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Iran’s Ministry of Education says 312 students and teachers have been killed and 207 injured during the ongoing war, attributing the casualties to what it describes as 'American–Israeli attacks'. According to the ministry’s Information Centre, the dead include 253 students and 59 teachers and education staff. Hossein Sadeghi, head of the centre, said the student fatalities include 143 boys, 103 girls, and seven preschool children, according to West Asia News Agency. Among staff, 39 women and 11 men were killed, along with several retired personnel.&nbsp;<h2>Widespread damage to schools and facilities</h2> The ministry reported extensive damage to infrastructure across the country. WANA quoted Hossein Sadeghi as saying that 857 educational spaces have been affected, along with 55 administrative facilities, 32 sports halls and 15 cultural centres. Eight student camps have also been damaged or destroyed. He added that the scale of destruction reflects a broader pattern of attacks on civilian infrastructure since the conflict began.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-one-nation-controls-42-of-global-arms-who-tops-the-list-of-7-biggest-exporters-and-where-are-their-weapons-going-1775635590144/1775635590145">‘One nation controls 42% of global arms’: Who tops the list of 7 biggest exporters and where are their weapons going?</a> Iran’s Ministry of Science had earlier said at least 20 universities and student dormitories have been targeted. Some of the targeted sites also included educational medical centers. Among those affected are Iran University of Science and Technology in Tehran, Sharif University of Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Isfahan University of Technology and Imam Hossein University. Reports also indicated that some university professors have been targeted for assassination, raising concerns about the safety of academic personnel during the conflict.&nbsp;<h2>International concern over civilian casualties</h2> The United Nations human rights chief has urged the United States to complete its investigation into a deadly incident involving a primary school, raised during a Human Rights Council session in Geneva. The emergency debate followed Iran’s claims that more than 175 children and teachers were killed in a strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls' elementary school in Minab.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ultimately-up-to-the-iranians-vance-says-iran-war-will-end-very-shortly-after-us-largely-achieved-goals-1775571293207">'Ultimately up to the Iranians’: Vance says Iran war will end ‘very shortly’ after US ‘largely achieved’ goals</a>&nbsp;<h2>Calls for accountability intensify</h2> In the United States, lawmakers have demanded a formal inquiry into the reported school attack. A preliminary military investigation indicated US responsibility, though officials have not released full findings. Members of Congress have called for transparency on how targets were selected and whether safeguards to minimise civilian harm were followed. The Pentagon has said the investigation remains ongoing and findings will be shared once complete. In-person classes remain suspended nationwide. Most institutions have attempted to shift to remote learning, but frequent power outages and internet instability have made this largely ineffective. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire just hours before the deadline he had set for Iran to capitulate, during which he had warned that otherwise “a whole civilisation will die tonight”. According to reports, the decision followed a last-minute diplomatic intervention led by Pakistan. Iran also agreed to the ceasefire, stating that it would guarantee safe passage for maritime traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz for the duration of the truce. 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.

According to the ministry’s Information Centre, the dead include 253 students and 59 teachers and education staff. Hossein Sadeghi, head of the centre, said the student fatalities include 143 boys, 103 girls, and seven preschool children

Iran’s Ministry of Education says 312 students and teachers have been killed and 207 injured during the ongoing war, attributing the casualties to what it describes as 'American–Israeli attacks'. According to the ministry’s Information Centre, the dead include 253 students and 59 teachers and education staff. Hossein Sadeghi, head of the centre, said the student fatalities include 143 boys, 103 girls, and seven preschool children, according to West Asia News Agency. Among staff, 39 women and 11 men were killed, along with several retired personnel. Widespread damage to schools and facilities The ministry reported extensive damage to infrastructure across the country. WANA quoted Hossein Sadeghi as saying that 857 educational spaces have been affected, along with 55 administrative facilities, 32 sports halls and 15 cultural centres. Eight student camps have also been damaged or destroyed. He added that the scale of destruction reflects a broader pattern of attacks on civilian infrastructure since the conflict began. ALSO READ: ‘One nation controls 42% of global arms’: Who tops the list of 7 biggest exporters and where are their weapons going? Iran’s Ministry of Science had earlier said at least 20 universities and student dormitories have been targeted. Some of the targeted sites also included educational medical centers. Among those affected are Iran University of Science and Technology in Tehran, Sharif University of Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Isfahan University of Technology and Imam Hossein University. Reports also indicated that some university professors have been targeted for assassination, raising concerns about the safety of academic personnel during the conflict. International concern over civilian casualties The United Nations human rights chief has urged the United States to complete its investigation into a deadly incident involving a primary school, raised during a Human Rights Council session in Geneva. The emergency debate followed Iran’s claims that more than 175 children and teachers were killed in a strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls' elementary school in Minab. ALSO READ: 'Ultimately up to the Iranians’: Vance says Iran war will end ‘very shortly’ after US ‘largely achieved’ goals Calls for accountability intensify In the United States, lawmakers have demanded a formal inquiry into the reported school attack. A preliminary military investigation indicated US responsibility, though officials have not released full findings. Members of Congress have called for transparency on how targets were selected and whether safeguards to minimise civilian harm were followed. The Pentagon has said the investigation remains ongoing and findings will be shared once complete. In-person classes remain suspended nationwide. Most institutions have attempted to shift to remote learning, but frequent power outages and internet instability have made this largely ineffective. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire just hours before the deadline he had set for Iran to capitulate, during which he had warned that otherwise “a whole civilisation will die tonight”. According to reports, the decision followed a last-minute diplomatic intervention led by Pakistan. Iran also agreed to the ceasefire, stating that it would guarantee safe passage for maritime traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz for the duration of the truce. 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.

According to the ministry’s Information Centre, the dead include 253 students and 59 teachers and education staff. Hossein Sadeghi, head of the centre, said the student fatalities include 143 boys, 103 girls, and seven preschool children.

312 students & teachers killed, schools-infrastructure significantly damaged in war: Iran education ministry

US President Donald Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran. The US-Israeli coalition, which started with the premise of regime change and halting nuclear enrichment of Iran, has resulted in the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Israel, on the other hand, has come out as a winner and achieved the opportunity of carrying out its expansionist project in Lebanon and the West Bank.&nbsp;The 39-day campaign had an estimated cost of $27 billion- $31 billion, according to Penn Wharton Budget Model, and resulted in the death of 15 US servicemen, and roughly 700 others were injured. The cost excludes the damage to the US assets in the region. It also resulted in the death of several Iranian top leaders, including the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. 1900 Iranian civilians and tens of thousands of other were also injured. Iran retalliated with closing the Strait of Hormuz, choking the lifeblood of the US empire and sending shockwaves globally.&nbsp;<h2>Trump vs Obama: Who got the better deal with Iran?</h2>&nbsp;Donald Trump, the famous author of the book “Art of the Deal”, once claimed that Obama would start a war with Iran because he’s “weak and he’s ineffective,” and has “absolutely no ability to negotiate.” Obama signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), along with China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States. The deal imposed restrictions on Iran's civilian uranium enrichment in exchange for billions of dollars in sanctions relief. This was done without wasting a single penny and costing no civilian or military deaths. &nbsp;US President Donald Trump walked out of the JCPOA, calling it a “horrible” and one-sided deal. However, after walking out of the JCPOA in 2018 and waging an offensive campaign from February 28, 2026, to April 7, 2026, and spending billions of dollar Trump was desperate to agree to a 10-point ceasefire proposal to salvage his and the GOP's deteriorating political future. The ceasefire proposal shows that Iran was negotiating from a position of strength. Iran agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz, but in coordination with the Iranian military. The US would be lifting all primary and secondary sanctions on Iran. Iran urged acceptance of Uranium enrichment and no IAEA oversight. Further, the US would cease all aggression, withdraw all troops from the region and agree to pay compensation. The proposal, even though not binding yet, puts the US at a disadvantageous position. If agreed, it will convert the US from an empire to a mere regional power.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-ceasefire-trump-threat-pakistan-mediation-hormuz-1775625435970">From Trump’s ultimatum to Sharif’s plea: How US and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire</a>Domestically in the US, there are intense debate between the Democrats and Republicans over who had better deals with Iran. &nbsp;Democrats have called Trump's handling of Iran an impeachable offence and raised concern about Trump's mental health to continue in office after he claimed that the Iranians want to be bombed. Both parties approached US foreign policy differently; on one hand, Barack Obama had a diplomatic approach, and on the other hand, Donald Trump had a “maximum pressure” approach. In the process, Trump managed to isloate US globally; it lost its European allies, who were earlier very efficient in covering the US aggression in the Gulf as a war for Western democratic values. The result is not only a botched-up military campaign but a total and absolute loss of moral legitimacy.&nbsp;

Trump’s Iran war ending in a ceasefire has sparked fresh comparisons with Obama’s JCPOA deal. Who handled Iran better—costly military pressure or diplomatic engagement?

US President Donald Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran. The US-Israeli coalition, which started with the premise of regime change and halting nuclear enrichment of Iran, has resulted in the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Israel, on the other hand, has come out as a winner and achieved the opportunity of carrying out its expansionist project in Lebanon and the West Bank. The 39-day campaign had an estimated cost of $27 billion- $31 billion, according to Penn Wharton Budget Model, and resulted in the death of 15 US servicemen, and roughly 700 others were injured. The cost excludes the damage to the US assets in the region. It also resulted in the death of several Iranian top leaders, including the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. 1900 Iranian civilians and tens of thousands of other were also injured. Iran retalliated with closing the Strait of Hormuz, choking the lifeblood of the US empire and sending shockwaves globally. Trump vs Obama: Who got the better deal with Iran? Donald Trump, the famous author of the book “Art of the Deal”, once claimed that Obama would start a war with Iran because he’s “weak and he’s ineffective,” and has “absolutely no ability to negotiate.” Obama signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), along with China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States. The deal imposed restrictions on Iran's civilian uranium enrichment in exchange for billions of dollars in sanctions relief. This was done without wasting a single penny and costing no civilian or military deaths. US President Donald Trump walked out of the JCPOA, calling it a “horrible” and one-sided deal. However, after walking out of the JCPOA in 2018 and waging an offensive campaign from February 28, 2026, to April 7, 2026, and spending billions of dollar Trump was desperate to agree to a 10-point ceasefire proposal to salvage his and the GOP's deteriorating political future. The ceasefire proposal shows that Iran was negotiating from a position of strength. Iran agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz, but in coordination with the Iranian military. The US would be lifting all primary and secondary sanctions on Iran. Iran urged acceptance of Uranium enrichment and no IAEA oversight. Further, the US would cease all aggression, withdraw all troops from the region and agree to pay compensation. The proposal, even though not binding yet, puts the US at a disadvantageous position. If agreed, it will convert the US from an empire to a mere regional power. Also Read: From Trump’s ultimatum to Sharif’s plea: How US and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire Domestically in the US, there are intense debate between the Democrats and Republicans over who had better deals with Iran. Democrats have called Trump's handling of Iran an impeachable offence and raised concern about Trump's mental health to continue in office after he claimed that the Iranians want to be bombed. Both parties approached US foreign policy differently; on one hand, Barack Obama had a diplomatic approach, and on the other hand, Donald Trump had a “maximum pressure” approach. In the process, Trump managed to isloate US globally; it lost its European allies, who were earlier very efficient in covering the US aggression in the Gulf as a war for Western democratic values. The result is not only a botched-up military campaign but a total and absolute loss of moral legitimacy.

Trump’s Iran war ending in a ceasefire has sparked fresh comparisons with Obama’s JCPOA deal. Who handled Iran better—costly military pressure or diplomatic engagement?

Trump vs Obama on Iran: From costly war to ceasefire, who got the better deal?

