Iran allows 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz

• Trump says after claiming talks with Iran are on the right track

• Claims vessels carrying Pakistani flags were also allowed

• US suspends attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure until 6 April

New Delhi – US President Donald Trump announced that attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure have been suspended until 6 April. He claimed that this decision was taken at Iran’s request, although he did not specify who from Iran made the request. Trump also revealed what he described as a “gesture” from Iran, stating that to demonstrate goodwill in negotiations, Iran allowed eight large oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Later, Iran reportedly apologised over an issue and permitted two more vessels to pass. According to Trump, these ships were flying the flag of Pakistan. He said this action reassured the US that negotiations are progressing in the right direction.

If Iran does not abandon nuclear programme, attacks will continue

Trump warned Iran to permanently abandon its nuclear programme. If it fails to do so, US military operations will continue. He stated that Iran has an opportunity to choose a new path, but if it does not, the United States could pose a major threat. The US is currently conducting operations against Iran without hindrance and may intensify them if necessary. He added that time for reaching an agreement is rapidly running out, and the decision now rests entirely with Iran.

“I resolved India–Pakistan conflict in one day”: Trump

Trump claimed, “I resolved the conflict between India and Pakistan in one day; otherwise, 1 crore people could have died. This would have been a conflict between two nuclear-armed nations, leading to massive loss of life and property. Pakistan’s Prime Minister also acknowledged my role and said a major crisis was averted because of me.”

Editorial Perspective

Trump, who claims to stop wars in other countries, is unable to halt the war he initiated despite significant losses and global criticism.

War could lead to pandemic-like global disruption: Putin

Vladimir Putin, Russian President

Vladimir Putin stated stated at a meeting with industrialists in Russia that it is difficult to predict the global consequences of the ongoing war in the Gulf region. Even those directly involved in the conflict may not fully understand its impact. Following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, many industries have come under strain. The conflict has significantly affected global supply chains, production, and imports-exports. Sectors related to hydrocarbons, metals, and fertilisers are being directly impacted, potentially leading to major economic consequences. Putin warned that the situation could resemble the slowdown experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Modi could help stop Iran war – US Retired Colonel

Geopolitical expert and retired US Colonel Douglas Macgregor

Geopolitical expert and retired US Colonel Douglas Macgregor said that Narendra Modi could play a decisive role in easing tensions in the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Speaking to Asian News International (ANI), he also criticised suggestions of Pakistan acting as a mediator, questioning its credibility.

Trump may listen to Modi

Macgregor added that if India takes the initiative to mediate, Trump is likely to listen to Prime Minister Modi. India’s growing economic and military strength, along with global trust, puts it in a strong position. India enjoys rare trust among major global powers—from Russia and Iran to Israel and the United States—making it capable of acting as a bridge between opposing sides.

He also noted that Modi maintains open communication with leaders like Vladimir Putin and can easily engage with Iran’s leadership. Israel’s leadership also communicates respectfully with Modi, and the US finds him approachable.

Mockery of Pakistan’s mediation role

Macgregor dismissed the idea of Pakistan acting as a mediator, comparing it to “a person trapped in a burning building offering someone an empty room in the same building.” He stated that Pakistan is currently grappling with internal challenges and economic difficulties, limiting its ability to play any meaningful diplomatic role. He also claimed that Israel would not view Pakistan as a neutral party.