The coffin of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was taken to the site in Tehran where he was killed in a US-Israel airstrike earlier this year, as Iran intensified preparations for his six-day state funeral. The visit to the assassination site was reportedly conducted without prior public announcement, according to Iranian state media.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti were among the Indian political leaders who travelled to Tehran to pay their respects during the mourning ceremonies. Visuals released by the Iranian Embassy showed the two leaders offering tributes alongside senior Iranian officials and foreign delegations.

Iran has scheduled public farewell ceremonies from July 4 to July 9 across several cities, with Tehran hosting the opening events. The first day will allow members of the public to pay their final respects, while funeral prayers and a procession through the capital are planned before the coffin is taken to Mashhad for burial.

Iranian authorities estimate that between 12 million and 20 million people could participate in the funeral ceremonies, potentially making it one of the largest state funerals in the country's history. Representatives from more than 100 countries are expected to attend, with India, China, Russia, Türkiye, Bangladesh and several other nations sending official delegations.

Security has been tightened across Tehran ahead of the ceremonies. Police checkpoints, military deployments and traffic restrictions have been imposed in the capital, while public and private offices are scheduled to remain closed during key stages of the funeral. Iranian authorities have also announced partial airspace restrictions as part of the security arrangements.

Amid the mourning period, Qatar indicated that the next round of US-Iran talks could resume after the funeral concludes, signalling a possible revival of diplomatic engagement following months of heightened regional tensions.

Iran has also lodged a complaint with the United Nations, accusing Israel of threatening Supreme Leader-designate Mojtaba Khamenei. Separately, Tehran announced that inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) would not be granted access to the Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, a move likely to increase international scrutiny over its nuclear programme.

The Strait of Hormuz also remained in focus, with Iran warning the United States against interference in the strategic waterway while directing commercial vessels to follow designated maritime routes. At the same time, shipping traffic through the strait has shown signs of recovery following the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, although volumes remain below pre-conflict levels.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for more than three decades, was killed in a US-Israel airstrike on February 28, according to Iranian authorities. His death marked a major turning point in the country's political leadership and has triggered one of the largest state mourning events in Iran's recent history.

Officials said the funeral ceremonies are intended to demonstrate national unity and resilience, while further diplomatic developments are expected after the conclusion of the mourning period.

In a rare bipartisan rebuke, the US Senate on Wednesday passed a resolution calling on President Donald Trump to stop further military action against Iran, marking the first such congressional intervention under the 1973 War Powers Act.

The measure cleared the Senate by a narrow 50-48 vote, with four Republican senators joining Democrats in support. It had already received approval in the House of Representatives earlier. The resolution seeks to require congressional approval for any additional military operations against Iran.

This development comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts following the recent US-Iran agreement. The White House, however, quickly dismissed the resolution's impact, stating it has no legal binding and that major military operations related to the conflict have already concluded. Administration officials asserted that the President retains broad authority on national security matters.

The vote highlighted deepening divisions within the Republican Party during Trump's second term, with the support from four GOP lawmakers seen as the first major internal break on a key foreign policy issue.

Rubio in Gulf for Damage Control

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in the United Arab Emirates as part of a regional tour that also includes Bahrain and Kuwait. The visit aims to reassure Gulf allies worried about the implications of the US-Iran deal, particularly its potential to boost Iran's regional influence around the Strait of Hormuz.

Gulf partners have expressed concerns over the absence of firm restrictions on Iran's missile programme and reports of a possible $300 billion reconstruction package for Tehran. Rubio, received by the US Ambassador to the UAE in Abu Dhabi, is expected to address these issues directly and seek broader backing for the agreement.

Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz has shown signs of recovery, with vessel crossings nearly tripling week-on-week. Several Indian-linked ships have successfully transited the waterway since the June 17 agreement, while crude oil prices eased slightly on hopes of normalised energy flows.

Trump's Mixed Signals

President Trump, meanwhile, continued to strike a tough tone. He warned Iran against violating the agreement and claimed Tehran has agreed to international inspections of its nuclear sites. "If they back down, I will cancel the conversation now," Trump said during remarks in Pennsylvania. He also suggested the US could "finish the job" in less than a week if Iran is not "reasonable."

