Iran FM Araghchi Heads to India for BRICS Meet Amid Hormuz Crisis

Tehran confirms key visit as global powers scramble over Strait blockade and trillion-dollar war costs

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi is set to arrive in India today for the BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting, even as the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint in the escalating West Asia conflict. The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi confirmed the trip late Tuesday via an official X post, noting Araghchi will also hold talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to exchange views on regional tensions.

This development comes against a backdrop of fragile ceasefires, missile threats, and surging global oil disruptions, with markets nervously eyeing any shift in the blockade choking 20% of world oil flows.

Araghchi's Delhi Stop

Sources familiar with the itinerary said Araghchi's visit underscores BRICS' push for multipolar diplomacy amid US-led pressures. The meeting in New Delhi, hosted by India, gathers foreign ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members including Iran itself. Initial reports indicate discussions will touch on West Asia de-escalation, though no formal agenda on Hormuz has been released.

Local authorities in the capital confirmed heightened security around key venues, with the FM's bilateral with Jaishankar slated for late afternoon.

Trillion-Dollar US Burden

Meanwhile, a stark warning emerged from Harvard Kennedy School expert Linda Bilmes, who pegged the true cost of a prolonged Iran conflict at $1 trillion for US taxpayers. This dwarfs Pentagon estimates, which have crept up from $25 billion two weeks ago to $29 billion now. Bilmes' figure factors in long-term veteran care, economic ripple effects, and supply chain hits—far beyond initial strike costs.

Trump, departing Tuesday night for a state visit to China, brushed aside fiscal concerns. "I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation," he told reporters, prioritizing nuclear prevention over budgets. His Beijing summit with Xi Jinping, starting Thursday, is expected to tackle the Iran war head-on, with Trump noting Xi has been "relatively good" on the issue.

Missile Sites Reactivated

US intelligence assessments, shared behind closed doors and reported by The New York Times, reveal Iran has restored access to 30 of 33 missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz. These underground facilities and launchers pose fresh threats to US warships and oil tankers navigating the narrow chokepoint. The revelation, from early this month, has prompted defensive posturing from allies.

Italy announced it's pre-positioning two minesweepers in the eastern Mediterranean and Red Sea as a precaution, pending parliamentary nod for Hormuz deployment. Australia, meanwhile, pledged support for a UK-France-led multinational mission involving 40 nations to secure post-war navigation.

Global Ripples Widen

The Hormuz squeeze is biting hard. Vietnam ramped up refined oil imports from Malaysia and South Korea by 17% in volume—and 144% in value—since March, offsetting crude shortages. Asian chip giants like TSMC and Samsung are scrambling with contingency plans amid commodity disruptions. Even a Chinese supertanker, Yuan Hua Hu, slipped through the strait this morning, per ship-tracking data cited by Al Jazeera.

Oil prices dipped Wednesday, with Brent crude falling 0.76% to $106.95 a barrel, as markets parsed deadlock in Iran talks. European shares rebounded, but concerns linger over Iran's 75-day internet blackout, now fueling scams and surveillance, according to monitor NetBlocks.

Lebanon Front Heats Up

Tensions spilled over to Israel's northern border. The IDF issued evacuation orders for six Lebanese towns—Meiss el-Jabal, Yanouh, Borj El Chmali, Hula, Debl, and Aabbasiyyeh—warning of forceful action. Hezbollah fired rockets at Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, with no casualties reported, while strikes hit Khiam and killed two paramedics.

Iran executed Ehsan Afreshteh, convicted of spying for Israel after Mossad training in Nepal, state media said. UAE and Kuwait condemned alleged IRGC infiltration of Kuwait's Bubiyan Island.

Diplomatic Maneuvers

China's FM Wang Yi urged Pakistan's Ishaq Dar to mediate Hormuz reopening. South Korea weighs US support after a naval vessel attack nearby. The US upped ante with a $15 million bounty for tips on IRGC oil shipments, while UAE blacklisted 16 individuals and five entities tied to Hezbollah.

As Araghchi lands amid this storm, eyes are on BRICS for any breakthrough. Officials hint at safe passage talks for Hormuz, but Iran insists on sovereignty guarantees, per the Institute for the Study of War. With Trump-Xi talks looming, the next 48 hours could tilt the fragile balance—or ignite fresh escalation.

Iran Ready for 'Negotiations with Dignity' as Araghchi Set to Visit India for BRICS Meet

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday signalled Tehran's willingness to pursue negotiations with the United States, but stressed these must be conducted with "dignity" and "authority." His remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and stalled diplomacy following a recent round of indirect talks.

Pezeshkian made the comments during a meeting with senior commanders of Iran's Faraja police force, where he reviewed their performance in what Iranian officials termed the "recent imposed war." According to the Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA), he underlined that military achievements should now be backed by diplomatic efforts.

