US President Donald Trump on Tuesday confirmed that the crew of a US Army Apache helicopter that crashed near the Strait of Hormuz was safely rescued, even as tensions in West Asia remained high with Israel vowing to continue operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The incident involving the AH-64 Apache occurred on Monday while the helicopter was patrolling regional waters. Both pilots were rescued within hours and are in stable condition, according to US Central Command. Trump, speaking to reporters, assured that the crew members were unharmed and no injuries were reported. US military officials have initiated a probe into the cause, which remains unclear — whether due to a technical issue or hostile action. A detailed report is expected soon.

The crash comes at a delicate moment, with a fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel showing signs of strain following recent escalations.

Trump Pushes for Quick West Asia Deal

President Trump expressed optimism about ongoing diplomatic efforts, stating that the US was in the "final throes" of brokering a significant peace agreement in West Asia. Speaking after attending an NBA Finals game, he told reporters the deal could materialise in "two or three days." He also mentioned a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that Israel and Iran had agreed to "leave each other alone for another week."

Trump further warned Netanyahu to exercise caution, reportedly telling him that Israel risked being "on your own very soon" if actions jeopardised the broader US-brokered understanding with Tehran. Despite these differences, Trump projected confidence, hinting at a declaration of "total victory" over the Iran situation within two weeks.

 Israel Signals Continued Lebanon Operations

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz made it clear that military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon would persist. In his first major comments after the recent Iran-Israel flare-up, Katz warned that Israel would strike Beirut if Hezbollah launched attacks on Israeli territory. He also rejected Iranian threats, underscoring Israel's determination to counter the group.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for multiple strikes on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon on Monday, targeting troop positions and vehicles in areas including Beit Yahoun, Rachaf, Naqoura, and others. Lebanese sources reported Israeli strikes continuing in several towns, with casualties including civilians and civil defence personnel. At least four people were killed in attacks in southern Lebanon, according to the National News Agency.

Evacuation orders issued by the Israeli military for residents of Tyre and surrounding areas added to the humanitarian concerns. Rescuers have been focusing on moving vulnerable populations, including the elderly, to safer locations amid repeated strikes.

India Monitors Situation, Confirms Crew Rescue

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi issued statements on the regional conflict, calling for de-escalation and dialogue. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised diplomacy as the way forward to restore peace.

In a related maritime incident, the MEA confirmed the safe rescue of 24 Indian crew members from the disabled Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Marivex off the coast of Oman. The vessel had some communication with the US Navy prior to the incident. All crew are reported safe.

Broader Regional Fallout

The developments have impacted markets, with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange slipping amid uncertainty over the US-Iran peace process. Oil prices edged higher on fears of renewed disruptions. Iran, for its part, warned of responses if attacks on Lebanon continued and reiterated support for Hezbollah. Tehran also acknowledged the deaths of two air defence personnel in Israeli strikes.

Analysts note that while a temporary pause in direct Iran-Israel exchanges holds, the situation in Lebanon remains volatile, with risks of wider escalation.

Diplomatic Nuances and Challenges

Reports of differences between Trump and Netanyahu have surfaced, with some former Israeli officials describing the relationship as diverging. However, Israel's ambassador to the US downplayed tensions, likening them to "lovers having a spat" while stressing aligned interests. Vice President JD Vance reiterated that the US was in a strong position for negotiations.

The coming days are expected to be crucial as Washington pushes for a comprehensive understanding, even as ground realities in Lebanon and lingering maritime incidents test the fragile stability.

New York Times has reported a proposed 60-day ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran that includes a massive USD 300 billion (approximately ₹25 lakh crore) reconstruction package along with American investments in the country.

The development comes even as US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that Washington remains fully prepared to resume military operations against Iran if necessary.

Reconstruction Package in Draft Deal

According to the New York Times report, the draft agreement outlines significant financial assistance from participating governments to help rebuild Iran. An Iranian official described the proposal as a reconstruction programme aimed at restoring the war-affected nation. The first phase of the deal reportedly focuses on halting hostilities, ensuring smooth commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and reducing regional tensions.

