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- US-Israel-Iran War Ceasefire News Highlights: US troops forced to retreat from Strait of Hormuz after ship attack, claims Iran media
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 20, 2026, 09:09:46 IST
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US-Israel-Iran War Ceasefire News Highlights: US troops forced to retreat from Strait of Hormuz after ship attack, claims Iran media
Iran's joint military command has said that it will 'respond soon' to the seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz as an “act of piracy.”
US president Donald Trump said the vessel, identified as Touska, was intercepted after it allegedly attempted to bypass a naval blockade, in what he described as the first such action since restrictions on Iranian ports were imposed last week. He said a US Navy guided-missile destroyer operating in the Gulf of Oman disabled the ship before US Marines took it into custody to inspect its cargo.
The incident has cast uncertainty over Trump’s earlier statement that US negotiators would travel to Pakistan on Monday for another round of talks with Iran. The proposed discussions had raised hopes of extending a fragile ceasefire due to expire on Wednesday, but Tehran has not confirmed its participation.
US president Donald Trump said the vessel, identified as Touska, was intercepted after it allegedly attempted to bypass a naval blockade, in what he described as the first such action since restrictions on Iranian ports were imposed last week. He said a US Navy guided-missile destroyer operating in the Gulf of Oman disabled the ship before US Marines took it into custody to inspect its cargo.
The incident has cast uncertainty over Trump’s earlier statement that US negotiators would travel to Pakistan on Monday for another round of talks with Iran. The proposed discussions had raised hopes of extending a fragile ceasefire due to expire on Wednesday, but Tehran has not confirmed its participation.
12:23 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: As Iran war strains ties with Trump's US, UK looks to Europe
Britain's government is set to announce legislation next month to move the country closer to the European Union, as the Iran war sours the UK's so-called special relationship with the United States.
President Donald Trump's unpredictability and stream of insults towards America's historic ally is adding impetus to Prime Minister Keir Starmer's bid to deepen ties with the 27-nation bloc, a decade after Britons narrowly voted to leave the EU.
"We have a government that is already eager to move closer towards the EU, and the events in Iran provide an opportunity to speed up that process," Evie Aspinall, director of the British Foreign Policy Group think-tank, told AFP.
Starmer's administration is preparing an EU "reset" bill that will give ministers powers to align UK standards with EU single market rules as they evolve -- something called "dynamic alignment".
King Charles III will announce the legislation on May 13 when he reads out Starmer's legislative plans for the coming months, a government official told AFP on condition of anonymity.
Starmer has repeatedly called for a deeper economic and security relationship with Europe since his Labour party won the 2024 general election, ousting the Conservatives, who had implemented the 2016 Brexit referendum.
President Donald Trump's unpredictability and stream of insults towards America's historic ally is adding impetus to Prime Minister Keir Starmer's bid to deepen ties with the 27-nation bloc, a decade after Britons narrowly voted to leave the EU.
"We have a government that is already eager to move closer towards the EU, and the events in Iran provide an opportunity to speed up that process," Evie Aspinall, director of the British Foreign Policy Group think-tank, told AFP.
Starmer's administration is preparing an EU "reset" bill that will give ministers powers to align UK standards with EU single market rules as they evolve -- something called "dynamic alignment".
King Charles III will announce the legislation on May 13 when he reads out Starmer's legislative plans for the coming months, a government official told AFP on condition of anonymity.
Starmer has repeatedly called for a deeper economic and security relationship with Europe since his Labour party won the 2024 general election, ousting the Conservatives, who had implemented the 2016 Brexit referendum.
11:45 (IST) Apr 19
'Strait of Hormuz is still closed' - Iranian Embassy in South Africa mocks Donald Trump as "idiot" over viral IRGC maritime audio row
The Iranian Embassy in South Africa has launched a biting social media attack on US President Donald Trump, using a viral maritime audio clip to label him an "idiot".
The diplomatic row erupted following the circulation of a video purportedly capturing radio communications from the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy. In the recording, a voice is heard using the term "idiot", a remark that some social media accounts claimed was directed at Iran's own Foreign Minister.
However, the Iranian mission in Pretoria moved quickly to dismiss these claims, asserting that the insult was intended for the American President. Taking to X, the embassy stated, "You idiot, he meant your Idiot President, Trump. Just google 'idiot'--you'll understand who it is."
The underlying audio, attributed to the IRGC Navy, issued a stern warning to all vessels attempting to navigate the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The radio message, broadcast on maritime Channel 16, declared that the waterway remains under Tehran's strict control.
"This is Iranian Sepah Navy calling on channel 16, Strait of Hormuz is still closed, we will open it by the order of our Imam Khamenei, not by the tweets of some idiot," the radio communication announced.
The diplomatic row erupted following the circulation of a video purportedly capturing radio communications from the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy. In the recording, a voice is heard using the term "idiot", a remark that some social media accounts claimed was directed at Iran's own Foreign Minister.
However, the Iranian mission in Pretoria moved quickly to dismiss these claims, asserting that the insult was intended for the American President. Taking to X, the embassy stated, "You idiot, he meant your Idiot President, Trump. Just google 'idiot'--you'll understand who it is."
The underlying audio, attributed to the IRGC Navy, issued a stern warning to all vessels attempting to navigate the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The radio message, broadcast on maritime Channel 16, declared that the waterway remains under Tehran's strict control.
"This is Iranian Sepah Navy calling on channel 16, Strait of Hormuz is still closed, we will open it by the order of our Imam Khamenei, not by the tweets of some idiot," the radio communication announced.
11:24 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: NATO chief dismisses fears of US withdrawal
NATO secretary general Mark Rutte dismissed concerns over a potential US withdrawal from the alliance in an interview.
In an interview published on Saturday, with the German newspaper WELT AM SONNTAG, Rutte said he does not see the United States leaving NATO, but stressed the need for a stronger Europe within a stronger alliance.
The remarks came amid tensions fueled by recent comments from US President Donald Trump, who complained that European allies were unwilling to support the war with Iran, called NATO a "paper tiger," and said he was considering withdrawing from the alliance, Xinhua news agency reported.
Trump is visibly disappointed with some NATO members, Rutte said, adding that he understands the US president's frustration, and reaffirming that the US nuclear umbrella remains the "ultimate guarantor" of European security.
Earlier this month, Trump discussed the possibility of the US stepping back from NATO, as he met with Secretary General Rutte, amidst widened differences over the alliance’s response to the Iran conflict.
The White House said Trump has been considering withdrawing from NATO, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt quoting the President as saying the alliance had fallen short.
“They were tested and they failed,” she told reporters at a White House news conference.
In an interview published on Saturday, with the German newspaper WELT AM SONNTAG, Rutte said he does not see the United States leaving NATO, but stressed the need for a stronger Europe within a stronger alliance.
The remarks came amid tensions fueled by recent comments from US President Donald Trump, who complained that European allies were unwilling to support the war with Iran, called NATO a "paper tiger," and said he was considering withdrawing from the alliance, Xinhua news agency reported.
Trump is visibly disappointed with some NATO members, Rutte said, adding that he understands the US president's frustration, and reaffirming that the US nuclear umbrella remains the "ultimate guarantor" of European security.
Earlier this month, Trump discussed the possibility of the US stepping back from NATO, as he met with Secretary General Rutte, amidst widened differences over the alliance’s response to the Iran conflict.
The White House said Trump has been considering withdrawing from NATO, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt quoting the President as saying the alliance had fallen short.
“They were tested and they failed,” she told reporters at a White House news conference.
11:22 (IST) Apr 19
'Truce must be mutual': Hezbollah warns Israel, slams US-led diplomatic 'insult' to Lebanon
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem asserted on Saturday that the current 10-day truce with Israel cannot be a unilateral arrangement.
