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.

The Quad foreign ministers’ meeting concluded in the national capital on Tuesday with a strong emphasis on deepening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region amid growing maritime and economic challenges. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, along with his counterparts from the US, Japan, and Australia, reviewed progress on multiple fronts including supply chain resilience and regional stability.

Key Outcomes from the Meeting

The ministers announced several concrete initiatives that signal the grouping’s shift towards action-oriented collaboration. A major highlight was the launch of the Quad Critical Minerals Framework, aimed at boosting investment in mining, processing, recycling, and building resilient supply chains for critical minerals and rare earth elements.

In a significant bilateral development, India and the United States signed a framework agreement to secure supplies of critical minerals. Officials described the pact as a step towards strengthening strategic and economic ties between the two countries.

Focus on Energy and Maritime Security

Energy security emerged as another key area of convergence. The Quad nations agreed to establish a Fuel Security Forum and expand regional energy cooperation to reduce vulnerabilities in the Indo-Pacific. 

On the maritime front, the grouping decided to enhance surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean and broader Indo-Pacific through greater sharing of satellite data. This initiative is expected to help combat illegal fishing, smuggling, and support humanitarian and disaster relief operations. 

The ministers also announced the “Ports of the Future” project in Fiji, which aims to strengthen port infrastructure and improve connectivity across island nations in the region.

Jaishankar Highlights Regional Challenges

According to officials, Jaishankar raised concerns over growing challenges in the Indo-Pacific, including maritime security and disruptions in global supply chains. He also stressed the need for zero tolerance against terrorism. Rising tensions in West Asia and the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for navigation figured prominently in the discussions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who concluded his India visit after the meeting, emphasised that the Quad is evolving from a dialogue platform into an action-driven partnership. “We are beginning to do that very aggressively and very impressively,” he said, noting the group’s relevance amid ongoing global crises.

Rubio specifically called for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open without restrictions, reflecting broader concerns over energy routes.

Japan and Australia Back Stronger Cooperation

Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi described the meeting as sending a “firm message” on maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. Australia’s Penny Wong highlighted energy security concerns and reiterated support for the freedom of choice of Indo-Pacific nations.

The meeting comes at a time when the Quad is navigating some underlying strains. The expected 2025 leaders’ summit in India was delayed amid reported differences between Washington and New Delhi, including trade tariffs and other bilateral issues. However, sources said the foreign ministers’ engagement helped reinforce commitment to the forum.

Significance for Regional Stability

Analysts view these outcomes as an attempt to build tangible cooperation in critical areas like technology, minerals, and maritime domain awareness. The initiatives are expected to benefit smaller nations in the Indo-Pacific by improving resilience against economic coercion and security threats.

Local diplomatic circles in Delhi described the meeting as productive, coming shortly after bilateral engagements. Rubio, accompanied by his wife Janet D. Rubio, also visited key sites in the city before departing for Armenia.

As global attention remains fixed on West Asia and other hotspots, the Quad’s focus on practical deliverables — from critical minerals to port development — reflects an effort to translate shared strategic interests into measurable progress.

The next major Quad engagement is expected later this year, with Australia slated to host the leaders’ summit towards the end of 2026.

Rubio says deal possible within days as explosions rock strategic port city near Hormuz

Even as American warplanes struck targets in southern Iran, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that a deal with Tehran remains possible, suggesting that diplomacy and military action may be running on parallel tracks.

"There were some talks going on in Qatar today, so we'll see if we can make progress," Rubio told reporters in Jaipur, where he is on an official visit to India. He acknowledged that negotiators are haggling over "specific language in the initial document," adding that a breakthrough could take "a few days."

The comments came just hours after the US military confirmed fresh "self-defence" strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly attempting to lay mines near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Explosions Rock Bandar Abbas

Multiple blast reports emerged from the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas, a critical naval hub along the strait. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps acknowledged three explosions early Tuesday local time, without immediately specifying the cause.

A later IRGC statement said air defence systems had been activated near Bandar Abbas airport after another blast was heard. State-run IRNA reported "several consecutive explosions" around midnight, while Fars News Agency, citing eyewitnesses, said blasts were also heard near Sirik and Jask along the Persian Gulf coastline.

US Central Command spokesman Timothy Hawkins described the operation as defensive. "US forces conducted self-defence strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces," he said.

