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New Delhi: Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing, who is scheduled to visit India next month, is expected to make a key stop at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree more than 2,500 years ago. The trip, which will include high-level talks in New Delhi, is Hlaing’s first visit foreign visit after becoming the president of his country earlier this year.&nbsp;Bodh Gaya, home to the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple, has long served as a spiritual magnet for global Buddhist leaders. Visits here blend personal devotion with subtle diplomacy, allowing nations with Buddhist majorities or significant communities to signal cultural affinity with India, the faith’s birthplace.&nbsp;Just weeks ago, in early May, Vietnamese President To Lam began his state visit to India with a three-day stay in Bodh Gaya. He offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, and visited the Vietnamese Monastery, reinforcing historical and people-to-people links between the two countries.&nbsp;Such pilgrimages are now an established feature of India’s diplomatic playbook. In 2017, Min Aung Hlaing himself started a previous India visit with an extended stay in Bodh Gaya, where he was personally received by then Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. The gesture was widely seen as a warm welcome, combining spiritual resonance with strategic engagement as part of India’s Act East Policy.&nbsp;Other leaders have followed suit. Japanese prime ministers and Mongolian presidents have made the journey, as have leading figures from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. These visits often coincide with broader discussions on connectivity, security, and economic cooperation.&nbsp;India has invested in the Buddhist Circuit, encompassing Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, through improved infrastructure, international monasteries, and global events like Buddha Purnima celebrations.&nbsp;This is seen as part of India’s ‘Buddhist diplomacy’. By facilitating access to sacred sites and promoting shared heritage, New Delhi strengthens bonds with Asia’s Buddhist nations. For Myanmar, facing internal challenges and Western sanctions, the visit offers valuable international engagement and practical cooperation in areas like border security and counter-insurgency.&nbsp;For Min Aung Hlaing, the Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.&nbsp;

The Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic for Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.

New Delhi: Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing, who is scheduled to visit India next month, is expected to make a key stop at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree more than 2,500 years ago. The trip, which will include high-level talks in New Delhi, is Hlaing’s first visit foreign visit after becoming the president of his country earlier this year. Bodh Gaya, home to the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple, has long served as a spiritual magnet for global Buddhist leaders. Visits here blend personal devotion with subtle diplomacy, allowing nations with Buddhist majorities or significant communities to signal cultural affinity with India, the faith’s birthplace. Just weeks ago, in early May, Vietnamese President To Lam began his state visit to India with a three-day stay in Bodh Gaya. He offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, and visited the Vietnamese Monastery, reinforcing historical and people-to-people links between the two countries. Such pilgrimages are now an established feature of India’s diplomatic playbook. In 2017, Min Aung Hlaing himself started a previous India visit with an extended stay in Bodh Gaya, where he was personally received by then Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. The gesture was widely seen as a warm welcome, combining spiritual resonance with strategic engagement as part of India’s Act East Policy. Other leaders have followed suit. Japanese prime ministers and Mongolian presidents have made the journey, as have leading figures from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. These visits often coincide with broader discussions on connectivity, security, and economic cooperation. India has invested in the Buddhist Circuit, encompassing Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, through improved infrastructure, international monasteries, and global events like Buddha Purnima celebrations. This is seen as part of India’s ‘Buddhist diplomacy’. By facilitating access to sacred sites and promoting shared heritage, New Delhi strengthens bonds with Asia’s Buddhist nations. For Myanmar, facing internal challenges and Western sanctions, the visit offers valuable international engagement and practical cooperation in areas like border security and counter-insurgency. For Min Aung Hlaing, the Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.

The Bodh Gaya leg is likely to be more than symbolic for Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing. Myanmar maintains deep Theravada Buddhist traditions, and a visible pilgrimage can resonate domestically while signalling alignment with India’s Neighbourhood First approach.

Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing to visit Bodh Gaya

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PICS | China launches crewed Shenzhou-23 mission to Tiangong as Beijing eyes Moon landing by 2030

Ukrainian strikes have claimed the lives of six people, including two children, in Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine as well as in Russia's border regions of Belgorod and Bryansk, local officials have confirmed. Ukraine attacks followed a day after Russia launched an attack on Kyiv using a powerful hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for a third time, killing at least four people and injuring about 100. The local Moscow-installed administration stated that four people, including two children, were killed in the frontline town of Gorlivka in the occupied Donetsk region. "As a result of Ukrainian armed aggression in the Kalininsky district of Gorlovka, four civilians have been killed, including two children born in 2012 and 2013," Mayor Ivan Prikhodko said. Earlier in the day, during the early morning hours, two people also died after Ukraine launched drones around the western Russian border regions of Bryansk and Belgorod, local authorities said. Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/remains-of-17-year-old-us-sailor-killed-in-pearl-harbor-attack-return-home-after-84-years-1779690437086">Remains of 17-year-old US sailor killed in Pearl Harbor attack return home after 84 years</a><h3>Russia hits Kyiv with hypersonic ballistic missile</h3>Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claimed on Sunday that Russia hit the city of Bila Tserkva in the Kyiv region with the Oreshnik missile. He described the attack as a Russian assault that also hit a water supply facility, destroyed a market and damaged several residential buildings and schools. “They are genuinely deranged,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Adding further details on Sunday, Zelenskyy wrote on X that about 100 people had been injured across the country and four had died as a result of the Russian attack, which he said had hit Kyiv the hardest.&nbsp;In response, Russia stated that the raid was in retaliation for a Ukrainian drone attack on educational buildings in the Russian-occupied Lugansk region that claimed the lives of 21 people and injured over 40.

Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022.

Ukrainian strikes have claimed the lives of six people, including two children, in Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine as well as in Russia's border regions of Belgorod and Bryansk, local officials have confirmed. Ukraine attacks followed a day after Russia launched an attack on Kyiv using a powerful hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for a third time, killing at least four people and injuring about 100. The local Moscow-installed administration stated that four people, including two children, were killed in the frontline town of Gorlivka in the occupied Donetsk region. "As a result of Ukrainian armed aggression in the Kalininsky district of Gorlovka, four civilians have been killed, including two children born in 2012 and 2013," Mayor Ivan Prikhodko said. Earlier in the day, during the early morning hours, two people also died after Ukraine launched drones around the western Russian border regions of Bryansk and Belgorod, local authorities said. Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022. Also read: Remains of 17-year-old US sailor killed in Pearl Harbor attack return home after 84 years Russia hits Kyiv with hypersonic ballistic missile Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claimed on Sunday that Russia hit the city of Bila Tserkva in the Kyiv region with the Oreshnik missile. He described the attack as a Russian assault that also hit a water supply facility, destroyed a market and damaged several residential buildings and schools. “They are genuinely deranged,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Adding further details on Sunday, Zelenskyy wrote on X that about 100 people had been injured across the country and four had died as a result of the Russian attack, which he said had hit Kyiv the hardest. In response, Russia stated that the raid was in retaliation for a Ukrainian drone attack on educational buildings in the Russian-occupied Lugansk region that claimed the lives of 21 people and injured over 40.

Ukraine has frequently launched strikes on Russian territory and occupied regions in response to the ongoing bombardments it has faced since Russia began its large-scale military offensive in February 2022.

Ukraine strikes kill 6 in Russia a day after Moscow launches Oreshnik Missile on Kyiv

In a rare achievement, 23-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, an Indian-origin family from Haryana’s Rohtak, have been elected as mayors in the United Kingdom, PTI reported.In an incredible achievement for an Indian-origin family in the United Kingdom, a mother-son duo from Haryana were elected as mayors in the UK at the same time. Twenty-three-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, originally from Rohtak, assumed their mayoral positions within a span of one week.Tushar, who became the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the UK, was elected as the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council on May 13. A week later, his mother was elected as the Mayor of Hertsmere Borough Council on May 20, marking a rare civic milestone for the family.Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK.<h2>From Rohtak to UK</h2>The family traces its roots to Rohna village in Haryana’s Sonipat district and had lived in Rohtak for several years before moving to the UK in 2013. According to Tushar’s father, businessman Sunil Dahiya, the family relocated without a concrete plan for the future when Tushar was around 10 years old.Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK.<h2>Who are the Indian-origin mother-son duo mayors?</h2>Over the years, both Tushar and Parveen have remained actively involved in community service and local civic activities. Tushar entered public life at a young age and became a councillor at just 20 while studying in London. He joined the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 and later served as deputy mayor before taking over as mayor this year.Tushar, who graduated from King’s College London, is expected to pursue a master’s degree later this year. Despite settling in the UK, the family continues to maintain close ties with Haryana and regularly visits their home in Rohtak.Parveen Rani has also held several important civic roles, including Cabinet Member for Streetscene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, deputy mayor of Hertsmere, and Global Envoy for Film and Television.Dahiya said both Tushar and Parveen have contributed to community initiatives, including teaching Hindi free of cost to UK-born children through organisations such as the Hindi Shiksha Parishad. Tushar also believes that age should never be a barrier to public service and encourages young people to stay connected to their roots while contributing to society.

An Indian-origin mother-son duo in the UK created history after 23-year-old Tushar Kumar became the youngest Indian-origin mayor, while his mother Parveen Rani was elected mayor days later.

In a rare achievement, 23-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, an Indian-origin family from Haryana’s Rohtak, have been elected as mayors in the United Kingdom, PTI reported. In an incredible achievement for an Indian-origin family in the United Kingdom, a mother-son duo from Haryana were elected as mayors in the UK at the same time. Twenty-three-year-old Tushar Kumar and his mother Parveen Rani, originally from Rohtak, assumed their mayoral positions within a span of one week. Tushar, who became the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the UK, was elected as the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council on May 13. A week later, his mother was elected as the Mayor of Hertsmere Borough Council on May 20, marking a rare civic milestone for the family. Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK. From Rohtak to UK The family traces its roots to Rohna village in Haryana’s Sonipat district and had lived in Rohtak for several years before moving to the UK in 2013. According to Tushar’s father, businessman Sunil Dahiya, the family relocated without a concrete plan for the future when Tushar was around 10 years old. Speaking to PTI, Dahiya described the development as a matter of immense pride, saying it was special that both mother and son now hold mayoral offices simultaneously in the UK. Who are the Indian-origin mother-son duo mayors? Over the years, both Tushar and Parveen have remained actively involved in community service and local civic activities. Tushar entered public life at a young age and became a councillor at just 20 while studying in London. He joined the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 and later served as deputy mayor before taking over as mayor this year. Tushar, who graduated from King’s College London, is expected to pursue a master’s degree later this year. Despite settling in the UK, the family continues to maintain close ties with Haryana and regularly visits their home in Rohtak. Parveen Rani has also held several important civic roles, including Cabinet Member for Streetscene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, deputy mayor of Hertsmere, and Global Envoy for Film and Television. Dahiya said both Tushar and Parveen have contributed to community initiatives, including teaching Hindi free of cost to UK-born children through organisations such as the Hindi Shiksha Parishad. Tushar also believes that age should never be a barrier to public service and encourages young people to stay connected to their roots while contributing to society.

