Key Updates

Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs: We categorically reject the use of our territory or airspace for any hostile action against any country. Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Iran’s claims are false, baseless, and devoid of any evidence.

Katai’b Imam Ali (Imam Ali Brigades) also announce their integration into the Iraqi Armed Forces.

“ The Iraqi Shia militia ‘Asa’ib Ahl Al-Haqq’ announces that it will fully integrate with the Iraqi Armed Forces. They are the second militia to do so, following Saraya Al-Salam led by Muqtada Al-Sadr.“

Explosions reported in Erbil (Iraq Kurdistan), Kuwait, and Bahrain amid reports of a US attack on Iran’s Qeshm Island. IRGC states US forces targeted an Iranian oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz and a communications tower on Qeshm Island. In response, the IRGC says it struck the vessel “Panaya” in the Persian Gulf, as well as a regional US airbase, helicopters, and the US Fifth Fleet with missiles and drones, warning that any threat to the Strait of Hormuz will carry a heavy cost.

IRGC statement :The United States has not been able to wrest control of the Strait of Hormuz from Iran, not even for a few minutes.

▪️Our military and operational capabilities have witnessed a significant increase, and the opportunity was seized to strengthen them and raise the level of readiness. Therefore, our armed forces are in a better position today than they were previously.

▪️Iranian military capabilities have not declined; rather, the country’s strength has increased in various fields.

▪️24 ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours in coordination with us.

The fourth meeting between Israeli and Lebanese representatives has begun in Washington

Another American missile, but a different one.

Northrop Grumman reported successful tests of its Jackal missile (“Jackal” in translation). During the tests of the “Jackal,” the propulsion system, autonomous navigation to designated points, maneuvering, and other aspects were checked.

The feature of this missile is that it is a tactical munition similar to medium-range kamikaze drones, not a cheap cruise missile, like the recently ordered FAMM. The “Jackal” has the following characteristics:

▪️Length 1.6 m, wingspan 1.25 m, diameter 152 mm.
▪️Weight 36.5 kg, of which the warhead is only 3 kg (dual-mode).
▪️Flight range up to 100 km for ground launch and 125 km from an air carrier.
▪️Speed over 640 km/h.

Integration of up to 8 missiles is proposed for helicopters, small vehicles, and maritime carriers. It is stated that AI algorithms will be used for guidance and flight in the absence of GPS. Flight is carried out at altitudes up to 50 meters, and onboard electronic warfare systems are also present.

Press Secretary of Iran’ s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC): Despite preparations in all spheres, the military front will be maintained at the highest level of readiness, as we believe the most important arena upon which the enemy relies to achieve its goals is precisely the military arena. In the event that the enemy returns to the military arena, the nature of operations, the geography of the battle, and even the types of weapons used will be different, and the IRGC is fully prepared for all possible scenarios.

The readiness level of the armed forces today is higher than ever. This readiness, surpassing previous capabilities, is the result of experience gained on the battlefield and during direct confrontation with the enemy. Today, our understanding of the enemy, its offensive and defensive armaments, its tricks, and the nature of its actions is much clearer than in the past.

Lebanese Army : Two Lebanese Army soldiers were wounded with moderate injuries in an Israeli drone attack on the Haboush – Dir al-Zahrani road, Nabatieh district. In previous weeks, several Lebanese Army soldiers were killed in Israeli attacks.

Pakistan is becoming a key trade corridor for Iran: Pakistan is reported to have expanded access through its border with Iran, positioning itself as a major route for importing and transiting Iranian goods amid growing regional tensions.

According to Iranian sources, goods can reach the Iran-Pakistan border in just 2-3 hours via key land corridors.
A shorter route could reduce overall transportation costs by up to 55% compared to traditional sea freight through the UAE. Pakistan is reportedly offering significant incentives, including reduced container handling fees and port charges, to stimulate trade flows.
This move could reshape regional logistics and strengthen economic ties between Islamabad and Tehran.

The UK is purchasing several hundred more anti-aircraft missiles. The UK Ministry of Defence announced that they have signed several contracts with Thales for the supply of several hundred more light multi-purpose LMM Martlet missiles.

Contracts totaling 36 million pounds ($48 million) are aimed at producing missiles by the end of 2026. The missiles will be supplied to replenish stocks and support the air defense of British troops in the Middle East. According to statements, with the help of LMM in the conflict with Iran, more than 100 drones were shot down, including from Rapid Sentry systems.

Siren Alerts were activated in Hanita in the Western Galilee due to fears of Hezbollah UAV’s infiltration

Hezbollah agreed to the ceasefire proposed by Trump with Israel, reported in Lebanon.

Trump stated that at his request, Netanyahu “withdrew his troops,” who were preparing to attack Beirut, and “Hezbollah” agreed to stop shelling Israel.

“Today I had a conversation with Bibi Netanyahu, during which I asked him not to launch a large-scale raid on Beirut, Lebanon. He withdrew his troops. Thank you, Bibi! I also spoke with representatives of Hezbollah’s leaders, and they agreed to stop shelling Israel and its soldiers. In turn, Israel agreed to stop shelling their territory.

An explosion was reported in Bushehr, with local sources stating it was the launch of anti-ship cruise missiles targeting four vessels that attempted to cross the Strait of Hormuz without prior coordination with Iranian authorities.

Iran could launch stronger attacks on Israel’s home front in future wars, IDF fears
According to the IDF, all indications are that Trump’s Iran deal will largely or completely ignore the ballistic missile issue. Iran to impose a new equation – If America can’t or won’t restrain Israel from attacking Lebanon, Iran will attack the UAE and other related gulf states .

US Vice President JD Vance on the ceasefire in the Middle East: Well, you know, these ceasefires are always a bit disorderly, and sometimes people at the lower level do not communicate with people at the upper level. Sometimes people make mistakes. But even when the truce is observed — as we have seen not only in Iran, but all over the world — sometimes there are small flare-ups. I think our approach is to ensure the observance of truces and to defend ourselves when they shoot at us. The President made it very clear: if they shoot at us, we shoot back. But if we compare the conflict now with what it was five to six weeks ago, I think the presidential truce is being observed to a significant extent”.

The US and Iran have reached an agreement on a 60-day memorandum on a ceasefire and the launch of negotiations on the nuclear program, but Trump has not yet finally approved it, Axios reports.

According to US officials, the memorandum provides for free passage through the Strait of Hormuz — without tariffs and detention of ships by Iranian forces. In addition, Tehran is obliged to clear the strait of mines within 30 days.

The US naval blockade will also be lifted, but this will happen proportionally to the restoration of commercial shipping, a US official said.

According to US representatives, the memorandum will include Iran’s commitment not to seek to create nuclear weapons. The document will also state that the first issues for negotiations during the 60-day period will be the disposal of Iran’s highly enriched uranium and the resolution of the issue of Iranian uranium enrichment.

The US struck rocket launch pads and boats in southern Iran citing CENTCOM but this is not a resumption of war.

President Trump stated that Iran should either give its enriched uranium to the US, or destroy its reserves under the supervision of the Atomic Energy Commission.

NBC News: The war with Iran is depleting American arsenals. Tomahawk, Patriot, Precision Strike – all of these require tungsten. And the US has major problems with it. As NBC News reports, China controls more than 80% of global production, and the US has had no mines of its own since 2015. They are forced to search the planet.

“Tungsten is used in fighter jets, bunker-busting bombs, armor-piercing ammunition, and missile systems, making it indispensable for national defense. But the US has not had an active commercial tungsten mine since 2015,” NBC News reports.

Financial Times — Iran used UAE company to buy military satellite equipment

• The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps allegedly used a UAE-based company called Telesun in United Arab Emirates to obtain Chinese satellite communication equipment tied to Iran’s drone and missile programs.
• The shipment reportedly moved from Shanghai through Dubai and Ras al-Khaimah before entering Iran.
• An Iranian vessel called Rama III allegedly spoofed/falsified GPS positioning data to conceal the route into Bandar Abbas.
• The equipment was reportedly linked to companies connected with the IRGC Aerospace Force despite existing US sanctions.

Political analyst Rida Sadr Al-Husseini: The agreement will not be with America 🇺🇸 only, but with two major countries like China 🇨🇳 and Russia 🇷🇺 as well as the Security Council in their capacity as guarantors of the agreement. If Israel violates the agreement, it will receive a strong response.

An agreement between the US and Iran will likely not be signed on Sunday, journalist Barak Ravid reported, citing a Trump administration official.

The MoU between Iran and America may be cancelled’ – Iran Tasnim Agency

Three months after the war, which according to US and Israeli plans was supposed to end in a decisive victory within six weeks, Trump is stuck in the Iranian swamp, unable to find a way out that saves face or expands the scale of strikes.

Despite US military strikes, Iran has not collapsed; its continued control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, remains its main lever of pressure.

Analysts say that the president, boasting of victories, now faces a challenge that could undermine America’s global authority more than any conflict in recent decades.

CBS reports citing its sources, that the US is preparing to resume military strikes on Iran, but a final decision has not yet been made.Currently, only Azam Manir, the commander of the Pakistani army, remains in Tehran. He met at night with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an attempt to advance an agreement between Iran and the US. The other mediators have left Tehran.

Soldiers of the IDF 🇮🇱 810th Mountain Brigade identified and destroyed an underground Hezbollah stronghold extending 100 meters into one of the hills in southern Lebanon 🇱🇧. These Hezbollah strongholds are scattered across the numerous hills of southern Lebanon, used less for holding territory and more as transit bases. The 810th Mountain Brigade, consisting of three battalions and two special units, was established in early 2024 specifically for operations in mountainous and hilly terrain.

President Trump announces that a Memorandum of Understanding with Iran has largely been negotiated, is being finalized, and will be announced shortly.

The US and Iran will announce a peace agreement project within 24 hours – The Washington Times.

According to a source close to the negotiations, the project was agreed upon early Saturday morning. It is expected that Washington and Tehran will announce the completion of work on it on Sunday afternoon.

The main negotiators, including the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Ghalibaf, Vice President Vance, and special envoys Whitcoff and Kushner, approved the project.
The document has been sent to the leaders of both countries for final approval.

However, the details of the potential agreement remain unclear. It is unclear how key disagreements, including the fate of the Iranian nuclear program and Iran’s request for the lifting of sanctions, will be resolved. The parties also need to agree on how to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the source, Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Munir, who acted as the main mediator in the negotiations, held several meetings to ensure the finalization of the project and its submission to the leadership.

An Iranian attack with missiles and drones targeted the Iranian Kurdish Opposition groups in Erbil, Kurdistan, Iraq.

Trump to CBS: “We are getting closer and closer to an agreement with Iran.”

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Progress has been made on the Iran issue, news may appear in the near future, Secretary of State Rubio stated.

“News may appear later today. Right now I have no news for you, but they may appear a little later today. They may not appear — I hope they will, but I’m not sure yet.

We are talking about the Iran issue, and as I already said, certain progress has been made. Even as I speak with you, work is continuing. There is a chance that later today, tomorrow, or in the coming days we will have something to report.

But this issue must be resolved, as the President stated, one way or another. Iran must never possess nuclear weapons. The straits must be open without tolls. They must transfer their enriched uranium, as well as highly enriched uranium. We must address this issue, as well as the issue of enrichment.

These positions of the President are unchanged, and his preference is always to resolve such issues diplomatically. He always strives for problems to be resolved through negotiations and a diplomatic agreement. This is exactly what we are doing now.

But this issue will be resolved, as the President made clear — one way or another. We hope this will happen through diplomatic means. This is what we are working on now, and possibly during this trip something may appear that we can report on this topic”.

“ Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao said during a Senate committee hearing that the delivery of $14 billion worth of weapons and military equipment to Taiwan has been temporarily suspended. He stated that the pause is intended to allow for the replenishment of U.S. stockpiles following the active phase of the conflict with Iran. According to Cao, deliveries will resume once they are approved by the U.S. government.”

Iran Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran is in continuous consultations with Oman on a new mechanism for transit through the Strait of Hormuz. He framed the strait as a passage located within the territorial waters of Iran and Oman, with both coastal states responsible for safe passage.

Tehran is not only negotiating traffic. It is trying to convert disruption into procedure, procedure into authority, and authority into recognition.
The U.S. wants Hormuz reopened as a global trade route. Iran wants Hormuz managed as a coastal-state sovereignty file.

If Oman confirms the mechanism publicly, Tehran gains diplomatic cover. If Oman stays silent, this remains Iranian pressure language before the next round of talks.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the US intercepted the tanker Skywave, which is linked to Iran and on the sanctions list, in the Indian Ocean tonight.

The ship was likely transporting more than a million barrels of crude oil, loaded on Kharg Island in February.

Putin: Russia ready to ensure China has stable oil supplies amid Iran war turmoil

China imported 40.83 million tons of Russian crude from January to April 2026 — up 26% year-on-year.

In April alone, China bought 8.97 million tons of Russian oil for $6.32 billion.

One of the supposed goals of Trump’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz was to squeeze Chinese oil supplies.

The transfer of enriched Iranian uranium to Russia is not part of US plans, US Vice President JD Vance stated.

“For Russia to acquire enriched uranium—listen, these issues are being discussed in negotiations. Currently, this is not in our plans. It has never been in our plans. I have seen reports about this. I don’t know where they came from, but the President will continue negotiations on the deal. So currently, this is not in the plans of the US government. The Iranians have not raised this issue. I think the Iranians would not be thrilled about this. And I know the President is not thrilled either”.

Reporter: Do you personally think Iran will reach an agreement?

Vance: How can I know this with certainty? I think the Iranians want to reach an agreement; we have had several drafts, but until the final agreement is officially signed, I cannot say with confidence that we will reach a result.

The US needs an anti-aircraft missile for $1 million: The US Army is asking defense contractors to submit proposals for a new Patriot surface-to-air missile with a unit cost of less than $1 million, which is 5 times cheaper than the current PAC-3.

In the contract notice itself, the $1 million price is broken down into four component groups, each of which the Army believes should not exceed $250,000. These are the engine, the seeker head, the guidance and control system, and the remaining missile subsystems.

The new interceptor must be integrated into existing M903 launchers. It will also not be a replacement, but a supplement to existing Patriot anti-aircraft missiles.

US Treasury Secretary Bessent confirmed that Washington has extended the license for maritime shipments of Russian oil by 30 days.

No agreement on a Ukrainian settlement has been reached yet, as president Zelensky if Ukraine is not making concessions on the issue of territories. This is stated in a quarterly report by the Pentagon’s General Inspector to the US Congress.

Key findings of the report:

— High-level contacts have not led to the signing of a peace agreement.

— Negotiations have hit a dead end due to territorial disputes and security guarantee issues.

— The offensive potential of the Ukrainian Armed Forces is paralyzed: a lack of personnel, equipment, and ammunition rules out the conduct of large-scale operations.

— A degradation of capabilities of the Ukrainian army is observed against the backdrop of a critical shortage of drones and shells.

— Russia retains strategic and operational superiority over the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

— Since April 2024, the US Congress has not allocated new aid packages, effectively shifting the main burden of supporting Kyiv to European countries.

Trump will not bomb Iran tomorrow: The US President announced on his social media that military operations against Iran were scheduled to resume tomorrow, but Middle Eastern allies have requested the cancellation of this decision.

Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have asked me to postpone the military attack on the Islamic Republic of Iran scheduled for tomorrow, as serious negotiations are currently underway, and in their view, as great leaders and allies, an agreement will be reached that will be quite acceptable to the United States of America, as well as to all countries in the Middle East and beyond. This agreement will include, which is very important, ‘ no nuclear weapons for Iran ‘ Out of respect for the aforementioned leaders, I have instructed Defense Minister Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Daniel Kane, and the United States Armed Forces that we will NOT carry out the attack on Iran scheduled for tomorrow, but have also instructed them to be ready for a full-scale offensive against Iran at any time if an acceptable agreement is not reached.

He further states that this is being done for the sake of negotiations and a “deal” that will satisfy them. Trump again declares the prevention of nuclear weapons for Iran and that if they do not reach an agreement, there will be a renewed attack.

