Donald Trump has warned that Iran acquiring nuclear weapons could have devastating global consequences, while also raising concerns about China’s alleged involvement. He said he directly reached out to Xi Jinping over reports of arms support to Iran, which China denied, underscoring rising geopolitical tensions. While Donald Trump hinted at fresh US-Iran talks within days, officials say nothing is scheduled yet, with Iran’s nuclear programme still a major sticking point and no clarity beyond the April 22 ceasefire deadline.
Iran and US-Israel war latest news– Here are the key developments on April 15, 2026
- Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran seeks dialogue, not war, and condemned attacks on civilians and vital infrastructure.
- The Israel Defense Forces ordered evacuations south of the Zahrani River in Lebanon amid ongoing air strikes.
- The IDF warned civilians near Hezbollah sites or combat vehicles are at risk and must move north immediately.
- Hezbollah launched rocket barrages targeting northern Israel, including Kiryat Shmona and Nahariya.
- Hezbollah said attacks will continue until Israeli-American actions against Lebanon cease.
- Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah accused Israel of trying to “compensate” for defeat through negotiations.
- Robert Fico said Slovakia may adjust diesel limits while maintaining controls due to war-driven energy pressures.
- A sanctioned Iranian tanker crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite a US block, with unclear cargo status.
- Iran said it arrested 35 individuals, including alleged Mossad-linked operatives, across six provinces.
Iran-Pakistan talks under way in Tehran
Abbas Araghchi confirmed a meeting is under way in Tehran with a Pakistani delegation led by Asim Munir. The talks aim to advance efforts by Pakistan to facilitate a new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States.
IMF chief urges energy savings amid shortages
Kristalina Georgieva said countries should begin conserving energy due to real shortages, particularly in Asia, affecting not just fuel but key petrochemical inputs like helium, naphtha and urea used in semiconductors, plastics and fertilisers. Speaking at the IMF Spring Meetings, she warned recovery could take weeks or longer even if a ceasefire is reached, given damage to facilities.
“What do we tell countries? Use measures that can economise energy? And I have seen some countries doing exactly that, putting in place incentives like make public transport free... We did it during Covid. I don't see a reason why not do more of it now or switch to a less energy intensive activities over time.”
She also cautioned central banks against rushing interest rate hikes despite inflation concerns:
“What we tell central banks is: 'If you have high credibility, signal that your objective is to protect price stability, but don't rush wait to see how conditions would evolve if we are to move faster out of the war.”
Israel plans continued strikes in Iran, Lebanon
Eyal Zamir said Israel has approved plans to continue attacks in Iran and Lebanon, adding that joint strikes with the US have weakened Iran’s defences. He said Israel will prevent any gains on nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz, while continuing operations in southern Lebanon to clear threats near northern settlements.
Lebanon death toll rises to 2,167
The death toll in Lebanon has risen to 2,167 since the start of the war, according to the Health Ministry, an increase of 43 from the previous count. The number of wounded has also climbed to 7,061, up from 6,921, state media reported.
Israel military chief signals continued strikes
Eyal Zamir said Israel has approved plans to continue operations in Lebanon and Iran, adding that joint strikes with the US have weakened Iran’s defences. He said Israel will prevent any gains on nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz, while continuing operations in southern Lebanon to clear threats near northern settlements.
No ships pass Iran blockade: CENTCOM
The United States Central Command said no vessels have entered or exited Iranian ports in the first 48 hours of the US blockade, adding that nine ships followed instructions from American forces to turn back toward Iranian coastal areas.
Hungary PM signals closer ties with Israel
Peter Magyar told Benjamin Netanyahu he intends to maintain close Hungary-Israel ties during an introductory call, after defeating longtime leader Viktor Orban. Netanyahu was also invited to Hungary’s 1956 uprising anniversary event, despite an arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court.
CENTCOM says no ships reached Iranian ports
The United States Central Command said no vessels have entered or exited Iranian ports in the 48 hours since the US enforced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that nine ships turned back. The statement contradicts earlier Iranian media reports of a sanctioned supertanker reaching Imam Khomeini Port, with its cargo status unclear.
US, Iran weigh ceasefire extension: Bloomberg
The United States and Iran are considering extending their ceasefire by two weeks to allow more time for negotiations, Bloomberg reported, citing a person familiar with the matter. Mediators are working to launch technical talks on key issues, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear enrichment.
A two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran remains in place, even as talks continue with no breakthrough yet. Around 21 hours of negotiations hosted by Pakistan ended without a deal, though Donald Trump said discussions could resume soon. Both sides remain engaged through intermediaries, with ceasefire extension talks ongoing, and a Pakistani delegation now in Tehran to push forward negotiations.
UN experts condemn Israel strikes in Lebanon
Experts at the United Nations Human Rights Council condemned Israel’s actions in Lebanon as an “illegal aggression and indiscriminate bombing campaign.” They said more than 250 people were killed in strikes on April 8, calling it a violation of international law and a setback to peace efforts.
Lebanon death toll rises to 2,167
At least 2,167 people have been killed and 7,061 wounded in Lebanon due to renewed Israeli attacks since March 2, according to the country’s Health Ministry.
Hezbollah says Iran pushing to include Lebanon in ceasefire
Ibrahim Moussawi said Iran is pressuring the US to include Lebanon in a ceasefire deal, using its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as leverage.
