“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.

“We’ve made very clear what our red lines are,” he said, adding that the US wants a long-term commitment from Iran not to pursue a nuclear weapon. “We haven’t seen that yet.”

He said the US left the talks with a “final and best offer” still on the table and insisted the delegation had negotiated in good faith.

“I think that we were quite flexible. We were quite accommodating,” Vance said.

He added that President Donald Trump was kept informed throughout the talks and praised Pakistan for trying to help both sides reach an agreement.

The negotiations followed a conditional two-week ceasefire announced on Wednesday, tied to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Miadfar said the heaviest casualties were recorded in Tehran, Khuzestan, Lorestan, Isfahan, Kermanshah and Ilam provinces. He described one of the worst incidents as taking place at a school in Minab, saying the number of victims there included large numbers of women and minors. He also said Iran’s emergency response system had been hit hard, with “118 people ” injured among responders, “26” killed, and dozens of bases and ambulances damaged, Viory reports.

His remarks came as diplomacy between Tehran and Washington remained deadlocked. U.S. and Iranian delegations ended talks in Islamabad without an agreement after marathon negotiations, casting fresh doubt over a fragile two-week ceasefire reached earlier this week.

That ceasefire, brokered with Pakistani mediation, was tied to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Although the truce initially eased fears of a wider regional war, the breakdown in talks has renewed uncertainty over both the ceasefire and shipping through the strait.

Before the negotiations were underway, US President Donald Trump declared that the US had 'won' the war regardless of diplomatic efforts, adding, "Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me."

Iran’s demands include maintaining its right to enrich uranium, the withdrawal of all US combat forces from the Middle East, the introduction of charges for shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, and the removal of all sanctions .

In contrast, the United States has called for Iran to completely abandon its enriched uranium programme, stating there should be no enrichment. This position has been described as a firm condition. The US also maintains that the Strait of Hormuz should remain open for free passage, although a toll proposal has been mentioned.

Disagreements have also emerged over a reported ceasefire. Iran has stated that the ceasefire includes Lebanon, while the United States has said it does not. During the same period, Israel reportedly launched a large wave of strikes on Lebanon, resulting in over 300 deaths in one day.

Iran has stated that “the U.S. must choose between ceasefire, or continued war through Israel. It cannot have both.”

Uncertainty remains over the scheduled talks in Islamabad, Pakistan. Details regarding the meeting, including participation and agenda, are still being confirmed. Reports indicate that the Strait of Hormuz has been reclosed, adding to tensions.

If the talks proceed, they are expected to be the highest-level meeting between the United States and Iran in 47 years.

Khamenei’s statement came despite a fragile two-week ceasefire agreed this week between Washington and Tehran, with further talks expected in Islamabad under Pakistani mediation. The truce has been presented by both sides as a temporary opening for diplomacy , but its durability remains in doubt amid continued regional tensions.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said the Strait of Hormuz remained open, but added that traffic was still subject to technical restrictions because of the recent war and measures imposed during the conflict. He said vessels seeking passage would need to coordinate with Iran’s military , underlining that navigation through the chokepoint remains tightly controlled.

The status of Hormuz remains central to the ceasefire, with U.S. President Donald Trump insisting that the waterway must be fully reopened. Shipping data and industry reports suggest traffic is still heavily restricted, with many vessels waiting to transit the route.

The pope also invited Catholics to join him for a prayer vigil for peace at St Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, April 11, saying the current moment required prayer as delicate diplomatic efforts continued. He has repeatedly urged world leaders to choose negotiation over war in recent weeks.

His remarks came after Washington and Tehran announced a provisional two-week ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, under which Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and both sides were expected to continue talks in Islamabad. President Donald Trump said he had suspended threatened attacks on Iran as part of the deal.

The truce has been welcomed internationally as a chance to step back from a wider regional war, though its durability remains uncertain amid fresh tensions involving Lebanon and shipping through Hormuz. Global markets initially rallied on the news , while diplomats cautioned that only sustained negotiations could turn the pause into a lasting settlement.