According to a report by Al Jazeera, Qassem vowed that his fighters are prepared to retaliate against any Israeli strikes targeting Lebanese territory.
In his initial response on Saturday to the ceasefire brokered by the United States, Qassem characterised the diplomatic process as "an insult to our country and our homeland, Lebanon, that America dictates its text and speaks on behalf of the Lebanese government."
These remarks follow a significant diplomatic development in Washington, where ambassadors from Lebanon and Israel held meetings ahead of anticipated direct negotiations, the first such talks between the two nations in decades.
Speaking in a televised statement, the Hezbollah chief clarified his group's stance on the cessation of hostilities. Al Jazeera quoted Qassem as stating, "A ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities. Because we do not trust this enemy, the resistance fighters will remain in the field with their hands on the trigger, and they will respond to violations accordingly."
He further emphasised that the truce must be mutual to remain valid. "There is no ceasefire from the side of the resistance only, it must be from both sides," Qassem added, according to Al Jazeera.
According to a report by Al Jazeera, Qassem vowed that his fighters are prepared to retaliate against any Israeli strikes targeting Lebanese territory.
In his initial response on Saturday to the ceasefire brokered by the United States, Qassem characterised the diplomatic process as "an insult to our country and our homeland, Lebanon, that America dictates its text and speaks on behalf of the Lebanese government."
These remarks follow a significant diplomatic development in Washington, where ambassadors from Lebanon and Israel held meetings ahead of anticipated direct negotiations, the first such talks between the two nations in decades.
Speaking in a televised statement, the Hezbollah chief clarified his group's stance on the cessation of hostilities. Al Jazeera quoted Qassem as stating, "A ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities. Because we do not trust this enemy, the resistance fighters will remain in the field with their hands on the trigger, and they will respond to violations accordingly."
He further emphasised that the truce must be mutual to remain valid. "There is no ceasefire from the side of the resistance only, it must be from both sides," Qassem added, according to Al Jazeera.
10:43 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran’s airspace to be reopened in four phases
Iran's airspace will be reopened, with flights from east to west established gradually, Tasnim news agency reported, citing the deputy director of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation.
It said the reopening of Iran’s airspace will be carried out in four stages. In the first phase, the airspace will be opened for transit flights, followed by flights from the country’s eastern airports. In the third phase, flights from Mehrabad and Imam Khomeini airports will be permitted, followed by flights from other western airports.
“Currently, airplane ticket sales are suspended, and people should pay attention to the official announcements of this organization to get the latest information about the airports and the possibility of purchasing tickets,” the official was quoted as saying by Tasnim.
The report did not specify exactly when the reopening will begin.
It said the reopening of Iran’s airspace will be carried out in four stages. In the first phase, the airspace will be opened for transit flights, followed by flights from the country’s eastern airports. In the third phase, flights from Mehrabad and Imam Khomeini airports will be permitted, followed by flights from other western airports.
“Currently, airplane ticket sales are suspended, and people should pay attention to the official announcements of this organization to get the latest information about the airports and the possibility of purchasing tickets,” the official was quoted as saying by Tasnim.
The report did not specify exactly when the reopening will begin.
10:30 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran says no date set for US peace talks as ceasefire deadline nears
Iranian deputy foreign minister Saeed Khatibzadeh on Saturday said that no date has been set for a new round of face-to-face talks with the US as he slammed Washington for its refusal to abandon “maximalist” demands, Al Jazeera reported.
10:18 (IST) Apr 19
IDF announces death of reservist in southern Lebanon
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Sunday announced the death of Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat (31), who, according to the IDF, was killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon.
In an official statement, the IDF said, "The name of a fallen soldier whose family has been notified was cleared for publication," identifying the soldier as "Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat, aged 31, from Ashdod, a soldier in the 7106th Battalion, 769th Regional Brigade" who, according to the IDF, "fell during combat in southern Lebanon."
The military added that the incident also left multiple soldiers injured. "In the incident in which Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat fell, an additional soldier was severely injured, four soldiers were moderately injured, and four additional soldiers were lightly injured," the statement said.
According to the IDF, "The soldiers were evacuated to a hospital to receive medical treatment, and their families have been notified."
According to Army Radio's Doron Kadosh, Porat and his unit had been operating in Kafr Kila when a D-9 military bulldozer ran over an explosive device belonging to Hezbollah, causing it to detonate, as reported by the Jerusalem Post.
In an official statement, the IDF said, "The name of a fallen soldier whose family has been notified was cleared for publication," identifying the soldier as "Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat, aged 31, from Ashdod, a soldier in the 7106th Battalion, 769th Regional Brigade" who, according to the IDF, "fell during combat in southern Lebanon."
The military added that the incident also left multiple soldiers injured. "In the incident in which Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat fell, an additional soldier was severely injured, four soldiers were moderately injured, and four additional soldiers were lightly injured," the statement said.
According to the IDF, "The soldiers were evacuated to a hospital to receive medical treatment, and their families have been notified."
According to Army Radio's Doron Kadosh, Porat and his unit had been operating in Kafr Kila when a D-9 military bulldozer ran over an explosive device belonging to Hezbollah, causing it to detonate, as reported by the Jerusalem Post.
10:15 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Israel army says established Gaza-style 'Yellow Line' in Lebanon
Israel's military said Saturday it had established a "Yellow Line" in southern Lebanon, similar to the one separating its forces from Hamas-held areas in Gaza, adding it had hit a "terrorist cell" operating along the demarcation.
Since a ceasefire in Gaza came into effect in October, the boundary has divided the Palestinian territory into military- and Hamas-controlled zones, with Israeli troops routinely firing on anyone approaching it.
In its first mention of such a demarcation in Lebanon, the army said Saturday that its troops in the south "identified terrorists who violated the ceasefire understandings and approached the forces from north of the Yellow Line in a manner that posed an immediate threat".
"In order to eliminate the threat... forces attacked the terrorists in several areas," it added, noting that the military was authorised to act against imminent threats in spite of the recently agreed ceasefire in Lebanon.
In a separate statement later in the day, the military said the air force had eliminated a "terrorist cell operating in proximity to IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon, in the area of the forward defence line", referring to the Yellow Line.
It did not specify how many suspected militants were killed.
Since a ceasefire in Gaza came into effect in October, the boundary has divided the Palestinian territory into military- and Hamas-controlled zones, with Israeli troops routinely firing on anyone approaching it.
In its first mention of such a demarcation in Lebanon, the army said Saturday that its troops in the south "identified terrorists who violated the ceasefire understandings and approached the forces from north of the Yellow Line in a manner that posed an immediate threat".
"In order to eliminate the threat... forces attacked the terrorists in several areas," it added, noting that the military was authorised to act against imminent threats in spite of the recently agreed ceasefire in Lebanon.
In a separate statement later in the day, the military said the air force had eliminated a "terrorist cell operating in proximity to IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon, in the area of the forward defence line", referring to the Yellow Line.
It did not specify how many suspected militants were killed.
10:11 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Iran's Quds Force chief Qaani visits Iraq
Iranian commander Esmail Qaani arrived in Baghdad on Saturday to meet political leaders and representatives of armed factions and to discuss the Middle East war and its impact on Iraq, a senior Iraqi official told AFP.
Political deadlock over the nomination of Iraq's next prime minister would also be on the agenda, the official said of Qaani's first reported trip abroad since a US-Iran ceasefire began on April 8.
Qaani, whose visits to Iraq are rarely announced, heads the Quds Force, the foreign operations branch of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.
