QtrendsUS-Iran talks in Switzerland are marked by high drama as Trump issues new threats from Washington, while Iran retaliates by closing the Strait of Hormuz, driving oil prices up. Separately, a Lebanese conservationist and a Gaza journalist are mourned after being killed by Israeli strikes. UK PM Starmer faces mounting pressure to resign as speculation grows he could step down imminently.
Diplomatic talks between the US and Iran resumed in Switzerland over the details of a potential deal, but the atmosphere was rocked by fresh threats from President Trump, who warned he would 'hit Iran very hard'. Iran reportedly closed the Strait of Hormuz again, escalating the standoff. Iranian negotiators briefly walked out after Trump's latest remarks. The talks remain fragile as both sides trade warnings.
Vice President JD Vance is in Switzerland meeting top Iranian officials, aiming to restart stalled peace talks. However, the effort hit early bumps as Trump issued fresh threats against Iran from Washington, drawing bipartisan criticism. Vance hailed the talks as progress, but the mixed messaging from the US side complicates the diplomatic path forward.
Colleagues and loved ones are mourning a Gaza journalist and a prominent Lebanese conservationist, both killed by Israeli airstrikes. The journalist is remembered as 'kind and principled', while the conservationist, a well-known environmental advocate in Lebanon, died after an airstrike hit her home. Their deaths have drawn renewed attention to civilian casualties in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, is at the center of an escalating crisis after Iran announced it had closed the strait again. Live tracking maps show disruptions to maritime traffic, and oil prices are rising amid the uncertainty. Analysts warn of broader economic fallout if the situation is not resolved quickly.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing a growing crisis as pressure mounts for him to step down, with speculation he could resign as soon as Monday. Donald Trump publicly predicted Starmer 'will resign', while Labour's Andy Burnham won a by-election that further destabilized the PM's position. Starmer is reportedly considering his political future amid calls to quit.