Israel and Lebanon agree 10-day ceasefire, Trump says

According to former U.S. President Donald Trump, Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, set to begin Thursday at 5 PM EST. The announcement follows communication between Trump and the leaders of both countries, Benjamin Netanyahu and Joseph Aoun. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the truce, stating it was a primary goal of recent meetings between Lebanese and Israeli officials in the U.S. Lebanon was drawn into the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran after Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The conflict has resulted in over 2,196 deaths in Lebanon, thousands of injuries, and the displacement of over one million people. Trump intends to invite both leaders to direct talks to resolve their differences.

Donald Trump predicted that the leaders of Israel and Lebanon would speak, claiming it would be the first conversation in 34 years and happen "tomorrow." However, Lebanese officials refuted this, stating that President Aoun would not speak with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu until a ceasefire is reached. This stance is due to domestic pressure in Lebanon against deepening contacts with Israel while fighting continues. Lebanese officials conveyed this position to the Trump administration before Aoun spoke with Secretary of State Rubio and Trump, thanking them for ceasefire efforts. Despite Trump's prediction and ongoing US efforts to broker contact, direct communication between the two countries remains unlikely without a ceasefire.

Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon would hold talks on Thursday to de-escalate tensions amidst ongoing conflict. This follows escalating conflict in Lebanon, spurred by Hezbollah's actions in support of Iran, prompting an Israeli offensive. Pakistan emphasized the importance of Lebanese peace for broader Iran peace talks. Despite Trump's announcement, Lebanese officials stated that President Joseph Aoun would not be speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the near future. Aoun thanked the US for its efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Lebanon.

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, starting Thursday at midnight local time, following six weeks of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump, with confirmation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who stated Israeli troops would maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah indicated willingness to participate, demanding a comprehensive halt to attacks across Lebanon and restricted movement for Israeli forces. Iran welcomed the ceasefire, having previously insisted it be included in their own ceasefire negotiations with the US. The conflict began after a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran, prompting Hezbollah to retaliate for the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader.

Senator Bernie Sanders is pushing for Senate votes on Wednesday on resolutions to block U.S. weapons sales to Israel, specifically a $151.8 million sale of bombs and a $295 million sale of bulldozers. This marks the fourth time Sanders has introduced resolutions to limit military aid to Israel. The votes will test Democratic support for Israel amid growing concerns among voters regarding the Netanyahu government's actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Sanders argues that public opinion has shifted, citing a Pew Research Center survey, and calls for Congress to prioritize constituents over lobbying groups like AIPAC. While previous attempts have failed, this vote may indicate changing sentiment among Senate Democrats, with support for similar measures fluctuating in past votes.

According to a news article published on April 15, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu views Lebanon as his last chance for a political "win" after perceived failures in Gaza and against Iran. Israel's stated rationale for military action in Lebanon involves addressing the ongoing threat posed by Hezbollah to northern Israeli communities. The article claims that the Lebanese state's weakness and Hezbollah's presence make Lebanon a target for Israel. However, the article suggests that domestic political considerations and the need to demonstrate success after unsuccessful campaigns against Hamas and Iran are the primary drivers behind the Israeli campaign in Lebanon. Israel demands the complete disarmament of Hezbollah, which sources suggest would require the occupation of Lebanon.

Asian shares mostly increased on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, following a Wall Street rally fueled by lower oil prices. The price decrease stemmed from hopes that the United States and Iran might resume talks to end their ongoing war. Japan's Nikkei 225 and South Korea's Kospi saw gains, while Australia's S&P/ASX 200 and Hong Kong's Hang Seng experienced slight increases. The Shanghai Composite showed a marginal decline. The previous day, the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq composite all rose on Wall Street. Analysts cautioned that the optimism surrounding potential peace talks might be premature given the continuing conflict.

Asian stocks rose on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, following gains on Wall Street, fueled by hopes for renewed U.S.-Iran talks to end the ongoing Iran war. Major indices like Tokyo's Nikkei 225, South Korea's Kospi, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng experienced increases. Despite China reporting lower-than-expected export growth, investor optimism remained due to potential de-escalation of the conflict. While the U.S. military initiated a blockade of Iranian ports, President Trump indicated a willingness to engage with Tehran. Consequently, oil prices declined, with Brent crude falling to $98.12 per barrel after reaching nearly $104 earlier in the week.

Asian stock markets surged and oil prices fell on Tuesday following President Trump's statement that Iranian officials expressed interest in negotiating a deal with the US. The Nikkei 225 in Japan and South Korea's KOSPI experienced significant gains, while Singapore, Hong Kong, and Shanghai also saw increases. The market rally followed gains on Wall Street, with the S&P 500 finishing up 1 percent overnight. Brent crude oil prices dipped below $98 a barrel. This positive market shift occurred despite the US imposing a naval blockade on Iranian ports, a move expected to worsen the global energy shortage.