Iraq has long walked a tightrope between the competing influences of its allies -- neighbouring Iran and the United States -- with Iraqi leaders struggling to maintain a delicate balance between the two foes.
Iraq was drawn into the Middle East war with strikes targeting Iran-backed groups, which in turn have claimed attacks on US interests, mostly in Iraq but also across the wider region.
The Iraqi official said Qaani was holding "meetings with Iraqi political leaders and a number of commanders of armed factions", adding that the goal of the visit was to "address regional de-escalation and its impact on Iraq".
Qaani "seeks to coordinate positions among Tehran's allies in Iraq and to ensure that the security situation does not deteriorate during these sensitive times" in Iraq and the region, the official said.
Political deadlock over the nomination of Iraq's next prime minister would also be on the agenda, the official said of Qaani's first reported trip abroad since a US-Iran ceasefire began on April 8.
Qaani, whose visits to Iraq are rarely announced, heads the Quds Force, the foreign operations branch of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.
Iraq has long walked a tightrope between the competing influences of its allies -- neighbouring Iran and the United States -- with Iraqi leaders struggling to maintain a delicate balance between the two foes.
Iraq was drawn into the Middle East war with strikes targeting Iran-backed groups, which in turn have claimed attacks on US interests, mostly in Iraq but also across the wider region.
The Iraqi official said Qaani was holding "meetings with Iraqi political leaders and a number of commanders of armed factions", adding that the goal of the visit was to "address regional de-escalation and its impact on Iraq".
Qaani "seeks to coordinate positions among Tehran's allies in Iraq and to ensure that the security situation does not deteriorate during these sensitive times" in Iraq and the region, the official said.
10:04 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: 'Many gaps remain,' Iran says US talks nowhere near final breakthrough
Iran on Saturday said that it remains “still far from a final agreement” with the United States despite ongoing negotiations, as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and key nuclear demands continue to stall progress.
Speaking in a televised interview, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said talks had yielded limited results but major differences remained. “On some issues, conclusions have been reached in the negotiations, and on others not; we are still far from a final agreement,” he said.
In a separate address, he said: “We made progress in the negotiations, but there are many gaps and some fundamental points remain.”
The remarks come as a fragile two-week ceasefire between Tehran and Washington nears its expiry on Wednesday, with mediators pushing for an extension amid uncertainty over a permanent deal. Ghalibaf insisted Iran had entered the truce from a position of strength. “We were victorious in the field,” he said, adding that the United States had failed to achieve its objectives. “If we accepted the ceasefire, it was because they accepted our demands.”
Speaking in a televised interview, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said talks had yielded limited results but major differences remained. “On some issues, conclusions have been reached in the negotiations, and on others not; we are still far from a final agreement,” he said.
In a separate address, he said: “We made progress in the negotiations, but there are many gaps and some fundamental points remain.”
The remarks come as a fragile two-week ceasefire between Tehran and Washington nears its expiry on Wednesday, with mediators pushing for an extension amid uncertainty over a permanent deal. Ghalibaf insisted Iran had entered the truce from a position of strength. “We were victorious in the field,” he said, adding that the United States had failed to achieve its objectives. “If we accepted the ceasefire, it was because they accepted our demands.”
09:54 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Trump 'pulled into' Iran war by Netanyahu as 'feeble attempt' to distract from Epstein files, says former VP Harris
Former US Vice President Kamala Harris has launched a scathing attack on US President Donald Trump, alleging that he was "pulled into" a military conflict with Iran by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and calling it a "feeble attempt" to distract from the "Epstein files."
Speaking at an event hosted by the Michigan Democratic Women's Caucus on Saturday, Harris characterised the hostilities as a war that "the American people do not want."
During her address in Detroit, Harris further scrutinised the administration's motives, accusing Trump of utilising "Operation Epic Fury" as a diversion from domestic controversies.
She went on to label the current leadership as the "most corrupt, callous and incompetent" administration in the history of the United States.
Expanding on the President's leadership style, Harris suggested that Trump seeks to "walk around as if he is strong and will use the force of America's military against anyone whom he chooses."
She argued that this approach represents a historic shift in foreign policy, claiming he is the "first president of the US of either party since World War II to abandon America's responsibility to... nurture and protect our alliances, our friendships."
Speaking at an event hosted by the Michigan Democratic Women's Caucus on Saturday, Harris characterised the hostilities as a war that "the American people do not want."
During her address in Detroit, Harris further scrutinised the administration's motives, accusing Trump of utilising "Operation Epic Fury" as a diversion from domestic controversies.
She went on to label the current leadership as the "most corrupt, callous and incompetent" administration in the history of the United States.
Expanding on the President's leadership style, Harris suggested that Trump seeks to "walk around as if he is strong and will use the force of America's military against anyone whom he chooses."
She argued that this approach represents a historic shift in foreign policy, claiming he is the "first president of the US of either party since World War II to abandon America's responsibility to... nurture and protect our alliances, our friendships."
09:49 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Lebanon PM condemns attack on French UNIFIL troops on Saturday
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned an attack on members of the French contingent of the UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL on Saturday and ordered an immediate investigation into the incident, according to a post on X.
09:37 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: French soldier killed in attack on UN mission in southern Lebanon, officials say
A French soldier was killed and three others wounded while clearing a road in southern Lebanon in an attack that UNIFIL peacekeepers and French officials said on Saturday was likely carried out by Iran-backed Hezbollah.
In calls with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the "unacceptable attack", Macron's office said in a statement.
Three other members of the United Nations' UNIFIL peacekeeping mission were injured, UNIFIL said, two of them seriously.
In calls with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the "unacceptable attack", Macron's office said in a statement.
Three other members of the United Nations' UNIFIL peacekeeping mission were injured, UNIFIL said, two of them seriously.
09:23 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Lebanon president, PM discuss readiness for Israel talks
Lebanon's president and prime minister discussed on Saturday preparations for the first direct negotiations with Israel in decades, as southerners headed home after the ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war.
In a statement, the office of President Joseph Aoun said he and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam conducted "an assessment of the post-ceasefire phase and the ongoing efforts to consolidate it", and discussed "Lebanese readiness for the anticipated negotiations" with Israel.
Their meeting came a day after a strongly-worded speech to the nation from Aoun stating that the country was entering a new phase to work on "permanent agreements" with Israel and insisting that direct talks were not a "concession" -- an apparent rebuttal of Hezbollah criticism.
The 10-day ceasefire seeking to end more than six weeks of war between Hezbollah and Israel has been in place since midnight on Thursday (2100 GMT) after being announced by US President Donald Trump.
More than 2,300 people have been killed in Israeli attacks and more than a million displaced since Hezbollah dragged Lebanon into the Middle East conflict last month.
In a statement, the office of President Joseph Aoun said he and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam conducted "an assessment of the post-ceasefire phase and the ongoing efforts to consolidate it", and discussed "Lebanese readiness for the anticipated negotiations" with Israel.
Their meeting came a day after a strongly-worded speech to the nation from Aoun stating that the country was entering a new phase to work on "permanent agreements" with Israel and insisting that direct talks were not a "concession" -- an apparent rebuttal of Hezbollah criticism.
The 10-day ceasefire seeking to end more than six weeks of war between Hezbollah and Israel has been in place since midnight on Thursday (2100 GMT) after being announced by US President Donald Trump.
More than 2,300 people have been killed in Israeli attacks and more than a million displaced since Hezbollah dragged Lebanon into the Middle East conflict last month.
09:04 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Israeli army says soldier killed in southern Lebanon
Israel's military said on Sunday that a soldier died during combat in southern Lebanon, where a temporary ceasefire had come into effect this week.
