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A striking new mural in New Delhi, commissioned by the Embassy of Israel, celebrates the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Israel. Centred on maestro Zubin Mehta’s seven-decade partnership with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, now marking its 90th anniversary, the artwork shows how music serves as a bridge between the two nations.Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the unique safety and acceptance Jewish communities have long enjoyed in India. “Jews always felt very confident and safe in India,” he said.“Different communities, the Baghdadi Jews, the Bnei Menashe and Bene Israel have been living here safely for millennia and have been a bridge between our two nations.”He added: “We have a great common heritage and heritage of freedom of religion and of acceptance… Culture is the best ambassador of any nation, every civilisation.”Azar also noted early Jewish pioneers in Bollywood and expressed confidence that bilateral projects, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, would advance once regional challenges are overcome. “We are on the right track,” he said. Sidhant Sibal: What's the new mural all about? Reuven Azar: Well, it's about the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra, an amazing orchestra, one of the most famous ones in the world, and their cooperation with India, and especially with Zubin Mehta, a very famous master who has been working with the Philharmonic Orchestra for the last seven decades. We're celebrating 90 years of the orchestra and of him, and you know, the orchestra is looking forward to hosting, hopefully this year, to celebrate 90 years since its establishment.Sidhant Sibal: If you can perhaps talk about the cultural aspect of the India-Israel relationship. Recently, we saw Indians who are Jewish going to Israel as well, perhaps talking about that aspect as well. Reuven Azar: We have a great common heritage and heritage of freedom of religion and of acceptance. Jews have always felt very confident and safe in India, in different communities, have been living here for millennia. The Baghdadi Jews, the Bnei Menashe and the Bene Israel, all of them have been living here safely and have been a bridge between our two nations. Here we have another example of a bridge. A bridge through music. Culture is the best ambassador of any nation, every civilisation. And I'm happy that we can celebrate that. Very proud of this cooperation.Sidhant Sibal: One aspect that perhaps has not been talked about is the Bollywood aspect, the Jewish origin of Bollywood actresses like Sulochana in the past, perhaps that aspect Reuven Azar: Well, you know, back in the 40s, when the Bollywood industry was being born, there were many Jews who were involved in the industry. And, you know, like many things from generation to generation, things get sometimes forgotten. I think we have to do more to remind ourselves of the pioneers of the industry, including many Jews who were part of the industry.Sidhant Sibal: So, my last question about the situation in West Asia, the relationship with India. How are things? We know that the relationship with India is very good. IMEC is something that is talked about, but because of the West Asia crisis, it hasn't moved as well. So perhaps your assessment about relations, and of course, the situation in West Asia.Reuven Azar: We are on a good trajectory. I think that as much as we are successful in dealing successfully with challenges that we face, terrorism, other kinds of aggression, once we overcome and we prevail, we'll be able to do all the things we want to do. So we have to be patient and confident, and I'm sure we will get to the day when we will be back on business with projects of connectivity. We're on the right track.

Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the unique safety and acceptance Jewish communities have long enjoyed in India. 

A striking new mural in New Delhi, commissioned by the Embassy of Israel, celebrates the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Israel. Centred on maestro Zubin Mehta’s seven-decade partnership with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, now marking its 90th anniversary, the artwork shows how music serves as a bridge between the two nations. Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the unique safety and acceptance Jewish communities have long enjoyed in India. “Jews always felt very confident and safe in India,” he said. “Different communities, the Baghdadi Jews, the Bnei Menashe and Bene Israel have been living here safely for millennia and have been a bridge between our two nations.” He added: “We have a great common heritage and heritage of freedom of religion and of acceptance… Culture is the best ambassador of any nation, every civilisation.” Azar also noted early Jewish pioneers in Bollywood and expressed confidence that bilateral projects, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, would advance once regional challenges are overcome. “We are on the right track,” he said. Sidhant Sibal: What's the new mural all about? Reuven Azar: Well, it's about the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra, an amazing orchestra, one of the most famous ones in the world, and their cooperation with India, and especially with Zubin Mehta, a very famous master who has been working with the Philharmonic Orchestra for the last seven decades. We're celebrating 90 years of the orchestra and of him, and you know, the orchestra is looking forward to hosting, hopefully this year, to celebrate 90 years since its establishment. Sidhant Sibal: If you can perhaps talk about the cultural aspect of the India-Israel relationship. Recently, we saw Indians who are Jewish going to Israel as well, perhaps talking about that aspect as well. Reuven Azar: We have a great common heritage and heritage of freedom of religion and of acceptance. Jews have always felt very confident and safe in India, in different communities, have been living here for millennia. The Baghdadi Jews, the Bnei Menashe and the Bene Israel, all of them have been living here safely and have been a bridge between our two nations. Here we have another example of a bridge. A bridge through music. Culture is the best ambassador of any nation, every civilisation. And I'm happy that we can celebrate that. Very proud of this cooperation. Sidhant Sibal: One aspect that perhaps has not been talked about is the Bollywood aspect, the Jewish origin of Bollywood actresses like Sulochana in the past, perhaps that aspect Reuven Azar: Well, you know, back in the 40s, when the Bollywood industry was being born, there were many Jews who were involved in the industry. And, you know, like many things from generation to generation, things get sometimes forgotten. I think we have to do more to remind ourselves of the pioneers of the industry, including many Jews who were part of the industry. Sidhant Sibal: So, my last question about the situation in West Asia, the relationship with India. How are things? We know that the relationship with India is very good. IMEC is something that is talked about, but because of the West Asia crisis, it hasn't moved as well. So perhaps your assessment about relations, and of course, the situation in West Asia. Reuven Azar: We are on a good trajectory. I think that as much as we are successful in dealing successfully with challenges that we face, terrorism, other kinds of aggression, once we overcome and we prevail, we'll be able to do all the things we want to do. So we have to be patient and confident, and I'm sure we will get to the day when we will be back on business with projects of connectivity. We're on the right track.

Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the unique safety and acceptance Jewish communities have long enjoyed in India.&nbsp;

Jews always felt very confident and safe in India: Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday (May 08) said Washington was awaiting Iran’s response to the latest US proposals aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, while also warning Tehran against attempts to control the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.Speaking to reporters during a visit to Rome, Rubio said the United States expected a formal reply from Iran later in the day. “We’re expecting a response from them today at some point... I hope it’s a serious offer, I really do,” he said.&nbsp;Rubio added that Washington was looking for a path toward meaningful negotiations. “The hope is it’s something that can put us into a serious process of negotiation,” he stated, signalling that the US was still seeking a diplomatic route despite escalating tensions in the region.&nbsp;The remarks come amid growing international concern over security in the Strait of Hormuz after reports that Tehran had established an authority to approve maritime transit through the waterway. The route remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil shipments.&nbsp;Reacting strongly to the development, Rubio said Iran’s actions were unacceptable. “Iran now claims that they own, that they have a right to control, an international waterway... That’s an unacceptable thing that they’re trying to normalise,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-s-tvk-crosses-majority-mark-in-tamil-nadu-with-vck-and-left-support-1778238339010">Vijay meets Governor as TVK alliance crosses majority mark in Tamil Nadu</a>&nbsp;The conflict intensified after US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, following which Tehran largely shut down movement through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States later imposed its own restrictions on Iranian ports, further worsening regional tensions.&nbsp;Rubio also addressed reports that several US allies had denied Washington the use of military bases for operations linked to the conflict. During his remarks in Rome, he acknowledged that President Donald Trump was reviewing the issue, particularly in relation to NATO allies such as Italy and Spain.&nbsp;“If one of the main reasons why the US is in NATO is the ability to have forces deployed in Europe that we could project to other contingencies, and now that’s no longer the case, at least when it comes to some NATO members, that’s a problem, and it has to be examined,” Rubio said.&nbsp;However, he clarified that no final decision had yet been taken on troop withdrawals or changes to US commitments in Europe. “Ultimately, that’s a decision for the president to make,” Rubio added.&nbsp;The comments come as Washington reassesses military deployments and alliance commitments amid the widening Middle East conflict and mounting pressure over maritime security in the Gulf region.

Rubio criticised Iran’s reported move to control transit through the Strait of Hormuz, calling attempts to regulate the key international waterway “unacceptable”.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday (May 08) said Washington was awaiting Iran’s response to the latest US proposals aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, while also warning Tehran against attempts to control the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to reporters during a visit to Rome, Rubio said the United States expected a formal reply from Iran later in the day. “We’re expecting a response from them today at some point... I hope it’s a serious offer, I really do,” he said. Rubio added that Washington was looking for a path toward meaningful negotiations. “The hope is it’s something that can put us into a serious process of negotiation,” he stated, signalling that the US was still seeking a diplomatic route despite escalating tensions in the region. The remarks come amid growing international concern over security in the Strait of Hormuz after reports that Tehran had established an authority to approve maritime transit through the waterway. The route remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil shipments. Reacting strongly to the development, Rubio said Iran’s actions were unacceptable. “Iran now claims that they own, that they have a right to control, an international waterway... That’s an unacceptable thing that they’re trying to normalise,” he said. Also Read: Vijay meets Governor as TVK alliance crosses majority mark in Tamil Nadu The conflict intensified after US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, following which Tehran largely shut down movement through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States later imposed its own restrictions on Iranian ports, further worsening regional tensions. Rubio also addressed reports that several US allies had denied Washington the use of military bases for operations linked to the conflict. During his remarks in Rome, he acknowledged that President Donald Trump was reviewing the issue, particularly in relation to NATO allies such as Italy and Spain. “If one of the main reasons why the US is in NATO is the ability to have forces deployed in Europe that we could project to other contingencies, and now that’s no longer the case, at least when it comes to some NATO members, that’s a problem, and it has to be examined,” Rubio said. However, he clarified that no final decision had yet been taken on troop withdrawals or changes to US commitments in Europe. “Ultimately, that’s a decision for the president to make,” Rubio added. The comments come as Washington reassesses military deployments and alliance commitments amid the widening Middle East conflict and mounting pressure over maritime security in the Gulf region.

Rubio criticised Iran’s reported move to control transit through the Strait of Hormuz, calling attempts to regulate the key international waterway “unacceptable”.

Expecting Iran response on Friday: Rubio says Trump reviewing allies’ military base denial

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday warned the US against any adventurism and claimed that Iran's missile inventory and launcher capacity actually stand at 120% compared to levels on February 28, 2024. He accused the US of sabotaging diplomatic solutions through military operations. In a social media post on the platform X, Araghchi warned that any “pressure tactic” will drag the US into a “quagmire”."Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the U.S. opts for a reckless military adventure. Is it a crude pressure tactic? Or the result of a spoiler once again duping POTUS into another quagmire?" read the post. This comes in direct contradiction of the Washington Post report that the US intelligence claims that Iran only retains 75 per cent of its prewar mobile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpiles. He asserted that Iran maintains 1000 per cent readiness to defend its nation. “Whatever the causes, the outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure,” he added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the U.S. opts for a reckless military adventure. Is it a crude pressure tactic? Or the result of a spoiler once again duping POTUS into another quagmire? Whatever the causes, outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure. <a href="https://t.co/ev7dMIebNB">pic.twitter.com/ev7dMIebNB</a>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2052703834888360089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-eisenhower-building-white-paint-preservation-backlash-1778239332767">Is Trump turning a historic Eisenhower tower into another White House? $7.5 million paint plan sparks backlash</a>The US and Iran are engaged in a diplomatic standoff and mutual blockade, following the initial US-Israel attacks on Iran. Iran has maintained its control over the vital naval chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz and targets any “unauthorised” passage, while the US have put in effect its own blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf. Washington and Tehran are negotiating a US proposal for both sides to reach an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and cease hostilities for 30 days. US secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was expecting a response from Iran today to its proposal to end the war. Trump continues to swing between never having a deadline and a 24-hour ultimatum. President Trump’s latest ultimatum is a demand for Iran to sign a comprehensive "new deal" immediately.Earlier on Friday, the US Central Command claimed its forces were blocking 70 tankers from entering or leaving Iranian ports.“These commercial ships have the capacity to transport over 166 million barrels of Iranian oil worth an estimated $13 billion-plus,” it said in a post on X. The US Navy has blockaded Iran’s ports since April 13, choking off crucial revenues for the country that relies almost entirely on the Strait of Hormuz to export its oil. Approximately 15,000 ships, 200+ aircraft, and 20+ wraships are deployed in the blockade.&nbsp;

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed Tehran’s missile inventory is now stronger than before the war as tensions with the US escalate over the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday warned the US against any adventurism and claimed that Iran's missile inventory and launcher capacity actually stand at 120% compared to levels on February 28, 2024. He accused the US of sabotaging diplomatic solutions through military operations. In a social media post on the platform X, Araghchi warned that any “pressure tactic” will drag the US into a “quagmire”. "Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the U.S. opts for a reckless military adventure. Is it a crude pressure tactic? Or the result of a spoiler once again duping POTUS into another quagmire?" read the post. This comes in direct contradiction of the Washington Post report that the US intelligence claims that Iran only retains 75 per cent of its prewar mobile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpiles. He asserted that Iran maintains 1000 per cent readiness to defend its nation. “Whatever the causes, the outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure,” he added.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed Tehran’s missile inventory is now stronger than before the war as tensions with the US escalate over the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Is Iran stronger than before the war? Tehran claims missile stockpile now at 120% amid US blockade

Senior officials, experts and academics from across the Indian Ocean gathered in the Indian capital this week for the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue, where the region's top diplomat warned of growing threats to maritime safety and energy security.&nbsp;The two-day event, hosted by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) in partnership with India's Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), focused on the theme "Indian Ocean Region in a Transforming World".&nbsp;Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Secretary-General Sanjiv Ranjan stressed the forum's unique value as the only organisation bringing together all 23 rim countries.&nbsp;"We are the only organization in the region which brings together 23 member states from all the Indian Ocean, countries which are in the rim of the Indian Ocean," he said. "That in itself is a value which provides a platform for member states to deliberate and articulate their concerns and their interests."&nbsp;Ranjan highlighted "huge concern" over disruptions to sea transport, which he said directly threaten energy security. "The impact of disruptions of transport linkages in the region directly affects the energy security of these nations," he said.&nbsp;"These nations have taken mitigation measures, but they know that restoration of status quo ante is very important to ensure that the well-being of their societies, their people, is maintained."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hostage-crisis-unfolds-in-germany-after-armed-bank-robbery-1778235720252">Hostage crisis unfolds in Germany after armed bank robbery</a>&nbsp;Speakers repeatedly emphasised adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Practical ideas floated included joint search-and-rescue exercises, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills, and greater use of space-based monitoring for climate challenges. The dialogue comes weeks after the IRIS Dena incident, in which an Iranian frigate was sunk by a US submarine off Sri Lanka in March, raising questions about freedom of navigation and security in busy sea lanes.&nbsp;IORA has no mandate to discuss specific geopolitical flashpoints, but Ranjan acknowledged the broader worries. "When we talk about adherence to international law, it means every nation commits itself to following those laws in its practice on the ground," he said. Concerns about how such incidents affect shipping, navies and coastal communities "is very much a part of the agenda".&nbsp;The Track 1.5 format deliberately mixes government voices with those of academics and experts from countries including Sri Lanka and Mauritius, allowing candid exchanges outside formal diplomacy. Deliberations will feed into a senior officials' meeting in India next month and culminate in a consensus document to be made public.&nbsp;India, the current chair of IORA until 2027, has used its tenure to push themes of innovation, openness, resilience and adaptability under its MAHASAGAR vision. Ranjan said the dialogue helps member states reach "convergences on issues which have a coherence within the organisation".

