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President Donald Trump on Tuesday firmly rejected mounting calls for an apology following his recent verbal broadside against Pope Leo XIV, doubling down on his assertion that the Vatican’s stance on the West Asia undermines American national security. Speaking to reporters outside the Oval Office, the President addressed the growing diplomatic rift that has captivated the international community since his controversial claims that the Pope’s election was a strategic move by the Church to manage his administration. When asked by an Associated Press reporter if he regretted his comments or owed the pontiff an apology, the 79-year-old was characteristically blunt.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hungary-polls-jd-vance-promises-that-washington-would-work-with-peter-magyar-1776168907046/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hungary-polls-jd-vance-promises-that-washington-would-work-with-peter-magyar-1776168907046/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;"No, I don’t think an apology is necessary because I’m speaking the truth for the American people," Trump said. "I have a lot of respect for the position and the Church, but the Pope made a statement about Iran that was very, very wrong," he added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-fear-of-trump-administration-pope-leo-s-straight-and-clear-message-for-trump-1776103585582">'No fear of Trump administration': Pope Leo's straight and clear message for Trump</a>&nbsp;The feud, which began over the weekend, centers on Pope Leo XIV’s public criticism of the US’ naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. On Sunday (Apr 12), the Pope called for an "unconditional" de-escalation of hostilities, describing the blockade as a "barrier to the path of peace."&nbsp;Trump, however, framed the issue as one of survival rather than sentiment. "He’s calling for de-escalation while they are building nuclear capabilities. You can’t do that," the President stated. "My job is to protect this country, not to worry about being 'politically correct' with the Vatican."

President Trump has refused to apologize to Pope Leo XIV following a series of verbal attacks, stating his primary duty is to U.S. national security regarding the Iran crisis. 

President Donald Trump on Tuesday firmly rejected mounting calls for an apology following his recent verbal broadside against Pope Leo XIV, doubling down on his assertion that the Vatican’s stance on the West Asia undermines American national security. Speaking to reporters outside the Oval Office, the President addressed the growing diplomatic rift that has captivated the international community since his controversial claims that the Pope’s election was a strategic move by the Church to manage his administration. When asked by an Associated Press reporter if he regretted his comments or owed the pontiff an apology, the 79-year-old was characteristically blunt. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hungary-polls-jd-vance-promises-that-washington-would-work-with-peter-magyar-1776168907046/embed "No, I don’t think an apology is necessary because I’m speaking the truth for the American people," Trump said. "I have a lot of respect for the position and the Church, but the Pope made a statement about Iran that was very, very wrong," he added. Also read: 'No fear of Trump administration': Pope Leo's straight and clear message for Trump The feud, which began over the weekend, centers on Pope Leo XIV’s public criticism of the US’ naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. On Sunday (Apr 12), the Pope called for an "unconditional" de-escalation of hostilities, describing the blockade as a "barrier to the path of peace." Trump, however, framed the issue as one of survival rather than sentiment. "He’s calling for de-escalation while they are building nuclear capabilities. You can’t do that," the President stated. "My job is to protect this country, not to worry about being 'politically correct' with the Vatican."

President Trump has refused to apologise to Pope Leo XIV following a series of verbal attacks, stating his primary duty is to U.S. national security regarding the Iran crisis.&nbsp;

'Don’t think an apology is necessary': Trump doubles down on feud with Pope Leo XIV

Israeli occupation forces have detained 68 Palestinians workers at the Cross-Samaria Checkpoint, from the occupied West Bank, after they were found hiding inside a garbage truck near an Israeli military roadblock while attempting to reach their workplace in Israel. The workers were compelled to opt for this dangerous and degrading method of transportation after the Israeli occupation forces did not allow them to return to work, as the West Bank is pushed towards economic collapse.The workers were found in a state of severe exhaustion, while some had lost consciousness due to overcrowding and suffocation. “In a security inspection, about 40 Palestinians, illegal residents, were discovered as they were trying to infiltrate into the centre of the country,” said the Israeli occupation force in a statement. The truck driver, a resident of Kfar Qassem, was arrested in connection with the smuggling attempt. He reportedly did not have a proper permit and refused to cooperate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lespresso-israel-cover-controversy-west-bank-1775913067459">Italy’s L’Espresso cover 'L'Abuso' on West Bank settlers draws Israel’s ire</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">WILD FOOTAGE! 60 Palestinians Caught Hiding Inside Garbage Truck At Checkpoint •⁠ ⁠Suspicious garbage truck stopped at Samaria crossing •⁠ ⁠Security forces discovered ~60 Palestinians hiding inside •⁠ ⁠Attempted illegal entry into Israel thwarted Driver detained for… <a href="https://t.co/UfwnHtg5cs">pic.twitter.com/UfwnHtg5cs</a>&mdash; Moshe Schwartz (@YWNReporter) <a href="https://twitter.com/YWNReporter/status/2043788102326768021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to Israel's Channel 12 News, the detainees were allegedly headed for cities including Netanya, Tel Aviv and Rishon Lezion. For decades, Israeli colonies were built with the labour of Palestinian workers. &nbsp;Since October 7, 2023, Israel has revoked nearly all work permits for West Bank Palestinians, trapping hundreds of thousands of workers in their homes without income. The exclusion has devastated the economic landscape of the West Bank. Humanitarian organisations have highlighted the "unbearable living conditions" in the West Bank, including extreme poverty and lack of basic services, which often drives individuals to dangerous routes for maintaining their livelihood. Workers call it a slow collapse, multiplied by the lack of intervention by labour institutions or the absence of alternative and emergency support.&nbsp;

Israeli forces detained 68 Palestinian workers found in a garbage truck, highlighting the deepening economic crisis and permit restrictions in the West Bank.

Israeli occupation forces have detained 68 Palestinians workers at the Cross-Samaria Checkpoint, from the occupied West Bank, after they were found hiding inside a garbage truck near an Israeli military roadblock while attempting to reach their workplace in Israel. The workers were compelled to opt for this dangerous and degrading method of transportation after the Israeli occupation forces did not allow them to return to work, as the West Bank is pushed towards economic collapse. The workers were found in a state of severe exhaustion, while some had lost consciousness due to overcrowding and suffocation. “In a security inspection, about 40 Palestinians, illegal residents, were discovered as they were trying to infiltrate into the centre of the country,” said the Israeli occupation force in a statement. The truck driver, a resident of Kfar Qassem, was arrested in connection with the smuggling attempt. He reportedly did not have a proper permit and refused to cooperate. Also Read: Italy’s L’Espresso cover 'L'Abuso' on West Bank settlers draws Israel’s ire

Israeli forces detained 68 Palestinian workers found in a garbage truck, highlighting the deepening economic crisis and permit restrictions in the West Bank.

Israeli occupation forces detain 68 Palestinian workers found in garbage truck amid West Bank crisis

Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges in a landmark trial that marks another chapter in the spectacular collapse of what was once China’s largest real estate developer. Also known as Xu Jiayin, the 67-year-old stood trial alongside the company he founded. At the Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court, he pleaded guilty to all fraud charges and expressed remorse in his final statement. He might receive a life term in jail and confiscation of property for some of the serious charges, such as illegal fundraising and bribery. The verdict is awaited. How did Evergrande collapse? Here is that story:<h2>A fundraising fraud: Charges against Hui Ka Yan and Evergrande</h2>Hui and Evergrande faced charges of taking deposits from the public without authorisation. The fundraising fraud included misuse or embezzlement of corporate assets and funds. They were also charged with illegally issuing or extending loans and the fraudulent issuance of securities. Other charges include corporate bribery.Evergrande diverted pre-sale funds paid up by homebuyers for construction of projects to new projects instead, leading to hundreds of unfinished properties across China.Regulatory findings from 2024 showed the company had inflated 2019 and 2020 revenues by a combined 564 billion yuan, or nearly $78 billion, enabling fraudulent bond issuance.Hui was detained by authorities in September 2023 on suspicion of the crimes. In March 2024, China’s securities regulator, CSRC, fined him 47 million yuan, or around $6.5 million, banned him for life from the securities market, and penalised the company heavily for the accounting fraud.Liquidators are seeking recovery of $6 billion in dividends and remuneration paid to Hui and his former spouse.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-real-estate-firm-evergrandes-shares-dive-after-chairman-hui-ka-yan-cuts-stake-432892">Chinese real estate firm Evergrande's shares dive after Chairman Hui Ka Yan cuts stake</a>&nbsp;<h2>How Hui rose to be Asia’s richest man, with Evergrande fortunes</h2>Born into poverty in the rural Henan province and raised by his grandmother, Hui went on to build Evergrande, founded in 1996, into a real estate empire. The Guangzhou-based company, at its peak, was valued at over $50 billion. In 2017, Hui was Asia’s richest person, with a net worth of $42.5 billion.Under Hui, Evergrande expanded aggressively into electric vehicles, football, food and drinks, and other sectors.<h2>Evergrande: How China’s biggest real estate firm collapsed</h2>Evergrande’s downfall was the result of a classic high-leverage real estate model that continued until regulators stepped in. The business model was debt-fuelled. Having borrowed heavily to buy land, Evergrande pre-sold unfinished apartments to buyers who often paid up to 90 per cent upfront. This money was then used to buy more land.This continuous expansion loop model worked during China’s property boom, and by 2020, Evergrande became China’s largest developer.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ditched-by-communist-party-chinese-billionaire-loses-93-per-cent-of-fortune-554153">Ditched by Communist Party, Chinese billionaire loses 93 per cent of his fortune</a>&nbsp;<h2>Evergrande failed China’s ‘Three Red Lines’ test</h2>Things changed with China’s “Three Red Lines” policy in 2020. This imposed debt limits for developers to curb systemic risks. The three aspects were: debt-to-asset ratio should be less than or equal to 70 per cent; net debt-to-equity ratio should be 100 per cent; and cash-to-short-term debt ratio should be greater than 1. Evergrande failed all three of the red line tests. Its borrowing ability was severely restricted, cutting off its lifeblood.<h2>A liquidity crisis and default of Evergrande, 2021</h2>Under regulatory scrutiny, Evergrande could neither borrow nor complete its projects. Even as the Covid pandemic hit China and the rest of the world, Evergrande stopped paying suppliers and contractors and halted construction on many sites. In late 2021, Evergrande defaulted on paying interest on offshore bonds. Soon, its total liabilities reached 2.39 trillion yuan, or $330 billion, equivalent to around 2 per cent of China’s GDP. Evergrande owed foreign creditors around $25 billion.<h2>Evergrande almost brought down the entire real estate sector in China</h2>Nearly 1 million homebuyers were left with unfinished apartments across 1,300 Evergrande projects in 280 cities. Mass protests and more than 1,300 lawsuits followed. Evergrande was the first domino: more than 50 other real estate developers defaulted on debt payments. In August 2025, Evergrande was delisted from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange after its shares lost nearly 99 per cent of their value. Talks for debt restructuring collapsed, and in 2024, a Hong Kong court ordered liquidation of Evergrande, the largest in Chinese corporate history.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-evergrande-delisted-china-s-300-billion-property-collapse-1756142932647/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-evergrande-delisted-china-s-300-billion-property-collapse-1756142932647/embed</a><h2>Accounting fraud behind Evergrande collapse</h2>To keep borrowing and meet targets, Evergrande forged sales and profit numbers. Hundreds of billions of yuan were overstated. This allowed it to continue issuing bonds while hiding the true debt burden.The guilty plea cemented Hui’s personal accountability.Evergrande liquidation proceedings are continuing. Unfinished projects may be completed or sold to other developers with regulatory support. But Evergrande and Hui have become a cautionary tale for China’s property market that once overheated. The realities of Chinese household wealth, local government finances, and investor confidence were also exposed by the fall of Evergrande.&nbsp;The saga is seen as a symbol of the end of China’s debt-fuelled real estate boom era.

Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan pleaded guilty to fraud as China’s biggest property developer collapsed under massive debt. Accounting fraud and unfinished projects at Evergrande had triggered a wider real estate crisis in China. Here is the story of its fall

Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges in a landmark trial that marks another chapter in the spectacular collapse of what was once China’s largest real estate developer. Also known as Xu Jiayin, the 67-year-old stood trial alongside the company he founded. At the Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court, he pleaded guilty to all fraud charges and expressed remorse in his final statement. He might receive a life term in jail and confiscation of property for some of the serious charges, such as illegal fundraising and bribery. The verdict is awaited. How did Evergrande collapse? Here is that story: A fundraising fraud: Charges against Hui Ka Yan and Evergrande Hui and Evergrande faced charges of taking deposits from the public without authorisation. The fundraising fraud included misuse or embezzlement of corporate assets and funds. They were also charged with illegally issuing or extending loans and the fraudulent issuance of securities. Other charges include corporate bribery. Evergrande diverted pre-sale funds paid up by homebuyers for construction of projects to new projects instead, leading to hundreds of unfinished properties across China. Regulatory findings from 2024 showed the company had inflated 2019 and 2020 revenues by a combined 564 billion yuan, or nearly $78 billion, enabling fraudulent bond issuance. Hui was detained by authorities in September 2023 on suspicion of the crimes. In March 2024, China’s securities regulator, CSRC, fined him 47 million yuan, or around $6.5 million, banned him for life from the securities market, and penalised the company heavily for the accounting fraud. Liquidators are seeking recovery of $6 billion in dividends and remuneration paid to Hui and his former spouse. Also read: Chinese real estate firm Evergrande's shares dive after Chairman Hui Ka Yan cuts stake How Hui rose to be Asia’s richest man, with Evergrande fortunes Born into poverty in the rural Henan province and raised by his grandmother, Hui went on to build Evergrande, founded in 1996, into a real estate empire. The Guangzhou-based company, at its peak, was valued at over $50 billion. In 2017, Hui was Asia’s richest person, with a net worth of $42.5 billion. Under Hui, Evergrande expanded aggressively into electric vehicles, football, food and drinks, and other sectors. Evergrande: How China’s biggest real estate firm collapsed Evergrande’s downfall was the result of a classic high-leverage real estate model that continued until regulators stepped in. The business model was debt-fuelled. Having borrowed heavily to buy land, Evergrande pre-sold unfinished apartments to buyers who often paid up to 90 per cent upfront. This money was then used to buy more land. This continuous expansion loop model worked during China’s property boom, and by 2020, Evergrande became China’s largest developer. Also read: Ditched by Communist Party, Chinese billionaire loses 93 per cent of his fortune Evergrande failed China’s ‘Three Red Lines’ test Things changed with China’s “Three Red Lines” policy in 2020. This imposed debt limits for developers to curb systemic risks. The three aspects were: debt-to-asset ratio should be less than or equal to 70 per cent; net debt-to-equity ratio should be 100 per cent; and cash-to-short-term debt ratio should be greater than 1. Evergrande failed all three of the red line tests. Its borrowing ability was severely restricted, cutting off its lifeblood. A liquidity crisis and default of Evergrande, 2021 Under regulatory scrutiny, Evergrande could neither borrow nor complete its projects. Even as the Covid pandemic hit China and the rest of the world, Evergrande stopped paying suppliers and contractors and halted construction on many sites. In late 2021, Evergrande defaulted on paying interest on offshore bonds. Soon, its total liabilities reached 2.39 trillion yuan, or $330 billion, equivalent to around 2 per cent of China’s GDP. Evergrande owed foreign creditors around $25 billion. Evergrande almost brought down the entire real estate sector in China Nearly 1 million homebuyers were left with unfinished apartments across 1,300 Evergrande projects in 280 cities. Mass protests and more than 1,300 lawsuits followed. Evergrande was the first domino: more than 50 other real estate developers defaulted on debt payments. In August 2025, Evergrande was delisted from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange after its shares lost nearly 99 per cent of their value. Talks for debt restructuring collapsed, and in 2024, a Hong Kong court ordered liquidation of Evergrande, the largest in Chinese corporate history. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-evergrande-delisted-china-s-300-billion-property-collapse-1756142932647/embed Accounting fraud behind Evergrande collapse To keep borrowing and meet targets, Evergrande forged sales and profit numbers. Hundreds of billions of yuan were overstated. This allowed it to continue issuing bonds while hiding the true debt burden.The guilty plea cemented Hui’s personal accountability. Evergrande liquidation proceedings are continuing. Unfinished projects may be completed or sold to other developers with regulatory support. But Evergrande and Hui have become a cautionary tale for China’s property market that once overheated. The realities of Chinese household wealth, local government finances, and investor confidence were also exposed by the fall of Evergrande. The saga is seen as a symbol of the end of China’s debt-fuelled real estate boom era.

Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan pleaded guilty to fraud as China’s biggest property developer collapsed under massive debt. Accounting fraud and unfinished projects at Evergrande had triggered a wider real estate crisis in China. Here is the story of its fall

Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan pleads guilty to fraud: How China’s biggest real estate firm went down due to greed and debt

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday put forward a four-point proposal for peace in West Asia, warning that the world should not be allowed to “revert to the law of the jungle”. China is hosting a series of meetings with the leaders from Russia, the UAE and Spain. When meeting with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Xi called for safeguarding the “authority of the rule of law”. This is the first substantial comment made by Chinese President Xi Jinping following the start of US-Israeli aggression on Iran, on February 28.&nbsp;“The authority of international law must be safeguarded; it must not be applied selectively or discarded when inconvenient, nor should the world be allowed to revert to the law of the jungle," said Xi, taking a dig at the US for its unilateral action against its adversaries.&nbsp;The four-point proposal put forward by the Chinese President includes adherence to the principle of peaceful coexistence, adherence to the principle of national sovereignty, adherence to the principle of international rule of law, and adherence to the coordination of development and security, as reported by the Chinese News agency Xinhua.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lespresso-israel-cover-controversy-west-bank-1775913067459">Italy’s L’Espresso cover 'L'Abuso' on West Bank settlers draws Israel’s ire</a>Xi urged that it was imperative to build an architecture of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security in West Asia and the Gulf region. Xi asserted that China always valued its relationship with the UAE and considers it a comprehensive strategic partner in West Asia. He maintained that the relationship has grown through pragmatic cooperation and cultural exchange.&nbsp;<h2>Xi hosted Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez</h2>President Xi Jinping also hosted the Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Great Hall. This meeting marks the fourth visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in four years. Xi emphasised that the world is in “turmoil' and facing a contest between ”the rule of law and the rule of power". He called Sanchez a “key interlocuter” between China and the European Union. Sanchez claimed that China may be the "only power able to resolve" the Iran-Hormuz crisis and urged Beijing to become "more involved" in demanding an end to the war. In a sharp critique of Israel, Sanchez claimed that Israel is the only country in West Asia which is violating international law, and that the international system should be built on &nbsp;"legitimacy, not on the basis of impunity". He urged China to forge a close relationship with Europe amid the growing threat to multilateralism and the crumbling international order.&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping will also host Chinese Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who is in Beijing for talks focused on the US-Iran war and the economic impact of the Hormuz blockade.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Xi Jinping unveils a four-point peace plan for West Asia, urging the rule of law and multilateralism amid escalating US-Iran tensions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday put forward a four-point proposal for peace in West Asia, warning that the world should not be allowed to “revert to the law of the jungle”. China is hosting a series of meetings with the leaders from Russia, the UAE and Spain. When meeting with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Xi called for safeguarding the “authority of the rule of law”. This is the first substantial comment made by Chinese President Xi Jinping following the start of US-Israeli aggression on Iran, on February 28. “The authority of international law must be safeguarded; it must not be applied selectively or discarded when inconvenient, nor should the world be allowed to revert to the law of the jungle," said Xi, taking a dig at the US for its unilateral action against its adversaries. The four-point proposal put forward by the Chinese President includes adherence to the principle of peaceful coexistence, adherence to the principle of national sovereignty, adherence to the principle of international rule of law, and adherence to the coordination of development and security, as reported by the Chinese News agency Xinhua. Also Read: Italy’s L’Espresso cover 'L'Abuso' on West Bank settlers draws Israel’s ire Xi urged that it was imperative to build an architecture of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security in West Asia and the Gulf region. Xi asserted that China always valued its relationship with the UAE and considers it a comprehensive strategic partner in West Asia. He maintained that the relationship has grown through pragmatic cooperation and cultural exchange. Xi hosted Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez President Xi Jinping also hosted the Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Great Hall. This meeting marks the fourth visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in four years. Xi emphasised that the world is in “turmoil' and facing a contest between ”the rule of law and the rule of power". He called Sanchez a “key interlocuter” between China and the European Union. Sanchez claimed that China may be the "only power able to resolve" the Iran-Hormuz crisis and urged Beijing to become "more involved" in demanding an end to the war. In a sharp critique of Israel, Sanchez claimed that Israel is the only country in West Asia which is violating international law, and that the international system should be built on "legitimacy, not on the basis of impunity". He urged China to forge a close relationship with Europe amid the growing threat to multilateralism and the crumbling international order. Chinese President Xi Jinping will also host Chinese Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who is in Beijing for talks focused on the US-Iran war and the economic impact of the Hormuz blockade.

Xi Jinping unveils a four-point peace plan for West Asia, urging the rule of law and multilateralism amid escalating US-Iran tensions.

Xi Jinping proposes four-point peace plan for West Asia amid US-Iran war

A former teenage student opened fire at a vocational school in Turkey on Tuesday (April 14). The alleged shooter injured at least 16 people before killing himself, as per officials. The 18-year-old was armed with a shotgun and fired randomly inside the school in Siverek, Sanliurfa province. He later hid inside the school building before shooting himself with the same gun, Gov. Hasan Sildak said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-satisfied-with-peace-talks-signals-next-round-of-negotiations-1776146122246">Pak Defence Min 'satisfied' with peace talks; signals next round of negotiations</a>&nbsp;In the attack, 10 students, four teachers, a canteen employee and a police officer were wounded. Five teachers and students, among the wounded people being treated, were transferred to a hospital in the provincial capital because their conditions were more serious, the officer said.&nbsp;The motive for the attack remains unclear. School shootings are rare in Turkey. “The individual was cornered inside the building through police intervention and died after shooting himself,” Sildak told reporters. He added that a “comprehensive” investigation into the shooting would be carried out.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-preparing-to-attack-tehran-amid-ceasefire-uss-abraham-lincoln-spotted-just-200km-from-iran-coast-amid-us-blockade-of-hormuz-1776154395122">Trump readies attack amid ceasefire? USS Abraham Lincoln spotted 200km from Iran</a>&nbsp;Television footage showed ambulances standing by outside the school in the Siverek district as students fled the building in panic. Sildak identified the attacker as a former student at the school, born in 2007. "He took his own life when cornered by police," the governor told AFP.&nbsp;"We have evacuated the school and will carry out a thorough investigation into this tragic incident," he added.&nbsp;More details to follow&nbsp;

An 18-year-old former student wounded 16 people, including students and staff, at a Turkish vocational school before killing himself. The motive for the rare shooting in Siverek remains under investigation.

A former teenage student opened fire at a vocational school in Turkey on Tuesday (April 14). The alleged shooter injured at least 16 people before killing himself, as per officials. The 18-year-old was armed with a shotgun and fired randomly inside the school in Siverek, Sanliurfa province. He later hid inside the school building before shooting himself with the same gun, Gov. Hasan Sildak said. Also read: Pak Defence Min 'satisfied' with peace talks; signals next round of negotiations In the attack, 10 students, four teachers, a canteen employee and a police officer were wounded. Five teachers and students, among the wounded people being treated, were transferred to a hospital in the provincial capital because their conditions were more serious, the officer said. The motive for the attack remains unclear. School shootings are rare in Turkey. “The individual was cornered inside the building through police intervention and died after shooting himself,” Sildak told reporters. He added that a “comprehensive” investigation into the shooting would be carried out. Also read: Trump readies attack amid ceasefire? USS Abraham Lincoln spotted 200km from Iran Television footage showed ambulances standing by outside the school in the Siverek district as students fled the building in panic. Sildak identified the attacker as a former student at the school, born in 2007. "He took his own life when cornered by police," the governor told AFP. "We have evacuated the school and will carry out a thorough investigation into this tragic incident," he added. More details to follow

An 18-year-old former student wounded 16 people, including students and staff, at a Turkish vocational school before killing himself. The motive for the rare shooting in Siverek remains under investigation.

Turkey school mass shooting: Teen attacker injures 16 people before killing himself - Here’s what we know so far

Italian weekly magazine L'Espresso has sparked a diplomatic tension with Israel following its publication of the April 10, 2024, issue titled "L'Abuso" or "The Abuse". The publication depicts a cover image with an armed settler filming a distressed Palestinian woman during a raid in the West Bank. In its editorial note, L’Espresso contrasted the “settler's grin” with the “pained Arab girl”, framing the scene as a reflection of the human cost of the ongoing tensions.The image describes the predatory nature of the Israeli settlers' “daily abuses” in the West Bank. L'Espresso re-released the cover for its April 9 issue to anchor a new and broader investigation into the “Greater Israel” project. This issue coincided with the Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s April 9, 2026, plan for the “Greater Israel” expansion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-saudi-smda-pact-us-iran-war-1776144006783">Pakistan’s dual role, mediator and military ally, secret SMDA Pact with Saudi Arabia</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">L&#39;annessione della Cisgiordania, con i soldati complici dei coloni. Gaza annientata. L&#39;avanzata in Libano. Il confine violato in Siria. La guerra all&#39;Iran. Pulizia etnica e massacri. Così la destra sionista dà forma al Grande Israele Il numero de L’Espresso, in edicola e su app <a href="https://t.co/xXEeypA1l9">pic.twitter.com/xXEeypA1l9</a>&mdash; L&#39;Espresso (@espressonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/espressonline/status/2043618775275077874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ah coglioni!! Ah &#39;mbecilli! Ah&#39; mbriaconi! <a href="https://t.co/yy6GkJzNFM">pic.twitter.com/yy6GkJzNFM</a>&mdash; Harald Hardråde (@HaraldH46781) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaraldH46781/status/2043798755351089474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"The annexation of the West Bank, with soldiers complicit in the settlers' actions. Gaza annihilated. The advance into Lebanon. The border was violated in Syria. The war on Iran. Ethnic cleansing and massacres. Thus, the Zionist right gives shape to Greater Israel," read the blurb from L'Espresso.Israeli ambassador to Italy, Jonathan Peled, condemned the cover, labelling it "hate speech," a "manipulative distortion of reality," and an oversimplification that contributes to harmful stereotypes and antisemitic tropes against “Israeli”.L'Espresso's post has triggered mixed reactions with supporters defending the depiction as a crude reality of the settler violence in the West Bank, while others argue that the picture does not provide the context and "unfairly portrays" Israel amid ongoing war and security threats in the region.

Italy’s L’Espresso draws ire from Israel over its controversial cover on West Bank settler violence, sparking a diplomatic storm and media debate.

Italian weekly magazine L'Espresso has sparked a diplomatic tension with Israel following its publication of the April 10, 2024, issue titled "L'Abuso" or "The Abuse". The publication depicts a cover image with an armed settler filming a distressed Palestinian woman during a raid in the West Bank. In its editorial note, L’Espresso contrasted the “settler's grin” with the “pained Arab girl”, framing the scene as a reflection of the human cost of the ongoing tensions. The image describes the predatory nature of the Israeli settlers' “daily abuses” in the West Bank. L'Espresso re-released the cover for its April 9 issue to anchor a new and broader investigation into the “Greater Israel” project. This issue coincided with the Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s April 9, 2026, plan for the “Greater Israel” expansion. Also Read: Pakistan’s dual role, mediator and military ally, secret SMDA Pact with Saudi Arabia

Italy’s L’Espresso draws ire from Israel over its controversial cover on West Bank settler violence, sparking a diplomatic storm and media debate.

Italy’s L’Espresso cover 'L'Abuso' on West Bank settlers draws Israel’s ire

Why is the USS Abraham Lincoln moving this close to Iran, and what does it signal? The warship, as per reports, is just 200 km off Iran’s coast. Amid rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, is the US carrier carrying out Trump's blockade of the vital waterway? All we know.

Trump preparing to attack Tehran amid ceasefire? USS Abraham Lincoln spotted just 200km from Iran coast amid US blockade of Hormuz

US Vice President JD Vance, a self-proclaimed 'baby Catholic,' on Monday (Apr 13) was put on the spot, as an interviewer grilled him on POTUS Donald Trump's ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV. Trump, on Monday, courted controversy with a 334-word-long Truth Social post, in which he bashed the American pope, calling him "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy". He then later proceeded to post an AI-generated image depicting himself as Jesus, healing a sick man. During a Fox News interview, Vance was asked about his thoughts on the Trump-Pope feud "as a Catholic". Here's what he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-macron-post-a-video-of-jeffrey-epstein-kissing-melania-trump-truth-behind-the-viral-clip-1775806317213">FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip</a><h2>AI Jesus Trump a joke?</h2>Vance, as per reports, called the deeply divisive episode not "newsworthy". The Catholic convert VP insisted that Trump was "posting a joke" and not actually saying he was Jesus. Trump, following the controversy, as even his MAGA supporters criticised him, has deleted the picture.While insisting that the AI-generated picture was posted as a "joke" Vance also sought to lavish praise on the POTUS, saying he was not being "filtered". He also said that it was "totally reasonable" that the president was in a feud with the Pope. The pontiff has publicly criticised Trump and his acolytes for their stringent immigration policies and warmongering. On Monday, Pope Leo even told reporters on the papal plane en route to Africa earlier Monday that he had "no fear, neither of the Trump administration nor speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-wow-what-a-hot-piece-of-a-melania-trump-denies-epstein-and-maxwell-ties-but-these-emails-complicate-that-story-fact-check-1775783396467">'Wow, what a hot piece of a**': Melania Trump denies Epstein and Maxwell ties, but THESE emails complicate that story | FACT CHECK</a><h2>Vance wants the Vatican to "stick to matters of morality"</h2>During the same interview, Vance also said that in his opinion, "it would be best for the Vatican to stick to matters of morality, to stick to matters of, you know, what’s going on in the Catholic Church, and let the President of the United States stick to dictating American public policy".He also dismissed the feud, saying, "when they are in conflict, they are in conflict. I don’t worry about it too much". Calling the ongoing public spat a "natural thing" that may happen in the future as well, Vance added, "We can respect the pope, we certainly have a good relationship with the Vatican". &nbsp;

Is the Trump–Pope clash serious—or just politics as usual? ‘Baby Catholic’ JD Vance brushed off the feud, calling Donald Trump's controversial post a “joke” and not something to worry about.

