CAIRO, April 15: Mediators are edging closer to extending the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran ahead of its April 22 deadline, with both sides reportedly giving “in principle” approval to continue negotiations.
The proposed extension would allow more time to resolve key disputes that derailed earlier talks, including Iran’s nuclear program, the status of the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for wartime damages.
However, tensions remain high.
A senior Iranian military official warned that Tehran could shut down trade routes across the Persian Gulf, Sea of Oman, and Red Sea if the US does not lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports, calling the move a violation of the ceasefire.
The blockade has already disrupted maritime traffic, forcing ships to turn back and contributing to volatility in global oil markets.
Donald Trump said the war is “very close to over” and suggested both sides are eager to reach a deal, though US officials say no formal talks have been scheduled.
Regional mediators, including support from Pakistan, continue efforts to bring both sides back to the negotiating table.
The seven-week conflict has killed thousands across multiple countries and shaken the global economy, with supply disruptions driving oil price swings.
Meanwhile, fighting continues in Lebanon, where clashes between Israel and Hezbollah persist despite parallel diplomatic outreach, highlighting the region’s ongoing instability.
South Lebanon hit by Israel after Washington meeting
Fresh Israeli strikes hit southern Lebanon overnight into Wednesday, just one day after rare direct talks between Lebanese and Israel officials in Washington, highlighting how fragile diplomatic efforts remain.
Smoke was seen rising over the coastal city of Tyre, where the latest attacks caused further destruction.
Although large-scale strikes on Beirut have decreased since last week’s intense bombardment that killed more than 350 people, southern Lebanon continues to face frequent attacks. Israeli forces have issued repeated warnings urging residents to evacuate, but many civilians remain, either because they have nowhere else to go or are unwilling to leave their homes.
Tyre, once considered a safer refuge for displaced families, is no longer seen as secure.
The city shows widespread damage, with destroyed buildings, debris-filled streets, and fearful residents. An Israeli drone strike near the city center killed a 19-year-old woman, Ghadir Baalbaki, as she sat outside her home.
Her death has added to the growing civilian toll. The escalation began after Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel, prompting Israeli airstrikes and a ground offensive.
Since then, over 2,000 people have been killed and more than one million displaced in Lebanon.
Despite ongoing violence, diplomatic efforts continue.
While talks in Washington marked a rare meeting, Hezbollah opposes negotiations, whereas the Lebanese government believes dialogue is key to ending the conflict. (AP)