India, the current chair of IORA until 2027, has used its tenure to push themes of innovation, openness, resilience and adaptability under its MAHASAGAR vision.

Senior officials, experts and academics from across the Indian Ocean gathered in the Indian capital this week for the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue, where the region's top diplomat warned of growing threats to maritime safety and energy security. The two-day event, hosted by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) in partnership with India's Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), focused on the theme "Indian Ocean Region in a Transforming World". Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Secretary-General Sanjiv Ranjan stressed the forum's unique value as the only organisation bringing together all 23 rim countries. "We are the only organization in the region which brings together 23 member states from all the Indian Ocean, countries which are in the rim of the Indian Ocean," he said. "That in itself is a value which provides a platform for member states to deliberate and articulate their concerns and their interests." Ranjan highlighted "huge concern" over disruptions to sea transport, which he said directly threaten energy security. "The impact of disruptions of transport linkages in the region directly affects the energy security of these nations," he said. "These nations have taken mitigation measures, but they know that restoration of status quo ante is very important to ensure that the well-being of their societies, their people, is maintained." Also Read: Hostage crisis unfolds in Germany after armed bank robbery Speakers repeatedly emphasised adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Practical ideas floated included joint search-and-rescue exercises, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills, and greater use of space-based monitoring for climate challenges. The dialogue comes weeks after the IRIS Dena incident, in which an Iranian frigate was sunk by a US submarine off Sri Lanka in March, raising questions about freedom of navigation and security in busy sea lanes. IORA has no mandate to discuss specific geopolitical flashpoints, but Ranjan acknowledged the broader worries. "When we talk about adherence to international law, it means every nation commits itself to following those laws in its practice on the ground," he said. Concerns about how such incidents affect shipping, navies and coastal communities "is very much a part of the agenda". The Track 1.5 format deliberately mixes government voices with those of academics and experts from countries including Sri Lanka and Mauritius, allowing candid exchanges outside formal diplomacy. Deliberations will feed into a senior officials' meeting in India next month and culminate in a consensus document to be made public. India, the current chair of IORA until 2027, has used its tenure to push themes of innovation, openness, resilience and adaptability under its MAHASAGAR vision. Ranjan said the dialogue helps member states reach "convergences on issues which have a coherence within the organisation".

India, the current chair of IORA until 2027, has used its tenure to push themes of innovation, openness, resilience and adaptability under its MAHASAGAR vision.

Indian Ocean Dialogue: IORA chief Ranjan calls for maritime security, adherence to international law

US President Donald Trump proposed to paint the slate grey granite of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building (EEOB) to white to match the White House. The project is estimated to cost around $7.5 million of taxpayers' funds. Ryan Erb, the construction operations and facilities manager in the White House Office of Administration, which is spearheading the proposal, is discussing the details with members of the National Capital Planning Commission as the federal agency opened its review process. The proposal is not confirmed as the commission seeks further details. The plan is one part of Trump's broader plan to restore the former glory and beauty of Washington, which he claims has been neglected.&nbsp;“President Trump continues to beautify the White House and our Nation’s Capital and is giving it the glory it deserves - something everyone should celebrate,” White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said in an emailed statement after the meeting. The Trump administration claims that it is using the funds allotted for the maintenance and upkeep of the building.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-xai-anthropic-ai-compute-deal-1778229295906">‘No one triggered my evil detector’: Musk’s xAI strikes shocking deal with rival Anthropic</a><h2>Where is the conflict?</h2>The National Trust for Historic Preservation said the “subtle and rich colours” of EEOB’s granite exterior are “central to its historic significance” and that the project would fail if it does not protect the character-defining features. But US President Donald Trump last year said the grey is a “really bad colour.” Mark Twain called the building “the ugliest” in America; similarly, Harry Truman called it “the greatest monstrosity”.&nbsp;“Painting the granite facade of the building white will adversely and permanently alter this important landmark, and should be rejected,” said Priya Jain, of the Society of Architectural Historians. She was one of the 11 people who commented at the National Capital Planning Commission on Thursday, most of whom urged the rejection of the proposal.&nbsp;Technically, President Trump can initiate the process, but he does not have the unilateral authority to simply start painting,. Because the building is a historical landmark and is subject to legal and regulatory scrutiny, a federal judge could issue an injunction to stop any work. Preservation groups have already filed lawsuits in a federal court that the institution is bypassing mandatory environmental and historic preservation laws.&nbsp;The administration argues the building’s French Second Empire "greyness" clashes with the neoclassical white of the White House and Treasury. While critics argue that this modification, like the White House ballroom and the East Wing demolition, is more about branding and less about preservation. Preservationist groups argue that granite is a material meant to be seen, not covered and painting it white is a way of Trump rebranding assets resembling his early career as a real estate developer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump’s proposal to paint the historic Eisenhower Executive Office Building white has triggered outrage, lawsuits and accusations of political branding over preservation.

US President Donald Trump proposed to paint the slate grey granite of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building (EEOB) to white to match the White House. The project is estimated to cost around $7.5 million of taxpayers' funds. Ryan Erb, the construction operations and facilities manager in the White House Office of Administration, which is spearheading the proposal, is discussing the details with members of the National Capital Planning Commission as the federal agency opened its review process. The proposal is not confirmed as the commission seeks further details. The plan is one part of Trump's broader plan to restore the former glory and beauty of Washington, which he claims has been neglected. “President Trump continues to beautify the White House and our Nation’s Capital and is giving it the glory it deserves - something everyone should celebrate,” White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said in an emailed statement after the meeting. The Trump administration claims that it is using the funds allotted for the maintenance and upkeep of the building. Also Read: ‘No one triggered my evil detector’: Musk’s xAI strikes shocking deal with rival Anthropic Where is the conflict? The National Trust for Historic Preservation said the “subtle and rich colours” of EEOB’s granite exterior are “central to its historic significance” and that the project would fail if it does not protect the character-defining features. But US President Donald Trump last year said the grey is a “really bad colour.” Mark Twain called the building “the ugliest” in America; similarly, Harry Truman called it “the greatest monstrosity”. “Painting the granite facade of the building white will adversely and permanently alter this important landmark, and should be rejected,” said Priya Jain, of the Society of Architectural Historians. She was one of the 11 people who commented at the National Capital Planning Commission on Thursday, most of whom urged the rejection of the proposal. Technically, President Trump can initiate the process, but he does not have the unilateral authority to simply start painting,. Because the building is a historical landmark and is subject to legal and regulatory scrutiny, a federal judge could issue an injunction to stop any work. Preservation groups have already filed lawsuits in a federal court that the institution is bypassing mandatory environmental and historic preservation laws. The administration argues the building’s French Second Empire "greyness" clashes with the neoclassical white of the White House and Treasury. While critics argue that this modification, like the White House ballroom and the East Wing demolition, is more about branding and less about preservation. Preservationist groups argue that granite is a material meant to be seen, not covered and painting it white is a way of Trump rebranding assets resembling his early career as a real estate developer.

Donald Trump’s proposal to paint the historic Eisenhower Executive Office Building white has triggered outrage, lawsuits and accusations of political branding over preservation.

Is Trump turning a historic Eisenhower tower into another White House? $7.5 million paint plan sparks backlash

A lawsuit has accused Spirit Airlines of abandoning a passenger suffering from dementia, a senior citizen who was “unaccompanied and disoriented”, after which he died. The incident happened at a Texas airport. The lawsuit alleges that the man wandered onto the highway, where he was hit by traffic, according to a report by The Independent. According to the complaint filed by Marcos Humberto Vindel Osorio’s relatives, they informed the airline about the 75-year-old's cognitive condition at check-in. They told him he would require assistance upon disembarking in Houston. The airline told them that the necessary help would be provided; however, “Spirit provided none.” His family and friends waited for him in the arrivals area at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. When he didn't show up, they checked with the officials. A US Customs and Border Protection agent told the family that Osorio had been processed and cleared for entry at 7:43 pm. They then reached out to the police, and the search for him started. Osorio was later found dead on the Eastex Freeway. The family says it would have taken him at least two hours to walk there.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/85-year-old-vegetarian-told-to-eat-around-the-meat-on-qatar-airways-flight-chokes-to-death-1759839642449">85-year-old vegetarian told to 'eat around the meat' on Qatar Airways flight chokes to death</a><h2>Spirit Airlines failed to provide promised assistance</h2>“Mr Osorio had been struck and killed by multiple vehicles,” the complaint, which was filed on April 22 in Houston federal court, states. It adds, "Spirit’s “failure to provide the promised assistance – leaving a 75-year-old man with dementia to navigate alone from an international gate through customs and out of a major international airport at night – was the direct and proximate cause of Mr. Osorio’s death." His family says in the complaint that commercial airlines "do not confirm special assistance for a passenger with a known cognitive disability and then provide no assistance whatsoever."&nbsp;The family's attorney, Russ Brudner, told The Independent that this is "every family’s nightmare" and they have "suffered an unimaginable loss." He added that the family trusted the airline, but it was "broken in the most devastating way possible." In the United States, the Air Carrier Access Act required every airline to provide disability assistance at airports. The outlet reached out to the airline on the matter, but did not receive a comment. Spirit Airlines recently declared bankruptcy.Osario boarded the flight from Palmerola International Airport in Comayagua, Honduras, on June 8, 2024. He lives in Honduras and was visiting his family in the US. He suffered from “mild dementia that was triggered and exacerbated by stress." He left the airport unaccompanied and was hit by "multiple" vehicles.

A lawsuit against Spirit Airlines alleges that it left a senior man suffering from a cognitive condition alone at the airport despite assistance being requested. He was found dead hours later on the highway, where he had wandered off alone.

A lawsuit has accused Spirit Airlines of abandoning a passenger suffering from dementia, a senior citizen who was “unaccompanied and disoriented”, after which he died. The incident happened at a Texas airport. The lawsuit alleges that the man wandered onto the highway, where he was hit by traffic, according to a report by The Independent. According to the complaint filed by Marcos Humberto Vindel Osorio’s relatives, they informed the airline about the 75-year-old's cognitive condition at check-in. They told him he would require assistance upon disembarking in Houston. The airline told them that the necessary help would be provided; however, “Spirit provided none.” His family and friends waited for him in the arrivals area at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. When he didn't show up, they checked with the officials. A US Customs and Border Protection agent told the family that Osorio had been processed and cleared for entry at 7:43 pm. They then reached out to the police, and the search for him started. Osorio was later found dead on the Eastex Freeway. The family says it would have taken him at least two hours to walk there. Also Read: 85-year-old vegetarian told to 'eat around the meat' on Qatar Airways flight chokes to death Spirit Airlines failed to provide promised assistance “Mr Osorio had been struck and killed by multiple vehicles,” the complaint, which was filed on April 22 in Houston federal court, states. It adds, "Spirit’s “failure to provide the promised assistance – leaving a 75-year-old man with dementia to navigate alone from an international gate through customs and out of a major international airport at night – was the direct and proximate cause of Mr. Osorio’s death." His family says in the complaint that commercial airlines "do not confirm special assistance for a passenger with a known cognitive disability and then provide no assistance whatsoever." The family's attorney, Russ Brudner, told The Independent that this is "every family’s nightmare" and they have "suffered an unimaginable loss." He added that the family trusted the airline, but it was "broken in the most devastating way possible." In the United States, the Air Carrier Access Act required every airline to provide disability assistance at airports. The outlet reached out to the airline on the matter, but did not receive a comment. Spirit Airlines recently declared bankruptcy. Osario boarded the flight from Palmerola International Airport in Comayagua, Honduras, on June 8, 2024. He lives in Honduras and was visiting his family in the US. He suffered from “mild dementia that was triggered and exacerbated by stress." He left the airport unaccompanied and was hit by "multiple" vehicles.

