US-Israel-Iran war Highlights: Iran conflict has cost $25 billion so far, says Pentagon official

Jules Hurst III, the Pentagon’s acting comptroller, revealed to the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday that the war in Iran has cost around $25 billion so far. Most of that has gone towards replenishing munitions, and some has gone toward operations and maintenance and movement of equipment, said Jules Hurst III. The Pentagon will also put together a supplemental request to Congress for more money to fund the war, Hurst added.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is due to appear before the House Armed Services Committee, giving lawmakers their first opportunity to publicly question him since the US and Israel launched war on Iran two months ago.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is also set to testify today. They are both also due to appear before the Senate armed services committee on Thursday.

President Donald Trump has told his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iranian ports, said a Wall Street Journal report, citing US officials.

Trump has reportedly said in recent meetings that he prefers the blockade over other methods to increase the pressure on Iran as peace talks stall and Tehran keeps the critical Strait of Hormuz closed.

Trump believes that his other options, like resuming bombing or walking away from the war, would carry greater risks than maintaining the blockade, said the WSJ report.

The White House says negotiators are continuing to engage with the Iranians, who are “struggling to sort out their leadership situation” amid the war.

In a statement to US media, spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump would only enter into an agreement with Iran that “puts U.S. national security first”.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday (April 29) his relationship with US President Donald Trump remained good, after Trump criticised him over comments on the war in Iran. “From my perspective, my personal relationship with the US President remains good,” Merz said, adding he had expressed doubts from the start about the war in Iran.

Iran is expected to submit a revised peace proposal soon, sources say, after US President Donald Trump indicated that he would not accept an earlier version.

The UN rights office says at least 21 people have been executed and more than 4,000 arrested since the start of the war.

The Iranian rial plummeted to a record low against the dollar on Wednesday, according to currency-tracking websites, as a US naval blockade of the country's ports continued.

US President Donald Trump met with oil and gas executives at the White House on Tuesday to discuss the impact of the Iran conflict on energy markets, Axios reported.

The US President, who was reportedly dissatisfied with Iran for trying to sign a 'non-nuclear deal' has issued a warning urging the country to “get smart soon”. “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon! President DJT”, wrote Trump in a Truth Social post. Trump also shared an AI-generated image of him posing with an assault rifle resembling the cover image of the Hollywood movie franchise James Bond, with the tag line “No more Mr Nice Guy”.

A Japan linked vessel passed through the Starit of Hormuz on Wednesday April 29, country's foreign ministry said in a statement on the platform X. “The Government of Japan considers this passage of a Japan-related vessel as a positive development, including from the perspective of protection of Japanese nationals,” read the Japanese Foreign Ministry statement on X. The statement read that Japan continues to urge Iran for the safe passage of all vessels through the vital trade chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz 

At least five people have been killed by Israeli forces across Gaza in last 24 hours. Israeli forces have opened fire along the Gaza coastline and artillery shelling has been reported in the east of Deir el-Balah in Central parts of the Gaza Strip. Israel has carried out attacks on 179 days of the 201 days of ceasefire. 

US President Donald Trump, during yesterday’s state dinner at the White House, said that British King Charles agrees on the premise that Iran will not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. “We have militarily defeated that particular opponent, and we’re never going to let that opponent ever — Charles agrees with me even more than I do — we’re never going to let that opponent have a nuclear weapon.” said Trump.

Pete Hegseth is preparing to give his first testimony before Congress on the Middle East conflict on Wednesday, as diplomatic attempts to resolve the war continue to stall. Iran has maintained a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for two months, disrupting global energy flows and rattling markets. Reports indicate that Washington remains unconvinced by Tehran’s recent proposals aimed at easing tensions.

Donald Trump has asserted that Iran has been “militarily defeated,” but Iranian officials reject that claim, maintaining that the conflict is ongoing and cautioning about possible further escalation. Talks remain uncertain due to disagreements over nuclear matters and sanctions. Rising oil prices and domestic political pressure are increasing the urgency for the United States, while ongoing violence along the Lebanon front highlights the fragile and volatile nature of the situation.