Putin flying to China: His visit scheduled on May 19th -20th.

Large nocturnal explosion in Beit Shemesh, Israel due controlled detonation of unexploded ordnance.

“ U.S statement Quoted: On May 14 and 15, the United States hosted two days of highly-productive talks between Israel and Lebanon. The April 16 cessation of hostilities will be extended by 45 days to enable further progress. The State Department will reconvene the political track of negotiations on June 2 and June 3. In addition, a security track will be launched at the Pentagon on May 29 with military delegations from both countries

We hope these discussions will advance lasting peace between the two countries, full recognition of each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and establishing genuine security along their shared border. “

India stated that a commercial ship under its flag was attacked and sunk off the coast of Oman on Wednesday, according to Bloomberg. The crew was successfully rescued. New Delhi condemned the incident but did not specify who attacked the ship.

US and Israeli military officials prepare targets for possible strikes on Iran as early as next week according to CNN reports.

Dozens of Lebanese towns are under heavy Israeli artillery attacks from batteries inside Lebanon and Israel .

The Israeli Ministry of Defense and Elbit Systems signed a $34.4 million agreement to adapt F-16 drop tanks as stealth external fuel tanks for the F-35.

Rubio: The US is ready to put an end to the conflict in Ukraine

According to the Secretary of State , Trump and his team are ready for this. Rubio admitted that Washington in recent months for a number of reasons has somewhat reduced turnover regarding the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict. But he hopes that it will be possible to reach a point at which the parties will resume interaction, and the US will be ready to play a role in settling and putting an end to hostilities

After the Iran war, the US Plans for Hypersonic Weapons: Leidos announced receiving a $2.7 billion contract from the US Army to implement programs for the development of hypersonic weapons — from prototype development to serial production. This contract combines the Thermal Protection Shield (TPS) and Common Hypersonic Glide Body (CHGB) programs, the result of which may be a hypersonic glide vehicle.

The “Golden Dome” missile defense system, which the Pentagon is developing, could cost the US approximately $1.2 trillion over the next two decades

However, it may still be unable to repel a large-scale missile attack from Russia or China, according to a new assessment by the Congressional Budget Office.

These figures are approximately seven times higher than the Pentagon’s forecast, which estimates the cost of the “Golden Dome” at approximately $185 billion over the next 10 years, the report states.

Negotiations between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping began at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Key statements by the leaders:

— Donald Trump stated that he considers it an honor to be a friend of Xi Jinping, and noted that relations between the two countries will reach a level surpassing all previous periods.

— He also expressed hope that the United States and the People’s Republic of China will have a fantastic future.

— Trump promised that the United States will develop trade relations with China on a fully reciprocal basis.

— He stated that he is accompanied by 30 of the largest US entrepreneurs during his visit.

— The United States and China have always overcome difficulties thanks to direct contact with Xi Jinping.

At the beginning of the negotiations, Xi Jinping told Donald Trump about his joy at meeting in Beijing.

— The common interests of China and the United States outweigh their disagreements.

— China and the United States must be partners, not adversaries, and strive for mutual success and prosperity.

— 2026 must become a historic and significant year for Chinese-American relations.

Former UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has been placed under criminal investigation, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs .

Russia has notified the US and other countries about the tests of the “Sarmat” rocket, Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with TASS.

Kuwait claims a squad of IRGC Special Forces tried to enter the country by sea; no explanation was given regarding whether it succeeded. The IRGC team allegedly tried to enter Bubiyan Island, from where American missile attacks have taken place against Iran. Kuwait’s Interior Ministry says it arrested various members of the IRGC team, including a colonel, a captain, and a lieutenant. Per Kuwaiti media, they were part of a sabotage squad.

Hezbollah claimed to have targeted a Merkava tank belonging to the Zionist regime’s army with a suicide drone around the Khirbet al-Minara area, opposite the Houla settlement in southern Lebanon.

Abduljalil Shahbakhsh, trained by the Ansar al-Furqan group, was hanged this morning in Iran.

Russian Foreign Ministry: The EU demands Georgia to stop flights with Russia: The EU demands that Georgia completely suspend transport communications with Russia, including air flights, as well as join anti-Russian sanctions and impose an energy embargo on the Russian Federation. This was stated by the Director of the CIS Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Mikhail Kalugin in an interview with TASS.

Trump hints again at his next target, Cuba: No Republican has ever spoken to me about Cuba, a country-failure that moves only in one direction, down! Cuba is asking for help, and we are going to talk!!! Meanwhile, I am going to China!”

CBS News: Pakistan and Afghanistan allegedly allowed Iran to station military aircraft at their airfields.

According to the publication, Tehran sent several military aircraft to a Pakistan Air Force base. This movement, according to the author, may be an attempt to preserve aviation technology amidst an expanding conflict.

A few days after the ceasefire announcement by President Donald Trump, Iran sent several aircraft to the Nur Khan airbase in Pakistan near Rawalpindi. Among them, according to US data, was a reconnaissance aircraft RC-130 — a modification of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules.

The Pakistani side rejected these claims, stating that such equipment cannot be hidden at a base located in an urban area the publication emphasizes.

Kabul, for its part, acknowledged the presence of an Iranian civilian aircraft on its territory.

In Afghanistan, according to a representative of civil aviation, one Iranian aircraft from Mahan Air was indeed in Kabul after the closure of Iran’s airspace, and was then moved to Herat for security reasons.

Iran will consider the possibility of enriching uranium to 90% in the event of a US attack, stated Ibrahim Rezaei, a representative of the Iranian Parliament’s Committee on National Security and Foreign Policy.

One of Iran’s options in the event of a repeated attack could be enriching uranium to 90%. We will discuss this in parliament.

They do not understand the structure of power in Iran, former Qatari Prime Minister Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani on the statehood of Iran.

If we look at this without emotions, purely from the point of view of a military operation, then it personally played into Netanyahu’s hands and his agenda in the region. And this is no secret — he openly talks about a new map of the region, about a new force in the region, about major Israeli alliances, and about imposing these alliances on regional countries by force.

Everything he did was to convince the American side that in three to four weeks, power in Iran would change. But I have said many times: they do not understand the structure of power in Iran. This system was built over 47 years — from the fall of the Shah to today. And it cannot be destroyed as they imagined, or so easily.

This is a question that must be left to the Iranians themselves. It is the Iranian will.

Trump rejects Iran’s response to peace negotiations
“I have just reviewed the response from the so-called ‘representatives’ of Iran. I do not like it — it is absolutely unacceptable!”, the US President stated.

The visa-free regime does not grant the right to work, study, or reside permanently. A special permit is still required for these purposes.

In response, Iran stated that the opinion of the American president “is of no importance” to the republic’s negotiating team.

Since May 11, Russians can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa. According to the new rules, citizens of the Russian Federation can stay in the kingdom for up to 90 days within a year, either as a single visit or cumulatively.

Iran has demanded the withdrawal of its oil from US sanctions within 30 days after reaching a potential agreement with Washington. This statement was made by the Tasnim agency.

Russia is ready to store Iran’s enriched uranium — as it has done before. Russian president Vladimir Putin reminded that Moscow already played this role under the 2015 nuclear deal. All parties accepted the model until Washington later hardened its position.

We did that once in 2015, and Iran trusting us fully… We have this experience. And I said once again that we are ready to repeat just that.

Putin notes that Russian‑Iranian cooperation on peaceful atom continues unaffected by the current war – Bushehr is still running.

During the active phase of the campaign against Iran, Israel established a forward military base in one of the desert regions of Iraq to support air operations. This is reported by The Wall Street Journal citing sources among US official representatives.

Special forces were stationed at this base, and a supply point for the Israeli Air Force was also operating there. In particular, search and rescue specialists for pilots were located at this forward base, in case Israeli aircraft were shot down over Iranian territory.

Israel proposed using them during a search and rescue operation in the Isfahan area, however, the Americans rescued their pilot independently. According to the publication, in early March, an Iraqi shepherd stumbled upon the site, discovering air activity, including landing and taking off helicopters.

Iraqi troops were sent to investigate, but they were struck, one serviceman was killed. The Iraqi government then issued a condemnation and filed a complaint with the UN. Later, the base was dismantled and evacuated.

An Israeli official told Channel 12: Israel sent a message to Washington saying that any resumption of fighting must include the destruction of Iran’s energy infrastructure. Iran’s energy infrastructure could be destroyed within just 24 hours, and destroying it would force Tehran into negotiations. Israel is trying to convey to Washington that targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure is the only way to make progress.

Local sources in Daraa southern Syria 🇸🇾 reported multiple Israeli reconnaissance drones 🇮🇱 flying in the Yarmouk Basin area.

The Atlantic : Trump Is ‘Bored’ With the War He Started
He wants out, but Iran could likely keep going for months. resident trump really, really wants the war with Iran to end. He has declared victory many times, including about three weeks ago, when Iran briefly reopened the Strait of Hormuz. He has repeatedly extended his cease-fire deadlines instead of following through on his threats to resume hostilities

Indonesia will become the first foreign buyer of the Turkish unmanned fighter Bayraktar Kizilelma after Baykar signed an agreement on May 6, 2026, at the SAHA 2026 exhibition for the delivery of the first batch of 12 aircraft. In addition, there is the possibility of acquiring up to 48 more Kizilelma units, meaning a total of up to 60 unmanned aircraft. The agreement also provides for the creation of infrastructure in Indonesia for local production, maintenance, integration, and training. Deliveries are planned to begin in 2028.

One of the largest financial conglomerates — Morgan Stanley — believes that humanoid robotics could become China’s next stage of industrial dominance after electric vehicles and batteries.

According to analyst estimates, China’s share of global production will grow from the current 15% to 16.5% by 2030, with humanoid robots being one of the key drivers.

Beijing has been actively investing in robotics at all levels for several years, from universities and tech parks to production lines, and the domestic market has effectively turned into a giant testing ground for rapid testing of new models.

The report separately notes the difference in approaches between China and the US: thus, American companies like Tesla are betting on complex and expensive prototypes with long testing cycles, while Chinese manufacturers are faster in bringing platforms into real operation.

China is also gradually building an almost complete supply cycle for its humanoids, from actuators and sensors to batteries and electronics, which is why even competitors from the US, Japan, and South Korea often depend on Chinese components.

On the other hand, aggressive expansion of Chinese production could lead to an oversupply of robots and a decline in the industry’s profitability, as has already happened with the Chinese electric vehicle market.

It is expected that sooner or later restrictions may be imposed by the West, as dependence on Chinese robotics over time may begin to be perceived not only as an economic, but also as a technological and strategic problem.

Iran’s response to the US plan to end the war is under consideration, stated Ismail Beqai, the official spokesperson of the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to Tasnim.

We will do even more in Cuba», — State Secretary Rubio explained why the US imposed sanctions on a Cuban company.

Let me clarify something. Our sanctions are directed against a company called Gaisa. It is a holding company created by Cuban generals that has brought in billions of dollars in revenue, not a single cent of which benefits the Cuban people. Do you understand that, right? I don’t know if you understand this. There is the Cuban government, it has a budget, and there is this private company that has more money than the government. Not a single cent of this company’s money goes to building a single road, a single bridge, or providing even a single grain of rice to any Cuban, except those who are part of Gaisa. That is why we are imposing sanctions on a company that, in essence, takes everything that generates money in Cuba and illegally pockets it into the hands of a few people close to the regime. So this is not sanctions against the Cuban people, because the Cuban people do not benefit from Gaisa. It is sanctions against a company that robs the Cuban people for the benefit of a few. We discussed these sanctions yesterday, but we imposed them yesterday. And, by the way, we will do even more

JD Vance, now at the White House with the Prime Minister of Qatar, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, to discuss negotiations with Iran. Qatar has recently been managing a secret mediation channel between the United States and Iran, in an attempt to reach an agreement to end the war.

Due to unprecedented shelling by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, several American ships were leaving the Strait of Hormuz.

Recent operation against Iran in the Middle East led not only to a global increase in military activity, but also sharply increased demand for armaments, where France turned out to be one of the key beneficiaries.

It is reported that a number of countries in the region have already placed orders for more than 2.4 billion euros with MBDA, Thales, Safran and other contractors, with the main focus on missile armaments, radar systems and anti-drone means, which are actively consumed in the conditions of a saturated conflict and require rapid replenishment.

In fact, this is an attempt to close vulnerabilities identified during combat operations, especially in the air defense and counter-UAV segment, where the load on systems turned out to be significantly higher than expected, which directly reflects a change in the nature of war: even relatively short operations quickly burn through stocks of high-precision means.

Global Brent crude oil prices are above the $101 per barrel level.

A car bomb explosion in the Syrian capital, Damascus, reportedly claims the life of Sheikh Farhan Mansour, the Imam of the Shrine of Sayyida Zainab . ( Shia)

The Trump administration wants to resume the operation to escort ships in the Strait of Hormuz, The Wall Street Journal reports citing American officials. According to the publication, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have lifted restrictions on the use of their bases and airspace by the US military, which were introduced after the start of the US operation to open the Strait.

The US Fleet attacked Bandar Abbas port and the port on Kish Island. Washington insists that this is not a new phase of the war, and the ceasefire is not ending.

What is known about what happened:

• Iran attacked US naval units in the Strait of Hormuz with missiles, reported the IRIB agency.
• The US struck Iranian ports Kishm and Bandar Abbas, but do not consider this a resumption of war, reported Fox News.
• The Tasnim agency reported on the continuation of the attack by the Iranian navy on American destroyers.
• In the Iranian military command, it was stated that the US army previously violated the ceasefire agreement, attacking 2 Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
• The US attacked the Iranian Navy base in the city of Minab in the south of the country.
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• IRIB showed footage of the attack on American destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz.
• US Central Command stated that \”American forces intercepted unprovoked attacks from Iran and launched retaliatory strikes in self-defense.
• According to CENTCOM, no American ship was damaged, the US also launched strikes at Iranian military facilities, including missile and drone launchers; command and control points; as well as reconnaissance and surveillance nodes.
• The US does not seek escalation, but will defend its forces, noted CENTCOM;
• No damage was done to the three destroyers, while the attackers suffered significant damage, their boats quickly and effectively went to the bottom of the sea, Trump stated.
• According to Trump, the ceasefire remains in force.
• President Bolsonaro after meeting with Trump stated that Trump is convinced that the war with Iran is over.

Bloomberg: OPEC production drops to its lowest level in 36 years. Bloomberg reported that OPEC’s production in April fell to its lowest level in the past 36 years. It added that oil production reached only 22.55 million barrels per day due to the war in the Middle East. It pointed out that this major disruption in the oil market has led to rising prices of gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel.

Kurdistan: 3 heavy explosions were heard near the U.S. Consulate in Erbil. The U.S. Consulate was not the target; it was a Kurdish Military Depot that was targeted very close to the U.S. Consulate. The attack was conducted by Iranian drones.

Axios citing US officials: US contacts with Iran are moving slowly because every message must go through the Supreme Leader, who is hiding for security reasons. What else Axios knows about the negotiations: The White House is seeking a diplomatic breakthrough by the end of Trump’s visit to China. Trump may reconsider the issue of conducting a military operation if no agreement is reached by the end of his visit to China. The US expects a response from Iran within the next 24-48 hours.

The US State Department has banned diplomats from using confidential information to trade on prediction markets (such as Polymarket or Kalshi). The reason for this was suspicious trader activity against the backdrop of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. This is reported by WSJ. In an internal memo, it is emphasized that using non-public data for financial gain is a serious violation that will result in severe measures. Concerns have been raised because online betting platforms are becoming a threat to national security. Abnormally profitable bets made with astonishing accuracy shortly before important geopolitical events related to Iran have been recorded on the markets.

According to NBC News, Saudi Arabia has banned the US from using its bases and airspace as part of “Project Freedom.” This refusal was the key reason why Donald Trump decided to suspend the operation. Trump announced the initiative on Truth Social, and allies in the Persian Gulf were caught off guard. In response, Riyadh denied access to Prince Sultan’s airbase and Saudi Arabian airspace for military flights related to the operation. Telephone negotiations between Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman failed to resolve the disagreements. Other partners in the region, including Qatar and Oman, were informed only after the announcement, although a White House representative later stated that allies had been warned in advance.

