{"id":1878333,"date":"2026-04-11T05:03:38","date_gmt":"2026-04-11T02:03:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1878333"},"modified":"2026-04-11T05:03:38","modified_gmt":"2026-04-11T02:03:38","slug":"us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1878333","title":{"rendered":"US says warships passed Hormuz amid ongoing talks with Iran"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750044_6.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"s1sfzv1a sk6xmai\">\n<div class=\"content-area sa7l9jt s9mg977\">\n<section data-tracking-name=\"sharing-icons-inline\" class=\"c75t7t0 hh5424a in-line closed\">\n<div class=\"copy-button-wrapper closed\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C0td<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<figure class=\"s4bcs45\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750044_800.webp 50w, https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750044_801.webp 129w, https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750044_802.webp 352w, https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750044_803.webp 575w\" media=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 575px)\" height=\"100\" width=\"100\" \/><figcaption class=\"c1oedowi lofg86o m4xla6a s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">US VP JD Vance is representing the US in talks with Iran in Islamabad<small class=\"copyright c19ed66t ihwmx5 idu7i8u lxmvniw icns9en rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">Image: Jacquelyn Martin\/AP Photo\/picture alliance<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-live-blog-rich-text-overview\" id=\"live-blog-rich-text-overview\" class=\"c1800ln sq3xutt atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-live-blog-rich-text-overview\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section What you need to know<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"c2fyhwl ctymiyf content-block i1if36d6 i1ytahzz\">\n<h2 class=\"cp7bjxx h1du6kc5 lt5vbch pohyj9x s16w0xvi m1u0isv1 b1fzgn0z\">What you need to know<\/h2>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<ul>\n<li>Two US warships have reportedly passed through the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since the war began<\/li>\n<li>Iran has denied any US ships have entered the strait<\/li>\n<li>Vice President <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/jd-vance\/t-70177094\">JD Vance<\/a>\u00a0has arrived in Islamabad to\u00a0lead\u00a0the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/united-states-of-america\/t-19065189\">US<\/a> delegation\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>White House envoy Steve Witkoff and advisor Jared Kushner are also attending the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/pakistan\/t-19069841\">Pakistan<\/a>-brokered talks<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/iran\/t-18996175\">Iran<\/a>&#8216;s team is headed by parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi<\/li>\n<li>US and Iranian officials meet separately with Pakistan&#8217;s PM Sharif ahead of talks<\/li>\n<li>Ghalibaf says talks won&#8217;t begin unless Washington unblocks\u00a0Iranian assets and secures\u00a0a ceasefire in <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/lebanon\/t-19131661\">Lebanon<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Below is a roundup of the latest development from the <\/em><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-israel-war-with-iran\/t-76168615\">conflict in the Middle East<\/a><em> on Saturday, April 11. Our coverage continues <\/em><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-and-iran-have-not-reached-an-agreement-vance-says\/live-76750859\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"s1ogwy7c ev9ivjh\">\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76751108\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76751108\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Thanks for reading<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/12\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 12, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Thanks for reading<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>We moved coverage to a new blog after we learned that JD Vance was going to deliver remarks to the press. He said there was no deal with Iran yet. Follow<a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-and-iran-have-not-reached-an-agreement-vance-says\/live-76750859\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2T6<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76750855\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76750855\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Iranian government says trilateral talks to continue despite &#8216;remaining differences&#8217;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/12\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 12, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Iranian government says trilateral talks to continue despite &#8216;remaining differences&#8217;<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>Iran&#8217;s government said in a post on X that &#8220;negotiations will continue despite some remaining differences.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Trilateral in-person negotiations between the US, Iran and Pakistan continued into the early hours on Sunday in Islamabad.<\/p>\n<p>The White House is yet to comment on the status of negotiations.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2P1<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76750757\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76750757\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section IRGC says military vessels in Hormuz will be &#8216;dealt with severely&#8217;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">IRGC says military vessels in Hormuz will be &#8216;dealt with severely&#8217;<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>Iran&#8217;s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has said that military vessels may not pass through the Strait of Hormuz, hours after the US military said two of its warships had passed through to begin mine-clearing operations.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Any attempt by military vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz will be dealt with severely. The IRGC Navy has full authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz intelligently,&#8221; the Guards&#8217; Navy Command said, according to state broadcaster IRIB.