The United States has claimed a “decisive military victory” over Iran following intense strikes during the recent West Asia conflict. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Iran “begged” for a ceasefire after suffering significant damage to its military infrastructure, including missile and naval capabilities. A temporary two-week ceasefire has since been agreed upon, with Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz and entering negotiations. However, tensions remain high as both sides caution that the truce is fragile, and the broader conflict may not be over despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. (PC: Reuters)

Tensions escalated in the Middle East after an oil refinery in Iran was struck shortly after a ceasefire agreement came into effect. In response, Tehran launched retaliatory strikes targeting locations in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, according to reports. The developments raise serious concerns about the stability of the ceasefire and the risk of a wider regional conflict. Despite diplomatic efforts to de-escalate, both sides appear to remain on high alert. The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with global stakeholders closely monitoring the potential impact on regional security and oil markets.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that any country supplying military weapons to Iran will face a steep 50% tariff on all goods exported to the United States. The move comes shortly after a temporary ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran, aimed at easing escalating tensions. Trump stated there would be no exemptions, signaling a strict stance to deter foreign military support to Tehran. The policy is expected to impact nations like China and Russia. Analysts view this as a strategic pressure tactic, combining trade measures with diplomacy to limit Iran’s military capabilities. (PC: AFP)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in facilitating ceasefire talks with the United States, ultimately helping avert a major escalation. Reports suggest his approval allowed Iranian negotiators to engage seriously in diplomacy at a critical moment, especially as U.S. President Donald Trump issued strong military threats. Khamenei also ordered Iranian forces to halt attacks as part of the agreement, signaling intent to de-escalate. However, Iran clarified the ceasefire is temporary and conditional, with key demands like sanctions relief and security guarantees still unresolved, leaving the situation fragile. (PC: AFP)

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned of a stronger response after recent attacks. They said, “We have no trust in the enemy’s promises.” The statement came after Iran hit targets in Gulf countries, including Kuwait and the UAE. Reports said missile and drone attacks followed strikes on an Iranian oil refinery. The Guards said Iran will respond to any aggression at a higher level. They also claimed to have hit multiple targets in the region. Kuwait called for an immediate end to hostilities. The warning came just hours after a ceasefire between the US and Iran began, raising concerns about rising tensions again. (PC: AFP)

Israel carried out air strikes in southern Lebanon hours after the US-Iran ceasefire. Attacks hit areas like Tyre and Nabatieh. Israel said the deal does not apply to Lebanon. Fighting with Hezbollah continues. More than 1,500 people have been killed in the conflict. Over 1.2 million people have been displaced. Many villages near the border have been destroyed. Hezbollah has paused attacks but warned people not to return yet. Lebanon’s government said it will try to include the country in peace efforts. The situation remains tense as military operations continue despite the wider ceasefire in the region. (PC: Mohammad Abushama / Anadolu via Getty Images)

US President Donald Trump has warned that countries supplying weapons to Iran will face 50% tariffs on goods entering the US. He said there will be “no uranium enrichment” in Iran going forward. Trump also claimed Iran has gone through a “productive regime change.” He said the US will work closely with Iran and hold talks on tariff cuts and sanctions relief. He added that parts of a 15-point deal are already agreed. Trump said Iran’s nuclear sites are under strict monitoring. Iran, however, has denied direct talks and questioned US intentions.

An oil refinery in Iran was hit hours after a ceasefire between the US and Iran began. The attack took place on Lavan Island. Iranian officials called it an “enemy attack.” No casualties were reported. Fire teams were sent to control the blaze. Satellite images also showed fire at the site. Despite the ceasefire, attacks were reported in Kuwait and the UAE. The truce was agreed to stop further escalation. US President Donald Trump said it was a “complete victory.” Iran had agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, fresh attacks have raised concerns about the ceasefire holding.

A ship has passed through the Strait of Hormuz hours after a ceasefire between the US and Iran. The vessel, likely an energy tanker, marked the first movement after weeks of tension. The strait is key for global oil trade. Over 800 ships were earlier stuck due to the conflict. The ceasefire came after last-minute talks between both sides. Iran had controlled the route during the war, affecting global supply. Reports say Iran and Oman may charge fees for ships. Officials said passage will be allowed under Iranian oversight. The move signals a slow return to normal shipping activity in the region.

An aide to Iran’s Supreme Leader has claimed that Iran “won the war” against the United States. In an interview, Dr Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi said US President Donald Trump “surrendered” and accepted Iran’s ceasefire terms. He also dismissed rumours about Mojtaba Khamenei’s health. He said Mojtaba is “supervising everything.” The remarks came as the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire after weeks of fighting. The conflict has reportedly killed over 2,000 people. The aide’s statement highlights Iran’s position following the truce. Officials have not shared further details on Mojtba’s exact role.