The agreement, expected to be signed in Geneva, would see Iran commit to renouncing the development or acquisition of nuclear weapons in exchange for support to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route. The deal follows nearly four months of conflict involving the US and Israel, which has resulted in over 7,000 deaths, according to official figures, and has raised concerns over regional stability and energy markets .

The match saw Iran respond to two goals from New Zealand’s Elijah Just, with strikes from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi earning a point. The result leaves all teams in Group G level, while Iran’s participation has been overshadowed by visa issues that forced changes to their tournament preparations.

“Iran's blocked assets will also be released according to the memorandum of understanding that will be signed,” he said.

Araghchi also indicated that the framework would address broader regional issues, including the conflict in Lebanon, as part of efforts to reduce tensions across the Middle East.

The foreign minister warned that opponents of the negotiations were attempting to derail the process, singling out Israel as the main adversary of the proposed agreement.

“I must explicitly state that this agreement has enemies, at the forefront of which is the Zionist regime, and they are looking for pretexts to disrupt this agreement,” he said.

He stressed that pressure and threats would not change Iran's position and could instead undermine diplomatic progress.

“In these circumstances, threats are not only ineffective but also set back a potential agreement; threats must stop, and we must speak with the language of respect in order for us to reach an agreement,” Araghchi said.

His comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that a deal with Iran could be signed “this weekend” and suggested a formal signing ceremony could take place in Europe.

Trump also said he had cancelled a planned military strike on Iran following recent exchanges of attacks between the two countries, including incidents linked to a U.S. Apache helicopter crash that Washington blamed on an Iranian drone.

“Of course, it is natural for the US President to make such remarks because he has gained nothing,” Azizi said. “He did not achieve anything in the 40-day war, nor in these times. Now, because he has an empty track record and empty hands, and has incurred very heavy costs in this war that have brought no gains for the Americans, while also causing numerous economic problems for the world and the Americans, he is forced to make these threats.”

His comments came amid continued tensions between Tehran and Washington despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a broader agreement following the conflict.

Azizi warned that any future military action against Iran would be met with a stronger response from Tehran.

“However, he should know that this is Iran. This is a united front with a firm ideology based on the principles and ideals of Islam ,” he said.

“Just as our nation and our armed forces stood united during the Ramadan war, should he take any uncalculated action, he will definitely receive a more regretful, more painful, and undoubtedly more decisive response.”

The remarks follow recent warnings from Trump, who has suggested that further military action against Iran remains an option if negotiations fail or if Tehran resumes activities Washington views as threatening regional security .

“We just made a great settlement of the war with Iran, and we're going to be subject to finalisation of documents,” Trump said. “We should get done over the next few days. Probably have a signing maybe in Europe.”

The announcement came after Trump said he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran following an exchange of attacks between the two sides. Tensions had also escalated earlier in the week after the crash of a US Apache helicopter, which Washington blamed on an Iranian drone.

Iran has carried out strikes against US military assets in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait during the conflict. Trump said the agreement would ensure that Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon, describing it as the central objective of the negotiations.

“Most importantly, we have a deal that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, which was the whole purpose of what we had to go through to get this,” he said.

The president also said he had spoken with leaders across the Middle East, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as officials from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and Turkey.

Trump claimed regional leaders welcomed the breakthrough and said the agreement could pave the way for improved relations across the region.

“The whole Middle East is happy,” he said. Iran had not publicly commented on Trump's announcement at the time of publication.

Speakers at the event linked the situation to broader geopolitical tensions, while highlighting India’s historical ties with Iran. The gathering comes amid ongoing regional conflict and heightened tensions involving Iran and its allies.

“The aggressive Zionist regime, by repeatedly violating the ceasefire and with the green light and support of the criminal United States and the silence of international bodies, has increased its wickedness against the oppressed people of Lebanon day by day, committing war crimes by using prohibited weapons, including phosphorus bombs,” Zolfaghari said.

He claimed that Iran had previously warned Israel against expanding its military campaign in Lebanon, particularly in Beirut’s southern suburbs.

“Despite previous warnings from the Islamic Republic of Iran, the child-killing Zionist regime, having crossed all red lines and increased its attacks in southern Lebanon, has targeted Beirut’s Dahiyeh. We had warned that if the crimes in Beirut’s Dahiyeh expand, we would attack targets within the occupied territories.”

Zolfaghari called on Israel to halt its military operations in southern Lebanon and Beirut’s Dahiyeh district.

“The Zionist army must stop its attacks on southern Lebanon and Dahiyeh.”

He also warned of further action if Israel expands its operations or responds to Iran’s recent attacks.

“Should it expand its attacks on that region or respond to Iran's action, it will face even more crushing and regrettable blows, and devastating attacks will be launched against the regime and its supporters.”

The statement comes amid escalating tensions following Israeli airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and Iranian missile launches toward Israeli territory. Both sides have exchanged threats as concerns grow over a wider regional conflict involving Israel, Iran and Hezbollah.

“We have prepared for this. The IDF is strongly prepared in defence and strongly prepared in offence. Air defence systems are deployed all across the country,” Defrin said.

He added that Israel’s military leadership was assessing the situation and preparing further actions.

Defrin accused Iran of escalating tensions through direct missile attacks.

“The Iranian terror regime made a grave mistake when it chose terrorism once again. The regime is attempting to create a new equation by conducting direct fire into our territory in response to IDF strikes in the Dahiyeh. We will not allow this.”

The spokesperson said Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs had been carried out in response to attacks from Hezbollah.

“We struck in the Dahiyeh following Hezbollah's relentless firing toward northern communities. The IDF will continue to operate throughout Lebanon and will deepen the blow to the Hezbollah terrorist organisation. We will not allow continued firing toward the citizens of the State of Israel.”

