US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (May 19) said divisions within Iran’s leadership continue to complicate negotiations as the Trump administration pushes for a deal aimed at ending the conflict. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Vance said Iran’s internal power structure has made it difficult to determine the country’s negotiating stance. “The Iranians aren’t themselves quite clear in what direction they want to go; they are also just a fractured country,” Vance told reporters at the White House. “You have the leadership of the country, there’s the supreme leader, and there are a lot of officials below the supreme leader that [have] some influence in negotiation. It’s not sometimes totally clear what the negotiating position of the team is,” he continued.&nbsp;Vance added that it remains uncertain whether the confusion stems from communication failures or bad faith during negotiations. “I will say with confidence it’s sometimes hard to figure out exactly what it is that the Iranians want to accomplish out of the negotiation,” he said. The vice president also dismissed reports suggesting Russia could take control of Iran’s enriched uranium as part of a future agreement. “That is not currently our plan. That has never been our plan. I’ve seen some reporting on that. I don’t know where it comes from,” Vance said during a White House briefing on Tuesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-arrives-in-beijing-for-talks-with-xi-days-after-trump-s-china-visit-1779213433293">Putin arrives in Beijing for talks with Xi days after Trump’s China visit</a>&nbsp;He indicated that such a proposal would likely face opposition from both the United States and Iran. “So, that is not currently the plan of the United States government. The Iranians have not raised it. I sense that it’s not something the Iranians would be particularly excited about, and I know the president isn’t particularly excited about it either,” he added. Still, Vance emphasized that the administration would avoid making fixed commitments during ongoing talks.&nbsp;“But the vice president said he would not make pre-commitments in a negotiation ‘on any particular topic.’” On domestic matters, Vance addressed the administration’s $1.776 billion compensation fund tied to January 6 prosecutions. He clarified that the program was not designed for individuals who assaulted police officers, though claims would still be reviewed individually. “We’re not trying to give money to anybody who attacked a police officer. We’re trying to give money, not give money, we’re trying to compensate people where the book was thrown at them, they were mistreated by the legal system,” Vance said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-scrambles-jets-in-latvian-airspace-near-russia-border-1779210977745/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-scrambles-jets-in-latvian-airspace-near-russia-border-1779210977745/embed</a>&nbsp;“We do have people who were accused of attacking law enforcement officers,” he said. “That doesn’t mean that we are going to completely ignore some of the claims that they are going to make,” Vance said. Every case would undergo individual review, and denied that members of the Trump family would benefit from the compensation fund. “The people that would get the money are people, some of whom have been prosecuted completely disproportionate to any crime they have ever committed,” he said.&nbsp;The vice president also claimed the United States had significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities and said President Donald Trump instructed his team to pursue negotiations aggressively. According to Vance, talks are progressing positively, but he warned that military action remains an option if diplomacy fails. He said negotiations are in a “good spot,” but added that “it takes two to tango” and the United States is “locked and loaded” to restart military operations if necessary.

Vice President JD Vance says Iran’s leadership divisions are complicating negotiations as the Trump administration pushes for a nuclear deal while warning the US is prepared to restart military action if diplomacy fails

US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (May 19) said divisions within Iran’s leadership continue to complicate negotiations as the Trump administration pushes for a deal aimed at ending the conflict. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Vance said Iran’s internal power structure has made it difficult to determine the country’s negotiating stance. “The Iranians aren’t themselves quite clear in what direction they want to go; they are also just a fractured country,” Vance told reporters at the White House. “You have the leadership of the country, there’s the supreme leader, and there are a lot of officials below the supreme leader that [have] some influence in negotiation. It’s not sometimes totally clear what the negotiating position of the team is,” he continued. Vance added that it remains uncertain whether the confusion stems from communication failures or bad faith during negotiations. “I will say with confidence it’s sometimes hard to figure out exactly what it is that the Iranians want to accomplish out of the negotiation,” he said. The vice president also dismissed reports suggesting Russia could take control of Iran’s enriched uranium as part of a future agreement. “That is not currently our plan. That has never been our plan. I’ve seen some reporting on that. I don’t know where it comes from,” Vance said during a White House briefing on Tuesday. Also Read: Putin arrives in Beijing for talks with Xi days after Trump’s China visit He indicated that such a proposal would likely face opposition from both the United States and Iran. “So, that is not currently the plan of the United States government. The Iranians have not raised it. I sense that it’s not something the Iranians would be particularly excited about, and I know the president isn’t particularly excited about it either,” he added. Still, Vance emphasized that the administration would avoid making fixed commitments during ongoing talks. “But the vice president said he would not make pre-commitments in a negotiation ‘on any particular topic.’” On domestic matters, Vance addressed the administration’s $1.776 billion compensation fund tied to January 6 prosecutions. He clarified that the program was not designed for individuals who assaulted police officers, though claims would still be reviewed individually. “We’re not trying to give money to anybody who attacked a police officer. We’re trying to give money, not give money, we’re trying to compensate people where the book was thrown at them, they were mistreated by the legal system,” Vance said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-scrambles-jets-in-latvian-airspace-near-russia-border-1779210977745/embed “We do have people who were accused of attacking law enforcement officers,” he said. “That doesn’t mean that we are going to completely ignore some of the claims that they are going to make,” Vance said. Every case would undergo individual review, and denied that members of the Trump family would benefit from the compensation fund. “The people that would get the money are people, some of whom have been prosecuted completely disproportionate to any crime they have ever committed,” he said. The vice president also claimed the United States had significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities and said President Donald Trump instructed his team to pursue negotiations aggressively. According to Vance, talks are progressing positively, but he warned that military action remains an option if diplomacy fails. He said negotiations are in a “good spot,” but added that “it takes two to tango” and the United States is “locked and loaded” to restart military operations if necessary.

JD Vance says Iran’s leadership is fractured, nuclear talks remain unclear, and the United States is prepared to resume military action if needed

'Locked and loaded': Vance issue stark warning to Iran if talks fail, says 'It takes two to tango' on negotiations with Tehran

Iran’s latest peace proposal to the US calls for ending regional hostilities, lifting sanctions, removing US forces near Iran, ending naval restrictions and recognising Tehran’s uranium enrichment rights.

Iran’s latest peace proposal to the US calls for ending regional hostilities, lifting sanctions, removing US forces near Iran, ending naval restrictions and recognising Tehran’s uranium enrichment rights.

WION Decodes | What are the key demands in Iran’s latest peace proposal?

In a first comment on Tehran’s latest peace proposal to the United States, Iran on Tuesday (May 19) revealed key focus points included in it. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said that the proposal involves ending hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, and the exit of US forces from the areas near Iran, state media reported. &nbsp;This comes a day after Iran said that it responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the conflict in West Asia.<h2>What’s in the proposal?</h2>The peace plan involves stopping fighting on all fronts. It also includes ending hostilities in Lebanon, where the fighting with Israel has continued despite a ceasefire. The plan also includes reparations for the destruction caused during the war. Gharibabadi also said that Tehran has sought the lifting of sanctions and the release of frozen funds. The plan also includes an end to the US naval blockade of Iran’s ports.Reuters reported that the terms described in the Iranian reports appeared to have changed from Iran’s last offer, which the US President Donald Trump dismissed as “garbage”.<h2>Trump claims ‘very positive development’</h2>Meanwhile, Trump on Monday (May 18) hailed a “very positive development” in talks with Iran. He added that the allies in the Middle East told him “they are getting very close to making a deal” that would leave Iran without nuclear weapons.“It’s a very positive development, but we’ll see whether or not it amounts to anything,” Trump said during a White House event.He also claimed that the progress had convinced him to postpone a planned military attack on the Islamic Republic.In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates asked him “to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, in that serious negotiations are now taking place.”He added that he had instructed the US military to be “prepared to go forward with a full, large scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached.”&nbsp;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.

Iran on Tuesday said it has shared a new peace proposal with the United States aimed at ending the ongoing West Asia conflict. Here’s what Tehran has demanded.

In a first comment on Tehran’s latest peace proposal to the United States, Iran on Tuesday (May 19) revealed key focus points included in it. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said that the proposal involves ending hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, and the exit of US forces from the areas near Iran, state media reported. This comes a day after Iran said that it responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the conflict in West Asia. What’s in the proposal? The peace plan involves stopping fighting on all fronts. It also includes ending hostilities in Lebanon, where the fighting with Israel has continued despite a ceasefire. The plan also includes reparations for the destruction caused during the war. Gharibabadi also said that Tehran has sought the lifting of sanctions and the release of frozen funds. The plan also includes an end to the US naval blockade of Iran’s ports. Reuters reported that the terms described in the Iranian reports appeared to have changed from Iran’s last offer, which the US President Donald Trump dismissed as “garbage”. Trump claims ‘very positive development’ Meanwhile, Trump on Monday (May 18) hailed a “very positive development” in talks with Iran. He added that the allies in the Middle East told him “they are getting very close to making a deal” that would leave Iran without nuclear weapons. “It’s a very positive development, but we’ll see whether or not it amounts to anything,” Trump said during a White House event. He also claimed that the progress had convinced him to postpone a planned military attack on the Islamic Republic. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates asked him “to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, in that serious negotiations are now taking place.” He added that he had instructed the US military to be “prepared to go forward with a full, large scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached.” 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.

Iran on Tuesday said it has shared a new peace proposal with the United States aimed at ending the ongoing West Asia conflict. Here’s what in it.

Troops withdrawal, reparations for war damage: What Iran demanded in its latest proposal to US to end war

US President Donald Trump announced that he is postponing a planned military attack on Iran that was scheduled for Tuesday after requests from Gulf leaders and amid renewed negotiations with Tehran. Trump made the announcement Monday on his Truth Social platform shortly after Iran confirmed it had responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The president said he would “hold off on our planned Military attack on the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow.”&nbsp;According to Trump, leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates urged him to delay the strike because “serious negotiations are now taking place.”The Gulf nations believe “a Deal will be made” that includes “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS FOR IRAN!” Trump added. Trump also said he had informed the US military “that we will NOT be doing the scheduled attack of Iran tomorrow.” However, he warned that military action could resume if talks fail. “I have further instructed them to be prepared to go forward with a full, large-scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, if an acceptable Deal is not reached,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-100-die-in-dr-congo-due-to-ebola-outbreak-six-americans-exposed-cdc-takes-steps-to-prevent-spread-1779130402880">At least 100 die in DR Congo due to Ebola outbreak, six Americans exposed; CDC takes steps to prevent spread</a>

In recent days, Trump has intensified pressure on Iran following his return from China, where he met President Xi Jinping. Late Sunday, Trump warned that the ‘clock is ticking’ and threatened that “there won’t be anything left” of Iran if no agreement is reached. The United States and Israel have been engaged in conflict with Iran since joint military strikes were launched in late February, escalating tensions across the Middle East and driving global energy prices higher.&nbsp;Efforts to end the war have made little progress, with the two sides holding only one round of talks in Pakistan despite a temporary ceasefire reached in April. Iran’s Fars news agency reported Sunday that Washington submitted a five-point proposal demanding that Iran operate only one nuclear site and transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the US. According to the report, Tehran’s response emphasized that Iran would continue managing the strategic Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-magnetic-mystery-inside-bees-scientists-unlock-bee-navigation-secret-1779123644611/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-magnetic-mystery-inside-bees-scientists-unlock-bee-navigation-secret-1779123644611/embed</a>&nbsp;This critical global energy route has remained largely closed since the war started. On Monday, the newly formed Persian Gulf Strait Authority announced it would provide real-time updates on X regarding developments and operations in the waterway. Trump has insisted that Iran must reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of any future agreement.&nbsp;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.

