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Prediction markets, platforms that allow users to wager on future events, are facing growing scrutiny as suspicious trading activity raises concerns about insider information. The spotlight intensified after a US Army special forces soldier involved in a mission targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was charged with using classified intelligence to place bets tied to the operation. Here’s a closer look at how these platforms work and why they are drawing attention.<h2>What are prediction markets?</h2>Prediction markets such as Polymarket and Kalshi function similarly to gambling platforms, but instead of focusing on sports, users bet on real-world events. These can range from political outcomes and global events to weather forecasts and even social media activity. For example, users might bet on when Keir Starmer could leave office, how frequently Elon Musk might post online, or temperature trends in cities like Paris. Participants profit if their predictions are correct, while platforms earn revenue by charging transaction fees. With millions of users, these markets now handle billions of dollars in wagers across topics like elections, tariffs, and oil prices.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shocking-kash-patel-was-arrested-twice-before-fbi-role-details-from-2005-letter-resurface-amid-new-allegations-1777071901768">Shocking! Kash Patel was arrested twice before FBI role. Details from 2005 letter resurface amid new allegations</a><h2>Are these markets legal?</h2>Globally, prediction markets are largely legal. However, the situation is more complex in the United States. Polymarket had been unavailable domestically for years but recently resumed limited operations. Meanwhile, Kalshi operates under regulation by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, offering a wider selection of markets to American users. Some users bypass restrictions by using VPNs to access international platforms. Unlike traditional bookmakers, these platforms argue they function as exchanges, facilitating “trades” rather than setting odds.<h2>Can they predict real-world events?</h2>Possibly. Research suggests that collective forecasting, often referred to as “the wisdom of crowds”, can outperform individual experts. As a result, prediction market data can offer insights into likely outcomes in politics, economics, and global affairs.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-ignores-lebanon-truce-war-rages-with-hezbollah-un-says-lebanon-cannot-be-another-gaza-1777055411706/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-ignores-lebanon-truce-war-rages-with-hezbollah-un-says-lebanon-cannot-be-another-gaza-1777055411706/embed</a><h2>What are the risks?</h2>Concerns have grown over the potential misuse of insider information. In the latest case, a US soldier allegedly earned over $400,000 by betting on outcomes tied to a military operation in Venezuela. Similar concerns arose before major events like the American-Israeli strikes on Iran and the Oscars, where unusual betting patterns correctly anticipated outcomes. An analysis by The New York Times found a surge in bets predicting a US strike on Iran shortly before it occurred, raising suspicions of privileged information being used.<h2>Regulatory backlash grows</h2>In response, several US states have moved to restrict or ban prediction markets. Both Polymarket and Kalshi say they are strengthening safeguards. Kalshi recently banned political candidates from betting on their own races. The White House has also warned staff against using insider knowledge to place bets tied to geopolitical events.<h2>A concept with a long history</h2>While prediction markets are gaining traction today, the concept is not new. The Iowa Electronic Markets, launched in 1988, is an early example focused on political forecasting. In 2003, the Pentagon explored launching a platform to predict events such as terrorist attacks. However, the idea faced strong backlash and was quickly abandoned.

Prediction markets like Polymarket face scrutiny after a US soldier allegedly used classified Maduro raid intel to earn $400K, raising legal concerns

Prediction markets, platforms that allow users to wager on future events, are facing growing scrutiny as suspicious trading activity raises concerns about insider information. The spotlight intensified after a US Army special forces soldier involved in a mission targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was charged with using classified intelligence to place bets tied to the operation. Here’s a closer look at how these platforms work and why they are drawing attention. What are prediction markets? Prediction markets such as Polymarket and Kalshi function similarly to gambling platforms, but instead of focusing on sports, users bet on real-world events. These can range from political outcomes and global events to weather forecasts and even social media activity. For example, users might bet on when Keir Starmer could leave office, how frequently Elon Musk might post online, or temperature trends in cities like Paris. Participants profit if their predictions are correct, while platforms earn revenue by charging transaction fees. With millions of users, these markets now handle billions of dollars in wagers across topics like elections, tariffs, and oil prices. Also Read: Shocking! Kash Patel was arrested twice before FBI role. Details from 2005 letter resurface amid new allegations Are these markets legal? Globally, prediction markets are largely legal. However, the situation is more complex in the United States. Polymarket had been unavailable domestically for years but recently resumed limited operations. Meanwhile, Kalshi operates under regulation by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, offering a wider selection of markets to American users. Some users bypass restrictions by using VPNs to access international platforms. Unlike traditional bookmakers, these platforms argue they function as exchanges, facilitating “trades” rather than setting odds. Can they predict real-world events? Possibly. Research suggests that collective forecasting, often referred to as “the wisdom of crowds”, can outperform individual experts. As a result, prediction market data can offer insights into likely outcomes in politics, economics, and global affairs. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-ignores-lebanon-truce-war-rages-with-hezbollah-un-says-lebanon-cannot-be-another-gaza-1777055411706/embed What are the risks? Concerns have grown over the potential misuse of insider information. In the latest case, a US soldier allegedly earned over $400,000 by betting on outcomes tied to a military operation in Venezuela. Similar concerns arose before major events like the American-Israeli strikes on Iran and the Oscars, where unusual betting patterns correctly anticipated outcomes. An analysis by The New York Times found a surge in bets predicting a US strike on Iran shortly before it occurred, raising suspicions of privileged information being used. Regulatory backlash grows In response, several US states have moved to restrict or ban prediction markets. Both Polymarket and Kalshi say they are strengthening safeguards. Kalshi recently banned political candidates from betting on their own races. The White House has also warned staff against using insider knowledge to place bets tied to geopolitical events. A concept with a long history While prediction markets are gaining traction today, the concept is not new. The Iowa Electronic Markets, launched in 1988, is an early example focused on political forecasting. In 2003, the Pentagon explored launching a platform to predict events such as terrorist attacks. However, the idea faced strong backlash and was quickly abandoned.

Prediction markets face scrutiny after a US soldier allegedly used classified Maduro raid intel to earn $400K, raising insider trading concerns

What are prediction markets? How they work and why they are under scrutiny

The Justice Department is actively pursuing at least 300 foreign-born American citizens as potential targets for denaturalisation, the legal process of stripping someone of their US citizenship, in what may be the highest volume of such cases in the country's history. Talking to NBC News, a Justice Department official confirmed that the number of people under review runs into the hundreds. A department spokesperson said the effort was moving "at warp speed," adding that the administration was "pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history" under the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-weird-stuff-happens-us-navy-sailor-headed-to-strait-of-hormuz-for-trump-s-minesweeping-mission-attacked-by-monkey-1777009414675">'Weird stuff happens': Monkey temporarily derails Trump's 'shoot and kill' mission in Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>US 'laser focused on rooting out criminal aliens'</h2>The DOJ official confirmed that federal prosecutors in field offices across America were working on the effort. "The Department of Justice is laser-focused on rooting out criminal aliens defrauding the naturalisation process," said the unnamed official. "Under the leadership of President Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department is pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history. We are moving at warp speed to ensure fraudsters are held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent."Denaturalisation has historically been an exceptionally rare legal tool, reserved for cases where someone concealed a serious criminal history, like war crimes, human rights violations, or fraud during the naturalisation process. Across the entirety of Trump's first term, the administration filed a total of 102 such cases. The current push is on track to dwarf that figure within months.US Citizenship and Immigration Services has deployed experts to field offices across the country and reassigned staff specifically to identify potential cases, to supply between 100 and 200 referrals per month to the Justice Department for prosecution. Federal prosecutors in field offices nationwide are working through the caseload.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-use-nuclear-weapons-against-tehran-trump-finally-reveals-his-plan-on-day-55-of-iran-war-1776996331952">US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war</a><h2>Which naturalised citizens is the Trump admin targeting?</h2>The Justice Department has outlined the types of cases it wants attorneys to prioritise, from individuals who pose national security risks or have been involved in war crimes or torture, to those accused of Medicaid and Medicare fraud or other forms of government fraud. It remains unclear which specific criteria apply to the roughly 300 people currently identified, or why they were singled out. The New York Times first reported the figure.The denaturalisation drive sits within a much broader immigration enforcement push that has defined Trump's second term. This, over the past year, has included mass deportation operations, large-scale ICE deployments into American cities, and the construction of detention facilities.<h2>How many naturalised citizens does the US have?</h2>Roughly 800,000 people become naturalised US citizens each year, according to Homeland Security data.

Why is the US government moving to strip citizenship from hundreds of people? Under Donald Trump, the Justice Department is fast-tracking denaturalisation cases, with at least 300 individuals under review.

Who’s being targeted? Is your citizenship at risk? Scroll down to find out.

The Justice Department is actively pursuing at least 300 foreign-born American citizens as potential targets for denaturalisation, the legal process of stripping someone of their US citizenship, in what may be the highest volume of such cases in the country's history. Talking to NBC News, a Justice Department official confirmed that the number of people under review runs into the hundreds. A department spokesperson said the effort was moving "at warp speed," adding that the administration was "pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history" under the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Also read | 'Weird stuff happens': Monkey temporarily derails Trump's 'shoot and kill' mission in Strait of Hormuz US 'laser focused on rooting out criminal aliens' The DOJ official confirmed that federal prosecutors in field offices across America were working on the effort. "The Department of Justice is laser-focused on rooting out criminal aliens defrauding the naturalisation process," said the unnamed official. "Under the leadership of President Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department is pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history. We are moving at warp speed to ensure fraudsters are held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent." Denaturalisation has historically been an exceptionally rare legal tool, reserved for cases where someone concealed a serious criminal history, like war crimes, human rights violations, or fraud during the naturalisation process. Across the entirety of Trump's first term, the administration filed a total of 102 such cases. The current push is on track to dwarf that figure within months. US Citizenship and Immigration Services has deployed experts to field offices across the country and reassigned staff specifically to identify potential cases, to supply between 100 and 200 referrals per month to the Justice Department for prosecution. Federal prosecutors in field offices nationwide are working through the caseload. Also read | US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war Which naturalised citizens is the Trump admin targeting? The Justice Department has outlined the types of cases it wants attorneys to prioritise, from individuals who pose national security risks or have been involved in war crimes or torture, to those accused of Medicaid and Medicare fraud or other forms of government fraud. It remains unclear which specific criteria apply to the roughly 300 people currently identified, or why they were singled out. The New York Times first reported the figure. The denaturalisation drive sits within a much broader immigration enforcement push that has defined Trump's second term. This, over the past year, has included mass deportation operations, large-scale ICE deployments into American cities, and the construction of detention facilities. How many naturalised citizens does the US have? Roughly 800,000 people become naturalised US citizens each year, according to Homeland Security data.

Why is the US government moving to strip citizenship from hundreds of people? Under Donald Trump, the Justice Department is fast-tracking denaturalisation cases, with at least 300 individuals under review.Who’s being targeted? Is your citizenship at risk? Scroll down to find out.

Trump DOJ working at 'warp speed' to strip hundreds of Americans of US citizenship. Are you at risk?

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing renewed scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and disclosures from a 2005 letter tied to his Florida Bar application resurfaced. The letter, obtained by The Intercept from Patel’s personnel file at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office, was reportedly written “per instructions of my employer” and details two incidents from his younger years involving alcohol.&nbsp;In one 2005 incident, while a law student at Pace University, Patel described being arrested after a night out with friends. “We went to a few of the local bars and consumed some alcoholic drinks,” he wrote. He recounted that later, during a walk home, he and his friends made a poor decision. “In a gross deviation from appropriate conduct, we attempted to relieve our bladders while walking home,” Patel said. “Before we could even do so, a police cruiser stopped the group. We were then arrested for public urination.” Patel said he paid a fine following the incident.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-iran-us-meeting-planned-in-pakistan-says-iranian-fm-spokesperson-esmaeil-baghaei-witkoff-kushner-head-to-islamabad-1777070562114">'No Iran-US meeting planned in Pakistan', says Iranian FM spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei; Witkoff, Kushner head to Islamabad</a>&nbsp;

A letter by Kash Patel from his personnel file at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office

In another case from 2001, Patel wrote that he was arrested for public intoxication while a student at the University of Richmond. “Upon exiting the arena,” he wrote, “the officer placed me under arrest for public intoxication, as I was not yet of 21 years of age.” He said he had consumed two drinks and later paid a fine, with NBC News previously reporting he was found guilty of a misdemeanor.<h2>What are the allegations against Kash Patel?</h2>Patel’s spokesperson Erica Knight defended him, saying: “Kash’s entire background was thoroughly examined and vetted prior to him assuming this role… These attacks are nothing more than an attempt to undermine a process that has already deemed him suitable to serve and a distraction to the record-breaking success of the FBI under Director Patel.” Patel has also faced recent criticism over alcohol-related claims. A viral video showed him drinking beer with the US Olympic hockey team in Italy, while reports in The Atlantic alleged he was intoxicated at private clubs in Washington and Las Vegas.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/raghav-chadha-s-move-a-blow-to-party-chief-and-ex-delhi-cm-kejriwal-1777054501873/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/raghav-chadha-s-move-a-blow-to-party-chief-and-ex-delhi-cm-kejriwal-1777054501873/embed</a>&nbsp;Patel denied the allegations and filed a defamation lawsuit. His lawyer Jesse R. Binnall said, “These claims about erratic behavior and excessive drinking are fabricated.” “I have never been intoxicated on the job, and that is why we filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit,” Patel said at a press conference. “And any one of you who wants to participate, bring it on. I’ll see you in court.”