Trump Raises Stakes on Nuclear Issue

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump injected fresh complexity into the diplomatic calculus, posting on Truth Social that Iran's enriched uranium stockpile must be handed over to the United States for destruction or dismantled under international supervision.

Trump described the material as "nuclear dust" and indicated the process would involve the Atomic Energy Commission "or its equivalent." The demand signals Washington is pushing for concrete nuclear rollbacks, not just ceasefire arrangements.

Tehran Strikes Cautious Note

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqai acknowledged progress in talks with the US on Monday but warned against premature optimism. "It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion," Baqai said. "But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent, no one can make such a claim."

Tehran has not formally responded to the latest American strikes, leaving observers uncertain whether the attacks will derail Qatari-mediated negotiations.

Oil Prices Jump on Renewed Fears

Crude oil prices climbed in Asian trading following the Bandar Abbas strikes. Brent crude rose nearly 2% to around $97 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate approached $91 per barrel.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply passes, has been effectively disrupted since Tehran escalated its military posture in late February. Rubio struck a firm tone on the waterway's status. "The straits have to be open. They're going to be open one way or the other," he said.

The current conflict traces back to February 28, when the US and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran, triggering Tehran's retaliation against Israel and allied Gulf states. Despite the violence, Trump indicated over the weekend that he had instructed negotiators "not to rush into" an agreement, suggesting Washington is willing to let military and diplomatic tracks play out simultaneously.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the United States; talks covered defence, trade, energy and Indo‑Pacific cooperation

Marco Rubio met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Seva Teerth in New Delhi on Saturday and extended an invitation from US President Donald Trump for a state visit to the United States, officials said. The meeting — held in the morning at the prime minister’s residence complex — came days after Mr. Trump’s high-profile trip to China and was framed by some US outlets as an effort to shore up relations in Asia.

What happened
According to government sources and news agency reports, the bilateral session brought together senior officials from both sides, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and US Under Secretary Allison Hooker. Discussions covered defence cooperation, trade, energy, strategic technologies and coordination on Indo‑Pacific issues, officials familiar with the talks said.

Ground cues and timing
Rubio’s visit to India began in Kolkata earlier in the week, where he visited Mother Teresa House and met local stakeholders. He arrived in New Delhi on Saturday evening for the meeting with the prime minister and will remain in the country for several more days. His stopover precedes a Quad foreign ministers’ meeting in the capital, scheduled for Tuesday, which Rubio will attend alongside counterparts from Australia and Japan.

Officials’ input
“Productive discussions focused on deepening cooperation in security, trade and critical technologies,” US Ambassador Sergio Gor said in a statement after the meeting. He added that stronger collaboration would support “a free and open Indo‑Pacific,” and called India a vital partner for the United States. Indian officials described the exchange as constructive but declined to disclose details on timelines or specific agreements.

Context: Trump’s China trip
Rubio’s outreach follows Mr. Trump’s visit to Beijing last week, during which the US president publicly praised Chinese President Xi Jinping. Several US media outlets portrayed Rubio’s trip as partly a damage‑control measure meant to reassure regional allies unsettled by Washington’s warmer tone toward Beijing. “The visit appears aimed at reaffirming commitment to partners in Asia,” one US analyst told local reporters on condition of anonymity.

Indo‑Pacific and Iran
Sources said the two sides reviewed developments in West Asia, including the evolving Iran situation, and explored options for coordination. Indian and US officials plan to keep lines of communication open on regional security, according to people briefed on the meetings. The Quad session next week is expected to further discuss shared strategic priorities in the Indo‑Pacific and coordinate on ongoing projects.

Economic and tech strands
Trade and critical technologies were central to the talks, with both sides signalling interest in accelerating cooperation in semiconductors, clean energy and defence manufacturing. Discussions also touched on energy security and avenues to expand bilateral investment, particularly in green technology and supply‑chain resilience.

Public impact and local reaction
In New Delhi, reactions were muted and cautious. Diplomatic observers said an invitation for a state visit is significant symbolically but noted that follow‑up — scheduling, protocol and agendas — will determine the diplomatic payoff. Business groups tracking US‑India ties welcomed continued engagement, saying clearer roadmaps on trade and technology would help investors.

Next steps and outlook
Rubio is slated to deliver remarks at the US Embassy Support Annex Building dedication and attend a reception at Roosevelt House hosted by Ambassador Gor. On Sunday he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and participate in the US Embassy’s Independence Day events. He will then travel to Agra and Jaipur before returning to New Delhi for the Quad meeting.

