US-Israel Iran War Live Updates

In a move that suggests Israel does not consider its ongoing conflict with Hezbollah to be part of the recently announced ceasefire with Iran, the Israeli military has maintained its operations in southern Lebanon. The devastating consequences of this decision are evident in the city of Sidon, where a single Israeli strike claimed the lives of eight individuals just hours before the ceasefire was announced. This prolonged conflict, now in its sixth week, has resulted in a mounting civilian casualty count.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has revealed on social media platform X that he engaged in a productive discussion with Iranian President Pezeshkian today.
During the conversation, Sharif expressed his gratitude for the Iranian leadership’s forward-thinking approach in agreeing to host peace negotiations in Islamabad later this week, with the aim of restoring stability to the region.
In response, President Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to participating in the upcoming talks and extended his appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts, while also conveying his well-wishes to the people of Pakistan.

In a statement released on the International Maritime Organization’s website and shared on X, Arsenio Dominguez, the organization’s leader, expressed his support for the US-Iran ceasefire agreement, highlighting the need for a reliable mechanism to safeguard maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Dominguez emphasized the importance of a secure evacuation process, stating that it is crucial for the well-being of seafarers and the overall stability of the global shipping industry.

During an address to Hungarian university students, US Vice President JD Vance cautioned that the fragile ceasefire in place could be easily shattered if Iran fails to engage in genuine negotiations. As the Islamabad talks are set to commence later this week, Vance issued a stern warning to Tehran, underscoring the US’s unwavering commitment to a fair agreement.

“If the Iranians genuinely seek to collaborate with us, I firmly believe a mutually beneficial agreement can be reached,” Vance stated. “However, if they opt for deceit and dishonesty, they will ultimately face the consequences.” He emphasized that President Trump has explicitly instructed the entire negotiating team, comprising Secretary of State Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff, to engage in honest and transparent negotiations. Vance also highlighted the US’s considerable leverage, encompassing military, diplomatic, and economic measures, which will be deployed if Iran refuses to reciprocate.

Vance further noted that President Trump has expressed his assessment of Iran’s capabilities, stating that while they possess skilled negotiators, they are less formidable as combatants. Additionally, Vance pointed out the internal divisions within Iran regarding the deal, citing instances where officials have made contradictory statements on social media, with some proclaiming support for the ceasefire while others have been dishonest about its nature.

Director General Rafael Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency has expressed enthusiasm for the recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran, stating that his organization is prepared to play a pivotal role in facilitating a long-term resolution to the contentious issues surrounding Tehran’s nuclear programme.

According to a statement from the UN nuclear monitoring agency, Director General Grossi views the return to diplomatic negotiations as a significant step towards resolving key disputes, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The IAEA is poised to provide indispensable support through its critical safeguards and verification functions.

In a press briefing, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow revealed that all three crew members who were on board the Thai-flagged vessel that came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz in March have succumbed to their injuries.

Kuwait’s air defence systems have successfully intercepted 28 Iranian unmanned aerial vehicles since 05:00 GMT, according to Colonel Saud Abdulaziz Al-Otaibi, the Defence Ministry’s spokesperson. Although the exact number of drones involved in the recent wave of hostile attacks remains unclear, Al-Otaibi confirmed that a substantial number were brought down. The drones, which were part of a coordinated assault, targeted critical oil facilities and power stations in the southern region of the country, resulting in substantial damage to oil infrastructure, power plants, and water desalination facilities.

Kremlin officials have expressed enthusiasm for the US-Iran ceasefire, with Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s chief spokesperson, suggesting that the development could provide a window of opportunity for renewed three-party negotiations on Ukraine. During a press conference, Peskov indicated that Russia is optimistic about the prospect of direct US-Iranian communication in the near future, which could facilitate continued peace talks.

According to the Lebanese National News Agency, Nabih Berri, the influential Shia politician and Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, initiated a phone call with Pakistan’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Salman Athar, to convey Lebanon’s deep-seated concerns regarding Israel’s persistent disregard for the ceasefire agreement and its relentless attacks on southern Lebanon.

At a recent press briefing, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow disclosed that the three crew members who perished in the March attack on a Thai-flagged vessel in the Strait of Hormuz have succumbed to their injuries. According to the minister, 20 crew members were successfully rescued by the Omani navy following the assault, which resulted in a blast in the ship’s rear section and a fire in the engine compartment.