Donald Trump postpones planned US attack on Iran after Gulf leaders request delay amid renewed nuclear negotiations and rising Middle East tensions

US President Donald Trump announced that he is postponing a planned military attack on Iran that was scheduled for Tuesday after requests from Gulf leaders and amid renewed negotiations with Tehran. Trump made the announcement Monday on his Truth Social platform shortly after Iran confirmed it had responded to a new US proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The president said he would “hold off on our planned Military attack on the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow.” According to Trump, leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates urged him to delay the strike because “serious negotiations are now taking place.” The Gulf nations believe “a Deal will be made” that includes “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS FOR IRAN!” Trump added. Trump also said he had informed the US military “that we will NOT be doing the scheduled attack of Iran tomorrow.” However, he warned that military action could resume if talks fail. “I have further instructed them to be prepared to go forward with a full, large-scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, if an acceptable Deal is not reached,” he said. Also Read: At least 100 die in DR Congo due to Ebola outbreak, six Americans exposed; CDC takes steps to prevent spread

Trump delays planned Iran strike after Gulf leaders push for talks as nuclear negotiations continue and Middle East tensions remain high

Trump says holding off planned military attack on Iran at request of Gulf leaders; issues fresh warning

A new poll by The New York Times and Siena College found that most voters believe President Donald Trump made the wrong decision by going to war with Iran, creating political challenges for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. The survey showed that nearly two-thirds of voters opposed the war, with many saying the conflict was not worth the cost. Independent voters were especially critical, with almost three-quarters saying the decision was wrong. Trump’s approval rating dropped to 37 per cent, the lowest level recorded in his second term by the Times/Siena polls. Economic concerns also increased, with majorities of voters disapproving of his handling of the economy, inflation, immigration, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.&nbsp;Independent voters have become increasingly dissatisfied with the president. Sixty-nine percent said they disapproved of his performance, compared to 62 per cent in January. Nearly half of independents said Trump’s policies had negatively affected them personally. Overall, 44 per cent of voters said Trump’s policies had hurt them, an increase from 36 per cent last fall. “He’s not doing what he said he was going to do,” said Brent Klein Jr., a Republican who voted for Mr. Trump in 2020 and 2024. “That’s my biggest frustration with him.” Klein, a 43-year-old cleaning company owner from Branson, Missouri, said he was ‘very pissed off’ about Trump’s decision to strike Iran without congressional approval. “I just want my family to live a good, healthy life,” he added, and to not have to “constantly pay more and more and more for food products and stuff.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-extends-sanctions-waiver-for-russian-oil-purchases-by-30-days-amid-hormuz-tensions-1779126312212">US extends sanctions waiver for Russian oil purchases by 30 days amid Hormuz tensions</a>&nbsp;Republicans still maintain some advantages ahead of the elections, particularly through congressional map redistricting in Republican-led states, which could create several favorable House districts. However, Democrats are also struggling to improve their image with voters. Only 26 per cent of voters said they were satisfied with the Democratic Party. Many Democratic voters expressed frustration with their own party. Forty-four percent of Democrats said they were dissatisfied, criticizing party leaders for not taking stronger action against Trump. Despite dissatisfaction with both parties, Democrats currently hold a 10-point advantage over Republicans in a hypothetical midterm election matchup among registered voters. Democrats also showed stronger enthusiasm among likely voters.&nbsp;The poll revealed growing opposition to further military action against Iran. 52 per cent of voters said Trump should not resume military operations if negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program fail. In addition, 63 per cent of voters, including more than a quarter of Republicans, said presidents should not use military force without congressional approval. Still, most Republican voters continue to support the conflict. Seventy percent said military operations should continue if talks fail, and many believe the war will stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-s-controversial-law-legalises-child-marriage-in-afghanistan-1779123678525/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-s-controversial-law-legalises-child-marriage-in-afghanistan-1779123678525/embed</a>&nbsp;Economic concerns have worsened since the conflict began. Rising gas prices and inflation have increased financial pressure on households and businesses. The survey showed that nearly half of voters now rate the economy as poor, an increase of 11 percentage points since January. Even Republican voters were divided in their assessment of economic conditions. Only 28 percent of voters approved of Trump’s handling of the cost of living, marking another decline from earlier in the year. Trump recently dismissed concerns about the economic impact of the conflict, saying Americans’ financial struggles were not influencing his decisions regarding Iran. Immigration remains Trump’s strongest issue politically, with his approval rating on the topic holding at 41 per cent.

A New York Times/Siena poll shows most voters oppose Donald Trump’s Iran war decision as approval ratings decline, inflation rises, and Democrats gain momentum ahead of the midterm elections

A new poll by The New York Times and Siena College found that most voters believe President Donald Trump made the wrong decision by going to war with Iran, creating political challenges for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. The survey showed that nearly two-thirds of voters opposed the war, with many saying the conflict was not worth the cost. Independent voters were especially critical, with almost three-quarters saying the decision was wrong. Trump’s approval rating dropped to 37 per cent, the lowest level recorded in his second term by the Times/Siena polls. Economic concerns also increased, with majorities of voters disapproving of his handling of the economy, inflation, immigration, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Independent voters have become increasingly dissatisfied with the president. Sixty-nine percent said they disapproved of his performance, compared to 62 per cent in January. Nearly half of independents said Trump’s policies had negatively affected them personally. Overall, 44 per cent of voters said Trump’s policies had hurt them, an increase from 36 per cent last fall. “He’s not doing what he said he was going to do,” said Brent Klein Jr., a Republican who voted for Mr. Trump in 2020 and 2024. “That’s my biggest frustration with him.” Klein, a 43-year-old cleaning company owner from Branson, Missouri, said he was ‘very pissed off’ about Trump’s decision to strike Iran without congressional approval. “I just want my family to live a good, healthy life,” he added, and to not have to “constantly pay more and more and more for food products and stuff.” Also Read: US extends sanctions waiver for Russian oil purchases by 30 days amid Hormuz tensions Republicans still maintain some advantages ahead of the elections, particularly through congressional map redistricting in Republican-led states, which could create several favorable House districts. However, Democrats are also struggling to improve their image with voters. Only 26 per cent of voters said they were satisfied with the Democratic Party. Many Democratic voters expressed frustration with their own party. Forty-four percent of Democrats said they were dissatisfied, criticizing party leaders for not taking stronger action against Trump. Despite dissatisfaction with both parties, Democrats currently hold a 10-point advantage over Republicans in a hypothetical midterm election matchup among registered voters. Democrats also showed stronger enthusiasm among likely voters. The poll revealed growing opposition to further military action against Iran. 52 per cent of voters said Trump should not resume military operations if negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program fail. In addition, 63 per cent of voters, including more than a quarter of Republicans, said presidents should not use military force without congressional approval. Still, most Republican voters continue to support the conflict. Seventy percent said military operations should continue if talks fail, and many believe the war will stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-s-controversial-law-legalises-child-marriage-in-afghanistan-1779123678525/embed Economic concerns have worsened since the conflict began. Rising gas prices and inflation have increased financial pressure on households and businesses. The survey showed that nearly half of voters now rate the economy as poor, an increase of 11 percentage points since January. Even Republican voters were divided in their assessment of economic conditions. Only 28 percent of voters approved of Trump’s handling of the cost of living, marking another decline from earlier in the year. Trump recently dismissed concerns about the economic impact of the conflict, saying Americans’ financial struggles were not influencing his decisions regarding Iran. Immigration remains Trump’s strongest issue politically, with his approval rating on the topic holding at 41 per cent.

Most voters oppose Donald Trump’s Iran war decision as approval ratings fall, economic worries grow, and Democrats gain midterm momentum

Trump's approval drops sharply as economic concerns and Iran war cloud GOP midterm elections outlook

As tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz, questions are growing over whether Iran can effectively insure and manage one of the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes. With war-risk premiums soaring and global shipping firms facing mounting uncertainty, Tehran’s plans could reshape maritime trade and energy markets.


Hormuz Crisis: Can Iran Really Insure The World's Oil Lane?

The global bond market is experiencing a severe sell-off, sending yields surging to multi-year highs as surging inflation fears tied to the US-Iran war dismantle investor hopes for central bank interest rate cuts. The confluence of geopolitical distress, rising energy prices, and structural fiscal challenges has fully reversed early-2026 AI-driven market optimism.The 10-year US Treasury yield was highest in around a year on Friday, 4.595 per cent, the steepest jump. This comes two days after the government sold the 30-year bond at its highest since 2007, 5.127 per cent, as traders anticipated the Federal Reserve would be forced to hike rates to rein in inflationary pressures stemming from energy shocks. Benchmark Treasury yields are ​the government security most influential to mortgage rates.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rupee-record-low-95-8-worst-performing-asian-currency-1778823032641">Indian rupee becomes Asia’s worst-performing currency- Who else is on the list?</a><h2>What is driving the fear of the bond market?</h2>Traders have completely unwound earlier bets that central banks like the Federal Reserve would aggressively cut interest rates in 2026. Instead, fixed-income markets are now actively pricing in a nearly 50 per cent probability that the Fed will hike interest rates later this year or in early 2027 to curb the war-driven inflation spike. The war in Iran is likely to continue to stoke higher energy prices. Investors said that the broad sell-off was the result of the US-China summit, which had no news on the West Asia situation, following which Brent Crude rose 4 per cent to exceed $109 a barrel. The soaring inflation expectations are prompting investors to look at the sovereign debt "death spiral". Further political instability in the UK and red-hot wholesale inflation made analysts predict the return of “bond vigilantes” investors who punish the government's high spending with steeper yields. The panic isn't just about bonds losing value; it is a structural "regime shift" where the cost of borrowing money globally is rapidly resetting higher. The narrative has completely pivoted from "When will the Fed cut rates?" to "How high will they have to raise them?".&nbsp;<h2>What about the spillover effect on global equities?</h2>As bond prices and yields move in opposite directions. The heavy selling of government debt has pushed the borrowing cost to severe thresholds. This has, in return, halted the momentum of the stock market. Major global stock indexes S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq were down ​between 1 per cent and 2 per cent, a day after the conclusion of US-China summit. Typically, the market algorithm is that when the stock falls, the bond rises, but now that relationship is broken.&nbsp;“There’s a realisation that the market had gotten way ahead of itself," said Kenny Polcari, chief market strategist at Slatestone Wealth Management in Jupiter, Florida. "It wasn’t paying enough attention to what the bond market and economic data are ​telling it. It was caught up in this momentum AI trade.” Next week, another test is pending as a 20-year US Treasury action is scheduled.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Global bond markets are witnessing a sharp sell-off as fears of war-driven inflation and rising oil prices push US Treasury yields to multi-year highs. Investors are now pricing in possible Federal Reserve rate hikes instead of cuts.

The global bond market is experiencing a severe sell-off, sending yields surging to multi-year highs as surging inflation fears tied to the US-Iran war dismantle investor hopes for central bank interest rate cuts. The confluence of geopolitical distress, rising energy prices, and structural fiscal challenges has fully reversed early-2026 AI-driven market optimism. The 10-year US Treasury yield was highest in around a year on Friday, 4.595 per cent, the steepest jump. This comes two days after the government sold the 30-year bond at its highest since 2007, 5.127 per cent, as traders anticipated the Federal Reserve would be forced to hike rates to rein in inflationary pressures stemming from energy shocks. Benchmark Treasury yields are the government security most influential to mortgage rates. Also Read: Indian rupee becomes Asia’s worst-performing currency- Who else is on the list? What is driving the fear of the bond market? Traders have completely unwound earlier bets that central banks like the Federal Reserve would aggressively cut interest rates in 2026. Instead, fixed-income markets are now actively pricing in a nearly 50 per cent probability that the Fed will hike interest rates later this year or in early 2027 to curb the war-driven inflation spike. The war in Iran is likely to continue to stoke higher energy prices. Investors said that the broad sell-off was the result of the US-China summit, which had no news on the West Asia situation, following which Brent Crude rose 4 per cent to exceed $109 a barrel. The soaring inflation expectations are prompting investors to look at the sovereign debt "death spiral". Further political instability in the UK and red-hot wholesale inflation made analysts predict the return of “bond vigilantes” investors who punish the government's high spending with steeper yields. The panic isn't just about bonds losing value; it is a structural "regime shift" where the cost of borrowing money globally is rapidly resetting higher. The narrative has completely pivoted from "When will the Fed cut rates?" to "How high will they have to raise them?". What about the spillover effect on global equities? As bond prices and yields move in opposite directions. The heavy selling of government debt has pushed the borrowing cost to severe thresholds. This has, in return, halted the momentum of the stock market. Major global stock indexes S&P 500 and Nasdaq were down between 1 per cent and 2 per cent, a day after the conclusion of US-China summit. Typically, the market algorithm is that when the stock falls, the bond rises, but now that relationship is broken. “There’s a realisation that the market had gotten way ahead of itself," said Kenny Polcari, chief market strategist at Slatestone Wealth Management in Jupiter, Florida. "It wasn’t paying enough attention to what the bond market and economic data are telling it. It was caught up in this momentum AI trade.” Next week, another test is pending as a 20-year US Treasury action is scheduled.

Global bond markets are witnessing a sharp sell-off as fears of war-driven inflation and rising oil prices push US Treasury yields to multi-year highs. Investors are now pricing in possible Federal Reserve rate hikes instead of cuts.

