The United States has formally removed Syria from its list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, ending a designation that had remained in place since 1979 and opening the door to greater financial and economic engagement with the country.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision on August 24 after the mandatory 45-day congressional notification period concluded. The move is part of the Trump administration's broader effort to provide sanctions relief to Syria and support its economic and political reintegration.

The decision is significant because the State Sponsor of Terrorism designation carried restrictions affecting areas including US foreign assistance, defence exports and certain financial transactions. Its removal is therefore expected to make it easier for international businesses and financial institutions to consider opportunities in Syria.

What changed for Syria?

The US State Department said the rescission recognises steps taken and commitments made by the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa to distance the country from international terrorism.

Alongside removing Syria from the terrorism sponsor list, Washington also revoked the designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly known as the Nusrah Front, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organisation. The US Treasury subsequently removed HTS from its Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list.

The change means Syria is no longer subject to the specific prohibitions under the US Terrorism List Governments Sanctions Regulations. The Treasury also said the previous Syria General License 25, which had authorised certain transactions otherwise restricted because of HTS's role in the Syrian government, was no longer necessary and has been revoked.

Why investment matters

For Damascus, the economic implications could be particularly important.

Syria has been attempting to rebuild after years of civil war and economic isolation. The removal of the terrorism designation eliminates what Syrian officials had described as a major obstacle to reconnecting with the international financial system.

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani said before the decision that removing the designation could help reconnect Syria with global financial and economic networks and encourage investment.

Reuters reported that the decision was viewed in Damascus as the removal of a major remaining impediment to investment in the country. The move comes as the Syrian government seeks foreign capital for reconstruction and economic recovery.

A major shift in US-Syria relations

The decision marks a dramatic change in Washington's approach to Damascus.

Syria had been on the US State Sponsors of Terrorism list since 1979. The designation was originally linked to allegations that the Syrian government supported terrorism and terrorist groups. Over the decades, additional US sanctions and restrictions were imposed on Syria.

The policy began changing after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government in December 2024 and the emergence of a new Syrian leadership under Ahmed al-Sharaa.

President Donald Trump had announced in July that Washington intended to remove Syria from the terrorism sponsor list and formally notified Congress. That started the 45-day review period required before the decision could take effect.

With the review period completed, the State Department formally rescinded the designation on August 24.

What does the decision mean for global businesses?

The immediate significance is the removal of restrictions specifically tied to the State Sponsor of Terrorism designation. That could make financial transactions and investment involving Syria less complicated, although it does not mean that every US sanction on Syria has disappeared.

Other sanctions and regulatory restrictions can still apply depending on the transaction, entity or sector involved. The US Treasury and other departments have issued additional guidance on the sanctions relief provided to Syria.

The policy change nevertheless sends a strong signal to international companies and investors that Washington is moving toward greater economic engagement with Damascus.

What happens next?

The next test will be whether the policy shift translates into actual investment and reconstruction activity.

Syria needs significant capital to rebuild infrastructure, revive businesses and reconnect its banking and trade systems with the wider global economy. The removal of the terrorism designation could improve the environment for such activity, but investment decisions will also depend on political stability, security, banking regulations and remaining sanctions.

For now, the US decision represents a major milestone in Syria's attempt to move away from decades of diplomatic and economic isolation.

After 46 years on the US State Sponsors of Terrorism list, Syria is now officially off it. The bigger question is whether the policy change can translate into the investment and economic recovery Damascus is seeking.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended warm Independence Day wishes to the people of India on Saturday as the country celebrated its 80th Independence Day, while highlighting the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States.

In his message, Rubio praised the close relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying their personal ties have contributed to strengthening bilateral relations.

Rubio Praises India-US Partnership

“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm congratulations to the people of India on their Independence Day,” Rubio said in his statement.

He said the relationship between the two countries was “stronger than ever”, attributing part of the momentum to the personal relationship between Trump and Modi.

Rubio highlighted cooperation between Washington and New Delhi across several key sectors, including defence, energy security, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation and commerce.

According to the US Secretary of State, cooperation in these areas is contributing to greater security and prosperity for both countries as well as the wider Indian Ocean region.

Focus on Strategic Sectors

The reference to critical minerals, AI, space and energy security comes as India and the US continue to expand their cooperation beyond traditional defence and trade ties.

