In its latest warning to the US, Iranian Revolutionary Guards official has said that the armed forces are ready “with full magazines.” In a statement quoted by Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency Mohammad Akbarzadeh, deputy political chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy also added that the possibility of war is low. This comes after US attacked Iran's missile sites, mine-laying boats near Strait of Hormuz. In its warning, the Iranian official also said that the area from Chabahar to Mahshahr will be turned into “graveyard for aggressors” referring to locations along Iran’s southern coast where the US launched its strike stating that if was a “self defense” attack.&nbsp;“The possibility of war is low because of the enemy’s weakness. Do not doubt that we will turn the area from Chabahar to Mahshahr into a graveyard for aggressors," Mohammad Akbarzadeh said. Earlier on May 26, Rubio said that the blockage of Strait of Hormuz was “illegal and unlawful" and it will be opened one way or the another. Iranian Foreign Ministry warned the US of retaliation accusing Washington of violating the fragile ceasefire during the last 48 hours in the southern coastal province of Hormozgan. The statement added that Tehran “will not leave any evil unanswered and will not hesitate to defend the Iranian nation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-in-india-breaks-silence-after-us-strikes-iran-s-missile-sites-mine-laying-boats-near-hormuz-trump-iran-deal-iran-us-war-1779763723571?ksksk">Rubio breaks silence after US strikes Iran's missile sites, mine-laying boats near Hormuz</a><h2>US strikes Iran again</h2>The CENTCOM on May 25 said that US launched ‘self-defense strikes' on Iran. CENTCOM spokesman Timothy Hawkins told CNN that Iranian missile launch sites and boats near the Strait of Hormuz were targeted. The strikes came in middle of the ceasefire and a possible deal between the two countries. Previously on Feb 28, Israel and the US had launched started a war after launching massive strike on Iran. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the strike on that day. Iran had retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Gulf nations that housed US bases and on Israel. Subsequently, Iran and the US blocked the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/will-iran-war-finally-end-what-we-know-and-don-t-know-about-fragile-us-iran-deal-still-facing-key-disputes-1779788417971">Will Iran war finally end? What we know and don’t know about fragile US-Iran ceasefire</a> Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

An IRGC Navy official said the possibility of war with the US is low, citing American weakness, but warned Iran is fully prepared for any attack. He said Iranian forces are ready to respond strongly, adding coastal areas would become a “graveyard for aggressors” if attacked.

In its latest warning to the US, Iranian Revolutionary Guards official has said that the armed forces are ready “with full magazines.” In a statement quoted by Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency Mohammad Akbarzadeh, deputy political chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy also added that the possibility of war is low. This comes after US attacked Iran's missile sites, mine-laying boats near Strait of Hormuz. In its warning, the Iranian official also said that the area from Chabahar to Mahshahr will be turned into “graveyard for aggressors” referring to locations along Iran’s southern coast where the US launched its strike stating that if was a “self defense” attack. “The possibility of war is low because of the enemy’s weakness. Do not doubt that we will turn the area from Chabahar to Mahshahr into a graveyard for aggressors," Mohammad Akbarzadeh said. Earlier on May 26, Rubio said that the blockage of Strait of Hormuz was “illegal and unlawful" and it will be opened one way or the another. Iranian Foreign Ministry warned the US of retaliation accusing Washington of violating the fragile ceasefire during the last 48 hours in the southern coastal province of Hormozgan. The statement added that Tehran “will not leave any evil unanswered and will not hesitate to defend the Iranian nation.” Also Read: Rubio breaks silence after US strikes Iran's missile sites, mine-laying boats near Hormuz US strikes Iran again The CENTCOM on May 25 said that US launched ‘self-defense strikes' on Iran. CENTCOM spokesman Timothy Hawkins told CNN that Iranian missile launch sites and boats near the Strait of Hormuz were targeted. The strikes came in middle of the ceasefire and a possible deal between the two countries. Previously on Feb 28, Israel and the US had launched started a war after launching massive strike on Iran. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the strike on that day. Iran had retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Gulf nations that housed US bases and on Israel. Subsequently, Iran and the US blocked the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: Will Iran war finally end? What we know and don’t know about fragile US-Iran ceasefire Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An IRGC Navy official said the possibility of war with the US is low, citing American weakness, but warned Iran is fully prepared for any attack. He said Iranian forces are ready to respond strongly, adding coastal areas would become a “graveyard for aggressors” if attacked.

'Graveyard for aggressors': Iran's BIG warning to US after attack on missile sites, mine-laying boats

Iran on Sunday (May 24) rejected remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accusing Tehran of holding the global energy market “hostage”, saying Washington was attempting to “distort the realities of the region” while deflecting attention from its own policies and those of Israel. In a statement issued by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India, Tehran said the allegations against Iran were aimed at shifting focus from what it described as the “destabilising policies of the United States and the Zionist regime”.&nbsp;“The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India rejects the recent remarks made by the United States Secretary of State regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran and emphasises that such allegations constitute a clear attempt to distort the realities of the region and to deflect attention from the destabilising policies of the United States and the Zionist regime,” the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Press Statement by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India in Response to the Remarks of the U.S. Secretary of State The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India rejects the recent remarks made by the United States Secretary of State regarding the Islamic…&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran_in_India/status/2058424259203199309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marco-rubio-hints-at-good-news-for-the-world-in-few-hours-regarding-iran-at-press-meet-in-india-1779614941911">Marco Rubio hints at 'good news for the world in few hours' regarding Iran at press meet in India</a>&nbsp;The Iranian embassy also defended the country’s role in global energy trade and blamed US sanctions for disruptions in oil markets. “As one of the world’s major exporters of oil and energy, the Islamic Republic of Iran has always been prepared to make its energy resources available to all countries, including the Republic of India,” the statement said.&nbsp;It added that “what has held the global energy market hostage over recent years has been the unlawful and unjust sanctions imposed by the United States on Iran’s oil exports”, describing the restrictions as measures designed to exert economic pressure on the Iranian people in violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. The response came after Rubio, during his visit to New Delhi, said the United States would not allow Iran to “hold the global energy market hostage”. His office also said US energy exports could help diversify India’s energy supplies as Washington seeks deeper energy cooperation with New Delhi.&nbsp;Rubio met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to discuss trade expansion under the “Mission 500” framework, energy security and Indo-Pacific cooperation through the Quad grouping. According to Rubio’s office, cited by Reuters, Washington sees energy exports as a strategic tool to strengthen partnerships, particularly with India, one of the world’s largest crude importers.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-wion-rubio-dismisses-racist-remarks-on-indians-as-stupid-comments-video-1779613601094">In response to WION, Rubio dismisses racist remarks on Indians as 'stupid' comments - VIDEO</a>&nbsp;Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event at the US embassy, Rubio also said some progress had been made in negotiations involving Iran and suggested developments could emerge soon. “There’s been some progress done, some progress made, even as I speak to you. There’s some work being done. There is a chance that, whether it’s later today, tomorrow, or in a couple of days, we may have something to say,” he said. Rubio further stated that Iran must keep the Strait of Hormuz open for shipping and avoid imposing tolls on vessels passing through the key maritime route.&nbsp;

Iran rejected US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s claims of holding energy markets hostage, blaming unlawful US sanctions for oil disruptions while emphasising Tehran’s readiness to supply energy to India.

Iran on Sunday (May 24) rejected remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accusing Tehran of holding the global energy market “hostage”, saying Washington was attempting to “distort the realities of the region” while deflecting attention from its own policies and those of Israel. In a statement issued by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India, Tehran said the allegations against Iran were aimed at shifting focus from what it described as the “destabilising policies of the United States and the Zionist regime”. “The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India rejects the recent remarks made by the United States Secretary of State regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran and emphasises that such allegations constitute a clear attempt to distort the realities of the region and to deflect attention from the destabilising policies of the United States and the Zionist regime,” the statement said.

Iran rejected US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s claims of holding energy markets hostage, blaming unlawful US sanctions for oil disruptions while emphasising Tehran’s readiness to supply energy to India.

‘US sanctions hold energy markets hostage’: Iran hits back at Rubio over oil remarks

As US President Donald Trump hinted that the US and Iran deal may be announced soon, it was reported that Iran has agreed to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In a report, the New York Times cited two unnamed US officials and said that Iran has committed in a general statement to giving up the uranium but exact details on how it will relinquish it has not been finalized. The NYT also quoted three senior Iranian officials and said that Tehran has agreed to “a memorandum of understanding that would stop the fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.” Axios reported that there would be 60-day ceasefire extension during which the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, Iran would be able to freely sell oil, and negotiations would be held on curbing Iran's nuclear program, according to a US official.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/multiple-gunshots-fired-near-white-house-secret-service-fbi-respond-where-is-us-president-donald-trump-1779581551548">Multiple gunshots fired near White House; Secret Service, FBI respond: Where is Donald Trump?</a><h2>What more is included in the deal?</h2>The report about uranium comes days after it was reported that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued a directive that the near-weapons-grade uranium should not be sent abroad. Iran has a stockpile of more than 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium in its possession. Additionally, in the deal that is to be finalised between the two sides, the US would release $25 billion in Iranian assets frozen overseas. The Times quoted officials saying that the agreement “would halt fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” They add that its terms focus “on opening the strait— including lifting the US naval blockade against Iran and allowing free commercial traffic without Iran charging any tolls.” The officials also added that Iran’s nuclear program will be negotiated within 30 to 60 days. However, Iran’s Fars news agency slammed Trump for claiming that the deal is done and the Strait of Hormuz will reopen&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-us-agreement-largely-negotiated-pakistan-pm-hopes-to-host-next-round-of-talks-iran-us-war-strait-of-hormuz-1779585420095">Pakistan PM hopes to host next round of talks - Is the war finally ending?</a><h2>Trump says Iran-US agreement ‘largely negotiated’</h2>US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and revealed that an agreement has been “largely negotiated,” but “final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly." He added that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened as part of the deal. After Trump's post, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifexpressed hope that his country might be hosting the leaders of Iran and the US for next round of talks.

Iran has reportedly agreed to give up its highly enriched uranium under a proposed US-backed peace deal aimed at ending the war. Donald Trump said the agreement is “largely negotiated,” with talks also focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

As US President Donald Trump hinted that the US and Iran deal may be announced soon, it was reported that Iran has agreed to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In a report, the New York Times cited two unnamed US officials and said that Iran has committed in a general statement to giving up the uranium but exact details on how it will relinquish it has not been finalized. The NYT also quoted three senior Iranian officials and said that Tehran has agreed to “a memorandum of understanding that would stop the fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.” Axios reported that there would be 60-day ceasefire extension during which the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, Iran would be able to freely sell oil, and negotiations would be held on curbing Iran's nuclear program, according to a US official. Also Read: Multiple gunshots fired near White House; Secret Service, FBI respond: Where is Donald Trump? What more is included in the deal? The report about uranium comes days after it was reported that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued a directive that the near-weapons-grade uranium should not be sent abroad. Iran has a stockpile of more than 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium in its possession. Additionally, in the deal that is to be finalised between the two sides, the US would release $25 billion in Iranian assets frozen overseas. The Times quoted officials saying that the agreement “would halt fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” They add that its terms focus “on opening the strait— including lifting the US naval blockade against Iran and allowing free commercial traffic without Iran charging any tolls.” The officials also added that Iran’s nuclear program will be negotiated within 30 to 60 days. However, Iran’s Fars news agency slammed Trump for claiming that the deal is done and the Strait of Hormuz will reopen Also Read: Pakistan PM hopes to host next round of talks - Is the war finally ending? Trump says Iran-US agreement ‘largely negotiated’ US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and revealed that an agreement has been “largely negotiated,” but “final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly." He added that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened as part of the deal. After Trump's post, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifexpressed hope that his country might be hosting the leaders of Iran and the US for next round of talks.

Iran has reportedly agreed to give up its highly enriched uranium under a proposed US-backed peace deal aimed at ending the war. Donald Trump said the agreement is “largely negotiated,” with talks also focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Has Iran agreed to surrender enriched uranium and reopen Hormuz in new US deal?

US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. He said that the discussion was regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran and “all things related to a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to peace.” &nbsp;The US president also said he had a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump also revealed that an agreement has been “largely negotiated,” but “final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly,” he said. He added that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened as part of the deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rubio-extends-donald-trump-s-white-house-invitation-to-prime-minister-modi-1779534621217">Rubio extends Donald Trump’s White House invitation to Prime Minister Modi</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260524/image-1779586752349.png"></figure>&nbsp;After Trump's post, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also took to X and in a post he congratulated Trump on his “extraordinary efforts to pursue peace.” He said that a very “useful and productive telephone call” was held with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, the UAE, Jordan and Pakistan. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir represented Pakistan in the telephone call. He said that he was hoping to soon host the next round of peace talks between Iran and the United States. “Pakistan will continue its peace efforts with utmost sincerity and we hope to host the next round of talks very soon.”&nbsp;Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar also said that Trump-led call with leaders of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Qatar, Egypt, the UAE and Jordan is a “significant step” towards the “shared objective of regional peace, stability, and an early diplomatic outcome”. In a post on X, Dar also praised both the Trump administration and Iran’s leadership, along with efforts by the UN and other regional actors involved in mediation. He added, “The achievements of these negotiations offer grounds for optimism that a positive and durable outcome is within reach.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/multiple-gunshots-fired-near-white-house-secret-service-fbi-respond-where-is-us-president-donald-trump-1779581551548">Multiple gunshots fired near White House; Secret Service, FBI respond: Where is Donald Trump?</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260524/image-1779586782192.png"></figure><h2>What Iran said?</h2>After Trump's post, Fars News Agency reported that Trump's claim diverges from reality. Although Iran has agreed to allow the number of passing ships to return to pre-war levels, this in no way means a return to free passage as it was before the war. Accordingly, the management of the Strait, the determination of routes, timing, manner of passage, and issuance of permits, will continue to be exclusively under the authority and prudent oversight of the Islamic Republic of Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump claimed a major Iran peace deal was close after talks with Gulf leaders, Pakistan Army chief and Benjamin Netanyahu. Iran, however, rejected claims of fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz, saying control would remain under Tehran’s authority.

US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. He said that the discussion was regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran and “all things related to a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to peace.” The US president also said he had a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump also revealed that an agreement has been “largely negotiated,” but “final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly,” he said. He added that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened as part of the deal. Also Read: Rubio extends Donald Trump’s White House invitation to Prime Minister Modi After Trump's post, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also took to X and in a post he congratulated Trump on his “extraordinary efforts to pursue peace.” He said that a very “useful and productive telephone call” was held with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, the UAE, Jordan and Pakistan. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir represented Pakistan in the telephone call. He said that he was hoping to soon host the next round of peace talks between Iran and the United States. “Pakistan will continue its peace efforts with utmost sincerity and we hope to host the next round of talks very soon.” Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar also said that Trump-led call with leaders of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Qatar, Egypt, the UAE and Jordan is a “significant step” towards the “shared objective of regional peace, stability, and an early diplomatic outcome”. In a post on X, Dar also praised both the Trump administration and Iran’s leadership, along with efforts by the UN and other regional actors involved in mediation. He added, “The achievements of these negotiations offer grounds for optimism that a positive and durable outcome is within reach.” Also Read: Multiple gunshots fired near White House; Secret Service, FBI respond: Where is Donald Trump? What Iran said? After Trump's post, Fars News Agency reported that Trump's claim diverges from reality. Although Iran has agreed to allow the number of passing ships to return to pre-war levels, this in no way means a return to free passage as it was before the war. Accordingly, the management of the Strait, the determination of routes, timing, manner of passage, and issuance of permits, will continue to be exclusively under the authority and prudent oversight of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Donald Trump claimed a major Iran peace deal was close after talks with Gulf leaders, Pakistan Army chief and Benjamin Netanyahu. Iran, however, rejected claims of fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz, saying control would remain under Tehran’s authority.

Trump says Iran-US agreement 'largely negotiated', Pakistan PM hopes to host next round of talks - Is the war finally ending?

