UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire to be “fully respected” as a 10-day truce comes into force, aiming to halt weeks of deadly conflict. He emphasized that strict adherence is essential to reduce civilian suffering and create space for lasting peace talks. The ceasefire, brokered with international support, follows heavy violence that has caused over 2,000 deaths and mass displacement in Lebanon. While both sides have expressed support, concerns remain as Israeli troops continue to stay in southern Lebanon and sporadic incidents have been reported. The UN warned that the truce remains fragile and urged all parties to commit to diplomacy over further escalation. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has firmly denied claims by former US President Donald Trump that Tehran agreed to hand over its stockpile of enriched uranium, stating that “no such deal” exists. The denial comes amid ongoing tensions and negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. Trump had earlier suggested that a breakthrough agreement was close, including Iran relinquishing its uranium reserves. However, Iranian officials quickly dismissed the claim, highlighting continued disagreements between the two sides. The development underscores the fragile state of US-Iran talks, with key issues like uranium enrichment limits and sanctions relief still unresolved, keeping diplomatic uncertainty high in the region. (PC: News 18)

Europe is facing a looming jet fuel shortage as the ongoing Iran war disrupts global oil supplies, particularly through the critical Strait of Hormuz. The region depends heavily on Middle Eastern fuel imports, and experts warn supplies could last only around six weeks if disruptions continue. The crisis stems from blockades and tensions in the Gulf, which have choked key shipping routes carrying nearly one-fifth of global oil. Airlines across Europe are already preparing for possible flight cancellations, rising ticket prices, and operational cuts. Authorities are exploring emergency measures, but continued conflict could severely impact summer travel and the broader economy. (PC: NDTV)

The United States has intensified its military pressure on Iran by enforcing a naval blockade on its ports, deploying around 12 warships and over 100 aircraft to restrict maritime trade. The operation, involving thousands of personnel, aims to cut off Iran’s economic lifelines and force concessions in ongoing conflict negotiations. Simultaneously, a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has come into effect, raising cautious hopes for de-escalation in the region. However, tensions remain high as both sides retain military presence and warn of responses to violations. The developments reflect a fragile situation in West Asia, where military escalation and diplomatic efforts are unfolding side by side. (PC: AFP)

Lebanon’s army has accused Israel of carrying out repeated “acts of aggression” in violation of a newly announced ceasefire, highlighting continued instability despite diplomatic efforts. Reports indicate Israeli strikes and military actions persisted in southern Lebanon even after the US-brokered truce took effect, raising fears the agreement could collapse. The ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump, aims to pause hostilities between Israel and Lebanon amid a wider regional conflict involving Iran. Trump expressed optimism that the broader Iran war could end “pretty soon,” citing ongoing negotiations. However, continued clashes, unresolved disputes over Hezbollah, and disagreements about ceasefire terms threaten long-term peace prospects in West Asia. (PC: Reuters)

In a dramatic incident in Naples, armed robbers held around 25 people hostage inside a bank before executing a planned escape through a hole in the floor leading to the sewer system. The siege lasted nearly two hours, during which hostages were confined but not harmed. Police and emergency teams responded swiftly, securing the building and rescuing all individuals safely. Authorities suspect the robbers targeted valuables from deposit boxes rather than cash. Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement examining underground routes to trace the suspects and uncover how the escape was orchestrated. (PC: The Guardian)

Donald Trump claimed that Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium, calling it a major breakthrough in ongoing nuclear negotiations. The assertion comes amid continued U.S.–Iran talks aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program and ending the conflict. However, reports suggest negotiations remain complex, with disagreements over uranium enrichment limits and timelines still unresolved. Iran is believed to possess significant quantities of enriched uranium, a key concern for global powers due to its potential use in nuclear weapons. The claim has not been independently confirmed, highlighting uncertainty around the deal’s progress. (PC: NDTV)

Emmanuel Macron spoke with Narendra Modi ahead of a France–UK meeting on the Strait of Hormuz, focusing on rising West Asia tensions. Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to restore safety and freedom of navigation in the crucial global oil route. The call comes amid ongoing conflict that has disrupted shipping and energy supplies. France and the UK are set to host a conference involving multiple nations to discuss reopening the strait through a multilateral, defensive approach. The conversation highlights India’s active diplomatic engagement as global powers coordinate efforts to stabilise the region. (PC: X)

Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, presenting it as a major diplomatic success. He claimed he has “solved nine wars” and described this truce as his “10th,” highlighting his role in mediating global conflicts. The ceasefire aims to pause escalating violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah along the Lebanon border. Trump stated the agreement followed direct talks with Israeli and Lebanese leaders, with further negotiations expected. However, uncertainty remains over the ceasefire’s implementation, as tensions persist and officials on both sides have yet to fully confirm long-term commitments. (PC: Reuters)

A cave beneath Pembroke Castle, known as Wogan Cavern, is being hailed as a “once in a lifetime discovery” by researchers from University of Aberdeen. Excavations between 2021 and 2024 uncovered rare evidence of early humans, including Homo sapiens and possible Neanderthals, alongside animal remains like hippos, mammoths, and woolly rhinos dating back over 100,000 years. The site may document human activity from 45,000 years ago to post-Ice Age periods. A five-year excavation starting May aims to uncover more about prehistoric life, climate shifts, and human evolution in Britain. (PC: MSN)