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Negotiations between Washington and Tehran are expected to resume in Islamabad within days, placing President Donald Trump under intense pressure to deliver an Iran accord that can be credibly billed as superior to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) brokered by former President Barack Obama. Two tests dominate the diplomatic calculus: the deal must demonstrably exceed the Obama agreement, and it must ensure that Iran derives no lasting strategic advantage, particularly over the vital Strait of Hormuz. While direct comparisons with the 159‑page JCPOA are imperfect—given the evolution of Iran’s nuclear program and the emergence of non‑nuclear concerns—the Trump team is framing its objectives around four pivotal issues. 1. Enrichment suspension: In Geneva on 26 February, the U.S. demanded a 10‑year freeze on all domestic uranium enrichment, a figure Iran’s foreign minister deemed unrealistic beyond three years. In Islamabad, the U.S. escalated the ask to a 20‑year suspension, yet Trump publicly dismissed even that, insisting on a permanent ban. The practical timeline for Iran to restart enrichment after the damage to its facilities remains uncertain. 2. Highly enriched uranium (HEU) stockpile: The original JCPOA capped uranium enrichment at 3.65% and limited the stockpile to 300 kg. Iran now holds 440.9 kg of 60%‑enriched uranium—a material that can be rapidly converted to weapons‑grade (90%)—mostly stored as UF₆ gas in scuba‑tank‑sized canisters. Tehran offered to down‑blend this stockpile to 3.67% in an irreversible process, mirroring the 2015 deal’s provisions. The U.S., however, is pressing for the entire stockpile to be removed from Iran under American supervision, a stance that raises questions about the relative merits of in‑country down‑blending versus export. 3. Sanctions relief: The JCPOA promised the release of roughly $100 billion in frozen Iranian assets and the lifting of oil trade restrictions, while retaining sanctions on terrorism, human rights, and missile proliferation. In the Geneva framework, over 80% of sanctions would be lifted, leaving only human‑rights‑related measures. Trump’s administration, wary of political backlash, seeks to attach conditions on how Iran can spend the relief, a demand Tehran rejects, insisting on a permanent, irreversible lifting of sanctions. 4. Non‑nuclear issues: Trump has repeatedly criticized the JCPOA for isolating Iran’s nuclear program from its broader regional behavior. The current negotiations must grapple with Iran’s ballistic‑missile program, support for proxy forces, and the strategic future of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials are divided: one camp favors leveraging the strait for immediate revenue and national pride, while another views it as a diplomatic lever to secure a lasting ceasefire and security guarantees. The confluence of these challenges creates a “marshmallow test” for both sides—whether they can forgo short‑term temptations in favor of a durable, long‑term settlement. As the Trump presidency approaches its final year, the ability to craft a deal that convincingly outperforms the Obama era while addressing the expanded nuclear and geopolitical landscape will determine the legacy of U.S. policy on Iran and its impact on regional stability.

At the Metropolitano, Barcelona appeared to be in control early on, with Lamine Yamal delivering a pinpoint cross that set up a near‑certain goal for Fermín López. The strike was thwarted by a spectacular save from Juan Musso, leaving López drenched in claret. Had the ball found the net, Barcelona would have taken a 3‑0 lead and an advantage in the tie after already scoring through Yamal and Ferran Torres in the opening half‑hour.The deadlock was broken when Charlton‑trained forward Ademola Lookman netted the decisive goal, sending Atlético Madrid into the Bigger Cup semi‑finals. The victory sparked an exuberant reaction from coach Diego Simeone, who praised his side’s enthusiasm and readiness for the next challenge, hinting at a possible showdown with Arsenal or Sporting.In the aftermath, Barcelona winger Raphinha launched a scathing critique of referee Clément Turpin, alleging that the officiating had robbed his team not only in the second leg but also in the first. The Brazilian warned that his comments could land him on UEFA’s disciplinary “naughty step,” with precedent suggesting a suspension of at least three matches for such language.The controversy deepened as Turpin refrained from issuing any bookings to Atlético players and denied Barcelona what they believed were two clear penalty opportunities across both legs. Musso, who had earlier saved López’s chance, dismissed the accusations, emphasizing that the match was decided on the pitch and that disciplinary actions are part of the game’s reality.Further coverage of the European fixtures, including live updates from the Bigger Cup quarter‑finals and analysis from Guardian experts, is available on the publication’s football portal.

Manchester United's Harry Maguire will miss his team's upcoming match against Chelsea due to an additional one-match ban imposed by the Football Association. The ban comes as a result of Maguire's reaction to being sent off during a match against Bournemouth last month.The 33-year-old defender was shown a red card at the Vitality Stadium for a foul in the area on Evanilson, which led to Bournemouth sealing a 2-2 draw. Following the incident, Maguire allegedly made a comment towards the officials, stating they were 'a joke.'The FA's written reasons confirmed that the fourth official, Matthew Donohue, submitted an Extraordinary Incident Report Form, claiming Maguire shouted: 'You're a joke. You're all a fucking joke.' Maguire, however, claimed he said 'something along the lines of 'it is a fucking joke.''As a result, Maguire has been imposed a one-match suspension and a £30,000 fine by an independent Regulatory Commission. This suspension adds to the absence of fellow centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez, potentially leading to young players Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro lining up at the heart of defence against Chelsea.