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that any resumption in the war now will have repercussions that extend beyond the region. This comes as a response to US President Donald Trump's threat that strikes could resume within days. In an official statement released on Wednesday, IRGC warned that despite recent attacks carried out by the “two of the most expensive armies in the world” Iran has yet to use its complete strategic capacity.&nbsp;"Although they attacked us with the full capabilities of two of the most expensive armies in the world, we did not deploy all the capacities of the Islamic Revolution against them," the IRGC said in a statement as reported by the Tasnim News Agency.IRGC said that if the US and Israel do not contemplate their strategic mistakes, then the regional war will spill into extra-regional conflict. The IRGC threatened to deliver crushing blows in a completely unexpected location. Iran still holds much of the strategic advantage; it is yet to unleash its next strategic weapon, the Bab-el-Mandeb (Gate of Tears), which could further cripple the global energy supply. Further, both the strategic chokepoints host some of the most important clusters of subsea cable networks vital to the functioning of the digital ecosystem.&nbsp;"We are men of war. You will witness our strength on the battlefield, not in hollow statements or virtual pages," added the IRGC.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-tests-two-seat-su-57d-stealth-fighter-for-drone-warfare-missions-1779273044922">Su-57 Felon goes dual-seat: Russia tests stealth jet designed for drone warfare</a><h2>Araghchi warns of 'more surprises' if war resumes</h2>Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Tehran has gained military knowledge from previous conflicts, and a return to war will have more surprises.&nbsp;"Months after the initiation of the war on Iran, the US Congress acknowledged the loss of dozens of aircraft worth billions. Our powerful Armed Forces are confirmed as 1st to strike down a touted F-35. With lessons learned and knowledge we gained, return to war will feature many more surprises," wrote Araghchi in X.These warnings came as US President Donald Trump left the door open for further attack, suggesting that he called off an attack as negotiations were going on. “I hope we don’t have to do the war, but we may have to give them another big hit,” said Trump, suggesting that a decision could come with “two or three days – maybe Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or early next week”.&nbsp;

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any renewed war with the US and Israel could expand beyond the Middle East, as Donald Trump threatened fresh strikes within days.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that any resumption in the war now will have repercussions that extend beyond the region. This comes as a response to US President Donald Trump's threat that strikes could resume within days. In an official statement released on Wednesday, IRGC warned that despite recent attacks carried out by the “two of the most expensive armies in the world” Iran has yet to use its complete strategic capacity. "Although they attacked us with the full capabilities of two of the most expensive armies in the world, we did not deploy all the capacities of the Islamic Revolution against them," the IRGC said in a statement as reported by the Tasnim News Agency. IRGC said that if the US and Israel do not contemplate their strategic mistakes, then the regional war will spill into extra-regional conflict. The IRGC threatened to deliver crushing blows in a completely unexpected location. Iran still holds much of the strategic advantage; it is yet to unleash its next strategic weapon, the Bab-el-Mandeb (Gate of Tears), which could further cripple the global energy supply. Further, both the strategic chokepoints host some of the most important clusters of subsea cable networks vital to the functioning of the digital ecosystem. "We are men of war. You will witness our strength on the battlefield, not in hollow statements or virtual pages," added the IRGC. Also Read: Su-57 Felon goes dual-seat: Russia tests stealth jet designed for drone warfare Araghchi warns of 'more surprises' if war resumes Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Tehran has gained military knowledge from previous conflicts, and a return to war will have more surprises. "Months after the initiation of the war on Iran, the US Congress acknowledged the loss of dozens of aircraft worth billions. Our powerful Armed Forces are confirmed as 1st to strike down a touted F-35. With lessons learned and knowledge we gained, return to war will feature many more surprises," wrote Araghchi in X. These warnings came as US President Donald Trump left the door open for further attack, suggesting that he called off an attack as negotiations were going on. “I hope we don’t have to do the war, but we may have to give them another big hit,” said Trump, suggesting that a decision could come with “two or three days – maybe Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or early next week”.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any renewed war with the US and Israel could expand beyond the Middle East, as Donald Trump threatened fresh strikes within days.

IRGC warns renewed war could spill beyond West Asia after Trump threats

Amid reports of resumption of the war, Iran has organised large-scale wedding ceremonies for hundreds of couples across major public squares in Tehran. However, the most interesting part was that the newlyweds were reportedly participants in Iran’s “self-sacrifice” campaign. This comes at the backdrop of Iranian State TV launching ‘Sacrifice Life for Iran’ campaign that features military instructors and presenters giving training of how to load, unload, and fire Kalashnikov (AK-47) rifles. According to Iranian media, more than 100 couples participated in a ceremony at Imam Hossein Square alone. The events were broadcast live on state television. Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and President Masoud Pezeshkian has also signed up for the initiative.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-state-tv-launches-sacrifice-life-campaign-host-shoots-at-uae-flag-dubai-burning-gives-ak-47-kalashnikov-training-demo-1779166110243"> Iran's state TV launches ‘Sacrifice Life’ campaign: Host shoots at UAE flag, gives AK-47 training demo | WATCH</a>&nbsp;AFP reported that couples and Imams arrived at Imam Hossein Square in military jeeps equipped with mounted machine guns before taking part in ceremonies overseen by clerics. The venue was decorated with balloons and featured a giant portrait of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since assuming leadership following the death of his father and predecessor Ali Khamenei during the first day of the war.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260520/image-1779272915918.png"></figure><h2>Iran's 'Sacrifice Life for Iran’ campaign</h2>Iran has justified the 'Sacrifice Life for Iran’ campaign saying it was confronting “major powers and global oppression” and described weapons familiarisation as part of “educational, cultural and moral” training. According to him, the programmes were intended to teach the concepts of “jihad, resistance and defence”. He said that the public should identify with a collective sense of readiness and responsibility.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260520/image-1779272931835.png"></figure>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-responds-to-a-new-us-proposal-to-end-war-will-there-be-a-breakthrough-1779093137279">'Via Pakistani mediator': Iran responds to new US proposal to end war - Will there be a breakthrough?</a><h2>AK-47 and Kalashnikov training</h2>In the news show on Iranian state TV, the host appeared to be using an early East German MPi-KMS assault rifle, a variant of the AK-47 platform chambered in 7.62×39mm. While some military experts explained the handling of the rifles, TV presenters themselves were seen holding and firing weapons as part of on-air educational segments. Reports also claimed that visuals from Tehran’s Tajrish Square show men and women participating in public weapons training exercises. Similar footage have also emerged from Tehran’s Tajrish Square taking part in open-air weapons training. Teenagers in Kerdia described the training as the 78th phase of the nationwide “presence in the field of power” campaign.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Iranian state TV host fires at a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> flag during a live firearms training segment on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IRGC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IRGC</a>-linked Ofogh channel. The presenter first demonstrated AK-47 use and then shot into the ceiling and directly at the UAE flag in-studio. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StateTV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StateTV</a> <a href="https://t.co/6694vkIbbB">pic.twitter.com/6694vkIbbB</a>&mdash; Ahlul Haqq News (@AhlulHaqqN) <a href="https://twitter.com/AhlulHaqqN/status/2055738702706729164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Iran held mass wedding ceremonies in Tehran amid war tensions with the US, while state TV expanded its “Sacrifice Life for Iran” campaign featuring AK-47 training for civilians. Authorities said millions joined mobilisation efforts as public weapons drills spread across the country.

Amid reports of resumption of the war, Iran has organised large-scale wedding ceremonies for hundreds of couples across major public squares in Tehran. However, the most interesting part was that the newlyweds were reportedly participants in Iran’s “self-sacrifice” campaign. This comes at the backdrop of Iranian State TV launching ‘Sacrifice Life for Iran’ campaign that features military instructors and presenters giving training of how to load, unload, and fire Kalashnikov (AK-47) rifles. According to Iranian media, more than 100 couples participated in a ceremony at Imam Hossein Square alone. The events were broadcast live on state television. Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and President Masoud Pezeshkian has also signed up for the initiative. Also Read: Iran's state TV launches ‘Sacrifice Life’ campaign: Host shoots at UAE flag, gives AK-47 training demo | WATCH AFP reported that couples and Imams arrived at Imam Hossein Square in military jeeps equipped with mounted machine guns before taking part in ceremonies overseen by clerics. The venue was decorated with balloons and featured a giant portrait of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since assuming leadership following the death of his father and predecessor Ali Khamenei during the first day of the war. Iran's 'Sacrifice Life for Iran’ campaign Iran has justified the 'Sacrifice Life for Iran’ campaign saying it was confronting “major powers and global oppression” and described weapons familiarisation as part of “educational, cultural and moral” training. According to him, the programmes were intended to teach the concepts of “jihad, resistance and defence”. He said that the public should identify with a collective sense of readiness and responsibility. Also Read: 'Via Pakistani mediator': Iran responds to new US proposal to end war - Will there be a breakthrough? AK-47 and Kalashnikov training In the news show on Iranian state TV, the host appeared to be using an early East German MPi-KMS assault rifle, a variant of the AK-47 platform chambered in 7.62×39mm. While some military experts explained the handling of the rifles, TV presenters themselves were seen holding and firing weapons as part of on-air educational segments. Reports also claimed that visuals from Tehran’s Tajrish Square show men and women participating in public weapons training exercises. Similar footage have also emerged from Tehran’s Tajrish Square taking part in open-air weapons training. Teenagers in Kerdia described the training as the 78th phase of the nationwide “presence in the field of power” campaign.

Iran held mass wedding ceremonies in Tehran amid war tensions with the US, while state TV expanded its “Sacrifice Life for Iran” campaign featuring AK-47 training for civilians. Authorities said millions joined mobilisation efforts as public weapons drills spread across the country.

After AK-47 training on TV, Iran arranges mass weddings for those ready to 'sacrifice life'  | IN PICS

Iran’s top security body on Monday (May 18) announced the formation of a new authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route that Tehran has effectively tightened control over and plans to regulate through a new fee-based system.&nbsp;The Supreme National Security Council, in a post on its official X account, said the newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) would provide “real-time updates on the #Hormuz_Strait operations and latest developments.”&nbsp;The same announcement was also shared by the account of the Revolutionary Guards’ navy, further highlighting coordination between Iran’s security institutions.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-responds-to-a-new-us-proposal-to-end-war-will-there-be-a-breakthrough-1779093137279"> 'Via Pakistani mediator': Iran responds to new US proposal to end war - Will there be a breakthrough?</a>&nbsp;However, it was not immediately clear what specific powers the new body would hold.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this month, Iranian English-language broadcaster Press TV said the mechanism was designed as a “system to exercise sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz”, adding that vessels passing through the waterway were being issued “regulations” via the email info@pgsa.ir.&nbsp;According to reports, Iran has significantly restricted shipping through the strategic route since the outbreak of war with the United States and Israel on February 28, with a fragile ceasefire in place since April 8.&nbsp;The developments have heightened global concern, as Iran’s control over the strait has given it major leverage in energy markets, while the United States has also maintained a naval presence around Iranian ports.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, handling around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, along with other key commodities such as fertiliser.&nbsp;Since the conflict began, Iran has maintained that maritime traffic through the strait will “not return to its pre-war status” and recently claimed it had already collected its first revenue from tolls imposed on the passage.&nbsp;On Saturday, Ebrahim Azizi, head of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission, said Iran “has prepared a professional mechanism to manage traffic” through the strait, adding that it will be “unveiled soon”.

Tehran said the new authority will issue operational updates and provide information on developments related to the strategic waterway.

Iran’s top security body on Monday (May 18) announced the formation of a new authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route that Tehran has effectively tightened control over and plans to regulate through a new fee-based system. The Supreme National Security Council, in a post on its official X account, said the newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) would provide “real-time updates on the #Hormuz_Strait operations and latest developments.” The same announcement was also shared by the account of the Revolutionary Guards’ navy, further highlighting coordination between Iran’s security institutions. Also Read: 'Via Pakistani mediator': Iran responds to new US proposal to end war - Will there be a breakthrough? However, it was not immediately clear what specific powers the new body would hold. Earlier this month, Iranian English-language broadcaster Press TV said the mechanism was designed as a “system to exercise sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz”, adding that vessels passing through the waterway were being issued “regulations” via the email info@pgsa.ir. According to reports, Iran has significantly restricted shipping through the strategic route since the outbreak of war with the United States and Israel on February 28, with a fragile ceasefire in place since April 8. The developments have heightened global concern, as Iran’s control over the strait has given it major leverage in energy markets, while the United States has also maintained a naval presence around Iranian ports. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, handling around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, along with other key commodities such as fertiliser. Since the conflict began, Iran has maintained that maritime traffic through the strait will “not return to its pre-war status” and recently claimed it had already collected its first revenue from tolls imposed on the passage. On Saturday, Ebrahim Azizi, head of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission, said Iran “has prepared a professional mechanism to manage traffic” through the strait, adding that it will be “unveiled soon”.

Tehran said the new authority will issue operational updates and provide information on developments related to the strategic waterway.

Iran announces new regulatory body to manage Strait of Hormuz operations

Iran on Monday (May 18) said that it has responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the war, amid reports claiming that America is planning to strike the Islamic Republic again. Iranian Foreign Ministry in a statement said that exchanges were continuing between the US and Iran via Pakistan that has been acting as a mediator. This comes despite Iranian media describing Washington's demands in its latest proposal as excessive. "As we announced yesterday, our concerns were conveyed to the American side," foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said during a press briefing. He said exchanges were "continuing through the Pakistani mediator", without providing details.&nbsp;In the same press conference, Baqaei said that Iranian leaders are in talks with the Omani side to develop a mechanism to ensure navigation via Strait of Hormuz. He said that last week , an expert meeting was held in Muscat, and contacts between Iran and Oman on this issue are ongoing. “We have no enmity with any of the countries in the region and will be permanent neighbours. We invite all countries in the region, including the UAE, to be wary of the machinations of foreign parties,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-trump-hold-talks-are-us-and-israel-preparing-to-strike-iran-again-iran-us-israel-war-iran-conflict-starit-of-hormuz-energy-fuel-crisis-1779070590231">Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again?</a><h2>What was the proposal by US?</h2>Iran’s Fars news agency on May 17 reported that Washington gave a five-point list which included a demand for Iran to keep only one nuclear site in operation and transfer its entire stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the US. Iran in its proposal had demanded some prerequisites for starting negotiations. The conditions included the end of the war on all fronts — with particular emphasis on Lebanon, the lifting of sanctions, the release of Iran’s frozen financial assets, compensation for war damages and formal recognition of Iran’s sovereign rights over the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-us-resume-military-ops-against-iran-1778934634011/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-us-resume-military-ops-against-iran-1778934634011/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Is second round of talks in Pakistan possible?</h2>This comes a day after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hinted that a second round of direct talks between the Washington and Tehran is possible in Islamabad. The Pakistan PM said that he is “optimistic about achieving permanent peace between the United States and Iran,” adding that Islamabad is working to “do its utmost” to guarantee that outcome through hosting a new round of negotiations. The statement also comes after Trump held talks with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu amid reports claiming that war might resume.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-round-of-iran-us-talks-in-islamabad-pak-pm-optimistic-about-lasting-peace-amid-renewed-war-fears-1779075285996">New round of Iran-US talks in Islamabad? Pak PM's ‘optimistic’ about lasting peace amid renewed war fears</a>&nbsp;The US president is also expected to hold a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday. While Trump administration stated that it has ended Operation Epic Fury, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer" and the Pentagon has already identified sites for the possible strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran said it responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the war as talks continue through Pakistani mediation. The developments come amid fears of renewed US-Israel strikes on Iran, reports of “Operation Sledgehammer,” and speculation over fresh Iran-US talks in Islamabad.

