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President Donald Trump is sending a high-level negotiating team to Islamabad, Pakistan, this weekend to engage in talks with Iranian officials. Vice President JD Vance will lead the delegation, which includes special envoy Steve Witkoff as well as Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. “I can announce that the president is sending his negotiating team led by the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, special envoy Witkoff, and Mr. Kushner to Islamabad for talks this weekend,” Leavitt told reporters in the White House briefing room. Leavitt added that the first round of discussions is scheduled for Saturday morning local time.<h3>White House defends Trump’s threat to wipe out ‘whole civilization’</h3>Leavitt also defended President Donald Trump’s warning about destroying an entire civilization amid tensions with Iran, arguing that his rhetoric is part of a broader negotiating strategy. On Tuesday, Trump wrote in an early morning Truth Social post, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” if Iran failed to return to negotiations and reopen the Strait of Hormuz before a set deadline. “Well, I understand the questions about the president’s rhetoric, but what the president cares most about is results, and in fact, his very tough rhetoric and his tough negotiating style is what has led to the result that you are all witnessing today,” Leavitt said.&nbsp;In a follow-up exchange, she said the world “should take his word very seriously in understanding that the president is always most interested in results.” She that Trump “absolutely has the moral high ground over the Iranian terrorist regime,” despite criticism of his comments. Pressed further, Leavitt said the remarks were decisive in shifting Iran’s position. It “was a very, very strong threat from the president of the United States that led the Iranian regime to cave to their knees and ask for a ceasefire and agree to reopening the Strait of Hormuz.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ceasefire-violations-reported-across-conflict-zone-pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-urged-all-parties-to-exercise-restraint-1775656756198">'Ceasefire violations reported across conflict zone': Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif urges all parties to exercise restraint</a><h3>US may seek revenue from Strait of Hormuz, discussions underway</h3>Leavitt also revealed that Trump has raised the possibility of the United States earning revenue from the Strait of Hormuz, though discussions are still ongoing. “It’s something that will continue to be discussed over the course of the next two weeks. But the immediate priority of the president is the reopening of the Strait without any limitations, whether in the form of tolls or otherwise,” she told reporters during the White House press briefing on Wednesday.<h3>White House: Iran proposals split between ‘unserious’ &amp; ‘workable’</h3>The White House provided new details on the status of negotiations, saying Iran initially presented a proposal that was rejected before offering a revised plan. The 10-point plan that the Iranians had initially pitched was “fundamentally unserious, unacceptable, and completely discarded,” Leavitt said. However, just hours before Trump’s 8 pm ET deadline, Iran “put forward a more reasonable and entirely different and condensed plan.”&nbsp;According to Leavitt, the Trump administration considers the updated proposal a “workable basis on which to negotiate,” potentially aligning it with Washington’s own 15-point framework. She also suggested a gap between Iran’s public messaging and private discussions with US officials. Negotiators are now expected to work toward merging both frameworks during closed-door talks set to begin in Islamabad on Saturday. “The president’s red lines, namely, the end of uranium enrichment in Iran, have not changed,” Leavitt said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-how-the-iran-war-broke-american-dominance-1775667609225/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-how-the-iran-war-broke-american-dominance-1775667609225/embed</a><h3>White House rejects reports Strait of Hormuz is closed</h3>Responding to reports from Iranian state media, Leavitt dismissed claims that the Strait of Hormuz had been shut.She said Trump had been briefed on the reports and described them as “unacceptable,” while emphasizing that private communications suggest otherwise. According to Leavitt, there has been an “uptick” in traffic through the strait, contradicting public claims of closure. She reiterated that Trump expects the waterway to reopen “immediately,” adding that officials have been told privately that this is already happening and that reports suggesting otherwise are false.<h3>Iran’s enriched uranium remains a key priority for US</h3>Leavitt stressed that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a central focus for Trump as negotiations move forward. “This is on the top of the priority list for the president and his negotiating team as they head into these next round of discussions,” she said, calling it a “red line” the administration will not compromise on.&nbsp;“This is a red line that the president is not going to back away from, and he’s committed to ensuring that takes place. We hope it will be through diplomacy,” she added. Earlier on Wednesday, Trump also addressed the issue directly, saying the US would work with Iran to eliminate the material. “There will be no enrichment of Uranium, and the United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried (B-2 Bombers) Nuclear ‘Dust,’” he wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;Earlier, Leavitt opened the briefing by calling Operation Epic Fury a ‘victory’ achieved within Trump's self-imposed four-to-six-week timeline. According to the White House, the campaign met its primary goals, ending Iran’s nuclear programme and dismantling its naval, drone, and missile capabilities, and officials described the effort as ‘swift and successful’. What comes next is far less clear. The Trump administration views the ceasefire as an ‘opening’ for renewed discussions around a ‘workable’ proposal from Iran. Details remain limited. It is still uncertain what Iran included in its ‘modified’ proposal, which Leavitt said was submitted following Trump's threats on Tuesday. Any further developments are expected to remain largely undisclosed, as negotiations continue behind closed doors.&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.

Donald Trump to send JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner to Pakistan for Iran talks; first round is set for Saturday morning, said White House

President Donald Trump is sending a high-level negotiating team to Islamabad, Pakistan, this weekend to engage in talks with Iranian officials. Vice President JD Vance will lead the delegation, which includes special envoy Steve Witkoff as well as Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. “I can announce that the president is sending his negotiating team led by the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, special envoy Witkoff, and Mr. Kushner to Islamabad for talks this weekend,” Leavitt told reporters in the White House briefing room. Leavitt added that the first round of discussions is scheduled for Saturday morning local time. White House defends Trump’s threat to wipe out ‘whole civilization’ Leavitt also defended President Donald Trump’s warning about destroying an entire civilization amid tensions with Iran, arguing that his rhetoric is part of a broader negotiating strategy. On Tuesday, Trump wrote in an early morning Truth Social post, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” if Iran failed to return to negotiations and reopen the Strait of Hormuz before a set deadline. “Well, I understand the questions about the president’s rhetoric, but what the president cares most about is results, and in fact, his very tough rhetoric and his tough negotiating style is what has led to the result that you are all witnessing today,” Leavitt said. In a follow-up exchange, she said the world “should take his word very seriously in understanding that the president is always most interested in results.” She that Trump “absolutely has the moral high ground over the Iranian terrorist regime,” despite criticism of his comments. Pressed further, Leavitt said the remarks were decisive in shifting Iran’s position. It “was a very, very strong threat from the president of the United States that led the Iranian regime to cave to their knees and ask for a ceasefire and agree to reopening the Strait of Hormuz.” Also Read: 'Ceasefire violations reported across conflict zone': Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif urges all parties to exercise restraint US may seek revenue from Strait of Hormuz, discussions underway Leavitt also revealed that Trump has raised the possibility of the United States earning revenue from the Strait of Hormuz, though discussions are still ongoing. “It’s something that will continue to be discussed over the course of the next two weeks. But the immediate priority of the president is the reopening of the Strait without any limitations, whether in the form of tolls or otherwise,” she told reporters during the White House press briefing on Wednesday. White House: Iran proposals split between ‘unserious’ & ‘workable’ The White House provided new details on the status of negotiations, saying Iran initially presented a proposal that was rejected before offering a revised plan. The 10-point plan that the Iranians had initially pitched was “fundamentally unserious, unacceptable, and completely discarded,” Leavitt said. However, just hours before Trump’s 8 pm ET deadline, Iran “put forward a more reasonable and entirely different and condensed plan.” According to Leavitt, the Trump administration considers the updated proposal a “workable basis on which to negotiate,” potentially aligning it with Washington’s own 15-point framework. She also suggested a gap between Iran’s public messaging and private discussions with US officials. Negotiators are now expected to work toward merging both frameworks during closed-door talks set to begin in Islamabad on Saturday. “The president’s red lines, namely, the end of uranium enrichment in Iran, have not changed,” Leavitt said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-how-the-iran-war-broke-american-dominance-1775667609225/embed White House rejects reports Strait of Hormuz is closed Responding to reports from Iranian state media, Leavitt dismissed claims that the Strait of Hormuz had been shut. She said Trump had been briefed on the reports and described them as “unacceptable,” while emphasizing that private communications suggest otherwise. According to Leavitt, there has been an “uptick” in traffic through the strait, contradicting public claims of closure. She reiterated that Trump expects the waterway to reopen “immediately,” adding that officials have been told privately that this is already happening and that reports suggesting otherwise are false. Iran’s enriched uranium remains a key priority for US Leavitt stressed that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a central focus for Trump as negotiations move forward. “This is on the top of the priority list for the president and his negotiating team as they head into these next round of discussions,” she said, calling it a “red line” the administration will not compromise on. “This is a red line that the president is not going to back away from, and he’s committed to ensuring that takes place. We hope it will be through diplomacy,” she added. Earlier on Wednesday, Trump also addressed the issue directly, saying the US would work with Iran to eliminate the material. “There will be no enrichment of Uranium, and the United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried (B-2 Bombers) Nuclear ‘Dust,’” he wrote on Truth Social. Earlier, Leavitt opened the briefing by calling Operation Epic Fury a ‘victory’ achieved within Trump's self-imposed four-to-six-week timeline. According to the White House, the campaign met its primary goals, ending Iran’s nuclear programme and dismantling its naval, drone, and missile capabilities, and officials described the effort as ‘swift and successful’. What comes next is far less clear. The Trump administration views the ceasefire as an ‘opening’ for renewed discussions around a ‘workable’ proposal from Iran. Details remain limited. It is still uncertain what Iran included in its ‘modified’ proposal, which Leavitt said was submitted following Trump's threats on Tuesday. Any further developments are expected to remain largely undisclosed, as negotiations continue behind closed doors. 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.

