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.

Iran has warned it may attack Tel Aviv if firing in southern Lebanon does not stop. The National Security Council said, “Within hours, we will bomb Tel Aviv” if attacks continue. The warning comes as confusion continues over the ceasefire terms. Hezbollah has reportedly paused fire. However, Israel said, “Lebanon is not included” in the truce. It also issued new evacuation orders in southern Lebanon. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has killed over 1,500 people and displaced more than 1.2 million. Talks between the US and Iran are expected soon in Pakistan to reduce tensions further. (PC: AFP)

Oil prices fell sharply after the US, Iran and Israel agreed to a two-week ceasefire. Brent crude dropped about 14% to $94 per barrel. Gas prices in the UK also fell over 18%. The drop followed news that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen. Stock markets rose strongly, with the FTSE 100 up over 2%. Asian markets also surged, with Japan and South Korea seeing big gains. However, supply issues remain. Oil and gas production will take time to recover. Fuel and fertiliser costs may stay high for weeks. Experts say prices are still above pre-war levels despite the sudden fall. (PC: Reuters)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the ceasefire between the US and Iran. He said the UK will do all it can to support and sustain the agreement. Starmer called it a moment of relief for the world. He stressed the need to turn the ceasefire into a lasting deal. He also highlighted the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Starmer will travel to the Gulf to meet regional leaders. He plans to discuss diplomatic steps and long-term peace efforts. The UK aims to work with partners to ensure stability and prevent further conflict in the region. (PC: Reuters)