Iran on Monday (May 18) said that it has responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the war, amid reports claiming that America is planning to strike the Islamic Republic again. Iranian Foreign Ministry in a statement said that exchanges were continuing between the US and Iran via Pakistan that has been acting as a mediator. This comes despite Iranian media describing Washington's demands in its latest proposal as excessive. "As we announced yesterday, our concerns were conveyed to the American side," foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said during a press briefing. He said exchanges were "continuing through the Pakistani mediator", without providing details. In the same press conference, Baqaei said that Iranian leaders are in talks with the Omani side to develop a mechanism to ensure navigation via Strait of Hormuz. He said that last week , an expert meeting was held in Muscat, and contacts between Iran and Oman on this issue are ongoing. “We have no enmity with any of the countries in the region and will be permanent neighbours. We invite all countries in the region, including the UAE, to be wary of the machinations of foreign parties,” he said. Also Read: Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again? What was the proposal by US? Iran’s Fars news agency on May 17 reported that Washington gave a five-point list which included a demand for Iran to keep only one nuclear site in operation and transfer its entire stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the US. Iran in its proposal had demanded some prerequisites for starting negotiations. The conditions included the end of the war on all fronts — with particular emphasis on Lebanon, the lifting of sanctions, the release of Iran’s frozen financial assets, compensation for war damages and formal recognition of Iran’s sovereign rights over the Strait of Hormuz. https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-us-resume-military-ops-against-iran-1778934634011/embed Is second round of talks in Pakistan possible? This comes a day after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hinted that a second round of direct talks between the Washington and Tehran is possible in Islamabad. The Pakistan PM said that he is “optimistic about achieving permanent peace between the United States and Iran,” adding that Islamabad is working to “do its utmost” to guarantee that outcome through hosting a new round of negotiations. The statement also comes after Trump held talks with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu amid reports claiming that war might resume. Also Read: New round of Iran-US talks in Islamabad? Pak PM's ‘optimistic’ about lasting peace amid renewed war fears The US president is also expected to hold a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday. While Trump administration stated that it has ended Operation Epic Fury, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer" and the Pentagon has already identified sites for the possible strikes.

Iran said it responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the war as talks continue through Pakistani mediation. The developments come amid fears of renewed US-Israel strikes on Iran, reports of “Operation Sledgehammer,” and speculation over fresh Iran-US talks in Islamabad.

'Via Pakistani mediator': Iran responds to new US proposal to end war - Will there be a breakthrough?

Amid reports claiming that the US and Israel can launch fresh strikes on Iran, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed hope that a second round of direct talks between the Washington and Tehran would take place in Islamabad. He said that such a negotiation could pave the way for a “lasting peace” between the two sides. Sharif said Pakistan remains “optimistic about achieving permanent peace between the United States and Iran,” adding that Islamabad is working to “do its utmost” to guarantee that outcome through hosting a new round of negotiations. The Pakistani PM made the remarks while speaking to a British newspaper The Times.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-trump-hold-talks-are-us-and-israel-preparing-to-strike-iran-again-iran-us-israel-war-iran-conflict-starit-of-hormuz-energy-fuel-crisis-1779070590231">Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again?</a><h2>What we know about the possibility of war again?</h2>This comes amid reports that the US and Israel are preparing to restart the war with Iran as the ceasefire did not result into long-term peace deal and opening of Strait of Hormuz. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a conversation with US President Donald Trump and reportedly discussed about the war. Netanyahu held meeting with his cabinet and Trump is expected to hold a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday. Though, the Trump administration has announced the end of Operation Epic Fury, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-calm-before-the-storm-trump-warns-of-very-bad-time-for-iran-amid-reports-of-operation-sledgehammer-1778997110065">'Calm before the storm': Trump warns of 'very bad time' for Iran</a><h2>Pakistan's role as mediator</h2>Pakistan has played a role of a mediator and was able to make US and Iran strike a ceasefire in April as American and Iranian delegation held marathon talks in Islamabad. Though the negotiations did not produce a final settlement capable of ending the war, they positioned Pakistan as a key regional mediator between the United States and Iran. Trump has praised Pakistani PM Sharif and Army chief Asim Munir and called the country “great.”

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad hopes to host a second round of US-Iran talks to secure lasting peace amid fears of renewed conflict. The push comes as reports suggest the US and Israel may restart strikes on Iran despite an April ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Amid reports claiming that the US and Israel can launch fresh strikes on Iran, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed hope that a second round of direct talks between the Washington and Tehran would take place in Islamabad. He said that such a negotiation could pave the way for a “lasting peace” between the two sides. Sharif said Pakistan remains “optimistic about achieving permanent peace between the United States and Iran,” adding that Islamabad is working to “do its utmost” to guarantee that outcome through hosting a new round of negotiations. The Pakistani PM made the remarks while speaking to a British newspaper The Times. Also Read: Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again? What we know about the possibility of war again? This comes amid reports that the US and Israel are preparing to restart the war with Iran as the ceasefire did not result into long-term peace deal and opening of Strait of Hormuz. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a conversation with US President Donald Trump and reportedly discussed about the war. Netanyahu held meeting with his cabinet and Trump is expected to hold a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday. Though, the Trump administration has announced the end of Operation Epic Fury, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer." Also Read: 'Calm before the storm': Trump warns of 'very bad time' for Iran Pakistan's role as mediator Pakistan has played a role of a mediator and was able to make US and Iran strike a ceasefire in April as American and Iranian delegation held marathon talks in Islamabad. Though the negotiations did not produce a final settlement capable of ending the war, they positioned Pakistan as a key regional mediator between the United States and Iran. Trump has praised Pakistani PM Sharif and Army chief Asim Munir and called the country “great.”

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad hopes to host a second round of US-Iran talks to secure lasting peace amid fears of renewed conflict. The push comes as reports suggest the US and Israel may restart strikes on Iran despite an April ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic efforts.

New round of Iran-US talks in Islamabad? Pak PM's ‘optimistic’ about lasting peace amid renewed war fears

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a conversation with US President Donald Trump and reportedly discussed about the war with Iran as well as security conditions on Sunday (May 17). The conversation between the two leaders comes amid reports that the US and Israel are preparing to restart the war with Iran as the ceasefire did not result into long-term peace deal and opening of Strait of Hormuz. According to Hebrew media reports, the two leaders also discussed Trump’s recent trip to China. The talks between Trump and Netanyahu is being seen as an important one as the two leaders launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28 that has resulted into a worldwide energy crisis. Though, the Trump administration has announced the end of Operation Epic Fury, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer.”&nbsp;<h2>Netanyahu's cabinet meeting a hint?</h2>Soon after the call, Netanyahu convened a meeting with top aides and ministers for a security discussion in his office in Jerusalem. The Times of Israel reported that such discussions usually include Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Defense Minister Israel Katz, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, and Shas chairman Aryeh Deri. Prior to the call with Trump, Netanyahu in his weekly cabinet meeting said, “Our eyes are open regarding Iran.” Referring to the US president, he added, “I will certainly hear impressions from his trip to China, perhaps other things as well. Certainly, there are many possibilities, and we are prepared for every scenario.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-calm-before-the-storm-trump-warns-of-very-bad-time-for-iran-amid-reports-of-operation-sledgehammer-1778997110065">'Calm before the storm': Trump warns of 'very bad time' for Iran</a>

<h2>What is Trump doing?</h2>Soon after the call, Trump hopped on to his Truth Social to warn Iran. The report suggestion renewed attacks claimed that it could begin as soon as this week. Another Axios reported, citing two US officials said that Trump will hold a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday (May 19) with his top national security advisers. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the clock was ticking. “Better act fast on the peace proposal or else nothing will be left of it,” he warned. Earlier on Saturday, Trump has shared an AI-generated graphic of him and a US Navy admiral in front of stormy waters with several ships. The image shows one flying the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the text on the image reads as: "It was calm before the storm." Trump also warned Iran once again saying that it will face “very bad time” if a peace agreement is not reached. However, the US president is also hopeful of a deal with the Islamic Republic. “We want to make a deal. They are not where we want them to be. They will have to get there or they will be hit badly, and they don’t want that,” Trump said in several interviews.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-appoints-ghalibaf-to-oversee-ties-with-china-what-it-could-mean-for-the-us-1779008050616">'Future belongs to Global South': Iran appoints Ghalibaf to oversee ties with China - What it could mean for the US</a><h2>What we know about Iran-US peace deal?</h2>After rejecting each other's proposals, US is planning to renew the attacks while Iran said it is ready to fight. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during his India visit for BRICS meeting sent a message to America stating that there is no end to military might and only dialogue can bring peace. On Sunday (May 17), Iranian state media outlets also reported that the US have set core conditions for resuming negotiations. According to Iran’s Fars News Agency, the US wants Iran to surrender its 400 kg of enriched uranium, keep only one nuclear facility operational and accept that no compensation will be paid for war damages caused during the conflict. Iran has rejected the terms and laid out its own conditions for talks, including sanctions relief, release of frozen assets, compensation for damages and recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of renewing war with Iran amid stalled nuclear negotiations. Trump warned Tehran that “time is of the essence” as tensions rise over uranium stockpiles, sanctions relief and military action.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a conversation with US President Donald Trump and reportedly discussed about the war with Iran as well as security conditions on Sunday (May 17). The conversation between the two leaders comes amid reports that the US and Israel are preparing to restart the war with Iran as the ceasefire did not result into long-term peace deal and opening of Strait of Hormuz. According to Hebrew media reports, the two leaders also discussed Trump’s recent trip to China. The talks between Trump and Netanyahu is being seen as an important one as the two leaders launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28 that has resulted into a worldwide energy crisis. Though, the Trump administration has announced the end of Operation Epic Fury, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer.” Netanyahu's cabinet meeting a hint? Soon after the call, Netanyahu convened a meeting with top aides and ministers for a security discussion in his office in Jerusalem. The Times of Israel reported that such discussions usually include Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Defense Minister Israel Katz, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, and Shas chairman Aryeh Deri. Prior to the call with Trump, Netanyahu in his weekly cabinet meeting said, “Our eyes are open regarding Iran.” Referring to the US president, he added, “I will certainly hear impressions from his trip to China, perhaps other things as well. Certainly, there are many possibilities, and we are prepared for every scenario.” Also Read: 'Calm before the storm': Trump warns of 'very bad time' for Iran

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of renewing war with Iran amid stalled nuclear negotiations. Trump warned Tehran that “time is of the essence” as tensions rise over uranium stockpiles, sanctions relief and military action.

Netanyahu-Trump talks fuel fears of renewed Iran strikes amid reports of Op Sledgehammer: Will the war start again?

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said that the United States and Israel are pursuing divisive politics and are creating distrust among Muslim countries to pit them against one another. Pezeshkian accused the Western powers and their regional allies of orchestrating a coordinated campaign of subversion. He added that the direct military actions launched against Iran were specifically calibrated to disrupt domestic order and destabilise the governing establishment.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Iranian state media outlet Press TV reported that Pezeshkian alleged that the external military actions were a direct threat to the nation’s leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says the United States and Israeli regime are attempting to pursue divisive projects and cause distrust to pit Muslim countries against one another. <a href="https://t.co/rsgF8WU5cu">pic.twitter.com/rsgF8WU5cu</a>&mdash; Press TV 🔻 (@PressTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressTV/status/2056040327861895403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The Iranian president said, “The primary objective of the United States and the Zionist regime in attacking Iran was to create internal instability and attempt to weaken and overthrow the Islamic system.”The objective of causing structural disruption in Tehran is influencing the current diplomatic deadlock, the report said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-lashkar-terrorist-infiltrates-to-set-up-sleeper-cells-gets-hair-transplant-done-in-srinagar-1779029058588">Pakistani Lashkar terrorist infiltrates to set up sleeper cells, gets hair transplant done in Srinagar</a>&nbsp;<h2>Iran’s armed forces warn Trump against restarting attacks</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian armed forces spokesman Abolfazl Shekarchi on Sunday warned US President Donald Trump against restarting attacks on Iran and signalled readiness for a prolonged standoff. Delivering a stern message via official broadcast networks, Shekarchi said that any further external aggression would meet a catastrophic domestic response.“The desperate American president should know that if his threats are carried out and Islamic Iran is attacked again, his country’s resources and military will be confronted with unprecedented, offensive, surprising and tumultuous scenarios,” he said, according to state television.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-who-replaced-mohd-sinwar-and-helped-plan-oct-7-attacks-killed-says-israel-1778933840744">Hamas chief who replaced Mohd Sinwar and helped plan Oct. 7 attacks killed, says Israel</a><h2>Deadlock on peace negotiations continues</h2>Iranian media said on Sunday that the US had failed to make any concrete concessions in its latest response to Iran’s proposal for negotiations to end the war.&nbsp;Fars news agency said Washington had presented a five-point list, which included a demand for Iran to keep only one nuclear site in operation and transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the United States. The US also refused to release “even 25 per cent” of Iran’s frozen assets abroad or pay any reparations for the damage inflicted during the war, the Fars report said.The state-aligned media outlet added that Tehran views the US demands as a strategic manoeuvre and not a peace overture.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-killed-32-injured-as-freight-train-hits-bus-at-rail-crossing-in-bangkok-1778952168722">Eight killed, 32 injured as freight train hits bus at rail crossing in Bangkok</a>&nbsp;The Mehr news agency also said that the United States wants concessions that it failed to obtain during the war and offered nothing tangible in return.In its proposal, Iran had sought an end to the war on all fronts, including Israel’s campaign in Lebanon, as well as the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. It also demanded a complete rollback of the economic restrictions imposed by Washington and called for lifting all US sanctions along with the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad.&nbsp;The proposal also stated that Tehran would continue to manage the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which it has largely kept closed since the start of the war.

Iranian armed forces spokesman Abolfazl Shekarchi on Sunday warned US President Donald Trump against restarting attacks on Iran and signalled readiness for a prolonged standoff. Shekarchi said that any further external aggression would meet a catastrophic domestic response.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said that the United States and Israel are pursuing divisive politics and are creating distrust among Muslim countries to pit them against one another. Pezeshkian accused the Western powers and their regional allies of orchestrating a coordinated campaign of subversion. He added that the direct military actions launched against Iran were specifically calibrated to disrupt domestic order and destabilise the governing establishment. The Iranian state media outlet Press TV reported that Pezeshkian alleged that the external military actions were a direct threat to the nation’s leadership.

Iranian armed forces spokesman Abolfazl Shekarchi on Sunday warned US President Donald Trump against restarting attacks on Iran and signalled readiness for a prolonged standoff. Shekarchi said that any further external aggression would meet a catastrophic domestic response.

‘US and Israel trying to pit Muslim nations against one another,’ says President Masoud Pezeshkian

Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has been appointed to oversee relations with China, Iranian media reported on Sunday (May 17). Ghalibaf was the chief negotiator in talks with the United States that resulted in a ceasefire after Israel and the US launched airstrikes on Iran in Feb. It was not immediately clear who appointed Ghalibaf to the role, but Tasnim said he would “coordinate various sectors of relations between Iran and China.” After his appointment, Ghalibaf backed Chinese President Xi Jinping's vision of historic global transformations, stating that "the future belongs to the Global South." Incidentally, the development comes right after US President Donald Trump wrapped up his China visit. There are also reports that suggested that China might have played a back channel role in convincing Iran to come to the negotiation table with the US amid raging war.&nbsp;"Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has recently been appointed as a special representative of the Islamic republic of Iran for China affairs," Tasnim news agency reported, citing "informed sources". Ghalibaf said that the world was witnessing an accelerated global transformation, declaring that the international arena is “at the cusp of a new order.” He said &nbsp;that Iran's ongoing resistance has accelerated this geopolitical shift, &nbsp;In a post on X, he emphasised that Iran's recent "70-day resistance" against US and Israeli military and economic pressures has acted as a primary catalyst, shortening the timeline for this global paradigm shift. "The world stands at the cusp of a new order. As President Xi said 'The transformation unseen in a century is accelerating across the globe,' and I emphasise that the Iranian nation's 70-day resistance has accelerated this transformation. The future belongs to the Global South," Ghalibaf wrote on X.&nbsp;<h3>Iran-China relationship</h3>Iran depends heavily on China as its biggest trading partner and primary buyer of Iranian oil, with Beijing purchasing the vast majority of Tehran’s crude exports despite Western sanctions. China has also provided Iran with a crucial economic lifeline through financial networks, intermediary companies, and shipping arrangements that help Tehran bypass sanctions. In 2021, the two countries signed a 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement promising major Chinese investments in Iran’s energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors, though much of the anticipated funding has yet to materialise. While both countries share opposition to US influence and cooperate through joint naval drills and technology ties, Beijing continues to balance its regional interests by maintaining strong relations with Gulf Arab states and avoiding deeper entanglement that could trigger Western sanctions.<h2>US views on Ghalibaf</h2>From Washington’s perspective, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf represents a complex mix of pragmatism and hardline ideology within Iran’s political establishment. US officials view him as a deeply entrenched regime insider with significant influence across Iran’s security and political networks, making him a potentially important interlocutor in backchannel diplomacy. While some American policymakers consider Ghalibaf capable of tactical compromise and serious negotiations, they remain wary of his long-standing alignment with the Islamic Republic’s core ideological positions, particularly on nuclear policy and regional security issues. US assessments also suggest that his anti-American rhetoric and public denials of negotiations are often calibrated for domestic political positioning and pressure tactics rather than outright rejection of engagement. Reports by international media outlets have further indicated that Ghalibaf may have been the “reasonable” Iranian figure indirectly referenced by Trump during discussions about indirect diplomacy, though recent setbacks in negotiations have complicated that perception.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has been appointed to oversee Iran-China relations amid shifting global tensions. The move comes after indirect Iran-US talks and signals Tehran’s push to deepen strategic ties with Beijing and the Global South.

Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has been appointed to oversee relations with China, Iranian media reported on Sunday (May 17). Ghalibaf was the chief negotiator in talks with the United States that resulted in a ceasefire after Israel and the US launched airstrikes on Iran in Feb. It was not immediately clear who appointed Ghalibaf to the role, but Tasnim said he would “coordinate various sectors of relations between Iran and China.” After his appointment, Ghalibaf backed Chinese President Xi Jinping's vision of historic global transformations, stating that "the future belongs to the Global South." Incidentally, the development comes right after US President Donald Trump wrapped up his China visit. There are also reports that suggested that China might have played a back channel role in convincing Iran to come to the negotiation table with the US amid raging war. "Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has recently been appointed as a special representative of the Islamic republic of Iran for China affairs," Tasnim news agency reported, citing "informed sources". Ghalibaf said that the world was witnessing an accelerated global transformation, declaring that the international arena is “at the cusp of a new order.” He said that Iran's ongoing resistance has accelerated this geopolitical shift, In a post on X, he emphasised that Iran's recent "70-day resistance" against US and Israeli military and economic pressures has acted as a primary catalyst, shortening the timeline for this global paradigm shift. "The world stands at the cusp of a new order. As President Xi said 'The transformation unseen in a century is accelerating across the globe,' and I emphasise that the Iranian nation's 70-day resistance has accelerated this transformation. The future belongs to the Global South," Ghalibaf wrote on X. Iran-China relationship Iran depends heavily on China as its biggest trading partner and primary buyer of Iranian oil, with Beijing purchasing the vast majority of Tehran’s crude exports despite Western sanctions. China has also provided Iran with a crucial economic lifeline through financial networks, intermediary companies, and shipping arrangements that help Tehran bypass sanctions. In 2021, the two countries signed a 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement promising major Chinese investments in Iran’s energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors, though much of the anticipated funding has yet to materialise. While both countries share opposition to US influence and cooperate through joint naval drills and technology ties, Beijing continues to balance its regional interests by maintaining strong relations with Gulf Arab states and avoiding deeper entanglement that could trigger Western sanctions. US views on Ghalibaf From Washington’s perspective, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf represents a complex mix of pragmatism and hardline ideology within Iran’s political establishment. US officials view him as a deeply entrenched regime insider with significant influence across Iran’s security and political networks, making him a potentially important interlocutor in backchannel diplomacy. While some American policymakers consider Ghalibaf capable of tactical compromise and serious negotiations, they remain wary of his long-standing alignment with the Islamic Republic’s core ideological positions, particularly on nuclear policy and regional security issues. US assessments also suggest that his anti-American rhetoric and public denials of negotiations are often calibrated for domestic political positioning and pressure tactics rather than outright rejection of engagement. Reports by international media outlets have further indicated that Ghalibaf may have been the “reasonable” Iranian figure indirectly referenced by Trump during discussions about indirect diplomacy, though recent setbacks in negotiations have complicated that perception.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has been appointed to oversee Iran-China relations amid shifting global tensions. The move comes after indirect Iran-US talks and signals Tehran’s push to deepen strategic ties with Beijing and the Global South.

'Future belongs to Global South': Iran appoints Ghalibaf to oversee ties with China - What it could mean for the US

Amid reports suggestion that US may launch renewed strikes on Iran, US President Donald Trump has shared an AI-generated graphic of him and a US Navy admiral in front of stormy waters with several ships. The image shows one flying the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the text on the image reads as: "It was calm before the storm." Trump also warned Iran once again saying that it will face “very bad time” if a peace agreement is not reached. Earlier, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer.” The administration had announced the end of Operation Epic Fury after the US and Iran reached a ceasefire agreement in early April to continue diplomatic talks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-don-t-need-any-help-with-iran-says-president-trump-as-he-departs-for-china-1778614628638">‘We don’t need any help with Iran,’ says President Trump as he departs for China</a>&nbsp;Speaking to French broadcaster BFMTV in a telephone interview, Trump has warned Iran it will face a “very bad time” if a peace agreement is not reached soon. “They have an interest in reaching an agreement,” he added. This comes after US news outlet NBC reported citing two American officials that the US military is considering changing the war's official name to ‘Operation Sledgehammer.’&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-enriched-uranium-pr-exercise-1778852092310">Trump says retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is ‘more PR than necessity’</a><h2>Iran-US talks: Rejection vs rejection</h2>The fragile ceasefire between Iran and the US has not been able to materialise into a full-time deal with both sides rejecting each other's proposal. On May 10, Trump said that he did not like Iran's proposal saying it is “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE” and “garbage”. Tehran had responded to Washington's 14-point proposal that it had sent in May first week. According to the proposal, Iran would have to agree not to develop a nuclear weapon and stop all uranium enrichment for at least 12 years. It would also be required to hand over its estimated 440kg (970lb) stock of uranium enriched to 60 percent. In return, the US would gradually lift sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets and halt its naval blockade of Iranian ports.&nbsp;In April last week, Iran had forwarded a three stage proposal via Pakistan which Washington rejected. The first stage demanded a total end to the war, specifically hostilities on Hezbollah in Lebanon. The second stage focused on lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The third stage covered the contentious negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program are postponed. Tehran said that third stage would begin only after the ceasefire is established and the Strait is reopened. The US had rejected this plan.

Trump shared an AI-generated image warning of “calm before the storm” amid fears the Iran-US conflict could resume. The post comes as nuclear negotiations remain deadlocked and tensions rise over uranium enrichment and sanctions.

Amid reports suggestion that US may launch renewed strikes on Iran, US President Donald Trump has shared an AI-generated graphic of him and a US Navy admiral in front of stormy waters with several ships. The image shows one flying the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the text on the image reads as: "It was calm before the storm." Trump also warned Iran once again saying that it will face “very bad time” if a peace agreement is not reached. Earlier, a report suggested that that US officials are planning to launch fresh strikes on Iran under a new name “Operation Sledgehammer.” The administration had announced the end of Operation Epic Fury after the US and Iran reached a ceasefire agreement in early April to continue diplomatic talks. Also Read: ‘We don’t need any help with Iran,’ says President Trump as he departs for China Speaking to French broadcaster BFMTV in a telephone interview, Trump has warned Iran it will face a “very bad time” if a peace agreement is not reached soon. “They have an interest in reaching an agreement,” he added. This comes after US news outlet NBC reported citing two American officials that the US military is considering changing the war's official name to ‘Operation Sledgehammer.’ Also Read: Trump says retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is ‘more PR than necessity’ Iran-US talks: Rejection vs rejection The fragile ceasefire between Iran and the US has not been able to materialise into a full-time deal with both sides rejecting each other's proposal. On May 10, Trump said that he did not like Iran's proposal saying it is “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE” and “garbage”. Tehran had responded to Washington's 14-point proposal that it had sent in May first week. According to the proposal, Iran would have to agree not to develop a nuclear weapon and stop all uranium enrichment for at least 12 years. It would also be required to hand over its estimated 440kg (970lb) stock of uranium enriched to 60 percent. In return, the US would gradually lift sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets and halt its naval blockade of Iranian ports. In April last week, Iran had forwarded a three stage proposal via Pakistan which Washington rejected. The first stage demanded a total end to the war, specifically hostilities on Hezbollah in Lebanon. The second stage focused on lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The third stage covered the contentious negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program are postponed. Tehran said that third stage would begin only after the ceasefire is established and the Strait is reopened. The US had rejected this plan.

Trump shared an AI-generated image warning of “calm before the storm” amid fears the Iran-US conflict could resume. The post comes as nuclear negotiations remain deadlocked and tensions rise over uranium enrichment and sanctions.

'Calm before the storm': Trump warns of 'very bad time' for Iran amid reports of Operation Sledgehammer

Trump is accompanied by business leaders including Tesla chief Elon Musk and Apple CEO Tim Cook, though the delegation is smaller than during his 2017 state visit.

Trump is accompanied by business leaders including Tesla chief Elon Musk and Apple CEO Tim Cook, though the delegation is smaller than during his 2017 state visit.

Xi-Trump summit: Tehran, Taiwan, trade — five big issues on the table in Beijing

Trump defended Pakistan’s role in mediating with Iran despite Senator Lindsey Graham saying he “doesn’t trust Pakistan.” Graham cited reports alleging Iranian aircraft were parked at Pakistani airbases, while Trump praised PM Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir.

Trump defended Pakistan’s role in mediating with Iran despite Senator Lindsey Graham saying he “doesn’t trust Pakistan.” Graham cited reports alleging Iranian aircraft were parked at Pakistani airbases, while Trump praised PM Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir.

Trump breaks silence on report of Pakistan allowing Iran spy aircraft at Nur Khan base amid mediation talks

Amid the continuing deadlock between Washington and Tehran over the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Iran has backed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s four-point proposal aimed at ensuring lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region. Iran’s Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, said the Islamic Republic was ready to support the Chinese proposal ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to China this week.&nbsp;In a post on X, the envoy said the issue was also discussed during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s recent meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.&nbsp;“The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its readiness to support the Chinese President’s four-point plan aimed at establishing lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region,” the envoy said.<h2>What does China’s four-point Gulf proposal say?</h2>According to Yu Jing, the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in India, the proposal focuses on regional peace, sovereignty, international law and coordinated development.The first point of the proposal calls for peaceful coexistence through the creation of a “common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable” security framework for the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iranian Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, stated that Iran supports the four-point proposal raised by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The proposal consists of: 1️⃣ Commitment to Peaceful Coexistence: Promoting the construction of a “common, comprehensive, cooperative,… <a href="https://t.co/PMBofCuUTA">pic.twitter.com/PMBofCuUTA</a>&mdash; Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaSpox_India/status/2054089101868220596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The second point stresses respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, while ensuring the protection of people, institutions and critical infrastructure across the region.The third point highlights adherence to international law and warns against the global system descending into what China described as the “law of the jungle”.&nbsp;The fourth point focuses on balancing development and security by promoting regional cooperation aimed at long-term economic growth and stability across West Asia and the Gulf.&nbsp;The development come as Trump is set to travel to Beijing from May 13 to May 15 for high-level talks with Xi amid heightened tensions in West Asia and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran and regional powers.

China has increasingly positioned itself as a diplomatic player in the Gulf region in recent years, advocating dialogue-driven approaches to regional security and economic cooperation.


Amid the continuing deadlock between Washington and Tehran over the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Iran has backed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s four-point proposal aimed at ensuring lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region. Iran’s Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, said the Islamic Republic was ready to support the Chinese proposal ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to China this week. In a post on X, the envoy said the issue was also discussed during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s recent meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its readiness to support the Chinese President’s four-point plan aimed at establishing lasting security and shared development in the Persian Gulf region,” the envoy said. What does China’s four-point Gulf proposal say? According to Yu Jing, the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in India, the proposal focuses on regional peace, sovereignty, international law and coordinated development. The first point of the proposal calls for peaceful coexistence through the creation of a “common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable” security framework for the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region.

China has increasingly positioned itself as a diplomatic player in the Gulf region in recent years, advocating dialogue-driven approaches to regional security and economic cooperation. &nbsp;

Iran backs Xi Jinping’s four-point proposal ahead of Trump’s China visit

Pakistan has “categorically” rejected the report that Pakistan may have allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft despite positioning itself as a neutral party during talks between the Islamic Republic and the US. In a statement, the Pakistan Foreign Ministry confirmed the presence of the Iranian aircraft, claiming that that it has “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.” It also said that some aircraft and support personnel “remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” The statement highlighted Islamabad's role as a mediator, emphasizing that it is “impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de- escalation.” It called the CBS report “misleading and sensationalized”, adding that such “speculative narratives appear aimed at undermining ongoing efforts for regional stability and peace.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-pakistan-betray-us-by-allowing-iran-to-park-spy-aircraft-trump-aide-says-asim-munir-shehbaz-sharif-mediator-china-russia-1778555836664">Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says...</a><h3>What was the statement by Pakistan?</h3>The Pak Foreign Ministry statement explained that following the ceasefire and during the initial round of the Islamabad Talks, a number of aircraft from Iran and the United States arrived in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of diplomatic personnel, security teams, and administrative staff associated with the talks process. It said, “Some aircraft and support personnel remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” Pointing at the subsequent visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad, the statement said that it was “facilitated through the existing logistical and administrative arrangements.” In confirmation of the CBS report, Pak said: “The Iranian aircraft currently parked in Pakistan arrived during the ceasefire period.” However, the country attempted to clarify its stance by saying that the aircraft bears “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.”&nbsp;

It also added in the statement: "Assertions suggesting otherwise are speculative, misleading, and entirely detached from the factual context. Pakistan has consistently acted as an impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de- escalation. In line with this role, Pakistan has extended routine logistical and administrative support where required, while maintaining full transparency and regular communication with all relevant parties. Pakistan remains committed to supporting all sincere efforts aimed at promoting dialogue, reducing tensions, and advancing regional and global peace, stability, and security.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-don-t-like-it-trump-rejects-iran-s-peace-proposal-issues-stark-warning-war-to-restart-1778467060283">'I don't like it...': Trump rejects Iran's peace proposal, issues …</a><h2>Pakistan's mediator role under scanner</h2>CBS News reported that Pakistan may have “quietly allowed" Iranian military and surveillance aircraft to park on its airfields. CBS quoted American officials who also alleged US officials further alleged that Tehran deployed multiple aircraft, including an Iranian Air Force RC-130 — a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft — to Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan near Rawalpindi. The US and Iran met in Islamabad on Apr 11 and held approximately 15-hour marathon talks but couldn't strike a deal. The American delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance and Iranian side was led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. While Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir earned the praise of Trump, the visit did not result in a long-lasting peace deal.<h2>Trump's aide responds</h2>Trump administration has issued first response on a report. Trump aide and United States Senator Lindsey Graham said in a statement that if the report is true, then "a complete reevaluation of Pakistan's role" will be required. He also highlighted the statements of Pakistani officials against Israel and said that he wouldn't be shocked if this is true.

Pakistan rejected reports that it allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft during Iran-US talks, calling the claims “misleading and sensationalized.” Islamabad said the aircraft were linked to diplomatic and logistical support during ceasefire negotiations.

Pakistan has “categorically” rejected the report that Pakistan may have allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft despite positioning itself as a neutral party during talks between the Islamic Republic and the US. In a statement, the Pakistan Foreign Ministry confirmed the presence of the Iranian aircraft, claiming that that it has “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.” It also said that some aircraft and support personnel “remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” The statement highlighted Islamabad's role as a mediator, emphasizing that it is “impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de- escalation.” It called the CBS report “misleading and sensationalized”, adding that such “speculative narratives appear aimed at undermining ongoing efforts for regional stability and peace.” Also Read: Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says... What was the statement by Pakistan? The Pak Foreign Ministry statement explained that following the ceasefire and during the initial round of the Islamabad Talks, a number of aircraft from Iran and the United States arrived in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of diplomatic personnel, security teams, and administrative staff associated with the talks process. It said, “Some aircraft and support personnel remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.” Pointing at the subsequent visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad, the statement said that it was “facilitated through the existing logistical and administrative arrangements.” In confirmation of the CBS report, Pak said: “The Iranian aircraft currently parked in Pakistan arrived during the ceasefire period.” However, the country attempted to clarify its stance by saying that the aircraft bears “no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement.”