Donald Trump to send JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner to Pakistan for Iran talks; first round is set for Saturday morning, said White House

US-Iran talks in Pakistan: Trump to send JD Vance, Kushner and Witkoff for talks; first round on Saturday

After 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. Reports of Tehran pulling back from truce have also surfaced. Iran warned it would withdraw from the current agreement if Israel continues attacking Lebanon, as reported news agency Tasnim. This comes after large-scale Israeli strikes in the region. "Iran is currently considering the possibility of exiting the ceasefire agreement due to the Zionist regime's continued violations through its attacks on Lebanon," the agency reported, citing an official source.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-conducts-major-strikes-inside-lebanon-hours-after-announcement-of-ceasefire-1775665781196/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-conducts-major-strikes-inside-lebanon-hours-after-announcement-of-ceasefire-1775665781196/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;As reported by news agency Araghchi "discussed the Zionist regime's violations of the ceasefire in Iran and Lebanon", referring to Israel, in a call with the powerful Pakistani military leader Field Marshal Asim Munir, the statement said. Iranian media reported that Tehran was ready to withdraw from the ceasefire and retaliate against Israel's bombardments of Lebanon. While Iran's ceasefire announcement said they considered it on “request by US for negotiation”. And less than 24 hours after. The US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, said the president noted it as a “big day for world peace.” Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury “a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield”. These comments come days after he posted “back to the Stone Age”. After announcing the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, he now added, "Iran begged for this ceasefire.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-not-covered-by-ceasefire-because-of-hezbollah-trump-says-israel-hits-100-hezbollah-targets-1775662843235">Lebanon not covered by ceasefire because of Hezbollah, Trump says</a>&nbsp;Not too long ago, Pete Hegseth had tweeted, “back to the Stone Age”. The comments come amid escalating West Asia war, and days before Donald Trump’s pause and ultimatum for Iran ends. To which Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps aerospace commander Brigadier General Seyed Majid Moosavi responded with, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves, not Iran, whom you seek to drag back to the Stone Age.” He added, “Hollywood delusions have so poisoned your minds that, with your paltry 250-year history, you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old.”

Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi raises "ceasefire violations" with Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir as Israeli strikes in Lebanon threaten to derail the 2026 truce.

After 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. Reports of Tehran pulling back from truce have also surfaced. Iran warned it would withdraw from the current agreement if Israel continues attacking Lebanon, as reported news agency Tasnim. This comes after large-scale Israeli strikes in the region. "Iran is currently considering the possibility of exiting the ceasefire agreement due to the Zionist regime's continued violations through its attacks on Lebanon," the agency reported, citing an official source. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-conducts-major-strikes-inside-lebanon-hours-after-announcement-of-ceasefire-1775665781196/embed As reported by news agency Araghchi "discussed the Zionist regime's violations of the ceasefire in Iran and Lebanon", referring to Israel, in a call with the powerful Pakistani military leader Field Marshal Asim Munir, the statement said. Iranian media reported that Tehran was ready to withdraw from the ceasefire and retaliate against Israel's bombardments of Lebanon. While Iran's ceasefire announcement said they considered it on “request by US for negotiation”. And less than 24 hours after. The US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, said the president noted it as a “big day for world peace.” Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury “a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield”. These comments come days after he posted “back to the Stone Age”. After announcing the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, he now added, "Iran begged for this ceasefire.” Also read: Lebanon not covered by ceasefire because of Hezbollah, Trump says Not too long ago, Pete Hegseth had tweeted, “back to the Stone Age”. The comments come amid escalating West Asia war, and days before Donald Trump’s pause and ultimatum for Iran ends. To which Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps aerospace commander Brigadier General Seyed Majid Moosavi responded with, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves, not Iran, whom you seek to drag back to the Stone Age.” He added, “Hollywood delusions have so poisoned your minds that, with your paltry 250-year history, you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old.”

Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi raises "ceasefire violations" with Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir as Israeli strikes in Lebanon threaten to derail the 2026 truce.

Iran FM Araghchi raises Israeli 'ceasefire violations' concern with mediator Pakistan

Iran has halted the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz after Israeli attacks on Lebanon, Iran’s Fars News Agency reported on Wednesday. The report said tanker movements stopped after Israeli military launched massive strikes in Lebanon.Earlier in the day, after US President Donald Trump accepted Iran’s conditions and a ceasefire was established, two oil tankers were granted permission to pass safely through the strategic waterway, said the Fars report.The Israeli army said on Wednesday it struck more than 100 sites “within 10 minutes” across multiple areas in Beirut, the Beqaa Valley, and southern Lebanon, marking the “largest” coordinated strike since the start of the current offensive.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-will-cease-uranium-enrichment-we-ll-dig-out-nuclear-dust-says-trump-1775651976519">‘Iran will cease uranium enrichment, we’ll dig out nuclear dust,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;Trump had on Tuesday announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, saying Tehran presented a “workable” 10-point proposal for negotiations.The ceasefire announcement came less than two hours before the deadline set by Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and accept an agreement or face “the destruction of an entire civilisation.”&nbsp;The Lebanese Red Cross said the initial toll of the Israeli attacks on Beirut alone is 80 killed and 200 injured, and rescue operations are still underway.&nbsp;The Israeli military carried out a large wave of air strikes across Lebanon on Wednesday, with reports of a high number of casualties across the country. Israel described it as the largest wave of airstrikes in this conflict, hitting more than 100 of what it called Hezbollah command centres and military sites in 10 minutes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-largest-wave-of-strikes-against-hezbollah-in-lebanon-high-casualties-reported-1775659940742">Israel launches largest wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon; high casualties reported</a>&nbsp;The strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the eastern Bekaa Valley. The attacks happened hours after the office of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, denied that the ceasefire deal between the US and Iran also covered the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon.&nbsp;Lebanon’s health minister said Israeli strikes had caused hundreds of casualties.&nbsp;Explosions tore through residential areas in Beirut, and giant columns of smoke rose into the sky. Residents in ⁠Beirut and the south said the attacks had come without the usual warnings to evacuate targeted buildings.

The Lebanese Red Cross said the initial toll of the Israeli attacks on Beirut alone is 80 killed and 200 injured, and rescue operations are still underway. The Israeli military carried out a wave of air strikes across Lebanon, with reports of a high number of casualties across the country.

Iran has halted the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz after Israeli attacks on Lebanon, Iran’s Fars News Agency reported on Wednesday. The report said tanker movements stopped after Israeli military launched massive strikes in Lebanon. Earlier in the day, after US President Donald Trump accepted Iran’s conditions and a ceasefire was established, two oil tankers were granted permission to pass safely through the strategic waterway, said the Fars report. The Israeli army said on Wednesday it struck more than 100 sites “within 10 minutes” across multiple areas in Beirut, the Beqaa Valley, and southern Lebanon, marking the “largest” coordinated strike since the start of the current offensive. Also Read: ‘Iran will cease uranium enrichment, we’ll dig out nuclear dust,’ says Trump Trump had on Tuesday announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, saying Tehran presented a “workable” 10-point proposal for negotiations. The ceasefire announcement came less than two hours before the deadline set by Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and accept an agreement or face “the destruction of an entire civilisation.” The Lebanese Red Cross said the initial toll of the Israeli attacks on Beirut alone is 80 killed and 200 injured, and rescue operations are still underway. The Israeli military carried out a large wave of air strikes across Lebanon on Wednesday, with reports of a high number of casualties across the country. Israel described it as the largest wave of airstrikes in this conflict, hitting more than 100 of what it called Hezbollah command centres and military sites in 10 minutes. Also Read: Israel launches largest wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon; high casualties reported The strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the eastern Bekaa Valley. The attacks happened hours after the office of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, denied that the ceasefire deal between the US and Iran also covered the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Lebanon’s health minister said Israeli strikes had caused hundreds of casualties. Explosions tore through residential areas in Beirut, and giant columns of smoke rose into the sky. Residents in ⁠Beirut and the south said the attacks had come without the usual warnings to evacuate targeted buildings.

The Lebanese Red Cross said the initial toll of the Israeli attacks on Beirut alone is 80 killed and 200 injured, and rescue operations are still underway. The Israeli military carried out a wave of air strikes across Lebanon, with reports of a high number of casualties across the country.

Iran stops tanker traffic through Strait of Hormuz over Israeli strikes on Lebanon

Israel carried out its most intense air campaign on Lebanon since the outbreak of the current conflict, striking more than 100 Hezbollah targets across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon in roughly ten minutes, the Israeli military said. The assault came hours after the announcement of a temporary two‑week US–Iran ceasefire. Meanwhile, in a brief exchange with a PBS correspondent, US President Donald Trump confirmed that Lebanon was excluded from the truce because of Hezbollah.&nbsp;<h2>Heaviest Israeli strikes since conflict began</h2>&nbsp;Israel struck Hezbollah targets across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon within about ten minutes, the Israeli military said. Earlier, Israel had also made clear that the truce did not extend to its operations against the Hezbollah in Lebanon. Lebanon’s health ministry said the strikes killed dozens and wounded hundreds, with ambulances unable to keep up with the wounded and emergency responders tackling fires and collapsed vehicles across the country.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-claims-downing-israeli-hermes-900-irgc-as-uae-saudi-air-defences-repel-missile-and-drone-swarm-1775658158987">UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait report attacks despite Iran‑US ceasefire; IRGC claims downing Israeli drones</a>&nbsp;In a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel backed US President's decision to suspend strikes against Iran for two weeks but that the “temporary ceasefire does not include Lebanon”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">‼️ In 10 minutes, the IDF completed the largest coordinated strike across Lebanon since the start of Operation Roaring Lion. The strike targeted 100+ Hezbollah headquarters, military arrays, &amp; command-and-control centers in Beirut, Beqaa and southern Lebanon, including: •…&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/2041844695303696733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Trump on Lebanon’s Exclusion</h2>&nbsp;In a brief exchange with PBS correspondent Liz Landers after the Pentagon briefing, Trump addressed Lebanon’s exclusion from the temporary US–Iran ceasefire. He said, “Yeah, they were not included in the deal… Because of Hezbollah. That’ll get taken care of too. It’s alright.” When asked if he was comfortable with Israel continuing strikes in Lebanon, Trump replied, “It’s part of the deal—everyone knows that. That’s a separate skirmish.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“We will continue striking the Hezbollah terror organization and will utilize every operational opportunity. We will not compromise the security of the residents of northern Israel. We will continue to strike with determination.” — IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Eyal Zamir… <a href="https://t.co/h1ZWPftRWz">pic.twitter.com/h1ZWPftRWz</a>&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/2041853589891453201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Hezbollah pauses firing, conflicting ceasefire claims</h2>&nbsp;Three Lebanese sources close to Hezbollah told Reuters that the group halted attacks on northern Israel and Israeli troops in Lebanon in the early hours of Wednesday as part of the US‑Iran ceasefire agreement. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who helped mediate the deal, had said the truce would apply “everywhere, including Lebanon”. The differing positions have underscored confusion over the scope of the ceasefire, even as diplomatic channels work to solidify terms.&nbsp;The strikes left Beirut’s streets filled with smoke and chaos, with residents and emergency responders rushing to assist the wounded. Lebanon’s Social Affairs Minister, Haneen Sayed, described the Israeli strikes as “absolutely shocking and stunning” and “unacceptable".