An Indian-origin mother-son duo in the UK created history after 23-year-old Tushar Kumar became the youngest Indian-origin mayor, while his mother Parveen Rani was elected mayor days later.

From Rohtak to UK: Indian-origin mother-son duo elected as mayors in British councils

Iran is demanding the immediate release of $12 billion in frozen assets held in Qatar as a prerequisite for advancing negotiations with the United States, reported Iran International, citing sources in the know. The source with direct knowledge of the negotiations further said that the $12 billion is only the immediate tranche required to begin the diplomatic roadmap and is not the full amount Iran is seeking.&nbsp;Tehran has been insisting that all of its frozen assets worldwide must be unfrozen and fully released as part of any comprehensive agreement, the source added.&nbsp;IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency had reported on Sunday that differences between Iran and the US over one or two clauses of a possible memorandum of understanding remained unresolved. Tasnim said Iran has demanded that any initial memorandum of understanding with the US should include the release of at least part of its frozen assets and that the released funds are made accessible to Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read Also: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-deal-signing-in-a-few-days-terms-of-agreement-being-finalised-reports-1779655943195">US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports</a><h2>‘US sought to link frozen assets’s release with nuclear deal’</h2>&nbsp;Tasnim also reported that Washington sought to link the release of frozen assets to a possible final nuclear agreement, but Iran wants part of the funds released before any MoU besides setting up a mechanism for releasing the remaining assets during negotiations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tasnim later reported that the US obstruction of some Iranian clauses in a potential agreement, including the release of Tehran’s blocked assets, was still continuing. The report added that there remains a possibility of the agreement not fructifying.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-iran-agree-in-principle-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-says-senior-official-1779651528322">US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official</a>&nbsp;In April, a senior Iranian source told Reuters that the US had agreed to release Iranian frozen assets held in Qatar, a claim which was swiftly denied by a US official. A second Iranian source said the US had agreed to release $6 billion of frozen Iranian funds held by Qatar.&nbsp;The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight, the report added.&nbsp;The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-agreed-final-agreement-with-iran-must-remove-nuclear-danger-says-netanyahu-1779638705604">‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;One important element of the deal is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. An Axios report said that the MoU draft specifies that the Strait would be open without tolls, and Iran would clear the mines it had deployed there.In exchange, the US would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and waive some sanctions it had imposed, allowing the country to sell oil freely.&nbsp;<h2>No discussion on Iran’s nuclear programme, enriched uranium before MoU</h2>&nbsp;Discussion on Iran’s nuclear capabilities and enriched uranium stockpile would be held only during final negotiations, but the MoU would call for Iran to cease any pursuit of nuclear weapons.Iranian media claimed that the initial peace deal would include Washington waiving sanctions on Iranian oil, and both sides agreeing not to attack each other or their allies.&nbsp;Iran’s state media reported on Monday that the country’s Central Bank chief Abdolnaser Hemmati travelled to Qatar following talks with a Qatari delegation in Tehran regarding Iran’s frozen funds.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-can-count-on-me-100-i-am-a-big-fan-of-pm-modi-says-trump-in-phone-call-at-delhi-event-1779642795192">‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s chief negotiator and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Doha to meet the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.The Iranians are meeting with the Qatari PM to discuss the terms of a potential ceasefire deal with the US, an official said.

The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight. The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire.

Iran is demanding the immediate release of $12 billion in frozen assets held in Qatar as a prerequisite for advancing negotiations with the United States, reported Iran International, citing sources in the know. The source with direct knowledge of the negotiations further said that the $12 billion is only the immediate tranche required to begin the diplomatic roadmap and is not the full amount Iran is seeking. Tehran has been insisting that all of its frozen assets worldwide must be unfrozen and fully released as part of any comprehensive agreement, the source added. IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency had reported on Sunday that differences between Iran and the US over one or two clauses of a possible memorandum of understanding remained unresolved. Tasnim said Iran has demanded that any initial memorandum of understanding with the US should include the release of at least part of its frozen assets and that the released funds are made accessible to Iran. Read Also: US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports ‘US sought to link frozen assets’s release with nuclear deal’ Tasnim also reported that Washington sought to link the release of frozen assets to a possible final nuclear agreement, but Iran wants part of the funds released before any MoU besides setting up a mechanism for releasing the remaining assets during negotiations. Tasnim later reported that the US obstruction of some Iranian clauses in a potential agreement, including the release of Tehran’s blocked assets, was still continuing. The report added that there remains a possibility of the agreement not fructifying. Also Read: US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official In April, a senior Iranian source told Reuters that the US had agreed to release Iranian frozen assets held in Qatar, a claim which was swiftly denied by a US official. A second Iranian source said the US had agreed to release $6 billion of frozen Iranian funds held by Qatar. The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight, the report added. The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire. Also Read: ‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu One important element of the deal is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. An Axios report said that the MoU draft specifies that the Strait would be open without tolls, and Iran would clear the mines it had deployed there. In exchange, the US would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and waive some sanctions it had imposed, allowing the country to sell oil freely. No discussion on Iran’s nuclear programme, enriched uranium before MoU Discussion on Iran’s nuclear capabilities and enriched uranium stockpile would be held only during final negotiations, but the MoU would call for Iran to cease any pursuit of nuclear weapons. Iranian media claimed that the initial peace deal would include Washington waiving sanctions on Iranian oil, and both sides agreeing not to attack each other or their allies. Iran’s state media reported on Monday that the country’s Central Bank chief Abdolnaser Hemmati travelled to Qatar following talks with a Qatari delegation in Tehran regarding Iran’s frozen funds. Also Read: ‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event Meanwhile, Iran’s chief negotiator and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Doha to meet the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. The Iranians are meeting with the Qatari PM to discuss the terms of a potential ceasefire deal with the US, an official said.

The funds, linked to Iranian oil sales to South Korea, were transferred to Qatari accounts but remained restricted to humanitarian use under US oversight. The final negotiations regarding a peace deal will begin only after both parties sign the MoU and agree to the 60-day ceasefire.

Iran demands urgent release of $12 billion frozen in Qatar before advancing peace talks with US

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (May 25) that peace negotiations with Iran were "proceeding nicely". In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the American president wrote, "It will only be a Great Deal for all or, no Deal at all — Back to the Battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before — And nobody wants that! During my discussions on Saturday with President Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, of The United Arab Emirates, Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, and Minister Ali al-Thawadi, of Qatar, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, of Pakistan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, of Türkiye, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, of Egypt, King Abdullah II, of Jordan, and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, of Bahrain, I stated that, after all the work done by the United States to try and pull this very complex puzzle together, &nbsp;it should be mandatory that all of these Countries, at a minimum, simultaneously, sign onto the Abraham Accords."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-suspended-nuclear-programme-deal-to-end-war-mostly-complete-says-trump-1776450628924">Iran has suspended nuclear programme, deal to end war ‘mostly complete,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;"Those Countries discussed are Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates (already a Member!), Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain (already a Member!). It may be possible that one or two have a reason for not doing so, and that will be accepted, but most should be ready, willing, and able to make this Settlement with Iran a far more Historic Event than it would, otherwise, be,” he added.&nbsp;Trump has repeatedly said he wants to expand the accords that he brokered during his first term in the White House. The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed during Trump’s first term in 2020, breaking a longstanding taboo to become the first Arab states to recognise Israel in a quarter century. Morocco and Sudan followed suit.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-holds-key-to-u-s-iran-deal-tehran-demands-war-reparations-from-gulf-1776192260826">Putin Holds Key To U.S-Iran Deal, Tehran Demands War Reparations From Gulf</a>&nbsp;Trump had been upbeat about prospects that regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia would finally join the accords after a ceasefire went into effect in Gaza last year, but Riyadh has shown no willingness to move ahead. Egypt and Jordan have already established relations with Israel.&nbsp; &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump stated peace talks with Iran are progressing, asserting that a final deal should require several Middle Eastern nations and Pakistan to simultaneously sign the Abraham Accords.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (May 25) that peace negotiations with Iran were "proceeding nicely". In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the American president wrote, "It will only be a Great Deal for all or, no Deal at all — Back to the Battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before — And nobody wants that! During my discussions on Saturday with President Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, of The United Arab Emirates, Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, and Minister Ali al-Thawadi, of Qatar, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, of Pakistan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, of Türkiye, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, of Egypt, King Abdullah II, of Jordan, and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, of Bahrain, I stated that, after all the work done by the United States to try and pull this very complex puzzle together, it should be mandatory that all of these Countries, at a minimum, simultaneously, sign onto the Abraham Accords." Also read: Iran has suspended nuclear programme, deal to end war ‘mostly complete,’ says Trump "Those Countries discussed are Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates (already a Member!), Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain (already a Member!). It may be possible that one or two have a reason for not doing so, and that will be accepted, but most should be ready, willing, and able to make this Settlement with Iran a far more Historic Event than it would, otherwise, be,” he added. Trump has repeatedly said he wants to expand the accords that he brokered during his first term in the White House. The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed during Trump’s first term in 2020, breaking a longstanding taboo to become the first Arab states to recognise Israel in a quarter century. Morocco and Sudan followed suit. Also read: Putin Holds Key To U.S-Iran Deal, Tehran Demands War Reparations From Gulf Trump had been upbeat about prospects that regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia would finally join the accords after a ceasefire went into effect in Gaza last year, but Riyadh has shown no willingness to move ahead. Egypt and Jordan have already established relations with Israel.

US President Donald Trump stated peace talks with Iran are progressing, asserting that a final deal should require several Middle Eastern nations and Pakistan to simultaneously sign the Abraham Accords.

