US-Iran War LIVE: Hegseth Says American Forces Are 'Locked & Loaded' to Resume Strikes on Iran, Europe Faces 6-Day Jet Fuel Deadline

US-Iran War LIVE: President Donald Trump has announced a ten-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, set to take effect at 5:00 p.m. EST on Thursday. Writing on Truth Social, the President stated that the agreement follows "excellent" conversations with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The truce follows a historic breakthrough in Washington on Tuesday, where senior diplomats from both nations held their first direct face-to-face talks in decades to address the conflict with Hezbollah.

US-Iran War LIVE: President Donald Trump has officially invited the leaders of Israel and Lebanon to the White House for direct high-level negotiations, marking the first such diplomatic encounter between the two nations since 1983. The invitation aims to transition the current fragile ceasefire into a permanent peace agreement and address long-standing maritime and land border disputes. This diplomatic breakthrough follows weeks of intensive mediation by US officials and regional partners to de-escalate the conflict in southern Lebanon.

US-Iran War LIVE: Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has hit back at recent comments made by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, describing them as "economic terrorism" and "state-sponsored extortion". In a statement released on X, Baghaei argued that the latest threats from Washington reflect an inhumane mindset that ultimately targets innocent civilians. The diplomatic spat follows a warning from Secretary Bessent on Wednesday, in which he suggested the Trump administration would ramp up economic pressure to a level he described as the "financial equivalent" of a bombing campaign. Baghaei stated that such rhetoric undermines ongoing mediation efforts led by Pakistan and Qatar to extend the current two-week ceasefire.

US-Iran War LIVE: Lufthansa has announced the immediate closure of its regional subsidiary CityLine as soaring fuel prices and persistent industrial action make the carrier’s operations untenable. The German flagship airline confirmed on Thursday that it will withdraw 27 older, less fuel-efficient aircraft from service effective immediately, accelerating a shutdown originally scheduled for 2027. The decision follows a week of coordinated strikes by pilots and cabin crew that has grounded the majority of the group’s domestic schedule at Frankfurt and Munich hubs.

US-Iran War LIVE: Abdul Malik al-Houthi, leader of the Yemeni rebel movement, has accused the United States of sabotaging diplomatic efforts by presenting impossible demands during negotiations with Iran. In a televised address on Thursday, the Houthi leader claimed that Washington’s terms are rooted in arrogance and pride, making them unacceptable for any independent nation to consider. He further asserted that the current two-week ceasefire is not a result of diplomatic goodwill but a consequence of the military failures of the US and Israel to achieve their objectives in the Iran war.

US-Iran War LIVE: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has reportedly refused to engage in a direct telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite suggestions from Washington that such a dialogue was imminent. A senior government official confirmed that the decision was conveyed during a call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday. According to the official, Aoun emphasised that Lebanon is not prepared to take the step of direct executive-level contact until a comprehensive ceasefire is firmly established.

US-Iran War LIVE: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a stern warning to Tehran during a briefing on the ongoing blockade, stating that American forces remain locked and loaded to resume military strikes should current negotiations collapse. Speaking from the Pentagon, Hegseth emphasised that the United States maintains a high state of combat readiness despite the pause in active hostilities.

US-Iran War LIVE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha on Thursday to coordinate diplomatic efforts following the recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran. During the hour-long meeting at the Amiri Diwan, the Emir expressed appreciation for Pakistan's role in facilitating de-escalation and promoting dialogue across the Middle East. Both leaders emphasised the need for continued international coordination to safeguard regional security and ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy supply chains through vital maritime routes.

US-Iran War LIVE: The United States Embassy in Beirut has released social media images of President Donald Trump meeting with the US Ambassador to Lebanon, Michel Issa, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. An official statement accompanying the photographs on X confirmed the meeting took place on Wednesday, during which the leaders affirmed their commitment to ongoing diplomatic talks.

US-Iran War LIVE: Global equity markets advanced on Thursday as investors expressed optimism regarding a potential ceasefire extension in the conflict between the United States and Iran. Asian markets led the gains, with Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 jumping 2.4 per cent to a record high, while the Hang Seng in Hong Kong rose 1.7 per cent to 26,398.54 and the Shanghai Composite finished 0.7 per cent higher. In Europe, the FTSE 100 in London, the CAC 40 in Paris, and the DAX in Frankfurt all climbed by approximately 0.5 per cent in early trading.

