Trump threatens ‘a big hit’ if Tehran does not make deal soon

President Donald Trump has renewed threats of new US attacks on Iran if Tehran does not agree to significant concessions for a deal to end the Middle East war. Trump stated he was close to ordering strikes but pulled back, citing a peace proposal from Iran via Pakistan and reluctance from allies. He indicated a limited timeframe, possibly by the weekend or early next week, for a deal before a "big hit" could occur. Iran has remained defiant, calling US demands "excessive" and reiterating its control over the Strait of Hormuz, while also proposing an end to hostilities and withdrawal of US forces. Analysts suggest the conflict is deadlocked, with both sides wanting to avoid war but unwilling to make necessary concessions.

President Trump announced he has paused a planned attack on Iran, scheduled for Tuesday, following a request from Gulf leaders. This decision comes after Iran submitted a new 14-point peace proposal to Washington via Pakistan. Trump stated there is now a "very good chance" of reaching an agreement to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, though other sticking points are expected to remain. Iran's demands for peace reportedly include the lifting of sanctions. This development occurs amidst recent drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE, raising concerns about renewed military escalation in the Gulf as peace negotiations continue. Trump has instructed the US military to be prepared for a large-scale assault if an acceptable deal is not reached.

US President Donald Trump delayed a scheduled attack on Iran following requests from leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, stating that "serious negotiations are now taking place." Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed Iran's participation in talks but emphasized that dialogue does not equate to surrender, asserting negotiations are conducted with dignity and national rights preserved. Meanwhile, Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue, with the death toll exceeding 3,000. In Iran, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported striking groups linked to the US and Israel in Kurdistan province, accusing them of attempting to smuggle weapons. The IRGC also indicated potential permit requirements for fiber-optic cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials warned against further US aggression, stating any renewed attacks would face a significantly stronger response.

The United Arab Emirates' Defense Ministry stated that drones targeting the Barakah nuclear power plant originated from Iraq, suggesting the involvement of Iranian-backed Shiite militias. The attack, which occurred on the facility's perimeter and hit a generator, caused no reported injuries or radiological release. This incident follows repeated drone attacks on Gulf Arab states, suspected to be linked to Iran. Saudi Arabia also reported intercepting drones from Iraqi airspace. The Barakah plant, the Arab world's only nuclear facility, was built with South Korean assistance and became operational in 2020. An Emirati diplomat criticized regional countries for their roles amidst what they described as Iranian aggression.

United States President Donald Trump announced that a planned attack on Iran has been postponed at the request of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Trump stated that "serious negotiations are now taking place." Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian commented that "dialogue does not mean surrender" and that Tehran entered negotiations with "dignity, authority, and the preservation of the nation’s rights." Al Jazeera's correspondent in Tehran reported that Iranian leaders are "projecting defiance" and rejecting "public pressure" from the US.

US President Donald Trump announced he has halted a planned US military attack on Iran, originally scheduled for Tuesday. He stated this decision was made at the request of leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, who indicated that serious negotiations are underway and a deal acceptable to the US, ensuring Iran will not possess nuclear weapons, is anticipated. Trump cautioned that the US military remains prepared for a large-scale assault if negotiations fail. This development follows a period of stalled talks and intermittent exchanges of fire between Iran and US/Israeli forces, despite a ceasefire agreement in April aimed at facilitating discussions. Iran has not yet publicly responded to Trump's statement.

Regional officials report Iran has presented a new proposal aimed at ending the Middle East war, though no immediate breakthrough is evident in stalled peace talks. A ceasefire has paused most violence following six weeks of US-Israeli airstrikes and Iranian retaliation. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, has shared the proposal with the US, but a Pakistani source expressed pessimism about agreement due to shifting demands. Other officials suggest Iran has offered concessions, including suspending its nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Despite these developments, rhetoric remains defiant, with Iran threatening internet cable permits and the US reportedly considering military action. Both sides face pressure to end the conflict amid economic crises and domestic concerns.

On day 80 of the conflict, US President Donald Trump warned Iran that "the clock is ticking" to reach a deal, suggesting potential air strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. Iran's Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated the military is "fully prepared" to confront any new aggression from the US and Israel. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three drones, following a drone strike on the UAE's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. Meanwhile, Israel has continued its bombardment of Lebanon despite a ceasefire extension. A member of Iran's Expediency Council warned the US to lift its port blockade, reiterating Iran's readiness for further confrontation. Russia's envoy suggested Iran appoint a special envoy to Moscow, while a French political figure condemned European complicity in the strikes.