"Lidor Porat, aged 31, from Ashdod, a soldier in the 7106th Battalion, 769th Regional Brigade, fell during combat in southern Lebanon," the Israeli military said in a statement, without providing further details.
The total Israeli army death toll in the six-week war between Israel and Hezbollah was now 15, according to an AFP tally based on military figures.
It was the second death announced by Israel of a soldier in southern Lebanon since the start of a ten-day truce announced by the United States began on Friday -- part of wider efforts to bring a permanent end to the Middle East war.
"Lidor Porat, aged 31, from Ashdod, a soldier in the 7106th Battalion, 769th Regional Brigade, fell during combat in southern Lebanon," the Israeli military said in a statement, without providing further details.
The total Israeli army death toll in the six-week war between Israel and Hezbollah was now 15, according to an AFP tally based on military figures.
It was the second death announced by Israel of a soldier in southern Lebanon since the start of a ten-day truce announced by the United States began on Friday -- part of wider efforts to bring a permanent end to the Middle East war.
08:44 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: 'Unconditional transit' in Hormuz is 'fiction' that 'sailed' after US-Israeli 'aggression,' Iran slams EU
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei on Friday (local time) strongly criticised the European Union's stance on transit rules in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing it of double standards and "hypocrisy" on international law.
Reacting to remarks by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Baghaei said, "Oh, that 'international law'?! The one that the EU dusts off to lecture others while quietly green-lighting a US-Israeli war of aggression--and looking the other way on atrocities against Iranians?! Spare the sermons; Europe's chronic failure to practice what it preaches has turned its 'international law' talk into peak hypocrisy."
He asserted that Iran has the right to take measures in the Strait of Hormuz, stating, "No rule of international law forbids Iran, the coastal State, from taking necessary measures to stop the Strait of Hormuz being used for waging military aggression against Iran."
Rejecting the idea of unrestricted passage, Baghaei added, "And 'unconditional transit passage' in Hormuz? That fiction sailed the moment US/Israeli aggression brought US military assets into the strait's backyard."
His remarks came in response to Kallas's statement emphasising the need to keep the strategic waterway open. "Under international law, transit through waterways like the Strait of Hormuz must remain open and free of charge. This is what leaders made clear in their call on reopening the Strait today," she said.
Warning against any move to impose fees, Kallas added, "Any pay-for-passage scheme will set a dangerous precedent for global maritime routes. Iran has to abandon any plan to levy transit fees."
08:26 (IST) Apr 19
'Grateful to Pope Leo... reality is often much more complicated': US VP JD Vance on Pontiff's remarks
US Vice President JD Vance on Friday (local time) expressed support for Pope Leo XIV, saying differences between the Pontiff and President Donald Trump are often more "complicated" than portrayed.
In a post shared on X, Vance said, "I am grateful to Pope Leo for saying this. While the media narrative constantly gins up conflict-and yes, real disagreements have happened and will happen-the reality is often much more complicated."
He added that the Pope's role is distinct from that of political leadership. "Pope Leo preaches the gospel, as he should, and that will inevitably mean he offers his opinions on the moral issues of the day. The President-and the entire administration-work to apply those moral principles in a messy world," Vance said.
Expressing goodwill, he further stated, "He will be in our prayers, and I hope that we'll be in his."
08:17 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf says all enemy plans failed, including Strait of Hormuz opening
Iranian Parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said the enemy has failed in multiple objectives, including attempts to weaken Iran's air force and missile capabilities, destroy its navy, launch a ground offensive, and open the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that none of these goals was achieved, Press TV reported.
The Iranian Parliament Speaker also said that while some areas of understanding have been reached with the United States, there remain "major differences" on several issues, Al Jazeera reported.
"The enemy has not achieved its goals through issuing warnings and setting deadlines, and therefore, has begun sending messages through intermediaries," he said, as reported by Al Jazeera.
He added that Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire to allow the US to meet its demands, while US President Donald Trump accepted it because "we were the victors on the battlefield", as per Al Jazeera.
"Trump did not achieve his goal of changing the regime and destroying our offensive and missile capabilities, and Iran is not Venezuela," he added, Al Jazeera reported.
Meanwhile, Ghalibaf also said Iran successfully resisted a stronger adversary by adopting an asymmetric warfare strategy, despite the enemy's superior financial and material capabilities, Press TV reported.
The Iranian Parliament Speaker also said that while some areas of understanding have been reached with the United States, there remain "major differences" on several issues, Al Jazeera reported.
"The enemy has not achieved its goals through issuing warnings and setting deadlines, and therefore, has begun sending messages through intermediaries," he said, as reported by Al Jazeera.
He added that Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire to allow the US to meet its demands, while US President Donald Trump accepted it because "we were the victors on the battlefield", as per Al Jazeera.
"Trump did not achieve his goal of changing the regime and destroying our offensive and missile capabilities, and Iran is not Venezuela," he added, Al Jazeera reported.
Meanwhile, Ghalibaf also said Iran successfully resisted a stronger adversary by adopting an asymmetric warfare strategy, despite the enemy's superior financial and material capabilities, Press TV reported.
08:05 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: 'Any attempt to approach the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy', says Iran
"We warn that no ship, of any kind, should leave its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Any attempt to approach the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel will be targeted," the navy of Iran's Revolutionary Guards said in a satement on its official Sepah News website.
07:54 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran fires on ships in Strait of Hormuz as Tehran imposes restrictions again
Iran reversed its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and fired on a tanker attempting to pass the waterway on Saturday. It also warned that it would continue to block transit through the strait as long as the US blockade of Iranian ports remained in effect.
Confusion over the critical chokepoint threatened to deepen the energy crisis roiling the global economy and push the two countries toward renewed conflict, even as mediators expressed confidence a new deal was within reach.
Iran’s joint military command said on Saturday that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state ... under strict management and control of the armed forces.”
Two gunboats from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard opened fire on a tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said. It reported the tanker and crew as safe, without identifying the vessel or its destination. TankerTrackers.com reported vessels were forced to turn around in the strait, including an Indian-flagged super tanker, after they were fired on by Iran.
Saturday's developments came after US President Donald Trump said the blockade “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S. that includes its nuclear program. Tehran had reopened the strait Friday to commercial vessels.
Confusion over the critical chokepoint threatened to deepen the energy crisis roiling the global economy and push the two countries toward renewed conflict, even as mediators expressed confidence a new deal was within reach.
Iran’s joint military command said on Saturday that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state ... under strict management and control of the armed forces.”
Two gunboats from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard opened fire on a tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said. It reported the tanker and crew as safe, without identifying the vessel or its destination. TankerTrackers.com reported vessels were forced to turn around in the strait, including an Indian-flagged super tanker, after they were fired on by Iran.
Saturday's developments came after US President Donald Trump said the blockade “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S. that includes its nuclear program. Tehran had reopened the strait Friday to commercial vessels.
07:50 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Israel demolishes buildings in south Lebanon
Israeli forces on Saturday carried out demolitions in the southern Lebanese town of Bint Jbeil -- about five kilometers from the border -- the scene of intense fighting with Hezbollah prior to the recently agreed 10-day truce, Lebanese state media reported.
"The Israeli enemy is repeating its house detonating operations in the town of Bint Jbeil," Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) said, also reporting demolitions in other border towns where Israeli troops are present.
"The Israeli enemy is repeating its house detonating operations in the town of Bint Jbeil," Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) said, also reporting demolitions in other border towns where Israeli troops are present.
07:39 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: UN chief condemns peacekeeper's death in southern Lebanon
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned on Saturday an attack on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon that left a French soldier dead and three wounded.
France blamed the attack on Hezbollah and Guterres said, in a statement issued by his spokesman, that an initial assessment by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was that it was carried out by the Iranian-backed group.
