Iran war day 76: Vance says progress made in talks; Israel pounds Lebanon

US Vice President JD Vance says progress is being made in talks with Iran to end the war as President Donald Trump begins his state visit to China.Published On 14 May 2026United States Vice President JD Vance has said he believes progress is being made in negotiations with Iran, despite President Donald Trump rejecting Tehran’s latest proposal as unacceptable. The comments come as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent a collapse in the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.Meanwhile, Brigadier-General Mohammad Akrami Nia says Iran’s military remains at “the highest level of readiness”, warning that “there is no room for retreat” as tensions with the US persist. Iranian officials have continued to signal they are prepared to respond to any escalation.Separately, Israel says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a “secret” visit to the United Arab Emirates during the war on Iran, where he met the UAE president, according to the Israeli prime minister’s office. The UAE has denied that the trip happened.Here is what we know:In Iran Iran warns states ‘colluding’ with Israel: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said countries working with Israel against Tehran will be “held to account”, after Israel revealed Netanyahu visited the UAE during the war. Araghchi accused states of helping “sow division” alongside Israel, calling such actions “unforgivable”. Iran gives World Cup send-off to national team: Crowds gathered in Tehran’s Enghelab Square to celebrate Iran’s national football team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, waving flags as players appeared on stage in red and black tracksuits. Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said the squad would represent “the people, the country’s fighters, the leader and the country”, while some fans carried placards honouring former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the war.