A lawsuit against Spirit Airlines alleges that it left a senior man suffering from a cognitive condition alone at the airport despite assistance being requested. He was found dead hours later on the highway, where he had wandered off alone.

Elderly man with dementia walks hours and dies on highway after being 'abandoned' by Spirit Airlines

Elon Musk's SpaceX has announced that it has signed a deal with Anthropic to facilitate access to XAI's massive hardware to increase the computing capability for its Claude AI models. The announcement was made when Anthropic held a developer day in San Francisco, where it unveiled its new feature “dreaming”, which is meant to help AI systems work between sessions, spot patterns, update files that store user preferences and other context.&nbsp;<h2>What is the deal?</h2>As part of the deal, Anthropic gains exclusive access to the full capacity of the Colossus 1 supercomputer in Memphis, Tennessee. It is home to more than 220,000 Nvidia processors and will give the Claude chatbot maker 300 megawatts of new capacity within a month. The Colossus edge is currently the largest supercomputer in the world and will help Anthropic run Claude at a higher "compute density" than they could on standard cloud providers like AWS or Google Cloud. It also “expressed interest” in working with SpaceX to develop multiple gigawatts of compute capacity in space.Anthorpic will essentially pay $3–$4 bn annually. At the same time, this puts XAI at par with other computing giants like Google, Microsoft or AWS, and having a revenue stream from its computing service, it makes XAI more valuable to Wall Street investors. Musk further gets “the kill switch” as a political and ethical leverage over one of its biggest competitors, which can monitor, gatekeep, the operational scale, load, and efficiency of an AI giant.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-strait-of-hormuz-authority-transit-rules-us-tensions-1778224318936">Iran creates new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to formalise control of Hormuz</a><h2>Why is this a frenemy deal?</h2>Musk has always criticised Anthropic; he said that it was “doomed to become the opposite of its name,” which would be misanthropic. He called the company “hypocritical”, and now, to some extent proving his point. In February 2026, Musk said that Anthropic “hates Western Civilisation”. But on Wednesday, he shifted his rhetoric; he said that he was “impressed” after meeting the team.&nbsp;In a social media post, Musk wrote, “Everyone I met was highly competent and cared a great deal about doing the right thing. No one set off my evil detector." He added, “So long as they engage in critical self-examination, Claude will probably be good.”The two AI model positioned themself as polar opposite to each other. Anthropic's Claude AI thumps its chest over Constitutional AI (a written "bill of rights" for the AI), which Musk dismissed as “enforced diversity”. The Anthropic has hypocritically put itself into the same orbit as Elon Musk’s "anti-woke" and "maximalist" philosophy for xAI. Anthropic claims that it's just renting the engine while hands steering the wheel remain with itself. Whereas Musk have appointed himself as the arbitrator and reserves the right to reclaim the compute if the AI engages in actions he deems “harmful to humanity.” While analysts suggest both of them are in bed together and continue their performative rivalry and consolidate power by controlling the air that AI models need to breathe.

After years of attacking Anthropic, Elon Musk’s xAI has signed a massive compute deal to power Claude AI using the Colossus supercomputer, reshaping the AI power struggle.

Elon Musk's SpaceX has announced that it has signed a deal with Anthropic to facilitate access to XAI's massive hardware to increase the computing capability for its Claude AI models. The announcement was made when Anthropic held a developer day in San Francisco, where it unveiled its new feature “dreaming”, which is meant to help AI systems work between sessions, spot patterns, update files that store user preferences and other context. What is the deal? As part of the deal, Anthropic gains exclusive access to the full capacity of the Colossus 1 supercomputer in Memphis, Tennessee. It is home to more than 220,000 Nvidia processors and will give the Claude chatbot maker 300 megawatts of new capacity within a month. The Colossus edge is currently the largest supercomputer in the world and will help Anthropic run Claude at a higher "compute density" than they could on standard cloud providers like AWS or Google Cloud. It also “expressed interest” in working with SpaceX to develop multiple gigawatts of compute capacity in space. Anthorpic will essentially pay $3–$4 bn annually. At the same time, this puts XAI at par with other computing giants like Google, Microsoft or AWS, and having a revenue stream from its computing service, it makes XAI more valuable to Wall Street investors. Musk further gets “the kill switch” as a political and ethical leverage over one of its biggest competitors, which can monitor, gatekeep, the operational scale, load, and efficiency of an AI giant. Also Read: Iran creates new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to formalise control of Hormuz Why is this a frenemy deal? Musk has always criticised Anthropic; he said that it was “doomed to become the opposite of its name,” which would be misanthropic. He called the company “hypocritical”, and now, to some extent proving his point. In February 2026, Musk said that Anthropic “hates Western Civilisation”. But on Wednesday, he shifted his rhetoric; he said that he was “impressed” after meeting the team. In a social media post, Musk wrote, “Everyone I met was highly competent and cared a great deal about doing the right thing. No one set off my evil detector." He added, “So long as they engage in critical self-examination, Claude will probably be good.” The two AI model positioned themself as polar opposite to each other. Anthropic's Claude AI thumps its chest over Constitutional AI (a written "bill of rights" for the AI), which Musk dismissed as “enforced diversity”. The Anthropic has hypocritically put itself into the same orbit as Elon Musk’s "anti-woke" and "maximalist" philosophy for xAI. Anthropic claims that it's just renting the engine while hands steering the wheel remain with itself. Whereas Musk have appointed himself as the arbitrator and reserves the right to reclaim the compute if the AI engages in actions he deems “harmful to humanity.” While analysts suggest both of them are in bed together and continue their performative rivalry and consolidate power by controlling the air that AI models need to breathe.

After years of attacking Anthropic, Elon Musk’s xAI has signed a massive compute deal to power Claude AI using the Colossus supercomputer, reshaping the AI power struggle.

‘No one triggered my evil detector’: Musk’s xAI strikes shocking deal with rival Anthropic

A hostage situation unfolded in the western German town of Sinzig after robbers had taken multiple hostages inside a bank, prompting a large-scale police response on Friday, AFP reported, citing police.&nbsp;Police in a statement said there were believed to be “several hostage-takers and hostages inside the bank”. Among those reportedly being held is the driver of a cash transport vehicle, suggesting the incident may be linked to a cash delivery operation. The law enforcement quickly sealed off the area and deployed heavily armed units to the scene. Images published by German newspaper Bild showed officers wearing helmets and ballistic vests, carrying rifles, positioned along a cobblestone street outside the bank as the situation developed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-speak-in-english-pakistan-s-bizarre-meltdown-over-india-s-operation-sindoor-press-conference-goes-viral-watch-1778233667496">'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH</a>&nbsp;Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of suspects involved or the type of weapons they may be carrying. The situation remains uncertain as police continue to secure the area and manage the incident.&nbsp;Sinzig is a small town located just west of the Rhine River, roughly midway between Bonn and Koblenz in western Germany. Emergency operations are ongoing, with the area under tight security and the public advised to stay away.&nbsp;(This is a developing story; further details are awaited)

Police said it was not immediately clear how many suspects were involved in the robbery or what weapons they may have been carrying.

A hostage situation unfolded in the western German town of Sinzig after robbers had taken multiple hostages inside a bank, prompting a large-scale police response on Friday, AFP reported, citing police. Police in a statement said there were believed to be “several hostage-takers and hostages inside the bank”. Among those reportedly being held is the driver of a cash transport vehicle, suggesting the incident may be linked to a cash delivery operation. The law enforcement quickly sealed off the area and deployed heavily armed units to the scene. Images published by German newspaper Bild showed officers wearing helmets and ballistic vests, carrying rifles, positioned along a cobblestone street outside the bank as the situation developed. Also Read: 'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of suspects involved or the type of weapons they may be carrying. The situation remains uncertain as police continue to secure the area and manage the incident. Sinzig is a small town located just west of the Rhine River, roughly midway between Bonn and Koblenz in western Germany. Emergency operations are ongoing, with the area under tight security and the public advised to stay away. (This is a developing story; further details are awaited)

Police said it was not immediately clear how many suspects were involved in the robbery or what weapons they may have been carrying.

Hostage crisis unfolds in Germany after armed bank robbery

Three hikers, including two Singaporean nationals and one Indonesian citizen, were killed after Mount Dukono erupted on Friday morning on Indonesia’s Halmahera island. Authorities said the group had entered a prohibited zone near the crater despite official restrictions already being in place because of heightened volcanic activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;The eruption sent a thick column of ash and smoke nearly 10 kilometres into the sky, triggering panic among climbers and prompting a large-scale rescue operation. North Halmahera police chief Erlichson Pasaribu said 20 hikers were on the volcano when the eruption occurred. “To date, 15 climbers have safely descended,” he told reporters, according to AFP. &nbsp;Nine of the hikers were from Singapore while the remaining climbers were Indonesian nationals. Several survivors suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment after descending from the mountain. Mount Dukono erupted on Friday at 7:41am local time (1041 GMT Thursday), according to Indonesia’s volcanology agency.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/where-is-mount-dukono-indonesian-authorities-race-to-rescue-20-hikers-after-volcano-eruption-sends-ash-10km-into-sky-1778228636904">Where is Mount Dukono? 3 hikers dead as volcano hurls ash 10km into sky in terrifying Indonesia eruption</a>&nbsp;<h2>Evacuation halted as volcano continues erupting</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Officials said the bodies of the victims remained on the mountain because rescue crews were unable to safely reach the site while volcanic activity continued. “Due to ongoing eruptions, the situation is still considered unsafe for evacuation,” Erlichson said, adding that authorities were waiting for conditions to improve before continuing recovery efforts. The agency maintained ​the alert status at the mountain at its third highest ⁠level.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At least three hikers killed as Indonesia&#39;s Mount Dukono erupts, sending a massive ash plume 10 km into the sky . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MountDukono?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MountDukono</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indonesia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indonesia</a> <a href="https://t.co/a3jcm4btoY">pic.twitter.com/a3jcm4btoY</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2052690395566588230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-tara-drdo-s-new-glide-kit-turns-unguided-bombs-into-smart-weapons-features-explained-1778232869949">What Is TARA? DRDO’s new glide kit turns unguided bombs into smart weapons; Features explained</a>&nbsp;Police also confirmed that the group’s guide and a porter had been detained for questioning and could face charges for taking hikers into the restricted area. Indonesia’s volcanology agency had banned public access within four kilometres of the crater since December after detecting increased seismic movement around the volcano.&nbsp;<h2>Officials warn tourists against ignoring alerts</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Authorities said warning boards and public advisories had been issued repeatedly before Friday’s eruption. According to AFP, Erlichson said many visitors ignored the restrictions in search of dramatic social media footage. “Many are foreign tourists who wish to create social media content,” he said.&nbsp;Lana Saria, head of Indonesia’s Geology Agency, said the eruption produced a “booming sound” and pushed ash northwards towards nearby areas including Tobelo City. Indonesia, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent volcanic activity and is home to nearly 130 active volcanoes.

Several survivors suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment after descending from the mountain. 

Three hikers, including two Singaporean nationals and one Indonesian citizen, were killed after Mount Dukono erupted on Friday morning on Indonesia’s Halmahera island. Authorities said the group had entered a prohibited zone near the crater despite official restrictions already being in place because of heightened volcanic activity. The eruption sent a thick column of ash and smoke nearly 10 kilometres into the sky, triggering panic among climbers and prompting a large-scale rescue operation. North Halmahera police chief Erlichson Pasaribu said 20 hikers were on the volcano when the eruption occurred. “To date, 15 climbers have safely descended,” he told reporters, according to AFP. Nine of the hikers were from Singapore while the remaining climbers were Indonesian nationals. Several survivors suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment after descending from the mountain. Mount Dukono erupted on Friday at 7:41am local time (1041 GMT Thursday), according to Indonesia’s volcanology agency. ALSO READ: Where is Mount Dukono? 3 hikers dead as volcano hurls ash 10km into sky in terrifying Indonesia eruption Evacuation halted as volcano continues erupting Officials said the bodies of the victims remained on the mountain because rescue crews were unable to safely reach the site while volcanic activity continued. “Due to ongoing eruptions, the situation is still considered unsafe for evacuation,” Erlichson said, adding that authorities were waiting for conditions to improve before continuing recovery efforts. The agency maintained the alert status at the mountain at its third highest ⁠level.

Several survivors suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment after descending from the mountain.