<\/p>\n<p>The IRGC added that permission to enter the strait would only be &#8220;granted to civilian vessels under specific conditions.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2NR<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76750658\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76750658\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section &#8216;No difference&#8217; if US-Iran talks result in deal, Trump says<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">&#8216;No difference&#8217; if US-Iran talks result in deal, Trump says<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76750690\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750690_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Mandel Ngan\/AFP<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As talks between the US and Iranian delegations in Pakistan carried on into the early hours of Sunday, US President Donald Trump said it &#8220;makes no difference&#8221; if a deal is made.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;We\u2019re sweeping the strait. Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me,&#8221;\u00a0Trump told journalists. &#8220;The reason is because we&#8217;ve won.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Little is known about the talks, taking place behind closed doors, but Iranian TV reported that an agreement had not yet been found on the Strait of Hormuz, a key aspect in any deal, following two rounds of talks.<\/p>\n<p>In his comments to reporters, Trump also warned that China would have &#8220;big problems&#8221; if it ships arms to Iran.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2Lq<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76750574\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76750574\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Iran denies US warships entered the Strait of Hormuz<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Iran denies US warships entered the Strait of Hormuz<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76637937\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76637937_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"A satellite image of the Strait of Hormuz\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">The narrow strait has proven to be Iran&#8217;s most powerful weapon in the war against the US and Israel<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Modis Team\/Nasa Gsfc\/ZUMA\/IMAGO<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Iran&#8217;s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has rejected the reports that US warships passed through the Strait of Hormuz\u00a0for mine-clearing operations.<\/p>\n<p>A spokesperson was cited by Tasnim as saying: &#8220;The claim by the Centcom commander that US vessels have approached and entered the Strait of Hormuz is strongly denied, and the passage of any vessel is only at the initiative of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>US Central Command (Centcom) earlier stated that two US warships had passed through the strait. Neither claim could be independently verified.<\/p>\n<p>The war has seen repeated cases of the US and Iran giving contradictory statements about events.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2KU<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76750559\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76750559\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Netanyahu says he wants peace that &#8216;lasts for generations&#8217;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Netanyahu says he wants peace that &#8216;lasts for generations&#8217;<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"75982968\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/75982968_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking in front of a blue background\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Israel and Lebanon are set to hold talks next week for he first time in decades [FILE: Feburary 15, 2026]<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Debbie Hill\/UPI Photo\/IMAGO<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that any peace agreed with Lebanon must be long-lasting.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Lebanon has approached us. In the past month, it has reached out several times to begin direct peace talks,&#8221; Netanyahu said in a televised statement.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I have given my approval, but on two conditions: we want the dismantling of Hezbollah&#8217;s weapons, and we want a real peace agreement that will last for generations.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Hezbollah has protested the talks between Lebanon and Israel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2KF<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76750099\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76750099\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Talks to continue &#8216;tonight or tomorrow&#8217; amid impasse over Hormuz<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Talks to continue &#8216;tonight or tomorrow&#8217; amid impasse over Hormuz<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>The first two rounds of talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan have come to an end, according to Iranian state TV, with a third round expected to start either tonight or tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;According to information provided to the state TV correspondent by a person close to the negotiating team, another round of negotiations will likely be held tonight or tomorrow,&#8221; state broadcaster IRIB reported.<\/p>\n<p>The two sides have been exchanging texts to reach a common framework, according to semi-official news agency Tasnim, with the Iranian side accusing the US delegation of pushing forward excessive demands.<\/p>\n<p>The future of the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly a particular sticking point in the talks, Tasnim said. The US has demanded the strait be opened unconditionally, while Iran wants recognition of its control over the key maritime region.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2Cp<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76749990\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76749990\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Pope ups condemnation of war<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Pope ups condemnation of war<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76750068\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750068_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Pope Leo XIV touch a rosary as he lead a prayer vigil for peace at St.Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on April 11, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Pope Leo has been increasingly outspoken over the war in Iran<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Isabella Bonotto\/Anadolu\/picture alliance<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born leader of the Catholic Church, sharpened his condemnation of the US-Israeli war in Iran on Saturday after\u00a0negotiations began in Pakistan.<\/p>\n<p>He said the war had been fueled by a &#8220;delusion of omnipotence,&#8221; without mentioning the US or President Trump by name.<\/p>\n<p>His comments came during an evening prayer service in St. Peter&#8217;s Basilica.<\/p>\n<p>He called on political leaders to stop the war and negotiate a peace. The pontiff has been increasingly outspoken over the war, increasing the Vatican&#8217;s participation in political affairs.<\/p>\n<p>The White House appears to have made an enemy of the US pope, having used religion to justify the conflict.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Enough of the idolatry of self and money!&#8221; Leo demanded in a not-so-subtle attack on Trump. &#8220;Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C2B4<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76749845\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76749845\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section US says its warships passed through Hormuz to began mine clear-up<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">US says its warships passed through Hormuz to began mine clear-up<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>US Central Command (Centcom) said on Saturday that two US warships had passed through the Strait of Hormuz to start clearing away mines laid by Iran.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will share this safe pathway with the maritime industry soon to encourage the free flow of commerce,&#8221; said Centcom commander Admiral Brad Cooper.<\/p>\n<p>Iran had earlier reported warning US warships not to enter the strait, threatening to attack the vessels. The US denied receiving such a warning.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C28j<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76749459\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76749459\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Macron says he spoke to Iranian President Pezeshkian<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Macron says he spoke to Iranian President Pezeshkian<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said\u00a0he has spoken with his Iranian counterpart Massoud Pezeshkian amid the ongoing US-Iran talks in Pakistan.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I stressed \u200cthe need for Iran \u200cto \u200brestore freedom of navigation and security in the \u200bStrait of Hormuz as quickly as possible, to \u2060which \u200bFrance \u200bstands ready to contribute,&#8221; Macron wrote on X.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;\u200bI insisted on \u200cthe importance of fully respecting \u200bthe \u2060ceasefire, including in Lebanon.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C22V<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76749080\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76749080\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section US-Iran talks in Pakistan now focusing on Lebanon, source tells DW<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">US-Iran talks in Pakistan now focusing on Lebanon, source tells DW<\/h2>\n<div class=\"a9wq4ao author-details\"><span><span class=\"extra-info lxmvniw m4xla6a s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"> in Islamabad<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76748703\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76748703_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Members of the media working with a screen showing Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcoming the Iranian and US delegations on April 10, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Talks between the US and Iran begin in Islamabad on Saturday<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Asim Hafeez\/REUTERS<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A source has informed DW that <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/lebanon-gripped-by-uncertainty-over-iran-us-ceasefire\/a-76738853\">talks in Islamabad have begun on a Lebanon ceasefire<\/a>, which the Iranian side has repeatedly stressed. Iran also wants its assets unfrozen and long-standing sanctions lifted, which have hurt its economy.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Face-to-face talks are now going on between both the delegations. There is cautious optimism that the parties will extend the truce and continue negotiations toward a peaceful and lasting resolution. We hope the talks will soon lead to a meaningful and constructive outcome,&#8221;\u00a0the\u00a0source told DW.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Washington is ready to seriously consider sanctions relief, but it demands Iranian nuclear and missile concessions. The US also wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened unconditionally.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C1wO<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76749010\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76749010\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section Hezbollah supporters protest talks with Israel<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Hezbollah supporters protest talks with Israel<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76749008\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76749008_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Protesters carrying Lebanese and Hezbollah flags, as well as a picture of Hassan Nasrallah, in Beirut on April 11, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Hezbollah commands strong support among Lebanon&#8217;s Shia minority<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Hassan Ammar\/AP Photo\/dpa\/picture alliance<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Supporters of Hezbollah took to the streets of Beirut to protest planned direct talks with Israel to end the war.<\/p>\n<p>People carried Hezbollah and Iranian flags and pictures of deceased leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike\u00a0in September 2024.