On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian ruled out including the missile programme in any future talks, calling it a key pillar of national security. He made the remarks during a visit to Pakistan, where Russian President Vladimir Putin was also present for discussions on regional security.

Broader Regional Ripples

The Senate vote comes as other developments continue to unfold. A UN commission of inquiry released a report alleging that Israeli actions against Palestinian children in Gaza may amount to genocide and war crimes, prompting strong reactions from Palestinian authorities. Separately, Syrians pushed back against suggestions of involving their country in confronting Hezbollah in Lebanon.

In the energy sector, Qatar said LNG production would resume within weeks after earlier disruptions.

The Senate resolution, though largely symbolic according to the White House, is being watched closely for its political message. It reflects growing congressional unease over potential escalation in West Asia even as diplomacy takes centre stage.

As trading and diplomatic engagements continue, further clarity is expected on how the US administration balances domestic political pushback with its strategic goals in the region. Market participants and regional players will be tracking the next steps closely.

Pakistan has unexpectedly found itself at the center of a major diplomatic development after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly announced progress in negotiations between the United States and Iran before any formal declaration from Washington. The move has drawn international attention and fueled debate about whether Islamabad is emerging as a more influential diplomatic player in global affairs.

Sharif announced on June 12 that a final text of a peace agreement between the United States and Iran had been agreed upon and that Pakistan was working closely with both sides to finalize the next steps. Subsequent statements from U.S. and Iranian officials indicated that a framework agreement had indeed been reached, confirming Islamabad's involvement in the mediation effort.

The development is particularly notable because major diplomatic breakthroughs involving Washington are often announced directly by U.S. leaders. In this case, Pakistan's leadership became the first to publicly signal that negotiations had reached a critical stage.

Pakistan's Mediation Role

According to reports, Pakistan has been involved in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran for several months. The country leveraged its diplomatic relationships across multiple regions, including the United States, Iran, Gulf states, and China, to help maintain dialogue between the two sides.

Reuters reported that Pakistan played a mediating role in helping both countries reach a preliminary agreement aimed at ending hostilities and reopening channels for broader negotiations.

The proposed framework reportedly includes a halt to military operations, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and a 60-day period of negotiations on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions-related issues. However, several complex matters remain unresolved and will require further discussions.

A Shift in Regional Diplomacy?

For decades, countries such as Qatar, Oman, and, at times, Turkey have often served as intermediaries in sensitive Middle East negotiations. Pakistan has generally remained on the margins of such diplomatic initiatives despite its strategic location and historical ties with key regional actors.

Analysts suggest that Islamabad's involvement in the U.S.-Iran talks could signal a broader effort to reposition itself as a facilitator of dialogue and conflict resolution. Successfully contributing to a breakthrough between two long-standing adversaries could enhance Pakistan's diplomatic credibility and strengthen its international profile.

The development also highlights Islamabad's ability to maintain working relationships with countries that often find themselves on opposite sides of geopolitical disputes.

Challenges Remain

Despite the positive momentum, experts caution against viewing the agreement as a final settlement. The framework is still subject to additional negotiations, and contentious issues such as Iran's nuclear activities, missile capabilities, sanctions relief, and regional security concerns remain unresolved.

Diplomatic observers note that mediators often receive recognition during the negotiation phase but can also face criticism if agreements later collapse. As a result, Pakistan's long-term diplomatic gains may depend on whether the current framework evolves into a durable and enforceable peace arrangement.

Symbolism Beyond the Agreement

Beyond the substance of the negotiations, the optics of the announcement have attracted attention. The fact that Pakistan's prime minister publicly disclosed the breakthrough before Washington underscored Islamabad's visible role in the process and generated discussion about changing diplomatic dynamics in the region.

For Pakistan, the moment represents an opportunity to showcase its diplomatic capabilities on a global stage. Whether it marks the beginning of a sustained role as a regional mediator or remains an isolated success will depend on future developments.

Deal Confirmed for June 19

Washington and Tehran have finalised a peace agreement, bringing an end to months of active hostilities. United States President Donald Trump confirmed the development on social media, announcing the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.

