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The US has announced plans to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which about 20% of global oil passes. This move comes after ceasefire talks with Iran ended without an agreement over the weekend. The blockade, threatened by President Donald Trump, aims to pressure Iran into reopening the strait, which has been effectively closed since February 28. Trump's announcement on social media stated that the US Navy will begin the process of blockading any and all ships trying to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz. He accused Iran of 'WORLD EXTORTION' and threatened that any person who attacked US vessels would be 'BLOWN TO HELL!' However, the blockade's scope appears to have been scaled down, with US Central Command (Centcom) stating it would be confined to vessels transiting through Iranian ports, permitting passage of ships headed to ports belonging to America's Gulf allies. The blockade is set to come into effect at 10am ET (2pm GMT). The UK will not be involved in any blockade of the strait, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated that his country was not asked to participate. Oil prices have surged following Trump's announcement, with US crude increasing 8% to $104.24 a barrel and Brent crude oil rising 7% to $102.29. Experts warn that the blockade could lead to higher oil prices, but much depends on its 'scope and implementation.' The managing director of research at ClearView Energy Partners, Kevin Book, noted that leaner volumes generally mean tighter markets and higher prices. Iranian and/or Houthi reprisals against Gulf producers' alternative routes could drive prices still higher. The blockade could cut off one of the Iranian regime's major sources of funding but might also have a short-term negative effect on global prices. About 100 tankers have transited the strait since the US and Israel started bombing Iran, most carrying Iranian oil products bound for China and India. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have stated that any warships approaching the strait to enforce a blockade would be considered in breach of the current ceasefire and would be dealt with strongly. Trump floated the possibility of a resumption of US strikes inside Iran, citing missile factories as one possible target.

President Donald Trump declared that the U.S. Navy will commence a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz immediately after peace talks between Washington and Tehran in Pakistan ended without an agreement. In a social‑media post, Trump labeled Iran’s actions as “extortion” and warned that American warships would hunt down and interdict any ship that has paid Iran a toll to traverse the waterway, while also beginning mine‑clearing operations. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard responded that civilian vessels may still cross the strait under “specific regulations,” but any military craft attempting entry would be deemed a breach of the cease‑fire and would be “dealt with severely.” Since the February 28 war launched by the United States and Israel, Iran has effectively taken control of the strategic chokepoint, a route that carries about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Traffic has now dwindled to a trickle, sending shockwaves through the global economy and raising alarm among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Al Jazeera correspondents noted that the rhetoric from the White House has amplified “alarm bells” across the GCC, where leaders had hoped the two‑week ceasefire would evolve into a longer‑term peace framework. Oman’s foreign minister, Badr Albusaidi, urged on social media that the ceasefire be extended and that all parties make “painful concessions” to avoid a return to war. Trump’s statements also included a stark threat: any Iranian forces that fire on U.S. or “peaceful” vessels would be “blown to hell.” He claimed the blockade would involve “other countries” and that the United Kingdom, along with “a couple of other nations,” were dispatching minesweeper vessels to assist – a claim the British government has not confirmed. Domestic criticism emerged quickly. Democratic Senator Mark Warner told CNN he “doesn’t see how blockading the strait will compel Iran to open it,” questioning the strategic logic behind the move. Iran denied U.S. allegations that two of its warships had recently passed through the strait for mine‑clearing, warning that any military vessel attempting such a passage would meet a “strong response.” Tehran officials have floated the idea of instituting a post‑conflict toll system for vessels using the waterway, a prospect that could further entrench Iran’s leverage over global energy flows. Analysts warn that heightened tensions in the Hormuz corridor could push oil prices higher, amplifying inflationary pressures worldwide. As the situation unfolds, mediators continue to press both sides to resume diplomatic talks and avoid a broader escalation.

On Saturday, Chelsea will welcome Manchester City to Stamford Bridge in a Premier League encounter that may prove decisive in the ongoing title race.The fixture is slated to begin at 4:30 pm local time (15:30 GMT), as both clubs seek vital points to solidify their positions near the top of the table.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has not ruled out the possibility of Neymar Jr earning a spot in his 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup, giving the forward two months to demonstrate he has the necessary qualities.Ancelotti has consistently stated that Neymar will be in contention if he is fully fit, but the attacker was omitted from Brazil's squad for last month's warm-up matches against France and Croatia.Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not played for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023 and has struggled to maintain a consistent run of matches since returning to Santos last year.Ancelotti has suggested that Neymar remains part of his thinking as Brazil assess their options in the run-up to the World Cup, which takes place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.“He’s a great talent, and it’s normal that people think he can help us win the next World Cup,” Ancelotti said in an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe.“He’s currently being evaluated by the CBF [Brazilian Football Confederation], by me, and he still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup.“After his knee injury, Neymar has made a good comeback; he’s scoring goals. He needs to continue in this direction and improve his fitness. He’s on the right track.”Brazil are in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland in the World Cup and will begin their campaign on June 13 in New Jersey.