Scroll down to read more.


US Vice President JD Vance, a self-proclaimed 'baby Catholic,' on Monday (Apr 13) was put on the spot, as an interviewer grilled him on POTUS Donald Trump's ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV. Trump, on Monday, courted controversy with a 334-word-long Truth Social post, in which he bashed the American pope, calling him "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy". He then later proceeded to post an AI-generated image depicting himself as Jesus, healing a sick man. During a Fox News interview, Vance was asked about his thoughts on the Trump-Pope feud "as a Catholic". Here's what he said. Also read | FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip AI Jesus Trump a joke? Vance, as per reports, called the deeply divisive episode not "newsworthy". The Catholic convert VP insisted that Trump was "posting a joke" and not actually saying he was Jesus. Trump, following the controversy, as even his MAGA supporters criticised him, has deleted the picture. While insisting that the AI-generated picture was posted as a "joke" Vance also sought to lavish praise on the POTUS, saying he was not being "filtered". He also said that it was "totally reasonable" that the president was in a feud with the Pope. The pontiff has publicly criticised Trump and his acolytes for their stringent immigration policies and warmongering. On Monday, Pope Leo even told reporters on the papal plane en route to Africa earlier Monday that he had "no fear, neither of the Trump administration nor speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel." Also read | 'Wow, what a hot piece of a**': Melania Trump denies Epstein and Maxwell ties, but THESE emails complicate that story | FACT CHECK Vance wants the Vatican to "stick to matters of morality" During the same interview, Vance also said that in his opinion, "it would be best for the Vatican to stick to matters of morality, to stick to matters of, you know, what’s going on in the Catholic Church, and let the President of the United States stick to dictating American public policy". He also dismissed the feud, saying, "when they are in conflict, they are in conflict. I don’t worry about it too much". Calling the ongoing public spat a "natural thing" that may happen in the future as well, Vance added, "We can respect the pope, we certainly have a good relationship with the Vatican".

Is the Trump–Pope clash serious—or just politics as usual? ‘Baby Catholic’ JD Vance brushed off the feud, calling Donald Trump's controversial post a “joke” and not something to worry about.Scroll down to read more. &nbsp;

JD Vance defends Trump post, calls AI-generated ‘Jesus’ image a joke, tells Pope Leo to stick to ‘matters of morality’

The first round of talks in Pakistan did not reach a formal agreement on Sunday (Apr 12), and now Defence Minister Khawaja Asif mentions the next round. He said the Iran-US negotiations were expected soon. These comments come after the 21-hour talks held in Islamabad. Even before the talk could start, Iran wanted Israel to stop attacking Lebanon. This clause was mentioned in the initial ceasefire, which included Lebanon, which was even part of the post by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters outside Parliament House, Asif said that there is a sense of satisfaction after the first round of talks, no negative developments so far. As reported by news agency PTI, he said "only positive progress has been observed.” When Asif was asked by news outlet Express Tribune if Pakistan would play a key role in shaping the region's future, he said that ultimate decisions rest with Allah.&nbsp;The statement comes ahead of the high-stakes meeting in Islamabad. After the US and Iran reached an agreement with Pakistan’s mediation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has now raised concerns to Islamabad about ceasefire violations" by Israel on Wednesday (Apr 8), a ministry statement noted. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also took note of the situation, mentioning reports of ceasefire violations, a day after brokering peace between the US and Iran.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-claims-iranian-representatives-called-white-house-1776149971281/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-claims-iranian-representatives-called-white-house-1776149971281/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lapid-labels-israeli-pm-netanyahu-father-of-failure-day-after-ceasefire-1775739764335">Lapid labels Israeli PM Netanyahu 'father of failure' day after ceasefire</a>&nbsp;As Israel continued to strike Lebanon, Foreign Minister Araghchi, Iranian President Pezeshkian, had threatened to withdraw from the ceasefire agreement. The post by Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif mentioned, “With the greatest humility, I am pleased to announce that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire everywhere, including Lebanon and elsewhere, effective immediately.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pezeshkian-warns-macron-of-broad-consequences-if-hormuz-is-threatened-says-iran-open-to-negotiations-but-1776133943246">Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened</a>&nbsp;Pezeshkian in his statement, the president stated, “The repeated aggression by the Zionist entity against Lebanon is a blatant violation of the initial ceasefire agreement and a dangerous indicator of deceit and lack of commitment to potential accords.” He pointed out how Israel’s renewed attack against Lebanon is a blatant violation of “the initial ceasefire agreement.”

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expresses satisfaction over the recent Islamabad negotiations, noting "positive progress" despite the diplomatic deadlock as Pakistan gears up for a potential second round of peace talks.

The first round of talks in Pakistan did not reach a formal agreement on Sunday (Apr 12), and now Defence Minister Khawaja Asif mentions the next round. He said the Iran-US negotiations were expected soon. These comments come after the 21-hour talks held in Islamabad. Even before the talk could start, Iran wanted Israel to stop attacking Lebanon. This clause was mentioned in the initial ceasefire, which included Lebanon, which was even part of the post by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament House, Asif said that there is a sense of satisfaction after the first round of talks, no negative developments so far. As reported by news agency PTI, he said "only positive progress has been observed.” When Asif was asked by news outlet Express Tribune if Pakistan would play a key role in shaping the region's future, he said that ultimate decisions rest with Allah. The statement comes ahead of the high-stakes meeting in Islamabad. After the US and Iran reached an agreement with Pakistan’s mediation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has now raised concerns to Islamabad about ceasefire violations" by Israel on Wednesday (Apr 8), a ministry statement noted. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also took note of the situation, mentioning reports of ceasefire violations, a day after brokering peace between the US and Iran. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-claims-iranian-representatives-called-white-house-1776149971281/embed Also read: Lapid labels Israeli PM Netanyahu 'father of failure' day after ceasefire As Israel continued to strike Lebanon, Foreign Minister Araghchi, Iranian President Pezeshkian, had threatened to withdraw from the ceasefire agreement. The post by Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif mentioned, “With the greatest humility, I am pleased to announce that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire everywhere, including Lebanon and elsewhere, effective immediately.” Also read: Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened Pezeshkian in his statement, the president stated, “The repeated aggression by the Zionist entity against Lebanon is a blatant violation of the initial ceasefire agreement and a dangerous indicator of deceit and lack of commitment to potential accords.” He pointed out how Israel’s renewed attack against Lebanon is a blatant violation of “the initial ceasefire agreement.”

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expresses satisfaction over the recent Islamabad negotiations, noting "positive progress" despite the diplomatic deadlock as Pakistan gears up for a potential second round of peace talks.

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif 'satisfied' with peace talks; signals next round of negotiations

Over the course of the US-Iran war, Pakistan has emerged as the unlikely mediator between the two parties. However, as the negotiations were progressing, a social media post from the Saudi Ministry of Defence emerged, which mired the purported neutrality of the host. Islamabad has to participate in the US-Iran war, which it is attempting to mediate. &nbsp;The post on the social media platform X by the Saudi Ministry of Defence suggested “the arrival of a military force from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan at King Abdulaziz Air Base in the Eastern Sector.” It implied that the mutual defence pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia was activated as the region was at war. A leaked document obtained by the Drop Site News reveals specifics of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA), a NATO-style “Article 5” arrangement between Islamabad and Riyadh that moves the Defence agreement far beyond a cooperation to a binding treaty.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minab-168-iran-us-talks-symbolism-islamabad-1775906497729">Why Iran named its Islamabad talks mission ‘Minab-168’?</a><h2>What is the SMDA?</h2>The SDMA signed in September 2025 had its foundation, shortly after Pakistan's establishment and the first India-Pakistan War over Jammu and Kashmir. During the first decade, it was a “Treaty of Friendship”. The parties agreed to prohibit the use of their respective territories for illegal activities against one another and referred to each other as “Most Favoured Nation”. The formal military ties were established in the 1960s, during the Egyptian intervention in Yemen and the Six-Day War between the Arab states and Israel.&nbsp;Between 1970 and 1980, it was codified, specifically after Pakistan helped in the Mecca Grand Mosque seizure. In 1982, a landmark Bilateral Security Cooperation Agreement was established, formalising troop deployment, training, and advisory roles. During the Gulf War in 1991, Pakistan deployed around 19000 troops and advisors to protect Saudi territory. Saudi Arabia was the only nation which had previous information about Pakistan's nuclear tests; it also supported Pakistan with a free oil supply during the subsequent international sanctions.&nbsp;On July 30, 2005, under the Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and the Saudi King Fahd, the agreement was expanded to a Military Cooperation Agreement (MCA) via cooperation in training and logistics. In 2015, there was a brief period of tension when Pakistan decided not to join the Saudi conflict in Yemen. Despite apprehension from Pakistan's then Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2021, the pact shifted towards defence obligations, specifically following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, broadening the scope of the bilateral military relationship. On September 17, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Sharif formalised a new iteration of the pact following the Israeli strikes in Doha and Qatar and growing uncertainty of US security guarantees.&nbsp;<h2>What are the key details revealed in the leak?</h2>The specific details of the SMDA were never made public or reviewed by the Pakistani Parliament. The new details were revealed by an apparent leak by the Drop Site News. According to the anonymous sources who provided the Drop Site internal memo on the treaty and how it has been updated over time. The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both, requiring military intervention from both. The leak also claims that this amendment was sitting on former Prime Minister Imran Khan's desk before his removal. The document also reveals a connection specific to Iran; the 2025 SMDA triggers a Pakistani Military response in case of any attack on Saudi forces or military infrastructure. Further explains the zeal of Pakistan to negotiate and maintain a ceasefire between the US and Iran. The document further mandates the creation of joint military committees, intelligence sharing and cooperation in joint training exercises. There is a degree of debate within Pakistan's military infrastructure to limit the obligation to conventional forces, but the Saudi side mentions that “by all means” encompasses nuclear sharing. Pakistan also tried to narrow the scope of obligation to Saudi territory, like the cases in Yemen, but the 2025 agreement contains provisions for action outside Saudi territory.&nbsp;<h2>What does this mean for Pakistan?&nbsp;</h2>Pakistan is already facing insurgencies from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and intensified insurgencies in Balochistan and an active conflict with the Taliban in Kabul, with a brief negotiated ceasefire by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. Pakistan has a good relationship with the US; it has the largest Shia population after Iran, and also enjoys a good relationship with the Islamic Republic. Following news that the United Arab Emirates had recalled a loan from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia stepped in with $5 billion to replenish Pakistan's foreign reserves. It has already deployed 13,000 troops and fighter jets to assist the Kingdom's defence. &nbsp;It finds itself in a precarious situation with conflict on the Western border. Insurgencies on the Western front, and at the same time, is also trying to mediate the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran to desperately avoid going to a war for the kingdom, but has to keep its obligations for diplomatic and economic ties, further putting strain on Islamabad both politically and economically.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A leaked SMDA pact reveals Pakistan’s defence obligations to Saudi Arabia, raising questions about its neutrality in mediating the US-Iran conflict.

Over the course of the US-Iran war, Pakistan has emerged as the unlikely mediator between the two parties. However, as the negotiations were progressing, a social media post from the Saudi Ministry of Defence emerged, which mired the purported neutrality of the host. Islamabad has to participate in the US-Iran war, which it is attempting to mediate. The post on the social media platform X by the Saudi Ministry of Defence suggested “the arrival of a military force from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan at King Abdulaziz Air Base in the Eastern Sector.” It implied that the mutual defence pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia was activated as the region was at war. A leaked document obtained by the Drop Site News reveals specifics of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA), a NATO-style “Article 5” arrangement between Islamabad and Riyadh that moves the Defence agreement far beyond a cooperation to a binding treaty. Also Read: Why Iran named its Islamabad talks mission ‘Minab-168’? What is the SMDA? The SDMA signed in September 2025 had its foundation, shortly after Pakistan's establishment and the first India-Pakistan War over Jammu and Kashmir. During the first decade, it was a “Treaty of Friendship”. The parties agreed to prohibit the use of their respective territories for illegal activities against one another and referred to each other as “Most Favoured Nation”. The formal military ties were established in the 1960s, during the Egyptian intervention in Yemen and the Six-Day War between the Arab states and Israel. Between 1970 and 1980, it was codified, specifically after Pakistan helped in the Mecca Grand Mosque seizure. In 1982, a landmark Bilateral Security Cooperation Agreement was established, formalising troop deployment, training, and advisory roles. During the Gulf War in 1991, Pakistan deployed around 19000 troops and advisors to protect Saudi territory. Saudi Arabia was the only nation which had previous information about Pakistan's nuclear tests; it also supported Pakistan with a free oil supply during the subsequent international sanctions. On July 30, 2005, under the Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and the Saudi King Fahd, the agreement was expanded to a Military Cooperation Agreement (MCA) via cooperation in training and logistics. In 2015, there was a brief period of tension when Pakistan decided not to join the Saudi conflict in Yemen. Despite apprehension from Pakistan's then Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2021, the pact shifted towards defence obligations, specifically following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, broadening the scope of the bilateral military relationship. On September 17, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Sharif formalised a new iteration of the pact following the Israeli strikes in Doha and Qatar and growing uncertainty of US security guarantees. What are the key details revealed in the leak? The specific details of the SMDA were never made public or reviewed by the Pakistani Parliament. The new details were revealed by an apparent leak by the Drop Site News. According to the anonymous sources who provided the Drop Site internal memo on the treaty and how it has been updated over time. The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both, requiring military intervention from both. The leak also claims that this amendment was sitting on former Prime Minister Imran Khan's desk before his removal. The document also reveals a connection specific to Iran; the 2025 SMDA triggers a Pakistani Military response in case of any attack on Saudi forces or military infrastructure. Further explains the zeal of Pakistan to negotiate and maintain a ceasefire between the US and Iran. The document further mandates the creation of joint military committees, intelligence sharing and cooperation in joint training exercises. There is a degree of debate within Pakistan's military infrastructure to limit the obligation to conventional forces, but the Saudi side mentions that “by all means” encompasses nuclear sharing. Pakistan also tried to narrow the scope of obligation to Saudi territory, like the cases in Yemen, but the 2025 agreement contains provisions for action outside Saudi territory. What does this mean for Pakistan? Pakistan is already facing insurgencies from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and intensified insurgencies in Balochistan and an active conflict with the Taliban in Kabul, with a brief negotiated ceasefire by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. Pakistan has a good relationship with the US; it has the largest Shia population after Iran, and also enjoys a good relationship with the Islamic Republic. Following news that the United Arab Emirates had recalled a loan from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia stepped in with $5 billion to replenish Pakistan's foreign reserves. It has already deployed 13,000 troops and fighter jets to assist the Kingdom's defence. It finds itself in a precarious situation with conflict on the Western border. Insurgencies on the Western front, and at the same time, is also trying to mediate the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran to desperately avoid going to a war for the kingdom, but has to keep its obligations for diplomatic and economic ties, further putting strain on Islamabad both politically and economically.