Today, a Hezbollah FPV drone hit an Israeli military vehicle near Shomera, northern Israel.The vehicle caught fire, causing ammunition to detonate. Approximately 12 IDF soldiers were injured.

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CNN believes the Pentagon has underestimated the amount spent on the war with Iran.

Previously, the head of the Pentagon’s financial management, Jules Hurst, speaking in Congress, stated that the US spent $25 billion on the operation in Iran.

“The $25 billion estimate, which a high-ranking Pentagon official voiced to lawmakers on Wednesday as the total cost of the war with Iran to date, is underestimated and does not include costs for eliminating significant damage inflicted on American bases in the region, three sources familiar with the situation told CNN. One of the sources stated that the real estimate is closer to $40–50 billion, taking into account costs for restoring US military facilities and replacing destroyed assets.”

CNN recalls that Iranian strikes on Persian Gulf countries in the first days of the war caused serious damage to at least nine US military facilities in just 48 hours, hitting bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, the UAE, and Qatar.

Among the most expensive destroyed facilities are the THAAD air defense system radar in Jordan and the UAE, as well as a US Air Force E-3 Sentry aircraft, destroyed as a result of an Iranian strike on an airbase in Saudi Arabia.

Vladimir Putin did not invite Donald Trump to the May 9 parade in Moscow, Dmitry Peskov said

Other statements by the Russian press secretary of the president:

— The President of Russia and the USA during yesterday’s phone call discussed the exit of the UAE from OPEC;

— For the announcement of a ceasefire by Russia for Victory Day, Kyiv’s reaction is not needed, this is Vladimir Putin’s decision and it will be implemented.

— Dmitry Peskov called it a big stupidity the desire of the Baltic countries to prevent Fizzo from flying to the Victory Parade.

Hezbollah targeting a grouping of Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon.

Warning from Israel for several villages in southern Lebanon to evacuate .

Hezbollah communique: in response to the Israeli enemy’s violation of the ceasefire and the attacks that extended to villages in southern Lebanon, resulting in the martyrdom of several and the injury of civilians, the fighters of the Islamic Resistance targeted a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers at the newly established site of Bilad in southern Lebanon at 13:50 on Thursday 30-04-2026 with a squadron of strike drones and achieved a confirmed hit.

Soldier killed, 15 injured in Hezbollah drone attacks; IDF strikes in Lebanon

During the visit of the Congolese president to Russia, a joint action plan between Moscow and Brazzaville in the economic sphere will be signed, Putin says. — Sputnik Agency —

Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Pakistan edge toward a new Middle East alignment

Iran holds 441 kg enriched uranium, enough for up to 10 nukes: IAEA

Brent Crude reached $117.

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Nabih Berri, the Shia Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament: With all due respect to the presidency and what is issued by His Excellency the President, the remarks made by the President of the Republic before economic bodies are inaccurate, to say the least, as well as regarding the November 2024 agreement and the subject of negotiations.

The Wall Street Journal writes that Trump has changed his decision to continue military operations in Iran. The publication writes that he chose to continue sanctions and economic pressure on Tehran. He assessed that other options — resuming bombing or exiting the conflict carry greater risk than maintaining the blockade.
IRGC seized power in Iran, Reuters reports: The agency believes that after the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by Americans and Israelis, real power in the country passed to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the war and the subsequent appointment of his son Mojtaba led to a new system dominated by commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps [IRGC], and there is no longer a decisive center for decision-making.

Mojtaba Khamenei formally remains at the top of the system, but according to three sources familiar with internal discussions, his role is reduced more to legitimizing the decisions of the generals than to independent management.
The pressure of the war concentrated power in a narrower and harder circle, formed around the Supreme National Security Council, the office of the Supreme Leader, and the IRGC, which now controls both military strategy and key political decisions.”

Reuters also notes that Iran’s hardline position in negotiations with the US is related not so much to unwillingness to negotiate as to the alleged decentralization of power.

Analysts note that the main obstacle to a deal is not the internal struggle in Tehran, but the rift between what Washington is ready to offer and what the hardline forces of the IRGC are ready to accept.

In negotiations with the US, the diplomatic face of Iran is Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Later, he was joined by the Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf — a former IRGC commander.
However, in practice, the key figure remains the IRGC Commander Ahmad Vahidi — according to Pakistani and Iranian sources, he plays a decisive role, including at the moment of announcing the ceasefire.

After the UAE’s announcement to leave OPEC, the next country that could leave the organization may be Venezuela — The Globe and Mail —

The publication believes the country may take this step because of Donald Trump. The next candidate to leave could be Venezuela — the country with the largest oil reserves in the world. If Trump wants it to leave OPEC, it could well happen. It is also noted that Trump and the start of the war with Iran could have indirectly influenced the UAE’s decision.

The situation escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iran. The UAE stated that they did not receive military support from Arab neighbors, despite Iranian missile and drone strikes on their infrastructure. After this, the Emirates decided to strengthen cooperation with the US and Israel. The lack of support was likely the final point in the decision to leave OPEC.

The Globe and Mail notes that the UAE is not the first country to leave the cartel. Previously, Angola, Ecuador, Indonesia, and Qatar did so. The reason for many is the same — production restrictions that deprive countries of income and slow down the development of oil projects.

The newspaper writes that the global reason for the weakening of OPEC was the shale revolution in the US.

«Nevertheless, over time the UAE will almost inevitably increase production — to the detriment of OPEC and in the interests of Trump, who seeks to lower fuel prices before the elections. Since the start of the conflict, gasoline has risen by about a dollar per gallon, diesel by two.

A serious blow to the cartel was dealt by the shale revolution in the US, after which the country became the largest oil producer and since 2020 — a net exporter. In response, OPEC created the OPEC+ format, including Russia, Mexico, Kazakhstan, and Oman.

Summarizing, the publication concludes that the loss of the UAE is a serious blow to the organization.

Thanks to resources and reserve capacities, the country could become an even larger independent player and weaken the influence of Saudi Arabia on the market, which remains the leading participant in OPEC.

However, the publication notes that OPEC has been buried many times, but it has survived each time.

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IRGC seized power in Iran, Reuters reports: The agency believes that after the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by Americans and Israelis, real power in the country passed to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the war and the subsequent appointment of his son Mojtaba led to a new system dominated by commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps [IRGC], and there is no longer a decisive center for decision-making.

Mojtaba Khamenei formally remains at the top of the system, but according to three sources familiar with internal discussions, his role is reduced more to legitimizing the decisions of the generals than to independent management.
The pressure of the war concentrated power in a narrower and harder circle, formed around the Supreme National Security Council, the office of the Supreme Leader, and the IRGC, which now controls both military strategy and key political decisions.”

Reuters also notes that Iran’s hardline position in negotiations with the US is related not so much to unwillingness to negotiate as to the alleged decentralization of power.

Analysts note that the main obstacle to a deal is not the internal struggle in Tehran, but the rift between what Washington is ready to offer and what the hardline forces of the IRGC are ready to accept.

In negotiations with the US, the diplomatic face of Iran is Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Later, he was joined by the Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf — a former IRGC commander.
However, in practice, the key figure remains the IRGC Commander Ahmad Vahidi — according to Pakistani and Iranian sources, he plays a decisive role, including at the moment of announcing the ceasefire.

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The Wall Street Journal writes that Trump has changed his decision to continue military operations in Iran. The publication writes that he chose to continue sanctions and economic pressure on Tehran. He assessed that other options — resuming bombing or exiting the conflict carry greater risk than maintaining the blockade.

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Reuters: The UAE announces its withdrawal from OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance.

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The spokesperson for the Iranian army said: We do not consider the war to be over, and what has happened is just a lull in the battlefield. Any move by the enemy will be met with a firm response in new arenas and with new tools.

Oil tankers accumulating in Hormuz

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Marco Rubio stated that Iran’s Supreme Leader and the IRGC leadership are hardliners motivated by theology:The best way to understand Iran is that they have a political class. Now, I think, look, people talk about moderates and hardliners. Everyone in Iran is a hardliner. But there are hardliners who understand that they need to run the country and the economy, and there are hardliners who are completely motivated by theology. The hardliners motivated by theology are not only IRGC officials, but obviously the Supreme Leader and the council surrounding him.

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Russia is ready to be a mediator in the settlement of the conflict in the Middle East, if this is requested by the parties, Dmitry Peskov stated. The Press Secretary of the President also noted that Moscow maintains its commitment to the strategic nature of relations with Iran.

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“ Former CIA officer John Kiriakou stated in an interview with Tucker Carlson that the US is acting in Israel’s interests rather than its own:

“It is unpleasant for me to say this, but I actually believe it. I understand how close a friend and ally Israel has always been and remains. I understand that. But it seems to me that sometimes we act in Israel’s interests rather than in our own interests. I think this is one such case. Israelis, of course, will be outraged and scream about the Irish, Spaniards, and Italians.
Okay. But we should, you know, let them express their dissatisfaction and then do what is in the interests of the United States. And it seems to me that we are not doing that. We are following Israel’s instructions for its own sake.

El Jadinero, CJNG drug cartel’s head of security and successor to El Mencho following his assassination in a botched raid by Mexican authorites, has been arrested by Mexican law enforcement. He also has a $5M reward for his arrest by the United States of America and will likely be extradited there.

Vladimir Putin met with the Iranian Foreign Minister Arakchi: The people of Iran are bravely and heroically fighting for their sovereignty.

Syria has strongly condemned the armed attack that targeted a dinner event in Washington, expressing its firm rejection of all forms of violence. Damascus also affirmed its solidarity with the United States and emphasized the importance of confronting terrorism and protecting civilians. The statement read:

About a dozen American refueling aircraft KC-135 Stratotanker landed at the Eilat airport in southern Israel. Earlier, several tankers KC-135 and KC-46 were spotted at the Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations Center (UKMTO) reported an incident 6 nautical miles northeast of Garacad, Somalia, where “unauthorized persons” took control of a cargo ship, which was subsequently redirected to territorial waters. According to the statement, this activity is likely to have been carried out by the Pirate Action Group (PAG).

Brent crude futures rose to their highest level in three weeks, reaching around $108 per barrel.

Iranian sources: The Lebanese file is a priority for Iran in any agreement with the United States and is under discussion to stop the war once and for all.

Iran FM Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, arrived in Saint Petersburg early Monday to meet and hold talks with Vladimir Putin, as part of his ongoing regional tour following two rounds of negotiations in Islamabad and a recent visit to Oman over the past three days, according to Islamic Republic News Agency sources .

Evacuation of wounded Israeli soldiers from southern Lebanon after a Hezbollah drone attack.

IDF soldier killed by Hezbollah drone in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah FPV drone target a Merkava tank in Mays al-Jabal, southern Lebanon.

Israeli airstrikes on Kfar Tabnit, southern Lebanon. Casualties reported.

Launches from Hezbollah towards Israel reported.

Pakistani sources report that the Iranian Foreign Minister has arrived at the Noor Khan military base near Islamabad.

Statement issued by Hezbollah:

Today, the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu, claimed that “Hezbollah is undermining the ceasefire,” and that the enemy has the right to “freedom of action” in Lebanon “according to the agreement with the United States of America and Lebanon.” Hezbollah, while condemning Netanyahu’s statements, strongly warns of their grave danger in attempting to implicate the Lebanese authorities in a bilateral agreement that took place only between him and Washington, in which Lebanon had no say or position, and therefore did not approve it. In this context, Hezbollah would like to emphasize the following:

The continuation of the resistance in targeting gatherings of the Israeli enemy on our occupied land, and shelling its settlements in northern occupied Palestine, is a legitimate response to its ongoing violations of the ceasefire since the very first day of the temporary truce, which have exceeded 500 violations by land, sea, and air, including shelling, demolition, and destruction of homes, resulting in dozens of martyrs and wounded among our steadfast people.

The extension of the truce for additional weeks was supposed, according to statements by the Lebanese authorities, to bring about a real ceasefire in which the enemy would halt its violations and attacks, especially its demolition and destruction of homes in the south. Instead, however, it escalated its aggression and attacks, confirming its criminal nature, treachery, and disregard for all international laws and conventions.

The Lebanese authorities claimed that their basic condition for attending their ill-fated meeting in Washington with the enemy was to demand a halt to its attacks and the beginning of its withdrawal from our occupied lands. However, we have not heard any clear and public statement from them stipulating this; on the contrary, what was issued by Lebanon’s representative was only praise for the American president, the enemy’s partner in shedding Lebanese blood, which encouraged the enemy to continue its attacks and violations.

The Lebanese authorities have put themselves in a dangerous predicament when they chose to appear in a single shameful photo with representatives of an illegitimate usurping entity that violates their land and sovereignty and continues to kill their people, and by following paths that legitimize this enemy’s attacks.

Today, the authorities stand silent and incapable of fulfilling even the simplest of their national duties toward their land and people, watching as the enemy demolishes homes and burns everything in its path. They are required to provide a clear explanation to their people regarding the alleged agreement with the enemy that supposedly grants it the freedom to attack, destroy, and kill.

Hezbollah affirms clearly and decisively that the enemy’s continued violations of the ceasefire, its attacks through shelling, bulldozing, and destruction of homes or targeting of civilians, and above all, its continued occupation of Lebanese territory and violations of its sovereignty, will be met with a ready and present resistance to defend its land and people—a right guaranteed by international conventions. We will not wait for or rely on failed diplomacy that has proven its ineffectiveness, nor on an authority that shirks its duty to protect its homeland. The people of this land are the true guarantee in confronting this aggression and defeating the occupation.

Statement of the Supreme Council of National Security of Iran: On the tenth day of the war, Americans began sending messages and requests for a ceasefire and negotiations to end the war that they themselves started.

– On the fortieth day of the war and after the official statement of the US President on the acceptance of Iran’s 10-point plan as a basis for ceasefire negotiations, the Islamic Republic of Iran agreed to these negotiations in Islamabad under the mediation of Pakistan.

– These negotiations continued for 21 hours without a break, and the Iranian delegation put forward and defended the demands of the Iranian people with seriousness, initiative, and maximum distrust towards the United States.

– Despite agreeing to act within the framework of Iran’s 10-point plan, the adversary put forward new and excessive demands during the negotiations, to which the Iranian delegation responded with a firm position and a decision in no way to compromise on its positions.

– For this reason, the first round of negotiations ended without a clear result, and its continuation was postponed to another time when the adversary ceases to be excessive and changes its demands in accordance with the realities on the ground.

– In recent days, with the presence of the Pakistani Field Marshal in Tehran as a mediator in the negotiations, the Americans put forward new proposals, which the Islamic Republic of Iran is considering and has not yet responded to.

– We declare that the Iranian negotiating team will not compromise, will not retreat, and will not tolerate anything, and will do everything in its power to protect the interests and concerns of the Iranian nation.

– One of the conditions for Iran’s acceptance of a temporary ceasefire was a ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, which the Zionist enemy violated from the very beginning.

– At the insistence of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Zionist regime agreed to a ceasefire in Lebanon, and it was decided that there would be a ceasefire on all fronts, the Strait of Hormuz would be temporarily and conditionally open until the end of the ceasefire period only for the passage of commercial vessels, but not military vessels or civilian vessels of the USA and Israel, under the control and permission of the Iranian armed forces and along the route determined by Iran.

– Considering that the majority of US military bases in the Persian Gulf region receive supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, and this represents a threat to the national security of Iran and the Persian Gulf region, Iran intends to monitor and control movement through the Hormuz Strait until the war ends forever and a solid peace is achieved throughout the region.

– This will be carried out by obtaining full information from passing vessels, issuing a passage certificate in accordance with the rules announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran, in accordance with the conditions of the war, and the collection announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

– Until there is a naval blockade, the Islamic Republic of Iran will consider it a violation of the ceasefire and will prevent the conditional and limited opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Reports state that US and Iran negotiations will resume within the next 24 H. Tasnim reported that Tehran either refused to participate entirely or, at the very least, “has not yet made a decision” on sending a delegation. It is emphasized: no decision will be made while the US maintains the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Previously, Iran opened the strait after the start of the ceasefire in Lebanon, but soon closed it again since Washington did not lift restrictions against Iranian ships. Now Tehran is effectively trying to cement this link: lifting the blockade is a mandatory condition for continuing negotiations.

