UK condemns Israeli minister over inflammatory Lebanon remarks

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has condemned inflammatory remarks made by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who posted "all of Lebanon must burn" following a Hezbollah attack that killed four Israeli soldiers. Ben-Gvir's comments, made on X, also stated that "for every tear of an Israeli mother, a thousand Lebanese mothers must weep" and called for Lebanon to be "obliterated." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded by calling Israel a "genocidal death cult" and a threat to humanity. Additionally, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that 200,000 displaced residents of southern Lebanon would not be allowed to return to their homes. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also called for "opening the gates of hell" in Lebanon.

Iran is pressing the United States to ensure Israel complies with a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, viewing it as a test of US influence. Tehran insists that the deal requires an end to hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon, and states it is ready for diplomacy with the US if Washington upholds this condition. While a US official reported an agreement between Israel and Hezbollah for a ceasefire, reports indicate continued Israeli attacks. Analysts suggest that linking the Lebanon conflict to a broader US-Iran agreement could be counterproductive for Iran, and that achieving a comprehensive deal within the current timeframe will be challenging due to deep mistrust and technical complexities.

US Vice President JD Vance defended a new deal with Iran, asserting that Donald Trump is Israel's sole ally and criticizing Israeli officials who have attacked the agreement. Vance highlighted the billions in US defense aid provided to Israel, emphasizing that American taxpayers fund a significant portion of its defensive weapons. He urged Israeli critics to recognize Trump as their most powerful ally and cautioned them against misidentifying the US president as their primary problem. The article notes that Israeli officials, speaking anonymously, expressed concerns that the deal inadequately addresses Iran's nuclear and missile programs, a sentiment reportedly shared across Israeli leadership. Trump, in response to Vance's remarks, encouraged negotiations and a ceasefire on all fronts in the region.

Analysts argue that Israel's ongoing military operations in Lebanon are the primary obstacle to the US-Iran ceasefire deal. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran calls for a permanent cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, but Israel has continued its attacks and invasion. Iran has stated it will not finalize a ceasefire agreement while Lebanon is under fire, leading to the postponement of technical talks. Analysts like Trita Parsi and Ryan Costello emphasize that Lebanon is crucial for Iran and poses the "greatest vulnerability" and "greatest test" for the deal. Despite US President Trump's calls for a complete ceasefire, Israel has maintained its actions, leading to concerns about a potential breakdown in negotiations and a return to fighting.

Following two wars, US-Iran diplomacy regarding Iran's nuclear program has returned to its previous state. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a memorandum of understanding to initiate talks. These discussions are expected to largely re-establish the diplomatic track that the US broke off in February. This previous track was built upon negotiations mediated by Oman, as part of a broader Gulf diplomatic initiative involving Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. During those earlier talks, both the US and Iran had been discussing the potential framework for Iran's nuclear program.

The United States announced a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah following continued clashes in southern Lebanon. These exchanges reportedly began when Hezbollah ambushed an Israeli group, killing four soldiers, including a battalion commander. In response to the deaths, Israel's National Security Minister made inflammatory remarks about Lebanon. Iran's Foreign Minister accused Israel of seeking permanent war and warned that any breaches would be attributed to the US. Both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Hezbollah face domestic pressure to continue military operations, with Hezbollah vowing to persist as long as Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon continues. An Israeli military spokesperson stated that Israel would continue to address threats and respond to Hezbollah's violations.

Former President Barack Obama stated in an interview that the U.S. is "worse off" after a 15-week war with Iran, despite a recent ceasefire agreement signed by Donald Trump. Obama expressed happiness about the ceasefire and hopes it will hold, while also criticizing Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), which he believes led to Iran developing more nuclear capacity. Iran's chief negotiator indicated that future talks must respect Tehran's "red lines." The article also notes differing views on the economic impact of the agreement, with some expecting falling gas prices and others predicting a rise in oil prices.

