Amid escalating tensions, Donald Trump said Iran is “not so strong” compared to a month ago, while acknowledging its forces remain “capable fighters.” His remarks come as negotiations continue over a potential ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump indicated Iran had made a “significant” proposal, though insufficient, as military operations persist. He reiterated that the conflict centres on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The statement reflects Washington’s dual stance of pressure and negotiation, even as Tehran maintains firm conditions for a permanent resolution, keeping geopolitical and energy market uncertainties elevated.

Amid escalating tensions, Iran has set firm conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, insisting it will remain closed until a permanent peace agreement is achieved. Rejecting temporary ceasefires, Tehran outlined four key demands: a complete end to war, no short-term truce, guaranteed non-aggression from the United States and Israel, and using Hormuz as leverage. Iran also dismissed negotiations under pressure and mocked Donald Trump’s deadline with sarcastic remarks online. As the strategic oil route remains restricted, the standoff intensifies, raising concerns over global energy stability and highlighting Hormuz’s central role in the geopolitical conflict. (PC: X)

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, warned that strikes near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant pose a serious nuclear safety risk and must stop immediately. The 1,000-megawatt facility has reportedly been targeted four times since the US-Israel conflict with Iran began, with the latest strike reported on Saturday. Grossi cautioned that attacks near an operational nuclear plant could trigger a severe radiological accident, endangering people and the environment beyond Iran’s borders. He stressed that nuclear facilities and their surrounding areas should never be targeted under any circumstances. (PC: CGTN)

Amid escalating tensions, Iran announced it has drafted a diplomatic response to US-mediated proposals, rejecting a reported “15-point plan” as illogical and overly ambitious. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran’s demands reflect its “interests” and “red lines” and will be revealed later. Iran accused the United States of targeting its nuclear programme, alleging the Isfahan operation was a failed “uranium theft plot.” Tehran dismissed claims of weakness and opposed any temporary ceasefire, calling it a prelude to renewed conflict. Instead, it demands a complete end to hostilities and guarantees against recurrence, while accusing Washington of sidelining diplomacy.

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.