Yojna Patel, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, strongly criticised attempts to target commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling such actions unacceptable and a grave risk to global trade. Speaking at the UN Security Council, she highlighted the strait’s vital role in India’s energy security and economic stability, and expressed concern over the deaths of Indian seafarers amid the ongoing conflict. She stressed the need to strictly uphold international laws that prohibit attacks on civilian shipping and urged the immediate restoration of safe and uninterrupted maritime movement.

Patel also pointed to the broader impact of rising tensions in the Middle East, warning of threats to global security, trade, and food supply chains. She emphasised India’s deep ties with the region and the safety of nearly 10 million Indians living in the Gulf. Reaffirming India’s commitment to dialogue and restraint, she supported a two-state solution and called for accountability in attacks on UN peacekeepers, along with renewed efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

Israeli forces have launched a drone attack on the town of Burj Qalaouiyah in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli military confirmed that it intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” in the airspace near its forces in southern Lebanon.

Israeli forces carried out a series of arrest operations across the occupied West Bank overnight, according to Wafa. In Kafr Qaddum, near Qalqilya, troops entered the town and detained three brothers along with a son of one of them. In Iktaba, a suburb east of Tulkarem, forces raided homes at dawn and arrested two individuals, including a former detainee. Meanwhile, in Beit Ummar in the Hebron area, eight people were taken into custody after soldiers carried out raids across multiple neighbourhoods.

The US Treasury cautioned financial institutions about potential sanctions exposure tied to Chinese “teapot” refineries accused of purchasing Iranian crude. Washington also issued a warning to shipping companies, stating they could face penalties if they make payments to Iran or its military in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of broader efforts to curb Iran’s oil trade.

Ex-UK PM Tony Blair addressed the UN Security Council as a member of Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza. He stated that Gaza remains “precarious”. “The war has stopped, violence has fallen dramatically, but ceasefire violations continue.”

Blair added that food aid in the region has improved and the Rafah crossing is partly open, especially for medical evacuations, but said, “life remains desperate for many”. He also highlighted that a new Gaza administration committee has been formulated, a multinational force is preparing for deployment, and talks on Hamas disarmament are continuing.

Donald Trump said earlier that Iran was seeking the removal of the naval blockade while negotiations were still ongoing. Iran is reported to have proposed an interim arrangement to reopen the strait in return for the United States lifting its blockade on Iranian ports, while postponing more difficult talks concerning Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, Trump turned down the offer, stating that it indicated Iran was not engaging in negotiations in good faith.

Jules Hurst III, the Pentagon’s acting comptroller, revealed to the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday that the war in Iran has cost around $25 billion so far. Most of that has gone towards replenishing munitions, and some has gone toward operations and maintenance and movement of equipment, said Jules Hurst III. The Pentagon will also put together a supplemental request to Congress for more money to fund the war, Hurst added.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is due to appear before the House Armed Services Committee, giving lawmakers their first opportunity to publicly question him since the US and Israel launched war on Iran two months ago.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is also set to testify today. They are both also due to appear before the Senate armed services committee on Thursday.

President Donald Trump has told his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iranian ports, said a Wall Street Journal report, citing US officials.

Trump has reportedly said in recent meetings that he prefers the blockade over other methods to increase the pressure on Iran as peace talks stall and Tehran keeps the critical Strait of Hormuz closed.

Trump believes that his other options, like resuming bombing or walking away from the war, would carry greater risks than maintaining the blockade, said the WSJ report.

The White House says negotiators are continuing to engage with the Iranians, who are “struggling to sort out their leadership situation” amid the war.

In a statement to US media, spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump would only enter into an agreement with Iran that “puts U.S. national security first”.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday (April 29) his relationship with US President Donald Trump remained good, after Trump criticised him over comments on the war in Iran. “From my perspective, my personal relationship with the US President remains good,” Merz said, adding he had expressed doubts from the start about the war in Iran.

Iran is expected to submit a revised peace proposal soon, sources say, after US President Donald Trump indicated that he would not accept an earlier version.