Global bond market sell-off deepens as US-Iran war fears push yields to multi-year highs

Iraq exported just 10 million barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz in April, a steep fall from the roughly 93 million barrels it shipped monthly before the Iran war disrupted Gulf energy routes, the country’s newly appointed oil minister Basim Mohammed said at a press conference on Saturday. The sharp decline puts focus on the growing impact of the regional conflict on global energy markets. The closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes, has disrupted exports from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, while pushing oil prices sharply higher.&nbsp;According to Reuters, while speaking at his first press conference since taking office, Mohammed said Iraqi exports through the waterway had become heavily dependent on the arrival of oil tankers, many of which were avoiding the route because of soaring insurance risks. “Exports through the Strait of Hormuz are low and depend on the arrival of oil tankers, which are not entering because of insurance,” he said.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sovereign-and-independent-democratic-nation-taiwan-rejects-subordination-to-china-after-trump-warning-1778919125552">'Sovereign and independent democratic nation': Taiwan rejects subordination to China after Trump warning</a>&nbsp;<h2>Iraq turns to alternative export routes</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Iraq is currently producing around 1.4 million barrels of oil per day, according to the minister. Baghdad has increasingly relied on alternative export infrastructure after crude flows through the Kirkuk–Ceyhan pipeline to Turkey resumed in March following an agreement between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Mohammed said Iraq was now exporting 200,000 barrels per day through Turkey’s Ceyhan port and planned to more than double that volume.&nbsp;“We export 200,000 barrels through Ceyhan port, and we have a plan to increase it to 500,000 barrels,” he said, quoted Reuters.Baghdad is also negotiating a broader energy cooperation agreement with Ankara that would extend beyond crude exports to include upstream and downstream oil and gas projects.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-says-chinese-president-signalled-jimmy-lai-s-release-unlikely-who-is-the-jailed-hong-kong-media-mogul-1778851727550">Trump says Chinese President signalled Jimmy Lai’s release unlikely — Who is the jailed Hong Kong media mogul?</a>&nbsp;<h2>Push for higher output and OPEC talks</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The Iraqi government is simultaneously seeking investment from major US energy firms including Chevron, ExxonMobil and Halliburton to develop domestic oil and gas projects. Mohammed said Iraq was also in dialogue with OPEC over raising the country’s production and export ceiling, with Baghdad aiming to expand its production capacity to five million barrels per day.“We have a dialogue with OPEC to increase Iraq’s export capacity,” he said, adding that higher exports would generate “significant financial revenues for Iraq”.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz crisis has also become a major diplomatic issue for Washington and Beijing. Returning from a two-day visit to China on Friday, US President Donald Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed that Tehran must reopen the strategic waterway. Trump also said he was considering whether to lift US sanctions on Chinese companies purchasing Iranian oil. China remains the largest buyer of Iranian crude despite existing sanctions. &nbsp;

While speaking at his first press conference since taking office, Iraqi oil minister Basim Mohammed said Iraqi exports through the waterway had become heavily dependent on the arrival of oil tankers, many of which were avoiding the route because of soaring insurance risks.

Iraq exported just 10 million barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz in April, a steep fall from the roughly 93 million barrels it shipped monthly before the Iran war disrupted Gulf energy routes, the country’s newly appointed oil minister Basim Mohammed said at a press conference on Saturday. The sharp decline puts focus on the growing impact of the regional conflict on global energy markets. The closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes, has disrupted exports from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, while pushing oil prices sharply higher. According to Reuters, while speaking at his first press conference since taking office, Mohammed said Iraqi exports through the waterway had become heavily dependent on the arrival of oil tankers, many of which were avoiding the route because of soaring insurance risks. “Exports through the Strait of Hormuz are low and depend on the arrival of oil tankers, which are not entering because of insurance,” he said. ALSO READ: 'Sovereign and independent democratic nation': Taiwan rejects subordination to China after Trump warning Iraq turns to alternative export routes Iraq is currently producing around 1.4 million barrels of oil per day, according to the minister. Baghdad has increasingly relied on alternative export infrastructure after crude flows through the Kirkuk–Ceyhan pipeline to Turkey resumed in March following an agreement between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Mohammed said Iraq was now exporting 200,000 barrels per day through Turkey’s Ceyhan port and planned to more than double that volume. “We export 200,000 barrels through Ceyhan port, and we have a plan to increase it to 500,000 barrels,” he said, quoted Reuters. Baghdad is also negotiating a broader energy cooperation agreement with Ankara that would extend beyond crude exports to include upstream and downstream oil and gas projects. ALSO READ: Trump says Chinese President signalled Jimmy Lai’s release unlikely — Who is the jailed Hong Kong media mogul? Push for higher output and OPEC talks The Iraqi government is simultaneously seeking investment from major US energy firms including Chevron, ExxonMobil and Halliburton to develop domestic oil and gas projects. Mohammed said Iraq was also in dialogue with OPEC over raising the country’s production and export ceiling, with Baghdad aiming to expand its production capacity to five million barrels per day. “We have a dialogue with OPEC to increase Iraq’s export capacity,” he said, adding that higher exports would generate “significant financial revenues for Iraq”. The Strait of Hormuz crisis has also become a major diplomatic issue for Washington and Beijing. Returning from a two-day visit to China on Friday, US President Donald Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed that Tehran must reopen the strategic waterway. Trump also said he was considering whether to lift US sanctions on Chinese companies purchasing Iranian oil. China remains the largest buyer of Iranian crude despite existing sanctions.

While speaking at his first press conference since taking office, Iraqi oil minister Basim Mohammed said Iraqi exports through the waterway had become heavily dependent on the arrival of oil tankers, many of which were avoiding the route because of soaring insurance risks.

Iraq oil exports through Strait of Hormuz plunge from 93 million to 10 million barrels in April

Experts are warning that the financial cost of a prolonged US-Iran war could skyrocket to nearly $1 trillion, raising concerns over military spending, inflation, oil prices, and the wider global economic fallout. Analysts say the conflict could place enormous pressure on American taxpayers and deepen instability across global markets. 

US-Iran War: Experts Warn US War Cost Could Skyrocket to $1 Trillion

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that the US objective of securing the enriched Uranium from Iran is a public relations exercise, while playing down the necessity of retrieving the material. While he reiterated his commitment to remove enriched uranium from Iran. During a televised interview with Fox News on Thursday, Trump said that recovering the material is unnecessary because the US maintains round-the-clock military surveillance over the sites.&nbsp;“We have nine cameras on that site, on those three sites, 24 hours a day,” Trump said. “We know exactly what’s happening. Nobody’s even gotten close to it. But he said he wants to get the material out of the country, “I just feel better if I got it, actually,” Trump said. “But it’s, I think it’s more for public relations than it is for anything else.”&nbsp; He specifically noted it as an objective after Israel demanded it as a critical goal. The highly enriched Uranium is currently believed to be buried under the rubble of the Iranian nuclear sites, following the previous US-Israeli military strikes. He also raised the prospect of bombing the site again to make it inaccessible.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/petrol-diesel-price-hike-hpcl-bpcl-ioc-shares-fall-1778835143115">Petrol-Diesel price hike explained: Why ₹3 increase may not be enough</a>Trump detailed the ongoing back and forth in the negotiations, saying that Iranian leadership at first agreed to hand over the material, and then backtracked from the decision. “They agreed to it, but then they take it back, and they agree,” said Trump.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump and his entourage were in China for a meeting with President Xi Jinping. The conversation mentioned the West Asia war and the Hormuz crisis. Trump said that China had agreed to the establishment of free flow of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz without any sort of toll, and agreed that Tehran shouldn’t have a nuclear weapon. Beijing didn't make any specific public remark about the matter.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is largely a “public relations” objective, claiming the US already has constant surveillance over Iranian nuclear sites. Trump also discussed the Strait of Hormuz crisis during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that the US objective of securing the enriched Uranium from Iran is a public relations exercise, while playing down the necessity of retrieving the material. While he reiterated his commitment to remove enriched uranium from Iran. During a televised interview with Fox News on Thursday, Trump said that recovering the material is unnecessary because the US maintains round-the-clock military surveillance over the sites. “We have nine cameras on that site, on those three sites, 24 hours a day,” Trump said. “We know exactly what’s happening. Nobody’s even gotten close to it. But he said he wants to get the material out of the country, “I just feel better if I got it, actually,” Trump said. “But it’s, I think it’s more for public relations than it is for anything else.” He specifically noted it as an objective after Israel demanded it as a critical goal. The highly enriched Uranium is currently believed to be buried under the rubble of the Iranian nuclear sites, following the previous US-Israeli military strikes. He also raised the prospect of bombing the site again to make it inaccessible. Also Read: Petrol-Diesel price hike explained: Why ₹3 increase may not be enough Trump detailed the ongoing back and forth in the negotiations, saying that Iranian leadership at first agreed to hand over the material, and then backtracked from the decision. “They agreed to it, but then they take it back, and they agree,” said Trump. US President Donald Trump and his entourage were in China for a meeting with President Xi Jinping. The conversation mentioned the West Asia war and the Hormuz crisis. Trump said that China had agreed to the establishment of free flow of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz without any sort of toll, and agreed that Tehran shouldn’t have a nuclear weapon. Beijing didn't make any specific public remark about the matter.

US President Donald Trump said retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is largely a “public relations” objective, claiming the US already has constant surveillance over Iranian nuclear sites. Trump also discussed the Strait of Hormuz crisis during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Trump says retrieving Iran’s enriched uranium is ‘more PR than necessity’

Former President Barack Obama is once again defending diplomacy with Iran as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise, pointing to the 2015 nuclear agreement as proof that Iran’s nuclear ambitions could be restrained without military intervention. Speaking during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Obama reflected on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the landmark nuclear accord negotiated during his administration. “We went about trying to negotiate a diplomatic agreement that would get the enriched uranium out of Iran, that would assure they could not get to a nuclear weapon without us knowing about it…and that there were mechanisms in place to enforce it and verify it,” Obama told host Stephen Colbert.&nbsp;“And we pulled it off without firing a missile,” he added. The JCPOA was signed between Iran and world powers, including the US, Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The agreement placed strict limits on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Obama explained that while military action against Iran was considered, his administration viewed force as a final option. “My basic theory was that Iran couldn’t become a nuclear state, that the regime itself was murderous, oftentimes towards its own people, engaged in state-sponsored terrorism, was a threat to the United States and allies of ours, so the idea that they would have nuclear weapons would be extraordinarily dangerous,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-summit-wall-street-hits-record-highs-as-tech-and-ai-stocks-power-markets-1778807767538">Trump-Xi Summit: Wall Street hits record highs as tech and AI stocks power markets</a>&nbsp;“What I also believed was that the regime was not entirely irrational, that they had a survival instinct, and that when you carry out the military force, innocent people die.”Under the agreement, Iran sharply reduced its stockpile of enriched uranium and allowed international inspectors to monitor its nuclear facilities. Tehran was permitted to retain limited low-enriched uranium for civilian energy use. “There’s no dispute that it worked, and we didn’t, we didn’t have to kill a whole bunch of people or shut down the Strait of Hormuz,” Obama argued.&nbsp;The deal remained active until 2018, when President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the agreement, calling it “a horrible, one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made.” Following the US withdrawal, Iran gradually expanded its uranium enrichment program. The JCPOA had capped enrichment below 4 percent, but Iran now possesses uranium enriched to 60 percent, significantly closer to weapons-grade levels. Critics of the agreement have long argued that the deal’s sunset clauses only delayed Iran’s nuclear ambitions rather than permanently ending them.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-us-china-signal-selective-trade-reset-1778812165166/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-us-china-signal-selective-trade-reset-1778812165166/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump has maintained that Iran should not be allowed to possess any highly enriched uranium and continues to push for a tougher agreement amid renewed negotiations and regional instability. “If a Deal happens under ‘TRUMP,’ it will guarantee Peace, Security, and Safety, not only for Israel and the Middle East, but for Europe, America, and everywhere else,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post in April.&nbsp;“It will be something that the entire World will be proud of, instead of the years of Embarrassment and Humiliation that we have been forced to suffer due to incompetent and cowardly leadership!” Recent exchanges of fire between the U.S. and Iran have further escalated tensions, while Pakistani intermediaries continue efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire between the two nations.&nbsp;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.

