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- US-Israel-Iran War Highlights: '14-hour talks conclude', Iran says dialogue with US to continue with expert texts
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 12, 2026, 08:36:30 IST
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US-Israel-Iran War Highlights: '14-hour talks conclude', Iran says dialogue with US to continue with expert texts
Iran War Ceasefire News: Delegations from US and Iran arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan on Saturday to hold peace talks over the ongoing war in Middle East. Iranian delegation led Parliament speaker Bagher Ghalibaf, comprising 71 member including country's top diplomat Abbas Araghchi, landed in Pakistani capital early in the day. Where as US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, along with Jarred Kushner arrived in the noon. American delegation is being led by US vice president JD Vance.
The fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States is under mounting strain as military activity and regional tensions continue to escalate. Israeli strikes in Lebanon have emerged as a key flashpoint, with more than 300 people reported killed in the deadliest day of fighting, raising questions over whether the truce applies to Hezbollah.
Although Trump in a media interview said that Netanyahu is going to "scale-back strikes".
Iran has warned of “strong responses” if attacks on its ally persist, while maintaining a firm grip over the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint for global energy supplies. Shipping through the strait remains far below normal levels, heightening concerns about oil flows and global markets.
The conflict’s spillover effects are increasingly visible across the Gulf. Kuwait has reported drone strikes on key facilities, attributing them to Iran and its proxies, though Tehran has denied involvement. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has acknowledged damage to critical oil infrastructure, including pipelines that bypass Hormuz, signalling risks to energy security.
Diplomatic efforts are intensifying but remain uncertain. Talks between US and Iranian officials are expected in Islamabad, while Israel has indicated willingness for negotiations with Lebanon in Washington. Even as leaders express cautious optimism, both sides continue to assert battlefield gains, complicating the path to a durable agreement.
With military, economic, and geopolitical pressures converging, the ceasefire appears increasingly fragile, leaving the region on edge.
The fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States is under mounting strain as military activity and regional tensions continue to escalate. Israeli strikes in Lebanon have emerged as a key flashpoint, with more than 300 people reported killed in the deadliest day of fighting, raising questions over whether the truce applies to Hezbollah.
Although Trump in a media interview said that Netanyahu is going to "scale-back strikes".
Iran has warned of “strong responses” if attacks on its ally persist, while maintaining a firm grip over the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint for global energy supplies. Shipping through the strait remains far below normal levels, heightening concerns about oil flows and global markets.
The conflict’s spillover effects are increasingly visible across the Gulf. Kuwait has reported drone strikes on key facilities, attributing them to Iran and its proxies, though Tehran has denied involvement. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has acknowledged damage to critical oil infrastructure, including pipelines that bypass Hormuz, signalling risks to energy security.
Diplomatic efforts are intensifying but remain uncertain. Talks between US and Iranian officials are expected in Islamabad, while Israel has indicated willingness for negotiations with Lebanon in Washington. Even as leaders express cautious optimism, both sides continue to assert battlefield gains, complicating the path to a durable agreement.
With military, economic, and geopolitical pressures converging, the ceasefire appears increasingly fragile, leaving the region on edge.
16:50 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: Lebanon says 10 killed including 3 emergency workers in Israeli strikes on south
16:44 (IST) Apr 11
Hormuz, war reparations, assets release: Iran draws hard red lines ahead of US talks
Iran has conveyed its proposals and “red lines” to Pakistan’s leadership ahead of high-stakes talks with the United States in Islamabad, an Iranian state TV reporter said.
According to the report, Tehran’s core demands include control and conditions around the Strait of Hormuz, payment of war reparations, the release of its blocked assets, and a ceasefire across the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a central flashpoint in negotiations, with Iran using it as key leverage amid the ongoing conflict and fragile truce efforts.
According to the report, Tehran’s core demands include control and conditions around the Strait of Hormuz, payment of war reparations, the release of its blocked assets, and a ceasefire across the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a central flashpoint in negotiations, with Iran using it as key leverage amid the ongoing conflict and fragile truce efforts.
16:28 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: 'Stepping stone toward durable peace,' Sharif hopeful of breakthrough in talks
US Vice President JD Vance held talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday, according to statements from the White House and Sharif’s office. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, were also present.
“Prime Minister expressed the hope that these talks would serve as a stepping stone toward durable peace in the region,” Sharif’s office said.
Vance is in the Pakistani capital Islamabad to lead negotiations aimed at ending the six-week war with Iran.
“Prime Minister expressed the hope that these talks would serve as a stepping stone toward durable peace in the region,” Sharif’s office said.
Vance is in the Pakistani capital Islamabad to lead negotiations aimed at ending the six-week war with Iran.