The United States and Iran left Islamabad without a peace deal, ending the most senior diplomatic encounter between the two nations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Vice President JD Vance, who led the U.S. delegation, told reporters that Tehran "refused to accept our terms" after a marathon 21‑hour session. Vance emphasized that the United States requires a "fundamental commitment" from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons or the associated delivery systems. "We need an affirmative pledge that they will not seek a nuclear weapon, and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon," he said. Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, cautioned that no one expected a single‑session resolution. "Naturally, from the beginning, we should not have expected to reach an agreement in a single session," he told state broadcaster IRIB, adding that Tehran remains "confident that contacts with Pakistan and other regional friends will continue." Pakistan called on both parties to honor the ceasefire and pursue a durable peace. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed gratitude for the mediation efforts, stating, "We hope the two sides continue with a positive spirit to achieve durable peace and prosperity for the entire region and beyond." The stalled talks occur against the backdrop of a war that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched a campaign against Iran. The conflict has since spread across the Middle East, causing over 2,000 fatalities and extensive damage to both military and civilian infrastructure. One of the war’s most destabilizing effects has been a global energy crisis, as Iran tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz—a chokepoint through which roughly 20 % of the world’s oil and gas exports flow. The delegations, led by Vance for the United States and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, also discussed how to sustain a ceasefire that is already under strain from deep disagreements and Israel’s ongoing attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon.

President Donald Trump declared that the United States will commence a naval blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz in response to the breakdown of peace talks between Washington and Tehran held in Islamabad.In addition to the blockade, Trump warned that American forces could target Iran’s water‑treatment plants, power stations and bridges unless Tehran abandons its pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability.The announcement came after a 21‑hour round of direct negotiations between the two sides collapsed on Sunday morning, ending a brief cease‑fire that had been brokered by the United States, Israel and Iran.U.S. Vice‑President JD Vance, who led the American delegation, said Iran refused to renounce the possibility of developing nuclear weapons, while Iranian officials accused Washington of failing to earn their trust.Trump instructed the U.S. Navy to begin “blockading any and all ships trying to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz” starting Monday at 10 a.m. ET (14:00 GMT). He also accused Iran of “extortion” for charging tolls to tankers and announced a de‑mining operation in the waterway’s central sector, although the exact number of mines remains unclear.The Iranian Revolutionary Guard warned that any warships enforcing the blockade would be deemed a breach of the cease‑fire and would be met with a strong response, insisting the strait remains under Iranian control.Two U.S. destroyers transited the strait on Saturday without incident, a move the Pentagon described as the start of a mine‑clearance mission, even as Iranian media claimed the vessels were threatened as they departed.Financial markets reacted sharply: U.S. crude oil jumped 8% to $104.24 per barrel and Brent crude rose 7% to $102.29, reflecting concerns that the blockade could disrupt the flow of roughly 100 tankers that have been paying up to $2 million each for passage.Vance reiterated that the United States seeks a clear, affirmative commitment from Iran not to pursue a nuclear weapon, describing it as the “core goal of the president.”Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf argued that Tehran offered “constructive initiatives,” but U.S. demands were “excessive” and hindered an agreement, according to the semi‑official Tasnim news agency.Pakistani mediators urged both parties to avoid renewed hostilities and pledged to arrange fresh talks, emphasizing the importance of upholding the existing cease‑fire.In a televised interview, Trump warned that if a deal cannot be reached, the United States may resume bombing Iran, specifically targeting its water‑supply infrastructure, desalination plants and power generation facilities.Regional fallout continued: at least 11 people were killed in southern Lebanon amid a series of Israeli strikes, while Pope Francis called for an immediate cease‑fire, expressing solidarity with the Lebanese people.The broader conflict, now six weeks old, has claimed more than 3,000 lives in Iran, over 2,000 in Lebanon, dozens in Israel and several Gulf states, and has inflicted extensive damage on critical infrastructure across the Middle East.