An analyst suggests Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement of a "secret visit" with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has strained the U.S.-brokered alliance designed to counter Iran. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any undisclosed arrangements, stating their relations with Israel are public under the Abraham Accords. This friction arises as tensions with Iran escalate, with the UAE having recently intercepted drones. Analyst Natan Sachs called Netanyahu's announcement a "diplomatic blunder" that embarrassed the UAE and potentially damaged trust, suggesting it may have been motivated by domestic politics. The Abraham Accords, established in 2020, normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, fostering security cooperation against Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated threats against Iran, warning that time is running out for the country to concede to demands, including dismantling its nuclear program and missile stocks. Trump issued a stark warning on his platform, stating that "there won’t be anything left of them" if they do not act quickly. This rhetoric follows stalled negotiations and previous threats from Trump, including an AI-generated image suggesting impending military action. Iran has denounced Trump's demands as excessive and stated that the U.S. has offered no tangible concessions. Iranian officials have warned against further threats, suggesting that any folly will result in severe blows. The increasingly hostile remarks from both sides raise concerns about the stability of the current ceasefire.

A drone strike targeted the United Arab Emirates' Barakah nuclear power plant on Sunday, igniting an electrical generator on its perimeter. Authorities reported no radiological release or injuries. While no group claimed responsibility, suspicion immediately fell on Iran, which had been issuing threats against the UAE due to its hosting of Israeli missile defenses and troops. This incident further strains the fragile ceasefire in the Iran war, occurring as Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz and US-led efforts to solidify the ceasefire have stalled. The Barakah plant, the first and only nuclear facility on the Arabian Peninsula, began operations in 2020 and supplies a significant portion of the UAE's energy.

A drone strike caused a fire outside the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, authorities confirmed. The blaze, which occurred on an external electrical generator outside the plant's perimeter, resulted in no injuries and no impact on radiological safety levels, according to the Abu Dhabi media office. The UAE’s nuclear regulator stated that plant safety was not affected and all units are operating normally. No group has claimed responsibility for the drone strike, and the UAE statement did not assign blame. This incident marks the first time the Barakah plant has been targeted during the ongoing Iran war, which has seen increased tensions and attacks around the Strait of Hormuz.

The United Arab Emirates has blamed Iran or its proxies for a drone strike that caused a fire near the Barakah nuclear power plant. The UAE described the incident as a "dangerous escalation," occurring during a tense ceasefire in the Iran war with stalled peace talks. The drone targeted an electrical generator outside the plant's perimeter, causing no injuries or radiation alerts. The UAE's foreign minister informed the International Atomic Energy Agency and stated the country reserves the right to respond. The UAE's defense ministry reported three drones entered from the western border, and investigations are ongoing to determine the source.

The United Arab Emirates reported a drone strike on Sunday that ignited a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi. The UAE's defense ministry stated that three drones entered from the west, with two being intercepted and one striking an electrical generator outside the plant's inner perimeter. Authorities are investigating the source of the strike, which the UAE's foreign ministry condemned as an "unacceptable act of aggression" and a "dangerous escalation" violating international law. No injuries were reported, and radiological safety levels remained unaffected. The UAE has previously accused Iran of similar attacks on its infrastructure.

During President Trump's visit to Beijing, he stated that the US and China share similar views on resolving the situation with Iran, emphasizing a desire for Iran to cease nuclear weapon development and ensure open shipping lanes. While Trump claimed a shared sentiment, no specific breakthroughs were announced. The US has reportedly sought China's leverage as Iran's largest oil buyer to influence its actions, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz. China, which relies heavily on the waterway for its oil imports, has called for a ceasefire and the opening of the strait, though some in Beijing view the crisis as not solely China's responsibility. The US has also expressed differing views on whether they are seeking China's direct assistance.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a lack of trust is the primary impediment to negotiations aimed at ending the war with the U.S. Speaking in New Delhi, Araghchi expressed doubt about American intentions due to contradictory messages and indicated Tehran would welcome diplomatic assistance, particularly from China. He emphasized that progress in negotiations hinges on Washington's readiness for a "fair and balanced deal." U.S. President Donald Trump had previously dismissed Iran's latest proposal. The ongoing conflict continues to threaten regional stability and prolong a global energy crisis, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical point of contention. Araghchi also identified Iran's enriched uranium stockpile as a difficult subject in the talks.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated at a BRICS meeting in New Delhi that Tehran doubts the seriousness of the US regarding potential negotiations to end regional conflict. He confirmed that Iran has received messages from the Trump administration indicating openness to new talks, but distrust persists. Araghchi also indicated that the issue of Iran's enriched material and nuclear program will likely be postponed until later stages of any future discussions. He mentioned that Iran is open to Russia's offer to store its enriched uranium and will consult with Moscow on this matter at an appropriate time. Araghchi also expressed openness to support from other countries, including China, to resolve the conflict.