Israel struck Hezbollah targets across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon within about ten minutes, the Israeli military said. Earlier, Israel had also made clear that the truce did not extend to its operations against the Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Israel carried out its most intense air campaign on Lebanon since the outbreak of the current conflict, striking more than 100 Hezbollah targets across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon in roughly ten minutes, the Israeli military said. The assault came hours after the announcement of a temporary two‑week US–Iran ceasefire. Meanwhile, in a brief exchange with a PBS correspondent, US President Donald Trump confirmed that Lebanon was excluded from the truce because of Hezbollah. Heaviest Israeli strikes since conflict began Israel struck Hezbollah targets across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon within about ten minutes, the Israeli military said. Earlier, Israel had also made clear that the truce did not extend to its operations against the Hezbollah in Lebanon. Lebanon’s health ministry said the strikes killed dozens and wounded hundreds, with ambulances unable to keep up with the wounded and emergency responders tackling fires and collapsed vehicles across the country. ALSO READ: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait report attacks despite Iran‑US ceasefire; IRGC claims downing Israeli drones In a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel backed US President's decision to suspend strikes against Iran for two weeks but that the “temporary ceasefire does not include Lebanon”.

Israel struck Hezbollah targets across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon within about ten minutes, the Israeli military said. Earlier, Israel had also made clear that the truce did not extend to its operations against the Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Lebanon excluded from US‑Iran ceasefire deal because of Hezbollah, Trump says; Israel hits 100 targets

US President Donald Trump has launched a sharp attack on CNN, accusing the broadcaster of spreading a “false and dangerous” report about Iran’s alleged declaration of victory, even as delicate ceasefire efforts continue to unfold. The dispute erupted after Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, just ahead of a deadline he had set for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route that carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments.<h3>Trump accuses CNN of spreading misinformation</h3>In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump accused CNN of deliberately amplifying a fabricated statement purportedly from senior Iranian officials. “No one can believe that Fake News CNN put out a knowingly false and dangerous statement pretending it came from the upper levels of the Iranian Government. It didn’t,” Trump said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-largest-wave-of-strikes-against-hezbollah-in-lebanon-high-casualties-reported-1775659940742">Israel launches largest wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon; high casualties reported</a>&nbsp;He further alleged that the report originated from what he described as a fraudulent news source based in Nigeria, and claimed CNN had irresponsibly elevated it into a headline during a sensitive geopolitical moment.&nbsp;“It was totally made up and posted, as a headline, for purpose of, perhaps, inflaming a very delicate situation,” he added. Trump also called for an immediate retraction and apology, stating that authorities were examining whether any criminal wrongdoing was involved in the dissemination of the report.<h2>Contested report on Iran’s ‘victory’</h2>The controversy centres on a CNN report that cited a statement attributed to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, claiming that Tehran had achieved a decisive outcome.&nbsp;According to the report, the statement said the “enemy” had suffered a “historic and crushing defeat” in what it described as an unlawful war against the Iranian nation.A White House-affiliated account amplified the issue by sharing a screenshot of the CNN headline, which read that Iran claimed victory and forced the United States to accept a ten-point plan.<h2>CNN defends its reporting</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-amazon-cutting-14-000-jobs-company-break-silence-to-viral-layoff-rumours-1775656661914">Is Amazon cutting 14,000 jobs? Company break silence to viral layoff rumours</a>&nbsp;CNN has rejected Trump’s accusations, maintaining that its reporting was based on credible and verified sources. A network spokesperson said the statement had been obtained directly from Iranian officials and was also carried by multiple Iranian state media outlets.&nbsp;Senior international correspondent Matthew Chance reinforced that position during an appearance with Anderson Cooper, saying the document had been independently confirmed.&nbsp;“When President Trump posted on Truth Social that he objected to that report, he said it was fake. I followed up with the Iranian foreign ministry,” Chance said, noting that officials provided the same document again upon request.&nbsp;“And so I think we’re pretty confident, very confident that this document is authentic,” he added, according to Deadline.<h2>Tensions persist amid ceasefire diplomacy</h2>The media clash comes at a critical juncture, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to stabilise relations following heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;While the ceasefire has offered a temporary pause, the dispute between the White House and CNN highlights the fragile information environment surrounding the conflict, where competing narratives continue to shape public perception and political responses.

President Trump demanded an apology from CNN, labelling their report on Iran’s "victory" claim as dangerous misinformation. CNN stands by its sourcing, affirming the document was verified directly through Iranian officials.

US President Donald Trump has launched a sharp attack on CNN, accusing the broadcaster of spreading a “false and dangerous” report about Iran’s alleged declaration of victory, even as delicate ceasefire efforts continue to unfold. The dispute erupted after Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, just ahead of a deadline he had set for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route that carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments. Trump accuses CNN of spreading misinformation In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump accused CNN of deliberately amplifying a fabricated statement purportedly from senior Iranian officials. “No one can believe that Fake News CNN put out a knowingly false and dangerous statement pretending it came from the upper levels of the Iranian Government. It didn’t,” Trump said. Also read: Israel launches largest wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon; high casualties reported He further alleged that the report originated from what he described as a fraudulent news source based in Nigeria, and claimed CNN had irresponsibly elevated it into a headline during a sensitive geopolitical moment. “It was totally made up and posted, as a headline, for purpose of, perhaps, inflaming a very delicate situation,” he added. Trump also called for an immediate retraction and apology, stating that authorities were examining whether any criminal wrongdoing was involved in the dissemination of the report. Contested report on Iran’s ‘victory’ The controversy centres on a CNN report that cited a statement attributed to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, claiming that Tehran had achieved a decisive outcome. According to the report, the statement said the “enemy” had suffered a “historic and crushing defeat” in what it described as an unlawful war against the Iranian nation. A White House-affiliated account amplified the issue by sharing a screenshot of the CNN headline, which read that Iran claimed victory and forced the United States to accept a ten-point plan. CNN defends its reporting Also read: Is Amazon cutting 14,000 jobs? Company break silence to viral layoff rumours CNN has rejected Trump’s accusations, maintaining that its reporting was based on credible and verified sources. A network spokesperson said the statement had been obtained directly from Iranian officials and was also carried by multiple Iranian state media outlets. Senior international correspondent Matthew Chance reinforced that position during an appearance with Anderson Cooper, saying the document had been independently confirmed. “When President Trump posted on Truth Social that he objected to that report, he said it was fake. I followed up with the Iranian foreign ministry,” Chance said, noting that officials provided the same document again upon request. “And so I think we’re pretty confident, very confident that this document is authentic,” he added, according to Deadline. Tensions persist amid ceasefire diplomacy The media clash comes at a critical juncture, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to stabilise relations following heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. While the ceasefire has offered a temporary pause, the dispute between the White House and CNN highlights the fragile information environment surrounding the conflict, where competing narratives continue to shape public perception and political responses.

President Trump demanded an apology from CNN, labelling their report on Iran’s "victory" claim as dangerous misinformation. CNN stands by its sourcing, affirming the document was verified directly through Iranian officials.

Trump demands apology from CNN over Iran ‘victory’ report, calls coverage false

The Israeli military carried out a large wave of air strikes across Lebanon on Wednesday, with reports of a high number of casualties across the country. Israel described it as the largest wave of airstrikes in this conflict, hitting more than 100 of what it called Hezbollah command centres and military sites in 10 minutes.The strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the eastern Bekaa Valley. The attacks happened hours after the office of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, denied that the ceasefire deal between the US and Iran also covered the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon.&nbsp;Lebanon’s health minister said Israeli strikes had caused hundreds of casualties.&nbsp;Explosions tore through residential areas in Beirut, and giant columns of smoke rose into the sky. Residents in ⁠Beirut and the south said the attacks had come without the usual warnings to evacuate targeted buildings.&nbsp;It was the largest attack across Lebanon since the start of Operation “Roar of the Lion” within 10 minutes. The Israeli Air Force struck approximately 100 command centres and military infrastructures of the Hezbollah terror organisation across Beirut, the Bekaa, and southern Lebanon.&nbsp;The strikes were carried out based on precise intelligence data and was meticulously planned over many weeks by the Operations Directorate, Intelligence Directorate, Air Force, and Northern Command, with the aim of deepening the damage to the terrorist organisation Hezbollah.&nbsp;Israel renewed its strikes on its neighbour after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted the Iran war truce does not include Lebanon.&nbsp;Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said the military had carried out a surprise attack targeting hundreds of Hezbollah members across Lebanon.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official involved in the discussions told Reuters that Tehran could open the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday or Friday ahead of planned peace talks in Pakistan if a framework for the ceasefire is agreed upon.&nbsp;In Lebanon, Hezbollah is facing strong criticism, as many blame it for dragging the country into an unwanted war and for defending the interests of its Iranian patron.

Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said the military carried out a surprise attack targeting hundreds of Hezbollah members. Hezbollah is facing strong criticism, as many blame it for dragging the country into an unwanted war and for defending the interests of its Iranian patron.

The Israeli military carried out a large wave of air strikes across Lebanon on Wednesday, with reports of a high number of casualties across the country. Israel described it as the largest wave of airstrikes in this conflict, hitting more than 100 of what it called Hezbollah command centres and military sites in 10 minutes. The strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the eastern Bekaa Valley. The attacks happened hours after the office of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, denied that the ceasefire deal between the US and Iran also covered the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Lebanon’s health minister said Israeli strikes had caused hundreds of casualties. Explosions tore through residential areas in Beirut, and giant columns of smoke rose into the sky. Residents in ⁠Beirut and the south said the attacks had come without the usual warnings to evacuate targeted buildings. It was the largest attack across Lebanon since the start of Operation “Roar of the Lion” within 10 minutes. The Israeli Air Force struck approximately 100 command centres and military infrastructures of the Hezbollah terror organisation across Beirut, the Bekaa, and southern Lebanon. The strikes were carried out based on precise intelligence data and was meticulously planned over many weeks by the Operations Directorate, Intelligence Directorate, Air Force, and Northern Command, with the aim of deepening the damage to the terrorist organisation Hezbollah. Israel renewed its strikes on its neighbour after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted the Iran war truce does not include Lebanon. Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said the military had carried out a surprise attack targeting hundreds of Hezbollah members across Lebanon. Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official involved in the discussions told Reuters that Tehran could open the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday or Friday ahead of planned peace talks in Pakistan if a framework for the ceasefire is agreed upon. In Lebanon, Hezbollah is facing strong criticism, as many blame it for dragging the country into an unwanted war and for defending the interests of its Iranian patron.

Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said the military carried out a surprise attack targeting hundreds of Hezbollah members. Hezbollah is facing strong criticism, as many blame it for dragging the country into an unwanted war and for defending the interests of its Iranian patron.

Israel launches largest wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon; high casualties reported

A day after negotiating a ceasefire with the US, Iran warned it would withdraw from the current agreement if Israel continues attacking Lebanon, as reported news agency Tasnim. This comes after large-scale Israeli strikes in the region. "Iran is currently considering the possibility of exiting the ceasefire agreement due to the Zionist regime's continued violations through its attacks on Lebanon," the agency reported, citing an official source.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-iran-says-negotiations-to-be-held-in-islamabad-on-april-10-1775660408550/emebed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-iran-says-negotiations-to-be-held-in-islamabad-on-april-10-1775660408550/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;This comes after US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the president noted it to be a “big day for world peace”. Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury “a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield”. These comments come days after he posted “back to Stone Age”. After announcing the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, he now added, "Iran begged for this ceasefire.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-begged-for-ceasefire-says-pete-hegseth-as-he-declares-operation-epic-fury-a-historic-and-overwhelming-victory-1775650973946">'Iran begged for a ceasefire,' says Pete Hegseth as he declares Operation Epic Fury 'a historic and overwhelming victory'</a>&nbsp;The US war against Iran has "completely" destroyed the country's ability to build missiles and other sophisticated weaponry, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday. The US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire the previous evening, pausing a nearly six-week US-Israeli military campaign against the Islamic republic.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-state-media-posts-video-of-america-s-major-defeat-day-after-ceasefire-watch-1775648129637">Iranian state media posts AI video of 'America’s major defeat' day after ceasefire - WATCH</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We finished completely destroying Iran's defense industrial base, a core pillar of our mission," Hegseth told reporters."They can no longer build missiles, build rockets, build launchers or build (drones) -- their factories have been razed to the ground, set back in historic fashion," he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran warns it will exit the 2026 ceasefire if Israel continues strikes on Lebanon. Local media reports Tehran’s ultimatum as the Islamabad Accord faces collapse.

A day after negotiating a ceasefire with the US, Iran warned it would withdraw from the current agreement if Israel continues attacking Lebanon, as reported news agency Tasnim. This comes after large-scale Israeli strikes in the region. "Iran is currently considering the possibility of exiting the ceasefire agreement due to the Zionist regime's continued violations through its attacks on Lebanon," the agency reported, citing an official source. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-ceasefire-iran-says-negotiations-to-be-held-in-islamabad-on-april-10-1775660408550/embed This comes after US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the president noted it to be a “big day for world peace”. Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury “a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield”. These comments come days after he posted “back to Stone Age”. After announcing the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, he now added, "Iran begged for this ceasefire.” Also read: 'Iran begged for a ceasefire,' says Pete Hegseth as he declares Operation Epic Fury 'a historic and overwhelming victory' The US war against Iran has "completely" destroyed the country's ability to build missiles and other sophisticated weaponry, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday. The US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire the previous evening, pausing a nearly six-week US-Israeli military campaign against the Islamic republic. Also read: Iranian state media posts AI video of 'America’s major defeat' day after ceasefire - WATCH "We finished completely destroying Iran's defense industrial base, a core pillar of our mission," Hegseth told reporters. "They can no longer build missiles, build rockets, build launchers or build (drones) -- their factories have been razed to the ground, set back in historic fashion," he said.

Iran warns it will exit the 2026 ceasefire if Israel continues strikes on Lebanon. Local media reports Tehran’s ultimatum as the Islamabad Accord faces collapse.

Iran says will exit ceasefire if Israel continues to strike Lebanon: Local media

Iran could allow a limited reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz as early as Thursday or Friday, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday (April 8), signalling a cautious de-escalation ahead of planned talks with the US in Pakistan.According to the official, any reopening of the key oil transit route would be tightly managed by Tehran. “If an understanding on a framework for talks is reached, the strait could be opened in a limited way under Iran’s control,” the source said, adding that all vessels would be required to coordinate with Iranian military authorities before transiting.&nbsp;The official warned that the ceasefire remains fragile despite the apparent easing of tensions. “We prefer lasting peace but Iran has no fear to return to war if the US wants to go the same way,” the official told Reuters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-claims-downing-israeli-hermes-900-irgc-as-uae-saudi-air-defences-repel-missile-and-drone-swarm-1775658158987">UAE, Saudi Arabia report attacks despite Iran‑US ceasefire; IRGC claims downing Israeli Hermes 900 drones</a>&nbsp;The development follows a last-minute agreement between Tehran and Washington on a two-week ceasefire, reached barely an hour before US President Donald Trump’s deadline to strike Iran’s power plants and bridges expired. Both sides have since claimed victory, although Iranian officials have stressed that the conflict cannot be considered over until formal terms are negotiated. Talks between the two sides are expected to take place in Pakistan on Friday, raising hopes of a more durable diplomatic breakthrough.&nbsp;As part of the ceasefire arrangement, Iran agreed to permit safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane that had been effectively blocked for weeks. The disruption had driven up global energy prices and heightened concerns over supply stability.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that ships would be allowed to pass through the strait for the duration of the two-week truce, though he emphasised that access would remain subject to coordination with Iran’s armed forces. “There will be safe passage, but it will be possible via coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces,” Araghchi said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-warns-50-tariffs-on-nations-supplying-weapons-to-iran-1775651452955">Donald Trump warns 50% tariffs on nations supplying weapons to Iran</a>&nbsp;Early signs of resumed maritime activity have already emerged. According to maritime monitoring service MarineTraffic, a Greek-owned bulk carrier, NJ Earth, successfully crossed the strait at 08:44 UTC on Wednesday. A Liberia-flagged vessel, Daytona Beach, had earlier transited the waterway at 06:59 UTC after departing Bandar Abbas.&nbsp;“The Greek-owned bulk carrier NJ Earth crossed the Strait at 08:44 UTC, while the Liberia-flagged Daytona Beach transited earlier at 06:59 UTC, shortly after departing Bandar Abbas at 05:28 UTC,” MarineTraffic said in a post on X.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important chokepoints for oil shipments, remains central to the unfolding geopolitical tensions, with its status closely tied to the outcome of the upcoming negotiations.

Iran may reopen the Strait of Hormuz under strict military coordination following a fragile ceasefire. These managed transits precede critical US-Iran talks in Pakistan aimed at securing a lasting diplomatic breakthrough.

Iran could allow a limited reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz as early as Thursday or Friday, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday (April 8), signalling a cautious de-escalation ahead of planned talks with the US in Pakistan. According to the official, any reopening of the key oil transit route would be tightly managed by Tehran. “If an understanding on a framework for talks is reached, the strait could be opened in a limited way under Iran’s control,” the source said, adding that all vessels would be required to coordinate with Iranian military authorities before transiting. The official warned that the ceasefire remains fragile despite the apparent easing of tensions. “We prefer lasting peace but Iran has no fear to return to war if the US wants to go the same way,” the official told Reuters. Also read: UAE, Saudi Arabia report attacks despite Iran‑US ceasefire; IRGC claims downing Israeli Hermes 900 drones The development follows a last-minute agreement between Tehran and Washington on a two-week ceasefire, reached barely an hour before US President Donald Trump’s deadline to strike Iran’s power plants and bridges expired. Both sides have since claimed victory, although Iranian officials have stressed that the conflict cannot be considered over until formal terms are negotiated. Talks between the two sides are expected to take place in Pakistan on Friday, raising hopes of a more durable diplomatic breakthrough. As part of the ceasefire arrangement, Iran agreed to permit safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane that had been effectively blocked for weeks. The disruption had driven up global energy prices and heightened concerns over supply stability. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that ships would be allowed to pass through the strait for the duration of the two-week truce, though he emphasised that access would remain subject to coordination with Iran’s armed forces. “There will be safe passage, but it will be possible via coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces,” Araghchi said. Also read: Donald Trump warns 50% tariffs on nations supplying weapons to Iran Early signs of resumed maritime activity have already emerged. According to maritime monitoring service MarineTraffic, a Greek-owned bulk carrier, NJ Earth, successfully crossed the strait at 08:44 UTC on Wednesday. A Liberia-flagged vessel, Daytona Beach, had earlier transited the waterway at 06:59 UTC after departing Bandar Abbas. “The Greek-owned bulk carrier NJ Earth crossed the Strait at 08:44 UTC, while the Liberia-flagged Daytona Beach transited earlier at 06:59 UTC, shortly after departing Bandar Abbas at 05:28 UTC,” MarineTraffic said in a post on X. The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important chokepoints for oil shipments, remains central to the unfolding geopolitical tensions, with its status closely tied to the outcome of the upcoming negotiations.

Iran may reopen the Strait of Hormuz under strict military coordination following a fragile ceasefire. These managed transits precede critical US-Iran talks in Pakistan aimed at securing a lasting diplomatic breakthrough.