US-Iran War LIVE: The Foreign Press Association in Israel, supported by international media rights groups, has filed an emergency motion with the Israeli Supreme Court to expedite a decision on allowing independent journalist access to Gaza. The legal action, submitted this week, follows eighteen months of delays since the initial petition was filed in September 2024. International media has been barred from entering the territory independently since October 2023, a restriction the groups describe as an unprecedented threat to press freedom.

US-Iran War LIVE: The Israeli military reports that troops have uncovered a significant stockpile of weapons within a school in Bint Jbeil as the offensive in southern Lebanon intensifies. Soldiers from the Givati Brigade discovered more than 130 items during searches of the educational facility, including automatic rifles, pistols and various firearms. Alongside the munitions, the army says it found Hezbollah flags and insignia on the premises.

US-Iran War LIVE: The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) issued a dire warning on Thursday, April 16, 2026, stating that Europe may have as little as six weeks of jet fuel reserves remaining. The alert highlights the mounting economic toll of the continued maritime deadlock in the Strait of Hormuz.

US-Iran War LIVE: In a major escalation of infrastructure targeting, Israeli warplanes destroyed the Qasmiyeh Bridge on Thursday, April 16, 2026. The strike effectively severs the final remaining major transport artery linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country.

US-Iran War LIVE: Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf met with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Asim Munir, on Thursday, April 16, 2026. The high-level military-to-civilian meeting, reported by Iranian state television, comes at a pivotal moment as regional powers scramble to save the stalled Islamabad Summit peace process.

US-Iran War LIVE: An Israeli drone strike killed two Palestinian brothers in northern Gaza on Thursday, April 16, 2026, as violence continues to puncture the broader regional ceasefire. The incident occurred near the town of Beit Lahiya, according to health officials from Shifa Hospital.

US-Iran War LIVE: The internet blackout in Iran has lasted 48 days and 1128 hours, initiated after protests in early January and intensified by the US-Israel war on Iran starting in late February.

US-Iran War LIVE: Israeli security cabinet member Galia Gamliel announced that Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to speak with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, according to Israel's army radio. However, a senior Lebanese official stated that Lebanon has “no information” regarding the proposed call.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir will travel to Washington after his visit to Iran, aiming to mediate between the US and Iran. This follows a high-level Pakistani delegation's talks in Iran, focusing on organizing new negotiations a week before their truce's expiration. The delegation, led by Munir, carries a US message for potential talks.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran's IRGC arrested four individuals in Gilan province for allegedly connecting with Mossad. They reportedly provided sensitive military and security site information to Israeli agents online, as stated by the Islamic Republic News Agency.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: The WHO’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, urged immediate protection for health facilities in Lebanon amid Israeli attacks. He reported damage to Tebnine Government Hospital, with injuries to staff and destruction of equipment. Since hostilities began on March 2, there have been 133 attacks, resulting in 88 deaths and numerous facility closures.

US-Iran War LIVE: A Lebanese official informed that there is no information on a potential phone call between Lebanese and Israeli leaders. Additionally, there are no details regarding a possible second meeting of ambassadors in Washington, as suggested in Trump’s tweets about upcoming talks between Israel and Lebanon.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran's Ministry of Education spokesperson declared that all schools will shift to virtual learning starting April 21, affecting all educational levels, and will continue until further notice, as reported by Tasnim News Agency.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: A second US-sanctioned supertanker, the empty VLCC RHN, has entered the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz, per shipping data. Its destination remains unclear. Concurrently, Iran’s Fars News Agency reported an Iranian supertanker sanctioned by the US also crossed the strait towards Imam Khomeini port, despite claims from CENTCOM of vessels being turned around.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Heavy clashes erupted in Bint Jbeil between Hezbollah and Israeli forces early today. The Israeli military utilized warplanes and helicopters, conducting airstrikes in Tebnine, damaging a hospital. Continued fighting occurred at town entrances, and homes were demolished at the Grand Market.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi cautioned of "dangerous consequences" due to perceived US provocations in the Persian Gulf and the blockade on Iranian ports. He conveyed his concerns during a call with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, as regional tensions persist despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve hostilities in West Asia.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iranian officials and Pakistan's Army chief Asim Munir on Thursday will hold talks in the capital to discuss the messages that have been exchanged between Iran and the US since negotiations in Islamabad fell apart on April 12, according to the Iranian state media Tasnim news agency.