Pakistan rejected reports that it allowed Iran to park military and spy aircraft during Iran-US talks, calling the claims “misleading and sensationalized.” Islamabad said the aircraft were linked to diplomatic and logistical support during ceasefire negotiations.

'It arrived during ceasefire period...': Pakistan CONFIRMS presence of Iranian aircraft amid US talks, but says...

Questions over Pakistan’s neutrality emerged after a report claimed Iran parked military and surveillance aircraft at a Pakistani airbase during Iran-US talks. Trump ally Lindsey Graham warned that if true, Washington may need to reassess Pakistan’s role amid rising regional tensions.

Questions over Pakistan’s neutrality emerged after a report claimed Iran parked military and surveillance aircraft at a Pakistani airbase during Iran-US talks. Trump ally Lindsey Graham warned that if true, Washington may need to reassess Pakistan’s role amid rising regional tensions.

'If this were true...': Did Pakistan betray US by allowing Iran to park spy aircraft? Trump aide says...

Iran on Monday said it had urged an end to the ongoing conflict in the region and demanded the release of its frozen overseas assets in response to the latest peace proposal put forward by the United States.&nbsp;Speaking during a weekly press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran had not sought any special concessions from Washington.&nbsp;“We did not demand any concessions. The only thing we demanded was Iran's legitimate rights,” Baqaei said.&nbsp;He stated that Iran’s conditions included “an end to the war in the region”, lifting the US naval blockade, and the “release of assets belonging to the Iranian people, which have for years been unjustly trapped in foreign banks”.&nbsp;The remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump publicly rejected Iran’s response to Washington’s proposal aimed at ending the conflict. Trump described Tehran’s reply as “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!”&nbsp;Baqaei also accused the United States of continuing to place “unreasonable demands” on Iran, while insisting that Tehran’s reply to the proposal, delivered through Pakistan, “was not excessive”.&nbsp;Emphasising Iran’s stance on diplomacy, Baqaei said, “Whenever we are forced to fight, we will fight, and whenever there is room for diplomacy, we will seize that opportunity.”He added that “diplomacy has its own rules” and said all decisions would be taken in line with national interests, stressing that Iran remained committed to protecting the interests of its people.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-team-heads-to-bengaluru-after-gelatin-sticks-found-near-pm-modi-convoy-route-1778493741967">NIA team heads to Bengaluru after gelatin sticks found near PM Modi convoy route</a>&nbsp;During the briefing, Tehran also warned European countries against becoming involved in the growing tensions in the Gulf region. He said Tehran had cautioned them against entering “a crisis that would certainly bring them no benefit”.He further warned that “any interference in the Strait of Hormuz would further complicate the situation”.&nbsp;Britain and France are currently leading efforts to build an international coalition aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz, although discussions are reportedly tied to the possibility of a future peace agreement between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian authorities on Monday hanged a postgraduate student from an elite Tehran university on charges of espionage, the latest execution carried out against the backdrop of the war with the United States and Israel.&nbsp;Erfan Shakourzadeh, 29, was executed after being convicted of collaborating with the CIA and Mossad, according to the Iranian judiciary’s Mizan Online website.He is the fifth person to be executed on espionage charges since the war began in late February.

Iran said its response to the US peace proposal focused on ending the regional war, lifting the US naval blockade, and securing the release of frozen Iranian assets held abroad.

Iran on Monday said it had urged an end to the ongoing conflict in the region and demanded the release of its frozen overseas assets in response to the latest peace proposal put forward by the United States. Speaking during a weekly press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran had not sought any special concessions from Washington. “We did not demand any concessions. The only thing we demanded was Iran's legitimate rights,” Baqaei said. He stated that Iran’s conditions included “an end to the war in the region”, lifting the US naval blockade, and the “release of assets belonging to the Iranian people, which have for years been unjustly trapped in foreign banks”. The remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump publicly rejected Iran’s response to Washington’s proposal aimed at ending the conflict. Trump described Tehran’s reply as “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” Baqaei also accused the United States of continuing to place “unreasonable demands” on Iran, while insisting that Tehran’s reply to the proposal, delivered through Pakistan, “was not excessive”. Emphasising Iran’s stance on diplomacy, Baqaei said, “Whenever we are forced to fight, we will fight, and whenever there is room for diplomacy, we will seize that opportunity.” He added that “diplomacy has its own rules” and said all decisions would be taken in line with national interests, stressing that Iran remained committed to protecting the interests of its people. Also Read: NIA team heads to Bengaluru after gelatin sticks found near PM Modi convoy route During the briefing, Tehran also warned European countries against becoming involved in the growing tensions in the Gulf region. He said Tehran had cautioned them against entering “a crisis that would certainly bring them no benefit”. He further warned that “any interference in the Strait of Hormuz would further complicate the situation”. Britain and France are currently leading efforts to build an international coalition aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz, although discussions are reportedly tied to the possibility of a future peace agreement between Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, Iranian authorities on Monday hanged a postgraduate student from an elite Tehran university on charges of espionage, the latest execution carried out against the backdrop of the war with the United States and Israel. Erfan Shakourzadeh, 29, was executed after being convicted of collaborating with the CIA and Mossad, according to the Iranian judiciary’s Mizan Online website. He is the fifth person to be executed on espionage charges since the war began in late February.

Iran said its response to the US peace proposal focused on ending the regional war, lifting the US naval blockade, and securing the release of frozen Iranian assets held abroad.

‘We will fight whenever forced’: Iran says it sought legitimate rights after Trump rejected peace terms

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 10) categorically rejected Iran's proposal for ending the war and termed it as "totally unacceptable," triggering fear of renewed conflict. Iran had responded to Washington's latest peace proposal earlier in the day, while warning it would not hold back from retaliating against any new US strikes or permit more foreign warships in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump himself provided no details on Tehran's counterproposal, and made the remarks on Truth Social platform. Trump had earlier said that he would not call the Iran war as a formal war but a military operation. He also said that it was terminated. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned it would retaliate against any new US attacks and opposed foreign naval deployments in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-again-hints-at-withdrawing-troops-from-italian-bases-italy-was-not-there-when-we-needed-1778399365915">'Italy was not there...': Trump targets Meloni again, hints at withdrawing troops from Italian bases</a>&nbsp;"I have just read the response from Iran's so-called 'Representatives.' I don't like it -- TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!" Trump said. Trump&nbsp;also accused Iran of “playing games”. Iran “has been playing games with the United States, and the rest of the World, for 47 years”, the president wrote on Truth Social. “They will be laughing no longer!”

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&nbsp;In sharp contrast to several statements by the US, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that war is not over. Speaking to CBS News, Netanyahu said, &nbsp;“There’s still nuclear material, enriched uranium that has to be taken out of Iran,” he said in a taped interview on CBS’s “60 Minutes” that is set to air Sunday night. “There is still enrichment sites that have to be dismantled, there’s still proxies that Iran supports, there are ballistic missiles that they still want to produce ... there’s work to be done.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-trump-s-beijing-visit-from-may-13-to-15-trade-jimmy-lai-taiwan-iran-war-what-s-on-agenda-1778465256028">China confirms Trump's Beijing visit from May 13 to 15: What's on agenda?</a><h2>What was Washington's proposal?</h2>Washington sent a 14-point proposal earlier this week. According to the proposal, Iran would have to agree not to develop a nuclear weapon and stop all uranium enrichment for at least 12 years. It would also be required to hand over its estimated 440kg (970lb) stock of uranium enriched to 60 percent. In return, the US would gradually lift sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets and halt its naval blockade of Iranian ports.&nbsp;&nbsp;In April last week, Iran had forwarded a three stage proposal via Pakistan which Washington rejected. The first stage demanded a total end to the war, specifically hostilities on Hezbollah in Lebanon. The second stage focused on lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The third stage covered the contentious negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program are postponed. Tehran said that third stage would begin only after the ceasefire is established and the Strait is reopened.

Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal to end the war, increasing fears of renewed conflict in the Gulf region. Iran, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, warned it would retaliate against any new US attacks and opposed foreign naval deployments in the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 10) categorically rejected Iran's proposal for ending the war and termed it as "totally unacceptable," triggering fear of renewed conflict. Iran had responded to Washington's latest peace proposal earlier in the day, while warning it would not hold back from retaliating against any new US strikes or permit more foreign warships in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump himself provided no details on Tehran's counterproposal, and made the remarks on Truth Social platform. Trump had earlier said that he would not call the Iran war as a formal war but a military operation. He also said that it was terminated. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned it would retaliate against any new US attacks and opposed foreign naval deployments in the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: 'Italy was not there...': Trump targets Meloni again, hints at withdrawing troops from Italian bases "I have just read the response from Iran's so-called 'Representatives.' I don't like it -- TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!" Trump said. Trump also accused Iran of “playing games”. Iran “has been playing games with the United States, and the rest of the World, for 47 years”, the president wrote on Truth Social. “They will be laughing no longer!”

Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal to end the war, increasing fears of renewed conflict in the Gulf region. Iran, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, warned it would retaliate against any new US attacks and opposed foreign naval deployments in the Strait of Hormuz.

'I don't like it...': Trump rejects Iran's peace proposal, issues stark warning: War to restart soon?

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (May 9) backed Iran while calling its war with US a “difficult one.” Putin said that there is no evidence of Iran seeking to develop nuclear weapons. He once again offered to help the US in handling Iranian uranium and highlighted that it would be overseen by the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Putin highlighted Russia's past cooperation in 2015 and emphasised that ongoing projects, including the Bushehr nuclear plant in Iran, remain focused on peaceful energy purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking to the media after the Victory Day Parade in Moscow, Putin said, "As for Iran and the United States, it's a very difficult conflict. It puts us in a difficult position because we have good relations with Iran and with the Persian Gulf nations. We maintain contact with both sides. I hope that this conflict will be brought to an end as soon as possible. I believe no one is interested in keeping it going," Putin said, adding that compromises remain possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking on Iran's alleged ambition to acquire a nuclear weapon, “If everybody agrees to it, Iran can be fully confident that it will export these materials to a friendly country that has cooperated and will continue to cooperate on the peaceful atom, and it doesn't strive to weaponise it. We have never once said that there is any evidence about Iran's striving for nuclear weapons.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Putin also recalled previous initiatives to manage Iran's uranium program, including proposals to process uranium in joint ventures under international supervision. “Our offers are still on the table. First, we could see how much uranium there is. Second, it would all be under the control of the IAEA. And third, the work would be organised under the supervision of the IAEA. We just want to make a possible contribution.”&nbsp;Iran's nuclear programme has always remained a central issue in ongoing diplomatic tensions between Washington and Tehran as part of the negotiations in order to achieve a complete solution to the hostilities in West Asia. The US has turned down Russia's offer to take Iranian uranium.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-living-in-underground-bunkers-out-of-fear-of-assassination-coup-attempts-kremlin-dismisses-reports-1778229026216">Putin living in bunkers fearing assassination, coup attempts? Kremlin dismisses reports</a>&nbsp;<h2>Why Russia wants Iran's uranium?</h2>Russia's primary motivation to take Iran's uranium can be a way to project itself as a central mediator in the nuclear standoff between Tehran and the US. It becomes interesting as Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi arrived travelled to Russia, for high-level meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Since Tehran trusts Moscow more than Washington, Russia offers a secure location for the stockpile that satisfies Iranians as well as establishing a moral hegemony on the demands by the US.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-aggressive-force-armed-by-nato-putin-calls-moscow-s-war-in-ukraine-just-in-victory-day-speech-1778324718396"> ‘Aggressive force armed by NATO’: Putin calls Moscow’s war in Ukraine ‘just’ in Victory Day speech</a>&nbsp;Russia has proposed converting the highly enriched material into fuel for civilian nuclear reactors, potentially benefiting its own state nuclear corporation, Rosatom. But low-enriched uranium is commonly used for civilian nuclear reactors. Highly enriched uranium can potentially be used in nuclear weapons. According to US, Iran has roughly 450 kilograms enriched to 60 percent purity, around 1,000 kilograms enriched to 20 percent and about 8,500 kilograms enriched to 3.6 percent. The 60 percent stockpile is sensitive because it is considered only a short technical step from weapons-grade enrichment of about 90 percent. That makes Iran’s uranium special. Some analysts have also pointed out that the enriched uranium in Russia's custody gives them an edge in the hegemonic war with the West and a strategic leverage in the world plagued by wars.&nbsp;

Putin called the US-Iran conflict “very difficult” and said Russia sees no evidence that Iran seeks nuclear weapons. Putin backed renewed diplomacy, highlighted Russia’s role in Iran’s peaceful nuclear projects, and said Moscow remains ready to help

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (May 9) backed Iran while calling its war with US a “difficult one.” Putin said that there is no evidence of Iran seeking to develop nuclear weapons. He once again offered to help the US in handling Iranian uranium and highlighted that it would be overseen by the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Putin highlighted Russia's past cooperation in 2015 and emphasised that ongoing projects, including the Bushehr nuclear plant in Iran, remain focused on peaceful energy purposes. Speaking to the media after the Victory Day Parade in Moscow, Putin said, "As for Iran and the United States, it's a very difficult conflict. It puts us in a difficult position because we have good relations with Iran and with the Persian Gulf nations. We maintain contact with both sides. I hope that this conflict will be brought to an end as soon as possible. I believe no one is interested in keeping it going," Putin said, adding that compromises remain possible. Speaking on Iran's alleged ambition to acquire a nuclear weapon, “If everybody agrees to it, Iran can be fully confident that it will export these materials to a friendly country that has cooperated and will continue to cooperate on the peaceful atom, and it doesn't strive to weaponise it. We have never once said that there is any evidence about Iran's striving for nuclear weapons.” Putin also recalled previous initiatives to manage Iran's uranium program, including proposals to process uranium in joint ventures under international supervision. “Our offers are still on the table. First, we could see how much uranium there is. Second, it would all be under the control of the IAEA. And third, the work would be organised under the supervision of the IAEA. We just want to make a possible contribution.” Iran's nuclear programme has always remained a central issue in ongoing diplomatic tensions between Washington and Tehran as part of the negotiations in order to achieve a complete solution to the hostilities in West Asia. The US has turned down Russia's offer to take Iranian uranium. Also Read: Putin living in bunkers fearing assassination, coup attempts? Kremlin dismisses reports Why Russia wants Iran's uranium? Russia's primary motivation to take Iran's uranium can be a way to project itself as a central mediator in the nuclear standoff between Tehran and the US. It becomes interesting as Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi arrived travelled to Russia, for high-level meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Since Tehran trusts Moscow more than Washington, Russia offers a secure location for the stockpile that satisfies Iranians as well as establishing a moral hegemony on the demands by the US. Also Read: ‘Aggressive force armed by NATO’: Putin calls Moscow’s war in Ukraine ‘just’ in Victory Day speech Russia has proposed converting the highly enriched material into fuel for civilian nuclear reactors, potentially benefiting its own state nuclear corporation, Rosatom. But low-enriched uranium is commonly used for civilian nuclear reactors. Highly enriched uranium can potentially be used in nuclear weapons. According to US, Iran has roughly 450 kilograms enriched to 60 percent purity, around 1,000 kilograms enriched to 20 percent and about 8,500 kilograms enriched to 3.6 percent. The 60 percent stockpile is sensitive because it is considered only a short technical step from weapons-grade enrichment of about 90 percent. That makes Iran’s uranium special. Some analysts have also pointed out that the enriched uranium in Russia's custody gives them an edge in the hegemonic war with the West and a strategic leverage in the world plagued by wars.