FBI Director Kash Patel faces renewed scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and a resurfaced 2005 letter, while denying current allegations

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing renewed scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and disclosures from a 2005 letter tied to his Florida Bar application resurfaced. The letter, obtained by The Intercept from Patel’s personnel file at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office, was reportedly written “per instructions of my employer” and details two incidents from his younger years involving alcohol. In one 2005 incident, while a law student at Pace University, Patel described being arrested after a night out with friends. “We went to a few of the local bars and consumed some alcoholic drinks,” he wrote. He recounted that later, during a walk home, he and his friends made a poor decision. “In a gross deviation from appropriate conduct, we attempted to relieve our bladders while walking home,” Patel said. “Before we could even do so, a police cruiser stopped the group. We were then arrested for public urination.” Patel said he paid a fine following the incident. Also Read: 'No Iran-US meeting planned in Pakistan', says Iranian FM spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei; Witkoff, Kushner head to Islamabad

FBI Director Kash Patel faces scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and a resurfaced 2005 letter, while he denies current drinking allegations

Shocking! Kash Patel was arrested twice before FBI role. Details from 2005 letter resurface amid new allegations

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said in a post on X that no meeting is planned between Iranian and US negotiators in Pakistan, adding fresh uncertainty to ongoing diplomatic signals. “No meeting is planned to take place between Iran and the US,” Baghaei wrote. “Iran’s observations would be conveyed to Pakistan.”&nbsp;He added that Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is currently in Pakistan for discussions with Pakistani officials focused on mediation efforts to end what he described as the “American imposed war of aggression” and to restore regional peace. Baghaei’s remarks come amid mixed signals surrounding potential peace talks. The White House earlier said that US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff would travel to Pakistan for direct discussions with Iranian representatives.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-soldier-accused-of-using-classified-nicolas-maduro-raid-intel-to-earn-400k-on-polymarket-to-be-released-on-bond-1777065622874">US soldier accused of using classified Nicolas Maduro raid intel to earn $400K on Polymarket to be released on bond</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, for an official visit. FM Araghchi will be meeting with Pakistani high-level officials in concert with their ongoing mediation &amp; good offices for ending American imposed war of aggression and the restitution of peace in our region. No meeting… <a href="https://t.co/1vP51xIoep">pic.twitter.com/1vP51xIoep</a>&mdash; Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRIMFA_SPOX/status/2047787169776038085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Donald Trump said Friday that Iran is preparing an offer to the United States, though he said he was unaware of its details. “They’re making an offer, and we’ll have to see,” Trump told news agency Reuters in a phone interview. When asked who the US is negotiating with inside Iran, he responded: “I don’t want to say that, but we’re dealing with the people that are in charge now.”&nbsp;A day earlier, Trump expressed doubt about the clarity of Iran’s leadership, saying it was complicating diplomatic efforts. “They’re delaying it because they, we don’t know who to deal with,” Trump told reporters. “They know who the leader is in this country. We don’t know who the leader is in Iran.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-authorises-us-navy-to-target-iranian-fast-boats-in-hormuz-1777053575092/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-authorises-us-navy-to-target-iranian-fast-boats-in-hormuz-1777053575092/embed</a>&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 denies any planned US talks in Pakistan, while Donald Trump says Iran may make an offer, highlighting uncertainty in ongoing diplomatic efforts

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said in a post on X that no meeting is planned between Iranian and US negotiators in Pakistan, adding fresh uncertainty to ongoing diplomatic signals. “No meeting is planned to take place between Iran and the US,” Baghaei wrote. “Iran’s observations would be conveyed to Pakistan.” He added that Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is currently in Pakistan for discussions with Pakistani officials focused on mediation efforts to end what he described as the “American imposed war of aggression” and to restore regional peace. Baghaei’s remarks come amid mixed signals surrounding potential peace talks. The White House earlier said that US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff would travel to Pakistan for direct discussions with Iranian representatives. Also Read: US soldier accused of using classified Nicolas Maduro raid intel to earn $400K on Polymarket to be released on bond

Iran denies US talks in Pakistan as Donald Trump says Tehran may make an offer, amid confusion over leadership and ongoing diplomatic tensions

'No Iran-US meeting planned in Pakistan', says Iranian FM spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei; Witkoff, Kushner head to Islamabad

A US special forces soldier is set to be released on bond after being accused of using classified information about a mission targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to earn over $400,000 on the prediction market Polymarket, according to a federal magistrate in North Carolina. The court approved Gannon Ken Van Dyke’s release on a $250,000 unsecured bond and ordered him to report to a federal courthouse in New York by Tuesday, where the case will continue. Van Dyke, a US special forces soldier stationed at Fort Bragg near Fayetteville, North Carolina, said little during the hearing and was assigned a federal public defender.&nbsp;Federal prosecutors allege that Van Dyke used sensitive operational information tied to a January mission to capture Maduro to place bets on Polymarket, which allows users to trade on real-world outcomes ranging from elections to sporting events. Van Dyke faces multiple charges, including unlawful use of confidential government information, theft of nonpublic data, commodities fraud, wire fraud, and unlawful monetary transactions. He could face up to 10 years on several counts and up to 20 years on another.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-firing-squad-execution-us-justice-department-bringing-back-controversial-death-penalty-method-1777061980647">What is firing squad execution? US Justice Department bringing back controversial death penalty method</a>&nbsp;According to prosecutors, Van Dyke participated in the planning and execution phases of the operation and signed nondisclosure agreements. However, he allegedly used classified knowledge to bet that Maduro would be removed from power by January 31. “This involved a US soldier who allegedly took advantage of his position to profit from a righteous military operation,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-white-house-accuses-china-of-ai-theft-1777051762129/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-white-house-accuses-china-of-ai-theft-1777051762129/embed</a>&nbsp;Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan said the platform flagged suspicious activity and cooperated with authorities. “Every trade is public, permanent, and auditable,” Coplan wrote. “Bad actors leave a trail.” The case has triggered renewed scrutiny of prediction markets, with lawmakers calling for tighter oversight amid concerns about insider trading linked to geopolitical events. The Trump administration has generally supported expansion of the sector, while political and commercial ties to platforms like Polymarket have drawn additional attention.

US special forces soldier Gannon Van Dyke is accused of using classified Maduro raid information to earn $400K on Polymarket, now facing federal charges

A US special forces soldier is set to be released on bond after being accused of using classified information about a mission targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to earn over $400,000 on the prediction market Polymarket, according to a federal magistrate in North Carolina. The court approved Gannon Ken Van Dyke’s release on a $250,000 unsecured bond and ordered him to report to a federal courthouse in New York by Tuesday, where the case will continue. Van Dyke, a US special forces soldier stationed at Fort Bragg near Fayetteville, North Carolina, said little during the hearing and was assigned a federal public defender. Federal prosecutors allege that Van Dyke used sensitive operational information tied to a January mission to capture Maduro to place bets on Polymarket, which allows users to trade on real-world outcomes ranging from elections to sporting events. Van Dyke faces multiple charges, including unlawful use of confidential government information, theft of nonpublic data, commodities fraud, wire fraud, and unlawful monetary transactions. He could face up to 10 years on several counts and up to 20 years on another. Also Read: What is firing squad execution? US Justice Department bringing back controversial death penalty method According to prosecutors, Van Dyke participated in the planning and execution phases of the operation and signed nondisclosure agreements. However, he allegedly used classified knowledge to bet that Maduro would be removed from power by January 31. “This involved a US soldier who allegedly took advantage of his position to profit from a righteous military operation,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-white-house-accuses-china-of-ai-theft-1777051762129/embed Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan said the platform flagged suspicious activity and cooperated with authorities. “Every trade is public, permanent, and auditable,” Coplan wrote. “Bad actors leave a trail.” The case has triggered renewed scrutiny of prediction markets, with lawmakers calling for tighter oversight amid concerns about insider trading linked to geopolitical events. The Trump administration has generally supported expansion of the sector, while political and commercial ties to platforms like Polymarket have drawn additional attention.

US soldier Gannon Van Dyke accused of using classified Nicolas Maduro raid intel to profit $400K on Polymarket, is being released on bond amid investigation

US soldier accused of using classified Nicolas Maduro raid intel to earn $400K on Polymarket to be released on bond

The United States Department of Justice announced on Friday (April 24) that it is expanding federal execution protocols to include methods such as firing squads alongside lethal injection, reversing a moratorium imposed during the previous administration. The DOJ press release said, “Today, the Department of Justice acted to restore its solemn duty to seek, obtain, and implement lawful capital sentences – clearing the way for the Department to carry out executions once death-sentenced inmates have exhausted their appeals.”&nbsp;The department is also moving to reintroduce alternative execution methods for the most serious federal crimes, including gas asphyxiation and electrocution. A firing squad execution is a method of capital punishment in which a condemned prisoner is shot by a group of trained shooters. The inmate is typically restrained with a target placed over the heart while multiple shooters fire simultaneously. Historically used in military and rare civilian cases, firing squads have been largely absent from modern US practice, where lethal injection has been the primary method.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Associated Press, five US states currently permit firing squad executions under specific conditions: Idaho, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Utah. The DOJ said the change is driven by practical concerns, including difficulty sourcing lethal injection drugs due to legal and pharmaceutical restrictions. According to the statement, the measures include "expanding the protocol to include additional manners of execution such as the firing squad" and "readopting the lethal injection protocol utilized during the first Trump Administration," which "relies on pentobarbital as the lethal agent."&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-freezes-344-million-in-iran-linked-cryptocurrency-amid-energy-supply-disruptions-bessent-1777060728981"> US freezes $344 million in Iran-linked cryptocurrency amid energy supply disruptions: Bessent</a>&nbsp;The department said the changes aim at “streamlining internal processes to expedite death penalty cases.” It also confirmed it has "authorized seeking death sentences against 44 defendants" and "rescinded" the federal execution ban under the Biden administration. Interim Attorney General Todd Blanche has "already authorized seeking a death sentence against nine of these defendants," according to the statement.&nbsp;Public support for the death penalty has declined in the United States. A Gallup poll showed support dropping from 80% in 1994 to 52% in 2025. The Death Penalty Information Center noted that "the evidence shows that the death penalty in 2025 is increasingly unpopular with the American people even as elected officials schedule executions in search of diminishing political benefits."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mojtaba-khamenei-severely-wounded-remains-mentally-sharp-1777051395539/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/mojtaba-khamenei-severely-wounded-remains-mentally-sharp-1777051395539/embed</a>&nbsp;However, executions in the US reached a 16-year high last year. Donald Trump had previously signed an executive order directing federal authorities to pursue death sentences and ensure states maintain access to lethal injection drugs. Former Attorney General Merrick Garland imposed a moratorium on federal executions in 2021 during a policy review. Since then, the DOJ said it has worked to reverse those policies and restore the federal death penalty system.

The US DOJ expands federal execution methods to include firing squads, gas, and electrocution, reversing the moratorium and restoring death penalty policies

The United States Department of Justice announced on Friday (April 24) that it is expanding federal execution protocols to include methods such as firing squads alongside lethal injection, reversing a moratorium imposed during the previous administration. The DOJ press release said, “Today, the Department of Justice acted to restore its solemn duty to seek, obtain, and implement lawful capital sentences – clearing the way for the Department to carry out executions once death-sentenced inmates have exhausted their appeals.” The department is also moving to reintroduce alternative execution methods for the most serious federal crimes, including gas asphyxiation and electrocution. A firing squad execution is a method of capital punishment in which a condemned prisoner is shot by a group of trained shooters. The inmate is typically restrained with a target placed over the heart while multiple shooters fire simultaneously. Historically used in military and rare civilian cases, firing squads have been largely absent from modern US practice, where lethal injection has been the primary method. According to the Associated Press, five US states currently permit firing squad executions under specific conditions: Idaho, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Utah. The DOJ said the change is driven by practical concerns, including difficulty sourcing lethal injection drugs due to legal and pharmaceutical restrictions. According to the statement, the measures include "expanding the protocol to include additional manners of execution such as the firing squad" and "readopting the lethal injection protocol utilized during the first Trump Administration," which "relies on pentobarbital as the lethal agent." Also Read: US freezes $344 million in Iran-linked cryptocurrency amid energy supply disruptions: Bessent The department said the changes aim at “streamlining internal processes to expedite death penalty cases.” It also confirmed it has "authorized seeking death sentences against 44 defendants" and "rescinded" the federal execution ban under the Biden administration. Interim Attorney General Todd Blanche has "already authorized seeking a death sentence against nine of these defendants," according to the statement. Public support for the death penalty has declined in the United States. A Gallup poll showed support dropping from 80% in 1994 to 52% in 2025. The Death Penalty Information Center noted that "the evidence shows that the death penalty in 2025 is increasingly unpopular with the American people even as elected officials schedule executions in search of diminishing political benefits." https://www.wionews.com/videos/mojtaba-khamenei-severely-wounded-remains-mentally-sharp-1777051395539/embed However, executions in the US reached a 16-year high last year. Donald Trump had previously signed an executive order directing federal authorities to pursue death sentences and ensure states maintain access to lethal injection drugs. Former Attorney General Merrick Garland imposed a moratorium on federal executions in 2021 during a policy review. Since then, the DOJ said it has worked to reverse those policies and restore the federal death penalty system.