For now, officials from both capitals emphasised sustained dialogue. Whether Rubio’s outreach translates into concrete timelines for a Modi visit to Washington or new bilateral pacts will depend on follow‑up negotiations and calendar coordination in coming weeks.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that a significant announcement regarding the ongoing US-Iran conflict could come within hours, sparking cautious optimism about a possible diplomatic resolution. Speaking in New Delhi, Rubio described recent developments as “good news on that front,” raising expectations of progress in talks that have drawn global attention.

Iranian officials, meanwhile, struck a more measured tone. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei acknowledged a “trend towards rapprochement” but clarified that it did not guarantee agreement on core issues. He said both sides were working on a framework memorandum of understanding with 14 clauses, hoping a final deal could be hammered out within 30 to 60 days after that.

Trump Claims Deal Largely Negotiated

US President Donald Trump added to the momentum, posting on Truth Social that an agreement had been “largely negotiated,” subject to finalisation. The proposed deal reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz for normal shipping, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade. Trump mentioned involvement of several regional countries, including Pakistan as a key mediator.

Sources familiar with the discussions say the understanding involves a 60-day ceasefire extension, gradual reopening of the Strait, and steps on Iran’s nuclear programme, including potential removal of highly enriched uranium stockpiles. In return, the US may ease some sanctions and restrictions on Iranian ports and oil sales.

India’s Cautious Stand Amid Rising Fuel Prices

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who appeared alongside Rubio, emphasised the need for market stability. He said India would continue diversifying its energy sources at reasonable prices, reflecting concerns over the West Asia crisis. Petrol and diesel prices in Delhi have climbed again to ₹99.51 and ₹92.49 per litre respectively, adding pressure on households and the economy.

International Reactions and Regional Concerns

The potential deal has elicited mixed responses. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed progress but insisted the Strait of Hormuz must reopen with unconditional freedom of navigation and that Iran must never develop nuclear weapons. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered Ankara’s support for implementation, while Pakistan described the latest diplomatic efforts as a major step towards regional peace.

However, divisions have surfaced within the US Republican Party. Senator Ted Cruz expressed deep concerns, while former CIA Director Mike Pompeo criticised the emerging framework. Trump’s communications team pushed back strongly against internal critics.

Israel has also voiced reservations. Former Defence Minister Benny Gantz warned against linking any Lebanon ceasefire to the Iran deal, saying it could embolden Hezbollah. Israeli strikes continued in southern Lebanon on Sunday, with reports of casualties in Tyre and Nabatieh areas.

Ground Realities in Iran and Beyond

Inside Iran, challenges persist. The country’s internet blackout entered its 86th day, severely limiting external communication. The digital hardware market continues to suffer from shortages and volatile prices due to disrupted imports. Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, have stressed that any final decision requires approval from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

Tehran has rejected claims of fully ceding control over the Strait of Hormuz, insisting it would only allow pre-war levels of shipping while retaining management authority. Revolutionary Guards commanders warned of a strong response to any new attacks.

What Lies Ahead

With mediators working overtime, the coming hours could prove decisive. While a major announcement appears imminent, bridging remaining differences on one or two clauses in the framework agreement remains crucial. For India and the world, any breakthrough that stabilises energy routes and eases tensions in West Asia would bring much-needed relief.

The situation continues to evolve rapidly. Diplomatic circles in New Delhi and other capitals are watching closely as the day unfolds.

Marco Rubio arrives in India for four-day diplomatic tour; meets Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio begins visit in Kolkata, to meet PM Modi and attend Quad foreign ministers’ meeting in Delhi

Marco Rubio landed in Kolkata on Saturday morning, launching a four-day official visit to India that will include meetings with top Indian leaders and regional engagements tied to the Quad, officials and local sources said.

Initial stop in Kolkata
Rubio — accompanied by his wife Jeanette D. Rubio and U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor — visited the Mother Teresa House of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata shortly after arrival, according to on-the-ground reports and photographs released by the Missionaries. The short visit included a tour of the facility and interactions with residents, agency staff and volunteers, sources familiar with the itinerary said.

Delhi meetings scheduled
After an overnight stay in Kolkata, Rubio is travelling to New Delhi where he is scheduled to hold a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later today. The White House and India’s external affairs ministry confirmed the meeting in separate briefings, describing it as part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral ties on trade, technology and regional security.

