West Asia War LIVE Updates: "India has a role in the de-escalation in West Asia": Former Indian diplomat highlights New Delhi's "dual-trust" status with Iran and US
As tensions simmer in West Asia, New Delhi is increasingly viewed not just as a concerned bystander, but as a uniquely positioned mediator capable of cooling the region's geopolitical temperature. Speaking with ANI, former Indian diplomat and ex-Ambassador to Iran, Dinkar P Srivastava, highlighted that India's "dual-trust" status with both Tehran and the Washington-Tel Aviv axis makes it a rare candidate for diplomatic de-escalation. Speaking on the evolving geopolitical situation, Srivastava said, "India is uniquely positioned to act as a trusted interlocutor given its historical and diplomatic relations with countries across the divide."

West Asia War LIVE Updates: "India has a role in the de-escalation in West Asia": Former Indian diplomat highlights New Delhi's "dual-trust" status with Iran and US
As tensions simmer in West Asia, New Delhi is increasingly viewed not just as a concerned bystander, but as a uniquely positioned mediator capable of cooling the region's geopolitical temperature. Speaking with ANI, former Indian diplomat and ex-Ambassador to Iran, Dinkar P Srivastava, highlighted that India's "dual-trust" status with both Tehran and the Washington-Tel Aviv axis makes it a rare candidate for diplomatic de-escalation. Speaking on the evolving geopolitical situation, Srivastava said, "India is uniquely positioned to act as a trusted interlocutor given its historical and diplomatic relations with countries across the divide."

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Pakistani delegation, led by Army chief Munir, reaches Iran for peace talks
A Pakistani delegation, led by Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, reached Tehran on Wednesday as part of Islamabad's efforts to resolve the conflict between the US and Iran. The Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said in a statement that Munir is part of a delegation that also includes Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. "Field Marshal Asim Munir and Mr Mohsin Naqvi, Interior Minister, along with the delegation, arrive at Tehran as part of the ongoing mediation efforts," it said.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Pakistani delegation, led by Army chief Munir, reaches Iran for peace talks
A Pakistani delegation, led by Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, reached Tehran on Wednesday as part of Islamabad's efforts to resolve the conflict between the US and Iran. The Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said in a statement that Munir is part of a delegation that also includes Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. "Field Marshal Asim Munir and Mr Mohsin Naqvi, Interior Minister, along with the delegation, arrive at Tehran as part of the ongoing mediation efforts," it said.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Global growth needs unconstricted energy markets: Jaishankar on Hormuz disruption
Against the backdrop of closure of the Strait of Hormuz, India on Wednesday made a strong pitch for unimpeded transit of merchant vessels, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserting that attacks on shipping are "completely unacceptable." In his remarks at a Japan-hosted meeting that focused on disruptions in energy supplies in the wake of the West Asia crisis, Jaishankar said global growth demands that energy markets are "not constricted". The external affairs minister represented India at the "Asia Zero-Emission Community (AZEC) plus" meeting while joining it through virtual mode. The meeting was chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Global growth needs unconstricted energy markets: Jaishankar on Hormuz disruption
Against the backdrop of closure of the Strait of Hormuz, India on Wednesday made a strong pitch for unimpeded transit of merchant vessels, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserting that attacks on shipping are "completely unacceptable." In his remarks at a Japan-hosted meeting that focused on disruptions in energy supplies in the wake of the West Asia crisis, Jaishankar said global growth demands that energy markets are "not constricted". The external affairs minister represented India at the "Asia Zero-Emission Community (AZEC) plus" meeting while joining it through virtual mode. The meeting was chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Pope doubles down on message of peace and unity as Trump's criticism continues
Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday doubled down as US President Donald Trump's criticism showed no sign of letting up, insisting that the message "the world needs to hear today" is one of peace and dialogue. Leo spoke to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Cameroon as he continued his Africa visit. He made no mention of Trump's latest social media post or the suggestion by Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, that he should "be careful" when speaking about theology. Leo took no questions. Rather, he focused on his just-concluded visit to Algeria and the teachings of St Augustine of Hippo, the inspiration of his religious order and his own spirituality. But Leo spoke in terms that suggested the Trump administration's criticism of the pope's calls for peace in the US-Israeli war with Iran had not gone unnoticed.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Pope doubles down on message of peace and unity as Trump's criticism continues
Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday doubled down as US President Donald Trump's criticism showed no sign of letting up, insisting that the message "the world needs to hear today" is one of peace and dialogue. Leo spoke to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Cameroon as he continued his Africa visit. He made no mention of Trump's latest social media post or the suggestion by Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, that he should "be careful" when speaking about theology. Leo took no questions. Rather, he focused on his just-concluded visit to Algeria and the teachings of St Augustine of Hippo, the inspiration of his religious order and his own spirituality. But Leo spoke in terms that suggested the Trump administration's criticism of the pope's calls for peace in the US-Israeli war with Iran had not gone unnoticed.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: &lsquo;Xi will give me big, fat hug&rsquo;: Donald Trump says he opened Strait of Hormuz for China &lsquo;and the World&rsquo;