16:19 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: Hezbollah launches drone, missile attacks on Israeli forces along border
Lebanon’s armed group Hezbollah said its fighters carried out multiple attacks targeting Israeli forces and military infrastructure across border areas.
The group said it struck Israeli army positions in the Adamit settlement with a rocket barrage, and deployed a swarm of attack drones against a gathering of soldiers and vehicles in Metula.
It also claimed to have targeted a Merkava tank on al-Awayda hill in the border town of Odaisseh using a guided missile and a drone, according to Al Jazeera.
In a separate strike, Hezbollah said it launched another drone targeting Israeli troops near al-Ishraq school in Bint Jbeil.
The group said it struck Israeli army positions in the Adamit settlement with a rocket barrage, and deployed a swarm of attack drones against a gathering of soldiers and vehicles in Metula.
It also claimed to have targeted a Merkava tank on al-Awayda hill in the border town of Odaisseh using a guided missile and a drone, according to Al Jazeera.
In a separate strike, Hezbollah said it launched another drone targeting Israeli troops near al-Ishraq school in Bint Jbeil.
16:06 (IST) Apr 11
The White House on Saturday dismissed a report that the United States had agreed to release Iran’s frozen assets held in foreign banks. The denial came after a Reuters report cited a senior Iranian source claiming that US has agreed to release Iran’s frozen assets held in Qatar and other foreign banks.
15:54 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: US Vice President JD Vance meets Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif as peace talks commence in Islamabad
15:48 (IST) Apr 11
Vance holds talks with Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, confirms White House
US Vice President JD Vance is in discussions with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the White House confirmed amid ongoing high-level engagement between Washington and Islamabad.
Details of the meeting have not been made public. Confirming the development, the White House said, "US Vice President JD Vance is holding talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif."
Details of the meeting have not been made public. Confirming the development, the White House said, "US Vice President JD Vance is holding talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif."
15:36 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Iran VP warns US ahead of Islamabad talks
Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said the outcome of the high-stakes negotiations in Islamabad will depend on Washington’s priorities. In a post on X, Aref said a mutually beneficial agreement is possible if US representatives focus on their “America First” interests.
He cautioned that any shift towards an “Israel First” approach would lead to a “no deal,” adding that Iran would then “inevitably continue our defence even more vigorously than before.” Such a scenario, he warned, would impose “greater costs” on the world.
He cautioned that any shift towards an “Israel First” approach would lead to a “no deal,” adding that Iran would then “inevitably continue our defence even more vigorously than before.” Such a scenario, he warned, would impose “greater costs” on the world.
15:35 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: US agrees to unfreeze Iran assets, links move to Hormuz passage ahead of talks
A senior Iranian source said that the United States had agreed to release Tehran’s frozen assets held in Qatar and other foreign banks, calling the move a sign of “seriousness” ahead of talks in Islamabad.
The source, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, told Reuters that the decision to unfreeze assets was “directly linked to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” a key issue expected to dominate the negotiations.
While the exact value of the assets was not disclosed, a second Iranian source said Washington had agreed to release about $6 billion held in Qatar.
There was no immediate confirmation from the United States, and Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not respond to requests for comment.
The source, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, told Reuters that the decision to unfreeze assets was “directly linked to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” a key issue expected to dominate the negotiations.
While the exact value of the assets was not disclosed, a second Iranian source said Washington had agreed to release about $6 billion held in Qatar.
There was no immediate confirmation from the United States, and Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not respond to requests for comment.
14:58 (IST) Apr 11
US has agreed to release Iran's frozen assets 'in Qatar and other foreign banks', Iranian source tells Reuters
14:42 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war: Israel rejects ceasefire with Hezbollah ahead of Lebanon talks
Israel says it will not discuss a ceasefire with Hezbollah when it meets Lebanese diplomats for talks in Washington next week – as Israeli attacks on Lebanon go on.
Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors held late-night discussions on Friday to finalise arrangements for the meeting due at the state department on Tuesday.
Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors held late-night discussions on Friday to finalise arrangements for the meeting due at the state department on Tuesday.
14:27 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Iran delegation meets Pakistan PM ahead of negotiations with US
Iran delegation meets Pakistan PM ahead of negotiations with US.
14:14 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Iran VP warns against any 'Israel first' approach in negotiations
Iran’s first vice president said a deal with the United States is possible if negotiations are led by what he described as an “America First” approach, but warned there would be no agreement otherwise.
Mohammad Reza Aref said in a post on X, “If we negotiate … an agreement beneficial to both sides and the world is probable.”
“However, if we face representatives of ‘Israel First,’ there will be no deal … we will inevitably continue our defense even more vigorously,” he added.
14:02 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war: Iran FM Araghchi tells German counterpart Tehran enters talks with ‘complete distrust’
The Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi has told his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, during a telephone call that Iran enters the negotiations with US in “complete distrust”.