In a characteristically direct post, Trump wrote, "Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow." While the president’s announcement was light on specific clauses, he confirmed the deal will be formally signed on Friday, June 19. Iran’s government separately issued a statement acknowledging the conclusion of what it described as "lengthy and difficult negotiations" with the US.

Oil Prices Tumble More Than 4%

Markets reacted swiftly. Oil prices plunged over four per cent in early Asian trading on Monday as the prospect of a free-flowing Hormuz eased supply concerns. West Texas Intermediate was down sharply at $81.15 a barrel in Tokyo. The strait, a critical chokepoint for global crude shipments, had been effectively sealed by the US Navy for weeks, triggering volatility across energy markets.

The dip in prices was mirrored by a rally in equities. Japan’s Nikkei 225 surged more than five per cent, while South Korea’s Kospi jumped nearly six per cent. Investors appeared to be pricing in a rapid stabilisation of regional trade routes.

International Reactions Pour In

The news drew a cautious but largely positive response from world capitals. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the development a "critical step," while Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the agreement followed extensive back-channel talks. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described it as a "significant breakthrough."

However, the silence from Israel was conspicuous. According to The Times of Israel, officials in Tel Aviv are deeply concerned. Israel, which had been a key partner in the initial stages of the conflict, was reportedly excluded from the final negotiations. A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that several provisions in the draft do not align with the war aims originally set out by Washington and its ally.

What’s in the 14-Point MoU?

While the White House has not formally released the text, Iranian state media outlet Mehr News published details of a 14-point memorandum of understanding. According to the report, the deal mandates an immediate cessation of hostilities "on all fronts, including Lebanon." The US naval blockade will be lifted, and maritime trade through the strait is to be restored within 30 days.

Crucially, the agreement includes a mechanism for the release of frozen Iranian assets. Mehr reported that $12 billion will be released before negotiations even begin, with a total of $24 billion to be freed during a subsequent 60-day negotiation period. Tehran has also reiterated its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, though further talks are planned regarding its 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile.

Digital Signing and Next Steps

Officials are preparing for a hybrid signing ceremony. CNN, citing sources, reported that the memorandum will be signed digitally to avoid the "security and logistical challenges" of a face-to-face meeting. However, US Vice President JD Vance told Fox News that a physical ceremony in Geneva remains possible. Vance said he intends to be present, adding that President Trump might also attend.

The coming 60 days will be critical. The MoU triggers a new phase of negotiations focused on implementation, sanctions relief, and post-war reconstruction. For now, the guns have fallen silent. As Iran’s military noted in a statement on Monday, they believe they have "humiliated" their adversaries. Washington sees it as a victory for deterrence. On the ground in the Gulf, tankers are preparing to sail again.

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.

Prime minister’s remark on taking “first of all 70%” of Gaza appears in West Bank speech; move could push nearly 2 million Palestinians to relocate

Israeli announcement and reaction
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told an audience in the occupied West Bank on Thursday that he had instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to take control of about 70% of the Gaza Strip, a statement that drew immediate international concern and alarm among Palestinian officials. “We are now in 60% of the territory of the Gaza Strip… My directive is to move, take over step by step — first of all 70%,” Mr. Netanyahu said, according to a CNN report of the remarks.

Local and regional officials said the comment, coming amid months of fighting and a fragile ceasefire framework, risks triggering large-scale displacement in a densely populated coastal territory where roughly 2 million Palestinians live. Sources familiar with humanitarian planning note that a move to occupy such a large share of Gaza could force mass internal migration and overwhelm already-stretched aid services.

Maps and claimed control
The IDF has previously circulated operational maps to international aid agencies, officials said, and those maps — issued in late April — reportedly depicted Israeli control of roughly 64% of Gaza. Under the October 2025 ceasefire arrangement between Israel and Hamas, Israeli forces had withdrawn to a demarcation known as the “yellow line,” which encompassed about 53% of the enclave.

Humanitarian and political actors warned that shifting lines on the ground would have immediate consequences. “If the boundaries of control expand, it reduces safe space for civilians and complicates aid deliveries,” a senior aid official working in the region said on condition of anonymity. The official added that agencies were already operating under severe constraints on fuel, staff movement and secure supply routes.