US President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agency has been involved in yet another violent incident, raising the total number of people shot by its federal agents this year to eight. According to reports, on Tuesday (Apr 7), Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents shot a man in Patterson, a rural agricultural town in California’s Central Valley. The man, identified as Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, as per ICE, is allegedly a member of the Los Angeles 18th Street gang. Dashcam footage shows the moment Hernandez reportedly "weaponised" his sedan, pinning agents before they opened fire in "defensive shots." Here's all you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-lifeline-back-tehran-reopens-strait-of-hormuz-for-2-weeks-as-us-iran-agree-to-11th-hour-truce-1775608923236">Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce</a><h2>What did Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez do?</h2>Confirming the California man's identity, ICE director Todd Lyons described him as an “illegal alien” and member of the Los Angeles 18th Street gang. He alleged that Hernandez was wanted for questioning in El Salvador in connection with a murder. However, Lyons offered no supporting evidence for either claim, and the details of the Salvadoran investigation remain unclear.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“On April 7, 2026, ICE officers were conducting a targeted vehicle stop in Patterson, CA to arrest Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, an 18th Street Gang member wanted in El Salvador for questioning in connection to a murder. As officers approached the car, the wanted gang member… <a href="https://t.co/JbkIuQAba5">https://t.co/JbkIuQAba5</a>&mdash; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (@ICEgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICEgov/status/2041606332483301662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What happened in California?</h2>Hernandez was taken to the hospital after being shot by ICE agents during a traffic stop. According to Lyons,&nbsp; agents moved in to arrest Hernandez during a vehicle stop when he allegedly "weaponised his vehicle in an attempt to run an officer over." Agents then fired what Lyons called "defensive shots to protect themselves, their fellow agents, and the public." The number of shots fired has not been disclosed.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-s-10-point-plan-explained-compensation-sanctions-hormuz-and-more-here-s-what-tehran-wants-after-2-week-ceasefire-deal-1775620008012">Iran’s 10-point plan EXPLAINED: What Tehran wants after 2-week ceasefire deal</a><h2>Video of ICE violence emerges</h2>Dashcam footage obtained by Sacramento NBC affiliate KCRA-TV shows three ICE agents flanking a black sedan pinned between two vehicles with emergency lights flashing. In the silent video, agents appear to reach into the car, which then reverses with the passenger door open, the door clipping the vehicle behind it. The sedan then lurches forward toward the officers before veering left across the median and out of frame. Weapons appear drawn throughout.Watch the video here:&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BREAKING: Dashcam footage just dropped of the Patterson, California shooting. Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez weaponized his vehicle and drove straight at ICE agents on the other side of the road. You can clearly see two agents, one hanging out the window, as Hernandez ignores… <a href="https://t.co/94kbPLiVAi">pic.twitter.com/94kbPLiVAi</a>&mdash; Kim &quot;Katie&quot; USA (@KimKatieUSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/KimKatieUSA/status/2041604578832216434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The sheriff's office confirmed no local law enforcement was involved in the shooting. The FBI's Sacramento field office said an investigation was underway. California Governor Gavin Newsom said he had been briefed and that he expected federal agents to "appropriately collaborate with state and local law enforcement" during the inquiry.The shooting is the latest in a string of use-of-force incidents involving ICE. At least eight people have been shot by immigration agents so far in 2026, as the Trump administration has dramatically expanded enforcement operations nationwide.

Why are ICE shootings rising across the US this year? A California encounter has become the eighth such incident in 2026, after agents shot a man they say tried to ram officers with his car.

What really happened in that tense standoff? Watch video

US President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agency has been involved in yet another violent incident, raising the total number of people shot by its federal agents this year to eight. According to reports, on Tuesday (Apr 7), Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents shot a man in Patterson, a rural agricultural town in California’s Central Valley. The man, identified as Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, as per ICE, is allegedly a member of the Los Angeles 18th Street gang. Dashcam footage shows the moment Hernandez reportedly "weaponised" his sedan, pinning agents before they opened fire in "defensive shots." Here's all you need to know. Also read | Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce What did Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez do? Confirming the California man's identity, ICE director Todd Lyons described him as an “illegal alien” and member of the Los Angeles 18th Street gang. He alleged that Hernandez was wanted for questioning in El Salvador in connection with a murder. However, Lyons offered no supporting evidence for either claim, and the details of the Salvadoran investigation remain unclear.

Why are ICE shootings rising across the US this year? A California encounter has become the eighth such incident in 2026, after agents shot a man they say tried to ram officers with his car.What really happened in that tense standoff? Watch video

WATCH: Dashcam footage shows federal agents firing at alleged gang member in California; 8th ICE shooting this year

India welcomed the US–Iran ceasefire, hoping for lasting peace in West Asia while stressing dialogue and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the truce, it urged Indians in Iran to exit quickly, citing continued safety risks and avoiding comment on mediation roles.

'Conflict caused immense suffering': India issues first response to Iran-US ceasefire, skips Pakistan's mention

After US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran, US politicians have reacted dividedly. While some lawmakers backed the peace proposal, others cautioned against escalation and a lack of oversight. The ceasefire came just about 90 minutes before Trump’s deadline ended at 8 pm ET. The US had threatened to destroy Iran’s “whole civilization” if Tehran failed to open the Strait of Hormuz. The warning drew massive backlash across the world.After Trump’s expletive-laden threats, House Democrats have called for his removal. Former MAGA allies turned critics, including former congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and the far-right media personality Candace Owens, have also slammed Trump’s threats as “evil” and “madness”.Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said, “I’m glad Trump backed off and is desperately searching for any sort of exit ramp from his ridiculous bluster.” He added that the US president is an “extremely sick person”, accusing him of waging a “wanton war of choice”.Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, congresswoman from New York, said that the two-week ceasefire “changes nothing”.“The President has threatened a genocide against the Iranian people, and is continuing to leverage that threat,” she said on social media, calling for his removal from office. “We cannot risk the world nor the wellbeing of our nation any longer.”Earlier on Tuesday, Hakeem Jeffries called Trump’s behaviour “unhinged, unpresidential and unconscionable” in an interview with CNN. “The American people strongly oppose this reckless war of choice,” he said. “He’s plunged America into this war without any plan, any objective and any exit strategy.”Meanwhile, Republicans hailed Trump’s acceptance of the short-term ceasefire. Senator Rick Scott of Florida called the move “excellent news”. He added, “This is a strong first step toward holding Iran accountable and what happens when you have a leader who puts peace through strength over chaos and weak appeasement policies.”Senator Lindsey Graham said that he shared the hope that “we can end the reign of terror of the Iranian regime through diplomacy”. He added, “We must remember that the Strait of Hormuz was attacked by Iran after the start of the war, destroying freedom of navigation. Going forward, it is imperative Iran is not rewarded for this hostile act against the world.” 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’s Iran ceasefire drew mixed US reactions: Democrats like Chuck Schumer slammed the US President over his Iran threats, while Republicans such as Lindsey Graham backed the move.

After US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran, US politicians have reacted dividedly. While some lawmakers backed the peace proposal, others cautioned against escalation and a lack of oversight. The ceasefire came just about 90 minutes before Trump’s deadline ended at 8 pm ET. The US had threatened to destroy Iran’s “whole civilization” if Tehran failed to open the Strait of Hormuz. The warning drew massive backlash across the world. After Trump’s expletive-laden threats, House Democrats have called for his removal. Former MAGA allies turned critics, including former congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and the far-right media personality Candace Owens, have also slammed Trump’s threats as “evil” and “madness”. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said, “I’m glad Trump backed off and is desperately searching for any sort of exit ramp from his ridiculous bluster.” He added that the US president is an “extremely sick person”, accusing him of waging a “wanton war of choice”. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, congresswoman from New York, said that the two-week ceasefire “changes nothing”. “The President has threatened a genocide against the Iranian people, and is continuing to leverage that threat,” she said on social media, calling for his removal from office. “We cannot risk the world nor the wellbeing of our nation any longer.” Earlier on Tuesday, Hakeem Jeffries called Trump’s behaviour “unhinged, unpresidential and unconscionable” in an interview with CNN. “The American people strongly oppose this reckless war of choice,” he said. “He’s plunged America into this war without any plan, any objective and any exit strategy.” Meanwhile, Republicans hailed Trump’s acceptance of the short-term ceasefire. Senator Rick Scott of Florida called the move “excellent news”. He added, “This is a strong first step toward holding Iran accountable and what happens when you have a leader who puts peace through strength over chaos and weak appeasement policies.” Senator Lindsey Graham said that he shared the hope that “we can end the reign of terror of the Iranian regime through diplomacy”. He added, “We must remember that the Strait of Hormuz was attacked by Iran after the start of the war, destroying freedom of navigation. Going forward, it is imperative Iran is not rewarded for this hostile act against the world.” 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’s Iran ceasefire drew mixed US reactions: Democrats like Chuck Schumer slammed the US President over his Iran threats, while Republicans such as Lindsey Graham backed the move.

‘Changes nothing’: US lawmakers divided after Trump announces Iran ceasefire

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting criticism at home after a two-week ceasefire in the Iran conflict was announced by US President Donald Trump, sparking a sharp political row within Israel. The opposition leader, Yair Lapid, led the criticism, accusing Netanyahu of presiding over what he described as an unprecedented political failure. In a post on X, Lapid said, “There has never been such a political disaster in all our history,” and claimed that Israel had been excluded from crucial decision-making.&nbsp;“Israel wasn’t even at the table when decisions were made concerning the core of our national security,” Lapid wrote, questioning the government’s role in shaping the ceasefire terms. He acknowledged the performance of Israel’s military and public, stating that the armed forces had fulfilled all assigned tasks and citizens had demonstrated resilience. However, he accused Netanyahu of failing both diplomatically and strategically, adding that none of the prime minister’s stated objectives had been achieved.&nbsp;“The military carried out everything that was asked of it, the public demonstrated amazing resilience, but Netanyahu failed politically, failed strategically, and didn’t meet a single one of the goals that he himself set,” Lapid said. He added that the damage caused by what he described as “arrogance, negligence and a lack of strategic planning” would take years to repair.&nbsp;The criticism came hours after Washington announced a two-week pause in strikes against Iran, a move aimed at easing tensions and creating space for negotiations. Israeli officials said they supported the United States initiative, but with conditions.&nbsp;According to the prime minister’s office, Israel backed the ceasefire on the understanding that Iran would immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks against the United States, Israel and other countries in the region. The government also clarified that the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon.&nbsp;Israel reiterated its support for US-led efforts to ensure that Iran no longer poses a nuclear, missile or what it described as a “terror” threat to the United States, Israel and its regional allies. It added that Washington had assured Israel of its continued commitment to shared strategic goals in upcoming negotiations.

Netanyahu faces intense domestic backlash after Trump announced a US-led Iran ceasefire. Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the deal as a historic failure, claiming Israel was excluded from critical security negotiations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting criticism at home after a two-week ceasefire in the Iran conflict was announced by US President Donald Trump, sparking a sharp political row within Israel. The opposition leader, Yair Lapid, led the criticism, accusing Netanyahu of presiding over what he described as an unprecedented political failure. In a post on X, Lapid said, “There has never been such a political disaster in all our history,” and claimed that Israel had been excluded from crucial decision-making. “Israel wasn’t even at the table when decisions were made concerning the core of our national security,” Lapid wrote, questioning the government’s role in shaping the ceasefire terms. He acknowledged the performance of Israel’s military and public, stating that the armed forces had fulfilled all assigned tasks and citizens had demonstrated resilience. However, he accused Netanyahu of failing both diplomatically and strategically, adding that none of the prime minister’s stated objectives had been achieved. “The military carried out everything that was asked of it, the public demonstrated amazing resilience, but Netanyahu failed politically, failed strategically, and didn’t meet a single one of the goals that he himself set,” Lapid said. He added that the damage caused by what he described as “arrogance, negligence and a lack of strategic planning” would take years to repair. The criticism came hours after Washington announced a two-week pause in strikes against Iran, a move aimed at easing tensions and creating space for negotiations. Israeli officials said they supported the United States initiative, but with conditions. According to the prime minister’s office, Israel backed the ceasefire on the understanding that Iran would immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks against the United States, Israel and other countries in the region. The government also clarified that the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon. Israel reiterated its support for US-led efforts to ensure that Iran no longer poses a nuclear, missile or what it described as a “terror” threat to the United States, Israel and its regional allies. It added that Washington had assured Israel of its continued commitment to shared strategic goals in upcoming negotiations.

Netanyahu faces intense domestic backlash after Trump announced a US-led Iran ceasefire. Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the deal as a historic failure, claiming Israel was excluded from critical security negotiations.

‘Historic political disaster’: Netanyahu faces backlash after Trump announces Iran ceasefire

A major diplomatic row seems to be brewing over the "fine print" of the two-week ceasefire reached between the United States and Iran. As Tehran released a 10-point plan for securing an end to the war in West Asia, reports suggest that the English version of Iran's plan does not reflect all the conditions. On Wednesday (April 8), it was revealed that the Farsi version of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-s-10-point-plan-explained-compensation-sanctions-hormuz-and-more-here-s-what-tehran-wants-after-2-week-ceasefire-deal-1775620008012">Iran's 10-point plan</a> includes a demand for the "Acceptance of Enrichment," a clause notably absent from English versions shared with international media.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-s-10-point-plan-explained-compensation-sanctions-hormuz-and-more-here-s-what-tehran-wants-after-2-week-ceasefire-deal-1775620008012">Iran’s 10-point plan EXPLAINED: What Tehran wants after 2-week ceasefire deal</a><h2>Lost in translation?</h2>While Western diplomats and journalists received an English version of Iran’s 10-point ceasefire plan, a Farsi-language version, as per an AP report, included a critical demand: the "acceptance of enrichment" for its nuclear program.This specific demand was conspicuously absent from the English copies, raising questions about whether Tehran is signalling a harder line to its domestic audience or if the omission was a calculated diplomatic manoeuvre. Notably, the demand was there in a post by the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran- Hyderabad, India.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-lifeline-back-tehran-reopens-strait-of-hormuz-for-2-weeks-as-us-iran-agree-to-11th-hour-truce-1775608923236">Oil lifeline back? Hormuz reopen for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to an 11th-hour truce</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran&#39;s 10-point conditions that the US has accepted as &quot;workable&quot;: The US is fundamentally committed to: 🔹 Non-aggression 🔹 Continuation of Iran&#39;s control over the Strait of Hormuz 🔹 Acceptance of enrichment 🔹 Lifting all primary sanctions 🔹 Lifting all secondary sanctions…&mdash; Iran Consulate - Hyderabad (@IraninHyderabad) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraninHyderabad/status/2041684586724520401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump says Iran's nuclear material will be 'taken care of'</h2>Meanwhile, in a conversation with news agency AFP, US President Trump sought to assure the world that Iran's nuclear material will be "perfectly taken care of."When asked about Iran's uranium stockpile, which the US and Israel allege was being used to develop a nuclear weapon, Trump said, "That will be perfectly taken care of, or I wouldn't have settled." However, when asked in what way America will "take care" of Iran's uranium, Trump evaded the question and just said, "I wouldn't have settled."&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Is Iran saying one thing in English and another in Farsi? Reports suggest a key clause on nuclear enrichment appears only in the Farsi version of Tehran’s ceasefire plan, missing from English copies shared with journalists. Was it an oversight or deliberate?

