Iran war live: Trump says deal with Tehran ‘possible’; Israel bombs Beirut

US President Donald Trump has announced a pause in the US military's "Project Freedom" operation to open the Strait of Hormuz. This decision comes amid reported progress in talks between the US and Iran, with Trump citing "great progress" towards a "complete and final agreement." The operation is temporarily suspended to allow for the finalization of potential terms with Tehran. However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran cannot submit to US "unilateral demands," characterizing the US approach as "maximum pressure." The US Defense Secretary confirmed that a ceasefire with Iran remains in effect despite heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

President Trump expressed optimism about a potential peace deal with Iran, though he acknowledged past difficulties and indicated it was unlikely US envoys would attend a second round of talks in Islamabad. Reports suggested a preliminary 14-point memorandum was being considered to end hostilities, unblock the Strait of Hormuz, lift sanctions, and curb Iran's nuclear program. However, skepticism exists among some US officials and Iranian parliamentarians, who view the reported points as a US "wish list." Experts caution that even an initial agreement might not resolve complex issues, citing the lengthy negotiations required for previous nuclear deals. Trump has previously claimed Iran agreed to terms, which Tehran denied.

Japan and Australia are strengthening their collaboration on critical minerals, defense, and energy security to counter China's dominance in rare earths and mitigate fuel supply disruptions. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi met in Canberra to discuss these initiatives, aiming to build more resilient supply chains. The leaders also addressed concerns regarding China, North Korea, and the Middle East, particularly the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure on energy supplies. Japan is actively diversifying its supply chains due to disputes with China, while the US has accused China of funding terrorism through Iranian oil purchases and urged its cooperation in reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Japan is also enhancing defense ties with Southeast Asian nations.

President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to Iran, demanding they accept a deal to end the Middle East war or face intensified US bombing. This announcement follows reports that the US and Iran are nearing a memorandum of understanding to resolve the conflict. Trump stated that if Iran agrees to terms, the military operation, referred to as "Epic Fury," will cease. However, if they refuse, bombing will resume at a significantly higher level. The US also recently paused a naval effort to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing requests from mediators like Pakistan, while maintaining a blockade of Iranian ports to pressure Tehran.

US President Donald Trump announced "very good talks" with Iran, suggesting a deal to end the ongoing war is possible. Trump stated that Iran must suspend its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of renewed bombing if negotiations fail. While Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement before his trip to China, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman downplayed reports of an imminent deal, stating Tehran has not formally responded to the latest US proposal. Diplomatic exchanges are continuing via Pakistan, with sources indicating a memorandum to formally end the conflict is close to agreement. The war, which began on February 28, involves ongoing disputes over Iran's nuclear ambitions and control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran is reportedly considering a US proposal aimed at ending the current conflict, according to an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson. While Iran reviews the proposal, a parliamentary official warned of a "harsh and regret-inducing response" if the US does not concede. Former President Trump also threatened intensified bombing if a deal isn't reached, while claiming Iran has agreed to forgo nuclear weapons. The US previously stated its offensive operation had concluded after achieving objectives. The conflict has significantly impacted the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, with a ceasefire in place since early April, though maritime traffic remains limited.

President Trump's initiative, "Project Freedom," aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for stranded vessels amid the Middle East conflict. This effort, intended to ease passage, was perceived by Iran as a provocation, leading to renewed fighting as Iran sought to maintain control of the waterway. Trump later announced the project was paused to allow for potential agreement with Iran, though port blockades would continue. The initiative strained the fragile ceasefire and raised concerns about a potential return to war, with Iran's ability to control the strait highlighted as a key factor. The article also briefly mentions other news items including UK politics, fuel shortages, a UK cruise ship incident, calls for a windfall tax on banks, and health disparities for Black individuals in England.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a temporary pause of "Project Freedom," a US military operation to facilitate ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz. This decision, made at the request of Pakistan and other nations, is intended to allow for the finalization of a potential agreement with Iran. The pause comes amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, following US military actions against Iranian boats and drone attacks on commercial vessels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US offensive operations have concluded but warned Iran must still face consequences for its actions in the strait. Iran has not yet commented on the announcement.

