cause.

A later IRGC statement said air defence systems had been activated near Bandar Abbas airport after another blast was heard. State-run IRNA reported "several consecutive explosions" around midnight, while Fars News Agency, citing eyewitnesses, said blasts were also heard near Sirik and Jask along the Persian Gulf coastline.

US Central Command spokesman Timothy Hawkins described the operation as defensive. "US forces conducted self-defence strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces," he said.

Trump Raises Stakes on Nuclear Issue

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump injected fresh complexity into the diplomatic calculus, posting on Truth Social that Iran's enriched uranium stockpile must be handed over to the United States for destruction or dismantled under international supervision.

Trump described the material as "nuclear dust" and indicated the process would involve the Atomic Energy Commission "or its equivalent." The demand signals Washington is pushing for concrete nuclear rollbacks, not just ceasefire arrangements.

Tehran Strikes Cautious Note

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqai acknowledged progress in talks with the US on Monday but warned against premature optimism. "It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion," Baqai said. "But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent, no one can make such a claim."

Tehran has not formally responded to the latest American strikes, leaving observers uncertain whether the attacks will derail Qatari-mediated negotiations.

Oil Prices Jump on Renewed Fears

Crude oil prices climbed in Asian trading following the Bandar Abbas strikes. Brent crude rose nearly 2% to around $97 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate approached $91 per barrel.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply passes, has been effectively disrupted since Tehran escalated its military posture in late February. Rubio struck a firm tone on the waterway's status. "The straits have to be open. They're going to be open one way or the other," he said.

The current conflict traces back to February 28, when the US and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran, triggering Tehran's retaliation against Israel and allied Gulf states. Despite the violence, Trump indicated over the weekend that he had instructed negotiators "not to rush into" an agreement, suggesting Washington is willing to let military and diplomatic tracks play out simultaneously.

Trump: 'We Can’t Let Lunatics Have Nuclear Weapon' as He Jokes About Cuba Strike on Return from Iran

US President Donald Trump escalates rhetoric on Iran’s nuclear ambitions while making light of potential naval action against Cuba amid ongoing Middle East tensions.

US President Donald Trump has reiterated that Washington cannot allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons, describing the situation as a key reason behind current conflicts. Speaking at an event in Florida, Trump declared, “We’re in a war because, I think you would agree, we can’t let lunatics have a nuclear weapon.” 

The remarks come as the Trump administration continues to manage the fallout from military operations against Iran and maintains a naval blockade affecting Iranian oil exports. Trump also used the occasion to take a jab at Cuba, suggesting US naval assets could pivot to pressure the island nation upon returning from the region.

Nuclear Red Line

Trump’s comments underscored a firm stance against Tehran acquiring nuclear capability. He alleged that the Iranian government had killed thousands of protesters and claimed US actions had significantly weakened militant elements while collapsing the country’s economy. Officials in Washington have repeatedly highlighted concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme as a core security threat.

Light-hearted Threat to Cuba

In a lighter yet pointed moment, Trump joked about the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier potentially stopping near Cuba on its way back. “On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big, maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier — the biggest in the world — we’ll have that come in, stop about 100 yards offshore, and they’ll say, ‘Thank you very much. We give up,’” he said. 

This comes amid a months-long US campaign pressing Cuba for major reforms, with repeated warnings of possible military action if demands are not met. The remarks have drawn attention for blending serious geopolitical strategy with Trump’s signature off-the-cuff style.

Blockade and Military Posture

US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that 45 commercial vessels have been turned away as part of the naval blockade of Iranian ports. Meanwhile, the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, is returning to the US after an extended deployment exceeding 300 days. 

On the diplomatic front, the administration has added Nick Stewart of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to its Iran negotiation team as talks remain stalled. Trump has also publicly stated that the US might be “better off not making a deal at all” with Iran.

Regional Ripples and Oil Shock

Oil prices surged sharply on Thursday, briefly crossing $126 per barrel — the highest in four years — before easing near $115, reflecting market nervousness over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. China has urged the maintenance of any ceasefire and the reopening of the vital shipping route, especially ahead of a possible Trump visit to Beijing later this month.

In related developments, the US approved $8.6 billion in arms sales to Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE, bypassing standard congressional review on emergency grounds. Reports also indicate the withdrawal of around 5,000 US troops from Germany, highlighting strains within NATO over the Iran situation.

Iran’s Internal Challenges

There remains uncertainty surrounding the health of Supreme Leader Mujtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly. Iranian officials have vowed strong responses to any further attacks, while reports suggest Tehran is struggling to counter the US blockade effectively. Hezbollah has claimed fresh attacks on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon despite ceasefire understandings.

The UN’s telecoms agency has condemned Iranian strikes on regional telecommunications infrastructure. Pakistan, meanwhile, has opened land trade routes with Iran to ease some pressure from the port blockade.

Looking Ahead

Trump has claimed “the war with Iran is over,” though he acknowledged lingering threats that require continued US military presence in the area. The administration’s dual focus on winding down direct confrontation with Iran while keeping pressure on both Tehran and Havana reflects a broader strategy of assertive diplomacy backed by military readiness.