Trump directly stated that negotiations must take place, and if the Iranian delegation does not arrive in Islamabad and does not agree to the proposed deal, there will be a strike on infrastructure — including bridges and power plants.

Iranian Foreign Ministry: President Pezeshkian emphasized in a call with the Prime Minister of Pakistan the necessity of formulating a common understanding among the concerned parties.

Iranian security source to Al Mayadeen: US ceasefire is a “tactical pause” to return to war

This Iranian official also pointed to Iran’s security and domestic achievements and added that the unity of resistance factions has greatly increased the costs of war for Israel. He stated that social cohesion in Iran (with 30 million people registering in the sacrifice campaign) has been a key factor in the political defeat of the enemy, emphasizing that complex economic and energy calculations also indicate increasing pressures on the American-Israeli axis.

An Iranian security-political source in an interview with Al Mayadeen network confirmed that the US decision for a ceasefire is the result of an inability to manage conflicts and not a diplomatic choice. This source, referring to deep rifts between Washington and Tel Aviv, warned that Tehran sees this pause not as the end of the crisis but as an opportunity to return to war more quickly and is therefore keeping itself ready for any sudden action.

The unity of factions and the formation of a joint command room on the resistance front have increased the cost of action, and simultaneously with the exposure of the vulnerability of the northern front in the occupied territories and the declared need for about 80,000 troops and 20 billion in currency to stabilize defensive lines, serious limitations of the opposing side have been revealed. These pressures, alongside the heavy economic costs of war and energy market risks, have complicated calculations.

The US Navy destroyer USS Rafael Peralta intercepted the Iranian tanker M/T HERBY in the Indian Ocean as part of the blockade of Iranian ports.

The vessel was returning to Iran from Indonesia, having delivered two million barrels of oil.

Iran could cut underwater internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz and disconnect Gulf countries from the internet.

This is made clear by the Iranian state agency Tasnim, which published a map of cables in the strait. The destruction or damage of cables threatens a digital collapse in the region, as a number of countries would be left without physical access to the internet in such a case.

Seven cables (Falcon, AAE-1, TGN-Gulf, SEA-ME-WE), through which 15% of the world’s internet traffic passes, are located in Oman’s territorial waters.

For countries such as the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iraq, this would lead to severe economic consequences. Without the internet, banking operations would cease and data centers would stop functioning.

Iranian FM Araqchi to revisit Islamabad after his visit to Oman.

Somali terror gangs affiliated with Iran’s regime seized an Israel-linked Oil Tanker and maneuvered within Somali territorial waters, Puntland region.

Haaretz newspaper: Qatar informed the leadership of Hamas that they are not welcome in Doha, and Qatar has been pressuring Hamas for about a week to hand over their weapons in the Gaza Strip.

Donald Trump commented on the cancellation of his negotiators’ trip to Pakistan:

— The new proposal submitted to Washington by the Iranian side was not good enough.

— We are not going to spend 15 hours on planes flying back and forth for a document that is not good for anything, for now contacts can continue by phone.

— The US will wait until Iran determines who “is in charge” in the country to continue negotiations with them.

— Trump claims that he “didn’t even think” whether the temporary ceasefire with Iran would be extended.

Southern Lebanon tonight.

Southern Lebanon

Cities in southern Lebanon are subject to intense bombardments by the Israeli army after Hezbollah rocket fire in northern Israel.

Lebanon and Israel extended their ceasefire for three weeks after a high-level meeting at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday. Trump hosted Israel’s ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese ambassador to ⁠the U.S. Nada Moawad in the Oval Office for a second round of U.S.-facilitated ⁠talks, a day after Israeli strikes killed at least five people including a journalist.

Iran threatens to target Saudi energy facilities if oil wells targeted – Türkiye Today

Amjad Youssef, one of the main perpetrators of the ‘ Tadamun massacre’ during the Syrian civil war captured by Syrian security forces . The Tadamun massacre (Arabic: مجزرة حي التضامن) took place in the vicinity of the Othman Mosque in the Tadamon neighbourhood of the Syrian capital of Damascus on 16 April 2013 during the Syrian civil war. Soldiers affiliated with the Syrian Arab Armed Forces, specifically Branch 227 (Damascus branch) of the Military Intelligence Directorate, killed more than 288 civilians during the massacre. Ali Assaf killed in southern Lebanon.

Senior Hezbollah military commander ( architect of ambushes ) Mohamad Ali Assaf killed in southern Lebanon.

A strike was carried out against three Hezbollah militants operating a MANPADS system in southern Lebanon; after launching a missile, they attempted to flee by vehicle.

Tehran International Airport will resume operations on April 25th, with the first flights heading to Istanbul and Muscat.

China advises citizens to leave Iran immediately. The Chinese Embassy in Tehran has strongly urged its citizens to leave Iran as soon as possible and move to safer areas, citing security concerns. A similar warning was issued on February 27, one day before the start of hostilities.

Italy plans to deploy minesweepers for Strait of Hormuz as part of ‘international mission’

Italy has indicated it could send up to four ships, including two minesweepers, as part of an international operation to clear the Strait of Hormuz, according to the navy’s chief of staff.

“The contingency plan drawn up by the Chief of the Defense Staff envisages a group consisting of two minesweepers, an escort vessel and a logistics vessel,” Navy Chief of Staff Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto told state broadcaster RAI late on Wednesday.

The US Justice Department has offered a $10 million reward for information on Abu Ala al-Walai, leader of the Iraqi Shia militia group Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada .

US military is preparing plans to strike Iran’s defenses around the Strait of Hormuz if the current ceasefire fails.Targets could include small attack boats, mine-laying vessels, missiles, and drones that Iran uses to control the waterway. Other options under consideration include strikes on energy infrastructure or attacks on Iranian military leaders.

Iran has made exceptions for a number of states, including Russia, regarding the issue of tolls for passing through the Strait of Hormuz – Iran’s ambassador to Russia.

Armenia and France will sign a document on strategic partnership during Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Yerevan.

The U.S. military has intercepted at least three Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters and redirected them as part of a wider naval blockade on Iran.

Israel has been informed that Trump’s new deadline to Iran ends on Sunday.

The US 🇺🇸 is urging its citizens to leave Lebanon 🇱🇧 immediately.

Italy gifted a statue of Jesus Christ to the Christian village of Debel in southern Lebanon, after the original statue in the village was destroyed and desecrated by an Israeli soldier.

Yemen Nasreddin Amer, Deputy Head of the Media Department of AnsarAllah (Houthis): Iran is essentially responding to the blockade as an act of aggression that deserves a response, regardless of the effectiveness of this blockade or not, and that the time for reserving the right to respond has ended irrevocably; because it was an open door for impunity without deterrence.

The failure or success of the blockade changes nothing, as the issue is one of deterrence that must be established. America and Israel entered this war wanting to fundamentally change the Middle East and control what they call “Greater Israel” – and we recall the statements of the American ambassador to the entity days before the aggression – but it has stopped – even temporarily – and Israel is unable to control Bint Jbeil and Khiam, and America is unable to control Hormuz.”

More than 30 IRGC fast attack boats spotted by satellite in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Ghalibaf: A complete ceasefire only makes sense when it is not violated by a naval blockade and the seizure of the global economy, and when the incitement of war by Zionists on all fronts is stopped; opening the Strait of Hormuz is impossible with a flagrant violation of the ceasefire.

The Pentagon believes it will take six months to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, Washington Post reports citing its own sources. According to the publication’s assessment, the negative consequences of the armed conflict will continue to affect the global economy until the end of the current year.

US Navy Secretary John Fallon fired by the Pentagon.

Iranian drones falling on Erbil :

Iran’s navy said it has seized two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz and taken them to the country’s coast after reports that three vessels came under fire from Iranian forces.
Nour News, affiliated with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire on the first ship, which it called the Epaminodes, after it had “ignored the warnings of the Iranian armed forces”.
A second ship, named Euphoria, was then stopped after being “fired upon”, followed by the targeting of a third vessel, the MSC-Francesca, according to BBC Verify.

Iran’s Tasnim news agency: Continuation of a naval blockade amounts to continued hostility; as long as the blockade persists, Iran will at least not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and if necessary, it will break the blockade by force.

The 2 weeks ceasefire is now over; Iran has not yet responded to Trump’s unilateral ceasefire extension.

Explosions were reported in Erbil, Iraq resulted from strikes by Iranian drones on the headquarters of US-backed kurdish groups.

Iran will not participate in the negotiations in Islamabad, the decision is final, reports Tasnim. Tehran stated that the refusal is due to the US failing to meet its obligations and violating the ceasefire plan prepared with Pakistan’s mediation.

Thus, the American delegation demanded that Tehran hand over all enriched uranium. In addition, the US insisted on its direct participation in the management of the Strait of Hormuz instead of Oman. The Islamic Republic refused to discuss this issue, as the strait is located in the territorial waters of Iran and Oman, and the United States has no connection to it.

Iranian Ambassador Hosseiniyan on negotiations with the US in Pakistan. According to the diplomat, at certain moments the positions of the parties were close, but then the US began to impose its own conditions.

The White House confirmed that the US expects a single proposal from the Iranians and Vance’s trip to Pakistan today will not take place. JD Vance was supposed to lead the US delegation in negotiations with Iran.

Advisor to Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliament speaker: Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire makes no sense. The ceasefire extension is an attempt to buy time for a surprise attack. Iran currently holds the initiative.

Iran will not open the Strait of Hormuz until the American blockade is lifted, despite Trump’s extension of the ceasefire, reported the Tasnim news agency.

“We did not ask to extend the ceasefire,” say officials in Iran. Recall that Tehran’s main condition for resuming negotiations is the lifting of the American naval blockade.

Le Kuwait a déclaré la force majeure sur tous les expéditions de pétrole brut et de produits raffinés après que le blocus iranien du détroit d’Ormuz a rendu les exportations impossibles. Le PDG de la Koweit Petroleum Corporation Nawaf al-Sabah, a qualifié la situation de catastrophique au-delà de toute mesure avertissant qu’elle déclenchera un effet domino dans l’économie mondiale.

Times of Israel : 26 years later, IDF restores its south Lebanon security zone — with key changes. While the military avoids calling it a ‘security zone,’ the boundaries are nearly the same; commanders say this time troops won’t face same threats. Five IDF divisions — totaling tens of thousands of troops — are currently stationed in the new security zone, whose boundaries are unsurprisingly similar to the security zone Israel held between 1985 and 2000, as Lebanon’s terrain has not exactly changed in the past 26 years.

Due to the seizure of an Iranian tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran has decided to cancel the next round of negotiations with Washington.\n\nThe reasons cited include the ongoing blockade, threatening rhetoric, Washington’s inconsistent position, and “excessive demands.

Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir told Trump that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports is blocking renewed U.S.–Iran talks.

Xi Jinping: The Strait of Hormuz should remain open for normal passage, which aligns with the common interest of countries in the region and the international community.

The US is expanding military bases in Cyprus under the guise of evacuation, they are building a foothold near the Middle East borders.The US is investing millions of dollars in upgrading Cypriot military facilities. According to the report, Cyprus’s main naval base will receive a new helipad capable of accepting heavy “Chinooks,” as well as port facilities for frigates. Officially, this is for evacuating refugees. In reality, it is for increasing military presence right on the borders of conflict zones.The naval base will be equipped with a new helipad capable of accepting large transport helicopters of the ‘Chinook’ type. In addition, new port facilities will be built at the base, which will allow it to accept larger ships, such as frigates,” AP reports, citing a representative of the Cyprus National Guard.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret over the actions of an Israeli soldier who smashed a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon. The soldier faces “strict disciplinary measures,” the head of government assured.

Russian law enforcement officers on April 19 detained and interrogated at least 40 Israeli citizens upon their arrival at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport from Tel Aviv.

Among those detained were individuals with dual citizenship—Israel and Russia—as well as Israelis without Russian passports.

They were held for about five hours without water, food, or access to a toilet.

The officers behaved rudely and demanded that phones be unlocked; however, after receiving refusals, they limited their demands to turning off the devices.

The Israeli citizens were then interrogated—at least some of them were accused by the officers of waging war against Iran.

During the questioning, the detainees were told that Iran is an ally of Russia and that an enemy of Iran is also our enemy.

The officers stated that they were not happy about the arrival of Israeli citizens in Moscow and that they had come for nothing.

Approximately five hours after the detention, the Israeli citizens began to be released after signing documents containing warnings.
[6:08 AM, 4/20/2026] Naji: France has unveiled new large-scale plans to modernize its armed forces and doctrine, betting on a radical enhancement of strategic strike capabilities and air defense penetration assets.
I have compiled the most interesting highlights from the text by French analyst Étienne Marcuse, a specialist in nuclear deterrence, missile defense, and strategic systems, as well as a former Ministry of Defense employee:

In the field of ground weapons, France is making a qualitative leap: by 2035, it plans to adopt a ballistic missile with a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) and a range of about 2500 km.

The key element of the new doctrine will be the deeply upgraded Rafale fighter in the F5 standard, with the first 47 units from the first tranche entering service by 2035. The aircraft will receive new M88 T-REX engines with thrust increased to 9 tons, updated electronics, and conformal fuel tanks, enabling deep raids without aerial refueling.

Target detection will be handled by a completely new RBE2-XG radar with an active phased array antenna based on gallium nitride (GaN), similar to fifth-generation aircraft radars, providing significantly higher radiation power and better performance.

The main sensation for aviation is the announced development of the COMET ultra-long-range “air-to-air” missile, which could appear even before the Rafale F5 itself—by 2030. It is expected to complement, not replace, the current Meteor missiles.

Thus, by design, it is planned to be a long-range interceptor based on the Aster 30 surface-to-air missile (similar to the American AIM-174, converted from the ship-based SM-6).

Due to its enormous range, COMET guidance will require external target designation, as the fighter’s own radar will not be able to independently acquire low-observable targets at extreme distances.

To penetrate layered air defense (SEAD missions), French aviation will receive the STRATUS-RS supersonic anti-radiation and anti-ship missile.

The missile will home in on enemy radar emissions from a safe distance, allowing aviation to expose protected zones for subsequent conventional or nuclear strikes.

In parallel, Paris is strengthening its air nuclear component. To reliably overcome the development of modern enemy missile defense systems, it is planned to increase the arsenal of ASN4G missiles with TNA4G nuclear warheads, which will replace the current subsonic ASMPA-R missiles by 2035.

Russian law enforcement officers on April 19 detained and interrogated at least 40 Israeli citizens upon their arrival at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport from Tel Aviv.

Among those detained were individuals with dual citizenship—Israel and Russia—as well as Israelis without Russian passports.

They were held for about five hours without water, food, or access to a toilet.

The officers behaved rudely and demanded that phones be unlocked; however, after receiving refusals, they limited their demands to turning off the devices.

The Israeli citizens were then interrogated—at least some of them were accused by the officers of waging war against Iran.

During the questioning, the detainees were told that Iran is an ally of Russia and that an enemy of Iran is also our enemy.

The officers stated that they were not happy about the arrival of Israeli citizens in Moscow and that they had come for nothing.

Approximately five hours after the detention, the Israeli citizens began to be released after signing documents containing warnings.

An Israeli 🇮🇱 Merkava tank spotted in Bint Jbeil, southern Lebanon 🇱🇧.

United States Central Command (CENTCOM) published a footage showing US Navy USS Spruance intercepting and firing upon Iranian-flagged M/V Touska cargo ship at the North of the Arabian Sea:.