Iran official shares the exact day when Strait of Hormuz may reopen. Know here

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Wednesday that it shot down a Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over Lar in Fars province, Iranian state media reported, without specifying the drone’s origin. The interception comes amid rising regional tensions, just hours after Tehran and Washington announced a temporary two-week ceasefire. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait among other Gulf states reported simultaneous drone and missile attacks.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-us-and-french-weapons-dominate-global-arsenals-1775652617720/1775652617721">Why US and French weapons dominate global arsenals?</a>&nbsp;<h2>Details of the Hermes 900 UAV</h2> The Hermes 900 is a medium‑sized unmanned aircraft designed and manufactured by Israeli defence electronics company Elbit Systems. According to the company’s website, the UAV can remain airborne for more than 36 hours and operate at altitudes of up to 30,000 feet (9,144 metres). It is capable of carrying a maximum payload of 350 kilograms (771.62 pounds), making it suitable for long‑endurance surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Iranian authorities provided no further details on the drone’s flight path or mission profile prior to its interception.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran&#39;s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced that an intruding Hermes 900 drone was intercepted and shot down over the Iranian town of Lar, Fars Province. Follow Press TV on Telegram: <a href="https://t.co/LWoNSpkc2J">https://t.co/LWoNSpkc2J</a> <a href="https://t.co/jlWqdQgzCo">pic.twitter.com/jlWqdQgzCo</a>&mdash; Press TV 🔻 (@PressTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressTV/status/2041874807923396725?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Saudi ministry reports multiple drone interceptions</h2> The official spokesperson for the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Defence announced that nine drones were intercepted and destroyed over the past hours in the same evening. The statement, posted on the social media platform X, did not specify the types of drones involved or their point of origin. The Saudi interceptions occurred in the same timeframe as Iran’s report, reflecting heightened vigilance among regional security forces despite the temporary ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-annihilation-threat-to-ceasefire-deal-how-did-trump-pivot-so-quickly-on-iran-1775650749141">From ‘annihilation’ threat to ceasefire deal: How did Trump pivot so quickly on Iran?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">المتحدث الرسمي لـ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9_%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%B9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#وزارة_الدفاع</a>: اعتراض وتدمير 9 مسيّرات خلال الساعات الماضية. <a href="https://t.co/eSFqCqSB6e">pic.twitter.com/eSFqCqSB6e</a>&mdash; وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) <a href="https://twitter.com/modgovksa/status/2041874677354602627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>UAE, Kuwait and Qatar also report attacks</h2>&nbsp;The UAE’s National Crisis &amp; Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) also issued a warning, stating that air defense systems are currently responding to a missile threat. Citizens and residents were urged to remain in safe locations and follow official channels for updates, highlighting ongoing regional vigilance despite the ceasefire.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kuwait said on Wednesday that Iranian drones struck multiple facilities, including key units of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and the energy ministry, causing fires and material damage but no reported casualties, according to state authorities. Qatar’s Ministry of Defence also said the country was targeted the same day by a barrage of missiles and drones launched from Iran, adding that its forces intercepted all seven incoming projectiles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The interception occurred amid heightened regional tensions shortly after the announcement of a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Wednesday that it shot down a Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over Lar in Fars province, Iranian state media reported, without specifying the drone’s origin. The interception comes amid rising regional tensions, just hours after Tehran and Washington announced a temporary two-week ceasefire. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait among other Gulf states reported simultaneous drone and missile attacks. ALSO READ: Why US and French weapons dominate global arsenals? Details of the Hermes 900 UAV The Hermes 900 is a medium‑sized unmanned aircraft designed and manufactured by Israeli defence electronics company Elbit Systems. According to the company’s website, the UAV can remain airborne for more than 36 hours and operate at altitudes of up to 30,000 feet (9,144 metres). It is capable of carrying a maximum payload of 350 kilograms (771.62 pounds), making it suitable for long‑endurance surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Iranian authorities provided no further details on the drone’s flight path or mission profile prior to its interception.

The interception occurred amid heightened regional tensions shortly after the announcement of a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait report attacks despite Iran‑US ceasefire; IRGC claims downing Israeli drones

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (April 8) described the Russia-Ukraine war as the “hardest” conflict to resolve, acknowledging that months of US-led diplomatic efforts have yet to produce a breakthrough even as the war enters its fifth year.&nbsp;Speaking during a visit to Budapest, Vance said Washington would “keep on working” to end the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He quoted US President Donald Trump as saying the conflict had proven far more complex than initially expected.&nbsp;“What the president has said is that it's the hardest war to solve. In some ways, we thought it would be the easiest, but it has been the hardest,” Vance said, adding that there had nevertheless been “significant progress”. Vance suggested that any eventual settlement would require difficult compromises from both Moscow and Kyiv, appearing to hint at possible territorial concessions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regime-fall-in-us-trump-s-whole-civilisation-will-die-tonight-remark-sparks-impeachment-storm-here-s-what-we-know-1775645901018">Regime fall in US? Trump’s ‘whole civilisation will die tonight’ remark sparks impeachment storm. Here’s what we know</a>&nbsp;We’re talking about haggling at this point over a few square kilometres of territory. Is that worth losing hundreds of thousands of additional Russian and Ukrainian young men?” he said. “The answer is clearly no. But it takes two to tango. We can only open the door. The Russians and the Ukrainians have to walk through it.”&nbsp;His remarks come amid renewed but fragile diplomatic activity. Last Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he would ask US mediators to convey a proposal to Russia for an Easter ceasefire. Speaking on the sidelines of an event marking the anniversary of the Bucha killings, Zelensky said Ukraine was ready to pause attacks on energy infrastructure during the holiday period.&nbsp;However, the Kremlin signalled caution. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had not received a clear or formal proposal from Kyiv, according to Al Jazeera.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-trump-going-to-order-attacks-if-deadline-for-iran-had-crossed-this-is-what-hegseth-says-1775655296102">Was Trump going to order attacks if deadline for Iran had crossed? This is what Hegseth says</a>&nbsp;Despite several rounds of US-backed talks this year, progress has been limited. A first round of trilateral discussions in January was described as “constructive”, followed by a second meeting in early February in Abu Dhabi, where both sides agreed to a prisoner exchange and to continue negotiations. A further round expected later this month has now been delayed.

Vice President JD Vance labelled the Russia-Ukraine war the "hardest" to solve, acknowledging stalled peace efforts as both nations clash over territorial concessions despite US-led mediation and proposed Easter ceasefires.

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (April 8) described the Russia-Ukraine war as the “hardest” conflict to resolve, acknowledging that months of US-led diplomatic efforts have yet to produce a breakthrough even as the war enters its fifth year. Speaking during a visit to Budapest, Vance said Washington would “keep on working” to end the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He quoted US President Donald Trump as saying the conflict had proven far more complex than initially expected. “What the president has said is that it's the hardest war to solve. In some ways, we thought it would be the easiest, but it has been the hardest,” Vance said, adding that there had nevertheless been “significant progress”. Vance suggested that any eventual settlement would require difficult compromises from both Moscow and Kyiv, appearing to hint at possible territorial concessions. Also read: Regime fall in US? Trump’s ‘whole civilisation will die tonight’ remark sparks impeachment storm. Here’s what we know We’re talking about haggling at this point over a few square kilometres of territory. Is that worth losing hundreds of thousands of additional Russian and Ukrainian young men?” he said. “The answer is clearly no. But it takes two to tango. We can only open the door. The Russians and the Ukrainians have to walk through it.” His remarks come amid renewed but fragile diplomatic activity. Last Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he would ask US mediators to convey a proposal to Russia for an Easter ceasefire. Speaking on the sidelines of an event marking the anniversary of the Bucha killings, Zelensky said Ukraine was ready to pause attacks on energy infrastructure during the holiday period. However, the Kremlin signalled caution. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had not received a clear or formal proposal from Kyiv, according to Al Jazeera. Also read: Was Trump going to order attacks if deadline for Iran had crossed? This is what Hegseth says Despite several rounds of US-backed talks this year, progress has been limited. A first round of trilateral discussions in January was described as “constructive”, followed by a second meeting in early February in Abu Dhabi, where both sides agreed to a prisoner exchange and to continue negotiations. A further round expected later this month has now been delayed.

Vice President JD Vance labelled the Russia-Ukraine war the "hardest" to solve, acknowledging stalled peace efforts as both nations clash over territorial concessions despite US-led mediation and proposed Easter ceasefires.

‘Hardest war to solve’, says JD Vance as US-led Russia-Ukraine peace push stalls over territory

American giant Amazon denied the report about a fresh layoff round to cut as many as 14,000 jobs across divisions, and possibly shutting down select teams. "These reports are false and not based in fact," an Amazon spokesperson responds to India Today over email. Asia Business Outlook suggest that Amazon is likely to lay off nearly 14,000 workers globally by May 2026. The development is likely to impact corporate roles, which include mid-level managers and white-collar employees across divisions such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), retail, and human resources. In addition, Chinese-language tech outlet Lei Feng Network reports also indicated that Amazon may be preparing for another major round of layoffs in May 2026, potentially impacting around 14,000 employees across divisions such as AWS, retail, and human resources. If confirmed, this would mark Amazon’s third round of job cuts in under a year. The company had already laid off 16,000 employees in January and eliminated about 14,000 roles in late 2025. Amazon is not alone in downsizing. Recently, Oracle reportedly cut nearly 30,000 jobs worldwide, with layoffs communicated via an early morning email. Of those affected, around 12,000 employees are believed to be based in India. Other major firms, including Microsoft, TCS, and Accenture, have also carried out large-scale layoffs, while Meta is said to be planning workforce reductions of up to 15,000 employees.<h3>Is Amazon laying off more workers?</h3>In a post on X, an anonymous professional community platform Blind, indicated that a massive layoff round is taking place at Amazon. A user who claims to be an employee of Amazon wrote on Blind, “Heard rumours about layoffs happening in May.. Heard that it’s gonna bring a lot of restructuring and may cut more than 10k people.” The user added, “I’m already so stressed and anxious about this job and don’t know what to do with this news.. Should I look for another job?” The report also indicates that some employees are dissatisfied with what they describe as “unclear performance criteria” being used to decide layoffs, which has heightened anxiety across the workforce. Amazon is projecting around $125 billion in capital expenditure for 2026, the highest among megacap firms, with most of the spending directed toward AI infrastructure and data centres. The company is investing more than ever, but increasingly in technology rather than its workforce.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-warns-50-tariffs-on-nations-supplying-weapons-to-iran-1775651452955">Donald Trump warns 50% tariffs on nations supplying weapons to Iran</a> &nbsp;

If confirmed, this would mark Amazon’s third round of job cuts in under a year. The company had already laid off 16,000 employees in January and eliminated about 14,000 roles in late 2025. 