A leaked SMDA pact reveals Pakistan’s defence obligations to Saudi Arabia, raising questions about its neutrality in mediating the US-Iran conflict.

Pakistan’s dual role, mediator and military ally, secret SMDA Pact with Saudi Arabia

New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf, Iran's ambassador to India has reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and ongoing coordination with New Delhi on the safe passage of Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, even as US President Donald Trump imposes a naval blockade on Iranian ports.Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali emphasised that Iran and India "have a good relationship" and maintain "good contact" on the issue. "We believe that we should prepare a good preparation," he said, adding that relevant Iranian institutions would soon outline their stance. He described the current situation in the Strait as "very unstable" and urged both sides to "see the future."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bear-the-financial-burden-of-reconstruction-iran-demands-war-reparations-from-saudi-uae-bahrain-jordan-and-qatar-after-islamabad-talks-fail-1776139228070">'Bear the financial burden of reconstruction': Iran demands war reparations from Saudi, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan and Qatar after Islamabad talks fail</a>The ambassador's comments come as the US Navy began enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas on Monday, following the collapse of peace talks in Islamabad. Trump has warned that any Iranian "fast attack ships" approaching the blockade would be "immediately eliminated," framing the move as a response to Iran's control over the strategic waterway, through which about a fifth of global oil and significant LNG volumes normally flow.When asked about Trump's threat, Fathali struck a defiant tone: "They have examined us many times... They know our capacity and capability. They know our surprise in the army... you can see in the future how is our response, how is our reaction." He referenced Iran's resilience during the recent 42-day war, highlighting what he called indigenous military progress.On the sensitive question of whether Indian ships are paying any form of toll or tax to transit the strait, the ambassador was categorical. Iranian officials, including Fathali, have stated that Indian tankers crossing Hormuz have not paid tolls, dismissing rumours of charges reportedly under consideration for other vessels. India has also firmly denied making any such payments, consistent with its position that the strait is an international waterway where freedom of navigation should apply without financial levies under international law.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pezeshkian-warns-macron-of-broad-consequences-if-hormuz-is-threatened-says-iran-open-to-negotiations-but-1776133943246">Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but...</a>The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for India's energy security. Large amounts of India's crude oil and LPG imports have historically passed through it, leaving New Delhi vulnerable to disruptions. Since the outbreak of the Iran war in late February, Iran has exercised selective control, granting passage to vessels from "friendly nations" including India, China and Russia. Around 15 India-flagged vessels are currently in the Hormuz.Earlier at a presser, Fathali portrayed the relationship in warm terms, saying India and Iran share a "common fate" and common interests in the region. He thanked the Indian government and people for being "reliable and compassionate partners" during difficult times and described India as one of Iran's trusted friends.The US blockade adds a new layer of complexity. While Washington says it will not impede non-Iranian commercial traffic through the strait itself, the targeting of Iranian-linked shipping risks broader escalation, higher oil prices, which have already climbed above $100 a barrel in recent days.For India, the balancing act is delicate. New Delhi has called for unimpeded navigation and welcomed earlier ceasefires, while maintaining energy and strategic ties with both Tehran and its partners in the Gulf and beyond.

Speaking to WION Iranian Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali emphasised that Iran and India "have a good relationship" and maintain "good contact" on the issue.

New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf, Iran's ambassador to India has reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and ongoing coordination with New Delhi on the safe passage of Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, even as US President Donald Trump imposes a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali emphasised that Iran and India "have a good relationship" and maintain "good contact" on the issue. "We believe that we should prepare a good preparation," he said, adding that relevant Iranian institutions would soon outline their stance. He described the current situation in the Strait as "very unstable" and urged both sides to "see the future." Also read | 'Bear the financial burden of reconstruction': Iran demands war reparations from Saudi, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan and Qatar after Islamabad talks fail The ambassador's comments come as the US Navy began enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas on Monday, following the collapse of peace talks in Islamabad. Trump has warned that any Iranian "fast attack ships" approaching the blockade would be "immediately eliminated," framing the move as a response to Iran's control over the strategic waterway, through which about a fifth of global oil and significant LNG volumes normally flow. When asked about Trump's threat, Fathali struck a defiant tone: "They have examined us many times... They know our capacity and capability. They know our surprise in the army... you can see in the future how is our response, how is our reaction." He referenced Iran's resilience during the recent 42-day war, highlighting what he called indigenous military progress. On the sensitive question of whether Indian ships are paying any form of toll or tax to transit the strait, the ambassador was categorical. Iranian officials, including Fathali, have stated that Indian tankers crossing Hormuz have not paid tolls, dismissing rumours of charges reportedly under consideration for other vessels. India has also firmly denied making any such payments, consistent with its position that the strait is an international waterway where freedom of navigation should apply without financial levies under international law. Also read | Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but... The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for India's energy security. Large amounts of India's crude oil and LPG imports have historically passed through it, leaving New Delhi vulnerable to disruptions. Since the outbreak of the Iran war in late February, Iran has exercised selective control, granting passage to vessels from "friendly nations" including India, China and Russia. Around 15 India-flagged vessels are currently in the Hormuz. Earlier at a presser, Fathali portrayed the relationship in warm terms, saying India and Iran share a "common fate" and common interests in the region. He thanked the Indian government and people for being "reliable and compassionate partners" during difficult times and described India as one of Iran's trusted friends. The US blockade adds a new layer of complexity. While Washington says it will not impede non-Iranian commercial traffic through the strait itself, the targeting of Iranian-linked shipping risks broader escalation, higher oil prices, which have already climbed above $100 a barrel in recent days. For India, the balancing act is delicate. New Delhi has called for unimpeded navigation and welcomed earlier ceasefires, while maintaining energy and strategic ties with both Tehran and its partners in the Gulf and beyond.

Speaking to WION Iranian Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali emphasised that Iran and India "have a good relationship" and maintain "good contact" on the issue.

Iran maintains 'good contact' with India on Hormuz passage, says Iran ambassador Dr Fathali

Rep. Tony Gonzales has announced he will resign from the US House on Tuesday, months after he revealed an extramarital affair with an aide who later died by suicide. “There is a season for everything, and God has a plan for us all,” Gonzales said in a statement Monday evening. “When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office. It has been my privilege to serve the great people of Texas.” His statement came about an hour after Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-California, announced his own resignation from the House after numerous former staffers accused the Democrat of sexual misconduct, including sexual assault. Both resignations come in the wake of reports that the members of Congress have planned expulsion resolutions against both lawmakers this week. Gonzales was first elected in 2020 and admitted to the affair in March.&nbsp;San Antonio Express-News was the first to reveal that Gonzales had an affair with an aide, and even asked the woman for nude photos, according to text messages. He finished second in the Republican primary in March, after which GOP leaders and US House Speaker Mike Johnson told him not to go ahead with a reelection bid. However, resignation or expulsion were not in the picture, and only came to the fore after Swalwell's sexual misconduct allegations emerged. Members of Congress are prohibited from engaging in sexual relationships with their employees. The House Ethics Committee launched an official probe to determine whether Gonzales “engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his office” and “discriminated unfairly by dispensing special favours or privileges.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eric-swalwell-to-resign-from-congress-amid-sexual-misconduct-allegations-1776117676224">'I am deeply sorry to my family': Eric Swalwell to resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations</a><h2>Vacant seat after Gonzales's resignation</h2>Last week, a former staffer of the Gonzales campaign accused the then-candidate of sexual misconduct. The staffer provided text messages as evidence, alleging that Gonzales had solicited her for nude photos and sexual favours. His resignation will leave Texas’s 23rd Congressional District vacant, and Governor Greg Abbott can set a special election date.&nbsp;

Republican Tony Gonzales is the next Congressman to resign over sexual favours sought from an aide who died by suicide. The House Ethics Committee launched an official probe to determine whether Gonzales “engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his office”.

Rep. Tony Gonzales has announced he will resign from the US House on Tuesday, months after he revealed an extramarital affair with an aide who later died by suicide. “There is a season for everything, and God has a plan for us all,” Gonzales said in a statement Monday evening. “When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office. It has been my privilege to serve the great people of Texas.” His statement came about an hour after Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-California, announced his own resignation from the House after numerous former staffers accused the Democrat of sexual misconduct, including sexual assault. Both resignations come in the wake of reports that the members of Congress have planned expulsion resolutions against both lawmakers this week. Gonzales was first elected in 2020 and admitted to the affair in March. San Antonio Express-News was the first to reveal that Gonzales had an affair with an aide, and even asked the woman for nude photos, according to text messages. He finished second in the Republican primary in March, after which GOP leaders and US House Speaker Mike Johnson told him not to go ahead with a reelection bid. However, resignation or expulsion were not in the picture, and only came to the fore after Swalwell's sexual misconduct allegations emerged. Members of Congress are prohibited from engaging in sexual relationships with their employees. The House Ethics Committee launched an official probe to determine whether Gonzales “engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his office” and “discriminated unfairly by dispensing special favours or privileges.” Also Read: 'I am deeply sorry to my family': Eric Swalwell to resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations Vacant seat after Gonzales's resignation Last week, a former staffer of the Gonzales campaign accused the then-candidate of sexual misconduct. The staffer provided text messages as evidence, alleging that Gonzales had solicited her for nude photos and sexual favours. His resignation will leave Texas’s 23rd Congressional District vacant, and Governor Greg Abbott can set a special election date.

Republican Tony Gonzales is the next Congressman to resign over sexual favours sought from an aide who died by suicide. The House Ethics Committee launched an official probe to determine whether Gonzales “engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his office”.

Rep. Tony Gonzales to resign over extramarital affair with aide who died by suicide

The recent workers’ strike in Noida that had turned violent is being framed by the government of the northern Uttar Pradesh state as part of a Pakistani conspiracy. &nbsp;Demanding wage hikes and improved working conditions, the workers of different factories had blocked border roads in protests that turned violent in the industrial region.<h2>'Terrorists were arrested from the area': What the minister said</h2>The Minister for Labour, Anil Rajbhar, said that four suspected terrorists with links to Pakistan-based handlers were arrested from Noida and nearby Meerut recently.“In such a situation, the possibility of a conspiracy to create instability in the state gains strength. Agencies are investigating the entire matter,” Rajbhar was quoted as saying in Indian media outlets.Rajbhar claimed that ‘anti-national’ forces were behind the strike, which he said was linked to Pakistani conspiracies. He said the incident appears to have been carried out with the intention of disrupting the development and law and order of the state.Rajbhar added that forces troubled by the popularity of the Uttar Pradesh government, are conspiring to create instability in the state.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stone-pelting-vehicle-damage-tear-gas-how-protest-for-pay-hike-turns-violent-in-india-s-noida-1776059806497">Stone pelting, vehicle damage, tear gas - How protest for pay hike turns violent in India’s Noida</a>He urged people not to fall victim to misleading information or provocation and to maintain peace.Asserting that chaos is not a solution, he said the government is ready to listen to the concerns of the workers.Earlier, Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of the BJP-ruled state, had said that the strike was an attempt to disrupt the industrial progress of the state.&nbsp;He said: “This unrest appears to be a deliberate attempt to disturb industrial harmony and development in Uttar Pradesh. Strict action will be taken against those found involved.”<h2>Hundreds arrested or taken into preventive custody</h2>By Monday evening, more than 300 protesters were arrested for alleged arson and vandalism. More than 100 others were detained for questioning.Officials said the protesters are being identified through CCTV footage from factories and surrounding areas. Further action may be taken against additional individuals.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-rise-of-noida-greater-noida-642808/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-rise-of-noida-greater-noida-642808/embed</a><h2>What is the Noida strike about?</h2>Factory workers have been demanding better pay and improved labour conditions. The protests turned violent across several parts of Noida, including Phase 2, Sector 60, Sector 62 and Sector 84.There were reports of arson, vandalism and stone-pelting. Some vehicles were set on fire by protesters, who also damaged property and blocked roads, causing traffic disruption.There is heavy police deployment in the area to bring the situation under control, with authorities also using tear gas to disperse crowds.

A minister has alleged that the Noida workers' strike was linked to Pakistan conspiracies. The facory worker strike has turned violent, with protests, arson and hundreds of arrests. 

The recent workers’ strike in Noida that had turned violent is being framed by the government of the northern Uttar Pradesh state as part of a Pakistani conspiracy. Demanding wage hikes and improved working conditions, the workers of different factories had blocked border roads in protests that turned violent in the industrial region. 'Terrorists were arrested from the area': What the minister said The Minister for Labour, Anil Rajbhar, said that four suspected terrorists with links to Pakistan-based handlers were arrested from Noida and nearby Meerut recently. “In such a situation, the possibility of a conspiracy to create instability in the state gains strength. Agencies are investigating the entire matter,” Rajbhar was quoted as saying in Indian media outlets. Rajbhar claimed that ‘anti-national’ forces were behind the strike, which he said was linked to Pakistani conspiracies. He said the incident appears to have been carried out with the intention of disrupting the development and law and order of the state. Rajbhar added that forces troubled by the popularity of the Uttar Pradesh government, are conspiring to create instability in the state. Also read: Stone pelting, vehicle damage, tear gas - How protest for pay hike turns violent in India’s Noida He urged people not to fall victim to misleading information or provocation and to maintain peace. Asserting that chaos is not a solution, he said the government is ready to listen to the concerns of the workers. Earlier, Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of the BJP-ruled state, had said that the strike was an attempt to disrupt the industrial progress of the state. He said: “This unrest appears to be a deliberate attempt to disturb industrial harmony and development in Uttar Pradesh. Strict action will be taken against those found involved.” Hundreds arrested or taken into preventive custody By Monday evening, more than 300 protesters were arrested for alleged arson and vandalism. More than 100 others were detained for questioning. Officials said the protesters are being identified through CCTV footage from factories and surrounding areas. Further action may be taken against additional individuals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-rise-of-noida-greater-noida-642808/embed What is the Noida strike about? Factory workers have been demanding better pay and improved labour conditions. The protests turned violent across several parts of Noida, including Phase 2, Sector 60, Sector 62 and Sector 84. There were reports of arson, vandalism and stone-pelting. Some vehicles were set on fire by protesters, who also damaged property and blocked roads, causing traffic disruption. There is heavy police deployment in the area to bring the situation under control, with authorities also using tear gas to disperse crowds.