US President Donald Trump, in a social media post, claimed that Washington and Tehran are close to an understanding on Iran’s nuclear programme. He also mentioned progress on issues related to the Strait of Hormuz and maritime security.

Iran Rejects Trump’s Claims

However, Iran pushed back against these assertions. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei stated that no negotiations on the nuclear issue had taken place. He emphasised that Tehran’s immediate priority remains ending the ongoing conflict. Iranian officials have repeatedly said trust must be earned through concrete actions rather than statements.

Hegseth: US ‘More Than Capable’ of Resuming War

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a strong message on American military readiness. He said the United States has sufficient weapons stockpiles and advanced precision munitions to restart operations against Iran if required.

“Our ability to recommence if necessary is more than capable,” Hegseth told the gathering. He added that US stockpiles are well-positioned to support operations both in West Asia and globally. Hegseth also noted that Washington has not turned its back on the Asia Pacific region despite the Iran conflict, saying, “We can do two things at one time.”

Trump Insists on ‘Great Deal’

Hegseth further stated that President Trump is patient and will only accept a “great deal” with Iran. This comes after Trump claimed that under any agreement, Iran would commit to not developing nuclear weapons. He also said the US would lift its naval blockade and that no tolls would be charged on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

In the past 24 hours, Iran reported that 24 ships had passed through the strategic waterway under controlled conditions.

Regional Tensions Persist

Meanwhile, tensions continue along the Israel-Lebanon border. Air raid sirens sounded multiple times in northern Israel, with the Israeli military intercepting a launch from Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said forces had pushed deeper into Lebanon despite ongoing security talks.

Israeli and Lebanese military delegations held “productive” discussions in Washington on Friday, which are expected to support broader diplomatic efforts.

Background and Impact

The proposed reconstruction package, if finalised, could mark a significant shift after months of conflict. Iran currently holds around 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, according to reports. The US has maintained its commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

The Strait of Hormuz remains critical for global oil supplies, and any disruption there carries major economic implications for India and other energy-importing nations.

Analysts say the coming days will be crucial as both sides assess the viability of the proposed ceasefire and reconstruction framework. A final decision on the agreement is expected soon, according to US officials.

Trump Warns of 'Project Freedom Plus' as Iran Slams US Strikes

Iran's Araghchi accuses US of ‘reckless military adventure’ amid fresh Hormuz clashes

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz spiked Friday as US forces struck Iranian military targets following attacks on American warships, prompting sharp accusations from Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi labeled the US actions a "reckless military adventure," claiming they targeted civilian areas near Chabahar port and oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. President Donald Trump, speaking at the White House, warned that failed nuclear talks could trigger "Project Freedom Plus," an expanded escort mission for stranded commercial vessels in the strait.

Araghchi's Fiery Rebuke

Araghchi's comments came late Thursday, after US Central Command reported Iranian missiles, drones, and small boats targeting US destroyers near the strait. "The US chooses reckless military adventure whenever diplomacy is within reach," he said, according to Iranian state media. Tehran countered with strikes on US ships, while denying any breach of the fragile ceasefire holding for over a month.

Sources familiar with the matter said the exchanges began early Friday morning local time, with US airstrikes hitting coastal bases by dawn. No US casualties were reported, but Iran alleged hits on non-military sites, escalating rhetoric ahead of weekend talks.

Trump Hints at Escalation

Trump told reporters before heading to his Virginia golf course that without a deal, Washington would revive the earlier "Project Freedom" initiative—paused amid negotiations—but beefed up. "It'll be Project Freedom plus other things," he added, stressing protection for global shipping routes vital for 20% of world oil. The strait remains a flashpoint, with commercial traffic disrupted since clashes began two months ago.