'Negotiations with Iran proceeding nicely,' says Trump, links Abraham Accords to negotiations

Pope Leo XIV on Monday called for the "disarming" of artificial intelligence and warned of "new forms of slavery" fuelling the technological revolution in his long-awaited manifesto on the rapidly developing technology. Leo, the first American pope, presented his first encyclical, "Magnifica Humanitas" (Magnificent Humanity), in person at the Vatican alongside AI experts, including Christopher Olah, co-founder of the US firm Anthropic.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-leo-draws-thousands-on-last-day-of-africa-tour-1776912283372/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-leo-draws-thousands-on-last-day-of-africa-tour-1776912283372/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The head of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics warned against "a race for ever more powerful algorithms and larger datasets, driven by the desire to secure geopolitical or commercial dominance", and sounded the alarm over AI-directed weaponry, saying it was "not permissible to entrust lethal" decisions to technology. "No algorithm can make war morally acceptable," he wrote, describing the "just war" theory recently espoused by the Trump administration as "outdated". Leo has repeatedly clashed with the White House over the Iran war and its use of religion to justify conflict.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-has-a-iran-nuclear-bomb-message-for-pope-leo-days-after-branding-him-weak-will-someone-please-tell-him-1776226457808">'Will someone please tell him...': Trump has a 'Iran nuclear bomb' message for Pope Leo days after branding him ‘weak’</a>&nbsp;"Disarming AI means freeing it from the mentality of 'armed' competition," the pope wrote. "To disarm does not mean rejecting technology, but preventing it from dominating humanity." AI should be "human-friendly", accessible to all and open to debate, he added. Leo warned that "nothing in the world of AI is immaterial or magical", noting that every response “relies on the silent work of millions of people”, from content moderators forced to view disturbing material to children extracting rare earth elements. They were "scarred, injured and worn down so that computational flow may continue uninterruptedly", he wrote.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-invokes-jesus-in-war-pope-leo-xiv-says-that-s-not-christ-s-way-1775247441408">Pete Hegseth invokes Jesus in war. Pope Leo XIV says that’s not Christ’s way</a>&nbsp;Greater efficiency or innovation did not excuse "a chain of exploitation that remains deliberately hidden", Leo added, while calling for more action to reduce AI's environmental impact. In an unprecedented move, the pope also apologised for the Vatican's role in the slave trade, saying: "For this, in the name of the Church, I sincerely ask for pardon."&nbsp;The encyclical was signed on May 15, the 135th anniversary of an 1891 encyclical that laid the foundations of the Church's social doctrine during the Industrial Revolution. Experts say it could prove as influential as Pope Francis's 2015 climate manifesto, "Laudato Si".

In a historic manifesto, the Pope calls for the "disarming" of AI, warning that autonomous weapons and an algorithmic arms race threaten global peace.

Pope Leo XIV on Monday called for the "disarming" of artificial intelligence and warned of "new forms of slavery" fuelling the technological revolution in his long-awaited manifesto on the rapidly developing technology. Leo, the first American pope, presented his first encyclical, "Magnifica Humanitas" (Magnificent Humanity), in person at the Vatican alongside AI experts, including Christopher Olah, co-founder of the US firm Anthropic. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-leo-draws-thousands-on-last-day-of-africa-tour-1776912283372/embed The head of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics warned against "a race for ever more powerful algorithms and larger datasets, driven by the desire to secure geopolitical or commercial dominance", and sounded the alarm over AI-directed weaponry, saying it was "not permissible to entrust lethal" decisions to technology. "No algorithm can make war morally acceptable," he wrote, describing the "just war" theory recently espoused by the Trump administration as "outdated". Leo has repeatedly clashed with the White House over the Iran war and its use of religion to justify conflict. Also read: 'Will someone please tell him...': Trump has a 'Iran nuclear bomb' message for Pope Leo days after branding him ‘weak’ "Disarming AI means freeing it from the mentality of 'armed' competition," the pope wrote. "To disarm does not mean rejecting technology, but preventing it from dominating humanity." AI should be "human-friendly", accessible to all and open to debate, he added. Leo warned that "nothing in the world of AI is immaterial or magical", noting that every response “relies on the silent work of millions of people”, from content moderators forced to view disturbing material to children extracting rare earth elements. They were "scarred, injured and worn down so that computational flow may continue uninterruptedly", he wrote. Also read: Pete Hegseth invokes Jesus in war. Pope Leo XIV says that’s not Christ’s way Greater efficiency or innovation did not excuse "a chain of exploitation that remains deliberately hidden", Leo added, while calling for more action to reduce AI's environmental impact. In an unprecedented move, the pope also apologised for the Vatican's role in the slave trade, saying: "For this, in the name of the Church, I sincerely ask for pardon." The encyclical was signed on May 15, the 135th anniversary of an 1891 encyclical that laid the foundations of the Church's social doctrine during the Industrial Revolution. Experts say it could prove as influential as Pope Francis's 2015 climate manifesto, "Laudato Si".

In a historic manifesto, the Pope calls for the "disarming" of AI, warning that autonomous weapons and an algorithmic arms race threaten global peace.

Church vs AI: Pope Leo issues sweeping manifesto blasting artificial intelligence race

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir are in Beijing, China, on Monday (May 25) for talks with Chinese leaders as part of ongoing mediation efforts to formally end the Iran war. On Friday and Saturday, Munir was also in Iran alongside Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to mediate to formally end the war. China has said it is willing to work with Pakistan to make positive contributions to the early return of peace and stability in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began his four-day official visit to China on Saturday in Hangzhou, located in Zhejiang province. Pakistan has recently taken on a key mediating role between the United States and Iran, hosting direct talks between the two sides last month. However, the discussions did not result in a long-term agreement. Meanwhile, China has largely stayed in the background, facilitating phone conversations and meetings with officials from Gulf nations affected by the conflict. Speaking to Chinese leaders in Beijing, Sharif said "the world is passing through a critical moment", Pakistan television showed. "Pakistan has played a sincere role in mediating between the US and Iran. Field Marshal was in Tehran and did not want to miss this great visit," the images carried by Pakistan's state channel PTV showed. "Things are moving in the right direction. I would like to thank China's support in promoting peace."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-foreign-ministers-meet-takes-place-in-delhi-after-trump-xi-summit-what-will-be-different-1779696321808">Quad foreign ministers' meet takes place in Delhi after Trump-Xi summit. What will be different?</a><h3>China hails Beijing’s “unbreakable” friendship with Pakistan</h3>Xi Jinping, China’s President, hailed the “unbreakable” friendship of Beijing with Pakistan during their meeting in Beijing, seeking to deepen the “all-weather” partnership between the two countries, according to Reuters. In April, Pakistan hosted the only face-to-face negotiations between American and Iranian officials since the conflict began. Asim Munir played a prominent role during the talks, welcoming both delegations and sharing a cordial interaction with JD Vance. The negotiations later collapsed after Iran accused the United States of placing “excessive demands” during the discussions.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to mediate an end to the Iran war. Pakistan previously hosted US-Iran talks, and China expressed willingness to work with Islamabad to restore long-term peace and stability in the Middle East.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir are in Beijing, China, on Monday (May 25) for talks with Chinese leaders as part of ongoing mediation efforts to formally end the Iran war. On Friday and Saturday, Munir was also in Iran alongside Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to mediate to formally end the war. China has said it is willing to work with Pakistan to make positive contributions to the early return of peace and stability in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began his four-day official visit to China on Saturday in Hangzhou, located in Zhejiang province. Pakistan has recently taken on a key mediating role between the United States and Iran, hosting direct talks between the two sides last month. However, the discussions did not result in a long-term agreement. Meanwhile, China has largely stayed in the background, facilitating phone conversations and meetings with officials from Gulf nations affected by the conflict. Speaking to Chinese leaders in Beijing, Sharif said "the world is passing through a critical moment", Pakistan television showed. "Pakistan has played a sincere role in mediating between the US and Iran. Field Marshal was in Tehran and did not want to miss this great visit," the images carried by Pakistan's state channel PTV showed. "Things are moving in the right direction. I would like to thank China's support in promoting peace." Also read: Quad foreign ministers' meet takes place in Delhi after Trump-Xi summit. What will be different? China hails Beijing’s “unbreakable” friendship with Pakistan Xi Jinping, China’s President, hailed the “unbreakable” friendship of Beijing with Pakistan during their meeting in Beijing, seeking to deepen the “all-weather” partnership between the two countries, according to Reuters. In April, Pakistan hosted the only face-to-face negotiations between American and Iranian officials since the conflict began. Asim Munir played a prominent role during the talks, welcoming both delegations and sharing a cordial interaction with JD Vance. The negotiations later collapsed after Iran accused the United States of placing “excessive demands” during the discussions.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to mediate an end to the Iran war. Pakistan previously hosted US-Iran talks, and China expressed willingness to work with Islamabad to restore long-term peace and stability in the Middle East.

Shehbaz Sharif, Asim Munir in China as Pak pushes Iran war mediation; Xi calls ties with Islamabad ‘unbreakable’

In yet another major step in the expansion of artificial intelligence into everyday industries, US-based startup Merlin Labs this week has shown that an AI-powered flight system is capable of handling several piloting tasks during an experimental aircraft test. The demonstration comes as the global aviation industry grapples with pilot shortages, rising pressure on air traffic systems and growing interest in AI-assisted air travel technologies. During the demonstration flight, test pilot Matt Diamond did not manually control the aircraft as the AI system executed commands such as changing course after verbal authorisation. The aircraft itself was officially marked “experimental.” However, Merlin executives acknowledged that completely pilotless passenger aircraft are not imminent. The company said the current focus is on building trust in AI systems by using them alongside human pilots rather than removing pilots altogether.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/-ai-layoffs-trend-what-cloudflare-s-move-signals-for-industry-1779699152938">‘AI layoffs trend’: What Cloudflare’s move signals for industry</a><h3>Inside Merlin Labs’ AI aviation technology</h3>The Merlin Pilot system uses natural language processing to interpret air traffic control communications and automate piloting tasks. The test aimed to showcase how artificial intelligence could support pilots in future air travel operations and potentially pave the way for more autonomous aircraft systems.Despite the advanced automation, Merlin Labs stressed that the technology is designed to assist human pilots rather than replace them entirely.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/-future-of-work-how-openai-s-self-improving-ai-model-is-preparing-to-replace-research-jobs-1779698299269">‘Future of work’: How OpenAI’s self-improving AI model is preparing to replace research jobs</a><h3>Trump administration backs AI modernisation</h3>US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has supported the use of artificial intelligence tools as part of efforts to modernize America’s aging air traffic control infrastructure. Duffy emphasized that AI would not replace human air traffic controllers but could help reduce workload and improve efficiency within the system. Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association representing over 79,000 pilots in the US and Canada, said technological advancements may improve aviation safety but should never replace trained pilots in the cockpit. The pilots’ union maintained that the presence of two well-trained and well-rested pilots remains the most important safety feature on commercial flights.&nbsp;

In yet another AI-related development, Merlin Labs successfully demonstrated an AI-powered flight system aboard a Cessna Caravan, showcasing how artificial intelligence can assist pilots and automate key aviation tasks amid growing pilot shortages and pressure on air traffic systems.