Putin called the US-Iran conflict “very difficult” and said Russia sees no evidence that Iran seeks nuclear weapons. Putin backed renewed diplomacy, highlighted Russia’s role in Iran’s peaceful nuclear projects, and said Moscow remains ready to help

Putin offers to take Iranian uranium again, says no evidence of Tehran 'striving for nuclear weapons'

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 6) shared a post calling the recent Iran war as “incursion" and specified that it has been ongoing since 6 weeks. He shared a chart with the duration of the other wars US was involved in and seemed to justify his stance. Trump has been stating that Iran war has terminated to avoid Congressional approval for the same. Additionally, back channels talks between Iran and the US are underway with Trump insisting that there will be a deal soon and that Strait of Hormuz will be open. Trump has predicted that the war in Iran will be “over quickly.” An Axios report claimed that both sides will finalise a one-page memorandum. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that the American proposal is still being reviewed. Responding to the Axios report, Ebrahim Rezaei, the spokesperson of the Iranian Parliament's national security and foreign policy commission, wrote on X: "The Americans will not gain anything in a war they are losing that they have not gained in face-to-face negotiations."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-day-61-trump-says-won-t-call-iran-conflict-a-war-what-is-war-powers-resolution-iran-us-peace-talk-1777609357687">On Day 61, Trump says he won't call Iran conflict a 'war': Has the US 'terminated' Iran war? What's happening</a>&nbsp;While Trump’s comparison to past American wars is meant to justify the Iran war to the public, many analysts contend it may signal a continued conflict rather than an imminent end, as his remarks offer no clear timeline or strategy for de‑escalation and markets and experts remain uncertain about when the war will actually conclude.&nbsp;Earlier on Apr 1, which was his first address after the war began in Iran, Trump attempted to justify the war by comparing it to the other wars that America was involved in. While he did not provide a definitive date to end the ongoing operation, he did specify the duration of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean and Iraq wars and contrasted it with the latest American offensive on Iran, claiming it has been the shortest.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-only-32-days-trump-compares-iran-operation-to-vietnam-korea-iraq-and-world-wars-what-he-means-1775101353372">'Only 32 days': Trump compares Iran operation to Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World wars — What he means?</a> &nbsp;“It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective. American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War II lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation, so powerful, so brilliant against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat,” Trump had said in his 19-minute long speech.

Trump described the ongoing Iran conflict as an “incursion” lasting six weeks while defending it through comparisons with past US wars. As backchannel talks continue and a possible US-Iran memorandum is discussed, analysts remain uncertain about when the conflict will truly end.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (May 6) shared a post calling the recent Iran war as “incursion" and specified that it has been ongoing since 6 weeks. He shared a chart with the duration of the other wars US was involved in and seemed to justify his stance. Trump has been stating that Iran war has terminated to avoid Congressional approval for the same. Additionally, back channels talks between Iran and the US are underway with Trump insisting that there will be a deal soon and that Strait of Hormuz will be open. Trump has predicted that the war in Iran will be “over quickly.” An Axios report claimed that both sides will finalise a one-page memorandum. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that the American proposal is still being reviewed. Responding to the Axios report, Ebrahim Rezaei, the spokesperson of the Iranian Parliament's national security and foreign policy commission, wrote on X: "The Americans will not gain anything in a war they are losing that they have not gained in face-to-face negotiations." Also Read: On Day 61, Trump says he won't call Iran conflict a 'war': Has the US 'terminated' Iran war? What's happening While Trump’s comparison to past American wars is meant to justify the Iran war to the public, many analysts contend it may signal a continued conflict rather than an imminent end, as his remarks offer no clear timeline or strategy for de‑escalation and markets and experts remain uncertain about when the war will actually conclude. Earlier on Apr 1, which was his first address after the war began in Iran, Trump attempted to justify the war by comparing it to the other wars that America was involved in. While he did not provide a definitive date to end the ongoing operation, he did specify the duration of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean and Iraq wars and contrasted it with the latest American offensive on Iran, claiming it has been the shortest. Also Read: 'Only 32 days': Trump compares Iran operation to Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World wars — What he means? “It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective. American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War II lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation, so powerful, so brilliant against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat,” Trump had said in his 19-minute long speech.

Trump described the ongoing Iran conflict as an “incursion” lasting six weeks while defending it through comparisons with past US wars. As backchannel talks continue and a possible US-Iran memorandum is discussed, analysts remain uncertain about when the conflict will truly end.

Trump calls Iran conflict an ‘incursion’, compares its duration with Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World Wars

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday ( May 6) met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and held talks in Beijing, according to China's Xinhua news agency. Araghchi arrived in Beijing earlier today and said that he will discuss bilateral relations and regional and international developments with his Chinese counterpart. China is a key customer for Iranian oil, defying sanctions imposed by the United States as Washington seeks to choke off revenue to Tehran. The meeting also comes amid reports of China's backdoor mediation between Iran and US via Pakistan amid the war that began on Feb 28 this year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-day-61-trump-says-won-t-call-iran-conflict-a-war-what-is-war-powers-resolution-iran-us-peace-talk-1777609357687">On Day 61, Trump says he won't call Iran conflict a 'war': Has the US 'terminated' Iran war?</a><h2>US wants China to put pressure on Iran?</h2>Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on China to put pressure on Araghchi to loosen Tehran's chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil once transited. "I hope the Chinese tell (Araghchi) what he needs to be told, and that is that what you were doing in the straits is causing you to be globally isolated," Rubio told reporters.&nbsp;Also Read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-condemns-drone-attack-on-fujairah-as-unacceptable-after-3-indians-injured-we-support-peaceful-resolution-1777956631000">India condemns drone attack on Fujairah as 'unacceptable' after 3 Indians injured</a><h2>Is China mediating between Iran and US?</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>When Iran and US announced a ceasefire on Apr 7, Trump hinted that China might have played a role in convincing Iran to come to the negotiation table in Pakistan. The New York Times quoted three Iranian officials saying that Pakistan’s push for a ceasefire was coupled with China's intervention at the last minute “to show flexibility and defuse tensions.” The Associated Press quoted sources saying that Beijing pressured Iran for path of peace by working with intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt. The Chinese officials were constantly in touch with Iranian officials as the negotiations were evolving. China has not explicitly shown its role but it has maintained that Beijing has been working “tirelessly for peace.” The latest visit by Araghchi to China ahead of Trump's visit and Rubio's statement puts the spotlight back at China's role.<h2>Trump to travel to China</h2>Trump is due to travel to Beijing in May to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. He previously postponed his March visit after the war started in Iran. The visit is scheduled for May 14–15. Trump described the upcoming meeting as a major and historic occasion, adding that he also intends to host Xi and his wife in Washington, DC later this year. The trip will mark Trump’s first visit to China during his second term and is expected to focus heavily on improving strained trade relations between the two global economic powers. The two leaders last met in South Korea in October, where they agreed to ease tensions stemming from ongoing trade disputes initiated by US tariffs.

Abbas Araghchi met Wang Yi in Beijing ahead of Donald Trump’s China visit, amid tensions over Iran, oil trade, and the Strait of Hormuz, with the US urging China to pressure Tehran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday ( May 6) met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and held talks in Beijing, according to China's Xinhua news agency. Araghchi arrived in Beijing earlier today and said that he will discuss bilateral relations and regional and international developments with his Chinese counterpart. China is a key customer for Iranian oil, defying sanctions imposed by the United States as Washington seeks to choke off revenue to Tehran. The meeting also comes amid reports of China's backdoor mediation between Iran and US via Pakistan amid the war that began on Feb 28 this year. Also Read: On Day 61, Trump says he won't call Iran conflict a 'war': Has the US 'terminated' Iran war? US wants China to put pressure on Iran? Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on China to put pressure on Araghchi to loosen Tehran's chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil once transited. "I hope the Chinese tell (Araghchi) what he needs to be told, and that is that what you were doing in the straits is causing you to be globally isolated," Rubio told reporters. Also Read: India condemns drone attack on Fujairah as 'unacceptable' after 3 Indians injured Is China mediating between Iran and US? When Iran and US announced a ceasefire on Apr 7, Trump hinted that China might have played a role in convincing Iran to come to the negotiation table in Pakistan. The New York Times quoted three Iranian officials saying that Pakistan’s push for a ceasefire was coupled with China's intervention at the last minute “to show flexibility and defuse tensions.” The Associated Press quoted sources saying that Beijing pressured Iran for path of peace by working with intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt. The Chinese officials were constantly in touch with Iranian officials as the negotiations were evolving. China has not explicitly shown its role but it has maintained that Beijing has been working “tirelessly for peace.” The latest visit by Araghchi to China ahead of Trump's visit and Rubio's statement puts the spotlight back at China's role. Trump to travel to China Trump is due to travel to Beijing in May to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. He previously postponed his March visit after the war started in Iran. The visit is scheduled for May 14–15. Trump described the upcoming meeting as a major and historic occasion, adding that he also intends to host Xi and his wife in Washington, DC later this year. The trip will mark Trump’s first visit to China during his second term and is expected to focus heavily on improving strained trade relations between the two global economic powers. The two leaders last met in South Korea in October, where they agreed to ease tensions stemming from ongoing trade disputes initiated by US tariffs.

Abbas Araghchi met Wang Yi in Beijing ahead of Donald Trump’s China visit, amid tensions over Iran, oil trade, and the Strait of Hormuz, with the US urging China to pressure Tehran.

Iranian FM Araghchi holds talks with China's Wang Yi ahead of Trump's visit: Is Beijing the real Iran-US mediator?

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 3) said that a new maritime operation, called “Project Freedom,” will be undertaken as a "humanitarian" gesture for crews aboard the many ships swept up in the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz. Under this project, the US will “guide” stranded ships from the Iran-gripped Strait of Hormuz. Trump also added that "very positive discussions" were underway with Iran on finding a solution to the war. Special envoy Steve Witkoff also said that the US is “in conversation” with Iran as they weigh negotiations to end the war. Iran reportedly sent 14-point plan "focused on ending the war."&nbsp;In Truth Social, Trump said that “neutral and innocent” countries have been affected by the Iran war, and “we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business.” “We will use best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait. In all cases, they said they will not be returning until the area becomes safe for navigation.” Trump in his post adding that he was “fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-troop-reduction-in-germany-could-exceed-a-lot-further-1777798136433">Trump says troop reduction in Germany could exceed 'a lot further'</a>&nbsp;US Central Command said that it would use guided-missile destroyers, over 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms and 15,000 service members in the Hormuz effort. As of April 29, more than 900 commercial vessels were located in the Gulf, according to maritime intelligence firm AXSMarine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-are-trump-s-contradictory-statements-a-negotiation-technique-1777808662259">US-Iran War: Are Trump's Contradictory Statements A Negotiation Technique?</a><h2>What Iran said?</h2>Iran warned that it would consider any US attempt to interfere in the Strait of Hormuz a breach of ceasefire, after Trump said that the United States would begin escorting ships through the blocked waterway. The head of the Iranian parliament's national security commission said: "Any American interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire." Earlier, the Revolutionary Guards sought to put the onus back on Trump, saying he must choose between "an impossible operation or a bad deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran." Earlier, a spokesman for Iran's foreign ministry, Esmaeil Baqaei, told state television that Tehran had submitted a 14-point plan "focused on ending the war," and that Washington had responded to it in a message to Pakistani mediators.&nbsp;

Donald Trump announced “Project Freedom” to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid blockade tensions. While the US and Iran hold talks, Tehran warned any American interference would violate the ceasefire.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 3) said that a new maritime operation, called “Project Freedom,” will be undertaken as a "humanitarian" gesture for crews aboard the many ships swept up in the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz. Under this project, the US will “guide” stranded ships from the Iran-gripped Strait of Hormuz. Trump also added that "very positive discussions" were underway with Iran on finding a solution to the war. Special envoy Steve Witkoff also said that the US is “in conversation” with Iran as they weigh negotiations to end the war. Iran reportedly sent 14-point plan "focused on ending the war." In Truth Social, Trump said that “neutral and innocent” countries have been affected by the Iran war, and “we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business.” “We will use best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait. In all cases, they said they will not be returning until the area becomes safe for navigation.” Trump in his post adding that he was “fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all.” Also Read: Trump says troop reduction in Germany could exceed 'a lot further' US Central Command said that it would use guided-missile destroyers, over 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms and 15,000 service members in the Hormuz effort. As of April 29, more than 900 commercial vessels were located in the Gulf, according to maritime intelligence firm AXSMarine. Also Read: US-Iran War: Are Trump's Contradictory Statements A Negotiation Technique? What Iran said? Iran warned that it would consider any US attempt to interfere in the Strait of Hormuz a breach of ceasefire, after Trump said that the United States would begin escorting ships through the blocked waterway. The head of the Iranian parliament's national security commission said: "Any American interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire." Earlier, the Revolutionary Guards sought to put the onus back on Trump, saying he must choose between "an impossible operation or a bad deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran." Earlier, a spokesman for Iran's foreign ministry, Esmaeil Baqaei, told state television that Tehran had submitted a 14-point plan "focused on ending the war," and that Washington had responded to it in a message to Pakistani mediators.

Donald Trump announced “Project Freedom” to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid blockade tensions. While the US and Iran hold talks, Tehran warned any American interference would violate the ceasefire.

Trump launches 'Project Freedom' on Strait of Hormuz, Iran warns of ceasefire violation: What's happening

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Friday issued a blunt warning to Iran’s leadership, apparently comparing them to “rats in a sewer pipe” that are not aware of “what’s going on in the outside world," and said it should realise and accept the realities.&nbsp;In a blunt post on X, Bessent went on to state how the US has “complete control” of the Strait of Hormuz, besides the fact that Iran faces a dollar shortage, has put in place food and gasoline rationing, and that the “entire international community” has turned against Tehran. Bessent concluded the post by defending President Donald Trump’s naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, saying, “The BLOCKADE will continue until there is pre-February 27 Freedom of Navigation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-secures-deals-with-leading-ai-firms-anthropic-still-a-supply-chain-risk-1777653838666">Pentagon secures deals with leading AI firms; Anthropic still a ‘supply chain risk’</a>&nbsp;The US Treasury Secretary said in his post, “It is very difficult for rats in a sewer pipe to know what’s going on in the outside world. Some colour for the Iranian Leadership as they literally sit in the dark: 1. The United States has complete control of the Strait of Hormuz. 2. There is a hard currency, i.e. U.S. dollar, shortage. 3. Food and gasoline rationing are in place. 4. The entire international community has turned against you. 5. The BLOCKADE will continue, until there is pre-February 27 Freedom of Navigation.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran is the head of the snake for global terrorism, and under <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>’ leadership, Treasury is moving aggressively, through Economic Fury, to sever the Iranian military’s financial lifelines. We will relentlessly target the regime’s ability to generate, move, and repatriate funds,… <a href="https://t.co/XeTLbeIjOf">https://t.co/XeTLbeIjOf</a>&mdash; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent (@SecScottBessent) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecScottBessent/status/2050248660294754575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The US naval blockade has turned the tables on Iran, which for years survived financial pressure by selling oil to China via shadow ships by defying US sanctions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-dispatched-fresh-proposal-for-peace-negotiations-with-us-to-pakistan-state-media-1777643999072">Iran has dispatched fresh proposal for peace negotiations with US to Pakistan: State media</a>&nbsp;Tehran attacked ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz and shut down commercial traffic, blocking oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.The US blockade shut down Iran’s network of shadow ships, which clandestinely transferred their cargoes to China. After the blockade, these tankers have been unable to breach the cordon of US warships that have chased them all the way to the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-raises-terror-threat-level-to-severe-after-anti-semitic-attack-in-north-london-s-golders-green-1777571980264">Britain raises terror threat level to ‘severe’ after anti-semitic attack in North London’s Golders Green</a>&nbsp;The spiralling crisis has reportedly split Iran’s political system between moderates like President Masoud Pezeshkian and the hardliners including Saeed Jalili, who leads the most conservative faction.The moderates prefer negotiating a favourable deal with President Trump, who seems eager to end the war. The moderates fear that Iranians are growing tired of the conflict after an initial nationalist uptick.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-man-26-kills-self-in-us-over-not-getting-job-after-studies-help-pours-for-debt-ridden-family-1777635730587">Andhra man, 26, kills self in US over not getting job after studies; help pours for debt-ridden family</a>&nbsp;Trump has asked his aides to prepare for an extended blockade that could remain in place until Iran accedes to his nuclear demands. “The blockade is genius, OK, the blockade has been 100% foolproof,” he told reporters.&nbsp;The war has impacted Iran’s economy heavily, as more than a million people are out of work, food prices are soaring and a prolonged internet shutdown has smashed online businesses. Iran’s economy is facing the risk of collapse as the value of its currency has more than halved since a year ago, and the US dollar’s exchange rate surged to 1.81 million rials.

