Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah urges Lebanon to pull out of talks with Israel; blockade of strait of Hormuz begins

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has called on Lebanon to abandon its scheduled direct negotiations with Israel in Washington. The meeting, planned to address ongoing border disputes, was intended to involve representatives from both countries. Qassem's rejection stems from Hezbollah's opposition to any normalization of relations with Israel. He believes direct talks legitimize Israel's presence and policies, and therefore undermine Lebanon's interests. The call adds further complexity to the already strained relationship between Lebanon and Israel, and casts doubt on the possibility of productive dialogue.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem urged Lebanon to cancel a planned meeting with Israel in Washington, D.C., scheduled for the following day. Qassem reiterated Hezbollah's rejection of direct negotiations with Israel, calling for a "historic and heroic stance" by cancelling the meeting. The Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors to the United States were set to discuss potential direct negotiations between the two countries. Lebanon seeks a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict before engaging in formal peace talks, a prospect dismissed by Israel, who prefers to focus on formal peace talks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his desire for Hezbollah's disarmament and a lasting peace agreement. Qassem believes these negotiations are futile without Lebanese agreement and consensus.

A senior Hezbollah official, Wafiq Safa, stated on Monday that the group will not recognize any agreements resulting from upcoming Lebanon-Israel talks in the United States. These talks, scheduled to take place in Washington D.C., mark the first direct meeting between Lebanese and Israeli envoys in decades. Safa emphasized Hezbollah's opposition to the negotiations, asserting they are not bound by any outcomes. The Lebanese government seeks to broker a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah war through these U.S.-mediated discussions. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aims for Hezbollah's disarmament and a potential peace agreement with Lebanon, though his spokesperson denied any ceasefire plans.

A high-level Iranian delegation, including Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Araghchi, arrived in Islamabad on Saturday for direct talks with the US. These negotiations mark the first direct engagement between the two nations since hostilities began six weeks prior. The talks aim to solidify a fragile two-week ceasefire and ultimately end the conflict. Despite expressing "goodwill," Ghalibaf emphasized Iran's deep mistrust of the US, citing past betrayals and broken promises during previous negotiations. He stated that while Iran seeks a genuine agreement that secures its rights, it remains wary of potential US deceit and is prepared to rely on its own capabilities.

On April 10, 2026, an Israeli air strike on a government building in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon, resulted in the deaths of at least 13 members of Lebanon's State Security agency, according to Lebanese authorities. The incident occurred after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he had ordered direct negotiations with Lebanon. The strike's purpose was not explicitly stated in the provided information. The attack represents a significant escalation of conflict between Israel and Lebanon.

On April 10, 2026, a high-level Iranian delegation traveled to Islamabad, Pakistan. The delegation included Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The purpose of the visit is to hold talks with US officials. The news report indicates that these discussions are taking place in Islamabad, though the specific reasons for the meeting were not disclosed in the provided information.

Tensions are high before planned US-Iran ceasefire talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, scheduled for Saturday, aimed at resolving the US-Israel war with Iran. An Iranian official stated that conditions of a previous agreement, including a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iranian assets, have not been met, potentially derailing negotiations. The Iranian military warned of action due to perceived breaches of trust by the US and Israel. Meanwhile, Trump reiterated threats of military action against Iran if a deal isn't reached, signaling a hardline stance going into the negotiations. The US delegation has already departed for Pakistan.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans for direct negotiations with Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah and establish relations, despite ongoing tensions and no formal ceasefire. The talks, potentially beginning next week in Washington D.C., aim to de-escalate conflict amid a fragile ceasefire in the broader Iran war. These developments follow Israeli strikes on Beirut and concerns over Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz. However, US President Trump has expressed skepticism about Iran's adherence to the ceasefire regarding oil passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, technically at war since 1948, represent a significant step towards regional stability, though challenges remain.

Tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon on Friday, ahead of planned talks between the Lebanese government and Israel next week. An Israeli strike killed at least 13 Lebanese State Security members in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah claimed responsibility for an attack on an Israeli naval base in Ashdod. Israel launched strikes across southern Lebanon, including a government building in Nabatieh, and Hezbollah claimed 31 other attacks on northern Israel and Israeli ground troops. The conflict began after Hezbollah fired rockets toward northern Israel in solidarity with Iran on March 2. According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, at least 1,888 people in Lebanon have been killed in Israeli strikes.