Araghchi said his nation “will fight with full authority to secure the interests and rights of the Iranian people,” citing repeated breaches of promise and “betrayals of diplomacy” by the US as the reason for this stance.
Araghchi said his nation “will fight with full authority to secure the interests and rights of the Iranian people,” citing repeated breaches of promise and “betrayals of diplomacy” by the US as the reason for this stance.
13:42 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war: Pakistan FM urges US-Iran to 'engage constructively'
Pakistan's foreign minister on Saturday called for the United States and Iran to "engage constructively" at talks in Islamabad aimed at ending the Middle East war, after both delegations arrived in the Pakistani capital.
Foreign ninister Ishaq Dar "expressed the hope that parties would engage constructively, and reiterated Pakistan's desire to continue facilitating the parties towards reaching lasting and durable solution to the conflict", said a foreign ministry statement.
Foreign ninister Ishaq Dar "expressed the hope that parties would engage constructively, and reiterated Pakistan's desire to continue facilitating the parties towards reaching lasting and durable solution to the conflict", said a foreign ministry statement.
13:22 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war: EAM Jaishankar says 312 Indian fishermen evacuated from Iran through Armenia
External affairs minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday that 312 Indian fishermen have been evacuated back to the country, through Armenia amid the ongoing Middle East turmoil.
In a post on X Jaishankar said, "Another 312 Indian fishermen safely evacuated from Iran to India through Armenia. Thank the Government of Armenia and my friend @AraratMirzoyan for making it possible."
In a post on X Jaishankar said, "Another 312 Indian fishermen safely evacuated from Iran to India through Armenia. Thank the Government of Armenia and my friend @AraratMirzoyan for making it possible."
13:00 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: Vance has been key in setting up US-Iran talks, Pakistani source tells CNN
A senior Pakistani source has praised JD Vance’s role in pushing the US and Iran towards a diplomatic solution to the war, telling CNN that the US vice president has been key in bringing about the talks set to get under way in Islamabad in the coming hours.
The source familiar with the talks process told CNN they assess it will take a few days of negotiations to get a ceasefire locked in, and that officials in Pakistan were hopeful they could convince Vance to stay longer in the country to help bring that about.
Separately, a senior Gulf source told CNN that the Iranians have very little trust in US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, who has led previous rounds of negotiations with Iran that have been cut short by US strikes on the country. Witkoff is part of the US delegation participating in the talks in Islamabad.
The source familiar with the talks process told CNN they assess it will take a few days of negotiations to get a ceasefire locked in, and that officials in Pakistan were hopeful they could convince Vance to stay longer in the country to help bring that about.
Separately, a senior Gulf source told CNN that the Iranians have very little trust in US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, who has led previous rounds of negotiations with Iran that have been cut short by US strikes on the country. Witkoff is part of the US delegation participating in the talks in Islamabad.
12:42 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war: Peace talks between Washington and Tehran faces tough gaps as Hormuz lockdown looms large
12:25 (IST) Apr 11
Israel Iran war: Hezbollah continues to target Israeli forces with missiles, drones
The Lebanese armed group said its fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli troops at the Kiryat Shmona settlement in northern Israel with missiles and drones.
The group also announced that its fighters targeted the Ya’ara barracks with a rocket salvo.
The group also announced that its fighters targeted the Ya’ara barracks with a rocket salvo.
12:02 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Escalation, disagreements over pre-conditions cloud peace talks
Many are hoping with cautious optimism that some sort of breakthrough will be reached in the much anticipated peace between the US and Iran.
The last round of talks held in Muscat, Oman, was inconclusive. JD Vance's presence is expected to add more weight, and there is anticipation that some headway may be made.
Unprecedented security is being provided for the talks, which have been made possible with support from multiple mediating countries, particularly China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Türkiye.
The last round of talks held in Muscat, Oman, was inconclusive. JD Vance's presence is expected to add more weight, and there is anticipation that some headway may be made.
Unprecedented security is being provided for the talks, which have been made possible with support from multiple mediating countries, particularly China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Türkiye.
11:50 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Pakistani FM Dar, Munir receive JD Vance as he lands for talks with Iran
11:32 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: US vice president JD Vance lands in Pakistan for talks with Iran
11:21 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Security tightened across Islamabad ahead of US-Iran peace talks
11:04 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: US envoys Witkoff, Kushner arrive in Pakistan for talks with Iran
US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan to hold peace talks with Iran, reported Reuters, citing Pakistani sources.
10:39 (IST) Apr 11
Israel Iran war news: Islamabad appears deserted before Iran war talks
The streets of Pakistan’s are deserted as security forces sealed roads ahead of talks between high-level officials from Iran and the US to end their nearly six-week war.