In yet another major step in the expansion of artificial intelligence into everyday industries, US-based startup Merlin Labs this week has shown that an AI-powered flight system is capable of handling several piloting tasks during an experimental aircraft test. The demonstration comes as the global aviation industry grapples with pilot shortages, rising pressure on air traffic systems and growing interest in AI-assisted air travel technologies. During the demonstration flight, test pilot Matt Diamond did not manually control the aircraft as the AI system executed commands such as changing course after verbal authorisation. The aircraft itself was officially marked “experimental.” However, Merlin executives acknowledged that completely pilotless passenger aircraft are not imminent. The company said the current focus is on building trust in AI systems by using them alongside human pilots rather than removing pilots altogether. Also Read: ‘AI layoffs trend’: What Cloudflare’s move signals for industry Inside Merlin Labs’ AI aviation technology The Merlin Pilot system uses natural language processing to interpret air traffic control communications and automate piloting tasks. The test aimed to showcase how artificial intelligence could support pilots in future air travel operations and potentially pave the way for more autonomous aircraft systems. Despite the advanced automation, Merlin Labs stressed that the technology is designed to assist human pilots rather than replace them entirely. Also Read: ‘Future of work’: How OpenAI’s self-improving AI model is preparing to replace research jobs Trump administration backs AI modernisation US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has supported the use of artificial intelligence tools as part of efforts to modernize America’s aging air traffic control infrastructure. Duffy emphasized that AI would not replace human air traffic controllers but could help reduce workload and improve efficiency within the system. Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association representing over 79,000 pilots in the US and Canada, said technological advancements may improve aviation safety but should never replace trained pilots in the cockpit. The pilots’ union maintained that the presence of two well-trained and well-rested pilots remains the most important safety feature on commercial flights.

In yet another AI-related development, Merlin Labs successfully demonstrated an AI-powered flight system aboard a Cessna Caravan, showcasing how artificial intelligence can assist pilots and automate key aviation tasks amid growing pilot shortages and pressure on air traffic systems.

Can AI replace pilots? Experimental test sparks debate over future of pilots

California governor has declared a state of emergency in the state, and thousands of residents are being evacuated as the risk of a dangerous explosion of a chemical tank brews. The situation is reportedly escalating every day despite stabilising efforts. 

California declares emergency as massive chemical tank threatens to explode, forces mass evacuation

Turkish riot police stormed the headquarters of the opposition CHP party in Ankara after a court ousted leader Ozgur Ozel and reinstated Kemal Kilicdaroglu, deepening concerns over democracy and political freedom in Turkey.

Tear gas by riot police and Opposition eviction: Dramatic scenes emerge from Turkey — What's happening | WION Decodes

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Tuesday (May 26) in New Delhi. Chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the meeting - first in India since 2023- will be attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. One of the Quad's key focuses has been the Indo-Pacific, where China was seen as a key player and focus of deliberations of the group formally called the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue. But this year, the meeting is happening against two backdrops that affect all Quad members in some manner: the Iran war and the US-China rapprochement. The meeting takes place days after the summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. This might possibly change the strategic context of the Quad meeting, according to several analyses.<h2>Trump downplayed frictions with China. How will Quad view this?</h2>One aspect being reported is that Rubio, who arrived in New Delhi after accompanying Trump to Beijing, would seek to reassure India, Japan and Australia that the US continues to be committed to the Indo-Pacific despite Trump's clear push to downplay security friction with China. The Trump-Xi summit, in reality, did not yield much despite the talk of the emergence of a "G2" — China and the US. This so-far imagined alignment is a situation where China and the US would partition spheres of influence and sideline India, but no major development happened at the summit to point in that direction. This means the status quo in the region is more or less intact, as the summit was mostly transactional, with some trade deals signed or promised.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marco-rubio-lands-in-india-s-kolkata-for-first-official-visit-quad-talks-and-trade-high-on-agenda-1779502037666">Marco Rubio lands in India's Kolkata for first official visit; QUAD talks and trade high on agenda</a><h2>Quad is not dead, but…</h2>India's concerns about a possible US-China rapprochement have subsided as the undercurrents of US-China competition across various sectors remain intact. Observers from think tanks like the Eurasia Review provided the 'Quad is not dead' argument. However, they noted that the grouping has lost some of its initial political bite. The formulations about a "free and open Indo-Pacific" — emphasising freedom of navigation and undisrupted trade flows — might remain unchanged, but whether the Quad will reassert it in strong language remains to be seen.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-host-quad-foreign-minister-s-meeting-amid-west-asia-tension-1779469266200/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-host-quad-foreign-minister-s-meeting-amid-west-asia-tension-1779469266200/embed</a><h2>China's diplomatic moves can't go unnoticed in Quad meetings</h2>The Quad meeting is happening in the wake of intense diplomatic activity involving Xi, which essentially saw US adversaries visiting China. This included Russian President Vladimir Putin (amid the Ukraine war), senior Iranian officials (amid the Iran-US war), and Pakistani leaders (amid continuing India-Pakistan tensions). China, in essence, is hosting several leaders seen as adversarial to the US and some members of the Quad.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rubio-meets-pm-modi-in-delhi-as-india-us-talks-focus-on-energy-quad-and-trade-1779530790043">Rubio meets PM Modi in Delhi as India-US talks focus on energy, QUAD and trade</a><h2>Quad countries are feeling the pinch of Hormuz disruptions caused by Iran war</h2>It is not clear if the Iran war and the ongoing economic strain caused by global maritime disruptions like the Strait of Hormuz tensions would be part of the language of negotiations or the communiqué of the Quad foreign ministers. While its focus is mainly on the Indo-Pacific, the Quad had explicitly discussed supply chains and maritime security in the past. Those aspects remain highly relevant for the current meeting.<h2>Quad language will be watched closely</h2>The Delhi Quad meeting will be watched for the language that emerges from deliberations in the context of the above factors. This is going to be the first test of how the US can channel regional allies to adapt to the second Trump administration's off-again, on-again approach to Beijing.The main deliberations are likely to be on maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, maritime security, and addressing the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Beyond the multilateral session, the visiting foreign ministers are holding bilateral talks with Indian officials and calling on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting will lay the groundwork and roadmap for the upcoming Quad Leaders' Summit later this year.It will likely discuss critical minerals and supply chain resilience, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, infrastructure, and connectivity. Emerging technologies, cyber, health security, and counter-terrorism are also likely topics for discussion.The meeting will also review past work on vaccines, infrastructure, and maritime domain awareness.

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Delhi just days after the Trump-Xi summit. Quad members might be having concerns around US-China rapprochement. Iran war and Hormuz disruptions have affected most of them. How will Indo-Pacific security focus of Quad play out?

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Tuesday (May 26) in New Delhi. Chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the meeting - first in India since 2023- will be attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. One of the Quad's key focuses has been the Indo-Pacific, where China was seen as a key player and focus of deliberations of the group formally called the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue. But this year, the meeting is happening against two backdrops that affect all Quad members in some manner: the Iran war and the US-China rapprochement. The meeting takes place days after the summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. This might possibly change the strategic context of the Quad meeting, according to several analyses. Trump downplayed frictions with China. How will Quad view this? One aspect being reported is that Rubio, who arrived in New Delhi after accompanying Trump to Beijing, would seek to reassure India, Japan and Australia that the US continues to be committed to the Indo-Pacific despite Trump's clear push to downplay security friction with China. The Trump-Xi summit, in reality, did not yield much despite the talk of the emergence of a "G2" — China and the US. This so-far imagined alignment is a situation where China and the US would partition spheres of influence and sideline India, but no major development happened at the summit to point in that direction. This means the status quo in the region is more or less intact, as the summit was mostly transactional, with some trade deals signed or promised. Also read: Marco Rubio lands in India's Kolkata for first official visit; QUAD talks and trade high on agenda Quad is not dead, but… India's concerns about a possible US-China rapprochement have subsided as the undercurrents of US-China competition across various sectors remain intact. Observers from think tanks like the Eurasia Review provided the 'Quad is not dead' argument. However, they noted that the grouping has lost some of its initial political bite. The formulations about a "free and open Indo-Pacific" — emphasising freedom of navigation and undisrupted trade flows — might remain unchanged, but whether the Quad will reassert it in strong language remains to be seen. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-host-quad-foreign-minister-s-meeting-amid-west-asia-tension-1779469266200/embed China's diplomatic moves can't go unnoticed in Quad meetings The Quad meeting is happening in the wake of intense diplomatic activity involving Xi, which essentially saw US adversaries visiting China. This included Russian President Vladimir Putin (amid the Ukraine war), senior Iranian officials (amid the Iran-US war), and Pakistani leaders (amid continuing India-Pakistan tensions). China, in essence, is hosting several leaders seen as adversarial to the US and some members of the Quad. Also read: Rubio meets PM Modi in Delhi as India-US talks focus on energy, QUAD and trade Quad countries are feeling the pinch of Hormuz disruptions caused by Iran war It is not clear if the Iran war and the ongoing economic strain caused by global maritime disruptions like the Strait of Hormuz tensions would be part of the language of negotiations or the communiqué of the Quad foreign ministers. While its focus is mainly on the Indo-Pacific, the Quad had explicitly discussed supply chains and maritime security in the past. Those aspects remain highly relevant for the current meeting. Quad language will be watched closely The Delhi Quad meeting will be watched for the language that emerges from deliberations in the context of the above factors. This is going to be the first test of how the US can channel regional allies to adapt to the second Trump administration's off-again, on-again approach to Beijing. The main deliberations are likely to be on maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, maritime security, and addressing the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Beyond the multilateral session, the visiting foreign ministers are holding bilateral talks with Indian officials and calling on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting will lay the groundwork and roadmap for the upcoming Quad Leaders' Summit later this year. It will likely discuss critical minerals and supply chain resilience, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, infrastructure, and connectivity. Emerging technologies, cyber, health security, and counter-terrorism are also likely topics for discussion. The meeting will also review past work on vaccines, infrastructure, and maritime domain awareness.

India is hosting the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Delhi just days after the Trump-Xi summit. Quad members might be having concerns around US-China rapprochement. Iran war and Hormuz disruptions have affected most of them. How will Indo-Pacific security focus of Quad play out?

Quad foreign ministers' meet takes place in Delhi after Trump-Xi summit. What will be different?

Spanish capital Madrid was rocked by protests over the weekend as people demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Saturday's march was called by a group of more than 150 civic associations called Sociedad Civil Espanola, over a series of corruption scandals, as one leader said that "Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia." Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied in central Madrid on Sunday against the rising housing costs in the country. Saturday's march was largely peaceful, but a masked contingent that broke off from the main group tried to breach police barriers to storm the Moncloa Palace, Sánchez's official residence. Three people were arrested, and seven officers were injured. Organisers said at least 120,000 people attended the protests, while the central government’s delegate to the region estimated 40,000 people were present.<h2>Saturday protests in Spain against corruption</h2>“There is no one left in Pedro Sanchez’s circle who has not been accused of very serious crimes. Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia,” far-right Vox leader Santiago Abascal said before the march. Sanchez has dismissed calls to step down and is resolute on continuing as the country's leader. He came to power in 2018, and his family has been embroiled in corruption allegations. His brother, David, will soon be tried for influence peddling, while his wife, Begona Gomez, is being investigated in another corruption case. His ex-Transport Minister, Jose Luis Abalos, a close aide, will also soon hear the verdict on his own corruption trial that ended recently.<h2>Sunday protests in Spain against housing crisis</h2>Meanwhile, the Sunday protests were about the housing crisis, as many Spaniards find themselves out of the market due to rising costs and rents. Spain has a strong tradition of homeownership and very few houses available for rent. The increasing demand linked to tourism and immigration has led to housing rents shooting upwards. "We want neighbours, not tourists," one banner read. In April, Spain' s government passed a plan to build more public housing over the next four years. Worth 7 billion euros ($8.23 billion), it is aimed at particularly helping young renters and homebuyers.&nbsp;"The government may say it is taking measures, but the reality for those of us who rent is that we are receiving notices from our landlords who want to evict us," a protester, Fernando de los Santos, said. "The only thing they offer us are abusive price increases."