3 dead in massive Mount Dukono eruption as ash blasts 10km into sky in Indonesia; scary video emerges | WATCH

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has refused to resign in the face of local election losses for his Labour Party in what is being seen as a 'midterm' litmus test for his government. With the Reform Party gaining in English council election results and Labour losing several seats as trends trickled in on Friday (May 8), Starmer is under severe pressure.&nbsp;<h2>UK latest election results: Labour's heavy losses</h2>Thursday's elections were the first major polls since Labour's 2024 general election landslide victory. Dozens of English council results are showing a clear pattern of Labour losses, bringing it down by hundreds of seats. Labour is on course to lose control of multiple local authorities, having lost majorities in Southampton, Wandsworth and Tameside.Besides heavy drops in traditional strongholds, Labour is projected to lose between 1,500 and 1,900 seats in various elections.&nbsp;Local elections and Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd contests have also been bad for Labour. It could potentially lose the popular vote in Wales for the first time in decades.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-local-body-election-results-small-gains-for-greens-lib-dems-conservatives-suffer-big-losses-1778214600113/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-local-body-election-results-small-gains-for-greens-lib-dems-conservatives-suffer-big-losses-1778214600113/embed</a><h2>Starmer holds firm amid bad local election results&nbsp;</h2>There is internal Labour unease amid Reform UK's surge, which has put Starmer's leadership under question. He could face further troubles in the coming months.Starmer called the results tough, but refused to leave. Speaking in Ealing, west London, Starmer said: “The results are tough, they are very tough, and there’s no sugarcoating it. We have lost brilliant Labour representatives across the country... And that hurts, and it should hurt, and I take responsibility.” But he insisted he will carry on, saying such days "don’t weaken my resolve to deliver the change that I promised.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-elections-who-is-zack-polanski-former-hypnotherapist-and-openly-gay-leader-of-the-green-party-1778136638825">UK elections: Who is Zack Polanski, former hypnotherapist and openly gay leader of the Green Party?</a><h2>Rise of Reform UK as Labour loses even in strongholds</h2>Meanwhile, Nigel Farage's Reform UK is enjoying a surge, winning up to 300 seats in early count projections. This includes strong showings in so-called 'Red Wall' areas like Hartlepool, where they won most seats. Reform UK took control of at least one council and made breakthroughs in working-class northern and eastern areas too.Reform appears to have capitalised on discontent over taxes, immigration, winter fuel payments, and the cost of living.Conservatives, the other traditional major party, also lost seats but held some ground in places.Liberal Democrats and Greens had modest to solid gains in certain areas.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmer-denies-rift-trump-uk-hormuz-operation-1773661379152">Keir Starmer denies rift with Donald Trump, says UK won’t be drawn into wider war</a><h2>Polls are dire for Labour, but Starmer feels he will survive</h2>Recent opinion polls, including an early May YouGov survey, favoured Reform at 25 per cent, against Labour at 18 per cent. Starmer's net favourability was deeply negative at -45, with his government also recording poor ratings.Some Labour MPs and figures like Ed Miliband are allegedly suggesting a departure timeline for Starmer. No obvious successor is ready to unify the party, with some fearing that such a leadership challenge would cause more damage to the party.<h2>Starmer still has time, but for how long?</h2>Starmer said he will continue to lead, saying: "I had a five-year mandate to deliver change. I intend to get on with what I was elected to do, which is deliver that change.”But he has a tough road ahead unless he turns things around quickly for the Labour government and addresses voter concerns.Starmer's confidence is probably coming from the fact that British general elections aren't due until 2029, unless of course, he resigns.&nbsp;Some Labour leaders had survived bad local elections, like Tony Blair did in 1999.Labour allies have been firmly behind Starmer, who said he wouldn't accept any 'timetables' for resignation. Some of his cabinet ministers warned against a leadership challenge, citing possible chaos.Removing a PM requires a serious internal revolt or no-confidence mechanisms that aren't on the immediate horizon. But if Labour's poor performance continues, along with more election losses and economic woes, Starmer's position could become untenable later this year or in 2027.

2026 United Kingdom elections: Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure after Labour suffered heavy local election losses as Reform UK surged across England, Wales and Scotland. The British PM insists he will continue. But for how long?

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has refused to resign in the face of local election losses for his Labour Party in what is being seen as a 'midterm' litmus test for his government. With the Reform Party gaining in English council election results and Labour losing several seats as trends trickled in on Friday (May 8), Starmer is under severe pressure. UK latest election results: Labour's heavy losses Thursday's elections were the first major polls since Labour's 2024 general election landslide victory. Dozens of English council results are showing a clear pattern of Labour losses, bringing it down by hundreds of seats. Labour is on course to lose control of multiple local authorities, having lost majorities in Southampton, Wandsworth and Tameside. Besides heavy drops in traditional strongholds, Labour is projected to lose between 1,500 and 1,900 seats in various elections. Local elections and Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd contests have also been bad for Labour. It could potentially lose the popular vote in Wales for the first time in decades. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-local-body-election-results-small-gains-for-greens-lib-dems-conservatives-suffer-big-losses-1778214600113/embed Starmer holds firm amid bad local election results There is internal Labour unease amid Reform UK's surge, which has put Starmer's leadership under question. He could face further troubles in the coming months. Starmer called the results tough, but refused to leave. Speaking in Ealing, west London, Starmer said: “The results are tough, they are very tough, and there’s no sugarcoating it. We have lost brilliant Labour representatives across the country... And that hurts, and it should hurt, and I take responsibility.” But he insisted he will carry on, saying such days "don’t weaken my resolve to deliver the change that I promised.” Also read: UK elections: Who is Zack Polanski, former hypnotherapist and openly gay leader of the Green Party? Rise of Reform UK as Labour loses even in strongholds Meanwhile, Nigel Farage's Reform UK is enjoying a surge, winning up to 300 seats in early count projections. This includes strong showings in so-called 'Red Wall' areas like Hartlepool, where they won most seats. Reform UK took control of at least one council and made breakthroughs in working-class northern and eastern areas too. Reform appears to have capitalised on discontent over taxes, immigration, winter fuel payments, and the cost of living. Conservatives, the other traditional major party, also lost seats but held some ground in places. Liberal Democrats and Greens had modest to solid gains in certain areas. Also read: Keir Starmer denies rift with Donald Trump, says UK won’t be drawn into wider war Polls are dire for Labour, but Starmer feels he will survive Recent opinion polls, including an early May YouGov survey, favoured Reform at 25 per cent, against Labour at 18 per cent. Starmer's net favourability was deeply negative at -45, with his government also recording poor ratings. Some Labour MPs and figures like Ed Miliband are allegedly suggesting a departure timeline for Starmer. No obvious successor is ready to unify the party, with some fearing that such a leadership challenge would cause more damage to the party. Starmer still has time, but for how long? Starmer said he will continue to lead, saying: "I had a five-year mandate to deliver change. I intend to get on with what I was elected to do, which is deliver that change.” But he has a tough road ahead unless he turns things around quickly for the Labour government and addresses voter concerns. Starmer's confidence is probably coming from the fact that British general elections aren't due until 2029, unless of course, he resigns. Some Labour leaders had survived bad local elections, like Tony Blair did in 1999. Labour allies have been firmly behind Starmer, who said he wouldn't accept any 'timetables' for resignation. Some of his cabinet ministers warned against a leadership challenge, citing possible chaos. Removing a PM requires a serious internal revolt or no-confidence mechanisms that aren't on the immediate horizon. But if Labour's poor performance continues, along with more election losses and economic woes, Starmer's position could become untenable later this year or in 2027.

2026 United Kingdom elections: Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure after Labour suffered heavy local election losses as Reform UK surged across England, Wales and Scotland. The British PM insists he will continue. But for how long?

UK local elections put PM Starmer under pressure but he insists on continuing. For how long?

After reports surfaced of Russian President Vladimir Putin spending much of his time in underground bunkers - directing the war effort against Ukraine - out of growing fears of an assassination attempt, Kremlin dismissed leaked European intelligence that extra security has been installed around Putin.&nbsp;“What ‘European intelligence agency’ are you referring to? I am not aware that such an agency exists. Unfortunately, I don’t know what it is," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, as reported by Huffpost.<h2>Putin fears being assassinated?</h2>&nbsp;The European intelligence agency report states that Putin fears being assassinated and is particularly wary of drones that he suspects the Russian elite could use to kill him.&nbsp;But the biggest risk comes from former Putin confidante, Sergei Shoigu, the dossier states. He was once the defence minister but was later removed and is currently serving as secretary of the Security Council. Shoigu "is associated with the risk of a coup, as he retains significant influence within the military high command," the report says. However, the report does not provide evidence to suspect Shoigu.&nbsp;The report by an unnamed agency – shared by CNN this week also states that the Russian president has spent significant periods hiding in upgraded bunkers hours away from Moscow since the Ukraine war began in 2022.&nbsp;Further it says that Putin had stopped using his home in Moscow or his summer property in Valdai town after there were reports of Ukraine was trying to target the president at his personal residence.&nbsp;The report also claims that Putin has not visited a military facility this year so far despite making regular trips throughout 2025.&nbsp;

The European intelligence agency report states that Putin fears being assassinated and is particularly wary of drones that he suspects the Russian elite could use to kill him.

After reports surfaced of Russian President Vladimir Putin spending much of his time in underground bunkers - directing the war effort against Ukraine - out of growing fears of an assassination attempt, Kremlin dismissed leaked European intelligence that extra security has been installed around Putin. “What ‘European intelligence agency’ are you referring to? I am not aware that such an agency exists. Unfortunately, I don’t know what it is," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, as reported by Huffpost. Putin fears being assassinated? The European intelligence agency report states that Putin fears being assassinated and is particularly wary of drones that he suspects the Russian elite could use to kill him. But the biggest risk comes from former Putin confidante, Sergei Shoigu, the dossier states. He was once the defence minister but was later removed and is currently serving as secretary of the Security Council. Shoigu "is associated with the risk of a coup, as he retains significant influence within the military high command," the report says. However, the report does not provide evidence to suspect Shoigu. The report by an unnamed agency – shared by CNN this week also states that the Russian president has spent significant periods hiding in upgraded bunkers hours away from Moscow since the Ukraine war began in 2022. Further it says that Putin had stopped using his home in Moscow or his summer property in Valdai town after there were reports of Ukraine was trying to target the president at his personal residence. The report also claims that Putin has not visited a military facility this year so far despite making regular trips throughout 2025.

The European intelligence agency report states that Putin fears being assassinated and is particularly wary of drones that he suspects the Russian elite could use to kill him.

Putin living in bunkers fearing assassination, coup attempts? Kremlin dismisses reports

Iran is trying to formalise its control over the Strait of Hormuz; it has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) to govern the day-to-day operations of the strait. This PGSA would oversee a structured transit plan for vessels and have circulated a form called the “Vessel Information Declaration,” which must be completed by all vessels to complete safe transit.&nbsp;The document obtained by Lloyd List was first reported by the CNN, marking a shift from free transit to the era of paid passage. The introduction of transit fees or tolls could drastically increase the cost of transporting energy and goods, impacting international markets. This also opens the scope for the establishment of a land-based Eurasian trade bloc, which would serve as a strategic bypass to maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-us-iran-peace-proposal-hormuz-uranium-deal-1778215534873">Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’ claims Iran will hand over enriched Uranium</a>Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said Wednesday that ships are complying with new transit regulations set by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on the US social media platform X, the IRGC Navy said the cooperation of vessels was contributing to regional maritime security. This came just after the US tried its so-called “Project Freedom” to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. IRGC mentioned in the post that “safe and stable passage” through the Strait of Hormuz would be ensured under what it described as new protocols after “threats by the aggressor” have been neutralised. It further asserted that all vessels trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz must use the previously announced corridor for safe passage.&nbsp;This is not an administration that operates based on a policy process. It operates based on impulse. The president seems now both tired of this war and reluctant to continue investing his political capital into it," said Ali Vaez, Iran Director, International Crisis Group. On Wednesday, Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in a telegram post, called for a “new regional and global order under the strategy of a strong Iran”.“Foreigners who come from thousands of kilometres away, acting maliciously out of greed, have no place there, except at the bottom of its waters,” the statement added.

Iran has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to regulate vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over transit fees, global trade disruption and escalating US-Iran tensions.

Iran is trying to formalise its control over the Strait of Hormuz; it has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) to govern the day-to-day operations of the strait. This PGSA would oversee a structured transit plan for vessels and have circulated a form called the “Vessel Information Declaration,” which must be completed by all vessels to complete safe transit. The document obtained by Lloyd List was first reported by the CNN, marking a shift from free transit to the era of paid passage. The introduction of transit fees or tolls could drastically increase the cost of transporting energy and goods, impacting international markets. This also opens the scope for the establishment of a land-based Eurasian trade bloc, which would serve as a strategic bypass to maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’ claims Iran will hand over enriched Uranium Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said Wednesday that ships are complying with new transit regulations set by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on the US social media platform X, the IRGC Navy said the cooperation of vessels was contributing to regional maritime security. This came just after the US tried its so-called “Project Freedom” to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. IRGC mentioned in the post that “safe and stable passage” through the Strait of Hormuz would be ensured under what it described as new protocols after “threats by the aggressor” have been neutralised. It further asserted that all vessels trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz must use the previously announced corridor for safe passage. This is not an administration that operates based on a policy process. It operates based on impulse. The president seems now both tired of this war and reluctant to continue investing his political capital into it," said Ali Vaez, Iran Director, International Crisis Group. On Wednesday, Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in a telegram post, called for a “new regional and global order under the strategy of a strong Iran”.“Foreigners who come from thousands of kilometres away, acting maliciously out of greed, have no place there, except at the bottom of its waters,” the statement added.

Iran has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to regulate vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over transit fees, global trade disruption and escalating US-Iran tensions.