Pakistani authorities urged Islamabad residents to stay inside, leading the city to look like it was under curfew.
US vice president JD Vance is leading the American delegation, which was expected to arrive soon.
Iranian negotiators, headed by parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, arrived early Saturday.
Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif the conflict was entering a “difficult phase” as the sides try to shift from a temporary pause in fighting to a more lasting settlement. He said they were at a “make-or-break” moment.
10:13 (IST) Apr 11
Israel Iran war news: Hezbollah says attacked Israeli soldiers in Southern Lebanon
Iranian proxy group Hezbollah has said it targeted Israeli soldiers in a house in the town of Shamaa in Tyre in southern Lebanon at about 1:40am local time on Saturday.
Hezbollah also said it attacked the Israeli settlements of Kiryat Shmona, Metula, and Misgav Am with “rocket barrages” just after midnight.
Hezbollah also said it attacked the Israeli settlements of Kiryat Shmona, Metula, and Misgav Am with “rocket barrages” just after midnight.
09:57 (IST) Apr 11
Israel Iran war news: US intelligence indicates China preparing to send new air defence shipment to Iran
US intelligence has indicated that China is preparing to deliver new air defense systems to Iran within the next few weeks, according to report by CNN late, citing three people familiar with recent intelligence assessments.
09:48 (IST) Apr 11
Israel Iran war: EAM Jaishankar arrives in Abu Dhabi amid Middle East conflict
EAM Dr S Jaishankar has reached Abu Dhabi, UAE.
On 11 and 12 April, EAM is paying an official visit to the United Arab Emirates and meeting the leadership of the UAE to review close cooperation and deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
On 11 and 12 April, EAM is paying an official visit to the United Arab Emirates and meeting the leadership of the UAE to review close cooperation and deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
09:27 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Israeli air strikes reported on southern Lebanese towns of Toul, Jebchit
Israel has carried out air attacks on the towns of Toul and Jebchit in the Nabatieh governorate in southern Lebanon, reported Aljazeera.
There was no immediate confirmation from the Israeli military of the attack and there were no initial reports of casualties.
There was no immediate confirmation from the Israeli military of the attack and there were no initial reports of casualties.
09:04 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Amid Hormuz disruption US looks to fill supply gaps
More than 60 empty Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) are heading toward the US Gulf Coast to load American crude, according to shipping data, as disruption in the Strait of Hormuz continues, according to Iran International.
Each vessel can carry around 2 million barrels of oil, positioning US exports to help supply Asian and European markets affected by the slowdown in Gulf shipments.
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains well below normal levels, with limited transits and ongoing delays reported in the region.
Each vessel can carry around 2 million barrels of oil, positioning US exports to help supply Asian and European markets affected by the slowdown in Gulf shipments.
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains well below normal levels, with limited transits and ongoing delays reported in the region.
08:46 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Iranian delegation flew strikes victims pictures as 'companions' on flight to Islamabad for talks
08:29 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: UN says Lebanon’s shelters ‘severely overcrowded’ amid Israeli strikes
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has said that shelters for displaced people in Lebanon are severely overcrowded, with nearly half of the country’s public schools now functioning as reception centres.
“Needs in Lebanon exceed the available capacity,” UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters on Friday, reported Aljazeera.
Up to 1.2 million people have been forced to flee their homes in Lebanon due to Israeli attacks, with about 140,000 of those sheltering in 680 shelters, according to the UNHCR.
About 250,000 people have crossed into Syria, including Syrians who fled to Lebanon during the Syrian war, as well as about “39,000 Lebanese who have sought refuge [in] Syria”, Dujarric said, citing UNHCR figures.
Israel’s military has issued forced displacement orders for southern Lebanon up to the Zahrani River, about 40km (25 miles) north of the Israel-Lebanon border, as well as large swaths of the capital, Beirut.
“Needs in Lebanon exceed the available capacity,” UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters on Friday, reported Aljazeera.
Up to 1.2 million people have been forced to flee their homes in Lebanon due to Israeli attacks, with about 140,000 of those sheltering in 680 shelters, according to the UNHCR.
About 250,000 people have crossed into Syria, including Syrians who fled to Lebanon during the Syrian war, as well as about “39,000 Lebanese who have sought refuge [in] Syria”, Dujarric said, citing UNHCR figures.
Israel’s military has issued forced displacement orders for southern Lebanon up to the Zahrani River, about 40km (25 miles) north of the Israel-Lebanon border, as well as large swaths of the capital, Beirut.
08:07 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Iran’s delegation in Islamabad includes 71 people
According to Iran’s Tasnim news agency is reporting that there are 71 people in Tehran’s delegation to Islamabad, including the main negotiating delegation, expert advisers, media representatives, as well as diplomatic and security teams.