Hamas and ceasefire concerns
Hamas condemned what it described as an attempt to unilaterally alter the ceasefire arrangement. In a statement on Tuesday, the group accused Israel of “an explicit and ongoing undermining of the ceasefire agreement” and warned that moving the demarcation line constituted a serious violation meant to “impose new facts on the ground.”

Diplomats in the region said the remarks could complicate international efforts to stabilise the situation and resume reconstruction planning. Western and Arab governments have repeatedly urged restraint and called for guarantees to protect civilians and humanitarian corridors.

Allegations about weapon use
Separately, reports have circulated alleging the use of so-called thermobaric or “vacuum” weapons in Gaza. Investigative outlets and some witnesses have described blasts that create intense heat and large-area effects; such weapons are controversial because of their destructive blast and incendiary characteristics. Israeli officials have repeatedly denied using internationally banned munitions; independent, verifiable confirmation of specific weapon types in many incidents remains limited.

Human toll and long-term damage
The humanitarian toll in Gaza remains severe. Local civil defence authorities have reported thousands of victims whose remains are difficult to recover after intense bombardment. Agricultural and economic damage has been extensive: aid agencies estimate that almost all of Gaza’s agricultural land has been degraded since the start of hostilities, with only small pockets remaining cultivable — a factor that will slow recovery and food security for years.

Chronology and context
The latest statements come nearly two-and-a-half years after the conflict flared on 7 October 2023, when a large-scale Hamas attack into southern Israel prompted a sustained Israeli military campaign. The October 2025 ceasefire created a temporary lull and defined lines of operation, but observers have warned that those arrangements are fragile and subject to change depending on political and military calculations.

What happens next
Officials in Jerusalem offered no immediate operational timeline beyond the prime minister’s directive. International actors — including UN agencies and donor governments — are expected to press for clarification on movement plans, protections for civilians, and guaranteed access for humanitarian relief.

Aid groups on the ground said they are preparing contingency plans for further displacement and reiterating calls for protective measures. “We’re bracing for more people on the move and for humanitarian needs to spike,” one aid coordinator said.

Islamabad says its stance on the Middle East issue remains non-negotiable despite fresh calls from Washington linking normalisation to regional peace talks.

In a sharp diplomatic pushback, Pakistan has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s latest appeal to normalise relations with Israel by joining the Abraham Accords. Defending the country’s traditional foreign policy, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated that Islamabad cannot compromise on its foundational principles for short-term strategic gains.

The developments unfolded on Monday after Trump outlined a major diplomatic push on social media, linking ongoing US-Iran peace negotiations to a broader Middle East settlement. In a lengthy public statement, Trump explicitly named Pakistan alongside heavyweights like Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, urging them to simultaneously sign the accords to secure a wider regional alignment.

Reacting swiftly to the proposal during a late-night television interview, Asif made it clear that joining such an arrangement is out of the question. “Personally, I don't think we should join any such accord that clashes with our fundamental ideologies,” the Defence Minister told Samaa TV.

Core ideology non-negotiable

The strongly worded rejection from Islamabad underlines the domestic and political sensitivities that govern Pakistan’s approach to the Middle East. Officials in the foreign ministry indicated that the state's official position has remained consistent for the past 78 years, anchoring any potential recognition of Israel to the creation of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Asif also took aim at the diplomatic credibility of the Israeli leadership, questioning how any sovereign nation could engage in structured negotiations under the current global climate. “How will you sit down with those people whose word cannot be trusted even for a single day?” he asked, highlighting deep-seated skepticism over ongoing ceasefire violations in Gaza.

Passport policy stands out

To drive home the point, the Defence Minister pointed toward a unique domestic legal barrier that defines the state’s absolute isolation from Tel Aviv. He reminded the public that the country’s travel documents are intentionally designed to restrict access, calling it an institutional proof of Pakistan's refusal to recognise Israel.

“On our passports, we are the only country whose passports don't even include Israel's name,” Asif noted, referencing the explicit inscription stating the document is valid for all countries except Israel.

Trump’s wider alliance blueprint

The push from Washington appears to be part of a broader, unconventional blueprint curated by the Trump administration to establish a massive US-backed alliance in West Asia. According to diplomatic sources, Trump is attempting to capitalise on the current momentum of negotiations with Iran to pull multiple Muslim-majority states into the Abraham Accords framework.