In a significant display of public dissent, hundreds of people gathered in London's Trafalgar Square on Saturday to protest against the UK government's ban on the Palestine Action campaign group. The demonstration, organized by Defend Our Juries (DOJ), drew a large crowd holding signs that read, 'I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.'Police responded to the peaceful vigil by beginning arrests, with several individuals carried away from the scene. Notably, an elderly woman using walking sticks was escorted away by police, highlighting the strict measures taken by authorities.The protest was sparked by the UK government's decision to prospect Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in July 2025, making it illegal to be a member of or express support for the group. This move has been met with criticism, particularly after the High Court ruled in February that the government's proscription was unlawful and disproportionate, citing breaches of freedom of expression.Despite the court's ruling, the Metropolitan Police initially indicated they would not arrest individuals showing support for Palestine Action but reversed their policy on March 25. This U-turn has been criticized for undermining the court's decision and restricting free speech.Protesters, including Qesser Zuhrah, a former hunger striker from the Palestine Action network, expressed their dissatisfaction with the police's actions. Zuhrah stated that the Met's decision to resume arrests shows that the police 'don't serve us' and only work to reinforce government interests.The UK government's appeal against the High Court ruling is set to be heard by the Court of Appeal on April 28 and 29. Organizers estimated that 1,500 people participated in the vigil, demonstrating significant public support for Palestine Action and concerns over the government's stance on free speech.

The new academic term began in Gaza in late March, but the usual bustle of students catching buses to campus has been replaced by the stark reality of displacement.Israel’s relentless campaign has turned most university buildings into rubble and shelters, forcing a shift to online learning that many students in tents cannot access due to lack of electricity, water, food and reliable internet.Against this backdrop, a glimmer of hope has emerged. In the overcrowded al‑Mawasi district of Khan Younis, the US‑based NGO Scholars Without Borders has erected a makeshift “University City,” a wooden and metal structure designed to bring students back into a real lecture hall."Our mission is to bring education closer to students in a better environment," said Hamza Abu Daqqa, the organisation’s Gaza representative.The facility houses six halls that can accommodate up to 600 students each day. Powered by solar panels, it offers internet access, improvised green spaces and even a small business incubator to help students explore entrepreneurial ideas.University City operates on a rotating weekly schedule, allocating each day to a different institution so that multiple universities can share the limited space. Priority is given to courses that require hands‑on instruction, such as practical labs and discussion‑based classes.Prominent Gaza institutions—including the Islamic University, Al‑Azhar University and the Palestine College of Nursing—have already begun using the site.For many students, this is the first time in years they have set foot in a space that feels like a real university. "When I saw this place, I was amazed," said 20‑year‑old nursing student Mariam Nasr, who fled Rafah and now travels four kilometres on foot to attend classes.Another first‑year student, Amr Muhammad, echoed the sentiment: "Being here with other students, discussing and engaging in class makes a huge difference."The broader picture remains grim. UN experts have labeled Israel’s systematic targeting of Gaza’s academic sector as “scholasticide.” More than 7,000 university students and staff have been killed or injured, and over 60 university buildings have been completely demolished, according to the Euro‑Med Human Rights Monitor.Materials for University City were sourced entirely within Gaza, a testament to the community’s resilience amid soaring costs and scarce resources. Yet the initiative is hampered by the same blockade that restricts reconstruction supplies, fuel and safe transport.Students still face daily hurdles: damaged roads, limited cash, and unreliable transport—often relying on worn‑out vehicles, donkey carts or long walks. "My father could only give me eight shekels (about $2.64) for a ride," Mariam explained, highlighting the economic strain.Even once inside the halls, challenges persist. Power outages and unstable internet make it difficult to print materials or follow online lectures, forcing many to rely on old phones and intermittent connections.Nevertheless, the atmosphere inside University City is one of determination. "For medical education, in‑person learning is essential," said Dr Essam Mughari of the Palestine College of Nursing. "Seeing students gather again restores something vital."For students like Mariam, the drive to continue studying is deeply personal. "My cousin, a nurse, was killed when an airstrike destroyed her family’s house. I study to heal others and honor her memory," she said.While University City now serves hundreds daily, thousands of Gaza’s students remain without comparable facilities. Abu Daqqa stresses that the project is only the beginning: "We have built dozens of makeshift schools, but the need is far greater. Imagine what could be done if the needed resources were allowed through."

Israel has firmly stated that it will not engage in discussions about a ceasefire with Hezbollah when it meets with Lebanese officials in Washington next week. This stance comes as Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue, intensifying diplomatic efforts to address the escalating conflict. Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter confirmed that the talks will mark the beginning of formal negotiations with the Lebanese government, despite the absence of diplomatic relations between the two countries. However, Israel has ruled out any discussion involving Hezbollah, labeling the group a terrorist organization. The diplomatic push includes US involvement, with the American delegation, including US Vice President JD Vance, set to engage in talks with Iranian representatives in Islamabad. The US and Iran had agreed to a two-week pause in hostilities, but Israel has rejected the interpretation that this includes a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Iran has responded by keeping the Strait of Hormuz shut and stated it will not engage in negotiations without a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of frozen Iranian assets. The conflict has resulted in close to 2,000 deaths in Lebanon in recent weeks, with over 350 killed on Wednesday alone. Next week's talks are likely to focus on demands directed at the Lebanese state, which has long struggled to contain Hezbollah. The situation remains volatile, with no sign of easing in the fighting.