A new global comparison shows that consumers in parts of Asia and emerging markets pay significantly less for a dozen eggs than those in wealthier economies, where prices have surged in recent years due to inflation and supply disruptions.

India tops the list as the cheapest country for eggs, with a dozen large eggs costing approximately $0.91, according to Numbeo’s latest cost-of-living dataset.

Other low-cost countries include:

These figures align with Global Product Prices data, which also shows that many developing economies offer eggs at well under $2 per dozen, making them an accessible source of protein for large populations.

The data points to a clear trend where egg prices are lowest in countries with lower production costs, including cheaper labour, feed and land.

In countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and Nepal, prices range between $1.48 and $1.52 per dozen, reinforcing Asia’s dominance in low-cost egg production.

Analysts note that eggs remain a staple protein source in these regions, contributing to steady domestic demand and large-scale local production.

According to Global Product Prices , nations such as Switzerland, Australia and New Zealand rank among the most expensive, with prices reaching $6 to $8 per dozen, on the contrary.

Numbeo data similarly shows significant price gaps, with some European and Western markets charging several times more than countries like India or Pakistan.

Egg prices have become a global economic indicator, reflecting broader food inflation trends. In recent years, supply shocks, including avian influenza outbreaks, have pushed prices higher in several major markets.

In the United States, for example, egg prices have surged amid supply shortages and rising costs, illustrating how vulnerable the market is to disruptions.

The comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump said he had agreed to suspend attacks on Iran for two weeks, on the condition that Tehran immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz. India has also said it has been in close contact with regional stakeholders to ensure safe maritime transit, with several Indian vessels crossing the waterway safely in recent days.

Jaiswal added that India remained focused on the safety of its citizens in the region, with evacuation efforts continuing through neighbouring countries as airspace restrictions complicate travel .

But can’t they really?

About the ICC

The ICC was created by the Rome Statute as a court of last resort. It prosecutes individuals, not states, and covers four core crimes: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and aggression. 

It is meant to step in only when national authorities are unwilling or unable genuinely to investigate and prosecute. Its jurisdiction is also limited. In general, the court can act when the alleged crimes were committed on the territory of a state party, by a national of a state party, or when the UN Security Council refers a situation to it. 

As of now, 125 countries are parties to the Rome Statute : 33 African States, 19 Asia-Pacific States, 20 countries from Eastern Europe, 28 Latin American and Caribbean States, and 25 Western European and other States.

Important to note: the United States and Israel are not parties to the statute. 

Most of ICC’s defendants are from the Global South

That legal architecture helps explain why the ICC’s public defendants list remains heavily weighted towards weaker or more internationally exposed states. 

ICC’s website currently lists 74 defendants. The roster is dominated by African situations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (6), Uganda (5), Sudan (7), the Central African Republic (12), Kenya (9), Libya (14), Côte d’Ivoire (3) and Mali (3). The remainder stretches across places such as Afghanistan (2), Georgia (3), Ukraine (6), the State of Palestine (3) and the Philippines (1). 

An overwhelming majority — 51 defendants — face war crimes allegations. These include Sudan’s Abd-Al-Rahman, who is suspected of 31 counts of war crimes and is in ICC custody, and Libya’s Khaled Mohamed Ali El Hishri, better known as “El Hishri.”

Warrants for Netanyahu, Putin

That is not to say the court has never tried to go after bigger fish.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is the subject of an ICC arrest warrant for the alleged war crimes of unlawfully deporting and transferring Ukrainian children. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant are also the subjects of ICC warrants after judges said there were reasonable grounds to believe they bore criminal responsibility for, among other acts, starvation as a method of warfare, murder, persecution and intentionally directing attacks against civilians in Gaza. 

Those cases show that the court can, at least on paper, move against leaders backed by strong states. But a warrant is not an arrest, and the court has no police force of its own. It depends on state cooperation.

Can they get Trump?