The statement came amid escalating hostilities involving Israel, Iran and Hezbollah, following Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and subsequent missile launches attributed to Iran.

One missile carried a message that read: “In the name of God, a God whose power is greater than any ship, plane, or army. The God of Christ and the God of Moses, the God of all free people of the world . To all the people of the world. We are fighting a criminal gang, the corrupt people of Epstein Island. We will not compromise on the security of our people. To rid the world of corruption and usury. Right on the path of Jesus and Moses.”

The footage also showed a drawing depicting Israeli soldiers carrying Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu inside a concrete cube.

Additional scenes showed multiple missiles being launched into the night sky. The IRGC did not provide details on the specific targets in the footage.

The video was released amid ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel, with both sides reporting military operations and missile attacks in recent days. Iranian officials have described the launches as part of their response to Israeli actions, while Israel has continued to activate its air defence systems against incoming projectiles.

“There are 15 people and most are team managers, part of the technical staff as well,” he said. “If they do not show up, it will be a challenge for our team.”

Despite the setback, the ambassador said Iran remained determined to participate in the tournament and would continue efforts to secure the necessary travel documents.

Pasandideh described the World Cup as an opportunity to showcase Iranian talent and promote international understanding through sport.

“The presence of the Iranian national football team in the World Cup is an opportunity to showcase the sporting capabilities of Iranian youth and, at the same time, strengthen friendship and understanding between peoples,” he said.

He stressed that sporting events should remain separate from political disputes. “We believe that sports should be a bridge to bring people together and not a tool to impose restrictions or exclusions. Sports should unite nations, not separate them,” he added.

The ambassador called on FIFA to engage with the relevant authorities to ensure the full participation of Iran's delegation in matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle.

The visa dispute comes on the back of ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington and could complicate preparations for Iran's opening World Cup match against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles.

Prabowo Subianto told Atlantico that he did not regret radical decisions such as the creation of the powerful Danantara wealth fund.

“Some of the changes we introduced may have rattled people in the short run, but it is for the good of the country in the long run,” he said in an interview, pointing out that he has cut $18 billion of what he described as “fat” from the government budget.

This is money that would have gone “to the private coffers of corrupt officials - not for the people,” he claimed.

The Indonesian rupiah is at around record lows against the dollar as a result of surging energy prices caused by the War in Iran. Indonesia, like most of its neighbours, is a net oil importer which relies significantly on supplies from the Middle East.

But an even bigger drag has been years of trade manipulation, which has seen hundreds of billions of dollars lost as a result of companies avoiding levies by underreporting international transactions. Indonesia’s economy would have been 60 per cent larger today without this fraud, Prabowo said, adding that a range of measures were set to deliver results for his people in the coming years.

“I must admit, we could do better in communicating to the outside world what we are doing in Indonesia,” he said.  “The changes we are making today, with Danantara, with our single window for export policy, with the free meals program, with our Village Cooperatives and fisherman villages, are transformational.”

He hit out at biased commentators who he said have been misrepresenting these projects. 

The biggest economic shakeup of Prabowo’s presidency has been the creation of Danantara Indonesia, the seventh-largest sovereign wealth fund in the world, managing $900 billion in assets. 

The fund manages Indonesia’s vast state-owned enterprise portfolio and is charged with helping achieve government targets around economic growth and industrial transformation.

The fund reports to the presidency, unlike some other national wealth funds, because it needs to be accountable to the Indonesian people, Prabowo said. But it answers operationally to its own supervisory board and takes day-to-day decisions independently.

Might vs Right

Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country, has always steadfastly pursued a policy of non-alignment. Prabowo said the country has benefitted from tensions between China and the US as businesses seek alternative locations to diversify their supply chains. But he noted that the long-term interest of the whole world is for a harmonious relationship between the two superpowers.

Prabowo reiterated his absolute support for freedom of navigation, rejecting suggestions that Indonesia might one day seek to monetise shipping through the Strait of Malacca as Iran is trying to do in Hormuz. The country is expanding its military to ensure that it can defend the rules-based order, he told Atlantico: “Might must not make right.”

Indonesia subscribes to the One China policy, and Prabowo said that he believes China will always act “rationally” in its relations with Taiwan. Image via Deposit Photos

“In response to this aggression and violation of the Strait of Hormuz regulations, the enemy’s American-Zionist vessel named Panaya was targeted by missiles from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy,” the report stated.

The broadcaster also said the United States had carried out another strike on Iranian infrastructure.

“It is mentioned that the American enemy, in another act of aggression, targeted a telecommunications tower of the Corps in the south of Qeshm Island,” it added.

Iran said it responded by targeting US-linked military sites in the region.

“In response to this aggression, their airbase and helicopter base located in one of the countries in the region, as well as the headquarters of the Fifth Fleet, were subjected to missile and drone attacks by the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” the report said.

Kuwait’s military said drones struck its international airport, causing “significant” damage. However, US Central Command (CENTCOM) appeared to dispute the extent of the attack.

“Two Iranian missiles fired at Kuwait fell short or broke apart en route, and three missiles launched at Bahrain were immediately intercepted by US and Bahrain air defence forces,” CENTCOM said.

US media reported that President Donald Trump had requested changes to the framework of a potential agreement after talks with aides, including issues related to the Strait of Hormuz, the removal of enriched uranium, and negotiations on Iran’s nuclear deal.

Tehran said on Monday, June 1, that the United States was “constantly changing its views and putting forward new or contradictory demands.”

The incident has further escalated tensions, with Russia denouncing the strike as terrorism and launching retaliatory attacks on Ukrainian military infrastructure. Meanwhile, conflicting claims persist over the intended target of the original strike. Baqaei also addressed broader geopolitical tensions, criticising US actions and noting ongoing but inconclusive diplomatic exchanges between Tehran and Washington.