France blamed the attack on Hezbollah and Guterres said, in a statement issued by his spokesman, that an initial assessment by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was that it was carried out by the Iranian-backed group.
07:20 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Death toll in Iran reaches 3,468
Iran's state-run Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs was quoted by the ISNA news agency as saying Saturday that the war with the United States and Israel had killed 3,468 people in the Islamic republic.
07:10 (IST) Apr 19
Hezbollah leader vows to retaliate against Israeli ceasefire violations, seeks fresh start with Lebanese govt
Hezbollah's leader Naim Qassem said that the ceasefire with Israel must mean a complete halt to aggression, warning the group will retaliate against Israeli violations in southern Lebanon.
"There is no ceasefire from one side only," Qassem said in a statement, adding that Hezbollah fighters "will respond to violations of aggression accordingly."
He outlined five key steps: a permanent halt to hostilities across Lebanon, a full Israeli withdrawal, detainee releases, the return of displaced residents, and reconstruction with Arab and international support, Xinhua news agency reported.
Hezbollah had not been defeated and would continue to pursue Lebanon's liberation and independence, he added.
Qassem also said Hezbollah is open to "a new page" of cooperation with the Lebanese government, stressing readiness to work with state institutions to strengthen national unity and safeguard sovereignty.
"There is no ceasefire from one side only," Qassem said in a statement, adding that Hezbollah fighters "will respond to violations of aggression accordingly."
He outlined five key steps: a permanent halt to hostilities across Lebanon, a full Israeli withdrawal, detainee releases, the return of displaced residents, and reconstruction with Arab and international support, Xinhua news agency reported.
Hezbollah had not been defeated and would continue to pursue Lebanon's liberation and independence, he added.
Qassem also said Hezbollah is open to "a new page" of cooperation with the Lebanese government, stressing readiness to work with state institutions to strengthen national unity and safeguard sovereignty.
06:41 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: 'Courageous, bold, smart'; Trump praises 'great ally' Israel in latest post
US President Donald Trump praised Israel for being a great ally in the ongoing war. In a post on Truth Social he wrote: "Whether people like Israel or not, they have proven to be a GREAT Ally of the United States of America. They are Courageous, Bold, Loyal, and Smart and, unlike others that have shown their true colors in a moment of conflict and stress, Israel fights hard, and knows how to WIN! President DJT."
06:27 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran 'victorious' in war with US, speaker says
Iran had been "victorious in the field" during weeks of war and had only agreed to a temporary truce with the United States because its demands had been met, the Iranian parliamentary speaker said on Saturday.
The two-week ceasefire is set to end Wednesday unless it is renewed, with a permanent deal that mediators including Pakistan are pushing to get over the line still not finalised and progress on key sticking points uncertain.
"We were victorious in the field," Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a national televised address, adding the United States had not achieved its goals and Iran controlled the strategic Strait of Hormuz maritime transit route.
"If we accepted the ceasefire, it was because they accepted our demands," he said, referring to the United States.
"The enemy's every effort was to impose its demands on us and it is important that we register our rights, so this is where negotiation is a method of struggle."
Ghalibaf and his delegation held closed door talks in Islamabad with US Vice President JD Vance on April 11, in the highest level Iran-US contacts since before the 1979 Islamic revolution.
The talks did not result in a final deal and officials have signalled mediations are continuing, though Iran's deputy foreign minister said on Saturday no date had been set for a new round of talks.
The two-week ceasefire is set to end Wednesday unless it is renewed, with a permanent deal that mediators including Pakistan are pushing to get over the line still not finalised and progress on key sticking points uncertain.
"We were victorious in the field," Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a national televised address, adding the United States had not achieved its goals and Iran controlled the strategic Strait of Hormuz maritime transit route.
"If we accepted the ceasefire, it was because they accepted our demands," he said, referring to the United States.
"The enemy's every effort was to impose its demands on us and it is important that we register our rights, so this is where negotiation is a method of struggle."
Ghalibaf and his delegation held closed door talks in Islamabad with US Vice President JD Vance on April 11, in the highest level Iran-US contacts since before the 1979 Islamic revolution.
The talks did not result in a final deal and officials have signalled mediations are continuing, though Iran's deputy foreign minister said on Saturday no date had been set for a new round of talks.
06:23 (IST) Apr 19
'Grateful to Pope Leo, reality is often much more complicated': US VP JD Vance on Pontiff's remarks
US Vice President JD Vance expressed support for Pope Leo XIV, saying differences between the Pontiff and President Donald Trump are often more "complicated" than portrayed.
In a post shared on X, Vance said, "I am grateful to Pope Leo for saying this. While the media narrative constantly gins up conflict-and yes, real disagreements have happened and will happen-the reality is often much more complicated."
He added that the Pope's role is distinct from that of political leadership. "Pope Leo preaches the gospel, as he should, and that will inevitably mean he offers his opinions on the moral issues of the day. The President-and the entire administration-work to apply those moral principles in a messy world," Vance said.
Expressing goodwill, he further stated, "He will be in our prayers, and I hope that we'll be in his."
In a post shared on X, Vance said, "I am grateful to Pope Leo for saying this. While the media narrative constantly gins up conflict-and yes, real disagreements have happened and will happen-the reality is often much more complicated."
He added that the Pope's role is distinct from that of political leadership. "Pope Leo preaches the gospel, as he should, and that will inevitably mean he offers his opinions on the moral issues of the day. The President-and the entire administration-work to apply those moral principles in a messy world," Vance said.
Expressing goodwill, he further stated, "He will be in our prayers, and I hope that we'll be in his."
06:15 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Iran’s Ghalibaf calls US port blockade 'foolish', warns Hormuz traffic will be restricted
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has sharply criticised the United States over its blockade of Iranian ports, calling the move “foolish” and “ignorant” while warning of consequences in the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking to Iranian media, Ghalibaf said Tehran does not trust Washington and believes hostilities could resume at any moment, adding that Iranian armed forces “in the field are fully prepared.”
He reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Iran’s control and warned, “If the US does not lift the blockade, traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be restricted. It is impossible for others to pass through the strait while Iran cannot.”
On the ceasefire, Ghalibaf said it extends to Lebanon and Hezbollah, noting that regional considerations were part of Iran’s conditions. He added that while Iran seeks normal shipping activity in Hormuz, disruptions persist due to incomplete implementation of the Lebanon ceasefire.
“Negotiation is also a method of struggle,” he said, describing diplomacy as a tool to secure Iran’s demands alongside developments on the ground.
Speaking to Iranian media, Ghalibaf said Tehran does not trust Washington and believes hostilities could resume at any moment, adding that Iranian armed forces “in the field are fully prepared.”
He reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Iran’s control and warned, “If the US does not lift the blockade, traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be restricted. It is impossible for others to pass through the strait while Iran cannot.”
On the ceasefire, Ghalibaf said it extends to Lebanon and Hezbollah, noting that regional considerations were part of Iran’s conditions. He added that while Iran seeks normal shipping activity in Hormuz, disruptions persist due to incomplete implementation of the Lebanon ceasefire.
“Negotiation is also a method of struggle,” he said, describing diplomacy as a tool to secure Iran’s demands alongside developments on the ground.
05:29 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: France blames Hezbollah for French peacekeeper's death in Lebanon
A French soldier was killed and three others wounded in an ambush Saturday on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon that French President Emmanuel Macron blamed on Hezbollah, an accusation the group has denied.
The attack follows an agreement between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday for a 10-day ceasefire to negotiate an end to six weeks of fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed group.
"Everything points to Hezbollah being responsible for this attack," Macron said on X, urging Lebanese authorities to arrest the perpetrators.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack in a statement and said an initial assessment by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) found it was carried out by the Iranian-backed group.