During his state visit to China, US President Donald Trump adopted an unusually restrained social media approach. Since arriving in Beijing on Wednesday evening, Trump has posted only ten updates, primarily featuring videos of his arrival and greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping. His posts included praise for Xi as "one of the World's Great Leaders" and a comment suggesting the US should possess a ballroom similar to China's, seemingly inspired by a state banquet. This contrasts with Trump's typically combative and prolific online presence.

During President Trump's visit to Beijing on May 15, 2026, the United States sought China's cooperation in pressuring Iran to end the ongoing 77-day war. The conflict began on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks by Iran across the region. While the US framed the war as necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, China reiterated its opposition, citing severe losses and advocating for dialogue and a comprehensive ceasefire. Despite US efforts, President Xi Jinping did not appear to yield to US pressure, and no agreement was reached on ending the war. China expressed support for ongoing ceasefire mediation efforts, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution in the interest of all parties involved.

During a summit in Beijing on Thursday, May 15, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump agreed on a "new vision of building a constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability." Xi emphasized that controlling competition and maintaining stability are the overriding priorities for the two nations. However, a Chinese political observer from Fudan University cautioned that this "aspirational" vision faces its "real test" in navigating the deepening strategic rivalry between the two powers. The observer highlighted that structural tensions persist beneath the surface of the relationship, suggesting that ensuring cooperation despite these challenges will be crucial.

BRICS foreign ministers concluded their meeting in New Delhi without issuing a joint statement due to divisions over the Iran war. Iran's Foreign Minister urged member states to condemn alleged violations of international law by the United States and Israel. However, differing views among members, particularly concerning Iran's actions and its relations with Gulf neighbors like the UAE, prevented consensus. The UAE representative rejected Iran's claims, accusing them of justifying attacks. Despite the lack of a joint statement on the conflict, BRICS members did agree on calls for global governance reforms and greater representation for Global South countries.

On day 77 of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Strait of Hormuz in Beijing, agreeing it must remain open for global energy supplies. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister urged BRICS nations in New Delhi to condemn the US-Israel actions as a violation of international law, accusing the UAE of direct involvement in the conflict. Iran also signaled a new strategy for the Strait of Hormuz, allowing ships, including some linked to Chinese companies, to transit if they cooperate with Iranian naval forces. Concurrently, Lebanese and Israeli negotiators are holding a third round of talks in Washington, DC, to end hostilities.

President Donald Trump's visit to China for talks with leader Xi Jinping is occurring amidst significant global and bilateral challenges. The meeting takes place against a backdrop of a fragile trade truce, intense strategic rivalry between the US and China, and global economic uncertainty exacerbated by the US-Iran war, which is disrupting energy supplies. This visit is considered pivotal as it could redefine the fault lines in the US-China relationship, which is shaped by rivalry, interdependence, and geopolitical crises. The article examines the likely outcomes of Trump's trip, highlighting the complex dynamics influencing these high-level discussions.

On the first day of Donald Trump's visit to Beijing for trade talks, Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Trump agreed to characterize their relationship as "constructive, strategic and stable." Both leaders hailed the US-China bond as the world's most "consequential" during a state banquet. Xi emphasized the importance of making their relationship work, warning that failure would create a "very dangerous situation." Trump expressed personal respect for Xi, calling him "my friend" and inviting him for a return visit to the White House. Xi posed questions about joint efforts to address global challenges and inject stability into the world, framing their leadership as crucial for writing the "answer to our times."