US-Iran War LIVE: US President Donald Trump announced that the leaders of Israel and Lebanon will speak on Thursday, marking the first contact in 34 years. While specifics are unclear, it likely involves Netanyahu and Aoun. Lebanon seeks a ceasefire, but Israel is hesitant as it targets Hezbollah.

US-Iran War LIVE: China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi to restore normal navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized respecting Iran’s sovereignty while ensuring navigation safety, noting international interest in stability, and expressing China's willingness to ease tensions and enhance regional relations.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller said that the United States' naval blockade against Iran in the Persian Gulf is "squeezing the economic life" out of the Islamic Republic, while reiterating Washington's firm opposition to Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons as part of the deal to achieve a complete end to the hostilities in West Asia.

US-Iran War LIVE: Amid escalating global conflicts and inequalities, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for urgent dialogue and de-escalation. He emphasized the need for respect for international law and reaffirmed the UN's commitment to global stability, peace, and justice for all.

US-Iran War LIVE: Lebanon’s Minister Fadi Makki condemned Israel's "triple-tap" strike in Mayfadoun, which killed four paramedics on a humanitarian mission. He labeled it a new war crime and a violation of international law, stating the government will systematically document these crimes for potential legal action against Israel in international forums.

US-Iran War LIVE: Israel's security cabinet met to consider a ceasefire with Lebanon amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, linked to U.S.-Iran tensions. President Trump suggested the war with Iran might conclude soon, hinting at significant developments.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: The Malta-flagged VLCC Agios Fanourios I is the first crude carrier to navigate west through the Strait of Hormuz since the US blockade on Iran's ports. After two days at anchor, it crossed the strait successfully on 14 April and is currently en route to Basrah, Iraq, expected to arrive on 16 April.

US-Iran War LIVE: A Lebanese armed group claimed responsibility for 39 military operations against Israeli targets in 24 hours. Concurrently, the WHO reported significant strain on Lebanon's Tebnine Hospital, damaged in two strikes on April 12 and 14, impacting trauma care.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces are conducting targeted operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon while pursuing peace negotiations. He emphasized negotiations with Lebanon, aiming to dismantle Hezbollah and achieve sustainable peace.

US-Iran War LIVE: Israel's security cabinet discussed a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, with a U.S. official stating President Trump would support an end to hostilities. The ceasefire is politically sensitive for Prime Minister Netanyahu and, while not directly linked to Iran negotiations, could aid in achieving a peace deal.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Mohsen Rezaei, former commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and advisor to Mojtaba Khamenei, stated he disagrees with extending the ceasefire. He urged officials to be cautious in U.S. negotiations, asserting Iran is setting preconditions for talks and is prepared for a prolonged conflict, unlike the U.S.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Oil prices declined Thursday amid easing U.S.-Iran tensions, with reports of Iran potentially allowing ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude fell 44 cents to $94.49, while West Texas Intermediate dropped 70 cents to $90.59.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: A fourth Lebanese rescue worker has died following three targeted Israeli strikes that also injured six others in Mayfadoun. The attacks hit medics responding to wounded civilians and their colleagues. The Israeli military has not commented further, previously accusing Hezbollah of using ambulances for militant activities without providing evidence.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the U.S. has not formally requested a ceasefire extension, calling negotiations "productive and ongoing." She indicated that upcoming talks between the U.S. and Iran will likely resume in Pakistan, emphasizing its crucial mediation role.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: The U.S. Senate rejected two resolutions aimed at halting a $450 million arms sale to Israel, with Republicans supporting this move. However, significant Democratic opposition highlights increasing frustration over civilian impacts from Israeli military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discussing U.S.-Iran tensions and assuring support. The two-hour meeting included praise for Sharif's and Field Marshal Asim Munir's roles in peace efforts, amidst Pakistan's ties with both nations.

US-Iran War LIVE: Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani spoke with US President Donald Trump about regional developments, including energy issues. While Qatar is a leading natural gas exporter, rising US gas prices raise concerns for Trump and the Republicans ahead of midterm elections, though the Treasury secretary predicts eventual long-term gains.