But Hezbollah -- which is strongly opposed to the planned talks with Israel -- denied involvement in the attack that killed the French peacekeeper, identified as staff sergeant Florian Montorio.
"Hezbollah denies any connection to the incident that occurred with UNIFIL forces in the Ghandouriyeh-Bint Jbeil area," it said in a statement. The group urged "caution in making judgements and assigning responsibilities" pending the results of the Lebanese army's investigation into the incident.
The attack follows an agreement between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday for a 10-day ceasefire to negotiate an end to six weeks of fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed group.
"Everything points to Hezbollah being responsible for this attack," Macron said on X, urging Lebanese authorities to arrest the perpetrators.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack in a statement and said an initial assessment by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) found it was carried out by the Iranian-backed group.
But Hezbollah -- which is strongly opposed to the planned talks with Israel -- denied involvement in the attack that killed the French peacekeeper, identified as staff sergeant Florian Montorio.
"Hezbollah denies any connection to the incident that occurred with UNIFIL forces in the Ghandouriyeh-Bint Jbeil area," it said in a statement. The group urged "caution in making judgements and assigning responsibilities" pending the results of the Lebanese army's investigation into the incident.
05:02 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Iran’s Baqaei slams EU 'hypocrisy,' defends Hormuz control under international law
Iranian official Esmaeil Baqaei has sharply criticised European nations, accusing them of “hypocrisy” over their stance on international law amid the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.
“Oh, that ‘international law’?! The one that the EU dusts off to lecture others while quietly green-lighting a U.S.-Israeli war of aggression—and looking the other way on atrocities against Iranians?!” Baqaei said in a post on X.
“Spare the sermons; Europe’s chronic failure to practice what it preaches has turned its ‘international law’ talk into peak hypocrisy,” he added.
Defending Tehran’s position, Baqaei said, “No rule of international law forbids Iran, the coastal State, from taking necessary measures to stop the Strait of Hormuz being used for waging military aggression against Iran.”
He further rejected the idea of guaranteed free passage, stating, “And ‘unconditional transit passage’ in Hormuz? That fiction sailed the moment U.S./Israeli aggression brought U.S. military assets into the strait’s backyard.”
04:34 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Israel kills two Unicef-contracted aid truck drivers in northern Gaza
Israeli military fire has killed two UNICEF-contracted truck drivers at a water distribution point in northern Gaza, forcing the UN agency to suspend operations in the area, according to UNICEF.
The incident took place at the Mansoura water filling point in Gaza City, where two other people were also injured during what UNICEF described as routine water-trucking activity “with no changes in movement or procedures,” reported AP.
The Israeli military said its forces opened fire on suspected militants near the so-called “Yellow Line,” which separates Israeli-controlled areas from the rest of Gaza, adding that the incident is under investigation.
UNICEF said the site plays a critical role in supplying clean water to hundreds of thousands of residents in Gaza City through the Mekorot water line, and confirmed that all onsite operations have been suspended until security conditions improve.
The incident took place at the Mansoura water filling point in Gaza City, where two other people were also injured during what UNICEF described as routine water-trucking activity “with no changes in movement or procedures,” reported AP.
The Israeli military said its forces opened fire on suspected militants near the so-called “Yellow Line,” which separates Israeli-controlled areas from the rest of Gaza, adding that the incident is under investigation.
UNICEF said the site plays a critical role in supplying clean water to hundreds of thousands of residents in Gaza City through the Mekorot water line, and confirmed that all onsite operations have been suspended until security conditions improve.
04:07 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Israeli military says soldier killed in southern Lebanon amid fragile ceasefire
Israel Defense Forces has said that one of its soldiers was killed in southern Lebanon on Friday, even as a fragile ceasefire continues in the region.
Command Sergeant Barak Kalfon, 48, died after being wounded in an incident that also injured three other soldiers, the military said, without releasing further details.
Command Sergeant Barak Kalfon, 48, died after being wounded in an incident that also injured three other soldiers, the military said, without releasing further details.
04:07 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran’s parliament speaker Ghalibaf says 'major differences' remain in US negotiations
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that while Iran and the United States have found some areas of agreement, “major differences” still persist in ongoing negotiations.
He claimed that pressure tactics from Washington have failed, saying, “The enemy has not achieved its goals through issuing warnings and setting deadlines, and therefore has begun sending messages through intermediaries.”
Ghalibaf also said Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire to strengthen its negotiating position, adding that US President Donald Trump accepted it because “we were the victors on the battlefield.” He further asserted that Iran “is not Venezuela,” signalling resistance to external pressure and regime-change narratives.
He claimed that pressure tactics from Washington have failed, saying, “The enemy has not achieved its goals through issuing warnings and setting deadlines, and therefore has begun sending messages through intermediaries.”
Ghalibaf also said Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire to strengthen its negotiating position, adding that US President Donald Trump accepted it because “we were the victors on the battlefield.” He further asserted that Iran “is not Venezuela,” signalling resistance to external pressure and regime-change narratives.
03:22 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Iran’s Supreme Leader’s India envoy calls ties with New Delhi 'very strong'
Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi has said that India-Iran relations remain “very strong” despite the recent shooting incident involving Indian-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, while urging de-escalation in the region.
“Our relationship with India is very strong… India has benefited from the good relationship between Iran and India in getting their oil and tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said, referring to high-level diplomatic engagements between the two countries.
He highlighted historical and cultural ties, stating, “The relationship between Iran and India is rooted in 5,000 years of history… Our relationship is very strong and will continue to grow stronger,” CNN reported.
Commenting on the incident involving Indian-flagged ships, Ilahi said he was not aware of the specific details but expressed hope that the situation would be resolved peacefully. “We don’t want this war. We want peace,” he added.
On the broader situation in the Strait of Hormuz, he said disruptions were linked to security concerns arising from ongoing tensions, adding that the waterway had previously been open and would “very soon” reopen once conditions stabilise.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region following reports that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has again tightened restrictions on the strategic shipping route.
“Our relationship with India is very strong… India has benefited from the good relationship between Iran and India in getting their oil and tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said, referring to high-level diplomatic engagements between the two countries.
He highlighted historical and cultural ties, stating, “The relationship between Iran and India is rooted in 5,000 years of history… Our relationship is very strong and will continue to grow stronger,” CNN reported.
Commenting on the incident involving Indian-flagged ships, Ilahi said he was not aware of the specific details but expressed hope that the situation would be resolved peacefully. “We don’t want this war. We want peace,” he added.
On the broader situation in the Strait of Hormuz, he said disruptions were linked to security concerns arising from ongoing tensions, adding that the waterway had previously been open and would “very soon” reopen once conditions stabilise.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region following reports that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has again tightened restrictions on the strategic shipping route.
03:14 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Iran says Hormuz 'under its control,' warns restrictions as ships fired upon
Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Tehran’s control, warning of tighter restrictions if US pressure continues.
“The Strait of Hormuz is under Iran’s control,” Ghalibaf said, adding, “If America does not abandon the blockade, passage through the Strait of Hormuz will certainly be restricted.” He also claimed Iran had “decisively confronted” US efforts to clear sea mines, calling such actions a violation of the ongoing ceasefire, CBS News reported.
His remarks appeared to contradict earlier claims by Donald Trump that Iran, with US assistance, was removing mines from the waterway.
“The Strait of Hormuz is under Iran’s control,” Ghalibaf said, adding, “If America does not abandon the blockade, passage through the Strait of Hormuz will certainly be restricted.” He also claimed Iran had “decisively confronted” US efforts to clear sea mines, calling such actions a violation of the ongoing ceasefire, CBS News reported.