Tensions between Israel and Turkey are escalating, creating a delicate situation for the United States. The feud between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has intensified following the October 7th Hamas attack and the subsequent war in Gaza. Turkey's Foreign Minister accused Israel of seeking a new enemy after its confrontation with Iran, alleging that Israel is attempting to portray Turkey as its next adversary. Netanyahu responded by accusing Erdoğan of siding with Iran and its proxies, while Erdoğan has accused Israel of war crimes and supports international legal action against Israeli officials. The escalating rhetoric and accusations are straining relations between the two countries and placing pressure on the U.S. to maintain cooperation with both sides.

Following inconclusive talks in Islamabad regarding its nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz, Iran is attempting to engage European powers to increase pressure on the United States. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi briefed European counterparts on Iran's proposals after being sidelined by the US. Iran hopes to leverage a potential transatlantic divide and economic pressures on Europe to influence President Trump. European nations are considering a defensive naval alliance to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict ends, requiring discussions with Tehran. Analysts suggest Iran aims to either sway Europe towards its position or exploit divisions within Europe to counter US influence.

Senator Bernie Sanders plans to introduce a resolution to block the sale of nearly $500 million in bombs and bulldozers to Israel, citing concerns over the Netanyahu government's actions in Gaza. Sanders will force a vote on the measure in the Senate this week. The resolution is unlikely to pass in the Republican-controlled Senate, but it aims to test the level of Democratic support for Israel amid growing criticism of its military actions. A similar bill proposed by Sanders failed last year, but advocates noted a shift in support. Public opinion polls indicate declining favorability towards Israel in the US, particularly among Democrats and younger voters.

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

In Islamabad, Pakistan, US-Iran talks aimed at de-escalating tensions and solidifying a ceasefire concluded without an agreement on April 13, 2026. Pakistan, acting as mediator, hosted the high-level negotiations, the most significant direct engagement between the two countries since 1979. The primary sticking point was Iran's nuclear program, with the US demanding verifiable assurances that Iran would not pursue nuclear weapons. Despite the lack of immediate progress, US Vice President JD Vance indicated a willingness to resume talks, presenting a final proposal for Iran's consideration. Pakistan has affirmed its commitment to continue facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran in the hopes of preventing a return to conflict.

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.

The US and Iran have begun direct peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, the first high-level meeting between the two countries since 1979. The talks, mediated by Pakistan, are led by US Vice-President JD Vance and Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, with Pakistan's army chief Asim Munir also present. Initial discussions focused on security, finance, and the Strait of Hormuz, following Iranian demands for a Lebanon ceasefire, reparations, and asset unblocking. The US has cautioned against manipulation. These talks follow previous failed negotiations in Geneva and ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is hosting a dinner for the negotiating teams.

Israel has rejected a ceasefire with Hezbollah ahead of planned talks with Lebanese officials in Washington next week. Despite the absence of diplomatic relations, the talks are intended to begin formal peace negotiations between Israel and Lebanon. However, Israel refuses to discuss a ceasefire with Hezbollah, which it considers a terrorist organization and an obstacle to peace. The diplomatic push comes as Israeli strikes intensify in Lebanon, with reports of casualties and pressure from Washington and Beirut for a temporary halt to hostilities. Iran has stated that the agreed pause in hostilities with the US includes an end to fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, a position Israel rejects.

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

Following a U.S.-Israeli strike in Tehran on March 8, 2026, and subsequent conflict, the world faces an unsettled Middle East and strained global alliances. While Iran's government remains, it now possesses new economic leverage. The U.S. and Israel, both scheduled for elections this year, may face voters dissatisfied with the war's outcome. NATO is under increased pressure, and Gulf Arab states contend with a more powerful Iran. As a tenuous ceasefire holds, the U.S. and Iran are set to begin talks in Pakistan this weekend. Despite claiming "immense achievements," Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledges uncompleted goals, including dismantling Iran's missile and nuclear programs and instigating an uprising against the Iranian government.

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

Tensions 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.

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.

Amid ongoing conflict, Lebanon has stated it will only participate in direct negotiations with Israel, scheduled to be hosted by the US in Washington next week, if a ceasefire is in place beforehand. This announcement comes as Israeli attacks across Lebanon continue, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting a rising death toll of 357 and over 1,200 injured from recent bombardments. Israel claims its strikes have killed at least 180 Hezbollah fighters and targeted rocket launchers used to attack northern Israel. Hezbollah, in turn, has fired rockets at various locations in Israel, including the furthest strike yet on Ashdod, citing Israeli violations of the US-Iran ceasefire agreement as justification.