“They asked us if they can stay overnight in Mexico. And we said yes, there is no problem, we have no issue with it. So, they are looking for the venue to be in Tijuana, so that they can stay overnight and travel to the games that will take place in the United States . So, we have no reason to deny them the possibility of staying in Mexico,” the Mexican president stated.

Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches in the United States during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to Sheinbaum, US authorities reportedly do not want the team based in the country between matches.

The proposed arrangement would likely see the Iranian team staying in Tijuana, a Mexican border city near Southern California , while travelling into the United States for matches.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament is expected to involve complex travel and coordination arrangements as teams move across North America for the expanded competition.

“Our plan is first to draft a memorandum of understanding, a framework agreement consisting of 14 articles,” Baqaei said.

He said the proposed document would address issues including the end of what Iran describes as a U.S. naval blockade and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

“The end of US naval aggression… along with issues related to the release of Iran’s frozen assets, are the main topics addressed by this memorandum,” he added.

Baqaei said the nuclear issue would not be dealt with in detail at this stage, despite repeated U.S. demands for it to remain central to negotiations.

“The nuclear issue was a pretext for two aggressive wars against the Iranian people ,” he said.

He added that Tehran was prioritising efforts to end the conflict “on all fronts, including Lebanon.”

Baqaei thanked Pakistan for mediating talks between Tehran and Washington, with support from regional actors including Qatar, and said detailed discussions could continue for between 30 and 60 days.

The comments come amid ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted access for what it calls “unfriendly” countries while the United States maintains a naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Earlier this week, Baqaei said Iran was coordinating with Oman and other regional parties on a mechanism governing navigation through the strategic waterway.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Washington wanted the Strait of Hormuz to remain “free” and insisted that “no fees should be imposed.”

Trump also claimed the U.S. had “full control” over the strait and described the naval blockade on Iran as “100% effective.”

For weeks, journalists have repeatedly asked senior American officials for clarity. Questions have been put to military spokespeople, White House officials and President Donald Trump himself. Each time, the answers have been evasive, contradictory or incomplete.

The strange part is that most investigators already believe they know exactly what happened.

According to reporting from outlets including The New York Times , the BBC, Al Jazeera and the investigative group Bellingcat, the strike was almost certainly carried out by the United States .

Washington, however, still refuses to publicly admit responsibility.

The strike

To understand the controversy, it is important to understand where the school was located.

The building stood only a few hundred metres from a facility operated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or IRGC. Military analysts say the compound functioned as a communications and logistics centre and would likely have been considered a legitimate military target during the opening phase of the conflict.

The problem is what happened alongside that strike.

The attack took place on the first day of the war. In the middle of ongoing diplomatic talks, the United States launched a sudden large-scale assault against Iranian military infrastructure.

At approximately 9:40am on 28 February, cruise missiles struck radar installations while bombs dropped by American and Israeli aircraft destroyed air defence systems and IRGC facilities across Iran.

Roughly an hour later, a military base near Minab was hit.

At some point during the attacks, children at the school were reportedly instructed to shelter inside a prayer hall while waiting for parents to collect them. Then the explosion hit.

The evidence

Investigators say the evidence pointing towards American responsibility is extensive.

Modern warfare leaves behind an enormous amount of forensic data, and analysts were able to reconstruct the attack using missile fragments, radar tracking, launch timing, satellite imagery, acoustic analysis and dozens of videos posted online.

The most significant evidence was the missile debris recovered from the scene.

Several independent analysts identified fragments consistent with a Tomahawk cruise missile, a weapon operated by the United States Navy.

Footage posted online showed another Tomahawk missile striking the nearby IRGC compound during the same attack window, while Israel publicly stated that it was not operating in the area at the time.

Initially, American officials blamed Iran itself for the explosion. Later, some suggested unnamed regional actors might have been responsible. Eventually, the White House settled on a more familiar response: that an investigation was ongoing.

Playing for time

If the evidence appears so overwhelming, why does Washington still refuse to openly acknowledge what happened?

The answer is political.

Outside the United States, many governments, analysts and observers have already reached their conclusions. Domestically, however, the calculation is very different.

As long as the administration refuses to confirm responsibility, supporters can continue dismissing reports of American involvement as propaganda, misinformation or hostile narratives pushed by Iran.

Without an official admission, there is no definitive political reckoning.

For now, at least.

That strategy, however, may not be sustainable indefinitely.

Pressure is already growing in Congress. Human rights organisations are demanding transparency, while international investigators continue collecting evidence.

If casualty estimates are accurate, the attack would represent the deadliest killing of civilians by a single American airstrike since the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.

That is not the sort of event likely to disappear quietly.

The political calculation

Timing is central to the administration’s approach.

From the White House perspective, admitting responsibility while the war is still ongoing could be politically catastrophic. Admitting it afterwards may be survivable, particularly if the administration can argue the conflict achieved a historic strategic success.

Officials are expected to frame the war as having prevented a wider regional conflict and stopped Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

Under that argument, the deaths in Minab could then be presented not as meaningless, but as the tragic cost of a necessary victory.

The political optics are very different.

More than 100 children killed during an open-ended and inconclusive war would provoke outrage. More than 100 children killed during a conflict later presented as preventing nuclear war is a narrative the administration may believe the American public is more willing to accept, especially when the victims were Iranian rather than American.

That is why the investigation appears stalled.

Not abandoned. Delayed.

Waiting for a moment when the truth becomes politically manageable. World Reframed episode 41.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

The White House has not formally accepted responsibility. However, investigations by Amnesty International, the Associated Press, Sky News and The Guardian all cited forensic evidence, satellite imagery and verified video footage suggesting the weapon used was a U.S. Tomahawk missile.