Both countries have increasingly focused on emerging technologies and strategic supply chains, particularly in areas considered important for long-term economic and national security.

Rubio said the partnership would continue to evolve and remain focused on the future.

People-to-People Ties Highlighted

Rubio also emphasised the close people-to-people relationship between India and the United States.

He described the friendship and family ties between citizens of the two countries as the foundation of a partnership that is “innovative, resilient, and forward-looking.”

He added that Washington looked forward to the future that India and the US would build together.

US States Celebrate ‘India Day’

Rubio's message was accompanied by Independence Day greetings from several US states.

A number of states have marked August 15 as ‘India Day’ to recognise India's Independence Day and acknowledge the contribution of the Indian-American community.

US senators, members of Congress, state lawmakers and city councils also extended greetings to Indians, highlighting the growing role of the Indian diaspora in American society.

The messages reflected the strong community-level connections that have developed alongside the broader strategic partnership between the two countries.

PM Modi Remembers Freedom Fighters

Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted Indians on Independence Day.

In a post on X, Modi remembered the freedom fighters whose courage and sacrifice led to the end of colonial rule.

He said their dreams continue to inspire the country as India works towards building a Viksit Bharat.

Modi also highlighted India's progress across different sectors and credited the country's population for driving its development.

Bilateral Ties Enter New Phase

The latest messages from Washington and New Delhi come at a time when India-US relations encompass a wide range of strategic and economic issues.

Defence cooperation remains an important pillar, while emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, space technology, critical minerals and energy security are gaining greater importance.

Rubio's Independence Day message therefore carries significance beyond a ceremonial greeting, reflecting Washington's emphasis on the broader strategic relationship with New Delhi.

His remarks also underline the importance both governments place on the India-US partnership as the two countries look to expand cooperation in technology, commerce, security and other areas in the years ahead.

Venezuela has released another 131 people considered political prisoners, in what authorities and international observers see as a significant development in the country’s ongoing reconciliation process following the removal of former President Nicolas Maduro by US forces.

The interim Venezuelan government said on Friday that the 131 people had been granted “alternative measures from incarceration” under its Program for Peace and Democratic Coexistence.

The releases came as government and opposition representatives continue talks aimed at managing Venezuela’s political transition and addressing longstanding concerns over political detentions.

Families Reunite Outside Prison

Emotional scenes were reported outside El Rodeo I prison in Guatire, around 50 kilometres east of Caracas, where several released prisoners were reunited with their families.

The releases brought renewed attention to the issue of political prisoners in Venezuela, which has remained one of the most contentious issues between the interim government and opposition groups.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the development, calling the release of more than 130 political prisoners an important step in Venezuela’s reconciliation process.

Rubio said that 1,046 Venezuelans had been released since January 3, according to the latest US government figures.

Rights Group Confirms Releases

Venezuelan human rights organisation Foro Penal, which has campaigned for the release of people it considers political prisoners, said six women were among those released.

The organisation later said that the release of at least 40 political prisoners had been independently confirmed.

However, opposition figures have stressed that the latest releases do not represent the end of the political prisoner issue.

Opposition leader Dinorah Figuera said that not everyone had been released and called for continued efforts until all political prisoners were freed.

Talks Focus on Reconciliation

The latest releases came a day after Figuera pledged to continue pushing for the release of political prisoners during formal negotiations with Venezuela’s interim government.

The first round of US-brokered talks began last week and concluded on Wednesday. Government and opposition representatives subsequently agreed to cooperate on several issues related to Venezuela’s recovery.

A joint statement said the two sides would work on recovering Venezuelan funds frozen overseas to support reconstruction following devastating June earthquakes that killed more than 6,300 people.

The parties also agreed to discuss reforms to Venezuela’s judicial system. However, the joint statement did not specifically address political prisoners.

Maduro Era Left Detention Legacy

Nicolas Maduro ruled Venezuela from 2013 until his removal earlier this year. His government faced years of accusations from opposition groups and human rights organisations over the detention of political opponents and activists.

Following Maduro’s removal by US forces in January, the interim government began releasing groups of prisoners under pressure from Washington.

Interim President Delcy Rodriguez also supported an amnesty law passed in February, which paved the way for further releases.

Despite the recent developments, Foro Penal said earlier this week that 391 political prisoners remained behind bars.