A 2015 law, the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA), is central to a debate over whether President Trump must submit a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran to Congress. The law requires congressional review and a potential vote of disapproval for any agreements related to Iran's nuclear program. Lawmakers and pro-Israel groups are citing INARA, arguing the MoU, which lifts sanctions and halts fighting, falls under its purview. While Trump has expressed openness to congressional review, his administration has not officially stated whether the MoU is subject to the law. Legal experts suggest INARA applies to the MoU and any future nuclear deal, though some argue the law hinders diplomacy.

US President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran, which has drawn criticism from some Republican lawmakers. The 14-point agreement, signed on Wednesday, commits both nations to an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts and includes Iran's pledge to not procure or develop nuclear weapons. In return, the US has pledged to develop a plan to provide $300 billion for Iran's reconstruction and development, and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Republican Senators Bill Cassidy and Thomas Massie have voiced strong opposition, with Cassidy calling the MoU "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades" and Massie criticizing the financial assistance plan.

The US has lifted a naval blockade as part of a new agreement with Iran, which Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated was signed by Donald Trump "out of desperation." Trump expressed expectations for a ceasefire on all fronts, including between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, and for Middle Eastern countries to uphold commitments to ongoing negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized strong US-Israel ties following the deal, despite some cabinet members criticizing it. US Senator J.D. Vance urged critics to consider the reality of Israel's situation and its reliance on its allies. The agreement, which centers on 14 points, includes an end to conflict on all fronts, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and a commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, alongside a fund for Iran's economic development. However, strikes between Israel and Hezbollah have continued since the announcement.

A handful of Senate Republicans have criticized an interim deal reached by the Trump administration with Iran to end a 110-day conflict. Senator Bill Cassidy called the agreement "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades," arguing it fails to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions and makes concessions while 13 Americans are dead. The deal, which aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and prevent a global depression, includes Iran's commitment to destroy its enriched uranium stockpile. While some Republicans, like Lindsey Graham, expressed initial concern but later found the deal potentially beneficial, others, such as Thom Tillis, are worried about a reported $300 billion fund for Iran. The memorandum of understanding gives both sides 60 days to negotiate a comprehensive final agreement.

US Vice President JD Vance defended a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end the US-Iran war, framing it as a victory for Washington regardless of future negotiations. Speaking after the MoU was inked by Presidents Trump and Pezeshkian, Vance criticized Israeli leaders for pushing for continued conflict, stating Israel "can't just kill your way out of solving every single national security problem." He urged Israel to allow negotiations to proceed, highlighting the US's long-standing partnership. Vance asserted that the US-led war had degraded Iran's nuclear capacity, military, and economy, creating favorable circumstances. The MoU includes opening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting a naval blockade, and ending fighting, though issues like Iran's ballistic missiles and nuclear program remain for future talks.

Iran's hardline parliament speaker and key negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has warned that Tehran will not honor a newly signed memorandum with the U.S. if Washington fails to uphold its commitments. This warning was echoed by IRGC Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani. The memorandum, digitally signed by President Trump and Iranian President Pezeshkian, aims to end a war and resume traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, offering Iran economic relief in exchange for nuclear commitments. The U.S. agreed to lift its naval blockade, work on a reconstruction plan, and terminate sanctions. However, Ghalibaf, a former IRGC commander with a history of threatening U.S. forces, represents a hardline faction, raising concerns among experts about the long-term implications of the deal.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressing the consequences of a US-led attack on Iran on February 28th. The conflict resulted in thousands of deaths and a strategic defeat for the US and Israel, while empowering the Iranian regime. Iran's strategy of blocking the Strait of Hormuz forced the US to agree to concessions, including lifting its counter blockade of Iranian ports, waiving sanctions to allow oil exports, and unfreezing Iranian assets abroad. In return, the MOU calls for an end to the war in Lebanon, a condition Israel opposes. The agreement aims to restore the situation to pre-war conditions, allowing for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of nuclear deal negotiations.