His remarks appeared to contradict earlier claims by Donald Trump that Iran, with US assistance, was removing mines from the waterway.
03:05 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Israeli fire kills Palestinian man near Rafah; others wounded in Gaza
Israeli forces have killed a Palestinian man near Rafah in southern Gaza, according to medical sources.
The victim, identified as Youssef Hassan, died after Israeli military vehicles opened fire northwest of the city. His body was taken to Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis.
In a separate incident, a child was wounded by Israeli gunfire in the Mawasi area of Rafah. Medical officials also confirmed the death of 25-year-old Ahmed Hani Obeid, who succumbed to injuries from an Israeli air strike in northern Gaza nearly a year ago, highlighting the continuing human toll of the conflict.
The victim, identified as Youssef Hassan, died after Israeli military vehicles opened fire northwest of the city. His body was taken to Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis.
In a separate incident, a child was wounded by Israeli gunfire in the Mawasi area of Rafah. Medical officials also confirmed the death of 25-year-old Ahmed Hani Obeid, who succumbed to injuries from an Israeli air strike in northern Gaza nearly a year ago, highlighting the continuing human toll of the conflict.
02:58 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran Quds Force chief Qaani visits Baghdad for talks on regional tensions
Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad to hold talks with political leaders and representatives of armed factions on the evolving Middle East situation and its impact on Iraq.
Qaani, who heads the Quds Force of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, is seeking to “coordinate positions among Tehran’s allies in Iraq and to ensure that the security situation does not deteriorate during these sensitive times,” an Iraqi official said.
The visit comes as Iraq continues to navigate tensions between Iran and the United States, with the country increasingly drawn into the wider conflict through strikes and retaliatory actions involving Iran-linked groups.
Qaani, who heads the Quds Force of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, is seeking to “coordinate positions among Tehran’s allies in Iraq and to ensure that the security situation does not deteriorate during these sensitive times,” an Iraqi official said.
The visit comes as Iraq continues to navigate tensions between Iran and the United States, with the country increasingly drawn into the wider conflict through strikes and retaliatory actions involving Iran-linked groups.
02:50 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Trump holds talks on Hormuz crisis
Donald Trump held high-level discussions with top officials on the escalating crisis after Iran re-closed the Strait of Hormuz, before leaving the White House to play golf.
According to reports, a meeting in the Situation Room was attended by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as Washington assessed Tehran’s move in response to the US blockade on Iranian ports, Al-Jazeera reported.
Earlier in the day, Trump had downplayed Iran’s actions, saying Tehran was getting “a bit cute” over Hormuz.
“We haven’t had any announcements from the president since that comment in the morning that Iran was getting a ‘bit cute’, in his words, over the Strait of Hormuz,” Al Jazeera reported.
According to reports, a meeting in the Situation Room was attended by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as Washington assessed Tehran’s move in response to the US blockade on Iranian ports, Al-Jazeera reported.
Earlier in the day, Trump had downplayed Iran’s actions, saying Tehran was getting “a bit cute” over Hormuz.
“We haven’t had any announcements from the president since that comment in the morning that Iran was getting a ‘bit cute’, in his words, over the Strait of Hormuz,” Al Jazeera reported.
02:35 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: UN chief 'strongly condemns' deadly attack on French peacekeeper in Lebanon
02:34 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Iran’s supreme leader warns of ‘new bitter defeats’ for US and Israel
In a message read on Iranian state TV, Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has warned that his country’s navy was ready to inflict “new bitter defeats” on the US and Israel, as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz, Al-Jazeera reported.
02:10 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Iran calls Trump’s uranium demands a 'non-starter,' rejects transfer to US
Iran has dismissed US President Donald Trump’s demands for the transfer of enriched uranium, calling them unacceptable.
Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said, “I can tell you that no enriched material is going to be shipped to [The] United States. This is a non-starter… we’re not going to accept things that are non-starters.”
He added that while there have been multiple exchanges between Tehran and Washington, Iran considers US positions on the nuclear issue to be “maximalist,” signalling continued deadlock despite ongoing diplomatic contacts.
Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said, “I can tell you that no enriched material is going to be shipped to [The] United States. This is a non-starter… we’re not going to accept things that are non-starters.”
He added that while there have been multiple exchanges between Tehran and Washington, Iran considers US positions on the nuclear issue to be “maximalist,” signalling continued deadlock despite ongoing diplomatic contacts.
02:05 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Israel carries out demolitions in south Lebanon town despite ceasefire
Israeli forces have carried out demolition operations in the southern Lebanese town of Bint Jbeil, according to state media, despite the ongoing ceasefire.
“The Israeli enemy is repeating its house detonating operations in the town of Bint Jbeil,” Lebanon’s National News Agency reported, adding that similar actions were taking place in other border areas where Israeli troops remain deployed.
The town has long been a flashpoint in Israel-Hezbollah conflicts, and the latest developments underline the fragile nature of the truce, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
“The Israeli enemy is repeating its house detonating operations in the town of Bint Jbeil,” Lebanon’s National News Agency reported, adding that similar actions were taking place in other border areas where Israeli troops remain deployed.
The town has long been a flashpoint in Israel-Hezbollah conflicts, and the latest developments underline the fragile nature of the truce, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
01:57 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Iran says 3,468 killed in war with US, Israel amid ceasefire
Iran has reported that 3,468 people were killed during its recent conflict with the United States and Israel, according to the state-run Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs.
Foundation head Ahmad Mousavi said 3,468 “martyrs… fell during the recent conflict,” marking an increase from earlier official figures. The toll comes amid a two-week ceasefire following the war that began with US-Israeli strikes in late February.
Foundation head Ahmad Mousavi said 3,468 “martyrs… fell during the recent conflict,” marking an increase from earlier official figures. The toll comes amid a two-week ceasefire following the war that began with US-Israeli strikes in late February.
01:45 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Hezbollah outlines conditions for peace, demands Israel withdrawal, end to 'aggression'
Naim Qassem has laid out key conditions for moving forward after the ceasefire with Israel, stressing that any truce must be fully respected by both sides.
He said the continuation of the ceasefire depends on a complete halt to “aggression” across air, land and sea, along with a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
Qassem added that the next steps should include prisoner exchanges and the return of displaced residents, followed by a large-scale reconstruction effort backed by international and Arab support, signalling a broader roadmap for post-conflict stability.
He said the continuation of the ceasefire depends on a complete halt to “aggression” across air, land and sea, along with a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
Qassem added that the next steps should include prisoner exchanges and the return of displaced residents, followed by a large-scale reconstruction effort backed by international and Arab support, signalling a broader roadmap for post-conflict stability.
01:36 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Iran declares Strait of Hormuz 'fully closed,' warns violators will be targeted
Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz 'fully closed,' escalating tensions despite earlier signals of reopening during the ceasefire period.
In a statement, the navy of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps said the closure would remain in effect until the US lifts its blockade on Iranian ports and ships. It warned that any vessel violating the restrictions would be targeted.
The announcement marks a shift from Iran’s earlier position allowing limited passage under coordination and payment, and follows reported attacks on vessels in and around the crucial waterway.
In a statement, the navy of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps said the closure would remain in effect until the US lifts its blockade on Iranian ports and ships. It warned that any vessel violating the restrictions would be targeted.
The announcement marks a shift from Iran’s earlier position allowing limited passage under coordination and payment, and follows reported attacks on vessels in and around the crucial waterway.
01:25 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran’s Quds Force chief Qaani visits Iraq for talks on war, political deadlock
Esmail Qaani has arrived in Baghdad for high-level meetings with political leaders and armed factions to discuss the Middle East conflict and its implications for Iraq, officials said.