President Donald Trump initially denied American involvement and suggested Iranian forces may have hit the school themselves. But reporting by The Guardian said later intelligence assessments reviewed within the U.S. government contradicted those claims.

Amnesty International said evidence indicated the school was struck alongside nearby Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps facilities and accused U.S. forces of failing to take adequate precautions to protect civilians. The organisation described the attack as a possible violation of international humanitarian law.

“This harrowing attack on a school, with classrooms full of children, is a sickening illustration of the catastrophic and entirely predictable price civilians are paying during this armed conflict,” Erika Guevara-Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director of Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, said in a March statement.

Weapons analysts interviewed by Reuters and other outlets noted that Iran is not known to possess Tomahawk missiles, further undermining claims that Tehran may have been responsible for the strike.

The Pentagon says its investigation remains ongoing. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth previously confirmed that an independent review had been launched into the incident, as human rights groups and UN experts continue to call for the findings to be made public.

“We were getting ready to do a very major attack tomorrow. I’ve put it off for a little while, hopefully, maybe forever, but possibly for a little while because we’ve had very big discussions with Iran and we’ll see what they amount to,” Trump said.

He added that leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates had urged Washington to allow more time for diplomacy.

“I was asked by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and some others if we could put it off for 2 or 3 days, a short period of time, because they think that they are getting very close to making a deal,” he stated.

Earlier, Trump posted a longer statement on Truth Social confirming the discussions with Gulf leaders.

“I have been asked by the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, and the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, in that serious negotiations are now taking place,” Trump wrote.

He added that Gulf leaders believed a deal could still be reached.

A ceasefire between the US and Iran was declared in April, with both sides reportedly exchanging proposals through Pakistani mediators. However, tensions have continued in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted passage for what it describes as “unfriendly” countries, while the United States continues restrictions targeting Iranian ports.

“Our eyes are open regarding Iran as well. I will speak today as I do every few days with our friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said.

“I’ll surely hear impressions about his trip to China and perhaps about other things as well. There are certainly many possibilities. We are prepared for any scenario,” he added.

According to the Israeli prime minister’s spokesperson, Netanyahu and Trump discussed continued joint action regarding Iran during the phone call.

The conversation followed comments by Trump on Truth Social, warning Iran that the “clock is ticking.”

“Get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them,” Trump wrote on Sunday.

The Israeli leader said the Israel Defence Forces had expanded control in Gaza, claiming Israel now controls “not 50% there, but 60%” of the territory.

Netanyahu also referred to military operations in Lebanon, saying Israeli forces continue “seizing” and “clearing territory” there.

He further announced efforts to strengthen Israel’s response to drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, saying he had instructed a specialised team to develop new defence solutions.

“I told them something that surprised them a bit. You have no budget limit. Whatever it costs, it will cost. You also have no limitations, as far as I know, of creativity and imagination, because you are the best in the world ,” Netanyahu said.

On April 15, Trump announced a ten-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The ceasefire was later extended on April 23 for an additional three weeks, followed by another 45-day extension announced on May 15 after a second round of US-mediated talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials.

“We declare very clearly that the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz and its global economic consequences are solely the responsibility of the initiators of the war against Iran,” Iravani said on Saturday.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world ’s most important oil shipping routes, carrying a significant share of global energy supplies.

The latest tensions follow months of conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel. Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump described the ceasefire with Iran as being on “massive life support” and rejected Tehran’s latest proposal as “garbage,” “stupid” and “unacceptable.”

Iran’s Foreign Ministry defended the proposal, calling it “generous” and saying it included demands for an end to the war, the lifting of what it described as “maritime piracy,” and the release of Iranian assets frozen under U.S. pressure.

The United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran on February 28. Iran later confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and announced that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, would succeed him.

Tehran responded with missile strikes targeting Israel and several countries in the region.

On April 8, Trump announced a two-week truce to allow negotiations aimed at ending the crisis. The ceasefire was later extended indefinitely pending further Iranian proposals.

Pakistan hosted a first round of talks between U.S. and Iranian officials in Islamabad on April 11, but the negotiations ended without a breakthrough. A second round of talks has yet to take place.

Araghchi made the comments on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, held on May 14 and 15 under India ’s chairmanship. The gathering was overshadowed by divisions over the Iran conflict and ended without a joint statement.

Despite the impasse, Araghchi said Tehran had received messages indicating Washington was willing to continue talks.

His remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest response, calling it “totally unacceptable” and warning that the ceasefire was on “life support.”

During a visit to China, Trump said he discussed the conflict with Chinese President Xi Jinping, claiming Beijing supported efforts to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

“He said he’s not going to give military equipment. That’s a big statement,” Trump said, referring to Xi.

Trump added that Xi “would like to see Hormuz Strait opened,” amid ongoing tensions over the key oil transit route. Recent reports said Trump and Xi discussed Iran, energy stability and the Strait of Hormuz during their meeting in Beijing.

Trump also said the talks covered trade , claiming Xi had agreed to order 200 Boeing aircraft.

“Boeing wanted 150. He got 200,” Trump said, describing the reported order as a major boost for U.S. jobs.

The remarks come as Washington continues efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, while tensions with Iran remain high. China has publicly supported reopening the waterway and has denied allegations that it is supplying weapons to Tehran.

Whether you are a geography geek or a US president, maps are a good place to start.

From the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and the Caucasus, Iran borders seven countries on land and six more across water.

It is also one of the world ’s oldest continuous civilisations, with a history that spans more than 4,000 years.

Today, with nearly 90 million people and a landmass exceeding 1.6 million square kilometres, Iran stands as one of the Middle East’s largest and most consequential states.