Trump described the ongoing talks with Tehran as "proceeding nicely" but added a stark warning that failure to secure an all-encompassing deal would mean a return to active hostilities. He argued that the 2020 accords, which initially brought the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco into formal diplomatic terms with Israel, have triggered an economic and social boom that other regional players should look to replicate.

Economic and domestic tightrope

For the current ruling coalition in Islamabad, balancing Washington's expectations against severe domestic pushback remains an incredibly delicate tightrope walk. Observers note that while Pakistan relies heavily on international financial systems and trade ties with the West, any overt softening towards Israel carries extreme domestic political risks capable of triggering widespread public unrest.

Furthermore, the situation is complicated by the evolving stances of major Gulf monarchies. With key regional allies like Saudi Arabia also being intensely courted by the US for normalisation pacts, Islamabad faces the challenging prospect of maintaining its traditional stance while navigating its deep economic dependency on financial assistance and remittances from the Gulf region.

No policy shift ahead

Despite the mounting pressure, senior officials in Islamabad insist that participation in multilateral humanitarian forums should not be misconstrued as a diplomatic shift. Earlier this year, when questions were raised regarding Pakistani representatives attending a Gaza-related peace board meeting, the Foreign Ministry had issued a similar clarification denying any backchannel movement toward the Abraham Accords.

For now, the government maintains that its position remains absolute, leaving little room for the diplomatic expansion Trump envisioned in his latest regional peace outline.

Trump says Iran conflict will end “very quickly”; Senate moves to curb war powers

President reiterates goal to block Iran’s nuclear capability as Senate advances resolution limiting military action

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the United States will bring the conflict with Iran to a swift close, while the Republican-led Senate took the rare step of advancing a War Powers Resolution designed to prevent prolonged military operations without explicit congressional approval.

Speaking at a White House event attended by lawmakers and aides in the late morning, Trump portrayed Tehran as anxious for a deal and said US forces would stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. “They want to make a deal so badly; they’re tired of this,” he said, adding that US pressure would continue until objectives were met. “We’ve done a hell of a good job… we’re going to be finished with that very quickly,” he said.

Senate moves

In Congress, senators voted to advance a measure that would curtail the president’s ability to conduct sustained military action against Iran without congressional authorisation. The procedural vote marked an unusual assertion of legislative oversight at a time of heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.

According to Capitol Hill aides, the resolution could still face amendments and is likely to be the subject of tough partisan debate as supporters frame it as a defence of constitutional checks and balances, while opponents argue it could constrain rapid response options for commanders in the field.

Iran’s response

In Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any renewed conflict would “feature many more surprises,” posting on X (formerly Twitter) that Iran was prepared for escalation. Araghchi cited reporting he said showed dozens of US aircraft damaged or lost since strikes began in February and claimed Iranian forces were the first to down an F-35 — an assertion that has not been independently verified by third-party military analysts.

“Months after initiation of war on Iran, US Congress acknowledges loss of dozens of aircraft worth billions,” he wrote, invoking a Congressional Research Service document. Iranian state media amplified the remarks, underscoring Tehran’s effort to project resilience amid growing international concern.

Regional flare-ups

The broader region saw several security flashpoints overnight. Israeli aircraft struck towns in southern Lebanon, local media reported, while Israel said it intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla and transferred 430 activists to Israeli vessels after an interception at sea. The US also announced a fresh round of sanctions targeting Iranian-linked currency exchange houses, front companies and a fleet of vessels accused of enabling Tehran to skirt restrictions and fund regional activities.

South Korea, meanwhile, said it held “serious discussions” after a South Korean-operated ship, the HMM Namu, was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on May 4. Seoul is analysing recovered debris to determine what struck the vessel and who was responsible.

White House posture

The Trump administration has combined diplomacy with military readiness. Vice-President JD Vance said Washington remains “locked and loaded” should negotiations fail to produce a nuclear deal, while administration officials said sanctions and targeted strikes would remain tools to deter Tehran.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott described the latest sanctions as part of an “economic fury campaign.” US officials have also been engaged in shuttle diplomacy with regional partners and consultations at NATO and with allies to prevent the conflict from widening.