High-Profile Release

Among those released was Emirlendris Benitez, whose case has attracted international attention.

Benitez was arrested following a 2018 incident in which two drones carrying explosives flew towards Maduro while he was addressing a military parade in Caracas. The drones exploded, injuring seven soldiers.

Benitez, who was four months pregnant at the time of her arrest, denied involvement in the alleged assassination plot. She and her partner, Yolmer Escalona, were eventually sentenced to 30 years in prison.

Human rights organisations have alleged that Benitez was tortured while in detention and that the abuse resulted in a miscarriage and partial paralysis.

Opposition Seeks Democratic Elections

The reconciliation process is being led by Figuera and Jorge Rodriguez, the head of Venezuela’s National Assembly and brother of interim President Delcy Rodriguez.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who is currently in exile and is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has not participated directly in the negotiations. She has, however, said she would not obstruct the process.

Many Venezuelans are hoping that the talks will eventually pave the way for free and democratic elections.

Maduro's victories in the 2018 and 2024 presidential elections were rejected by Venezuela's opposition and several foreign governments, which questioned the credibility of the electoral process.

The latest prisoner releases therefore represent an important but incomplete step in Venezuela's broader political transition, with pressure remaining on the interim government to address the status of those still detained and establish a credible path towards democratic governance.

US President Donald Trump’s secret aircraft switch in Ankara last month has drawn renewed attention after details emerged about which senior officials remained on the decoy plane and who accompanied the president on a smaller military aircraft.

Trump switched from the older Air Force One to a smaller military aircraft after US and Turkish intelligence agencies reportedly identified a credible threat from Iran following the NATO summit in Ankara.

While Trump left Turkey aboard the smaller aircraft, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained on the original plane, along with other senior White House officials and members of the travelling press.

Why Trump Switched Planes

The aircraft switch took place on July 8, following the NATO summit in Turkey.

According to reports, intelligence collected by the CIA and Turkey’s MIT indicated that Iran could potentially target Air Force One with a surface-to-air missile.

Reports also suggested that an Iranian-linked team operating in Turkey had been tasked with carrying out such an attack. Intelligence agencies had reportedly obtained information about Trump’s location in Ankara as well.

The security concerns prompted the Secret Service and US military to devise an elaborate deception operation.

Trump publicly boarded the older Air Force One, creating the impression that he would leave Turkey on that aircraft. He was then secretly transported to a military aircraft, reportedly using an airport catering vehicle as part of the operation.

Trump later confirmed that the decision was made because military and Secret Service officials wanted him to travel on a different aircraft.

Rubio and Bessent Stayed Behind

One of the most notable aspects of the operation was the decision to leave senior Cabinet officials Marco Rubio and Scott Bessent on the original aircraft.

According to reports, both officials knew that Trump was no longer aboard the plane. They remained there with Stephen Miller, the president’s top domestic policy adviser, and Steven Cheung, the White House communications director.

Travelling journalists and some White House staff members, however, were reportedly not informed about the deception.

Those aboard the decoy aircraft were also reportedly instructed to keep the window shades closed.

Maintaining Presidential Succession

Reports citing US officials said Rubio and Bessent were kept on the decoy aircraft partly to maintain the presidential line of succession.

Under US law, if the president dies or becomes incapacitated, the vice president is next in line, followed by the Speaker of the House and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

The Secretary of State and Treasury Secretary follow further down the succession order.

By keeping senior officials on the decoy aircraft, officials could ensure that multiple people in the presidential line of succession were not travelling with Trump on the same aircraft.

Trump’s Close Aides Joined Him

Trump was accompanied on the smaller military aircraft by several close aides, including Dan Scavino, White House deputy chief of staff; Walt Nauta, director of Oval Office operations; and Natalie Harp, a 34-year-old executive assistant who has been nicknamed Trump’s “human printer”.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also travelled with Trump aboard the smaller C-32A aircraft.

Harp frequently travels with Trump and is known for providing him with printed copies of news reports, social media posts and other material.

Scavino has been associated with Trump for many years, while Nauta, a former Navy culinary specialist and White House valet, has remained part of Trump’s close circle.

Questions Over the Decoy Plane

The aircraft switch has also triggered criticism over the decision to keep journalists and other personnel aboard the decoy aircraft without informing them of the potential threat.