Former President Barack Obama defended the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying diplomacy successfully curbed Tehran’s nuclear ambitions without military action as US-Iran tensions rise again

Former President Barack Obama is once again defending diplomacy with Iran as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise, pointing to the 2015 nuclear agreement as proof that Iran’s nuclear ambitions could be restrained without military intervention. Speaking during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Obama reflected on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the landmark nuclear accord negotiated during his administration. “We went about trying to negotiate a diplomatic agreement that would get the enriched uranium out of Iran, that would assure they could not get to a nuclear weapon without us knowing about it…and that there were mechanisms in place to enforce it and verify it,” Obama told host Stephen Colbert. “And we pulled it off without firing a missile,” he added. The JCPOA was signed between Iran and world powers, including the US, Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The agreement placed strict limits on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Obama explained that while military action against Iran was considered, his administration viewed force as a final option. “My basic theory was that Iran couldn’t become a nuclear state, that the regime itself was murderous, oftentimes towards its own people, engaged in state-sponsored terrorism, was a threat to the United States and allies of ours, so the idea that they would have nuclear weapons would be extraordinarily dangerous,” he said. Also Read: Trump-Xi Summit: Wall Street hits record highs as tech and AI stocks power markets “What I also believed was that the regime was not entirely irrational, that they had a survival instinct, and that when you carry out the military force, innocent people die.” Under the agreement, Iran sharply reduced its stockpile of enriched uranium and allowed international inspectors to monitor its nuclear facilities. Tehran was permitted to retain limited low-enriched uranium for civilian energy use. “There’s no dispute that it worked, and we didn’t, we didn’t have to kill a whole bunch of people or shut down the Strait of Hormuz,” Obama argued. The deal remained active until 2018, when President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the agreement, calling it “a horrible, one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made.” Following the US withdrawal, Iran gradually expanded its uranium enrichment program. The JCPOA had capped enrichment below 4 percent, but Iran now possesses uranium enriched to 60 percent, significantly closer to weapons-grade levels. Critics of the agreement have long argued that the deal’s sunset clauses only delayed Iran’s nuclear ambitions rather than permanently ending them. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-us-china-signal-selective-trade-reset-1778812165166/embed Trump has maintained that Iran should not be allowed to possess any highly enriched uranium and continues to push for a tougher agreement amid renewed negotiations and regional instability. “If a Deal happens under ‘TRUMP,’ it will guarantee Peace, Security, and Safety, not only for Israel and the Middle East, but for Europe, America, and everywhere else,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post in April. “It will be something that the entire World will be proud of, instead of the years of Embarrassment and Humiliation that we have been forced to suffer due to incompetent and cowardly leadership!” Recent exchanges of fire between the U.S. and Iran have further escalated tensions, while Pakistani intermediaries continue efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire between the two nations. 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.

Former US President Barack Obama says the 2015 Iran nuclear deal proved diplomacy could curb Tehran’s nuclear program without war or military strikes

'We pulled it off without firing a missile': Former US President Barack Obama's BIG statement on Iran

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates reportedly carried out separate strikes on Iran in retaliation for attacks launched against them during the ongoing Middle East conflict, according to two current and one former senior US officials. The reported operations mark the first known direct military action by Saudi Arabia and the UAE against Iran, signaling a major shift in regional dynamics and a more aggressive stance by Gulf monarchies toward Tehran. The officials, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the operations, declined to reveal the exact targets or timing of the strikes.&nbsp;Neither Riyadh nor Abu Dhabi has publicly acknowledged the attacks. Both governments have consistently maintained that they are acting only in self-defense despite hosting American military bases during the conflict. Reuters earlier reported the Saudi operation, while The Wall Street Journal first reported the Emirati strikes. For decades, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have relied heavily on the United States for protection against Iran. However, regional tensions escalated sharply after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28, despite opposition from several Gulf nations.&nbsp;Iran later responded with thousands of missiles and drone attacks targeting Gulf states that host US military installations. The strikes reportedly caused severe damage to airports, energy facilities, seaports, and hotels across the region, killing at least 19 civilians and disrupting the Gulf’s reputation as a secure business and tourism hub.The continued attacks are said to have prompted Saudi Arabia and the UAE to launch direct retaliation against Iran. It remains unclear whether either Gulf nation coordinated the strikes with the United States or whether the actions reflect weakening confidence in Washington’s ability to deter Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-border-patrol-chief-michael-banks-resigns-amid-dhs-leadership-shake-up-1778786401010">US Border Patrol chief Michael Banks resigns amid DHS leadership shake-up</a>&nbsp;“Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE understand that they ultimately have to come to their own understandings with Iran,” said Firas Maksad, managing director for the Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group. “They realize that the war is unlikely to topple the Iranian government, and any US-Iran deal is unlikely to decisively eliminate the threat that Iran’s ballistic missiles and drones, and support for regional militias, pose to them,” he added. Maintaining leverage while avoiding a wider regional war was a key objective, according to Maksad.&nbsp;“Their retaliatory strikes were carried out with that reality in mind, but also while calibrating the response so as not to slide into further escalation.” Analysts also believe the military actions may have been intended, at least partly, to strengthen ties with the administration of US President Donald Trump. Trump had earlier hinted at Gulf involvement in anti-Iran operations. In March, he said Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was “fighting with us.” Later that month, Trump stated: “Saudi Arabia fought, Qatar fought, UAE fought, Bahrain fought, and Kuwait fought.”&nbsp;None of those Gulf nations has officially confirmed direct participation in attacks against Iran or whether US operations were launched from their territories. Security experts say regional governments fear that openly joining the conflict could invite more Iranian retaliation and trigger domestic backlash due to widespread anti-Israel sentiment across the Middle East. Still, Saudi and Emirati leaders had previously warned that military action against Iran remained an option.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/up-storm-104-dead-in-up-storms-and-lightning-1778780277345/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/up-storm-104-dead-in-up-storms-and-lightning-1778780277345/embed</a>&nbsp;After ballistic missiles exploded over Riyadh in March, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud warned that the kingdom’s patience was limited. “We will not shy away from protecting our country and our economic resources,” he said. Despite the escalation, Saudi Arabia has continued diplomatic engagement with Iran and supported mediation efforts led by Pakistan between Tehran and Washington.&nbsp;The UAE, however, has adopted a tougher approach, strengthening defense ties with both the United States and Israel. During the conflict, Israel reportedly transferred Iron Dome missile defense systems to the Emirates to help intercept Iranian attacks. On Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi directly accused the UAE of taking part in hostile operations against Tehran. “They participated in these attacks and may even have acted directly against us,” he said, according to Iran’s semiofficial Fars news agency.&nbsp;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.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE reportedly carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran amid escalating Middle East tensions, signaling a major regional shift

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates reportedly carried out separate strikes on Iran in retaliation for attacks launched against them during the ongoing Middle East conflict, according to two current and one former senior US officials. The reported operations mark the first known direct military action by Saudi Arabia and the UAE against Iran, signaling a major shift in regional dynamics and a more aggressive stance by Gulf monarchies toward Tehran. The officials, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the operations, declined to reveal the exact targets or timing of the strikes. Neither Riyadh nor Abu Dhabi has publicly acknowledged the attacks. Both governments have consistently maintained that they are acting only in self-defense despite hosting American military bases during the conflict. Reuters earlier reported the Saudi operation, while The Wall Street Journal first reported the Emirati strikes. For decades, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have relied heavily on the United States for protection against Iran. However, regional tensions escalated sharply after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28, despite opposition from several Gulf nations. Iran later responded with thousands of missiles and drone attacks targeting Gulf states that host US military installations. The strikes reportedly caused severe damage to airports, energy facilities, seaports, and hotels across the region, killing at least 19 civilians and disrupting the Gulf’s reputation as a secure business and tourism hub. The continued attacks are said to have prompted Saudi Arabia and the UAE to launch direct retaliation against Iran. It remains unclear whether either Gulf nation coordinated the strikes with the United States or whether the actions reflect weakening confidence in Washington’s ability to deter Iran. Also Read: US Border Patrol chief Michael Banks resigns amid DHS leadership shake-up “Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE understand that they ultimately have to come to their own understandings with Iran,” said Firas Maksad, managing director for the Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group. “They realize that the war is unlikely to topple the Iranian government, and any US-Iran deal is unlikely to decisively eliminate the threat that Iran’s ballistic missiles and drones, and support for regional militias, pose to them,” he added. Maintaining leverage while avoiding a wider regional war was a key objective, according to Maksad. “Their retaliatory strikes were carried out with that reality in mind, but also while calibrating the response so as not to slide into further escalation.” Analysts also believe the military actions may have been intended, at least partly, to strengthen ties with the administration of US President Donald Trump. Trump had earlier hinted at Gulf involvement in anti-Iran operations. In March, he said Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was “fighting with us.” Later that month, Trump stated: “Saudi Arabia fought, Qatar fought, UAE fought, Bahrain fought, and Kuwait fought.” None of those Gulf nations has officially confirmed direct participation in attacks against Iran or whether US operations were launched from their territories. Security experts say regional governments fear that openly joining the conflict could invite more Iranian retaliation and trigger domestic backlash due to widespread anti-Israel sentiment across the Middle East. Still, Saudi and Emirati leaders had previously warned that military action against Iran remained an option. https://www.wionews.com/videos/up-storm-104-dead-in-up-storms-and-lightning-1778780277345/embed After ballistic missiles exploded over Riyadh in March, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud warned that the kingdom’s patience was limited. “We will not shy away from protecting our country and our economic resources,” he said. Despite the escalation, Saudi Arabia has continued diplomatic engagement with Iran and supported mediation efforts led by Pakistan between Tehran and Washington. The UAE, however, has adopted a tougher approach, strengthening defense ties with both the United States and Israel. During the conflict, Israel reportedly transferred Iron Dome missile defense systems to the Emirates to help intercept Iranian attacks. On Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi directly accused the UAE of taking part in hostile operations against Tehran. “They participated in these attacks and may even have acted directly against us,” he said, according to Iran’s semiofficial Fars news agency. 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.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE reportedly launched direct strikes on Iran, escalating Middle East tensions amid ongoing regional conflict

Saudi Arabia, UAE separately launched retaliatory strikes on Iran amid regional conflict: Report

Some Iranians have finally been able to get online, as after months of near-total blackout, Tehran had rolled out a privileged service for a select few. The internet service being offered to a select few at astronomical prices has sparked public criticism, with netizens slamming the new model as "clearly meant to generate money".<h2>Netizens cough up sky-high prices to once again join the digital world</h2>Iran has been in a near-total internet blackout since February 28, the day the United States and Israel launched their campaign against Iran, and the government imposed what has become the longest nation-scale internet shutdown ever recorded.By May 13, according to internet monitor NetBlocks, it had tracked the blackout for 1,776 hours, or 75 days. “The digital censorship measure has led to profiteering and a decline in digital security as government-backed ”pro" internet schemes and selective whitelisting result in surveillance, corruption and scams," it noted in a post on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">💸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>&#39;s internet blackout is now past hour 1776, entering its 75th day. The digital censorship measure has led to profiteering and a decline in digital security as government-backed &quot;pro&quot; internet schemes and selective whitelisting result in surveillance, corruption and scams. <a href="https://t.co/iVk6Lx0EFf">pic.twitter.com/iVk6Lx0EFf</a>&mdash; NetBlocks (@netblocks) <a href="https://twitter.com/netblocks/status/2054469192271720950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

When a message arrived on Amir-Hassan's phone offering him access to the internet through a special paid service, he didn't think twice. He paid around $11 for an initial 50-gigabyte package. He had no real choice. The 39-year-old tech worker had been without internet access since February 28.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-two-timed-trump-report-reveals-islamabad-quietly-sheltered-iranian-military-aircraft-while-brokering-peace-talks-1778551810479">Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war</a><h2>Internet replaced by a tiered system favouring a select few</h2>What has replaced open internet access is something critics are calling a tiered system, one where connectivity has been transformed, in the words of the reformist Shargh newspaper, "from a public and civic right into an allocable privilege."A government-backed scheme called "Pro Internet" is now offering certain professionals and business owners in Iran limited access at above-normal prices. The scheme has sparked public anger, accusations of profiteering, and concerns about surveillance."This model of categorising and classifying the internet in Iran is not a good model," Amir-Hassan told AFP. "It is clearly meant to generate money." Through the Pro Internet service, he can access WhatsApp and Telegram, but not Instagram, X or YouTube without a VPN. The social stigma of subscribing has added another layer of discomfort. "There is judgment, too," Amir-Hassan said. "People say you went and put money into the pocket of a government that unfairly offers this."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-tell-the-pope-trump-reveals-he-sent-rubio-to-vatican-with-a-pointed-message-on-iran-1778313211041">‘Tell the pope’: Trump REVEALS he sent Rubio to Vatican with a pointed message on Iran</a><h2>Third-class citizens?</h2>However, according to AFP, not everyone within the designated professional groups has even received the offer. Behrooz Mahmoodi-Bakhtiari, a linguistics professor at the University of Tehran, told the news agency that he did not receive the invitation to subscribe. He said he can access the internet reliably only while on campus. "As soon as you step out of the university, you will again become a third-class citizen, and you have no internet access," he said, noting that other professors at the same institution have received the offer.The financial burden of the scheme sits atop an economy already under severe strain. Inflation has surged above 50 per cent in recent weeks, the rial has lost much of its value, and basic goods have become sharply more expensive. For many Iranians, paying for limited internet access on top of VPN subscriptions and rising living costs is a stretch that isn't justified by what's on offer. The government's response has been to blame the war's "enemies" for creating the security conditions that made the blackout necessary. Government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani said the internet situation would return to normal "once the shadow of war is gone." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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.