Araghchi Likely in New Delhi

In a related development, Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi is expected to travel to New Delhi for the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting scheduled for May 14-15. The visit assumes significance as India, a key BRICS member, maintains balanced ties with both Iran and Western nations.

Sources familiar with the arrangements indicated the Iranian delegation would use the platform to engage with counterparts on regional stability and multilateral cooperation. New Delhi has traditionally advocated for dialogue in West Asia.

Tehran Hits Out at US 'Unreasonable Demands'

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei sharply criticised the United States for what he described as "unreasonable demands" in ongoing discussions over a proposed 14-point framework aimed at ending hostilities. Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Baghaei said Iran had responded through Pakistani mediators with what it called a "reasonable and generous" proposal.

The Iranian response reportedly includes an immediate cessation of conflict on all fronts, lifting of the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, and guarantees against further attacks. Tehran has also sought the release of frozen assets and compensation for damages. US President Donald Trump dismissed the Iranian counter-proposal as "totally unacceptable."

"Whenever we are forced to fight, we will fight, and whenever there is room for diplomacy, we will seize that opportunity," Baghaei stated, adding that decisions would be guided solely by national interests.

Hormuz Tensions and International Moves

The diplomatic back-and-forth unfolds against persistent concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade. Iran has warned against deployment of British and French warships in the area, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi asserting that security of the strait remains Tehran's responsibility.

Britain and France are co-hosting a Defence Ministers' meeting on Tuesday with representatives from over 40 nations to discuss restoring safe maritime traffic through the waterway.

Regional Spillover Continues

Meanwhile, clashes in southern Lebanon and exchanges involving Israeli forces added to the volatility. Israeli strikes were reported in areas like Nabatieh, while both sides traded accusations over drone activity near the border.

In parallel economic fallout, oil prices climbed further on Monday as uncertainty over a US-Iran deal persisted, while international gold prices saw some decline amid shifting safe-haven demand.

Background and Public Posture

The current round of indirect negotiations follows a period of intense military confrontation that Iranian officials maintain was imposed upon them. President Pezeshkian emphasised multiple pathways forward, including strengthened diplomacy to consolidate recent military gains.

Analysts note that Iran's firm yet open stance reflects both domestic pressures to safeguard sovereignty and a pragmatic recognition of the economic costs of prolonged isolation. The release of Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi on bail for medical treatment also signals some internal easing, though broader tensions remain high.

As Araghchi prepares for New Delhi, observers will watch closely for any bilateral or multilateral signals that could open fresh channels. With Trump scheduled to engage Chinese leadership soon on related matters, the coming days may prove decisive in determining whether diplomacy gains ground or if escalation risks persist.

The situation remains fluid, with multiple stakeholders closely monitoring developments that could reshape security dynamics across West Asia and beyond.

Trump to review Iran proposal, warns strikes possible 

US President says Tehran has not paid enough price, as Iran’s 14-point plan seeks guarantees on the Hormuz blockade and ceasefire.

President Donald Trump has said he will “soon” review a fresh 14-point proposal from Iran, but signalled low expectations for a breakthrough, claiming Tehran has not “paid enough price” for its actions. His remarks came even as a fragile truce holds between the two sides following weeks of military strikes.

‘Decimated and confused’

Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the US is “doing very well” regarding Iran. “They want to make a deal. They are having a hard time figuring out who their leader is,” he said, adding that their former Supreme Leader “is gone”. He did not elaborate on the reference to Ali Khamenei.

When asked whether strikes against Iran could restart, Trump said the possibility remains. “If they misbehave, or do something bad, strikes could happen. We’ll see for now,” he said.

What Iran’s proposal demands

According to Iran’s Tasnim news agency, Tehran’s 14-point plan includes guarantees of non-aggression, an end to the US naval blockade, war reparations, and a halt to hostilities on all fronts — including in Lebanon. It also reportedly proposes a “new mechanism” for the Strait of Hormuz, where ship traffic has dropped nearly 90% in recent weeks.

US-based Axios reported that the Iranian proposal sets a one-month deadline for negotiations to reopen the Strait and end the blockade, followed by another month of talks on the nuclear programme.

No nuclear enrichment surrender

A major sticking point remains Iran’s uranium enrichment. The US has demanded Tehran halt all enrichment as part of any deal. Iran has refused, insisting the Non-Proliferation Treaty guarantees its right to enrich for peaceful purposes — energy, medicine, and industry. Weapons-grade enrichment requires 90%, while Iran’s stated civilian needs remain between 3-5%.

Economic pain on both sides

The war’s economic fallout is spreading. In Iran, prices of food, medicine, and essentials have risen sharply, according to reports from ground level. The US blockade of Iranian ports is straining supply chains. Meanwhile, US budget carrier Spirit Airlines collapsed last week, with rising fuel costs from the conflict partially blamed for its shutdown.