What happens next

The Senate will continue to consider the War Powers Resolution, and a vote on final passage could come in the coming days. Diplomacy remains active in parallel: negotiators in Europe and the Gulf are reported to be pressing for renewed talks aimed at de-escalation and a framework to limit Iran’s nuclear activities.

On the ground, militaries in the Gulf and eastern Mediterranean are on heightened alert, diplomats said, while commercial shipping firms rerouted vessels after recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that even if Washington and Tehran step back from direct confrontation, proxy incidents and third-party strikes could sustain instability.

For now, Washington’s mix of public warnings, sanctions and a pending congressional rebuke underscores a delicate moment: officials say they seek a quick, decisive outcome, but lawmakers and regional actors are preparing for a longer, risk-filled period if diplomacy falters.

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply after reports emerged that Iran’s Parliament is preparing a controversial bill that could offer a reward of more than ₹500 crore to anyone involved in the assassination of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to reports, Iran’s National Security Commission is drafting legislation titled “Retaliatory Action of the Islamic Republic’s Military and Security Forces.” The proposed bill reportedly comes amid heightened tensions following the deaths of several Iranian military and political figures, including close associates of Iran’s top leadership. Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian reportedly stated that the Parliament may soon vote on the proposal, which would reward individuals responsible for targeting Trump and Netanyahu. The remarks have intensified global concerns over the rapidly deteriorating situation in the region.

The development comes at a time when President Trump claimed he had postponed a military strike on Iran that was reportedly expected on Tuesday. Trump said leaders from Gulf nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates requested additional time to allow diplomatic talks and de-escalation efforts to continue. Trump shared the update through a post on his social media platform Truth Social, saying that discussions were still ongoing and that there remained a narrow window for negotiations. However, he also warned Iran to reach an agreement quickly or face severe consequences.

In one of the strongest statements issued so far, Trump reportedly told Iran that “time is running out” and warned that if a deal is not reached soon, “nothing will be left.” The comments have further fueled speculation about possible US-Israel coordinated military action against Iran. Reports also suggest that dozens of cargo aircraft carrying weapons and military equipment have arrived in Israel from American military bases in Germany. Sources claim that Trump and Netanyahu have held discussions regarding possible future military operations targeting Iranian positions.

Meanwhile, tensions in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz have continued to rise. Reports indicate that nearly 1,500 commercial ships are currently stranded in the region amid fears of maritime blockades, missile attacks and drone strikes. More than 20,000 sailors are believed to be onboard these vessels, raising concerns over global oil supply disruptions and international shipping security. The regional situation worsened further after Saudi Arabia claimed its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed three drones that allegedly entered its airspace from the direction of Iraq. Both Kuwait and Qatar condemned the incident and described it as a threat to regional stability and national sovereignty.

Another development drawing international attention is the emergence of videos from Iran allegedly showing young girls receiving AK-47 rifle training. The footage reportedly shows participants learning to assemble and disassemble assault rifles amid growing fears of a wider regional conflict involving the United States and Israel. Security analysts believe the latest rhetoric and military movements indicate one of the most dangerous phases in Middle East geopolitics in recent years. Experts warn that any direct confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel could have serious consequences for global oil markets, maritime trade and regional stability.

Diplomatic channels remain active, but international observers say the situation remains highly volatile. Gulf nations are reportedly pushing for urgent negotiations to avoid a broader war that could destabilize the entire region.

Iran has openly questioned Pakistan’s suitability as a mediator in backchannel talks involving Tehran and Washington, adding a fresh diplomatic strain to an already volatile regional situation. The remarks came as efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East remained inconclusive and no breakthrough was reported in indirect engagement between Iran and the United States.

Ibrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, said Pakistan may be a friendly country but it cannot be considered an impartial mediator in negotiations involving Iran and the US.

Pakistan’s neutrality questioned

Rezaei said Pakistan has repeatedly shown a tendency to align with American interests, particularly those linked to former US President Donald Trump, and therefore cannot be viewed as neutral. According to Iranian officials, a credible mediator must maintain equal distance from both sides and avoid favouring one party in strategic negotiations.

