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Trump says deal to end war with Iran already signed and details to be released ‘pretty soon’

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that a deal aimed at ending the conflict with Iran has already been signed, with the full details expected to be released “pretty soon.” The announcement marks a significant development after months of tensions, military confrontations, and diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Speaking ahead of the G7 summit in France, Trump said the agreement had been digitally signed and that a formal signing ceremony is expected later this week in Geneva. According to U.S. officials, the deal takes the form of a memorandum of understanding that establishes a framework for ending hostilities and opening the door to further negotiations. Vice President JD Vance confirmed that the agreement was signed electronically and stressed that no funds have yet been transferred to Iran. He noted that any future economic benefits or sanctions relief would depend on Tehran meeting its commitments under the agreement. Reports indicate that the framework includes measures to reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and maintain a ceasefire while both sides continue discussions on broader issues, including Iran’s nuclear program. A 60-day negotiation period is expected to follow the formal signing. While Trump has described the agreement as a major step toward peace and regional stability, some details remain unclear. Iranian officials have acknowledged progress but previously expressed caution regarding the timing and final terms of the deal. Critics in both the United States and the Middle East have also questioned aspects of the proposed arrangement. The release of the full text is expected in the coming days, which should provide a clearer picture of the commitments made by both sides and the prospects for a lasting peace.

Trump says Iran shot down US helicopter and vows to respond

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

U.S. President Donald Trump has accused Iran of shooting down a U.S. Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz and pledged that the United States will respond to what he described as a direct attack. The incident marks a significant escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran at a time when diplomatic efforts to reduce regional conflict remain fragile. According to Trump, the helicopter was conducting a patrol mission over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz when it was allegedly targeted by Iranian forces. In a statement posted on social media, Trump said he had been informed by the U.S. military that Iran was responsible for the downing of the aircraft. He added that the United States “must, of necessity, respond to this attack.” Despite the dramatic claim, details surrounding the incident remain limited. U.S. military officials confirmed that the helicopter went down near the Strait of Hormuz and that both crew members were safely rescued. Reports indicate the pilots are in stable condition and suffered no major injuries. The event comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following recent clashes involving Iran, Israel, and U.S. forces. Analysts warn that any American military response could further destabilize the region and threaten shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy corridors. Iran has not publicly provided a detailed response to Trump’s accusation, and investigations into the circumstances of the helicopter’s loss are ongoing. Meanwhile, global markets are closely watching developments, with oil prices showing signs of volatility as concerns about regional security grow. As Washington considers its next steps, the incident has raised fresh questions about the future of U.S.-Iran relations and the possibility of a broader confrontation in the Gulf region.

Putin says there is ‘no point’ meeting Zelensky over ending Ukraine war

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed a proposal from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a face-to-face meeting aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, saying he currently sees “no point” in holding direct talks. The remarks come as diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the conflict remain stalled after more than four years of fighting. Zelensky recently sent an open letter urging Putin to meet on neutral ground and discuss a pathway to peace. The Ukrainian leader proposed measures including a ceasefire during negotiations and other confidence-building steps intended to reduce tensions between the two countries. However, speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin rejected the idea, arguing that meaningful negotiations should be based on detailed agreements prepared by experts rather than public appeals. He stated that long-term solutions are needed and suggested that lower-level negotiators should first work out the framework for any future settlement. The Kremlin leader maintained that Russia’s military campaign is continuing and reiterated his position that any peace agreement would require significant compromises from Ukraine. Kyiv, meanwhile, has accused Moscow of prolonging the conflict by refusing to engage in genuine negotiations. The exchange highlights the deep divisions that continue to block progress toward a peace deal. While both sides publicly express support for ending the war, they remain far apart on key issues including territory, security guarantees, and the future political status of occupied regions. With fighting continuing along the front lines and diplomatic channels producing little progress, prospects for a direct meeting between Putin and Zelensky appear increasingly uncertain. For now, the possibility of a breakthrough in peace talks remains remote as both governments maintain their existing positions.