Analysts note that the coming weeks could see further clarity on troop movements, diplomatic engagements with China, and the effectiveness of sanctions targeting Iran’s oil trade with partners like China. For now, Trump’s Florida remarks have once again placed nuclear non-proliferation and US naval power at the centre of global attention.

United States President Donald Trump plunged the Middle East into fresh uncertainty on Thursday, posting a cryptic AI-generated image of himself on Truth Social with the warning: “THE STORM IS COMING. NOTHING CAN STOP WHAT IS COMING.”

The message appeared just hours before a scheduled briefing where he is expected to receive new military options regarding Iran from CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.

According to a report by Axios citing two sources familiar with the matter, the briefing signals that Trump is seriously considering a return to major combat operations. The goal, officials indicated, would be to either break the diplomatic deadlock in nuclear negotiations or deliver what some describe as a final blow before any potential truce.

Oil prices cross $126

The mere anticipation of the briefing rattled global energy markets. Brent crude oil surged past $126 a barrel on Thursday, touching a high of $126.20—a level not seen since March 2022. The spike comes as the US maintains a stiff naval blockade around Iranian ports, with CENTCOM claiming it has forced at least 42 commercial vessels to reroute.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian responded defiantly on Thursday, calling the blockade “doomed to fail” and a violation of international law. “Any attempt to impose a maritime blockade is contrary to international law and is doomed to fail,” he said in a statement, adding that such measures only deepen regional instability.

CENTCOM briefing at a critical juncture

The briefing with Admiral Cooper comes at a particularly delicate moment. Reports emerged just 24 hours ago that Iran’s revised peace proposal could be submitted by Friday, according to CNN quoting sources familiar with ongoing mediation efforts.

But Trump on Wednesday already signaled a hard line, saying “there will never be a deal unless they agree that there will be no nuclear weapons.”

On the ground, the situation remains volatile. Israeli forces continued operations in southern Lebanon and Gaza, with the IDF claiming it killed a Hamas operative planning an “immediate” attack on troops. Meanwhile, the Israeli navy intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla in international waters near Crete, detaining some 400 activists, a move the UN’s special rapporteur called “apartheid without borders.”

Iran’s economy under severe strain

Inside Iran, the war’s toll is increasingly visible. Official data released on Thursday showed annual inflation hitting a staggering 73.5% in the month ending April 20. The smallest banknote, worth 100,000 rials, now barely buys two loaves of bread. Unemployment has touched a record 25%, and pension payments are reportedly facing delays.

In a rare public statement, Iran’s Reformists Front called for an end to unequal internet access, arguing that cybersecurity policy should shift away from “broad shutdowns” toward more technical approaches.

The blockade and the strait

Trump, in a meeting with oil executives earlier this week, reportedly defended the blockade as more effective than bombing. Iran’s top military adviser, Mohsen Rezaei, warned on state television that Tehran “will not tolerate” an extension of the blockade.

“The Indian Ocean is extremely vast, and we can easily pass through it; we have already done so,” Rezaei said.

But US officials claim the restrictions are working. CENTCOM estimates Iran has lost over $6 billion in potential revenue from stranded oil shipments. In a further pressure move, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed that Washington has seized nearly half a billion dollars in Iranian cryptocurrency assets.

What happens next

All eyes are now on the White House. The outcome of today’s CENTCOM briefing could determine whether the fragile ceasefire holds or collapses entirely. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned on Thursday that the consequences of this conflict may echo “for months or even years to come.”

For now, Trump’s “storm” remains a warning. But with oil at $126 and a naval blockade in place, the region is already feeling the rain.

US War Secretary to Address Press at 6:30 PM Amid Hormuz Blockade

Navy Reports Zero Crossings Since Monday

The United States Secretary of War will brief the media at 6:30 pm Indian Standard Time, even as the US Central Command claims a complete halt to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz for the third consecutive day.

Officials confirmed that 10 vessels attempting to leave Iranian ports have been turned back since the blockade began on Monday. No ship has crossed the strategic waterway since, according to a statement issued by CENTCOM earlier today.

Pentagon Media Briefing

The defence secretary, along with the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, will face reporters at 8:00 am Eastern Time. The Department of War announced the news conference on social media platform X.

Observers expect tough questions regarding the deployment of naval assets and the economic cost of the ongoing West Asia war. A White House official admitted to Congress that the administration is still calculating the financial impact.

Iranian Warning Over Sea Routes

Tehran has responded with a sharp warning. Iranian leader Mohsen Rezaee stated that Iran will not leave the Strait of Hormuz until its maritime and economic rights are fully protected.

Earlier, Iranian officials had threatened to shut three vital oil supply routes if the US continued its blockade. These include the Red Sea, the Sea of Oman, and the Persian Gulf.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, has arrived in Tehran for crucial meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are currently acting as mediators between the two sides.

Simultaneously, US Vice President JD Vance is leading a negotiating team that includes Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They are currently sharing draft proposals with international partners.