Zabihullah Mujahid a rejeté l’allégation selon laquelle des membres de l’Administration Talibane seraient liés à Al-Qaïda. Le porte-parole des Talibans a qualifié de « totalement faux » le récent rapport concernant les liens de certains membres de cette administration avec le réseau Al-Qaïda, affirmant qu’aucun groupe étranger n’opère en Afghanistan. Il a décrit ces allégations comme une tentative de discréditer l’image de l’administration Talibane en Afghanistan. En contra partie l’Institut du Moyen-Orient, dans un nouveau rapport, a affirmé qu’environ 55 membres de l’administration talibane entretiennent des liens avec Al-Qaïda, bien que les détails de la nature de ces liens n’aient pas été divulgués. La question des liens potentiels entre l’administration talibane et les groupes armés transnationaux reste un sujet de débat majeur au niveau régional et mondial depuis le retour de cette administration au pouvoir.

Le Monde: L’Iran assure qu’il ne remettra pas son uranium enrichi aux Etats-Unis, contredisant Donald Trump
Vendredi, le président américain avait déclaré que Washington collaborerait avec Téhéran pour récupérer son uranium enrichi et le ramener aux Etats-Unis. Après la nouvelle fermeture du détroit d’Ormuz, samedi, Téhéran a prévenu que la signature d’un accord de paix était « encore loin ».

“ Al Jazeera reports that Yemeni Houthis have declared their readiness to close the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Yemeni Houthis have threatened to block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait if Trump obstructs the peace process.”

According to estimates by American intelligence and the military, Iran still has over 60% of its missile installations and about 40% of its attack drones, which is enough to block shipping in the Strait of Hormuz reports “The New York Times” .

Hezbollah reports the funeral of Ali Reza Abbas, one of the last high-ranking commanders from Nasrallah’s inner circle. Nasrallah, as a reminder, was eliminated along with the entire leadership in 2024. Ali Reza Abbas was likely killed on April 8 during the Israeli military operation.

Hezbollah states that a ceasefire with Israel must be mutual, not unilateral. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated a ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities warning that fighters will respond to violations accordingly.

Two LNG tankers are passing through the Strait of Hormuz in coordination with the IRGC. The tanker “MEDA” is under sanctions by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, while the tanker “G SUMMER” is designated as owned by Chinese owners.

Velayati : The era of imposing security from across the oceans has ended. Advisor to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution:

— 1) The era of imposing security from across the oceans has ended; today, not only is the security of Hormuz and Malacca guaranteed under our might and that of our strategic partners, but the security of Bab el-Mandeb is also in the hands of our Ansarullah brothers.

— Any mischief will have a chain reaction response.”

— 2) In the ridiculous display of the Paris meeting, if Britain and France are concerned about shipping security, they should think about the Strait of Dover and the old wound at Gibraltar.

— We appreciate Madrid’s independent and reasonable stance.”

Macron blames Hezbollah for killing French peacekeeper, terror organization denies involvement Sergeant-Chief Florian Montorio was the victim of an ambush according to the french minister of the armed Forces. Our condolences to the state of France.

Guterres condemned the attack on UNIFIL forces in Lebanon: The United Nations issued an official statement reacting to the targeting of peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon and called for guarantees of the security of its staff.

Iran sets conditions: Washington must earn the trust of the Iranian people to conclude a deal with Tehran.

This was stated by the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

He called this the most important step that Americans must take.

Deputy Head of the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Saeed Hatibzadeh, noted that Iran will not send enriched uranium to the US.

According to him, such actions are unacceptable for Tehran.

France 🇫🇷 is testing how to shoot down drones.
After limited, but still significant, participation in the war in the Middle East, France concluded that cheaper means are needed to destroy unmanned aerial vehicles. Since spending Mica air-to-air missiles, costing $700,000 each, on Shaheds is not a very cost-effective option.

Therefore, the French went down the same path as everyone else and began testing their laser-guided rockets. In the photo, a Rafale fighter with a TELSON 12 JF pod containing 12 68-mm ACULEUS-LG rockets, as well as a suspended TALIOS targeting pod for guidance.

Line of contact confrontation between Hezbollah and the Israeli Army in south Lebanon. ( Hezbollah sources)

Netanyahu on Lebanon:

We have achieved great success. For the first time, we have created an extensive security zone along the entire northern border.

This belt completely eliminates the immediate threat of invasion. We have destroyed almost 90% of the rocket and missile stockpiles.

Hezbollah today is but a shadow of itself.

We have not yet finished the job. This will not be achieved tomorrow.

It requires patience and continuous effort.

We have agreed to a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon. For the first time in 43 years, Israel and Lebanon are holding direct negotiations.

We will provide an opportunity for a diplomatic and military solution.

The path to peace is still long, but we have already begun it.

Intelligence reports notes an increase in the presence of Pakistani warships near the Strait of Hormuz. The ships were sent to ensure the uninterrupted passage of Pakistani tankers from the Persian Gulf to Karachi, the oil transport is being carried out on tankers flying Pakistani flags.

Iran has partially reopened its airspace to civil aviation for the first time since February 28, according to the country’s air traffic controllers.

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz again, according to the IRGC. The Joint Military Command of the IRGC stated that control over the Strait of Hormuz has ‘returned to its previous state’ due to the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports by the United States.

Iran does not agree to the removal of enriched uranium from the country — this was stated by Bakaee, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic. This concerns issues that have been raised. None of them are subject to confirmation. Some American officials have also mentioned them.

The UK Maritime Trade Organisation [UKMTO] reports that a tanker off the coast of Oman was attacked by boats of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which opened fire on the vessel. The tanker’s captain reported that two armed IRGC boats approached the vessel, after which they opened fire. The tanker and crew are reportedly safe.

Le directeur de l’Agence internationale de l’énergie avertit : en raison de la guerre en Iran, le monde s’apprête à faire face à une flambée des prix alimentaires — engrais, pétrochimie et hélium sont menacés. L’Occident, qui a ignoré les risques pendant des années, s’est lui-même enfermé dans le piège du détroit d’Ormuz.

Le Soir : Le chef de la Défense : Même avec le retrait américain, Poutine ne gagnera pas la guerre contre l’Europe. Le général aviateur Frederik Vansina avertit : la période beaucoup plus imprévisible, dangereuse, « avec tout le monde qui s’arme jusqu’aux dents . Une autonomie stratégique européenne est possible, mais au sein de l’Otan, pas de l’UE. Il reste beaucoup de pain sur la planche.

Le général des Forces armées belges Frédéric Vansina a déclaré dans une interview au journal Le Soir que l’Europe doit accroître sa puissance militaire d’ici 2030 pour contenir la Russie, même sans l’aide des États-Unis. Selon lui, le temps nécessaire à cette préparation se paie au prix de vies ukrainiennes.

« En 2030, nous devons être en mesure de dire à Vladimir Poutine qu’il ne gagnera pas la guerre contre l’Europe, même sans les Américains. Nous avons encore quelques années devant nous. Grâce au courage et au sang des Ukrainiens qui achètent ce temps pour nous. C’est pourquoi nous les soutenons tant », a déclaré le général.

Le général a également appelé l’industrie de défense européenne à augmenter rapidement ses capacités et à ne pas penser que les commandes s’épuiseront après la fin de la guerre en Ukraine. Selon lui, les industriels ne devraient pas se guider uniquement par la logique économique en calculant les coûts et les bénéfices, et ils ne réalisent pas toujours leur rôle dans la protection du continent.

Trump thanked Iran for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz: Iran just announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for free passage. Thank you !

The aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, located in a port in the state of Virginia, caught fire. The aircraft carrier is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance and modernization of critical systems, not long ago another US aircraft carrier caught fire, the USS Gerald R. Ford, which participated in strikes against Iran

Israel DM Katz says it holds and will continue to hold all areas it’s cleared in south Lebanon.

Matt Gaetz, former US Congressman: A senior Iranian official recently said that Iran welcomes a ground war. You have previously planned for a ground invasion scenario in various regions of Iran.

Does Iran really have the capability to take American citizens hostage on a large scale during an invasion?

Larry Johnson, former CIA analyst: Absolutely. They have gone through a ten-year war where the United States supported Iraq against Iran… The United States’ problem is force concentration areas.

One thing is to say we will start a ground invasion, but the question is where will you gather the forces? You might remember that in 2003, we gathered 165,000 soldiers in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

U.S. considers $20 billion cash-for-uranium deal with Iran

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi: In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa: We were not a party in any conflict against Iran during the war taking place currently with Iran. We were pushing in a direction not to spark this war from the start, because Iran is a state that has a population of about 85 million people, and any harm that hits Iran from the inside could affect the region in general. We are pushing for the region to be stable and for its problems to be solved via dialogue and diplomacy, not to enter into conflicts and big disputes. We hope this war stops and the region moves to a phase where such wars will not repeat.

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Trump is determined to continue the

military operation against Iran. Netanyahu noted that Trump is extremely determined

and does not plan to retreat.

Iran rejects any extension of the ceasefire and will maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz, stated Ebrahim Zolfagari, a representative from IRGC “Khatam al-Anbiya.”

“We will maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz until all of Iran’s rights are secured. We reject any extension of the ceasefire. We are ready for a long war, the Americans are not. This is merely a pause, not peace. Any land invasion of Iran will completely fail.”

Iran FM Araghchi to receive a high-level Pakistani delegation in Tehran.

If the Strait of Hormuz is not unblocked, a humanitarian crisis could begin by June, former UK Foreign Secretary David Miliband stated. Obviously, oil and gas are currently blocked—you have spoken about this a lot. Fertilizers: 30% of global fertilizer supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and they are now completely stuck. Also, people do not know that there is a humanitarian hub—a global distribution center for humanitarian cargo: medicines, essential food, and nutrition to combat malnutrition. It is located in Dubai. And it is also currently blocked.

The American military has completely withdrawn from its last military base in Al-Hasakah, Syria.

Iran FM Araghchi to receive a high-level Pakistani delegation in Tehran.

Today, the Chief of Staff of the Pakistan Armed Forces arrived in Tehran to discuss further negotiations.

The US Central Command reports that it has turned back a cargo ship under the Iranian flag.: Yesterday, a cargo ship under the Iranian flag attempted to bypass the American blockade by leaving Bandar Abbas port, exiting the Strait of Hormuz, and proceeding along the Iranian coast. The guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) successfully redirected the vessel, which is now returning to Iran. Since the imposition of the American blockade on Monday, ten ships have been turned back, and NONE of them have broken through the blockade..

A ceasefire in Lebanon could come into force this week, the Financial Times reported citing sources.

Current situation map in southern Lebanon

Iran has proposed allowing safe passage for ships through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz if an agreement is reached with the United States.

The USS George HW Bush aircraft carrier not to be confronted by AnsarAllah (Yemen Houthi’s) had to travel from Southern Africa en route to Iran .

Israeli nocturnal airstrikes on Sarafand in southern Lebanon.

The first oil tanker has sailed west through the Strait of Hormuz following the US blockade of Iranian ports, reports MarineTraffic. The Maltese-flagged tanker Agios Fanourios is currently heading to Basra, Iraq.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the US is ready to impose secondary sanctions for working with Iran:

“I will tell you that two Chinese banks received letters from the US Treasury Department. I will not name these banks, but we told them that if we can prove that Iranian money is passing through their accounts, we are ready to impose secondary sanctions.

Axios: Trump “would welcome and be pleased with a ceasefire” between Israel and Lebanon, a US official stated.

On Wednesday, as Israel’s Security Cabinet gathered to discuss a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, a US official told Axios that President Trump “would welcome and be pleased with a cessation of hostilities.”

Why this matters: The ceasefire proposal is politically sensitive for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Although these two fronts are officially separate, it could help President Trump achieve a peace agreement with Iran.

“The US has not asked Israel for a ceasefire in Lebanon, and this is not part of peace negotiations with Iran. But the president would welcome and be pleased with a cessation of hostilities as part of an agreement between Israel and Lebanon,” the US official said.

Israeli officials stated that the war in Lebanon and a possible ceasefire would be discussed at the cabinet meeting on Wednesday evening.
The meeting concluded without the Israeli government making a decision on a ceasefire.

Tankers steering clear of Hormuz ahead of a US blockade, oil prices spike

Carrier USS George H.W. Bush Operating off Southern Africa as Iranian Blockade Begins

Israeli Army captured the city of Bin Jbeil in southern Lebanon from Hezbollah.

Hezbollah conducted 60 operations yesterday, which included taking out 1 Merkava tank and 1 military vehicle carrying commanders, repelling 29 advance attempts, firing 35 missiles and 20 drones, and targeting 17 settlements.

Chinese Defense Minister: Our ships are moving in and out of the waters of the Strait of Hormuz. We have trade and energy agreements with Iran. We will respect and abide by these agreements, and we expect others not to interfere in our affairs. Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, which is open to us.

A Cry of a Nation

By Etienne Sakr
Chairman , Guardians of the Cedars Party.

The 13 April 1975 stands as a pivotal milestone in the modern history of Lebanon, bringing together three major events:

First, the PLO Palestinian armed invasion of Lebanon, which embodied all meanings of treachery, brutality, and ingratitude, and from which later emerged Assad regime and Islamic regime of Iran war against Lebanon.

Second, the rise of the Lebanese resistance in the seventies which confronted this invasion with rare heroism, writing epics that shifted the balance of power and asserted its presence both domestically and internationally.

Third, the emergence of the Guardians of the Cedars Party – the Lebanese Nationalist Movement, distinguished by integrity, ferocity in battle, and steadfast principles, encapsulating in its path the sanctity of the Lebanese cause.

Today, despite the deep darkness surrounding Lebanon, it will inevitably rise from its ashes, remaining faithful to its historical mission .

Tehran is ready for a deal if the US offers a genuine agreement and grants Iran its rights. We have good will, but we have no trust, said Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of the Iranian parliament and former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The Iranian delegation arrived in Islamabad for negotiations with the Americans. Pakistan has released a list of names from the Iranian delegation. It consists of 86 officials, experts, and media personnel. Some important names that are attending, which weren’t mentioned in media extensively, are Baqeri Kani, deputy of the SNSC, and Mohammad Nabavian, a notoriously conservative MP. Overall, this is a heavy weight delegation which carries a lot of authority and expertise.

Amid ongoing negotiations, the US and Lebanon are urging Israel to cease strikes on Lebanon, but Netanyahu is strongly opposed Axios reports.

Iran team arrives for US talks as Lebanon, Israel make first contact

In Islamabad, US set to face a more defiant Iran at negotiating table

Trump says the Strait of Hormuz will open up automatically, adding that Iran will make no money otherwise. He thinks that it will be open fairly soon.

The key US requirement for the upcoming negotiations with Iran will be that Tehran must not obtain nuclear weapons, Trump said.

BBC: More than 100 killed across Lebanon in large wave of Israeli strikes.

US military says it’s ready to resume Iran fighting if diplomacy fails

Lebanon’s capital Beirut under massive Israeli bombardments today .

Israel has the right to self defense but what happened in Beirut earlier today was not the case. Israeli warplanes overwhelmingly bombed civilian districts of the capital Beirut inducing massive casualties. This is not going to help the case against Hezbollah within Lebanon as what happened is inadmissible.

Nagi N. Najjar , former advisor to US Army (ret.) Maj. Gen. Paul E. Vallely

The Supreme National Security Council of Iran stated that negotiations with the United States will take place in Islamabad starting April 10 to coordinate details aimed at confirming Iran’s political achievements on the battlefield and will last for 15 days.

London refuses Trump’s request to strike Iranian bridges and power plants, considering such targets a war crime. British bases are for defense only, while the US president publicly humiliates Prime Minister Starmer in response, comparing him to Chamberlain, who appeased Hitler

Israeli warplanes struck Mehrabad Airport in Tehran tonight . Witnesses report columns of fire and smoke

The Ministerial Committee on Procurement approved the Israel Defense Ministry’s plan to significantly accelerate the production of Arrow interceptors at IAI plants.

Defense industry enterprises are already working to accelerate production under the leadership of the Ministry of Defense to scale up output.

It is emphasized that the Arrow system, which constitutes the upper tier of Israel’s multi-layered defense system, has proven its effectiveness over the past few years.

The system will continue to develop, drawing on real-world experience in countering ballistic missile attacks from Iran and other enemies of Israel.

