Trump Claims Iran Nuclear Deal Ends War, Tehran Rejects Assertions

US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that Washington had effectively ended its conflict with Iran, asserting that Tehran had agreed to abandon nuclear weapons ambitions. However, Iranian officials quickly pushed back, describing the claims as premature and unconfirmed.

Speaking during a tele-rally in support of a Senate candidate, Trump declared the war over and credited his administration with securing major concessions. “We ended the war with Iran today, and they have agreed never to have a nuclear weapon,” he said, adding that a “great deal” had been reached with people expected to start returning home soon. He also mentioned cancelling planned strikes for a third consecutive day, hinting that a signing ceremony could be announced shortly.

 Mixed Signals from Tehran

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei dismissed reports of any agreement as “speculative,” stating clearly that “nothing has been finalised.” Multiple Iranian lawmakers echoed this position, insisting that core principles, including support for regional allies in the “Axis of Resistance,” remained non-negotiable. One MP emphasised that Tehran would not sacrifice its allies or compromise on key security matters.

According to reports citing a draft memorandum of understanding, negotiations are expected to centre on Iran’s nuclear programme and economic issues. The document reportedly includes US commitments to lift sanctions, withdraw forces, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and release frozen funds. Notably, Iran’s missile programme is said to remain off the negotiating table. The draft still requires final approval.

 Diplomatic Interventions Averted Strikes

Sources indicate that last-minute interventions by leaders from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Pakistan helped convince Trump to step back from further military action. The calls came after Trump had threatened to hit Iran “very hard” and target oil infrastructure, including Kharg Island. These previously unreported conversations reportedly assured the US president that a preliminary understanding was within reach.

The developments come amid continued tensions on multiple fronts. Israeli strikes were reported in southern Lebanon, with Hezbollah claiming several attacks on Israeli positions in response. A regional country reportedly denied Israel airspace access during recent operations, signalling shifting dynamics. Meanwhile, US forces said they intercepted Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz.

 Market Reactions and Regional Response

Financial markets responded positively to the de-escalation signals. Oil prices dropped, with Brent crude falling over one percent, as fears of major supply disruptions eased. Wall Street also rallied, with major indices posting solid gains late on Thursday.

Egypt welcomed Trump’s decision to cancel strikes and urged both sides to seize the “available opportunity” for a comprehensive agreement that could foster regional stability. The UN Secretary-General expressed grief over the deaths of Indian sailors in a separate tanker attack off Oman, highlighting the broader human cost of the conflict.

 Uncertainty Lingers Over Final Terms

Despite Trump’s repeated optimistic statements — now reportedly the 39th time he has suggested a deal is imminent — Iranian officials continue to stress that several key issues remain unresolved. Reports also suggest the proposed deal would require Israel to withdraw completely from Lebanon and halt operations against Hezbollah. Preparations for a possible signing ceremony in Europe, including US Air Force planes dispatched for Vice President JD Vance, have been noted, though Iran has not confirmed acceptance.

Local authorities in affected areas continue to monitor the situation closely. While diplomatic channels appear active, ground realities in Lebanon and the Gulf show persistent friction. Analysts suggest any final agreement would need to carefully balance nuclear concerns with broader regional security arrangements.

The coming days are expected to clarify whether the current momentum leads to a formal deal or remains part of ongoing high-stakes negotiations. For now, the contrast between Washington’s assertions and Tehran’s cautious stance underscores the complexities involved in reaching a lasting resolution.

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.

US-Iran Clashes Flare in Strait of Hormuz, Trump Insists Ceasefire Holds

Vessels ablaze, oil prices spike as attacks test fragile truce amid stranded ships and global fears

Multiple vessels caught fire near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday after fresh US-Iran clashes, even as President Donald Trump insisted the ceasefire remains "in effect." NASA's FIRMS satellite detected fire activity across several spots following missile and drone exchanges, with UAE air defences activated amid blasts off Abu Dhabi coast. The incidents, unfolding just hours apart, have stranded nearly 1,500 ships and pushed Brent crude above $101 a barrel.

Vessels Ablaze Off Hormuz

Reports emerged around 12:22 PM IST of vessels burning near the strategic waterway, a chokepoint for 20% of global oil. Initial satellite imagery showed flames at multiple locations, linked to overnight attacks between US warships and Iranian assets. US Central Command confirmed Thursday's retaliatory airstrikes hit Iranian missile sites, drone launch pads, and command centres after three American destroyers faced "provocative attacks" while transiting the strait.

No casualties were reported from the US side. Trump, posting on Truth Social, described the destroyers as unscathed, with Iranian drones falling "like a butterfly dropping to its grave." He called the strikes a mere "love tap," but warned of "a lot more violent" responses if no deal comes fast.

UAE on High Alert

The UAE scrambled air defences Friday morning as explosions echoed off Abu Dhabi, where US assets are based. The defence ministry's Arabic statement on X noted "ongoing engaging operations of missiles and UAVs," with sounds ringing across the country. Authorities urged vigilance but reported no direct hits on mainland soil. Separately, UAE firm Gulf Marine Services logged a 24% Q1 profit drop to $19.5 million, blaming vessel evacuations from a GCC nation in March amid the war.