<\/p>\n<p>Lebanon and Israel are planning to hold direct talks in the US next week, for the first time in decades.<\/p>\n<p>Israel&#8217;s attacks on Lebanon have focused on Hezbollah positions. The most recent conflict began when Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in retaliation for the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.<\/p>\n<p>Israel has subsequently launched a ground operation and <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/displaced-in-lebanon-lives-turned-upside-down\/a-76662137\">displaced thousands of people from the south of Lebanon<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The continuation of Israeli attacks after the announcement of the ceasefire deal between Iran and the US has also jeopardized the deal.<\/p>\n<p>DPA reported, citing a source from the Lebanese parliament, that the US has assured Israeli attacks will ease over the weekend to pave the way for a possible ceasefire by Wednesday.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C1vG<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76748739\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76748739\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section US claims its ships crossed Strait; Iran denies, issues warning<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">US claims its ships crossed Strait; Iran denies, issues warning<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>President Donald Trump has claimed that US warships crossed through the contested <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/strait-of-hormuz\/t-76193780\">Strait of Hormuz<\/a> on Saturday, while Iran has denied the claim and warned that any US vessel attempting to traverse the waterway will be attacked.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Trump took to social media to announce that the US had started &#8220;the process of clearing out the Strait of Hormuz,&#8221; as &#8220;a favor&#8221; to countries such as China, Japan and France, that &#8220;don&#8217;t have the courage or will to do this work themselves.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Trump has been angered that allies have not leapt at the chance to join the US-Israeli war in Iran and pry open the Strait of Hormuz \u2014 a <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/iran-us-war-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-oil\/a-76503935\">key global shipping chokepoint that Iran has maintained an iron grip on since the US and Israel launched their attacks<\/a> on the Islamic Republic on February 28.<\/p>\n<p>Trump&#8217;s claim also comes as US and Iranian negotiators meet in Islamabad, Pakistan, in hopes of hammering out a ceasefire.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Iranian media outlets have quoted navy officials who said US sailors had been warned that they will be attacked if they continue on their current course. \u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Iranian delegation in Islamabad lodged a formal complaint over the provocation and demanded the vessel turn back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C1qt<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76748491\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76748491\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section UN demands end to war violations in Middle East<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">UN demands end to war violations in Middle East<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>The heads of several United Nations agencies on Saturday published an open letter calling for an immediate end to all military action that violates international law in the Middle East.<\/p>\n<p>The statement, penned by UN humanitarian boss Tom Fletcher and other agency leaders, decried &#8220;sustained violations of the rules of war and international humanitarian law.&#8221;\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Blasting the current situation brought on by the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-israel-war-with-iran\/t-76168615\">US-Israeli war against Iran<\/a>, which was launched on February 28, and with the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/israel-hamas-ceasefire\/t-57547294\">nightmare of Gaza still unresolved<\/a>, UN agency heads said: &#8220;In just the last month across the Middle East, thousands of civilians have been killed and injured. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced, many multiple times.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The numbers continue to rise and essential services are increasingly difficult to access,&#8221; read the statement, with agency leaders expressing concern over the conflict&#8217;s impact on &#8220;women and children and others with specific needs&#8221; as well as on prices for food and fuel around the globe.<\/p>\n<p>The international body also pointed out that aid workers are paying an increasingly high price to help those trapped in war zones.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Fourteen aid workers have been killed or injured in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, eight in Iran and five in Lebanon&#8221; since the beginning of this year, said the statement, which called this &#8220;an alarming toll.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Finally, the statement very strongly condemned &#8220;all attacks on civilians, including humanitarian and aid workers, as well as civilian objects.&#8221;\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>While urging governments and armed non-state actors to respect the legal obligation to protect all civilians, the statement concluded by saying, &#8220;all violations must be met with accountability.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C1mt<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section data-tracking-name=\"section-liveblog-post\" id=\"liveblog-post-76747914\" class=\"liveblog-post sh8w7rk atfzu66\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065#post-liveblog-post-76747914\" class=\"q1knotlb b14agbwd quick-item\"><span class=\"h1du6kc5 l1ozsu87 p1s74fjj s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">Skip next section US, Iran negotiating through Pakistani mediators, DW understands<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"l3vczb5\"><span class=\"time-area s1i8qhb9 icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><span class=\"publication icns9en lofg86o m1u0isv1 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"><time aria-hidden=\"true\">04\/11\/2026<\/time><span class=\"s28j2rd\">April 11, 2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"pmcvy6l h1du6kc5 l1evdo4u p1y8x1v s16w0xvi sngcpkw b1fzgn0z\">US, Iran negotiating through Pakistani mediators, DW understands<\/h2>\n<div class=\"a9wq4ao author-details\"><span><span class=\"extra-info lxmvniw m4xla6a s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\"> is Islamabad<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>Senior US\u00a0and Iranian officials convened in Islamabad on Saturday for high-stakes talks aimed at ending their conflict in the Middle East, which has claimed thousands of lives, disrupted energy markets, and seriously strained the global economy following six weeks of fighting.