After 75 days of near-total blackout, some Iranians are getting internet back, but only if they can pay steep prices for restricted “Pro Internet.” Critics say connectivity has shifted from public right to premium privilege, creating a tiered digital class system under crisis. Scroll down.

Some Iranians have finally been able to get online, as after months of near-total blackout, Tehran had rolled out a privileged service for a select few. The internet service being offered to a select few at astronomical prices has sparked public criticism, with netizens slamming the new model as "clearly meant to generate money". Netizens cough up sky-high prices to once again join the digital world Iran has been in a near-total internet blackout since February 28, the day the United States and Israel launched their campaign against Iran, and the government imposed what has become the longest nation-scale internet shutdown ever recorded. By May 13, according to internet monitor NetBlocks, it had tracked the blackout for 1,776 hours, or 75 days. “The digital censorship measure has led to profiteering and a decline in digital security as government-backed ”pro" internet schemes and selective whitelisting result in surveillance, corruption and scams," it noted in a post on X.

After 75 days of near-total blackout, some Iranians are getting internet back, but only if they can pay steep prices for restricted “Pro Internet.” Critics say connectivity has shifted from public right to premium privilege, creating a tiered digital class system under crisis. Scroll down.

Want internet in Iran? You'll have to buy your way out of ‘longest nation-scale blackout on record'; Here's how

Fresh reports suggest Iran has managed to restore parts of its missile infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz despite sustained US and Israeli strikes during the conflict. Intelligence assessments indicate that key missile capabilities may have survived the attacks, raising new questions about the long-term effectiveness of the military campaign. 

Iran War: Tehran Rebuilds Missile Network Despite US-Israeli Strikes, Reports Claim 

The United Arab Emirates has denied claims that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a “secret visit” to the Gulf nation during the ongoing conflict involving Iran.Earlier on Wednesday, Netanyahu’s office released a statement claiming the Israeli leader had secretly traveled to the UAE to strengthen diplomatic and military cooperation amid escalating regional tensions.According to the statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, the alleged visit resulted in a “historic breakthrough” in relations between Israel and the UAE."In the midst of Operation Roaring Lion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secretly visited the United Arab Emirates, where he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. This visit has led to a historic breakthrough in relations between Israel and the UAE," read the statement from Netanyahu’s office.<h3>UAE Rejects ‘Secret Visit’ Claims</h3>In response, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement rejecting reports of any undisclosed visit by Netanyahu or Israeli military officials.“The United Arab Emirates denies reports circulating regarding an alleged visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the UAE, or receiving any Israeli military delegation in the country,” the UAE said.“The UAE reaffirms that its relations with Israel are public and conducted within the framework of the well-known and officially declared Abraham Accords, and are not based on non-transparent or unofficial arrangements. Accordingly, any claims regarding unannounced visits or undisclosed arrangements are entirely unfounded unless officially announced by the relevant authorities in the UAE,” the statement added.<h3>Reports of Earlier Meeting</h3>According to a report by Reuters, sources familiar with the matter claimed that Netanyahu and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, widely known as MBZ, held a meeting on March 26.The report stated that discussions reportedly focused on coordinating military actions amid the ongoing war involving Iran. Reuters published the report shortly after Netanyahu’s office publicized details of the alleged “secret meeting.”The claims also emerged after US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee revealed that Israel had deployed Iron Dome interception batteries to operate from the UAE during the height of the conflict with Iran.<h3>Rising Regional Tensions</h3>The US-Israeli conflict with Iran reportedly began on February 28 and has since intensified tensions across the Middle East. Following strikes carried out by American and Israeli forces, and the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran launched retaliatory attacks targeting US-linked assets and Gulf nations.The UAE was among the first countries targeted by Iranian missile and drone strikes and has reportedly faced repeated attacks despite the fragile ceasefire currently in place between Washington and Tehran.The UAE remains a major strategic ally of the United States in the region and was also the first Arab nation to normalize relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;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.

The UAE rejects claims that Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret visit to Abu Dhabi during the Iran conflict, despite reports of military coordination

The United Arab Emirates has denied claims that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a “secret visit” to the Gulf nation during the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Earlier on Wednesday, Netanyahu’s office released a statement claiming the Israeli leader had secretly traveled to the UAE to strengthen diplomatic and military cooperation amid escalating regional tensions. According to the statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, the alleged visit resulted in a “historic breakthrough” in relations between Israel and the UAE. "In the midst of Operation Roaring Lion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secretly visited the United Arab Emirates, where he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. This visit has led to a historic breakthrough in relations between Israel and the UAE," read the statement from Netanyahu’s office. UAE Rejects ‘Secret Visit’ Claims In response, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement rejecting reports of any undisclosed visit by Netanyahu or Israeli military officials. “The United Arab Emirates denies reports circulating regarding an alleged visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the UAE, or receiving any Israeli military delegation in the country,” the UAE said. “The UAE reaffirms that its relations with Israel are public and conducted within the framework of the well-known and officially declared Abraham Accords, and are not based on non-transparent or unofficial arrangements. Accordingly, any claims regarding unannounced visits or undisclosed arrangements are entirely unfounded unless officially announced by the relevant authorities in the UAE,” the statement added. Reports of Earlier Meeting According to a report by Reuters, sources familiar with the matter claimed that Netanyahu and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, widely known as MBZ, held a meeting on March 26. The report stated that discussions reportedly focused on coordinating military actions amid the ongoing war involving Iran. Reuters published the report shortly after Netanyahu’s office publicized details of the alleged “secret meeting.” The claims also emerged after US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee revealed that Israel had deployed Iron Dome interception batteries to operate from the UAE during the height of the conflict with Iran. Rising Regional Tensions The US-Israeli conflict with Iran reportedly began on February 28 and has since intensified tensions across the Middle East. Following strikes carried out by American and Israeli forces, and the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Tehran launched retaliatory attacks targeting US-linked assets and Gulf nations. The UAE was among the first countries targeted by Iranian missile and drone strikes and has reportedly faced repeated attacks despite the fragile ceasefire currently in place between Washington and Tehran. The UAE remains a major strategic ally of the United States in the region and was also the first Arab nation to normalize relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords. 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.

UAE denies claims of a secret visit by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu amid reports of covert Israel-UAE coordination during the Iran conflict

UAE rejects Benjamin Netanyahu’s ‘secret visit’ claims amid ongoing Iran conflict

US Vice President JD Vance said on Wednesday (May 13) that the United States continues to make progress in ongoing negotiations with Iran, even as talks face growing challenges due to what he described as unsatisfactory responses from Tehran in recent weeks. Speaking to reporters during a press briefing, Vance said senior members of the administration remain actively engaged with both American negotiators and regional allies as diplomatic efforts continue. “I spent a good amount of time on the phone with both Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff this morning, and a number of our friends in the Arab world this morning,” Vance told reporters. “Look, I think that we are making progress. The fundamental question is, do we make enough progress that we satisfy the president’s red line?”&nbsp;Kushner and Witkoff are currently leading the administration’s diplomatic outreach regarding Iran, as Washington seeks to prevent further escalation in the Middle East while attempting to revive a workable framework for long-term regional stability. Despite signs of movement in negotiations, Vance acknowledged that recent responses from Tehran have fallen short of US expectations, creating uncertainty over whether both sides can eventually reach a comprehensive agreement. The vice president reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains the administration’s top priority and the key condition for any future deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-confirms-kevin-warsh-as-next-federal-reserve-chair-amid-rising-inflation-1778703928808">US Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as next Federal Reserve Chair amid rising inflation</a>&nbsp;“The red line is very simple,” Vance said, adding that the president needs to feel confident that we’ve put several protections in place such that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon. Vance stressed that the White House remains focused on ensuring strict safeguards and verification measures are included in any diplomatic arrangement with Tehran. According to administration officials, the US continues to coordinate closely with allies in the Middle East and Europe while monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities and regional actions.&nbsp;The negotiations come at a time of heightened geopolitical tension across the region, with concerns growing over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, military activities, and its role in broader regional conflicts. Oil markets and global security analysts have been closely watching developments, as any collapse in diplomacy could further destabilise the Middle East and impact global energy prices. While the administration has projected cautious optimism, officials have also made clear that the president is unwilling to accept any agreement that fails to permanently block Iran’s path to developing nuclear weapons.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-moves-to-create-first-central-spy-agency-since-world-war-ii-1778695192311/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-moves-to-create-first-central-spy-agency-since-world-war-ii-1778695192311/embed</a>&nbsp;The talks represent one of the most significant foreign policy challenges facing the administration, as Washington attempts to balance diplomatic engagement with increasing pressure from allies demanding stronger action against Tehran. Analysts say the coming weeks could prove critical in determining whether negotiations move toward a breakthrough or slide into another period of confrontation between the two countries.&nbsp;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.

Vice President JD Vance says US negotiators are making progress in Iran peace talks while insisting Tehran must never obtain nuclear weapons

US Vice President JD Vance said on Wednesday (May 13) that the United States continues to make progress in ongoing negotiations with Iran, even as talks face growing challenges due to what he described as unsatisfactory responses from Tehran in recent weeks. Speaking to reporters during a press briefing, Vance said senior members of the administration remain actively engaged with both American negotiators and regional allies as diplomatic efforts continue. “I spent a good amount of time on the phone with both Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff this morning, and a number of our friends in the Arab world this morning,” Vance told reporters. “Look, I think that we are making progress. The fundamental question is, do we make enough progress that we satisfy the president’s red line?” Kushner and Witkoff are currently leading the administration’s diplomatic outreach regarding Iran, as Washington seeks to prevent further escalation in the Middle East while attempting to revive a workable framework for long-term regional stability. Despite signs of movement in negotiations, Vance acknowledged that recent responses from Tehran have fallen short of US expectations, creating uncertainty over whether both sides can eventually reach a comprehensive agreement. The vice president reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains the administration’s top priority and the key condition for any future deal. Also Read: US Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as next Federal Reserve Chair amid rising inflation “The red line is very simple,” Vance said, adding that the president needs to feel confident that we’ve put several protections in place such that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon. Vance stressed that the White House remains focused on ensuring strict safeguards and verification measures are included in any diplomatic arrangement with Tehran. According to administration officials, the US continues to coordinate closely with allies in the Middle East and Europe while monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities and regional actions. The negotiations come at a time of heightened geopolitical tension across the region, with concerns growing over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, military activities, and its role in broader regional conflicts. Oil markets and global security analysts have been closely watching developments, as any collapse in diplomacy could further destabilise the Middle East and impact global energy prices. While the administration has projected cautious optimism, officials have also made clear that the president is unwilling to accept any agreement that fails to permanently block Iran’s path to developing nuclear weapons. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-moves-to-create-first-central-spy-agency-since-world-war-ii-1778695192311/embed The talks represent one of the most significant foreign policy challenges facing the administration, as Washington attempts to balance diplomatic engagement with increasing pressure from allies demanding stronger action against Tehran. Analysts say the coming weeks could prove critical in determining whether negotiations move toward a breakthrough or slide into another period of confrontation between the two countries. 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.

United States Vice President JD Vance says US-Iran peace talks are progressing, but warns any deal must guarantee Iran never obtains nuclear weapons

'I think that we are making progress': Vance hints optimism in Iran negotiations but nuclear red line remains

New Delhi: Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has strongly defended Tehran’s decision to introduce “service fee” on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, while offering preferential treatment to Indian vessels and criticising the United States for undermining negotiations.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the India-chaired BRICS meeting, Gharibabadi insisted the strait remains open, but Iran is introducing a service fee. “We are providing some maritime services... navigation, rescue services,” he said. “There will be charges for the working of that. But as I have said, based on 3 principles: transparency, non-discriminatory, and also in line with international standards.”&nbsp;He rejected accusations of imposing tolls. “Fees to transit is not accepted under international mount law. We are not going to impose transit fee. We are working on protocol arrangement, what services Iran, Oman providing in the Strait of Hormuz” but “it has not been finalised. Working at expert level, and to inform it every country, company.”&nbsp;Gharibabadi highlighted cooperation with India even as 13 Indian vessels are waiting to pass. “For the friend country like India, we adopted different approach... several of the vessels are allowed…11 have passed,” he explained.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We cooperate with friend countries like India to facilitate the passage of other ships... This is not the case for many other countries.”&nbsp;On the broader reopening of the strait, he linked it to the US removing the naval blockade against his country, termination of war and release of frozen Iranian money. “US is not serious on negotiations and diplomacy,” Gharibabadi stated.&nbsp;He expressed hope on West Asia being mentioned in the BRICS joint statement. “The BRICS has not been able to have a joint statement,” he said, accusing one “neighbour Arab” country, for pushing to “condemn us [Iran]” while refusing to criticise US and Israeli actions.&nbsp;Turning to US negotiations, Gharibabadi said talks had made significant progress before collapsing. “We asked the US to lift sanctions...”&nbsp;Iran, he added, offered a balanced package. “Iran is ready to discuss aspects regarding nuclear issue.” However, he rejected US demands over uranium being sent to US. “This is not negotiation; this is dictation... Why should we do this.”&nbsp;Gharibabadi stressed Iran’s defensive posture if war resumed: “Our policy and decision is very clear. We will defend the country with all our capacities.”&nbsp;

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said that the broader reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is linked to the United States removing the naval blockade against his country, the termination of war and the release of frozen Iranian money.