The negotiating team is being led by Iran’s parliamentary speaker Ghalibaf.
According to Tasnim, other negotiators include:
- Foreign Mminister Abbas Araghchi.
- Central bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati.
- Secretary of the supreme national defence council Ali Akbar Ahmadian.
- Deputy minister of foreign affairs Kezem Gharibabadi.
- Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei.
07:41 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war: Lebanon and US ask Israel for "pause" in fighting
The Lebanese government and the Trump administration have asked Israel for a "pause" in its attacks against Hezbollah before direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon begin next week, reported Axios, citing two sources with knowledge.
07:23 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war: Iran’s blocking of internet sites passes 1,000 hours
Iran’s state-imposed blocking of internet sites has now passed 1,000 hours, according to Aljazeera citing the monitoring group NetBlocks says.
Iran’s government is heavily restricting internet access across the country, in what Netblocks has said is the longest nation-scale internet restriction of its kind on record in any country.
Iran’s government is heavily restricting internet access across the country, in what Netblocks has said is the longest nation-scale internet restriction of its kind on record in any country.
06:49 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war: Iran military degraded but retains firepower, say US and Israel
Iran’s military has been heavily degraded but still retains significant firepower, according to US and Israeli assessments.
Officials say more than half of its missile launchers have been destroyed, damaged or buried underground, and its missile stockpile has been cut roughly in half. However, many of those launchers could be recovered and brought back into operation.
Officials say more than half of its missile launchers have been destroyed, damaged or buried underground, and its missile stockpile has been cut roughly in half. However, many of those launchers could be recovered and brought back into operation.
06:43 (IST) Apr 11
Trump to Vance: 'I wish them luck,' says US will open Hormuz 'with or without' Iran
US President Donald Trump on Saturday (local time) indicated plans to reopen the Gulf region amid ongoing hostilities in West Asia, asserting that the United States would move ahead "with or without", even as Vice President JD Vance heads to Pakistan for crucial talks with Iran.
Speaking at Joint Base Andrews (JBA) before Vance's departure, Trump asserted that Iranian forces have been militarily defeated and that the vital waterway will be reopened regardless of the outcome of the ongoing negotiations.
"Well, I wish them luck. He's got a big thing. I'll find out what's going on. They're militarily defeated, and now we're going to open up the gulf (Strait of Hormuz) with or without a deal. But that'll be open, we're going to be on the straight as they call it," Trump said.
The US President further emphasised that the process was expected to move swiftly, while also leaving open the possibility of decisive action if delays occur.
"I think it's going to go pretty quickly, and if it doesn't, we'll be able to finish it off one way or the other. It's going well. The Navy's gone, the Air Force is gone, all anti-aircraft is gone, the leaders are gone, and the whole place is gone. So we'll see how it turns out. So it's US Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. They have a good team, and they meet tomorrow, so we'll see how it all works out," he added.
Speaking at Joint Base Andrews (JBA) before Vance's departure, Trump asserted that Iranian forces have been militarily defeated and that the vital waterway will be reopened regardless of the outcome of the ongoing negotiations.
"Well, I wish them luck. He's got a big thing. I'll find out what's going on. They're militarily defeated, and now we're going to open up the gulf (Strait of Hormuz) with or without a deal. But that'll be open, we're going to be on the straight as they call it," Trump said.
The US President further emphasised that the process was expected to move swiftly, while also leaving open the possibility of decisive action if delays occur.
"I think it's going to go pretty quickly, and if it doesn't, we'll be able to finish it off one way or the other. It's going well. The Navy's gone, the Air Force is gone, all anti-aircraft is gone, the leaders are gone, and the whole place is gone. So we'll see how it turns out. So it's US Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. They have a good team, and they meet tomorrow, so we'll see how it all works out," he added.
06:10 (IST) Apr 11
'Iran didn't start this war': Representative of Supreme Leader Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi
Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, on Friday said that the United States and Israel are not serious about negotiations, while asserting that "Iran did not start this war" and continues to seek peace and stability in the region.
Speaking to the media, he said, "They (US, Israel) are not serious about negotiations...Iran didn't start this war. Iran does not want more crises, any conflict in the region, because Iran believes that due to the war in this region, especially the Strait of Hormuz, the majority of countries in the world are suffering, a lot of innocent people are getting harmed and suffering from the price of gas, oil and some other goods."
He added that Iran is committed to peace, justice and humanity, and called for global cooperation to prevent further escalation.
"We are looking for peace, justice, and humanity. We hope that all world leaders will come together and put their voices together and prevent the continuation of this war," he said.