Italy has suspended the automatic renewal of its defence agreement with Israel, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Tuesday in Verona. The pact, originally approved in 2006 and set to renew every five years, encompasses joint development of military equipment, technology research, training of personnel and information‑technology cooperation. Meloni explained that the decision reflects “the current situation,” referring to a recent episode in which Israeli forces allegedly fired warning shots at an Italian peacekeeping convoy in Lebanon, damaging a vehicle but causing no injuries. In response, Italy summoned the Israeli ambassador to protest the incident, while Israel later called Italy’s ambassador after Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, also deputy prime minister, condemned the “unacceptable attacks” on Lebanese civilians. Tajani was in Beirut for talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi, and posted on X that he was conveying Italy’s solidarity with Lebanon. Until now, Meloni’s right‑wing government has been one of Israel’s closest allies in Europe. The suspension marks a notable shift in the relationship, although the Israeli government has not issued an immediate reaction. The defence accord, which automatically renews every five years, includes cooperation across defence industries, education and training of military personnel, research and development, and information‑technology initiatives.

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, as Bayern Munich hosts Real Madrid in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal matchup. The German side holds a 2-1 aggregate lead, making Real Madrid's task even more daunting.Real Madrid's season has been a rollercoaster, with the team struggling to find consistency. Despite their recent 1-1 draw against Girona in La Liga, which has effectively ended their title hopes, they must now focus on overcoming Bayern Munich. The Spanish giants have had a remarkable history in the Champions League, having won the competition 14 times, a record in the tournament.Bayern Munich, on the other hand, has been in stellar form, extending their lead to 12 points at the top of the Bundesliga table with a 5-0 win over St Pauli on Saturday. Their star striker, Harry Kane, is expected to return after sitting out the league match due to a minor injury.The most pressing concern for Real Madrid is the facial injury sustained by Kylian Mbappe in training. However, given his importance to the team and the significance of the match, it's likely that he will be patched up to play. Mbappe has been in exceptional form, leading the Champions League scorers' list with 14 goals this season.In terms of team news, Bayern Munich will be without Lennart Karl and Sven Ulreich due to injuries, while Serge Gnabry has a minor knee problem but is expected to be available. Real Madrid will be without Thibaut Courtois, Rodrygo, and Aurelien Tchouameni due to injuries and suspensions.This matchup between two European giants is the most played fixture in Champions League history, with 29 meetings between the sides. Real Madrid has won 13 matches, while Bayern Munich has emerged victorious on 12 occasions.

Donald Trump publicly rebuked Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, claiming she showed no courage for refusing to support a U.S. strike on Iran. The remarks were made during an interview with Italy’s Corriere della Sera, where Trump said, “I’m shocked at her. I thought she had courage, but I was wrong.”Meloni’s stance follows her government’s decision to suspend the automatic renewal of the defence cooperation memorandum with Israel, citing the “current situation” as justification. The move marks the first time Italy has halted the agreement, which had been in place since 2016 and facilitated military exchanges and technology sharing.Trump escalated the dispute, stating, “Giorgia Meloni doesn’t want to help us in the war… Does she like it? I can’t imagine.” He also linked his criticism to broader frustrations with European allies, accusing them of “abandoning” the United States and urging them to “go get your own oil.”Relations between Washington and Rome have already been strained after Trump’s earlier attacks on Pope Francis, whom he described as “not doing a very good job” and urged to stop “catering to the radical left.” Meloni condemned those comments as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that religious leaders should not be forced to follow political directives.Amid the diplomatic fallout, Italy is grappling with domestic challenges. A recent justice referendum, backed by the government, was defeated, a result analysts interpret as a broader vote of no confidence in Meloni’s leadership. Economic anxieties are rising as the ongoing Iran‑Israel conflict threatens global energy supplies, with the Strait of Hormuz blockade contributing to a sharp increase in diesel prices across Europe.Political historian Lorenzo Castellani of Luiss University described the situation as a “repositioning,” noting that Meloni may be wary of alienating centre‑right voters who are increasingly critical of Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the war’s economic repercussions.Despite the tension, Meloni reiterated that Washington remains a “priority ally,” adding that true alliances require candour: “When you are friends, particularly strategic allies, you must also have the courage to say when you disagree.”Trump’s remarks also targeted other NATO members, suggesting that countries like Spain could face troop withdrawals and accusing the United Kingdom of failing to “step up.” His comments underscore growing fractures within the alliance as the Iran conflict escalates.In parallel, Italy’s diplomatic ties with Israel are under pressure. The suspension of the defence memorandum follows a series of incidents, including Israeli airstrikes that have caused thousands of casualties in Lebanon and a near‑miss involving Italian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. Italy’s ambassador to Israel was summoned after Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani condemned the Israeli raids during a visit to Beirut.The confluence of these diplomatic disputes—Trump’s criticism of Meloni, the halted Israel‑Italy defence pact, and broader NATO tensions—highlights a volatile period for European‑U.S. relations amid an intensifying Middle‑East conflict.