The US naval blockade has shut down Iran’s network of shadow ships, which clandestinely transported oil to China. After the blockade, these tankers have been unable to breach the cordon of US warships that have chased them all the way to the Indian Ocean.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Friday issued a blunt warning to Iran’s leadership, apparently comparing them to “rats in a sewer pipe” that are not aware of “what’s going on in the outside world," and said it should realise and accept the realities. In a blunt post on X, Bessent went on to state how the US has “complete control” of the Strait of Hormuz, besides the fact that Iran faces a dollar shortage, has put in place food and gasoline rationing, and that the “entire international community” has turned against Tehran. Bessent concluded the post by defending President Donald Trump’s naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, saying, “The BLOCKADE will continue until there is pre-February 27 Freedom of Navigation.” Also Read: Pentagon secures deals with leading AI firms; Anthropic still a ‘supply chain risk’ The US Treasury Secretary said in his post, “It is very difficult for rats in a sewer pipe to know what’s going on in the outside world. Some colour for the Iranian Leadership as they literally sit in the dark: 1. The United States has complete control of the Strait of Hormuz. 2. There is a hard currency, i.e. U.S. dollar, shortage. 3. Food and gasoline rationing are in place. 4. The entire international community has turned against you. 5. The BLOCKADE will continue, until there is pre-February 27 Freedom of Navigation.”

The US naval blockade has shut down Iran’s network of shadow ships, which clandestinely transported oil to China. After the blockade, these tankers have been unable to breach the cordon of US warships that have chased them all the way to the Indian Ocean.

‘Rats in sewer pipe’: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says Iranian leadership sitting in the dark, unaware of realities

Israel has reportedly told the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that Iran is planning to launch short-range missiles towards the country and has sent advanced weapons systems, including a newly operational laser-based air defense system, to &nbsp;to help counter Iranian missile and drone attacks, according to a report published Thursday (Apr 30) in the Financial Times.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/uae-bans-travel-to-iran-lebanon-and-iraq-here-what-could-be-the-reason-iran-us-war-isarel-america-airstrikes-1777601673091">'Current developments...': UAE bans travel to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq: Here's why</a>&nbsp;Citing two people familiar with the matter, the report said that Israel also rushed surveillance system called Spectro, which can help the UAE to detect incoming drones. Earlier this week, reports indicated that Israel had also sent an “Iron Dome” air defense system to the Gulf country, along with personnel. This comes after Iran reportedly launched more than 500 ballistic missiles and over 2,000 drones toward the UAE. Israel's help to the UAE is being seen as relations between the two nations amid Israel and UE after the Abraham Accords. It was signed in 2020, alongside Bahrain, with US mediation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/uae-bans-travel-to-iran-lebanon-and-iraq-here-what-could-be-the-reason-iran-us-war-isarel-america-airstrikes-1777601673091">'Current developments...': UAE bans travel to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq: Here's why</a><h2>UAE issues travel ban</h2>The UAE has banned its ​citizens ​from travelling to ⁠Iran, ​Lebanon and ​Iraq, and urged its national ​currently ​in those countries ‌to ⁠leave immediately and return ​home, ​citing "current developments witnessed in the region.” The announcement was made in a foreign ​ministry ⁠statement on ⁠Thursday (Apr 30). The ministry urged citizens “currently present in these countries” to leave immediately and return to the UAE “at the earliest opportunity,” citing the government’s commitment “to monitoring the well-being of its citizens abroad and ensuring their safety.” “In light of the current developments taking place in the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces a travel ban for citizens of the United Arab Emirates to the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Lebanese Republic and the Republic of Iraq,” the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted on X.

Israel reportedly deployed advanced systems like Iron Beam and Iron Dome to the United Arab Emirates to counter Iran drones and missiles, as tensions rise. The UAE also issued a travel ban to Iran, Iraq and Lebanon.

Israel has reportedly told the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that Iran is planning to launch short-range missiles towards the country and has sent advanced weapons systems, including a newly operational laser-based air defense system, to to help counter Iranian missile and drone attacks, according to a report published Thursday (Apr 30) in the Financial Times. Also Read: 'Current developments...': UAE bans travel to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq: Here's why Citing two people familiar with the matter, the report said that Israel also rushed surveillance system called Spectro, which can help the UAE to detect incoming drones. Earlier this week, reports indicated that Israel had also sent an “Iron Dome” air defense system to the Gulf country, along with personnel. This comes after Iran reportedly launched more than 500 ballistic missiles and over 2,000 drones toward the UAE. Israel's help to the UAE is being seen as relations between the two nations amid Israel and UE after the Abraham Accords. It was signed in 2020, alongside Bahrain, with US mediation. Also Read: 'Current developments...': UAE bans travel to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq: Here's why UAE issues travel ban The UAE has banned its citizens from travelling to ⁠Iran, Lebanon and Iraq, and urged its national currently in those countries ‌to ⁠leave immediately and return home, citing "current developments witnessed in the region.” The announcement was made in a foreign ministry ⁠statement on ⁠Thursday (Apr 30). The ministry urged citizens “currently present in these countries” to leave immediately and return to the UAE “at the earliest opportunity,” citing the government’s commitment “to monitoring the well-being of its citizens abroad and ensuring their safety.” “In light of the current developments taking place in the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces a travel ban for citizens of the United Arab Emirates to the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Lebanese Republic and the Republic of Iraq,” the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted on X.

Israel reportedly deployed advanced systems like Iron Beam and Iron Dome to the United Arab Emirates to counter Iran drones and missiles, as tensions rise. The UAE also issued a travel ban to Iran, Iraq and Lebanon.

Iran to renew attacks in Gulf? Israel rushes laser system to UAE to intercept Iranian missiles and drones

As the War Powers Resolution deadline approached, US President Donald Trump made a massive U-turn and said that he would not call the Iran war as a formal war but a military operation. This comes from the US president just a month after he openly compared the Iran operations to the other wars that America has been involved in, and justified its tenure. Trump administration is also arguing that Congress nod is not required as the ceasefire between Iran and the US was announced on Apr 7. AP reported quoting unnamed senior administration official, that purposes of that law, “the hostilities that began on Saturday, Feb. 28 have terminated.” The official said the US military and Iran have not exchanged fire since the two-week ceasefire that began April 7. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also made similar statements.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-only-32-days-trump-compares-iran-operation-to-vietnam-korea-iraq-and-world-wars-what-he-means-1775101353372">Trump compares Iran operation to Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World wars — What he means?</a><h2>What Trump said on Apr 1?</h2>In his address to the nation on Apr 1, Trump did not provide a definitive date to end the ongoing operation, but he did specify the timelines of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean and Iraq wars and contrasted it with the latest American offensive on Iran and said that it has only been 32 days. “It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective. American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War II lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation, so powerful, so brilliant against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat,” Trump said in his 19-minute long speech.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-wants-iran-in-stone-age-but-forgets-to-make-iran-great-again-a-look-at-buzzwords-misses-takeaways-from-potus-speech-1775104297198">Trump wants Iran in 'stone age' but forgets to 'Make Iran Great Again'</a><h2>What Trump said on Apr 30?</h2>Speaking at an executive order signing in the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 30) said that despite the military operation in Iran, he will not call it a war. He claimed that the US has destroyed Iranian navy and air force but opined that it is not a formal war. He stated “And that's despite a military operation. I don't call it a war. I'd rather have a military operation.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&#39;Iran is DYING to make a deal&#39; — Trump &#39;I don’t call it a war. Would rather have a military operation&#39; <a href="https://t.co/v4y3qA6o0T">https://t.co/v4y3qA6o0T</a> <a href="https://t.co/QfzQsVYV09">pic.twitter.com/QfzQsVYV09</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/2049931083072893114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What we know about Iran-US peace talks?</h2>Meanwhile, the US president was expected to hear about updated military options for Iran from Pentagon officials as he pressures Tehran into agreeing to a deal. The talks between Iran and the US to end the war has been stalled all over again. Iran sent a fresh 3-staged process plan but Trump was unhappy with the proposal. The first stage demanded a total end to the war, specifically hostilities on Hezbollah in Lebanon. The second stage called for lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The third stage was negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. On Thursday, Trump said only he and “a couple of other people” know status of peace talks.<h2>What is War Powers Resolution?</h2>Under the War Powers Resolution, the law that sought to constrain a president’s military powers, Trump had until Friday to seek congressional authorization or cease fighting. The law also allows an administration to extend that deadline by 30 days. Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, presidents must notify Congress within 48 hours of initiating military action and withdraw troops within 60 days unless lawmakers authorize continued use of force. Lawmakers had anticipated that this deadline would expire on Friday (May 1).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump said the Iran conflict is a “military operation,” not a war, as the War Powers Resolution deadline nears. The US cites an April 7 ceasefire and claims hostilities have ended, avoiding the need for Congressional approval.

As the War Powers Resolution deadline approached, US President Donald Trump made a massive U-turn and said that he would not call the Iran war as a formal war but a military operation. This comes from the US president just a month after he openly compared the Iran operations to the other wars that America has been involved in, and justified its tenure. Trump administration is also arguing that Congress nod is not required as the ceasefire between Iran and the US was announced on Apr 7. AP reported quoting unnamed senior administration official, that purposes of that law, “the hostilities that began on Saturday, Feb. 28 have terminated.” The official said the US military and Iran have not exchanged fire since the two-week ceasefire that began April 7. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also made similar statements. Also Read: Trump compares Iran operation to Vietnam, Korea, Iraq and World wars — What he means? What Trump said on Apr 1? In his address to the nation on Apr 1, Trump did not provide a definitive date to end the ongoing operation, but he did specify the timelines of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean and Iraq wars and contrasted it with the latest American offensive on Iran and said that it has only been 32 days. “It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective. American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War II lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation, so powerful, so brilliant against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat,” Trump said in his 19-minute long speech. Also Read: Trump wants Iran in 'stone age' but forgets to 'Make Iran Great Again' What Trump said on Apr 30? Speaking at an executive order signing in the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Apr 30) said that despite the military operation in Iran, he will not call it a war. He claimed that the US has destroyed Iranian navy and air force but opined that it is not a formal war. He stated “And that's despite a military operation. I don't call it a war. I'd rather have a military operation.”

Donald Trump said the Iran conflict is a “military operation,” not a war, as the War Powers Resolution deadline nears. The US cites an April 7 ceasefire and claims hostilities have ended, avoiding the need for Congressional approval.

On Day 61, Trump says he won't call Iran conflict a 'war': Has the US 'terminated' Iran war? What's happening

The United Arab Emirates has banned citizens from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq, urging those there to return amid rising regional tensions, as reports suggest Israeli air defense systems like Iron Dome may have been deployed in the UAE.

The United Arab Emirates has banned citizens from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq, urging those there to return amid rising regional tensions, as reports suggest Israeli air defense systems like Iron Dome may have been deployed in the UAE.

'Current developments...': UAE bans travel to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq: Here's why

The war in West Asia and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz propelled a stinging disruption in supply chains, impairing industrial competitiveness, inflating household expenditures, and destabilising domestic order. Countries in the subcontinent are net importers of hydrocarbons from West Asia, with the Strait of Hormuz serving as a critical conduit. Since the beginning of the war, Sri Lanka has re-launched the National Fuel Authorisation System to ration fuel supplies. In Pakistan, supply chain disruptions have hamstrung fertiliser reserves in the kharif season, impacting agricultural productivity and food security. The subcontinent’s landlocked small states—Bhutan and Nepal—depend on India for hydrocarbon imports and, thereby, are experiencing second-order vulnerability.&nbsp;While the crisis has amplified the subcontinent’s economic and political predicaments, it opened a window for a reset in the bilateral relations of India and Bangladesh. In March, Bangladesh imposed rationing amid stockpiling and panic-buying. Three of its largest sources of hydrocarbon and aluminium imports—Qatar, Iraq, and the UAE—declared force majeure on production, after Iran targeted their energy infrastructure. Last month, amid public anxiety, Bangladesh received 5000 tonnes of diesel via the Indo-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline. An additional 5000 tonnes arrived on April 10, while the government is expected to import another 17000 tonnes to assuage concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-sheikh-hasina-and-her-awami-league-find-space-in-tarique-rahman-s-new-bangladesh-amid-jamaat-s-rise-1771229273915">Will Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League find space in Tarique Rahman’s ‘new Bangladesh’ amid Jamaat’s rise?</a>&nbsp;Apart from Bangladesh, India has supplied 38000 metric tonnes of oil products to Sri Lanka and has continued uninterrupted deliveries to Bhutan and Nepal. Similar requests from Malé are also being considered. But the uniqueness of the Bangladeshi case is lent primarily by the trajectory of Indo-Bangladesh relations since 2024. For 15 years, the dominant frame circumscribing Dhaka–Delhi bonhomie was personalistic—the Awami League-led regime of Sheikh Hasina. The regime cracked down on separatist elements operating in India’s Northeast from Bangladesh’s soil and evolved enduring institutional arrangements, such as the Ganga Waters Treaty and the land boundary agreement. Connectivity was a major plank of the bilateral relationship: railway lines were restored, and, in 2023, the Friendship Pipeline was inaugurated. With the fall of Hasina, the relations entered a frigid phase. Anti-India sentiment gained traction in Bangladesh, particularly after the assassination of Osman Hadi. Bangladesh imposed restrictions on the import of rice and yarn from India, while the two neighbours exchanged acrimonious terms on the question of Hasina’s extradition.&nbsp;The relations now seem to have entered a phase of cautious but strategic recalibration. India and Bangladesh are future-proofing their bilateral ties by embedding them in structural necessity and pragmatism. The logic of geography—India and Bangladesh share one of the longest land borders in the world—and economic rationalism are expected to lend credence to functional cooperation between the two states, which will sustain stability amid geopolitical and domestic headwinds.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-let-s-keep-working-says-bangladesh-envoy-hamidullah-after-fm-rahman-s-intense-delhi-week-1775993352889">‘Let’s keep working,’ says Bangladesh envoy Hamidullah after FM Rahman’s intense Delhi week</a>&nbsp;Functional cooperation serves four ends. First, by focussing on concrete, specialised shared problems, it denotes responsibility in both actors. It helps devise mechanisms for cooperation that employ best practices and lessons from both countries. Second, as these mechanisms gradually institutionalise, they lower transaction costs and make trade-offs in bilateral negotiations more agreeable and structured, rather than making a relationship a zero-sum game. Third, they create issue-linkages, cultivating interdependencies and constraining the unilateral exercise of power by imposing costs. Lastly, functional dimensions spawn expert, issue-specific networks in civil societies that diffuse norms that inform state behaviour. In the case of Bangladesh and India, river-water sharing, power, and trade can provide these critical linkages.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Ganga Waters Treaty (GWT) recognises transboundary riparian interdependence; its expiry in 2026 provides low-hanging fruit for renewing cooperative mechanisms. The revival of negotiations of the Joint Rivers Commission and the Technical Committee is a welcome development and should be made time-bound and cross-sectional. The treaty will inevitably need to revise its base years for measuring the river’s flow; the process must be backed by a mutually agreed-upon scientific methodology. The Ganges basin has experienced the cascading impact of climate change, which has hampered flows in dry seasons. A forward-looking renewal of the treaty must therefore be climate-responsive and data-driven to address this shared vulnerability.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasina-s-unfiltered-interview-minorities-live-in-fear-mob-terror-rules-bangladesh-wion-1769484942121/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasina-s-unfiltered-interview-minorities-live-in-fear-mob-terror-rules-bangladesh-wion-1769484942121/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;But these negotiations have a gestation period. By contrast, the opening of closed land ports and border haats between India and Bangladesh will deliver immediate relief to clogged supply chains and small traders, especially of yarn, garments, and plastic products, reducing the burden on the Benapole–Petrapole crossing. Harmonising regulations can decrease costs and time in the passage of bilateral trade.&nbsp;In addition, the template of power cooperation, largely founded on hydrocarbons, can be replicated to support the neighbours’ green transition goals. The conclusion of a tripartite power-purchase agreement among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh can be expanded in scope to include Bhutan. India and Bangladesh can also explore bilateral interdependencies in hydropower cooperation, with notable hydropower projects coming up in India’s Northeast, cutting costs and time.&nbsp;The crisis in West Asia has forced a reckoning with structural realities and avenues of cooperation. Functional cooperation on issues of river-water sharing, power, and bilateral trade can spill over into trust-building. By prioritising issue-based interdependencies, Dhaka and New Delhi can shield development and connectivity from domestic contestations, imparting resilience and predictability to their relations and the region at large.&nbsp;DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of WION.