New York Times: This war is turning Iran into a major global power: In recent years, the global order was moving towards a three-pole system of the US, China, and Russia, but this assumption is no longer valid. A fourth pole of global power is rapidly emerging: Iran. Now, the international system will recognize Iran as the fourth pole of global power. This war is a transformation that can irreversibly change the global order.

Iran: The Hormuz Strait will be closed long-term for the US and Israel.

Yemen Houthis: We launched several ballistic missiles towards occupied Jaffa in a combined attack with Iran and Hezbollah.

The US Justice Department has offered a $10 million reward for information on Abu Ala al-Walai, leader of the Iraqi Shia militia group Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada .

US military is preparing plans to strike Iran’s defenses around the Strait of Hormuz if the current ceasefire fails.Targets could include small attack boats, mine-laying vessels, missiles, and drones that Iran uses to control the waterway. Other options under consideration include strikes on energy infrastructure or attacks on Iranian military leaders.

Iran has made exceptions for a number of states, including Russia, regarding the issue of tolls for passing through the Strait of Hormuz – Iran’s ambassador to Russia.

Armenia and France will sign a document on strategic partnership during Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Yerevan.

The U.S. military has intercepted at least three Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters and redirected them as part of a wider naval blockade on Iran.

Israel has been informed that Trump’s new deadline to Iran ends on Sunday.

The US 🇺🇸 is urging its citizens to leave Lebanon 🇱🇧 immediately.

Italy gifted a statue of Jesus Christ to the Christian village of Debel in southern Lebanon, after the original statue in the village was destroyed and desecrated by an Israeli soldier.

Yemen Nasreddin Amer, Deputy Head of the Media Department of AnsarAllah (Houthis): Iran is essentially responding to the blockade as an act of aggression that deserves a response, regardless of the effectiveness of this blockade or not, and that the time for reserving the right to respond has ended irrevocably; because it was an open door for impunity without deterrence.

The failure or success of the blockade changes nothing, as the issue is one of deterrence that must be established. America and Israel entered this war wanting to fundamentally change the Middle East and control what they call “Greater Israel” – and we recall the statements of the American ambassador to the entity days before the aggression – but it has stopped – even temporarily – and Israel is unable to control Bint Jbeil and Khiam, and America is unable to control Hormuz.”

More than 30 IRGC fast attack boats spotted by satellite in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Ghalibaf: A complete ceasefire only makes sense when it is not violated by a naval blockade and the seizure of the global economy, and when the incitement of war by Zionists on all fronts is stopped; opening the Strait of Hormuz is impossible with a flagrant violation of the ceasefire.

The Pentagon believes it will take six months to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, Washington Post reports citing its own sources. According to the publication’s assessment, the negative consequences of the armed conflict will continue to affect the global economy until the end of the current year.

US Navy Secretary John Fallon fired by the Pentagon.

Iranian drones falling on Erbil :

Iran’s navy said it has seized two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz and taken them to the country’s coast after reports that three vessels came under fire from Iranian forces.
Nour News, affiliated with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire on the first ship, which it called the Epaminodes, after it had “ignored the warnings of the Iranian armed forces”.
A second ship, named Euphoria, was then stopped after being “fired upon”, followed by the targeting of a third vessel, the MSC-Francesca, according to BBC Verify.

Iran’s Tasnim news agency: Continuation of a naval blockade amounts to continued hostility; as long as the blockade persists, Iran will at least not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and if necessary, it will break the blockade by force.

The 2 weeks ceasefire is now over; Iran has not yet responded to Trump’s unilateral ceasefire extension.

Explosions were reported in Erbil, Iraq resulted from strikes by Iranian drones on the headquarters of US-backed kurdish groups.

Iran will not participate in the negotiations in Islamabad, the decision is final, reports Tasnim. Tehran stated that the refusal is due to the US failing to meet its obligations and violating the ceasefire plan prepared with Pakistan’s mediation.

Thus, the American delegation demanded that Tehran hand over all enriched uranium. In addition, the US insisted on its direct participation in the management of the Strait of Hormuz instead of Oman. The Islamic Republic refused to discuss this issue, as the strait is located in the territorial waters of Iran and Oman, and the United States has no connection to it.

Iranian Ambassador Hosseiniyan on negotiations with the US in Pakistan. According to the diplomat, at certain moments the positions of the parties were close, but then the US began to impose its own conditions.

The White House confirmed that the US expects a single proposal from the Iranians and Vance’s trip to Pakistan today will not take place. JD Vance was supposed to lead the US delegation in negotiations with Iran.

Advisor to Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliament speaker: Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire makes no sense. The ceasefire extension is an attempt to buy time for a surprise attack. Iran currently holds the initiative.

Iran will not open the Strait of Hormuz until the American blockade is lifted, despite Trump’s extension of the ceasefire, reported the Tasnim news agency.

“We did not ask to extend the ceasefire,” say officials in Iran. Recall that Tehran’s main condition for resuming negotiations is the lifting of the American naval blockade.

Le Kuwait a déclaré la force majeure sur tous les expéditions de pétrole brut et de produits raffinés après que le blocus iranien du détroit d’Ormuz a rendu les exportations impossibles. Le PDG de la Koweit Petroleum Corporation Nawaf al-Sabah, a qualifié la situation de catastrophique au-delà de toute mesure avertissant qu’elle déclenchera un effet domino dans l’économie mondiale.

Times of Israel : 26 years later, IDF restores its south Lebanon security zone — with key changes. While the military avoids calling it a ‘security zone,’ the boundaries are nearly the same; commanders say this time troops won’t face same threats. Five IDF divisions — totaling tens of thousands of troops — are currently stationed in the new security zone, whose boundaries are unsurprisingly similar to the security zone Israel held between 1985 and 2000, as Lebanon’s terrain has not exactly changed in the past 26 years.

Due to the seizure of an Iranian tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran has decided to cancel the next round of negotiations with Washington.\n\nThe reasons cited include the ongoing blockade, threatening rhetoric, Washington’s inconsistent position, and “excessive demands.

Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir told Trump that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports is blocking renewed U.S.–Iran talks.

Xi Jinping: The Strait of Hormuz should remain open for normal passage, which aligns with the common interest of countries in the region and the international community.

The US is expanding military bases in Cyprus under the guise of evacuation, they are building a foothold near the Middle East borders.The US is investing millions of dollars in upgrading Cypriot military facilities. According to the report, Cyprus’s main naval base will receive a new helipad capable of accepting heavy “Chinooks,” as well as port facilities for frigates. Officially, this is for evacuating refugees. In reality, it is for increasing military presence right on the borders of conflict zones.The naval base will be equipped with a new helipad capable of accepting large transport helicopters of the ‘Chinook’ type. In addition, new port facilities will be built at the base, which will allow it to accept larger ships, such as frigates,” AP reports, citing a representative of the Cyprus National Guard.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret over the actions of an Israeli soldier who smashed a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon. The soldier faces “strict disciplinary measures,” the head of government assured.

Russian law enforcement officers on April 19 detained and interrogated at least 40 Israeli citizens upon their arrival at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport from Tel Aviv.

Among those detained were individuals with dual citizenship—Israel and Russia—as well as Israelis without Russian passports.

They were held for about five hours without water, food, or access to a toilet.

The officers behaved rudely and demanded that phones be unlocked; however, after receiving refusals, they limited their demands to turning off the devices.

The Israeli citizens were then interrogated—at least some of them were accused by the officers of waging war against Iran.

During the questioning, the detainees were told that Iran is an ally of Russia and that an enemy of Iran is also our enemy.

The officers stated that they were not happy about the arrival of Israeli citizens in Moscow and that they had come for nothing.

Approximately five hours after the detention, the Israeli citizens began to be released after signing documents containing warnings.
[6:08 AM, 4/20/2026] Naji: France has unveiled new large-scale plans to modernize its armed forces and doctrine, betting on a radical enhancement of strategic strike capabilities and air defense penetration assets.
I have compiled the most interesting highlights from the text by French analyst Étienne Marcuse, a specialist in nuclear deterrence, missile defense, and strategic systems, as well as a former Ministry of Defense employee:

In the field of ground weapons, France is making a qualitative leap: by 2035, it plans to adopt a ballistic missile with a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) and a range of about 2500 km.

The key element of the new doctrine will be the deeply upgraded Rafale fighter in the F5 standard, with the first 47 units from the first tranche entering service by 2035. The aircraft will receive new M88 T-REX engines with thrust increased to 9 tons, updated electronics, and conformal fuel tanks, enabling deep raids without aerial refueling.

Target detection will be handled by a completely new RBE2-XG radar with an active phased array antenna based on gallium nitride (GaN), similar to fifth-generation aircraft radars, providing significantly higher radiation power and better performance.

The main sensation for aviation is the announced development of the COMET ultra-long-range “air-to-air” missile, which could appear even before the Rafale F5 itself—by 2030. It is expected to complement, not replace, the current Meteor missiles.

Thus, by design, it is planned to be a long-range interceptor based on the Aster 30 surface-to-air missile (similar to the American AIM-174, converted from the ship-based SM-6).

Due to its enormous range, COMET guidance will require external target designation, as the fighter’s own radar will not be able to independently acquire low-observable targets at extreme distances.

To penetrate layered air defense (SEAD missions), French aviation will receive the STRATUS-RS supersonic anti-radiation and anti-ship missile.

The missile will home in on enemy radar emissions from a safe distance, allowing aviation to expose protected zones for subsequent conventional or nuclear strikes.

In parallel, Paris is strengthening its air nuclear component. To reliably overcome the development of modern enemy missile defense systems, it is planned to increase the arsenal of ASN4G missiles with TNA4G nuclear warheads, which will replace the current subsonic ASMPA-R missiles by 2035.

Russian law enforcement officers on April 19 detained and interrogated at least 40 Israeli citizens upon their arrival at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport from Tel Aviv.

Among those detained were individuals with dual citizenship—Israel and Russia—as well as Israelis without Russian passports.

They were held for about five hours without water, food, or access to a toilet.

The officers behaved rudely and demanded that phones be unlocked; however, after receiving refusals, they limited their demands to turning off the devices.

The Israeli citizens were then interrogated—at least some of them were accused by the officers of waging war against Iran.

During the questioning, the detainees were told that Iran is an ally of Russia and that an enemy of Iran is also our enemy.

The officers stated that they were not happy about the arrival of Israeli citizens in Moscow and that they had come for nothing.

Approximately five hours after the detention, the Israeli citizens began to be released after signing documents containing warnings.

An Israeli 🇮🇱 Merkava tank spotted in Bint Jbeil, southern Lebanon 🇱🇧.

United States Central Command (CENTCOM) published a footage showing US Navy USS Spruance intercepting and firing upon Iranian-flagged M/V Touska cargo ship at the North of the Arabian Sea:.

Zabihullah Mujahid a rejeté l’allégation selon laquelle des membres de l’Administration Talibane seraient liés à Al-Qaïda. Le porte-parole des Talibans a qualifié de « totalement faux » le récent rapport concernant les liens de certains membres de cette administration avec le réseau Al-Qaïda, affirmant qu’aucun groupe étranger n’opère en Afghanistan. Il a décrit ces allégations comme une tentative de discréditer l’image de l’administration Talibane en Afghanistan. En contra partie l’Institut du Moyen-Orient, dans un nouveau rapport, a affirmé qu’environ 55 membres de l’administration talibane entretiennent des liens avec Al-Qaïda, bien que les détails de la nature de ces liens n’aient pas été divulgués. La question des liens potentiels entre l’administration talibane et les groupes armés transnationaux reste un sujet de débat majeur au niveau régional et mondial depuis le retour de cette administration au pouvoir.

Le Monde: L’Iran assure qu’il ne remettra pas son uranium enrichi aux Etats-Unis, contredisant Donald Trump
Vendredi, le président américain avait déclaré que Washington collaborerait avec Téhéran pour récupérer son uranium enrichi et le ramener aux Etats-Unis. Après la nouvelle fermeture du détroit d’Ormuz, samedi, Téhéran a prévenu que la signature d’un accord de paix était « encore loin ».

“ Al Jazeera reports that Yemeni Houthis have declared their readiness to close the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Yemeni Houthis have threatened to block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait if Trump obstructs the peace process.”

According to estimates by American intelligence and the military, Iran still has over 60% of its missile installations and about 40% of its attack drones, which is enough to block shipping in the Strait of Hormuz reports “The New York Times” .

Hezbollah reports the funeral of Ali Reza Abbas, one of the last high-ranking commanders from Nasrallah’s inner circle. Nasrallah, as a reminder, was eliminated along with the entire leadership in 2024. Ali Reza Abbas was likely killed on April 8 during the Israeli military operation.

Hezbollah states that a ceasefire with Israel must be mutual, not unilateral. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated a ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities warning that fighters will respond to violations accordingly.

Two LNG tankers are passing through the Strait of Hormuz in coordination with the IRGC. The tanker “MEDA” is under sanctions by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, while the tanker “G SUMMER” is designated as owned by Chinese owners.

Velayati : The era of imposing security from across the oceans has ended. Advisor to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution:

— 1) The era of imposing security from across the oceans has ended; today, not only is the security of Hormuz and Malacca guaranteed under our might and that of our strategic partners, but the security of Bab el-Mandeb is also in the hands of our Ansarullah brothers.

— Any mischief will have a chain reaction response.”

— 2) In the ridiculous display of the Paris meeting, if Britain and France are concerned about shipping security, they should think about the Strait of Dover and the old wound at Gibraltar.

— We appreciate Madrid’s independent and reasonable stance.”

Macron blames Hezbollah for killing French peacekeeper, terror organization denies involvement Sergeant-Chief Florian Montorio was the victim of an ambush according to the french minister of the armed Forces. Our condolences to the state of France.

Guterres condemned the attack on UNIFIL forces in Lebanon: The United Nations issued an official statement reacting to the targeting of peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon and called for guarantees of the security of its staff.

Iran sets conditions: Washington must earn the trust of the Iranian people to conclude a deal with Tehran.

This was stated by the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

He called this the most important step that Americans must take.

Deputy Head of the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Saeed Hatibzadeh, noted that Iran will not send enriched uranium to the US.

According to him, such actions are unacceptable for Tehran.

France 🇫🇷 is testing how to shoot down drones.
After limited, but still significant, participation in the war in the Middle East, France concluded that cheaper means are needed to destroy unmanned aerial vehicles. Since spending Mica air-to-air missiles, costing $700,000 each, on Shaheds is not a very cost-effective option.

Therefore, the French went down the same path as everyone else and began testing their laser-guided rockets. In the photo, a Rafale fighter with a TELSON 12 JF pod containing 12 68-mm ACULEUS-LG rockets, as well as a suspended TALIOS targeting pod for guidance.

Line of contact confrontation between Hezbollah and the Israeli Army in south Lebanon. ( Hezbollah sources)

Netanyahu on Lebanon:

We have achieved great success. For the first time, we have created an extensive security zone along the entire northern border.

This belt completely eliminates the immediate threat of invasion. We have destroyed almost 90% of the rocket and missile stockpiles.

Hezbollah today is but a shadow of itself.

We have not yet finished the job. This will not be achieved tomorrow.

It requires patience and continuous effort.

We have agreed to a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon. For the first time in 43 years, Israel and Lebanon are holding direct negotiations.

We will provide an opportunity for a diplomatic and military solution.

The path to peace is still long, but we have already begun it.

Intelligence reports notes an increase in the presence of Pakistani warships near the Strait of Hormuz. The ships were sent to ensure the uninterrupted passage of Pakistani tankers from the Persian Gulf to Karachi, the oil transport is being carried out on tankers flying Pakistani flags.

Iran has partially reopened its airspace to civil aviation for the first time since February 28, according to the country’s air traffic controllers.

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz again, according to the IRGC. The Joint Military Command of the IRGC stated that control over the Strait of Hormuz has ‘returned to its previous state’ due to the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports by the United States.

Iran does not agree to the removal of enriched uranium from the country — this was stated by Bakaee, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic. This concerns issues that have been raised. None of them are subject to confirmation. Some American officials have also mentioned them.