Local sources said the nation is compiling a record of Iranian attacks for future legal action, via a new national committee.

Trump: Ceasefire Intact, Deal Possible

Trump doubled down on the truce holding, despite Iran's top command accusing the US of violating it by hitting an oil tanker and civilian areas. "The ceasefire is going. It's in effect," he told US media, framing strikes as defensive. He dismissed talk of a "one-page offer" to Tehran, calling it broader—demanding no nuclear weapons and handover of "nuclear dust."

Sources familiar with the matter point to backchannel talks via Pakistan for a 30-day halt to hostilities, keeping Hormuz open while permanent negotiations run. Trump signalled willingness to negotiate, but only if Iran acts quickly.

Stranded Ships, Sailor Fears

The UN's IMO estimates 1,500 vessels stuck in the region, crippling oil and gas chains. Food shortages worsen in places like Somalia. Indian sailors aboard a cargo ship in Iran's Shatt al-Arab waterway spoke of terror to Al Jazeera: "We've seen war, missiles, everything. We're mentally exhausted." Stuck for 10 weeks over unpaid wages, they survive on potatoes, onions and bread; some escaped via Iran-Armenia border, but 20,000 sailors region-wide remain trapped.

Pakistan seeks repatriation of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian crew from US-seized vessels, coordinating with mediators.

Oil Surge, Wider Fallout

Brent crude jumped 7.5% Thursday to $103.70 before easing to $101.12 by Friday Asia open—up 40% since the war's oil shortfall hit 14.5 million barrels daily. One tanker reached South Korea after dodging the blockade, first since Iran shut the strait in late February.

Japan's MOL confirmed its ships crossed without Tehran's proposed fees, via stakeholder coordination; two India-flagged LPG carriers followed suit.

Regional Tensions Spill Over

Iran's VP Mohammad Reza Aref claimed a "great victory" soon, with sanctions lifted, per state media. Meanwhile, Israel-Hezbollah fighting reignited: IDF killed Hezbollah's Radwan unit commander in Beirut, ordered Lebanese evacuations, and shelled south Lebanon sites. A Lebanese civil defence member died in an airstrike.

UN drama brews too—Russia and China poised to veto a US-Bahrain resolution on Hormuz freedom; Iran slammed it as "one-sided."

Sanctions and Standoff

US hit new sanctions on Iraq's deputy oil minister and Iran-linked firms for oil trades aiding proxies. As ships idle and prices climb, eyes turn to talks. Will the 30-day proposal break the deadlock, or fuel more fire in Hormuz?

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.

Iran Faces Oil Storage Crunch as Diplomatic Push Stalls Over Nuclear Demands

Tehran’s 22-day oil storage limit adds pressure amid US blockade and rejected ceasefire proposals involving the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran could run out of space to store its crude oil in as little as 22 days if current production rates continue without exports, according to data analytics firm Kpler. The warning comes as Tehran insists the conflict with the United States and Israel is far from over, while diplomatic efforts through mediators like Pakistan show little progress.

The US naval blockade has severely restricted Iran’s ability to ship oil abroad, causing onshore inventories to build up rapidly. Analysts at Kpler noted that usable storage, including some floating capacity, might offer a buffer of around 12 to 22 days. Experts caution that prolonged output cuts could damage older oil wells by reducing natural reservoir pressure, making future extraction more difficult and costly.

Storage Crisis Deepens Under Blockade

The situation has worsened since the US imposed its counter-blockade on vessels heading to or from Iranian ports in mid-April. Oil exports have reportedly dropped sharply, leaving tankers and storage facilities under strain. Initial reports indicate Tehran may soon face the choice of further slashing production, already down significantly from pre-conflict levels.

Local oil industry sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the mounting challenge in southern terminals near Bandar Abbas. “Facilities are filling faster than expected,” one industry watcher familiar with the data said. Any extended shutdown risks long-term harm to infrastructure that has already suffered from years of sanctions and now direct conflict-related disruptions.

Tehran Warns Conflict Not Over

Despite a fragile ceasefire in place since early April, Iranian officials maintain that war-like conditions persist. Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia stated clearly that the military does not consider the war ended. Security agencies continue constant monitoring, with warnings of responses using “new weapons, new methods, and on new fronts” should fresh attacks occur.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been active on the diplomatic front, making his third visit to Pakistan in quick succession before heading to Russia. In Moscow, he met President Vladimir Putin to discuss strategic ties and the regional situation. Russia has criticised the US and Israeli strikes, calling them a threat to international order.

Diverging Proposals on Hormuz and Nuclear Issues

At the heart of the deadlock are differing priorities over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear programme. Iran’s latest proposal, conveyed through Pakistani channels, called for three main steps: an immediate end to hostilities with guarantees against further attacks, lifting the US blockade and reopening the strait to restore shipping, and deferring complex nuclear questions to a later stage.

US President Donald Trump has rejected this approach, insisting that nuclear concerns cannot be sidelined. According to reports, the Trump administration views any reopening of the strait without addressing enrichment and uranium stockpiles as weakening its negotiating position. Washington prefers tackling both issues simultaneously.