He further alleged that it is the nature of Israel as a country "to never fulfil any commitments", but he also said that if the United States of America wants to continue negotiations, "it could do so," but he added, "there is no trust in it."
He added, "This is the nature of this (Israel) country and never fulfil any commitments, but this is under the control of the United States of America. If the United States of America wants to continue negotiations, it could do so. There is no trust in it..."
Speaking to the media, he said, "They (US, Israel) are not serious about negotiations...Iran didn't start this war. Iran does not want more crises, any conflict in the region, because Iran believes that due to the war in this region, especially the Strait of Hormuz, the majority of countries in the world are suffering, a lot of innocent people are getting harmed and suffering from the price of gas, oil and some other goods."
He added that Iran is committed to peace, justice and humanity, and called for global cooperation to prevent further escalation.
"We are looking for peace, justice, and humanity. We hope that all world leaders will come together and put their voices together and prevent the continuation of this war," he said.
He further alleged that it is the nature of Israel as a country "to never fulfil any commitments", but he also said that if the United States of America wants to continue negotiations, "it could do so," but he added, "there is no trust in it."
He added, "This is the nature of this (Israel) country and never fulfil any commitments, but this is under the control of the United States of America. If the United States of America wants to continue negotiations, it could do so. There is no trust in it..."
05:32 (IST) Apr 11
'Strait of Hormuz will open up automatically': Donald Trump
On being asked what a good deal will look like, US President Donald Trump said, "No nuclear weapon. That's 99% of it."
He also says, "The Strait of Hormuz will open up automatically... We will have it open fairly soon..."
He also says, "The Strait of Hormuz will open up automatically... We will have it open fairly soon..."
05:11 (IST) Apr 11
By the numbers: US thrashed military targets in Iran, but some capabilities remain
Since the ceasefire between Iran and the US was announced, leaders in President Donald Trump's administration have been quick to say Iranian military and arms capacity have been all but wiped out during weeks of fighting.
But there is also an acknowledgment that Tehran retains some capabilities, whether to strike back or defend itself.
Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, this week said the US military has hit more than 13,000 targets. He listed high percentages for attacks or destruction to Iran's air defenses, navy and weapons factories.
However, the totals stop short of Iran’s military capabilities being “decimated” as the Republican president has asserted.
Independent data from Armed Conflict Location & Event Data, a US-based group that tracks conflicts around the world, shows Iranian strikes persisted at a relatively steady and uninterrupted pace since the war began Feb. 28 through Wednesday.
But there is also an acknowledgment that Tehran retains some capabilities, whether to strike back or defend itself.
Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, this week said the US military has hit more than 13,000 targets. He listed high percentages for attacks or destruction to Iran's air defenses, navy and weapons factories.
However, the totals stop short of Iran’s military capabilities being “decimated” as the Republican president has asserted.
Independent data from Armed Conflict Location & Event Data, a US-based group that tracks conflicts around the world, shows Iranian strikes persisted at a relatively steady and uninterrupted pace since the war began Feb. 28 through Wednesday.
04:44 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: Iranian delegation in Pakistan for talks with US, Vance on his way
Iran's delegation arrived in Pakistan on Friday for ceasefire negotiations with the United States as Tehran insisted on a truce in Lebanon and release of its blocked assets for the talks to go ahead.
US Vice President JD Vance warned Iran meanwhile not to try to "play" Washington as he headed to Islamabad to represent the United States.
Despite the temporary truce struck between the foes, deep disagreements remain as to the way forward in talks aimed at transforming the fragile ceasefire into a lasting peace deal.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said making progress would be hard work.
"A temporary ceasefire has been announced, but now an even more difficult stage lies ahead: the stage of achieving a lasting ceasefire, of resolving complicated issues through negotiations," he said. "This is that stage which, in English, is called the equivalent of 'make or break.'"
Iranian state television said the delegation was led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and reiterated Iran's position that talks would only begin if Washington accepts its preconditions -- a Lebanon ceasefire and the unfreezing of Iran's assets.
Israel continued to carry out air strikes in Lebanon on Friday and Lebanon's State Security agency said an attack on the southern city of Nabatiyeh had killed 13 of its personnel.
Lebanon's health ministry meanwhile raised the provisional death toll from massive Israeli strikes across the country on Wednesday to 357 dead and 1,223 wounded.
04:19 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war: Pakistan PM says US, Iran leadership both attending Islamabad talks
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Friday that leaders of both Iran and the United States would attend ceasefire talks in his country -- and warned that progress would be hard work.
"In response to my sincere invitation, the leaderships of both countries are coming to Islamabad. There, negotiations will be held for the establishment of peace", Sharif said in an address to the nation.
While US Vice President JD Vance was on his way to Pakistan, there had been a question mark over the Iran delegation after Tehran set conditions for the start of negotiations.