US-Iran War LIVE: Mohsen Rezaei, ex-commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, opposed extending the ceasefire, according to Iranian state media. He advised officials to approach U.S. economic negotiations cautiously, asserting that Iran is establishing the preconditions for upcoming talks. Rezaei emphasized Iran's readiness for a prolonged conflict, contrasting it with the U.S.'s fear of ongoing war, demonstrating confidence in their military preparedness.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: An Israeli air strike targeted Kafr Sir in southern Lebanon, with artillery shelling also hitting the outskirts of Nabatieh, reports indicate.
 

US-Iran War: The United States and Iran have reportedly agreed "in principle" to extend a two-week ceasefire, which is set to expire Wednesday next week, to buy time for diplomatic efforts to bring about lasting peace in the region. However, Tehran has denied the claim.

US-Iran War LIVE: UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Iran’s parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf discussed regional developments and ways to de-escalate tensions on a telephonic conversation, AP reported. 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has shared footage of his meeting with the Pakistani delegation in Tehran on his Telegram channel.

US-Iran War LIVE: Israel’s top general has announced plans to continue attacks in Lebanon and Iran

US-Iran War LIVE: A Malta-flagged vessel is the first crude oil carrier to head west through Strait of Hormuz since the United States blocked Iranian ports, according to a global shipping tracking monitor.

US-Iran War LIVE: The negotiating team led by Vice President JD Vance called for Iran to agree to a uranium enrichment moratorium as part of a potential deal to end the war, according to a regional official involved in the mediation efforts and a person briefed on the matter, AP reported.

US-Iran War LIVE: Pakistan’s Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has arrived in Tehran, carrying a new message from the United States as diplomatic efforts to extend a fragile ceasefire between Iran and the US gain momentum, Press TV reported.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: The Pentagon is sending nearly 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East. Around 6,000 are aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and its escort ships, while another 4,200 troops from the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are expected to arrive later in April. These reinforcements will join roughly 50,000 US personnel already stationed in the Gulf region, the Washington Post reported.

US-Iran War LIVE: After US President Donald Trump's latest attack over the UK's decision not to join the US strikes on Iran, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in Parliament, “My position on the Iran war has been clear from the start. We're not going to get dragged into this war. It is not our war.”

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said that his country has exchanged several messages with the United States via Pakistan.

"Since Sunday, when the Iranian delegation returned to Tehran, several messages have been exchanged through Pakistan," he said.

US-Iran War LIVE: US President Donald Trump said that he is opening the strategic chokepoint Strait of Hormuz permanently and China will be very “happy” about that and even expects a “big, fat, hug” from President Xi.

US-Iran War LIVE: In a clarifying interview with Maria Bartiromo broadcast on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, President Donald Trump sought to push back against criticism of his earlier comments regarding fuel prices. The interview, taped at the White House on Tuesday evening, saw the President pivot from acknowledging high gas prices to predicting a massive drop once the conflict concludes.

US-Iran War LIVE: In a significant diplomatic move in Beijing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that Moscow is prepared to take custody of Iran’s enriched uranium. The offer arrives as the 14-day "window of diplomacy" between the U.S. and Iran faces a critical deadlock following the inconclusive weekend summit in Islamabad.

Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian issued a sharp rebuke of recent military actions, questioning the legal and ethical basis for strikes targeting Iran’s civilian and intellectual centers. Speaking in the wake of continued hostilities, the President characterized the attacks as a violation of international humanitarian law and a direct assault on the nation's vital institutions.

US-Iran War LIVE: Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that any potential agreement to end the war between the United States and Iran must include rigorous and exhaustive verification measures. Speaking at a press briefing in Seoul, Grossi emphasised that without a robust inspection regime, any diplomatic breakthrough would be an ‘illusion of an agreement’.

US-Iran War LIVE: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned external pressure and military aggression, affirming that coercive attempts will fail. He stressed Iran's commitment to constructive dialogue without yielding, amidst ongoing ceasefire efforts and potential renewed talks with Washington after a previous stalemate.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: A blacklisted Iranian supertanker openly crossed the Strait of Hormuz and reached Iranian shores, defying the U.S. blockade while its tracker was on.

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran’s President Pezeshkian emphasizes the country's preference for dialogue over war, asserting that US attempts to impose its will will fail. He questions the justification for targeting civilians and vital infrastructure under international law and humanitarian principles.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran's internet blackout has lasted 47 days, totaling 1,104 hours without international access, impacting jobs and businesses amid ongoing protests and the US-Israel conflict since February.