Iran’s terrain is defined by mountains and arid expanses, with little continuous flat land. The Zagros and Alborz mountain ranges dominate much of the landscape, while the Iranian Plateau forms its core.

To the east, vast deserts such as the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut stretch across large swathes of the country. These physical features are not just geographic, but they also shape settlement patterns, climate conditions and the development of infrastructure.

Historically, Iran was the centre of powerful empires that influenced language, trade, science and culture far beyond its borders. That legacy still runs through modern Iran, visible in its identity and regional reach. Despite invasions by Greeks, Ottomans, Russians and the British, the country has maintained a strong sense of sovereignty and identity.

Iran is far more complex, both from the inside and the outside. Farsi remains the dominant language, but the country is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Azeris, Kurds, Baloch and Arabs, all of whom contribute to its cultural and political fabric.

As an energy giant, Iran sits on some of the world’s largest oil and gas reserves , holding roughly 10% of global oil and 15% of natural gas resources.

That alone makes it a major player in global energy markets. Despite heavy international sanctions, Iran continues to export large volumes of oil, primarily to China, demonstrating its resilience and continued relevance in global supply chains.

Its economy, valued at over $400 billion, blends state control with private enterprise, anchored by energy, manufacturing and a growing technology sector.

Modern Iran, however, cannot be understood without the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

It overthrew a Western-backed monarchy and replaced it with a theocratic system that still defines the country today.

And since the Revolution, Iran has pursued an independent and often confrontational foreign policy , positioning itself as a regional power and a counterweight to Western influence.

Its network of regional alliances, often referred to as the “Axis of Resistance”, extends its influence beyond its borders, reaching into Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. Many of these connections relate to Iran's position as the dominant power of the Shia sect of Islam. In other cases, allies were drawn to Tehran by a mutual hatred of Israel.

The country is also enduring one of its worst environmental crises in decades, after more than five consecutive years of drought have pushed it toward what experts describe as “water bankruptcy.” Reservoirs are drying up, major cities are nearing “day zero” water shortages, and as many as 28 million people now face unreliable access to water. 

Even geography beyond its borders carries political weight.

The body of water to its south has been known in Iran and elsewhere for over 2,500 years as the “Persian Gulf.” Still, some Arab states refer to it as the “Arabian Gulf,” creating an ongoing geopolitical dispute.

For Iran, the name is not just symbolic; it is tied to history, identity and sovereignty.

At the edge of Iran’s southern coastline lies its most powerful strategic asset: the Strait of Hormuz.

This narrow waterway connects the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and carries more than 20% of the world’s oil supply.

It is one of the most critical chokepoints in global trade. Iran controls the northern side as well as a series of islands, and that gives it enormous leverage.

Over the decades, Tehran has repeatedly threatened to disrupt traffic through the strait during times of conflict.

And in 2026, those threats became reality, sending shocks through global energy markets.

At the same time, geopolitical tensions have sharply intensified. Following Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in February 2026, the United States joined the conflict with direct attacks, triggering a broader regional confrontation that continued for days.

The situation has since escalated into a wider crisis affecting global energy routes. Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks, while disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit chokepoint, have sent shocks through global markets.

See more maps on our Instagram account.

“The president of the host country for the World Cup, rather than offering a welcome or saying that everything is ready here, declares that they are not prepared to host or ensure the safety of one team,” Alavi said.

He added that the tournament had become “completely intertwined with politicisation” despite FIFA’s efforts to keep football separate from political tensions.

“It is FIFA’s duty, as the institution responsible for legislation, supervision, and enforcement, to prevent this phenomenon from becoming even more political,” Alavi said.

His remarks followed Trump’s March 12 post on Truth Social, in which he said Iran’s national team was welcome at the World Cup but questioned whether it was appropriate for them to participate “for their own life and safety.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, but Iran are scheduled to play all three of their Group G matches in the United States. The team will face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before playing Egypt in Seattle.

Alavi said seeking alternative venues for Iran’s matches was “not possible” under FIFA protocols.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last month that Washington had no objection to Iranian athletes taking part in the tournament, but suggested that members of Iran’s delegation with links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps could face restrictions.

“The issue of the Strait of Hormuz was one of our serious topics of discussion,” Araghchi said.

He added that Chinese officials believe Iran’s position has changed since the war .

“Our Chinese friends also believe that Iran after the war is different from Iran before the war,” he said, adding that a new phase of cooperation between Iran and other countries lies ahead.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Beijing supports Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty and national security , while welcoming Tehran’s willingness to pursue a political solution through diplomacy.

The talks came as media reports suggested the United States and Iran could be moving closer to a deal. Araghchi arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for diplomatic consultations ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump ’s planned visit to China on May 14.

Trump on Wednesday threatened to resume bombing Iran at a “much higher level and intensity” if Tehran fails to agree to a deal.

Earlier, he announced a pause in “Project Freedom,” a U.S. operation aimed at escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, to allow time to assess whether an agreement with Iran can be finalised. However, Trump said the U.S. naval blockade would remain in “full force.”

“Although we have kept in touch through phone calls and various other means, since the United States and Israel launched their illegal war against Iran, a war that has been ongoing, our stance remains adhering to the principle of peaceful coexistence,” Wang said.

Araghchi reportedly thanked China for its support during the conflict and said cooperation between the two countries would deepen.

“Iran appreciates China's firm stance and especially the condemnation of the United States and Israel... China is a close friend of Iran, and in the current circumstances, our cooperation will be even stronger. Iran will only accept a just and comprehensive agreement,” he said.

Araghchi arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for diplomatic consultations expected to focus on bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments.

The meeting came amid continued tensions in the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict between the US and Iran.

His remarks came as tensions continued in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route affected by the conflict between the United States and Iran.