President Trump's foreign policy regarding Iran has seen rapid shifts in recent days. Initially, he suggested Iran had not faced sufficient consequences, then proposed "Project Freedom" as a humanitarian effort to ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, by Wednesday, Trump announced significant progress towards a complete agreement, pausing Project Freedom to allow for negotiations. These policy changes reflect the administration's struggle with Iran's capabilities, including its ability to disrupt shipping and its nuclear program, within a complex geopolitical situation. Reports indicate a potential memorandum of understanding with Pakistan as a mediator, aiming to end blockades and initiate talks on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets.

Tensions escalated in the Gulf this week following conflicting claims between the US and Iran regarding incidents in the Strait of Hormuz. The US announced "Project Freedom" to escort stranded ships through the strait, which Iran had threatened to fire upon. Iran's Fars News Agency reported Iranian drones hit a US warship, a claim denied by the US, which in turn stated it sank IRGC vessels. Iran denied its vessels were hit and presented a map showing expanded control, including UAE territorial waters. The UAE subsequently accused Iran of missile and drone attacks on Fujairah, damaging an oil refinery. These accusations follow a pattern of reciprocal claims since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran on February 28th, threatening diplomatic efforts.

A month-old ceasefire between the US and Iran is under strain following renewed hostilities. Iran reportedly launched missiles at the United Arab Emirates for the second time in 48 hours, while US naval forces are escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the truce remains intact despite increased violence, though Iran's parliament speaker accused the US of breaching the ceasefire. The conflict, triggered by an Israeli strike on Iran's supreme leader, has led to significant economic disruption, with hundreds of ships stranded and oil prices spiking globally. Both nations appear to believe they are nearing victory, contributing to the stalemate.

A drone attack from Iran struck a key oil facility in Fujairah, UAE, causing a large fire and injuring three Indian nationals. This incident followed the UAE's interception of missiles launched from Iran and reports of a tanker affiliated with its state-owned oil company being hit in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE described the attacks as a "dangerous escalation," though an unnamed Iranian official denied targeting the UAE. Simultaneously, the US reported its navy destroyers and merchant ships sailed through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran claimed to have fired warning shots at a US warship, which Washington denied. Later, the US stated it had intercepted seven Iranian fast boats in the strait, a claim Iran denied. These events occur amidst ongoing tensions and a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route.

President Donald Trump stated that China has not challenged the US regarding the Iran war, emphasizing his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their upcoming summit in Beijing on May 14-15. Trump suggested Xi would not challenge him due to their personal rapport. Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route now effectively closed due to the conflict, are expected to be discussed. Trump highlighted China's reliance on oil from the Strait of Hormuz and offered to redirect Chinese oil shipments to US ports like Texas and Louisiana. This meeting was rescheduled from its original March date following US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

Iran has released a map expanding its declared maritime control beyond the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global oil trade. This move follows US efforts to reopen the strait, which has been largely closed since a conflict began in late February. The announcement coincides with drone and missile attacks in the UAE, which the UAE attributes to Iran, though Tehran has not officially confirmed responsibility. Analysts suggest Iran views control of the Strait of Hormuz as essential leverage in its ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. This strategic importance means Iran is unlikely to relinquish its influence over the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz standoff, triggered by escalating tensions between the US and Iran, poses a significant risk of renewed conflict with global economic repercussions. Iran's actions, including threats to close the strait, have already led to shortages of oil, gas, helium, and fertilizer, impacting millions worldwide and potentially causing hunger in vulnerable nations. President Trump's complex and evolving strategy, including attempts to influence oil prices and military escorts through the strait, has left the US in a strategic bind due to Iran's resilience. Iran appears to be targeting the UAE among its Gulf neighbors, prompting the UAE to strengthen its alliances with the US and Israel, with Israel deploying an Iron Dome system and soldiers to the UAE.