US President Donald Trump claimed that China is backing his efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz permanently open, asserting that the move benefits both Beijing and the global economy. He also said Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed not to supply weapons to Iran following direct communication between the two leaders. <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/xi-will-give-me-big-fat-hug-donald-trump-says-he-opened-strait-of-hormuz-for-china-and-the-world-23625909">Read more.</a>

West Asia War LIVE Updates: &lsquo;Xi will give me big, fat hug&rsquo;: Donald Trump says he opened Strait of Hormuz for China &lsquo;and the World&rsquo;
US President Donald Trump claimed that China is backing his efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz permanently open, asserting that the move benefits both Beijing and the global economy. He also said Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed not to supply weapons to Iran following direct communication between the two leaders. Read more.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran says it would block Gulf trade if blockade continues
Iranian state media reported that the commander of Iran's joint military command warned that Iran would completely block exports and imports across the Persian Gulf region, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the United States does not lift its blockade on Iranian ports. "Iran will act with strength to defend its national sovereignty and its interests," said Ali Abdollahi.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran says it would block Gulf trade if blockade continues
Iranian state media reported that the commander of Iran's joint military command warned that Iran would completely block exports and imports across the Persian Gulf region, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the United States does not lift its blockade on Iranian ports. "Iran will act with strength to defend its national sovereignty and its interests," said Ali Abdollahi.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: An Iranian national convicted in France returns to Iran after release of 2 French citizens
An Iranian national convicted in France on charges of inciting terrorism went back to Iran on Wednesday, one week after two French nationals detained in Tehran returned to France, according to Iranian state television. Mahdieh Esfandiari was sentenced by a Paris criminal court in February to one year in prison with an additional three-year suspended sentence, along with a permanent ban from French territory, over comments she made about the Hamas-led Oct 7, 2023 attacks on Israel. She appealed the decision.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: An Iranian national convicted in France returns to Iran after release of 2 French citizens
An Iranian national convicted in France on charges of inciting terrorism went back to Iran on Wednesday, one week after two French nationals detained in Tehran returned to France, according to Iranian state television. Mahdieh Esfandiari was sentenced by a Paris criminal court in February to one year in prison with an additional three-year suspended sentence, along with a permanent ban from French territory, over comments she made about the Hamas-led Oct 7, 2023 attacks on Israel. She appealed the decision.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump says Chinese president denies sending weapons to Iran
United States President Donald Trump has said Chinese President Xi Jinping denied sending weapons to Iran. Trump said in the Fox News interview that Xi Jinping issued the denial in a written response letter to Trump, after the US president wrote him following reports that surfaced about China supplying Iran with weapons for the war. "I wrote him a letter asking him not to do that. And he wrote me a letter saying that, essentially, he's not doing that," Trump said. Trump is scheduled to meet Xi in Beijing in early May.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump says Chinese president denies sending weapons to Iran
United States President Donald Trump has said Chinese President Xi Jinping denied sending weapons to Iran. Trump said in the Fox News interview that Xi Jinping issued the denial in a written response letter to Trump, after the US president wrote him following reports that surfaced about China supplying Iran with weapons for the war. "I wrote him a letter asking him not to do that. And he wrote me a letter saying that, essentially, he's not doing that," Trump said.Trump is scheduled to meet Xi in Beijing in early May.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel hits more Hezbollah targets in Lebanon
Israel's military said on Wednesday that it had struck more than 200 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon as it presses ahead with its aerial and ground war there despite the US-Iran ceasefire. Lebanon's National News Agency reported airstrikes and artillery shelling in multiple southern Lebanese locations on Wednesday, including near Bint Jbeil, where Israeli forces have encircled Hezbollah fighters. The fighting in the south has continued after Israeli and Lebanese officials concluded their first direct talks in decades. Lebanese officials want a ceasefire to halt fighting that has displaced more than 1 million people in their country, while Israel wants the Lebanese government to assume responsibility for disarming Hezbollah.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel hits more Hezbollah targets in Lebanon
