Can Pakistan secure Iran-US nuclear compromise, as Trump says deal ‘close’?

As talks potentially reconvene in Islamabad, Donald Trump faces the challenge of securing an Iran deal superior to both the 2015 JCPOA and the February Geneva proposal. Key performance indicators for Trump's team include demonstrating improvements over the Obama-era agreement and addressing Iran's control of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. While direct comparisons to the 2015 deal are difficult due to changes in Iran's nuclear program, the new deal aims to eliminate sunset clauses. Sticking points include the duration of Iran's domestic uranium enrichment suspension, with the US initially demanding 10 years, then 20, and Trump desiring a permanent ban, a point of contention compared to Obama's allowance of enrichment for 15 years at a low purity level.

During Vietnamese President To Lam's state visit to China on Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged China and Vietnam to jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism. Xi emphasized the need for both countries to uphold peace, development, and cooperation to safeguard the global free trade system and maintain stable supply chains. The meeting aimed to strengthen Sino-Vietnamese ties amidst global challenges, including energy security concerns and tariff pressures from the United States. Both nations seek to navigate these pressures and ensure energy security through improved relations. The four-day visit underscores the importance of cooperation between China and Vietnam in addressing shared economic and geopolitical concerns.

In Beijing on April 15, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to discuss strengthening the China-Russia strategic partnership amid global instability. Xi emphasized the importance of their relationship as a stabilizing force in a turbulent international landscape, particularly in light of the US-Israeli war against Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. He urged both nations to deepen "all-around cooperation," enhance strategic communication, and support each other's development. Xi also stressed the need to defend mutual interests, safeguard the Global South, and uphold the authority of the United Nations. Both countries aim to create a multipolar world order.

On April 15, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing, emphasizing the "precious" nature of China-Russia relations amidst international instability. Xi called for stronger strategic collaboration to protect both nations' interests and support Global South countries. He urged both countries to uphold multilateralism and revitalize the United Nations' authority, advocating for a more just international order. While Xi highlighted the importance of the China-Russia friendship treaty, he did not specify the international "chaos and changes" he referenced. His comments come amid uncertainty surrounding the Iran war, with conflicting statements from U.S. President Donald Trump about its conclusion.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday to discuss geopolitical issues, including the conflict in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine. Xi Jinping called for stronger strategic coordination between China and Russia, emphasizing the importance of their relationship amidst international instability. He urged both countries to protect their interests and support Global South unity. Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also discussed the Middle East conflict and the Ukraine war on Tuesday. Lavrov offered that Moscow could compensate for China's energy shortages due to the Strait of Hormuz shutdown.

President Trump hinted that talks to resolve the Iran conflict could resume this week after previous negotiations stalled, leading to a US port blockade. Trump suggested renewed engagement might occur in Islamabad. The US military confirmed the blockade's enforcement, raising concerns about the viability of an upcoming ceasefire. UN Secretary General Guterres expressed optimism about the potential for resumed talks. Reports indicate that negotiating teams from Washington and Tehran may return to Pakistan this week, though no specific date has been set. News of potential diplomatic progress helped stabilize oil markets.

The U.S. Navy has implemented a sea blockade against Iran, halting economic trade in and out of the country by sea, beginning Monday, according to U.S. Central Command. The blockade, enforced in the Gulf of Oman beyond the Strait of Hormuz, applies to all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, regardless of nationality. U.S. forces are intercepting vessels after they leave Iranian facilities and clear the Strait of Hormuz, forcing them to turn around. Shipping data indicates that Iran-linked or sanctioned vessels have altered course, stopping or turning around after leaving the Gulf. The U.S. military is using various methods beyond standard tracking beacons to identify ships originating from Iranian ports.