On day 42 of US-Israeli attacks, a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, is in effect but strained by disputes. Israeli attacks in Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties, prompted Lebanon to declare a day of mourning and drew condemnation from Iran, who views the strikes as a violation of the ceasefire. Despite the tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has ordered direct negotiations with Lebanon. The US intends to maintain its military presence around Iran until a comprehensive agreement is fully implemented. Meanwhile, Iran is experiencing internal upheaval, including rallies honoring the assassinated Ali Khamenei and the death of Kamal Kharrazi. Iran is reportedly leveraging its position in the Strait of Hormuz to push for sanctions relief and reintegration into the global economy.

Following a newly established US-Iran ceasefire, Israel's intense bombing of Beirut and other Lebanese cities has drawn international condemnation and threatened to destabilize the truce. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for negotiations with Lebanon focusing on Hezbollah's disarmament, but did not commit to halting the strikes, which have killed over 200 people in the past 24 hours. Iran has warned it may close the Strait of Hormuz again in response to the Israeli attacks, jeopardizing US-Iranian talks scheduled in Pakistan. Despite claims of progress by the US president, the ceasefire is in danger of collapsing as Iran insists negotiations are "meaningless" while Israel continues its bombardment of Lebanon. Pakistan has condemned Israel's actions and urged restraint.

A ceasefire in the Iran conflict is in jeopardy due to disagreements over its scope and alleged violations. While Iran and mediator Pakistan claim the ceasefire includes Lebanon, Israel and the US disagree. Israel has intensified its attacks in Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties, while Iran has halted oil tanker passage, citing Israeli breaches of the truce. The UN has condemned the scale of Israel's attacks. Separately, in the US, a man linked to the JDL 613 Brotherhood has been charged with plotting to firebomb a pro-Palestine activist's home. The group is known for its leaders' support of violence against Palestinians.

Following Israeli strikes in Lebanon that killed at least 303 people, an Iranian minister told the BBC that Israel gravely violated the US-Iran ceasefire agreement. Iran claims the deal, disputed by the US and Israel, covers Lebanon. Israel stated the strikes targeted Hezbollah command centers. Both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanese President Aoun have expressed willingness to engage in direct negotiations, with Israel aiming to disarm Hezbollah and establish peaceful relations. Hezbollah claims to have responded to ceasefire violations and will continue attacks until "Israeli-American aggression" ends.

On April 7th, a ceasefire between the US and Iran was announced shortly before a US deadline regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement followed a 10-point proposal from Iran to the US, mediated by Pakistan. According to Iranian officials, China played a crucial role in securing Iran's acceptance of the ceasefire. This breakthrough occurred a week after China and Pakistan jointly presented a five-point initiative on March 31st, which likely established the diplomatic framework for the agreement. China's involvement, particularly its collaboration with Pakistan, signals its strategic approach to influencing the conflict and engaging with its economic and political partners. China has maintained a consistent stance throughout the conflict, which began on February 28th.

Following heightened tensions and threats, the US and Iran agreed to a two-week truce, contingent on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas shipments. Negotiations are scheduled to begin in Islamabad, Pakistan. However, Gulf states are apprehensive that the US, seeking a swift resolution, might concede some control of the Strait of Hormuz to Iran in exchange for a temporary ceasefire. This concern stems from Iran's demand to maintain control over the Strait and coordinate maritime passage with its military. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for a permanent and lasting solution that ensures the Strait's free passage.

Pakistan played a crucial role in brokering a ceasefire between the US/Israel and Iran after escalating tensions threatened to engulf the region. Prime Minister Sharif expressed pessimism about peace prospects before the agreement. Army Chief Asim Munir leveraged his relationships with both the US and Iran to mediate. The situation was critical for Pakistan due to its economic vulnerabilities, defense pact with Saudi Arabia, and internal security concerns. While the US claimed Iran initiated the ceasefire request, Pakistani officials suggest both sides desired an end to the conflict. Pakistan viewed the successful mediation as a significant diplomatic achievement, averting a potentially disastrous regional war.

Pakistan played a key role in securing a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran. Tensions had escalated, prompting Pakistan's Field Marshall Munir to criticize Iran's actions, signaling support for Saudi Arabia, with whom Pakistan has a defense pact. Pakistan's Prime Minister then engaged in diplomatic efforts, requesting President Trump to extend a deadline and urging Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. These efforts led to a ceasefire agreement, announced by the Prime Minister, who invited both sides to Islamabad on April 10th for further negotiations. Despite the agreement, sources indicate the situation remains fragile due to a lack of trust between the US and Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran would agree to a U.S.-proposed ceasefire if attacks against Iran were halted. The offer involves opening the Strait of Hormuz for a two-week period. This agreement hinges on the cessation of hostile actions directed towards Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil transport, and its accessibility has been a point of contention amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The proposal aims to de-escalate the situation and potentially pave the way for further negotiations.