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A major diplomatic row seems to be brewing over the "fine print" of the two-week ceasefire reached between the United States and Iran. As Tehran released a 10-point plan for securing an end to the war in West Asia, reports suggest that the English version of Iran's plan does not reflect all the conditions. On Wednesday (April 8), it was revealed that the Farsi version of Iran's 10-point plan includes a demand for the "Acceptance of Enrichment," a clause notably absent from English versions shared with international media. Also read | Iran’s 10-point plan EXPLAINED: What Tehran wants after 2-week ceasefire deal Lost in translation? While Western diplomats and journalists received an English version of Iran’s 10-point ceasefire plan, a Farsi-language version, as per an AP report, included a critical demand: the "acceptance of enrichment" for its nuclear program. This specific demand was conspicuously absent from the English copies, raising questions about whether Tehran is signalling a harder line to its domestic audience or if the omission was a calculated diplomatic manoeuvre. Notably, the demand was there in a post by the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran- Hyderabad, India. Also read | Oil lifeline back? Hormuz reopen for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to an 11th-hour truce

Is Iran saying one thing in English and another in Farsi? Reports suggest a key clause on nuclear enrichment appears only in the Farsi version of Tehran’s ceasefire plan, missing from English copies shared with journalists. Was it an oversight or deliberate?Scroll down to read more

Nuclear bait-and-switch? REVEALED! Iran’s Farsi ceasefire plan has a hidden clause suspiciously missing from English version

The US and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire on Tuesday evening in local time after threats from US President Donald Trump to wipe out the entire civilisation. Trump threatened to destroy Iran's bridges and power plants, stating, "A whole civilisation will die tonight," if demands were not met. But a last-minute two-week ceasefire deal has resulted from diplomatic pressure and key mediation by the Pakistan Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan's mediation&nbsp;</h2>Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, hours before Trump's deadline of 8:00 PM, issued a public plea urging US President Donald Trump for “two more weeks” for the diplomacy to “run its course”. Sharif also suggested that Iran will open the Strait of Hormuz as a “goodwill gesture”. "To allow diplomacy to run its course, I earnestly request President Trump to extend the deadline for two weeks," said Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.&nbsp;In response, Trump posted on Truth Social at around 6:30 EST, suggesting that following the conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, he is willing to hold of attacking Iran, if Iran agrees to a complete and immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump further hinted that he has received the 10-point proposal from Iran through Pakistan, agreeing to a two-week ceasefire. "Almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to between the United States and Iran, but a two-week period will allow the Agreement to be finalised and consummated," wrote Trump.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-warning-west-asia-war-point-of-no-return-us-iran-2026-1775566707871">Qatar warns West Asia war nearing 'point of no return' amid escalating US-Iran tensions</a><h2>White House did not confirm the specifics of the 10-point proposal</h2>White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated Trump's statement that the 10-point proposal is a “workable” basis for the negotiation. White House also did not clarify whether the US agreed to lift all Primary and Secondary sanctions, or what the implications are of opening the Hormuz in coordination with the Iranian Military. "The truth is that President Trump and our powerful military got Iran to agree to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations will continue," said Karoline Leavitt.The Iranian Supreme National Security Council had a more authoritative tone compared to the diplomatic official message from the Iranian Foreign Ministry. It declares the victory of Iran and its Axis of Resistance, calling the US President Donald Trump “ignorant” and accusing the global zionism of "dreaming" about fragmenting the "last bastion of humanity" and “plundering” the wealth of Iran. Further, the message claims that the enemy has suffered an “undeniable”, "historic" and “crushing” defeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US and Iran agree to a two-week ceasefire following Donald Trump’s threats, with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif playing a crucial mediation role. Strait of Hormuz reopening remains central to the deal.

The US and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire on Tuesday evening in local time after threats from US President Donald Trump to wipe out the entire civilisation. Trump threatened to destroy Iran's bridges and power plants, stating, "A whole civilisation will die tonight," if demands were not met. But a last-minute two-week ceasefire deal has resulted from diplomatic pressure and key mediation by the Pakistan Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif. Pakistan's mediation Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, hours before Trump's deadline of 8:00 PM, issued a public plea urging US President Donald Trump for “two more weeks” for the diplomacy to “run its course”. Sharif also suggested that Iran will open the Strait of Hormuz as a “goodwill gesture”. "To allow diplomacy to run its course, I earnestly request President Trump to extend the deadline for two weeks," said Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In response, Trump posted on Truth Social at around 6:30 EST, suggesting that following the conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, he is willing to hold of attacking Iran, if Iran agrees to a complete and immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump further hinted that he has received the 10-point proposal from Iran through Pakistan, agreeing to a two-week ceasefire. "Almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to between the United States and Iran, but a two-week period will allow the Agreement to be finalised and consummated," wrote Trump. Also Read: Qatar warns West Asia war nearing 'point of no return' amid escalating US-Iran tensions White House did not confirm the specifics of the 10-point proposal White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated Trump's statement that the 10-point proposal is a “workable” basis for the negotiation. White House also did not clarify whether the US agreed to lift all Primary and Secondary sanctions, or what the implications are of opening the Hormuz in coordination with the Iranian Military. "The truth is that President Trump and our powerful military got Iran to agree to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations will continue," said Karoline Leavitt. The Iranian Supreme National Security Council had a more authoritative tone compared to the diplomatic official message from the Iranian Foreign Ministry. It declares the victory of Iran and its Axis of Resistance, calling the US President Donald Trump “ignorant” and accusing the global zionism of "dreaming" about fragmenting the "last bastion of humanity" and “plundering” the wealth of Iran. Further, the message claims that the enemy has suffered an “undeniable”, "historic" and “crushing” defeat.

The US and Iran agree to a two-week ceasefire following Donald Trump’s threats, with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif playing a crucial mediation role. Strait of Hormuz reopening remains central to the deal.

From Trump’s ultimatum to Sharif’s plea: How US and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire

India on Wednesday (Apr 8) issued a fresh advisory for its nationals in Iran and "strongly advised" them to "expeditiously exit" the country despite a ceasefire announced by both Washington and Tehran. India's statement comes a day after it advised its nationals still living in the Islamic Republic to stay where they are for the next 48 hours and remain indoors as US President Donald Trump's deadline loomed. While India has yet not reacted to Pakistan's mediated ceasefire between the US and Iran, Centre's advise to Indian nationals indicate that threat and safety concerns might still be the same as it was before the truce. Indian Embassy again reiterated that there should be no attempt to approach any international land border without prior consultation and coordination with the Embassy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-hear-yes-trump-s-big-hint-about-china-s-role-in-pressuring-iran-for-ceasefire-with-us-1775618069783">'I hear yes': Trump's BIG hint about China's role in pressuring Iran for ceasefire with US</a>&nbsp;“In continuation of the advisory of 07 April 2026, and in light of recent developments, Indian nationals still in Iran are strongly advised to expeditiously exit Iran, in coordination with the Embassy and using the routes suggested by the Embassy," the Indian embassy in Iran said. The Embassy also shared list of emergency numbers.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775630637441.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missile-drone-alerts-across-gulf-nations-soon-after-us-iran-ceasefire-deal-what-s-happening-1775615726402">Missile, drone alerts across Gulf nations soon after US–Iran ceasefire deal - What's happening</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚠️ Advisory as on 08 April 2026. <a href="https://t.co/pusFQIAKKI">pic.twitter.com/pusFQIAKKI</a>&mdash; India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) <a href="https://twitter.com/India_in_Iran/status/2041756690047979944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran-US ceasefire</h2>US President Donald Trump announced that he has agreed to pause bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. He said that he will abide by the same only if Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz immediately. Soon after, Iran, in its statement, said that it has agreed to the request by the US for negotiations based on its 15-point proposal. It also said that the US has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal. Iran also said that for a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be possible. Both the world leaders thanked Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, establishing the country as the chief mediator. Both Iran and the US declared victory as soon as the ceasefire was confirmed.

India on Apr 8 issued a fresh advisory urging its nationals in Iran to expeditiously exit the country despite a declared US–Iran ceasefire. The Indian Embassy warned against approaching land borders without coordination and shared emergency contact numbers amid ongoing safety concerns.

India on Wednesday (Apr 8) issued a fresh advisory for its nationals in Iran and "strongly advised" them to "expeditiously exit" the country despite a ceasefire announced by both Washington and Tehran. India's statement comes a day after it advised its nationals still living in the Islamic Republic to stay where they are for the next 48 hours and remain indoors as US President Donald Trump's deadline loomed. While India has yet not reacted to Pakistan's mediated ceasefire between the US and Iran, Centre's advise to Indian nationals indicate that threat and safety concerns might still be the same as it was before the truce. Indian Embassy again reiterated that there should be no attempt to approach any international land border without prior consultation and coordination with the Embassy. Also Read: 'I hear yes': Trump's BIG hint about China's role in pressuring Iran for ceasefire with US “In continuation of the advisory of 07 April 2026, and in light of recent developments, Indian nationals still in Iran are strongly advised to expeditiously exit Iran, in coordination with the Embassy and using the routes suggested by the Embassy," the Indian embassy in Iran said. The Embassy also shared list of emergency numbers. Also Read: Missile, drone alerts across Gulf nations soon after US–Iran ceasefire deal - What's happening

India on Apr 8 issued a fresh advisory urging its nationals in Iran to expeditiously exit the country despite a declared US–Iran ceasefire. The Indian Embassy warned against approaching land borders without coordination and shared emergency contact numbers amid ongoing safety concerns.

India issues 'exit' advisory for its nationals in Iran, no response on ceasefire yet

In an unusual move, Pakistan has positioned itself as a major player in geopolitics, mediating the ceasefire between the United States and Iran that was announced by US President Donald Trump just an hour before his deadline to launch large-scale military strikes. The development follows a last-minute diplomatic push by Pakistan aimed at preventing a major escalation, after Trump had warned that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if an agreement was not reached before his deadline. The initial two-week ceasefire will follow negotiations in Islamabad.Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presented the ceasefire plan to Trump late Tuesday (Apr 7), which both countries have now agreed to. Several other nations, including Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have also acted as mediators between the warring countries.<h2>Why are talks taking place in Pakistan?</h2>Pakistan shares a long border and cultural ties with Iran. It also shares religious ties and is home to the largest population of Shia Muslims outside of Iran.While other Islamic countries in the Gulf host US military bases, Pakistan does not have any US bases in its territory. Amid the Strait of Hormuz crisis, Iran has also allowed some Pakistani ships to pass through the strategic shipping waterway.Islamabad has also emerged as a key US partner in Trump’s second term. The US president has referred to the head of its military, Asim Munir, as his “favourite field marshal.”Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-ceasefire-deal-talks-with-us-in-islamabad-on-friday-approved-by-mojtaba-khamenei-reports-1775604338167">Iran ceasefire deal: Talks with US in Islamabad on Friday; approved by Mojtaba Khamenei — Reports</a><h2>What benefits does Pakistan have?</h2>Pakistan also has its own incentives for de-escalating the situation in West Asia, given its dependence on energy supplies in the region. The country is currently facing a crisis amid the rising oil prices across the world. Earlier this month, petrol and diesel prices in Pakistan rose by up to 54 per cent. Following the “unavoidable” increase, the government was forced to raise petrol prices by 137 rupees (49 cents) per litre, following a 20 per cent increase last month. While diesel prices were increased by 184.49 rupees (67 cents) per litre, climbing about 54.9 per cent.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-pakistan-have-massive-oil-reserves-truth-behind-trump-s-new-deal-with-pakistan-1753940025423">Does Pakistan have ‘massive oil reserves’? Truth behind Trump’s deal with Pakistan</a><h2>Washington’s interest in Pakistan’s rare earth</h2>In recent months, Pakistan has also grabbed Washington’s interest after it declared having a massive trove of rare earths and critical minerals. Last year, Trump announced a deal with Pakistan, saying that the United States would work with Pakistan on “developing their massive oil reserves”. However, the claims have not been substantiated yet, and no commercial drilling has confirmed the existence, size, or quality of the reserves. Experts have cautioned that Pakistan’s oil reserves lack development plans, proven recoverability, or commercial viability.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.

