Benjamin Netanyahu has authorised immediate direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, signalling a potential diplomatic shift amid ongoing regional tensions. The talks, requested repeatedly by Lebanon, will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful bilateral relations. Netanyahu confirmed he had instructed his cabinet to initiate discussions “as soon as possible,” framing the move as a step toward long-term stability. The announcement comes against the backdrop of fragile ceasefire dynamics involving Iran and the United States, where Hezbollah’s role remains a central point of contention in wider geopolitical negotiations. (PC: X)

Donald Trump has urged European allies to submit detailed plans within days to secure the Strait of Hormuz following a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The demand, raised during meetings at the White House with NATO chief Mark Rutte, reflects Washington’s urgency to restore global oil flows. Trump criticised NATO’s limited support, warning of consequences if commitments fall short. Despite a UK-led coalition pledging assistance, instability persists due to ongoing tensions involving Lebanon. With talks planned in Islamabad, the effectiveness of allied response and ceasefire durability remains uncertain. (PC: India Today)

Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called Nawaf Salam, condemning Israel’s strikes on Beirut, reportedly the worst in six weeks, killing hundreds and wounding many more. The escalation threatens a fragile two-week United States–Iran truce and risks derailing upcoming talks in Islamabad. Sharif expressed condolences and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, while Salam sought Islamabad’s support to halt attacks. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of continued readiness to respond. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintained strikes would persist against Hezbollah. Rising casualties and warnings of ceasefire collapse intensify geopolitical uncertainty. (PC: ANI)

Iran has imposed strict conditions on reopening the Strait of Hormuz under its fragile ceasefire with the United States. Shipping is capped at 15 vessels daily, each requiring approval under IRGC-supervised protocols, with no return to pre-war norms. Tehran demands unfreezing of its overseas assets within two weeks and insists the war’s end be formalised via a United Nations Security Council resolution on its terms. It also opposes any US troop increase in the region. Tensions persist over Lebanon, excluded from the deal by Washington and Israel. Iran warns of renewed conflict and potential closure of Hormuz if conditions are unmet. (PC: NDTV)

As of Thursday evening, Islamabad has been turned into a fortified zone ahead of a crucial United States–Iran summit hosted by Pakistan, with uncertainty persisting over the exact venue despite extensive preparations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has complicated early dynamics by stating Lebanon is “on the table,” widening gaps between both sides before formal talks begin. Authorities have imposed an unprecedented seven-layer security framework across the capital’s Red Zone, deploying SSG commandos, air surveillance, and coordinated forces from the Army, Rangers, and Frontier Corps. High-level delegations are expected imminently for the “Islamabad Accord” negotiations scheduled for Saturday, underscoring the summit’s geopolitical significance. Confusion continues regarding logistics and coordination among involved stakeholders. (PC: Reuters)

A Lebanese official has reported that at least 203 people were killed, 33 remain missing, and 1,072 were injured following recent Israeli strikes, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict. The attacks have intensified tensions across Lebanon, with growing concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian conditions. Authorities indicate that rescue operations are ongoing as search teams continue to look for the missing. The strikes are part of a broader escalation involving Israel, raising fears of further regional instability. International observers are urging restraint amid worsening conditions and the risk of a prolonged humanitarian crisis. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has reportedly given European allies a short deadline to provide concrete support for securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route. The demand follows rising tensions with Iran and concerns over restricted shipping in the region. NATO chief Mark Rutte conveyed that Trump is seeking quick commitments within days, reflecting frustration over limited allied participation. While some European nations are exploring joint maritime security efforts, divisions persist over military involvement. The move highlights growing pressure on allies to share responsibility for safeguarding global energy supply routes. (PC: India Today)

Iran has reportedly restricted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to just 15 ships per day following its ceasefire agreement with the United States. The move, attributed to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), reflects continued control over the strategic waterway despite the truce. Before the conflict, over 100 ships crossed daily, highlighting the scale of disruption. The strait, crucial for nearly 20% of global oil trade, had been largely shut during the war. While the partial reopening signals easing tensions, strict monitoring, permissions, and security concerns continue to limit normal shipping activity and keep global energy markets uncertain. (PC: NDTV)

US President Donald Trump has said American military forces will remain stationed in and around Iran until a “real agreement” is fully enforced. He warned that if Tehran fails to comply with the ceasefire terms, the US is prepared for a much stronger military response, hinting at a “next conquest.” The statement comes amid a fragile two-week truce and ongoing tensions in the region. While diplomatic talks are planned, conflicting claims over nuclear and security terms continue to strain relations, raising fears of renewed escalation despite temporary efforts toward peace. (PC: AFP)

Residents across Beirut and other parts of Lebanon expressed anger and disbelief after deadly Israeli airstrikes killed over 250 people and injured more than 1,100. Survivors insisted that many targeted areas had no presence of Hezbollah, calling the attacks indiscriminate and unjustified. Civilians described entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble, with families buried under debris and rescue efforts struggling to keep up. Hospitals remain overwhelmed as casualties rise. Lebanese officials condemned the strikes as violations of international law, while citizens demanded global accountability. The incident has intensified fear, grief, and growing outrage amid already fragile regional tensions. (PC: The Guardian)