American giant Amazon denied the report about a fresh layoff round to cut as many as 14,000 jobs across divisions, and possibly shutting down select teams. "These reports are false and not based in fact," an Amazon spokesperson responds to India Today over email. Asia Business Outlook suggest that Amazon is likely to lay off nearly 14,000 workers globally by May 2026. The development is likely to impact corporate roles, which include mid-level managers and white-collar employees across divisions such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), retail, and human resources. In addition, Chinese-language tech outlet Lei Feng Network reports also indicated that Amazon may be preparing for another major round of layoffs in May 2026, potentially impacting around 14,000 employees across divisions such as AWS, retail, and human resources. If confirmed, this would mark Amazon’s third round of job cuts in under a year. The company had already laid off 16,000 employees in January and eliminated about 14,000 roles in late 2025. Amazon is not alone in downsizing. Recently, Oracle reportedly cut nearly 30,000 jobs worldwide, with layoffs communicated via an early morning email. Of those affected, around 12,000 employees are believed to be based in India. Other major firms, including Microsoft, TCS, and Accenture, have also carried out large-scale layoffs, while Meta is said to be planning workforce reductions of up to 15,000 employees. Is Amazon laying off more workers? In a post on X, an anonymous professional community platform Blind, indicated that a massive layoff round is taking place at Amazon. A user who claims to be an employee of Amazon wrote on Blind, “Heard rumours about layoffs happening in May.. Heard that it’s gonna bring a lot of restructuring and may cut more than 10k people.” The user added, “I’m already so stressed and anxious about this job and don’t know what to do with this news.. Should I look for another job?” The report also indicates that some employees are dissatisfied with what they describe as “unclear performance criteria” being used to decide layoffs, which has heightened anxiety across the workforce. Amazon is projecting around $125 billion in capital expenditure for 2026, the highest among megacap firms, with most of the spending directed toward AI infrastructure and data centres. The company is investing more than ever, but increasingly in technology rather than its workforce. Also read: Donald Trump warns 50% tariffs on nations supplying weapons to Iran

If confirmed, this would mark Amazon’s third round of job cuts in under a year. The company had already laid off 16,000 employees in January and eliminated about 14,000 roles in late 2025.&nbsp;

Is Amazon cutting 14,000 jobs? Company break silence to viral layoff rumours

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday (April 8) that the US had its “targets locked and loaded” and was prepared to launch attacks on Iran if a deadline had been crossed, asserting that the show of force ultimately pushed Tehran into agreeing to a ceasefire deal.&nbsp;Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth framed the standoff as a decisive American victory, claiming that sustained military pressure and threats to Iran’s energy exports forced the country to the negotiating table. “This threat brought Iran to the table,” he said, adding that US actions had directly influenced the outcome of the talks.&nbsp;Hegseth also outlined what he described as key terms of the ceasefire announced on Tuesday, stating that any nuclear material Iran “should not have” would be removed. However, Iranian officials have not publicly acknowledged such provisions in their own statements.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-state-media-posts-video-of-america-s-major-defeat-day-after-ceasefire-watch-1775648129637">Iranian state media posts video of 'America’s major defeat' day after ceasefire</a>&nbsp;“Under the terms, any nuclear material they should not have will be removed,” Hegseth said, reinforcing Washington’s long-standing position against Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons. US President Donald Trump echoed that stance in a post on Truth Social, saying the United States would work with Iran to “dig up and remove” stockpiles of uranium that had been targeted during recent American air strikes.&nbsp;“The president has been clear from the beginning, there will be no Iranian nuclear weapons, period, full stop. Other presidents said it, President Trump did it,” Hegseth added.&nbsp;The defence secretary further described the US military campaign, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, as a “historic and overwhelming victory”, claiming it had severely degraded Iran’s military capabilities. “By any measure, Epic Fury decimated Iran’s military and rendered it combat ineffective for years to come,” he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regime-fall-in-us-trump-s-whole-civilisation-will-die-tonight-remark-sparks-impeachment-storm-here-s-what-we-know-1775645901018">Trump’s ‘whole civilisation will die tonight’ remark sparks impeachment storm</a>&nbsp;Despite the confident tone, US intelligence assessments suggest Iran retains a significant portion of its arsenal. According to reports, roughly half of Iran’s missile launchers remain intact, along with thousands of one-way attack drones.&nbsp;Hegseth acknowledged these capabilities but sought to downplay their impact. “What little they have left, buried in bunkers, is all they will have,” he said. “They can still shoot, we know that. Their command and control is so decimated they cannot really talk and coordinate, so they still may shoot here and there but that would be very, very unwisem” he added.&nbsp;

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the US was prepared to strike Iran if deadlines passed, credited "Operation Epic Fury" for forcing a ceasefire, and claimed Iranian nuclear materials would be removed.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday (April 8) that the US had its “targets locked and loaded” and was prepared to launch attacks on Iran if a deadline had been crossed, asserting that the show of force ultimately pushed Tehran into agreeing to a ceasefire deal. Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth framed the standoff as a decisive American victory, claiming that sustained military pressure and threats to Iran’s energy exports forced the country to the negotiating table. “This threat brought Iran to the table,” he said, adding that US actions had directly influenced the outcome of the talks. Hegseth also outlined what he described as key terms of the ceasefire announced on Tuesday, stating that any nuclear material Iran “should not have” would be removed. However, Iranian officials have not publicly acknowledged such provisions in their own statements. Also read: Iranian state media posts video of 'America’s major defeat' day after ceasefire “Under the terms, any nuclear material they should not have will be removed,” Hegseth said, reinforcing Washington’s long-standing position against Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons. US President Donald Trump echoed that stance in a post on Truth Social, saying the United States would work with Iran to “dig up and remove” stockpiles of uranium that had been targeted during recent American air strikes. “The president has been clear from the beginning, there will be no Iranian nuclear weapons, period, full stop. Other presidents said it, President Trump did it,” Hegseth added. The defence secretary further described the US military campaign, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, as a “historic and overwhelming victory”, claiming it had severely degraded Iran’s military capabilities. “By any measure, Epic Fury decimated Iran’s military and rendered it combat ineffective for years to come,” he said. Also read: Trump’s ‘whole civilisation will die tonight’ remark sparks impeachment storm Despite the confident tone, US intelligence assessments suggest Iran retains a significant portion of its arsenal. According to reports, roughly half of Iran’s missile launchers remain intact, along with thousands of one-way attack drones. Hegseth acknowledged these capabilities but sought to downplay their impact. “What little they have left, buried in bunkers, is all they will have,” he said. “They can still shoot, we know that. Their command and control is so decimated they cannot really talk and coordinate, so they still may shoot here and there but that would be very, very unwisem” he added.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the US was prepared to strike Iran if deadlines passed, credited "Operation Epic Fury" for forcing a ceasefire, and claimed Iranian nuclear materials would be removed.

Was Trump going to order attacks if deadline for Iran had crossed? This is what Hegseth says

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States will push for a complete halt to uranium enrichment in Iran, which has undergone a “regime change,” and will “dig up and remove all of the deeply buried nuclear dust”. He added that the talks will also cover tariff and sanctions relief with Tehran, adding that key elements of a broader agreement have already been settled.&nbsp;“The United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried… Nuclear Dust,” Trump said in a Truth Social post, noting that he is referring to the results of the June 2025 strikes on Iran’s nuclear stockpile.“There will be no enrichment of uranium,” Trump added, claiming that the ceasefire marked a “very productive regime change”.&nbsp;<h2>‘Iran’s nuclear sites remained under exacting satellite surveillance’</h2>&nbsp;He also claimed that the sites remained under “exacting satellite surveillance” and that “nothing has been touched from the date of attack”, suggesting continued monitoring of Iran’s nuclear facilities.Trump said Washington is already in discussions with Tehran on easing tariffs and sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Donald Trump said regime change was very productive.

“We are, and will be, talking tariff and sanctions relief with Iran,” he said, adding that “many of the 15 points have already been agreed to.” “The United States will work closely with Iran, which we have determined has gone through what will be a very productive Regime Change! There will be no enrichment of Uranium, and the United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried (B-2 Bombers) Nuclear Dust,” Trump wrote. <h2>‘We are, and will be, talking tariff and sanctions relief with Iran’</h2> “It is now, and has been, under very exacting Satellite Surveillance (Space Force!). Nothing has been touched from the date of attack. We are, and will be, talking Tariff and Sanctions relief with Iran. Many of the 15 points have already been agreed to,” he added. In a subsequent post, he said any country supplying weapons to Iran will be slapped with a 50% tariff on any and all goods “effective immediately”.He wrote, “A Country supplying Military Weapons to Iran will be immediately tariffed, on any and all goods sold to the United States of America, 50%, effective immediately. There will be no exclusions or exemptions!”

President Donald Trump said Iran’s nuclear facilities have remained under “exacting satellite surveillance” and that “nothing has been touched from the date of attack”, suggesting continued monitoring of the sites.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States will push for a complete halt to uranium enrichment in Iran, which has undergone a “regime change,” and will “dig up and remove all of the deeply buried nuclear dust”. He added that the talks will also cover tariff and sanctions relief with Tehran, adding that key elements of a broader agreement have already been settled. “The United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried… Nuclear Dust,” Trump said in a Truth Social post, noting that he is referring to the results of the June 2025 strikes on Iran’s nuclear stockpile. “There will be no enrichment of uranium,” Trump added, claiming that the ceasefire marked a “very productive regime change”. ‘Iran’s nuclear sites remained under exacting satellite surveillance’ He also claimed that the sites remained under “exacting satellite surveillance” and that “nothing has been touched from the date of attack”, suggesting continued monitoring of Iran’s nuclear facilities. Trump said Washington is already in discussions with Tehran on easing tariffs and sanctions.

President Donald Trump said Iran’s nuclear facilities have remained under “exacting satellite surveillance” and that “nothing has been touched from the date of attack”, suggesting continued monitoring of the sites.

‘Iran will cease uranium enrichment, we’ll dig out nuclear dust,’ says Trump

A day after the US and Iran negotiated the 14-day ceasefire Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the president noted it to be a “big day for world peace”. Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury “a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield”. These comments come days after he posted “back to Stone Age”. After announcing the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, he now added, "Iran begged for this ceasefire”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hegseth-caine-declare-iran-ceasefire-after-overwhelming-victory-1775655901283/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hegseth-caine-declare-iran-ceasefire-after-overwhelming-victory-1775655901283/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Not too long ago, Pete Hegseth had tweeted, “back to the Stone Age”. The comments come amid escalating West Asia war, and days before Donald Trump’s pause and ultimatum for Iran ends. To which Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps aerospace commander Brigadier General Seyed Majid Moosavi responded with, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves, not Iran, whom you seek to drag back to the Stone Age.” He added, “Hollywood delusions have so poisoned your minds that, with your paltry 250-year history, you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old.”&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-neither-elegant-nor-appropriate-macron-s-classy-response-to-trump-s-unwarranted-personal-attack-1775141015495"> 'Neither elegant nor appropriate': Macron's classy response to Trump's unwarranted personal attack</a>&nbsp;Even the Iranian embassy in India responded, “We will not be driven back to the Stone Age by your bombings. We are a nation with 7,000 years of civilization. History knows us well. What is clear is this: it is YOU who have carried the killing of children and crimes against humanity from the Stone Age into the modern world.”&nbsp;<h2>The pause…</h2>Amid the ongoing war, which has created a global energy crisis, Trump had announced a pause for 5 days on March 23 and then extended it for 10 days on March 27. According to this timeline, the 10th day would be April 6, but on Monday (Mar 30), the US president threatened Iran even before the ultimatum could end. As the US and Israel's joint military operation in Iran was paused as per Donald Trump's claims. In a social media post he wrote, “I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury a "historic victory," claiming Iran "begged for a ceasefire" after U.S. strikes crippled Tehran.