The Islamic republic has said a two-week ceasefire in place must apply to Lebanon, where Israel was still carrying out bombing raids on Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Iran also called for its assets frozen abroad because of US sanctions to be unblocked.
03:55 (IST) Apr 11
'Iran's military is defeated': Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump said, "We don't need a backup plan. Their (Iran's) military is defeated, they have very few missiles, very little manufacturing capability. We have hit them hard. Our military has done an amazing job."
03:54 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war news: Stocks up, oil down over week on guarded optimism for Iran
Wall Street stocks rose sharply over the week and oil prices fell as a fragile truce was struck between the United States and Iran, with ceasefire talks due to start in Islamabad on Saturday.
For the week, all three major US indices advanced by more than three percent. Oil prices retreated once again on Friday. For the week, they tumbled by approximately 13 percent.
The New York Stock Exchange closed mixed for the day Friday -- the Dow Jones shed 0.6 percent, the Nasdaq gained 0.4 percent, and the broader S&P 500 index was flat, slipping 0.1 percent.
"Markets are trading on a cautious tone ahead of the US-Iran ceasefire talks," Elias Haddad of Brown Brothers Harriman (BBH) said in a note.
"For financial markets, the key issue is whether peak shipping security fear is now behind us."
Official sources say the talks in Islamabad will cover Iran's nuclear enrichment and the free flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.
Since the ceasefire took effect, US President Donald Trump has voiced displeasure at Iran's handling of the strategic strait, which was meant to be reopened.
"The key issue for the oil market is whether ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz will resume," Carsten Fritsch of Commerzbank said in a note. "So far, there are no signs of this happening."
03:44 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: Trump warns of US strike on Iran with 'best weapons' if talks fail
Amid diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive solution to the hostilities in West Asia, US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) warned that the United States is prepared to launch an intense military strike on Iran using its "best ammunition" if peace negotiations in Islamabad fail.
In a phone interview with the New York Post, Trump indicated that clarity regarding the success of the negotiations would emerge within the next 24 hours
"We're going to find out in about 24 hours. We're going to know soon," Trump said during the phone interview when asked whether he believed the talks would be successful.
Highlighting military preparedness, Trump stated that the United States has already begun mobilising its resources and enhancing its strategic positioning in the region.
"We have a reset going. We're loading up the ships with the best ammunition, the best weapons ever made--even better than what we did previously, and we blew them apart," he said.
Emphasising the scale of the military build-up, he added, "But we're loading up the ships. We're loading up the ships with the best weapons ever made, even at a higher level than we used to do a complete decimation."
In a phone interview with the New York Post, Trump indicated that clarity regarding the success of the negotiations would emerge within the next 24 hours
"We're going to find out in about 24 hours. We're going to know soon," Trump said during the phone interview when asked whether he believed the talks would be successful.
Highlighting military preparedness, Trump stated that the United States has already begun mobilising its resources and enhancing its strategic positioning in the region.
"We have a reset going. We're loading up the ships with the best ammunition, the best weapons ever made--even better than what we did previously, and we blew them apart," he said.
Emphasising the scale of the military build-up, he added, "But we're loading up the ships. We're loading up the ships with the best weapons ever made, even at a higher level than we used to do a complete decimation."
03:34 (IST) Apr 11
'I have to see what happens tomorrow': Trump
US President Donald Trump said, "I have to see what happens tomorrow. They (Iran) have been talking for 47 years with other Presidents — and we're not doing much talking."
03:00 (IST) Apr 11
US Iran war: Iran delegation led by Ghalibaf, Araghchi arrives in Islamabad for talks with US
Pakistan’s foreign ministry confirmed the arrival of an Iranian delegation in Islamabad, including Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and foreign minister Abbas Araghchi
It said the officials were received by Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar and other senior Pakistani officials.
It said the officials were received by Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar and other senior Pakistani officials.
02:44 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: No US attack personnel at Al Udeid base, says Qatari official
A Qatari defence official told Al Jazeera that no US combat or logistical personnel involved in attacks on Iran are based at Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts American military assets
Before the ceasefire, Iran launched waves of attacks on Qatar and other Gulf states hosting US assets, accusing them of supporting the US war effort, allegations those countries deny
Before the ceasefire, Iran launched waves of attacks on Qatar and other Gulf states hosting US assets, accusing them of supporting the US war effort, allegations those countries deny
02:17 (IST) Apr 11
Israel Iran war: Netanyahu accuses Spain of 'hostility' towards Israel after blocking it from Gaza truce centre
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Spain on Friday of waging a diplomatic campaign against Israel after he barred Madrid from taking part in the work of a US‑led centre created to help stabilise post‑war Gaza.