“The Iranians are exercising high pressure against the Americans and they have put their conditions that the Americans should include Lebanon in the ceasefire. If they don’t do it, they are going to continue their blockade of Hormuz. It’s the economic card,” Moussawi said.
“The Iranians have opened up to several regional and international parties to achieve this goal.”
Moussawi declined to comment on whether Hezbollah would abide by a ceasefire.
Pakistani delegation arrives in Tehran for talks
A Pakistani delegation, including Asim Munir and Mohsin Naqvi, has arrived in Tehran to mediate in efforts to end the war and convey a US message. The visit aims to plan a second round of talks after earlier negotiations in Islamabad failed. Meanwhile, Shehbaz Sharif is in Jeddah to discuss the regional situation.
Hezbollah says Lebanon ceasefire may be near
Ibrahim Mousawi said Iranian and regional efforts could lead to a ceasefire in Lebanon soon. Lebanese officials also confirmed ongoing efforts, adding the duration of any truce would likely depend on how long the ceasefire between the United States and Iran holds.
Finance ministers urge end to US-Iran war
Ahead of an International Monetary Fund event, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves joined counterparts from multiple countries to call for a swift and lasting end to the US-Iran war. They stressed the need for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that continued disruption could threaten global energy security, supply chains, and economic stability, with lasting impacts on growth and inflation.
Eight killed in Gaza despite ceasefire
At least eight Palestinians were killed and 29 wounded in fresh Israeli attacks across Gaza, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, which described the strikes as violations of a ceasefire. The ministry said the overall death toll since October 2023 has reached 72,344, with more than 172,000 injured, while hundreds have been killed since the ceasefire began.
Pakistan delegation heads to Iran for talks
A Pakistani delegation is heading to Iran to deliver a message from the United States and coordinate a second round of talks between the two sides, according to Iranian state media.
Trump sends mixed signals on Iran war
Donald Trump gave conflicting signals on the war with Iran, saying it is “very close to being over” while also warning further strikes remain possible. He suggested Iran would struggle to rebuild if the US withdrew now, adding that a deal may be near. Meanwhile, uncertainty continues over extending the ceasefire, with US officials saying no formal agreement has been reached despite ongoing engagement.
UNIFIL flags Israeli restrictions on convoy
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon said one of its convoys from Beirut was stopped by Israel’s forces near its headquarters in Naqoura, with local contractors turned back despite prior clearance. The mission said such incidents are recurring and warned the restrictions could delay critical supplies like food, fuel and water to positions along the Blue Line.
Israel strikes southern Lebanon amid talks
Israel launched fresh deadly attacks across southern Lebanon, continuing its offensive despite diplomatic efforts in Washington. Lebanese state media reported at least 13 people were killed, less than a day after talks between Lebanese and Israeli envoys in the US.
US yet to agree on Iran ceasefire extension
The United States has not formally agreed to extend its ceasefire with Iran, according to a senior official, though talks are ongoing. Shehbaz Sharif is pushing to restart negotiations, as Donald Trump said discussions could resume in Pakistan within two days.
Iran warns of blocking key trade routes
Iran’s military, led by Ali Abdollahi, warned it would block trade through the Red Sea, Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman if the US naval blockade continues. He said targeting Iranian vessels would breach the ceasefire, adding that Iran’s armed forces will not allow exports or imports to proceed under such conditions.
UK rebuts Trump on ‘special relationship’
Downing Street rejected Donald Trump’s claim that ties with the UK have worsened, after he said Britain was not there when the US needed support. Responding, a spokesperson for Keir Starmer said they would not characterise the relationship that way, stressing that the US-UK partnership remains strong across trade, diplomacy, national security and culture.
Starmer refuses to join Iran war despite pressure
Keir Starmer said he will not “yield” to pressure for the UK to join the war with Iran, stressing it is “not our war” and not in the country’s national interest. His remarks came after Donald Trump suggested the US-UK trade deal terms “can always be changed”. Speaking in Parliament, Starmer said he faced significant pressure, including overnight developments, but remains firm that the UK will not take part in the conflict.
Trump claims China backing on Hormuz reopening
Donald Trump said China is “very happy” with his move to permanently reopen the Strait of Hormuz, adding that the step benefits both China and the world. He claimed Xi Jinping has agreed not to send weapons to Iran and said the two countries are working together effectively. Trump also said Xi would welcome him warmly during an upcoming visit, while stressing that although cooperation is preferred, the US remains prepared for military action if needed.
Iran warns of blocking key sea routes
Iran has warned it could block trade through the Red Sea, Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman if the US naval blockade on its ports continues. State media quoted military officials saying the country’s armed forces will act decisively to defend national sovereignty and protect its interests.
Iran denies ceasefire extension reports
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said reports about a possible extension of the ceasefire are “not confirmed”, according to state media, casting uncertainty over ongoing diplomatic efforts to prolong the fragile truce.
Iran warns US blockade could break ceasefire
Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said the ongoing US naval blockade of its ports violates the ceasefire, warning it may restrict trade routes in the Red Sea, Gulf and Sea of Oman. The command cautioned that continuing the blockade could lead to a full breach of the truce.
Trump signals Iran war nearing end
Donald Trump downplayed the chances of renewed fighting with Iran, suggesting a ceasefire extension may not be needed as progress is made toward a deal. Speaking to ABC News and Fox Business, he said the conflict is “close to over” despite ongoing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz.