US President Donald Trump claimed he is close to approving a major peace agreement with Iran after months of conflict and tense negotiations. The proposed deal reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, easing sanctions, extending a ceasefire, and limiting Iran’s nuclear activities. However, Iranian leaders denied that a final agreement has been reached and rejected claims about surrendering enriched uranium or giving up nuclear rights. The draft deal has also triggered criticism from Republican hardliners in the US, who fear it resembles earlier nuclear agreements. Diplomatic efforts involving Pakistan and Gulf nations continue as both sides negotiate final terms. (PC: X)

Iran has rejected key demands outlined by U.S. President Donald Trump during ongoing negotiations over a proposed peace deal aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East. Tehran reportedly refused to destroy or surrender its enriched nuclear material and remains opposed to conditions linked to unrestricted, toll-free access through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said he would make a “final determination” soon on the proposed agreement, which includes extending the current ceasefire and reopening critical shipping routes. Iranian officials accused Washington of exaggerating progress, insisting sanctions relief and concrete U.S. actions must come before any major commitments are made.

US President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to formally announce a landmark peace agreement with Iran within 72 hours, following intense negotiations mediated by Pakistan and Gulf nations. The proposed deal aims to extend the current ceasefire, reopen the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, and begin fresh talks on Iran’s nuclear program. Reports suggest the agreement could include limited sanctions relief and mechanisms to reduce regional tensions after months of conflict. However, Iranian officials have cautioned that several key issues remain unresolved, particularly around uranium enrichment and control of the Strait, making the final outcome uncertain despite growing diplomatic optimism.

Lebanese and Israeli military officials are set to meet in Washington for another round of U.S.-mediated talks aimed at preserving the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The negotiations come as Israel intensifies airstrikes across southern Lebanon and Beirut’s suburbs, targeting alleged Hezbollah-linked sites. Recent attacks reportedly killed civilians, including women and children, worsening tensions before the talks. Lebanese leaders have demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal and respect for sovereignty, while Israel insists operations will continue against Hezbollah threats. The United States is pushing both sides toward a longer-term security arrangement, though repeated ceasefire violations have raised fears of a broader regional conflict. (PC: Reuters)

The United Nations has warned that children in Lebanon are paying a devastating price as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah escalates despite a ceasefire agreement. UNICEF said an average of 11 children were killed or injured every 24 hours during the past week amid intensified Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon and Beirut suburbs. The agency reported 77 child casualties in seven days, while attacks on hospitals and healthcare centres have worsened the humanitarian crisis. Lebanese authorities say thousands have been killed or displaced since March. UN officials urged all sides to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians, especially children. (PC: Reuters)

A Russian drone struck a 10-storey apartment building in Galați, eastern Romania, near the Ukraine border, injuring two people and sparking a fire. Romanian authorities said the drone was part of a wider overnight Russian attack on Ukraine and remained in Romanian airspace for several minutes before impact. Around 70 residents were evacuated as emergency teams controlled the blaze. Romania scrambled F-16 fighter jets and summoned the Russian ambassador after the incident. NATO condemned the strike as a dangerous escalation and reaffirmed its commitment to defend alliance territory. Romanian officials called it the country’s most serious security incident since the Ukraine war began. (PC: Reuters)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he directed the Israeli military to increase its control of Gaza from 60% to 70%. Speaking at a conference, he said the move is part of efforts to put more pressure on Hamas.   The announcement comes despite an existing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Indirect talks, backed by the United States, have remained stalled over the next steps of the peace plan.   Meanwhile, Israeli strikes in Gaza have continued. Local health officials reported more deaths in recent days. The conflict began after Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023, triggering the ongoing war. (PC: Reuters)

A Russian drone crashed into a residential building in Romania during an overnight attack aimed at Ukraine. Two people suffered minor injuries and several residents were evacuated after a fire broke out. Romanian authorities said the drone entered the country's airspace before crashing in the city of Galati. Fighter jets and a helicopter were deployed in response. Romania called the incident a serious violation of international law and summoned the Russian ambassador. NATO allies also condemned the crash, warning that Russia's actions threaten regional security. The incident has raised fresh concerns about the Ukraine war spilling into neighbouring NATO countries. (PC: AFP)

Blue Origin rocket exploded during a test at its launch pad in Florida on Thursday. The blast created a huge ball of fire and smoke around the test site at Cape Canaveral.   The company said the incident happened during a hotfire test ahead of an upcoming launch. All personnel were accounted for and no injuries were reported. Local authorities said there was no threat to the public.   Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos said it was too early to know the cause of the explosion. Investigations are underway. The company said it will rebuild damaged equipment and continue its space missions.

US Vice President JD Vance said Washington and Tehran are close to reaching a nuclear agreement, although unresolved issues remain regarding Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and uranium enrichment activities. Speaking to reporters, Vance said negotiations were still underway and described the talks as “not there yet”, while adding the United States could significantly set back Iran’s nuclear programme if necessary. According to Reuters sources, the US and Iran also agreed to extend their ceasefire and ease restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, pending approval from President Donald Trump. Vance said discussions continue over specific language in the proposed memorandum of understanding, with both sides still negotiating key provisions before any formal signing. (PC: X)