Trump says Iran wants ‘peace deal’ but insists on ‘no nukes’

Islamabad is preparing to host negotiations between the US and Iran. However, the ceasefire is strained as Donald Trump accuses Iran of violating promises regarding the Strait of Hormuz, claiming they are not allowing oil to pass through as agreed. Simultaneously, Israel attacked Lebanon, which Iran claims violates the truce. In other news, Melania Trump made a surprise address denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein and urged Congress to give Epstein survivors a public hearing. Her speech has created confusion regarding its timing and purpose, particularly given her husband's desire to move on from the subject.

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.

The United States and Iran are preparing for peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan on April 10, 2026, mediated by Pakistan, despite modest expectations for a lasting agreement. The ceasefire, based on Iran's 10-point proposal, reflects Iranian terms more than American, including continued Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US appears to have tacitly acknowledged Iran's authority over the strait and its upper hand in setting negotiation terms. Iran's demands include recognition of its control over the strait, acceptance of uranium enrichment, the lifting of all US and UN sanctions, and a US military withdrawal from the region. Even if the talks fail to produce a deal, the ceasefire may prevent a return to full-scale war.

Iranians are expressing fear and skepticism ahead of potential US-Iran negotiations hosted by Pakistan. The talks, if they proceed, aim to transform a temporary ceasefire into a lasting peace following a recent US-Israeli campaign against Iran. Residents of Tehran are reporting feelings ranging from anger and anxiety to disillusionment regarding the prospect of lasting peace. Many believe Iran's government, particularly the Revolutionary Guards, has been emboldened by the recent conflict, making a deal less likely. Some Iranians feel their government does not understand peace and that the temporary agreement will not last.

The six Gulf Arab monarchies are apprehensive about ongoing US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan, fearing that any resulting peace agreement could compromise their security and economic diversification efforts. This concern stems from past attacks by Iranian drones and missiles, coupled with the recent failure of their UN Security Council bid to secure defensive measures for the Strait of Hormuz due to vetoes from China and Russia. Gulf states feel sidelined in the negotiations, relying on information from Washington and Islamabad. Officials and commentators in the UAE and Kuwait have voiced concerns about being excluded from the process, fearing the potential consequences for their long-term stability and economic goals.

Following a US-Israel war on Iran, Gulf states are reassessing their security strategies due to an emboldened Iran and battered economies. Gulf nations aim to diversify security partnerships, potentially including countries like Turkey and Pakistan, moving away from sole reliance on the US. A key point of contention remains Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route, which will be a focus in upcoming US-Iran talks. Despite successfully intercepting many Iranian missiles during the conflict, Gulf states are divided on future relations with Iran, ranging from hawkish stances to hopes for renewed ties. Saudi Arabia and Iran have initiated contact to de-escalate tensions, highlighting the need to insulate the region from perpetual conflict and rebuild economic foundations.

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.

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 a US-Iran ceasefire in April 2026, Israel launched air strikes on Lebanon, resulting in over 250 deaths and prompting Iran to reimpose its Strait of Hormuz blockade. The dispute centers on whether the ceasefire included Israel's actions in Lebanon, with Pakistan claiming it did and Israel denying it. The US sided with Israel, calling the violence a separate issue. The ceasefire, brokered without Israel's active involvement, has led to political pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu as none of Israel's war aims were achieved. Negotiations based on Iran's 10-point peace plan are set to begin, potentially allowing Iran to retain its nuclear stock and benefit financially.

Following the announcement of a US-Iran ceasefire, Israel launched air attacks on Lebanon, resulting in over 250 deaths on Wednesday. The attacks targeted areas across the country, including Beirut and the Bekaa Valley. This violence occurred hours after the ceasefire announcement, which aimed to de-escalate the broader conflict. A dispute has arisen regarding the scope of the ceasefire, with Pakistan stating it included Lebanon, while the US and Israel claim it only applies to direct attacks between the US, Israel, and Iran. These disagreements raise concerns that the ceasefire, brokered in part by Pakistan, could collapse before permanent settlement negotiations begin in Islamabad on Saturday. Israel stated it was targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon, while Lebanese officials reported high casualty numbers in civilian areas.

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.

In April 2026, the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire mediated by Pakistan, halting US-Israel strikes that began in late February and caused thousands of deaths and disrupted global energy supplies. Both countries claimed victory after accepting the deal just before a US deadline to attack Iranian infrastructure if Tehran didn't agree to terms. The US suspended bombing after receiving a 10-point proposal it deemed "workable," while Iran agreed to allow ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the claims, both sides appear to have conceded on previous red lines, potentially complicating upcoming talks in Islamabad. The ceasefire aims to de-escalate a conflict that has resulted in significant regional casualties and a global energy crisis.

Iran is threatening to end the ceasefire between the U.S. and itself due to the exclusion of Hezbollah from the truce deal. The two-week ceasefire, brokered with Pakistan's help, is intended to pause fighting between Israel and Iran. Iranian officials stated that the U.S. must choose between a ceasefire and continued war via Israel, citing Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Iran's foreign minister and parliamentary speaker have both echoed this sentiment, placing pressure on the U.S. to include Hezbollah in the agreement. Hezbollah had previously violated a U.S.-negotiated ceasefire in November 2024 by entering the war against Israel in March 2025 to aid Iran.