US Vice President JD Vance has criticized members of the Israeli government. The criticism stems from their opposition to US President Donald Trump's efforts regarding the Iran deal. Vance's remarks indicate a disagreement between the US administration and certain Israeli officials concerning the approach to the Iran deal. The specific details of the criticism and the context of the "when" and "where" are not provided in the article content. However, the core issue is the Israeli government's negative stance on Trump's Iran deal initiatives, which Vance has publicly condemned.

Iran views a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US as a strategic success, allowing it to claim survival and emergence from conflict stronger. The deal, signed by Presidents Trump and Pezeshkian, establishes a 60-day framework for nuclear program negotiations and mandates an immediate halt to military operations. Key terms include ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming Iran's commitment against nuclear weapons, and initiating talks on its enrichment program. In return, the US will begin lifting its naval blockade, issue waivers for oil exports, unfreeze assets, and work towards easing sanctions and a reconstruction plan for Iran. This outcome has led to muted criticism within Iran, as the leadership can present the deal as a victory recognizing its sovereignty and offering economic prospects.

G7 leaders have issued a joint statement supporting a deal struck by President Trump with Iran, but calling for follow-on negotiations to address Iran's ballistic missile program, an issue not covered in the current memorandum of understanding. The statement, made at the G7 summit in France, suggests that broader international involvement, including the IAEA, would benefit future talks. While the deal reportedly lifts US sanctions on Iran's oil and establishes a reconstruction fund, Iran is expected to reject proposals for wider talks and a joint taskforce for the Strait of Hormuz. The G7 also reaffirmed support for Ukraine, calling for increased pressure on Russia through sanctions and arms deliveries.

U.S. President Donald Trump is concluding the G7 summit in France, where he is promoting a tentative agreement with Iran aimed at preventing the country from developing nuclear weapons. Despite Trump's claims of a successful deal, its specifics remain undisclosed, leading to skepticism at home and concern among allies like Israel. The agreement's implementation details are unclear, and interpretations of its terms have varied between U.S. and Iranian officials. Trump also faces challenges in managing relationships with other leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, due to the ongoing Iran war and its impact on global energy and trade. The summit also addressed artificial intelligence and economic growth, with Trump scheduled to attend a dinner at the Palace of Versailles before returning to Washington.

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that an agreement had been reached with Iran on Sunday, aiming to end a conflict and prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Speaking at a press conference in France on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Trump described the arrangement as a significant achievement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the deal was intended to be permanent, warning that Iran would face bombing if it did not adhere to the agreement. Trump asserted that the deal accomplished "everything we set out to accomplish, everything and much more."

Iran has warned of a "harsh response" following Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon that killed four people, accusing Israel of violating a truce linked to a US-Iran agreement. Iranian officials state that a regional ceasefire, particularly in Lebanon, is essential for any deal with Washington. This situation has also strained ties between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with Trump urging Netanyahu to be more responsible. Analysts suggest that continued Israeli actions in Lebanon could jeopardize the US-Iran agreement unless the US applies significant pressure on Israel. Meanwhile, a third Iranian oil tanker has reportedly exited a US naval blockade line in the Gulf of Oman, aligning with Iran's demand for an end to the blockade as part of the deal. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the preliminary agreement as a "game changer" that exceeded expectations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that G7 leaders at their summit in France pledged increased support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion. Key commitments include strengthening Ukraine's air defenses and ensuring its energy supply, alongside escalating international economic pressure on Moscow through new sanctions. Leaders also indicated they would consider granting Ukraine licenses to manufacture Western weapons. This G7 backing is described as exceptionally strong, sending a clear message to Russia. The summit occurred as Ukraine officially began its EU membership negotiations. Separately, Russia claimed a Ukrainian drone attacked a bus with children, an accusation Ukraine denied as a fabrication.

US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that a recently announced framework with Iran is not a finalized agreement but rather a memorandum of understanding still under negotiation. Speaking at the G7 summit in France, Trump warned that if he is dissatisfied with the final terms, the situation could escalate back to active military conflict. He indicated that the US might resume military action if Iran does not "behave." The president made these remarks on the sidelines of the summit while speaking with the media alongside Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi.