The UN rights office says at least 21 people have been executed and more than 4,000 arrested since the start of the war.

The Iranian rial plummeted to a record low against the dollar on Wednesday, according to currency-tracking websites, as a US naval blockade of the country's ports continued.

US President Donald Trump met with oil and gas executives at the White House on Tuesday to discuss the impact of the Iran conflict on energy markets, Axios reported.

The US President, who was reportedly dissatisfied with Iran for trying to sign a 'non-nuclear deal' has issued a warning urging the country to “get smart soon”. “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon! President DJT”, wrote Trump in a Truth Social post. Trump also shared an AI-generated image of him posing with an assault rifle resembling the cover image of the Hollywood movie franchise James Bond, with the tag line “No more Mr Nice Guy”.

A Japan linked vessel passed through the Starit of Hormuz on Wednesday April 29, country's foreign ministry said in a statement on the platform X. “The Government of Japan considers this passage of a Japan-related vessel as a positive development, including from the perspective of protection of Japanese nationals,” read the Japanese Foreign Ministry statement on X. The statement read that Japan continues to urge Iran for the safe passage of all vessels through the vital trade chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz 

At least five people have been killed by Israeli forces across Gaza in last 24 hours. Israeli forces have opened fire along the Gaza coastline and artillery shelling has been reported in the east of Deir el-Balah in Central parts of the Gaza Strip. Israel has carried out attacks on 179 days of the 201 days of ceasefire. 

US President Donald Trump, during yesterday’s state dinner at the White House, said that British King Charles agrees on the premise that Iran will not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. “We have militarily defeated that particular opponent, and we’re never going to let that opponent ever — Charles agrees with me even more than I do — we’re never going to let that opponent have a nuclear weapon.” said Trump.

Pete Hegseth is preparing to give his first testimony before Congress on the Middle East conflict on Wednesday, as diplomatic attempts to resolve the war continue to stall. Iran has maintained a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for two months, disrupting global energy flows and rattling markets. Reports indicate that Washington remains unconvinced by Tehran’s recent proposals aimed at easing tensions.

Donald Trump has asserted that Iran has been “militarily defeated,” but Iranian officials reject that claim, maintaining that the conflict is ongoing and cautioning about possible further escalation. Talks remain uncertain due to disagreements over nuclear matters and sanctions. Rising oil prices and domestic political pressure are increasing the urgency for the United States, while ongoing violence along the Lebanon front highlights the fragile and volatile nature of the situation.

Yojna Patel, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, strongly criticised attempts to target commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling such actions unacceptable and a grave risk to global trade. Speaking at the UN Security Council, she highlighted the strait’s vital role in India’s energy security and economic stability, and expressed concern over the deaths of Indian seafarers amid the ongoing conflict. She stressed the need to strictly uphold international laws that prohibit attacks on civilian shipping and urged the immediate restoration of safe and uninterrupted maritime movement.

Patel also pointed to the broader impact of rising tensions in the Middle East, warning of threats to global security, trade, and food supply chains. She emphasised India’s deep ties with the region and the safety of nearly 10 million Indians living in the Gulf. Reaffirming India’s commitment to dialogue and restraint, she supported a two-state solution and called for accountability in attacks on UN peacekeepers, along with renewed efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

Israeli forces have launched a drone attack on the town of Burj Qalaouiyah in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli military confirmed that it intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” in the airspace near its forces in southern Lebanon.

Israeli forces carried out a series of arrest operations across the occupied West Bank overnight, according to Wafa. In Kafr Qaddum, near Qalqilya, troops entered the town and detained three brothers along with a son of one of them. In Iktaba, a suburb east of Tulkarem, forces raided homes at dawn and arrested two individuals, including a former detainee. Meanwhile, in Beit Ummar in the Hebron area, eight people were taken into custody after soldiers carried out raids across multiple neighbourhoods.

The US Treasury cautioned financial institutions about potential sanctions exposure tied to Chinese “teapot” refineries accused of purchasing Iranian crude. Washington also issued a warning to shipping companies, stating they could face penalties if they make payments to Iran or its military in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of broader efforts to curb Iran’s oil trade.