Talks with Jaishankar and embassy events
On Sunday, Rubio will meet External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi for talks that officials said will focus on the Indo-Pacific, supply-chain resilience and defence cooperation. The U.S. diplomat is also slated to attend the U.S. Embassy’s Independence Day celebrations in Delhi, a customary engagement during visits by senior American officials that also serves as a platform for public diplomacy.

Quad agenda in focus
A major element of Rubio’s trip is his attendance at the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Tuesday, hosted by India in New Delhi. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will join the meeting at the invitation of EAM Jaishankar, the ministry said. The gathering will, according to the External Affairs Ministry, review progress on ongoing Quad projects and discuss regional and global issues of shared interest consistent with the Quad’s vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Agra and Jaipur on itinerary
Between the Delhi engagements, Rubio is scheduled to visit Agra and Jaipur on Monday, sources said. Those stops reflect a common diplomatic practice of including cultural and regional site visits alongside high-level talks; they also present opportunities for bilateral outreach in states outside the national capital.

What officials say
India’s External Affairs Ministry issued a brief statement noting the Quad meeting will “review progress on ongoing projects and discuss regional and global issues,” while a U.S. State Department spokesperson framed Rubio’s trip as a “chance to advance cooperation on economic and security issues, and to strengthen people-to-people ties.” Neither side provided a full public list of discussion items, citing the usual practice of bilateral consultations on sensitive issues.

Local reaction and ground cues
At the Missionaries of Charity facility in north Kolkata, staff described the Rubio visit as low-key and focused on welfare concerns rather than political messaging. A volunteer at the house said the family spent time with residents in the late morning and observed daily routines, declining to be named. Early-morning arrivals and a modest motorcade contrasted with higher-security visits seen during other high-profile foreign delegations.

Why the trip matters
Rubio’s visit comes as Washington and New Delhi seek to broaden cooperation beyond defence—into semiconductors, clean energy and supply-chain links—while coordinating on regional diplomacy. The Quad meeting will be watched for concrete project updates and possible statements on maritime security and climate resilience, areas where the four partners have sought practical cooperation.

Next steps and outlook
After the Quad meeting, Rubio’s delegation is expected to hold follow-up sessions with Indian officials and U.S. Embassy staff before concluding the visit late Tuesday. Officials on both sides signalled that outcomes would likely be framed as incremental steps in an expanding strategic partnership rather than sweeping policy shifts.

Iran Plans Charges for Ships in Strait of Hormuz as Conflict Fallout Mounts

Iran has signalled plans to impose charges on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions even as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict with the United States continue. The move comes amid reports of significant humanitarian efforts inside Iran, where the Iranian Red Crescent says it has rescued over 7,200 people from rubble caused by air strikes.

US officials have strongly opposed any such toll system, describing the strait as an international waterway where fees would not be tolerated.

According to sources, the Iranian position reflects efforts to assert control over one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, through which a substantial portion of global oil trade passes. Traffic has already been significantly reduced due to ongoing threats, with the UK Maritime Trade Operations maintaining a “critical” threat level in the area.

Diplomatic Pushback from Washington

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday that implementing a toll system would make any agreement with Iran far more difficult. President Donald Trump has echoed this stance, insisting the strait must remain open without restrictions.

The comments come as Trump expressed disappointment with certain NATO allies. Rubio specifically criticised Spain for not allowing the US to use its military bases during the conflict. “If a country does not allow the US to use its base, then why is it in NATO?” he remarked, indicating the issue is being taken seriously at the highest levels.

Humanitarian Toll Inside Iran

On the ground in Iran, the human cost of the air strikes remains visible. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported rescuing more than 7,200 individuals trapped under debris. Rescue teams have been working around the clock, pulling survivors from destroyed buildings in various parts of the country.

Videos shared by the organisation show volunteers navigating rubble in residential areas, offering a glimpse of the destruction left behind even after the main phase of strikes eased.

Pro-government rallies have continued across Iran, including large gatherings in Tehran’s Azadi Square, with demonstrators expressing support for the leadership and armed forces.

Oil Market Jitters and Global Ripple Effects

Oil prices climbed further on Friday, with Brent crude crossing $105 per barrel at one point, driven by fears over supply disruptions. While some optimism exists around potential resumption of around 1,600 oil vessels in the strait, doubts persist about any quick breakthrough in talks.