Critics have questioned whether the operation unnecessarily exposed people on the original aircraft to danger while protecting the president.

Trump, however, has defended the decision, arguing that the aircraft he boarded may actually have faced greater risk because an attacker would have been more likely to target the plane believed to be carrying the president.

Former US intelligence and national security officials have also debated whether the same security objective could have been achieved without misleading so many people.

Security Operation Remains Controversial

The Ankara aircraft switch highlights the extraordinary security measures surrounding the US president when intelligence agencies identify a potential threat.

While the operation succeeded in moving Trump out of Turkey without publicly revealing his actual aircraft, questions remain over the decision to keep senior officials and members of the travelling press on the decoy aircraft.

The incident has therefore become a subject of debate not only over presidential security but also over transparency, risk management and the responsibilities of officials during covert security operations.

The United States has revoked more than 175,000 visas issued to foreign nationals during President Donald Trump's second term, with the State Department citing criminal activity, immigration violations, fraud, calls for violence and national security concerns.

The State Department released the figure on Monday, outlining several categories of cases that resulted in visa revocations. Officials said the majority involved foreign nationals who came into contact with US law enforcement over alleged criminal activity.

The announcement comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten immigration enforcement and review rules affecting foreign students, skilled workers and other non-citizens.

Criminal Cases Lead Revocations

According to the State Department, criminal offences accounted for the largest share of visa revocations.

Officials said cases involving assault, driving under the influence, theft and drug-related crimes were among the leading reasons.

Other cases involved allegations of reckless driving, sexual assault, child abuse, fraud, embezzlement and other offences.

The department said visa holders can lose their visas when authorities determine that their continued presence or conduct does not meet US immigration or security requirements.

Foreign Policy Grounds Cited

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also determined that some foreign nationals are deportable on foreign-policy grounds, according to the department.

Among the cases highlighted by officials were foreign nationals allegedly connected to foreign government influence operations, individuals linked to the Iranian regime and people accused of making threats or supporting violence against US officials.

The department cited the case of a Kuwaiti national who allegedly expressed a desire for violence against the US president and referred to Americans as an enemy.

Officials also highlighted cases involving serious criminal allegations, including rape, kidnapping, human trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors and child sexual abuse material.

Birth Tourism Cases Included

The State Department said a US embassy in North Africa revoked more than 100 visas involving parents accused of travelling to the United States primarily to give birth so their children could obtain US citizenship.

Such cases were described by the department as involving so-called birth tourism.

The administration has increasingly focused on immigration practices that it argues exploit the US visa and immigration system.

Fraud and Financial Crimes

The list released by the State Department also included cases involving alleged financial fraud.

In one case, a foreign national accused of operating a healthcare business allegedly helped orchestrate a Medicaid fraud scheme involving more than $5 million in fake services.

Another case involved a foreign national accused of fabricating company revenue, misleading investors and using forged documents to obtain a US visa.

The department said these cases demonstrated that immigration enforcement also covers fraud committed in connection with obtaining or maintaining legal status.

Social Media and Violence

The State Department also cited cases involving foreign nationals accused of celebrating the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Officials included examples of individuals who allegedly posted comments online praising or expressing approval of his death.

The inclusion of such cases reflects the administration's broader approach of considering certain conduct, including statements and activities viewed as threats to public safety or national security, when reviewing visa eligibility.

State Department Defends Policy

The State Department said the Trump administration would continue identifying and revoking visas belonging to foreign nationals it considers threats to public safety.

Officials stressed that holding a US visa is a privilege rather than a permanent entitlement.

The department said it would continue using available enforcement mechanisms against people who violate US law or immigration requirements.

New Rules for International Students

The visa revocations come alongside broader immigration changes affecting foreign students and skilled workers.

A new Department of Homeland Security rule is expected to replace the existing duration-of-status system for F-1 international students with fixed periods of authorised stay, generally capped at four years.

The administration has also proposed reducing the post-study grace period from 60 days to 30 days.

The changes could affect students who need additional time to complete their programmes or transition into employment.

Rules would also place additional restrictions on changing academic programmes or fields of study, particularly at the graduate level.

Implications for Indian Students and Workers

The changes are likely to attract particular attention in India, which sends a large number of students to US universities and accounts for a significant share of H-1B skilled-worker recipients.