Iran creates new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to formalise control of Hormuz

The United States and Iran are once again doing something that, on paper, sounds impossible: talking peace while flirting with open conflict. Even as US President Donald Trump hints that a diplomatic breakthrough may be within reach, the Strait of Hormuz is looking increasingly like a war zone. "We've had very good talks over the last 24 hours, and it's very possible that we'll make a deal," Trump told reporters on Wednesday (May 6), and just a day later, on Thursday (May 7), Iran attacked three American warships in the Strait of Hormuz.So, what's going on? Even as naval clashes, missile exchanges, drone threats, commercial shipping disruptions continue, there are talks of a deal. How can these contradictory things be possible? Contradictory? Maybe. Unprecedented? Not even close. History may have the answer.<h2>Iran and US: A relationship marked with diplomacy and discord</h2>If history says anything about US-Iran relations, it is this: diplomacy and confrontation are often not opposites. In this relationship, they frequently happen together. Let's examine history.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dismisses-iranian-attack-on-three-us-warships-as-a-trifle-insists-ceasefire-still-in-place-1778205065513">Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place</a><h2>The 1980s proved it first</h2>The clearest parallel comes from the Iran-Iraq War era, specifically the Tanker War of the 1980s.Back then, as Iran and Iraq attacked oil tankers across the Gulf, the United States entered the fray under Operation Earnest Will, escorting Kuwaiti tankers and directly confronting Iranian naval tactics. Iran used mines, swarm boats and asymmetric harassment. Washington retaliated hard, most dramatically in 1988’s Operation Praying Mantis after the USS Samuel B. Roberts struck an Iranian mine.American and Iranian forces were actively clashing at sea. And yet, even then, diplomacy never fully stopped. Behind the scenes, covert US-Iran contacts continued through what later exploded into the Iran-Contra scandal. What happened? Public hostility and private negotiations; in the same timeline.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ka-h-on-the-rocks-revealed-fbi-director-kash-patel-handing-out-personalised-bourbon-bottles-while-suing-over-claims-he-drinks-too-much-1778147292386">Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles while suing over claims he drinks too much</a><h2>This pattern did not end there</h2>The pattern resurfaced earlier this century, after 9/11, when Iran quietly cooperated with the US against the Taliban in Afghanistan even as mistrust remained deep.It appeared again during the Iraq Proxy War, when Iranian-backed militias like Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq used sophisticated Iranian-made explosives (EFPs) to target US military vehicles, causing hundreds of American casualties, while diplomats from both sides still held talks in Baghdad (2007) over regional stability.This is the pattern: fight, negotiate, pressure, bargain.<h2>2026 looks familiar</h2>Today's crisis appears to be following that same script. President Donald Trump says a deal is "very possible" after what he described as "very good talks," even as naval skirmishes and military posturing continue in the Gulf. Reports of a possible truce suggest diplomacy is active, even while both sides continue projecting strength.<h2>The real lesson</h2>When it comes to Washington and Tehran, military escalation does not always mean diplomacy is dead. Sometimes, paradoxically, it means diplomacy is being sharpened.The Strait of Hormuz may look like a battlefield right now. But history suggests sea clashes and peace talks are not mutually exclusive. For the US and Iran, they may simply be two sides of the same negotiation.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. &nbsp;

US-Iran diplomacy can look absurd from the outside: missiles in Hormuz, peace talks in parallel. But history shows this is not a contradiction, it’s a pattern. From the Tanker War to Iraq, Washington and Tehran have often fought publicly while negotiating privately. Let's look at history.

The United States and Iran are once again doing something that, on paper, sounds impossible: talking peace while flirting with open conflict. Even as US President Donald Trump hints that a diplomatic breakthrough may be within reach, the Strait of Hormuz is looking increasingly like a war zone. "We've had very good talks over the last 24 hours, and it's very possible that we'll make a deal," Trump told reporters on Wednesday (May 6), and just a day later, on Thursday (May 7), Iran attacked three American warships in the Strait of Hormuz. So, what's going on? Even as naval clashes, missile exchanges, drone threats, commercial shipping disruptions continue, there are talks of a deal. How can these contradictory things be possible? Contradictory? Maybe. Unprecedented? Not even close. History may have the answer. Iran and US: A relationship marked with diplomacy and discord If history says anything about US-Iran relations, it is this: diplomacy and confrontation are often not opposites. In this relationship, they frequently happen together. Let's examine history. Also read | Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place The 1980s proved it first The clearest parallel comes from the Iran-Iraq War era, specifically the Tanker War of the 1980s. Back then, as Iran and Iraq attacked oil tankers across the Gulf, the United States entered the fray under Operation Earnest Will, escorting Kuwaiti tankers and directly confronting Iranian naval tactics. Iran used mines, swarm boats and asymmetric harassment. Washington retaliated hard, most dramatically in 1988’s Operation Praying Mantis after the USS Samuel B. Roberts struck an Iranian mine. American and Iranian forces were actively clashing at sea. And yet, even then, diplomacy never fully stopped. Behind the scenes, covert US-Iran contacts continued through what later exploded into the Iran-Contra scandal. What happened? Public hostility and private negotiations; in the same timeline. Also read | Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles while suing over claims he drinks too much This pattern did not end there The pattern resurfaced earlier this century, after 9/11, when Iran quietly cooperated with the US against the Taliban in Afghanistan even as mistrust remained deep. It appeared again during the Iraq Proxy War, when Iranian-backed militias like Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq used sophisticated Iranian-made explosives (EFPs) to target US military vehicles, causing hundreds of American casualties, while diplomats from both sides still held talks in Baghdad (2007) over regional stability. This is the pattern: fight, negotiate, pressure, bargain. 2026 looks familiar Today's crisis appears to be following that same script. President Donald Trump says a deal is "very possible" after what he described as "very good talks," even as naval skirmishes and military posturing continue in the Gulf. Reports of a possible truce suggest diplomacy is active, even while both sides continue projecting strength. The real lesson When it comes to Washington and Tehran, military escalation does not always mean diplomacy is dead. Sometimes, paradoxically, it means diplomacy is being sharpened. The Strait of Hormuz may look like a battlefield right now. But history suggests sea clashes and peace talks are not mutually exclusive. For the US and Iran, they may simply be two sides of the same negotiation. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US-Iran diplomacy can look absurd from the outside: missiles in Hormuz, peace talks in parallel. But history shows this is not a contradiction, it’s a pattern. From the Tanker War to Iraq, Washington and Tehran have often fought publicly while negotiating privately. Let's look at history.

Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history

US President Donald Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has resorted to using cartoons to justify the US Department of Defence's $1.5 trillion budget proposal. Hegseth on X posted an over two-minute video plea for funding after lawmakers turned down the Trump administration's bid to boost the Pentagon's budget by a staggering 50 per cent from this year. This comes as the conflict between the US and Iran continues, with Tehran launching fresh strikes on three American vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday (May 7).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dismisses-iranian-attack-on-three-us-warships-as-a-trifle-insists-ceasefire-still-in-place-1778205065513">Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place</a><h2>Cartoon jets and animated Trump plead for a higher Pentagon budget</h2>The two minutes and 35 seconds long video shared by Hegseth shows him standing awkwardly in front of a green screen as animated graphics play in the background. Pitching the massive $1.5 trillion proposed budget as a "generational investment" in America's "Arsenal of Freedom," Hegseth claims that the "investment will secure and protect the homeland and ensure America's military remains the most lethal fighting force on earth for generations to come".Sticking to the Trump administration's script of blaming Trump predecessors, Hegseth claimed, "A broken Pentagon bureaucracy was doing the same thing for decades. When our warfighters needed more weapons, aircraft and ships, the Department of Defence allowed contractors to double dip at your expense. They charged you, the taxpayer, to build their factories and then charged you again for the final product."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-s-turns-vatican-visit-awkward-with-odd-football-gift-pope-leo-s-wow-okay-steals-the-spotlight-1778213667220">Rubio turns Vatican visit awkward with odd football gift; Pope Leo's 'wow, okay' steals the spotlight</a>At one point in the bizarre video, an animated Trump makes an appearance, giving a thumbs up as one negotiator from his team dubbed "Deal Team Six" blows smoke at imaginary businessmen, the War Secretary accused of "delays in production or cost overruns". Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thanks to President Trump’s $1.5 trillion defense budget, this War Department has moved from bureaucracy to business. This is a FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT in our Arsenal of Freedom—ensuring our military remains the most lethal fighting force in the world. <a href="https://t.co/ykIfMw3kuU">pic.twitter.com/ykIfMw3kuU</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/2052396775797891417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Moving from "bureaucracy to business"</h2>The video carries the caption, "Thanks to President Trump’s $1.5 trillion defence budget, this War Department has moved from bureaucracy to business." Earlier, Trump on Truth Social had argued that the $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget will "allow us to build the ‘Dream Military’ that we have long been entitled to". However, the proposed budget faces an uphill battle from both sides of the aisle.Notably, to offset the funding increase in defence, Trump is proposing to cut domestic spending by $73 billion. Sen. Patty Murray, of Washington, the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, while denouncing the proposed budget, described it as "morally bankrupt," and said she would ensure Congress wrote a new one instead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pete Hegseth is now using animated jets, cartoon dealmakers and even a thumbs-up Trump cameo to sell a staggering $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget, after Congress pushed back. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has resorted to using cartoons to justify the US Department of Defence's $1.5 trillion budget proposal. Hegseth on X posted an over two-minute video plea for funding after lawmakers turned down the Trump administration's bid to boost the Pentagon's budget by a staggering 50 per cent from this year. This comes as the conflict between the US and Iran continues, with Tehran launching fresh strikes on three American vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday (May 7). Also read | Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place Cartoon jets and animated Trump plead for a higher Pentagon budget The two minutes and 35 seconds long video shared by Hegseth shows him standing awkwardly in front of a green screen as animated graphics play in the background. Pitching the massive $1.5 trillion proposed budget as a "generational investment" in America's "Arsenal of Freedom," Hegseth claims that the "investment will secure and protect the homeland and ensure America's military remains the most lethal fighting force on earth for generations to come". Sticking to the Trump administration's script of blaming Trump predecessors, Hegseth claimed, "A broken Pentagon bureaucracy was doing the same thing for decades. When our warfighters needed more weapons, aircraft and ships, the Department of Defence allowed contractors to double dip at your expense. They charged you, the taxpayer, to build their factories and then charged you again for the final product." Also read | Rubio turns Vatican visit awkward with odd football gift; Pope Leo's 'wow, okay' steals the spotlight At one point in the bizarre video, an animated Trump makes an appearance, giving a thumbs up as one negotiator from his team dubbed "Deal Team Six" blows smoke at imaginary businessmen, the War Secretary accused of "delays in production or cost overruns". Watch it here:

Pete Hegseth is now using animated jets, cartoon dealmakers and even a thumbs-up Trump cameo to sell a staggering $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget, after Congress pushed back. All you need to know.

Hegseth launches bizarre plea for 'morally bankrupt' $1.5 Trillion Pentagon budget; uses animated Trump to pitch ‘Arsenal of Freedom’

Pakistan on Thursday (May 7) unveiled its FATAH-3 supersonic cruise missile modelled on Chinese technology. The missile was showcased to the public on the first anniversary of last year’s four-day conflict with India. The missile, a derivative of China’s HD-1, not only reflects its deepening ties with Beijing but Islamabad wants to project it as an answer to India’s BrahMos, which has an upper hand in operational supersonic strike system.&nbsp;Modelled on China's HD-1, here are some key points about the capabilities of this missile.&nbsp;<ul><li>The system has Mach 2.5 to Mach 4 terminal velocity</li><li>Has terrain-hugging and sea-skimming flight characteristics</li><li>sharply compresses interception timelines for conventional air-defence networks while complicating radar tracking</li><li>Capable of complicating radar tracking, engagement sequencing and layered interception calculations</li><li>Also compresses interception timelines for conventional air-defence networks</li></ul>&nbsp;On May 7, India too marked the anniversary of Operation Sindoor launched &nbsp;to avenge the lives lost during the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22 in which 26 people were killed.&nbsp;During Operation Sindoor, Indian armed forces launched precision strikes, targeting terror camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). In the attacks, India struck several key Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad targets, killing hundreds of terrorists.<h2>What happened on April 22?</h2>&nbsp;On the fateful day of April 22, 2025, when the tourists were enjoying the picturesque scenery of the Baisaran Valley in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, shots echoed across the meadow. Armed terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) targeted Hindu men after infiltrating the Indian territory, killing 26 civilians in one of the deadliest terror attacks since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.&nbsp;On May 7, India retaliated against the devastating Pahalgam terror attack by launching precision strikes against nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The strikes conducted under Operation Sindoor targeted the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba Muridke base. Over 100 terrorists were killed in the operation, including Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf and Mudasir Ahmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The missile modelled on Chinese technology not only reflects its deepening ties with Beijing but Islamabad wants to project it as an answer to India’s BrahMos.

Pakistan on Thursday (May 7) unveiled its FATAH-3 supersonic cruise missile modelled on Chinese technology. The missile was showcased to the public on the first anniversary of last year’s four-day conflict with India. The missile, a derivative of China’s HD-1, not only reflects its deepening ties with Beijing but Islamabad wants to project it as an answer to India’s BrahMos, which has an upper hand in operational supersonic strike system. Modelled on China's HD-1, here are some key points about the capabilities of this missile. The system has Mach 2.5 to Mach 4 terminal velocity Has terrain-hugging and sea-skimming flight characteristics sharply compresses interception timelines for conventional air-defence networks while complicating radar tracking Capable of complicating radar tracking, engagement sequencing and layered interception calculations Also compresses interception timelines for conventional air-defence networks On May 7, India too marked the anniversary of Operation Sindoor launched to avenge the lives lost during the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22 in which 26 people were killed. During Operation Sindoor, Indian armed forces launched precision strikes, targeting terror camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). In the attacks, India struck several key Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad targets, killing hundreds of terrorists. What happened on April 22? On the fateful day of April 22, 2025, when the tourists were enjoying the picturesque scenery of the Baisaran Valley in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, shots echoed across the meadow. Armed terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) targeted Hindu men after infiltrating the Indian territory, killing 26 civilians in one of the deadliest terror attacks since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. On May 7, India retaliated against the devastating Pahalgam terror attack by launching precision strikes against nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The strikes conducted under Operation Sindoor targeted the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba Muridke base. Over 100 terrorists were killed in the operation, including Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf and Mudasir Ahmed.

The missile modelled on Chinese technology not only reflects its deepening ties with Beijing but Islamabad wants to project it as an answer to India’s BrahMos.