New Delhi: Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has strongly defended Tehran’s decision to introduce “service fee” on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, while offering preferential treatment to Indian vessels and criticising the United States for undermining negotiations. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the India-chaired BRICS meeting, Gharibabadi insisted the strait remains open, but Iran is introducing a service fee. “We are providing some maritime services... navigation, rescue services,” he said. “There will be charges for the working of that. But as I have said, based on 3 principles: transparency, non-discriminatory, and also in line with international standards.” He rejected accusations of imposing tolls. “Fees to transit is not accepted under international mount law. We are not going to impose transit fee. We are working on protocol arrangement, what services Iran, Oman providing in the Strait of Hormuz” but “it has not been finalised. Working at expert level, and to inform it every country, company.” Gharibabadi highlighted cooperation with India even as 13 Indian vessels are waiting to pass. “For the friend country like India, we adopted different approach... several of the vessels are allowed…11 have passed,” he explained. “We cooperate with friend countries like India to facilitate the passage of other ships... This is not the case for many other countries.” On the broader reopening of the strait, he linked it to the US removing the naval blockade against his country, termination of war and release of frozen Iranian money. “US is not serious on negotiations and diplomacy,” Gharibabadi stated. He expressed hope on West Asia being mentioned in the BRICS joint statement. “The BRICS has not been able to have a joint statement,” he said, accusing one “neighbour Arab” country, for pushing to “condemn us [Iran]” while refusing to criticise US and Israeli actions. Turning to US negotiations, Gharibabadi said talks had made significant progress before collapsing. “We asked the US to lift sanctions...” Iran, he added, offered a balanced package. “Iran is ready to discuss aspects regarding nuclear issue.” However, he rejected US demands over uranium being sent to US. “This is not negotiation; this is dictation... Why should we do this.” Gharibabadi stressed Iran’s defensive posture if war resumed: “Our policy and decision is very clear. We will defend the country with all our capacities.”

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said that the broader reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is linked to the United States removing the naval blockade against his country, the termination of war and the release of frozen Iranian money.

Iran gives priority passage to Indian vessels through Hormuz, says Deputy FM Gharibabadi

US President Donald Trump had a meltdown on the Truth Social platform just before he kicked off his tour to China. Trump lashed out in an aggressive social media post attack on domestic media outlets, accusing them of “aiding and abetting the enemy”. This reaction was triggered by a New York Times report which claimed that despite the victory laps from Trump and Hegseth, Iran has access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities. The report flags the most alarming statistics, claiming that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz, which could threaten US access and threaten its naval blockade.&nbsp;“When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” wrote Trump in a social media post. '“When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” said Trump. He called them “losers, ingrates and fools” and accused them of rooting against their own country.“Iran had 159 ships in their Navy — Every single ship is now resting at the bottom of the sea,” he continued. “They have no Navy, their Air Force is gone, all Technology is gone, their ‘leaders’ are no longer with us, and the Country is an Economic Disaster.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-sarmat-icbm-world-most-powerful-nuclear-missile-1778671275437">What is the Sarmat ICBM 'world’s most powerful nuclear missile'? Russia claims new missile can bypass all defence systems</a>The report claimed that Iran has maintained control of 70-75 per cent of it pre-war missile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpile. Iran has regained access to roughly 90 per cent of its underground missile storage and launch facilities nationwide, which were previously made inaccessible due to strikes at the entrances. These are now assessed to be “partially or fully operational,” &nbsp;Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that infrastructure workarounds have pushed active supplies to 120 per cent.&nbsp;Trump's meltdown comes as he just kicked off his &nbsp;3-day state visit to China. Just before his trip, he claimed that he does not need China's assistance to resolve the conflict in Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump lashed out at media outlets over a report claiming Iran restored access to key missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz just before his China visit.

US President Donald Trump had a meltdown on the Truth Social platform just before he kicked off his tour to China. Trump lashed out in an aggressive social media post attack on domestic media outlets, accusing them of “aiding and abetting the enemy”. This reaction was triggered by a New York Times report which claimed that despite the victory laps from Trump and Hegseth, Iran has access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities. The report flags the most alarming statistics, claiming that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz, which could threaten US access and threaten its naval blockade. “When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” wrote Trump in a social media post. ' “When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement,” said Trump. He called them “losers, ingrates and fools” and accused them of rooting against their own country. “Iran had 159 ships in their Navy — Every single ship is now resting at the bottom of the sea,” he continued. “They have no Navy, their Air Force is gone, all Technology is gone, their ‘leaders’ are no longer with us, and the Country is an Economic Disaster.” Also Read: What is the Sarmat ICBM 'world’s most powerful nuclear missile'? Russia claims new missile can bypass all defence systems The report claimed that Iran has maintained control of 70-75 per cent of it pre-war missile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpile. Iran has regained access to roughly 90 per cent of its underground missile storage and launch facilities nationwide, which were previously made inaccessible due to strikes at the entrances. These are now assessed to be “partially or fully operational,” Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that infrastructure workarounds have pushed active supplies to 120 per cent. Trump's meltdown comes as he just kicked off his 3-day state visit to China. Just before his trip, he claimed that he does not need China's assistance to resolve the conflict in Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump lashed out at media outlets over a report claiming Iran restored access to key missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz just before his China visit.

Trump melts down after US media shows Iran retains missile capabilities

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he is not worried about the financial plight of Americans. He said that he does not consider the financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Speaking on the White House South Lawn on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, ahead of his diplomatic trip to Beijing, Trump asserted that blocking Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is his exclusive motivation. The US war on Iran and the resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz have pushed the oil prices over $100/ barrel. The gas prices in the US are $4.63/gallon, and the annual inflation rate has climbed to 3.7 per cent. US wage growth, which is 3.6 per cent, has fallen below the headline inflation rate."The only thing that matters when I'm talking about Iran—they can't have a nuclear weapon. I don't think about the Americans' financial situation. I don't think about anybody," Trump made the stunning statement to reporters before flying off to Beijing for the Xi-Trump summit. His remarks came just hours after a new survey showing US citizens consider the president for the record-high gas prices, rising mortgage rates and food costs that have followed. According to a CNN/SSRS poll, 77 per cent of citizens believe that Trump's decision to go to war was a major call driving the cost of living up.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/xi-trump-summit-iran-war-strait-of-hormuz-us-china-rivalry-1778656331990">Xi-Trump summit: Will the meeting bring a resolution to the war with Iran &amp; Hormuz blockade end</a>Trump was visibly frustrated when reporters pressed him if his policies had fulfilled the promises he had made in the election campaign that got him elected for his second non-consecutive term in 2024. Trump claimed that the administration's efforts had worked significantly, as the inflation had cooled by 1.7 per cent before Trump decided to go to war with Iran, ignoring the concern that a retaliation would result in a closure of the Strait of Hormuz and create a supply shock. He claimed that anyone who is concerned about financial strain wants Iran to have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;“Anybody that wants them to have a nuclear weapon is a stupid person. So we said we're going to take the greatest stock market in history, and we're going to go down a little bit. And actually that turned out to be incorrect, because our stock market is now at the highest point in history, which frankly, surprised a lot of people,” said Trump.&nbsp;Economists warn that supply shock, which resulted in the rise of energy prices, has pushed the country into a period of stagflation as the Federal Reserve has to maintain the interest rate; otherwise, the dollar will be weakened and the sovereign debt will increase. Without a proper restoration of navigation, the global economy, as well as the US economy will face a recession.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said he is not worried about Americans’ financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Rising oil prices, inflation and gas costs are fuelling stagflation fears.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he is not worried about the financial plight of Americans. He said that he does not consider the financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Speaking on the White House South Lawn on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, ahead of his diplomatic trip to Beijing, Trump asserted that blocking Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is his exclusive motivation. The US war on Iran and the resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz have pushed the oil prices over $100/ barrel. The gas prices in the US are $4.63/gallon, and the annual inflation rate has climbed to 3.7 per cent. US wage growth, which is 3.6 per cent, has fallen below the headline inflation rate. "The only thing that matters when I'm talking about Iran—they can't have a nuclear weapon. I don't think about the Americans' financial situation. I don't think about anybody," Trump made the stunning statement to reporters before flying off to Beijing for the Xi-Trump summit. His remarks came just hours after a new survey showing US citizens consider the president for the record-high gas prices, rising mortgage rates and food costs that have followed. According to a CNN/SSRS poll, 77 per cent of citizens believe that Trump's decision to go to war was a major call driving the cost of living up. Also Read: Xi-Trump summit: Will the meeting bring a resolution to the war with Iran & Hormuz blockade end Trump was visibly frustrated when reporters pressed him if his policies had fulfilled the promises he had made in the election campaign that got him elected for his second non-consecutive term in 2024. Trump claimed that the administration's efforts had worked significantly, as the inflation had cooled by 1.7 per cent before Trump decided to go to war with Iran, ignoring the concern that a retaliation would result in a closure of the Strait of Hormuz and create a supply shock. He claimed that anyone who is concerned about financial strain wants Iran to have a nuclear weapon. “Anybody that wants them to have a nuclear weapon is a stupid person. So we said we're going to take the greatest stock market in history, and we're going to go down a little bit. And actually that turned out to be incorrect, because our stock market is now at the highest point in history, which frankly, surprised a lot of people,” said Trump. Economists warn that supply shock, which resulted in the rise of energy prices, has pushed the country into a period of stagflation as the Federal Reserve has to maintain the interest rate; otherwise, the dollar will be weakened and the sovereign debt will increase. Without a proper restoration of navigation, the global economy, as well as the US economy will face a recession.

US President Donald Trump said he is not worried about Americans’ financial strain while negotiating an end to the Iran war. Rising oil prices, inflation and gas costs are fuelling stagflation fears.

Trump says he doesn’t think about Americans’ financial pain amid Iran war, defends oil shock

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Beijing as tensions over Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, trade, tariffs and global power rivalry intensify. The summit comes amid fears of economic disruption and energy insecurity.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Beijing as tensions over Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, trade, tariffs and global power rivalry intensify. The summit comes amid fears of economic disruption and energy insecurity.

Xi-Trump summit: Will the meeting bring a resolution to the war with Iran & end Hormuz blockade?

A new report suggests Israel is increasingly concerned that a potential deal being pursued by U.S. President Donald Trump with Iran may fail to address Tehran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities. The concerns come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions and revive negotiations over Iran’s activities. 


Report: Israel Fears Trump's Deal May Leave Out Nukes, Missiles

Iran has issued a stark warning amid escalating tensions with the United States, saying it could enrich uranium to 90% purity, a level considered weapons-grade if it comes under attack again. The warning comes as fragile peace talks continue and concerns grow over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions following recent U.S. and Israeli strikes.


