ceasefire announcement

President Trump stated the US agreed to a ceasefire with Iran as a favor to Pakistan, accepting the truce at Islamabad's request. This comes as Pakistan seeks to mediate the US-Iran crisis, despite reports suggesting it may have provided logistical support to Iran, raising questions about its neutrality.

Intense diplomatic efforts are underway to secure an agreement between the US and Iran, aiming to end the Middle East conflict, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and ease energy market pressures. Despite claims of progress, significant disagreements persist over uranium enrichment, sanctions relief, and regional influence, leaving a final deal uncertain.

Four Republicans joined Democrats in advancing a war powers resolution against President Trump's actions in Iran, highlighting congressional concerns over his authority. The symbolic vote underscores a growing divide as lawmakers question the administration's transparency and justification for continued military operations. Despite the measure's limited enforcement power, it signals increasing pressure on the White House.

Russia resumed attacks on Ukraine with drone strikes on Kyiv as a three-day truce expired, while one person was killed in Dnipropetrovsk. Moscow claims to have downed 27 Ukrainian drones. Despite hopes for peace, both sides accused each other of violations during the ceasefire, with President Zelensky stating fighting continued.

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US President Trump announced a three-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire from May 9-11, hoping for a long-term peace deal and a prisoner exchange. Despite this, fighting persisted, with both sides reporting attacks. Ukraine accused Russia of continuing assaults, while Russia claimed to intercept numerous drones. The truce follows Russia's Victory Day, a proposal Kyiv had previously dismissed.

The recent drone strike near the UAE's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, though causing no damage, has heightened regional tensions. Iran, accused by the UAE of numerous attacks, denies involvement but warns of limited patience. Meanwhile, reports suggest the UAE's covert operations in Iran just before the announcement of the ceasefire. The incident underscores the escalating conflict, with potential for greater UAE involvement if the ceasefire collapses.

Pakistan reportedly sheltered Iranian military aircraft at its airbases, raising questions about its neutrality as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict. US officials cited in a CBS News report claim Iran moved planes, including a reconnaissance jet, to Pakistan's Nur Khan Air Base. A Pakistani official denied these allegations, calling them implausible.

On Tuesday, Kyiv was jolted by drone strikes, shattering a fragile three-day ceasefire brokered by President Donald Trump. The capital's air raid sirens, silent since Friday, echoed through the streets as Ukrainian defenses sprang into action. Both warring parties had already exchanged blame for previous ceasefire breaches, undermining Trump's hopes for a lasting peace.

US President Donald Trump has signaled openness to renewed peace talks with Iran, a shift from his previous threats of military action. Saudi Arabia welcomed this diplomatic approach. Iran's chief negotiator, however, warned of retaliation, viewing the US stance as an attempt to reignite conflict.

A drone attack on the UAE's Barakah nuclear plant, originating from Iraq, has heightened regional escalation fears. Analysts believe Iran-backed militias are a key front in Tehran's confrontation with the US and Israel. The strike, condemned as a terrorist act, forced backup systems at the plant to activate, highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure amid rising tensions.

President Trump indicated a 50/50 chance of a deal or military action with Iran, with a decision expected Sunday. Intense diplomatic efforts involving multiple Middle Eastern nations have led to a "largely negotiated" Memorandum of Understanding for peace, subject to finalization.

A potential 60-day ceasefire extension between the US and Iran is nearing, aiming to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and allow Iranian oil exports. This deal, brokered by Pakistan, includes lifting US port blockades and sanctions waivers, contingent on Iran negotiating its nuclear program and ending the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Global oil markets are closely monitoring developments.

Iran's official account in Russia shared a viral video of a Bangladeshi albino buffalo resembling Donald Trump, claiming the animal lost its appetite due to the comparison amid ongoing US-Iran conflict. The buffalo, named 'Donald Trump', has become a local attraction ahead of Eid al-Adha festivities.

Oil prices edged higher as supply disruption fears from the Iran conflict and falling US crude stockpiles emerged. Brent crude reached $105.83 and WTI $99.23, recovering from a sharp decline after US-Iran negotiation reports. Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz persist, impacting global shipments and forcing nations to tap reserves.

US President Donald Trump revealed the United States was hours from striking Iran, with warships ready, before a diplomatic opening prompted a pause. He warned of further "big hits" if negotiations fail, but Gulf leaders urged him to hold off. Iran's army countered by threatening to "open new fronts" if strikes resume.

The United Arab Emirates secretly conducted attacks on an Iranian oil refinery last month, marking a new direct participant in the conflict. This action followed Iran's extensive targeting of the UAE, prompting a strategic shift in Abu Dhabi's approach to Tehran. The UAE possesses a highly advanced air force, fueling speculation about its involvement.

In a recent briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declared it too early to delve into the specifics of a potential resolution to the war, even as president Putin hints at a possible end. Peskov underscored Russia's willingness to engage in discussions, insisting that the ball is in Ukraine's court to determine its next moves to cease the special military operation.