Pakistan mediated a US-Iran ceasefire after last-minute talks led by Shehbaz Sharif, with negotiations set in Islamabad. Here is why negotiations are happening in Pakistan.

In an unusual move, Pakistan has positioned itself as a major player in geopolitics, mediating the ceasefire between the United States and Iran that was announced by US President Donald Trump just an hour before his deadline to launch large-scale military strikes. The development follows a last-minute diplomatic push by Pakistan aimed at preventing a major escalation, after Trump had warned that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if an agreement was not reached before his deadline. The initial two-week ceasefire will follow negotiations in Islamabad. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presented the ceasefire plan to Trump late Tuesday (Apr 7), which both countries have now agreed to. Several other nations, including Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have also acted as mediators between the warring countries. Why are talks taking place in Pakistan? Pakistan shares a long border and cultural ties with Iran. It also shares religious ties and is home to the largest population of Shia Muslims outside of Iran. While other Islamic countries in the Gulf host US military bases, Pakistan does not have any US bases in its territory. Amid the Strait of Hormuz crisis, Iran has also allowed some Pakistani ships to pass through the strategic shipping waterway. Islamabad has also emerged as a key US partner in Trump’s second term. The US president has referred to the head of its military, Asim Munir, as his “favourite field marshal.” Read more | Iran ceasefire deal: Talks with US in Islamabad on Friday; approved by Mojtaba Khamenei — Reports What benefits does Pakistan have? Pakistan also has its own incentives for de-escalating the situation in West Asia, given its dependence on energy supplies in the region. The country is currently facing a crisis amid the rising oil prices across the world. Earlier this month, petrol and diesel prices in Pakistan rose by up to 54 per cent. Following the “unavoidable” increase, the government was forced to raise petrol prices by 137 rupees (49 cents) per litre, following a 20 per cent increase last month. While diesel prices were increased by 184.49 rupees (67 cents) per litre, climbing about 54.9 per cent. Also read | Does Pakistan have ‘massive oil reserves’? Truth behind Trump’s deal with Pakistan Washington’s interest in Pakistan’s rare earth In recent months, Pakistan has also grabbed Washington’s interest after it declared having a massive trove of rare earths and critical minerals. Last year, Trump announced a deal with Pakistan, saying that the United States would work with Pakistan on “developing their massive oil reserves”. However, the claims have not been substantiated yet, and no commercial drilling has confirmed the existence, size, or quality of the reserves. Experts have cautioned that Pakistan’s oil reserves lack development plans, proven recoverability, or commercial viability. 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.

Pakistan mediated a US-Iran ceasefire after last-minute talks led by Shehbaz Sharif, with negotiations set in Islamabad. Here is why negotiations are happening in Pakistan.

US-Iran ceasefire: Why are negotiations happening in Pakistan?

Soon as US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire deal on the wee hours of Tuesday (Apr 8), missile and drone alerts were reported across multiple Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, according to a reports. This has raised serious questions about how quickly the truce would translate into calm on the ground. This also comes after it was reported by state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) that all military branches should follow the Supreme Leader's order and cease their fire." Gulf nations were caught in crosshairs after Israel and the US jointly launched strikes on Iran on February 28, amid ongoing nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-agree-to-suspend-bombing-of-iran-for-two-weeks-says-trump-calls-it-double-sided-ceasefire-1775601586850">'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire'</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775627750568.png"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775616409204.png"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775615910499.png"></figure>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ctrl-c-ctrl-crisis-draft-diplomacy-shehbaz-sharif-s-edited-x-post-sparks-row-amid-iran-war-1775600929537">Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Crisis: ‘Draft’ diplomacy? Shehbaz Sharif’s edited X post sparks row amid Iran war</a><h2>Iran-US ceasefire&nbsp;</h2>At the 11th hour, US President Donald Trump announced that he has agreed to pause bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. He said that he will abide by the same only if Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz immediately. Soon after, Iran, in its statement, said that it has agreed to the request by the US for negotiations based on its 15-point proposal. It also said that the US has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal. Iran also said that for a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be possible. Both the world leaders thanked Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, establishing the country as the chief mediator. Both Iran and the US declared victory as soon as the ceasefire was confirmed.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Statement on behalf of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran: <a href="https://t.co/cEtBNCLnWT">pic.twitter.com/cEtBNCLnWT</a>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2041655156215799821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, pausing attacks and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the deal, missile alerts across Gulf nations raised concerns. Both sides claimed victory, with Pakistan credited for mediating talks.

Soon as US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire deal on the wee hours of Tuesday (Apr 8), missile and drone alerts were reported across multiple Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, according to a reports. This has raised serious questions about how quickly the truce would translate into calm on the ground. This also comes after it was reported by state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) that all military branches should follow the Supreme Leader's order and cease their fire." Gulf nations were caught in crosshairs after Israel and the US jointly launched strikes on Iran on February 28, amid ongoing nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran. Also Read: 'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire' Also Read: Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Crisis: ‘Draft’ diplomacy? Shehbaz Sharif’s edited X post sparks row amid Iran war Iran-US ceasefire At the 11th hour, US President Donald Trump announced that he has agreed to pause bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. He said that he will abide by the same only if Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz immediately. Soon after, Iran, in its statement, said that it has agreed to the request by the US for negotiations based on its 15-point proposal. It also said that the US has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal. Iran also said that for a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be possible. Both the world leaders thanked Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, establishing the country as the chief mediator. Both Iran and the US declared victory as soon as the ceasefire was confirmed.

The US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, pausing attacks and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the deal, missile alerts across Gulf nations raised concerns. Both sides claimed victory, with Pakistan credited for mediating talks.

Missile, drone alerts across Gulf nations soon after US–Iran ceasefire deal - What's happening

In a big statement, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Apr 7) said that he believes China might have been involved in the talks that preceded the now announced ceasefire between America and Iran. While Pakistan's role as mediator has been well established, Trump's statement about China's involvement signals another diplomatic development. Trump hinted that hears that China persuaded Iran to negotiate. Trump announced that he has agreed to pause bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. Soon after, Iran, in its statement, said that it has agreed to the request by the US for negotiations based on its 15-point proposal. It also said that the US has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-declares-100-victory-after-iran-us-ceasefire-but-mojtaba-says-war-not-over-what-s-happening-1775620849233">Trump declares '100% victory' after Iran-US ceasefire but Mojtaba says 'war not over' — What's happening</a><h2>What we know about China's role?</h2>"I hear yes," Trump said in a telephone call when asked if Beijing was involved in getting key ally Tehran to negotiate on a truce. It must be recalled that as Pakistan volunteered the negotiations between Iran and the United States in the last week of March, China also issued several statements supporting peace in the region. A day after quadrilateral talks of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan were held in Islamabad, on Mar 31, Pakistan and China jointly announced a five-point peace initiative calling for an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Additionally, the New York Times quoted three Iranian officials saying that Pakistan’s push for a ceasefire was coupled with China's intervention at the last minute “to show flexibility and defuse tensions.” The Associated Press quoted sources saying that &nbsp;Beijing pressured Iran for path of peace by working with intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt. The Chinese officials were constantly in touch with Iranian officials as the negotiations were evolving.There is no statement from the Chinese foreign ministry on the development but the Chinese Embassy in Washington earlier said Beijing has been working “tirelessly for peace.” Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, also said, "All parties need to demonstrate sincerity and quickly end this war that should not have happened in the first place." She said China was "deeply concerned" about the impact the conflict has on the world economy and energy security. A day before the ceasefire, China and Russia vetoed a UN resolution urging states to coordinate efforts to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-to-meet-xi-in-beijing-on-may-14-15-says-white-house-after-delay-due-to-iran-war-1774465820464">'Trump to meet Xi in Beijing on May 14-15', says White House after delay due to Iran war</a><h2>Trump to travel to China</h2>Trump is due to travel to Beijing in May to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. He was previously postponed his March visit after the war started in Iran. The visit is scheduled for May 14–15. Trump described the upcoming meeting as a major and historic occasion, adding that he also intends to host Xi and his wife in Washington, DC later this year. "My meeting with the Highly Respected President of China, President Xi Jinping, which was originally postponed due to our Military operation in Iran, has been rescheduled, and will take place in Beijing on May 14th and 15th," Trump said on his Truth Social network. Officials from both the White House and China are currently completing arrangements for the meetings in both countries. "I look very much forward to spending time with President Xi in what will be, I am sure, a Monumental Event," Trump added. The White House confirmed the revised dates shortly before Trump’s statement. The trip will mark Trump’s first visit to China during his second term and is expected to focus heavily on improving strained trade relations between the two global economic powers. The two leaders last met in South Korea in October, where they agreed to ease tensions stemming from ongoing trade disputes initiated by US tariffs.<h2>How Trump reacted after ceasefire?</h2>Trump declared complete victory after the ceasefire was announced. He said that Iran can start rebuilding approximately 12 hours after he threatened to “end” civilisation with attacks on Iran's power plants and energy infrastructure. In a telephone call with AFP, Trump said that 15 point transaction has been mostly agreed on. The Republican president had said in his earlier announcement that Iran had given a 10-point proposal which was "workable." Trump did not mention if he would go back to his original threats if the deal fell apart. "You're going to have to see," Trump told AFP. &nbsp;In Truth Social post, Trump called it “a major moment for global peace,” adding that “Iran is ready for it—they’ve had enough, and so has the rest of the world.” It noted that “the United States will assist in easing congestion in the Strait of Hormuz,” with expectations of “positive developments and economic opportunities ahead.” The message also emphasized that “Iran can begin rebuilding,” while the US would be “supplying essential resources and staying present to ensure stability.” It concluded on an optimistic note, saying there is confidence this could mark “a new era of growth—potentially a ‘Golden Age’ for the Middle East.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775623861140.png"></figure>&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump hailed the Iran ceasefire as a “total victory,” hinting China may have helped persuade Tehran. The two-week truce allows Iran to rebuild and ensures safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with Pakistan mediating and global hopes rising.

In a big statement, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Apr 7) said that he believes China might have been involved in the talks that preceded the now announced ceasefire between America and Iran. While Pakistan's role as mediator has been well established, Trump's statement about China's involvement signals another diplomatic development. Trump hinted that hears that China persuaded Iran to negotiate. Trump announced that he has agreed to pause bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. Soon after, Iran, in its statement, said that it has agreed to the request by the US for negotiations based on its 15-point proposal. It also said that the US has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal. Also Read: Trump declares '100% victory' after Iran-US ceasefire but Mojtaba says 'war not over' — What's happening What we know about China's role? "I hear yes," Trump said in a telephone call when asked if Beijing was involved in getting key ally Tehran to negotiate on a truce. It must be recalled that as Pakistan volunteered the negotiations between Iran and the United States in the last week of March, China also issued several statements supporting peace in the region. A day after quadrilateral talks of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan were held in Islamabad, on Mar 31, Pakistan and China jointly announced a five-point peace initiative calling for an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, the New York Times quoted three Iranian officials saying that Pakistan’s push for a ceasefire was coupled with China's intervention at the last minute “to show flexibility and defuse tensions.” The Associated Press quoted sources saying that Beijing pressured Iran for path of peace by working with intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt. The Chinese officials were constantly in touch with Iranian officials as the negotiations were evolving. There is no statement from the Chinese foreign ministry on the development but the Chinese Embassy in Washington earlier said Beijing has been working “tirelessly for peace.” Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, also said, "All parties need to demonstrate sincerity and quickly end this war that should not have happened in the first place." She said China was "deeply concerned" about the impact the conflict has on the world economy and energy security. A day before the ceasefire, China and Russia vetoed a UN resolution urging states to coordinate efforts to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: 'Trump to meet Xi in Beijing on May 14-15', says White House after delay due to Iran war Trump to travel to China Trump is due to travel to Beijing in May to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. He was previously postponed his March visit after the war started in Iran. The visit is scheduled for May 14–15. Trump described the upcoming meeting as a major and historic occasion, adding that he also intends to host Xi and his wife in Washington, DC later this year. "My meeting with the Highly Respected President of China, President Xi Jinping, which was originally postponed due to our Military operation in Iran, has been rescheduled, and will take place in Beijing on May 14th and 15th," Trump said on his Truth Social network. Officials from both the White House and China are currently completing arrangements for the meetings in both countries. "I look very much forward to spending time with President Xi in what will be, I am sure, a Monumental Event," Trump added. The White House confirmed the revised dates shortly before Trump’s statement. The trip will mark Trump’s first visit to China during his second term and is expected to focus heavily on improving strained trade relations between the two global economic powers. The two leaders last met in South Korea in October, where they agreed to ease tensions stemming from ongoing trade disputes initiated by US tariffs. How Trump reacted after ceasefire? Trump declared complete victory after the ceasefire was announced. He said that Iran can start rebuilding approximately 12 hours after he threatened to “end” civilisation with attacks on Iran's power plants and energy infrastructure. In a telephone call with AFP, Trump said that 15 point transaction has been mostly agreed on. The Republican president had said in his earlier announcement that Iran had given a 10-point proposal which was "workable." Trump did not mention if he would go back to his original threats if the deal fell apart. "You're going to have to see," Trump told AFP. In Truth Social post, Trump called it “a major moment for global peace,” adding that “Iran is ready for it—they’ve had enough, and so has the rest of the world.” It noted that “the United States will assist in easing congestion in the Strait of Hormuz,” with expectations of “positive developments and economic opportunities ahead.” The message also emphasized that “Iran can begin rebuilding,” while the US would be “supplying essential resources and staying present to ensure stability.” It concluded on an optimistic note, saying there is confidence this could mark “a new era of growth—potentially a ‘Golden Age’ for the Middle East.”