Ex-UK PM Tony Blair addressed the UN Security Council as a member of Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza. He stated that Gaza remains “precarious”. “The war has stopped, violence has fallen dramatically, but ceasefire violations continue.”

Blair added that food aid in the region has improved and the Rafah crossing is partly open, especially for medical evacuations, but said, “life remains desperate for many”. He also highlighted that a new Gaza administration committee has been formulated, a multinational force is preparing for deployment, and talks on Hamas disarmament are continuing.

Donald Trump said earlier that Iran was seeking the removal of the naval blockade while negotiations were still ongoing. Iran is reported to have proposed an interim arrangement to reopen the strait in return for the United States lifting its blockade on Iranian ports, while postponing more difficult talks concerning Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, Trump turned down the offer, stating that it indicated Iran was not engaging in negotiations in good faith.

Jules Hurst III, the Pentagon’s acting comptroller, revealed to the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday that the war in Iran has cost around $25 billion so far. Most of that has gone towards replenishing munitions, and some has gone toward operations and maintenance and movement of equipment, said Jules Hurst III. The Pentagon will also put together a supplemental request to Congress for more money to fund the war, Hurst added.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is due to appear before the House Armed Services Committee, giving lawmakers their first opportunity to publicly question him since the US and Israel launched war on Iran two months ago.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is also set to testify today. They are both also due to appear before the Senate armed services committee on Thursday.

President Donald Trump has told his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iranian ports, said a Wall Street Journal report, citing US officials.

Trump has reportedly said in recent meetings that he prefers the blockade over other methods to increase the pressure on Iran as peace talks stall and Tehran keeps the critical Strait of Hormuz closed.

Trump believes that his other options, like resuming bombing or walking away from the war, would carry greater risks than maintaining the blockade, said the WSJ report.

The White House says negotiators are continuing to engage with the Iranians, who are “struggling to sort out their leadership situation” amid the war.

In a statement to US media, spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump would only enter into an agreement with Iran that “puts U.S. national security first”.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday (April 29) his relationship with US President Donald Trump remained good, after Trump criticised him over comments on the war in Iran. “From my perspective, my personal relationship with the US President remains good,” Merz said, adding he had expressed doubts from the start about the war in Iran.

Iran is expected to submit a revised peace proposal soon, sources say, after US President Donald Trump indicated that he would not accept an earlier version.

The UN rights office says at least 21 people have been executed and more than 4,000 arrested since the start of the war.

The Iranian rial plummeted to a record low against the dollar on Wednesday, according to currency-tracking websites, as a US naval blockade of the country's ports continued.

US President Donald Trump met with oil and gas executives at the White House on Tuesday to discuss the impact of the Iran conflict on energy markets, Axios reported.

The US President, who was reportedly dissatisfied with Iran for trying to sign a 'non-nuclear deal' has issued a warning urging the country to “get smart soon”. “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon! President DJT”, wrote Trump in a Truth Social post. Trump also shared an AI-generated image of him posing with an assault rifle resembling the cover image of the Hollywood movie franchise James Bond, with the tag line “No more Mr Nice Guy”.

A Japan linked vessel passed through the Starit of Hormuz on Wednesday April 29, country's foreign ministry said in a statement on the platform X. “The Government of Japan considers this passage of a Japan-related vessel as a positive development, including from the perspective of protection of Japanese nationals,” read the Japanese Foreign Ministry statement on X. The statement read that Japan continues to urge Iran for the safe passage of all vessels through the vital trade chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz 

At least five people have been killed by Israeli forces across Gaza in last 24 hours. Israeli forces have opened fire along the Gaza coastline and artillery shelling has been reported in the east of Deir el-Balah in Central parts of the Gaza Strip. Israel has carried out attacks on 179 days of the 201 days of ceasefire. 

US President Donald Trump, during yesterday’s state dinner at the White House, said that British King Charles agrees on the premise that Iran will not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. “We have militarily defeated that particular opponent, and we’re never going to let that opponent ever — Charles agrees with me even more than I do — we’re never going to let that opponent have a nuclear weapon.” said Trump.