Hezbollah rejects renewed ceasefire agreed by Israel and Lebanon

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Hezbollah has rejected a renewed ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Lebanon, casting doubt on efforts to end months of fighting along the border. The deal, brokered with strong support from the United States, aimed to halt hostilities and create conditions for broader peace negotiations. However, Hezbollah leaders dismissed the agreement, arguing that it fails to address what they describe as Israel’s continued military presence in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem said the group would not accept terms requiring its fighters to withdraw from southern Lebanon while Israeli forces remain in the area. He described the proposal as unacceptable and insisted that any ceasefire must include a complete Israeli withdrawal before Hezbollah considers ending its military operations. The agreement had been endorsed by the governments of Israel and Lebanon. It called for a cessation of hostilities, the creation of security zones under the control of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and the removal of armed non-state groups from areas south of the Litani River. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun supported the deal, describing it as an opportunity to move toward lasting stability. Despite the announcement, violence has continued. Israeli airstrikes reportedly targeted Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah maintained rocket and drone attacks against Israeli forces. The ongoing clashes have resulted in additional casualties and further displacement of civilians on both sides of the border. The rejection of the ceasefire highlights the challenges facing diplomatic efforts in the region. With Hezbollah refusing to accept the terms and Israel continuing military operations, prospects for a lasting peace remain uncertain. Regional and international mediators are expected to continue negotiations in hopes of preventing a wider escalation of the conflict.

Israeli strikes kill nine in Lebanon as Hezbollah fires rockets over border

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Israeli strikes in Lebanon killed at least nine people as cross-border fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensified, raising concerns about a broader escalation in the region. The latest violence comes despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. According to Lebanese officials, several Israeli air and drone strikes targeted areas in southern Lebanon, resulting in civilian and military casualties and causing significant damage to infrastructure. The strikes followed a fresh wave of rocket fire launched from Lebanon into northern Israel. Hezbollah and allied groups have continued to exchange attacks with Israeli forces, maintaining a cycle of retaliation that has persisted for months. Israeli authorities reported intercepting several incoming threats, while warning that any attacks on Israeli territory would trigger a strong military response. Among the targets struck by Israel were vehicles and locations suspected of being linked to Hezbollah operations. Lebanese security sources said some attacks occurred near major population centers, increasing fears among civilians already displaced by months of conflict. Health officials in Lebanon reported additional injuries beyond the nine fatalities, while emergency crews continued rescue operations in affected areas. The renewed hostilities have complicated international efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire. Recent U.S.-mediated discussions sought to reduce attacks by both sides, but continued rocket launches and retaliatory strikes have threatened those diplomatic initiatives. Analysts warn that any further escalation could destabilize the broader Middle East, particularly as regional tensions involving Iran and its allies remain high. Since fighting intensified earlier this year, thousands of people in Lebanon have been killed or displaced, while communities in northern Israel have also faced repeated rocket and drone threats. With neither side showing signs of backing down, the situation along the border remains highly volatile, and international observers continue to call for restraint to prevent a wider regional conflict.

Ukraine rescuers pull dead from rubble after Russian strikes kill 22 people

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Ukrainian emergency crews continued search-and-rescue operations on Tuesday after one of the largest Russian missile and drone attacks in recent months left at least 22 people dead and more than 100 injured across the country. The overnight assault targeted several major cities, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Poltava, causing widespread destruction to residential neighborhoods and civilian infrastructure. Rescuers worked through piles of concrete and twisted metal to recover victims trapped beneath collapsed apartment buildings. In Kyiv, emergency teams searched damaged high-rise residential blocks where explosions sparked fires and left dozens injured. Authorities reported that several bodies were pulled from the rubble as crews raced to locate survivors. The attacks involved dozens of missiles and hundreds of drones, making them among the most extensive aerial assaults since the war began. Ukrainian officials said air defense systems intercepted many incoming threats, but numerous missiles and drones still reached their targets, striking homes, medical facilities, and energy infrastructure. In the city of Dnipro, the deadliest-hit area, multiple residential buildings suffered severe damage. Local officials confirmed that children were among the victims, while hospitals treated scores of wounded residents. Thousands of civilians sought shelter in underground metro stations and bomb shelters during the attack. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strikes and renewed calls for additional air-defense support from Western allies. Ukrainian officials warned that Russia’s intensified missile and drone campaign poses a growing threat to civilian populations as the conflict continues. The latest attack underscores the ongoing humanitarian toll of the war, with rescue teams still searching damaged buildings and authorities fearing that the casualty count could rise as recovery operations continue.

Israel seizes castle in Lebanon as it expands ground offensive

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Israeli forces have captured the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon as part of an expanded ground offensive against the Iran-backed group Hezbollah. The seizure marks Israel’s deepest military incursion into Lebanese territory in more than 26 years and signals a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two sides. The medieval fortress, also known as Beaufort Castle, sits on a strategic hilltop overlooking large areas of southern Lebanon and northern Israel. Military analysts say control of the site provides a valuable observation point and could strengthen Israeli operations in the region. Israeli officials stated that the area had been used by Hezbollah to coordinate attacks and launch projectiles toward northern Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered the military to expand its ground maneuver in Lebanon and deepen control over areas previously held by Hezbollah. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the capture of the castle as a major tactical achievement and indicated that Israeli forces intend to maintain a presence in the area. The operation comes despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that officially remains in effect. Israel has also issued new evacuation warnings for civilians south of the Zahrani River as fighting intensifies. Lebanese authorities have condemned the offensive, accusing Israel of pursuing a “scorched-earth” policy that has displaced more than one million people and caused widespread destruction across southern Lebanon. The latest developments have raised concerns among international leaders that the conflict could further destabilize the region and complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the United States, Lebanon, and Iran. France has already called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address the escalating violence.