A minister has alleged that the Noida workers' strike was linked to Pakistan conspiracies. The facory worker strike has turned violent, with protests, arson and hundreds of arrests.&nbsp;

'4 suspected terrorists were…': Pakistan conspiracy behind Noida worker strike, claims Uttar Pradesh minister

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s wife, Begona Gomez, has been formally charged with corruption after a years-long criminal investigation, according to a court ruling published Monday. The probe is one of several corruption cases that have embroiled the Socialist leader’s family and former allies, putting pressure on his minority coalition government.Judge Juan Carlos Peinado opened the investigation in April 2024 to determine whether Gomez had exploited her position as Sanchez’s wife for private gain, which she and the prime minister deny.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pezeshkian-warns-macron-of-broad-consequences-if-hormuz-is-threatened-says-iran-open-to-negotiations-but-1776133943246">Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but...</a>The case centers on the creation and management of a chair at Madrid’s Complutense University that was co-directed by Gomez, as well as the alleged use of public resources and personal connections to advance private interests.Peinado said his investigation had found sufficient indications of criminal conduct by Gomez, 55, according to a ruling dated April 11 that was made public on Monday.He formally charged Gomez with embezzlement, influence peddling, corruption in business dealings and misappropriation of funds, the ruling added."The chair served as a means of private professional development for the person under investigation," the judge wrote.It is now up to the courts to decide whether Gómez will stand trial.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-backstab-to-the-resistance-hezbollah-demands-lebanon-cancel-futile-washington-talks-with-israel-1776127517762">'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel</a>Gomez, who is on an official visit to China with Sanchez, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.Sanchez has dismissed the allegations against his wife as an attempt by the right wing to undermine his government. Opposition parties have called for his resignation.The case originated from a complaint filed by an anti-corruption group with far-right ties.The prime minister’s brother, David Sanchez, has also been indicted in a separate investigation into alleged influence peddling tied to his hiring by a regional government.Sanchez’s former right-hand man and former transport minister, Jose Luis Abalos, went on trial this month over alleged kickbacks linked to public contracts.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

Spain’s First Lady now at the centre of a corruption case: A court has formally charged Begona Gomez with corruption after a years-long criminal investigation. Scroll down to read more.


Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s wife, Begona Gomez, has been formally charged with corruption after a years-long criminal investigation, according to a court ruling published Monday. The probe is one of several corruption cases that have embroiled the Socialist leader’s family and former allies, putting pressure on his minority coalition government. Judge Juan Carlos Peinado opened the investigation in April 2024 to determine whether Gomez had exploited her position as Sanchez’s wife for private gain, which she and the prime minister deny. Also read | Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but... The case centers on the creation and management of a chair at Madrid’s Complutense University that was co-directed by Gomez, as well as the alleged use of public resources and personal connections to advance private interests. Peinado said his investigation had found sufficient indications of criminal conduct by Gomez, 55, according to a ruling dated April 11 that was made public on Monday. He formally charged Gomez with embezzlement, influence peddling, corruption in business dealings and misappropriation of funds, the ruling added. "The chair served as a means of private professional development for the person under investigation," the judge wrote. It is now up to the courts to decide whether Gómez will stand trial. Also read | 'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel Gomez, who is on an official visit to China with Sanchez, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Sanchez has dismissed the allegations against his wife as an attempt by the right wing to undermine his government. Opposition parties have called for his resignation. The case originated from a complaint filed by an anti-corruption group with far-right ties. The prime minister’s brother, David Sanchez, has also been indicted in a separate investigation into alleged influence peddling tied to his hiring by a regional government. Sanchez’s former right-hand man and former transport minister, Jose Luis Abalos, went on trial this month over alleged kickbacks linked to public contracts. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain’s First Lady now at the centre of a corruption case: A court has formally charged Begona Gomez with corruption after a years-long criminal investigation. Scroll down to read more. &nbsp;

Spanish PM's wife Begona Gomez formally charged with corruption after two-year investigation

Following the collapse of the Islamabad negotiations, and as the two-week ceasefire clock runs down to its April 22 deadline, Iran has formally demanded war damage compensation from five neighbouring countries. Accusing Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan of enabling the US-Israel military campaign against Iran, Tehran's ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, said: "These countries have breached their international obligations toward the Islamic Republic of Iran under international law".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pezeshkian-warns-macron-of-broad-consequences-if-hormuz-is-threatened-says-iran-open-to-negotiations-but-1776133943246">Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but...</a><h2>How did these five Iranian neighbours 'breach their international obligations'?</h2>Iravani, according to the Iranian state news agency IRNA, accused the five neighbouring nations of enabling US-Israeli attacks against Iran by "granting access to their airspace and military facilities". He insisted that by doing so these nations "have become complicit in the destruction of our sovereign assets," and said that they must now "bear the financial burden of reconstruction".<h2>How much does Iran need to rebuild?</h2>The scale of that reconstruction is staggering by any measure. Iran's Central Bank issued an assessment alongside the announcement, warning that rebuilding the country's war-damaged economy, including crippled oil refineries and destroyed transport infrastructure, could take more than twelve years.The reparations demand landed within days of the Islamabad talks breaking down without agreement. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and US Vice President JD Vance met over the weekend for what were the highest-level direct discussions between the two countries since 1979. They ended in deadlock, with the core disputes, nuclear assurances and control of the Strait of Hormuz, proving too wide to bridge.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-backstab-to-the-resistance-hezbollah-demands-lebanon-cancel-futile-washington-talks-with-israel-1776127517762">'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel</a><h2>Compensation, a non-negotiable ask: Iran's Vice President</h2>Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref framed the reparations push in unambiguous terms. "The pursuit of compensation for damages caused by strikes on Iran is the non-negotiable right of our people," he said Sunday. "Those who fueled this fire cannot expect to remain shielded from its costs."The choice of targets is telling. Rather than directing its anger solely at Washington or Tel Aviv, Tehran is now applying pressure on the Arab governments whose cooperation made the military campaign logistically possible. Regional analysts read the move as a calculated attempt to drive a wedge between those governments and the US-led naval blockade.None of the five named countries has issued a formal collective response.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Why is Iran now demanding war damages from its own neighbours? After failed Islamabad talks, Amir Saeid Iravani says five Gulf states enabled US-Israel strikes—and must now pay the price. Is this legal pressure, or a new front in the conflict?

Scroll down to read more.

Following the collapse of the Islamabad negotiations, and as the two-week ceasefire clock runs down to its April 22 deadline, Iran has formally demanded war damage compensation from five neighbouring countries. Accusing Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan of enabling the US-Israel military campaign against Iran, Tehran's ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, said: "These countries have breached their international obligations toward the Islamic Republic of Iran under international law". Also read | Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but... How did these five Iranian neighbours 'breach their international obligations'? Iravani, according to the Iranian state news agency IRNA, accused the five neighbouring nations of enabling US-Israeli attacks against Iran by "granting access to their airspace and military facilities". He insisted that by doing so these nations "have become complicit in the destruction of our sovereign assets," and said that they must now "bear the financial burden of reconstruction". How much does Iran need to rebuild? The scale of that reconstruction is staggering by any measure. Iran's Central Bank issued an assessment alongside the announcement, warning that rebuilding the country's war-damaged economy, including crippled oil refineries and destroyed transport infrastructure, could take more than twelve years. The reparations demand landed within days of the Islamabad talks breaking down without agreement. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and US Vice President JD Vance met over the weekend for what were the highest-level direct discussions between the two countries since 1979. They ended in deadlock, with the core disputes, nuclear assurances and control of the Strait of Hormuz, proving too wide to bridge. Also read | 'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel Compensation, a non-negotiable ask: Iran's Vice President Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref framed the reparations push in unambiguous terms. "The pursuit of compensation for damages caused by strikes on Iran is the non-negotiable right of our people," he said Sunday. "Those who fueled this fire cannot expect to remain shielded from its costs." The choice of targets is telling. Rather than directing its anger solely at Washington or Tel Aviv, Tehran is now applying pressure on the Arab governments whose cooperation made the military campaign logistically possible. Regional analysts read the move as a calculated attempt to drive a wedge between those governments and the US-led naval blockade. None of the five named countries has issued a formal collective response. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Why is Iran now demanding war damages from its own neighbours? After failed Islamabad talks, Amir Saeid Iravani says five Gulf states enabled US-Israel strikes—and must now pay the price. Is this legal pressure, or a new front in the conflict?Scroll down to read more.

'Bear the financial burden of reconstruction': Iran demands war reparations from Saudi, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan and Qatar after Islamabad talks fail

Ukrainian forces captured a Russian position using only drones and unmanned ground robotic systems (UGVs) for the first time since the war began in 2022. President Volodymyr Zelensky displayed the country's arsenal on X, writing, "The future is already on the front line – and Ukraine is building it." He added in the post, "These are our ground robotic systems. For the first time in the history of this war, an enemy position was taken exclusively by unmanned platforms – ground systems and drones." Zelensky claimed that there was no infantry involved, no losses on its side and that the Russian troops surrendered. The president also said that over the past three months, Ukrainian ground robotic systems have carried out more than 22,000 missions, with systems such as “Ratel”, “Termit”, “Ardal”, “Rys”, “Zmii”, “Protector”, “Volya”, and others.<h2>“Justice that finds evil anywhere in the world”</h2>"In other words, lives were saved more than 22,000 times when a robot went into the most dangerous areas instead of a warrior," Zelensky said. He also addressed Ukraine’s defense industry in a video, and thanked "everyone involved — in workshops, design bureaus, laboratories, testing grounds, production and repair facilities — everyone working every day for Ukraine." Praising the drones, the president said that they can reach a distance of 1,750 kilometres from Ukraine’s border, and this will increase in the future. “It is not about records, but about justice that finds evil anywhere in the world,” he said, adding that systems such as “Sichen,” “Liutyi,” “Morok,” “Bars,” “Obriy,” and FP are evidence of this," he said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-agree-on-orthodox-easter-ceasefire-here-s-what-it-means-1775811456485">Russia, Ukraine agree on Orthodox Easter ceasefire, here's what it means</a>&nbsp;Praising the country's military capabilities, he further wrote, "Ukraine has its own long-range missile weapons. Not just in development, but a real force already at work. Flamingo and Ruta, Peklo and Neptune, Palianytsia and Vilkha." Zelensky stated that negotiations to create a joint air defense system with European partners will take place this week. Issuing a warning, he said, "Either Ukraine becomes an inseparable part of Europe’s security system, or some in Europe risk becoming part of the Russian world." Notably, Ukraine's Drone Line, costing $880 million and operational since March 2025, killed nearly 30,000 Russian soldiers in a single winter.&nbsp;

Ukraine's drones and unmanned vehicles gained control of a Russian position without human intervention, getting soldiers to surrender. President Volodymyr Zelensky said no infantry was involved and congratulated everyone involved.

Ukrainian forces captured a Russian position using only drones and unmanned ground robotic systems (UGVs) for the first time since the war began in 2022. President Volodymyr Zelensky displayed the country's arsenal on X, writing, "The future is already on the front line – and Ukraine is building it." He added in the post, "These are our ground robotic systems. For the first time in the history of this war, an enemy position was taken exclusively by unmanned platforms – ground systems and drones." Zelensky claimed that there was no infantry involved, no losses on its side and that the Russian troops surrendered. The president also said that over the past three months, Ukrainian ground robotic systems have carried out more than 22,000 missions, with systems such as “Ratel”, “Termit”, “Ardal”, “Rys”, “Zmii”, “Protector”, “Volya”, and others. “Justice that finds evil anywhere in the world” "In other words, lives were saved more than 22,000 times when a robot went into the most dangerous areas instead of a warrior," Zelensky said. He also addressed Ukraine’s defense industry in a video, and thanked "everyone involved — in workshops, design bureaus, laboratories, testing grounds, production and repair facilities — everyone working every day for Ukraine." Praising the drones, the president said that they can reach a distance of 1,750 kilometres from Ukraine’s border, and this will increase in the future. “It is not about records, but about justice that finds evil anywhere in the world,” he said, adding that systems such as “Sichen,” “Liutyi,” “Morok,” “Bars,” “Obriy,” and FP are evidence of this," he said. Also Read: Russia, Ukraine agree on Orthodox Easter ceasefire, here's what it means Praising the country's military capabilities, he further wrote, "Ukraine has its own long-range missile weapons. Not just in development, but a real force already at work. Flamingo and Ruta, Peklo and Neptune, Palianytsia and Vilkha." Zelensky stated that negotiations to create a joint air defense system with European partners will take place this week. Issuing a warning, he said, "Either Ukraine becomes an inseparable part of Europe’s security system, or some in Europe risk becoming part of the Russian world." Notably, Ukraine's Drone Line, costing $880 million and operational since March 2025, killed nearly 30,000 Russian soldiers in a single winter.

Ukraine's drones and unmanned vehicles gained control of a Russian position without human intervention, getting soldiers to surrender. President Volodymyr Zelensky said no infantry was involved and congratulated everyone involved.

Russian soldiers just surrendered to robots. Zelensky says, 'It is about finding evil'

In poker, having no cards means having no leverage. But geopolitics isn’t played on a felt table, it’s played on choke points, shipping lanes, and energy lifelines. And right now, Iran is sitting on one of the most powerful hands in the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz. When Donald Trump said that Iran has ‘no cards’, it was meant as a show of dominance, a signal that Washington believes sanctions, naval presence, and economic pressure have boxed Tehran in. But the unfolding blockade narrative tells a more complicated story.&nbsp;Nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz daily. It is not just a waterway; it is the artery of global energy. Any disruption, real or threatened, immediately sends shockwaves through oil markets, insurance premiums, shipping routes, and ultimately, consumer economies worldwide.<h2>The ‘Strait’ advantage</h2>Iran’s leverage isn’t conventional. It doesn’t need to win a direct confrontation with the US. It only needs to raise the cost of stability. By signaling control, or even partial disruption, of the Strait, Tehran can:<ul><li>Spike global crude prices within hours</li><li>Force rerouting of tankers, increasing costs and delays</li><li>Trigger panic buying and speculative trading</li><li>Pressure oil-dependent economies, especially in Asia and Europe</li></ul>In essence, Iran doesn’t need to block the strait entirely. The threat alone is enough to move markets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-the-ball-is-very-much-in-tehran-s-court-jd-vance-on-iran-s-next-move-after-peace-talks-in-pakistan-fail-1776129075308">'The ball is very much in Tehran's court': JD Vance on Iran’s next move after peace talks in Pakistan fail</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You know what!! Iran will block the U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.💥😂 <a href="https://t.co/G0CYVBfFvX">pic.twitter.com/G0CYVBfFvX</a>&mdash; Iran Consulate - Hyderabad (@IraninHyderabad) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraninHyderabad/status/2043811146160124102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump’s escalation doctrine</h2>Trump’s warning, to potentially destroy Iranian-linked oil shipments, marks a return to hardline deterrence. It’s a strategy rooted in overwhelming force: demonstrate that any attempt to weaponize oil routes will be met with direct military retaliation. But this approach carries risk. Unlike land-based conflicts, maritime escalation is unpredictable. A single miscalculation, whether a seized tanker, a drone strike, or a naval encounter, can spiral into a broader conflict that markets react to instantly.<h2>Oil markets: Pricing fear, not just supply</h2>What we are witnessing is not just a supply-side crisis; it is a perception-driven market. Oil prices today are shaped as much by risk premiums as by actual disruptions. Traders are not waiting for the Strait to close, they are pricing in the possibility that it might. This has three immediate consequences:<ol><li>Inflationary pressure globally: Higher crude means higher fuel, logistics, and manufacturing costs</li><li>Strain on emerging economies: Countries like India face currency pressure and rising import bills</li><li>Energy diversification push: Renewables and alternative routes gain urgency</li></ol><h2>The global chessboard</h2>The blockade narrative also pulls in other players:<ul><li>China, heavily dependent on Gulf oil, has a vested interest in keeping routes open</li><li>Europe fears another energy shock amid fragile recovery cycles</li><li>Gulf nations walk a tightrope between security dependence on the U.S. and geographic vulnerability</li></ul>This is no longer a bilateral standoff. It’s a multi-actor strategic puzzle.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-horrifies-christians-by-depicting-himself-as-jesus-defaming-pope-1776102314350/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-horrifies-christians-by-depicting-himself-as-jesus-defaming-pope-1776102314350/embed</a><h2>Who really has the cards?</h2>Trump’s statement frames the conflict as one of dominance versus weakness. But Iran’s strength lies not in military parity, but in geographic inevitability. The Strait of Hormuz cannot be bypassed easily. Pipelines and alternative routes exist, but they cannot fully replace its capacity. So while Washington may hold superior firepower, Tehran holds something just as potent in modern geopolitics: disruption capability. And in a global economy addicted to stable energy flows, that might just be the strongest card of all.&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.