The US Department of Justice expands execution methods to include firing squads, reversing the moratorium as the federal death penalty policy is reinstated

What is firing squad execution? US Justice Department bringing back controversial death penalty method

Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of Tesla and X, is set to go to trial against Sam Altman and OpenAI in a case that could define the future direction of artificial intelligence development. The lawsuit centres on what Musk calls a “broken promise” by the company he co-founded in 2015.&nbsp;Musk argues that OpenAI has moved away from its original mission of developing artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity. He claims that under Altman’s leadership, the organisation has shifted from a non-profit model to a closed-source, profit-driven structure closely linked to Microsoft.&nbsp;&nbsp;Musk says he invested about 100 million dollars in the early years to ensure that AI would not be controlled by a few large corporations.&nbsp;OpenAI and Altman have rejected the claims, calling the lawsuit a distraction driven by competition. They point out that Musk is now building his own AI venture, xAI, which directly competes with OpenAI. According to them, the legal challenge is an attempt to slow down the growth of tools like ChatGPT.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-weighing-proposal-aimed-at-satisfying-us-demands-trump-claims-ahead-of-second-round-of-talks-in-pakistan-1777059310739">Iran weighing proposal aimed at satisfying US demands, Trump claims ahead of second round of talks in Pakistan</a>&nbsp;The dispute has its roots in OpenAI’s early years, when Musk, Altman and researchers, including Ilya Sutskever, launched the organisation to counter the growing influence of Google in AI. Rising computing costs later put pressure on the model, and in 2019, Musk left the board after disagreements over control. Soon after, OpenAI created a capped profit structure to attract investment.&nbsp;The launch of ChatGPT in 2022 brought global attention and rapid growth, backed by a reported $13 billion investment from Microsoft. The company also saw internal turmoil in 2023 when Altman was briefly removed and then reinstated after employee backlash.&nbsp;The case, expected to be closely watched when it proceeds on April 27, will test Musk’s claim that he was misled into supporting a project that has now shifted towards profit. OpenAI maintains that the case lacks legal merit and reflects Musk’s own business interests as competition in the AI sector intensifies.

Musk argues that OpenAI has moved away from its original mission of developing artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity.

Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of Tesla and X, is set to go to trial against Sam Altman and OpenAI in a case that could define the future direction of artificial intelligence development. The lawsuit centres on what Musk calls a “broken promise” by the company he co-founded in 2015. Musk argues that OpenAI has moved away from its original mission of developing artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity. He claims that under Altman’s leadership, the organisation has shifted from a non-profit model to a closed-source, profit-driven structure closely linked to Microsoft. Musk says he invested about 100 million dollars in the early years to ensure that AI would not be controlled by a few large corporations. OpenAI and Altman have rejected the claims, calling the lawsuit a distraction driven by competition. They point out that Musk is now building his own AI venture, xAI, which directly competes with OpenAI. According to them, the legal challenge is an attempt to slow down the growth of tools like ChatGPT. Also Read: Iran weighing proposal aimed at satisfying US demands, Trump claims ahead of second round of talks in Pakistan The dispute has its roots in OpenAI’s early years, when Musk, Altman and researchers, including Ilya Sutskever, launched the organisation to counter the growing influence of Google in AI. Rising computing costs later put pressure on the model, and in 2019, Musk left the board after disagreements over control. Soon after, OpenAI created a capped profit structure to attract investment. The launch of ChatGPT in 2022 brought global attention and rapid growth, backed by a reported $13 billion investment from Microsoft. The company also saw internal turmoil in 2023 when Altman was briefly removed and then reinstated after employee backlash. The case, expected to be closely watched when it proceeds on April 27, will test Musk’s claim that he was misled into supporting a project that has now shifted towards profit. OpenAI maintains that the case lacks legal merit and reflects Musk’s own business interests as competition in the AI sector intensifies.

Musk argues that OpenAI has moved away from its original mission of developing artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity.

Musk vs Altman AI clash heads to court on April 27 in OpenAI legal battle

The United States has frozen $344 million in cryptocurrency assets linked to Iran, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Friday (April 24), as Washington intensifies pressure on Tehran amid energy supply disruptions tied to conflict in the Middle East. The Treasury Department "will continue to systematically degrade Tehran's ability to generate, move, and repatriate funds," Bessent vowed in a statement on X.&nbsp;He added that the department imposed sanctions on "multiple wallets tied to Iran," leading to the freeze of funds. The move comes as US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to travel to Pakistan on Saturday for a new round of talks with Iran aimed at ending the conflict.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-one-little-half-sentence-and-ridiculous-supreme-court-ruling-on-tariffs-could-have-saved-us-159-billion-1777058211529">Trump: 'One little half sentence' and ridiculous Supreme Court ruling on tariffs could have saved US $159 billion</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Under Economic Fury, <a href="https://twitter.com/USTreasury?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USTreasury</a> will continue to systematically degrade Tehran’s ability to generate, move, and repatriate funds. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control is sanctioning multiple wallets tied to Iran — resulting in the freeze of $344 million in…&mdash; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent (@SecScottBessent) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecScottBessent/status/2047741124853502012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>US tightens pressure on Iran, sanctions Chinese oil refinery and 40 shipping companies</h2>Meanwhile, President Donald Trump’s administration has imposed economic sanctions on a major China-based oil refinery, along with around 40 shipping companies and tankers accused of transporting Iranian oil. The move, announced on Friday and first reported by news agency The Associated Press, follows through on Trump’s warning to apply secondary sanctions on entities conducting business with Iran. It forms part of a broader campaign to curb Tehran’s primary revenue stream, its oil exports.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-s-terror-links-exposed-fresh-images-fuel-claims-of-terror-nexus-1777051374261/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-s-terror-links-exposed-fresh-images-fuel-claims-of-terror-nexus-1777051374261/embed</a>&nbsp;At the same time, the US has enforced a physical blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies. These sanctions, which sever access to the US financial system and penalize those engaging with the targeted entities, come weeks before a planned meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping in China.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

The US freezes $344M in Iran-linked crypto and expands oil sanctions, escalating pressure on Tehran ahead of new diplomatic talks

The United States has frozen $344 million in cryptocurrency assets linked to Iran, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Friday (April 24), as Washington intensifies pressure on Tehran amid energy supply disruptions tied to conflict in the Middle East. The Treasury Department "will continue to systematically degrade Tehran's ability to generate, move, and repatriate funds," Bessent vowed in a statement on X. He added that the department imposed sanctions on "multiple wallets tied to Iran," leading to the freeze of funds. The move comes as US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to travel to Pakistan on Saturday for a new round of talks with Iran aimed at ending the conflict. Also Read: Trump: 'One little half sentence' and ridiculous Supreme Court ruling on tariffs could have saved US $159 billion

US freezes $344 million in crypto tied to Iran, expands sanctions on oil trade as tensions rise, and new diplomatic talks are set to begin

US freezes $344 million in Iran-linked cryptocurrency amid energy supply disruptions: Bessent

President Donald Trump on Friday (April 24) claimed that Iran is considering a proposal intended to satisfy the demands of the United States ahead of the resumption of negotiations between Tehran and Washington in Pakistan.&nbsp;"They're making an offer, and we'll have to see," Trump said during a phone interview with Reuters.&nbsp;Trump said he was not yet aware of the details of the offer, according to Reuters.&nbsp;Asked who the United States was negotiating with, he declined to specify, saying they were engaging with those currently in charge.&nbsp;These statements come as the US President is set to dispatch his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Pakistan for a second round of talks aimed at negotiating an end to the conflict between the United States and Iran.&nbsp;"I can confirm Special Envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan again tomorrow morning to engage in talks... with representatives from the Iranian delegation," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News on Friday.&nbsp;The second round of talks comes after days of trading accusations between both sides, with Trump facing intense domestic and international pressure from surging oil prices and disrupted trade routes triggered by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply.&nbsp;The first round of talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and attended by Witkoff and Kushner, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi led Tehran’s delegation, collapsed after Iran objected to Washington’s insistence on maintaining sanctions and naval restrictions during negotiations.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran's state media confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel on Friday to Pakistan, which has been mediating between the Islamic Republic and the United States in a bid to end the West Asia conflict.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-talks-iran-s-fm-abbas-araghchi-arrives-in-islamabad-for-second-round-talks-1777055882465">US-Iran peace negotiations: Iran's FM Abbas Araghchi arrives in Islamabad for second round talks</a>&nbsp;"Iran's Foreign Minister will begin a regional tour on Friday evening, April 24, travelling to Islamabad, Muscat and Moscow," the official IRNA news agency said, after a Pakistani official disclosed the visit. "The purpose of this trip is to hold bilateral consultations, discuss ongoing developments in the region, and review the latest situation regarding the war imposed by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran."&nbsp;However, Araghchi confirmed his visit to Pakistan, citing bilateral talks as the reason for the trip, without mentioning any peace talks with the United States.&nbsp;"Embarking on a timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow. The purpose of my visits is to closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments. Our neighbours are our priority," he said in a post on X.&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.)

These statements come as the US President is set to dispatch his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Pakistan for a second round of talks aimed at negotiating an end to the conflict between the United States and Iran.

President Donald Trump on Friday (April 24) claimed that Iran is considering a proposal intended to satisfy the demands of the United States ahead of the resumption of negotiations between Tehran and Washington in Pakistan. "They're making an offer, and we'll have to see," Trump said during a phone interview with Reuters. Trump said he was not yet aware of the details of the offer, according to Reuters. Asked who the United States was negotiating with, he declined to specify, saying they were engaging with those currently in charge. These statements come as the US President is set to dispatch his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Pakistan for a second round of talks aimed at negotiating an end to the conflict between the United States and Iran. "I can confirm Special Envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan again tomorrow morning to engage in talks... with representatives from the Iranian delegation," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News on Friday. The second round of talks comes after days of trading accusations between both sides, with Trump facing intense domestic and international pressure from surging oil prices and disrupted trade routes triggered by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. The first round of talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and attended by Witkoff and Kushner, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi led Tehran’s delegation, collapsed after Iran objected to Washington’s insistence on maintaining sanctions and naval restrictions during negotiations. Meanwhile, Iran's state media confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel on Friday to Pakistan, which has been mediating between the Islamic Republic and the United States in a bid to end the West Asia conflict. Also Read: US-Iran peace negotiations: Iran's FM Abbas Araghchi arrives in Islamabad for second round talks "Iran's Foreign Minister will begin a regional tour on Friday evening, April 24, travelling to Islamabad, Muscat and Moscow," the official IRNA news agency said, after a Pakistani official disclosed the visit. "The purpose of this trip is to hold bilateral consultations, discuss ongoing developments in the region, and review the latest situation regarding the war imposed by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran." However, Araghchi confirmed his visit to Pakistan, citing bilateral talks as the reason for the trip, without mentioning any peace talks with the United States. "Embarking on a timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow. The purpose of my visits is to closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments. Our neighbours are our priority," he said in a post on X. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

These statements come as the US President is set to dispatch his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Pakistan for a second round of talks aimed at negotiating an end to the conflict between the United States and Iran.