Pete Hegseth is preparing to give his first testimony before Congress on the Middle East conflict on Wednesday, as diplomatic attempts to resolve the war continue to stall. Iran has maintained a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for two months, disrupting global energy flows and rattling markets. Reports indicate that Washington remains unconvinced by Tehran’s recent proposals aimed at easing tensions.

Donald Trump has asserted that Iran has been “militarily defeated,” but Iranian officials reject that claim, maintaining that the conflict is ongoing and cautioning about possible further escalation. Talks remain uncertain due to disagreements over nuclear matters and sanctions. Rising oil prices and domestic political pressure are increasing the urgency for the United States, while ongoing violence along the Lebanon front highlights the fragile and volatile nature of the situation.

Yojna Patel, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, strongly criticised attempts to target commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling such actions unacceptable and a grave risk to global trade. Speaking at the UN Security Council, she highlighted the strait’s vital role in India’s energy security and economic stability, and expressed concern over the deaths of Indian seafarers amid the ongoing conflict. She stressed the need to strictly uphold international laws that prohibit attacks on civilian shipping and urged the immediate restoration of safe and uninterrupted maritime movement.

Patel also pointed to the broader impact of rising tensions in the Middle East, warning of threats to global security, trade, and food supply chains. She emphasised India’s deep ties with the region and the safety of nearly 10 million Indians living in the Gulf. Reaffirming India’s commitment to dialogue and restraint, she supported a two-state solution and called for accountability in attacks on UN peacekeepers, along with renewed efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

Israeli forces have launched a drone attack on the town of Burj Qalaouiyah in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli military confirmed that it intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” in the airspace near its forces in southern Lebanon.

Israeli forces carried out a series of arrest operations across the occupied West Bank overnight, according to Wafa. In Kafr Qaddum, near Qalqilya, troops entered the town and detained three brothers along with a son of one of them. In Iktaba, a suburb east of Tulkarem, forces raided homes at dawn and arrested two individuals, including a former detainee. Meanwhile, in Beit Ummar in the Hebron area, eight people were taken into custody after soldiers carried out raids across multiple neighbourhoods.

The US Treasury cautioned financial institutions about potential sanctions exposure tied to Chinese “teapot” refineries accused of purchasing Iranian crude. Washington also issued a warning to shipping companies, stating they could face penalties if they make payments to Iran or its military in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of broader efforts to curb Iran’s oil trade.

Ex-UK PM Tony Blair addressed the UN Security Council as a member of Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza. He stated that Gaza remains “precarious”. “The war has stopped, violence has fallen dramatically, but ceasefire violations continue.”

Blair added that food aid in the region has improved and the Rafah crossing is partly open, especially for medical evacuations, but said, “life remains desperate for many”. He also highlighted that a new Gaza administration committee has been formulated, a multinational force is preparing for deployment, and talks on Hamas disarmament are continuing.

Donald Trump said earlier that Iran was seeking the removal of the naval blockade while negotiations were still ongoing. Iran is reported to have proposed an interim arrangement to reopen the strait in return for the United States lifting its blockade on Iranian ports, while postponing more difficult talks concerning Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, Trump turned down the offer, stating that it indicated Iran was not engaging in negotiations in good faith.

Jules Hurst III, the Pentagon’s acting comptroller, revealed to the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday that the war in Iran has cost around $25 billion so far. Most of that has gone towards replenishing munitions, and some has gone toward operations and maintenance and movement of equipment, said Jules Hurst III. The Pentagon will also put together a supplemental request to Congress for more money to fund the war, Hurst added.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is due to appear before the House Armed Services Committee, giving lawmakers their first opportunity to publicly question him since the US and Israel launched war on Iran two months ago.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is also set to testify today. They are both also due to appear before the Senate armed services committee on Thursday.

President Donald Trump has told his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iranian ports, said a Wall Street Journal report, citing US officials.

Trump has reportedly said in recent meetings that he prefers the blockade over other methods to increase the pressure on Iran as peace talks stall and Tehran keeps the critical Strait of Hormuz closed.