A day after the US and Iran negotiated the 14-day ceasefire Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the president noted it to be a “big day for world peace”. Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury “a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield”. These comments come days after he posted “back to Stone Age”. After announcing the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, he now added, "Iran begged for this ceasefire” https://www.wionews.com/videos/hegseth-caine-declare-iran-ceasefire-after-overwhelming-victory-1775655901283/embed Not too long ago, Pete Hegseth had tweeted, “back to the Stone Age”. The comments come amid escalating West Asia war, and days before Donald Trump’s pause and ultimatum for Iran ends. To which Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps aerospace commander Brigadier General Seyed Majid Moosavi responded with, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves, not Iran, whom you seek to drag back to the Stone Age.” He added, “Hollywood delusions have so poisoned your minds that, with your paltry 250-year history, you threaten a civilization over 6,000 years old.” Also read: 'Neither elegant nor appropriate': Macron's classy response to Trump's unwarranted personal attack Even the Iranian embassy in India responded, “We will not be driven back to the Stone Age by your bombings. We are a nation with 7,000 years of civilization. History knows us well. What is clear is this: it is YOU who have carried the killing of children and crimes against humanity from the Stone Age into the modern world.” The pause… Amid the ongoing war, which has created a global energy crisis, Trump had announced a pause for 5 days on March 23 and then extended it for 10 days on March 27. According to this timeline, the 10th day would be April 6, but on Monday (Mar 30), the US president threatened Iran even before the ultimatum could end. As the US and Israel's joint military operation in Iran was paused as per Donald Trump's claims. In a social media post he wrote, “I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.”

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth declares Operation Epic Fury a "historic victory," claiming Iran "begged for a ceasefire" after U.S. strikes crippled Tehran.

'Iran begged for a ceasefire,' says Pete Hegseth as he declares Operation Epic Fury 'a historic and overwhelming victory'

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned that any country supplying military weapons to Iran will face immediate 50 per cent tariffs with no exemptions. His announcement came in a social media post days after agreeing to a two-week ceasefire with Tehran, according to Reuters. "A Country supplying Military Weapons to Iran will be immediately tariffed, on any and all goods sold to the United States of America, 50%, effective immediately," the US President wrote in a post on Truth Social.

In a separate post, Trump stated that the United States will “work closely” with Iran following what he called it as a “very productive regime change," and also claimed that there would be no further advancement of uranium in Iran. "The United States will work closely with Iran, which we have determined has gone through what will be a very productive Regime Change! There will be no enrichment of Uranium, and the United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried (B-2 Bombers) Nuclear “Dust.” It is now, and has been, under very exacting Satellite Surveillance (Space Force!). Nothing has been touched since the date of the attack. We are, and will be, talking Tariff and Sanctions relief with Iran. Many of the 15 points have already been agreed to," Trump posted on Truth Social.<h3>US-Iran ceasefire</h3>The ceasefire was announced about 90 minutes before the 8 pm EST deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reach an agreement, following behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts. In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday (local time), Trump said he would pause further escalation for two weeks if Iran agreed to reopen the key shipping route.&nbsp;“The reason for doing so is that we have already met and exceeded all Military objectives, and are very far along with a definitive Agreement concerning long-term peace with Iran, and peace in the Middle East,” Trump wrote.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deadlines-destruction-and-diplomacy-a-timeline-of-us-israel-iran-war-1775649800942">Deadlines, destruction and diplomacy: A timeline of US-Israel-Iran war</a>

Trump's tariff threat came the day after the ceasefire was announced, about 90 minutes before the 8 pm EST deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reach an agreement, following behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned that any country supplying military weapons to Iran will face immediate 50 per cent tariffs with no exemptions. His announcement came in a social media post days after agreeing to a two-week ceasefire with Tehran, according to Reuters. "A Country supplying Military Weapons to Iran will be immediately tariffed, on any and all goods sold to the United States of America, 50%, effective immediately," the US President wrote in a post on Truth Social.

Trump's tariff threat came the day after the ceasefire was announced, about 90 minutes before the 8 pm EST deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reach an agreement, following behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts.

Donald Trump warns 50% tariffs on nations supplying weapons to Iran

The United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire after 38 days of war, following strikes, Gulf escalation, and the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Here is a timeline of how events unfolded in West Asia.

Deadlines, destruction and diplomacy: A timeline of US-Israel-Iran war

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: With roughly an hour to spare before US President Donald Trump's Tuesday 8 PM deadline, and his threatened obliteration of Iran's power plants, oil wells, and Kharg Island, Iran and the US blinked simultaneously, agreeing to a ceasefire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced a two-week ceasefire on behalf of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, crediting Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their mediation efforts. Trump confirmed on Truth Social that he would suspend strikes for two weeks, contingent on the "complete, immediate, and safe opening" of the Strait of Hormuz.Markets responded immediately to the ceasefire. Oil dropped more than 17 per cent, and stocks surged. The strait, which had been closed since late February and had already pushed global energy prices to crisis levels, would reopen to coordinated maritime traffic.The conflict began on February 28, when joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei along with several senior officials. What followed was a weeks-long cycle of escalation: Iranian missile attacks, tanker strikes across the Gulf, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and a series of Trump ultimatums that grew more specific and more threatening with each passing day. The most dramatic military episode came in early April, when an F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down over southern Iran — the first American aircraft lost since the war began. One pilot was rescued in what Trump called "the most daring Search and Rescue Operation in US History." The second crew member remained behind enemy lines longer, eventually recovered after what reports described as a heavy firefight.Talks between Washington and Tehran are scheduled to begin in Pakistan, working from a hybrid of the two sides' proposals.<h2>Follow WION for all the updates, analysis, and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war</h2>

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is visiting Saudi Arabia, called on those involved in the conflict to make the truce "permanent" and urged "all sides to implement the ceasefire, including in Lebanon".Starmer said the UK was in "close contact" with the US and other partners.

Ceasefire should be permanent, says UK PM Keir Starmer

Iran has halted the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz over Israel’s strikes in Lebanon, reported Fars news agency.Two oil tankers were allowed to pass through the strait on Wednesday morning after the ceasefire between Iran and the US came into effect.“Simultaneous with Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz has been stopped,” the agency reports.

Iran halts Hormuz traffic over Israeli strikes in Lebanon: Iranian media

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (April 8) described the Russia-Ukraine war as the “hardest” conflict to resolve, acknowledging that months of US-led diplomatic efforts have yet to produce a breakthrough even as the war enters its fifth year.&nbsp;Speaking during a visit to Budapest, Vance said Washington would “keep on working” to end the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He quoted US President Donald Trump as saying the conflict had proven far more complex than initially expected.“What the president has said is that it's the hardest war to solve. In some ways, we thought it would be the easiest, but it has been the hardest,” Vance said, adding that there had nevertheless been “significant progress”. Vance suggested that any eventual settlement would require difficult compromises from both Moscow and Kyiv, appearing to hint at possible territorial concessions.

Interception and destruction of 9 drones over the past hours, tweeted Saudi official spokesperson

Interception and destruction of 9 drones over the past hours: Saudi 

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced that an intruding Hermes 900 drone was intercepted and shot down over the Iranian town of Lar, Fars Province: State media PressTV

Intruding Hermes 900 drone was intercepted and shot down: IRGC

Oil and gas prices plunged, stock markets soared and the dollar retreated Wednesday after the United States and Iran agreed a temporary ceasefire that could lead to the Strait of Hormuz reopening."A wave of relief has hit financial markets after threats of a devastating escalation of the war were replaced by a temporary truce," said Susannah Streeter, chief investment strategist, Wealth Club.The most widely traded oil contracts fell more than 15 percent to just above $90 a barrel, after a month of conflict that killed thousands and hammered the global economy.Stock markets soared, with Wall Street's three main indexes opening more than two percent higher.

Oil prices plunge, stocks surge on US-Iran ceasefire

Wall Street stocks surged in early trading Wednesday after the United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire that sets terms to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz.Major US stock indices were up around three percent in early trading. Airline shares rallied and oil equities retreated as crude prices tumbled in response to the expected return of shipments of oil and other key products through the strait.

Dow soars 2.8% on war ceasefire deal, oil companies fall

The US war against Iran has "completely" destroyed the country's ability to build missiles and other sophisticated weaponry, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday (Apr 8). The United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire the previous evening, pausing a nearly six-week US-Israeli military campaign against the Islamic republic."We finished completely destroying Iran's defense industrial base, a core pillar of our mission," Hegseth told reporters."They can no longer build missiles, build rockets, build launchers or build (drones) -- their factories have been razed to the ground, set back in historic fashion," he said.

Iran's defense-industrial base 'completely' destroyed: Pete Hegseth

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had carried out a surprise attack on Wednesday targeting hundreds of Hezbollah members across Lebanon."The IDF carried out a surprise strike on hundreds of Hezbollah terrorists at command centres across Lebanon. This is the largest concentrated blow Hezbollah has suffered since Operation Beepers," Katz said in a video statement, referring to a major 2024 operation against Hezbollah involving pager bombs.

Israel says struck hundreds of Hezbollah members in 'surprise' attack across Lebanon

The US military is prepared to resume attacks on Iran if ordered by President Donald Trump, the top US general said Wednesday. "Let us be clear, a ceasefire is a pause, and the joint force remains ready, if ordered or called upon," General Dan Caine told a press conference.US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also warned that "we stand ready in the background to ensure that Iran upholds" the terms of the truce agreed to on Tuesday.

US forces 'ready' if Iran ceasefire ends: top US General

US forces 'not going anywhere' to ensure Iranian compliance with two-week ceasefire, Hegseth said.&nbsp;

US forces 'not going anywhere' to ensure Iranian compliance with two-week ceasefire, Hegseth says

The S&amp;P 500 is now set to open above 6,800, trading just 2.9% away from a new record high. The index has added +$1.6 TRILLION today &nbsp;

S&P 500 is now set to open above 6,800

General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, gave a rundown of the the damage the U.S, military says it did to the the Iranian military. He said the 38-day air campaign destroyed 80 per cent of Iran’s air defence systems, 800 one-day attack drone storage facilities, 450 ballistic missile storage facilities and more than 150 ships. He also said that the campaign destroyed Iran’s industrial base, meaning it would take years to rebuild.