‘Poison seller’ who sold toxic chemicals online to people across world admits aiding suicides

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

A Canadian man accused of operating one of the world’s most notorious online toxic chemical businesses has admitted in court to aiding suicides by supplying lethal substances to customers across multiple countries. Prosecutors say the man sold sodium nitrite, a chemical commonly used in food preservation, through websites that targeted vulnerable individuals seeking ways to end their lives. Authorities allege that hundreds of packages containing the toxic substance were shipped internationally, reaching customers in countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and several European nations. Investigators linked the chemical sales to numerous deaths over the past few years, sparking global concern over the ease of obtaining dangerous substances online. According to court documents, the accused acknowledged helping people obtain the chemicals despite knowing many intended to use them for suicide. Law enforcement agencies from several countries cooperated in a lengthy investigation that uncovered online forums and websites promoting self-harm methods while directing users to the seller’s business. Health experts have warned that sodium nitrite can be fatal even in small quantities when consumed improperly, causing oxygen deprivation in the body. Governments and online marketplaces have faced mounting pressure to tighten controls on the sale of potentially deadly chemicals and improve monitoring of suspicious online activity. Families of victims have called for stronger international regulations and better mental health support systems to prevent similar tragedies. Advocacy groups argue that vulnerable individuals can easily access harmful content online, making intervention more difficult for authorities and loved ones. The case has drawn widespread international attention because of its scale and the number of deaths potentially linked to the operation. Sentencing proceedings are expected later this year, while investigators continue examining whether additional individuals or networks were involved in distributing the chemicals globally.

Gaza City hospitals say several killed in strike, as Israel targets Hamas leaders

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Hospitals in Gaza City reported that several people were killed following a new round of air strikes as Israel intensified operations targeting senior leaders of Hamas. The strikes came amid escalating violence in the region, with civilians once again caught in the middle of the conflict. Medical officials in Gaza said emergency teams rushed wounded residents to overcrowded hospitals after explosions hit residential areas overnight. Witnesses described scenes of destruction, damaged buildings, and panic among families seeking shelter. Local authorities claimed that women and children were among the casualties, though exact figures remain unclear. The Israeli military stated that the operation was aimed at Hamas command centers and senior operatives believed to be coordinating attacks against Israeli targets. According to Israeli officials, intelligence reports identified several strategic locations allegedly linked to militant activity inside Gaza City. Israel has repeatedly argued that Hamas operates within densely populated civilian areas, making military operations more complicated. The latest escalation follows weeks of rising tensions, including rocket fire from Gaza and Israeli retaliatory strikes. International organizations and humanitarian agencies have expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, where hospitals are struggling with shortages of medicine, fuel, and medical supplies. Global leaders have urged restraint and called for efforts to prevent further civilian casualties. The United Nations renewed demands for humanitarian access and protection for noncombatants trapped in the conflict zone. The ongoing fighting has deepened fears of a broader regional crisis, while diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire continue. Residents in Gaza City remain uncertain about what comes next as air raid sirens, explosions, and emergency evacuations continue across the territory.

Deal with US not imminent, Iran says

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Iran has said that a final agreement with the United States is “not imminent,” despite reports of progress in ongoing negotiations aimed at easing regional tensions and ending months of conflict in the Middle East. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that Tehran and Washington had reached understandings on several major issues, but warned that significant differences still remain between the two sides. The comments came after senior US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggested that a breakthrough could happen soon. However, Iranian officials accused Washington of sending mixed signals and changing positions during negotiations, making it difficult to finalize a deal quickly. The discussions are believed to involve extending the current ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz to global shipping, and creating a framework for future talks over Iran’s nuclear programme. Iran has insisted that the current negotiations are focused mainly on ending hostilities and reducing military tensions, not directly on nuclear matters. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the key issues in the talks because it is a vital route for global oil shipments. Continued uncertainty over the waterway has already pushed energy markets into volatility and increased concerns about global supply disruptions. Analysts say any delay in reaching a deal could keep oil prices elevated and prolong instability across the region. US President Donald Trump has also said negotiators should not rush into an agreement, stressing that Washington would only accept a “strong and meaningful” deal. Meanwhile, regional powers including Qatar, Oman and Pakistan continue diplomatic efforts to mediate between Tehran and Washington.