US President Donald Trump hailed the Iran ceasefire as a “total victory,” hinting China may have helped persuade Tehran. The two-week truce allows Iran to rebuild and ensures safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with Pakistan mediating and global hopes rising.

'I hear yes': Trump's BIG hint about China's role in pressuring Iran for ceasefire with US

What exactly does Iran want after 40 days of war? Tehran’s 10-point plan lays out big demands, from sanctions relief and enrichment rights to control over the Strait of Hormuz and US troop withdrawal. 

All you need to know - scroll down.

Iran’s 10-point plan EXPLAINED: Compensation, sanctions, Hormuz and more, here's what Tehran wants after 2-week ceasefire deal

US President Donald Trump declared Tuesday (Apr 7) a “big day for World Peace” after a two-week ceasefire was announced following an agreement between the United States and Iran. Calling it “the Golden Age of the Middle East,” Trump said that Iran wanted this to happen as “they’ve had enough”. He added that the US will be helping the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz that has been blocked by Tehran due to the war. The US president stated that Iran can start the reconstruction process, while the US will be loading up supplies and “hangin’ around” to make sure “everything goes well”.&nbsp;In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “A big day for World Peace! Iran wants it to happen, they’ve had enough! Likewise, so has everyone else! The United States of America will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz. There will be lots of positive action! Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We’ll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just “hangin’ around” in order to make sure that everything goes well. I feel confident that it will. Just like we are experiencing in the U.S., this could be the Golden Age of the Middle East!!!”The recent post came after Trump announced that he had agreed to “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks” after receiving a 10-point proposal from Iran that he believes is a “workable basis on which to negotiate”.Trump has suggested that the US military will remain in the region despite the Iranian proposal demanding the withdrawal of US forces from the Middle East. Reports suggest that the US deployed roughly 7,000 additional personnel (including the 82nd Airborne and Marine Expeditionary Units) to the region in March 2026 to bolster defences. According to estimates, there are approximately 50,000 to 57,000 US troops currently stationed across the Middle East. This includes US personnel at key bases in Iraq, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US President Donald Trump hails the US-Iran ceasefire as a “big day for world peace,” adding that Iran can now begin reconstruction. He also hinted the presence of US troops in the region, despite Iran’s defiance to it.

US President Donald Trump declared Tuesday (Apr 7) a “big day for World Peace” after a two-week ceasefire was announced following an agreement between the United States and Iran. Calling it “the Golden Age of the Middle East,” Trump said that Iran wanted this to happen as “they’ve had enough”. He added that the US will be helping the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz that has been blocked by Tehran due to the war. The US president stated that Iran can start the reconstruction process, while the US will be loading up supplies and “hangin’ around” to make sure “everything goes well”. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “A big day for World Peace! Iran wants it to happen, they’ve had enough! Likewise, so has everyone else! The United States of America will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz. There will be lots of positive action! Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We’ll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just “hangin’ around” in order to make sure that everything goes well. I feel confident that it will. Just like we are experiencing in the U.S., this could be the Golden Age of the Middle East!!!” The recent post came after Trump announced that he had agreed to “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks” after receiving a 10-point proposal from Iran that he believes is a “workable basis on which to negotiate”. Trump has suggested that the US military will remain in the region despite the Iranian proposal demanding the withdrawal of US forces from the Middle East. Reports suggest that the US deployed roughly 7,000 additional personnel (including the 82nd Airborne and Marine Expeditionary Units) to the region in March 2026 to bolster defences. According to estimates, there are approximately 50,000 to 57,000 US troops currently stationed across the Middle East. This includes US personnel at key bases in Iraq, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US President Donald Trump hails the US-Iran ceasefire as a “big day for world peace,” adding that Iran can now begin reconstruction. He also hinted the presence of US troops in the region, despite Iran’s defiance to it.

‘They’ve had enough’: Trump says Iran can ‘start reconstruction’, hints US troops will be ‘hangin’ around’ in region

US President Donald Trump called the Iran ceasefire a “total victory,” while Mojtaba Khamenei warned the war isn’t over. Mediated by Shehbaz Sharif, the two-week truce raises hopes but uncertainty remains.

Trump declares '100% victory' after Iran-US ceasefire but Mojtaba says 'war not over' — What's happening

The US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire after weeks of fighting, with Israel backing the pause despite not joining talks. Confusion remains over Lebanon, as Netanyahu said strikes may continue, raising doubts about how far the truce will hold.

'Does not include Lebanon': Netanyahu supports Iran-US ceasefire but offensive on Hezbollah to continue — War to continue?

A new phrase is beginning to circulate in geopolitical and financial circles, the ‘TACO method’. It describes a pattern that appears increasingly visible in US President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran crisis: Threat, Anxiety, Chaos… and then an off-ramp. The latest episode unfolded just hours before what was expected to be a major escalation. Trump had warned that if Iran failed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 8 pm Eastern Time, the United States would launch devastating attacks, rhetoric that included threats of wiping out ‘an entire civilization’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Markets reacted immediately. Oil prices surged, equities wobbled, and global uncertainty spiked. And then, just as the world braced for impact, Trump stepped back. Instead of military action, he announced a two-week suspension of bombing, effectively pausing the crisis and reopening the door for negotiations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-second-projectile-in-two-days-south-korea-on-alert-what-s-happening-1775614768970">North Korea fires second projectile in two days, South Korea on alert. What's happening?</a><h2>A cycle of threats that moves markets</h2>What makes this moment significant is not just the escalation, but the pattern. Each cycle appears to begin with a dramatic threat. Trump’s language, often maximalist and urgent, injects immediate uncertainty into global systems. In the Iran case, the stakes are especially high due to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply flows.The reaction is almost instant and predictable:<ul><li>Oil prices spike on fears of supply disruption</li><li>Stock markets fall amid rising geopolitical risk</li><li>Investors shift toward safe-haven assets like gold</li><li>Governments and allies push for restraint</li></ul>This phase creates a wave of pressure, economic, political, and diplomatic. As tensions escalate, the cost of following through on threats rises, not just for adversaries, but for the global economy and domestic stability as well.<h2>The sudden pivot: From chaos to calm</h2>Then comes the reversal. At the peak of uncertainty, the strategy appears to pivot toward de-escalation, a ceasefire, a delay, or a conditional negotiation. In this case, the condition was clear: Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a halt in US military action.The shift is immediate:<ul><li>Oil prices cool as supply fears ease</li><li>Stock markets rebound, often sharply</li><li>Risk sentiment returns across global markets</li><li>Diplomatic channels take center stage</li></ul>This pattern, threat followed by retreat, is what analysts are increasingly labeling as the “TACO method.” Supporters argue it is a form of calculated brinkmanship: apply maximum pressure to force concessions, then offer an off-ramp to avoid full-scale conflict. Critics, however, warn that such cycles create unnecessary volatility and carry serious risks of miscalculation. Because in geopolitics, timing is everything. If a threat is taken too seriously or a retreat comes too late, the consequences may no longer be reversible.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-two-week-period-to-be-used-to-negotiate-larger-agreement-1775618956501/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-two-week-period-to-be-used-to-negotiate-larger-agreement-1775618956501/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump’s handling of the Iran crisis is beginning to look less like unpredictability and more like a structured cycle of pressure and release. Threaten hard. Let the world react. Then step back. For now, markets seem to be learning the rhythm, falling on escalation, rising on relief. But the real danger lies in assuming the cycle will always reset. Because one day, it might not.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Trump’s ‘TACO strategy’ in Iran war: Threat, Panic, Ceasefire, Repeat

A new phrase is beginning to circulate in geopolitical and financial circles, the ‘TACO method’. It describes a pattern that appears increasingly visible in US President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran crisis: Threat, Anxiety, Chaos… and then an off-ramp. The latest episode unfolded just hours before what was expected to be a major escalation. Trump had warned that if Iran failed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 8 pm Eastern Time, the United States would launch devastating attacks, rhetoric that included threats of wiping out ‘an entire civilization’. Markets reacted immediately. Oil prices surged, equities wobbled, and global uncertainty spiked. And then, just as the world braced for impact, Trump stepped back. Instead of military action, he announced a two-week suspension of bombing, effectively pausing the crisis and reopening the door for negotiations. Also Read: North Korea fires second projectile in two days, South Korea on alert. What's happening? A cycle of threats that moves markets What makes this moment significant is not just the escalation, but the pattern. Each cycle appears to begin with a dramatic threat. Trump’s language, often maximalist and urgent, injects immediate uncertainty into global systems. In the Iran case, the stakes are especially high due to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply flows. The reaction is almost instant and predictable: Oil prices spike on fears of supply disruption Stock markets fall amid rising geopolitical risk Investors shift toward safe-haven assets like gold Governments and allies push for restraint This phase creates a wave of pressure, economic, political, and diplomatic. As tensions escalate, the cost of following through on threats rises, not just for adversaries, but for the global economy and domestic stability as well. The sudden pivot: From chaos to calm Then comes the reversal. At the peak of uncertainty, the strategy appears to pivot toward de-escalation, a ceasefire, a delay, or a conditional negotiation. In this case, the condition was clear: Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a halt in US military action. The shift is immediate: Oil prices cool as supply fears ease Stock markets rebound, often sharply Risk sentiment returns across global markets Diplomatic channels take center stage This pattern, threat followed by retreat, is what analysts are increasingly labeling as the “TACO method.” Supporters argue it is a form of calculated brinkmanship: apply maximum pressure to force concessions, then offer an off-ramp to avoid full-scale conflict. Critics, however, warn that such cycles create unnecessary volatility and carry serious risks of miscalculation. Because in geopolitics, timing is everything. If a threat is taken too seriously or a retreat comes too late, the consequences may no longer be reversible. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-two-week-period-to-be-used-to-negotiate-larger-agreement-1775618956501/embed Trump’s handling of the Iran crisis is beginning to look less like unpredictability and more like a structured cycle of pressure and release. Threaten hard. Let the world react. Then step back. For now, markets seem to be learning the rhythm, falling on escalation, rising on relief. But the real danger lies in assuming the cycle will always reset. Because one day, it might not. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

The Iran war narrative is following a cycle: threats, panic, ceasefire. Analysts are calling it Donald Trump’s ‘TACO method.’ Let's find out what it is

North Korea launched another projectile off its east coast on Wednesday (April 8), marking its second such test in just two days, according to South Korea’s military. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the launch was detected but did not immediately disclose details such as the projectile’s range or type. Officials confirmed that South Korean and US intelligence agencies are analyzing the launch.&nbsp;A day earlier, South Korea had reported detecting an unidentified projectile fired near North Korea’s capital region. Authorities are still assessing the specifics of that test as well. The back-to-back launches come amid renewed focus on North Korea’s missile development program. Earlier this week, state media reported that leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw a test of an upgraded solid-fuel engine, calling it a key step forward in strengthening the country’s strategic military capabilities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-lifeline-back-tehran-reopens-strait-of-hormuz-for-2-weeks-as-us-iran-agree-to-11th-hour-truce-1775608923236">Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce</a>&nbsp;Solid-fuel missiles are considered more advanced and practical in combat situations because they can be transported more easily and launched quickly without the lengthy fueling process required for liquid-fuel systems. This makes them harder to detect and intercept.&nbsp;South Korean intelligence officials believe the recent engine test could be tied to efforts to develop a more powerful missile capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads, according to lawmakers briefed on the matter. North Korea has significantly accelerated its weapons development since diplomatic efforts with US President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-hormuz-strait-reopening-key-to-start-of-us-iran-ceasefire-us-official-1775615370142/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-hormuz-strait-reopening-key-to-start-of-us-iran-ceasefire-us-official-1775615370142/embed</a>&nbsp;While Kim has signaled openness to future talks, he has repeatedly insisted that Washington must abandon its demand for denuclearization as a precondition for negotiations. The latest launches are likely to heighten tensions in the region as North Korea continues to advance its missile and nuclear capabilities.