The Iran war illustrates the next barrier. There are already credible traces of conduct that international humanitarian law treats as potentially criminal. 

For instance, attacks on civilian installations can constitute war crimes if they fail the tests of military necessity, distinction and proportionality. Trump’s threats against bridges and power plants therefore fall squarely within such conduct.

In a joint letter published on April 2, more than 100 US-based international law experts expressed “serious concerns about violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, including potential war crimes.”

They cited Trump’s threats to Iran’s energy infrastructure, as well as the February 28 strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Primary School in Minab, which resulted in the deaths of at least 175 people, many of them children.

“The strike likely violates international humanitarian law, and if evidence is found that those responsible were reckless, it could also be a war crime. The strike is among the deadliest single attacks by the U.S. military on civilians in recent decades,” the lawyers noted.

So can the ICC get Trump or Netanyahu? Netanyahu is already within the court’s reach because the judges have said the court has jurisdiction in the State of Palestine and have rejected Israel’s challenge. 

Trump is a different case. 

Washington has gone beyond non-membership and moved to punish the court itself. In a February 2025 order, the White House called the ICC’s actions against the US and Israel “illegitimate and baseless,” said neither country had accepted the court’s jurisdiction, and authorised sanctions, asset blocking and visa restrictions against ICC officials and those assisting them. 

In practice, that leaves the ICC confronting the same problem critics have long identified: it can name the powerful, but it is far better equipped to jail the weak.

"Therefore, the possibility that this was a deception operation to steal the enriched uranium should not be dismissed, but as I said, what is clear is that the result of this operation was nothing more than Second Tabas,” he added. The reference to "Second Tabas" relates to the failed 1980 US mission to rescue hostages in Tehran.

US President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that two US airmen had been rescued after their F-15 aircraft was shot down over Iranian territory. He described the mission as "one of the most daring search-and-rescue operations in US history.”

The journalist then asked: “What is your response to critics who say that it is your mental health that should perhaps be examined as this war continues?”

Trump responded: “I haven't heard that. But if that's the case, you're going to have to have more people like me, because our country was being ripped off on trade, on everything, for many years until I came along.”

The exchange followed a post Trump made on Sunday, April 5, in which he set a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He wrote: “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F***in’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell.”

"In the light of Easter, let us allow ourselves to be amazed by Christ! Let us allow our hearts to be transformed by his immense love for us! Let those who have weapons lay them down! Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace! Not a peace imposed by force, but through dialogue! Not with the desire to dominate others, but to encounter them!" he said.

Leo also warned against what he described as a growing desensitisation to violence, lamenting a world becoming indifferent to the deaths of thousands and the wider consequences of conflict.

"On this day of celebration, let us abandon every desire for conflict, domination, and power, and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars and marked by a hatred and indifference that make us feel powerless in the face of evil," the pontiff, who hails from Chicago in the United States , said.

Popes have long been viewed as a moral compass in times of crisis, and Leo’s Easter message appeared to continue that tradition — while also reflecting the unique position of the papacy as both a spiritual authority and a head of state.

Although the pontiff did not name specific leaders in his Easter address, his remarks come against the backdrop of escalating global tensions and ongoing conflicts .

Just days earlier, however, Leo had been more direct.

Speaking to journalists, he referenced remarks by Donald Trump, saying he hoped the US leader was seeking an “off-ramp” to reduce violence and halt the cycle of hatred, particularly in conflict zones such as the Middle East.

He also called on leaders to return to dialogue and reduce the level of violence , stressing that peace — especially during Easter — should prevail.

As conflicts persist across multiple regions, Leo’s call for restraint, dialogue and peace positions the Vatican once again at the centre of global appeals for an end to violence.

Sadrist Movement official Sabah al-Saadi said the demonstrations reflected Iraqis’ desire for peace, freedom and dignity, while rejecting aggression, colonialism and foreign domination in the region. Another protester, Sheikh Muhammad al-Atwani, denounced attacks on what he described as safe areas, including schools sheltering families and children, and reaffirmed opposition to occupation.