A two-week ceasefire between the US, Israel, and Iran began on April 8, 2026, halting 40 days of attacks that risked a wider conflict. Brokered by Pakistan, the truce follows intense exchanges of strikes and threats that disrupted global shipping. Iran has agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the US and Israel will halt attacks on Iran. Despite the agreement, the scope remains uncertain, with disagreements over its extension to Lebanon and reports of violations. Negotiations are scheduled to begin in Islamabad to potentially establish a more lasting arrangement.

On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, Israel launched airstrikes on central Beirut, Lebanon, impacting commercial and residential areas. The strikes occurred hours after a ceasefire was announced in the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. According to Lebanon's health ministry, dozens were killed and hundreds wounded. Israel stated the ceasefire did not apply to its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, despite claims from mediator Pakistan. The Israeli military described the operation as its largest coordinated strike in the current war, hitting over 100 Hezbollah targets in Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa valley. Lebanon's Minister of Social Affairs condemned the strikes, highlighting the danger to internally displaced persons sheltering in Beirut.

Following a US-Iran ceasefire brokered by Pakistan on April 8, 2026, Israel continued its military operations in southern Lebanon, despite claims the truce should extend to the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the US-Iran agreement did not apply to Israel's conflict with Hezbollah. While sources close to Hezbollah told Reuters the group had paused attacks in line with the truce, Israel renewed strikes and urged evacuations in parts of Beirut. The US-Iran ceasefire, intended to halt a six-week war, was announced shortly before a US deadline and was mediated by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The Lebanese government reported it had not received official communication regarding a ceasefire that included Lebanon.

Following a two-week ceasefire in the war on Iran brokered by the US and Pakistan, Israel faces a weakened position, according to analysts. Announced by US President Donald Trump in April 2026, the ceasefire leaves Iran standing, despite Israel's military actions. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supports the US decision, claiming Iran no longer poses a significant threat, he asserts the ceasefire doesn't extend to Israel's conflict with Lebanon. This stance has drawn strong criticism from Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid, who calls the ceasefire a political disaster, accusing Netanyahu of failing strategically and politically. Other Israeli figures have also criticized Netanyahu's handling of the situation and communication regarding the ceasefire.

President Trump has recently used increasingly aggressive and apocalyptic language regarding Iran, threatening severe consequences if they do not agree to a deal, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. His threats included warnings of Iran being "blasted into oblivion" and "back to the Stone Ages," with potential targeting of civilian infrastructure. These statements, made in recent days, have drawn widespread condemnation from Democrats, former supporters, and religious figures. Some Republicans have suggested that Trump's rhetoric is a negotiation tactic. The heightened tensions come amidst ongoing conflict and attempts at mediation between the US and Iran.

A two-week ceasefire has been announced following conflict involving Iran, the US, and allies, with negotiations planned in Pakistan. While Donald Trump hailed the ceasefire as a victory and a step towards Middle East peace, Iran enters talks with a stronger position, maintaining enriched uranium stockpiles and claiming control over the Strait of Hormuz. The ceasefire terms are unclear, with disagreements on its scope, particularly regarding Lebanon. Iran intends to control passage through the Strait, potentially sharing control and tolls with Oman, a departure from the pre-war status quo. The uncertainty surrounding the Strait raises concerns for shippers, who fear violating US sanctions by paying tolls to Iran.

Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution proposed by Bahrain aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The vote, held on Tuesday, saw 11 of the 15 UNSC members in favor, but Russia and China opposed it, citing bias against Iran. The resolution sought to have affected states coordinate defensive efforts to ensure safe navigation in the Strait. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has effectively stopped after Iran threatened vessels in response to military action against them. The US ambassador to the UN condemned the vetoes, claiming the blockade was preventing aid from reaching humanitarian crises.

Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Tuesday aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. The vote, which followed a US-led effort to address Iran's closure of the strait, was 11-2, with Pakistan and Colombia abstaining. The resolution's failure occurred despite being weakened to encourage abstention from Russia and China. Bahrain's foreign minister expressed disappointment, stating the veto sends a negative message regarding the international community's response to threats against international waterways. The vote took place shortly after President Trump issued a strong warning to Iran, demanding the waterway be opened.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly delayed deadlines for Iran to make a deal or open the Strait of Hormuz. The latest deadline was pushed from Monday to Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Trump warned that if Iran doesn't capitulate by the new deadline of 8 p.m., they would face severe consequences, including the destruction of infrastructure. Iran rejected the latest ceasefire proposal. The President has oscillated between heated threats, announced delays, and proclamations that negotiations were going well. The U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned the U.S. about attacks.

A UN Security Council resolution aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz was vetoed by Russia and China on Tuesday. The resolution, introduced by Bahrain, sought to ensure the safety and security of navigation in the Strait and demanded Iran halt attacks on commercial vessels and infrastructure. The vote occurred hours before a deadline set by then-President Trump for Iran to cease threatening the waterway, with the U.S. threatening military action if the deadline was not met. Eleven nations voted in favor of the resolution, while Pakistan and Colombia abstained. The U.S. Ambassador criticized Russia and China for siding with Iran, accusing them of tolerating the disruption of the global economy.

In April 2026, US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz. He demanded the strait be fully reopened by Tuesday, threatening the "complete demolition" of Iranian power plants and bridges if the deadline is not met. This ultimatum follows a US ceasefire proposal conveyed to Iran through intermediaries. Trump characterized Iran's response as "significant" but ultimately "not good enough." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that US forces are currently conducting more strikes on Iran than any day since the start of the war. The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches.

President Trump has issued an ultimatum to Iran, demanding a deal that includes free oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday evening, Washington DC time, or face devastating strikes. Iran has rejected a temporary ceasefire and presented its own demands, described by a US official as "maximalist." With the deadline approaching, there is little indication Iran will agree. Failure to follow through on the threat could damage Trump's credibility, despite recent displays of American military prowess, including a rescue mission of downed airmen in Iran. The situation highlights Iran's potential to disrupt oil tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a capability the US may be underestimating.

Following President Trump's escalating threats against Iran, including explicit language and warnings of potential war crimes, Democrats are calling for his removal from office. Over 20 Democratic members of Congress have urged the cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment, deeming Trump unfit for office due to concerns about his mental stability and erratic behavior. These concerns were amplified by Trump's social media posts and speeches regarding Iran. Former Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also joined the call for the 25th Amendment. While Democrats are vocalizing their alarm, Republicans have remained largely silent on the matter. The calls for Trump's removal highlight deep divisions and concerns regarding his leadership and handling of international relations.

In a press conference on April 7, 2026, regarding the US involvement in the Iran war, President Donald Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth invoked religious themes. Trump stated his belief that God supports the United States' actions in the conflict. Hegseth drew a parallel between the rescue of a downed US airman and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The press conference focused on the US's role in the Iran war and included religious justifications for their involvement. The comments were made during a news conference.

Donald Trump has warned that Iran's proposal to end the ongoing war is insufficient to prevent US action if Tehran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump's Tuesday deadline for a deal remains firm, with the US president threatening infrastructure strikes if free passage through the Strait is not guaranteed. The conflict began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran, who responded with missile strikes. Pakistan proposed a 45-day ceasefire, but Iran reportedly rejected it, instead offering a 10-clause proposal for a permanent resolution, including safe passage through the Strait, lifting sanctions, and regional reconstruction. Trump acknowledged the Iranian proposal as a "significant step" but maintained it was "not good enough."

Mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey have proposed an immediate ceasefire to the US and Iran to halt the ongoing five-week war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This follows Donald Trump's threat to bomb Iranian power plants if Iran doesn't open the strait by Tuesday. Iran has rejected opening the strait as part of a temporary ceasefire and stated that negotiations are incompatible with ultimatums. Ceasefire discussions involve Pakistani and US officials, as well as Trump's envoy and Iran's foreign minister. Israel, preparing for all scenarios, has claimed responsibility for recent explosions at Iranian petrochemical complexes, stating they are ready to escalate bombings if necessary.

In April 2026, mediators Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt are proposing a 45-day ceasefire between the US and Iran to de-escalate tensions. This comes as US President Donald Trump threatens military action, specifically targeting Iranian infrastructure like bridges and power plants if Iran does not open the Strait of Hormuz by Wednesday. Trump has issued and deferred similar deadlines previously, citing ongoing negotiations that Iran denies. The US-Israel war on Iran has already resulted in over 2,000 deaths in Iran, with additional casualties in Israel, Lebanon, Iraq, and Gulf countries. The proposed ceasefire aims to create a window for direct or mediated negotiations between the US and Iran.