The administration is also considering changes to the grace period available to H-1B workers who lose their jobs.

Taken together, the visa enforcement campaign and proposed immigration changes indicate a broader tightening of US policy toward foreign nationals under Trump's second administration.

For international students, skilled workers and other visa holders, the developments could mean greater scrutiny and less flexibility in maintaining their immigration status in the United States.

US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine has reportedly urged senior officials in President Donald Trump’s administration to explore an “off-ramp” from the ongoing conflict with Iran, amid concerns that further military escalation could produce limited results and carry significant risks.

According to a CNN report citing three sources familiar with the discussions, Caine has raised concerns with senior members of Trump’s national security team, including CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance. The sources reportedly said the general believes some of the military options being considered could backfire and that air power alone may not be sufficient to achieve the objectives set by the president.

General Raises Concerns

The reported discussions come as Trump has continued to emphasise the strength of the US military while remaining reluctant to commit American ground forces to Iran.

Trump has indicated that sustained air strikes could pressure Tehran into accepting a deal on US terms. However, according to the CNN report, Caine and some other senior officials privately believe that achieving the administration’s desired outcome through air power alone could prove difficult.

One source described Caine as seeking an “off-ramp” from the conflict, suggesting that the military leadership is examining alternatives that could reduce the risk of a wider escalation.

Focus on Military Limits

Caine has reportedly warned about the potential consequences of expanding military operations, including concerns over the availability of US munitions.

Two sources cited by CNN said Caine discussed the possible downsides of further escalation during a White House meeting with Trump and other senior officials late last month.

At the same time, the general reportedly made clear that the US military could inflict significant damage on Iran if the president ordered further operations. The concern, according to the report, is whether such military action would ultimately deliver the political objectives Washington is seeking.

Caine’s Position Not Confirmed

Caine’s spokesperson, Joseph Holstead, declined to comment on the reported private discussions.

“We do not discuss the Chairman’s confidential conversations with the President, the Secretary, or other senior leaders,” Holstead told CNN, while also rejecting what he described as anonymous characterisations of those conversations.

The White House, meanwhile, defended Caine’s role within the administration and praised his contribution to Trump’s national security team.

A White House official told CNN that Caine provides the president with information and military options, while the final decisions remain with Trump.

Trump Avoids Ground War

Trump has repeatedly appeared cautious about sending US ground troops into Iran. His approach has instead centred on using American air power and military pressure to force Tehran toward negotiations.

The reported concerns within the military leadership highlight the difficulty of achieving political objectives through air strikes alone.

A sustained bombing campaign could damage Iran’s military infrastructure, but determining whether it would force Tehran to accept Washington’s demands is a separate question.

Diplomatic Exit Under Discussion

The reported search for an “off-ramp” does not necessarily indicate that Washington is abandoning its military strategy. Rather, it suggests that senior officials are considering ways to prevent the conflict from developing into a broader and potentially prolonged war.

For the Pentagon, the challenge is to balance Trump’s demands for military pressure with concerns over resources, escalation and the limits of air power.

The situation could therefore put increased emphasis on diplomatic channels if military operations fail to produce the desired outcome.

For now, there has been no official confirmation from the White House or Pentagon that a formal plan to end the conflict has been adopted. The reported discussions instead indicate that senior US officials are weighing multiple options as Washington assesses the next phase of the war with Iran.

The Quad foreign ministers on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific, underscoring the importance of international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity during a high-level meeting in Manila, Philippines. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, came amid renewed tensions in the South China Sea following a fresh confrontation between Chinese and Philippine forces.

Although the joint discussions did not explicitly mention China, the repeated emphasis on respecting sovereignty and maintaining the rules-based international order was widely viewed as a diplomatic message directed at Beijing's growing maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific.

Quad Reviews Regional Security

The meeting brought together India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and their counterparts from Japan and Australia to review recent developments affecting regional security.

Following the discussions, Jaishankar said the ministers reviewed the evolving Indo-Pacific landscape and assessed progress on decisions taken during the previous Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in New Delhi.

He reiterated that the four countries remain committed to promoting a free, open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific, while recognizing ASEAN's central role in the region's security architecture.

Rule of Law at the Centre

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the group's shared vision, stating that India, the United States, Japan and Australia remain united in supporting an Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Rubio said the Quad continues to be a strategic priority for Washington and confirmed that the four nations are expected to meet again later this year to advance cooperation across security, economic resilience, critical technologies and regional stability.