North Korea launches second projectile in 48 hours as Kim Jong Un advances missile program, raising nuclear threat concerns across Asia and the US

North Korea launched another projectile off its east coast on Wednesday (April 8), marking its second such test in just two days, according to South Korea’s military. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the launch was detected but did not immediately disclose details such as the projectile’s range or type. Officials confirmed that South Korean and US intelligence agencies are analyzing the launch. A day earlier, South Korea had reported detecting an unidentified projectile fired near North Korea’s capital region. Authorities are still assessing the specifics of that test as well. The back-to-back launches come amid renewed focus on North Korea’s missile development program. Earlier this week, state media reported that leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw a test of an upgraded solid-fuel engine, calling it a key step forward in strengthening the country’s strategic military capabilities. Also Read: Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce Solid-fuel missiles are considered more advanced and practical in combat situations because they can be transported more easily and launched quickly without the lengthy fueling process required for liquid-fuel systems. This makes them harder to detect and intercept. South Korean intelligence officials believe the recent engine test could be tied to efforts to develop a more powerful missile capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads, according to lawmakers briefed on the matter. North Korea has significantly accelerated its weapons development since diplomatic efforts with US President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-hormuz-strait-reopening-key-to-start-of-us-iran-ceasefire-us-official-1775615370142/embed While Kim has signaled openness to future talks, he has repeatedly insisted that Washington must abandon its demand for denuclearization as a precondition for negotiations. The latest launches are likely to heighten tensions in the region as North Korea continues to advance its missile and nuclear capabilities.

North Korea fires second projectile in two days as Kim pushes advanced missile program, raising tensions with South Korea, the US, and the allies

North Korea fires second projectile in two days, South Korea on alert. What's happening?

In a big development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday (Apr 8) confirmed the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped by the Iran-backed Kataeb Hezbollah militia in Iraq a week ago. In a post on X, Rubio said that Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of War, US. personnel across multiple agencies, and the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council and Iraqi partners worked together to secure her release. He boasted that the release of the journalist reflects Trump administration's steadfast commitment &nbsp;to the safety and security of American citizens, no matter where they are in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;Amid the ongoing Iran-US war, Shelly Kittleson, the US journalist was kidnapped in Baghdad on Tuesday (Mar 31). The journalist is a freelance contributor to Al-Monitor. A dramatic footage of her abduction surfaced. The footage showed the woman standing on the road when some men came in a car near the Baghdad hotel on al-Saadoun street and forced her inside the car before fleeing from the scene. The US said that the journalist was warned about security risks in the region.&nbsp;“I am pleased to announce the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was recently kidnapped by members of the foreign terrorist organization Kata’ib Hizballah near Baghdad, Iraq. Under President Trump, the wrongful detention or kidnapping of U.S. nationals will not be tolerated. We will continue to use every tool to bring Americans home and to hold accountable those responsible. We are relieved that this American is now free and are working to support her safe departure from Iraq,” Rubio's X post read.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260408/image-1775615019800.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/where-is-kidnapped-us-journalist-shelly-kittleson-iran-us-war-kataib-hezbollah-abducted-in-iraq-american-journalist-1775535357917">'May be alive but...': Where is kidnapped US journalist Shelly Kittleson?</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Kataeb Hezbollah announced that it would release Kittleson. "In recognition of the national stances of the outgoing prime minister, we have decided to release the American defendant Shelly Kittleson, on the condition that she leaves the country immediately," Abu Mujahid al-Assaf, a security official in the Iran-backed group, said in a brief statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-s-kataeb-hezbollah-to-release-us-journalist-a-week-after-baghdad-kidnapping-1775580011153/amp">Iraq’s Kataeb Hezbollah to release US journalist Shelly Kittleson a week after Baghdad kidnapping</a>&nbsp;It was reported previously that Kataib Hezbollah is pressing for the release of members detained by the Iraqi government in exchange for freeing the journalist. According to the reports, representatives from Kataib Hezbollah have approached Iraqi government officials seeking a prisoner swap, specifically, four militia members who were recently arrested by Iraqi authorities for firing rockets at a base in Syria. It remains unclear if the release of the members of the group was secured.&nbsp;&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

US confirms the release of journalist Shelly Kittleson, kidnapped in Baghdad by Kataib Hezbollah. The rescue involved US and Iraqi agencies amid rising Iran-US tensions. Reports suggest militia demands included a prisoner swap for detained members.

In a big development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday (Apr 8) confirmed the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped by the Iran-backed Kataeb Hezbollah militia in Iraq a week ago. In a post on X, Rubio said that Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of War, US. personnel across multiple agencies, and the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council and Iraqi partners worked together to secure her release. He boasted that the release of the journalist reflects Trump administration's steadfast commitment to the safety and security of American citizens, no matter where they are in the world. Amid the ongoing Iran-US war, Shelly Kittleson, the US journalist was kidnapped in Baghdad on Tuesday (Mar 31). The journalist is a freelance contributor to Al-Monitor. A dramatic footage of her abduction surfaced. The footage showed the woman standing on the road when some men came in a car near the Baghdad hotel on al-Saadoun street and forced her inside the car before fleeing from the scene. The US said that the journalist was warned about security risks in the region. “I am pleased to announce the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was recently kidnapped by members of the foreign terrorist organization Kata’ib Hizballah near Baghdad, Iraq. Under President Trump, the wrongful detention or kidnapping of U.S. nationals will not be tolerated. We will continue to use every tool to bring Americans home and to hold accountable those responsible. We are relieved that this American is now free and are working to support her safe departure from Iraq,” Rubio's X post read. Also Read: 'May be alive but...': Where is kidnapped US journalist Shelly Kittleson? Earlier, Kataeb Hezbollah announced that it would release Kittleson. "In recognition of the national stances of the outgoing prime minister, we have decided to release the American defendant Shelly Kittleson, on the condition that she leaves the country immediately," Abu Mujahid al-Assaf, a security official in the Iran-backed group, said in a brief statement. Also Read: Iraq’s Kataeb Hezbollah to release US journalist Shelly Kittleson a week after Baghdad kidnapping It was reported previously that Kataib Hezbollah is pressing for the release of members detained by the Iraqi government in exchange for freeing the journalist. According to the reports, representatives from Kataib Hezbollah have approached Iraqi government officials seeking a prisoner swap, specifically, four militia members who were recently arrested by Iraqi authorities for firing rockets at a base in Syria. It remains unclear if the release of the members of the group was secured. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

US confirms the release of journalist Shelly Kittleson, kidnapped in Baghdad by Kataib Hezbollah. The rescue involved US and Iraqi agencies amid rising Iran-US tensions. Reports suggest militia demands included a prisoner swap for detained members.

'Working for her safe departure': US confirms release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson kidnapped in Iraq

Oil prices fell sharply on Tuesday (Apr 7) after the United States and Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire. Oil plunged, and Asian stock indices were surging within hours of the temporary relief announced on the 38th day of the Iran war, in a dramatic reversal of the anxiety that has gripped global markets since the conflict began in late February. West Texas Intermediate, the main US crude benchmark, plunged more than 17 per cent to around $93 a barrel by late Wednesday GMT. Brent Crude wasn't far behind, dropping nearly 16 per cent to $93.38. This comes as Iran allowed safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for a period of two weeks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-lifeline-back-tehran-reopens-strait-of-hormuz-for-2-weeks-as-us-iran-agree-to-11th-hour-truce-1775608923236">Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce</a><h2>Markets breathe sigh of relief</h2>The relief on equity markets was equally sharp. Japan's Nikkei 225 jumped 4.38 per cent, while South Korea's Kospi rocketed 5.71 per cent. "As fears of an escalation in fighting dispelled, buying is likely to take the lead in the Japanese market," Tokai Tokyo Securities said ahead of the Tokyo open.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-agree-to-suspend-bombing-of-iran-for-two-weeks-says-trump-calls-it-double-sided-ceasefire-1775601586850">'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump</a>Just hours earlier, &nbsp;in a post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the chokepoint whose closure has rattled global energy markets, sent oil prices surging past $100 a barrel, and pushed several Asian nations toward fuel rationing in recent days.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Oil prices crash after weeks of surge: A US-Iran ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a sharp market reversal, with crude plunging over 15%. Is this relief here to stay or just temporary?

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Oil prices fell sharply on Tuesday (Apr 7) after the United States and Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire. Oil plunged, and Asian stock indices were surging within hours of the temporary relief announced on the 38th day of the Iran war, in a dramatic reversal of the anxiety that has gripped global markets since the conflict began in late February. West Texas Intermediate, the main US crude benchmark, plunged more than 17 per cent to around $93 a barrel by late Wednesday GMT. Brent Crude wasn't far behind, dropping nearly 16 per cent to $93.38. This comes as Iran allowed safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for a period of two weeks. Also read | Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce Markets breathe sigh of relief The relief on equity markets was equally sharp. Japan's Nikkei 225 jumped 4.38 per cent, while South Korea's Kospi rocketed 5.71 per cent. "As fears of an escalation in fighting dispelled, buying is likely to take the lead in the Japanese market," Tokai Tokyo Securities said ahead of the Tokyo open. Also read | 'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump Just hours earlier, in a post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the chokepoint whose closure has rattled global energy markets, sent oil prices surging past $100 a barrel, and pushed several Asian nations toward fuel rationing in recent days. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Oil prices crash after weeks of surge: A US-Iran ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a sharp market reversal, with crude plunging over 15%. Is this relief here to stay or just temporary?Scroll down to read more.

Oil prices fall below $100 as Iran-US ceasefire kicks in after last minute Strait of Hormuz deal

Iran on Tuesday (Apr 7) gave a green light to safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for a period of two weeks as the United States and Tehran agreed to a temporary ceasefire just under an hour before US President Donald Trump's deadline to launch a devastating new wave of strikes was set to expire. In a post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the chokepoint whose closure has rattled global energy markets, sent oil prices surging past $100 a barrel, and pushed several Asian nations toward fuel rationing since the conflict began on February 28.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/god-supports-iran-war-trump-touts-peacemaker-status-once-again-claims-to-have-ended-india-pakistan-conflict-1775528549304">God supports Iran war? Trump touts peacemaker status, once again claims to have ended India-Pakistan conflict</a>

<h2>Two-week ceasefire in place: What did Iran say about Hormuz?</h2>The United States of America and Iran pulled back from the edge Tuesday, agreeing to a two-week ceasefire. Announcing the truce on Truth social just an hour before his deadline to launch large-scale military strikes, Trump said, "Subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/betting-on-a-missing-us-pilot-polymarket-apologises-for-disgusting-wager-amid-iran-war-1775546391933">Betting on a missing US pilot? Polymarket apologises for ‘DISGUSTING’ wager amid Iran war</a>Confirming the ceasefire, Iranian FM on X said that this includes a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi credited Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for what he described as "tireless efforts" in brokering the pause, and confirmed that Iran had agreed to halt its "defensive operations" if "attacks against Iran are halted" first.

The ceasefire framework appears to be a hybrid of two competing proposals — a 15-point US plan and a 10-point Iranian counterproposal. Araghchi said Washington had accepted Iran's general framework as a basis for negotiations, while Tehran responded to Islamabad's direct appeal to stand down. The Strait will reopen to maritime traffic on a coordinated basis, with Iran's armed forces managing passage and flagging what Aragchi described as "technical limitations." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Is the Strait of Hormuz finally reopening after weeks of chaos? Iran, in a X post, has announced a two-week safe passage window as part of a temporary ceasefire. With global markets on edge, is this a real breakthrough or just a pause?

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Iran on Tuesday (Apr 7) gave a green light to safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for a period of two weeks as the United States and Tehran agreed to a temporary ceasefire just under an hour before US President Donald Trump's deadline to launch a devastating new wave of strikes was set to expire. In a post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the chokepoint whose closure has rattled global energy markets, sent oil prices surging past $100 a barrel, and pushed several Asian nations toward fuel rationing since the conflict began on February 28. Also read | God supports Iran war? Trump touts peacemaker status, once again claims to have ended India-Pakistan conflict

Is the Strait of Hormuz finally reopening after weeks of chaos? Iran, in a X post, has announced a two-week safe passage window as part of a temporary ceasefire. With global markets on edge, is this a real breakthrough or just a pause?Scroll down to read more.

