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)

Narendra Modi and Donald Trump held their first call since the February 28 strikes on Iran triggered conflict, focusing on West Asia tensions and global supply risks. Modi stressed de-escalation and ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure, and accessible. India has intensified diplomatic outreach to Iran, Israel, GCC nations, and the US to stabilise the situation. Concerns centre on disruptions to fuel, food, and fertiliser supplies. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has engaged multiple counterparts. While avoiding direct involvement, India continues maritime security operations to safeguard shipping and maintain critical supply chains.

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)

An Indian-origin county judge in Texas, KP George, has been found guilty of money laundering. He was convicted on third-degree felony charges and could face up to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors said he moved over $46,000 in campaign funds to his personal account. Assistant District Attorney Katherine Peterson said he “kept lying” in finance reports and used the money for “personal benefit”. The defence said the transfers were loan repayments and called the case “government overreach”. George was taken into custody and later released on a $20,000 bond. He will be removed from office after sentencing, which is set for June 16. (PC: NDTV)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with US President Donald Trump on the Middle East crisis. Modi said the call was a “useful exchange”. He said India supports de-escalation and early peace. He stressed that the Strait of Hormuz must stay open, secure and accessible. He said this is important for global trade and energy supply. Modi also told Parliament that any disruption in Hormuz is “unacceptable”. He said attacks on ships are affecting fuel and goods supply. He warned the war is hurting the global economy. He added India is using diplomacy to ensure safe passage of its ships. Both leaders agreed to stay in touch. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump said talks with Iran are underway and claimed Tehran has agreed to “never have a nuclear weapon.” He said the US is “talking to the right people” and that Iran wants a deal. However, Iranian leaders denied any such talks. Iran’s parliament speaker said there had been no contact with Washington and rejected Trump’s claims. Pakistan has offered to mediate and host talks between the two sides. The White House said plans remain uncertain. The conflict continues with ongoing strikes. Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called for dialogue and keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure. (PC: X)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been sold for over Rs 16,000 crore in a record IPL deal. A group led by the Aditya Birla Group bought the team from United Spirits. The deal is worth about $1.78 billion. It makes RCB the most expensive IPL franchise ever. Aryaman Vikram Birla will be chairman. Satyan Gajwani will be vice chairman. The new owners said they want to grow RCB into a global brand. RCB is also the current IPL champion. The deal shows the rising value of the IPL. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals was sold for around Rs 15,290 crore in another major deal. (PC: BCCI)

Pakistan has offered to host talks between the US and Iran to end the war. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif posted the invitation online. Donald Trump shared it soon after, showing support. Pakistan said it is ready to help both sides reach a deal. Iran first denied talks but later confirmed messages through friendly countries. Reports say US officials may travel to Islamabad soon. Vice President JD Vance may also join. Other countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey are helping efforts. Despite this, fighting between Iran and Israel continued on Tuesday, raising doubts over how soon peace can be achieved.

Civilians in Iran voiced anxiety and uncertainty to BBC Persian as conflict continues. A woman in her 20s said she wants the war to end immediately, expressing emotional exhaustion and fear about the future. She warned that even if strikes stop, the regime could remain weak yet potentially more repressive. A man from Tehran questioned official narratives, noting consistent denial of negotiations with the US. He stressed concern over how the war ends rather than when. Despite restrictions and jamming by authorities, BBC Persian continues reaching millions, highlighting public sentiment amid escalating tensions and limited access to independent information.