Later on Tuesday, President Donald Trump announced a “pause” in what he called “Project Freedom,” a plan aimed at guiding ships through the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, Trump warned that Iran would be “blown off the face of the earth” if it attacked US vessels.

The United States and Iran have given conflicting accounts regarding recent incidents in the Strait. Washington claimed that two vessels had passed through the waterway, while Iran denied the claim.

Around 2,000 ships remain stuck in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran blocking passage for what it describes as “unfriendly” vessels, while the US continues restrictions on Iranian ports.

“The ideas I get for sculptures mostly start with me looking at pieces of scrap,” he explained. “I pay close attention to see what animal or human form they resemble, then visualise and transform them into a sculpture.”

Footage from his workshop shows a range of large-scale creations, including towering human figures, oversized faces, and imaginative alien forms—all assembled from repurposed metal.

“You cannot claim you will lift all sanctions while you are actually intensifying them,” he said, accusing the US of further escalating tensions through what he called “acts of maritime piracy.”

Note: Date mentioned in the article has been corrected from Friday, April 30, to Friday, May 1.

“I don’t call it a war. I’d rather have a military operation,” Trump said. “Iran is dying to make a deal.”

He added that Iran “want[s] to make a deal badly,” but said uncertainty over Iran’s leadership had complicated negotiations.

“We have a problem because nobody knows for sure who the leaders are,” Trump said. “The leaders have been wiped out along with their military, almost all of their military.”

Trump’s comments came after Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, released a statement promising what he described as a “new chapter” for the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Khamenei said the region’s future would be one “without America ,” and warned that foreign powers had no place in the waters of the Gulf.

“Outsiders who, driven by greed, come from thousands of miles away to stir trouble have no place there, except at the bottom of its waters,” the statement read.

A first round of talks in Islamabad last month failed to produce a deal, while a planned second round did not materialise. Trump later moved to extend the existing ceasefire to allow more time for negotiations, Viory reports.

Pakistan has played a key role as a mediator between the two sides, but major disagreements remain, including over Iran’s nuclear programme and control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Sharif said Pakistan remained in contact with Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who recently visited Islamabad before travelling to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The prime minister also warned that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz were putting pressure on global oil prices, forcing Pakistan to reassess domestic fuel costs.

The first round of U.S.-Iran talks ended without a breakthrough, while a planned second round has yet to take place. Tensions have remained high since joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 triggered retaliatory attacks and restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Very good ideas were put forward, and there are now very good grounds for cooperation,” he said, adding that Putin praised the resilience of the Iranian people .

According to Araghchi, the Russian leader said that “not only Russia, but the whole world is studying the Iranian people for their steadfastness in the face of America and, in essence, for their victory in this unequal and unfair war.”

“We worked shoulder to shoulder alongside the IDF, [...] exerting influence based on relative advantages and a true partnership in striking targets in the heart of Tehran, thwarting senior officials [and] achieving air superiority,” he said.

Barnea said the agency’s activities this year in Lebanon and Iran “broke boundaries” and extended its operational reach.

“We obtained strategic and tactical intelligence at the core of the enemy's secrets. We demonstrated new and groundbreaking operational capabilities in the target countries,” he asserted.

He added that the operations have “strengthened” Israel’s position and emphasised continued readiness and intelligence efforts.

“We are committed to operational intelligence audacity and we are committed to the principle of action. We will not rest on our laurels when facing a threat. We will act with full force,” he said.

What they said

UNDP administrator Alexander De Croo said, “Even if the war would stop tomorrow, those effects, you already have them, and they will be pushing back more than 30 million people into poverty.” He warned, “Food insecurity will be at its peak level in a few months – and there is not much that you can do about it,” and added, “Things that take decades to build up, it takes eight weeks of war to destroy them.” On humanitarian impacts, he said, “We will have to say to certain people, really sorry, but we can’t help you… People who would be surviving on help will not have this, and will be pushed into even greater vulnerability.”

Leavitt cautioned against relying on Iran’s public messaging, stating that its public statements differ from positions shared in private negotiations.

“What they say publicly is much different than what they concede to the United States and our negotiating team privately,” she said.

She said President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire to allow time for Iran to respond, attributing the delay to divisions between “pragmatists and hardliners” within the Iranian leadership.

Video released on Monday, April 20, shows US Marines issuing a warning to the vessel to vacate the engine room, followed by the USS Spruance firing multiple shots at the ship. The exact date and location of the footage shared by CENTCOM cannot be independently verified.

CENTCOM said the vessel, identified as the M/V Touska, was travelling through the north Arabian Sea at a speed of 17 knots en route to Bandar Abbas in Iran.

"After Touska’s crew failed to comply with repeated warnings over a six-hour period, Spruance directed the vessel to evacuate its engine room," CENTCOM said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump stated that US Marines had taken control of the vessel after issuing what he described as a fair warning to comply with the blockade.

"The TOUSKA is under U.S. Treasury Sanctions because of their prior history of illegal activity. We have full custody of the ship, and are seeing what’s on board!" he added.

The development comes as Pakistan prepares to host a second round of peace talks between the United States and Iran aimed at ending a weeks-long conflict that has affected the wider region. Both sides have accused each other of violating a ceasefire.

Trump said Washington was offering Iran a “reasonable deal” but threatened severe military action if Tehran rejected it.

“The United States will destroy all power plants and all bridges in Iran,” he said, adding that Iranian leaders “will be overthrown quickly” if they do not agree to a deal.

“If they do not accept the AGREEMENT, it will be my honor to do what needs to be done, what should have been done to Iran by other presidents over the last 47 years,” Trump wrote. “Enough of being nice!”

Confusion emerged shortly after Trump’s statement over who would represent the United States in the talks.