Spain witnessed dual protest marches in Madrid over the weekend. Day one was targeted against the growing corruption in Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's entourage, while the Sunday protest was against the rising housing costs.

Spanish capital Madrid was rocked by protests over the weekend as people demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Saturday's march was called by a group of more than 150 civic associations called Sociedad Civil Espanola, over a series of corruption scandals, as one leader said that "Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia." Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied in central Madrid on Sunday against the rising housing costs in the country. Saturday's march was largely peaceful, but a masked contingent that broke off from the main group tried to breach police barriers to storm the Moncloa Palace, Sánchez's official residence. Three people were arrested, and seven officers were injured. Organisers said at least 120,000 people attended the protests, while the central government’s delegate to the region estimated 40,000 people were present. Saturday protests in Spain against corruption “There is no one left in Pedro Sanchez’s circle who has not been accused of very serious crimes. Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia,” far-right Vox leader Santiago Abascal said before the march. Sanchez has dismissed calls to step down and is resolute on continuing as the country's leader. He came to power in 2018, and his family has been embroiled in corruption allegations. His brother, David, will soon be tried for influence peddling, while his wife, Begona Gomez, is being investigated in another corruption case. His ex-Transport Minister, Jose Luis Abalos, a close aide, will also soon hear the verdict on his own corruption trial that ended recently. Sunday protests in Spain against housing crisis Meanwhile, the Sunday protests were about the housing crisis, as many Spaniards find themselves out of the market due to rising costs and rents. Spain has a strong tradition of homeownership and very few houses available for rent. The increasing demand linked to tourism and immigration has led to housing rents shooting upwards. "We want neighbours, not tourists," one banner read. In April, Spain' s government passed a plan to build more public housing over the next four years. Worth 7 billion euros ($8.23 billion), it is aimed at particularly helping young renters and homebuyers. "The government may say it is taking measures, but the reality for those of us who rent is that we are receiving notices from our landlords who want to evict us," a protester, Fernando de los Santos, said. "The only thing they offer us are abusive price increases."

Spain witnessed dual protest marches in Madrid over the weekend. Day one was targeted against the growing corruption in Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's entourage, while the Sunday protest was against the rising housing costs.

Double protests in Spain: Why did people take to the streets over the weekend?

Despite US Donald Trump claiming a breakthrough, a US-Iran peace deal remains unsigned due to deep disputes over the Strait of Hormuz, uranium enrichment, sanctions relief, and Israel’s opposition.

Why US-Iran peace deal is stuck - 5 prime reasons | WION Decodes

Iran on Monday (May 25) reiterated that a final agreement with the US is not imminent, however negotiators have been reached upon on several discussion points. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei while making the statement also said that the focus still remains on ending the war.&nbsp;Speaking to the media, Baghaei said, " We've reached a framework but nobody can say that an agreement between the US and Iran is Imminent."&nbsp;The potential MOU has no specific details about the management of Strait of Hormuz," he added.Further speaking he did say that both the countries have "reached conclusion on many topics discussed but that does not mean we are close to signing an agreement."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reportedly-asks-gulf-leaders-to-normalise-ties-with-israel-sign-abraham-accords-what-is-it-wion-decodes-1779687672311">Trump reportedly asks Gulf leaders to normalise ties with Israel, sign Abraham Accords: What is it? WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;Baghaei also clarified that Iran currently has no plan to send a delegation to Pakistan.&nbsp;On the other hand US President Donald Trump has directed his negotiation team “not to rush into a deal” with Tehran because “time is on our side”.&nbsp;The US president, in a Truth Social post, also added that “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!”&nbsp;He pointed out that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”.<h2>Trump earlier statement on peace deal</h2>&nbsp;This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement.Iran foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also gave similar signal by saying the two sides are both "very close and very far" from reaching an agreement.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media,  Irans Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, Weve reached a framework but nobody can say that an agreement between the US and Iran is Imminent.

Iran on Monday (May 25) reiterated that a final agreement with the US is not imminent, however negotiators have been reached upon on several discussion points. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei while making the statement also said that the focus still remains on ending the war. Speaking to the media, Baghaei said, " We've reached a framework but nobody can say that an agreement between the US and Iran is Imminent." The potential MOU has no specific details about the management of Strait of Hormuz," he added. Further speaking he did say that both the countries have "reached conclusion on many topics discussed but that does not mean we are close to signing an agreement." ALSO READ: Trump reportedly asks Gulf leaders to normalise ties with Israel, sign Abraham Accords: What is it? WION Decodes Baghaei also clarified that Iran currently has no plan to send a delegation to Pakistan. On the other hand US President Donald Trump has directed his negotiation team “not to rush into a deal” with Tehran because “time is on our side”. The US president, in a Truth Social post, also added that “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!” He pointed out that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”. Trump earlier statement on peace deal This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement. Iran foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also gave similar signal by saying the two sides are both "very close and very far" from reaching an agreement.

Speaking to the media, &nbsp;Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, "We've reached a framework but nobody can say that an agreement between the US and Iran is Imminent."

Will US-Iran peace deal happen? 'Final agreement with US not imminent but reached conclusion on many topics', says Baghaei

Exercise PRAGATI 2026, underway in Meghalaya, brings together 400 troops from 12 friendly nations for joint counter-terrorism and jungle warfare training. The drill focuses on tactical skills, military cooperation, and regional peace through intensive exercises and team-building activities.

400 soldiers, 13 nations, one mission: Exercise PRAGATI 2026 is in full swing in Meghalaya - In Pics

A “detox” treatment using a drug derived from the poisonous skin of an Amazonian tree frog has left a British man dead.&nbsp;Kristian Trend, 40, fell victim to what is known as the Kambo drug, which is traditionally used in South American “purging” ceremonies, the report claims. Trend had taken part in a "cleansing" ceremony and became sick at a property in Leicester in April. The Leicestershire Police Department responded to reports that a man was "unwell" at the apartment. They tried to treat him at the scene before transporting him to the hospital, where he passed away. “He was going to cleanse himself, that's what he said to me. He was very spiritual. He took a lot of vitamins. But I don't know what happened," Trend's mother told The Telegraph. Trend was a wellbeing coach and cancer survivor.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-reverses-ban-on-cyanide-bombs-that-poisoned-countless-people-1778558706540">Trump administration quietly reverses ban on cyanide bombs that ‘poisoned countless people’</a><h2>What is Kambo that killed wellness influencer Kristian Trend?</h2>Kambo is an Amazonian treatment that is banned in several countries, including South American countries Brazil and Chile, but is available to be legally purchased in the United Kingdom. It is made from the dried poisonous skin secretions of the giant leaf frog. Kambo is becoming popular across Europe and is marketed as "a well-being aid" and a "life-changing experience". His mother added, "We haven’t had the test results back yet. I don’t know anything, and I don’t even think I want to know what happened. It won’t bring him back." She is particularly devastated that he died because of something like this after recovering from "Burkitt lymphoma cancer, which he nearly died from."&nbsp;The Leicestershire Police Department said that a 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of administering poison and later released on bail. The matter is being probed to reveal more details. Trend is believed to be the first British person to succumb to the drug, which has claimed lives in several countries. It is classified as a prohibited poison in Australia, The Telegraph reported.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kristian Trend has recovered from cancer, his mother said, and told her he was taking part in a cleansing ritual. It involved the use of Kambo, a poisonous substance made from a frog's skin. Police are investigating the matter.

A “detox” treatment using a drug derived from the poisonous skin of an Amazonian tree frog has left a British man dead. Kristian Trend, 40, fell victim to what is known as the Kambo drug, which is traditionally used in South American “purging” ceremonies, the report claims. Trend had taken part in a "cleansing" ceremony and became sick at a property in Leicester in April. The Leicestershire Police Department responded to reports that a man was "unwell" at the apartment. They tried to treat him at the scene before transporting him to the hospital, where he passed away. “He was going to cleanse himself, that's what he said to me. He was very spiritual. He took a lot of vitamins. But I don't know what happened," Trend's mother told The Telegraph. Trend was a wellbeing coach and cancer survivor. Also Read: Trump administration quietly reverses ban on cyanide bombs that ‘poisoned countless people’ What is Kambo that killed wellness influencer Kristian Trend? Kambo is an Amazonian treatment that is banned in several countries, including South American countries Brazil and Chile, but is available to be legally purchased in the United Kingdom. It is made from the dried poisonous skin secretions of the giant leaf frog. Kambo is becoming popular across Europe and is marketed as "a well-being aid" and a "life-changing experience". His mother added, "We haven’t had the test results back yet. I don’t know anything, and I don’t even think I want to know what happened. It won’t bring him back." She is particularly devastated that he died because of something like this after recovering from "Burkitt lymphoma cancer, which he nearly died from." The Leicestershire Police Department said that a 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of administering poison and later released on bail. The matter is being probed to reveal more details. Trend is believed to be the first British person to succumb to the drug, which has claimed lives in several countries. It is classified as a prohibited poison in Australia, The Telegraph reported.

Kristian Trend has recovered from cancer, his mother said, and told her he was taking part in a cleansing ritual. It involved the use of Kambo, a poisonous substance made from a frog's skin. Police are investigating the matter.