Donald Trump was welcomed to China by Xi Jinping on his first day of a visit that could potentially reset ties between the two superpowers. The visit began with a grand ceremony at the Great Hall of the People, where a military honour guard saluted and a band played the US national anthem. Trump praised Xi as a "great leader" and called the talks a "cherished opportunity". During his tour, he remarked that China was beautiful and expressed admiration for his host. The visit comes after years of tension between the two countries, including trade wars and Trump's previous criticism of China. The fragile truce between the US and China is uncertain, with questions remaining about what deal would take its place if a new agreement is reached.

On day 76 of the war, US Vice President JD Vance stated progress is being made in talks with Iran, despite President Trump deeming Tehran's proposal unacceptable. These negotiations aim to prevent a ceasefire collapse. Iran's military, according to Brigadier-General Mohammad Akrami Nia, remains on high alert, signaling readiness to respond to escalation. Meanwhile, Israel claims Prime Minister Netanyahu made a secret visit to the UAE during the war, a trip the UAE denies. Iran's Foreign Minister warned countries colluding with Israel would be held accountable. Separately, Iran celebrated its national football team's send-off for the 2026 World Cup amidst the ongoing conflict.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that ships entering the Strait of Hormuz must cooperate with the Iranian navy, following reports of a vessel being seized near the UAE port of Fujairah and taken towards Iranian waters. The UK Maritime Trading Organisation confirmed the seizure by "unauthorised personnel." Araghchi, speaking at a BRICS meeting, described Iran as "invincible" and claimed America's blockade, not Iran, has created obstacles. He urged BRICS nations to condemn alleged US and Israeli violations of international law. The incident occurs amidst heightened regional tensions and Iran's efforts to counter US sanctions.

An Indian-flagged vessel, the Hui Chuan, has reportedly been hijacked by Iran off the coast of Oman. This incident follows an attack on the same vessel on Wednesday, which Indian officials state was a suspected explosion from a drone or missile. The ship, carrying livestock, was en route from Berbera Port in Somalia to Sharjah in the UAE when the fire broke out, forcing the crew to abandon ship before it sank. Omani authorities rescued the 14 Indian crew members and brought them to Diba Port. India's Ministry of External Affairs has condemned the attack as "unacceptable."

A ship was seized off the coast of the United Arab Emirates near the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday morning, according to the British military. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the vessel was boarded by unauthorized personnel approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah. The ship, identified by the BBC as the Honduras-flagged Hui Chuan, was observed heading towards Iranian territorial waters after the incident. Citing a risk-management company, the BBC also reported that the ship's operators claimed it was functioning as a "floating armory" for vessels to defend against pirates. This seizure follows at least two other ship seizures in the Strait of Hormuz since February, including two by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in April.

A ship anchored off the east coast of the United Arab Emirates has been seized by unauthorized personnel and is reportedly heading towards Iranian territorial waters. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center confirmed the incident, which occurred approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah. The seizure took place amid heightened regional tensions, including ongoing discussions between the U.S. and China regarding Iran, and a recent denial by the UAE of a reported secret visit by Israel's Prime Minister. The UKMTO is investigating the incident, and no group has yet claimed responsibility. The specific vessel involved has not been identified.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret visit to the United Arab Emirates for a meeting with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Netanyahu's office described the trip as a "historic breakthrough" in relations between the two nations, though the exact date was not disclosed. The visit occurred during the US-Israel military campaign against Iran and amid expanding cooperation between Israel and the UAE, particularly on security matters related to Iran. This cooperation includes Israel deploying Iron Dome air defense systems to the UAE to counter potential Iranian attacks. The meeting follows recent Iranian missile and drone attacks on the UAE in May, after which Netanyahu reportedly expressed solidarity and support to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. Relations between Israel and the UAE have strengthened since the 2020 Abraham Accords.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secretly visited the United Arab Emirates during the recent Israeli-US war with Iran, according to his office. The visit, which aimed to further strengthen ties between the two nations, reportedly resulted in a "historic breakthrough." This development follows the recent public acknowledgment of Israel sending Iron Dome air-defense systems and personnel to the UAE. The UAE, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020, has faced Iranian attacks and is seeking to reassure investors. The secret visit underscores the deepening relationship between Israel and the UAE, which has been a point of contention for Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed a secret trip to the United Arab Emirates on March 26, during the height of the Iran war, to meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This meeting, which lasted several hours in Al Ain, is described as a "historic breakthrough" in relations between the two nations. The visit underscores a deepening Middle East alliance, with reports also indicating Mossad director David Barnea made multiple visits to the UAE to coordinate military actions. Israel has shared its Iron Dome air defense system with the UAE, and the UAE is believed to have conducted its own strikes on Iran. This collaboration follows the 2020 Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and the UAE, and highlights the UAE's independent foreign policy.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has joined President Donald Trump on his trip to China this week, confirmed by Nvidia. Huang boarded Air Force One in Anchorage, Alaska, during a refueling stop, at the invitation of President Trump to support the administration's goals. This last-minute addition comes after Huang was not included on the initial list of invited business delegates released by the White House. The White House official also confirmed Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk was traveling on the presidential plane. Huang had previously stated he would attend if invited, and his inclusion is seen by some as a reflection of lobbying efforts.