Following large-scale Israeli attacks on Lebanon that resulted in significant casualties, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed his cabinet to begin ceasefire talks with Lebanon. The announcement comes after repeated calls from Beirut for direct talks. Despite the call for negotiations, Israel continues to strike Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, while Hezbollah also fires missiles into Israel. Analysts suggest the recent Israeli attacks may be an attempt to derail upcoming peace talks between the United States and Iran, as Iran has stated that a ceasefire in both Iran and Lebanon is a prerequisite for negotiations. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah began as a result of the US-Israel war on Iran, with Hezbollah acting in defense of Tehran.

Six months after the Gaza ceasefire, significant progress on disarmament, governance, and reconstruction remains stalled, leaving residents in limbo. This situation raises concerns about the viability of the newly established Iran war ceasefire. The Gaza experience highlights the importance of detailed agreements and clear enforcement, as evidenced by current disagreements over the ceasefire's application to Lebanon. The US-led Board of Peace, intended to address conflicts like Gaza, has been inactive since the Iran war began. Hamas has yet to respond to the Board's proposal on disarming, a key condition for lasting peace, with the US indicating that its patience is not unlimited.

Six months after the October 10, 2025 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, Gaza remains in a state of instability. The agreement, intended to end a two-year war that resulted in over 72,000 Palestinian deaths, aimed for a comprehensive ceasefire, Israeli troop withdrawal, increased humanitarian aid, and infrastructure reconstruction. However, reports indicate that the agreed-upon terms have not been fully implemented. Attacks continue, a full Israeli withdrawal has not occurred, and aid delivery remains insufficient. The promised reconstruction and prisoner exchanges have also stalled, leaving Gaza in a state of "neither war nor peace" with ongoing suffering for Palestinian civilians.

Six months after the declared ceasefire in Gaza, thousands of Palestinian families are still unable to bury their dead. Approximately 10,000 Palestinians remain missing, presumed buried under the rubble of buildings destroyed during the conflict that began in October 2023. The UN estimates over 61 million tonnes of rubble remain, hindering recovery efforts. Many families lack the necessary equipment to retrieve bodies, and civil defense teams are reportedly unable to assist. The situation leaves families like Abu Mohammed's, who lost four children and whose bodies remain trapped, in despair. Despite the ceasefire's aim to facilitate recovery, heavy machinery has not been adequately deployed to Gaza to assist in the crucial task of reuniting families with their deceased.

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

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

On day 41 of the Iran war, Lebanon declared a national day of mourning following Israeli attacks that killed at least 254 people. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is seeking diplomatic intervention to halt the violence. While a ceasefire mediated by Pakistan was believed to include Lebanon, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Vice President JD Vance stated it does not. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insists the ceasefire covers Lebanon, warning of continued war if attacks persist. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian demands a halt to Israeli attacks in Lebanon as part of Iran's ceasefire conditions. However, a US official stated that Iran's publicly released 10-point ceasefire plan differs from the agreement made with the White House.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned the United States against allowing Israel to jeopardize the regional ceasefire through continued attacks on Lebanon. Araghchi suggested Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing a resumption of his corruption trial, has ulterior motives for prolonging the conflict. He stated that a region-wide ceasefire, including Lebanon, would hasten Netanyahu's jailing. Araghchi's comments mirror similar warnings from US Vice President JD Vance, who cautioned Iran against letting the ceasefire collapse over Lebanon. Disagreement over whether the ceasefire applies to Lebanon poses a significant threat to the truce's future.

Following a US-Iran ceasefire in April 2026, US Democratic lawmakers are warning President Trump that Israel's continued attacks on Lebanon threaten to collapse the truce and ignite a broader regional war. These Democrats, including Representatives Dave Min, Ayanna Pressley, and Debbie Dingell, are urging Trump to restrain Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, whose actions they believe are escalating the conflict and killing civilians. Their statements highlight domestic pressure on Trump to ensure the ceasefire extends to Lebanon, especially after Israel launched deadly attacks there. Pakistan, which mediated the ceasefire, asserts that it does include Lebanon, a claim contradicted by Israel. Iranian officials have also cautioned that the ceasefire's viability depends on halting Israeli attacks in Lebanon.

Following deadly Israeli attacks in Lebanon that killed hundreds and threatened a US-Iran truce, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his government is ready to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon "as soon as possible." The talks, according to Netanyahu, will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations. This announcement comes after Lebanon's repeated requests for direct negotiations with Israel. Simultaneously, the Lebanese cabinet instructed security forces to restrict weapons in Beirut to state institutions, a warning to Hezbollah. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated he is working on a diplomatic solution that is being viewed "positively" by international actors. The US-Iran ceasefire's applicability to Lebanon remains disputed.