A White House source told AFP that Vice President JD Vance would lead the American delegation in Pakistan, alongside special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

But Trump later said Vance would not make the trip, citing security concerns.

“It’s just for safety,” Trump told ABC News . “JD is excellent.”

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which nearly 20 percent of global hydrocarbon trade passed before the war, remained closed on Sunday amid the ongoing conflict triggered by the United States and Israel ’s military campaign against Iran on February 28.

Iran said on Saturday that it had once again shut the strategic waterway, only hours after announcing it would reopen it.

The closure came despite a truce that followed inconclusive negotiations held in Pakistan on April 11 and 12.

Tehran said it would not reopen the key maritime corridor until the United States lifts its blockade of Iranian ports.

On Sunday, Trump repeated his accusation that Iran had violated the ceasefire.

“Iran decided to fire bullets yesterday in the Strait of Hormuz: a total violation of our ceasefire agreement!” he wrote.

At least three commercial vessels attempting to pass through the strait came under gunfire on Saturday, according to the account.

Trump had earlier said a deal was “very close” and suggested Iran was ready to transfer its enriched uranium stockpile. Tehran has firmly denied agreeing to such terms, AFP reports.

Diplomatic efforts are continuing behind the scenes, with Pakistan playing a mediating role. Officials from Islamabad have engaged with Iran as well as regional powers including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey. Egypt has also joined mediation efforts, saying it is “working tirelessly” toward a final agreement.

However, recent direct talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad, the first at that level since 1979, ended without a breakthrough, and no date has been set for further negotiations.

Despite the stalled talks, Iran announced a partial reopening of its airspace and key airports, offering a limited sign of normalisation after weeks of conflict .

Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Iran would not accept U.S. pressure, insisting: “The Americans cannot impose their will to lay siege to Iran.” The move comes despite ongoing diplomatic efforts following a fragile two-week ceasefire between Tehran and Washington.

Shipping disruptions quickly followed. U.S. Central Command said 23 vessels had turned back under its directives since the blockade began, while maritime data showed some ships reversing course in the strait. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency also reported that Iranian boats had opened fire on an oil tanker, though no injuries were reported.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned in a written message that the navy was “ready to make the enemy taste the bitterness of further defeats.”

The United States exported roughly 4.0 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil in 2025, a 3% drop from the previous year despite record domestic production of 13.6 million bpd, the EIA said.

The Netherlands topped the list of U.S. oil importers, purchasing about 419 million barrels in 2025, accounting for roughly 10.7% of total exports.

Much of that oil flows through Rotterdam, one of the world’s largest energy hubs, where crude is refined or redistributed across Europe.

Mexico followed closely with 398 million barrels, while Canada ranked third at 324 million barrels, highlighting the continued strength of North American energy trade ties.

Other major buyers included South Korea, Japan, China and India, reflecting sustained demand from Asia even as regional flows shifted.

Top buyers of U.S. oil in 2025 (millions of barrels)

Europe remains dominant market

Europe has been the leading destination for U.S. crude since 2023, driven largely by efforts to replace Russian supplies following the Ukraine war.

However, exports to Europe fell by around 7% in 2025 as higher output from OPEC countries displaced some U.S. volumes.

Within the region, the United Kingdom recorded one of the steepest declines, with imports dropping roughly 35%, while the Netherlands increased purchases, offsetting some of the regional fall.

Exports to Asia and Oceania also weakened , particularly to China and Singapore. U.S. shipments to China plunged sharply amid trade tensions and competition from discounted oil supplied by countries such as Russia and Iran.

By contrast, India and Japan increased imports of U.S. crude, signalling a partial rebalancing of demand within the region.

Despite the 2025 decline, U.S. crude exports remain historically high. Since the lifting of a decades-long export ban in 2015, shipments have surged dramatically, rising to levels roughly 85 times higher than in 2011.

The United States has also maintained its status as a net petroleum exporter in recent years, reflecting strong production growth and expanding infrastructure.

He said the US position remained “unreasonable and unrealistic”, adding that Iran had already conveyed its own position in response.

According to Baqaei, the issues under discussion are not new and Washington is already aware of Tehran’s stance from earlier negotiations, which were largely centred on the nuclear file.

He also ruled out any talks conducted on what he described as one-sided terms. “Iran will not accept negotiations in which one side seeks to impose conditions on the other,” he said.

Baqaei also dismissed reports suggesting that an extension of the ceasefire had already been agreed, saying such claims had not been confirmed and that exchanges were still being handled through Pakistani mediation.

He criticised the US naval blockade as provocative and said it was contrary to the principles of international law, warning that it could undermine the truce. The comments come as a two-week ceasefire, which began on April 8, remains in effect and is due to end on April 22.

Pakistan, which hosted the first round of talks in Islamabad, has remained a key intermediary between the two sides and is one of the few actors still trusted by both Washington and Tehran to pass messages.

China is shown as the largest single destination, taking roughly 23% of flows, followed by India at 13%, with Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia also accounting for significant shares.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration , around 84% of crude oil and condensate shipped through the Strait of Hormuz in 2024 was destined for Asian countries.

China, India, Japan and South Korea alone accounted for roughly 69% of total flows, making them the most exposed to any disruption.

The International Energy Agency estimates that nearly a third of globally traded crude oil passes through the strait, with China and India together receiving about 44% of these exports.

The Strait of Hormuz handles around 20 million barrels of oil per day, roughly a fifth of global petroleum consumption, making it the most important oil transit chokepoint in the world.

It also carries a significant share of global liquefied natural gas, particularly exports from Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG suppliers.

Despite its importance, alternatives remain limited. Pipelines in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can bypass part of the route, but cannot fully replace their capacity in the event of a disruption.

By contrast to Asia, Western economies account for a much smaller share of direct imports.