Israel's military said on Wednesday that it had struck more than 200 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon as it presses ahead with its aerial and ground war there despite the US-Iran ceasefire. Lebanon's National News Agency reported airstrikes and artillery shelling in multiple southern Lebanese locations on Wednesday, including near Bint Jbeil, where Israeli forces have encircled Hezbollah fighters. The fighting in the south has continued after Israeli and Lebanese officials concluded their first direct talks in decades. Lebanese officials want a ceasefire to halt fighting that has displaced more than 1 million people in their country, while Israel wants the Lebanese government to assume responsibility for disarming Hezbollah.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Safety first in the Gulf: Over 2,300 Indian seafarers repatriated, says Shipping Ministry
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided a major update on Wednesday regarding the safety of Indian maritime assets in the Persian Gulf, confirming that all Indian seafarers are safe and no security incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have occurred in the last 24 hours. Speaking at an Inter-Ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia, Additional Secretary of the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry, Mukesh Mangal, announced a significant milestone in the government's efforts to protect its citizens amidst regional instability.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Safety first in the Gulf: Over 2,300 Indian seafarers repatriated, says Shipping Ministry
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided a major update on Wednesday regarding the safety of Indian maritime assets in the Persian Gulf, confirming that all Indian seafarers are safe and no security incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have occurred in the last 24 hours. Speaking at an Inter-Ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia, Additional Secretary of the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry, Mukesh Mangal, announced a significant milestone in the government's efforts to protect its citizens amidst regional instability.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran claims arrest of 35 "Mossad-linked" suspects in security crackdown
Iranian authorities claim to have apprehended 35 individuals on various charges ranging from espionage to illegal trafficking. According to the Iranian state media Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the group includes suspects described by the Intelligence Ministry as being "Mossad-linked," alongside arms smugglers and affiliates of separatist organisations. The ministry confirmed that the security operations were widespread, stating that the arrests were made "in six provinces of the country." The statement, carried by IRNA, noted that the sweep targeted multiple threats to national security simultaneously.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran claims arrest of 35 "Mossad-linked" suspects in security crackdown
Iranian authorities claim to have apprehended 35 individuals on various charges ranging from espionage to illegal trafficking. According to the Iranian state media Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the group includes suspects described by the Intelligence Ministry as being "Mossad-linked," alongside arms smugglers and affiliates of separatist organisations. The ministry confirmed that the security operations were widespread, stating that the arrests were made "in six provinces of the country." The statement, carried by IRNA, noted that the sweep targeted multiple threats to national security simultaneously.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Oil prices fall for 2nd day as Donald Trump signals possible US-Iran talks
Global oil prices declined for a second straight day on Wednesday as optimism grew over a possible resumption of negotiations between the United States and Iran, raising hopes of easing supply disruptions in the Middle East. Investor sentiment improved after US President Donald Trump indicated that talks to end the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran could resume within the next two days, potentially in Pakistan. The development follows a breakdown in negotiations over the weekend, which had prompted Washington to impose a blockade on Iranian ports, fuelling concerns over supply constraints after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. As expectations of renewed dialogue gained traction, crude oil prices in the global market slipped below the USD 95 per barrel mark.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Oil prices fall for 2nd day as Donald Trump signals possible US-Iran talks
Global oil prices declined for a second straight day on Wednesday as optimism grew over a possible resumption of negotiations between the United States and Iran, raising hopes of easing supply disruptions in the Middle East. Investor sentiment improved after US President Donald Trump indicated that talks to end the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran could resume within the next two days, potentially in Pakistan. The development follows a breakdown in negotiations over the weekend, which had prompted Washington to impose a blockade on Iranian ports, fuelling concerns over supply constraints after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. As expectations of renewed dialogue gained traction, crude oil prices in the global market slipped below the USD 95 per barrel mark.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Two ships transit Hormuz for Iranian ports despite US blockade: Report
At least two vessels transited through the Strait of Hormuz en route to Iranian ports after altering their Automatic Identification System (AIS) destination data, following a US blockade on ships entering and leaving Iran, British shipping media reported. The report by British shipping media Lloyd's List said that following the enforcement of the blockade, some vessels with intended calls at Iranian ports were observed adjusting their AIS destination signals while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, reports Xinhua news agency. According to the report, shortly after the blockade took effect, at least two Iran-flagged container ships previously indicating sailing to the southern Iranian port of Bandar Abbas changed their AIS messages to the more general designation of "PG Ports," meaning "Persian Gulf ports."