West Asia war and the Strait of Hormuz disruption hit South Asia’s fuel supply chains. Amid crisis, India and Bangladesh are rebuilding ties through energy, trade, and water cooperation, boosting regional stability.

The war in West Asia and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz propelled a stinging disruption in supply chains, impairing industrial competitiveness, inflating household expenditures, and destabilising domestic order. Countries in the subcontinent are net importers of hydrocarbons from West Asia, with the Strait of Hormuz serving as a critical conduit. Since the beginning of the war, Sri Lanka has re-launched the National Fuel Authorisation System to ration fuel supplies. In Pakistan, supply chain disruptions have hamstrung fertiliser reserves in the kharif season, impacting agricultural productivity and food security. The subcontinent’s landlocked small states—Bhutan and Nepal—depend on India for hydrocarbon imports and, thereby, are experiencing second-order vulnerability. While the crisis has amplified the subcontinent’s economic and political predicaments, it opened a window for a reset in the bilateral relations of India and Bangladesh. In March, Bangladesh imposed rationing amid stockpiling and panic-buying. Three of its largest sources of hydrocarbon and aluminium imports—Qatar, Iraq, and the UAE—declared force majeure on production, after Iran targeted their energy infrastructure. Last month, amid public anxiety, Bangladesh received 5000 tonnes of diesel via the Indo-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline. An additional 5000 tonnes arrived on April 10, while the government is expected to import another 17000 tonnes to assuage concerns. Also Read: Will Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League find space in Tarique Rahman’s ‘new Bangladesh’ amid Jamaat’s rise? Apart from Bangladesh, India has supplied 38000 metric tonnes of oil products to Sri Lanka and has continued uninterrupted deliveries to Bhutan and Nepal. Similar requests from Malé are also being considered. But the uniqueness of the Bangladeshi case is lent primarily by the trajectory of Indo-Bangladesh relations since 2024. For 15 years, the dominant frame circumscribing Dhaka–Delhi bonhomie was personalistic—the Awami League-led regime of Sheikh Hasina. The regime cracked down on separatist elements operating in India’s Northeast from Bangladesh’s soil and evolved enduring institutional arrangements, such as the Ganga Waters Treaty and the land boundary agreement. Connectivity was a major plank of the bilateral relationship: railway lines were restored, and, in 2023, the Friendship Pipeline was inaugurated. With the fall of Hasina, the relations entered a frigid phase. Anti-India sentiment gained traction in Bangladesh, particularly after the assassination of Osman Hadi. Bangladesh imposed restrictions on the import of rice and yarn from India, while the two neighbours exchanged acrimonious terms on the question of Hasina’s extradition. The relations now seem to have entered a phase of cautious but strategic recalibration. India and Bangladesh are future-proofing their bilateral ties by embedding them in structural necessity and pragmatism. The logic of geography—India and Bangladesh share one of the longest land borders in the world—and economic rationalism are expected to lend credence to functional cooperation between the two states, which will sustain stability amid geopolitical and domestic headwinds. Also Read: ‘Let’s keep working,’ says Bangladesh envoy Hamidullah after FM Rahman’s intense Delhi week Functional cooperation serves four ends. First, by focussing on concrete, specialised shared problems, it denotes responsibility in both actors. It helps devise mechanisms for cooperation that employ best practices and lessons from both countries. Second, as these mechanisms gradually institutionalise, they lower transaction costs and make trade-offs in bilateral negotiations more agreeable and structured, rather than making a relationship a zero-sum game. Third, they create issue-linkages, cultivating interdependencies and constraining the unilateral exercise of power by imposing costs. Lastly, functional dimensions spawn expert, issue-specific networks in civil societies that diffuse norms that inform state behaviour. In the case of Bangladesh and India, river-water sharing, power, and trade can provide these critical linkages. The Ganga Waters Treaty (GWT) recognises transboundary riparian interdependence; its expiry in 2026 provides low-hanging fruit for renewing cooperative mechanisms. The revival of negotiations of the Joint Rivers Commission and the Technical Committee is a welcome development and should be made time-bound and cross-sectional. The treaty will inevitably need to revise its base years for measuring the river’s flow; the process must be backed by a mutually agreed-upon scientific methodology. The Ganges basin has experienced the cascading impact of climate change, which has hampered flows in dry seasons. A forward-looking renewal of the treaty must therefore be climate-responsive and data-driven to address this shared vulnerability. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasina-s-unfiltered-interview-minorities-live-in-fear-mob-terror-rules-bangladesh-wion-1769484942121/embed But these negotiations have a gestation period. By contrast, the opening of closed land ports and border haats between India and Bangladesh will deliver immediate relief to clogged supply chains and small traders, especially of yarn, garments, and plastic products, reducing the burden on the Benapole–Petrapole crossing. Harmonising regulations can decrease costs and time in the passage of bilateral trade. In addition, the template of power cooperation, largely founded on hydrocarbons, can be replicated to support the neighbours’ green transition goals. The conclusion of a tripartite power-purchase agreement among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh can be expanded in scope to include Bhutan. India and Bangladesh can also explore bilateral interdependencies in hydropower cooperation, with notable hydropower projects coming up in India’s Northeast, cutting costs and time. The crisis in West Asia has forced a reckoning with structural realities and avenues of cooperation. Functional cooperation on issues of river-water sharing, power, and bilateral trade can spill over into trust-building. By prioritising issue-based interdependencies, Dhaka and New Delhi can shield development and connectivity from domestic contestations, imparting resilience and predictability to their relations and the region at large. DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of WION.

West Asia war and the Strait of Hormuz disruption hit South Asia’s fuel supply chains. Amid crisis, India and Bangladesh are rebuilding ties through energy, trade, and water cooperation, boosting regional stability.

Crisis as catalyst: Recalibrating India–Bangladesh ties

US President Donald Trump said that Russian President Vladimir Putin, &nbsp;in a phone call, offered his help in solving the nuclear programme issue with Iran. He said that Putin offered to take Iran’s buried uranium to Russia. Kremlin aide also confirmed that Putin put forward ideas on resolving the conflict over Iran's nuclear programme. The US president dismissed his offer and said that he would want to end the Russia-Ukraine war first. Stating that he had a "very good conversation" with Putin, Trump said that he brushed aside Russian president's idea to get involved” in the Iran-US conflict. Russia has pushed to take Iran's uranium a number of times.&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>"I said I'd much rather have you be involved with ending the war with Ukraine. I said, before you help me, I want to end your war," said Trump in the phone call with Putin.</blockquote><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/has-iran-turned-to-putin-russia-emerges-as-key-voice-in-peace-push-1777491013324/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/has-iran-turned-to-putin-russia-emerges-as-key-voice-in-peace-push-1777491013324/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Russia's push to get Iran's uranium</h2>The Russia first proposed in June 2025, after Israel and the US attacked Iran, that ​it is ready to take control of Iran's uranium stock, ​but no action was taken. Vladimir Putin-led nation made similar offer this week, however, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying that America has rejected the offer. Notably, Russia has one of the largest stockpile of nuclear weapons in the world. "Russia ​was prepared to accept Iran's enriched uranium on its ​territory," state news agency RIA said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Indian television channel India Today. “This would be a good ​decision. But unfortunately the American side rejected this ​proposal,” he added. Earlier, Peskov said, “This proposal was made by President Putin in conversations with both the United States and regional states. The offer still stands, but has not been acted upon." A Russian deputy foreign minister, last year, ⁠suggested ​Russia was willing to remove ​the stockpile from Iran and convert it to civilian reactor fuel to ​help facilitate negotiations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-alexey-mordashov-russia-s-richest-man-linked-to-superyacht-that-sailed-through-hormuz-what-s-his-net-worth-1777446954333">Meet Alexey Mordashov, Russian man linked to superyacht that sailed through Hormuz: What's his net-worth</a><h2>Why Russia wants Iran's uranium?</h2>Russia's primary motivation to take Iran's uranium can be a way to project itself as a central mediator in the nuclear standoff between Tehran and the US. It becomes interesting as Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi arrived travelled to Russia, for high-level meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Since Tehran trusts Moscow more than Washington, Russia offers a secure location for the stockpile that satisfies Iranians as well as establishing a moral hegemony on the demands by the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-condemns-shooting-discusses-iran-war-ukraine-ceasefire-with-trump-in-phone-call-1777493343178">Putin condemns shooting, discusses Iran War, Ukraine ceasefire with Trump in phone call</a>&nbsp;Russia has proposed converting the highly enriched material into fuel for civilian nuclear reactors, potentially benefiting its own state nuclear corporation, Rosatom. But low-enriched uranium is commonly used for civilian nuclear reactors. Highly enriched uranium can potentially be used in nuclear weapons. According to US, Iran has roughly 450 kilograms enriched to 60 percent purity, around 1,000 kilograms enriched to 20 percent and about 8,500 kilograms enriched to 3.6 percent. The 60 percent stockpile is sensitive because it is considered only a short technical step from weapons-grade enrichment of about 90 percent. That makes Iran’s uranium special. Some analysts have also pointed out that the enriched uranium in Russia's custody gives them an edge in the hegemonic war with the West and a strategic leverage in the world plagued by wars.&nbsp;

Trump says Putin offered help on Iran nuclear uranium issue during phone call, but Trump pushed for focus on Ukraine war. Russia proposed storing Iran enriched uranium as mediator. Talks highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Ukraine, US, and Russia diplomacy.

US President Donald Trump said that Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a phone call, offered his help in solving the nuclear programme issue with Iran. He said that Putin offered to take Iran’s buried uranium to Russia. Kremlin aide also confirmed that Putin put forward ideas on resolving the conflict over Iran's nuclear programme. The US president dismissed his offer and said that he would want to end the Russia-Ukraine war first. Stating that he had a "very good conversation" with Putin, Trump said that he brushed aside Russian president's idea to get involved” in the Iran-US conflict. Russia has pushed to take Iran's uranium a number of times. "I said I'd much rather have you be involved with ending the war with Ukraine. I said, before you help me, I want to end your war," said Trump in the phone call with Putin. https://www.wionews.com/videos/has-iran-turned-to-putin-russia-emerges-as-key-voice-in-peace-push-1777491013324/embed Russia's push to get Iran's uranium The Russia first proposed in June 2025, after Israel and the US attacked Iran, that it is ready to take control of Iran's uranium stock, but no action was taken. Vladimir Putin-led nation made similar offer this week, however, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying that America has rejected the offer. Notably, Russia has one of the largest stockpile of nuclear weapons in the world. "Russia was prepared to accept Iran's enriched uranium on its territory," state news agency RIA said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Indian television channel India Today. “This would be a good decision. But unfortunately the American side rejected this proposal,” he added. Earlier, Peskov said, “This proposal was made by President Putin in conversations with both the United States and regional states. The offer still stands, but has not been acted upon." A Russian deputy foreign minister, last year, ⁠suggested Russia was willing to remove the stockpile from Iran and convert it to civilian reactor fuel to help facilitate negotiations. Also Read: Meet Alexey Mordashov, Russian man linked to superyacht that sailed through Hormuz: What's his net-worth Why Russia wants Iran's uranium? Russia's primary motivation to take Iran's uranium can be a way to project itself as a central mediator in the nuclear standoff between Tehran and the US. It becomes interesting as Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi arrived travelled to Russia, for high-level meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Since Tehran trusts Moscow more than Washington, Russia offers a secure location for the stockpile that satisfies Iranians as well as establishing a moral hegemony on the demands by the US. Also Read: Putin condemns shooting, discusses Iran War, Ukraine ceasefire with Trump in phone call Russia has proposed converting the highly enriched material into fuel for civilian nuclear reactors, potentially benefiting its own state nuclear corporation, Rosatom. But low-enriched uranium is commonly used for civilian nuclear reactors. Highly enriched uranium can potentially be used in nuclear weapons. According to US, Iran has roughly 450 kilograms enriched to 60 percent purity, around 1,000 kilograms enriched to 20 percent and about 8,500 kilograms enriched to 3.6 percent. The 60 percent stockpile is sensitive because it is considered only a short technical step from weapons-grade enrichment of about 90 percent. That makes Iran’s uranium special. Some analysts have also pointed out that the enriched uranium in Russia's custody gives them an edge in the hegemonic war with the West and a strategic leverage in the world plagued by wars.

Trump says Putin offered help on Iran nuclear uranium issue during phone call, but Trump pushed for focus on Ukraine war. Russia proposed storing Iran enriched uranium as mediator. Talks highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Ukraine, US, and Russia diplomacy.

Trump says Putin offered help with Iran enriched uranium: Why Russia wants Iranian uranium?

US President Donald Trump appeared to have mixed up Ukraine and Iran while responding to a question about which war he thought would end first. The interaction went viral as Trump spoke to during press event for the Artemis II mission crew.&nbsp; &nbsp;When a reporter asked the Trump which war might conclude first, the years-long Russian invasion of Ukraine or the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran, Trump said, “I don’t know. Maybe they’re on a similar timetable." But then he gave an analysis and seemed to be confused: “I think Ukraine, militarily, they’re defeated.” He then described massive naval and air losses, saying, “They had 159 ships. Every ship is underwater… Every one of their planes has been shot down or has been decimated,” Trump claimed. “They have missiles, about 82% are gone, and they have drones, and most of them are gone.” Trump struggled to clearly separate references to Ukraine and Iran while answering questions on which conflict might end first.<h2>WATCH VIDEO HERE</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump doesn’t know the difference between Ukraine and Iran. We are so screwed. <a href="https://t.co/v99GFaxJx2">pic.twitter.com/v99GFaxJx2</a>&mdash; Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/krassenstein/status/2049595590485446699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Naval claims don’t match Ukraine’s reality</h3>According to reports, military analysts flagged a major inconsistency in Trump’s remarks about Ukraine’s navy. Ukraine’s naval capacity was significantly reduced early in the Russian invasion of Ukraine, making claims of “159 ships” inaccurate. Experts note that similar figures have previously been used in reference to Iran, not Ukraine. Reports also quoted experts saying that statements about Ukraine’s air force being wiped out are incorrect. Despite sustained pressure, Ukraine continues to operate its air force and has recently integrated F-16 fighter jets. In contrast, assessments from United States Central Command (CENTCOM) suggest that Iran’s air defence systems have suffered heavier damage, indicating the comments may better align with Iran’s situation. Another point was the repeated claim that ships were “underwater.” Analysts pointed out that Trump has often used similar language when discussing tensions in the Persian Gulf. This statement does not go in tandem with the dynamics of the Black Sea conflict involving Ukraine.

Donald Trump faced backlash after appearing to confuse details about the Ukraine and Iran conflicts during an Oval Office Q&A. His claim that Ukraine was “militarily defeated” sparked criticism and raised concerns over accuracy.

US President Donald Trump appeared to have mixed up Ukraine and Iran while responding to a question about which war he thought would end first. The interaction went viral as Trump spoke to during press event for the Artemis II mission crew. When a reporter asked the Trump which war might conclude first, the years-long Russian invasion of Ukraine or the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran, Trump said, “I don’t know. Maybe they’re on a similar timetable." But then he gave an analysis and seemed to be confused: “I think Ukraine, militarily, they’re defeated.” He then described massive naval and air losses, saying, “They had 159 ships. Every ship is underwater… Every one of their planes has been shot down or has been decimated,” Trump claimed. “They have missiles, about 82% are gone, and they have drones, and most of them are gone.” Trump struggled to clearly separate references to Ukraine and Iran while answering questions on which conflict might end first. WATCH VIDEO HERE

Donald Trump faced backlash after appearing to confuse details about the Ukraine and Iran conflicts during an Oval Office Q&amp;A. His claim that Ukraine was “militarily defeated” sparked criticism and raised concerns over accuracy.

Did Trump mix-up Iran with Ukraine? Viral video raises questions over US president's 'militarily defeated' remark

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