US and Iranian negotiating teams may return to Islamabad for further talks after a previous round, lasting 21 hours, ended without a deal. Despite a lack of mutual trust, analysts suggest a limited settlement is possible as both sides cautiously approach de-escalation. However, they warn that a strategic miscalculation could trigger renewed conflict. Iran's lead negotiator stated that Washington failed to gain Tehran's trust, while the US Vice-President cited Tehran's lack of commitment to halt nuclear weapons development as a key obstacle. The talks aim to address ongoing tensions between the two nations, but success hinges on pragmatic adjustments to expectations.

China has criticized the United States' potential blockade of Iranian ports, deeming it "irresponsible and dangerous." This statement follows US accusations of "economic terrorism" against Iran for disrupting traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman urged all parties to adhere to ceasefire arrangements, prioritize dialogue, and restore normal traffic in the strait. The spokesman also refuted reports that China was preparing to deliver air defense systems to Iran, dismissing them as fabrications. He further stated that China would take countermeasures if the US imposed tariffs based on these accusations. The US had threatened tariffs on Chinese goods if military assistance was provided to Iran.

Top Russian and Chinese envoys, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Sergey Lavrov, met in Beijing on Tuesday to discuss pressing global issues. Their discussions included the conflicts in Iran and Ukraine, as well as tensions surrounding Taiwan. The meeting highlighted concerns about global instability and unilateral hegemony, perceived as a jab at the United States. Lavrov warned of dangerous geopolitical games in East Asia, including Taiwan and the Korean peninsula. The diplomats also discussed plans for a meeting between Presidents Putin and Xi later this year, continuing their frequent high-level engagements. Both sides emphasized the need for international morality and a multipolar world, criticizing attempts to contain Russia and China.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Beijing on April 14, 2026, amid rising tensions due to a US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This blockade, aimed at pressuring Iran, is disrupting China's oil imports, as a third of its supply passes through the strait. Both Russia and China have criticized the US-Israel war on Iran and the US blockade, with China emphasizing the importance of maintaining the Strait's security for international trade. Lavrov spoke with his Iranian counterpart, stressing the need to prevent further conflict and offering Russia's assistance in reaching a settlement. The US hopes that economic pressure on China will lead them to pressure Iran to return to negotiations.

China has criticized the U.S. military blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, initiated on Monday after peace talks with Iran failed. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson called the blockade a "dangerous and irresponsible move" that will escalate tensions and undermine the ceasefire. China urges all parties to honor the ceasefire agreement and de-escalate the situation to allow normal traffic through the Strait to resume. The U.S. Central Command announced the blockade, warning that unauthorized vessels will be intercepted. Iran has condemned the blockade as "piracy" and threatened to respond with force, potentially ending the ceasefire. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil and gas transport.

Pakistan, with China's assistance, recently hosted high-stakes US-Iran talks in Islamabad, unexpectedly positioning itself at the center of diplomacy amid ongoing conflict. The talks, involving US Vice-President J.D. Vance, concluded without a deal due to Iran's rejection of US terms regarding its nuclear program. China's interest in preventing escalation in the Gulf to protect energy flows is seen as a key factor in facilitating Pakistan's diplomatic role. Despite India's larger economy and military, the crisis has temporarily elevated Pakistan's relevance due to its strategic alignment with China. China is reportedly importing large quantities of Iranian oil via the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite a newly imposed US blockade on ships calling at Iranian ports, at least three tankers transited the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. These vessels were not heading to Iran and therefore not directly affected by the blockade. One tanker, the Panama-flagged Peace Gulf, is transporting Iranian naphtha to the UAE. Two US-sanctioned tankers, Murlikishan and Rich Starry, also passed through the strait. Murlikishan is heading to Iraq to load fuel oil, while Rich Starry, sanctioned for dealing with Iran, exited the Gulf carrying methanol after loading cargo in the UAE. The US blockade was announced after failed peace talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan.