Trump says Iran has “no cards,” but control of the Strait of Hormuz gives Tehran massive leverage over global oil. As tensions rise and blockade fears grow, markets react to risk, driving price volatility, inflation concerns, and global economic uncertainty

In poker, having no cards means having no leverage. But geopolitics isn’t played on a felt table, it’s played on choke points, shipping lanes, and energy lifelines. And right now, Iran is sitting on one of the most powerful hands in the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz. When Donald Trump said that Iran has ‘no cards’, it was meant as a show of dominance, a signal that Washington believes sanctions, naval presence, and economic pressure have boxed Tehran in. But the unfolding blockade narrative tells a more complicated story. Nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz daily. It is not just a waterway; it is the artery of global energy. Any disruption, real or threatened, immediately sends shockwaves through oil markets, insurance premiums, shipping routes, and ultimately, consumer economies worldwide. The ‘Strait’ advantage Iran’s leverage isn’t conventional. It doesn’t need to win a direct confrontation with the US. It only needs to raise the cost of stability. By signaling control, or even partial disruption, of the Strait, Tehran can: Spike global crude prices within hours Force rerouting of tankers, increasing costs and delays Trigger panic buying and speculative trading Pressure oil-dependent economies, especially in Asia and Europe In essence, Iran doesn’t need to block the strait entirely. The threat alone is enough to move markets. Also Read: 'The ball is very much in Tehran's court': JD Vance on Iran’s next move after peace talks in Pakistan fail

US President Donald Trump says Iran has ‘no cards’, but control over the Strait of Hormuz gives Tehran massive leverage over global oil and markets

Trump says Iran has 'no cards' left, but Tehran is literally holding a 'Strait'

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that any threat to the Strait of Hormuz will carry serious consequences for global trade, as he signalled Tehran's continued commitment to diplomacy, but strictly on its own terms. The Iranian president said that Tehran was open to continued negotiations but only within the framework of international law. He made the remarks during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, in which the two leaders discussed the Pakistan-mediated ceasefire process, regional developments, and the state of nuclear negotiations. The call came days after direct US-Iran talks in Islamabad ended without an agreement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-backstab-to-the-resistance-hezbollah-demands-lebanon-cancel-futile-washington-talks-with-israel-1776127517762">'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel</a><h2>Iran open to talks but...</h2>According to Iran's presidency, Pezeshkian told Macron that his country's negotiating team had approached the Islamabad talks with "seriousness and goodwill," but that progress at the expert level had been blocked by what he described as "maximalist demands and lack of political will" on the American side. He stopped short of declaring the process dead, but made clear that Tehran would only continue negotiations "within international legal frameworks" aimed at protecting the rights of the Iranian people.<h2>Iran is fully prepared to respond to Trump's Hormuz blockade</h2>On the Strait of Hormuz, Pezeshkian's language was pointed. Iran, he said, has consistently sought to ensure safe maritime passage through the waterway. But he added that threats to its security, a reference to Trump's recent warnings about targeting Iranian infrastructure if the strait isn't fully reopened, would have "broad consequences for global trade." He said Iran is fully prepared to respond to any scenario in line with its national interests.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosts-on-the-flight-iran-delegation-travels-aboard-minab-168-tehran-uses-tragic-school-strike-to-set-the-tone-for-islamabad-peace-talks-1775883133513">Ghosts on the flight: Iran delegation travels aboard 'Minab-168'; Tehran uses tragic school strike to set the tone for Islamabad peace talks</a>Speaking on the nuclear issue, Pezeshkian said Iran had previously established clear frameworks with European countries and remains ready to pick up those discussions, insisting Tehran has never acted outside international regulations. This is disputed by Washington and several European governments.<h2>Macron calls for peace in Lebanon</h2>Macron, meanwhile, raised Lebanon, pushing for its inclusion within the framework of any initial ceasefire agreement, a point that remains a sticking point given Israel's insistence that its operations against Hezbollah are separate from the broader Iran deal. He also shared his views on the nuclear file and the legal status of the Strait of Hormuz, though the statement from Iran's presidency did not detail his specific positions.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Is Iran opening the door to talks—or setting strict conditions first? Masoud Pezeshkian says negotiations can continue, but only under international law, while warning any threat to the Strait of Hormuz will have global consequences.Scroll down to read more.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that any threat to the Strait of Hormuz will carry serious consequences for global trade, as he signalled Tehran's continued commitment to diplomacy, but strictly on its own terms. The Iranian president said that Tehran was open to continued negotiations but only within the framework of international law. He made the remarks during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, in which the two leaders discussed the Pakistan-mediated ceasefire process, regional developments, and the state of nuclear negotiations. The call came days after direct US-Iran talks in Islamabad ended without an agreement. Also read | 'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel Iran open to talks but... According to Iran's presidency, Pezeshkian told Macron that his country's negotiating team had approached the Islamabad talks with "seriousness and goodwill," but that progress at the expert level had been blocked by what he described as "maximalist demands and lack of political will" on the American side. He stopped short of declaring the process dead, but made clear that Tehran would only continue negotiations "within international legal frameworks" aimed at protecting the rights of the Iranian people. Iran is fully prepared to respond to Trump's Hormuz blockade On the Strait of Hormuz, Pezeshkian's language was pointed. Iran, he said, has consistently sought to ensure safe maritime passage through the waterway. But he added that threats to its security, a reference to Trump's recent warnings about targeting Iranian infrastructure if the strait isn't fully reopened, would have "broad consequences for global trade." He said Iran is fully prepared to respond to any scenario in line with its national interests. Also read | Ghosts on the flight: Iran delegation travels aboard 'Minab-168'; Tehran uses tragic school strike to set the tone for Islamabad peace talks Speaking on the nuclear issue, Pezeshkian said Iran had previously established clear frameworks with European countries and remains ready to pick up those discussions, insisting Tehran has never acted outside international regulations. This is disputed by Washington and several European governments. Macron calls for peace in Lebanon Macron, meanwhile, raised Lebanon, pushing for its inclusion within the framework of any initial ceasefire agreement, a point that remains a sticking point given Israel's insistence that its operations against Hezbollah are separate from the broader Iran deal. He also shared his views on the nuclear file and the legal status of the Strait of Hormuz, though the statement from Iran's presidency did not detail his specific positions. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Is Iran opening the door to talks—or setting strict conditions first? Masoud Pezeshkian says negotiations can continue, but only under international law, while warning any threat to the Strait of Hormuz will have global consequences.Scroll down to read more.

Pezeshkian warns Macron of 'broad consequences' if Hormuz is threatened, says Iran open to negotiations but...

JD Vance said Iran will determine the next phase of the Middle East conflict, while pushing back on claims that recent peace talks in Pakistan failed. Speaking to Fox News, Vance described the negotiations as productive despite no final agreement being reached. "The ball is very much in their court,” he said. “You ask what happens next, I think the Iranians are going to determine what happens next.”&nbsp;He noted that discussions clarified US priorities, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. “I wouldn't just say that things went wrong. I also think things went right. We made a lot of progress,” he said. Vance added, “They moved in our direction, which is why I think we would say that we had some good signs, but they didn't move far enough.” According to Vance, talks ended because Iranian negotiators lacked the authority to finalize a deal. “We acquired some knowledge about how the Iranians are negotiating, and this is ultimately why we left Pakistan,” he said.&nbsp;“What we figured out is that they were unable, I think, the team that was there was unable to cut a deal,” he explained. “They had to go back to Tehran, either from the supreme leader or somebody else, and actually get approval for the terms that we had set.” Meanwhile, Donald Trump ordered a naval blockade on Iranian ports after tensions escalated over access to the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eric-swalwell-to-resign-from-congress-amid-sexual-misconduct-allegations-1776117676224">'I am deeply sorry to my family': Eric Swalwell to resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations</a>&nbsp;“What they [Iranians] have done is engage in this act of economic terrorism against the entire world. They’ve basically threatened any ship that's moving through the Straits of Hormuz. Well, as the President of the United States showed, two can play at that game,” Vance said. US naval forces are now monitoring Iran-linked vessels in the region. Vance emphasized that reopening the strait remains a key expectation. “We've stopped bombing the country. What we expect the Iranians to give up is a full reopening of the Straits of Hormuz,” he said.&nbsp;He described the blockade as adding economic pressure. “If the Iranians are gonna try to engage in economic terrorism, we're gonna abide by a simple principle that no Iranian ships are getting out either,” Vance said. “We know that's a big deal to them. We know it applies additional economic leverage.” Despite tensions, Vance asserted US strength. “We have the military advantage,” he said. “We now have additional economic pressure that we're applying on them through the blockade that we've imposed on their oil coming out of the Straits of Hormuz.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-horrifies-christians-by-depicting-himself-as-jesus-defaming-pope-1776102314350/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-horrifies-christians-by-depicting-himself-as-jesus-defaming-pope-1776102314350/embed</a>&nbsp;“We have a lot of cards. We have the leverage, and we're going to see what the Iranians do with that,” he continued.Addressing speculation about internal disagreements, Vance said, “I give my advice to the President of the United States, and we all do. And I expect that when I advise the President of the United States, that it's going to be private because the president should rely on his senior advisors without them running to the media.” “What I will say is that I 100% agree with the president on the fact that Iran can't have a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Vice President JD Vance says Iran will decide next steps after Pakistan talks, as the US imposes a naval blockade to pressure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

JD Vance said Iran will determine the next phase of the Middle East conflict, while pushing back on claims that recent peace talks in Pakistan failed. Speaking to Fox News, Vance described the negotiations as productive despite no final agreement being reached. "The ball is very much in their court,” he said. “You ask what happens next, I think the Iranians are going to determine what happens next.” He noted that discussions clarified US priorities, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. “I wouldn't just say that things went wrong. I also think things went right. We made a lot of progress,” he said. Vance added, “They moved in our direction, which is why I think we would say that we had some good signs, but they didn't move far enough.” According to Vance, talks ended because Iranian negotiators lacked the authority to finalize a deal. “We acquired some knowledge about how the Iranians are negotiating, and this is ultimately why we left Pakistan,” he said. “What we figured out is that they were unable, I think, the team that was there was unable to cut a deal,” he explained. “They had to go back to Tehran, either from the supreme leader or somebody else, and actually get approval for the terms that we had set.” Meanwhile, Donald Trump ordered a naval blockade on Iranian ports after tensions escalated over access to the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: 'I am deeply sorry to my family': Eric Swalwell to resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations “What they [Iranians] have done is engage in this act of economic terrorism against the entire world. They’ve basically threatened any ship that's moving through the Straits of Hormuz. Well, as the President of the United States showed, two can play at that game,” Vance said. US naval forces are now monitoring Iran-linked vessels in the region. Vance emphasized that reopening the strait remains a key expectation. “We've stopped bombing the country. What we expect the Iranians to give up is a full reopening of the Straits of Hormuz,” he said. He described the blockade as adding economic pressure. “If the Iranians are gonna try to engage in economic terrorism, we're gonna abide by a simple principle that no Iranian ships are getting out either,” Vance said. “We know that's a big deal to them. We know it applies additional economic leverage.” Despite tensions, Vance asserted US strength. “We have the military advantage,” he said. “We now have additional economic pressure that we're applying on them through the blockade that we've imposed on their oil coming out of the Straits of Hormuz.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-horrifies-christians-by-depicting-himself-as-jesus-defaming-pope-1776102314350/embed “We have a lot of cards. We have the leverage, and we're going to see what the Iranians do with that,” he continued. Addressing speculation about internal disagreements, Vance said, “I give my advice to the President of the United States, and we all do. And I expect that when I advise the President of the United States, that it's going to be private because the president should rely on his senior advisors without them running to the media.” “What I will say is that I 100% agree with the president on the fact that Iran can't have a nuclear weapon.” 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.

JD Vance says Iran will decide next steps after Pakistan talks, as Trump imposes naval blockade to pressure reopening of Strait of Hormuz

'The ball is very much in Tehran's court': JD Vance on Iran’s next move after peace talks in Pakistan fail

Hezbollah's leader Naim Qassem went on television Monday (Apr 13) to urge Lebanon's government to pull out of a planned diplomatic meeting with Israel in Washington scheduled for Tuesday (Apr 1), calling the talks "futile" and demanding what he described as a "historic and heroic stance" from Beirut. "We reject negotiations with the usurping Israeli entity," Qassem said in the televised address, calling on Lebanese officials to cancel the meeting outright.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/out-of-this-world-the-records-nasa-s-artemis-ii-broke-on-its-way-to-the-moon-and-back-in-pics-1775873988051">Out of this world: The records NASA's Artemis II broke on its way to the moon and back | In Pics</a><h2>Why does Hezbollah want Washington talks cancelled?</h2>In a televised address, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem, whose Iran-backed group has been at war with Israel since March 2, said that they reject the negotiations and called on Lebanon to take a historic and heroic stance against the "usurping Israeli entity".This comes as the peace talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad failed after over 20 hours of talks.The Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors to the United States are due to sit down in Washington on Tuesday for preliminary discussions about the possibility of direct negotiations between the two countries, a prospect that has divided Lebanese politics sharply. Lebanese authorities have insisted that any formal talks must be preceded by a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah war, which has been raging since March 2. Israel has pushed back on that sequencing, saying it would rather skip straight to a broader peace agreement with Lebanon, a country it has technically been at war with for decades.Qassem also took aim at the Lebanese government directly, accusing Beirut of "backstabbing" Hezbollah by declaring its military activities illegal when the war began. He dismissed suggestions that the Lebanese army could serve as a mechanism for disarming his group. "Israel and the US clearly said they want to strengthen the Lebanese army to disarm and fight Hezbollah," he said. "But the army cannot do that."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-macron-post-a-video-of-jeffrey-epstein-kissing-melania-trump-truth-behind-the-viral-clip-1775806317213">FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip</a>These negotiations are futile and require a Lebanese agreement and consensus". Hundreds of Hezbollah supporters had already taken to the streets on Friday and Saturday to protest the planned talks, with some directing their anger personally at Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, accusing him of being a "Zionist."<h2>Fighting continues on the ground</h2>On the ground, the fighting has not paused for the diplomacy. The Israeli army said Monday that its forces had completely encircled Bint Jbeil, a significant southern Lebanese town, while Hezbollah continued to claim attacks on Israeli troops advancing into the area. Israel has said its operations in southern Lebanon are aimed at establishing a security zone along the border. Qassem warned that northern Israeli communities "will not be safe, even if the Israelis were to enter any area of Lebanon."The human cost of the conflict in Lebanon has been severe. Israeli strikes have killed more than 2,000 people and displaced over a million since Hezbollah opened a second front linked to the broader regional war.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Why is Naim Qassem pushing Lebanon to walk away from Israel talks? Calling negotiations “futile,” the Hezbollah chief wants Beirut to take a “historic stance” instead.