The protests followed a statement issued by al-Sadr earlier in the week urging Iraqis to take to the streets to condemn what he called “Zionist-American aggression” and to call for peace . Demonstrators said Iraq and the wider region wanted stability, but rejected what they described as U.S.-Israeli hegemony against Arab and Muslim peoples.

Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters later praised Iraq’s position, thanking in particular the Popular Mobilisation forces, resistance factions and the Shiite community for their support. It also said Iraq would be exempt from any Iranian transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional tensions have soared since the United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran on February 28, amid diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear and missile programmes.

The rescue came after a U.S. F-15E was shot down over Iran, triggering a nearly two-day search for its second crew member. U.S. forces eventually extracted the wounded officer in a high-risk operation that U.S. media said involved special operations troops and a CIA deception effort to mislead Iranian forces.

The episode has unfolded against the backdrop of the widening U.S.-Iran war, which began after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

Reuters, citing an Israeli security official, reported that Israeli intelligence helped the rescue mission and that Israel paused operations in the area to support it, underlining the close coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv as the conflict deepens.

Figures drawn from multiple media and defence sources indicate that more than 1,300 ballistic missiles and nearly 3,900 drones were deployed by Iran in roughly the first five weeks of the conflict, underscoring the scale of its initial offensive.

The bulk of Iran’s launches occurred in the opening phase of the conflict . In the first week alone, hundreds of missiles and over a thousand drones were reportedly fired, reflecting what analysts describe as a “shock-and-saturation” strategy aimed at overwhelming air defence systems.

Data compiled by Al Jazeera shows that in the first 24 hours, Iran fired 167 missiles and over 500 drones at targets in the region, including the United Arab Emirates.

This intensity was consistent with broader patterns observed in the early days of the conflict, when large salvos were used to expand the battlefield and test defensive systems across multiple countries.

However, the pace of launches dropped significantly in subsequent weeks.

Sustained U.S. and Israeli airstrikes targeting missile infrastructure and launch sites led to a dramatic reduction in Iran’s firing rate , in some cases by up to 90% compared with the early days of the war.

By mid-conflict, Iran was launching roughly 20 to 30 missiles per day on average, alongside continued drone attacks, according to defence analysts tracking the war.

Despite the reduction, attacks continued across the region, with Gulf states reporting interceptions of missiles and drones targeting energy infrastructure and military bases.

One of the most notable trends has been the scale of drone warfare. Drones accounted for the majority of Iran’s launches during the first five weeks, reflecting their lower cost and ability to evade defences when used in large numbers.

Even as launch rates declined, Western intelligence assessments suggest Iran retained a significant portion of its arsenal and operational capacity.

Recent reporting indicates that only part of Iran’s missile and drone inventory has been destroyed, with mobile launch systems and underground storage allowing continued attacks despite heavy bombardment.

“We are in touch with Iran and other countries there to see how best we can get unimpeded transit and safe transit for our ships, which are carrying products including LPG, LNG and other products. Through this conversation that we have had over the last several days, we have had six Indian ships which have been able to safely cross Hormuz and we continue to be in touch with relevant parties on this matter,” Viory quotes.

He said New Delhi would continue engaging with relevant parties to safeguard the movement of Indian vessels through the strategic waterway.

The comments came hours after reports that the bridge, a major artery linking Tehran and Karaj, was hit in two waves of US airstrikes. Iranian state media said the second strike occurred while emergency teams were already responding to the first, Viory reports.

Iranian officials said the strikes killed eight people and wounded 95, while US officials cited in international media described the bridge as a key route they claimed was being used to move military supplies.

Scaled-down ‘Visita Iglesia’

The impact of higher fuel prices is most visible in Visita Iglesia, a Maundy Thursday tradition where devotees visit seven or more churches to pray the 14 Stations of the Cross

This year, some Catholics are compressing the ritual — opting to visit just one church and complete all 14 stations within its premises, rather than travelling across multiple locations.