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Two ships transit Hormuz for Iranian ports despite US blockade: Report
At least two vessels transited through the Strait of Hormuz en route to Iranian ports after altering their Automatic Identification System (AIS) destination data, following a US blockade on ships entering and leaving Iran, British shipping media reported. The report by British shipping media Lloyd's List said that following the enforcement of the blockade, some vessels with intended calls at Iranian ports were observed adjusting their AIS destination signals while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, reports Xinhua news agency. According to the report, shortly after the blockade took effect, at least two Iran-flagged container ships previously indicating sailing to the southern Iranian port of Bandar Abbas changed their AIS messages to the more general designation of "PG Ports," meaning "Persian Gulf ports."

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Retail fuel prices in Cambodia drop following two-week ceasefire in West Asia
Retail fuel prices in Cambodia have declined further after the United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, the Ministry of Commerce said. In an announcement, the ministry said a litre of regular gasoline is priced at 5,100 riels (about 1.28 US dollars) from this Wednesday until the next notice, down 1.9 per cent from 5,200 riels (about 1.3 dollars) in the past five days. Diesel now costs 6,400 riels (about 1.6 dollars) per litre, down 7.24 per cent, while the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas is unchanged at 3,900 riels (about 0.97 dollars) per litre. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said last Saturday that the General Department of Customs and Excise has subsidised about 50 million dollars a month through the reduction of import duties and taxes to minimise the impact of rising fuel prices.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Retail fuel prices in Cambodia drop following two-week ceasefire in West Asia
Retail fuel prices in Cambodia have declined further after the United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, the Ministry of Commerce said. In an announcement, the ministry said a litre of regular gasoline is priced at 5,100 riels (about 1.28 US dollars) from this Wednesday until the next notice, down 1.9 per cent from 5,200 riels (about 1.3 dollars) in the past five days. Diesel now costs 6,400 riels (about 1.6 dollars) per litre, down 7.24 per cent, while the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas is unchanged at 3,900 riels (about 0.97 dollars) per litre. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said last Saturday that the General Department of Customs and Excise has subsidised about 50 million dollars a month through the reduction of import duties and taxes to minimise the impact of rising fuel prices.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Survivors of Iranian naval vessel depart Sri Lanka
Survivors of IRIS Dena, the Iranian naval vessel sunk in a US attack in early March, have left Sri Lanka for Iran, a senior Sri Lankan military official said. According to Aruna Jayasekara, deputy defence minister of Sri Lanka, 32 survivors were repatriated alongside more than 200 personnel on board IRIS Bushehr, another Iranian naval vessel. The personnel were said to have departed Sri Lanka on a special flight on Tuesday, reports Xinhua news agency. IRIS Dena was attacked and sunk by a US submarine near Sri Lankan waters in the early days of the military conflict in the Middle East. During the rescue operation, the Sri Lankan Navy recovered 87 bodies and rescued 32 people.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Survivors of Iranian naval vessel depart Sri Lanka
Survivors of IRIS Dena, the Iranian naval vessel sunk in a US attack in early March, have left Sri Lanka for Iran, a senior Sri Lankan military official said. According to Aruna Jayasekara, deputy defence minister of Sri Lanka, 32 survivors were repatriated alongside more than 200 personnel on board IRIS Bushehr, another Iranian naval vessel. The personnel were said to have departed Sri Lanka on a special flight on Tuesday, reports Xinhua news agency. IRIS Dena was attacked and sunk by a US submarine near Sri Lankan waters in the early days of the military conflict in the Middle East. During the rescue operation, the Sri Lankan Navy recovered 87 bodies and rescued 32 people.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Another US strike on suspected drug boat in eastern Pacific kills 4
The US military launched a strike on another boat accused of carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, killing four people in the fourth such attack announced in the past few days. The operation is the latest in a series of strikes on vessels that the Trump administration says were trafficking drugs in Latin American waters, a campaign that began more than seven months ago and continues even as the military has been preoccupied with the Iran war. The latest strike brings the death toll to 175 since the operations began in early September. The US Coast Guard has suspended the search for one survivor from an attack Saturday.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Another US strike on suspected drug boat in eastern Pacific kills 4
The US military launched a strike on another boat accused of carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, killing four people in the fourth such attack announced in the past few days. The operation is the latest in a series of strikes on vessels that the Trump administration says were trafficking drugs in Latin American waters, a campaign that began more than seven months ago and continues even as the military has been preoccupied with the Iran war. The latest strike brings the death toll to 175 since the operations began in early September. The US Coast Guard has suspended the search for one survivor from an attack Saturday.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Hopes rise for renewed talks as US military says Iran blockade is in force