Iran is increasingly targeting the UAE in its war messaging, labeling the Gulf nation a "hostile base" due to its close ties with the US and Israel. This shift in rhetoric, highlighted by statements from Iranian parliament members and the IRGC, follows recent exchanges of fire between Iran and the US. Iran warns of stronger strikes against the UAE if the US and Israel resume attacks, accusing Emirati leaders of allowing their country to become a base for American and Zionist forces. The IRGC also claims maritime control over areas near the UAE's Fujairah port. The UAE has condemned Iranian attacks and taken measures against Iranian businesses and individuals.

US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, confirmed that Israel has deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and operating personnel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This deployment, revealed on May 12, 2026, is intended to help the UAE defend against Iranian attacks. Huckabee praised the UAE for its strong relationship with Israel, highlighting it as an example of the benefits of the Abraham Accords. This marks the first known instance of the US-funded Iron Dome system being used outside of Israel. The move comes amid ongoing Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting the UAE and other Gulf nations since late February, following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran. Huckabee also urged Gulf states to align themselves in the conflict with Iran.

Reports indicate the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secretly launched a significant attack on Iran, escalating the risk of Gulf states being drawn into direct conflict. This UAE assault, reportedly a retaliation for Iranian attacks on its facilities, targeted Iran's Lazan Island just before a ceasefire was announced. The news makes the UAE a potential target for Iran if the ceasefire collapses. Separately, Kuwait reported capturing IRGC members attempting "terrorist attacks" on Bubiyan Island. The UAE's military actions, utilizing French and Chinese aircraft, underscore its diplomatic hostility towards Iran, which has previously targeted the UAE due to its stance. Despite UAE efforts, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have not increased their counter-Iran measures.

President Donald Trump is traveling to Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, aiming to stabilize relations between the two largest economies. The visit, scheduled for Wednesday evening and lasting two days, marks Trump's first trip to China since 2017 and the first state visit between the leaders since Trump's return to the White House. Despite Trump's optimistic outlook and description of Xi as a "friend," significant disagreements persist regarding trade, Taiwan, and global security issues. The summit's purpose is to address these divisions and foster greater stability in the bilateral relationship.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, will join President Donald Trump's delegation during his upcoming trip to Beijing, China. Musk's inclusion is notable as he is a widely recognized American entrepreneur in China. His presence is intended to serve as a "natural bridge" for trade discussions during this diplomatically sensitive visit. The delegation is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday night, where they will meet with President Xi Jinping. This marks a significant commercial and personal element to the presidential trip, surprising many observers.

Kuwait announced it foiled an infiltration operation on May 1, arresting four men accused of being members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The men were apprehended on Bubiyan Island after attempting to infiltrate by sea aboard a chartered fishing boat. During the confrontation with Kuwaiti forces, one Kuwaiti soldier was injured. The arrested individuals reportedly admitted to being tasked by the IRGC with infiltrating the island. Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the alleged incursion as a violation of its sovereignty and international law, demanding Iran cease hostile acts. Two other individuals reportedly escaped during the incident. Iran has not yet commented on the accusations.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced that Israel has deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and operating personnel to the United Arab Emirates. This deployment is intended to defend the UAE during the ongoing Iran war. Huckabee made these remarks at an event in Tel Aviv, highlighting the strengthening defense ties between Israel and the UAE, both of whom are concerned about Iran. The UAE and Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords. The deployment underscores regional security concerns amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.