Trump believes that his other options, like resuming bombing or walking away from the war, would carry greater risks than maintaining the blockade, said the WSJ report.

The White House says negotiators are continuing to engage with the Iranians, who are “struggling to sort out their leadership situation” amid the war.

In a statement to US media, spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump would only enter into an agreement with Iran that “puts U.S. national security first”.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday (April 29) his relationship with US President Donald Trump remained good, after Trump criticised him over comments on the war in Iran. “From my perspective, my personal relationship with the US President remains good,” Merz said, adding he had expressed doubts from the start about the war in Iran.

Iran is expected to submit a revised peace proposal soon, sources say, after US President Donald Trump indicated that he would not accept an earlier version.

The UN rights office says at least 21 people have been executed and more than 4,000 arrested since the start of the war.

The Iranian rial plummeted to a record low against the dollar on Wednesday, according to currency-tracking websites, as a US naval blockade of the country's ports continued.

US President Donald Trump met with oil and gas executives at the White House on Tuesday to discuss the impact of the Iran conflict on energy markets, Axios reported.

The US President, who was reportedly dissatisfied with Iran for trying to sign a 'non-nuclear deal' has issued a warning urging the country to “get smart soon”. “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon! President DJT”, wrote Trump in a Truth Social post. Trump also shared an AI-generated image of him posing with an assault rifle resembling the cover image of the Hollywood movie franchise James Bond, with the tag line “No more Mr Nice Guy”.

A Japan linked vessel passed through the Starit of Hormuz on Wednesday April 29, country's foreign ministry said in a statement on the platform X. “The Government of Japan considers this passage of a Japan-related vessel as a positive development, including from the perspective of protection of Japanese nationals,” read the Japanese Foreign Ministry statement on X. The statement read that Japan continues to urge Iran for the safe passage of all vessels through the vital trade chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz 

At least five people have been killed by Israeli forces across Gaza in last 24 hours. Israeli forces have opened fire along the Gaza coastline and artillery shelling has been reported in the east of Deir el-Balah in Central parts of the Gaza Strip. Israel has carried out attacks on 179 days of the 201 days of ceasefire. 

US President Donald Trump, during yesterday’s state dinner at the White House, said that British King Charles agrees on the premise that Iran will not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. “We have militarily defeated that particular opponent, and we’re never going to let that opponent ever — Charles agrees with me even more than I do — we’re never going to let that opponent have a nuclear weapon.” said Trump.

Pete Hegseth is preparing to give his first testimony before Congress on the Middle East conflict on Wednesday, as diplomatic attempts to resolve the war continue to stall. Iran has maintained a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for two months, disrupting global energy flows and rattling markets. Reports indicate that Washington remains unconvinced by Tehran’s recent proposals aimed at easing tensions.

Donald Trump has asserted that Iran has been “militarily defeated,” but Iranian officials reject that claim, maintaining that the conflict is ongoing and cautioning about possible further escalation. Talks remain uncertain due to disagreements over nuclear matters and sanctions. Rising oil prices and domestic political pressure are increasing the urgency for the United States, while ongoing violence along the Lebanon front highlights the fragile and volatile nature of the situation.

Yojna Patel, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, strongly criticised attempts to target commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling such actions unacceptable and a grave risk to global trade. Speaking at the UN Security Council, she highlighted the strait’s vital role in India’s energy security and economic stability, and expressed concern over the deaths of Indian seafarers amid the ongoing conflict. She stressed the need to strictly uphold international laws that prohibit attacks on civilian shipping and urged the immediate restoration of safe and uninterrupted maritime movement.

Patel also pointed to the broader impact of rising tensions in the Middle East, warning of threats to global security, trade, and food supply chains. She emphasised India’s deep ties with the region and the safety of nearly 10 million Indians living in the Gulf. Reaffirming India’s commitment to dialogue and restraint, she supported a two-state solution and called for accountability in attacks on UN peacekeepers, along with renewed efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

Israeli forces have launched a drone attack on the town of Burj Qalaouiyah in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli military confirmed that it intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” in the airspace near its forces in southern Lebanon.