A U.S.-backed proposal, "ARAM Express," aims to build a network of overland energy pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative, a collaboration between the United States and Gulf partners, seeks to create multiple export routes for oil, gas, and petrochemicals westward to the Red Sea and Mediterranean, and south towards the Arabian Sea. The plan is gaining traction amid escalating tensions with Iran, which has threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately one-third of global seaborne oil currently flows. The proposal envisions international participation from European and Asian buyers seeking supply resilience. This effort complements U.S. "Project Freedom," which aims to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting 15 missiles and four drones fired from Iran, marking the first UAE targeting since an April 8 ceasefire. One drone attack caused a fire at a Fujairah petroleum zone, injuring three Indian nationals, while an empty crude oil tanker was also attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has denied the accusations. Several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, condemned the attacks, denouncing them as a threat to regional security and a violation of UAE sovereignty. Germany, the UK, and Canada urged Iran to return to talks.

US President Donald Trump has launched "Project Freedom," a naval mission to escort stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz, with operations commencing imminently. Iran has responded by warning that any US intervention in the strait will be viewed as a violation of the existing ceasefire. This development follows Trump's announcement of the initiative to aid vessels facing difficulties in the strategic waterway. The Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi articulated this stance, indicating a potential escalation of tensions. The mission's immediate start suggests a rapid response to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Tensions are escalating in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran warns it will attack US forces if they interfere with Iranian operations there. This comes after President Trump stated the US Navy would "guide" stranded ships through the strait, asserting that any interference would be "dealt with forcefully." The Iranian military has vowed a "harsh response" to any threats. Meanwhile, the IDF has launched airstrikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, following evacuation warnings for four villages. A ceasefire in Lebanon, initiated on April 17th at the US's request, aimed to prevent disruption to peace talks with Iran.

On day 66 of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump announced "Project Freedom," a naval mission to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blockaded. This action follows Iran's claim to have received a US response to its peace proposal, which Trump had previously deemed unacceptable. Iran's military warned that any US interference in the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and result in an attack. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan discussing regional stability and NATO allies assuring increased support for the US. Australia and Japan are also enhancing cooperation due to trade disruptions caused by the conflict.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz is spearheading a new UN Security Council resolution aimed at stopping Iran from mining the Strait of Hormuz. This diplomatic effort seeks international backing for the ongoing U.S. maritime operation, Project Freedom, which is designed to secure commercial shipping through the critical global trade route. The resolution intends to hold Iran accountable for violating international law by laying sea mines, demanding they cease this activity, disclose mine locations, and cooperate with the UN to establish humanitarian corridors. This initiative follows recent U.S. military actions to protect vessels threatened by Iranian forces in the strait. The resolution is being developed in cooperation with Bahrain and GCC countries.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones originating from Iran. The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed the interception of three missiles and a fourth falling into the sea, with no immediate reports of casualties. Separately, an Iranian drone reportedly caused a fire at an oil facility in Fujairah, injuring three Indian citizens. These incidents occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, particularly concerning blockades in the Strait of Hormuz and failed ceasefire extension efforts. While a senior Iranian military official denied plans to target the UAE, the drone attack broke a period of relative calm following a US-Tehran ceasefire.

Iran has warned the United States Navy to stay out of the Strait of Hormuz after President Trump announced "Project Freedom," a US initiative to guide stranded ships through the waterway. Iran's military stated that US forces will be attacked if they enter the strait and advised commercial vessels to coordinate with Iran. Trump claimed the operation was requested by countries with stranded ships, citing humanitarian concerns and the need to ensure free passage. US Central Command confirmed its support for the mission, involving significant military personnel and assets. Iran views any US intervention as a violation of a recent ceasefire.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged China on Monday to increase diplomatic pressure on Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking in a Fox News interview, Bessent stated that China, which imports 90% of Iran's energy, should leverage its relationship to influence Iran. He emphasized that while the U.S. maintains "absolute control" over the strategic waterway, China has a role to play in de-escalating tensions. Bessent's remarks highlight the U.S. desire for international cooperation in ensuring freedom of navigation in the critical shipping lane, linking China's energy purchases from Iran to its potential diplomatic influence.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has accused China of "funding the largest state sponsor of terrorism," referring to Iran, due to Beijing's significant energy purchases. Bessent made these remarks ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit to China. Despite the criticism, Bessent urged China to collaborate with the US in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked. He stated that the US has "absolute control" of the strait and is working to reopen it, suggesting China use its influence to encourage Iran to resolve the crisis diplomatically. Bessent also noted that China and Russia have previously blocked UN Security Council condemnation of Iran's actions.

A fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran has held for three weeks, with signs of the Strait of Hormuz potentially reopening. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the US will initiate "Project Freedom" on Monday morning, a humanitarian effort to assist ships stranded in the strait. This initiative, requested by neutral countries, aims to facilitate maritime traffic. The US Navy will provide commercial vessels with navigational guidance and remain on standby to deter any Iranian interference. Trump warned that any obstruction of this humanitarian process would be met with a forceful response.

Iran has reportedly received a response from the United States to its latest peace proposal, according to Iranian state-linked media. The response was delivered through Pakistan and is currently under review by Iran's foreign ministry. While the US has not yet officially confirmed sending a reply, President Trump had previously stated he would review Iran's plan, expressing skepticism about its acceptability. Iran's 14-point proposal, as reported by its state media, includes demands for US troop withdrawal from near its borders, an end to its naval blockade, and a cessation of hostilities, including Israeli actions in Lebanon. The plan reportedly calls for an agreement within 30 days and a focus on ending the conflict.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated he remains committed to working with US President Donald Trump and on the transatlantic relationship, despite recent disagreements over the war in Iran. Merz downplayed tensions, suggesting the US troop withdrawal from Germany was not retaliatory and was not linked to their differing views on Iran. He also indicated a planned deployment of US Tomahawk missiles to Germany is currently on hold due to depleted arsenals from conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. Despite criticizing the US approach to the Iran war, Merz affirmed a shared goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Merz acknowledged Trump respects differing views, though perhaps less so currently.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sought to downplay tensions with the United States following Washington's announcement of a significant troop drawdown. The withdrawal of approximately 5,000 American soldiers over the next year, a reduction of about 14%, is not connected to a recent diplomatic rift. The disagreement arose when Merz appeared to criticize former President Trump's Iran strategy, prompting a rebuke from Washington. Despite this, Merz reiterated that the US remains Germany's most crucial NATO partner. The troop reduction comes shortly after Trump also announced increased tariffs on European Union cars and trucks, impacting Germany, a major automotive producer.

A bulk carrier was attacked by multiple small craft off the coast of Iran, approximately 11 nautical miles west of Sirik, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident occurred near the Strait of Hormuz. The UKMTO reported that all crew members aboard the unidentified northbound vessel are safe and that no environmental impact has been reported. This event takes place amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz being a critical global shipping route. The US Central Command also stated it has redirected 49 commercial vessels to comply with its blockade on Iranian ports.

US President Donald Trump announced he will soon review a 14-point plan submitted by Iran. The plan reportedly calls for non-aggression guarantees, the removal of a naval blockade, and an end to conflict on all fronts, including in Lebanon. Trump expressed skepticism about his ability to reach a deal with Iran. This development occurs as Israel is reportedly conducting strikes in Lebanon. The article does not specify the exact date of the strikes or the full content of Iran's proposal beyond these key points.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will launch "Project Freedom" on Monday to help free ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a humanitarian gesture. The operation aims to address ships running low on supplies due to the ongoing blockade. Trump warned that any interference with this effort would be met with a forceful response. The initiative comes amid soaring oil prices and public discontent with the war, which has impacted Trump's approval ratings. It remains unclear if this operation will involve coordination with Iran or if it risks disrupting the fragile ceasefire.