The United States and Europe together receive less than 10% of oil flows through the strait, reflecting increased domestic production in the U.S. and diversified supply chains in Europe.

In 2024, the U.S. imported only about 7% of its crude oil from Persian Gulf countries via the strait, highlighting its reduced dependence compared with previous decades.

The Strait’s strategic importance has made it a recurring focal point of geopolitical tension.

Recent conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the USA have once again highlighted the vulnerability of global energy supply chains, with shipping disruptions triggering price volatility and raising fears of broader economic fallout.

Roughly a fifth of the world’s oil consumption passes through the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, making it a critical artery for global markets and a persistent geopolitical flashpoint.

Recent breakdowns of oil and gas shipments through the strait show Saudi Arabia accounting for the largest share at approximately 28%, followed by Iraq at 18%. The United Arab Emirates and Qatar each contribute about 14%, while Iran and Kuwait supply around 11% each. Bahrain accounts for a smaller share at roughly 6%.

The distribution reflects the concentration of hydrocarbon production in the Gulf region, where some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves are located.

According to The New York Times, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have long been viewed as a worst-case scenario for energy markets, with even minor incidents capable of triggering price spikes and supply fears.

At its narrowest point, the strait is just 21 miles (34 km) wide , with shipping lanes only a few miles across in each direction. This physical constraint leaves little margin for error in the event of military escalation, accidents or blockades.

The waterway serves as the primary export route for oil producers in the Persian Gulf, particularly for countries whose infrastructure is heavily oriented towards maritime transport.

The New York Times has reported that tensions involving Iran, including threats to restrict passage, have repeatedly raised alarms among Western governments and energy traders.

Efforts to diversify export routes, including pipelines that bypass the strait, have expanded in recent years. However, The New York Times notes that these alternatives still account for only a fraction of total export capacity, leaving the majority of flows dependent on the chokepoint.

Lebanese officials have signalled openness to a pause in military activity—if not a full ceasefire—ahead of planned talks with Israel. The initiative reflects growing pressure to contain escalating violence along the border, as diplomatic efforts intensify. Authorities stressed that halting hostilities could create conditions for meaningful negotiations, although divisions remain internally over how to approach Israel. The talks are seen as a rare opportunity to de-escalate a conflict that has rapidly worsened in recent weeks. However, the absence of consensus within Lebanon complicates the government’s position. The outcome will likely depend on both regional dynamics and international mediation efforts.

Marco Rubio to join historic Lebanon–Israel talks

Senior US officials, including Marco Rubio, are set to participate in high-level talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington. The meeting marks the first direct engagement between the two sides in decades, underscoring the urgency of the crisis. According to reports, discussions will focus on securing a ceasefire and addressing broader security concerns, particularly the role of armed groups. Washington’s involvement highlights the international dimension of the conflict and efforts to broker stability. However, expectations remain cautious given entrenched positions on both sides. The talks come amid ongoing violence and humanitarian concerns.

Government bans non-state weapons in Beirut

The Lebanese government has moved to ban the presence of non-state weapons in Beirut, reinforcing its authority over security matters. The decision forms part of broader efforts to assert state control and limit the influence of armed groups such as Hezbollah. Officials emphasised that all military activity must fall under state institutions, signalling a significant policy shift. The measure follows escalating tensions and internal criticism over the role of militias in dragging Lebanon into conflict. Analysts warn that enforcing the ban could prove challenging given Hezbollah’s entrenched position. Nonetheless, the move reflects increasing pressure for centralised control

Civilian toll mounts as Israeli airstrikes continue

The number of casualties in Lebanon has surpassed 1,900 as Israeli airstrikes continue across the country, according to media reports. The bombardment has caused widespread destruction in urban and rural areas, displacing large numbers of civilians. Hospitals and emergency services are under severe strain as they respond to the growing humanitarian crisis. The escalation follows renewed hostilities linked to the broader regional conflict involving Iran and allied groups. International actors have raised concerns over the scale of the violence and its impact on civilians. Despite diplomatic efforts, there are few signs of an immediate de-escalation.

Hezbollah tensions rise amid protests and army warnings

Tensions within Lebanon are intensifying as Hezbollah faces growing opposition and protests. Demonstrations have erupted against the group’s actions, which many blame for drawing the country deeper into conflict. In response, the Lebanese army has warned it may intervene firmly to maintain order and uphold state authority. The standoff highlights deep divisions within Lebanese society over Hezbollah’s role and influence. Political leaders are increasingly under pressure to balance internal stability with external threats. The situation remains volatile as both political and security tensions continue to escalate.

Iran maintained that its nuclear programme is civilian, stating it is used for energy and medical purposes and is within its sovereign rights.

Uranium enrichment is not unique to Iran. Several countries have operated enrichment facilities, including Argentina, Brazil , China, France, Germany, India, Japan, the Netherlands, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The US position has often been based on concerns about security and stability, arguing that other countries with such capabilities are allies or partners. Iran, however, is located in a region with multiple neighbouring states.

Iran’s Culture Minister Seyed Abbas Salehi said: “In terms of quantity and quality, with clear, attractive expressions and noteworthy events, a considerable number of artists, step by step over these forty days, came forward and participated,” adding that those who did not attend were “traitors”.

Science Minister Hossein Simaei Saraf described Khamenei as unmatched, saying: “I can say that the characteristics you see in our dear, martyred leader are unparalleled traits that have come together in one person.”

Babak Rezaei of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage said the “broad presence of artists from various disciplines reflects” the leader’s legacy.

Khamenei was killed during a joint US-Israeli operation on February 28, with his son, Mujtaba Khamenei, later named successor. Iran has yet to announce details of the funeral procession as regional tensions continue to escalate.