Iran weighing proposal aimed at satisfying US demands, Trump claims ahead of second round of talks in Pakistan

Donald Trump has strongly criticized a United States Supreme Court decision on tariffs, warning it could cost the country as much as $159 billion in repayments. In a social media post, Trump said the ruling would force the United States to return substantial sums to companies that had previously paid tariffs, describing the decision as “horrible and ridiculous."&nbsp;“People and companies that have taken advantage of our country for decades… are now supposed to be given back $159 billion," he wrote. Trump argued that a small change in the court’s language could have avoided the repayments. “All they had to do was one little half sentence… and our country would be $159 billion richer," he said. He added that the figure surpasses the economic size of many nations, emphasizing what he sees as the magnitude of the impact.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-talks-iran-s-fm-abbas-araghchi-arrives-in-islamabad-for-second-round-talks-1777055882465">US-Iran peace negotiations: Iran's FM Abbas Araghchi arrives in Islamabad for second round talks</a>

The remarks come amid ongoing debates over US trade policy and court rulings affecting tariffs, which carry major implications for government revenue, global trade relations, and domestic industries. While the specific Supreme Court decision was not detailed in Trump’s post, his comments underscore continuing tensions between the executive branch and the judiciary over trade-related issues.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-terror-link-exposed-fresh-visuals-raise-questions-over-pakistan-s-terror-links-1777050491182/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-terror-link-exposed-fresh-visuals-raise-questions-over-pakistan-s-terror-links-1777050491182/embed</a>&nbsp;On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “People and Companies that have taken advantage of our Country for decades, because of the horrible and ridiculous United States Supreme Court decision on Tariffs, are now supposed to be given back 159 Billion Dollars. All they had to do was one little half sentence, “that the United States does not have to pay back monies that were already paid” — and our Country would be 159 Billion Dollars richer. That’s more than most Countries are worth! Think of it — Just one half sentence, and we would have saved 159 Billion Dollars. Couldn’t they have done that for our Nation? President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

Donald Trump slams a US Supreme Court tariff ruling, claiming it could cost $159 billion in repayments and intensify debates over trade policy

Donald Trump has strongly criticized a United States Supreme Court decision on tariffs, warning it could cost the country as much as $159 billion in repayments. In a social media post, Trump said the ruling would force the United States to return substantial sums to companies that had previously paid tariffs, describing the decision as “horrible and ridiculous." “People and companies that have taken advantage of our country for decades… are now supposed to be given back $159 billion," he wrote. Trump argued that a small change in the court’s language could have avoided the repayments. “All they had to do was one little half sentence… and our country would be $159 billion richer," he said. He added that the figure surpasses the economic size of many nations, emphasizing what he sees as the magnitude of the impact. Also Read: US-Iran peace negotiations: Iran's FM Abbas Araghchi arrives in Islamabad for second round talks

Donald Trump has slammed the Supreme Court's tariff ruling, claiming it could cost the US $159 billion and spark a major debate over trade policy

Trump: 'One little half sentence' and ridiculous Supreme Court ruling on tariffs could have saved US $159 billion

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on Friday (April 24) asserted that Spain remains a “reliable member” of NATO, pushing back against reports that the United States was considering punitive steps, including a possible suspension, over Madrid’s refusal to support military operations against Iran.&nbsp;Speaking during a visit to Cyprus for a European Union summit, Sánchez dismissed concerns triggered by a Reuters report citing an anonymous US official as telling it that the Pentagon had outlined the suspension option in an email looking at ways to punish NATO allies that steered clear of the US-Israeli war against Iran.&nbsp;“Spain is a reliable member within NATO,” Sánchez said, adding that the country is fulfilling all its obligations. “As a result, I am absolutely not worried.”&nbsp;The Spanish leader further underlined that his government responds only to formal positions. “We don’t work on the basis of emails; we work off official documents and the position that the United States government has set out,” he said.&nbsp;The reported Pentagon communication reflects growing frustration in Washington with some European allies for denying access to bases and airspace for operations linked to the Iran conflict. Spain, along with countries such as France and Italy, refused to allow US aircraft to use their territory, widening divisions within the alliance.&nbsp;However, NATO’s founding treaty contains no provision to suspend or expel a member, making any such move legally unclear. The alliance, which operates by consensus among its 32 members, has also maintained that it has no direct operational role in the Iran war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoys-steve-witkoff-and-jared-kushner-head-to-pakistan-for-talks-with-iran-1777052707092">US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner head to Pakistan for talks with Iran</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised NATO partners for not backing Washington’s military campaign and efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route disrupted during the conflict.&nbsp;Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also weighed in, stressing that NATO unity must be preserved, calling it a “source of strength”.&nbsp;Sánchez reiterated that Spain supports cooperation with allies but only within international law, highlighting deepening strains within NATO as the Iran conflict reshapes transatlantic relations.

Spain, along with countries such as France and Italy, refused to allow US aircraft to use their territory, widening divisions within the alliance.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on Friday (April 24) asserted that Spain remains a “reliable member” of NATO, pushing back against reports that the United States was considering punitive steps, including a possible suspension, over Madrid’s refusal to support military operations against Iran. Speaking during a visit to Cyprus for a European Union summit, Sánchez dismissed concerns triggered by a Reuters report citing an anonymous US official as telling it that the Pentagon had outlined the suspension option in an email looking at ways to punish NATO allies that steered clear of the US-Israeli war against Iran. “Spain is a reliable member within NATO,” Sánchez said, adding that the country is fulfilling all its obligations. “As a result, I am absolutely not worried.” The Spanish leader further underlined that his government responds only to formal positions. “We don’t work on the basis of emails; we work off official documents and the position that the United States government has set out,” he said. The reported Pentagon communication reflects growing frustration in Washington with some European allies for denying access to bases and airspace for operations linked to the Iran conflict. Spain, along with countries such as France and Italy, refused to allow US aircraft to use their territory, widening divisions within the alliance. However, NATO’s founding treaty contains no provision to suspend or expel a member, making any such move legally unclear. The alliance, which operates by consensus among its 32 members, has also maintained that it has no direct operational role in the Iran war. Also Read: US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner head to Pakistan for talks with Iran US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised NATO partners for not backing Washington’s military campaign and efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route disrupted during the conflict. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also weighed in, stressing that NATO unity must be preserved, calling it a “source of strength”. Sánchez reiterated that Spain supports cooperation with allies but only within international law, highlighting deepening strains within NATO as the Iran conflict reshapes transatlantic relations.

Spain, along with countries such as France and Italy, refused to allow US aircraft to use their territory, widening divisions within the alliance.

Spain 'reliable' NATO member, PM Sánchez says amid report of US ouster threat

The US Justice Department has ended its probe into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, clearing a major roadblock to the confirmation of his successor Kevin Warsh. US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeannine Pirro said on Friday that her office was ending its probe into the Fed’s extensive building renovations because the Fed’s inspector general would scrutinise them instead.&nbsp;Pirro wrote on X that the Fed’s inspector general has instead been asked to look into potential cost overruns in the central bank's renovation of its Washington, D.C., headquarters.&nbsp;“Accordingly, I have directed my office to close our investigation as the IG undertakes this inquiry,” she wrote.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-cancels-licence-of-paytm-payments-bank-to-seek-winding-up-in-court-1777048619815">RBI cancels licence of Paytm Payments Bank, to seek its winding up in court</a>&nbsp;<h2>Move could lead to swift confirmation by Senate for Kevin Warsh</h2>&nbsp;The move could lead to a swift confirmation vote by the Senate for Warsh, a former top Fed official whom President Donald Trump, a Republican, nominated in January to replace Powell. Powell’s term as chair ends May 15.&nbsp;Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, had said he would oppose Warsh until the investigation was resolved, effectively blocking his confirmation.Republicans praised Warsh during a Tuesday hearing, but Democrats questioned his independence from Trump, the lack of transparency around some of his financial holdings, and his flip-flop on interest rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blockade-of-iranian-vessels-to-continue-for-as-long-as-it-takes-defence-secretary-pete-hegseth-1777040971899">US blockade of Iranian vessels to continue for ‘as long as it takes’: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;The investigation was among several undertaken by the Justice Department against Trump’s perceived adversaries. It had failed to gain traction for months as prosecutors struggled to articulate a basis to suspect criminal conduct.&nbsp;A prosecutor handling the case conceded at a closed-door court hearing last month that the government hadn’t found any evidence of a crime. Consequently, a judge quashed the subpoenas issued to the Federal Reserve.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-cleric-wants-trump-to-apologise-over-ali-khamenei-killing-admit-mistake-before-world-1777036677663">Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world</a><h2>‘Prosecutors produced essentially zero evidence to suspect Powell of crime’</h2>&nbsp;The judge, James Boasberg, said prosecutors had produced “essentially zero evidence” to suspect Powell of a crime.&nbsp;&nbsp;Warsh said during the Senate hearing earlier this week that he never promised the White House that he would cut interest rates, even as the president renewed his calls for the central bank to do so.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/raghav-chadha-2-other-mps-quit-aam-aadmi-party-announce-split-with-2-3rd-mps-to-join-bjp-1777026936391">Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs joining BJP</a>&nbsp;“The president never once asked me to commit to any particular interest rate decision, period,” Kevin Warsh, a former top Fed official, said during questioning by the Senate Banking Committee. “Nor would I ever agree to do so if he had. ... I will be an independent actor if confirmed as chair of the Federal Reserve.”&nbsp;The decision to abandon the investigation represents a rare pullback for a Justice Department that over the last year has moved aggressively, albeit unsuccessfully, to prosecute public figures the president does not like.

The investigation against Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell was among several undertaken by the Justice Department against Trump’s perceived adversaries. It had failed to gain traction for months as prosecutors struggled to articulate a basis to suspect criminal conduct.

The US Justice Department has ended its probe into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, clearing a major roadblock to the confirmation of his successor Kevin Warsh. US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeannine Pirro said on Friday that her office was ending its probe into the Fed’s extensive building renovations because the Fed’s inspector general would scrutinise them instead. Pirro wrote on X that the Fed’s inspector general has instead been asked to look into potential cost overruns in the central bank's renovation of its Washington, D.C., headquarters. “Accordingly, I have directed my office to close our investigation as the IG undertakes this inquiry,” she wrote. Also Read: RBI cancels licence of Paytm Payments Bank, to seek its winding up in court Move could lead to swift confirmation by Senate for Kevin Warsh The move could lead to a swift confirmation vote by the Senate for Warsh, a former top Fed official whom President Donald Trump, a Republican, nominated in January to replace Powell. Powell’s term as chair ends May 15. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, had said he would oppose Warsh until the investigation was resolved, effectively blocking his confirmation. Republicans praised Warsh during a Tuesday hearing, but Democrats questioned his independence from Trump, the lack of transparency around some of his financial holdings, and his flip-flop on interest rates. Also Read: US blockade of Iranian vessels to continue for ‘as long as it takes’: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth The investigation was among several undertaken by the Justice Department against Trump’s perceived adversaries. It had failed to gain traction for months as prosecutors struggled to articulate a basis to suspect criminal conduct. A prosecutor handling the case conceded at a closed-door court hearing last month that the government hadn’t found any evidence of a crime. Consequently, a judge quashed the subpoenas issued to the Federal Reserve. Also Read: Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world ‘Prosecutors produced essentially zero evidence to suspect Powell of crime’ The judge, James Boasberg, said prosecutors had produced “essentially zero evidence” to suspect Powell of a crime. Warsh said during the Senate hearing earlier this week that he never promised the White House that he would cut interest rates, even as the president renewed his calls for the central bank to do so. Also Read: Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs joining BJP “The president never once asked me to commit to any particular interest rate decision, period,” Kevin Warsh, a former top Fed official, said during questioning by the Senate Banking Committee. “Nor would I ever agree to do so if he had. ... I will be an independent actor if confirmed as chair of the Federal Reserve.” The decision to abandon the investigation represents a rare pullback for a Justice Department that over the last year has moved aggressively, albeit unsuccessfully, to prosecute public figures the president does not like.

The investigation against Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell was among several undertaken by the Justice Department against Trump’s perceived adversaries. It had failed to gain traction for months as prosecutors struggled to articulate a basis to suspect criminal conduct.

Justice Department drops criminal probe of Fed chair Jerome Powell, likely paving the way for Kevin Warsh

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, accompanied by a senior delegation, arrived in Islamabad on late Friday (April 24), signaling renewed diplomatic efforts to revive stalled negotiations between Iran and the United States, with Pakistan emerging as a key intermediary. Araghchi confirmed he had started a timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow, as diplomatic channels reopened following weeks of deadlock.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier talks had stalled over contentious issues, including the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran has tied to any future engagement with Washington. Pakistan has been working behind the scenes to bring both sides back to the negotiating table, attempting to arrange a second round of direct talks. Officials familiar with the matter say Islamabad’s role as a mediator has gained momentum in recent weeks.&nbsp;This renewed push comes as the United States prepares to send its own representatives to Pakistan. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to arrive in Islamabad to participate in discussions with Iranian officials. Karoline Leavitt confirmed the development, saying that the talks would be conducted directly but facilitated by Pakistan. “I can confirm special envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan to engage in talks mediated by the Pakistanis, who have been incredible friends and mediators throughout this process,” she said in an interview with Fox News.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">H.E. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Honorable Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran arrived in Islamabad in order to review bilateral matters and consulate on regional developments. <a href="https://t.co/Pzkh9ZsPfA">pic.twitter.com/Pzkh9ZsPfA</a>&mdash; Embassy of IR Iran Pakistan (@IraninIslamabad) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraninIslamabad/status/2047746661901017237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoys-steve-witkoff-and-jared-kushner-head-to-pakistan-for-talks-with-iran-1777052707092">US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner head to Pakistan for talks with Iran</a>&nbsp;Leavitt added that JD Vance would not attend the talks but would remain closely engaged from Washington, staying in consultation with Marco Rubio and the broader national security team. While there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding a formal second round of talks, Araghchi’s visit alongside parallel US outreach indicates a coordinated effort to break the current impasse.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-us-blockade-against-iran-will-continue-as-long-as-it-takes-1777049976292/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-us-blockade-against-iran-will-continue-as-long-as-it-takes-1777049976292/embed</a>&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’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi lands in Pakistan as Islamabad mediates renewed US-Iran talks, with US envoys joining efforts to revive stalled negotiations

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, accompanied by a senior delegation, arrived in Islamabad on late Friday (April 24), signaling renewed diplomatic efforts to revive stalled negotiations between Iran and the United States, with Pakistan emerging as a key intermediary. Araghchi confirmed he had started a timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow, as diplomatic channels reopened following weeks of deadlock. Earlier talks had stalled over contentious issues, including the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran has tied to any future engagement with Washington. Pakistan has been working behind the scenes to bring both sides back to the negotiating table, attempting to arrange a second round of direct talks. Officials familiar with the matter say Islamabad’s role as a mediator has gained momentum in recent weeks. This renewed push comes as the United States prepares to send its own representatives to Pakistan. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to arrive in Islamabad to participate in discussions with Iranian officials. Karoline Leavitt confirmed the development, saying that the talks would be conducted directly but facilitated by Pakistan. “I can confirm special envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan to engage in talks mediated by the Pakistanis, who have been incredible friends and mediators throughout this process,” she said in an interview with Fox News.