British man dies from 'detox' ritual that uses poison from giant leaf frog

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked the leaders of several Arab and Muslim countries in a Saturday phone call to normalise ties with Israel and be a part of the Abraham Accords. A report by Axios quoted two US officials and claimed that Trump, while discussing Iran war, told the leaders of the Gulf nations to normalise relations with Israel if he reaches a deal to end the war with Iran. Earlier this week, Trump said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. The call included leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, the UAE, Jordan. However, Axios added that his request was met with silence from the Arab and Muslim leaders.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubio-clarifies-stupid-people-remark-on-wion-s-racism-question-says-trump-loves-india-amid-hellhole-comments-1779682553637">Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India'</a> Trump also referenced the request in a his Truth Social post, and suggested that Iran could “perhaps” also establish relations with Israel. Channel 12 reported on Sunday that senior Israeli officials have warned, “As it seems, [the agreement] does not serve Israel’s interest.” Other officials have been quoted as calling it a bad deal and highly problematic for Israel. Israel has warned the US about the possible deal and stated that it should include guaranty that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons. Earlier, a report by the New York Times claimed quoting sources that the US has almost completely excluded Israel from its ongoing negotiations with Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-us-agreement-largely-negotiated-pakistan-pm-hopes-to-host-next-round-of-talks-iran-us-war-strait-of-hormuz-1779585420095">Trump says Iran-US agreement 'largely negotiated'</a><h2>What is Abraham Accords?</h2>The Abraham Accords were announced during the first term of Trump. The Abraham Accords is an agreement under which diplomatic relationship is established between Israel and several Arab states, on the mediation of the United States. In 2020, Bahrain and the UAE became the first Arab countries to recognise Israel after Jordan in 1996. Later, Sudan and Morocco also established diplomatic relationships with Israel. Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who worked as his advisor to the President of the United States in his first term, was instrumental in the signing of this accord. Often referred to as an off-wing of the Oslo Accords, the Abraham Accords were a part of Trump's peace plan that he announced in 2020. &nbsp;In the statement about the Abraham Accords, US said that the goal is to "promote interfaith and intercultural dialogue", "end radicalization and conflict", pursue a vision of peace, security, prosperity in the Middle East", and strengthen "peace based on mutual understanding and coexistence." It further said that the to achieve this goal, the US encourages expansion of "friendly relations" between Israel and its neighbours.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/abraham-accords-us-president-wants-arab-nations-pakistan-to-sign-peace-deal-with-israel-1779764474507/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/abraham-accords-us-president-wants-arab-nations-pakistan-to-sign-peace-deal-with-israel-1779764474507/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>So what are the full list of countries that signed it?</h2>The Abraham Accords have been signed or acceded to by Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan, Kazakhstan, and the United States (which is &nbsp;a mediator).<ul><li>Israel</li><li>United Arab Emirates (UAE)</li><li>Bahrain</li><li>Morocco</li><li>Sudan</li><li>Kazakhstan</li><li>United States</li></ul>

Donald Trump reportedly urged Arab and Muslim leaders to normalize ties with Israel if a peace deal ending the Iran war is reached. The proposal was reportedly met with silence, while Israeli officials voiced concerns that the emerging agreement may not serve Israel’s interests.

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked the leaders of several Arab and Muslim countries in a Saturday phone call to normalise ties with Israel and be a part of the Abraham Accords. A report by Axios quoted two US officials and claimed that Trump, while discussing Iran war, told the leaders of the Gulf nations to normalise relations with Israel if he reaches a deal to end the war with Iran. Earlier this week, Trump said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. The call included leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, the UAE, Jordan. However, Axios added that his request was met with silence from the Arab and Muslim leaders. Also Read: Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India' Trump also referenced the request in a his Truth Social post, and suggested that Iran could “perhaps” also establish relations with Israel. Channel 12 reported on Sunday that senior Israeli officials have warned, “As it seems, [the agreement] does not serve Israel’s interest.” Other officials have been quoted as calling it a bad deal and highly problematic for Israel. Israel has warned the US about the possible deal and stated that it should include guaranty that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons. Earlier, a report by the New York Times claimed quoting sources that the US has almost completely excluded Israel from its ongoing negotiations with Iran. Also Read: Trump says Iran-US agreement 'largely negotiated' What is Abraham Accords? The Abraham Accords were announced during the first term of Trump. The Abraham Accords is an agreement under which diplomatic relationship is established between Israel and several Arab states, on the mediation of the United States. In 2020, Bahrain and the UAE became the first Arab countries to recognise Israel after Jordan in 1996. Later, Sudan and Morocco also established diplomatic relationships with Israel. Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who worked as his advisor to the President of the United States in his first term, was instrumental in the signing of this accord. Often referred to as an off-wing of the Oslo Accords, the Abraham Accords were a part of Trump's peace plan that he announced in 2020. In the statement about the Abraham Accords, US said that the goal is to "promote interfaith and intercultural dialogue", "end radicalization and conflict", pursue a vision of peace, security, prosperity in the Middle East", and strengthen "peace based on mutual understanding and coexistence." It further said that the to achieve this goal, the US encourages expansion of "friendly relations" between Israel and its neighbours. https://www.wionews.com/videos/abraham-accords-us-president-wants-arab-nations-pakistan-to-sign-peace-deal-with-israel-1779764474507/embed So what are the full list of countries that signed it? The Abraham Accords have been signed or acceded to by Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan, Kazakhstan, and the United States (which is a mediator). Israel United Arab Emirates (UAE) Bahrain Morocco Sudan Kazakhstan United States

Donald Trump reportedly urged Arab and Muslim leaders to normalize ties with Israel if a peace deal ending the Iran war is reached. The proposal was reportedly met with silence, while Israeli officials voiced concerns that the emerging agreement may not serve Israel’s interests.

What is Abraham Accords that Trump wants Gulf leaders to sign? WION Decodes

A 17-year-old sailor's body is returning home over 84 years later for a proper burial, who was killed during the World War II attack on Pearl Harbor. The sailor identified as Royle Bradford Luker is set to be laid to rest with full military honours in Plainview, Arkansas, on May 30 alongside his parents, including his father, who was a World War I veteran. "As a Fireman Third Class in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. West Virginia, he gave his all and was killed in the line of duty during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941," his obituary from Cornwell Funeral Homes said. The obituary stated that his burial was arranged after modern forensic testing and DNA analysis compared his remains with DNA from living relatives, confirming his identity decades later.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-control-map-by-iran-creates-a-major-sovereignty-dispute-1779680555661"> Strait of Hormuz 'control map' by Iran creates a major sovereignty dispute</a><h3>Exceptional heroism</h3>For his bravery, dedication, and sacrifice, Luker was said to have earned several prestigious military honours. These included the Purple Heart, given to service members wounded or killed in battle, and the Navy Presidential Unit Citation, awarded to military units that displayed exceptional heroism during enemy attacks. According to his obituary, he also received additional recognitions, including the Gold Star Veteran designation, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. Luker was one of the 106 sailors who lost their lives when the USS West Virginia was hit during Japan’s unexpected attack on Pearl Harbor. For many decades, he was considered killed in action, while his unidentified remains were buried among unknown soldiers at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, as stated by the Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency. His name was also engraved on the cemetery's Courts of the Missing. Almost 82 years after he died, Luker was finally identified on May 29, 2024, after officials exhumed several caskets and used advanced forensic and DNA testing, according to the Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency.&nbsp;

The sailor received additional recognitions, including the Gold Star Veteran designation, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

A 17-year-old sailor's body is returning home over 84 years later for a proper burial, who was killed during the World War II attack on Pearl Harbor. The sailor identified as Royle Bradford Luker is set to be laid to rest with full military honours in Plainview, Arkansas, on May 30 alongside his parents, including his father, who was a World War I veteran. "As a Fireman Third Class in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. West Virginia, he gave his all and was killed in the line of duty during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941," his obituary from Cornwell Funeral Homes said. The obituary stated that his burial was arranged after modern forensic testing and DNA analysis compared his remains with DNA from living relatives, confirming his identity decades later. Also read: Strait of Hormuz 'control map' by Iran creates a major sovereignty dispute Exceptional heroism For his bravery, dedication, and sacrifice, Luker was said to have earned several prestigious military honours. These included the Purple Heart, given to service members wounded or killed in battle, and the Navy Presidential Unit Citation, awarded to military units that displayed exceptional heroism during enemy attacks. According to his obituary, he also received additional recognitions, including the Gold Star Veteran designation, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. Luker was one of the 106 sailors who lost their lives when the USS West Virginia was hit during Japan’s unexpected attack on Pearl Harbor. For many decades, he was considered killed in action, while his unidentified remains were buried among unknown soldiers at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, as stated by the Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency. His name was also engraved on the cemetery's Courts of the Missing. Almost 82 years after he died, Luker was finally identified on May 29, 2024, after officials exhumed several caskets and used advanced forensic and DNA testing, according to the Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

The sailor received additional recognitions, including the Gold Star Veteran designation, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

Remains of 17-year-old US sailor killed in Pearl Harbor attack return home after 84 years

Russia jammed the signals of an RAF jet flying the UK defence secretary from Estonia as it reached near its border, The Times reported. John Healey was on his way back after meeting British soldiers when the incident happened. The attack left the plane's GPS disabled, and the pilots had to use a different navigation system, the report stated, adding that smartphones and laptops were unable to connect to the internet.&nbsp;&nbsp;The incident follows reports that two Russian warplanes intercepted an RAF spy plane over the Black Sea last month. It is not known whether Healy was purposely targeted, although the Dassault Falcon 900LX aircraft's path was visible on aircraft tracking websites. The Ministry of Defence has not commented on what a source to Sky News described as "reckless Russia interference". "RAF is well prepared to deal with this activity", the person said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-calls-russia-s-oreshnik-use-a-scare-tactic-as-macron-condemns-kyiv-strikes-1779627900341">EU labels Russia’s Oreshnik use a ‘scare tactic’, Macron condemns Kyiv strikes</a><h2>Russia jams plane signals as part of modern warfare</h2>Photographers and a reporter were also on board the plane and were told it could still operate safely. Russia has been routinely blamed for such incidents where the GPS is disabled as part of modern war. In September 2025, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen's plane also suffered suspected GPS jamming. The plane landed safely, adding, "We have received information from Bulgarian authorities that they suspect Russia carried out this blatant interference."&nbsp;&nbsp;Last month, a Russian Su-35 fighter got so close to a Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft that its emergency systems were triggered and the autopilot was disabled. A Su-27 jet also passed six times in front of the RAF plane, and came as close as 19ft from its nose.&nbsp;The MoD said this was the most dangerous manoeuvre by Russia since 2022, when a "rogue" pilot fired a missile at a Rivet Joint over the Black Sea. Signal jamming was also reported in 2024 when an RAF plane carrying then-Defence Secretary Grant Shapps flew close to the Russian territory.&nbsp;

Russia jammed the signals of an RAF jet with the UK defence secretary John Healey on board near its borders. The GPS failed to connect, and the pilots were left scrambling for an alternate navigation system.  This follows the interception of an RAF spy plane by two Russian warplanes.