US-Iran War: Iran Warns of 90% Uranium Enrichment if It is Attacked Again 

Diet Coke or bomb Iran? Satirical video game mocking Trump installed in Washington DC

A satirical arcade game mocking Donald Trump’s Iran War rhetoric has been installed in Washington, D.C. The game features Putin, the Pope, amongst others, and allows players to choose between a Diet Coke and invading Iran

Iraq and Pakistan have reportedly reached separate agreements with Iran to allow the transport of oil and liquefied natural gas through the Strait of Hormuz, according to five sources familiar with the arrangements. The developments highlight Tehran’s growing influence over one of the world’s most critical energy routes during the ongoing regional conflict. The US-Israeli war with Iran has sharply disrupted energy exports from the Gulf region, which typically supplies around 20% of global crude oil and LNG. Recent US actions targeting Iranian ports and ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz have intensified concerns over global energy security.&nbsp;According to Claudio Steuer of the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, Iran’s strategy has evolved during the conflict. “Iran has shifted from blocking Hormuz to controlling access to it ... Hormuz is no longer a neutral transit route, it is a controlled corridor,” he was quoted as saying. Iraq, whose oil exports heavily rely on the strait, was among the countries hardest hit by disruptions. Pakistan, meanwhile, has struggled with rising fuel prices while depending heavily on Gulf energy imports during peak summer electricity demand. In a previously undisclosed arrangement between Baghdad and Tehran, Iraq reportedly secured safe passage for two very large crude carriers transporting approximately 2 million barrels of oil each through the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-iran-war-coverage-showing-tehran-doing-well-virtual-treason-1778623857386">Trump calls Iran war coverage showing Tehran 'doing well' ‘virtual TREASON’</a>&nbsp;An Iraqi oil ministry official told Reuters that Baghdad is now seeking Iran’s approval for additional shipments as the government works to protect oil revenues that account for roughly 95% of Iraq’s state budget. “Iraq is a close ally of Iran, and any deterioration in Iraq's economy would also damage Iran's economic interests in the country,” the official said. A second Iraqi official and a shipping industry source also confirmed ongoing negotiations with Tehran. At the same time, two LNG tankers carrying Qatari gas are reportedly en route to Pakistan under a separate understanding between Islamabad and Tehran, according to industry sources familiar with the matter. Pakistan previously received around 10 LNG cargoes each month before the conflict disrupted normal trade flows.&nbsp;Sources said neither Iraq nor Pakistan made direct payments to Iran or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in exchange for transit access. Qatar was reportedly not directly involved in the bilateral arrangements but informed the United States before LNG shipments headed to Pakistan. Analysts warn that similar agreements with Iran could become more common as countries seek to secure energy supplies amid rising prices and shipping disruptions. Before the war, around 3,000 vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz every month. Shipping traffic has now reportedly dropped to just 5% of previous levels.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-wildfires-scientists-warn-situation-may-worsen-with-summer-arrival-1778636313079/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-wildfires-scientists-warn-situation-may-worsen-with-summer-arrival-1778636313079/embed</a>&nbsp;The disruption has fueled a sharp rise in energy prices, with Brent crude climbing more than 50% since the conflict began in late February, while LNG prices in Europe and Asia have surged between 35% and 50%. Iran has stated it intends to maintain influence over the strait after the conflict ends and has reportedly demanded sanctions relief, reparations, and access to frozen assets as part of any future settlement.&nbsp;Donald Trump dismissed those demands as ‘garbage’, dampening hopes for a broader diplomatic breakthrough. A Pakistani source involved in negotiations acknowledged difficulties in coordinating passage approvals. “The IRGC sometimes changes the goalposts, so it is hard to keep things on track, but we are working through it,” he said.&nbsp;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.

Iraq and Pakistan reportedly reached agreements with Iran for oil and LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising Gulf conflict tensions

Iraq and Pakistan have reportedly reached separate agreements with Iran to allow the transport of oil and liquefied natural gas through the Strait of Hormuz, according to five sources familiar with the arrangements. The developments highlight Tehran’s growing influence over one of the world’s most critical energy routes during the ongoing regional conflict. The US-Israeli war with Iran has sharply disrupted energy exports from the Gulf region, which typically supplies around 20% of global crude oil and LNG. Recent US actions targeting Iranian ports and ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz have intensified concerns over global energy security. According to Claudio Steuer of the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, Iran’s strategy has evolved during the conflict. “Iran has shifted from blocking Hormuz to controlling access to it ... Hormuz is no longer a neutral transit route, it is a controlled corridor,” he was quoted as saying. Iraq, whose oil exports heavily rely on the strait, was among the countries hardest hit by disruptions. Pakistan, meanwhile, has struggled with rising fuel prices while depending heavily on Gulf energy imports during peak summer electricity demand. In a previously undisclosed arrangement between Baghdad and Tehran, Iraq reportedly secured safe passage for two very large crude carriers transporting approximately 2 million barrels of oil each through the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday. Also Read: Trump calls Iran war coverage showing Tehran 'doing well' ‘virtual TREASON’ An Iraqi oil ministry official told Reuters that Baghdad is now seeking Iran’s approval for additional shipments as the government works to protect oil revenues that account for roughly 95% of Iraq’s state budget. “Iraq is a close ally of Iran, and any deterioration in Iraq's economy would also damage Iran's economic interests in the country,” the official said. A second Iraqi official and a shipping industry source also confirmed ongoing negotiations with Tehran. At the same time, two LNG tankers carrying Qatari gas are reportedly en route to Pakistan under a separate understanding between Islamabad and Tehran, according to industry sources familiar with the matter. Pakistan previously received around 10 LNG cargoes each month before the conflict disrupted normal trade flows. Sources said neither Iraq nor Pakistan made direct payments to Iran or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in exchange for transit access. Qatar was reportedly not directly involved in the bilateral arrangements but informed the United States before LNG shipments headed to Pakistan. Analysts warn that similar agreements with Iran could become more common as countries seek to secure energy supplies amid rising prices and shipping disruptions. Before the war, around 3,000 vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz every month. Shipping traffic has now reportedly dropped to just 5% of previous levels. https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-wildfires-scientists-warn-situation-may-worsen-with-summer-arrival-1778636313079/embed The disruption has fueled a sharp rise in energy prices, with Brent crude climbing more than 50% since the conflict began in late February, while LNG prices in Europe and Asia have surged between 35% and 50%. Iran has stated it intends to maintain influence over the strait after the conflict ends and has reportedly demanded sanctions relief, reparations, and access to frozen assets as part of any future settlement. Donald Trump dismissed those demands as ‘garbage’, dampening hopes for a broader diplomatic breakthrough. A Pakistani source involved in negotiations acknowledged difficulties in coordinating passage approvals. “The IRGC sometimes changes the goalposts, so it is hard to keep things on track, but we are working through it,” he said. 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.

Iraq and Pakistan have reportedly struck energy transit deals with Iran as Tehran tightens control over the Strait of Hormuz during the ongoing conflict

Pakistan, Iraq strike energy transit deals with Iran through Strait of Hormuz: Report

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (May 12) that reporting suggesting Iran is ‘doing well’ militarily in its conflict with the United States amounts to treason. “When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, Militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement. They are aiding and abetting the enemy! All it does is give Iran false hope when none should exist,” Trump posted on social media during the first leg of his flight to China.“Only Losers, Ingrates, and Fools are able to make a case against America!” he added.&nbsp;The comments mark an escalation in Trump’s rhetoric toward the media amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. It is not the first time he has accused critics of treason during the war, though previous remarks were not directed specifically at journalists. CNN has reported that Trump has also pushed the Justice Department to subpoena reporters covering the conflict to identify their sources. According to officials cited by CNN, Trump delivered a handwritten note labeled ‘Treason’ in Sharpie atop printed news articles during a White House meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/4-6-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-tehran-no-casualty-damage-reported-1778620604198">4.6 magnitude Earthquake jolts Tehran; no casualties, damage reported</a>

<h2>‘Israel fearing that Trump will strike a ‘bad deal’ with Iran’</h2>Meanwhile, concerns are growing in Israel about potential US-Iran negotiations. Israeli sources told CNN they fear Trump may strike a deal with Iran that does not fully address key security issues that triggered the conflict. Those concerns include the possibility of an agreement that leaves Iran’s nuclear program partially intact while excluding restrictions on ballistic missiles and support for regional proxy groups.&nbsp;Early in the conflict, Trump had outlined broader goals including dismantling Iran’s missile program, ending support for regional militias, and eliminating its nuclear capabilities. However, recent negotiations have reportedly focused more narrowly on uranium enrichment and maritime issues such as reopening the Strait of Hormuz. A source familiar with the talks said Israel believes issues like missiles and proxy forces “are probably off the table,” leading Israeli leaders to prioritize Iran’s nuclear program as the most urgent threat.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-simple-formula-scientists-link-to-longer-life-olive-oil-coffee-and-smart-eating-1778607890044/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-simple-formula-scientists-link-to-longer-life-olive-oil-coffee-and-smart-eating-1778607890044/embed</a>&nbsp;“There is real concern that Trump will reach a bad deal,” one Israeli official told CNN. Another senior Israeli official said Israel remains on high alert and is closely monitoring negotiations, adding, “We will be happy if there will be no deal, we will be happy if the siege on Hormuz continues, and we will be happy if Iran gets a few more strikes,” while noting that final decisions rest with Trump. Escalation remains possible, the official added, “if the Iranians continue to play and drag negotiations.”&nbsp;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.

President Donald Trump calls media coverage of Iran conflict 'treason' while Israel expresses concern over potential US-Iran nuclear deal negotiations

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (May 12) that reporting suggesting Iran is ‘doing well’ militarily in its conflict with the United States amounts to treason. “When the Fake News says that the Iranian enemy is doing well, Militarily, against us, it’s virtual TREASON in that it is such a false, and even preposterous, statement. They are aiding and abetting the enemy! All it does is give Iran false hope when none should exist,” Trump posted on social media during the first leg of his flight to China. “Only Losers, Ingrates, and Fools are able to make a case against America!” he added. The comments mark an escalation in Trump’s rhetoric toward the media amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. It is not the first time he has accused critics of treason during the war, though previous remarks were not directed specifically at journalists. CNN has reported that Trump has also pushed the Justice Department to subpoena reporters covering the conflict to identify their sources. According to officials cited by CNN, Trump delivered a handwritten note labeled ‘Treason’ in Sharpie atop printed news articles during a White House meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Also Read: 4.6 magnitude Earthquake jolts Tehran; no casualties, damage reported

Donald Trump calls Iran war coverage amounts to ‘treason’, as Israel fears a US-Iran deal may leave key security threats unresolved

Trump calls Iran war coverage showing Tehran 'doing well' 'virtual TREASON'

Pakistan allowed Iranian military aircraft to park on its airfields in the weeks after the US-Iran ceasefire was announced, potentially shielding them from American strikes, even as Islamabad was publicly positioning itself as a neutral mediator between Washington and Tehran, according to US officials who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity.<h2>Which aircraft did Iran 'hide' in Pakistan?</h2>According to the report, among the aircraft sent to Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan, a strategically important installation outside Rawalpindi, was an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the C-130 transport aircraft. Iran reportedly also moved civilian aircraft to Afghanistan, though it remains unclear whether military planes were among those flights.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-speak-in-english-pakistan-s-bizarre-meltdown-over-india-s-operation-sindoor-press-conference-goes-viral-watch-1778233667496">'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH</a><h2>Pakistan rejects allegations</h2>A senior Pakistani official rejected the claims, telling CBS News that Nur Khan is "right in the heart of the city" and that a large fleet of parked aircraft "can't be hidden from public view."Afghanistan also had an Iranian aircraft belonging to Mahan Air in its hangar. However, Taliban's chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, denied that any Iranian planes were in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, an Afghan civil aviation officer said that a Mahan Air civilian aircraft that had landed in Kabul before the war was later moved to Herat Airport near the Iranian border. However, he said that it was not for concealment but for protection after Pakistan began airstrikes on Kabul during separate tensions with the Taliban government over the TTP militant group.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missiles-and-deals-at-the-same-time-us-iran-war-and-peace-dichotomy-explained-through-history-1778225338623">Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history</a><h2>Pakistan's mediator role in question</h2>Islamabad has positioned itself to Washington as a stabilising intermediary and a mediator in the US-Israel-Iran war. However, at the same time, it was trying not to alienate Tehran or Beijing, Iran's most powerful international backer and the source of roughly 80 per cent of Pakistan's major arms imports between 2020 and 2024, according to SIPRI data. China has publicly praised Pakistan's facilitation of indirect communications between the two sides, adding another layer of complexity to Islamabad's balancing act. &nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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.

Pakistan’s role as a US-Iran mediator is now under scrutiny after a report claims Iranian military aircraft were quietly parked on Pakistani airfields after the ceasefire. If true, it raises uncomfortable questions about whether Islamabad was brokering peace publicly while hedging privately.

Pakistan allowed Iranian military aircraft to park on its airfields in the weeks after the US-Iran ceasefire was announced, potentially shielding them from American strikes, even as Islamabad was publicly positioning itself as a neutral mediator between Washington and Tehran, according to US officials who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity. Which aircraft did Iran 'hide' in Pakistan? According to the report, among the aircraft sent to Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan, a strategically important installation outside Rawalpindi, was an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the C-130 transport aircraft. Iran reportedly also moved civilian aircraft to Afghanistan, though it remains unclear whether military planes were among those flights. Also read | 'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH Pakistan rejects allegations A senior Pakistani official rejected the claims, telling CBS News that Nur Khan is "right in the heart of the city" and that a large fleet of parked aircraft "can't be hidden from public view." Afghanistan also had an Iranian aircraft belonging to Mahan Air in its hangar. However, Taliban's chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, denied that any Iranian planes were in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, an Afghan civil aviation officer said that a Mahan Air civilian aircraft that had landed in Kabul before the war was later moved to Herat Airport near the Iranian border. However, he said that it was not for concealment but for protection after Pakistan began airstrikes on Kabul during separate tensions with the Taliban government over the TTP militant group. Also read | Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history Pakistan's mediator role in question Islamabad has positioned itself to Washington as a stabilising intermediary and a mediator in the US-Israel-Iran war. However, at the same time, it was trying not to alienate Tehran or Beijing, Iran's most powerful international backer and the source of roughly 80 per cent of Pakistan's major arms imports between 2020 and 2024, according to SIPRI data. China has publicly praised Pakistan's facilitation of indirect communications between the two sides, adding another layer of complexity to Islamabad's balancing act. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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.