Iran FM Abbas Araghchi arrives in Islamabad as Pakistan mediates renewed US-Iran talks, signaling efforts to break weeks of diplomatic deadlock

US-Iran peace negotiations: Iran's FM Abbas Araghchi arrives in Islamabad for second round talks

A bus crash near pentagon on Friday left 23 people, including 10 Department of War personnel injured, according to a statement from the Pentagon Force Protection Agency Corporate Communications Office. The crash between a Fairfax County Connector bus and a Prince William County Omniride bus happened just before 7:30 a.m. in the Pentagon South parking lot, said the Pentagon Police.&nbsp;"At approximately 7:20 a.m. today, an Omni Ride and a Fairfax Connector transit bus collided on the Metro Access Road. Twenty-three passengers were injured. Ten of the twenty-three injured passengers are Department of War personnel. First responders transported 18 individuals to local hospitals for further medical evaluation and treatment. Five passengers were treated on site and released on the own recognizance," Fox News quoted the Pentagon Police as saying.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-uncertainty-over-iran-war-ending-us-deploys-three-aircraft-carriers-in-middle-east-in-over-two-decades-what-does-it-mean-for-tehran-1777050354500">Amid uncertainty over Iran war ending, US deploys three aircraft carriers in Middle East in over two decades</a>&nbsp;Several police and fire departments close to the accident site were sent to assist in the crash investigation.&nbsp;Ten of the 23 passengers injured were Department of Defense personnel. First responders sent 18 people to area hospitals for further medical evaluation and treatment while five were given first aid at the accident site and released.&nbsp;For a short period the Pentagon Metro station and Transit Center was closed for the crash investigation. &nbsp;

First responders sent 18 people to area hospitals for further medical evaluation and treatment while five were given first aid at the accident site.

A bus crash near pentagon on Friday left 23 people, including 10 Department of War personnel injured, according to a statement from the Pentagon Force Protection Agency Corporate Communications Office. The crash between a Fairfax County Connector bus and a Prince William County Omniride bus happened just before 7:30 a.m. in the Pentagon South parking lot, said the Pentagon Police. "At approximately 7:20 a.m. today, an Omni Ride and a Fairfax Connector transit bus collided on the Metro Access Road. Twenty-three passengers were injured. Ten of the twenty-three injured passengers are Department of War personnel. First responders transported 18 individuals to local hospitals for further medical evaluation and treatment. Five passengers were treated on site and released on the own recognizance," Fox News quoted the Pentagon Police as saying. ALSO READ: Amid uncertainty over Iran war ending, US deploys three aircraft carriers in Middle East in over two decades Several police and fire departments close to the accident site were sent to assist in the crash investigation. Ten of the 23 passengers injured were Department of Defense personnel. First responders sent 18 people to area hospitals for further medical evaluation and treatment while five were given first aid at the accident site and released. For a short period the Pentagon Metro station and Transit Center was closed for the crash investigation.

First responders sent 18 people to area hospitals for further medical evaluation and treatment while five were given first aid at the accident site.

Bus crash near pentagon leaves 23 injured, including Department of War personnel

Nearly two months since the start of the military conflict marred by intensive fighting, blockades, trade route disruptions, Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner head to Pakistan for a second round of peace talks to negotiate an end to the war between the United States and Iran.&nbsp;"I can confirm Special Envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan again tomorrow morning to engage in talks... with representatives from the Iranian delegation," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News on Friday (April 24).&nbsp;The second round of talks comes after days of trading accusations between both sides, with US President Donald Trump facing intense domestic and international pressure from surging oil prices and disrupted trade routes triggered by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply.&nbsp;Iran had moved to restrict shipping in retaliation for a US-Israeli bombing campaign against the Islamic Republic on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes targeting military and government sites. The opening strikes killed top Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with dozens of other officials. Mojtaba Khamenei was subsequently elected on March 8, 2026, to replace his father as supreme leader.&nbsp;However, following the announcement of a ceasefire between Iran and the United States on April 7-8, and the first round of Islamabad talks on April 11-12, Tehran agreed to reopen the key waterway. Iran confirmed it would allow the resumption of shipping across the Strait of Hormuz during the two-week ceasefire period, easing disruptions that had pushed global oil prices sharply higher. However, it again closed the Strait after US President Donald Trump announced a complete naval blockade of Iran following the collapse of the Islamabad talks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-uncertainty-over-iran-war-ending-us-deploys-three-aircraft-carriers-in-middle-east-in-over-two-decades-what-does-it-mean-for-tehran-1777050354500">Amid uncertainty over Iran war ending, US deploys three aircraft carriers in Middle East in over two decades</a>&nbsp;The first round of talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and attended by Witkoff and Kushner, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi led Tehran’s delegation, collapsed after Iran objected to Washington’s insistence on maintaining sanctions and naval restrictions during negotiations. Meanwhile, Iran's state media confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel on Friday to Pakistan, which has been mediating between the Islamic Republic and the United States in a bid to end the West Asia conflict.&nbsp;"Iran's Foreign Minister will begin a regional tour on Friday evening, April 24, travelling to Islamabad, Muscat and Moscow," the official IRNA news agency said, after a Pakistani official disclosed the visit. "The purpose of this trip is to hold bilateral consultations, discuss ongoing developments in the region, and review the latest situation regarding the war imposed by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran."&nbsp;However, Araghchi confirmed his visit to Pakistan but cited bilateral talks as the reason for the trip without mentioning any peace talks with the United States.&nbsp;"Embarking on a timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow. The purpose of my visits is to closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments. Our neighbours are our priority," he said in a post on X.

Iran's state media confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel on Friday to Pakistan, which has been mediating between the Islamic Republic and the United States in a bid to end the West Asia conflict.

Nearly two months since the start of the military conflict marred by intensive fighting, blockades, trade route disruptions, Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner head to Pakistan for a second round of peace talks to negotiate an end to the war between the United States and Iran. "I can confirm Special Envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan again tomorrow morning to engage in talks... with representatives from the Iranian delegation," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News on Friday (April 24). The second round of talks comes after days of trading accusations between both sides, with US President Donald Trump facing intense domestic and international pressure from surging oil prices and disrupted trade routes triggered by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply. Iran had moved to restrict shipping in retaliation for a US-Israeli bombing campaign against the Islamic Republic on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes targeting military and government sites. The opening strikes killed top Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with dozens of other officials. Mojtaba Khamenei was subsequently elected on March 8, 2026, to replace his father as supreme leader. However, following the announcement of a ceasefire between Iran and the United States on April 7-8, and the first round of Islamabad talks on April 11-12, Tehran agreed to reopen the key waterway. Iran confirmed it would allow the resumption of shipping across the Strait of Hormuz during the two-week ceasefire period, easing disruptions that had pushed global oil prices sharply higher. However, it again closed the Strait after US President Donald Trump announced a complete naval blockade of Iran following the collapse of the Islamabad talks. Also Read: Amid uncertainty over Iran war ending, US deploys three aircraft carriers in Middle East in over two decades The first round of talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and attended by Witkoff and Kushner, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi led Tehran’s delegation, collapsed after Iran objected to Washington’s insistence on maintaining sanctions and naval restrictions during negotiations. Meanwhile, Iran's state media confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel on Friday to Pakistan, which has been mediating between the Islamic Republic and the United States in a bid to end the West Asia conflict. "Iran's Foreign Minister will begin a regional tour on Friday evening, April 24, travelling to Islamabad, Muscat and Moscow," the official IRNA news agency said, after a Pakistani official disclosed the visit. "The purpose of this trip is to hold bilateral consultations, discuss ongoing developments in the region, and review the latest situation regarding the war imposed by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran." However, Araghchi confirmed his visit to Pakistan but cited bilateral talks as the reason for the trip without mentioning any peace talks with the United States. "Embarking on a timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow. The purpose of my visits is to closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments. Our neighbours are our priority," he said in a post on X.

Iran's state media confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel on Friday to Pakistan, which has been mediating between the Islamic Republic and the United States in a bid to end the West Asia conflict.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner head to Pakistan for talks with Iran

For the first time in over two decade three aircraft carriers, along with hundreds of Navy aircraft and thousands of sailors and Marines have been deployed to the Middle East, according to US officials. The three US carriers are USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). Together they include over 200 aircraft and 15,000 Sailors and Marines.&nbsp;US Central Command which coordinates American forces throughout the Middle East took to X on Thursday to write," For the first time in decades, three aircraft carriers are operating in the Middle East at the same time. Accompanied by their carrier air wings, the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) include over 200 aircraft and 15,000 Sailors and Marines."&nbsp;The announcement comes at a time when the US President Donald Trump on Thursday declined to give a timeline on when the Iran war could end.<h2>About the third Nimitz-class carrier deployed in the Middle East</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>The third aircraft carrier, the Nimitz-class USS George H.W. Bush was commissioned in 2009</li><li>It is the newest of 10 Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in the US fleet</li><li>The carrier is almost 1,000 feet long</li><li>It can carry more than 80 aircraft and is powered by two nuclear reactors</li><li>The carrier has more than 5,500 sailors and air crew aboard</li></ul>Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social that a deal with Iran will only be made when it is appropriate and good for the United States.&nbsp;While Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday said that the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘ironclad’, and that a second aircraft carrier will be joining the blockade in the coming days.&nbsp;“Our blockade is growing and going global,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deployment of 3 US aircraft carriers comes at a time when the US President Donald Trump declined to give a timeline on when the Iran war could end.

For the first time in over two decade three aircraft carriers, along with hundreds of Navy aircraft and thousands of sailors and Marines have been deployed to the Middle East, according to US officials. The three US carriers are USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). Together they include over 200 aircraft and 15,000 Sailors and Marines. US Central Command which coordinates American forces throughout the Middle East took to X on Thursday to write," For the first time in decades, three aircraft carriers are operating in the Middle East at the same time. Accompanied by their carrier air wings, the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) include over 200 aircraft and 15,000 Sailors and Marines." The announcement comes at a time when the US President Donald Trump on Thursday declined to give a timeline on when the Iran war could end. About the third Nimitz-class carrier deployed in the Middle East The third aircraft carrier, the Nimitz-class USS George H.W. Bush was commissioned in 2009 It is the newest of 10 Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in the US fleet The carrier is almost 1,000 feet long It can carry more than 80 aircraft and is powered by two nuclear reactors The carrier has more than 5,500 sailors and air crew aboard Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social that a deal with Iran will only be made when it is appropriate and good for the United States. While Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday said that the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘ironclad’, and that a second aircraft carrier will be joining the blockade in the coming days. “Our blockade is growing and going global,” he said.

The deployment of 3 US aircraft carriers comes at a time when the US President Donald Trump declined to give a timeline on when the Iran war could end.

Amid uncertainty over Iran war ending, US deploys three aircraft carriers in Middle East in over two decades

In a significant signal of regional de-escalation, Iranian aviation authorities announced on Friday that Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) will fully resume international flight operations starting Saturday (Apr 25). According to official statements carried by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the decision follows a week-long suspension of civil aviation during the height of regional hostilities. The reopening of Iran’s primary international gateway is being viewed by analysts as a "soft confirmation" that the current Pakistan-mediated ceasefire is holding, despite sporadic border tensions elsewhere in the region.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-top-leadership-amplifies-the-voice-of-iran-1777048188789/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-top-leadership-amplifies-the-voice-of-iran-1777048188789/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Civil Aviation Organisation of Iran (CAO) confirmed that technical checks are complete and that "no-fly zones" over western and central Iran have been lifted for commercial traffic. State-owned Iran Air and Mahan Air are slated to lead the first wave of departures toward regional hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, and Islamabad, according to flight data cited by Tasnim News Agency. While several European carriers remain cautious, major regional players, including Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines, have updated their schedules to include Tehran for arrivals starting Sunday, per reports from Reuters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-cleric-wants-trump-to-apologise-over-ali-khamenei-killing-admit-mistake-before-world-1777036677663">Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world</a>&nbsp;Mehrabad Airport, which handles primarily domestic traffic, had already resumed partial service earlier this week, but the reopening of IKA marks the true return of Iran’s connection to the global economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tehran’s skies were effectively cleared of civilian traffic in February 2026. During the conflict, Iranian airspace was restricted to military use as the country braced for missile exchanges with US and Israeli forces. The closure had caused a massive logistical backlog, stranding thousands of Iranian citizens abroad and severely disrupting the flow of essential medical supplies. As noted by news agency Associated Press, the resumption of flights is expected to ease this humanitarian strain, even as the government maintains a "yellow alert" status for its air defence networks.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-kabhi-india-aa-ke-dekho-iran-embassy-in-mumbai-mocks-trump-over-hellholes-remark-1777019728333">‘Kabhi India aa ke dekho’: Iran Embassy in Mumbai mocks Trump over ‘hellholes’ remark</a>&nbsp;"While the skies are safe, the security of our passengers remains the absolute priority," a CAO spokesperson stated in a briefing relayed by state news outlet Press TV. As the first international flights prepare to taxi on Saturday, the world watches Tehran’s tarmac as a barometer for the durability of peace in a volatile West Asia. However, the CAO warned that travellers should expect enhanced security protocols and potential delays.

Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) will resume international flights on April 25, 2026, signaling a return to normalcy amid the regional ceasefire.

In a significant signal of regional de-escalation, Iranian aviation authorities announced on Friday that Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) will fully resume international flight operations starting Saturday (Apr 25). According to official statements carried by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the decision follows a week-long suspension of civil aviation during the height of regional hostilities. The reopening of Iran’s primary international gateway is being viewed by analysts as a "soft confirmation" that the current Pakistan-mediated ceasefire is holding, despite sporadic border tensions elsewhere in the region. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-top-leadership-amplifies-the-voice-of-iran-1777048188789/embed The Civil Aviation Organisation of Iran (CAO) confirmed that technical checks are complete and that "no-fly zones" over western and central Iran have been lifted for commercial traffic. State-owned Iran Air and Mahan Air are slated to lead the first wave of departures toward regional hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, and Islamabad, according to flight data cited by Tasnim News Agency. While several European carriers remain cautious, major regional players, including Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines, have updated their schedules to include Tehran for arrivals starting Sunday, per reports from Reuters. Also read: Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world Mehrabad Airport, which handles primarily domestic traffic, had already resumed partial service earlier this week, but the reopening of IKA marks the true return of Iran’s connection to the global economy. Tehran’s skies were effectively cleared of civilian traffic in February 2026. During the conflict, Iranian airspace was restricted to military use as the country braced for missile exchanges with US and Israeli forces. The closure had caused a massive logistical backlog, stranding thousands of Iranian citizens abroad and severely disrupting the flow of essential medical supplies. As noted by news agency Associated Press, the resumption of flights is expected to ease this humanitarian strain, even as the government maintains a "yellow alert" status for its air defence networks. Also read: ‘Kabhi India aa ke dekho’: Iran Embassy in Mumbai mocks Trump over ‘hellholes’ remark "While the skies are safe, the security of our passengers remains the absolute priority," a CAO spokesperson stated in a briefing relayed by state news outlet Press TV. As the first international flights prepare to taxi on Saturday, the world watches Tehran’s tarmac as a barometer for the durability of peace in a volatile West Asia. However, the CAO warned that travellers should expect enhanced security protocols and potential delays.

Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) will resume international flights on April 25, 2026, signalling a return to normalcy amid the regional ceasefire.

Tehran’s airport to resume international flights on April 25

Former US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster stated on Thursday (Apr 23) that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has transitioned into a "civilisational power" pursuing a more assertive global role. Speaking at the Hudson Institute’s ‘The New India Conference’, Juster identified the 2014 election of PM Modi as the pivotal catalyst for this foreign policy shift. He noted that the Prime Minister has instilled a newfound "greater self-confidence" in India’s international engagements, significantly expanding the nation's diplomatic reach and strategic ambitions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-registers-92-voter-turnout-in-phase-1-1777049078043/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-registers-92-voter-turnout-in-phase-1-1777049078043/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Juster, this evolution reflects a broader transformation where India no longer views itself merely as a regional player but as a major global force. By projecting a distinct civilisational identity, India is actively seeking to play a more significant and influential role within the international community. Juster emphasised that this sense of purpose has allowed New Delhi to engage a "wide swath of countries" with unprecedented proactive energy, marking a departure from previous diplomatic orientations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/narendra-modi-shares-glimpse-of-howrah-bridge-visit-experience-1777013061044">Narendra Modi Shares Glimpse of Howrah Bridge Visit Experience</a>&nbsp;The former envoy’s remarks highlight a growing Washington consensus on India's trajectory as a confident, self-assured power determined to shape the 21st-century global order.&nbsp;According to Juster, India's foreign policy under the current leadership reflects a balance between strategic autonomy and global engagement, particularly in the context of US-China competition. "India shares a common interest with middle powers in wanting to avoid letting the US-China competition weaken its strategic autonomy and freedom of action," Juster said, adding that despite tensions with China, New Delhi continues to tilt towards closer engagement with the United States. He also highlighted India's long-term ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047, as well as its growing role in global governance platforms, including India's increasing influence as a regular observer at G7 summits and its prominent role during its 2023 presidency of the G20. Juster added that India has sought to position itself as "the global voice or the voice for the global South", reflecting its broader aspiration to shape international discourse on development and governance.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Under Prime Minister Modi, India has declared the ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 and has become a regular and influential observer for over a decade at the G7 summits and made a big splash in 2023 as the chair of the G20 summit, in which it also made clear it wants to be the global voice or the voice for the global South," he added.&nbsp;(With agency inputs)

Former US Ambassador Kenneth Juster tells Hudson Institute that PM Modi has transformed India into a confident civilisational power with an assertive global role.

Former US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster stated on Thursday (Apr 23) that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has transitioned into a "civilisational power" pursuing a more assertive global role. Speaking at the Hudson Institute’s ‘The New India Conference’, Juster identified the 2014 election of PM Modi as the pivotal catalyst for this foreign policy shift. He noted that the Prime Minister has instilled a newfound "greater self-confidence" in India’s international engagements, significantly expanding the nation's diplomatic reach and strategic ambitions. https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-registers-92-voter-turnout-in-phase-1-1777049078043/embed According to Juster, this evolution reflects a broader transformation where India no longer views itself merely as a regional player but as a major global force. By projecting a distinct civilisational identity, India is actively seeking to play a more significant and influential role within the international community. Juster emphasised that this sense of purpose has allowed New Delhi to engage a "wide swath of countries" with unprecedented proactive energy, marking a departure from previous diplomatic orientations. Also read: Narendra Modi Shares Glimpse of Howrah Bridge Visit Experience The former envoy’s remarks highlight a growing Washington consensus on India's trajectory as a confident, self-assured power determined to shape the 21st-century global order. According to Juster, India's foreign policy under the current leadership reflects a balance between strategic autonomy and global engagement, particularly in the context of US-China competition. "India shares a common interest with middle powers in wanting to avoid letting the US-China competition weaken its strategic autonomy and freedom of action," Juster said, adding that despite tensions with China, New Delhi continues to tilt towards closer engagement with the United States. He also highlighted India's long-term ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047, as well as its growing role in global governance platforms, including India's increasing influence as a regular observer at G7 summits and its prominent role during its 2023 presidency of the G20. Juster added that India has sought to position itself as "the global voice or the voice for the global South", reflecting its broader aspiration to shape international discourse on development and governance. "Under Prime Minister Modi, India has declared the ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 and has become a regular and influential observer for over a decade at the G7 summits and made a big splash in 2023 as the chair of the G20 summit, in which it also made clear it wants to be the global voice or the voice for the global South," he added. (With agency inputs)

Former US Ambassador Kenneth Juster tells Hudson Institute that PM Modi has transformed India into a confident civilisational power with an assertive global role.

India re-emerging as 'civilisational power' under PM Modi: Ex-US envoy Kenneth Juster

A proposed bill to allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales to choose to end their lives stalled on Friday after running out of parliamentary time in the House of Lords, nearly a year after it secured backing in the House of Commons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Supporters had hoped the Terminally Ill Adults Bill would mark one of the most significant social policy changes in the United Kingdom since abortion was partially legalised in 1967, but progress has been slowed by sustained opposition in the upper chamber.&nbsp;Opponents have tabled more than 1,200 amendments, significantly delaying the bill’s passage. The legislation, introduced by a backbench MP, faces additional constraints as such bills are typically debated on Fridays, limiting available time for discussion.&nbsp;&nbsp;The bill now has no prospect of becoming law during this parliament's current session, which is set to end next week.&nbsp;Globally, the legal landscape on assisted dying continues to evolve, with several countries adopting national frameworks. Nations such as Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg permit forms of euthanasia or assisted dying, while Switzerland allows assisted suicide under specific conditions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/india-tops-global-heat-charts-with-19-of-20-hottest-cities-imd-warns-of-continued-heatwave-1777039826160">India tops global heat charts with 19 of 20 hottest cities, IMD warns of continued heatwave</a>&nbsp;In the Asia Pacific region, New Zealand and all six Australian states have enacted voluntary assisted dying laws.&nbsp;In the Americas, Canada operates a medical assistance in dying programme, and Colombia permits the practice under legal oversight.

The bill now has no prospect of becoming law during this parliament's current session, which is set to end next week.

A proposed bill to allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales to choose to end their lives stalled on Friday after running out of parliamentary time in the House of Lords, nearly a year after it secured backing in the House of Commons. Supporters had hoped the Terminally Ill Adults Bill would mark one of the most significant social policy changes in the United Kingdom since abortion was partially legalised in 1967, but progress has been slowed by sustained opposition in the upper chamber. Opponents have tabled more than 1,200 amendments, significantly delaying the bill’s passage. The legislation, introduced by a backbench MP, faces additional constraints as such bills are typically debated on Fridays, limiting available time for discussion. The bill now has no prospect of becoming law during this parliament's current session, which is set to end next week. Globally, the legal landscape on assisted dying continues to evolve, with several countries adopting national frameworks. Nations such as Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg permit forms of euthanasia or assisted dying, while Switzerland allows assisted suicide under specific conditions. Also Read: India tops global heat charts with 19 of 20 hottest cities, IMD warns of continued heatwave In the Asia Pacific region, New Zealand and all six Australian states have enacted voluntary assisted dying laws. In the Americas, Canada operates a medical assistance in dying programme, and Colombia permits the practice under legal oversight.

The bill now has no prospect of becoming law during this parliament's current session, which is set to end next week.

England and Wales assisted dying bill fails in upper house as time runs out

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (April 24) said he has no plans to remain in politics after his second term as the president of the country comes to and end in 2027. Addressing a group of students Nicosia, Cyprus on Thursday, Macron said, "I wasn't involved in politics before [becoming president] and I won't be involved afterwards."&nbsp;His statement is in stark contrast of what he said in in July 2025 in Paris, while addressing a rally of his party's youth section, which was celebrating its 10th anniversary.&nbsp;While addressing the crowd Macron said, "I will need you in two years, in five years, in 10 years".&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="'I am healthy now': Netanyahu reveals successful cancer battle during Iran conflict">'I am healthy now': Netanyahu reveals successful cancer battle during Iran conflict</a>&nbsp;His comments were perceived as an indication of him wanting to fight the 2032 presidential election, but with the latest comments he has again left political analysts to speculate about his political career.&nbsp;Notably, none of France's presidents have made a comeback after leaving office.<h2>Macron's presidential terms</h2>&nbsp;Macron was first elected as the president of France &nbsp;in 2017 at the age of 39, becoming the youngest president of the country since the founding of the Fifth Republic in 1958. He was re-elected as the president in 2022. A third consecutive term is not allowed in France.&nbsp;Before becoming the president Macron, served as economy minister from 2014-2016 under François Hollande's socialist government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Macrons statement is in stark contrast of what he said in July 2025 in Paris, while addressing a rally of his partys youth section.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (April 24) said he has no plans to remain in politics after his second term as the president of the country comes to and end in 2027. Addressing a group of students Nicosia, Cyprus on Thursday, Macron said, "I wasn't involved in politics before [becoming president] and I won't be involved afterwards." His statement is in stark contrast of what he said in in July 2025 in Paris, while addressing a rally of his party's youth section, which was celebrating its 10th anniversary. While addressing the crowd Macron said, "I will need you in two years, in five years, in 10 years". ALSO READ: 'I am healthy now': Netanyahu reveals successful cancer battle during Iran conflict His comments were perceived as an indication of him wanting to fight the 2032 presidential election, but with the latest comments he has again left political analysts to speculate about his political career. Notably, none of France's presidents have made a comeback after leaving office. Macron's presidential terms Macron was first elected as the president of France in 2017 at the age of 39, becoming the youngest president of the country since the founding of the Fifth Republic in 1958. He was re-elected as the president in 2022. A third consecutive term is not allowed in France. Before becoming the president Macron, served as economy minister from 2014-2016 under François Hollande's socialist government.

Macron's statement is in stark contrast of what he said in July 2025 in Paris, while addressing a rally of his party's youth section.