US claims it destroyed 80 per cent of Iran’s air defence systems

“We have a chance at real peace and a real deal. The War Department, for now, for now, has done its part. We stand ready in the background to ensure Iran upholds every reasonable term,” said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.&nbsp;

'We have a chance at real peace and a real deal': Hegseth

Several European leaders, in a joint statement: We welcome the two-week ceasefire concluded between the United States and Iran today. The goal must now be to negotiate a swift and lasting end to the war within the coming days. This can only be achieved through diplomatic means.&nbsp; &nbsp;

European leaders welcome 2-week US-Iran ceasefire 

Hegseth: Under terms of deal, any nuclear material they have will be removed.&nbsp;

Hegseth: Under terms of deal, any nuclear material they have will be removed

Hegseth: Iran accepted the ceasefire under overwhelming pressure.&nbsp;

Hegseth: Iran accepted the ceasefire under overwhelming pressure

Hegseth: We finished completely destroying Iran's defence industrial base, with over 800 strikes last night.&nbsp;

'We finished completely destroying Iran's defence industrial base': Hegseth

If Iran refuses, the next target would be its infrastructure, including nuclear plants, said Hegseth.&nbsp;

'If Iran refuses, the next target would be its infrastructure': Hegseth

Using less than 10 per cent of America's combat powered have dismantled Iranian military, said Pete Hegseth.&nbsp;

'Less than 10% of America's combat powered have dismantled Iranian military': Hegseth

President Donald Trump suggested the United States may be involved in securing the Strait of Hormuz in a “joint venture” with Iran.&nbsp;

Trump suggests securing Strait of Hormuz in "joint venture" with Iran

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said today that it completed the largest coordinated strike in Lebanon since the war began, claiming it targeted more than 100 command centers and military sites of the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.

Israeli military says it carried out largest strikes across Lebanon since start of war

Explosions were reported across the Gulf. In the UAE and Kuwait, there were reports of incoming missiles and drones, according to social media posts from the respective militaries. Authorities in Abu Dhabi reported a fire in the Habshan gas processing facility. Similarly, there were reports from Qatar and Bahrain about sirens and impending missiles. IDF also claimed missiles were launched from Iran towards Israel.

Explosions reported across the Gulf and Israel following cease fire announcement

Hezbollah has threatened a collapse in the US-Iranian ceasefire deal if Israel does not comply with it in Lebanon. Hezbollah's MP Ibrahim Moussawi insisted that the deal includes the Israel-Lebanon front and will result to a retalliation from the region, including Iran.&nbsp;Israel has refused to uphold the ceasefire with Lebanon and struck the southern Lebanese city of Tyre after issuing forced evacuation notices to the residents of the region. Iran, from the beginning of the war, has insisted that it is in tandem with Lebanon, and Hezbollah retaliated against Israel in response to the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

Hezbollah threatens a collapse of cease fire if Israel doesn't comply

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;An animated reenactment of the operation depicting America’s major defeat in Isfahan and the escape mission; a defeat that forced the United States to accept Iran’s terms and request a ceasefire.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Follow: &lt;a href="https://t.co/mLGcUTS2ei"&gt;https://t.co/mLGcUTS2ei&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/kCOMOZR5mI"&gt;https://t.co/kCOMOZR5mI&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/By6UgLOTey"&gt;pic.twitter.com/By6UgLOTey&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Press TV 🔻 (@PressTV) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/PressTV/status/2041808853898035300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 8, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Iranian state media releases AI depiction of US army's defeat and retreat

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephonic conversation with the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The conversation lasted around 45 minutes, according to a post by Pakistan's PMO. Iran extended gratitude for Pakistan's diplomatic efforts and accepted “the Prime Minister’s offer to host negotiations between Iran and the U.S. in Islamabad later this week.”

Shehbaz Sharif held a conversation with Masoud Pezeshkian 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian hailed the two-week ceasefire with the acceptance of the desired principle by Iran, as a fruit of the “blood” of the martyred leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the presence of all Iranian people. <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775643878617.jpg">

Iranian President calls the ceasfire a fruit of the "blood" of Khamenei

Kuwait said Iran attacks significantly damaged oil facilities, power and desalination plants.

Iran attacks significantly damaged oil facilities, power and desalination plants: Kuwait 

Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday hailed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran as a "sign of real hope". "I welcome with satisfaction, and as a sign of real hope, the announcement of an immediate two-week truce. Only by returning to negotiations can we reach the end of the war," the Catholic leader said at the end of his weekly audience at the Vatican.

Pope Leo hails Iran ceasefire as sign of 'real hope'

Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region on Wednesday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, with its president saying he hoped all parties would adhere to it "in good faith". President Nechirvan Barzani said in a post on X that the agreement "represents an important step towards de-escalation, the protection of civilians and the restoration of constructive dialogue"."I hope all parties will uphold this commitment in good faith and work towards a lasting peace that promotes stability, security, and prosperity throughout the entire region," he added.

Hopes ceasefire upheld 'in good faith', says Iraq's Kurdistan region

Doha on Wednesday called on Tehran to halt any hostile acts, as it welcomed a deal between the United States and Iran for a two-week truce. "Qatar expresses its welcoming of the announcement of the ceasefire... considering it an initial step toward de-escalation," the Gulf state's foreign ministry said in a statement."The ministry affirms the importance of full adherence to the ceasefire... emphasising the necessity for the Islamic Republic of Iran to take the initiative to immediately cease all hostile acts and practices that undermine regional stability," it added.

Qatar urges Iran to 'cease all hostile acts', welcomes ceasefire

Supporting the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, Saudi Arabia on Wednesday called for a comprehensive deal to bring stability back to the region. "The kingdom hopes that the ceasefire will represent an opportunity to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable de-escalation, enhancing the security of the region, and that any attacks or policies that undermine the sovereignty, security and stability of the countries in the region will cease," the foreign ministry said, AFP reported.

Saudi Arabia aspire ceasefire will achieve 'comprehensive and sustainable de-escalation', says ministry

The Israeli military on Wednesday asked residents of Beirut's southern suburbs to evacuate. This marks the third warning for residents of Lebanon ever since Washington announced a ceasefire with Iran."Urgent warning to residents of the southern suburbs ... The IDF continues operations and attacks Hezbollah's military infrastructure across the southern suburbs," the military's Arabic-language spokesman, Colonel Avichay Adraee, said in a post on X"For your safety, you must evacuate immediately," he said, and also gave names of several neighbourhoods to be evacuated, including Haret Hreik, Burj Al-Barajneh and Ghobeiry.

Israel military issues evacuation warning for residents of southern Beirut

Israel's military said Wednesday its forces would continue their campaign against Hezbollah fighters, claiming the ceasefire with Iran does not apply to Lebanon."The battle in Lebanon continues, and the ceasefire does not include Lebanon," the military's Arabic-language spokesman, Colonel Avichay Adraee, said on X, warning residents to evacuate areas south of the Zahrani River.

Israel military says 'battle' in Lebanon continues, ceasefire does not apply

Israel's military said Wednesday it had halted its attacks on Iran after completing a wave of overnight strikes, but emphasised it remained ready to respond to any violation of a ceasefire announced by Washington."In accordance with directives from the political leadership, the IDF has ceased fire in the campaign against Iran and remains on high alert in defence, ready to respond to any violation," the military said in a statement.

Israel military says ceased fire against Iran but on 'high alert'

Spain's foreign minister on Wednesday said it was "unacceptable" that Israel continued its invasion of Lebanon after the United States and Iran agreed a two-week ceasefire to halt the regional war."All fronts must cease, and all fronts also means Lebanon. It is unacceptable that Israel's war, Israel's invasion of a sovereign country like Lebanon... continues," Jose Manuel Albares told public radio RNE.Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez welcomed the US-Iran ceasefire as "good news" on X but said Spain would not "applaud those who set fire to the world because they show up with a bucket".

Spain says 'unacceptable' for Israel to continue Lebanon invasion

Authorities in Abu Dhabi said on Wednesday that falling debris following an interception had injured three people and forced a halt in production following fires at a gas complex in the emirate.The government's media office said in a statement the incident at Habshan gas-processing facility "was caused by falling debris, following a successful interception by air defence systems, resulting in multiple fires and minor injuries to two Emiratis and one Indian national"."Operations have been suspended and further updates will be provided in due course," it added.

Three injured, production suspended after overnight attack on UAE gas complex

Turkey on Wednesday called for all sides to respect the ceasefire reached between the United States and Iran."We insist on the fact that the temporary ceasefire be fully implemented on the ground and hope that all sides abide by the agreement," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Turkey calls on 'all sides' to respect Iran war ceasefire: ministry

Iraq's civil aviation authority said it was reopening the country's airspace on Wednesday following the announcement of a US-Iran ceasefire, after it was closed due to the Middle East war."The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority announces the reopening of Iraqi airspace to air traffic effective today, following the stabilisation of the situation and the return of conditions to normal," it said in a statement.

Iraq reopening airspace after Mideast war closure

China said on Wednesday it welcomed a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, after the two countries agreed to a two-week pause in hostilities shortly before a deadline set by US President Donald Trump."China welcomes relevant parties announcing the reaching of a ceasefire agreement," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a news conference, adding that China would continue to work towards restoring peace in the Middle East.

China says 'welcomes' Middle East ceasefire agreement

The US-Israel-Iran war has continued for over a month with no signs of de-escalation. Follow the latest updates, analysis, and key developments from the ongoing West Asia conflict here

US-Israel-Iran war LIVE updates: With roughly an hour to spare before US President Donald Trump's Tuesday 8 PM deadline, and his threatened obliteration of Iran's power plants, oil wells, and Kharg Island, Iran and the US blinked simultaneously, agreeing to a ceasefire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced a two-week ceasefire on behalf of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, crediting Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their mediation efforts. Trump confirmed on Truth Social that he would suspend strikes for two weeks, contingent on the "complete, immediate, and safe opening" of the Strait of Hormuz. Markets responded immediately to the ceasefire. Oil dropped more than 17 per cent, and stocks surged. The strait, which had been closed since late February and had already pushed global energy prices to crisis levels, would reopen to coordinated maritime traffic. The conflict began on February 28, when joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei along with several senior officials. What followed was a weeks-long cycle of escalation: Iranian missile attacks, tanker strikes across the Gulf, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and a series of Trump ultimatums that grew more specific and more threatening with each passing day. The most dramatic military episode came in early April, when an F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down over southern Iran — the first American aircraft lost since the war began. One pilot was rescued in what Trump called "the most daring Search and Rescue Operation in US History." The second crew member remained behind enemy lines longer, eventually recovered after what reports described as a heavy firefight. Talks between Washington and Tehran are scheduled to begin in Pakistan, working from a hybrid of the two sides' proposals. Follow WION for all the updates, analysis, and developments on the US-Israel-Iran war

The US-Israel-Iran war has continued for over a month with no signs of de-escalation. Follow the latest updates, analysis, and key developments from the ongoing West Asia conflict here

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