Diplomatic observers noted that the ministers deliberately avoided directly naming China, but the language used closely reflected long-standing concerns over Beijing's activities in disputed maritime regions.

South China Sea Tensions

The meeting took place just a day after a fresh confrontation between China and the Philippines near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.

According to Philippine authorities, personnel from both sides engaged in a physical clash involving oars and batons during a maritime encounter. Manila alleged that a Chinese Coast Guard officer injured a Filipino sailor during the incident.

China rejected the allegations, accusing Philippine personnel of provoking the confrontation and claiming that Manila's account distorted the facts.

The incident has further heightened tensions between the two countries, both of which have summoned each other's ambassadors following the clash.

Strategic Message Without Naming China

While the Quad's official statements avoided directly referring to Beijing, analysts believe the meeting reflected growing concern over attempts to alter the regional status quo through coercion or unilateral actions.

The emphasis on territorial integrity, freedom of navigation, and respect for international law aligns with the group's longstanding position on maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific.

The latest developments also highlight the Quad's expanding role as a strategic platform for coordination among four major democracies amid increasing geopolitical competition in the region.

India's Expanding Indo-Pacific Role

For India, the Manila meeting reinforced its commitment to strengthening partnerships across the Indo-Pacific while continuing to advocate dialogue, adherence to international law and peaceful resolution of disputes.

New Delhi has consistently maintained that peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific are essential for regional prosperity and global trade, particularly as vital international shipping routes pass through the South China Sea.

With maritime security becoming an increasingly prominent issue, the Quad is expected to deepen cooperation in areas including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, cyber security, critical technologies, supply chain resilience and maritime domain awareness.

Regional tensions intensified on Wednesday after Iran launched missiles toward Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait in the aftermath of recent US military strikes. Jordan's armed forces said their air defence systems successfully intercepted several incoming missiles, preventing casualties and damage, as the United States reiterated its willingness to pursue diplomacy while warning that it would continue to defend its interests and allies.

According to Jordan's state-run Petra News Agency, the country's air defence systems detected six missiles launched from Iranian territory. Military officials said four missiles were intercepted after entering Jordanian airspace, while the remaining two landed in remote, uninhabited areas without causing injuries or property damage.

Jordan's military confirmed that no casualties or material losses were reported and stated that security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.

Regional Security Concerns Rise

The missile launches came amid heightened tensions across the Middle East following recent US strikes targeting Iranian-linked facilities. Although authorities in Bahrain and Kuwait have not immediately reported any direct damage, regional security agencies remain on high alert amid fears of further escalation.

The latest developments have prompted concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict, with Gulf nations closely monitoring the evolving security situation.

Rubio: US Ready for Diplomacy

Speaking during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, Philippines, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remains prepared to engage in diplomatic talks with Tehran but questioned Iran's willingness to negotiate.

"Our biggest problem right now is that they're not serious about negotiating. If they are serious, we will be too. If not, we will do whatever is necessary to protect our interests and the interests of our allies," Rubio said.

His remarks underscored the Biden administration's position that diplomacy remains the preferred path, provided Iran demonstrates a genuine commitment to negotiations.

Diplomatic Window Remains Open

Despite the exchange of military actions, US officials continue to maintain that diplomatic engagement remains possible. However, Washington has also indicated that it will respond decisively to threats against American personnel, military assets, and allied nations in the region.

The latest missile incident highlights the fragile security environment in the Gulf, where any further escalation could have significant implications for regional stability, global energy markets, and international diplomacy.

International Community Watching Closely

The growing confrontation between the United States and Iran has drawn international attention, with several countries urging restraint and calling for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent a wider conflict.

Security analysts note that continued military exchanges risk increasing instability across the Middle East, making diplomatic engagement increasingly critical in the coming days.

US President Donald Trump has strongly denied allegations that an American missile was responsible for the February attack on a girls’ school in Iran that killed more than 175 students and teachers.

Speaking on the issue, Trump said there is no evidence linking US forces to the strike on the Minab Girls School. “Someone said it was our missile, but it may not have been our missile. I have not seen any evidence that we carried out the attack,” he remarked. He added that missiles were being fired from multiple directions at the time, making it difficult to pinpoint the source.