Macron to quit politics after his tenure as president ends? Here's what he said

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Friday that the US Navy’s blockade of Iranian vessels and ports will continue for “as long as it takes” and indicated that the Trump administration is in no hurry to reach a peace deal with Iran. Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth echoed President Donald Trump’s recent comments that the US is in control of the timeline for Operation Epic Fury, which has continued for nearly two months.&nbsp;&nbsp;“All they have to do is abandon a nuclear weapon in meaningful and verifiable ways, or instead they can watch the regime’s fragile economic state collapse under the unrelenting pressure of American power, a blockade as long as it takes, whatever President Trump decides,” Hegseth said, adding that with the blockade continuing, “the clock is not on their side.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-cleric-wants-trump-to-apologise-over-ali-khamenei-killing-admit-mistake-before-world-1777036677663">Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world</a><h2>‘We have all the time in the world, and we’re not anxious for a deal’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday that the US took out Iran’s military in the first four weeks of the war and “now all we’re doing is sitting back and seeing what deal” would emerge.Hegseth also indicated that the US is not concerned about the duration of the war.“President Trump said it again yesterday. We have all the time in the world, and we’re not anxious for a deal,” he said.&nbsp;The defence secretary argued that Operation Epic Fury has delivered a “decisive military result” in weeks, with a focus on the mission of keeping Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/raghav-chadha-2-other-mps-quit-aam-aadmi-party-announce-split-with-2-3rd-mps-to-join-bjp-1777026936391">Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs joining BJP</a><h2>‘Our blockade is growing and going global’</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth added that the mission is continuing into a new phase, and Iran now has the opportunity to make a peace deal.“Iran has an important choice, a chance to make a deal. A good deal. A wise deal,” he said.&nbsp;He said the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘ironclad’, and that a second aircraft carrier will be joining the blockade in the coming days.“Our blockade is growing and going global,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-clock-is-ticking-for-iran-says-trump-as-third-us-aircraft-carrier-arrives-in-middle-east-1776976041893">‘Clock is ticking for Iran,’ says Trump as third US aircraft carrier arrives in Middle East</a><h2>‘Time for free-riding by allies over’</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth described the campaign against Iran as “a gift to the world” and warned that the time for “free-riding” by allies was over. He said the burden of securing key energy routes should not fall solely on Washington, adding that the Hormuz chokepoint is “more Europe and Asia’s fight than the US’s”.&nbsp;“Europe and Asia have benefited from our protection for decades, but the time for free riding is over,” Hegseth said.&nbsp;<h2>‘We will shoot to destroy. No hesitation’</h2>&nbsp;After Trump’s directive for the Navy to “shoot and kill” any boat placing mines in the strait, US commanders have clear rules of engagement, Hegseth said.“If Iran is putting mines in the water, or otherwise threatening American commercial shipping or American forces, we will shoot to destroy. No hesitation,” he said.&nbsp;Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine provided details about the US military blockade being enforced against any ship that is moving to or from an Iranian port or territory. Caine said 34 ships turned around, while one, the M/V Touska, was seized.Two other ‘stateless’ vessels linked to Iran, the M/T Tifani and M/T Majestic X, were interdicted, and their crew remain in US custody, Caine said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the mission is continuing into a new phase, and Iran now has the opportunity to make a peace deal. He added that the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘ironclad’, and that a second aircraft carrier will join the blockade soon.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Friday that the US Navy’s blockade of Iranian vessels and ports will continue for “as long as it takes” and indicated that the Trump administration is in no hurry to reach a peace deal with Iran. Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth echoed President Donald Trump’s recent comments that the US is in control of the timeline for Operation Epic Fury, which has continued for nearly two months. “All they have to do is abandon a nuclear weapon in meaningful and verifiable ways, or instead they can watch the regime’s fragile economic state collapse under the unrelenting pressure of American power, a blockade as long as it takes, whatever President Trump decides,” Hegseth said, adding that with the blockade continuing, “the clock is not on their side.” Also Read: Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world ‘We have all the time in the world, and we’re not anxious for a deal’ Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday that the US took out Iran’s military in the first four weeks of the war and “now all we’re doing is sitting back and seeing what deal” would emerge. Hegseth also indicated that the US is not concerned about the duration of the war. “President Trump said it again yesterday. We have all the time in the world, and we’re not anxious for a deal,” he said. The defence secretary argued that Operation Epic Fury has delivered a “decisive military result” in weeks, with a focus on the mission of keeping Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Also Read: Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs joining BJP ‘Our blockade is growing and going global’ Hegseth added that the mission is continuing into a new phase, and Iran now has the opportunity to make a peace deal. “Iran has an important choice, a chance to make a deal. A good deal. A wise deal,” he said. He said the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘ironclad’, and that a second aircraft carrier will be joining the blockade in the coming days. “Our blockade is growing and going global,” he added. Also Read: ‘Clock is ticking for Iran,’ says Trump as third US aircraft carrier arrives in Middle East ‘Time for free-riding by allies over’ Hegseth described the campaign against Iran as “a gift to the world” and warned that the time for “free-riding” by allies was over. He said the burden of securing key energy routes should not fall solely on Washington, adding that the Hormuz chokepoint is “more Europe and Asia’s fight than the US’s”. “Europe and Asia have benefited from our protection for decades, but the time for free riding is over,” Hegseth said. ‘We will shoot to destroy. No hesitation’ After Trump’s directive for the Navy to “shoot and kill” any boat placing mines in the strait, US commanders have clear rules of engagement, Hegseth said. “If Iran is putting mines in the water, or otherwise threatening American commercial shipping or American forces, we will shoot to destroy. No hesitation,” he said. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine provided details about the US military blockade being enforced against any ship that is moving to or from an Iranian port or territory. Caine said 34 ships turned around, while one, the M/V Touska, was seized. Two other ‘stateless’ vessels linked to Iran, the M/T Tifani and M/T Majestic X, were interdicted, and their crew remain in US custody, Caine said.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the mission is continuing into a new phase, and Iran now has the opportunity to make a peace deal. He added that the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘ironclad’, and that a second aircraft carrier will join the blockade soon.

US blockade of Iranian vessels to continue for ‘as long as it takes’: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth

India has emerged as the world’s heat hotspot, with 19 of the 20 hottest locations globally currently recorded within the country, according to data released by AQI.in. The findings underline the scale of the ongoing India heatwave, with cities across Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh dominating global temperature rankings.&nbsp;Bhagalpur in Bihar, Talcher in Odisha and Asansol in West Bengal topped the list, each recording a peak temperature of 44 degrees Celsius, the highest in the world at the time of assessment, according to an India Today report. Several other cities in Bihar, including Begusarai, Motihari, Munger, Bhojpur and Siwan, along with locations in West Bengal and eastern Uttar Pradesh, followed closely with temperatures around 43 degrees Celsius. Lumbini in Nepal was the only non Indian location in the top 20.<h2>IMD warns of prolonged heatwave</h2>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that heatwave conditions will persist from April 22 to 24, with maximum temperatures likely to rise further and touch 43 degrees Celsius in several regions. The department declares a heatwave when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;The widespread surge in temperatures across northern, central and eastern India indicates a broader atmospheric pattern rather than isolated events. Meteorologists attribute the extreme conditions to intense solar radiation during the pre-monsoon period, coupled with clear skies that allow uninterrupted heating of land surfaces.<h2>Multiple factors intensify extreme heat</h2>A deficit in winter snowfall across Eurasia and the Himalayas has further aggravated conditions by reducing surface reflectivity and accelerating warming. In addition, shifting ocean patterns, including rising Pacific sea surface temperatures and ENSO neutral conditions, are altering atmospheric circulation and weakening cooling systems.&nbsp;Hot, dry northwesterly winds sweeping across the plains have also suppressed cloud formation and rainfall, intensifying the Indian heatwave. However, weather conditions remain uneven, with parts of southern and north eastern India experiencing moisture inflow and thunderstorms.&nbsp;Experts warn that the clustering of extreme temperatures within India signals rising climate variability and an increase in both the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. With April still underway, prolonged heat stress is expected to continue, with meaningful relief unlikely until pre-monsoon activity strengthens in the coming weeks.

Bhagalpur in Bihar, Talcher in Odisha and Asansol in West Bengal topped the list, each recording a peak temperature of 44 degrees Celsius, the highest in the world at the time of assessment.

India has emerged as the world’s heat hotspot, with 19 of the 20 hottest locations globally currently recorded within the country, according to data released by AQI.in. The findings underline the scale of the ongoing India heatwave, with cities across Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh dominating global temperature rankings. Bhagalpur in Bihar, Talcher in Odisha and Asansol in West Bengal topped the list, each recording a peak temperature of 44 degrees Celsius, the highest in the world at the time of assessment, according to an India Today report. Several other cities in Bihar, including Begusarai, Motihari, Munger, Bhojpur and Siwan, along with locations in West Bengal and eastern Uttar Pradesh, followed closely with temperatures around 43 degrees Celsius. Lumbini in Nepal was the only non Indian location in the top 20. IMD warns of prolonged heatwave The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that heatwave conditions will persist from April 22 to 24, with maximum temperatures likely to rise further and touch 43 degrees Celsius in several regions. The department declares a heatwave when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The widespread surge in temperatures across northern, central and eastern India indicates a broader atmospheric pattern rather than isolated events. Meteorologists attribute the extreme conditions to intense solar radiation during the pre-monsoon period, coupled with clear skies that allow uninterrupted heating of land surfaces. Multiple factors intensify extreme heat A deficit in winter snowfall across Eurasia and the Himalayas has further aggravated conditions by reducing surface reflectivity and accelerating warming. In addition, shifting ocean patterns, including rising Pacific sea surface temperatures and ENSO neutral conditions, are altering atmospheric circulation and weakening cooling systems. Hot, dry northwesterly winds sweeping across the plains have also suppressed cloud formation and rainfall, intensifying the Indian heatwave. However, weather conditions remain uneven, with parts of southern and north eastern India experiencing moisture inflow and thunderstorms. Experts warn that the clustering of extreme temperatures within India signals rising climate variability and an increase in both the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. With April still underway, prolonged heat stress is expected to continue, with meaningful relief unlikely until pre-monsoon activity strengthens in the coming weeks.

Bhagalpur in Bihar, Talcher in Odisha and Asansol in West Bengal topped the list, each recording a peak temperature of 44 degrees Celsius, the highest in the world at the time of assessment.

India tops global heat charts with 19 of 20 hottest cities, IMD warns of continued heatwave

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Defence confirmed on Friday (Apr 24) that its northern border outposts were targeted by a "hostile" drone attack launched from neighbouring Iraq. The incident has spiked regional tensions as West Asia remains on edge following the recent large-scale military escalations between the US, Israel, and Iran. According to a statement from military spokesperson Colonel Saud Abdulaziz Al-Atwan, two explosive-laden drones struck land border positions early Friday morning. While the strikes caused significant material damage to border facilities, the Ministry confirmed there were no human casualties.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-kuwait-kuwait-says-air-defences-responding-to-missile-drone-attack-1775443452953/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-kuwait-kuwait-says-air-defences-responding-to-missile-drone-attack-1775443452953/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a statement, the Kuwait Army said, “Two sites of the northern land border centers of the State of Kuwait were targeted in a sinful aggressive attack by two fibre-optic wire-guided explosive drones originating from the Republic of Iraq, resulting in material damage, with no human casualties recorded.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">بيان رقم (60) صادر عن المتحدث الرسمي لوزارة الدفاع العقيد الركن سعود عبدالعزيز العطوان استهدف صباح اليوم موقعان من المراكز الحدودية البرية الشمالية لدولة الكويت، لهجوم عدواني آثم بواسطة عدد (2) طائرة درون مفخخة، موجّهة بسلك الألياف الضوئية، قادمة من جمهورية العراق، ما أسفر عن… <a href="https://t.co/UwRQCxGqgv">pic.twitter.com/UwRQCxGqgv</a>&mdash; KUWAIT ARMY - الجيش الكويتي (@KuwaitArmyGHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/KuwaitArmyGHQ/status/2047613443843203195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“The Ministry of Defence affirms that the competent authorities immediately began taking the necessary measures to deal with the incident. May God protect Kuwait and its people from all harm, under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir of the country, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces—may God preserve and protect him—and His Highness the Crown Prince—may God preserve him,” it added. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-cleric-wants-trump-to-apologise-over-ali-khamenei-killing-admit-mistake-before-world-1777036677663">Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world</a> This breach of the current ceasefire highlights the "fluid" nature of the security situation in Iraq and Kuwait. As the US and Iran continue back-channel negotiations in Pakistan, this drone strike serves as a stark reminder that regional proxies remain capable of disrupting the path toward a more permanent peace. Gulf states are pressuring Iraq over ceasefire breaches, summoning representatives after fresh drone and rocket attacks.

Gulf nations summon Iraqi diplomats as drone strikes threaten the 2026 ceasefire. Iraq remains a volatile battleground for US, Israeli, and Iranian forces.

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Defence confirmed on Friday (Apr 24) that its northern border outposts were targeted by a "hostile" drone attack launched from neighbouring Iraq. The incident has spiked regional tensions as West Asia remains on edge following the recent large-scale military escalations between the US, Israel, and Iran. According to a statement from military spokesperson Colonel Saud Abdulaziz Al-Atwan, two explosive-laden drones struck land border positions early Friday morning. While the strikes caused significant material damage to border facilities, the Ministry confirmed there were no human casualties. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-kuwait-kuwait-says-air-defences-responding-to-missile-drone-attack-1775443452953/embed In a statement, the Kuwait Army said, “Two sites of the northern land border centers of the State of Kuwait were targeted in a sinful aggressive attack by two fibre-optic wire-guided explosive drones originating from the Republic of Iraq, resulting in material damage, with no human casualties recorded.”

Gulf nations summon Iraqi diplomats as drone strikes threaten the 2026 ceasefire. Iraq remains a volatile battleground for US, Israeli, and Iranian forces.