US-Iran War LIVE: The US confirms the loss of an MQ-4C Triton UAV that crashed in the Persian Gulf. The incident qualifies as a Class A mishap, as damages exceed USD 2.5 million, with reports estimating the aircraft's value at USD 240-250 million.

US-Iran War LIVE: The Israeli army warned residents south of the Zahrani River to evacuate due to ongoing airstrikes, emphasizing that staying in the area poses significant danger to their lives and families.

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran's minister of science, Hossein Simaei Sarraf, stated that the country faces an unethical enemy during his visit to the damaged Aerospace Research Institute in Tehran, following U.S.-Israeli attacks on February 28, emphasizing ongoing vulnerability of national facilities.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Russia's FM Lavrov noted Gulf Arab states' view that American aggression caused Iran to close the Strait of Hormuz, urging ongoing US-Iran negotiations and asserting Moscow's support for Tehran's uranium enrichment interests.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran is reportedly planning to use alternative ports to those in southern Iran to bypass the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which took effect on Monday, reported Mehr News.

US-Iran War LIVE: Europe is considering a "European NATO" as a fallback to ensure NATO's survival if the US reduces its involvement, aiming to elevate European command roles and supplement US military resources with their own assets.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Two improvised explosive devices detonated in Tehran, injuring three people, including a Basij member, according to state media. A third device was defused. A Revolutionary Guard commander stated the situation is normal, describing the incident as a limited explosion caused by "traitorous elements," with no fatalities.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Saudi Arabia will deposit $3 billion into Pakistan's central bank, providing essential financial support amidst economic strain related to regional tensions. An existing $5 billion Saudi deposit will be extended without yearly rollover requirements.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: South Korea has obtained 273 million barrels of crude oil from Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kazakhstan, securing enough supply for over three months based on last year's consumption, as stated by presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik. Additionally, Korea has acquired 2.1 million tonnes of naphtha amid regional tensions affecting oil transport.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: A senior Iranian lawmaker warned that the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and military commanders in US-Israeli strikes would lead to a calculated revenge. He emphasized uranium enrichment as a non-negotiable right for peaceful purposes and reaffirmed Iran's support for allied forces in the region.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Iran secretly obtained a Chinese spy satellite, TEE-01B, allowing it to monitor US military bases in the Middle East during the recent conflict. Leaked documents reveal the monitored sites included bases in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and other countries. Iranian commanders utilized satellite imagery for reconnaissance, particularly before and after drone and missile strikes.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Israeli air raids have targeted multiple towns in south Lebanon, including Qadmus, Ansariyah, Bint Jbeil, Mahmoudiya, Majdal, Qlailah, Zibqin, and Yatar, resulting in several casualties.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Twenty rockets were launched from Lebanon into northern Israel's Galilee region; some were intercepted, while others landed in open areas, triggering sirens in Manara and Kiryat Shmona.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: US Vice President JD Vance stated that President Trump is firm on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. At a Turning Point USA event, he noted that while US-Iran talks show progress, Trump aims for a comprehensive agreement rather than a minor deal, emphasizing the ongoing ceasefire.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey to facilitate talks between the US and Iran, following recent negotiations. His trip, focused on bilateral relations and regional security, includes participation in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: South Korea informed Iran, the U.S., and Gulf nations about 26 South Korean vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun noted that officials view the U.S.-Iran ceasefire as an opportunity to facilitate the ships' safe passage from the area.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller stated that the US blockade of Iran's ports signifies a major shift in global power dynamics, warning Tehran may become irrelevant if it does not negotiate with Washington. He emphasized the blockade as a strategic move reinforcing American dominance.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: The National News Agency (NNA) reports that the victims were killed in an Israeli air strike targeting the town of Ansariyah in southern Lebanon.

US-Iran War LIVE: China has warned of "countermeasures" if the US implements threatened tariff hikes linked to allegations of military support for Iran. The Chinese Foreign Ministry rejected these accusations as "purely fabricated." They emphasized their strict controls over military-related exports, stating they act prudently and responsibly in accordance with domestic laws and international obligations.