Scroll down to read more.

Hezbollah's leader Naim Qassem went on television Monday (Apr 13) to urge Lebanon's government to pull out of a planned diplomatic meeting with Israel in Washington scheduled for Tuesday (Apr 1), calling the talks "futile" and demanding what he described as a "historic and heroic stance" from Beirut. "We reject negotiations with the usurping Israeli entity," Qassem said in the televised address, calling on Lebanese officials to cancel the meeting outright. Also read | Out of this world: The records NASA's Artemis II broke on its way to the moon and back | In Pics Why does Hezbollah want Washington talks cancelled? In a televised address, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem, whose Iran-backed group has been at war with Israel since March 2, said that they reject the negotiations and called on Lebanon to take a historic and heroic stance against the "usurping Israeli entity". This comes as the peace talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad failed after over 20 hours of talks. The Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors to the United States are due to sit down in Washington on Tuesday for preliminary discussions about the possibility of direct negotiations between the two countries, a prospect that has divided Lebanese politics sharply. Lebanese authorities have insisted that any formal talks must be preceded by a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah war, which has been raging since March 2. Israel has pushed back on that sequencing, saying it would rather skip straight to a broader peace agreement with Lebanon, a country it has technically been at war with for decades. Qassem also took aim at the Lebanese government directly, accusing Beirut of "backstabbing" Hezbollah by declaring its military activities illegal when the war began. He dismissed suggestions that the Lebanese army could serve as a mechanism for disarming his group. "Israel and the US clearly said they want to strengthen the Lebanese army to disarm and fight Hezbollah," he said. "But the army cannot do that." Also read | FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip These negotiations are futile and require a Lebanese agreement and consensus". Hundreds of Hezbollah supporters had already taken to the streets on Friday and Saturday to protest the planned talks, with some directing their anger personally at Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, accusing him of being a "Zionist." Fighting continues on the ground On the ground, the fighting has not paused for the diplomacy. The Israeli army said Monday that its forces had completely encircled Bint Jbeil, a significant southern Lebanese town, while Hezbollah continued to claim attacks on Israeli troops advancing into the area. Israel has said its operations in southern Lebanon are aimed at establishing a security zone along the border. Qassem warned that northern Israeli communities "will not be safe, even if the Israelis were to enter any area of Lebanon." The human cost of the conflict in Lebanon has been severe. Israeli strikes have killed more than 2,000 people and displaced over a million since Hezbollah opened a second front linked to the broader regional war. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Why is Naim Qassem pushing Lebanon to walk away from Israel talks? Calling negotiations “futile,” the Hezbollah chief wants Beirut to take a “historic stance” instead.Scroll down to read more.

'A backstab to the resistance': Hezbollah demands Lebanon cancel 'futile' Washington talks with Israel

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell said on Monday (April 13) that he plans to resign from Congress amid explosive allegations of sexual misconduct. The California Democrat’s announcement comes after growing pressure from both Democrats and Republicans for him to step down from his role in the House of Representatives. Swalwell had already suspended his California gubernatorial campaign, but calls for his resignation from Congress continued.&nbsp;“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff and constituents for mistakes in judgement I’ve made in my past,” Swalwell said in a statement posted to X. “I will fight the serious, false allegation made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make.” Swalwell has repeatedly denied allegations of sexual assault in the past. He did not specify exactly when he intends to step down, saying instead that he would work with his staff to ensure they can “serve the needs of the good people of the 14th congressional district.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/JbKgSORgu4">pic.twitter.com/JbKgSORgu4</a>&mdash; Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSwalwell/status/2043802702971359521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 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/-fake-news-have-they-no-shame-trump-hits-out-at-new-york-times-over-iran-war-coverage-1776115749732">'FAKE NEWS! Have they no shame?': Trump hits out at New York Times over Iran war coverage</a>&nbsp;He referenced ongoing efforts to remove him from office in his statement. “I am aware of efforts to bring an immediate expulsion vote against other members and me. Expelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong. But it’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.” He did not specify when his resignation would take effect.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-on-warpath-blocks-hormuz-iran-threatens-gulf-ports-1776100457432/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-on-warpath-blocks-hormuz-iran-threatens-gulf-ports-1776100457432/embed</a>&nbsp;Four women accused him last week of misconduct, including allegations ranging from sexual harassment to rape. The development comes as Congress launches an ethics inquiry into Swalwell, who was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2012, representing a district near San Francisco. The development comes one day after Swalwell suspended his bid for California governor and on the same day the House Ethics Committee announced it was launching a probe into the allegations against him.<h2>Tony Gonzales also to resign from Congress</h2>Representative Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, announced on Monday that he will resign from Congress following mounting bipartisan criticism from House members over allegations that he had a coercive sexual relationship with a staff member who later died by suicide.&nbsp;Gonzales, a third-term congressman representing a border district spanning from San Antonio to El Paso, had already been facing a contentious primary race when text messages surfaced showing his pursuit of a female staff member. He had announced last month that he was withdrawing from the race. “There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all,” Mr. Gonzales said in a social media post on Monday. “When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office.”

Eric Swalwell says he will resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations, citing pressure from both parties and due process concerns

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell said on Monday (April 13) that he plans to resign from Congress amid explosive allegations of sexual misconduct. The California Democrat’s announcement comes after growing pressure from both Democrats and Republicans for him to step down from his role in the House of Representatives. Swalwell had already suspended his California gubernatorial campaign, but calls for his resignation from Congress continued. “I am deeply sorry to my family, staff and constituents for mistakes in judgement I’ve made in my past,” Swalwell said in a statement posted to X. “I will fight the serious, false allegation made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make.” Swalwell has repeatedly denied allegations of sexual assault in the past. He did not specify exactly when he intends to step down, saying instead that he would work with his staff to ensure they can “serve the needs of the good people of the 14th congressional district.”

Eric Swalwell says he will resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations, citing pressure and due process concerns

'I am deeply sorry to my family': Eric Swalwell to resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations

US President Donald Trump criticised The New York Times, accusing the publication of biased reporting and labeling its coverage as ‘fake news’. In a strongly worded statement, Trump renewed his long-running attacks on the media outlet, demanding greater accountability and questioning its credibility. The remarks add to an ongoing feud between Trump and major US news organisations.&nbsp;In the Truth Social post, the president wrote, “For those people that still read The Failing New York Times and, despite the fact that Iran has been totally OBLITERATED, Militarily, and otherwise, you would think that Iran is actually winning or, at the very least, doing quite well — But that’s not true, and The New York Times knows that it’s FAKE NEWS! When does this Corrupt Media Outlet apologize for their LIES and horrible actions against me, my supporters, and our Country itself! HAVE THEY NO SHAME? HAVE THEY NO SENSE OF DECENCY? President DONALD J. TRUMP.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-were-all-having-a-great-time-stepbrother-charged-in-shocking-cruise-ship-killing-of-teen-anna-kepner-who-was-she-know-all-about-her-family-1776114384797">'We were all having a great time': Stepbrother charged in shocking cruise ship killing of teen Anna Kepner. Who was she? Know all about her family</a>

<h2>Trump deletes Jesus post</h2>Trump deleted a social media post on Monday after backlash from religious leaders, who accused him of blasphemy over an AI-generated image that appeared to depict him in a Jesus-like role. The image, shared on his Truth Social account late Sunday, showed Trump wearing flowing red and white robes, appearing to heal a sick man by touching his forehead, with a glowing effect around his hand and head. An American flag was visible in the background, while several figures looked on in apparent reverence.&nbsp;The post was removed the following day. When questioned about it, Trump denied that the image was meant to portray him as Jesus Christ, saying: "I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor and had to do Red Cross," he told journalists. "It's supposed to be me as a doctor, making people better. And I do make people better. I make people a lot better."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hormuz-crisis-asia-braces-for-food-shock-1776100476820/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hormuz-crisis-asia-braces-for-food-shock-1776100476820/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.

Trump lashes out at The New York Times, calling its reporting “fake news” and demanding accountability from the media outlet

US President Donald Trump criticised The New York Times, accusing the publication of biased reporting and labeling its coverage as ‘fake news’. In a strongly worded statement, Trump renewed his long-running attacks on the media outlet, demanding greater accountability and questioning its credibility. The remarks add to an ongoing feud between Trump and major US news organisations. In the Truth Social post, the president wrote, “For those people that still read The Failing New York Times and, despite the fact that Iran has been totally OBLITERATED, Militarily, and otherwise, you would think that Iran is actually winning or, at the very least, doing quite well — But that’s not true, and The New York Times knows that it’s FAKE NEWS! When does this Corrupt Media Outlet apologize for their LIES and horrible actions against me, my supporters, and our Country itself! HAVE THEY NO SHAME? HAVE THEY NO SENSE OF DECENCY? President DONALD J. TRUMP.” Also Read: 'We were all having a great time': Stepbrother charged in shocking cruise ship killing of teen Anna Kepner. Who was she? Know all about her family

Donald Trump lashed out at The New York Times, calling its reporting ‘fake news’ and accusing the media outlet of bias and misleading coverage

'FAKE NEWS! Have they no shame?': Trump hits out at New York Times over Iran war coverage

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with abusing and murdering his stepsister during a family vacation on a Carnival cruise ship in November, prosecutors said. The US Department of Justice alleges the boy ‘sexually assaulted and intentionally killed’ 18-year-old Anna Kepner while the Carnival Horizon was in international waters.&nbsp;The stepbrother, whom authorities did not identify, was initially charged as a juvenile, but has since been indicted as an adult on first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse charges, prosecutors said. Kepner was a cheerleader who was expected to graduate from secondary school in Florida in May and wanted to join the military, her family said. Her body was found under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered by life vests, ABC News reported.&nbsp;The Miami-Dade medical examiner's office determined she had died of "mechanical asphyxia". She and her stepbrother were travelling with several members of their family, including her father and stepmother. Kepner's grandparents also were on board. "We were all having a great time," her grandmother, Barbara Kepner, told ABC News late last year. "I couldn't fathom why anyone would wanna hurt my baby."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-us-iran-talks-on-the-table-trump-claims-they-want-a-deal-iran-open-to-negotiations-but-warns-of-escalation-1776111552079">New US-Iran talks on the table? Trump claims ‘they want a deal’, Iran open to negotiations but warns of escalation</a>&nbsp;The grandparents had said that the relationship between Anna Kepner and her step-siblings was a happy one, adding there was "no such thing as steps". "It's all family. It's a blended family, yes, but that's not how our family is," grandfather Jeffrey Kepner said. “Our dynamic is we're all just family.” If convicted, the stepbrother could face life in prison, the justice department said.<h2>Who was Anna Kepner?</h2>Anna Kepner was an 18-year-old from Titusville, Florida, and a high school senior expected to graduate in 2026. A fan of the Georgia Bulldogs, she hoped to become a cheerleader at the University of Georgia. Anna also planned to join the US Navy and later work as a K9 police officer, according to her obituary.&nbsp;"She had just finished taking the test to join the military," her family told ABC News. “She was already talking to recruiters and had chosen her career path. She wanted to do something that would help her community.” Her obituary described her as “pure energy,” “bubbly, funny, outgoing, and completely herself.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-says-lebanon-war-to-continue-as-idf-intensifies-attacks-on-hezbollah-1776100465339/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-says-lebanon-war-to-continue-as-idf-intensifies-attacks-on-hezbollah-1776100465339/embed</a>&nbsp;"She never had a filter, and that was part of her charm," the description continued. “Whether she was practicing new makeup looks (even if she had nowhere to go), making TikToks in front of the mirror, or blasting a perfectly curated playlist on the boat. Anna lived every day with her whole heart. She loved the sun, the water, boat days, island days, and beach days, anything that let her soak in the light she so easily radiated to others.” Anna Kepner's family said she deeply loved her siblings and was known for being nurturing and thoughtful.

16-year-old indicted as an adult for allegedly assaulting and killing stepsister Anna Kepner aboard Carnival Horizon cruise in international waters

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with abusing and murdering his stepsister during a family vacation on a Carnival cruise ship in November, prosecutors said. The US Department of Justice alleges the boy ‘sexually assaulted and intentionally killed’ 18-year-old Anna Kepner while the Carnival Horizon was in international waters. The stepbrother, whom authorities did not identify, was initially charged as a juvenile, but has since been indicted as an adult on first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse charges, prosecutors said. Kepner was a cheerleader who was expected to graduate from secondary school in Florida in May and wanted to join the military, her family said. Her body was found under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered by life vests, ABC News reported. The Miami-Dade medical examiner's office determined she had died of "mechanical asphyxia". She and her stepbrother were travelling with several members of their family, including her father and stepmother. Kepner's grandparents also were on board. "We were all having a great time," her grandmother, Barbara Kepner, told ABC News late last year. "I couldn't fathom why anyone would wanna hurt my baby." Also Read: New US-Iran talks on the table? Trump claims ‘they want a deal’, Iran open to negotiations but warns of escalation The grandparents had said that the relationship between Anna Kepner and her step-siblings was a happy one, adding there was "no such thing as steps". "It's all family. It's a blended family, yes, but that's not how our family is," grandfather Jeffrey Kepner said. “Our dynamic is we're all just family.” If convicted, the stepbrother could face life in prison, the justice department said. Who was Anna Kepner? Anna Kepner was an 18-year-old from Titusville, Florida, and a high school senior expected to graduate in 2026. A fan of the Georgia Bulldogs, she hoped to become a cheerleader at the University of Georgia. Anna also planned to join the US Navy and later work as a K9 police officer, according to her obituary. "She had just finished taking the test to join the military," her family told ABC News. “She was already talking to recruiters and had chosen her career path. She wanted to do something that would help her community.” Her obituary described her as “pure energy,” “bubbly, funny, outgoing, and completely herself.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-says-lebanon-war-to-continue-as-idf-intensifies-attacks-on-hezbollah-1776100465339/embed "She never had a filter, and that was part of her charm," the description continued. “Whether she was practicing new makeup looks (even if she had nowhere to go), making TikToks in front of the mirror, or blasting a perfectly curated playlist on the boat. Anna lived every day with her whole heart. She loved the sun, the water, boat days, island days, and beach days, anything that let her soak in the light she so easily radiated to others.” Anna Kepner's family said she deeply loved her siblings and was known for being nurturing and thoughtful.