Israeli forces carried out a series of arrest operations across the occupied West Bank overnight, according to Wafa. In Kafr Qaddum, near Qalqilya, troops entered the town and detained three brothers along with a son of one of them. In Iktaba, a suburb east of Tulkarem, forces raided homes at dawn and arrested two individuals, including a former detainee. Meanwhile, in Beit Ummar in the Hebron area, eight people were taken into custody after soldiers carried out raids across multiple neighbourhoods.

The US Treasury cautioned financial institutions about potential sanctions exposure tied to Chinese “teapot” refineries accused of purchasing Iranian crude. Washington also issued a warning to shipping companies, stating they could face penalties if they make payments to Iran or its military in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of broader efforts to curb Iran’s oil trade.

Ex-UK PM Tony Blair addressed the UN Security Council as a member of Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza. He stated that Gaza remains “precarious”. “The war has stopped, violence has fallen dramatically, but ceasefire violations continue.”

Blair added that food aid in the region has improved and the Rafah crossing is partly open, especially for medical evacuations, but said, “life remains desperate for many”. He also highlighted that a new Gaza administration committee has been formulated, a multinational force is preparing for deployment, and talks on Hamas disarmament are continuing.

Donald Trump said earlier that Iran was seeking the removal of the naval blockade while negotiations were still ongoing. Iran is reported to have proposed an interim arrangement to reopen the strait in return for the United States lifting its blockade on Iranian ports, while postponing more difficult talks concerning Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, Trump turned down the offer, stating that it indicated Iran was not engaging in negotiations in good faith.

Jules Hurst III, the Pentagon’s acting comptroller, revealed to the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday that the war in Iran has cost around $25 billion so far. Most of that has gone towards replenishing munitions, and some has gone toward operations and maintenance and movement of equipment, said Jules Hurst III. The Pentagon will also put together a supplemental request to Congress for more money to fund the war, Hurst added.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is due to appear before the House Armed Services Committee, giving lawmakers their first opportunity to publicly question him since the US and Israel launched war on Iran two months ago.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is also set to testify today. They are both also due to appear before the Senate armed services committee on Thursday.

President Donald Trump has told his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iranian ports, said a Wall Street Journal report, citing US officials.

Trump has reportedly said in recent meetings that he prefers the blockade over other methods to increase the pressure on Iran as peace talks stall and Tehran keeps the critical Strait of Hormuz closed.

Trump believes that his other options, like resuming bombing or walking away from the war, would carry greater risks than maintaining the blockade, said the WSJ report.

The White House says negotiators are continuing to engage with the Iranians, who are “struggling to sort out their leadership situation” amid the war.

In a statement to US media, spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump would only enter into an agreement with Iran that “puts U.S. national security first”.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday (April 29) his relationship with US President Donald Trump remained good, after Trump criticised him over comments on the war in Iran. “From my perspective, my personal relationship with the US President remains good,” Merz said, adding he had expressed doubts from the start about the war in Iran.

Iran is expected to submit a revised peace proposal soon, sources say, after US President Donald Trump indicated that he would not accept an earlier version.

The UN rights office says at least 21 people have been executed and more than 4,000 arrested since the start of the war.

The Iranian rial plummeted to a record low against the dollar on Wednesday, according to currency-tracking websites, as a US naval blockade of the country's ports continued.

US President Donald Trump met with oil and gas executives at the White House on Tuesday to discuss the impact of the Iran conflict on energy markets, Axios reported.

The US President, who was reportedly dissatisfied with Iran for trying to sign a 'non-nuclear deal' has issued a warning urging the country to “get smart soon”. “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon! President DJT”, wrote Trump in a Truth Social post. Trump also shared an AI-generated image of him posing with an assault rifle resembling the cover image of the Hollywood movie franchise James Bond, with the tag line “No more Mr Nice Guy”.

