Masoud Pezeshkian

US President Donald Trump branded Iran's terms for ending the Middle East war "totally unacceptable", raising the possibility of fresh conflict and sending oil prices sharply higher in early Asia trade on Monday. The impasse unnerved global energy markets, with international benchmark Brent crude prices rising 4.65 percent to $99.95 a barrel during Monday morning trade in Asia.

For the first time in 23 years, the U.S. has three aircraft carriers in the Middle East, accompanied by 12 ships and 15,000 soldiers. This significant military presence signals readiness for renewed conflict should the fragile ceasefire with Iran collapse. The deployment occurs amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and Iran's reblocking of the Strait of Hormuz.

But another Iran-US flare-up could hit plan

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay convened his inaugural Secretariat meeting, focusing on law and order ahead of the Assembly session. Bengaluru experienced a security scare with gelatine sticks found near PM Modi's event venue. Iran responded to a US proposal via Pakistan amidst Strait of Hormuz tensions. Vijay's swearing-in, beginning with Vande Mataram, sparked political debate.

President Trump described US naval actions enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports as "like pirates," highlighting the profitable seizure of ships and cargo. He also cited military action against Iran's nuclear program to protect the region and noted internal divisions within Iran's leadership complicating negotiations.

Iran has presented a list of demands for a ceasefire with the US. These include lifting sanctions, compensation for damages, and the withdrawal of American troops. President Trump has rejected these terms as unacceptable. The standoff has impacted global oil markets and heightened regional tensions. Diplomatic efforts continue amidst ongoing clashes.

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly leading the country through a secret "human chain" of handwritten letters to evade US and Israeli detection. This comes amid unprecedented security measures, with senior officials avoiding visits due to assassination fears following a reported US-Israel strike that gravely injured him.

A secret letter from senior Iranian officials warning of economic collapse and urging nuclear negotiations with the US has reportedly exposed deep divisions within Tehran's leadership. Despite public displays of unity and denials of internal strife, the leak has sparked a political firestorm, with legal threats issued against those who disclosed the classified document.

US President Donald Trump declared American officials won't travel for Iran truce talks, insisting discussions must be remote. Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi returned to Islamabad, relaying Tehran's positions on nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz via Pakistani intermediaries. Iran maintains it won't negotiate under coercion amid ongoing US pressure.

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei faces significant medical challenges post-bomb attack, impacting his direct engagement. This has amplified the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' influence, with analysts suggesting a shift towards a 'board-style' leadership where military commanders hold sway. The situation casts uncertainty over ongoing ceasefire talks and diplomatic pathways.

Iran released footage showing its forces seizing two commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, with the IRGC claiming the vessels were diverted to Iranian waters over alleged security violations. Meanwhile, Panama condemned the seizure of the MSC Francesca as “illegal,” warning it poses a serious threat to maritime security. Tehran said the IRGC captured the MSC Francesca and EPAMINODES in the Strait of Hormuz, alleging navigational interference and unauthorised movement.

Iran's President Pezeshkian rejected a second round of US peace talks, citing "bullying" and "unreasonable behaviour" during negotiations. He warned of increased suspicion and potential "betrayal of diplomacy" due to US actions and rhetoric. Tehran blamed Washington for excessive demands and "constant contradictions," highlighting ongoing naval incidents as obstacles to fruitful discussions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to mediate peace efforts in the Middle East during a call with Iran's President masoud pezeshkian. This offer follows the collapse of US-Iran talks on a nuclear agreement, raising concerns about a fragile ceasefire. Russia also criticized US actions regarding Iran, calling them a pretext for regime change

Gravely wounded in the strike that killed Ali Khamenei, but still mentally sharp, Iran’s new supreme leader remains unseen and unheard. As he recovers from multiple surgeries and severe burns, how much of a role does he really have right now?

A US delegation heads to Pakistan for crucial talks with Iran, despite President Trump's escalating threats to cripple Iran's infrastructure if a deal isn't reached. Tehran remains hesitant, demanding the lifting of sanctions and unblocking of assets. Trump's aggressive rhetoric, aimed at forcing negotiations, faces domestic criticism for its potential to escalate conflict.

A high-level US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, will travel to Islamabad this weekend for crucial talks with Iran. The discussions aim to secure a more lasting ceasefire and end weeks of intense hostilities. Pakistan will host the in-person meetings, with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expected to be involved. Both sides are set to hold direct negotiations.

Former US President Donald Trump faced backlash for an AI image showing him as a Jesus-like figure. He later explained it was meant to portray him as a doctor healing people. The image, which sparked criticism from supporters and others, was eventually deleted. Trump dismissed the negative reactions as fake news.

Vice President JD Vance will lead a US delegation to Pakistan this weekend for mediated talks with Iran, aiming to secure a permanent ceasefire. The discussions in Islamabad follow a two-week truce, with the White House emphasizing the need for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open. Lebanon is not included in the current ceasefire agreement.

Candace Owens sparked controversy after making claims linked to Charlie Kirk’s assassination, questioning narratives and drawing strong reactions online. Her remarks triggered backlash from critics, who accused her of spreading unverified theories. The debate quickly escalated, highlighting deep political divisions and renewed attention around the circumstances surrounding Kirk’s death.

An Iranian delegation is arriving in Pakistan for high-level talks based on a 10-point framework, while a US delegation led by Vice-President JD Vance is also set to engage in negotiations. These diplomatic efforts follow a US-announced ceasefire, though hostilities persist in Lebanon, with Iran alleging violations.

High-level talks are underway in Pakistan between US and Iranian delegations. The discussions aim to secure a ceasefire and find a path to lasting peace. Key points on the agenda include the situation in Lebanon, control of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear program, and sanctions relief. Troop withdrawal from the region is also a significant demand.