Pakistan unveils FATAH-3 supersonic cruise missile modelled on Chinese technology. Know in detail

US President Donald Trump asserted that the US proposal aimed at ending the war with Iran is not just a “one-page offer” but rather a detailed roadmap to end the war. Trump challenged the characterisation of the proposal, saying that it's “more than a one-page offer” and adding some of the previously deliberated specifics regarding the deal, such as enriched uranium.&nbsp;"They have agreed. When they agree, it doesn't mean much because the next day they forget they agreed," he said, further noting, “And you know, we're dealing with different sets of leaders.” On Thursday, both Iranian media IRNA and the NYT reported that a “one-page offer” was in place for both sides to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities for 30 days while they try to reach a comprehensive deal. The report also concluded that Tehran is reviewing the “messages” from the US that are being delivered through Pakistani intermediaries and has yet to formalise a conclusion or convey any response to Americans.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-project-freedom-oil-prices-iran-deal-markets-1778072517735">Donald Trump pauses Project Freedom, oil dips below $100 before rebound</a><h2>Key components of the detailed proposal</h2>The three senior Iranian officials attributed by the NYT, who chose to remain anonymous when discussing sensitive diplomatic issues, said that Iran would agree to dilution of some of the enriched uranium while transferring the rest of the uranium to a third country, possibly Russia and suspend enrichment for 15-20 years. However, they said that American negotiators continue to insist that Iran agreed in principle to hand over the stockpile to the United States and close three nuclear facilities and suspend enrichment for 20 years. Further, both nations will continue to lift their blockades on the naval chokepoint within 30 days. In exchange, the US would lift specific sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen funds and permanently end hostilities in the region.&nbsp;However, the optimism is being countered by the continued escalation of the threat between the two sides. Earlier, Trump confirmed the exchange of fire between American and Iranian naval forces in the Strait of Hormuz amid the ceasefire agreement between the two sides, with reports of a strike in Iran's Qeshm Port and Bandar Abbas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said the proposal to end the Iran war is a detailed roadmap, not a “one-page offer,” as talks over uranium, sanctions and the Strait of Hormuz continue.

US President Donald Trump asserted that the US proposal aimed at ending the war with Iran is not just a “one-page offer” but rather a detailed roadmap to end the war. Trump challenged the characterisation of the proposal, saying that it's “more than a one-page offer” and adding some of the previously deliberated specifics regarding the deal, such as enriched uranium. "They have agreed. When they agree, it doesn't mean much because the next day they forget they agreed," he said, further noting, “And you know, we're dealing with different sets of leaders.” On Thursday, both Iranian media IRNA and the NYT reported that a “one-page offer” was in place for both sides to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities for 30 days while they try to reach a comprehensive deal. The report also concluded that Tehran is reviewing the “messages” from the US that are being delivered through Pakistani intermediaries and has yet to formalise a conclusion or convey any response to Americans. Also read: Donald Trump pauses Project Freedom, oil dips below $100 before rebound Key components of the detailed proposal The three senior Iranian officials attributed by the NYT, who chose to remain anonymous when discussing sensitive diplomatic issues, said that Iran would agree to dilution of some of the enriched uranium while transferring the rest of the uranium to a third country, possibly Russia and suspend enrichment for 15-20 years. However, they said that American negotiators continue to insist that Iran agreed in principle to hand over the stockpile to the United States and close three nuclear facilities and suspend enrichment for 20 years. Further, both nations will continue to lift their blockades on the naval chokepoint within 30 days. In exchange, the US would lift specific sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen funds and permanently end hostilities in the region. However, the optimism is being countered by the continued escalation of the threat between the two sides. Earlier, Trump confirmed the exchange of fire between American and Iranian naval forces in the Strait of Hormuz amid the ceasefire agreement between the two sides, with reports of a strike in Iran's Qeshm Port and Bandar Abbas.

US President Donald Trump said the proposal to end the Iran war is a detailed roadmap, not a “one-page offer,” as talks over uranium, sanctions and the Strait of Hormuz continue.

Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’ claims Iran will hand over enriched Uranium

The search for Nancy Guthrie led investigating officers to human remains, which they confirmed are extremely old and could even be from prehistoric times. They were first found by a live streamer who was looking for clues into Guthrie's alleged kidnapping. He came across a bone and alerted the police, who rushed to the site and cordoned off the area. The Tucson Police Department analysed the bone and soon knew it had hit a dead-end again. However, what is surprising is that it is an actual human bone and could be thousands of years old. “This will be a prehistoric anthropological investigation,” the Tucson Police Department told KVOA. The discovery was made about five miles from Guthrie's home in Tucson, Arizona. Notably, Today show host Savannah Guthrie's mother has been missing since February 1, with no solid leads yet.&nbsp;The University of Arizona’s Anthropology Department has now gotten involved with the remains and is investigating them. This is not the first ancient discovery in the area, as several Native American artefacts have been previously found there. Several YouTubers and amateur crime hunters have been scouring the area as the case continues to remain unsolved in its fourth month. Pima County officials have been slammed for alleged mishandling of the case. FBI Director Kash Patel also accused them of not cooperating and blocking the feds from helping in the initial days of the investigation. He said that the agency had a plane on standby to carry the DNA evidence to Quantico, but local officials chose to send it to a private lab in Florida. Sheriff Nanos’ office has denied Patel's accusations.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-did-savannah-guthrie-leave-today-midway-on-wednesday-here-is-one-speculation-1778160146882">Why did Savannah Guthrie leave Today midway on Wednesday? Here is one speculation</a><h2>Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case update</h2>Nancy's suspected kidnapper was seen on her Ring doorbell camera on the night she was taken. He wore a jacket, was carrying an "Ozark Trail Hiker Pack", had gloves on and had what looked like a holstered gun. People in the Tucson area said they saw several items scattered in the area which the searching teams did not recover. They have also been accused of contaminating the scene by throwing their own gloves there. The Guthrie family has offered a reward of $1 million for any information. Meanwhile, Savannah returned to the Today show in April after a hiatus of two months. This week, she abruptly left the show midway without giving a reason. However, reports suggest it had nothing to do with her mother. &nbsp;

Human remains were discovered near Nancy Guthrie's home, which were quickly seized and analysed by investigating teams. However, they turned out to be from prehistoric times. The search for Savannah Guthrie's mother has entered its fourth month.

The search for Nancy Guthrie led investigating officers to human remains, which they confirmed are extremely old and could even be from prehistoric times. They were first found by a live streamer who was looking for clues into Guthrie's alleged kidnapping. He came across a bone and alerted the police, who rushed to the site and cordoned off the area. The Tucson Police Department analysed the bone and soon knew it had hit a dead-end again. However, what is surprising is that it is an actual human bone and could be thousands of years old. “This will be a prehistoric anthropological investigation,” the Tucson Police Department told KVOA. The discovery was made about five miles from Guthrie's home in Tucson, Arizona. Notably, Today show host Savannah Guthrie's mother has been missing since February 1, with no solid leads yet. The University of Arizona’s Anthropology Department has now gotten involved with the remains and is investigating them. This is not the first ancient discovery in the area, as several Native American artefacts have been previously found there. Several YouTubers and amateur crime hunters have been scouring the area as the case continues to remain unsolved in its fourth month. Pima County officials have been slammed for alleged mishandling of the case. FBI Director Kash Patel also accused them of not cooperating and blocking the feds from helping in the initial days of the investigation. He said that the agency had a plane on standby to carry the DNA evidence to Quantico, but local officials chose to send it to a private lab in Florida. Sheriff Nanos’ office has denied Patel's accusations. Also Read: Why did Savannah Guthrie leave Today midway on Wednesday? Here is one speculation Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case update Nancy's suspected kidnapper was seen on her Ring doorbell camera on the night she was taken. He wore a jacket, was carrying an "Ozark Trail Hiker Pack", had gloves on and had what looked like a holstered gun. People in the Tucson area said they saw several items scattered in the area which the searching teams did not recover. They have also been accused of contaminating the scene by throwing their own gloves there. The Guthrie family has offered a reward of $1 million for any information. Meanwhile, Savannah returned to the Today show in April after a hiatus of two months. This week, she abruptly left the show midway without giving a reason. However, reports suggest it had nothing to do with her mother.

Human remains were discovered near Nancy Guthrie's home, which were quickly seized and analysed by investigating teams. However, they turned out to be from prehistoric times. The search for Savannah Guthrie's mother has entered its fourth month.

Officials searching for Nancy Guthrie stumble upon human bones. They turn out to be very, very old

Marco Rubio's Vatican visit was supposed to be about diplomacy. Instead, for a brief moment, it looked more like an awkward holiday gift exchange involving what the internet has branded a 'cheap gift'. The US Secretary of State met Pope Leo XIV on Thursday (May 7) for talks officially centred on the Middle East and broader geopolitical issues, but it was Rubio’s gift choice that ended up stealing attention: a small crystal American football. It's not just the gift that is stealing attention, but also Rubio admitting that he knows that the Pope is, in fact, a baseball fan, yet he chose to gift the pontiff a football. The Pope's return gift has also taken the spotlight with its subtle peace message. All you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-anyone-wants-to-criticise-me-do-so-truthfully-pope-leo-slams-trump-over-iran-nuclear-claims-1778062797564">'If anyone wants to criticise me, do so truthfully': Pope Leo slams Trump over Iran nuclear claims</a><h2>What do you give someone 'who has everything'</h2>"I know you’re a baseball guy," Rubio told the Chicago-born pontiff while presenting the unusual keepsake, adding that it carried the State Department seal and jokingly asking what one gives "someone who has everything."Pope Leo, known to be a White Sox fan, appeared momentarily caught off guard and only said, "Wow, okay" upon receiving the unusual gift. That short response quickly became the defining social media moment of the meeting, with many reading it less as delight and more as polite Vatican diplomacy under pressure.<h2>A football for a baseball pope?</h2>Rubio's choice raised eyebrows not because it was offensive, but because it felt oddly personal, almost more reflective of Rubio than the pope. The Florida-born secretary is a longtime American football fan, particularly of the Miami Dolphins, while Pope Leo's sports loyalties are rooted in Chicago baseball culture.By contrast, the pope’s gift carried unmistakably symbolic weight: an olive wood pen, paired with a reminder that the olive branch represents peace. Given the wider political climate and the ongoing public feud between Pope Leo and US President Donald Trump, the symbolism was hard to miss. Despite the viral football moment, the Vatican later described Rubio’s talks as "cordial" and reaffirmed strong US-Holy See relations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dismisses-iranian-attack-on-three-us-warships-as-a-trifle-insists-ceasefire-still-in-place-1778205065513">Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place</a><h2>Bigger tensions behind the smiles</h2>The meeting came at a delicate moment, as Trump's increasingly sharp rhetoric toward Pope Leo continues. The POTUS, in recent days, has publicly criticised the pontiff over his opposition to war with Iran, accusing him, inaccurately according to Vatican statements, of being soft on Tehran.Pope Leo has instead reiterated the Church’s longstanding opposition to nuclear weapons and emphasised peace. "If someone wants to criticise me for proclaiming the Gospel, let him do so truthfully," the pope said earlier this week.

Marco Rubio went to the Vatican for diplomacy, but it was his gift, a crystal American football for a baseball-loving pope, that stole the spotlight. Pope Leo’s understated response and peace-themed return gift may have said far more than the official talks. Scroll down.

Marco Rubio's Vatican visit was supposed to be about diplomacy. Instead, for a brief moment, it looked more like an awkward holiday gift exchange involving what the internet has branded a 'cheap gift'. The US Secretary of State met Pope Leo XIV on Thursday (May 7) for talks officially centred on the Middle East and broader geopolitical issues, but it was Rubio’s gift choice that ended up stealing attention: a small crystal American football. It's not just the gift that is stealing attention, but also Rubio admitting that he knows that the Pope is, in fact, a baseball fan, yet he chose to gift the pontiff a football. The Pope's return gift has also taken the spotlight with its subtle peace message. All you need to know. Also read | 'If anyone wants to criticise me, do so truthfully': Pope Leo slams Trump over Iran nuclear claims What do you give someone 'who has everything' "I know you’re a baseball guy," Rubio told the Chicago-born pontiff while presenting the unusual keepsake, adding that it carried the State Department seal and jokingly asking what one gives "someone who has everything." Pope Leo, known to be a White Sox fan, appeared momentarily caught off guard and only said, "Wow, okay" upon receiving the unusual gift. That short response quickly became the defining social media moment of the meeting, with many reading it less as delight and more as polite Vatican diplomacy under pressure. A football for a baseball pope? Rubio's choice raised eyebrows not because it was offensive, but because it felt oddly personal, almost more reflective of Rubio than the pope. The Florida-born secretary is a longtime American football fan, particularly of the Miami Dolphins, while Pope Leo's sports loyalties are rooted in Chicago baseball culture. By contrast, the pope’s gift carried unmistakably symbolic weight: an olive wood pen, paired with a reminder that the olive branch represents peace. Given the wider political climate and the ongoing public feud between Pope Leo and US President Donald Trump, the symbolism was hard to miss. Despite the viral football moment, the Vatican later described Rubio’s talks as "cordial" and reaffirmed strong US-Holy See relations. Also read | Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place Bigger tensions behind the smiles The meeting came at a delicate moment, as Trump's increasingly sharp rhetoric toward Pope Leo continues. The POTUS, in recent days, has publicly criticised the pontiff over his opposition to war with Iran, accusing him, inaccurately according to Vatican statements, of being soft on Tehran. Pope Leo has instead reiterated the Church’s longstanding opposition to nuclear weapons and emphasised peace. "If someone wants to criticise me for proclaiming the Gospel, let him do so truthfully," the pope said earlier this week.

Marco Rubio went to the Vatican for diplomacy, but it was his gift, a crystal American football for a baseball-loving pope, that stole the spotlight. Pope Leo’s understated response and peace-themed return gift may have said far more than the official talks. Scroll down.