Following a 40-day war, the US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire brokered by Pakistan. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed Iran "begged" for the ceasefire after "Operation Epic Fury" decimated its military and defense industry. President Trump announced the pause after intervention from Pakistani leaders, while Iran also confirmed acceptance and declared victory, stating its war objectives were achieved. The conflict, which began on February 28th with US and Israeli strikes, resulted in over 5,000 deaths, including 13 US service members and over 1,600 Iranian civilians. The US threatened further strikes on Iranian infrastructure if Tehran hadn't agreed to the ceasefire. Formal talks between Iran and Pakistan are scheduled to begin Friday in Islamabad.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared a "decisive military victory" over Iran, claiming the destruction of its navy, air defense, and missile production capabilities following "Operation Epic Fury." Hegseth stated that Iran's missile program was functionally destroyed and that the ceasefire agreement ensures Iran will never possess nuclear weapons. These claims of victory follow a two-week ceasefire after heightened tensions that nearly resulted in a full-scale US assault. Despite Hegseth's claims, he acknowledged Iran's ability to still engage in limited attacks. The US military remains in the Middle East to monitor Iran's compliance with the ceasefire and its enriched uranium stockpile. The article also notes that Tehran is hailing its own "historic" win.

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.

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.

Despite a ceasefire announcement brokered by Donald Trump between the US and Iran, Israel has stated it will continue its military operations in Lebanon. The Israeli Prime Minister's office clarified that the ceasefire, intended to pause strikes against Iran for two weeks, does not extend to Lebanon. This contradicts claims from Pakistan, which mediated the agreement, that the ceasefire included Lebanon. The Israeli military is continuing operations against Hezbollah and has ordered civilians in southern Lebanon to evacuate. While Trump's ceasefire announcement focused on Iran, it did not mention Lebanon, leaving the status of Israeli attacks there uncertain. Israel maintains that the conflict in Lebanon is separate and will continue despite any agreements with Iran.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appealed to both the United States and Iran to de-escalate tensions amidst the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran. Just hours before President Trump's deadline for Iran, Sharif requested a two-week extension from Trump to allow diplomatic efforts to progress towards a peaceful resolution. He also urged Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as a gesture of goodwill during this period. Sharif further called for a two-week ceasefire from all involved parties to facilitate conclusive peace negotiations. The White House acknowledged awareness of Pakistan's proposal, and Iran is reportedly reviewing the request positively.

Amid ongoing conflict, the US and Iran remain far from a peace deal due to a lack of trust and a reliable guarantor. President Trump issued another ultimatum to Iran, threatening severe consequences if a deal isn't reached by Tuesday. Pakistan is attempting to mediate a truce between the two nations, with discussions reaching a critical stage. While the US, Iran, and Pakistan have each proposed solutions to end the conflict, analysts warn that the absence of a strong guarantor could render any agreement ineffective. The article highlights the challenges in achieving a lasting peace between the US and Iran.

Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Tuesday intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The vote, held at the UN, was 11-2 with two abstentions. The resolution had been weakened in an attempt to gain Russian and Chinese support. The vote occurred hours before a deadline set by the U.S. President for Iran to open the waterway or face attacks. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply, and its closure has caused energy prices to increase. The Bahrain foreign minister expressed disappointment, stating the failed resolution signals that threats to international waterways can go unchecked.

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.

Amidst escalating US and Israeli attacks on Tehran and a looming deadline set by President Trump to open the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has proposed a 10-point peace plan to end the war. The plan, conveyed through Pakistan, calls for a permanent end to hostilities, safe passage through the Strait, lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction. While details of the 10 clauses remain unpublished, the conflict has spread to the Gulf region and Lebanon. Trump acknowledged the proposal as a "significant step" but deemed it "not good enough." The US president had threatened to target Iranian infrastructure until Tehran agreed to end the war and open the Strait, a crucial passage for global oil and gas supplies.

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.

On April 6, 2026, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that the United States would conduct the "largest volume of strikes" on Iran since the beginning of the US-Israeli war. Hegseth indicated these strikes were in response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. He warned that the strikes could intensify further if Iran does not reopen the Strait. The US action appears to be aimed at compelling Iran to reopen the strategically important waterway. The location of the strikes was not specified in the report.

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.

On Sunday, the UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait experienced damage to critical infrastructure following attacks from Iran. The attacks, which targeted civilian facilities, are reportedly a response to US and Israeli strikes that began in late February. Iran accuses these Gulf nations of allowing the US to launch attacks from their territory, a claim the Gulf states deny. In Abu Dhabi, fires broke out at a petrochemical plant in Ruwais Industrial City, prompting a suspension of operations and damage assessment. The UAE defense ministry reported responding to missile and drone attacks, with authorities citing debris from interceptions as the cause of the fires. No injuries have been reported.

On April 5, 2026, Kuwait reported that Iranian drone attacks damaged two power and water desalination plants, causing outages and material damage. Fires also broke out at oil facilities and a government office complex, resulting in significant material losses for the Kuwait Petroleum Corp. Bahrain and the UAE also experienced Iranian attacks that resulted in fires. These attacks are reportedly in response to US and Israeli strikes on Iran since February 28. The attacks on Kuwait's infrastructure are considered devastating due to the country's reliance on desalination for drinking water. There are concerns that further escalation between the US, Israel, and Iran could lead to more attacks on Gulf state facilities.

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.