Iran had earlier suggested a phased nuclear rollback — complete stop to enrichment for five years, followed by limited civilian use, with part of its stockpile moved to Russia under supervision. That too was turned down. Sources familiar with the talks said Iran is now preparing a fresh proposal, though it needs time for internal consultations, including with the Supreme Leader.

Trump has publicly claimed Iran is nearing collapse and urged quick reopening of the strait. In recent social media posts, he described Tehran as being in a “state of collapse,” while reiterating that the US will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.

Oil Markets React to Prolonged Uncertainty

Global oil prices continued their upward trend on reports of the extended US blockade. Brent crude futures rose modestly in early trading, reflecting concerns over disrupted supplies from the key Gulf region. The Panama Canal has seen increased traffic as shippers reroute to avoid the troubled Strait of Hormuz.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry described the use of the strait as a “political weapon” as unacceptable, calling for de-escalation to protect regional stability and global energy flows.

Regional Ripple Effects

Tensions extend beyond the strait. In southern Lebanon, Israeli forces reported operations against Hezbollah infrastructure, while the group claimed drone attacks on Israeli positions. Separate incidents in the occupied West Bank saw arrests and clashes. France paid tribute to its peacekeepers killed in Lebanon, with President Emmanuel Macron attributing responsibility to Hezbollah.

Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz questioned aspects of US strategy, prompting a sharp response from Trump, who accused him of misunderstanding the nuclear threat. Meanwhile, the US Treasury announced new sanctions on what it called Iran’s “shadow banking” network, aimed at further isolating Tehran’s financial channels.

Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last Shah, urged continued pressure on the current government, suggesting targeted actions to encourage internal dissent.

What Lies Ahead

With storage limits approaching, Iran faces mounting economic strain that could force difficult choices on production and exports. Diplomatic shuttling continues, but deep differences over sequencing — ending the immediate blockade versus resolving nuclear issues — suggest talks may drag on.

Local authorities in affected Iranian regions are bracing for potential further cuts, while global markets watch closely for any breakthrough or escalation. Mediators in Islamabad and other capitals remain engaged, yet both sides appear unwilling to yield on core demands for now.

The coming days could prove decisive. If storage constraints tighten as projected, pressure on Tehran to compromise may grow, even as it warns of readiness for new responses. For now, the fragile ceasefire holds, but the risk of renewed disruption to one of the world’s critical energy arteries remains real.

First LNG cargo in two months passes through strategic strait even as tensions persist; Tehran claims Washington's influence is waning

LNG Tanker Crosses Critical Waterway

The first liquefied natural gas shipment since the Iran war began two months ago has crossed the Strait of Hormuz and exited the Persian Gulf, ship-tracking data reviewed by Bloomberg showed on Tuesday.

The Mubaraz, which loaded LNG from Abu Dhabi National Oil Co.'s Das Island facility in the UAE around early March, was spotted passing the southern tip of India, according to the report. The tanker had been idling inside the Persian Gulf before it stopped transmitting signals around March 31.

Energy markets have been watching the strait closely. About one-fifth of the world's oil normally flows through this waterway.

Iran Says US Influence Fading

Iran's defence ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik said on Tuesday that Washington is no longer in a position to dictate policy to other nations.

"The United States is no longer in a position to dictate its policy to independent countries," Talaei-Nik told state TV. He added that Washington would eventually "accept that it must abandon its illegal and irrational demands."

The remarks came as US officials weigh a new proposal from Tehran aimed at ending the West Asia war.

Rubio Calls Iranian Offer 'Better Than Expected'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that Tehran's latest proposal is "better than what was expected," though he stressed that any future agreement must permanently prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability.

The White House confirmed the Iranian proposal is under discussion. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Washington's red lines remain in place while the offer is being considered.

Israeli Strikes Continue in Lebanon

Meanwhile, the Israeli military said its forces have destroyed more than 1,000 Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, including booby-trapped structures and buildings allegedly used to store weapons. The military also claimed to have seized hundreds of weapons, including anti-tank missiles, rockets, and mortar shells.

The operations continue despite a three-week ceasefire extension announced by US President Donald Trump. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has declared that his group will continue its "defensive resistance for Lebanon and its people."

Global Impact Widens

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the strait's closure is being felt disproportionately across the Asia Pacific region due to energy supply disruptions. Oil prices edged higher again on Tuesday, with Brent crude futures rising to $108.68 per barrel.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appealed for freedom of navigation in the waterway, warning that prolonged disruption risks triggering a global food emergency.

Digital Blackout Enters 60th Day

Monitoring group NetBlocks reported that Iran's digital darkness entered its 60th day on Tuesday, with the public largely cut off from the global internet. Tehran police separately said they had discovered a residential unit "equipped with Starlink" in the Yousefabad district, alleging it was used for "espionage activities."

What Comes Next

Diplomatic efforts continue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday for his third visit to Pakistan in 48 hours, following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg. The Gulf Cooperation Council will convene an exceptional summit in Jeddah later Tuesday.