Kuwait border drone attack: GCC protests ceasefire breach by Iraqi-linked drones

China's Foreign Ministry on Friday rejected US President Donald Trump's accusation that the intercepted Iranian ship was a “gift from China”, Reuters reported. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that it opposes all baseless “accusations and associations”. It further asserted that a "normal trade relationship" between countries should not be subjected to “interference and disruptions”.&nbsp;&nbsp;“China rejects any assertion and speculation that lack factual evidence,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun in a press briefing.The container ship Touska was boarded and seized by the US forces on Sunday. On Tuesday, Trump, while speaking to the CNBC news, said that the ship “some things” to which he was surprised.&nbsp;"We caught a ship yesterday that had some things on it, which weren’t very nice. A gift from China, perhaps, I don’t know, but I was a little surprised because I have a very good relationship, and I thought I had an understanding with President Xi. But that’s all right," said Trump. Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Hailey made a similar statement, suggesting that the ship seized by the US had chemical shipments for missiles.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-chabahar-port-exit-us-sanctions-waiver-1777030983122">India planning exit from Chabahar port as US sanction waiver expires</a>"The ship the US seized in the Strait of Hormuz this weekend was headed from China to Iran and is linked to chemical shipments for missiles. It refused repeated orders to stop. Another reminder that China is helping prop up Iran’s regime —a reality that can’t be ignored," wrote Hailey in a post on Social Media.&nbsp;Earlier, Reuters reported, citing anonymous sources in the US Navy, that Touska had dual-use items, but Trump didn't specify the nature of the items; instead indulged in vague characterisation. China warns that the situation in the Middle East is at a "critical juncture" after US President Donald Trump extended a ceasefire to allow Iran more time to negotiate. As Iran's largest customer, China sees this as a direct threat to its energy security and has previously warned that "attacking, detaining, or harassing" ships travelling from or to China is a violation of its sovereignty and core interests.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Donald Trump suggested that a seized Iran-bound ship may have items that were not “very nice”, China has firmly denied the claim, calling it baseless and defending its trade ties with Iran.

China's Foreign Ministry on Friday rejected US President Donald Trump's accusation that the intercepted Iranian ship was a “gift from China”, Reuters reported. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that it opposes all baseless “accusations and associations”. It further asserted that a "normal trade relationship" between countries should not be subjected to “interference and disruptions”. “China rejects any assertion and speculation that lack factual evidence,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun in a press briefing. The container ship Touska was boarded and seized by the US forces on Sunday. On Tuesday, Trump, while speaking to the CNBC news, said that the ship “some things” to which he was surprised. "We caught a ship yesterday that had some things on it, which weren’t very nice. A gift from China, perhaps, I don’t know, but I was a little surprised because I have a very good relationship, and I thought I had an understanding with President Xi. But that’s all right," said Trump. Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Hailey made a similar statement, suggesting that the ship seized by the US had chemical shipments for missiles. Also Read: India planning exit from Chabahar port as US sanction waiver expires "The ship the US seized in the Strait of Hormuz this weekend was headed from China to Iran and is linked to chemical shipments for missiles. It refused repeated orders to stop. Another reminder that China is helping prop up Iran’s regime —a reality that can’t be ignored," wrote Hailey in a post on Social Media. Earlier, Reuters reported, citing anonymous sources in the US Navy, that Touska had dual-use items, but Trump didn't specify the nature of the items; instead indulged in vague characterisation. China warns that the situation in the Middle East is at a "critical juncture" after US President Donald Trump extended a ceasefire to allow Iran more time to negotiate. As Iran's largest customer, China sees this as a direct threat to its energy security and has previously warned that "attacking, detaining, or harassing" ships travelling from or to China is a violation of its sovereignty and core interests.

After Donald Trump suggested that a seized Iran-bound ship may have items that were not “very nice”, China has firmly denied the claim, calling it baseless and defending its trade ties with Iran.

China denies Trump's accusation that seized Iran-bound ship had 'gift from China'

Senior Iranian cleric Ali Shirazi has said that US President Donald Trump must apologise to Iranians over the killing of Ali Khamenei, who was assassinated in a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28. Ali Shirazi, who is head of the ideological-political organisation of Iran’s police, said Trump “must apologise to the Iranian people and admit before the world that killing our leader was a mistake.”&nbsp;Shirazi further said that hostility toward Israel is “a Quranic and unchangeable principle” and warned that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to deliver a strong response to any enemy action.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/raghav-chadha-2-other-mps-quit-aam-aadmi-party-announce-split-with-2-3rd-mps-to-join-bjp-1777026936391">Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs joining BJP</a><h2>‘Hostility toward Israel is a Quranic and unchangeable principle’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Ali Khamenei was assassinated on Feb. 28 in Tehran in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials. The Iranian government confirmed his death on March 1.&nbsp;Ali Khamenei’s daughter, granddaughter, son-in-law and daughter-in-law were also killed in the strikes. His son Mojtaba Khamenei was subsequently appointed Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts on March 8, 2026.&nbsp;Shirazi’s demand for an apology is unlikely to be met as officials in Washington see Khamenei’s killing as a strategic success.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-clock-is-ticking-for-iran-says-trump-as-third-us-aircraft-carrier-arrives-in-middle-east-1776976041893">‘Clock is ticking for Iran,’ says Trump as third US aircraft carrier arrives in Middle East</a>&nbsp;After the Feb 28 strikes, Trump had posted on Truth Social that Israel, with US support, had killed Khamenei. “He was unable to avoid our Intelligence and Highly Sophisticated Tracking Systems and, working closely with Israel, there was not a thing he, or the other leaders that have been killed along with him, could do,” Trump wrote in the post.&nbsp;The US president has since repeatedly claimed that the Iranian regime is “fractured”, pointing to tensions between hardliners and the moderate faction now engaged in negotiations for peace.Shirazi, however, said that elements within Iran’s security establishment remain uncompromising.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-talks-with-iran-appeasement-says-reza-pahlavi-appeals-western-countries-to-join-war-against-iran-1776970307677">‘Talks with Iran appeasement,’ says Reza Pahlavi, appeals Western countries to join war against Iran</a><h2>Iran risks ‘historic error’ in reading Trump, says former US envoy</h2>&nbsp;Former US Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, said on Thursday that Iran is misjudging President Donald Trump’s commitment to victory. He warned that expecting Trump to “blink” would be a mistake of “historic dimensions.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intercepts-iranian-oil-tankers-in-asian-waters-away-from-strait-of-hormuz-sources-1776962536156">US intercepts Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters, away from Strait of Hormuz: Sources</a>&nbsp;“Iran is grossly misjudging the President of the United States’ commitment to victory against Iran. It thinks President Trump will blink because The New York Times says so. This will be an error of historic dimensions,” he posted on X.

Ali Khamenei was assassinated on Feb. 28 in Tehran in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials. The Iranian government confirmed his death on March 1. Ali Khamenei’s daughter, granddaughter, son-in-law, and daughter-in-law were also killed in the strikes.

Senior Iranian cleric Ali Shirazi has said that US President Donald Trump must apologise to Iranians over the killing of Ali Khamenei, who was assassinated in a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28. Ali Shirazi, who is head of the ideological-political organisation of Iran’s police, said Trump “must apologise to the Iranian people and admit before the world that killing our leader was a mistake.” Shirazi further said that hostility toward Israel is “a Quranic and unchangeable principle” and warned that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to deliver a strong response to any enemy action. Also Read: Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs joining BJP ‘Hostility toward Israel is a Quranic and unchangeable principle’ Ali Khamenei was assassinated on Feb. 28 in Tehran in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials. The Iranian government confirmed his death on March 1. Ali Khamenei’s daughter, granddaughter, son-in-law and daughter-in-law were also killed in the strikes. His son Mojtaba Khamenei was subsequently appointed Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts on March 8, 2026. Shirazi’s demand for an apology is unlikely to be met as officials in Washington see Khamenei’s killing as a strategic success. Also Read: ‘Clock is ticking for Iran,’ says Trump as third US aircraft carrier arrives in Middle East After the Feb 28 strikes, Trump had posted on Truth Social that Israel, with US support, had killed Khamenei. “He was unable to avoid our Intelligence and Highly Sophisticated Tracking Systems and, working closely with Israel, there was not a thing he, or the other leaders that have been killed along with him, could do,” Trump wrote in the post. The US president has since repeatedly claimed that the Iranian regime is “fractured”, pointing to tensions between hardliners and the moderate faction now engaged in negotiations for peace. Shirazi, however, said that elements within Iran’s security establishment remain uncompromising. Also Read: ‘Talks with Iran appeasement,’ says Reza Pahlavi, appeals Western countries to join war against Iran Iran risks ‘historic error’ in reading Trump, says former US envoy Former US Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, said on Thursday that Iran is misjudging President Donald Trump’s commitment to victory. He warned that expecting Trump to “blink” would be a mistake of “historic dimensions.” Also Read: US intercepts Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters, away from Strait of Hormuz: Sources “Iran is grossly misjudging the President of the United States’ commitment to victory against Iran. It thinks President Trump will blink because The New York Times says so. This will be an error of historic dimensions,” he posted on X.

Ali Khamenei was assassinated on Feb. 28 in Tehran in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials. The Iranian government confirmed his death on March 1. Ali Khamenei’s daughter, granddaughter, son-in-law, and daughter-in-law were also killed in the strikes.

Iran cleric wants Trump to apologise over Ali Khamenei killing, admit ‘mistake’ before world

The Union Government is planning divestment in the Chabahar port in Iran and leaving the control of the strategically significant port with a local Iranian entity, Business Standard reported. The report suggests that India Ports Global Ltd (IPGL) would sell its holding in India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ) to an Iranian entity as the extended US sanction waiver comes to expire on Sunday, April 26. The report also suggests that the control would revert back to India if and ever the sanctions were to be lifted or a new waiver is secured.&nbsp;India enjoyed exemptions from sanctions on the Chabahar port since 2018, and invested around $120 million in equipment procurement for the Chabahar project. However, in February 2025, the Trump administration under Secretary of State Marco Rubio decided to review or withdraw the waiver that supported Iran or provide any economic or financial relief and later withdrew the waiver on September 29, 2025. However, in the following month, it again issued an extension of the waiver, clarifying that activities at Chabahar Port would remain protected from US sanctions until April 26, 2026.The report suggests that the Indian government has previously explored the possibility of ignoring US sanctions and operating a terminal in the port. But legal experts warned about the possibility of sanctions being extended to the companies associated with the India-backed terminal in Chabahar. Sagarmala Development Corporation Ltd is the company that operates the terminal in Chabahar port through the subsidiary IPGL. It also operates another port in Myanmar’s Sittwe Port; if the sanctions spill into the company, it will hurt India's goal to operate an international port. The company is part of the Bharat Global Ports consortium, which seeks opportunities to operate international ports.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-spirit-airlines-federal-takeover-bailout-1777022869530">‘I think we just buy it'- Trump suggests federal takeover of Spirit Airlines as oil prices push it to bankruptcy</a><h2>Why was Chabhar port important for India?</h2>India was part of the 10-year agreement with Iran in 2024 that allowed India to operate the Shahid Beheshti Port terminal in Iran. The port is often described as the Golden Gate to West and Central Asia. It was part of India's ambition to operate ports internationally. This was India's response to China's development of Gwadar Port in Pakistan. It prevents China from having a monopoly over the shipping lane in the Indian Ocean and helps monitor maritime activity in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. It also acts as a node of the International North-South Transport Corridor that allows India to transport goods to Russia and Afghanistan, which Pakistan often denies to India.&nbsp;

India plans divestment from Chabahar Port as US sanctions waiver expires, raising concerns over strategic access to Central Asia.

The Union Government is planning divestment in the Chabahar port in Iran and leaving the control of the strategically significant port with a local Iranian entity, Business Standard reported. The report suggests that India Ports Global Ltd (IPGL) would sell its holding in India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ) to an Iranian entity as the extended US sanction waiver comes to expire on Sunday, April 26. The report also suggests that the control would revert back to India if and ever the sanctions were to be lifted or a new waiver is secured. India enjoyed exemptions from sanctions on the Chabahar port since 2018, and invested around $120 million in equipment procurement for the Chabahar project. However, in February 2025, the Trump administration under Secretary of State Marco Rubio decided to review or withdraw the waiver that supported Iran or provide any economic or financial relief and later withdrew the waiver on September 29, 2025. However, in the following month, it again issued an extension of the waiver, clarifying that activities at Chabahar Port would remain protected from US sanctions until April 26, 2026. The report suggests that the Indian government has previously explored the possibility of ignoring US sanctions and operating a terminal in the port. But legal experts warned about the possibility of sanctions being extended to the companies associated with the India-backed terminal in Chabahar. Sagarmala Development Corporation Ltd is the company that operates the terminal in Chabahar port through the subsidiary IPGL. It also operates another port in Myanmar’s Sittwe Port; if the sanctions spill into the company, it will hurt India's goal to operate an international port. The company is part of the Bharat Global Ports consortium, which seeks opportunities to operate international ports. Also Read: ‘I think we just buy it'- Trump suggests federal takeover of Spirit Airlines as oil prices push it to bankruptcy Why was Chabhar port important for India? India was part of the 10-year agreement with Iran in 2024 that allowed India to operate the Shahid Beheshti Port terminal in Iran. The port is often described as the Golden Gate to West and Central Asia. It was part of India's ambition to operate ports internationally. This was India's response to China's development of Gwadar Port in Pakistan. It prevents China from having a monopoly over the shipping lane in the Indian Ocean and helps monitor maritime activity in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. It also acts as a node of the International North-South Transport Corridor that allows India to transport goods to Russia and Afghanistan, which Pakistan often denies to India.

India plans divestment from Chabahar Port as US sanctions waiver expires, raising concerns over strategic access to Central Asia.

India planning exit from Chabahar port as US sanction waiver expires

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