Iran has accused the United States of “piracy at sea and state terrorism” after US forces seized Iranian-linked vessels, intensifying tensions ahead of the ceasefire deadline. Iranian officials said no final decision has been made on attending peace talks in Pakistan, citing the naval blockade and tanker interception as key concerns. The US confirmed boarding the sanctioned tanker Tifani near Sri Lanka, calling it part of global enforcement efforts. Donald Trump signalled no ceasefire extension and warned of possible military action, while mediation efforts continue amid fragile diplomacy. (PC: India Today)

Pakistani Minister of Information Attaullah Tarar said Pakistan is still awaiting a formal response from Iran on participation in the next round of talks with the United States in Islamabad. Tarar emphasised Pakistan’s continued diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts, stating it remains in constant contact with Iranian officials. He noted that Iran’s decision is critical as the two-week ceasefire is set to expire at 4:50 am PST on April 22. Pakistan has been actively urging Tehran to join the second round of negotiations, highlighting the urgency of dialogue before the fragile ceasefire window closes. (PC: X)

The Israel Defense Forces said two soldiers will face 30 days’ detention and removal from combat duty after vandalising a statue of Jesus in Debel, southern Lebanon. The soldier who struck the statue and another who filmed the act were punished following an inquiry that found their conduct violated military values. Six additional soldiers present will face separate action. The incident, widely shared online, drew condemnation, with Benjamin Netanyahu expressing shock. The IDF apologised and replaced the damaged statue in coordination with locals, stressing operations target Hezbollah, not civilians, amid ongoing ceasefire tensions.

The United States conducted a maritime interdiction operation on a “stateless” sanctioned tanker, M/T Tifani, in the Indo-Pacific, completing a right-of-visit boarding without incident. The Pentagon said the action targeted illicit networks allegedly supporting Iran, stressing that international waters are not a refuge for sanctioned vessels. The tanker was tracked in the Indian Ocean between Sri Lanka and Indonesia, though cargo and crew details remain undisclosed. The move comes amid heightened tensions, with Washington maintaining a naval blockade while Iran signalled defiance, including reports of another tanker successfully reaching its waters despite US warnings.

Donald Trump said the United States is fully prepared for military action against Iran if negotiations fail, while maintaining optimism for a potential agreement. Speaking as the ceasefire deadline approaches, Trump ruled out extending the truce, indicating a hardening stance. He defended the US blockade of Iranian ports as effective leverage in talks, despite Tehran’s objections calling it destabilising. The expiring two-week ceasefire had paused weeks of conflict, but mutual accusations of violations have weakened prospects for continuation. With diplomacy uncertain and pressure tactics intensifying, the risk of renewed confrontation is rising amid fragile negotiations and heightened tensions. (PC: X)

32-year-old man pleaded guilty to the religiously aggravated rape and assault of a Sikh woman at Birmingham Crown Court. The accused, John Ashby, admitted the crime in Walsall. Prosecutors said he followed the woman from a bus to her home last October. He attacked her with a stick and used abusive language. The victim told police she was assaulted inside her home. The case was adjourned for sentencing. The judge warned that a life sentence is being considered. The incident has raised concerns over hate crimes and violence against women in the United Kingdom.

Volodymyr Zelensky said it is “disrespectful” that US envoys visited Moscow but not Kyiv. He referred to Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who met Vladimir Putin several times. Zelensky said talks could happen in other countries if needed. Peace talks have slowed as US focus shifted to the Middle East. The war between Russia and Ukraine continues, with key issues still unresolved. Fighting and attacks are ongoing across regions. (PC: Getty Images)

Donald Trump said, “We don’t have that much time,” as he refused to extend the ceasefire with Iran. The ceasefire ends on Wednesday. Trump warned that attacks could restart if no deal is reached soon. He said the US military is ready. Talks may take place in Islamabad, led by JD Vance. Iran has not confirmed its participation and rejected threats. Tensions remain high. Oil prices have also risen due to concerns over the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global supplies.

Former negotiators say fresh talks between the United States and Iran remain difficult because of deep mistrust and very different styles. Iran state media said no delegation had yet left for Pakistan for planned talks. Former US negotiator Wendy Sherman said, “You cannot do a negotiation with Iran in one day.” She noted the 2015 nuclear deal took about 18 months. Former adviser Rob Malley said Iran’s leaders are “stubborn and tenacious,” while trust is near an all-time low. Officials said Iran’s attendance depends on changes in US behaviour and positions. (PC: HT)

US Vice President JD Vance is set to travel to Pakistan for another round of Iran peace talks as the ceasefire nears its end. Iranian officials have not confirmed if they will attend. Earlier talks reportedly failed to secure agreement on nuclear limits, shipping routes or oil flow. The uncertainty follows the US seizure of an Iranian cargo ship, which added fresh tension. President Donald Trump said the truce is unlikely to be extended. He warned of heavy bombing if no deal is reached. Both sides now have little time to avoid renewed conflict. (PC: NDTV)