Oil lifeline back? Tehran reopens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks as US-Iran agree to 11th-hour truce

Iran has accepted a two-week ceasefire proposal mediated by Pakistan following intense diplomatic efforts and last-minute intervention by China, according to three Iranian officials cited by The New York Times. The officials said the decision came amid rising concerns over economic damage caused by strikes on critical infrastructure. The ceasefire was reportedly approved by Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.&nbsp;In a statement, Iran’s National Security Council declared the outcome a “victory,” congratulating the Iranian people for their resistance during the five-week conflict involving the United States and Israel. “We congratulate the people of Iran for this victory and reiterate that until the final details of the victory are finalized, officials and people must remain united and defiant,” the council said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-agree-to-suspend-bombing-of-iran-for-two-weeks-says-trump-calls-it-double-sided-ceasefire-1775601586850">'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire'</a>&nbsp;The statement also claimed that the United States had agreed in principle to Iran’s 10-point peace framework, which includes guarantees against future attacks, Iranian oversight of the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for war-related losses. However, US President Donald Trump struck a more cautious tone, saying in a post on Truth Social that Washington was willing only to discuss the proposal.<h2>Negotiations to take place in Islamabad: Reports</h2>According to Reuters, Iran confirmed that negotiations with the United States will be held in Islamabad to finalize the ceasefire framework. Iranian officials said the talks are expected to begin on Friday, April 10, and could extend beyond 15 days if both sides agree. The stated goal of the negotiations is to translate Iran’s battlefield gains into political outcomes within a defined timeframe.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-russia-reportedly-gave-iran-list-of-israeli-energy-targets-orot-rabin-station-on-target-1775557778382/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-russia-reportedly-gave-iran-list-of-israeli-energy-targets-orot-rabin-station-on-target-1775557778382/embed</a><h2>What is in Iran’s 10-point plan?</h2>Iranian state media reported that the proposed 10-point plan includes:<ul><li>Controlled transit through the Strait of Hormuz under coordination with the Iranian armed forces</li><li>An end to military action against Iran and its allied groups</li><li>Withdrawal of US combat forces from regional bases</li></ul>Despite agreeing to talks, Iran emphasized that negotiations do not signify the end of the war. Officials reiterated that any formal conclusion to the conflict will depend on final agreements aligned with the 10-point proposal.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran ceasefire deal: Talks with US in Islamabad on Friday; approved by Mojtaba Khamenei — Reports

Iran has accepted a two-week ceasefire proposal mediated by Pakistan following intense diplomatic efforts and last-minute intervention by China, according to three Iranian officials cited by The New York Times. The officials said the decision came amid rising concerns over economic damage caused by strikes on critical infrastructure. The ceasefire was reportedly approved by Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. In a statement, Iran’s National Security Council declared the outcome a “victory,” congratulating the Iranian people for their resistance during the five-week conflict involving the United States and Israel. “We congratulate the people of Iran for this victory and reiterate that until the final details of the victory are finalized, officials and people must remain united and defiant,” the council said. Also Read: 'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire' The statement also claimed that the United States had agreed in principle to Iran’s 10-point peace framework, which includes guarantees against future attacks, Iranian oversight of the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for war-related losses. However, US President Donald Trump struck a more cautious tone, saying in a post on Truth Social that Washington was willing only to discuss the proposal. Negotiations to take place in Islamabad: Reports According to Reuters, Iran confirmed that negotiations with the United States will be held in Islamabad to finalize the ceasefire framework. Iranian officials said the talks are expected to begin on Friday, April 10, and could extend beyond 15 days if both sides agree. The stated goal of the negotiations is to translate Iran’s battlefield gains into political outcomes within a defined timeframe. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-russia-reportedly-gave-iran-list-of-israeli-energy-targets-orot-rabin-station-on-target-1775557778382/embed What is in Iran’s 10-point plan? Iranian state media reported that the proposed 10-point plan includes: Controlled transit through the Strait of Hormuz under coordination with the Iranian armed forces An end to military action against Iran and its allied groups Withdrawal of US combat forces from regional bases Despite agreeing to talks, Iran emphasized that negotiations do not signify the end of the war. Officials reiterated that any formal conclusion to the conflict will depend on final agreements aligned with the 10-point proposal. 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.

As per reports, Iran accepts Pakistan-backed ceasefire after China intervenes; US talks set to take place on April 10 in Islamabad as Tehran pushes 10-point plan demands

A fresh controversy has erupted around Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif after social media users flagged what appears to be an edited post on X, raising questions over how Pakistan is positioning itself in the Iran crisis. Sharif had urged Donald Trump to extend his deadline on Iran, calling for a diplomatic pause. “To allow diplomacy to run its course, I earnestly request President Trump to extend the deadline for two weeks,” Sharif wrote, also urging Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz “as a goodwill gesture.”&nbsp;However, attention quickly shifted to the post’s edit history. Widely circulated screenshots appeared to show an earlier version labeled “Draft - Pakistan’s PM Message on X.” The apparent draft version also pushed for diplomatic progress in the Middle East conflict and called for extending measures linked to the Iran standoff. Its presence has triggered speculation over whether the message was pre-scripted. The development has fuelled online debate, with some questioning whether Pakistan’s diplomatic messaging is being independently crafted or influenced externally.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-agree-to-suspend-bombing-of-iran-for-two-weeks-says-trump-calls-it-double-sided-ceasefire-1775601586850">'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire'</a><h2>See the tweet below</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">First tweet he forgot to remove the instructions 😭🤣🤣🤣 *Draft - Pakistan&#39;s PM Message on X* Can&#39;t even do a Twitter post and this guy&#39;s out here trying to do mediation 🤣🤣 Such a parody nation and parody PM <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMShehbaz</a> 🤡 <a href="https://t.co/ud5NXBmFwq">https://t.co/ud5NXBmFwq</a> <a href="https://t.co/LT149cfJhl">pic.twitter.com/LT149cfJhl</a>&mdash; Chota Don (@choga_don) <a href="https://twitter.com/choga_don/status/2041600012359241752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

One widely shared post claimed Sharif “seemingly forgot to remove what looks like a White House instruction,” pointing to the line “Draft - Pakistan’s PM Message on X” in the earlier version. Another user went further, alleging that “Donald Trump is controlling Pakistan” and that the message was a pre-prepared draft sent for posting, claims that remain unverified. The claims have not been independently confirmed, and there has been no official response from Islamabad or Washington on the matter.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/easter-in-france-crowds-gather-despite-tight-budgets-easter-crowds-hit-normandy-coast-1775550592124/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/easter-in-france-crowds-gather-despite-tight-budgets-easter-crowds-hit-normandy-coast-1775550592124/embed</a>&nbsp;Pakistan has positioned itself as a go-between in the ongoing crisis, relaying proposals between Washington and Tehran. However, no breakthrough has been announced so far. Sharif’s original message stressed that diplomatic efforts were “progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully,” and called for a pause in hostilities to “allow diplomacy to achieve conclusive termination of war.”&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.

Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Crisis: ‘Draft’ diplomacy? Shehbaz Sharif’s edited X post sparks row amid Iran war

A fresh controversy has erupted around Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif after social media users flagged what appears to be an edited post on X, raising questions over how Pakistan is positioning itself in the Iran crisis. Sharif had urged Donald Trump to extend his deadline on Iran, calling for a diplomatic pause. “To allow diplomacy to run its course, I earnestly request President Trump to extend the deadline for two weeks,” Sharif wrote, also urging Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz “as a goodwill gesture.” However, attention quickly shifted to the post’s edit history. Widely circulated screenshots appeared to show an earlier version labeled “Draft - Pakistan’s PM Message on X.” The apparent draft version also pushed for diplomatic progress in the Middle East conflict and called for extending measures linked to the Iran standoff. Its presence has triggered speculation over whether the message was pre-scripted. The development has fuelled online debate, with some questioning whether Pakistan’s diplomatic messaging is being independently crafted or influenced externally. Also Read: 'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire' See the tweet below

Shehbaz Sharif’s edited X post, showing a ‘draft’ label, has sparked questions over Pakistan’s Iran crisis messaging and possible external influence

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (April 7) that he has agreed to pause bombing operations against Iran for two weeks as part of a conditional ceasefire arrangement, hinging on Tehran’s full reopening of the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. "Subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks," Trump posted just an hour before his deadline to launch large-scale military strikes.&nbsp;"This will be a double-sided CEASEFIRE!" Trump wrote. Trump said the temporary halt reflects significant progress already made in achieving U.S. military goals and advancing toward a broader peace framework in the region."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 Longterm PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ctrl-c-ctrl-crisis-draft-diplomacy-shehbaz-sharif-s-edited-x-post-sparks-row-amid-iran-war-1775600929537">Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Crisis: ‘Draft’ diplomacy? Shehbaz Sharif’s edited X post sparks row amid Iran war</a>&nbsp;“We received a 10-point proposal from Iran, and believe it is a workable basis on which to negotiate.” The development follows a last-minute diplomatic push by Pakistan aimed at preventing a major escalation, after Trump had warned that a "whole civilization will die tonight" if an agreement was not reached before his deadline. "Almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to between the United States and Iran, but a two-week period will allow the Agreement to be finalized and consummated," Trump added.

<h2>Israel also agrees to temporary ceasefire: White House official</h2>Meanwhile, Israel is part of the two-week ceasefire announced by President Donald Trump just 90 minutes before his deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face intensified military strikes on civilian infrastructure, a senior White House official told CNN. According to the official, Israel has agreed to suspend its bombing campaign during the negotiation period as diplomatic efforts continue.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/saudi-arabia-petrochemical-complex-hit-gulf-states-continue-to-come-under-fire-1775556883458/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/saudi-arabia-petrochemical-complex-hit-gulf-states-continue-to-come-under-fire-1775556883458/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

'Agree to suspend bombing of Iran for two weeks', says Trump; calls it 'double-sided ceasefire'

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (April 7) that he has agreed to pause bombing operations against Iran for two weeks as part of a conditional ceasefire arrangement, hinging on Tehran’s full reopening of the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. "Subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks," Trump posted just an hour before his deadline to launch large-scale military strikes. "This will be a double-sided CEASEFIRE!" Trump wrote. Trump said the temporary halt reflects significant progress already made in achieving U.S. military goals and advancing toward a broader peace framework in the region. "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 Longterm PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East. Also Read: Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Crisis: ‘Draft’ diplomacy? Shehbaz Sharif’s edited X post sparks row amid Iran war “We received a 10-point proposal from Iran, and believe it is a workable basis on which to negotiate.” The development follows a last-minute diplomatic push by Pakistan aimed at preventing a major escalation, after Trump had warned that a "whole civilization will die tonight" if an agreement was not reached before his deadline. "Almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to between the United States and Iran, but a two-week period will allow the Agreement to be finalized and consummated," Trump added.

US President Donald Trump agrees to a two-week Iran ceasefire just before the strike deadline, conditional on reopening the critical Strait of Hormuz

The S&amp;P 500 did something remarkable on Tuesday (April 7). It erased all its losses and turned green, not after a peace deal, not after a ceasefire, not even after a formal negotiation. It turned out because of a request. A request from Pakistan asking Donald Trump to extend his 8 pm deadline on Iran by two weeks. Both sides said they were ‘reviewing the proposal’. That was enough. No agreement. No resolution. Just the possibility of delay. And the market flipped.<h2>This isn’t normal market behaviour</h2>Markets are supposed to move on fundamentals, earnings, growth, inflation, interest rates. Even geopolitics, historically, needed events to trigger sustained reactions: invasions, sanctions, treaties. But this wasn’t an event. This was a signal.A sentence. A hint that a deadline might not be as hard as it sounded hours earlier. And suddenly, fear evaporated, at least for the day.<h2>The pattern is becoming familiar</h2>Watch closely, and a pattern begins to emerge. First, the escalation. Trump sets a hard deadline, wraps it in dramatic language, and raises the stakes around Iran. The message is clear: act, or face consequences. Markets react the only way they know how, by pricing in risk. They fall. Then, the intervention. A third party, this time Pakistan, steps in. Diplomacy enters the picture. Words like ‘extension’, ‘review’, and ‘backchannel’ begin to circulate. Nothing concrete changes, but the tone shifts. And then, the reversal. Markets recover. Sometimes sharply. Because the worst-case scenario, however briefly, feels less immediate. This is not a one-off reaction. It is a loop. Threat. Panic. Relief. Repeat.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trump-took-the-us-into-war-with-iran-inside-the-white-house-decision-1775596078039">How Donald Trump took the US into war with Iran: Inside the White House decision</a><h2>The rise of the ‘Trump signal’</h2>What we are witnessing is something deeper than volatility. It is the emergence of what traders quietly understand as a signal-driven market. The signal, increasingly, is Trump himself. A deadline is not just a diplomatic tool; it is a market-moving variable. A tweet, a statement, a press briefing, each carries weight far beyond politics. They create micro-cycles of fear and relief that ripple across trillions of dollars. The market, in this case, did not wait for clarity. It moved on to probability. Not peace, but the chance of postponement.&nbsp;Here’s where it gets uncomfortable. Volatility, once seen as chaos, is starting to look… predictable. When markets fall on escalation and rise on de-escalation hints, a rhythm begins to form. And rhythm, in financial markets, is not just observed, it is traded.Those who recognize the pattern can position themselves accordingly:<ul><li>Exit when rhetoric spikes</li><li>Re-enter when diplomacy whispers</li></ul>No conspiracy is required. No master plan needs to be proven. All that is needed is a repeated structure, and participants who learn to anticipate it.<h2>Who really benefits?</h2>This is the question that lingers beneath the surface. Because while ordinary investors react, larger players often anticipate. Hedge funds, institutional desks, and algorithmic systems thrive on patterns. They don’t need certainty. They need signals with history. And if geopolitical rhetoric begins to behave like a cycle, then it stops being just a risk. It becomes an opportunity. At the same time, political incentives align in their own way. Strong rhetoric energizes a base. Crisis language dominates media cycles. A leader appears decisive, in control, central to the unfolding drama.The battlefield is not just geographic anymore. It is informational.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-mission-trump-speaks-to-artemis-ii-crew-after-historic-moon-flyby-1775547915916/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-mission-trump-speaks-to-artemis-ii-crew-after-historic-moon-flyby-1775547915916/embed</a><h2>The bigger question</h2>At what point does this stop being a reaction and start becoming a dependence? When markets begin to hinge on the words of one leader, when trillions move on tone rather than outcome, the system itself begins to shift. Is this just modern geopolitics in a hyper-connected world? Or are we entering an era where crisis is not just managed, but priced in as a recurring feature?<h2>The final thought</h2>Maybe this isn’t a conspiracy. Maybe it’s something more complex and more troubling. A system where chaos has a pattern. A market that has learned the rhythm of fear. And a world where, sometimes, all it takes to move trillions is not action, but the suggestion that action can wait.&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.