US-Iran War LIVE: Indian-flagged LPG vessel 'Jag Vikram', which crossed the Strait of Hormuz on April 11, arrived at Kandla Port on April 14 carrying 20,400 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), officials said.
The vessel docked late on Tuesday night at Oil Jetty No. 1 at Kandla Port. The unloading process is expected to begin shortly and is likely to strengthen the country's LPG supply chain. The vessel's arrival comes amid continued monitoring of maritime energy supply routes in the region.

US-Iran War LIVE: The U.S.-sanctioned tanker Rich Starry returned to the Strait of Hormuz, unable to bypass a U.S. blockade on vessels bound for Iranian ports. Following failed peace talks, President Trump announced the blockade, with six vessels ordered to turn around by U.S. Central Command within the first 24 hours.

US-Iran War LIVE: A U.S. destroyer stopped two oil tankers departing Iran on Tuesday, following President Trump's blockade. The warship, communicating via radio, instructed the vessels to return. The tankers had left Chabahar port, but further details on warnings remain unclear.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: US President Donald Trump criticized NATO on April 15, arguing the alliance hasn't supported the US historically and won't in the future. He urged member nations to increase defense spending, claiming the US bears an unfair cost burden.]

US-Iran War LIVE: Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia could assist China in addressing energy shortages due to the US blockade on Iranian ports. He emphasized strong ties between Russia and China, highlighting resilience against global challenges and the significance of collaboration for mutual benefit.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: The US president criticized Pope Leo on Truth Social, stating, “Will someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, unarmed protesters,” while condemning Iran's nuclear ambitions. Trump called the pope “weak on crime” after he criticized US and Israeli actions in Iran. The actual death toll from protests remains disputed, with estimates ranging from 3,117 to potentially 20,000.

US-Iran War LIVE: Rafael Grossi, IAEA Director General, stated in Seoul that the duration of Iran's uranium enrichment moratorium under a US agreement is a political decision. Reports indicate the US proposed a 20-year moratorium, while Iran countered with five years.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: A U.S. official revealed that the military strategy aims to monitor vessels from Iranian facilities until they exit the Strait of Hormuz before intercepting them. The military uses various methods beyond AIS to track these ships but maintains operational security regarding potential boarding actions.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Israeli air strikes continue across southern Lebanon, targeting Tyre and al-Abbasiyya, resulting in casualties. Ground troops are advancing towards Bint Jbeil, aiming for control. Explosions from house demolitions indicate a deliberate destruction policy in border towns.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: US President Donald Trump indicated that the conflict with Iran is "close to over," despite ongoing negotiations and a stalemate in West Asia. In a News interview, he expressed optimism regarding the situation and mentioned potential for a second round of talks following the deadlock in the first round held in Islamabad.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM Commander, asserts that a blockade of Iranian ports is fully enforced, with US forces ensuring maritime dominance. He notes that 90% of Iran's economy relies on maritime trade, which has been completely obstructed within 36 hours of the blockade's initiation.

US-Iran War LIVE: The IMF warns that escalating conflict in Iran could push the global economy towards recession, raising inflation and destabilizing financial markets. Mounting economic damage has led to reduced growth forecasts for 2026, with the UK facing the largest downgrade among G7 nations and high inflation rates. Oil prices spiked above $100 a barrel after failed US-Iran peace talks, but eased to $98.5 amid hopes for renewed negotiations.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Canada, the UK, Australia, Japan, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Jordan, Sierra Leone, and Switzerland expressed concern over Lebanon's humanitarian crisis. They welcomed the ceasefire and urged an end to hostilities, emphasizing the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel, and condemning attacks on UN peacekeepers.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: US Vice President JD Vance expressed admiration for Pope Leo while feeling frustrated by the pontiff's criticism of US policies. He disagreed with the pope's stance against political figures using force, asserting that God supported American liberation efforts during WWII. Meanwhile, Trump intensified criticisms of the pope regarding his views on war.
 

US-Iran War LIVE: Lebanon and Israel initiated direct diplomatic talks in Washington after decades, amidst ongoing conflict with Hezbollah. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it a “historic opportunity,” acknowledging the complexities involved. Hezbollah opposed the talks and intensified attacks on northern Israel, signaling challenges ahead.

US-Iran War LIVE: Following unsuccessful negotiations in Islamabad, President Trump suggested a second round of talks with Iran. The US Navy has recently blocked the Strait of Hormuz. Trump mentioned potential delegate meetings in the next two days and advised staying in the area, hinting at developments at Hotel Serena.