At the G7 summit in France, President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction with the meeting, citing unity among leaders regarding a tentative agreement with Iran to end the war. This marked a shift from his previous criticism of allies for not supporting military action against Iran. G7 leaders welcomed the Iran deal, acknowledging Trump's leadership, and also expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, a stance Trump joined despite his prior skepticism. Discussions also addressed China's economic practices, with leaders agreeing to coordinated actions against economic coercion, though Trump later thanked China and Russia for remaining neutral in the Iran conflict. Trump also indicated he would credit Vice President JD Vance if the Iran deal succeeds but blame him if it fails.

An initial US-Iran agreement has been reached, but significant details remain to be negotiated. While President Trump has stated the deal prevents Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, the agreement's text does not explicitly guarantee this outcome. The 60-day negotiation period following the scheduled signing will address technicalities and timelines. Contrary to Trump's assertion that the US will not provide funds, the agreement states the US will work with partners to develop a plan for Iran's reconstruction involving at least $300 billion. A senior US official claims the US is not committed to direct payment, but the agreement's language is unclear, potentially allowing for future US payments as part of a settlement. This ambiguity could pose a political challenge for Trump and Vice-President Vance, particularly with their anti-interventionist base.

President Trump has backed a G7 statement supporting his proposed peace deal with Iran, despite domestic criticism from some Republicans who want more details. European leaders are seeking to join future talks, which Iran's top diplomat indicated would require Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Meanwhile, people in Iran express exhaustion and anger over the lack of change. The deal also highlights diverging US-Israeli strategic interests, leaving Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a difficult political position. In other news, detainees have been relocated from Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration jail, and fifteen individuals in Minnesota face charges related to protests against ICE enforcement.

Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, stated that a peace deal with the US hinges on Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territories occupied during the current conflict. This assertion comes as concerns grow that Israeli actions could jeopardize diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East war. US President Donald Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct in Lebanon, calling a recent bombing of Beirut "vicious" and suggesting Syria might handle Hezbollah more effectively. Trump's remarks indicate potential impatience with Israel's stance, which could impact a 60-day ceasefire negotiated with Iran. European leaders are also expressing concerns about the durability of the peace plan, particularly regarding the lack of detail in a memorandum of understanding concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program.

At the G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Russia should negotiate a peace deal with Ukraine. Trump expressed his intention to do everything he can to end the conflict, calling the casualties "ridiculous." He described his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other G7 leaders as "very good" and indicated he would hold a bilateral meeting with Zelensky later. Trump arrived at the summit with a preliminary deal to end the conflict with Iran and a renewed focus on resolving the war in Ukraine.

G7 leaders are meeting in France to discuss key global issues, with Iran and Ukraine at the forefront of their agenda. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the summit's working lunch would focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and identifying alternative energy routes. A preliminary deal between the US and Iran, digitally signed on Monday, is expected to be formally finalized on Friday in Geneva. This agreement aims to open a 60-day window for negotiations regarding Iran's enriched uranium and the lifting of sanctions. US President Donald Trump is likely to be urged to finalize an agreement to end the conflict in the Middle East. Leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Egypt will also attend the talks.

Israeli drone strikes killed at least four people in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh governorate on Tuesday. The attacks targeted three vehicles in the villages of Mayfadoun and Shoukin. These strikes occurred despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Iran and the United States, which reportedly include an end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Iranian officials have stated that Israel's continued occupation of southern Lebanon would violate any ceasefire agreement. Following the announcement of the US-Iran deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated Israel would continue its occupation of southern Lebanon.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Tuesday that a permanent ceasefire in Lebanon is a crucial component of the peace deal announced with the United States the previous day. Araghchi emphasized that Iran and Hezbollah view themselves as one party to the memorandum, alongside the United States and Israel. He described the immediate and permanent end to the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, as the most important issue within the agreement. The conflict began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequently involved Lebanon when Iran-backed Hezbollah attacked Israel.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the end of the war with the United States includes Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Speaking to foreign diplomats, Araghchi emphasized that Israel's continued occupation of Lebanese territories occupied during the war would be considered a violation of the memorandum of understanding. This assertion clashes with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Israel has its own priorities and will remain in a buffer zone in Lebanon as long as necessary. The details of the unpublished interim agreement, brokered mainly by Pakistan, remain unclear, but it reportedly includes the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and negotiations on Iran's nuclear program.

