Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has strongly rejected US President Donald Trump’s claims of ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington, calling them “fake news.” He alleged the statements were aimed at manipulating global financial and oil markets and distracting from challenges faced by the US and Israel. Trump had earlier said “productive talks” were underway and hinted at a possible deal to ease tensions. However, Iranian officials denied any direct or indirect discussions, reinforcing a hardline stance amid the ongoing conflict. The dispute highlights deep mistrust between the two sides as geopolitical tensions continue to impact global markets. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Washington is engaging with “many leaders” in Iran, not just a single authority, amid the ongoing conflict. He stated that Iran initiated the outreach, saying they “wanted to make a deal,” while the US remains open to negotiations. Trump also highlighted “major points of agreement,” including demands for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions. However, Iranian officials and state media have denied any direct or indirect talks. The remarks come as Trump announced a temporary pause on planned strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure to allow diplomatic efforts to progress. (PC: AP)

Amid the ongoing US–Iran conflict, Donald Trump paused planned strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure for five days, signalling a tentative diplomatic opening. Mediation efforts led by Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt have facilitated indirect communication between Washington and Tehran. Iran, however, insists the United States must engage directly, asserting it initiated the conflict. While US officials claim “productive talks,” Iranian authorities deny any negotiations, calling such claims misleading. The war, ongoing since February 28, has escalated regionally, disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, and triggered global concerns over energy supply and economic stability. (PC: X)

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected Donald Trump’s claim of “productive talks” between United States and Iran, calling it “fake news” aimed at manipulating financial and oil markets. Ghalibaf asserted no negotiations had taken place, while Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed only indirect messages via friendly countries. Trump had earlier paused planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days, citing progress in discussions with a “top person,” though not Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Markets reacted sharply, with oil prices falling over 10% and equities rising on de-escalation hopes. Iran maintains no direct talks occurred during the ongoing 24-day conflict.

Donald Trump paused planned US strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days after “productive” talks, signalling a tentative diplomatic shift. He cited “major points of agreement” and ongoing discussions, though Iran denied direct negotiations. Tehran, through officials and media, claimed the pause reflected a US retreat following warnings of widespread retaliation against regional energy targets. The standoff comes amid heightened tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions have driven oil prices above $110 before easing after the announcement. Despite diplomatic signals, hostilities continue, with Israeli strikes and Iranian missile attacks persisting, while regional risks and humanitarian impacts escalate across the Middle East. (PC: X)

An Air Canada Express CRJ-900 aircraft collided with a firefighting vehicle while landing at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, killing both the pilot and co-pilot. The flight, arriving from Montreal with 72 passengers and four crew members, struck the vehicle responding to another emergency on the runway. Several passengers and responders were injured, with some hospitalised. The incident forced a temporary airport shutdown, leading to widespread flight cancellations and diversions. Preliminary reports suggest possible miscommunication between air traffic control and ground staff. Authorities, including the NTSB and FAA, have launched a detailed investigation.

After nearly three weeks of repeatedly claiming success in the conflict with Iran, Donald Trump announced a pause in planned military strikes, citing ongoing negotiations. His sudden shift—from aggressive rhetoric and ultimatums to calls for talks—drew widespread criticism and mockery, especially on his Truth Social posts. Reports suggest the pause includes delaying attacks on Iranian infrastructure as diplomacy progresses. However, Iran denied meaningful engagement, framing the move as a sign of weakness. Analysts say Trump’s inconsistent messaging and frequent self-praise reveal contradictions in strategy, raising questions about credibility and clarity in U.S. war objectives. (PC: Getty Images)

United Kingdom Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of Air Staff of the Royal Air Force, arrived in India for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation. He commenced his visit by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, paying tribute to fallen soldiers. The visit reflects deepening defence ties between India and the United Kingdom, with discussions expected on joint exercises, advanced technology sharing, and enhanced strategic coordination between the two nations’ air forces. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump said the United States and Iran have held talks for two days during the ongoing war. He called the discussions “very good and productive.” The US has decided to pause attacks on Iran’s energy sites for five days. Trump said the move depends on the progress of talks. He described the talks as “in-depth, detailed, and constructive.” The discussions will continue this week. The war has lasted over three weeks with rising tensions. Officials said the pause may help ease the situation. However, there is no final agreement yet. Both sides remain cautious. (PC: Bloomberg)

Asian stock markets fell sharply as the US and Iran warned of more action in the ongoing war. Japan’s Nikkei dropped 3.5%, while South Korea’s Kospi fell 6.5%. Oil prices rose as the Strait of Hormuz remained blocked. “Worst energy crisis in decades,” an energy chief said, warning of global impact. The route carries about 20% of the world’s oil. US President Donald Trump threatened strikes on Iran’s power plants. Iran warned of strong retaliation. Rising fuel prices increased fears of higher costs worldwide. Markets stayed tense as investors watched the conflict closely. (PC: AFP via Getty Images)