President Trump has threatened military action against Iran if it fails to meet his deadline of Tuesday at 8:00 PM EDT to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that the U.S. could "take out" Iran "in one night," targeting its energy and transportation infrastructure, and send the country "back to the Stone Ages" if the deadline is missed. While Iran has rejected previous ceasefire proposals and called for sanctions relief, Trump expressed optimism that negotiations were progressing in good faith. However, a regional official indicated that communication blackouts and delayed responses from Iranian officials are complicating negotiations. The threat comes after the U.S. successfully rescued crew members from a downed fighter jet in southern Iran.

President Trump touted a successful US rescue operation of an American pilot and weapons officer from a downed F-15 in Iran. He simultaneously warned that the US could strike Iran's infrastructure if negotiations fail by his Tuesday deadline. Trump stated the entire country of Iran could be "taken out in a night" if his demands are not met. This comes as Pakistan proposed a ceasefire to allow for talks, which Iran rejected, threatening further retaliation. The US is also investigating a leak regarding a reported US serviceman casualty during the operation.

Amidst the ongoing war with Iran, US President Donald Trump suggested the US might impose tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated that the US, as the "winner" of the war, should collect fees rather than Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil and LNG transport, lies primarily within Omani and Iranian territorial waters. Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran, demanding the reopening of the strait and acceptance of US terms to avoid attacks on Iranian infrastructure. He insisted that any deal with Iran must ensure the free flow of oil through the strait.

Donald Trump is facing criticism for a social media post threatening to destroy Iran's power plants and bridges. The post prompted Chuck Schumer to accuse Trump of erratic behavior and threatening potential war crimes. In response, Iran's parliament speaker warned that such actions could destabilize the entire region. The situation is ongoing and being closely monitored. The article also mentions a planned flyby of the moon, offering unique views of its far side, inaccessible to previous Apollo missions.

On Easter Sunday, former US President Donald Trump posted an expletive-laden message on his Truth Social account attacking Iran. In the post, Trump threatened Iran with heavy bombing if it did not unblock the Strait of Hormuz. He ended the message with a sarcastic "Praise be to Allah." The post drew immediate criticism, particularly from Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who described Trump's rhetoric as unhinged and potentially leading to war crimes. Schumer stated that Trump's actions alienated allies and did not reflect American values. The incident occurred on a Christian holiday, further amplifying the criticism.

Donald Trump issued an expletive-laden threat to Iran on his Truth Social platform, demanding they reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Monday or face attacks on their energy and transport infrastructure. The Strait has been closed since the US and Israel launched war on Iran at the end of February, causing oil prices around the world to skyrocket to record highs. The Iranian government stated they would only reopen the strait after receiving compensation for war damages. The remarks have drawn criticism from some US politicians, including Marjorie Taylor Greene, who questioned Trump's mental state and criticized the US-Israeli war against Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping lane for oil and gas.

Iran announced that Iraqi ships will face no restrictions when passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy supplies. This exemption is due to Iran's respect for Iraq's sovereignty and its "struggle" against the United States. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions, with US President Trump demanding Iran make a deal or relinquish control of the strait. Iran has effectively blockaded the strait since late February, but maritime traffic has recently increased, though it remains significantly below normal levels. Last week saw 53 transits, the highest number since the blockade began, compared to 36 the previous week.

Donald Trump threatened Iran with attacks on its power plants and bridges if it does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by his deadline of Monday. The threat was made in an expletive-laden social media post on Sunday, where he stated that Tuesday would be "Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day" in Iran. Trump had previously set a 10-day deadline on March 26 for Iran to reopen the Strait, a key shipping route that has been halted since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. While Trump claims Iran is seeking a deal to end the war, Iran has stated that it is not seeking to end the war and has vowed to escalate if its infrastructure is targeted. US-Israeli strikes have already targeted civilian infrastructure in Iran.

Iran has announced that Iraqi ships are exempt from restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global energy flows. This exemption could potentially release up to 3 million barrels a day of Iraqi oil cargoes. The announcement follows recent transits by vessels linked to Western-aligned nations, suggesting a possible easing of restrictions. While vessel traffic has increased slightly in the past week, it remains significantly lower than pre-war levels. The Strait of Hormuz closure had previously forced Iraq and other Gulf oil producers to reduce crude output due to filled storage capacity. Operations continue at Iraq's Zubair oil field despite the ongoing disruptions.