Others are limiting their routes to nearby parishes, abandoning longer trips that previously stretched to provinces such as Pampanga, Ilocos or Tagaytay.

The shift reflects the sharp rise in fuel prices, with gasoline costs nearly doubling in some cases, prompting households to cut back not only on travel but also on electricity and other daily expenses.

Urban centres such as Quezon City and Manila have seen steady foot traffic in major churches, suggesting that while mobility has been curtailed, participation in the tradition remains intact — albeit in a more localised form.

‘Jesus’ prays for the Middle East

In Pampanga, one of the country’s most extreme expressions of Holy Week devotion has taken on a contemporary geopolitical dimension.

In San Pedro Cutud, San Fernando, a long-time devotee known as the “Christ of Pampanga” marked his final crucifixion after 37 years — dedicating the act to prayers for peace in the Middle East.

The ritual, in which participants are nailed to wooden crosses, drew about 8,000 spectators at the main site and more than 15,000 across five locations this year, according to organisers.

The annual reenactment, already physically demanding, unfolded under intense heat, with some attendees fainting during the ceremonies, though no major incidents were reported.

The retiring devotee, aged 65 and managing health issues including asthma, required oxygen support after the performance — underscoring both the personal toll and enduring appeal of the tradition, which continues to draw both local and foreign visitors.

Travel demand still up 50%

Despite mounting cost pressures, data suggest that Filipinos are still travelling in large numbers during Holy Week — though with notable adjustments.

Outbound travel demand rose by 50% year-on-year for the April 1 to 12 period, while domestic bookings increased by 25%, according to travel platform Trip.com.

However, travellers are increasingly favouring destinations closer to home, particularly within Asia. Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore topped outbound preferences, followed by Bangkok and Taipei, with longer-haul trips to Europe and the United States seeing reduced demand as airfares climbed sharply.

Holy Week remains one of the Philippines’ busiest travel periods, with bookings made earlier — averaging 74 days in advance — as travellers seek to manage rising costs.

Earlier, Trump said the US would leave Iran “whether we have a deal or not” and stated that it could “finish the job” within “two or three weeks.”

"They were the bully of the Middle East, but they're the bully no longer. This is a true investment in your children and your grandchildren's future. The whole world is watching, and they can't believe the power, strength, and brilliance," he said.

Iran—by this very name, character, and identity—is one of the oldest continuous civilizations in human history . Despite its historical and geographical advantages at various times, Iran has never, in its modern history, chosen the path of aggression, expansion, colonialism, or domination. Even after enduring occupation, invasion, and sustained pressure from global powers—and despite possessing military superiority over many of its neighbors—Iran has never initiated a war. Yet it has resolutely and bravely repelled those who have attacked it.

The Iranian people harbor no enmity toward other nations, including the people of America, Europe, or neighboring countries. Even in the face of repeated foreign interventions and pressures throughout their proud history, Iranians have consistently drawn a clear distinction between governments and the peoples they govern. This is a deeply rooted principle in Iranian culture and collective consciousness—not a temporary political stance.

For this reason, portraying Iran as a threat is neither consistent with historical reality nor with present-day observable facts. Such a perception is the product of political and economic whims of the powerful—the need to manufacture an enemy in order to justify pressure, maintain military dominance, sustain the arms industry, and control strategic markets. In such an environment, if a threat does not exist, it is invented.

Within this same framework, the United States has concentrated the largest number of its forces, bases, and military capabilities around Iran—a country that, at least since the founding of the United States, has never initiated a war. Recent American aggressions launched from these very bases have demonstrated how threatening such a military presence truly is. Naturally, no country confronted with such conditions would forgo strengthening its defensive capabilities. What Iran has done—and continues to do—is a measured response grounded in legitimate self-defense, and by no means an initiation of war or aggression.