Syria has emerged as an alternative energy corridor. Hundreds of Iraqi oil tankers are now carrying crude by road to Syria’s Baniyas Port on the Mediterranean, from where it is shipped to Europe. Experts say the overland route is more expensive but necessary while the Strait of Hormuz remains largely blocked.

Hormuz blockade and a tanker that got through

Despite the US naval blockade, monitoring firm TankerTrackers.com reported that an Iranian Very Large Crude Carrier evaded the blockade and reached the Asia-Pacific region with over 1.9 million barrels of oil worth nearly $220 million. The vessel had switched off its Automatic Identification System since mid-March.

What next

Trump said he is waiting for the “exact wording” of Iran’s proposal. Sources familiar with the matter said the White House is unlikely to accept terms that leave Iran’s nuclear infrastructure intact. For now, the ceasefire remains tense — Israeli shelling was reported in southern Lebanon’s Tyre district as recently as Saturday morning, with seven killed in airstrikes.

Local authorities in the region have described the truce as “only on paper”. A Doctors Without Borders emergency physician in Tyre said civilians, including children, are still being bombed.

Whether the US and Iran move toward negotiations or another round of strikes may become clearer once Trump finishes his review in the coming days.

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.

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.

US Blocks Chinese Access to Iranian Oil as Hormuz Blockade Faces Mixed Results

Washington tightens pressure on Tehran with naval operation in Strait of Hormuz, even as shipping data shows some vessels slipping through amid ongoing US-Iran tensions.

Hormuz Blockade Enforced

US forces have stepped up enforcement of a naval blockade on Iranian ports, deploying over 10,000 troops and around 12 naval ships to control traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz. The operation, which began on Monday, aims to choke off Iran's oil exports following the collapse of recent peace talks.

According to US Central Command, no ships passed through the route in the first 24 hours. Officials reported intercepting at least eight Iran-linked oil tankers, instructing them via radio to turn back without boarding.

Mixed Signals on Effectiveness

Yet questions linger over the blockade's full impact. Shipping data reviewed by international outlets indicated that at least four Iran-linked vessels, including two that had visited Iranian ports, crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. A few additional non-Iranian ships also transited the waterway.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made clear the administration's stance on third-party involvement, particularly from China. "They’re not going to be able to get their oil. They can get oil. Not Iranian oil," Bessent told reporters in Washington. He described China as an "unreliable global partner" for stockpiling oil and limiting exports during the conflict.

China-Iran Links Under Scrutiny

A separate report added another layer to US concerns over Beijing-Tehran ties. The Financial Times reported that Iran secretly used a Chinese spy satellite during the recent war, gaining enhanced ability to target US military bases across West Asia.

The development has heightened tensions as Washington seeks to isolate Iran's oil trade. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, meanwhile, offered that Moscow could help compensate for any energy shortfalls China might face.

Trump Signals Optimism on Talks

US President Donald Trump struck a relatively positive note on the broader conflict, telling reporters the war with Iran appeared "very close to over." He suggested Tehran was eager for a deal and indicated fresh talks could resume soon, possibly within days, with Pakistan as a potential venue.

Vice President JD Vance emphasised that the administration was not interested in minor agreements. "Trump doesn’t want to make a small deal. He wants to make the grand bargain," Vance said, referring to extended negotiations.

Parallel Diplomacy in Lebanon

In a related diplomatic move, Israel and Lebanon held their first direct talks in over three decades, mediated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. Both sides described the engagement as constructive, with focus on reducing Hezbollah's influence and addressing security concerns.

Israeli officials noted a shared interest in "liberating Lebanon" from Iranian-backed groups, while Lebanese representatives called for a ceasefire and return of displaced persons.

Economic Ripples and Global Concerns

The blockade and continued uncertainty in West Asia have kept oil prices elevated. Brent crude hovered just above $95 per barrel in Asian trade on Wednesday, with markets watching for any escalation or breakthrough in talks.

The International Monetary Fund has warned that prolonged disruption could slow global growth and push oil prices higher in coming years. In India, early market reactions remained positive following a conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump on the West Asia situation, with benchmark indices gaining ground.

Impact on Trade Routes

The Strait of Hormuz handles around a fifth of global oil shipments, making any sustained blockade a major concern for energy-importing nations, including India. New Delhi has been closely monitoring developments, balancing its strategic partnerships while ensuring energy security.

Officials in Washington have stressed the blockade applies impartially to vessels of all nations linked to Iranian ports. However, the partial transit of ships has raised doubts about complete enforcement in the initial phase.

What Lies Ahead

With the two-week ceasefire due to expire soon, attention now turns to whether renewed US-Iran talks can yield a lasting agreement. The administration has linked the blockade to maximum economic pressure, while leaving room for diplomacy.

Analysts say the coming days will be critical in determining if the naval operation forces concessions or risks further regional instability. For now, the US appears committed to tightening the squeeze on Iranian oil flows, particularly targeting major buyers like China.