Trump Announces Israel-Lebanon Talks

In a post on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump confirmed that a meeting between Iranian and Lebanese officials will take place tomorrow. He stated he was trying to create "breathing room" between Israel and Lebanon.

The president noted that the two leaderships have not spoken directly for nearly 34 years. The announcement comes amid heavy shelling reported in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah claimed 34 military strikes in the last 24 hours.

Senate Vote Fails Again

A resolution aimed at limiting President Trump’s authority to wage war against Iran failed in the US Senate on Thursday. This marks the fourth time such a measure has been blocked by lawmakers.

According to a BBC report quoting Democratic party sources, opposition leaders plan to introduce similar measures every week, regardless of the outcome.

Impact on Global Supply Chains

The crisis continues to disrupt global trade. Australia has underwritten diesel shipments from Brunei and South Korea to manage price inflation. The United Kingdom faces potential food shortages of chicken and pork by summer if the blockade persists.

Meanwhile, China has formally urged Iran to restore normal navigation through the strait. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Iranian counterpart that reopening the waterway is a unanimous international demand. As this English News Portal India reported earlier, the situation remains fluid with no immediate end to the India News Update on the horizon.

Big Day in Iran, Trump Declares

Washington’s military posture against Tehran intensified sharply on Sunday, with US President Donald Trump declaring a “big day in Iran.” In a post on Truth Social, Trump asserted that American forces had destroyed “many long sought after targets,” framing the operation as a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The statement came as the US Central Command (CENTCOM) released visuals of strikes on Iranian ships over the weekend, confirming the arrival of additional troops in the Middle East via the USS Tripoli.

The aggressive rhetoric extended to economic warfare. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump suggested Washington may consider seizing control of Iran’s oil infrastructure, specifically mentioning Kharg Island, a critical export hub. “To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran,” Trump said, dismissing internal dissent as “stupid people” questioning the strategy.

Indian Worker Killed in Kuwait

The widening regional conflict has resulted in the first reported Indian casualty. Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity and Water confirmed that an Indian worker was killed during an Iranian attack on a power and desalination plant. The strike also damaged a service building on the facility’s premises. The death highlights the growing risks for the large Indian expatriate community spread across the Gulf region, as hostilities increasingly target critical civilian infrastructure in neighboring countries.

US Offers Talks Amid Strikes

Despite the ongoing military action, President Trump claimed that negotiations with Tehran were progressing “very well.” He stated that indirect talks facilitated by Pakistani intermediaries are underway, suggesting a potential deal “could be soon.” When pressed on the possibility of deploying ground troops, Trump said he had “lots of alternatives,” adding that the US is currently “weeks ahead of schedule” in its timeline against Iran.

However, Tehran signaled no immediate intention to capitulate. A senior Iranian security official dismissed US estimates of a short conflict, stating, “This is our war, and we will not stop defending ourselves until we teach Trump and Netanyahu a lesson.” The official asserted that Iran possesses sufficient missile and drone stockpiles to sustain long-term operations.

Regional Air Defenses Tested

The past 24 hours saw a cascade of attacks across the Gulf region. Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry reported intercepting five ballistic missiles and one cruise missile targeting its eastern province. Kuwait detected 14 missiles and 12 drones in its airspace, while Dubai residents reported hearing sirens as projectiles were intercepted mid-air.

In a significant strike, Iran claimed responsibility for an attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. According to Iranian media, the assault involved six ballistic missiles and 29 drones, resulting in damage to a US Boeing E-3 Sentry aircraft. The surveillance plane, valued at over $700 million, reportedly suffered extensive damage. Unconfirmed reports also indicated an attack on the US Victoria Base near Baghdad.

Global Economic Fallout Intensifies

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and rising tensions are causing seismic shifts in global energy markets. Vietnam’s Binh Son Refinery announced it is in talks with Russian partners to buy crude, utilizing a 30-day US waiver that lifted sanctions on Russian oil. The Philippines has already secured 2.5 million barrels of Russian crude, citing “extreme necessity.”

New Zealand’s Finance Minister warned that inflation will go “much higher” if the conflict drags on. In response to soaring fuel prices, Australia announced it will halve taxes on gasoline and diesel, a move expected to cost the federal coffers $1.74 billion over three months.

Diplomatic Push by Pakistan

Amid the violence, Pakistan has positioned itself as a potential mediator. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced that Islamabad is preparing to host talks between the US and Iran in the coming days, following discussions with counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt. While Pakistan stated it is ready to facilitate a “lasting solution,” it remains unclear if Washington or Tehran have agreed to participate in the proposed dialogue.

What Next

The immediate future remains volatile. Israel announced it is “currently attacking the infrastructure” of the Iranian government throughout Tehran, while Iran’s heavy water production plant at Khondab remains non-operational after suffering damage in a March 27 attack. With US military assets reinforced in the region and Iran vowing prolonged resistance, the international community remains on edge, watching for either a diplomatic breakthrough in Islamabad or a further expansion of the military theater.