S&P 500 rebounds after Pakistan seeks Trump deadline extension on Iran

The S&P 500 did something remarkable on Tuesday (April 7). It erased all its losses and turned green, not after a peace deal, not after a ceasefire, not even after a formal negotiation. It turned out because of a request. A request from Pakistan asking Donald Trump to extend his 8 pm deadline on Iran by two weeks. Both sides said they were ‘reviewing the proposal’. That was enough. No agreement. No resolution. Just the possibility of delay. And the market flipped. This isn’t normal market behaviour Markets are supposed to move on fundamentals, earnings, growth, inflation, interest rates. Even geopolitics, historically, needed events to trigger sustained reactions: invasions, sanctions, treaties. But this wasn’t an event. This was a signal. A sentence. A hint that a deadline might not be as hard as it sounded hours earlier. And suddenly, fear evaporated, at least for the day. The pattern is becoming familiar Watch closely, and a pattern begins to emerge. First, the escalation. Trump sets a hard deadline, wraps it in dramatic language, and raises the stakes around Iran. The message is clear: act, or face consequences. Markets react the only way they know how, by pricing in risk. They fall. Then, the intervention. A third party, this time Pakistan, steps in. Diplomacy enters the picture. Words like ‘extension’, ‘review’, and ‘backchannel’ begin to circulate. Nothing concrete changes, but the tone shifts. And then, the reversal. Markets recover. Sometimes sharply. Because the worst-case scenario, however briefly, feels less immediate. This is not a one-off reaction. It is a loop. Threat. Panic. Relief. Repeat. Also Read: How Donald Trump took the US into war with Iran: Inside the White House decision The rise of the ‘Trump signal’ What we are witnessing is something deeper than volatility. It is the emergence of what traders quietly understand as a signal-driven market. The signal, increasingly, is Trump himself. A deadline is not just a diplomatic tool; it is a market-moving variable. A tweet, a statement, a press briefing, each carries weight far beyond politics. They create micro-cycles of fear and relief that ripple across trillions of dollars. The market, in this case, did not wait for clarity. It moved on to probability. Not peace, but the chance of postponement. Here’s where it gets uncomfortable. Volatility, once seen as chaos, is starting to look… predictable. When markets fall on escalation and rise on de-escalation hints, a rhythm begins to form. And rhythm, in financial markets, is not just observed, it is traded. Those who recognize the pattern can position themselves accordingly: Exit when rhetoric spikes Re-enter when diplomacy whispers No conspiracy is required. No master plan needs to be proven. All that is needed is a repeated structure, and participants who learn to anticipate it. Who really benefits? This is the question that lingers beneath the surface. Because while ordinary investors react, larger players often anticipate. Hedge funds, institutional desks, and algorithmic systems thrive on patterns. They don’t need certainty. They need signals with history. And if geopolitical rhetoric begins to behave like a cycle, then it stops being just a risk. It becomes an opportunity. At the same time, political incentives align in their own way. Strong rhetoric energizes a base. Crisis language dominates media cycles. A leader appears decisive, in control, central to the unfolding drama. The battlefield is not just geographic anymore. It is informational. https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-mission-trump-speaks-to-artemis-ii-crew-after-historic-moon-flyby-1775547915916/embed The bigger question At what point does this stop being a reaction and start becoming a dependence? When markets begin to hinge on the words of one leader, when trillions move on tone rather than outcome, the system itself begins to shift. Is this just modern geopolitics in a hyper-connected world? Or are we entering an era where crisis is not just managed, but priced in as a recurring feature? The final thought Maybe this isn’t a conspiracy. Maybe it’s something more complex and more troubling. A system where chaos has a pattern. A market that has learned the rhythm of fear. And a world where, sometimes, all it takes to move trillions is not action, but the suggestion that action can wait. 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.

S&amp;P 500 rebounds after Pakistan seeks a delay of two weeks in Trump’s Iran deadline, highlighting how geopolitical signals are driving market swings

On February 11, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived at the White House with a clear objective: persuade US President Donald Trump that the time had come to strike Iran. Inside the Situation Room, in a tightly controlled and highly classified setting, Netanyahu delivered a detailed military and intelligence briefing. Flanked virtually by Israel’s top security officials, he laid out a compelling case for immediate action. Iran, he argued, was vulnerable. Its defenses could be dismantled, its leadership targeted, and its regime weakened to the point of collapse. Trump’s response was brief but decisive. “Sounds good to me.” That moment set the United States on a path toward war.<h2>Netanyahu’s case: Act now or pay later</h2>Netanyahu framed the decision in stark terms. Delay, he warned, would only strengthen Iran’s missile capabilities and nuclear infrastructure. “The risks of inaction were greater than the risks of action.” His proposal outlined an ambitious four-part strategy: eliminate Iran’s leadership, cripple its military, ignite internal unrest, and ultimately enable regime change. It was a sweeping vision, one that aligned closely with Trump’s long-standing view of Iran as a central threat to US interests.<h2>The intelligence reality check</h2>Within hours, US intelligence agencies began evaluating the Israeli proposal. Their conclusions were sharply different. American officials agreed that targeted military strikes could degrade Iran’s capabilities. But the broader goal of regime change was dismissed as unrealistic. CIA Director John Ratcliffe described that aspect of the plan as “farcical.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio was even more direct: “In other words, it’s bullshit.” Rubio clarified his position in strategic terms. Limited military objectives were achievable. Regime change was not. “If our goal is regime change or an uprising, we shouldn’t do it. But if the goal is to destroy Iran’s missile program, that’s a goal we can achieve.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-urges-us-president-donald-trump-to-delay-iran-strike-deadline-by-two-weeks-as-deadline-nears-1775590776227">Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif urges US President Donald Trump to delay Iran strike deadline by two weeks as deadline nears</a><h2>A divided inner circle</h2>The debate within Trump’s inner circle revealed deep divisions, not over whether Iran posed a threat, but over how far the United States should go. Vice President JD Vance emerged as the most consistent voice of caution. He warned that a full-scale war could spiral unpredictably, destabilize the region, and strain American resources. “You know I think this is a bad idea, but if you want to do it, I’ll support you.” Rubio, meanwhile, took a pragmatic middle ground, skeptical of diplomacy but cautious about escalation. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth argued the opposite. In his view, confrontation with Iran was inevitable. If conflict were coming, delaying it would only raise the cost.<h2>Warnings from military and political advisers</h2>Behind the scenes, concerns extended beyond strategy. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles worried about the broader consequences, economic shocks, rising oil prices, and the risk of another prolonged conflict in the Middle East.Military leaders raised operational concerns. A war with Iran could deplete US weapons stockpiles and expose vulnerabilities in global supply chains. Securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, would be a major challenge. Yet these warnings were presented as risks, not red lines. No one directly moved to block the president’s decision.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-intensifies-tehran-calls-for-human-shields-after-trump-s-war-threat-1775552391266/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-intensifies-tehran-calls-for-human-shields-after-trump-s-war-threat-1775552391266/embed</a><h2>Trump’s calculation</h2>By late February, the debate had narrowed. Trump was less focused on regime change and more on achievable military objectives: targeting Iran’s leadership and crippling its military capacity. Regime change, he said, would be 'their problem'. His decision-making reflected a broader pattern: reliance on instinct, confidence in military strength, and a willingness to take calculated risks. Netanyahu’s argument did not fundamentally change Trump’s thinking. It reinforced it.<h2>The final decision</h2>In the final Situation Room meeting, Trump asked each adviser for their view. The positions were clear. The risks had been outlined. The divisions were understood. But the decision rested with one person. “I think we need to do it,” Trump said. The following day, just minutes before the operational deadline, he issued the order: “Operation Epic Fury is approved. No aborts. Good luck.”<h2>A war defined by instinct</h2>The United States’ entry into war with Iran was not the result of unanimous agreement or overwhelming intelligence consensus.It was shaped by a convergence of factors:<ul><li>A forceful push from Netanyahu</li><li>A divided but ultimately deferential advisory team</li><li>Intelligence warnings that tempered, but did not stop, the plan</li><li>And a president who trusted his instincts over caution</li></ul>In the end, it was a decision made not by committee, but by conviction. And its consequences would extend far beyond the walls of the Situation Room.

How Donald Trump took the US into war with Iran: Inside the White House decision

On February 11, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived at the White House with a clear objective: persuade US President Donald Trump that the time had come to strike Iran. Inside the Situation Room, in a tightly controlled and highly classified setting, Netanyahu delivered a detailed military and intelligence briefing. Flanked virtually by Israel’s top security officials, he laid out a compelling case for immediate action. Iran, he argued, was vulnerable. Its defenses could be dismantled, its leadership targeted, and its regime weakened to the point of collapse. Trump’s response was brief but decisive. “Sounds good to me.” That moment set the United States on a path toward war. Netanyahu’s case: Act now or pay later Netanyahu framed the decision in stark terms. Delay, he warned, would only strengthen Iran’s missile capabilities and nuclear infrastructure. “The risks of inaction were greater than the risks of action.” His proposal outlined an ambitious four-part strategy: eliminate Iran’s leadership, cripple its military, ignite internal unrest, and ultimately enable regime change. It was a sweeping vision, one that aligned closely with Trump’s long-standing view of Iran as a central threat to US interests. The intelligence reality check Within hours, US intelligence agencies began evaluating the Israeli proposal. Their conclusions were sharply different. American officials agreed that targeted military strikes could degrade Iran’s capabilities. But the broader goal of regime change was dismissed as unrealistic. CIA Director John Ratcliffe described that aspect of the plan as “farcical.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio was even more direct: “In other words, it’s bullshit.” Rubio clarified his position in strategic terms. Limited military objectives were achievable. Regime change was not. “If our goal is regime change or an uprising, we shouldn’t do it. But if the goal is to destroy Iran’s missile program, that’s a goal we can achieve.” Also Read: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif urges US President Donald Trump to delay Iran strike deadline by two weeks as deadline nears A divided inner circle The debate within Trump’s inner circle revealed deep divisions, not over whether Iran posed a threat, but over how far the United States should go. Vice President JD Vance emerged as the most consistent voice of caution. He warned that a full-scale war could spiral unpredictably, destabilize the region, and strain American resources. “You know I think this is a bad idea, but if you want to do it, I’ll support you.” Rubio, meanwhile, took a pragmatic middle ground, skeptical of diplomacy but cautious about escalation. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth argued the opposite. In his view, confrontation with Iran was inevitable. If conflict were coming, delaying it would only raise the cost. Warnings from military and political advisers Behind the scenes, concerns extended beyond strategy. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles worried about the broader consequences, economic shocks, rising oil prices, and the risk of another prolonged conflict in the Middle East. Military leaders raised operational concerns. A war with Iran could deplete US weapons stockpiles and expose vulnerabilities in global supply chains. Securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, would be a major challenge. Yet these warnings were presented as risks, not red lines. No one directly moved to block the president’s decision. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-intensifies-tehran-calls-for-human-shields-after-trump-s-war-threat-1775552391266/embed Trump’s calculation By late February, the debate had narrowed. Trump was less focused on regime change and more on achievable military objectives: targeting Iran’s leadership and crippling its military capacity. Regime change, he said, would be 'their problem'. His decision-making reflected a broader pattern: reliance on instinct, confidence in military strength, and a willingness to take calculated risks. Netanyahu’s argument did not fundamentally change Trump’s thinking. It reinforced it. The final decision In the final Situation Room meeting, Trump asked each adviser for their view. The positions were clear. The risks had been outlined. The divisions were understood. But the decision rested with one person. “I think we need to do it,” Trump said. The following day, just minutes before the operational deadline, he issued the order: “Operation Epic Fury is approved. No aborts. Good luck.” A war defined by instinct The United States’ entry into war with Iran was not the result of unanimous agreement or overwhelming intelligence consensus. It was shaped by a convergence of factors: A forceful push from Netanyahu A divided but ultimately deferential advisory team Intelligence warnings that tempered, but did not stop, the plan And a president who trusted his instincts over caution In the end, it was a decision made not by committee, but by conviction. And its consequences would extend far beyond the walls of the Situation Room.

Inside story of how Donald Trump, despite warnings and doubts, aligned with Benjamin Netanyahu and approved a high-risk US-Israel military strike on Iran

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