The comments mark a shift from Trump’s position just 10 days ago, when he had described the incident as a “mistake” and said the school was not deliberately targeted. Reports in March had suggested a preliminary military investigation pointed to possible US involvement, though the Pentagon has maintained that its probe is still ongoing and has not confirmed any findings.

Iranian authorities had earlier reported that the strike on February 28 devastated the school in southern Iran, killing students and teachers. The UN Human Rights Office described the attack as “horrific” and called for a full, independent investigation.

The denial comes even as diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran continue following the recent conflict. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been actively engaging Gulf countries during his ongoing visit to Bahrain, UAE, and Kuwait to build support for the US-Iran agreement and address concerns over regional security, including navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Rubio has reiterated Washington’s firm stance against any transit fees in the Strait and pushed for IAEA access to Iranian nuclear sites. Technical-level talks between the two sides are expected to resume soon, possibly by June 29-30.

Meanwhile, crude oil prices have eased further, with US benchmark WTI dropping below $70 per barrel amid hopes of stabilising energy supplies after the conflict.

Trump’s latest remarks are being seen as an attempt to distance the administration from the controversial incident while negotiations with Tehran remain delicate. Iranian officials have not yet issued a direct response to his denial.

The tragedy at Minab had drawn global attention earlier, with footage of the damaged school building circulating widely. Questions about accountability continue to linger as investigations by various parties remain inconclusive.

Further details on the military probe and any new diplomatic developments are still awaited. The incident continues to cast a shadow over the broader US-Iran engagement, even as both sides appear focused on preventing fresh escalation.

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.

US plan aims to halt Hezbollah attacks in exchange for no further Israeli escalation; Iran says talks with Washington are ongoing but outcome uncertain

The United States has submitted a diplomatic proposal aiming to curb the widening hostilities in Lebanon, a senior US official told Al Jazeera on Sunday, even as Tehran said its communications with Washington continue and the final outcome remains uncertain.

Under the US “roadmap”, outlined to Lebanese and Israeli leaders over the past 48 hours, Hezbollah would suspend attacks on Israeli territory in return for Israel refraining from further military escalation in Beirut and other Lebanese population centres, the official said. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate calls with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to press the idea, the official added.

Lebanese politics complicate push

President Aoun sought to advance the US proposal, according to the official, but Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri — a key Shia political figure closely aligned with Hezbollah — described his response as “evasive and disappointing”. Berri, speaking to Lebanon’s National News Agency, said he could guarantee Hezbollah’s commitment to a ceasefire, but questioned who would force Israel to stop its strikes and incursions.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that the death toll from Israel’s military campaign since March 2 has reached 3,412, with 10,269 wounded as of May 31. The ministry’s figures cover casualties recorded between March 2 and May 31 and underscore the heavy civilian impact of the expanding campaign, particularly in southern Lebanon and areas around Tyre and Nabatieh.

Regional and international reactions

The proposed US initiative comes amid growing international concern over Israeli offensives in Lebanon. France, Britain and Germany have publicly called for an end to escalation. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper urged Israel to stop operations that, she said, have “eroded space for diplomacy.” France requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting.

Qatar, Egypt and the UAE joined the chorus, condemning the expansion of hostilities and warning that further military action risks wider regional destabilisation. The proposal is intended, the US official said, to “create a conducive environment” for step‑by‑step de‑escalation and a comprehensive cessation of hostilities.

Ground developments and recent strikes

The ceasefire push arrives as Israeli forces have renewed a series of strikes and ground movements in southern Lebanon. Lebanon’s official National News Agency and the health ministry reported multiple air strikes at dawn on Sunday in towns including Deir Zahrani, Dbeibine and Burj Qalawiya, with some incidents causing civilian casualties.

Hezbollah has continued to retaliate with drones, rocket salvoes and targeted strikes against Israeli positions; Israeli military statements claim more than 900 Hezbollah fighters have been killed since the start of the conflict in early March. Both sides reported missile launches and interceptions overnight, and sirens sounded in northern Israel after reports of incoming projectiles.

Iran‑US communications continue

In Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state media that dialogue and message exchanges between Iran and the United States are ongoing but cautioned it is too soon to judge any final outcome. “Everything that is being said now is speculation,” he said, according to IRNA, asking that reports be treated cautiously until talks reach a clear conclusion.