Oil Markets React

Brent crude jumped as much as 3% during Friday trading amid the flare-up, settling at $101.29 a barrel, up 1.23%. West Texas Intermediate closed at $95.42, up 0.64%, paring gains on hopes for an imminent US-Iran agreement. Traders watched closely, with prices volatile since the ceasefire took hold in April.

An oil spill off Iran's Kharg Island export terminal—spotted Tuesday via satellite—added uncertainty, though the Pentagon declined comment amid reports of Thursday strikes.

Iran's Satirical Jabs

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei mocked Trump's prior nuclear threat of "one big glow" from Iran if talks collapse. "Absurd... they seek peace yet propose a big flash," he posted on X, sharing a clip from the 1964 satire Dr. Strangelove.[query context] The taunt, repeated across outlets, underscores Tehran's defiance.

Regional Ripples

UAE defenses intercepted two Iranian ballistic missiles and three drones Friday, with three injuries reported but no official Iranian response.[query context] In southern Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 31, including a rescue worker, per state media; Hezbollah claimed 26 counterattacks.

US-mediated Israel-Lebanon peace talks are set for May 14-15 in Washington, focusing on borders, Hezbollah disarmament, and aid—despite ongoing fire.

Path Ahead Uncertain

With oil prices elevated and shipping at risk, diplomats push for a deal before Monday. Trump reiterated no nuclear weapons for Iran, while Araghchi vowed resistance to pressure. Markets and mariners await clarity from the Hormuz strait.

Iran Rejects Temporary Ceasefire, Eyes Regional Peace

India welcomes steps towards stability amid fragile Israel-Lebanon truce.

Iran rules out any temporary ceasefire. Tehran demands a full end to conflicts from Lebanon to the Red Sea. Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh made the remarks at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday.

India backs the Israel-Lebanon truce. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi welcomes every move towards peace.

Iran's Firm Stand

Khatibzadeh called partial truces a red line for Iran. He stressed the cycle of violence must stop permanently.

Iran's President Pezeshkian claimed Israel faced force into the Lebanon ceasefire. He credited diplomacy and Hezbollah's resistance.

Tehran views the truce as part of wider US talks mediated by Pakistan.

India Welcomes Truce

Jaiswal spoke at a Delhi briefing on the 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. It started Thursday midnight after Trump's push.

India got UK-France invite for Hormuz security talks. New Delhi prioritizes safe navigation through the strait.

On Hamas, Jaiswal noted ongoing processes handle such matters.

Ceasefire Kicks Off

Trump announced Israel-Lebanon talks for Saturday on Truth Social. Leaders haven't met in 34 years.

Displaced Lebanese head home to south and Beirut suburbs. Roads jam with returning families.

UNIFIL reports no airstrikes post-midnight but notes shelling and IDF flights.

Conflict Toll Rises

Lebanon death toll hits 2,167 from Israeli strikes. Over 7,000 injured in recent weeks.news.

Israel hit 200 Hezbollah sites in south Lebanon last day. Tyre strikes killed 13 just before truce.

Hezbollah claims 2,184 attacks; vows vigilance with finger on trigger.

Global Reactions Pour In

Lebanon President Aoun tasks army with border role post-withdrawal. Portugal, Qatar, Oman offer full support.

France's Macron urges Israel respect sovereignty, Hezbollah drop arms. UN chief Guterres eyes lasting peace.

US envoy Tom Barrack calls truce a fragile start; Trump hails historic day.

Syria, Pakistan back the move for regional calm.

Hormuz Blockade Shadows

US enforces port blockade on Iran with 12 ships, 100 aircraft. Trump says Iran deal close.

IEA warns Europe faces jet fuel crunch; Poland holds reserves. UK-France host 40-nation meet sans US.

India joins Hormuz initiative push. Czechs offer radar aid.

Path Ahead Uncertain

Talks tomorrow test truce strength. Iran ties regional halt to US concessions by April 21.

India tracks developments closely. Stable Middle East aids global trade, energy flows.

Ceasefire holds key to broader peace, sources indicate.