Relations between Iran and the United States were not originally hostile, and early interactions between the Iranian and American people were not marred with hostility or tension. The turning point, however, was the 1953 coup d’état—an illegal American intervention aimed at preventing the nationalization of Iran’s own resources. That coup disrupted Iran’s democratic process, reinstated dictatorship, and sowed deep distrust among Iranians toward U.S. policies.

This distrust deepened further with America’s support for the Shah’s regime, its backing of Saddam Hussein during the imposed war of the 1980s, the imposition of the longest and most comprehensive sanctions in modern history, and ultimately, unprovoked military aggression—twice, in the midst of negotiations—against Iran.

Yet all these pressures have failed to weaken Iran. On the contrary, the country has grown stronger in many areas: literacy rates have tripled—from roughly 30% before the Islamic Revolution to over 90% today; higher education has expanded dramatically; significant advances have been achieved in modern technology; healthcare services have improved; and infrastructure has developed at a pace and scale incomparable to the past. These are measurable, observable realities that stand independent of fabricated narratives.

At the same time, the destructive and inhumane impact of sanctions, war, and aggression on the lives of the resilient Iranian people must not be underestimated. The continuation of military aggression and recent bombings profoundly affect people’s lives, attitudes, and perspectives. This reflects a fundamental human truth: when war inflicts irreparable harm on lives, homes, cities, and futures, people will not remain indifferent toward those responsible.

This raises a fundamental question: Exactly which of the American people’s interests are truly being served by this war? Was there any objective threat from Iran to justify such behavior? Does the massacre of innocent children , the destruction of cancer-treatment pharmaceutical facilities, or boasting about bombing a country “back to the stone ages” serve any purpose other than further damaging the United States’ global standing?

Iran pursued negotiations, reached an agreement, and fulfilled all its commitments. The decision to withdraw from that agreement, escalate toward confrontation, and launch two acts of aggression in the midst of negotiations were destructive choices made by the U.S. government—choices that served the delusions of a foreign aggressor.

Attacking Iran’s vital infrastructure—including energy and industrial facilities—directly targets the Iranian people. Beyond constituting a war crime, such actions carry consequences that extend far beyond Iran’s borders. They generate instability, increase human and economic costs, and perpetuate cycles of tension, planting seeds of resentment that will endure for years. This is not a demonstration of strength; it is a sign of strategic bewilderment and an inability to achieve a sustainable solution.

Is it not also the case that America has entered this aggression as a proxy for Israel , influenced and manipulated by that regime? Is it not true that Israel, by manufacturing an Iranian threat, seeks to divert global attention away from its crimes toward the Palestinians? Is it not evident that Israel now aims to fight Iran to the last American soldier and the last American taxpayer dollar—shifting the burden of its delusions onto Iran, the region, and the United States itself in pursuit of illegitimate interests?

Is “America First” truly among the priorities of the U.S. government today?

I invite you to look beyond the machinery of misinformation—an integral part of this aggression—and instead speak with those who have visited Iran. Observe the many accomplished Iranian immigrants—educated in Iran—who now teach and conduct research at the world ’s most prestigious universities, or contribute to the most advanced technology firms in the West. Do these realities align with the distortions you are being told about Iran and its people?

Today, the world stands at a crossroads. Continuing along the path of confrontation is more costly and futile than ever before. The choice between confrontation and engagement is both real and consequential; its outcome will shape the future for generations to come. Throughout its millennia of proud history, Iran has outlasted many aggressors. All that remains of them are tarnished names in history, while Iran endures—resilient, dignified, and proud.

Trump’s claim has not been confirmed by Iranian officials.

His remarks come as the conflict — now in its second month — intensifies pressure on one of the world ’s most critical oil transit routes. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to global markets, handles a significant share of global oil shipments.

Washington has accused Tehran of effectively blockading the strait, disrupting energy flows and driving volatility in oil prices.

The US president also struck a combative tone, warning that military action would continue in the absence of concessions. “Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion,” he said.

