U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of a significant military escalation if ongoing peace efforts with Iran collapse, amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Despite a temporary ceasefire, divisions persist over key issues, including Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Trump stated that U.S. forces remain fully prepared and could launch a stronger response if Iran fails to comply with agreements. Meanwhile, Iran has expressed distrust and signaled that violations of the deal could derail negotiations. With talks set to begin under Pakistani mediation, the situation remains volatile and global concerns, particularly over oil supply disruptions, continue to grow. (PC: X)

A new report has raised doubts about Pakistan’s role as a neutral mediator in Iran war ceasefire talks. It said the US pushed Islamabad to help broker a temporary truce with Tehran. Pakistan’s military chief Asim Munir led back-channel talks between the US and Iran. The report said Pakistan acted as a channel to “sell it to Tehran”. US President Donald Trump was keen on a ceasefire amid rising oil prices. Pakistan presented the deal publicly, though the US had approved it earlier. The report suggests Pakistan’s role was shaped by US strategy rather than full neutrality. (PC: X)

Tensions have grown between the US and the Vatican after remarks by Pope Leo XIV. According to reports, Pentagon officials summoned Vatican envoy Cardinal Christophe Pierre after the Pope criticised war and force-based diplomacy. A US official allegedly said the Church should “take America’s side”. The Pope had warned that “war is back in vogue” and diplomacy is being replaced by force. US Vice President JD Vance said the claims are unconfirmed and he will review them. The White House denied any threat and called the meeting “respectful and reasonable”. (PC: India Today)

Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has questioned Pakistan’s role in the US-Iran ceasefire talks. He said Israel does not see Pakistan as a “credible player”. Azar added that the United States may have its own reasons to use Pakistan’s help. He stressed Israel’s focus is on removing Hezbollah presence in southern Lebanon. He also said Israel supports the ceasefire with Iran and hopes talks address Iran’s nuclear and missile threats. Azar clarified that Israel’s actions in Lebanon are separate from the Iran talks and linked to its own security concerns. (PC: NDTV)

A US-based doctor has raised concerns about the health of Donald Trump after his recent posts on Iran. Dr Vin Gupta said Trump is showing “all the signs of dementia”. He listed symptoms such as “erratic” behaviour, confusion, and “illogical train of thought”. He also said the issue appears to be “developing and worsening gradually”. The comments came after Trump posted unusual messages online. The White House rejected the claims. It called them “political bias” and “insane conspiracy theories”. Officials said the criticism was driven by political opponents.

A US-based doctor has raised concerns about the health of Donald Trump after his recent posts on Iran. Dr Vin Gupta said Trump is showing “all the signs of dementia”. He listed symptoms such as “erratic” behaviour, confusion, and “illogical train of thought”. He also said the issue appears to be “developing and worsening gradually”. The comments came after Trump posted unusual messages online. The White House rejected the claims. It called them “political bias” and “insane conspiracy theories”. Officials said the criticism was driven by political opponents.

The fragile ceasefire between Iran, Israel and the United States is under strain after heavy Israeli strikes in Lebanon. More than 250 people were killed in a single day, reports said. In Beirut, Israel claimed it killed Ali Yusuf Harshi, a close aide and nephew of Hezbollah chief Naim Kassem. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “We continue to strike Hezbollah with force, precision, and determination.” Hezbollah responded with rocket fire towards northern Israel. Iran called the strikes a “grave violation” of the ceasefire. The United Nations also condemned the attacks. The situation has raised fears that the ceasefire may collapse. (PC: Reuters)

Donald Trump has again raised the idea of taking control of Greenland. In a Truth Social post, he called it a "poorly run piece of ice". He also criticised NATO allies over their response during the Iran conflict. "NATO wasn’t there when we needed them," he wrote. His remarks followed tensions with European countries that did not support US actions. Reports say he repeated his interest in Greenland while attacking the alliance. The island is part of Denmark. Trump had earlier pushed for its purchase during his presidency. (PC: X)

Indira Gandhi International Airport issued an advisory after a viral row over a stray dog named ‘Kaddu’. Social media posts claimed the dog went missing and was mistreated. The airport said many community dogs live at its terminals and are cared for under veterinary rules. It added that one dog removed earlier had shown aggression and bitten people. Officials reported 31 dog bite cases since January, with most involving staff. “Dog bite cases are a matter of genuine concern,” the airport said. Passengers were asked not to feed stray dogs and to report aggressive animals to security.

US President Donald Trump had been pushing for a ceasefire with Iran since at least March, a report said. The Financial Times reported that Washington quietly worked for a pause despite strong public threats.   Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir acted as a key link between the US and Iran. He spoke with US leaders including JD Vance and envoy Steve Witkoff.   The effort led to a two-week ceasefire. Trump said Iran “begged for this ceasefire”. Iran signalled it would stop attacks if not targeted. (PC: India Today)