16-year-old indicted as an adult for allegedly assaulting and killing stepsister Anna Kepner aboard Carnival Horizon cruise in international waters

'We were all having a great time': Stepbrother charged in shocking cruise ship killing of teen Anna Kepner. Who was she? Know all about her family

The United States and Iran appear to be moving toward another possible round of negotiations, even as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate sharply. US President Donald Trump on Monday (April 13) hinted that backchannel communication may already be underway, suggesting renewed diplomatic interest from Tehran or intermediaries. “We’ve been called this morning by the right people, the appropriate people, and they want to work a deal,” Trump said at the White House, without elaborating on who participated in the conversation.&nbsp;His remarks came just hours after the US moved to restrict vessels from transiting a key waterway connected to Iranian ports and coastal areas, a move seen as potentially heightening tensions amid ongoing global energy concerns.<h2>Iran signals conditional openness to talks</h2>Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, said Tehran is open to another round of talks with the US, but only if Washington avoids what it considers “unlawful demands.” At the same time, he warned that Iran remains fully prepared for escalation if required.&nbsp;“If you want progress in any diplomatic process, both sides should be ready for negotiations. And they should avoid unlawful demands,” Fathali told a media briefing at the Iranian embassy. “Our high-ranking officials said we are ready for peace, we are ready for negotiations. But you should know that Iran is also ready for war.”&nbsp;He also accused Washington of making unreasonable conditions while noting that key issues were discussed in previous regional talks, including nuclear concerns, sanctions relief, and war-related reparations. “But I think that they [the US] have some unlawful demands,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-picture-abhi-baaki-hai-iran-hits-back-at-us-over-hormuz-blockade-calls-threats-filmy-dialogues-as-crisis-escalates-1776109544503">'Picture abhi baaki hai': Iran hits back at US over Hormuz blockade, calls threats 'filmy dialogues' as crisis escalates</a><h2>Iran warns it is prepared for escalation</h2>Commenting on the US move to restrict access related to Iranian ports, Fathali said Washington is aware of Iran’s capabilities and readiness to respond. “Our high-ranking officials have said they are ready for all options. You can see how in our response and reaction.”&nbsp;While reaffirming Iran’s commitment to international law and maritime navigation, he said Tehran considers the Strait of Hormuz as being under shared jurisdiction. He added that Iran would soon announce a mechanism for passage through the strait, without clarifying whether any new rules would affect foreign shipping, including Indian vessels.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hormus-crisis-deepens-trump-orders-naval-blockade-of-iran-to-secure-critical-waterway-1776093296196/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hormus-crisis-deepens-trump-orders-naval-blockade-of-iran-to-secure-critical-waterway-1776093296196/embed</a><h3>Talks depend on US stance</h3>Fathali stressed that the future of any renewed negotiations depends entirely on Washington’s approach. The continuation of any ceasefire or diplomatic process, he said, “depends on the way they approach these negotiations,” adding that Iran would proceed only if its conditions were accepted. “They wanted to finish the war in three or four days, but…the duration, the scope, and the geography of the war are under our control. You can see this situation after the 42-day war,” he said.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

US and Iran signal possible new round of talks amid rising tensions, maritime restrictions, and sanctions pressure, with both sides warning of escalation if conditions fail

The United States and Iran appear to be moving toward another possible round of negotiations, even as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate sharply. US President Donald Trump on Monday (April 13) hinted that backchannel communication may already be underway, suggesting renewed diplomatic interest from Tehran or intermediaries. “We’ve been called this morning by the right people, the appropriate people, and they want to work a deal,” Trump said at the White House, without elaborating on who participated in the conversation. His remarks came just hours after the US moved to restrict vessels from transiting a key waterway connected to Iranian ports and coastal areas, a move seen as potentially heightening tensions amid ongoing global energy concerns. Iran signals conditional openness to talks Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, said Tehran is open to another round of talks with the US, but only if Washington avoids what it considers “unlawful demands.” At the same time, he warned that Iran remains fully prepared for escalation if required. “If you want progress in any diplomatic process, both sides should be ready for negotiations. And they should avoid unlawful demands,” Fathali told a media briefing at the Iranian embassy. “Our high-ranking officials said we are ready for peace, we are ready for negotiations. But you should know that Iran is also ready for war.” He also accused Washington of making unreasonable conditions while noting that key issues were discussed in previous regional talks, including nuclear concerns, sanctions relief, and war-related reparations. “But I think that they [the US] have some unlawful demands,” he said. Also Read: 'Picture abhi baaki hai': Iran hits back at US over Hormuz blockade, calls threats 'filmy dialogues' as crisis escalates Iran warns it is prepared for escalation Commenting on the US move to restrict access related to Iranian ports, Fathali said Washington is aware of Iran’s capabilities and readiness to respond. “Our high-ranking officials have said they are ready for all options. You can see how in our response and reaction.” While reaffirming Iran’s commitment to international law and maritime navigation, he said Tehran considers the Strait of Hormuz as being under shared jurisdiction. He added that Iran would soon announce a mechanism for passage through the strait, without clarifying whether any new rules would affect foreign shipping, including Indian vessels. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hormus-crisis-deepens-trump-orders-naval-blockade-of-iran-to-secure-critical-waterway-1776093296196/embed Talks depend on US stance Fathali stressed that the future of any renewed negotiations depends entirely on Washington’s approach. The continuation of any ceasefire or diplomatic process, he said, “depends on the way they approach these negotiations,” adding that Iran would proceed only if its conditions were accepted. “They wanted to finish the war in three or four days, but…the duration, the scope, and the geography of the war are under our control. You can see this situation after the 42-day war,” he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

US and Iran signal possible new talks amid rising tensions, sanctions, and maritime restrictions, with both warning of escalation if talks fail

New US-Iran talks on the table? Trump claims ‘they want a deal’, Iran open to negotiations but warns of escalation

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply, with the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai highlighting Tehran’s strategic leverage over the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on X, the consulate said: “Bro forgot that even after ‘smashing fleets’, control of the Strait of #Hormuz decides the game,” emphasizing the waterway’s critical importance in global energy and naval strategy.&nbsp;The remarks came after reports that Donald Trump’s deadline tied to a naval blockade expired on Monday. Following the collapse of high-stakes peace talks in Islamabad, the US military has reportedly begun restricting the movement of vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports, signaling a rapid escalation in maritime tensions.<h2>‘Filmy dialogue hai’</h2>Drawing parallels with history, the Iranian mission referenced the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s, particularly the “Tanker War” phase, when oil shipping in the Persian Gulf was frequently targeted. Despite a heavy Western naval presence later in the conflict, Iran maintained its influence over the narrow Strait of Hormuz, which remained operational but highly volatile.&nbsp;The consulate wrote, “Baaki sab filmy dialogue hai boss (Rest are just lines from a movie),” dismissing US threats and framing them as political rhetoric rather than actionable strategy. Iran, at the time, was led by Supreme Leader Ruhollah Khomeini, while Iraq was under President Saddam Hussein. The consulate suggested a familiar geopolitical pattern repeating itself decades later.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-trump-with-cryptic-math-formula-amid-hormuz-crisis-what-does-f-f-o-f-o-reveal-1776106730958">Iran warns Trump with cryptic math formula amid Hormuz crisis — what does f(f(O)) &gt; f(O) reveal?</a><h2>‘Picture abhi baaki hai’</h2>In a follow-up post, Tehran described its fast-attack naval units as “red bees of the Persian Gulf,” sharing a video montage of missile launches and swarm boat operations. The messaging appeared to push back against US claims about the weakening of Iran’s naval capabilities. The consulate added, “Funny how #Trump kept claiming #Iran’s navy was 'finished'… now they’re about to find out how a swarm can pin you down real quick.” It ended with, “Abhi toh sirf trailer hai, picture abhi baaki hai (This is just the trailer; the movie is yet to come)."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“Red bees of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PersianGulf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PersianGulf</a>” yeah, the fast missile boats are warming up. Funny how <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a> kept claiming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>’s navy was “finished”… now they’re about to find out how a swarm can pin you down real quick. Abhi toh sirf trailer hai, picture abhi baaki hai 😏.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HORMUZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HORMUZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wu0FV5iMIc">pic.twitter.com/Wu0FV5iMIc</a>&mdash; Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2043716599803449392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Strait of Hormuz updates</h3>On the ground and at sea, reports suggest major disruptions in maritime traffic, with tankers turning back and some shipping lanes effectively halted. US naval forces are reportedly enforcing the blockade measures aimed at restricting movement in and out of Iranian waters. Earlier warnings from Washington stated that Iranian naval vessels approaching the blockade zone would be “eliminated,” while Tehran and its allies dismissed such statements as propaganda.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bids-farewell-asha-bhosle-gets-cremated-at-shivaji-park-1776091505611/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bids-farewell-asha-bhosle-gets-cremated-at-shivaji-park-1776091505611/embed</a>&nbsp;In a social media post, US President Donald Trump claimed: “Iran’s Navy is lying at the bottom of the sea, completely obliterated… If any of these ships come anywhere close to our BLOCKADE, they will be immediately ELIMINATED,”US Central Command has said that the objective of the naval blockade is to prevent vessels from entering or exiting Iranian ports, further intensifying the standoff.&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 warns US over Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate, with reported naval blockade, disrupted tanker traffic, and rising geopolitical risk

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply, with the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai highlighting Tehran’s strategic leverage over the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on X, the consulate said: “Bro forgot that even after ‘smashing fleets’, control of the Strait of #Hormuz decides the game,” emphasizing the waterway’s critical importance in global energy and naval strategy. The remarks came after reports that Donald Trump’s deadline tied to a naval blockade expired on Monday. Following the collapse of high-stakes peace talks in Islamabad, the US military has reportedly begun restricting the movement of vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports, signaling a rapid escalation in maritime tensions. ‘Filmy dialogue hai’ Drawing parallels with history, the Iranian mission referenced the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s, particularly the “Tanker War” phase, when oil shipping in the Persian Gulf was frequently targeted. Despite a heavy Western naval presence later in the conflict, Iran maintained its influence over the narrow Strait of Hormuz, which remained operational but highly volatile. The consulate wrote, “Baaki sab filmy dialogue hai boss (Rest are just lines from a movie),” dismissing US threats and framing them as political rhetoric rather than actionable strategy. Iran, at the time, was led by Supreme Leader Ruhollah Khomeini, while Iraq was under President Saddam Hussein. The consulate suggested a familiar geopolitical pattern repeating itself decades later. Also Read: Iran warns Trump with cryptic math formula amid Hormuz crisis — what does f(f(O)) > f(O) reveal? ‘Picture abhi baaki hai’ In a follow-up post, Tehran described its fast-attack naval units as “red bees of the Persian Gulf,” sharing a video montage of missile launches and swarm boat operations. The messaging appeared to push back against US claims about the weakening of Iran’s naval capabilities. The consulate added, “Funny how #Trump kept claiming #Iran’s navy was 'finished'… now they’re about to find out how a swarm can pin you down real quick.” It ended with, “Abhi toh sirf trailer hai, picture abhi baaki hai (This is just the trailer; the movie is yet to come)."

Iran warns the US as the Strait of Hormuz tensions escalate, a naval blockade begins, tanker traffic halts, and rhetoric rises sharply

'Picture abhi baaki hai': Iran hits back at US over Hormuz blockade, calls threats 'filmy dialogues' as crisis escalates

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf took an unusual jab at the United States, using mathematics instead of traditional political rhetoric. In a post on X, he warned that US pressure on Iran, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, could trigger a massive surge in global oil prices, ultimately hurting American consumers. "Enjoy the current pump figures. With the so-called 'blockade', soon you'll be nostalgic for $4–5 gas," he wrote.&nbsp;Alongside the warning, he shared a formula: ΔO_BSOH &gt; 0 ⇒ f(f(O)) &gt; f(O), which appeared complex but conveyed a straightforward economic message. Ghalibaf, who holds a PhD in Political Geography and has experience managing infrastructure and logistics, understands the strategic importance of chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow passage, only about 33 km wide at its tightest, carries nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply daily.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-have-a-doordash-order-for-you-mr-president-mcdonald-s-iran-and-the-pope-in-trump-s-bizarre-press-conference-1776105300245">'I have a DoorDash order for you Mr President': McDonald's, Iran, and the Pope in Trump’s bizarre press conference</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Enjoy the current pump figures. With the so-called &#39;blockade&#39;, Soon you&#39;ll be nostalgic for $4–$5 gas. ΔO_BSOH&gt;0 ⇒ f(f(O))&gt;f(O) <a href="https://t.co/rVxlC6vFWG">pic.twitter.com/rVxlC6vFWG</a>&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://twitter.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2043425869570416802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Tensions escalated after failed peace talks in Islamabad, following which the US moved to blockade the strait. Since key oil-producing nations rely heavily on this route, disruptions have already pushed prices higher.The equation breaks down as follows:<ul><li>‘O’ represents oil prices.</li><li>‘BSOH’ stands for Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.</li><li>‘ΔO_BSOH &gt; 0’ means the blockade raises oil prices.</li><li>‘f(O)’ refers to immediate effects, restricted supply, and price spikes.</li><li>‘f(f(O))’ highlights secondary effects, rising insurance costs, reduced shipping, and broader economic inflation.</li></ul>In essence, Ghalibaf argued that the real danger lies not just in the initial price surge but in the cascading effects that follow. A similar disruption occurred in 2021 when the Ever Given blocked the Suez Canal for six days, causing global trade losses worth billions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hungary-elections-opposition-tisza-wins-thumping-majority-1776082511761/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hungary-elections-opposition-tisza-wins-thumping-majority-1776082511761/embed</a>&nbsp;However, the Strait of Hormuz carries far greater strategic weight, and its ongoing disruption could have deeper consequences. Ghalibaf’s message: economic pressure on Iran may backfire, amplifying costs worldwide—especially for Americans.&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 speaker Ghalibaf uses a mathematical formula to warn that a Strait of Hormuz blockade could trigger soaring oil prices and global economic shock

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf took an unusual jab at the United States, using mathematics instead of traditional political rhetoric. In a post on X, he warned that US pressure on Iran, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, could trigger a massive surge in global oil prices, ultimately hurting American consumers. "Enjoy the current pump figures. With the so-called 'blockade', soon you'll be nostalgic for $4–5 gas," he wrote. Alongside the warning, he shared a formula: ΔO_BSOH > 0 ⇒ f(f(O)) > f(O), which appeared complex but conveyed a straightforward economic message. Ghalibaf, who holds a PhD in Political Geography and has experience managing infrastructure and logistics, understands the strategic importance of chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow passage, only about 33 km wide at its tightest, carries nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply daily. Also Read: 'I have a DoorDash order for you Mr President': McDonald's, Iran, and the Pope in Trump’s bizarre press conference

Iran’s parliament speaker used a math formula to warn that the US actions in Hormuz could trigger cascading oil price shocks and global economic fallout

Iran warns Trump with cryptic math formula amid Hormuz crisis — what does f(f(O)) > f(O) reveal?

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'FAKE NEWS! Have they no shame?': Trump hits out at NYT over Iran war coverage

Stepbrother charged in cruise ship killing of teen Anna Kepner. Who was she?

New round of US-Iran talks? Trump claims ‘they want a deal’, Iran open for talks

'Picture abhi baaki hai': Iran hits back at US over blockade of Strait of Hormuz

Iran warns Trump with cryptic math formula amid Hormuz crisis. What is it?