Following the announcement of a US-Iran ceasefire, Israel launched a surprise wave of attacks on Lebanon, hitting over 100 targets in 10 minutes, including Beirut. The strikes killed over 300 people, drawing international condemnation. While Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed the attacks targeted Hezbollah members, some speculate the strikes aimed to undermine the US-Iran ceasefire, which Netanyahu reportedly opposed. Another theory suggests Israel attempted to assassinate Hezbollah secretary general Naim Qassem. Despite Hezbollah's claim of adhering to the ceasefire, heavy fire resumed between Hezbollah and Israel, raising concerns about the stability of the newly established agreement.

US Vice President JD Vance stated that it would be unwise for Iran to allow the US ceasefire to collapse over Lebanon, despite Iran's belief that Lebanon was included in the agreement. Pakistan, who mediated the truce, explicitly stated Lebanon was included, but the US denies this. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that the US must choose between a ceasefire and continued conflict via Israel's actions in Lebanon. Vance dismissed the conflicting positions as a "misunderstanding," suggesting Iran mistakenly believed the ceasefire encompassed Lebanon. The US has not clarified why Pakistan's statement highlighted Lebanon as part of the truce. Vance made these statements while leaving Hungary on Wednesday.

Asim Munir, Pakistan's chief of defence forces, is being recognized as a key diplomatic figure in brokering a ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Both President Trump and Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi have publicly thanked Munir for his efforts in achieving the two-week truce. Trump reportedly contacted Munir prior to announcing the ceasefire, and Munir is said to have been in communication with the US about the conflict for over two weeks. A US official also noted that Munir has developed a positive relationship with Vice-President Vance. Munir, considered the most powerful person in Pakistan, is now playing a significant role on the international stage.

The United States and Iran reached a provisional two-week ceasefire agreement on Tuesday evening, which includes a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement follows a period of heightened tensions and threats from the US. While Israel supports the US-Iran ceasefire, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated it does not extend to fighting against Hezbollah in Lebanon, where Israeli attacks have resulted in over 1,500 deaths. Donald Trump has described Iran's 10-point plan as a "workable basis" for future negotiations. The ceasefire's impact on the broader regional conflict, particularly involving Israel and Lebanon, remains uncertain.

A fragile ceasefire in the Iran conflict is in jeopardy as of Wednesday, with both sides disagreeing on its terms. Iran and Pakistan claim the agreement includes Lebanon, while Israel denies this and has intensified its attacks there, killing at least 254 people. In response to Israel's actions and U.S. demands regarding uranium enrichment, Iran has halted oil tanker passage through the Strait of Hormuz, citing a ceasefire breach. The U.S. denies the closure and insists the strait must reopen, while acknowledging a potential misunderstanding regarding Lebanon's inclusion in the ceasefire. Despite the tensions, the U.S. expresses continued hope for the agreement's success.

On April 8, 2026, Israel launched its heaviest air attacks on Lebanon in years, killing at least 254 people and injuring over 1,160 across Beirut, its suburbs, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley. The strikes occurred hours after a US-Iran ceasefire brokered by Pakistan took effect, leading to confusion regarding Lebanon's inclusion in the truce. While Pakistan and Iran claimed Lebanon was part of the agreement, the US and Israel asserted otherwise, with President Trump calling it a "separate skirmish." The attacks represent a sharp escalation since Israel intensified its operations in Lebanon in early March amidst its joint war with the US against Iran, despite an existing ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah since November 2024. Analysts suggest Israel is attempting to maximize its gains in Lebanon while the situation remains fluid.

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

Following a 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.

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

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

US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of bombing in Iran, describing it as a "double-sided ceasefire" mediated by Pakistan to allow for diplomacy. The suspension is conditional on Iran ensuring the immediate and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated the US received a 10-point proposal from Iran, believing it could be a basis for negotiation. Iran's Foreign Minister confirmed that if attacks against Iran cease, their forces will halt defensive operations, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks. Negotiations between the US and Iran are scheduled to begin on April 10 in Islamabad.

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.

Pakistan has proposed a peace plan to de-escalate tensions between the US and Iran, brokered through contacts between Pakistani army chief Asim Munir, US officials, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The plan calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, followed by negotiations for a broader settlement within 15 to 20 days. This mediation effort comes as former President Trump issued a Tuesday deadline for a deal to allow traffic to resume through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies. However, Iran has rejected the deadline and has not immediately agreed to reopen the strait, seeking guarantees of a permanent ceasefire. Neither Washington nor Tehran has formally responded to the Pakistani proposal.

Pakistan has proposed a two-stage plan, dubbed the "Islamabad Accord," to end the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, with both sides considering the framework. The proposal involves an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, followed by 15-20 days to finalize a broader settlement. This settlement would include a regional framework for the Strait, Iranian commitments regarding nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets, with final talks in Islamabad. Pakistan's army chief has been in contact with US and Iranian officials to facilitate the agreement. However, Iran has stated it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of a temporary ceasefire.

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.