On April 13, 2026, US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy supplies, following unsuccessful talks with Iran in Islamabad. The blockade, which began on Monday at 14:00 GMT, is considered a major escalation in the US-Iran conflict. Analysts warn that this action threatens the fragile two-week ceasefire recently brokered between the two nations. Before the war, the Strait of Hormuz facilitated 20% of the world's oil and LNG shipments, but Iran took control of the strait after the US and Israel began strikes on Iran on February 28. The blockade raises concerns about global energy prices and the stability of the ceasefire agreement.

Following failed peace negotiations in Pakistan, Donald Trump announced the US will blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway controlled by Iran. The US aims to stop Iranian oil exports, eliminating Iran's leverage over the strait. The blockade, starting Monday at 10am ET, will target ships headed to Iranian ports but allow passage to US allies' ports. Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that any blockade enforcement would breach the ceasefire. In related news, Hungary's opposition party, led by Péter Magyar, won the election, ending Viktor Orbán's 16-year rule.

On day 45 of the US-Iran conflict, tensions escalated after President Trump announced a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil supply, following failed peace talks in Islamabad. The US military stated the blockade of Iranian ports would begin Monday at 14:00 GMT. Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that any military vessels approaching the strait would be considered a breach of ceasefire and met with force. Iranian officials condemned the blockade as "ridiculous" and accused the US of "maximalism." The blockade announcement has already pushed oil prices above $100 a barrel and raised concerns about global supply disruptions, while Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue.

Donald Trump stated that Iran desires a peace deal following inconclusive talks in Islamabad. While the specific details of the Islamabad talks remain unclear, Trump insisted that any potential agreement with Iran must include a commitment to "no nukes." The former president's statement suggests ongoing diplomatic efforts, or at least the potential for them, between the United States and Iran. Trump's comments highlight the continued significance of Iran's nuclear program as a key point of contention in any negotiations. The timing of Trump's statement comes after a period of heightened tensions in the region.

China is advocating for a ceasefire in the Iran war to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international trade and energy transport. This comes as US President Donald Trump announced a large naval operation targeting the oil transit chokepoint. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated that the Strait's stability and unimpeded passage are crucial for global interests. According to Guo, the conflict involving Iran is the primary cause of disruptions in the Strait. China urges all parties to remain calm and exercise restraint to resolve the issue.

Oil prices rose above $100 per barrel on Monday after ceasefire talks between the U.S. and Iran failed to end their ongoing war, which began in late February. Despite the breakdown in negotiations, U.S. stock markets remained relatively stable, suggesting cautious optimism about the conflict's potential impact on the global economy. The S&P 500 was virtually unchanged, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 0.5% and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.3%. President Trump threatened a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz in response to the failed talks, aiming to restrict Iran's oil revenue. Iran retaliated by threatening all ports in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway for global oil transport.

In April 2026, analysts warned that a planned US naval blockade of Iran, announced by President Trump, would worsen the global energy crisis. While Central Command stated the blockade would only affect ships entering and exiting Iranian ports, experts believe it could still cripple international shipping. The blockade, intended to prevent Iran from profiting from "illegal extortion," could drive oil prices above $150 a barrel if it provokes retaliation, such as the Houthis shutting down the Bab al-Mandeb strait. This action marks a policy reversal, as the US had recently waived some Iranian oil export sanctions to ease the energy crunch. Since the start of the US-Israeli war in February, Iran has already restricted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, causing thousands of vessels to become stranded.

High-level talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad, aimed at resolving decades of hostility, concluded without a resolution after 21 hours. The discussions, held during a pause in ongoing conflict, addressed complex issues including Iran's nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite failing to reach an agreement, the meeting was significant as it broke a longstanding political taboo. The immediate concern is the future of the two-week ceasefire, which was implemented following threats from the US. The talks sought to address deep distrust and prevent further escalation of the conflict. The next steps for both nations remain uncertain.

After 21 hours of negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, the United States and Iran failed to reach an agreement. US Vice-President J.D. Vance stated that the US did not see a commitment from Iran to halt nuclear weapons development, and that Iran had rejected the US's final offer. Vance did not respond to questions about potential renewed conflict. Iran blamed the failure on "excessive demands" from the US, claiming they prevented a common agreement. The talks aimed to address concerns regarding Iran's nuclear program and US security interests, but ultimately concluded without a resolution.