His remarks signal growing unease within sections of the Iranian establishment over Islamabad’s diplomatic positioning at a time when multiple regional powers are attempting to prevent further escalation.

The statement also comes amid heightened diplomatic movement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Pakistan twice within 24 hours, underlining the urgency of consultations taking place behind closed doors, as per reports.

Trump issues warning

The diplomatic friction coincided with a sharp warning from Donald Trump, who claimed Iran had only three days to agree to a ceasefire or risk serious damage to its oil infrastructure.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump said Iran’s oil pipeline system could face internal pressure-related blasts if the conflict continued and export routes remained blocked. He argued that if Iran is unable to move crude through shipping channels or storage networks due to blockade conditions, pressure could build inside pipelines and trigger structural failures.

Trump claimed such damage would be technically difficult to reverse and could significantly reduce Iran’s oil export capacity over the long term.

Oil routes in focus

Trump’s remarks have drawn attention to Iran’s energy infrastructure, which remains central to both its economy and geopolitical leverage. Any disruption to oil movement, whether through sanctions, blockade or military escalation, could deepen pressure on Tehran and impact global energy markets.

Analysts tracking the region say oil remains one of Iran’s strongest strategic assets and a prolonged disruption could alter the balance of ongoing negotiations. While Trump is not currently in office, his comments continue to influence political discourse around US-Iran policy and remain closely watched in National and International News coverage.

Diplomatic pressure grows

The latest developments reflect the increasing complexity of diplomatic efforts involving Iran, the US and regional actors. Pakistan has sought to maintain engagement with both sides, but Tehran’s latest public criticism suggests trust remains limited.

According to officials familiar with regional discussions, mediation efforts have become more difficult as competing strategic interests continue to shape positions across the region. Iran’s public criticism of Pakistan may also complicate Islamabad’s attempts to project itself as a credible intermediary in future talks.

Regional stakes rise

The broader implications extend beyond diplomacy. Any failure in de-escalation efforts could trigger fresh disruptions in oil markets, deepen military tensions and draw more regional players into an already fragile conflict environment.

For Pakistan, the criticism presents a diplomatic challenge. For Iran, it signals a firmer public stance on who it considers acceptable in sensitive negotiations. For the US, the lack of progress keeps the confrontation unresolved.

What comes next

No formal agreement has emerged from the latest round of diplomatic activity, and neither Tehran nor Washington has indicated any immediate shift in position. Pakistan has not publicly responded to Rezaei’s remarks so far.

With Iran questioning Pakistan’s mediator role and Trump renewing pressure on Tehran, the coming days may prove critical for US-Iran talks.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday issued a fresh escalation in rhetoric against Iran, warning that Tehran has only a limited window to agree to a ceasefire deal. In a televised interview with Fox News, Trump said Iran must respond within three days or risk severe disruption to its energy infrastructure.

According to the Trump Iran ceasefire warning, the US President suggested that failure to comply could trigger consequences affecting Iran’s oil export capabilities, intensifying already strained relations between Washington and Tehran.

Oil Pipeline Claim

Trump claimed that Iran’s oil supply chain is already under pressure due to restricted maritime access. He argued that if oil exports are halted abruptly, internal pressure in pipelines could increase significantly.

He stated that such technical stress could potentially lead to pipeline failures or “blasts”, though no independent verification of this claim has been provided. Officials familiar with energy infrastructure have not confirmed any immediate risk of such incidents.

Iran Nuclear Stance

Iran has continued to maintain a firm position on its nuclear programme, describing it as non-negotiable. Tehran has rejected any external pressure linking nuclear negotiations with broader geopolitical demands.

As per reports in state-linked media, Iran has reiterated that its nuclear programme and strategic decisions remain sovereign matters, and it will not accept conditions imposed under threat. The Trump Iran ceasefire warning has further hardened diplomatic positions on both sides.

Hormuz Tensions Rise

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, remains at the centre of rising tensions. Iran has previously signalled that it could respond to external pressure by influencing maritime traffic in the region.

Experts say any disruption in the region could have wide-ranging consequences for global oil supply chains, impacting energy prices worldwide. However, no official blockade or escalation has been reported at this stage.