The UK Maritime Trade Organisation [UKMTO] reports that a tanker off the coast of Oman was attacked by boats of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which opened fire on the vessel. The tanker’s captain reported that two armed IRGC boats approached the vessel, after which they opened fire. The tanker and crew are reportedly safe.

Le directeur de l’Agence internationale de l’énergie avertit : en raison de la guerre en Iran, le monde s’apprête à faire face à une flambée des prix alimentaires — engrais, pétrochimie et hélium sont menacés. L’Occident, qui a ignoré les risques pendant des années, s’est lui-même enfermé dans le piège du détroit d’Ormuz.

Le Soir : Le chef de la Défense : Même avec le retrait américain, Poutine ne gagnera pas la guerre contre l’Europe. Le général aviateur Frederik Vansina avertit : la période beaucoup plus imprévisible, dangereuse, « avec tout le monde qui s’arme jusqu’aux dents . Une autonomie stratégique européenne est possible, mais au sein de l’Otan, pas de l’UE. Il reste beaucoup de pain sur la planche.

Le général des Forces armées belges Frédéric Vansina a déclaré dans une interview au journal Le Soir que l’Europe doit accroître sa puissance militaire d’ici 2030 pour contenir la Russie, même sans l’aide des États-Unis. Selon lui, le temps nécessaire à cette préparation se paie au prix de vies ukrainiennes.

« En 2030, nous devons être en mesure de dire à Vladimir Poutine qu’il ne gagnera pas la guerre contre l’Europe, même sans les Américains. Nous avons encore quelques années devant nous. Grâce au courage et au sang des Ukrainiens qui achètent ce temps pour nous. C’est pourquoi nous les soutenons tant », a déclaré le général.

Le général a également appelé l’industrie de défense européenne à augmenter rapidement ses capacités et à ne pas penser que les commandes s’épuiseront après la fin de la guerre en Ukraine. Selon lui, les industriels ne devraient pas se guider uniquement par la logique économique en calculant les coûts et les bénéfices, et ils ne réalisent pas toujours leur rôle dans la protection du continent.

Trump thanked Iran for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz: Iran just announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for free passage. Thank you !

The aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, located in a port in the state of Virginia, caught fire. The aircraft carrier is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance and modernization of critical systems, not long ago another US aircraft carrier caught fire, the USS Gerald R. Ford, which participated in strikes against Iran

Israel DM Katz says it holds and will continue to hold all areas it’s cleared in south Lebanon.

Matt Gaetz, former US Congressman: A senior Iranian official recently said that Iran welcomes a ground war. You have previously planned for a ground invasion scenario in various regions of Iran.

Does Iran really have the capability to take American citizens hostage on a large scale during an invasion?

Larry Johnson, former CIA analyst: Absolutely. They have gone through a ten-year war where the United States supported Iraq against Iran… The United States’ problem is force concentration areas.

One thing is to say we will start a ground invasion, but the question is where will you gather the forces? You might remember that in 2003, we gathered 165,000 soldiers in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

U.S. considers $20 billion cash-for-uranium deal with Iran

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi: In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa: We were not a party in any conflict against Iran during the war taking place currently with Iran. We were pushing in a direction not to spark this war from the start, because Iran is a state that has a population of about 85 million people, and any harm that hits Iran from the inside could affect the region in general. We are pushing for the region to be stable and for its problems to be solved via dialogue and diplomacy, not to enter into conflicts and big disputes. We hope this war stops and the region moves to a phase where such wars will not repeat.

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Trump is determined to continue the

military operation against Iran. Netanyahu noted that Trump is extremely determined

and does not plan to retreat.

Iran rejects any extension of the ceasefire and will maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz, stated Ebrahim Zolfagari, a representative from IRGC “Khatam al-Anbiya.”

“We will maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz until all of Iran’s rights are secured. We reject any extension of the ceasefire. We are ready for a long war, the Americans are not. This is merely a pause, not peace. Any land invasion of Iran will completely fail.”

Iran FM Araghchi to receive a high-level Pakistani delegation in Tehran.

If the Strait of Hormuz is not unblocked, a humanitarian crisis could begin by June, former UK Foreign Secretary David Miliband stated. Obviously, oil and gas are currently blocked—you have spoken about this a lot. Fertilizers: 30% of global fertilizer supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and they are now completely stuck. Also, people do not know that there is a humanitarian hub—a global distribution center for humanitarian cargo: medicines, essential food, and nutrition to combat malnutrition. It is located in Dubai. And it is also currently blocked.

The American military has completely withdrawn from its last military base in Al-Hasakah, Syria.

Iran FM Araghchi to receive a high-level Pakistani delegation in Tehran.

Today, the Chief of Staff of the Pakistan Armed Forces arrived in Tehran to discuss further negotiations.

The US Central Command reports that it has turned back a cargo ship under the Iranian flag.: Yesterday, a cargo ship under the Iranian flag attempted to bypass the American blockade by leaving Bandar Abbas port, exiting the Strait of Hormuz, and proceeding along the Iranian coast. The guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) successfully redirected the vessel, which is now returning to Iran. Since the imposition of the American blockade on Monday, ten ships have been turned back, and NONE of them have broken through the blockade..

A ceasefire in Lebanon could come into force this week, the Financial Times reported citing sources.

Current situation map in southern Lebanon

Iran has proposed allowing safe passage for ships through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz if an agreement is reached with the United States.

The USS George HW Bush aircraft carrier not to be confronted by AnsarAllah (Yemen Houthi’s) had to travel from Southern Africa en route to Iran .

Israeli nocturnal airstrikes on Sarafand in southern Lebanon.

The first oil tanker has sailed west through the Strait of Hormuz following the US blockade of Iranian ports, reports MarineTraffic. The Maltese-flagged tanker Agios Fanourios is currently heading to Basra, Iraq.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the US is ready to impose secondary sanctions for working with Iran:

“I will tell you that two Chinese banks received letters from the US Treasury Department. I will not name these banks, but we told them that if we can prove that Iranian money is passing through their accounts, we are ready to impose secondary sanctions.

Axios: Trump “would welcome and be pleased with a ceasefire” between Israel and Lebanon, a US official stated.

On Wednesday, as Israel’s Security Cabinet gathered to discuss a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, a US official told Axios that President Trump “would welcome and be pleased with a cessation of hostilities.”

Why this matters: The ceasefire proposal is politically sensitive for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Although these two fronts are officially separate, it could help President Trump achieve a peace agreement with Iran.

“The US has not asked Israel for a ceasefire in Lebanon, and this is not part of peace negotiations with Iran. But the president would welcome and be pleased with a cessation of hostilities as part of an agreement between Israel and Lebanon,” the US official said.

Israeli officials stated that the war in Lebanon and a possible ceasefire would be discussed at the cabinet meeting on Wednesday evening.
The meeting concluded without the Israeli government making a decision on a ceasefire.

Tankers steering clear of Hormuz ahead of a US blockade, oil prices spike

Carrier USS George H.W. Bush Operating off Southern Africa as Iranian Blockade Begins

Israeli Army captured the city of Bin Jbeil in southern Lebanon from Hezbollah.

Hezbollah conducted 60 operations yesterday, which included taking out 1 Merkava tank and 1 military vehicle carrying commanders, repelling 29 advance attempts, firing 35 missiles and 20 drones, and targeting 17 settlements.

Chinese Defense Minister: Our ships are moving in and out of the waters of the Strait of Hormuz. We have trade and energy agreements with Iran. We will respect and abide by these agreements, and we expect others not to interfere in our affairs. Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, which is open to us.

A Cry of a Nation

By Etienne Sakr
Chairman , Guardians of the Cedars Party.

The 13 April 1975 stands as a pivotal milestone in the modern history of Lebanon, bringing together three major events:

First, the PLO Palestinian armed invasion of Lebanon, which embodied all meanings of treachery, brutality, and ingratitude, and from which later emerged Assad regime and Islamic regime of Iran war against Lebanon.

Second, the rise of the Lebanese resistance in the seventies which confronted this invasion with rare heroism, writing epics that shifted the balance of power and asserted its presence both domestically and internationally.

Third, the emergence of the Guardians of the Cedars Party – the Lebanese Nationalist Movement, distinguished by integrity, ferocity in battle, and steadfast principles, encapsulating in its path the sanctity of the Lebanese cause.

Today, despite the deep darkness surrounding Lebanon, it will inevitably rise from its ashes, remaining faithful to its historical mission .

Tehran is ready for a deal if the US offers a genuine agreement and grants Iran its rights. We have good will, but we have no trust, said Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of the Iranian parliament and former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The Iranian delegation arrived in Islamabad for negotiations with the Americans. Pakistan has released a list of names from the Iranian delegation. It consists of 86 officials, experts, and media personnel. Some important names that are attending, which weren’t mentioned in media extensively, are Baqeri Kani, deputy of the SNSC, and Mohammad Nabavian, a notoriously conservative MP. Overall, this is a heavy weight delegation which carries a lot of authority and expertise.

Amid ongoing negotiations, the US and Lebanon are urging Israel to cease strikes on Lebanon, but Netanyahu is strongly opposed Axios reports.

Iran team arrives for US talks as Lebanon, Israel make first contact

In Islamabad, US set to face a more defiant Iran at negotiating table

Trump says the Strait of Hormuz will open up automatically, adding that Iran will make no money otherwise. He thinks that it will be open fairly soon.

The key US requirement for the upcoming negotiations with Iran will be that Tehran must not obtain nuclear weapons, Trump said.

BBC: More than 100 killed across Lebanon in large wave of Israeli strikes.

US military says it’s ready to resume Iran fighting if diplomacy fails

Lebanon’s capital Beirut under massive Israeli bombardments today .

Israel has the right to self defense but what happened in Beirut earlier today was not the case. Israeli warplanes overwhelmingly bombed civilian districts of the capital Beirut inducing massive casualties. This is not going to help the case against Hezbollah within Lebanon as what happened is inadmissible.

Nagi N. Najjar , former advisor to US Army (ret.) Maj. Gen. Paul E. Vallely

The Supreme National Security Council of Iran stated that negotiations with the United States will take place in Islamabad starting April 10 to coordinate details aimed at confirming Iran’s political achievements on the battlefield and will last for 15 days.

London refuses Trump’s request to strike Iranian bridges and power plants, considering such targets a war crime. British bases are for defense only, while the US president publicly humiliates Prime Minister Starmer in response, comparing him to Chamberlain, who appeased Hitler

Israeli warplanes struck Mehrabad Airport in Tehran tonight . Witnesses report columns of fire and smoke

The Ministerial Committee on Procurement approved the Israel Defense Ministry’s plan to significantly accelerate the production of Arrow interceptors at IAI plants.

Defense industry enterprises are already working to accelerate production under the leadership of the Ministry of Defense to scale up output.

It is emphasized that the Arrow system, which constitutes the upper tier of Israel’s multi-layered defense system, has proven its effectiveness over the past few years.

The system will continue to develop, drawing on real-world experience in countering ballistic missile attacks from Iran and other enemies of Israel.

New York Times: This war is turning Iran into a major global power: In recent years, the global order was moving towards a three-pole system of the US, China, and Russia, but this assumption is no longer valid. A fourth pole of global power is rapidly emerging: Iran. Now, the international system will recognize Iran as the fourth pole of global power. This war is a transformation that can irreversibly change the global order.

Iran: The Hormuz Strait will be closed long-term for the US and Israel.

Iranian hypersonic missiles hit Tel Aviv tonight .

Iranian hypersonic missiles hit Tel Aviv tonight .

British Defense Minister John Healey announced that the country is sending more troops and air defense systems to the Middle East to help allies resist potential Iranian attacks.

Iran’s IRGC announced an attack on a US Air Force flight crew accommodation facility in Al Khurj, Saudi Arabia.

Iranian missiles hit the headquarters of Batelco in Hamal, Bahrain, the largest telecommunications company in the country, where Amazon Web Services servers are located.

US oil heads to Greece for first time in four years as refiners seek alternatives to Middle East crude. A cargo of WTI Midland crude headed to Greece for ​the first time in about four years, ship tracking ‌data on Kpler showed, as U.S. and Israel’s war on Iran and reduced traffic through the Strait of Hormuz have upended trade flows and shut in ​output in the region.

A field operational visit by Majid al-Musawi, the commander of the air force in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps visiting an underground ballistic missile bases and monitoring the progress of operations… ( Farsi )

The Israeli Army displays a weapon cache seized from the Shia Amal militia in southern Lebanon .

Netanyahu stated that he and his government are working to transform Israel into a regional and even global superpower.

The US aircraft carrier George H.W. Bush is heading to the Middle East to replace the Gerald Ford.

American journalist Shelly Kittleson kidnapped in Iraq

Yemen launching rockets towards the Negev in southern Israel.

Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel’s air defense systems are the best in the world: We have proven that our air defense systems are the best in the world, and I would like to tell you here that many countries are now requesting our help, because they know that we are number one when it comes to defense and attack.

Iran has not yet sent the US an official response to the 15-point conflict resolution plan and has not put forward any counter-conditions.

The Iranian Foreign Minister stated that he is directly exchanging messages with the US President’s special envoy, Whitcoff, but cannot call this a negotiation.

The head of Iran’s judiciary, Mohseni-Ejei was killed in one of the airstrikes on Tehran.

Iran has attacked Kuwait’s airport, and aviation fuel tanks are on fire.

Wave of airstrikes targeting Tehran.

Footage showing an Iranian ballistic missile hitting an American base.

An oil tanker was targeted near Doha.

Statement by the Guardians of the Cedars.

By a Etienne Sakr, Chairman

Iran established the organization “Hezbollah” and provided it with all forms of support, enabling it to impose near-total control over the Lebanese state.

It then directed this party to support Gaza, resulting in the destruction of as many villages and towns in the South as possible, in addition to the southern suburbs of Beirut and Baalbek–Hermel, along with the destruction of most of this party’s capabilities.

Yesterday, it ordered the opening of the southern front under the banner of supporting the Iranian regime, leading to the destruction of what remained of villages and homes in the South, the Bekaa, and the suburbs, and the displacement of more than one million citizens.

Today, it has instructed its ambassador in Lebanon to defy the decision of the Lebanese state, remain in his position, and continue performing his duties against the will of the host state.

Despite all this, there remains a faction that considers Iran a friendly state to Lebanon and claims that it has no ambitions in it.
This faction, we do not see as merely misled, deceived, or intellectually backward; rather, we consider its stance to be an act of high treason, committed with prior intent and deliberation….

And what is to come will soon be seen.

A risky adventure, that’s how Erik Prince, the founder of the Blackwater PMC, described the idea of a ground operation in Iran.

In Prince’s opinion, a ground operation would not be a “walk in the park”, as Iran pays great attention to its missile program and training in modern warfare, including the use of FPV drones:

“Capturing Kharg Island would be quite a risky venture, because transport aircraft would have to shuttle back and forth. And that’s assuming you don’t immediately suffer losses due to technical failures and air defense fire. Dropping the 82nd Airborne on Kharg Island? Pretty adventurous. Air dropping into a zone where thousands and thousands of missiles are concentrated? Well, I don’t know.

Not to mention that the Iranians are learning. And they pay the closest attention to modern drone warfare. They use FPV up to the battalion level. We keep stumbling upon videos where Israel loses its tanks and BMPs in southern Lebanon precisely because of these FPV drones, which the Russians are using with great success in Ukraine. So… And then the Iranians aren’t just Arabs. They’re Aryans, very smart and skilled warriors.

They won’t be an easy prey like the Iraqi army.”

Will Trump accept that he won’t be able to get a “piece of cake” on his terms? He’s almost daily trying to convince the public that “Iran is already defeated”. But here’s the catch – negotiations aren’t taking place, the Iranian government is still in power, and the military continues to hit American bases.

Turkish nationalist leader calls for regime change in Israel ‘if any should occur’ in Middle East. Devlet Bahceli, leader of Türkiye’s Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and a key ally in the ruling People’s Alliance, said Tuesday that any regime change in the Middle East should begin with Israel, which he described as the primary source of instability in the region.
Speaking to his parliamentary group, Bahceli asserted that if the international community seeks to restructure the region with regime changes, it must start with the government in Tel Aviv.