Rubio turns Vatican visit awkward with odd football gift; Pope Leo's 'wow, okay' steals the spotlight

Satellites have captured suspicious activities at a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe, south of the Natanz nuclear facility. Photos taken by satellite imaging company Airbus Defence and Space, and analysed by the Institute for Science and International Security, show movements in the region from as early as April 22. According to a report, special soil is blocking the two eastern tunnel entrances of the underground complex to prevent vehicles from accessing them. However, this was not the case in earlier images. On April 1, the tunnel entrances were open. The image analysis further showed that the tunnel openings at both ends are not fully concealed. The material used is basically just blocking them enough to prevent the rapid entry or exit of vehicles from the underground complex. To gain access, heavy machinery would need to de deployed to remove the material, according to a report by Ynetnews.&nbsp;The institute said that there is "no evidence of such blocking at the two western tunnel entrances". It added, "This activity raises significant questions, as this is a tunnel complex buried deep underground that could be used to protect valuable equipment or materials." The researchers had previously pointed out that the old tunnel entrances had been reinforced with concrete, suggesting something was likely placed inside the tunnels.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-ll-knock-them-out-a-lot-harder-trump-threatens-more-iran-strikes-if-deal-not-signed-fast-1778194543648">'We'll knock them out a lot harder': Trump threatens more Iran strikes if deal not signed ‘fast’</a><h2>Iran war ceasefire latest&nbsp;</h2> Even though the US-Iran ceasefire remains in effect on paper, fire continues to be exchanged in the Strait of Hormuz. On Thursday, Iran accused the US ⁠of violating the ceasefire by targeting two ships in ⁠the Strait and attacking civilian areas. An oil tanker travelling from Jask towards the Strait of Hormuz and another vessel near the UAE’s Fujairah port came under fire, a spokesman for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military headquarters claimed. Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that it struck Iranian military infrastructure linked to attacks on US naval forces. It said that it specifically targeted missile and drone launch sites, command centres, and surveillance nodes. In response, Tehran hit three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump claimed that the American forces destroyed the attackers. “They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” he wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-imposes-new-rules-for-hormuz-passage-1778210990842/embed<h2>Where is Mojtaba Khamenei?</h2> Iran confirmed that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is “wisely” overseeing all national affairs, and that all state actions are happening only after direct approval from the Ayatollah. However, he is yet to be seen in public since news emerged that he was gravely injured in the February 28 attack on the palace that killed his father, Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

Satellite imagery from a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe near the  Natanz nuclear facility points to suspicious movement. An analysis showed that the two eastern tunnel entrances are blocked, which wasn't the case around April 1.

Satellites have captured suspicious activities at a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe, south of the Natanz nuclear facility. Photos taken by satellite imaging company Airbus Defence and Space, and analysed by the Institute for Science and International Security, show movements in the region from as early as April 22. According to a report, special soil is blocking the two eastern tunnel entrances of the underground complex to prevent vehicles from accessing them. However, this was not the case in earlier images. On April 1, the tunnel entrances were open. The image analysis further showed that the tunnel openings at both ends are not fully concealed. The material used is basically just blocking them enough to prevent the rapid entry or exit of vehicles from the underground complex. To gain access, heavy machinery would need to de deployed to remove the material, according to a report by Ynetnews. The institute said that there is "no evidence of such blocking at the two western tunnel entrances". It added, "This activity raises significant questions, as this is a tunnel complex buried deep underground that could be used to protect valuable equipment or materials." The researchers had previously pointed out that the old tunnel entrances had been reinforced with concrete, suggesting something was likely placed inside the tunnels. Also Read: 'We'll knock them out a lot harder': Trump threatens more Iran strikes if deal not signed ‘fast’ Iran war ceasefire latest Even though the US-Iran ceasefire remains in effect on paper, fire continues to be exchanged in the Strait of Hormuz. On Thursday, Iran accused the US ⁠of violating the ceasefire by targeting two ships in ⁠the Strait and attacking civilian areas. An oil tanker travelling from Jask towards the Strait of Hormuz and another vessel near the UAE’s Fujairah port came under fire, a spokesman for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military headquarters claimed. Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that it struck Iranian military infrastructure linked to attacks on US naval forces. It said that it specifically targeted missile and drone launch sites, command centres, and surveillance nodes. In response, Tehran hit three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump claimed that the American forces destroyed the attackers. “They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” he wrote on Truth Social. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-imposes-new-rules-for-hormuz-passage-1778210990842/embed Where is Mojtaba Khamenei? Iran confirmed that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is “wisely” overseeing all national affairs, and that all state actions are happening only after direct approval from the Ayatollah. However, he is yet to be seen in public since news emerged that he was gravely injured in the February 28 attack on the palace that killed his father, Ali Khamenei.

Satellite imagery from a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe near the &nbsp;Natanz nuclear facility points to suspicious movement. An analysis showed that the two eastern tunnel entrances are blocked, which wasn't the case around April 1.

Satellite images show mysterious movement at Iranian site near Natanz nuclear facility: Report

Hours after American forces destroyed Iranian attackers "targeting" three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran launched missile and drone attacks on UAE on Friday (May 8). The United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Defense announced that the country’s air defense system is “actively engaging” with the attacks.&nbsp;The public was advised not to approach, photograph or touch “any debris or fragments that have fallen as a result of successful air interceptions.”&nbsp;"The UAE's air defenses are currently dealing with missile and drone attacks originating from Iran, and the Ministry of Defense confirms that the sounds heard in various parts of the country are the result of the UAE air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones," read the alert posted on X by the Ministry of Defense.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dismisses-iranian-attack-on-three-us-warships-as-a-trifle-insists-ceasefire-still-in-place-1778205065513">Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place</a>&nbsp;"UAE Air Defences system are actively engaging with missiles and UAV threats. MOD asserts that the sounds heard across the country are the result of ongoing engaging operations of missiles and UAV's," read the alert further.&nbsp;Earlier on Thursday Trump claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning Tehran of harsher retaliation if it refuses to sign a deal soon. “Three World Class American Destroyers just transited, very successfully, out of the Strait of Hormuz, under fire. There was no damage done to the three Destroyers, but great damage done to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.<h2>Who's fault is it?</h2> While the US blamed Iran for the exchange of fire, Iran's version of events was different. Tehran's military command accused Washington of initiating the exchange of fire, specifically by attacking an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, and said its forces "immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels." Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran would communicate its position to mediator Pakistan after "finalising its views."&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday Trump claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz.

Hours after American forces destroyed Iranian attackers "targeting" three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran launched missile and drone attacks on UAE on Friday (May 8). The United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Defense announced that the country’s air defense system is “actively engaging” with the attacks. The public was advised not to approach, photograph or touch “any debris or fragments that have fallen as a result of successful air interceptions.” "The UAE's air defenses are currently dealing with missile and drone attacks originating from Iran, and the Ministry of Defense confirms that the sounds heard in various parts of the country are the result of the UAE air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones," read the alert posted on X by the Ministry of Defense. ALSO READ: Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place "UAE Air Defences system are actively engaging with missiles and UAV threats. MOD asserts that the sounds heard across the country are the result of ongoing engaging operations of missiles and UAV's," read the alert further. Earlier on Thursday Trump claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning Tehran of harsher retaliation if it refuses to sign a deal soon. “Three World Class American Destroyers just transited, very successfully, out of the Strait of Hormuz, under fire. There was no damage done to the three Destroyers, but great damage done to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. Who's fault is it? While the US blamed Iran for the exchange of fire, Iran's version of events was different. Tehran's military command accused Washington of initiating the exchange of fire, specifically by attacking an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, and said its forces "immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels." Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran would communicate its position to mediator Pakistan after "finalising its views."

Earlier on Thursday Trump claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran launches missile, drone attacks against UAE after 'striking' three US Navy destroyers in Hormuz

US Presdient Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) dismissed Iran's attacks on three American warships as "a trifle," and declared that the ceasefire was still in effect. "They trifled with us today. We blew them away. They trifled. I call that a trifle," Trump told reporters during a visit to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovations. When asked whether the ceasefire remained active, "Yeah, it is," he said.<h2>Were the US warships damaged?</h2>US Central Command has confirmed that none of the three warships were hit when Iranian forces launched "multiple missiles, drones and small boats". It said American forces "eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible," while adding that CENTCOM "does not seek escalation but remains positioned and ready to protect American forces."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ka-h-on-the-rocks-revealed-fbi-director-kash-patel-handing-out-personalised-bourbon-bottles-while-suing-over-claims-he-drinks-too-much-1778147292386">Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles, while suing over claims he drinks too much</a><h2>Who's to blame?</h2>While the US blamed Iran for the exchange of fire, Iran's version of events was different. Tehran's military command accused Washington of initiating the exchange of fire, specifically by attacking an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, and said its forces "immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels." Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran would communicate its position to mediator Pakistan after "finalising its views."The exchange was the most direct military confrontation between the two sides since the ceasefire came into effect on April 8, and it threatens to unravel a truce that has already been strained by the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, continued Israeli operations in Lebanon and competing claims about what the ceasefire does and doesn't cover.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gas-hits-4-50-a-gallon-as-trump-s-approval-ratings-sinks-to-record-low-ahead-of-us-midterms-1778055139043">Gas hits $4.50 a gallon as Trump's approval ratings sink to record low ahead of US midterms</a><h2>'We'll knock them out a lot harder'</h2>While Trump's public tone was dismissive, his message in a Truth Social post was much sharper. Shortly after the clash, he posted on Truth Social: "We'll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don't get their Deal signed, FAST!"&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump called Iran’s latest attack on three US warships “a trifle,” insisting the ceasefire still holds even after one of the sharpest US-Iran confrontations since April. Scroll down for more.

US Presdient Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) dismissed Iran's attacks on three American warships as "a trifle," and declared that the ceasefire was still in effect. "They trifled with us today. We blew them away. They trifled. I call that a trifle," Trump told reporters during a visit to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovations. When asked whether the ceasefire remained active, "Yeah, it is," he said. Were the US warships damaged? US Central Command has confirmed that none of the three warships were hit when Iranian forces launched "multiple missiles, drones and small boats". It said American forces "eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible," while adding that CENTCOM "does not seek escalation but remains positioned and ready to protect American forces." Also read | Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles, while suing over claims he drinks too much Who's to blame? While the US blamed Iran for the exchange of fire, Iran's version of events was different. Tehran's military command accused Washington of initiating the exchange of fire, specifically by attacking an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, and said its forces "immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels." Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran would communicate its position to mediator Pakistan after "finalising its views." The exchange was the most direct military confrontation between the two sides since the ceasefire came into effect on April 8, and it threatens to unravel a truce that has already been strained by the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, continued Israeli operations in Lebanon and competing claims about what the ceasefire does and doesn't cover. Also read | Gas hits $4.50 a gallon as Trump's approval ratings sink to record low ahead of US midterms 'We'll knock them out a lot harder' While Trump's public tone was dismissive, his message in a Truth Social post was much sharper. Shortly after the clash, he posted on Truth Social: "We'll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don't get their Deal signed, FAST!" Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump called Iran’s latest attack on three US warships “a trifle,” insisting the ceasefire still holds even after one of the sharpest US-Iran confrontations since April. Scroll down for more.

Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place

President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning Tehran of harsher retaliation if it refuses to sign a deal soon. “Three World Class American Destroyers just transited, very successfully, out of the Strait of Hormuz, under fire. There was no damage done to the three Destroyers, but great damage done to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;“They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” Trump added. “Missiles were shot at our Destroyers, and were easily knocked down. Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air,” Trump continued. “Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air. They dropped ever so beautifully down to the Ocean, very much like a butterfly dropping to its grave!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-war-tehran-accuses-us-of-violating-ceasefire-with-attack-on-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-1778190339228">US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz</a>

The president further warned Iran against escalating tensions, writing that “if they had the chance to use a Nuclear Weapon, they would do it, without question, But they’ll never have that opportunity and, just like we knocked them out again today, we’ll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don’t get their Deal signed, FAST!”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-emerges-as-india-s-cybercrime-capital-in-new-ncrb-report-1778183958841/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-emerges-as-india-s-cybercrime-capital-in-new-ncrb-report-1778183958841/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump’s remarks came after the United States Central Command said US forces struck Iranian military facilities responsible for launching what it described as “unprovoked” missile, drone, and small boat attacks against American warships transiting the strait.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

President Donald Trump claimed US forces destroyed Iranian attackers after American destroyers came under fire in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran and warning of stronger military retaliation if Tehran refuses to sign a deal

President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning Tehran of harsher retaliation if it refuses to sign a deal soon. “Three World Class American Destroyers just transited, very successfully, out of the Strait of Hormuz, under fire. There was no damage done to the three Destroyers, but great damage done to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. “They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” Trump added. “Missiles were shot at our Destroyers, and were easily knocked down. Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air,” Trump continued. “Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air. They dropped ever so beautifully down to the Ocean, very much like a butterfly dropping to its grave!” Also Read: US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz

US President Trump says US forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting Navy destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz, warning Tehran of tougher retaliation

'We'll knock them out a lot harder': Trump threatens more Iran strikes if deal not signed 'fast'

A US trade court on Thursday (May 7) handed President Donald Trump another setback, ruling against the 10 per cent global tariffs he introduced after the Supreme Court struck down several earlier duties. In a 2-1 decision, the US Court of International Trade blocked the tariffs from being enforced against two companies and the state of Washington for now, although the ruling could pave the way for broader legal challenges in the future. The court found that the latest tariffs were not justified under the 1970s law cited by the Trump administration during implementation.&nbsp;Trump had imposed the temporary 10 per cent tariff in February, shortly after the Supreme Court invalidated many of his earlier global duties. The administration argued that the measure was necessary to address balance-of-payments deficits under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The tariffs are set to remain in effect only until late July unless Congress approves an extension. Meanwhile, the administration has been exploring more permanent ways to revive Trump’s trade strategy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-war-tehran-accuses-us-of-violating-ceasefire-with-attack-on-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-1778190339228">US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;As part of that effort, US officials have launched new investigations into dozens of trading partners over concerns related to forced labor and industrial overcapacity, moves that could eventually result in additional tariffs or other trade measures. The Court of International Trade directed the defendants to comply with the ruling within five days and ordered that the importers involved in the lawsuit receive refunds. The Trump administration is expected to appeal the decision.&nbsp;"Section 122 was passed in response to a specific historical crisis that resulted in the United States's currency and gold reserves being depleted," said Liberty Justice Center senior counsel Jeffrey Schwab after the ruling." The United States has a trade deficit, not a balance-of-payments deficit, and does not have an international payments problem," Schwab said in a statement.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-iaf-says-over-100-pak-soldiers-around-100-terrorists-killed-1778178608202/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-iaf-says-over-100-pak-soldiers-around-100-terrorists-killed-1778178608202/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump’s sector-specific tariffs on products such as steel, aluminum, and automobiles remain unaffected by the ruling and related legal challenges.Still, Thursday’s judgment marks another hurdle for Trump’s broader tariff agenda. After the Supreme Court previously dealt a major blow to Trump’s trade policy, businesses across the United States rushed to seek refunds.&nbsp;US Customs and Border Protection estimated in March that more than 330,000 importers could qualify for refunds following the Supreme Court’s earlier decision. The tariffs that were previously struck down under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act had collected around $166 billion in duties and deposits.

