Amid escalating US-Iran tensions, UAE diplomat Anwar Gargash stressed that access to the Strait of Hormuz must be guaranteed in any ceasefire deal, calling it a global economic necessity handling 20% of world energy flows. He warned against agreements that fail to address Iran’s nuclear programme, missiles, and drones, cautioning such gaps could worsen regional instability. Supporting US-led efforts to secure shipping routes, the UAE emphasized de-escalation but not at the cost of unresolved threats. Meanwhile, tensions intensified as Donald Trump threatened Iran, which responded with warnings of global energy disruption and regional instability.

US President Donald Trump warned of major strikes on Iran if no deal is reached soon. He said, “we’re blowing up the entire country” if talks fail.   The threat includes attacks on key infrastructure like power plants and bridges. Experts say such actions could raise concerns under international law.   At the same time, the US, Iran and mediators are discussing a possible ceasefire. Talks include reopening the Strait of Hormuz.   Iran warned of retaliation. Its leaders said such moves would bring serious consequences as tensions remain high. (PC: X)

Iran mocked Donald Trump with a “we’ve lost the keys” remark during the standoff over the Strait of Hormuz. Posts by Iranian missions joked about access to the key shipping route.   The comments came after Trump warned Iran to reopen the strait or face major strikes. He said key infrastructure could be targeted if Tehran does not comply.   Iran has restricted shipping through the route since the conflict began. The disruption has hit global oil supply and raised prices.   Tehran warned of “devastating” retaliation if civilian sites are attacked, as tensions continue to rise. (PC: HT)

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed its intelligence chief was killed in recent strikes. The incident adds to rising tensions in Iran. A senior official said Tehran has received a ceasefire proposal. However, Iran rejected reopening the Strait of Hormuz in return for a “temporary ceasefire”. Iran also criticised the United States over what it called readiness for a permanent ceasefire. US President Donald Trump extended his deadline for a deal. He warned of strikes if Iran does not agree. Fighting has continued across the region with rising casualties. (PC: HT)

Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Easter Mass at the Vatican. Thousands gathered at St Peter’s Square to hear him. He urged global leaders to “choose peace” and avoid war. He said people are becoming used to violence and suffering. The pope asked those with power to stop conflicts. He did not name any country but spoke about global tensions. He also criticised ongoing wars in recent speeches. Pope Leo paid tribute to Pope Francis during his address. He ended with blessings in many languages. He will hold a prayer vigil for peace soon. Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. (PC: Vatican Media/Reuters)

Talks between the US and Iran are close to collapse despite a proposed 45-day ceasefire. Pakistan and other countries are trying to mediate. Iran is reviewing the proposal but has not agreed. It said it will not open the Strait of Hormuz without a permanent deal. US President Donald Trump warned of strong military action if talks fail. He set a deadline for Iran to respond. Key issues like uranium control and Hormuz access remain unresolved. Officials say chances of a deal are low. Failure could lead to major strikes and retaliation, risking wider conflict across the Middle East region.

The US used SEAL Team 6 to rescue a downed airman in Iran, according to US media reports. The unit is known for the 2011 raid that killed Osama bin Laden. US President Donald Trump called it “one of the most daring search and rescue operations in US history”. The airman was injured and hid for nearly two days before being rescued. The unit was formed after the failed Operation Eagle Claw. It now handles high-risk missions, including hostage rescues and counter-terror work. (PC: The Indian Express)

Iran struck more than 10 locations in Haifa, according to Israeli media reports. The attacks come as the US, Iran and regional mediators discuss a possible 45-day ceasefire.   In Tehran, local media said six children were killed in recent US-Israeli strikes. Gas outages were also reported in parts of the city.   US President Donald Trump extended his deadline for Iran to agree on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He warned of major strikes if no deal is reached.   Regional tensions also spread to the UAE, where debris from an intercepted projectile caused injuries at a port. (PC: HT)

A US airman survived nearly 48 hours alone in Iran after his F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down on April 3. The pilot was rescued quickly, but the weapons systems officer remained missing. He hid in mountains, moved often, and climbed a 7,000-foot ridge to avoid capture. He was armed with a handgun and used SERE training to survive. Donald Trump called it “the most daring” rescue mission. US forces located him and carried out a rescue operation. Iran claimed it had “foiled” the mission and destroyed US aircraft, but US officials denied this. (PC: NDTV)

Iran has warned of a “much more devastating” response after strong threats from Donald Trump. Trump said Iran must reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on bridges and power plants. He used harsh language while setting a deadline. Iran said attacks on civilian targets would lead to serious retaliation. The situation has raised fears of wider conflict in the region. Reports said the main tension may now shift to sea routes near the Strait. Meanwhile, violence continues in nearby areas. Civilian deaths have been reported in strikes linked to the conflict. No agreement has been reached so far. (PC: BBC)