At a G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Iran, stating that "all hell will rain down" if the country attempts to acquire a nuclear weapon. Trump described a tentative ceasefire deal with Iran as a "wall to a nuclear weapon," emphasizing his commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining such a capability. He also expressed unusually critical remarks regarding Israel's military offensive in Lebanon, suggesting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "has to be more responsible." Trump's comments came as a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran is set to be formally signed, with further negotiations planned. He indicated that he believes Iran's current leadership is rational.

At the G7 summit in France, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged new sanctions against Russia and significant energy support for Ukraine. The sanctions will target Russia's financial networks and its "shadow fleet" of oil and LNG tankers, with over 600 vessels expected to be affected. Additionally, Starmer announced £210 million in nuclear energy support for Ukraine over two years, aimed at powering the country through upcoming winters. This commitment, including supplying enriched uranium from a UK-government-owned company, reinforces the UK's stance to support Ukraine for as long as necessary. The summit also addresses global issues like the US-Iran peace deal and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump arrived at the G7 summit in France, touting a preliminary deal to end the Iran war. He suggested he would also seek to end hostilities in Ukraine and Lebanon. Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron and expressed optimism about the Iran agreement, stating it would bring success to the world and benefit the Middle East by lowering oil prices and boosting the stock market. His arrival comes amid G7 partners' wariness of his geopolitical actions, including tariff threats against France and questioning of NATO. Despite relief over the Iran deal, unease persists regarding Trump's other statements and actions.

President Donald Trump is heading to the G7 summit in France following an announcement of an agreement intended to end the U.S. war with Iran. The deal, which was reached after days of negotiations and amidst recent escalations between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated the agreement would lead to the U.S. ending its blockade, though Iran indicated its closure of the strait would continue until the deal is officially signed. Details of the agreement remain scarce, but it is expected to involve pre-implementation discussions and technical talks on Iran's nuclear program, potentially including sanctions relief and economic incentives for Tehran. The summit will also address the war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited to participate.

A new US-Iran deal is set to be signed, aiming to restart nuclear talks in Geneva. The article argues this deal largely returns the situation to its pre-war state, despite a "feckless war of choice" initiated by the US and Israel. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life and irrevocably changed Iran, strengthening its military at the expense of civilian governance. Donald Trump is claiming credit for resolving issues his war created, such as the Strait of Hormuz closure, but the article notes ambiguities remain regarding Iran's "service fees" and frozen assets. The deal also faces challenges from Israel's stance on the conflict with Hezbollah and internal political pressures in both the US and Iran, while the core nuclear dispute remains unresolved.

Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces will not withdraw from territory seized in southern Lebanon. This comes after the US and Iran announced a preliminary agreement to end hostilities in the Middle East, pending a final settlement in approximately two months. The interim deal, which includes a ceasefire in Lebanon, has reportedly caused anger and concern among Israeli officials who were not involved in the negotiations. Despite the agreement, Israel intends to maintain its presence in occupied territories indefinitely and has warned of strong retaliation if Iran attacks in response to Israeli actions in Lebanon. The exact details of the US-Iran agreement remain unclear, but it appears to include a halt to Hezbollah's attacks on Israel.

President Trump announced a deal concerning Iran, which he presented as a positive development, particularly in relation to energy prices. The article suggests this deal could help alleviate economic strain on Americans caused by higher energy costs and their ripple effects. However, the success of the deal remains uncertain, with potential risks highlighted, such as Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz if Israel launches new military operations in Lebanon, which could jeopardize the global economy. The article notes that falling petrol prices could be a tangible sign of economic improvement for Americans and potentially ease political pressure on Republicans ahead of the midterm elections, as public approval of Trump's handling of the economy is currently low.