Hopes rose for renewed talks between the United States and Iran on Wednesday, as the US military said its blockade of Iranian ports was in full effect and Tehran threatened to retaliate by striking targets across the war-weary region. US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that a second round of talks could happen "over the next two days", telling the New York Post the negotiations could be held again in Islamabad as diplomats worked through back channels to arrange them. Regional officials said on Wednesday that the United States and Iran gave an "in principle agreement" to extend the two-week ceasefire, which is due to expire on April 22, to allow for more diplomacy.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Hopes rise for renewed talks as US military says Iran blockade is in force
Hopes rose for renewed talks between the United States and Iran on Wednesday, as the US military said its blockade of Iranian ports was in full effect and Tehran threatened to retaliate by striking targets across the war-weary region. US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that a second round of talks could happen "over the next two days", telling the New York Post the negotiations could be held again in Islamabad as diplomats worked through back channels to arrange them. Regional officials said on Wednesday that the United States and Iran gave an "in principle agreement" to extend the two-week ceasefire, which is due to expire on April 22, to allow for more diplomacy.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran's 1,104-hour digital blackout "intensifies" on 47th day amid escalating regional conflict
The persistent digital isolation of Iran continues, as the nation remains largely severed from the global web. According to the internet watchdog NetBlocks, the near blackout of the internet in Iran "is now entering its 47th day after 1,104 hours without international connectivity for the general public." Digital access began to crumble following a fresh wave of domestic demonstrations in early January. These restrictions were significantly tightened and "intensified after the start of the US-Israel war on Iran at the end of February." Monitoring groups report that the sustained disruption has crippled communication channels for millions of citizens, creating a massive information vacuum. While internal networks remain partially functional, the barrier to international platforms has effectively siloed the country during a period of escalating regional conflict and internal unrest.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran's 1,104-hour digital blackout "intensifies" on 47th day amid escalating regional conflict
The persistent digital isolation of Iran continues, as the nation remains largely severed from the global web. According to the internet watchdog NetBlocks, the near blackout of the internet in Iran "is now entering its 47th day after 1,104 hours without international connectivity for the general public." Digital access began to crumble following a fresh wave of domestic demonstrations in early January. These restrictions were significantly tightened and "intensified after the start of the US-Israel war on Iran at the end of February." Monitoring groups report that the sustained disruption has crippled communication channels for millions of citizens, creating a massive information vacuum. While internal networks remain partially functional, the barrier to international platforms has effectively siloed the country during a period of escalating regional conflict and internal unrest.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Any attempt to impose force on Iran is doomed to failure: President Pezeshkian amid US blockade on its ports
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday strongly hit back at what he described as external pressure and military aggression against Iran, asserting that any attempt to impose force on the Islamic Republic would ultimately fail amid a fragile ceasefire and diplomatic engagements to secure a complete halt to hostilities in West Asia. According to Iranian state media ISNA, Pezeshkian emphasised that Iran remains committed to constructive dialogue but will not yield to coercion, as reports suggest a possible second round of talks between Washington and Tehran after the first round of talks ended in a stalemate in Islamabad.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Any attempt to impose force on Iran is doomed to failure: President Pezeshkian amid US blockade on its ports
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday strongly hit back at what he described as external pressure and military aggression against Iran, asserting that any attempt to impose force on the Islamic Republic would ultimately fail amid a fragile ceasefire and diplomatic engagements to secure a complete halt to hostilities in West Asia. According to Iranian state media ISNA, Pezeshkian emphasised that Iran remains committed to constructive dialogue but will not yield to coercion, as reports suggest a possible second round of talks between Washington and Tehran after the first round of talks ended in a stalemate in Islamabad.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Efforts to extend ceasefire make progress, officials say
Mediators' efforts to extend a ceasefire between the United States and Iran have made progress as the warring sides are expected to return soon to the table for another round of negotiations, regional officials said. The officials said mediators aim to extend the ceasefire, which is due to expire on April 22, for at least another two weeks to allow diplomacy another chance. They said that both sides gave an "in principle agreement" to extend the ceasefire. One of the officials, who is involved in the mediation efforts, said mediators were working on a compromise to the three main disputed points, including the nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz and war compensation.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Efforts to extend ceasefire make progress, officials say
Mediators' efforts to extend a ceasefire between the United States and Iran have made progress as the warring sides are expected to return soon to the table for another round of negotiations, regional officials said. The officials said mediators aim to extend the ceasefire, which is due to expire on April 22, for at least another two weeks to allow diplomacy another chance. They said that both sides gave an "in principle agreement" to extend the ceasefire. One of the officials, who is involved in the mediation efforts, said mediators were working on a compromise to the three main disputed points, including the nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz and war compensation.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Russia's top diplomat says Iran has "inalienable right" to enrich uranium for civilian purposes