Donald Trump announced that the U.S. Navy would begin a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, targeting vessels that have paid tolls to Iran. According to the U.S. Central Command (Centcom), the blockade would be enforced impartially against vessels entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, starting Monday at 10:00 EDT. The U.S. Navy Commander's handbook defines a blockade as preventing vessels and aircraft from entering or exiting specified areas controlled by an enemy state. Trump stated the blockade would be effective soon and involve other countries, with NATO potentially assisting in clearing mines. The UK will not be involved in the blockade. The stated aim is to ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, which Trump accuses Iran of hindering.

Islamabad is preparing to host historic peace negotiations between Iran and the US aimed at ending a conflict that began in late February. Pakistan brokered a two-week ceasefire between the warring nations after the conflict led to thousands of deaths and a global energy crisis due to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The talks, scheduled to begin on Saturday, face challenges as disagreements persist over the inclusion of Lebanon in the ceasefire agreement. Pakistan has deployed security forces and declared public holidays to ensure the safety and smooth progression of the negotiations. Pakistani officials are prioritizing the talks and hope to help the two countries reach a lasting peace agreement.

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.

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 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.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed frustration with the impact of global leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on UK energy costs. Speaking on ITV, Starmer highlighted the effect of their actions on British families and businesses. He also condemned Israel's continued strikes on Lebanon despite a ceasefire agreement brokered after the war on Iran. Starmer discussed with Trump the need for a plan to restore shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Starmer emphasized his desire for Britain to be less vulnerable to international events, promising a more proactive approach than previous administrations. He stated the war in Iran must be a turning point, defining the future for a generation.

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.

On April 9, 2026, a ceasefire was brokered to end the US-Israel war on Iran and Israel's attacks on Lebanon. The conflict, which lasted 42 days, prompted mourning in Lebanon due to Israeli raids. Details of the ceasefire, including Iran's 10-point peace plan and the parties involved in talks held in Islamabad, Pakistan, were being reported. Pakistan played a key role in brokering the truce. The live news coverage of these events, including key developments from Day 42 of the war, has now concluded.

Keir Starmer is visiting Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz following a US-brokered ceasefire between Iran and Israel. The UK aims to help ensure the strait remains open for crucial energy transport, stabilizing global energy prices. Starmer emphasized the need for a permanent solution and collaboration with regional partners to address practical challenges like Iranian mines and tanker insurance. The visit follows reports of renewed blockades in the strait, highlighting the fragility of the ceasefire. Starmer's trip is seen as a way to build a reliable partnership with Gulf states, particularly in contrast to potential shifts in US foreign policy.

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.

Following a ceasefire announcement mediated by Pakistan, a sense of relief mixed with skepticism has settled over Tehran on April 8, 2026, after weeks of bombardment by the US and Israel. While some normalcy returns to the city, with increased traffic and resumed flights in Israel, concerns remain about the ceasefire's durability. Negotiations for a lasting agreement are scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday. However, attacks on Iranian oil facilities and retaliatory strikes by Iran against Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have occurred after the ceasefire was announced. Despite the ongoing tensions, all parties involved are claiming victory, but Iran has stated it is ready to resume military operations if attacked again.

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.

A ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, mediated by Pakistan and reportedly influenced by China, has been reached after a five-week conflict that began on February 28th. The agreement, lasting two weeks, will see Iranian and American delegations meet in Islamabad to discuss Iran's 10-point peace proposal. This proposal, which was passed to the White House via Pakistan, includes conditions such as the lifting of US sanctions, US military withdrawal from the Middle East, and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Iran's Supreme National Security Council has characterized the ceasefire as a victory, while analysts suggest the US has limited gains despite its military superiority. The agreement ensures conditional passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.