The US claims a deal to end the war with Iran could be signed as early as Sunday, with President Trump stating it would extend the current ceasefire for 60 days and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran disputes this timeline, suggesting the signing will occur in the "coming days" and that the initial agreement, a memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan, will focus on ending the war and not discuss nuclear issues. While Trump has shared details of the agreement, including Iran's commitment to never acquire nuclear weapons, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson indicated caution due to the other party's instability. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expects the agreement to be finalized within 24 hours, followed by electronic signing and technical talks. There is ambiguity regarding the exact timing and method of signing, with reports of preparations for a physical ceremony now replaced by talk of an electronic signing.

US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that the US was poised to sign a new agreement with Iran that day, aiming to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif indicated Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing within 24 hours, followed by technical talks. However, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson expressed caution, suggesting the signing would not occur the next day but might happen in the coming days. Meanwhile, pro-government rallies continued in Iran, with some protesters expressing opposition to an agreement with the US. Trump also discussed efforts to resolve the Iran conflict with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Friday that the US and Iran are "never been closer" to a deal to end the war in the Middle East. Mediator Pakistan announced that a final text has been agreed upon. Araghchi referred to this potential agreement as the "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding," referencing the Pakistani capital where prior US-Iran discussions took place. He urged media outlets to avoid speculation about the accord's contents while it awaits finalization. This statement follows reports of purported details of the agreement being published by Iranian media.

Iran and Pakistan state a deal to end fighting is "never been closer," echoing a similar sentiment from US President Donald Trump. Iran's conditions for final negotiations include the release of half its frozen assets, suspension of oil sanctions, and lifting of a naval blockade, alongside ending the Israeli conflict with Hezbollah. From the US perspective, the deal requires Iran to dismantle its nuclear program and destroy nuclear material. A senior US official stated no funds would be released until Iran meets US demands, including opening the Strait of Hormuz and ceasing funding for terrorist groups. US Vice-President JD Vance clarified that economic benefits would only flow to Iran and the region if Iran meets its obligations. The Pakistani prime minister acknowledged misinformation campaigns aiming to sabotage the peace deal.

US President Donald Trump claimed a "great settlement" was reached with Iran, suggesting a peace agreement could be signed soon. He announced the cancellation of further airstrikes, stating that discussions had been approved at the highest levels of Iranian leadership and by numerous other involved parties, including the United States and Israel. However, an Iranian spokesman contradicted this, stating that no final peace agreement has been reached. Reports indicate US Air Force planes have departed for Europe, reportedly heading to Geneva where Vice President JD Vance is expected to sign on behalf of Washington for a potential deal to end the war.

U.S. and Iranian officials indicate they are close to an agreement to end their war, with a senior U.S. official stating the tentative deal includes terms for removing and destroying Iran's nuclear material and dismantling its nuclear program. Regional officials suggest the emerging deal will facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, phased lifting of sanctions, and release of frozen Iranian assets. This breakthrough follows recent exchanges of fire between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. The war, which began on February 28, has significantly disrupted oil and natural gas shipments from the Persian Gulf. While a fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7, President Trump has expressed optimism about a deal, though he also issued a warning to Iranian officials. Israel is not a party to the negotiations but maintains that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons.

President Donald Trump has denied reports of leaked Iran ceasefire terms, calling them "fake news" and "dishonorable." He stated on Truth Social that the published terms had no relation to what was agreed upon in writing. This statement comes amidst ongoing efforts to reach a more lasting end to the war launched by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28. Trump had previously indicated a deal was approved and could be signed soon. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi suggested an "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding" for a ceasefire was close to finalization, urging against speculation on terms until they are officially announced. The Iranian state news agency IRNA had published what it described as seven main points of the deal, reportedly showing little Iranian compromise on key issues.