Israel’s Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, sharply rebuked Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif for calling Israel “evil” and a “curse for humanity.” Leiter said such rhetoric mirrors hostile slogans against Israel and undermines Pakistan’s credibility as a neutral mediator in ongoing US-Iran peace talks. He stated, “You are not a mediator… you are the problem,” asserting Israel’s existence is “not for negotiation.” Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, termed Asif’s remarks “outrageous,” escalating diplomatic tensions ahead of talks hosted by Pakistan. (PC: X)

A fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran has led to partial reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, but under strict conditions. Iran will permit only up to 15 ships per day, with each vessel requiring approval from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The move signals continued control over global oil flows, as the strait carries about one-fifth of the world’s seaborne crude. Tehran has also demanded the unfreezing of its overseas assets and restrictions on US military presence. Despite the truce, shipping remains heavily constrained, indicating ongoing geopolitical tensions and uncertainty in global energy markets. (PC: NDTV)

A missile launched by Hezbollah targeted Israel’s Ashdod port, escalating tensions as the Israel Defense Forces continued heavy airstrikes across Lebanon. The attack highlights the widening scope of the conflict despite ongoing US-Iran ceasefire negotiations. Israeli forces say strikes are aimed at Hezbollah infrastructure, while Lebanon reports rising casualties and displacement. The escalation raises serious concerns over the stability of peace talks, as continued cross-border attacks risk derailing diplomatic efforts and pushing the region closer to a broader and prolonged conflict. (PC: X)

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for the reimposition of sanctions on Russian oil following the Iran ceasefire, warning that easing restrictions allowed Moscow to profit from rising global energy prices. He questioned whether sanctions lifted during the Middle East conflict would now be restored, suggesting the move exposed underlying political motives. Zelenskyy argued that higher oil revenues have strengthened Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine and delayed peace talks. He urged increased international pressure on Moscow, stressing that restoring sanctions is essential to push Russia back toward negotiations and limit its economic advantage. (PC: AP)

A high-value US Navy MQ-4C Triton surveillance drone reportedly disappeared over the Strait of Hormuz after issuing an in-flight emergency signal. The unmanned aircraft, designed for long-range maritime intelligence and reconnaissance, experienced a rapid descent before vanishing from tracking systems. Open-source flight data indicated the drone dropped sharply from high altitude, raising concerns about a possible crash, technical failure, or signal blackout. Officials have not confirmed the incident, leaving uncertainty over its cause. The disappearance comes amid heightened US-Iran tensions and ongoing conflict in the region, making the strategic loss of such a critical surveillance asset particularly significant. (PC: Moneycontrol)

Global energy prices are expected to remain high for months despite the US-Iran ceasefire, as supply disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty continue to affect markets. Analysts say the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz will not immediately restore normal supply, with damaged infrastructure, shipping delays, and insurance risks slowing recovery. Oil and gas flows remain constrained, keeping prices volatile. Experts warn that prolonged instability and logistical challenges will delay price relief, with broader impacts on inflation, fuel costs, and global economic recovery. (PC: Al Jazeera)

Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected any ceasefire in Lebanon, stating Israel will continue attacking Hezbollah “with full force” despite ongoing US-Iran truce efforts. Fresh Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 300 people, intensifying fears of regional escalation. Israel argues its operations against Hezbollah are separate from the ceasefire framework, while critics warn this undermines diplomatic progress. The strikes have displaced thousands and worsened the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. The situation highlights growing tensions between military objectives and peace negotiations, raising concerns that continued violence could derail fragile efforts to stabilise the Middle East. (PC: AFP)

A fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran faces major challenges as deep mistrust and conflicting demands stall negotiations in Pakistan. Donald Trump seeks a quick exit amid political and economic pressures, while Iran aims to recover from heavy war damage and strengthen its strategic position. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz—through which 20% of global energy flows—remains the key dispute. Continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon under Benjamin Netanyahu risk derailing talks. Despite military losses, Iran retains influence, signalling prolonged instability and reshaping Middle East geopolitics. (PC: BBC)

A fragile two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran is showing signs of collapse ahead of crucial talks in Pakistan. Washington has accused Tehran of failing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, causing severe disruptions to global oil supplies. Iran, however, blames ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon, insisting the truce must include that conflict. Meanwhile, Israel continues attacks, further complicating the agreement. US President Donald Trump criticised Iran’s compliance, while tensions remain high across the region. With both sides divided on key terms, upcoming negotiations face significant challenges and uncertainty. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has firmly denied reports that senior officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, have left the country for talks with the United States. Iranian authorities clarified that no direct negotiations are currently taking place, dismissing circulating claims as inaccurate. Officials stated that while messages may be exchanged through intermediaries, this does not constitute formal dialogue. Tehran reiterated that any potential engagement depends on national interests and conditions being met. The denial highlights ongoing confusion and mistrust surrounding diplomatic efforts amid rising regional tensions. (PC: MSN)