Iran Hits Giant Kuwaiti Oil Tanker Near Dubai Despite Trump Threats. Iran struck a crude oil tanker off Dubai early Tuesday amid escalating conflict, disrupting Gulf shipping & pushing oil prices higher as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz intensify.

Jerusalem nighttime.

USAF carried out an airstrike on a large ammunition depot in the Iranian city of Isfahan using heavy “Bunker Buster” bombs weighing 2,000 pounds.

Live Updates: Four IDF soldiers killed in southern Lebanon, Trump willing to end war without reopening Hormuz

Israel strikes West Bekaa, cuts off key roads; Trump seeks Iran deal before April 6

Cut off from the rest of Lebanon, Dibil residents trapped between ‘Hezbollah’s anvil and Israel’s hammer’

Statement by the Guardians of the Cedars

By Etienne Sakr , chairman.

The Iranian ambassador in Beirut refuses to leave the country, in clear defiance of the expulsion order issued by the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This defiance exposes the Lebanese state’s weakness and strips it of whatever authority it has left, once again confirming its lack of credibility and its inability to enforce its decisions…
From this day forward, no one will take these decisions seriously.

Total bankruptcy… total exposure… and the country is left at the mercy of the winds… and no one resigns; instead, they are all clinging to their political seats.

The US will not allow Iran to establish control over the Strait of Hormuz and impose fees for passage through it, said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

“We do not swear an oath to a king, queen, tyrant, or dictator,” stated retired US Army General Mark Milley during a speech at the “No Kings” rally in Washington.

A quadrilateral meeting was held in Islamabad to reduce tensions between Iran and the United States.

Iran confirms death of Revolutionary Guards Navy Commander Tangsiri..

A quadrilateral meeting was held in Islamabad to reduce tensions between Iran and the United States.

The foreign ministers of Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan discussed the consequences of the ongoing war and its economic and security impacts on the region. According to the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the focus of this meeting was on the immediate reduction of tensions and preventing the crisis from spreading. The conflicts have intensified since February 28 following joint attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran, raising concerns at the regional level.

An Iran Exit Plan

What the West Misses About China’s Nuclear Build-up

Trump reportedly wants to ‘take the oil in Iran’ as Tehran targets water, power facilities in Kuwait.

Trump: The United States of America is in serious discussions with A NEW, AND MORE REASONABLE, REGIME to end our Military Operations in Iran.

Great progress has been made but, if for any reason a deal is not shortly reached, which it probably will be, and if the Hormuz Strait is not immediately “Open for Business,” we will conclude our lovely “stay” in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island (and possibly all desalinization plants!), which we have purposefully not yet “touched.”

This will be in retribution for our many soldiers, and others, that Iran has butchered and killed over the old Regime’s 47 year “Reign of Terror.”

Times of Israel: The US and Israel’s plan to invade Iran with Kurds failed after leaks

According to the investigation, the plan envisaged that tens of thousands of Kurdish fighters would cross the border from Iraqi Kurdistan with the support of large-scale US and Israeli airstrikes on northwestern Iran. The aim was to provoke an internal uprising and overthrow the regime in Tehran.

“The combination of massive US and Israeli strikes and the invasion of Kurds was supposed to ‘break the barrier of fear’ among the Iranian opposition,” the Channel 12 publication quotes a fragment of the material.

The author notes that the Israeli intelligence agency “Mossad” had been working on this scenario for several years, and before the start of the war, it was presented to the US and Israeli leadership as almost guaranteed. However, within the Israeli army, assessments were more skeptical.

“Some high-ranking military officials called this plan ‘imaginary’ and ‘full of holes’, despite the fact that it was presented as fully developed,” the publication emphasizes.

The decisive factor was the leak of information. After reports in the American media about the impending offensive, Iran urgently strengthened its defenses in the northwest of the country, began to put pressure on the Kurds in Iraq, and used diplomatic channels to disrupt the operation.

Additional pressure was exerted by regional players. Turkey opposed any scenarios involving the strengthening of the Kurds, and the Gulf countries warned of the risk of destabilizing the region in the event of Iran’s collapse. At the same time, the Kurdish forces themselves began to doubt the prospects of the operation and demand political guarantees from the US, not just military support.

In the end, having lost the element of surprise and faced with growing risks, Donald Trump refused to implement the plan.

“After the leaks and the loss of the element of surprise, Trump decided that the operation was too dangerous and canceled it,” the report notes.

According to Channel 12, the possibility of resuming the operation was later considered, but it was also rejected.

Spain closes airspace to US planes involved in Iran war, defense minister says
The closure of the airspace forces military planes to bypass NATO member Spain en route to their targets in the Middle East, but it does not include emergency situations.

Why revived China-Philippine talks won’t lead to energy cooperation in the South China Sea

The War With Iran May Be Ushering in a New Nuclear Age.

US ground invasion of Iran possible to begin in early April in a limited part of Iran to control the straight of Hormuz.

Drone attack by a newly established Islamic Resistance Group of Syria on the US base in Jordan. A group named “Kataib Jund al-Karrar fi Bilad al-Sham” announced that it targeted the positions of American forces at Muwaffaq Salti Air base in Jordan using a drone. Not sure who are these looks like a friendly intelligence service to the US who has interest at amplifying and widening the regional conflict.

The IRGC announced that a Shahed-136 drone, worth 20 thousand US dollars, participated in the attack, which resulted in the damage of a Boeing E3 Sentry reconnaissance aircraft, worth 700 million US dollars, at a military base in Saudi Arabia.

“ Iran likely transferred highly enriched uranium to Isfahan before the June strikes. Satellite imagery shows that Iran could have transferred to Isfahan up to 540 kilograms—possibly all—of its highly-enriched uranium inventory before the June strikes last year. “

Iran warns U.S. troops will be “set on fire” if Americans launch ground operation

50,000 U.S. Troops in Middle East Seen Insufficient for Iran Ground War

Netanyahu orders IDF to expand security zone in Southern Lebanon. Israeli premier aims to prevent attacks and push the Hezbollah threat farther from northern border amid ongoing multi-front war.

Brent crude tops $116 as Iran war strangles Hormuz shipping lanes

Türkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia reportedly eyeing Strait of Hormuz management consortium

Air Force One: Ground stop issued at Florida International Airport after incident near Donald Trump. F-16 aircraft and choppers have been deployed in Florida near US President Donald Trump and Air Force One.

Israeli airstrikes reported on a petrochemical plant located in the Iranian city of Tabriz.

Simultaneous Iranian strikes on UA targets in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait.

Divan Hotel in Erbil, northern Iraq targeted by drones.

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The Prince Sultan base in eastern Saudi Arabia was attacked with 5 ballistic missiles.

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By Nagi N. Najjar
The latest incidents in Sukailabiya in Syria were not random rather a well instigated provocation by the Syrian Social National Party . The Syrian Social Nationalist Party (SSNP) in Al-Suqaylabiyah was actively involved in the Syrian war, forming armed factions known as the “Eagles of the Whirlwind” to fight alongside Assad government forces. The party focused its efforts on turning this predominantly Christian area against Syrian opposition factions at the time , acting as a local auxiliary force supporting Assad Forces.

The SSNP in Al-Suqaylabiyah participated in direct battles, manned checkpoints, and secured the area, especially since Al-Suqaylabiyah is considered an important strategic location in Hamah province in the area . The party coordinated with Asaad government forces, with its fighters being incorporated as an auxiliary force in military operations against Syrian opposition groups. Latest incidents in Sukaylabiya were nothing but another attempt by Assad loyalists ( SSNP) to demonize authorities in create a civil strife accusing current government in Syria of attacking the Christian minority. This whole story was a well fabricated intelligence set up of the SSNP chief in Beirut Assad Hardan is busy orchestrating with Assad defected officers who took refuge under SSNP security protection in Lebanon .

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U.S. Marines Arrive in Middle East, as Houthis Enter War

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Senate Approves Bill To Fund Most Of DHS, Trump Extends Deadline For Iran To Open Strait Of Hormuz: Live Updates

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Pentagon prepares for weeks of ground operations in Iran

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The IRGC has warned American academic institutions across the Middle East are now targets for retaliation following US-Israeli strikes on Iranian universities.

Deadline: Noon Tehran time, Monday March 30.
The targets:

JORDAN : American University of Madaba

QATAR
▪️ Carnegie Mellon University
▪️ Georgetown University
▪️ Texas A&M University
▪️ Northwestern University
▪️ Weill Cornell Medicine

UAE
▪️ NYU Abu Dhabi
▪️ American University in Dubai
▪️ American University of Sharjah

LEBANON
▪️ American University of Beirut
▪️ Lebanese American University

IRAQ
▪️ American University of Iraq — Baghdad
▪️ American University of Iraq — Sulaimani
▪️ American University of Kurdistan — Duhok

KUWAIT : American University of Kuwait

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Former director of the French War College: Americans have never known how to fight asymmetric wars. They have always thought that power and wealth could overcome intelligence, but no, this is not the case. Iranians have methods to counter the United States ideas about Kharg Island that will be very effective ( French report)

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Iran attacked the largest oil refinery in Bahrain, as well as other facilities in the country. The BAPCO complex in the Al-Riffa area was hit. This included the Al-Hidd industrial zone and military bases.

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US Forces at Saudi Air Base Suffer Iranian Attack

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Inside Iran’s military: missiles, militias and a force built for survival

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The U.S. is far from breaking Iran’s missile power: The U.S.-Israeli military campaign against the country approaches its one-month mark.

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Israel Strikes Two Iranian Nuclear Program Sites: Israel has struck two key nuclear-related facilities inside Iran, including a heavy-water plant and a yellowcake production site.

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Next Flashpoint In Iran War? The Bab Al-Mandab Strait Off Yemen’s Coast

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Iranian Strike Wounds US Troops In Saudi Arabia As Houthis Enter War

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The Iranian strike on the US Prince Sultan airbase in Saudi Arabia was one of the most serious breaches of American air defense during the entire conflict, writes the New York Times. The base was simultaneously hit by missiles and drones: 12 American soldiers were injured, two of whom are in a critical condition. At least two KC-135 refueling aircraft were damaged.

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Strike on U.S. Base in Saudi Arabia Injures 12 American Troops, 2 Seriously, Officials Say

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A U.S. official said that earlier an Iranian strike at a military base in Saudi Arabia injured around two dozen U.S. troops, one of the most serious breaches of American defenses since the war began.

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A statement about Yemen’s entry into the conflict and the launch of the first missile strikes on Israel, made by Major General Yahya Sakir: In accordance with the previously published statement of the Yemeni armed forces about direct military intervention in support of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the resistance fronts in Lebanon, Iraq, and Palestine, carried out the first military operation.

The operation was conducted using ballistic missiles, which hit sensitive military targets of the enemy in the south of occupied Palestine. This operation coincided in time with the actions carried out by fighters in Iran and the Hezbollah movement in Lebanon. The operation successfully achieved its goals, with Allah’s permission. Military actions, with Allah’s help, will continue until the stated goals are achieved and the aggression ceases on all resistance fronts, as stated in the previous statement of the armed forces.

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Several Iranian drones attacked Kuwait International Airport, reportedly damaging the airport’s radar system.

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The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt will meet in Islamabad to discuss peace initiatives aimed at de-escalating tensions around Iran and in the region.

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Yemeni missile fired towards Israel.

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Reports Yemen launched a missile

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Russia’s Foreign Minister Lavrov : it’s true that we have close relations with the Iranians, but I don’t agree that we are transferring information to Iran.” The location of the American bases was known to everyone, so there was no secret information that anyone could provide to Iran. Our friendly countries clearly stated before the war that they would not allow the United States to misuse their territories and airspace to attack Iran. But we see that these were American bases used to transfer information and conduct espionage. The fact that these bases are subject to periodic attacks is a result of their recklessness, and they are thereby putting their Arab allies at risk

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Türkiye warns international coalition may form if Hormuz crisis persists

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One killed, several wounded in Iranian ballistic missile attack on central Israel

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At least 10 U.S. troops wounded in Iranian attack on Saudi air base

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Iran, in response to the UN’s request, will expedite the passage of humanitarian cargo through the Strait of Hormuz, said Ali Bakhrei, the Islamic Republic’s permanent representative to the UN in Geneva.

“In response to the request of the United Nations, the Islamic Republic of Iran has decided to facilitate and further accelerate the safe passage of humanitarian cargo through the Strait of Hormuz. The operational mechanisms for implementation will be agreed upon with the UN at an appropriate time,” he said.

According to Bakhrei, this measure will help avoid delays in delivering aid to those in need.

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The Yemeni Houthis have declared their readiness to directly intervene in the Iranian conflict. A representative of the movement cited three key conditions under which Houthi forces could join the fighting on Iran’s side:

Use of the Red Sea for hostile operations.

Continuation of the escalation against the Islamic Republic and its allies.

Countries joining an alliance with the US/Israel against Iran.

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Yemen claims finger on the trigger . ( Arabic communique)

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New hypersonic missile launch reported tonight from Iran.

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IRGC sources: US aircrafts were hit in an Iranian missile attack targeting the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. The attack was carried out by missiles and drones, and resulted in damage to a number of refueling aircraft belonging to the US Air Force.

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Hezbollah targeted infrastructure belonging to the Israeli army in the Kryot area of Saliha with a series of precision missiles at 19:10 on Friday, March 27, 2026.

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Trump weighs deploying up to 10,000 more troops to Middle East during war with Iran: report

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Iran FM Araghchi: Israel has hit 2 of Iran’s largest steel factories, a power plant and civilian nuclear sites. Attack contradicts POTUS extended deadline for diplomacy. Iran will exact HEAVY price for Israel actions.

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Urgent warning from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: To employees, citizens, and residents around the following facilities in Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Israel , these locations have become direct and legitimate targets and may be targeted in the coming hours.

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Rubio Says Iranian Tolls in Hormuz Would Be ‘Dangerous to the World’

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Houthis threaten to join Mideast war in support of Iran. This will lead to the closure of Bab el Mandeb energy route choke point.

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Iran war: Houthi restraint driven by domestic priorities

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The US and Israel attacked a uranium concentrate production plant in Iran, no release of radioactive elements was detected, according to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran [AEOI].

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Video of the Russian President’s speech at the gala evening celebrating the Day of the National Guard Troops.

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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio admitted that the US will redirect weapons intended for Ukraine to the Middle East.

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Secretary of State Rubio on US goals in the conflict with Iran: This will not be a long-term conflict. The goals I’ve outlined for you, I’ll repeat again, because I see these reports as a question: are the users unclear about the goals? We’ve been extremely clear from the very first evening about the goals of this mission. We’re going to destroy their factories producing missiles and drones. We’re going to destroy their Navy. We’re going to destroy their Air Force. And we’re going to significantly destroy their missile launchers so that they can never hide behind these things to obtain nuclear weapons. We can achieve this. We’re achieving all these goals. We’re ahead of schedule on most of them. And we can achieve them without any ground troops.

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Hezbollah states its fighters attacked an Israeli fighter jet in the skies of Beirut with a surface-to-air missile.

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Consecutive rocket attacks by Hezbollah towards Israel and military concentrations in the border region with Lebanon.

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The explosion at the Port Arthur refinery has shut down one of the largest refining facilities in the United States. This shutdown eliminates nearly 415,000 barrels of refining capacity from the U.S. market.

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US, Israeli strikes hit Iran’s Khondab facility at Arak nuclear site

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Hezbollah statement: Our forces targeted the Meron base for surveillance and air operations management in the north of Israel with a swarm of attack drones.

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A US warplane was spotted flying at a low altitude over Baghdad

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An Israeli fighter jet has been tracked deploying flares by fear of heat-seeking missile launcher. The purpose of using an anti-aircraft missile launcher is not necessarily to destroy the target. As soon as the fighter jet locks on, instead of carrying out the bombing operation, it has to think about maneuvering and escaping.

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Trump’s bluff in Iran is a ‘disaster’ of his own

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