Earlier, Trump suggested that successive waves of US-Israeli strikes had already reshaped Iran’s leadership, claiming without evidence that a “new regime” had emerged following the deaths of senior officials.

Tehran has not acknowledged any ceasefire request or direct negotiations with Washington.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman. It is one of the most important global energy transit routes, with about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it. The strait has been effectively closed by Iran since the United States and Israel launched attacks on 28 February. This has disrupted one of the world’s busiest oil shipping channels.

"Russia can offer the world such solutions and play an important role in shaping the new architecture of global logistics and international trade as a whole. For our partners, Russian logistic routes can be economically beneficial due to reduced transportation times as well as in terms of diversifying global transport flows," he added.

According to estimates from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), about 20 million barrels of oil passed through the strait per day in 2025. This represents nearly $600 billion (£447 billion) in annual energy trade .

Trump also suggested allies should secure their own energy supplies, while Iranian authorities warned access through the Strait of Hormuz could be restricted depending on countries’ positions in the conflict .

He added that the Pope’s call for “the laying down of arms and the renunciation of violence” had “resonated profoundly,” describing it as consistent with the teachings of major world religions.

“Whether we look to Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism or any of the world's great spiritual traditions, the message is fundamentally the same: love, compassion, tolerance, and self-discipline,” the Dalai Lama said. “Violence finds no true home in any of these teachings.”

The statement comes as conflicts in the Middle East and between Russia and Ukraine continue, with limited signs of near-term diplomatic resolution.

“History has shown us time and again that violence only begets more violence and is never a lasting foundation for peace,” he said.

The Dalai Lama called for efforts to resolve conflicts through non-violent means, saying: “An enduring resolution to conflict, including the ones we see in the Middle East or between Russia and Ukraine, must be rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect.”

He added that such efforts should be “approached with the understanding that, at the deepest level, we are all brothers and sisters.”

Pope Leo XIV — the first American pontiff — said in his Palm Sunday homily at St. Peter’s Square that “Jesus does not listen to prayers of those who wage war, adding that the Lord “always rejects violence.”

In his message, the Dalai Lama said a prayer for an end to ongoing conflicts : 

“I urge for and pray that the violence and conflicts may soon come to an end.”

South Korea: Shorter showers, fewer car trips

South Korea has launched a nationwide energy-saving campaign urging citizens to cut back on everyday consumption — including taking shorter showers , cycling short distances and avoiding charging phones or electric vehicles at night.

President Lee Jae Myung framed the effort as a collective national test, invoking past crises when citizens rallied to support the economy. “We desperately need the cooperation from the people,” he said, calling on households to adopt a 12-step conservation plan.

Public agencies are also now required to limit official vehicle use to four days a week, with number plate-based restrictions determining which cars stay off the road. Officials have warned that similar curbs on private vehicles could follow if the crisis worsens.

Sri Lanka: Holidays on Wednesdays 

Sri Lanka has taken a more drastic step, declaring Wednesdays a holiday for public institutions to conserve fuel.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said the country must “prepare for the worst” as it braces for possible shortages. The measure effectively cuts commuting and government operations by one day each week.

Philippines: Air-conditioning limit to 24°C

In the Philippines, the government is targeting cooling — one of the largest sources of electricity demand in a tropical climate.

Public offices have been ordered to set air-conditioning units no lower than 24°C under a broader directive to cut energy use by at least 10%. Agencies are also being encouraged to adopt renewable energy where possible.

The measures are part of a wider effort to ensure stable electricity supply as global energy markets remain volatile.

Thailand: Take the stairs

Thailand’s approach combines austerity with behavioural nudges. Government workers have been told to work from home, avoid lifts and take the stairs , while air-conditioning is capped at 26–27°C.

Other steps include suspending overseas trips, reducing photocopier use and shifting meetings online. 

Across Asia, such measures underscore a common reality: the region’s economies remain tightly tied to distant energy routes. As supplies tighten, governments are not only adjusting policy — they are asking citizens to change how they live, one habit at a time.