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday that "the right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes is an inalienable right of the Islamic Republic of Iran." Whether Iran, in its negotiations with the United States, decides to "pause" or "insists on preserving this right," Russia will accept "any approach based on this principle, the principle of the universality of the right to enrichment," Lavrov told reporters in Beijing, where he is on a two-day visit this week.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Russia's top diplomat says Iran has "inalienable right" to enrich uranium for civilian purposes
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday that "the right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes is an inalienable right of the Islamic Republic of Iran." Whether Iran, in its negotiations with the United States, decides to "pause" or "insists on preserving this right," Russia will accept "any approach based on this principle, the principle of the universality of the right to enrichment," Lavrov told reporters in Beijing, where he is on a two-day visit this week.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran acquired Chinese satellite to monitor US bases during conflict, reports FT
Amid a stalemate in diplomatic negotiations to secure a complete halt to hostilities in West Asia, and with a fragile ceasefire currently in place, a new development has surfaced that could significantly impact the regional security and the overall geopolitical landscape.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran acquired Chinese satellite to monitor US bases during conflict, reports FT
Amid a stalemate in diplomatic negotiations to secure a complete halt to hostilities in West Asia, and with a fragile ceasefire currently in place, a new development has surfaced that could significantly impact the regional security and the overall geopolitical landscape.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: "Don't like to see big countries doing blockades": Singapore envoy calls for freedom of navigation amid West Asia crisis
Calling for strict adherence to international law and freedom of navigation, Singapore's High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, has voiced strong concern over the ongoing West Asia crisis, warning against blockades and unilateral tolls that could disrupt global trade routes, refering to the power struggle between Iran and US over the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: "Don't like to see big countries doing blockades": Singapore envoy calls for freedom of navigation amid West Asia crisis
Calling for strict adherence to international law and freedom of navigation, Singapore's High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, has voiced strong concern over the ongoing West Asia crisis, warning against blockades and unilateral tolls that could disrupt global trade routes, refering to the power struggle between Iran and US over the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli army strikes south of Beirut as Hezbollah launches rockets at Israel
Two Israeli strikes on Wednesday hit vehicles south of Beirut, state media reported, while Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, hours after Lebanon and Israel agreed to hold direct negotiations. Israel is continuing its strikes on southern Lebanon in its war with Iran-backed Hezbollah, but has not targeted the Lebanese capital since a series of attacks across the country on April 8 that killed more than 350 people.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli army strikes south of Beirut as Hezbollah launches rockets at Israel
Two Israeli strikes on Wednesday hit vehicles south of Beirut, state media reported, while Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, hours after Lebanon and Israel agreed to hold direct negotiations. Israel is continuing its strikes on southern Lebanon in its war with Iran-backed Hezbollah, but has not targeted the Lebanese capital since a series of attacks across the country on April 8 that killed more than 350 people.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US hosts first Israel-Lebanon talks since 1993; focus on ceasefire, peace framework
The United States hosted a trilateral meeting with Israel and Lebanon on Tuesday, marking their first high-level engagement since 1993. The talks focused on launching direct negotiations, with all sides expressing willingness to move toward a ceasefire, security cooperation and a broader peace framework, the US Department of State said in a statement.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US hosts first Israel-Lebanon talks since 1993; focus on ceasefire, peace framework
The United States hosted a trilateral meeting with Israel and Lebanon on Tuesday, marking their first high-level engagement since 1993. The talks focused on launching direct negotiations, with all sides expressing willingness to move toward a ceasefire, security cooperation and a broader peace framework, the US Department of State said in a statement.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Wholesale price inflation rises 3.88 pc in March on surge in crude rates
Wholesale price inflation rose for the fifth straight month, at 3.88 per cent in March, driven by a sharp spike in rates of fuel, power and manufactured items amid the West Asia crisis, government data showed on Wednesday. Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation was 2.13 per cent in the previous month and 2.25 per cent in March last year.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Wholesale price inflation rises 3.88 pc in March on surge in crude rates
Wholesale price inflation rose for the fifth straight month, at 3.88 per cent in March, driven by a sharp spike in rates of fuel, power and manufactured items amid the West Asia crisis, government data showed on Wednesday. Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation was 2.13 per cent in the previous month and 2.25 per cent in March last year.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: 10 countries issue statement condeming killing of aid workers in Lebanon, call for end to hostilities
Ten countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Sierra Leone, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian and displacement crisis in Lebanon and called for the protection of humanitarian workers in conflict zones.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: 10 countries issue statement condeming killing of aid workers in Lebanon, call for end to hostilities