Interview Remarks Noted

Trump made the remarks during a media interaction where he discussed Middle East security dynamics and global energy stability. He linked Iran’s economic pressure points with its oil export system and shipping constraints.

While the US administration has not issued a formal policy statement following the interview, the comments have already drawn international attention due to their timing and tone.

Diplomatic Signals Sent

Iran has reportedly conveyed its position through diplomatic channels, including indirect communication via regional intermediaries. Sources indicate that Tehran’s response emphasised its “red lines” on nuclear policy and strategic sovereignty.

Officials have clarified that these exchanges are not formal negotiations but rather messaging efforts aimed at asserting national positions amid rising pressure.

Global Reactions Watch

The Trump Iran ceasefire warning has added fresh uncertainty to an already volatile geopolitical landscape. Analysts say such statements could influence market sentiment, particularly in the energy sector, if tensions escalate further.

International observers are closely monitoring developments, especially given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and global dependency on Middle East oil routes.

What Next Developments

With only a short deadline indicated in Trump’s remarks, attention now shifts to whether diplomatic engagement will intensify or tensions will rise further. Neither Washington nor Tehran has announced any formal breakthrough or scheduled talks.

The situation remains fluid, with global stakeholders watching for potential policy responses, military signalling, or diplomatic backchannel activity.

Israeli Airstrike Kills 9 in Southern Lebanon as Iran Mocks US Ceasefire Push

Fresh attacks in the Sidon region mark a deadly escalation, even as Washington pushes a 15-point peace proposal reportedly sent via Islamabad.

An Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon has killed at least nine people, local media reports confirmed on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in the border conflict. The attacks came just hours after reports emerged that the Trump administration had sent a 15-point ceasefire proposal to Tehran through Pakistani intermediaries, a move that Iranian military officials have publicly dismissed.

Nine Dead in Sidon

According to security sources, the strikes targeted multiple locations near the Sidon area. In the Adaloun region, four individuals were killed in an initial attack. A separate strike on a building in the Miyeh Miyeh refugee camp resulted in two fatalities and left four others wounded. The deadliest incident occurred in the Habbush area, where three people were killed and 18 others sustained injuries. The coordinated attacks represent one of the higher casualty counts in southern Lebanon in recent weeks.

Hezbollah Retaliates

Following the airstrikes, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah launched approximately 30 rockets toward northern Israel. Sirens were reported across several Israeli communities near the border. While there were no immediate reports of casualties on the Israeli side, the exchange of fire signals a breakdown of the fragile understanding that had previously contained the conflict to limited engagements.

Iran Mocks Ceasefire Plan

Simultaneously, a political standoff unfolded in Tehran. Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, appeared on state television to reject claims of diplomatic progress. He accused Washington of “negotiating with itself” regarding the purported 15-point proposal.

“Has the level of your internal conflicts reached the point where you are negotiating with yourselves?” Zolfaghari said, questioning the legitimacy of the US outreach. His comments were the first official confirmation from Tehran that, despite being approached, Iran’s stance remains unchanged and that it will not engage in what it perceives as one-sided compromises.

Pakistan’s Mediation Effort

Reports from Pakistani media, including Dawn, indicated that the 15-point plan was delivered with the assistance of Islamabad. The development placed Pakistan at the center of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions that have threatened to engulf the region. While US officials have hinted at progress, Tehran’s public response suggests the initiative has stalled, with Iran’s military brass portraying the American offer as a sign of weakness rather than a genuine path to peace.

Regional Energy Crisis

The ongoing conflict continued to impact global energy markets. The Philippines declared a national energy emergency, citing threats to oil supplies caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced financial aid for transport workers and strict measures against hoarding as fuel prices surged. Separately, Jetstar New Zealand canceled flights between Australia and New Zealand, blaming rising jet fuel costs linked directly to the Middle East crisis.

What Next

With the Israeli military continuing to pound targets in Lebanon and Gaza, and Iran rejecting US overtures, the window for a ceasefire appears narrow. Diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkiye remain ongoing, but the situation on the ground—marked by rocket fire and retaliatory airstrikes—suggests that military action is outpacing diplomacy. The coming days will determine whether the Trump administration proceeds with its threatened attacks on Iranian infrastructure or renews efforts to enforce the 15-point plan rejected by Tehran.