<\/p>\n<p>DW has learned that the discussions are currently unfolding in two separate tracks \u2014one between the Pakistani hosts and the United States, and another between Pakistan and Iran. The delegations may transition to a trilateral format if enough progress is made on their\u00a0stated demands and conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Officials in Islamabad say they are\u00a0ready to facilitate both parties in any capacity required, although the ultimate decision on the structure and format of the talks will rest with Tehran and Washington.<\/p>\n<p>The talks are weighed down by the continued fighting in Lebanon,\u00a0even as positive signals from Islamabad suggest efforts are underway to address Tehran\u2019s concerns on the issue.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bp605kw start\"><span class=\"svdcmki\">https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C1da<\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"bp605kw center\">\n<div role=\"button\" data-tracking-name=\"show-more\" class=\"show-more-button s1va3u11 t1y9040i m7i2pic e3w9kkf b19vsmfu cx4rgdt ih9bob8 sngcpkw w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">Show more posts<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<ul>\n<li>Two US warships have reportedly passed through the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since the war began<\/li>\n<li>Iran has denied any US ships have entered the strait<\/li>\n<li>Vice President <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/jd-vance\/t-70177094\">JD Vance<\/a>\u00a0has arrived in Islamabad to\u00a0lead\u00a0the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/united-states-of-america\/t-19065189\">US<\/a> delegation\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>White House envoy Steve Witkoff and advisor Jared Kushner are also attending the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/pakistan\/t-19069841\">Pakistan<\/a>-brokered talks<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/iran\/t-18996175\">Iran<\/a>&#8216;s team is headed by parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi<\/li>\n<li>US and Iranian officials meet separately with Pakistan&#8217;s PM Sharif ahead of talks<\/li>\n<li>Ghalibaf says talks won&#8217;t begin unless Washington unblocks\u00a0Iranian assets and secures\u00a0a ceasefire in <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/lebanon\/t-19131661\">Lebanon<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Below is a roundup of the latest development from the <\/em><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-israel-war-with-iran\/t-76168615\">conflict in the Middle East<\/a><em> on Saturday, April 11. Our coverage continues <\/em><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-and-iran-have-not-reached-an-agreement-vance-says\/live-76750859\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><em>Below is a roundup of the latest development from the <\/em><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-israel-war-with-iran\/t-76168615\">conflict in the Middle East<\/a><em> on Saturday, April 11. Our coverage continues <\/em><a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-and-iran-have-not-reached-an-agreement-vance-says\/live-76750859\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>We moved coverage to a new blog after we learned that JD Vance was going to deliver remarks to the press. He said there was no deal with Iran yet. Follow<a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-and-iran-have-not-reached-an-agreement-vance-says\/live-76750859\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>We moved coverage to a new blog after we learned that JD Vance was going to deliver remarks to the press. He said there was no deal with Iran yet. Follow<a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-and-iran-have-not-reached-an-agreement-vance-says\/live-76750859\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>Iran&#8217;s government said in a post on X that &#8220;negotiations will continue despite some remaining differences.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Trilateral in-person negotiations between the US, Iran and Pakistan continued into the early hours on Sunday in Islamabad.<\/p>\n<p>The White House is yet to comment on the status of negotiations.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Iran&#8217;s government said in a post on X that &#8220;negotiations will continue despite some remaining differences.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Trilateral in-person negotiations between the US, Iran and Pakistan continued into the early hours on Sunday in Islamabad.<\/p>\n<p>The White House is yet to comment on the status of negotiations.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>Iran&#8217;s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has said that military vessels may not pass through the Strait of Hormuz, hours after the US military said two of its warships had passed through to begin mine-clearing operations.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Any attempt by military vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz will be dealt with severely. The IRGC Navy has full authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz intelligently,&#8221; the Guards&#8217; Navy Command said, according to state broadcaster IRIB.<\/p>\n<p>The IRGC added that permission to enter the strait would only be &#8220;granted to civilian vessels under specific conditions.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Iran&#8217;s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has said that military vessels may not pass through the Strait of Hormuz, hours after the US military said two of its warships had passed through to begin mine-clearing operations.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Any attempt by military vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz will be dealt with severely. The IRGC Navy has full authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz intelligently,&#8221; the Guards&#8217; Navy Command said, according to state broadcaster IRIB.