Amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Tehran has set stringent conditions for any potential ceasefire. Reports indicate Iran is demanding the closure of all US military bases in the Gulf, complete lifting of sanctions, and financial compensation for war damages. Additionally, Iran seeks control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, including the right to impose transit fees on global shipping. These demands come in response to a proposed peace plan, but are seen as highly ambitious, signalling difficult negotiations ahead as regional tensions continue to escalate. (PC: India Today)

Amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Tehran has set stringent conditions for any potential ceasefire. Reports indicate Iran is demanding the closure of all US military bases in the Gulf, complete lifting of sanctions, and financial compensation for war damages. Additionally, Iran seeks control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, including the right to impose transit fees on global shipping. These demands come in response to a proposed peace plan, but are seen as highly ambitious, signalling difficult negotiations ahead as regional tensions continue to escalate.

A suspected Iranian drone strike hit a fuel storage tank near Kuwait International Airport, causing a massive fire and thick black smoke to billow across the area. Emergency services rushed to contain the blaze, while airport authorities temporarily halted or diverted several flights as a precaution. No immediate casualties have been officially confirmed, though investigations are ongoing. The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with increasing attacks targeting strategic infrastructure. Authorities are assessing damage and security vulnerabilities, while regional air traffic faces disruptions due to rising conflict risks and safety concerns.

The Middle East conflict intensified as Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain, alongside strikes on Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli operations in Lebanon have worsened the humanitarian situation. Despite escalating violence, oil prices dropped sharply after reports that former US President Donald Trump proposed a 15-point peace plan, raising hopes of de-escalation. The US is preparing to deploy over 1,000 additional troops to the region, signalling possible further escalation. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten global energy supplies and food security, keeping markets volatile. (PC: Reuters)

Global energy markets face unprecedented disruption as conflicts and accidents hit key infrastructure across Iran, Russia, and the United States. Brent crude has surged above $100 per barrel after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and widespread strikes on oil and gas facilities. Major incidents include Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refineries and a shutdown at the Port Arthur refinery. Damage to Qatar’s LNG capacity and Gulf infrastructure signals prolonged supply shocks. The International Energy Agency has termed it the largest disruption in history, warning of sustained volatility and global economic fallout. (PC: India Today)

Donald Trump claimed Iran delivered a major “gift” linked to oil and gas and the Strait of Hormuz, without revealing details. He indicated it relates to restoring flow through the critical waterway, which has been largely shut since the conflict began, disrupting global energy markets. Iran later signalled safe passage for “non-hostile vessels” via the International Maritime Organization. Trump also reiterated claims that Iran agreed not to pursue nuclear weapons, though Tehran denies negotiations. US officials, including JD Vance and Marco Rubio, are reportedly engaged in talks amid ongoing tensions. 

Donald Trump fuelled speculation about mediation by sharing a post from Shehbaz Sharif, who offered Pakistan as host for US–Iran talks. Sharif said Islamabad is “ready and honoured” to facilitate dialogue for a comprehensive settlement, subject to both sides’ consent. Trump reposted the message without comment, hinting at possible backchannel diplomacy. Reports suggest Pakistan, alongside Egypt and Turkey, is working to broker negotiations, potentially in Islamabad. Positioning itself as a neutral venue, Pakistan is leveraging ties with both Washington and Tehran. The move comes amid ongoing conflict and intensifying global efforts to de-escalate tensions.

Donald Trump claimed Iran has agreed never to develop nuclear weapons and offered a major energy-related concession, possibly linked to the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump described the move as a significant “present” but withheld details. He reiterated that US operations had neutralised Iran’s nuclear capabilities and expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations. Key US officials involved include JD Vance, Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. However, Iran has denied any talks, maintaining ambiguity around diplomatic progress. (PC: India Today)

Iran has set sweeping conditions for ceasefire talks with the US, including closure of American bases in the Gulf, sanctions removal, reparations, and freedom to retain its missile programme. Influenced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Tehran also seeks a framework to collect fees in the Strait of Hormuz. Donald Trump has expressed optimism, citing ongoing discussions and a 15-point plan demanding Iran dismantle its nuclear programme. Mediated talks continue indirectly, with Pakistan offering to host. Despite diplomatic signals, hostilities persist, highlighting a significant gap between both sides’ positions and complicating prospects for resolution. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump said talks to end the Iran war are “happening right now”. He claimed Iran is “talking sense” and willing to negotiate. His statement came even as Iranian officials denied any contact with the US. They called reports of talks “fake news”. Fighting continues across the region. Israel and Iran carried out new strikes. An Iranian missile hit a military base in Bahrain. Israel also warned people to leave parts of southern Lebanon. Reports said many sites in Iran have been damaged. Some Iranians said they want the war to end soon. It remains unclear if any talks are actually happening. (PC: BBC)