US President Donald Trump has indicated that peace talks between the US and Iran could potentially resume in Islamabad within the next two days. He expressed his appreciation for Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, describing him as doing a 'great job' in facilitating the negotiations.Trump made these comments while speaking to a New York Post reporter who had been in Islamabad for the initial round of ceasefire talks over the weekend. The president suggested that the talks could take place in Islamabad, stating, 'You should stay there, really, because something could be happening over the next two days, and we're more inclined to go there.'The possible resumption of talks comes after a period of heightened tensions, including a US naval blockade on ships using Iranian ports in the Gulf. This move was a response to Iran's near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz to ships using other Gulf ports. The blockade led to a spike in oil prices, which later dipped to about $95 per barrel following reports of potential new negotiations.Meanwhile, US Vice-President JD Vance has expressed openness to further talks, emphasizing the need for Iran to show more flexibility. Vance noted that Iran had shown some flexibility in Islamabad but 'didn't move far enough' on key issues, such as a 20-year suspension of uranium enrichment.An Iranian official accused the US delegation of making 'maximalist demands' at the Islamabad talks, asserting that Iran would not surrender its positions either on the battlefield or at the negotiating table. The sticking points include Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium (HEU) and its demand for a shorter moratorium on uranium enrichment.Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, is set to embark on a regional tour to Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar to garner support for the peace process and discuss proposals to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, his trip may be shortened if negotiations resume promptly.

Qantas announced a fare increase and a 5% reduction in domestic capacity for May and June, responding to a rapid shift in passenger demand away from airlines that transit the conflict‑ridden Middle East. In a market update released on Tuesday, the carrier said it is redeploying aircraft from its U.S. and domestic networks to capture strong interest in Europe‑bound travel, especially to Paris and Rome. The move follows service cuts by Persian Gulf carriers such as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways, which have scaled back flights amid the escalating Iran conflict. To accommodate the new focus, Qantas and its low‑cost arm Jetstar will cut capacity across their domestic networks by about 5%, trimming frequencies on key inter‑city routes and suspending several regional services. Four temporary suspensions will take effect in mid‑May: Melbourne‑Hamilton Island, Melbourne‑Coffs Harbour, Sydney‑Busselton and Darwin‑Gold Coast. In addition, the Adelaide‑Mount Gambier route will be discontinued indefinitely due to low demand and soaring fuel costs. The airline warned that its jet‑fuel expenses are set to rise sharply, projecting a second‑half 2026 fuel bill of $3.1‑$3.3 billion, up from the previously forecast $2.2 billion. This surge is driven by higher oil prices linked to the Iran conflict. To offset the cost pressure, Qantas has already raised ticket prices and signalled that “further action” – likely additional fare hikes – may be necessary. While airlines typically use hedging contracts to lock in fuel prices, the current volatility limits the effectiveness of such safeguards. Following the market update, Qantas shares slipped more than 3% in early trading before stabilising, reflecting investor concern over the combined impact of higher fares, reduced domestic capacity, and elevated fuel costs.

Energy prices in the United States have continued to surge, even after President Donald Trump's administration issued a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act, a maritime law that restricts foreign-flagged vessels from transporting goods between US ports.The waiver, which came into effect on March 18, was intended to alleviate pressure on energy supplies by allowing more foreign vessels to transport goods domestically. However, experts say the impact on oil prices has been negligible, with oil prices rising 4 percent on the day amid a US blockade of Iranian ports.“It is estimated that it’s going to be about 3 cents on the East Coast and it might go up on the Gulf Coast, but these changes are so small that they’re overshadowed by the spikes in oil prices, and the oil prices keep going up,” said Usha Haley, a professor of management at Wichita State University.The Containerized Freight Index, a benchmark for shipping container costs, has jumped more than 10 percent over the last month and is up more than 35 percent from this time last year. The average price of gas in the US has also increased to $4.125 per gallon, up from $3.63 at this time last month.Despite the waiver, shippers have adapted their routes, with more than 34,000 ships diverting from the Strait of Hormuz over the past month. Major vessel insurers have also cancelled war risk coverage for ships travelling through the waterway, dissuading ship owners from going through the Gulf.Experts predict that fuel prices will only normalise once traffic through the strait returns to pre-war levels. The ongoing conflict and disruptions to transit through the Strait of Hormuz have contributed to the sustained high energy prices.