Russia jammed the signals of an RAF jet flying the UK defence secretary from Estonia as it reached near its border, The Times reported. John Healey was on his way back after meeting British soldiers when the incident happened. The attack left the plane's GPS disabled, and the pilots had to use a different navigation system, the report stated, adding that smartphones and laptops were unable to connect to the internet. The incident follows reports that two Russian warplanes intercepted an RAF spy plane over the Black Sea last month. It is not known whether Healy was purposely targeted, although the Dassault Falcon 900LX aircraft's path was visible on aircraft tracking websites. The Ministry of Defence has not commented on what a source to Sky News described as "reckless Russia interference". "RAF is well prepared to deal with this activity", the person said. Also Read: EU labels Russia’s Oreshnik use a ‘scare tactic’, Macron condemns Kyiv strikes Russia jams plane signals as part of modern warfare Photographers and a reporter were also on board the plane and were told it could still operate safely. Russia has been routinely blamed for such incidents where the GPS is disabled as part of modern war. In September 2025, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen's plane also suffered suspected GPS jamming. The plane landed safely, adding, "We have received information from Bulgarian authorities that they suspect Russia carried out this blatant interference." Last month, a Russian Su-35 fighter got so close to a Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft that its emergency systems were triggered and the autopilot was disabled. A Su-27 jet also passed six times in front of the RAF plane, and came as close as 19ft from its nose. The MoD said this was the most dangerous manoeuvre by Russia since 2022, when a "rogue" pilot fired a missile at a Rivet Joint over the Black Sea. Signal jamming was also reported in 2024 when an RAF plane carrying then-Defence Secretary Grant Shapps flew close to the Russian territory.

Russia jammed the signals of an RAF jet with the UK defence secretary John Healey on board near its borders. The GPS failed to connect, and the pilots were left scrambling for an alternate navigation system. &nbsp;This follows the interception of an RAF spy plane by two Russian warplanes.

RAF jet with UK defence secretary faces scare after Russia jams GPS signals

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who is on a state visit to India said on Monday (May 25) that New Delhi has its regular concerns with Pakistan about "armed terrorist groups operating from Pakistani territory that target India," but no question has ever come up regarding Pakistan's role as mediator in the US-Iran war.&nbsp;"They're always concerned about, obviously. India is always pointing to the fact that there are armed terrorist groups operating from Pakistani territory that target India. They're always concerned about that. But as far as the role they played as a mediator and a facilitator in the Iran situation, it never came up. I don't think that they would complain about that. I mean, their issue with Pakistan is different,' said Rubio when asked if the Indian side raised any concerns regarding Pakistan playing the role of a mediator in the US-Iran conflict.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-us-iran-peace-deal-happen-final-agreement-with-us-not-imminent-but-reached-conclusion-on-many-topics-says-baghaei-1779695910706">Will US-Iran peace deal happen? 'Final agreement with US not imminent but reached conclusion on many topics', says Baghaei</a><h2>How close is the peace deal?</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Monday directed his negotiation team “not to rush into a deal” with Tehran.&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social he said, “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!”.&nbsp;This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement.&nbsp;Iran foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also gave similar signal by saying the two sides are both "very close and very far" from reaching an agreement.&nbsp;

This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been largely negotiated between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who is on a state visit to India said on Monday (May 25) that New Delhi has its regular concerns with Pakistan about "armed terrorist groups operating from Pakistani territory that target India," but no question has ever come up regarding Pakistan's role as mediator in the US-Iran war. "They're always concerned about, obviously. India is always pointing to the fact that there are armed terrorist groups operating from Pakistani territory that target India. They're always concerned about that. But as far as the role they played as a mediator and a facilitator in the Iran situation, it never came up. I don't think that they would complain about that. I mean, their issue with Pakistan is different,' said Rubio when asked if the Indian side raised any concerns regarding Pakistan playing the role of a mediator in the US-Iran conflict. ALSO READ: Will US-Iran peace deal happen? 'Final agreement with US not imminent but reached conclusion on many topics', says Baghaei How close is the peace deal? Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Monday directed his negotiation team “not to rush into a deal” with Tehran. In a post on Truth Social he said, “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!”. This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement. Iran foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also gave similar signal by saying the two sides are both "very close and very far" from reaching an agreement.

This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement.

'Don't think they will complain': India never raised Pakistan mediation role on Iran-US war, says Marco Rubio

Iran and United States are at the verge of signing a peace deal to end the war. However, the uncertainty around Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has continued as he has not been seen in public since taking over as the top cleric after his father and former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei's death. A new report citing US intelligence on Monday (May 25) stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is hiding in a secret location and communicates via an elaborate network of messengers. Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28, the first day of the US-Israeli war with Iran. The elaborate arrangement is seen as a precautionary measures to prevent Israel from assassinating him. The US officials hinted that the delay in the deal is because messages are passed on to Mojtaba via a network of people and are usually dated by the time it reaches him.&nbsp;CBS report has quoted US officials citing US intelligence and said that Iranian leaders including Mojtaba are spending weeks in bunkers and trying to avoid communicating with each other. "Watching them try to figure out how to talk to each other is almost like watching a sitcom. They are completely exasperated,” one official said. “This is why you see people saying things like, ‘The supreme leader has agreed to the framework,’ or ‘We’re waiting to hear back on the final deal points.’ Every piece of information he receives is dated and there’s a lot of latency to his responses,” one official tells the network. The report claimed that even officials at the highest levels of the Iranian government don't know where Mojtaba is and have no way to contact him directly. &nbsp;Instead, messages are passed through a network of couriers created to obscure the supreme leader's location.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-wion-rubio-dismisses-racist-remarks-on-indians-as-stupid-comments-video-1779613601094">In response to WION, Rubio dismisses racist remarks on Indians as 'stupid' comments - VIDEO</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Marco Rubio&#39;s response to WION&#39;s question on racism against Indians in US: &quot;Every country in the world has stupid people. I&#39;m sure there are stupid people here, there are stupid people in the United States that make dumb comments all the time.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarcoRubio?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarcoRubio</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jaishankar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jaishankar</a>… <a href="https://t.co/dqRROrxYO0">pic.twitter.com/dqRROrxYO0</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2058477359523917919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubio-clarifies-stupid-people-remark-on-wion-s-racism-question-says-trump-loves-india-amid-hellhole-comments-1779682553637">Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says ‘Trump loves India’</a><h2>What we know about Iran-US deal?</h2>Iran and United States have hinted that a deal to end the war will be finalised soon. US President Donald Trump held a lengthy phone call with Gulf leaders and Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and hinted that the peace deal to end Iran war has been “largely negotiated.” He also said that both sides have agreed to reopen the Strait of Homuz. Iranian officials were also quoted in several reports saying the the Hormuz traffic will return to pre-war levels within 30 days of signing a deal with the United States. The deal has not yet been finalised but Pakistan, that is acting as a mediator has expressed hopes to host the two sides for a fresh round of talks. Trump also warned that the negotiations are proceeding in an “orderly and constructive manner” and US representatives have been advised to “not to rush into a deal." The conflict erupted after the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, and the Islamic republic responded with missile and drone attacks across the region. The United States and Iran have observed a ceasefire since April 8 while mediators push for a negotiated settlement, although the Strait of Hormuz has remained largely blocked.&nbsp;

Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly hiding in a secret location and communicating through couriers to avoid assassination threats, according to US intelligence cited by CBS News. The security measures are said to be slowing negotiations between Iran and the US over a possible peace agreement.

Iran and United States are at the verge of signing a peace deal to end the war. However, the uncertainty around Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has continued as he has not been seen in public since taking over as the top cleric after his father and former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei's death. A new report citing US intelligence on Monday (May 25) stated that Mojtaba Khamenei is hiding in a secret location and communicates via an elaborate network of messengers. Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28, the first day of the US-Israeli war with Iran. The elaborate arrangement is seen as a precautionary measures to prevent Israel from assassinating him. The US officials hinted that the delay in the deal is because messages are passed on to Mojtaba via a network of people and are usually dated by the time it reaches him. CBS report has quoted US officials citing US intelligence and said that Iranian leaders including Mojtaba are spending weeks in bunkers and trying to avoid communicating with each other. "Watching them try to figure out how to talk to each other is almost like watching a sitcom. They are completely exasperated,” one official said. “This is why you see people saying things like, ‘The supreme leader has agreed to the framework,’ or ‘We’re waiting to hear back on the final deal points.’ Every piece of information he receives is dated and there’s a lot of latency to his responses,” one official tells the network. The report claimed that even officials at the highest levels of the Iranian government don't know where Mojtaba is and have no way to contact him directly. Instead, messages are passed through a network of couriers created to obscure the supreme leader's location. Also Read: In response to WION, Rubio dismisses racist remarks on Indians as 'stupid' comments - VIDEO

Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly hiding in a secret location and communicating through couriers to avoid assassination threats, according to US intelligence cited by CBS News. The security measures are said to be slowing negotiations between Iran and the US over a possible peace agreement.

Iran-US peace deal soon but where is Mojtaba Khamenei? US officials claim he's in 'secret bunker', 'communicates via messengers'

US President Donald Trump was informed by former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard of her resignation during a White House meeting on Friday (May 22), after her husband Abraham Williams’ diagnosis with a rare form of bone cancer.&nbsp;Gabbard, who announced earlier this week that she would step down from the role, is expected to officially leave office on June 30, 2026. In a resignation letter obtained by Fox News Digital, she said the decision was driven by family circumstances and the need to support her husband through what she described as “major challenges in the coming weeks and months.”&nbsp;“My husband, Abraham, has recently been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer,” Gabbard wrote in the letter, adding that she needed to “step away from public service” to support him during treatment. She also praised Williams for supporting her throughout their 11-year marriage, including during military deployments and political campaigns. “His strength and love have sustained me through every challenge,” she wrote. “I cannot in good conscience ask him to face this fight alone while I continue in this demanding and time-consuming position.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-tulsi-gabbard-inside-the-journey-of-america-s-most-controversial-intelligence-chief-1779473897876">Who is Tulsi Gabbard? The former presidential hopeful who landed America’s toughest intelligence job</a><h2>'All of our enemies love Tulsi'</h2>Meanwhile, right-wing commentator Laura Loomer reacted to the resignation with a series of posts on X, celebrating Gabbard’s departure from the administration. “Thank God Tulsi Gabbard resigned!!!” Loomer wrote, while also claiming that “all of our enemies love Tulsi.”&nbsp;In another post shared on Sunday, Loomer alleged that some Trump allies had privately nicknamed the Office of the Director of National Intelligence “Do Not Invite,” in an apparent dig at the DNI abbreviation. Loomer further accused Gabbard of clashing with CIA Director John Ratcliffe and mishandling intelligence operations during her tenure.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-tulsi-has-done-incredible-job-trump-says-after-us-intel-chief-gabbard-resigns-names-aaron-lukas-as-acting-dni-1779472360129">‘Tulsi has done incredible job’: Trump says after US intel chief Gabbard resigns, names Aaron Lukas as acting DNI</a>&nbsp;“I broke the news months ago that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard would resign after turning her office into a breeding ground for leaks that consistently compromised and undermined our national security,” Loomer wrote on X.&nbsp;She also alleged that White House insiders and Trump allies believed Gabbard had “constantly sabotaged” Trump and conflicted with Ratcliffe, while accusing her office of mishandling issues related to online extremist networks and US foreign policy. &nbsp;

Tulsi Gabbard resigned as Director of National Intelligence to support her husband, Abraham Williams, through bone cancer treatment, prompting both praise from Trump and criticism from Laura Loomer.

