A sharp diplomatic clash erupted after Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif labeled Israel “cancerous” and told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “burn in hell,” amid ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Israel condemned the remarks as provocative and inappropriate, escalating tensions between the two nations. The exchange comes during heightened conflict in the Middle East, with Israel targeting Hezbollah positions despite a fragile US-Iran ceasefire. Pakistan criticized Israel’s actions as harmful to regional peace efforts. Meanwhile, global powers expressed concern that both rising violence and hostile rhetoric could further destabilize the region and undermine ongoing diplomatic negotiations. (PC: NDTV)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the US-Iran ceasefire does not apply to Lebanon, confirming continued military operations against Hezbollah. Israeli forces launched fresh airstrikes targeting what they described as Hezbollah “launch sites,” even as diplomatic efforts continue elsewhere. Lebanon has demanded a ceasefire before entering negotiations, but Israel insists talks can proceed “under fire.” The ongoing attacks have caused heavy casualties and intensified international concern, with global leaders warning that escalating violence in Lebanon could undermine the fragile regional truce and derail broader peace efforts in the Middle East. (PC: X)

Amid the fragile US-Iran ceasefire, only a limited number of vessels are transiting the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, including two India-bound ships. Despite the truce aimed at reopening the route, maritime movement remains highly restricted, with Iran tightly controlling passage. Reports indicate that only a handful of ships are being allowed through each day, far below normal levels, raising concerns over global energy supply and trade disruptions. Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for oil shipments, and continued uncertainty highlights the ceasefire’s limited impact on restoring normal shipping operations. (PC: The Hindu)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has reportedly vowed revenge for those killed in the ongoing conflict, calling them “martyrs” and promising strong retaliation. His statement comes after the assassination of his father, Ali Khamenei, during US-Israel strikes that triggered a wider regional war. Iran’s leadership has framed the casualties as a national sacrifice, intensifying public anger and calls for justice. The remarks highlight Tehran’s hardline stance despite a fragile ceasefire, raising fears of renewed escalation and prolonged instability across the Middle East. (PC: India Today)

U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reduce military strikes in Lebanon to ensure the success of ongoing ceasefire efforts with Iran. The request comes amid fears that escalating Israeli attacks on Hezbollah could derail sensitive diplomatic negotiations. While Israel maintains that Lebanon is not part of the ceasefire agreement, continued bombardments have raised tensions and drawn international concern. The move signals Washington’s attempt to stabilise the region and prevent further escalation, as crucial peace talks with Iran are expected to proceed in the coming days. (PC: AFP)

Israel’s ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has expressed strong distrust toward Pakistan’s role in facilitating upcoming US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad. He stated that Israel does not trust Pakistan and believes the United States also views Islamabad only as a logistical intermediary rather than a reliable mediator. The remarks come ahead of high-stakes negotiations aimed at sustaining a fragile two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran. Reports suggest Pakistan was encouraged by Washington to broker the truce, raising questions about its neutrality. Despite skepticism, talks are expected to proceed, with hopes of stabilizing the region amid ongoing tensions. (PC: NDTV)

Benjamin Netanyahu has authorised immediate direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, signalling a potential diplomatic shift amid ongoing regional tensions. The talks, requested repeatedly by Lebanon, will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful bilateral relations. Netanyahu confirmed he had instructed his cabinet to initiate discussions “as soon as possible,” framing the move as a step toward long-term stability. The announcement comes against the backdrop of fragile ceasefire dynamics involving Iran and the United States, where Hezbollah’s role remains a central point of contention in wider geopolitical negotiations. (PC: X)

Donald Trump has urged European allies to submit detailed plans within days to secure the Strait of Hormuz following a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The demand, raised during meetings at the White House with NATO chief Mark Rutte, reflects Washington’s urgency to restore global oil flows. Trump criticised NATO’s limited support, warning of consequences if commitments fall short. Despite a UK-led coalition pledging assistance, instability persists due to ongoing tensions involving Lebanon. With talks planned in Islamabad, the effectiveness of allied response and ceasefire durability remains uncertain. (PC: India Today)

Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called Nawaf Salam, condemning Israel’s strikes on Beirut, reportedly the worst in six weeks, killing hundreds and wounding many more. The escalation threatens a fragile two-week United States–Iran truce and risks derailing upcoming talks in Islamabad. Sharif expressed condolences and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, while Salam sought Islamabad’s support to halt attacks. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of continued readiness to respond. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintained strikes would persist against Hezbollah. Rising casualties and warnings of ceasefire collapse intensify geopolitical uncertainty. (PC: ANI)

Iran has imposed strict conditions on reopening the Strait of Hormuz under its fragile ceasefire with the United States. Shipping is capped at 15 vessels daily, each requiring approval under IRGC-supervised protocols, with no return to pre-war norms. Tehran demands unfreezing of its overseas assets within two weeks and insists the war’s end be formalised via a United Nations Security Council resolution on its terms. It also opposes any US troop increase in the region. Tensions persist over Lebanon, excluded from the deal by Washington and Israel. Iran warns of renewed conflict and potential closure of Hormuz if conditions are unmet. (PC: NDTV)