Ten countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Sierra Leone, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian and displacement crisis in Lebanon and called for the protection of humanitarian workers in conflict zones.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Military says Hezbollah fires 30 rockets at north Israel
Israel's army said Hezbollah militants fired around 30 rockets into northern Israel early on Wednesday, just hours after Washington hosted the first direct talks between Israel and Lebanon in decades. The military detected "approximately 30 launches" towards Israel since the early hours, a spokesman told AFP.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Military says Hezbollah fires 30 rockets at north Israel
Israel's army said Hezbollah militants fired around 30 rockets into northern Israel early on Wednesday, just hours after Washington hosted the first direct talks between Israel and Lebanon in decades. The military detected "approximately 30 launches" towards Israel since the early hours, a spokesman told AFP.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: CENTCOM says over 10,000 troops enforcing blockade on ships at Iranian ports
As tensions rise in West Asia, the US Central Command said more than 10,000 Sailors, Marines, and Airmen, supported by over a dozen warships and dozens of aircraft, are carrying out a mission to blockade ships entering and leaving Iranian ports. The statement came after the United States began a naval blockade against Iran following the expiry of a deadline set by US President Donald Trump.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: CENTCOM says over 10,000 troops enforcing blockade on ships at Iranian ports
As tensions rise in West Asia, the US Central Command said more than 10,000 Sailors, Marines, and Airmen, supported by over a dozen warships and dozens of aircraft, are carrying out a mission to blockade ships entering and leaving Iranian ports. The statement came after the United States began a naval blockade against Iran following the expiry of a deadline set by US President Donald Trump.

West Asia War LIVCE Updates: "Blockade of Iranian ports has been fully implemented": US CENTCOM
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday announced that a full blockade of Iran's ports has been successfully implemented, with US forces asserting maritime dominance across key regional waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVCE Updates: "Blockade of Iranian ports has been fully implemented": US CENTCOM
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday announced that a full blockade of Iran's ports has been successfully implemented, with US forces asserting maritime dominance across key regional waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran war 'close to over,' says Trump
US President Donald Trump has said that the war with Iran is "close to over," asserting that if he pulled up stakes right now, it would take Tehran 20 years to rebuild the country. The president's comments come hours after the US Central Command said it has successfully blocked all traffic to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas in the first 24 hours of Trump's blockade, saying the US was supporting freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iran war 'close to over,' says Trump
US President Donald Trump has said that the war with Iran is "close to over," asserting that if he pulled up stakes right now, it would take Tehran 20 years to rebuild the country. The president's comments come hours after the US Central Command said it has successfully blocked all traffic to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas in the first 24 hours of Trump's blockade, saying the US was supporting freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: "A lot of mistrust": US VP Vance on 1st round of US-Iran talks, signals optimism on possible 2nd round
US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (local time) stated that the stalemate in the first round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad was due to the deep-rooted mistrust between the two nations. However, he struck a cautiously optimistic tone about the prospects of reaching a deal with Tehran in a potential second round of negotiations.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: "A lot of mistrust": US VP Vance on 1st round of US-Iran talks, signals optimism on possible 2nd round
US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (local time) stated that the stalemate in the first round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad was due to the deep-rooted mistrust between the two nations. However, he struck a cautiously optimistic tone about the prospects of reaching a deal with Tehran in a potential second round of negotiations.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump renews attack on NATO, says alliance 'wasn't there, won't be in future'
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday renewed his criticism of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), claiming that the alliance has not supported the United States in the past and is unlikely to do so in the future. "NATO wasn't there for us, and they won't be there for us in the future!" Trump stated in a post on Truth Social.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump renews attack on NATO, says alliance 'wasn't there, won't be in future'
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday renewed his criticism of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), claiming that the alliance has not supported the United States in the past and is unlikely to do so in the future. "NATO wasn't there for us, and they won't be there for us in the future!" Trump stated in a post on Truth Social.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel, Lebanon agree to direct negotiations after 'productive' talks: US
Israel and Lebanon agreed to hold direct negotiations after "productive discussions" between the two sides in Washington, the United States said on Tuesday. "The participants held productive discussions on steps toward launching direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon," State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said in a statement.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel, Lebanon agree to direct negotiations after 'productive' talks: US