The situation has also affected India. Thousands of Indian migrant workers in Gulf countries are returning home as regional instability hits labour markets. Exports of items like garments, footwear and leather goods have weakened, adding pressure on jobs and remittances, a Reuters report noted.

Mediation Efforts Continue

Pakistan has stepped up diplomatic involvement. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Iran to discuss proposals aimed at resolving differences between the US and Iran.

Differences between Washington and Israel have also surfaced. While the US appears keen on de-escalation and a possible ceasefire, Israeli officials are said to favour sustained pressure.

Broader Regional Picture

US military forces in West Asia remain at peak readiness, with the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group active in the Arabian Sea. CENTCOM highlighted ongoing operations, including enforcement related to Iranian ports.

In southern Lebanon, the Israeli army reported eliminating two individuals in an air strike after spotting suspicious movement near the border. Separate incidents, including artillery strikes in western Syria, point to lingering volatility beyond the main US-Iran theatre.

France has urged caution on releasing more strategic oil reserves, citing uncertainty over the conflict’s duration. French Finance Minister Roland Lescure emphasised the need for clearer visibility before tapping limited national stocks.

As talks proceed, with some narrowing of gaps reported by Iranian sources, the coming days will be critical. Any resolution on the Strait of Hormuz and uranium stockpiles could determine whether the region moves towards calm or faces renewed disruption.

The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with markets, migrant communities and global energy flows watching closely for signs of progress.

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

LNG Tanker Crosses Critical Waterway

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

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

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

Iran Says US Influence Fading

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

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

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

Rubio Calls Iranian Offer 'Better Than Expected'

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

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

Israeli Strikes Continue in Lebanon

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

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

Global Impact Widens

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

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

Digital Blackout Enters 60th Day

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

What Comes Next

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

Jaishankar Meets Marco Rubio in Washington Amid Key India-US Developments

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Tuesday, marking a significant diplomatic engagement just days after India and the United States announced a major trade deal. The meeting took place during Jaishankar’s three-day official visit to the US and ahead of the first-ever Critical Minerals Ministerial, scheduled for February 4.

The high-level talks focused on strengthening cooperation in nuclear energy, defence, and critical minerals, areas that are increasingly central to India-US strategic and economic ties.

Trade Deal Sets the Context for Strategic Talks

The meeting comes a day after both countries unveiled a new trade agreement under which Washington agreed to reduce tariffs on Indian goods to 18%. This development has provided fresh momentum to bilateral relations, especially at a time when global supply chains and geopolitical alliances are undergoing rapid shifts.

Posting on X after the meeting, Jaishankar said he was “delighted” to meet Rubio, signalling a positive tone and shared intent to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.

Focus on Critical Minerals and Global Supply Chains

A key agenda item during the visit is the Critical Minerals Ministerial, which the US is hosting for the first time in Washington DC. According to the US State Department, delegations from over 50 countries will participate, aiming to strengthen cooperation and diversify global critical mineral supply chains.

These minerals are essential for clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, semiconductors, and defence manufacturing. For India, collaboration in this area is vital to reduce dependence on limited suppliers and support its manufacturing and energy transition goals.

Secretary Rubio is expected to chair the ministerial, bringing together global partners to enhance coordination and long-term security of mineral supplies.

Wider Economic and Strategic Engagement

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar also met US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The two leaders discussed ways to advance the India-US economic partnership and enhance strategic cooperation. Jaishankar described the interaction as “useful,” highlighting the growing alignment between the two economies.

Experts note that these back-to-back meetings underline how economic policy, trade, and strategic interests are now deeply interconnected in India-US relations.

Why This Meeting Matters Now

With rising global competition over resources, technology, and supply chains, Jaishankar meets Marco Rubio at a crucial moment. The discussions reflect a shared recognition that closer coordination on defence, nuclear energy, and critical minerals is essential for long-term stability and growth.

What It Means for India

For India, the outcomes of this visit could mean:

Better access to advanced technologies

 Stronger defence and energy partnerships

 A more secure position in global supply chains

As India and the US continue to align their strategic priorities, these talks signal a deepening partnership that goes beyond trade and into long-term geopolitical cooperation.

Jaishankar’s meeting with Marco Rubio highlights a new phase in India-US relations, driven by trade reforms, strategic trust, and shared global challenges. With critical minerals and defence cooperation taking centre stage, the partnership appears set to grow stronger in the months ahead.