The visit comes amid ongoing political deadlock over the selection of Iraq’s next prime minister. Officials said discussions will also focus on coordinating positions among Tehran-backed groups and preventing further escalation in the region.
Iraq continues to balance ties between Iran and the United States, even as the conflict has drawn the country into broader regional tensions through strikes and counterattacks involving Iran-backed factions.
The visit comes amid ongoing political deadlock over the selection of Iraq’s next prime minister. Officials said discussions will also focus on coordinating positions among Tehran-backed groups and preventing further escalation in the region.
Iraq continues to balance ties between Iran and the United States, even as the conflict has drawn the country into broader regional tensions through strikes and counterattacks involving Iran-backed factions.
01:09 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Iran Guards say any ship approaching Hormuz will be 'targeted'
The navy of Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that any ship approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be treated as a target.
"We warn that no ship, of any kind, should leave its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Any attempt to approach the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel will be targeted," said the statement published on the Guards' official Sepah News website.
"We warn that no ship, of any kind, should leave its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Any attempt to approach the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel will be targeted," said the statement published on the Guards' official Sepah News website.
01:00 (IST) Apr 19
Israel-Iran war: Israeli soldier killed in south Lebanon amid ceasefire
Israel Defense Forces said a soldier was killed in southern Lebanon a day after the ceasefire came into effect, underscoring the fragile security situation on the ground.
Command Sergeant Barak Kalfon, 48, died after being wounded in an incident on Friday that also injured three other soldiers. While the military did not provide detailed circumstances, reports said the incident occurred during an operation to clear structures near the border, where a booby-trapped building exploded.
His death brings Israel’s military losses in the six-week conflict with Hezbollah to 14, according to official figures, even as the ceasefire continues to hold with sporadic incidents.
Command Sergeant Barak Kalfon, 48, died after being wounded in an incident on Friday that also injured three other soldiers. While the military did not provide detailed circumstances, reports said the incident occurred during an operation to clear structures near the border, where a booby-trapped building exploded.
His death brings Israel’s military losses in the six-week conflict with Hezbollah to 14, according to official figures, even as the ceasefire continues to hold with sporadic incidents.
00:50 (IST) Apr 19
US-Iran war: Hezbollah rejects US ceasefire text, calls it 'an insult to our country'
Naim Qassem has dismissed a ceasefire document published by the United States, saying it holds no practical value and undermines Lebanon’s sovereignty.
The Hezbollah leader said the text “means nothing at the practical level, but it is an insult to our country,” adding that the Lebanese government had neither met nor approved such a statement.
The US document described the 10-day truce as a step toward permanent peace and granted Israel the right to act in self-defence, a provision Qassem criticised, reiterating that a ceasefire must involve “a complete cessation of all hostilities” and that Hezbollah “will respond to enemy violations.”
The Hezbollah leader said the text “means nothing at the practical level, but it is an insult to our country,” adding that the Lebanese government had neither met nor approved such a statement.
The US document described the 10-day truce as a step toward permanent peace and granted Israel the right to act in self-defence, a provision Qassem criticised, reiterating that a ceasefire must involve “a complete cessation of all hostilities” and that Hezbollah “will respond to enemy violations.”
00:39 (IST) Apr 19
Iran war news: Hezbollah chief vows response to Israeli attacks
Naim Qassem said the ongoing 10-day ceasefire with Israel cannot be one-sided, warning that his fighters will respond to any violations.
“A ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities. Because we do not trust this enemy, the resistance fighters will remain in the field with their hands on the trigger, and they will respond to violations accordingly,” he said in a statement read on television.
“There is no ceasefire from the side of the resistance only, it must be from both sides,” he added, signalling continued tensions despite the truce.
“A ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities. Because we do not trust this enemy, the resistance fighters will remain in the field with their hands on the trigger, and they will respond to violations accordingly,” he said in a statement read on television.
“There is no ceasefire from the side of the resistance only, it must be from both sides,” he added, signalling continued tensions despite the truce.
76 More Updates
The latest phase of the Middle East conflict is marked by fast-moving diplomatic claims and sharp economic swings, as tensions around Iran, Israel-Lebanon, and the Strait of Hormuz continue to dominate global attention.
A major flashpoint remains Iran’s nuclear programme. Tehran has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s assertion that it agreed to transfer its enriched uranium to the United States. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the stockpile “is not going to be transferred anywhere,” stressing that the issue “has never been raised in negotiations.” The comments directly contradict Trump’s claims of an emerging deal involving the removal of so-called “nuclear dust” from sites hit in earlier US strikes.
Trump, however, has continued to project optimism, saying a broader peace agreement with Iran is “very close” and that there are “no sticking points” remaining. He has also suggested possible joint operations with Iran to recover nuclear material, while simultaneously maintaining pressure through continued maritime restrictions.
In parallel, the strategic Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point of both economic relief and geopolitical tension. Iran announced the reopening of the waterway for commercial vessels, triggering a sharp drop in global oil prices from nearly $120 a barrel to around $90.38 for Brent crude. However, Trump insisted that a US naval blockade on Iranian shipping would remain until a final agreement is signed.
Regional diplomacy is also evolving. Lebanon has entered what President Joseph Aoun described as a “new phase” following a ceasefire with Israel, while stressing that negotiations with Israel do not amount to concessions on sovereignty. Despite the truce, sporadic violence continues, including reported Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon that have killed civilians.
International involvement is expanding, with France and the UK announcing a multinational mission to safeguard navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, US and Saudi officials have discussed both Hormuz security and Lebanon’s ceasefire, reflecting coordinated efforts to contain escalation.
Elsewhere, reports suggest the next round of US-Iran talks may take place in Islamabad, indicating Pakistan’s emerging mediating role.
Economically, oil price volatility has eased markets, while defence and shipping dynamics continue to shift due to prolonged instability. Yet despite signs of de-escalation, competing narratives from Washington and Tehran underscore how fragile the current pause remains.
A major flashpoint remains Iran’s nuclear programme. Tehran has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s assertion that it agreed to transfer its enriched uranium to the United States. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the stockpile “is not going to be transferred anywhere,” stressing that the issue “has never been raised in negotiations.” The comments directly contradict Trump’s claims of an emerging deal involving the removal of so-called “nuclear dust” from sites hit in earlier US strikes.
Trump, however, has continued to project optimism, saying a broader peace agreement with Iran is “very close” and that there are “no sticking points” remaining. He has also suggested possible joint operations with Iran to recover nuclear material, while simultaneously maintaining pressure through continued maritime restrictions.
In parallel, the strategic Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point of both economic relief and geopolitical tension. Iran announced the reopening of the waterway for commercial vessels, triggering a sharp drop in global oil prices from nearly $120 a barrel to around $90.38 for Brent crude. However, Trump insisted that a US naval blockade on Iranian shipping would remain until a final agreement is signed.
Regional diplomacy is also evolving. Lebanon has entered what President Joseph Aoun described as a “new phase” following a ceasefire with Israel, while stressing that negotiations with Israel do not amount to concessions on sovereignty. Despite the truce, sporadic violence continues, including reported Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon that have killed civilians.
International involvement is expanding, with France and the UK announcing a multinational mission to safeguard navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, US and Saudi officials have discussed both Hormuz security and Lebanon’s ceasefire, reflecting coordinated efforts to contain escalation.
Elsewhere, reports suggest the next round of US-Iran talks may take place in Islamabad, indicating Pakistan’s emerging mediating role.
Economically, oil price volatility has eased markets, while defence and shipping dynamics continue to shift due to prolonged instability. Yet despite signs of de-escalation, competing narratives from Washington and Tehran underscore how fragile the current pause remains.
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