A US trade court ruled against Donald Trump’s temporary 10% global tariffs, calling them unjustified under the Trade Act of 1974. The ruling orders refunds for importers and marks another legal setback for Trump’s tariff agenda

A US trade court on Thursday (May 7) handed President Donald Trump another setback, ruling against the 10 per cent global tariffs he introduced after the Supreme Court struck down several earlier duties. In a 2-1 decision, the US Court of International Trade blocked the tariffs from being enforced against two companies and the state of Washington for now, although the ruling could pave the way for broader legal challenges in the future. The court found that the latest tariffs were not justified under the 1970s law cited by the Trump administration during implementation. Trump had imposed the temporary 10 per cent tariff in February, shortly after the Supreme Court invalidated many of his earlier global duties. The administration argued that the measure was necessary to address balance-of-payments deficits under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The tariffs are set to remain in effect only until late July unless Congress approves an extension. Meanwhile, the administration has been exploring more permanent ways to revive Trump’s trade strategy. Also Read: US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz As part of that effort, US officials have launched new investigations into dozens of trading partners over concerns related to forced labor and industrial overcapacity, moves that could eventually result in additional tariffs or other trade measures. The Court of International Trade directed the defendants to comply with the ruling within five days and ordered that the importers involved in the lawsuit receive refunds. The Trump administration is expected to appeal the decision. "Section 122 was passed in response to a specific historical crisis that resulted in the United States's currency and gold reserves being depleted," said Liberty Justice Center senior counsel Jeffrey Schwab after the ruling." The United States has a trade deficit, not a balance-of-payments deficit, and does not have an international payments problem," Schwab said in a statement. https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-iaf-says-over-100-pak-soldiers-around-100-terrorists-killed-1778178608202/embed Trump’s sector-specific tariffs on products such as steel, aluminum, and automobiles remain unaffected by the ruling and related legal challenges. Still, Thursday’s judgment marks another hurdle for Trump’s broader tariff agenda. After the Supreme Court previously dealt a major blow to Trump’s trade policy, businesses across the United States rushed to seek refunds. US Customs and Border Protection estimated in March that more than 330,000 importers could qualify for refunds following the Supreme Court’s earlier decision. The tariffs that were previously struck down under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act had collected around $166 billion in duties and deposits.

A US trade court has blocked Donald Trump’s 10% global tariffs, calling them unjustified under the 1974 law; refunds are being ordered for importers

US trade court rules against Donald Trump's 10% global tariffs under 1974 law

Iran’s central military command accused the United States of violating the ceasefire in the Middle East conflict by launching attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming Iranian forces retaliated by targeting American military ships. "The US targeted an Iranian oil tanker moving from the coastal waters of Iran in the Jask region towards the Strait of Hormuz, as well as another ship entering the Strait of Hormuz opposite the port of Fujairah, UAE”, the Khatam Al Anbiya headquarters said in a statement carried by state television. It also accused Washington of carrying out additional strikes elsewhere in southern Iran in cooperation with some countries in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-warning-to-eu-ratify-trade-agreement-by-july-4-or-face-much-higher-tariffs-1778183775741">Trump's warning to EU: Ratify trade agreement by July 4 or face 'much higher' tariffs</a>&nbsp;"Iranian forces immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels”, the statement added. Meanwhile, the United States said it carried out strikes on Iranian military targets on Thursday after Tehran’s forces allegedly attacked three American destroyers transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. “Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones, and small boats” at the three US warships, though none of the vessels were hit, the US military’s Central Command said in a post on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-poison-found-in-watermelon-consumed-by-mumbai-family-of-four-before-deaths-1778178583674/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-poison-found-in-watermelon-consumed-by-mumbai-family-of-four-before-deaths-1778178583674/embed</a>&nbsp;"US forces eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible,” for the attack, it added. The fresh exchange of accusations has raised fears of renewed escalation in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran accused the US of violating the Middle East ceasefire after strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington claimed Iranian forces attacked American destroyers with missiles, drones and boats

Iran’s central military command accused the United States of violating the ceasefire in the Middle East conflict by launching attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming Iranian forces retaliated by targeting American military ships. "The US targeted an Iranian oil tanker moving from the coastal waters of Iran in the Jask region towards the Strait of Hormuz, as well as another ship entering the Strait of Hormuz opposite the port of Fujairah, UAE”, the Khatam Al Anbiya headquarters said in a statement carried by state television. It also accused Washington of carrying out additional strikes elsewhere in southern Iran in cooperation with some countries in the region. Also Read: Trump's warning to EU: Ratify trade agreement by July 4 or face 'much higher' tariffs "Iranian forces immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels”, the statement added. Meanwhile, the United States said it carried out strikes on Iranian military targets on Thursday after Tehran’s forces allegedly attacked three American destroyers transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. “Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones, and small boats” at the three US warships, though none of the vessels were hit, the US military’s Central Command said in a post on X. https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-poison-found-in-watermelon-consumed-by-mumbai-family-of-four-before-deaths-1778178583674/embed "US forces eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible,” for the attack, it added. The fresh exchange of accusations has raised fears of renewed escalation in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran has accused the US of breaching the ceasefire in the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington said it struck Tehran after attacks on US destroyers

US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) warned the European Union to finalise and ratify its trade agreement with the United States by July 4 or face significantly higher tariffs. Trump said he recently spoke with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen regarding delays in approving the agreement and issued a firm deadline tied to America’s Independence Day celebrations. The president said that he and von der Leyen 'agreed to give her until our Country's 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels'.&nbsp;This year’s Fourth of July marks 250 years since the American colonies declared independence from Britain. The United States and the 27-member European Union reached a preliminary trade agreement last July that imposed tariffs of 15 per cent on most European goods entering the US market. However, the final version of the deal still requires approval from EU member states, creating growing frustration in Washington. Trump intensified pressure last week by threatening to raise tariffs on European cars and trucks to 25 per cent, arguing that the EU had failed to honor its commitments under the agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-project-freedom-gets-boost-as-saudi-arabia-kuwait-lift-curbs-in-strait-of-hormuz-report-1778181678178">Trump's 'Project Freedom' gets boost as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait lift curbs in Strait of Hormuz: Report</a>

Cyprus, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, said it hopes to maintain “positive momentum” during discussions with Members of the European Parliament on May 19. In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed frustration over the slow progress of the deal. "I've been waiting patiently for the EU to fulfill their side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland, the largest Trade Deal, ever!" Trump wrote.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-will-zelensky-cross-putin-s-red-line-1778179513339/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-will-zelensky-cross-putin-s-red-line-1778179513339/embed</a>&nbsp;“A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Deal and, as per the Agreement, cut their Tariffs to ZERO!” Earlier this year, the European Parliament approved the tariff agreement in principle but requested additional safeguards before full implementation. Although lawmakers gave conditional backing to the deal in March, negotiations with individual EU member states must still be completed before the agreement can officially take effect across the bloc.

Donald Trump warned the European Union to finalize its US trade deal by July 4 or face higher tariffs as negotiations with EU member states continue

President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) warned the European Union to finalise and ratify its trade agreement with the United States by July 4 or face significantly higher tariffs. Trump said he recently spoke with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen regarding delays in approving the agreement and issued a firm deadline tied to America’s Independence Day celebrations. The president said that he and von der Leyen 'agreed to give her until our Country's 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels'. This year’s Fourth of July marks 250 years since the American colonies declared independence from Britain. The United States and the 27-member European Union reached a preliminary trade agreement last July that imposed tariffs of 15 per cent on most European goods entering the US market. However, the final version of the deal still requires approval from EU member states, creating growing frustration in Washington. Trump intensified pressure last week by threatening to raise tariffs on European cars and trucks to 25 per cent, arguing that the EU had failed to honor its commitments under the agreement. Also Read: Trump's 'Project Freedom' gets boost as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait lift curbs in Strait of Hormuz: Report

Donald Trump warns the European Union to approve its US trade deal by July 4 or face sharply higher tariffs on European exports

Trump's warning to EU: Ratify trade agreement by July 4 or face 'much higher' tariffs

Israeli and Lebanese envoys are set to hold a fresh round of peace talks in Washington next week amid continued Israeli Defence Forces operations against the militant group Hezbollah, despite a US-brokered ceasefire being in place from April 15. A US State Department official confirmed on Thursday that the talks will take place on May 14 and 15. This will be the third such meeting in recent months between the two countries, which have technically remained at war for decades and do not maintain diplomatic relations.&nbsp;The renewed engagement comes even as tensions remain high on the ground. The conflict in Lebanon escalated alongside broader regional hostilities involving Israel and Iran, with Washington still awaiting Tehran’s response to its latest proposal aimed at de-escalating the wider Middle East crisis and restoring stability in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday said a peace deal between the parties was “eminently achievable,” adding that Hezbollah remains the primary obstacle rather than any direct dispute between the two governments.&nbsp;Lebanon was drawn deeper into the conflict after Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel, following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The situation further intensified exchanges between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed group.&nbsp;A ceasefire framework involving Israel, Lebanon and Hezbollah was extended until May 15 after the previous round of talks in Washington. However, Israel has continued targeted strikes against Hezbollah positions, while the group has also claimed attacks on Israeli forces operating in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-tmc-chor-mahua-moitra-alleges-harassment-onboard-indigo-flight-blames-bjp-culture-1778176066725">‘TMC chor’: Mahua Moitra alleges harassment onboard IndiGo flight, blames ‘BJP culture’</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US media outlet Axios reported, citing officials, that Washington and Tehran are close to finalising a one-page memorandum of understanding. The proposed document is expected to outline a framework to end hostilities and restart negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme.&nbsp;Oil markets reacted positively to the prospect of de-escalation, with Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate prices falling around five per cent on Thursday, extending losses from earlier in the week. However, prices remain higher than pre-conflict levels.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas trade, continues to remain under pressure amid ongoing instability in the region.

The current Washington sessions mark the first high-level direct diplomatic engagement between Israel and Lebanon in over 30 years.

Israeli and Lebanese envoys are set to hold a fresh round of peace talks in Washington next week amid continued Israeli Defence Forces operations against the militant group Hezbollah, despite a US-brokered ceasefire being in place from April 15. A US State Department official confirmed on Thursday that the talks will take place on May 14 and 15. This will be the third such meeting in recent months between the two countries, which have technically remained at war for decades and do not maintain diplomatic relations. The renewed engagement comes even as tensions remain high on the ground. The conflict in Lebanon escalated alongside broader regional hostilities involving Israel and Iran, with Washington still awaiting Tehran’s response to its latest proposal aimed at de-escalating the wider Middle East crisis and restoring stability in the Strait of Hormuz. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday said a peace deal between the parties was “eminently achievable,” adding that Hezbollah remains the primary obstacle rather than any direct dispute between the two governments. Lebanon was drawn deeper into the conflict after Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel, following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The situation further intensified exchanges between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed group. A ceasefire framework involving Israel, Lebanon and Hezbollah was extended until May 15 after the previous round of talks in Washington. However, Israel has continued targeted strikes against Hezbollah positions, while the group has also claimed attacks on Israeli forces operating in southern Lebanon. Also Read: ‘TMC chor’: Mahua Moitra alleges harassment onboard IndiGo flight, blames ‘BJP culture’ Meanwhile, US media outlet Axios reported, citing officials, that Washington and Tehran are close to finalising a one-page memorandum of understanding. The proposed document is expected to outline a framework to end hostilities and restart negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. Oil markets reacted positively to the prospect of de-escalation, with Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate prices falling around five per cent on Thursday, extending losses from earlier in the week. However, prices remain higher than pre-conflict levels. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas trade, continues to remain under pressure amid ongoing instability in the region.

The current Washington sessions mark the first high-level direct diplomatic engagement between Israel and Lebanon in over 30 years.

Israel, Lebanon to hold fresh talks in Washington as US awaits Iran’s response to peace deal

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