Relations between Israel and Spain have deteriorated significantly since Madrid recognised a Palestinian state in 2024.
Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors.
"I have instructed today to remove Spain's representatives from the coordination centre in Kiryat Gat, after Spain has chosen repeatedly to stand against Israel," Netanyahu said in a video statement.
"Those who attack the State of Israel instead of confronting terrorist regimes will not be our partners in shaping the region's future."
The Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, a US-led initiative, was set up after the Gaza ceasefire took effect on October 10, with the goal of monitoring the truce and facilitating the flow of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.
As part of the CMCC, military personnel and diplomats from several other countries including France, Britain and the United Arab Emirates are present and participate in meetings on security and humanitarian issues in Gaza, devastated by more than two years of war.
Relations between Israel and Spain have deteriorated significantly since Madrid recognised a Palestinian state in 2024.
Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors.
"I have instructed today to remove Spain's representatives from the coordination centre in Kiryat Gat, after Spain has chosen repeatedly to stand against Israel," Netanyahu said in a video statement.
"Those who attack the State of Israel instead of confronting terrorist regimes will not be our partners in shaping the region's future."
The Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, a US-led initiative, was set up after the Gaza ceasefire took effect on October 10, with the goal of monitoring the truce and facilitating the flow of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.
As part of the CMCC, military personnel and diplomats from several other countries including France, Britain and the United Arab Emirates are present and participate in meetings on security and humanitarian issues in Gaza, devastated by more than two years of war.
01:36 (IST) Apr 11
Iran war news: Vance warns Iran not to 'play' the US as he departs for negotiations aimed at ending the war
US Vice President JD Vance on Friday warned Iran not to “play” the US as he departed for talks aimed at ending the war
President Donald Trump has tasked Vance, seen as one of the more reluctant voices on the six week conflict, with leading efforts to secure a resolution and avert his own threat to wipe out Iran’s “whole civilization”
Vance, who has long been skeptical of foreign military interventions and opposed to open ended troop deployments, left for mediated negotiations with Iran in Islamabad, Pakistan
“If the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we’re certainly willing to extend the open hand,” Vance said before boarding Air Force Two “But if they’re going to try and play us, then they’re going to find that the negotiating team is not that receptive”
He added that Trump had given “pretty clear guidelines” for the talks but did not elaborate and did not take questions from reporters traveling with him
President Donald Trump has tasked Vance, seen as one of the more reluctant voices on the six week conflict, with leading efforts to secure a resolution and avert his own threat to wipe out Iran’s “whole civilization”
Vance, who has long been skeptical of foreign military interventions and opposed to open ended troop deployments, left for mediated negotiations with Iran in Islamabad, Pakistan
“If the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we’re certainly willing to extend the open hand,” Vance said before boarding Air Force Two “But if they’re going to try and play us, then they’re going to find that the negotiating team is not that receptive”
He added that Trump had given “pretty clear guidelines” for the talks but did not elaborate and did not take questions from reporters traveling with him
51 More Updates
Tensions remain high around Iran despite a fragile two-week ceasefire with the United States, as fresh Israeli strikes and regional spillovers threaten to derail diplomatic efforts. Heavy bombardment in Lebanon, the deadliest day since the conflict began, has intensified uncertainty over whether the truce extends to Hezbollah, with Iran warning of “strong responses” if attacks continue.
Although Trump in a media interview said that Netanyahu is going to "scale-back strikes".
At the same time, Tehran continues to exert control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, where shipping traffic remains sharply reduced. Concerns over maritime security have grown amid reports of disruptions and threats to energy infrastructure across the Gulf.
Regional tensions are widening. Kuwait has accused Iran-linked actors of drone attacks, while Saudi Arabia reported damage to key oil facilities, raising fears of supply shocks and market volatility.
Diplomatic efforts continue, with talks expected in Islamabad and potential Israel-Lebanon negotiations in Washington. However, competing claims of victory from both Washington and Tehran, coupled with ongoing military activity, underscore the fragility of the ceasefire and the risk of a broader regional escalation.
Although Trump in a media interview said that Netanyahu is going to "scale-back strikes".
At the same time, Tehran continues to exert control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, where shipping traffic remains sharply reduced. Concerns over maritime security have grown amid reports of disruptions and threats to energy infrastructure across the Gulf.
Regional tensions are widening. Kuwait has accused Iran-linked actors of drone attacks, while Saudi Arabia reported damage to key oil facilities, raising fears of supply shocks and market volatility.
Diplomatic efforts continue, with talks expected in Islamabad and potential Israel-Lebanon negotiations in Washington. However, competing claims of victory from both Washington and Tehran, coupled with ongoing military activity, underscore the fragility of the ceasefire and the risk of a broader regional escalation.
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