The Iranian government meanwhile has been active on multiple fronts: restoring limited gas production at South Pars platforms after March damage, and asserting a legal rationale for collecting environmental fees from ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, officials said.

What comes next

Diplomats say the US plan faces steep political obstacles inside Lebanon, where key figures linked to Hezbollah demand reciprocal Israeli restraint as an initial step. Washington will reportedly continue shuttle diplomacy, and international pressure is likely to intensify at the UN and through regional interlocutors.

On the ground, the immediate prospects for a halt in violence appear fragile. Military movements, air strikes and cross‑border incidents persisted on Monday morning, with civilian casualties mounting. Observers in Beirut said any agreement will require robust verification mechanisms and guarantees acceptable to both Lebanese political factions and Israeli security planners.

For now, officials in Washington, Beirut and Tehran emphasise talks rather than imminent resolution. “Negotiations are ongoing,” Araghchi said — a caveat that may mean diplomatic gains are possible but far from certain.

US Vice-President JD Vance has indicated that Washington and Tehran are nearing an agreement to ease the ongoing conflict but cautioned that significant differences remain unresolved. Speaking to the BBC, Vance described the negotiations as “very close” while stressing it was “too early to say when or if” a final deal would materialise.

The remarks come amid heightened diplomatic activity as both sides work to extend a fragile ceasefire and address Iran’s nuclear programme.

Key Sticking Points Remain

Disagreements persist over language related to uranium enrichment and the future of Iran’s nuclear activities. The US has long insisted that Iran halt production of highly enriched uranium and dispose of existing stockpiles to prevent any path toward nuclear weapons. Vance noted that negotiators are still ironing out several textual issues.

A proposed framework reportedly includes a 60-day extension of the current ceasefire and the launch of formal talks on Iran’s nuclear future. However, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency has stated that no agreement has been finalised or confirmed by Tehran’s leadership.

US Rejects Iranian Claims on Aircraft

Tensions spiked after Iranian state television claimed that its forces downed a US aircraft in Bushehr province’s Jam governorate. US Central Command (CENTCOM) firmly denied the assertion, calling it unfounded. 

The incident highlights the fragile nature of the truce even as diplomatic efforts continue. Local authorities in Iran, including Governor Masoud Tangestani, had earlier publicised the claim.

White House Optimism Grows

Despite the hurdles, senior US officials have struck a cautiously optimistic note. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller described Iranian concessions as “significant, material, and dramatic,” particularly regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. 

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signalled that while progress has been made, the US will not rush to ease sanctions or release frozen assets. President Donald Trump maintains firm “red lines,” especially on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Regional Diplomacy in Play

Pakistan continues to play a mediation role. Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington today. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has thanked both Pakistan and Malaysia for their efforts, reaffirming Tehran’s commitment to diplomacy and stronger ties with Muslim and neighbouring nations.

Meanwhile, senior Iranian official Ali Bagheri Kani held discussions in Moscow with counterparts from Egypt and Brazil on the West Asia situation.

Impact on Global Markets

Oil prices edged lower on hopes of a breakthrough. Brent crude fell to around $93.36 per barrel, while WTI crude dropped to $88.27. However, Vance’s measured comments limited sharper declines, reflecting market caution over the deal’s final status.

Broader Conflict Context

The nearly four-month-long confrontation has seen multiple flashpoints. The US recently sanctioned Iran’s new Persian Gulf Strait Authority and networks allegedly funding the IRGC. Iran’s Supreme Leader has accused the US and Israel of attempting to destabilise the country internally after failing militarily.

In a related development, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy criticised the Trump administration’s approach, warning that threats to Oman over potential support for Iranian toll collection in the Strait of Hormuz signal a conflict spiralling out of control.

What Lies Ahead

Negotiators from both sides continue behind-the-scenes work. While 95 percent of issues may have been addressed according to some reports, the remaining gaps—particularly on enrichment terms—will prove decisive. 

Any final agreement would require approval from President Trump and Iran’s top leadership. Until then, officials on both sides are maintaining that “there is no deal until there is a deal.”

The outcome could significantly influence regional stability, global energy flows, and the broader West Asia security architecture. For now, cautious optimism prevails in Washington even as ground realities remain complex.