Israel and Lebanon agreed to hold direct negotiations after "productive discussions" between the two sides in Washington, the United States said on Tuesday. "The participants held productive discussions on steps toward launching direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon," State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said in a statement.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli NGO files ICC suit against Spain PM over Iran exports
An Israeli advocacy NGO said Tuesday that it had asked the International Criminal Court to consider legal action against Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for allegedly "aiding war crimes" through exports to Iran. The complaint comes in the midst of an escalating diplomatic spat between the two nations, which began with the start of the Gaza war in October 2023 and worsened after Madrid recognised a Palestinian state a year later.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israeli NGO files ICC suit against Spain PM over Iran exports
An Israeli advocacy NGO said Tuesday that it had asked the International Criminal Court to consider legal action against Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for allegedly "aiding war crimes" through exports to Iran. The complaint comes in the midst of an escalating diplomatic spat between the two nations, which began with the start of the Gaza war in October 2023 and worsened after Madrid recognised a Palestinian state a year later.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Drone strike hits Iranian Kurds, one killed: exiled group
A drone struck an Iranian Kurdish group on Tuesday, killing a woman in Iraq's northern Kurdistan region, a party official told AFP. It was the first such attack against Iranian Kurds in Iraqi Kurdistan since a fragile ceasefire in the US-Israeli war against Iran took effect in the region last week.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Drone strike hits Iranian Kurds, one killed: exiled group
A drone struck an Iranian Kurdish group on Tuesday, killing a woman in Iraq's northern Kurdistan region, a party official told AFP. It was the first such attack against Iranian Kurds in Iraqi Kurdistan since a fragile ceasefire in the US-Israeli war against Iran took effect in the region last week.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Stocks rally, oil extends losses as Trump fans fresh peace hopes
Stocks rose and oil fell again Wednesday after Donald Trump said a second round of US-Iran talks could take place "over the next two days", fuelling hopes for a deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and allow crude to flow again. Traders were also cheered by news that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to launch direct negotiations, fuelling optimism for an end to a conflict that has been a key sticking point in the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Stocks rally, oil extends losses as Trump fans fresh peace hopes
Stocks rose and oil fell again Wednesday after Donald Trump said a second round of US-Iran talks could take place "over the next two days", fuelling hopes for a deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and allow crude to flow again. Traders were also cheered by news that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to launch direct negotiations, fuelling optimism for an end to a conflict that has been a key sticking point in the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump says Iran talks may resume as Israel, Lebanon open direct track
President Donald Trump said Tuesday that US-Iran peace talks could resume this week, while Israel and Lebanon agreed to launch direct negotiations, signaling movement on two key fronts in efforts to ease the Middle East conflict. The parallel diplomatic openings come even as violence persisted, underscoring both the fragility of the process and Washington's push to stabilize a region shaken by the over-six-week war.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Trump says Iran talks may resume as Israel, Lebanon open direct track
President Donald Trump said Tuesday that US-Iran peace talks could resume this week, while Israel and Lebanon agreed to launch direct negotiations, signaling movement on two key fronts in efforts to ease the Middle East conflict. The parallel diplomatic openings come even as violence persisted, underscoring both the fragility of the process and Washington's push to stabilize a region shaken by the over-six-week war.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: US-Iran talks could happen over next two days in Islamabad
US-Iran peace talks may shift to Pakistan's capital, with President Donald Trump indicating that the next round of negotiations "could be happening over the next two days" in Islamabad after the stalemate in phase one of negotiations prompted Washington to impose a blockade on Iranian ports, according to reports cited by The New York Post and Khaleej Times.
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West Asia War LIVE Updates: US-Iran talks could happen over next two days in Islamabad
US-Iran peace talks may shift to Pakistan's capital, with President Donald Trump indicating that the next round of negotiations "could be happening over the next two days" in Islamabad after the stalemate in phase one of negotiations prompted Washington to impose a blockade on Iranian ports, according to reports cited by The New York Post and Khaleej Times.
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West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian state media reported that the commander of Iran's joint military command warned that Iran would completely block exports and imports across the Persian Gulf region, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the United States does not lift its blockade on Iranian ports. "Iran will act with strength to defend its national sovereignty and its interests," said Ali Abdollahi. We are closing the blog now

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Iranian state media reported that the commander of Iran`s joint military command warned that Iran would completely block exports

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West Asia War LIVE: Iran says it would block Gulf trade if blockade continues

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West Asia War LIVE: Iran says it would block Gulf trade if blockade continues

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