US President Donald Trump was informed by former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard of her resignation during a White House meeting on Friday (May 22), after her husband Abraham Williams’ diagnosis with a rare form of bone cancer. Gabbard, who announced earlier this week that she would step down from the role, is expected to officially leave office on June 30, 2026. In a resignation letter obtained by Fox News Digital, she said the decision was driven by family circumstances and the need to support her husband through what she described as “major challenges in the coming weeks and months.” “My husband, Abraham, has recently been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer,” Gabbard wrote in the letter, adding that she needed to “step away from public service” to support him during treatment. She also praised Williams for supporting her throughout their 11-year marriage, including during military deployments and political campaigns. “His strength and love have sustained me through every challenge,” she wrote. “I cannot in good conscience ask him to face this fight alone while I continue in this demanding and time-consuming position.” Also read: Who is Tulsi Gabbard? The former presidential hopeful who landed America’s toughest intelligence job 'All of our enemies love Tulsi' Meanwhile, right-wing commentator Laura Loomer reacted to the resignation with a series of posts on X, celebrating Gabbard’s departure from the administration. “Thank God Tulsi Gabbard resigned!!!” Loomer wrote, while also claiming that “all of our enemies love Tulsi.” In another post shared on Sunday, Loomer alleged that some Trump allies had privately nicknamed the Office of the Director of National Intelligence “Do Not Invite,” in an apparent dig at the DNI abbreviation. Loomer further accused Gabbard of clashing with CIA Director John Ratcliffe and mishandling intelligence operations during her tenure. Also read: ‘Tulsi has done incredible job’: Trump says after US intel chief Gabbard resigns, names Aaron Lukas as acting DNI “I broke the news months ago that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard would resign after turning her office into a breeding ground for leaks that consistently compromised and undermined our national security,” Loomer wrote on X. She also alleged that White House insiders and Trump allies believed Gabbard had “constantly sabotaged” Trump and conflicted with Ratcliffe, while accusing her office of mishandling issues related to online extremist networks and US foreign policy.

Tulsi Gabbard resigned as Director of National Intelligence to support her husband, Abraham Williams, through bone cancer treatment, prompting both praise from Trump and criticism from Laura Loomer.

'DNI - Do Not Invite': Laura Loomer claims Trump allies 'hated' Tulsi Gabbard, had secret nicknames for her

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed racist remarks against Indians and Indian-Americans as comments made by “stupid people,” stressing that such views do not reflect broader American society. Rubio praised ties with India and highlighted Trump’s strong relationship with PM Modi

Rubio clarifies 'stupid people' remark on WION's racism question, says 'Trump loves India'

Hours after both the countries, US and Iran hinted at reaching a truce agreement soon, Tehran on Monday accused Washington of continuing to obstruct key clauses related to the release of Iran’s blocked assets and said that the negotiations could collapse.&nbsp;Disagreements over the unfreezing of Iranian funds is a major sticking point in the negotiations for Tehran, reported Iran's Tasnim News Agency.&nbsp;ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-can-count-on-me-100-i-am-a-big-fan-of-pm-modi-says-trump-in-phone-call-at-delhi-event-1779642795192"> ‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event</a>&nbsp;“US obstruction of some clauses of the agreement, including the issue of releasing Iran’s blocked assets, still continues,” Tasnim reported, adding “There is still a possibility that the agreement may be canceled."<h2>"Time is on our side"</h2>&nbsp;On the other hand US President Donald Trump has directed his negotiation team “not to rush into a deal” with Tehran because “time is on our side”.&nbsp;The US president, in a Truth Social post, also added that “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!”&nbsp;He pointed out that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”.<h2>What Trump said earlier</h2>&nbsp;This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement.&nbsp;Iran foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also gave similar signal by saying the two sides are both "very close and very far" from reaching an agreement.

Trump pointed that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”.

Hours after both the countries, US and Iran hinted at reaching a truce agreement soon, Tehran on Monday accused Washington of continuing to obstruct key clauses related to the release of Iran’s blocked assets and said that the negotiations could collapse. Disagreements over the unfreezing of Iranian funds is a major sticking point in the negotiations for Tehran, reported Iran's Tasnim News Agency. ALSO READ: ‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event “US obstruction of some clauses of the agreement, including the issue of releasing Iran’s blocked assets, still continues,” Tasnim reported, adding “There is still a possibility that the agreement may be canceled." "Time is on our side" On the other hand US President Donald Trump has directed his negotiation team “not to rush into a deal” with Tehran because “time is on our side”. The US president, in a Truth Social post, also added that “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!” He pointed out that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”. What Trump said earlier This comes after Trump on Saturday (May 23) said that an agreement had been "largely negotiated" between the two countries, sparking speculation of an announcement. Iran foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also gave similar signal by saying the two sides are both "very close and very far" from reaching an agreement.

Trump pointed that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”.

'Obstruction of some clauses' by US could cancel peace deal, says Iran

Iran released a new map showing the Strait of Hormuz under its control. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), which was set up earlier this month to control marine traffic in and out of Hormuz, announced that the region was being placed under the "oversight" of its armed forces. It spans more than 22,000 square kilometres, extending into the territorial waters of Oman and the UAE. The eastern line runs from Kuh-e Mubarak to just south of Fujairah in the UAE, while the western line runs from the western tip of Iran's Qeshm island to Umm Al Quwain, also in the UAE. The Emirates has described the said lines made by Iran as "nothing but fragments of dreams." According to the PGSA, "transit through this area for the purpose of passing through the Hormuz Strait requires coordination with, and authorisation" from the body.<h2>Why the Hormuz "control map" matters</h2> The "control map" represents a major political shift as it means that the Strait of Hormuz has gone from being a heavily contested war zone to a state-administered permit and toll regime. This change leads to a sovereignty dispute as the PGSA map claims regulatory jurisdiction over the international shipping lanes that legally fall within the territorial waters of Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While Oman is a United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) &nbsp;signatory and guarantees "transit passage", Iran has never ratified UNCLOS and asserts that all transit through this zone now requires formal PGSA authorisation.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-deal-signing-in-a-few-days-terms-of-agreement-being-finalised-reports-1779655943195">US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports</a><h2>How does the Strait of Hormuz crisis affect the world?</h2> The Strait of Hormuz has become a major pain point for the world ever since Iran closed it following the first strikes by the US and Israel. This has led to an upheaval in the global oil market, with prices skyrocketing. The waterway acts as the transit point for the transport of one-fifth of the world's oil supply. US secretary of State Marco Rubio slammed Iran for trying to control the Strait and accused it of trying to levy tolls and persuade Oman to join it. Calling the idea "unacceptable", Rubio said that no country should accept it. "If that were to happen in the Straits of Hormuz, it will happen in five other places around the world," Rubio added.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-deal-trump-tells-us-negotiators-not-to-rush-into-deal-with-iran-1779678061868/embed<h2>Iran-US deal</h2>Rubio also claimed that "there has been some slight progress" in the matter. Iran and the US are reportedly on the verge of reaching a deal. Trump said on Saturday that a deal with Iran had been "largely negotiated", and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial point in it. Iranian officials also confirmed negotiations are happening and some progress has been made. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that the deal also carries a roadmap to ⁠end the war on all fronts. The US has reportedly waived &nbsp;‌sanctions on Iranian oil during negotiations. However, other reports suggest that things are stuck on two crucial issues - "the mechanism for unfreezing Iranian assets, and the scope of a ceasefire in Lebanon”.

The Strait of Hormuz “control map” released by Iran puts more than 22,000 square kilometre of area under the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA). Transit requires authorisation by the PGSA. The move creates a sovereignty dispute as it includes areas legally under Oman and the UAE.

Iran released a new map showing the Strait of Hormuz under its control. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), which was set up earlier this month to control marine traffic in and out of Hormuz, announced that the region was being placed under the "oversight" of its armed forces. It spans more than 22,000 square kilometres, extending into the territorial waters of Oman and the UAE. The eastern line runs from Kuh-e Mubarak to just south of Fujairah in the UAE, while the western line runs from the western tip of Iran's Qeshm island to Umm Al Quwain, also in the UAE. The Emirates has described the said lines made by Iran as "nothing but fragments of dreams." According to the PGSA, "transit through this area for the purpose of passing through the Hormuz Strait requires coordination with, and authorisation" from the body. Why the Hormuz "control map" matters The "control map" represents a major political shift as it means that the Strait of Hormuz has gone from being a heavily contested war zone to a state-administered permit and toll regime. This change leads to a sovereignty dispute as the PGSA map claims regulatory jurisdiction over the international shipping lanes that legally fall within the territorial waters of Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While Oman is a United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) signatory and guarantees "transit passage", Iran has never ratified UNCLOS and asserts that all transit through this zone now requires formal PGSA authorisation. Also Read: US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports How does the Strait of Hormuz crisis affect the world? The Strait of Hormuz has become a major pain point for the world ever since Iran closed it following the first strikes by the US and Israel. This has led to an upheaval in the global oil market, with prices skyrocketing. The waterway acts as the transit point for the transport of one-fifth of the world's oil supply. US secretary of State Marco Rubio slammed Iran for trying to control the Strait and accused it of trying to levy tolls and persuade Oman to join it. Calling the idea "unacceptable", Rubio said that no country should accept it. "If that were to happen in the Straits of Hormuz, it will happen in five other places around the world," Rubio added. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-deal-trump-tells-us-negotiators-not-to-rush-into-deal-with-iran-1779678061868/embed Iran-US deal Rubio also claimed that "there has been some slight progress" in the matter. Iran and the US are reportedly on the verge of reaching a deal. Trump said on Saturday that a deal with Iran had been "largely negotiated", and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial point in it. Iranian officials also confirmed negotiations are happening and some progress has been made. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that the deal also carries a roadmap to ⁠end the war on all fronts. The US has reportedly waived ‌sanctions on Iranian oil during negotiations. However, other reports suggest that things are stuck on two crucial issues - "the mechanism for unfreezing Iranian assets, and the scope of a ceasefire in Lebanon”.

The Strait of Hormuz “control map” released by Iran puts more than 22,000 square kilometre of area under the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA). Transit requires authorisation by the PGSA. The move creates a sovereignty dispute as it includes areas legally under Oman and the UAE.

Strait of Hormuz 'control map' by Iran creates a major sovereignty dispute

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Strait of Hormuz 'control map' by Iran creates a major sovereignty dispute