A Japan linked vessel passed through the Starit of Hormuz on Wednesday April 29, country's foreign ministry said in a statement on the platform X. “The Government of Japan considers this passage of a Japan-related vessel as a positive development, including from the perspective of protection of Japanese nationals,” read the Japanese Foreign Ministry statement on X. The statement read that Japan continues to urge Iran for the safe passage of all vessels through the vital trade chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz 

At least five people have been killed by Israeli forces across Gaza in last 24 hours. Israeli forces have opened fire along the Gaza coastline and artillery shelling has been reported in the east of Deir el-Balah in Central parts of the Gaza Strip. Israel has carried out attacks on 179 days of the 201 days of ceasefire. 

US President Donald Trump, during yesterday’s state dinner at the White House, said that British King Charles agrees on the premise that Iran will not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. “We have militarily defeated that particular opponent, and we’re never going to let that opponent ever — Charles agrees with me even more than I do — we’re never going to let that opponent have a nuclear weapon.” said Trump.

Pete Hegseth is preparing to give his first testimony before Congress on the Middle East conflict on Wednesday, as diplomatic attempts to resolve the war continue to stall. Iran has maintained a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for two months, disrupting global energy flows and rattling markets. Reports indicate that Washington remains unconvinced by Tehran’s recent proposals aimed at easing tensions.

Donald Trump has asserted that Iran has been “militarily defeated,” but Iranian officials reject that claim, maintaining that the conflict is ongoing and cautioning about possible further escalation. Talks remain uncertain due to disagreements over nuclear matters and sanctions. Rising oil prices and domestic political pressure are increasing the urgency for the United States, while ongoing violence along the Lebanon front highlights the fragile and volatile nature of the situation.

Yojna Patel, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, strongly criticised attempts to target commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling such actions unacceptable and a grave risk to global trade. Speaking at the UN Security Council, she highlighted the strait’s vital role in India’s energy security and economic stability, and expressed concern over the deaths of Indian seafarers amid the ongoing conflict. She stressed the need to strictly uphold international laws that prohibit attacks on civilian shipping and urged the immediate restoration of safe and uninterrupted maritime movement.

Patel also pointed to the broader impact of rising tensions in the Middle East, warning of threats to global security, trade, and food supply chains. She emphasised India’s deep ties with the region and the safety of nearly 10 million Indians living in the Gulf. Reaffirming India’s commitment to dialogue and restraint, she supported a two-state solution and called for accountability in attacks on UN peacekeepers, along with renewed efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

Israeli forces have launched a drone attack on the town of Burj Qalaouiyah in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli military confirmed that it intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” in the airspace near its forces in southern Lebanon.

Israeli forces carried out a series of arrest operations across the occupied West Bank overnight, according to Wafa. In Kafr Qaddum, near Qalqilya, troops entered the town and detained three brothers along with a son of one of them. In Iktaba, a suburb east of Tulkarem, forces raided homes at dawn and arrested two individuals, including a former detainee. Meanwhile, in Beit Ummar in the Hebron area, eight people were taken into custody after soldiers carried out raids across multiple neighbourhoods.

The US Treasury cautioned financial institutions about potential sanctions exposure tied to Chinese “teapot” refineries accused of purchasing Iranian crude. Washington also issued a warning to shipping companies, stating they could face penalties if they make payments to Iran or its military in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of broader efforts to curb Iran’s oil trade.

Ex-UK PM Tony Blair addressed the UN Security Council as a member of Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza. He stated that Gaza remains “precarious”. “The war has stopped, violence has fallen dramatically, but ceasefire violations continue.”

Blair added that food aid in the region has improved and the Rafah crossing is partly open, especially for medical evacuations, but said, “life remains desperate for many”. He also highlighted that a new Gaza administration committee has been formulated, a multinational force is preparing for deployment, and talks on Hamas disarmament are continuing.

Donald Trump said earlier that Iran was seeking the removal of the naval blockade while negotiations were still ongoing. Iran is reported to have proposed an interim arrangement to reopen the strait in return for the United States lifting its blockade on Iranian ports, while postponing more difficult talks concerning Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, Trump turned down the offer, stating that it indicated Iran was not engaging in negotiations in good faith.