Pakistan’s role as a US-Iran mediator is now under scrutiny after a report claims Iranian military aircraft were quietly parked on Pakistani airfields after the ceasefire. If true, it raises uncomfortable questions about whether Islamabad was brokering peace publicly while hedging privately.

Pakistan two-timed Trump? Report REVEALS Islamabad quietly sheltered Iranian military aircraft while playing mediator in Iran war

The FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to begin in a month on June 11, is facing increased risk of terror attack at the matches in the USA which is co-hosting the tournament along with Mexico and Canada. A total fo 104 matches will be played in the Football World Cup and 78 of them are in the US across 13 cities including the final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran is also not helping the case as the security officials in the USA are trying to make it a successful event.<h2>FIFA World Cup 2026 under terror cloud?</h2>THe US law enforcement agency FBI, in March, held an exercise to train agents for situations including domestic terrorism during the World Cup. The agents were called from throughout the country for this exercise, and one of them told UK-based news outlet Guardian: "It will be hard to control, given the environment and the number of locations of matches and watch parties across the United States. There is a very real possibility that something bad will happen."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-will-personally-bring-hot-dog-coke-fifa-chief-infantino-on-2-3-million-reselling-price-of-final-s-tickets-1778136235002">FIFA chief Infantino defends high prices of football World Cup tickets</a>The agent, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, also said that they were 'alarmed at the scale of exercise' and conceded that "there’s a lot that needs to be dealt with" in terms of threats during the upcoming FIFA World Cup.Speaking on the matter, Javed Ali, a former employee of FBI, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as well as a senior director for counter-terrorism in national security council, also said: "We need to protect not only each venue, but all the other links in the chain that get to the point of the game. There are just so many games. There’s only so many resources to deploy to try to buy down risk against a number of different threats."<h2>Which US cities are hosting the FIFA World Cup matches?</h2>The US will host 78 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 including the final across 11 cities which are: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle and East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The US will host 78 of 104 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 including the final across 13 cities which are: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle and East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to begin in a month on June 11, is facing increased risk of terror attack at the matches in the USA which is co-hosting the tournament along with Mexico and Canada. A total fo 104 matches will be played in the Football World Cup and 78 of them are in the US across 13 cities including the final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran is also not helping the case as the security officials in the USA are trying to make it a successful event. FIFA World Cup 2026 under terror cloud? THe US law enforcement agency FBI, in March, held an exercise to train agents for situations including domestic terrorism during the World Cup. The agents were called from throughout the country for this exercise, and one of them told UK-based news outlet Guardian: "It will be hard to control, given the environment and the number of locations of matches and watch parties across the United States. There is a very real possibility that something bad will happen." Also Read - FIFA chief Infantino defends high prices of football World Cup tickets The agent, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, also said that they were 'alarmed at the scale of exercise' and conceded that "there’s a lot that needs to be dealt with" in terms of threats during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Speaking on the matter, Javed Ali, a former employee of FBI, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as well as a senior director for counter-terrorism in national security council, also said: "We need to protect not only each venue, but all the other links in the chain that get to the point of the game. There are just so many games. There’s only so many resources to deploy to try to buy down risk against a number of different threats." Which US cities are hosting the FIFA World Cup matches? The US will host 78 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 including the final across 11 cities which are: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle and East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The US will host 78 of 104 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 including the final across 13 cities which are: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle and East Rutherford, New Jersey.

'Real possibility something bad will happen': FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in US under cloud of terrorism

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on Monday (May 11) that Iran’s military was fully prepared to retaliate against any future attacks, after growing tensions threatened the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East. Posting on X, Ghalibaf said Iran’s armed forces remained on high alert and capable of responding decisively to any aggression."Our armed forces are ready to respond and to teach a lesson for any aggression," Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on X. "A bad strategy and bad decisions always lead to bad results -- the world already understands this."&nbsp;The remarks came shortly after Donald Trump voiced frustration over stalled negotiations aimed at ending the Iran conflict. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump accused Iranian leaders of repeatedly changing their positions during talks. “Look, I’ve had to deal with them four or five times; they change their mind,” Trump said. “They’re very dishonorable people, the leadership.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-putin-in-a-weaker-position-than-ever-before-says-european-union-vice-president-kaja-kallas-1778524916025">'Putin in a weaker position than ever before', says European Union Vice-President Kaja Kallas</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">نیروهای مسلح ما آمادهٔ پاسخگویی درس‌آموز به هر تجاوزی هستند؛ استراتژی اشتباه و تصمیم‌های اشتباه، همیشه نتیجهٔ اشتباه خواهد داشت، همهٔ دنیا قبلاً این را فهمیده‌اند. ما برای تمام گزینه‌ها آماده هستیم؛ شگفت‌زده خواهند شد.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://twitter.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2053903016260993268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump said newer Iranian leaders who emerged after several officials were killed in strikes appeared ‘more reasonable’, but added that no breakthrough had been achieved. “I’ve had that in business many times that, you know, the mind changes,” Trump said. He said the sides would appear to make a deal, and the next day they sent you a document that took five days to arrive, when it should have been there in 20 minutes.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hyderabad-jail-museum-to-offer-visitors-real-24-hour-prison-experience-1778508885579/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hyderabad-jail-museum-to-offer-visitors-real-24-hour-prison-experience-1778508885579/embed</a>&nbsp;“You know, it’s a pretty simple document,” he added. “They will never have a nuclear weapon.”The exchange highlights ongoing uncertainty surrounding diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, with tensions remaining high despite ceasefire attempts and continued international pressure to prevent further escalation.&nbsp;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.

Iran parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warns of military retaliation as Donald Trump criticizes Tehran over stalled talks and nuclear tensions

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on Monday (May 11) that Iran’s military was fully prepared to retaliate against any future attacks, after growing tensions threatened the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East. Posting on X, Ghalibaf said Iran’s armed forces remained on high alert and capable of responding decisively to any aggression. "Our armed forces are ready to respond and to teach a lesson for any aggression," Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on X. "A bad strategy and bad decisions always lead to bad results -- the world already understands this." The remarks came shortly after Donald Trump voiced frustration over stalled negotiations aimed at ending the Iran conflict. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump accused Iranian leaders of repeatedly changing their positions during talks. “Look, I’ve had to deal with them four or five times; they change their mind,” Trump said. “They’re very dishonorable people, the leadership.” Also Read: 'Putin in a weaker position than ever before', says European Union Vice-President Kaja Kallas

Iran warns it is ready to retaliate against aggression as Donald Trump criticises Tehran’s leadership and stalled nuclear negotiations

'Ready to teach a lesson if attacked', says Iranian Parliament speaker Ghalibaf after Trump questions Tehran's intentions

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said he believes Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive and hiding in a bunker. Netanyahu also said the Iran war is “not over,” stressing that Tehran’s enriched uranium and nuclear facilities still need to be dismantled.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said he believes Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive and hiding in a bunker. Netanyahu also said the Iran war is “not over,” stressing that Tehran’s enriched uranium and nuclear facilities still need to be dismantled.

'He is alive but...': Netanyahu issues BIG statement about Mojtaba Khamenei, his whereabouts; admits Israel and US failed to foresee Hormuz crisis

Iran has sent a response to the latest US proposal to end the war in the region via mediator Pakistan, Iranian state media reported on Sunday (May 10). This comes after the Foreign Ministry spokesman said several times that Tehran’s views and considerations regarding the US proposals would be sent after a review and final conclusions are made.&nbsp;“The Islamic Republic of Iran sent today through Pakistani mediators its response to the latest text proposed by the United States to end the war,” the official IRNA news agency reported.“According to the proposed plan, at this stage, negotiations will focus on ending the war in the region,” the report added.According to the ISNA news agency, Iran’s response to the United States focuses on “ending the war and maritime security”.“It should be noted that the main focus of Iran's response to the US proposal is on 'ending the war and maritime security' in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz,” ISNA reported.<h2>Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issues new directive</h2>Meanwhile, Iran’s head of the military central command, Ali Abdollahi, met with the country’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, Iranian state media reported on Sunday (May 10). The report added that he issued fresh directions ordering the continuation of the operation against the US.&nbsp;Khamenei issued “new directives and guidance for the continuation of operations to confront the enemy” state TV said. It did not specify when or where the meeting took place.<h2>Iran launches fresh drone attacks</h2>Meanwhile, Iran on Sunday launched fresh drone attacks in the Gulf. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. The strikes came after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire.The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X.In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones.A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X.Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”.While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.”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;

Iran has sent its response to a US proposal to end the regional war through Pakistani mediators, state media reported, after Tehran reviewed Washington’s latest peace terms.

Iran has sent a response to the latest US proposal to end the war in the region via mediator Pakistan, Iranian state media reported on Sunday (May 10). This comes after the Foreign Ministry spokesman said several times that Tehran’s views and considerations regarding the US proposals would be sent after a review and final conclusions are made. “The Islamic Republic of Iran sent today through Pakistani mediators its response to the latest text proposed by the United States to end the war,” the official IRNA news agency reported. “According to the proposed plan, at this stage, negotiations will focus on ending the war in the region,” the report added. According to the ISNA news agency, Iran’s response to the United States focuses on “ending the war and maritime security”. “It should be noted that the main focus of Iran's response to the US proposal is on 'ending the war and maritime security' in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz,” ISNA reported. Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issues new directive Meanwhile, Iran’s head of the military central command, Ali Abdollahi, met with the country’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, Iranian state media reported on Sunday (May 10). The report added that he issued fresh directions ordering the continuation of the operation against the US. Khamenei issued “new directives and guidance for the continuation of operations to confront the enemy” state TV said. It did not specify when or where the meeting took place. Iran launches fresh drone attacks Meanwhile, Iran on Sunday launched fresh drone attacks in the Gulf. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. The strikes came after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire. The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X. In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones. A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X. Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”. While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.” 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.

Iran has sent its response to a US proposal to end the regional war through Pakistani mediators, state media reported, after Tehran reviewed Washington’s latest peace terms.

Iran sends response to US proposal to end war via Pakistan

Tensions were reignited in the Gulf on Sunday (May 10) with Iran launching fresh drone attacks across the region. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. This comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire.<h2>UAE, Kuwait report drone attacks</h2>The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X.In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones.<h2>Vessel targeted in Gulf waters</h2>A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X.Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”.While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.”Meanwhile, the South Korean foreign ministry said that its cargo ship was struck by “two unidentified aircraft” in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The statement came days after the fire-damaged HMM Namu arrived at port in Dubai. The ministry did not specify what type of aircraft struck the vessel.<h2>‘Restraint is over’</h2>Iranian parliament's national security commission spokesman on Sunday warned the United States against any attacks on Iranian vessels in the Gulf waters, saying that Tehran’s restraint was over.“Our restraint is over as of today. Any attack on our vessels will trigger a strong and decisive Iranian response against American ships and bases,” Ebrahim Rezaei said in a post on X.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.

Tensions flared in the Gulf as Iran launched fresh drone attacks on Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait. A cargo vessel was hit in Qatari waters after Tehran threatened US bases and “enemy ships.”

Tensions were reignited in the Gulf on Sunday (May 10) with Iran launching fresh drone attacks across the region. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. This comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire. UAE, Kuwait report drone attacks The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X. In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones. Vessel targeted in Gulf waters A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X. Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”. While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.” Meanwhile, the South Korean foreign ministry said that its cargo ship was struck by “two unidentified aircraft” in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The statement came days after the fire-damaged HMM Namu arrived at port in Dubai. The ministry did not specify what type of aircraft struck the vessel. ‘Restraint is over’ Iranian parliament's national security commission spokesman on Sunday warned the United States against any attacks on Iranian vessels in the Gulf waters, saying that Tehran’s restraint was over. “Our restraint is over as of today. Any attack on our vessels will trigger a strong and decisive Iranian response against American ships and bases,” Ebrahim Rezaei said in a post on X. 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.

Tensions flared in the Gulf as Iran launched fresh drone attacks on Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait. A cargo vessel was hit in Qatari waters after Tehran threatened US bases and “enemy ships.”

Iran launches fresh drone attacks across Gulf after threatening US

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