<\/p>\n<p>The IRGC added that permission to enter the strait would only be &#8220;granted to civilian vessels under specific conditions.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76750690\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750690_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Mandel Ngan\/AFP<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As talks between the US and Iranian delegations in Pakistan carried on into the early hours of Sunday, US President Donald Trump said it &#8220;makes no difference&#8221; if a deal is made.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;We\u2019re sweeping the strait. Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me,&#8221;\u00a0Trump told journalists. &#8220;The reason is because we&#8217;ve won.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Little is known about the talks, taking place behind closed doors, but Iranian TV reported that an agreement had not yet been found on the Strait of Hormuz, a key aspect in any deal, following two rounds of talks.<\/p>\n<p>In his comments to reporters, Trump also warned that China would have &#8220;big problems&#8221; if it ships arms to Iran.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>As talks between the US and Iranian delegations in Pakistan carried on into the early hours of Sunday, US President Donald Trump said it &#8220;makes no difference&#8221; if a deal is made.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;We\u2019re sweeping the strait. Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me,&#8221;\u00a0Trump told journalists. &#8220;The reason is because we&#8217;ve won.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Little is known about the talks, taking place behind closed doors, but Iranian TV reported that an agreement had not yet been found on the Strait of Hormuz, a key aspect in any deal, following two rounds of talks.<\/p>\n<p>In his comments to reporters, Trump also warned that China would have &#8220;big problems&#8221; if it ships arms to Iran.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76637937\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76637937_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"A satellite image of the Strait of Hormuz\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">The narrow strait has proven to be Iran&#8217;s most powerful weapon in the war against the US and Israel<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Modis Team\/Nasa Gsfc\/ZUMA\/IMAGO<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Iran&#8217;s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has rejected the reports that US warships passed through the Strait of Hormuz\u00a0for mine-clearing operations.<\/p>\n<p>A spokesperson was cited by Tasnim as saying: &#8220;The claim by the Centcom commander that US vessels have approached and entered the Strait of Hormuz is strongly denied, and the passage of any vessel is only at the initiative of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>US Central Command (Centcom) earlier stated that two US warships had passed through the strait. Neither claim could be independently verified.<\/p>\n<p>The war has seen repeated cases of the US and Iran giving contradictory statements about events.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Iran&#8217;s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has rejected the reports that US warships passed through the Strait of Hormuz\u00a0for mine-clearing operations.<\/p>\n<p>A spokesperson was cited by Tasnim as saying: &#8220;The claim by the Centcom commander that US vessels have approached and entered the Strait of Hormuz is strongly denied, and the passage of any vessel is only at the initiative of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>US Central Command (Centcom) earlier stated that two US warships had passed through the strait. Neither claim could be independently verified.<\/p>\n<p>The war has seen repeated cases of the US and Iran giving contradictory statements about events.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"75982968\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/75982968_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking in front of a blue background\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Israel and Lebanon are set to hold talks next week for he first time in decades [FILE: Feburary 15, 2026]<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Debbie Hill\/UPI Photo\/IMAGO<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that any peace agreed with Lebanon must be long-lasting.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Lebanon has approached us. In the past month, it has reached out several times to begin direct peace talks,&#8221; Netanyahu said in a televised statement.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I have given my approval, but on two conditions: we want the dismantling of Hezbollah&#8217;s weapons, and we want a real peace agreement that will last for generations.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Hezbollah has protested the talks between Lebanon and Israel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that any peace agreed with Lebanon must be long-lasting.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Lebanon has approached us. In the past month, it has reached out several times to begin direct peace talks,&#8221; Netanyahu said in a televised statement.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I have given my approval, but on two conditions: we want the dismantling of Hezbollah&#8217;s weapons, and we want a real peace agreement that will last for generations.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Hezbollah has protested the talks between Lebanon and Israel.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>The first two rounds of talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan have come to an end, according to Iranian state TV, with a third round expected to start either tonight or tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;According to information provided to the state TV correspondent by a person close to the negotiating team, another round of negotiations will likely be held tonight or tomorrow,&#8221; state broadcaster IRIB reported.<\/p>\n<p>The two sides have been exchanging texts to reach a common framework, according to semi-official news agency Tasnim, with the Iranian side accusing the US delegation of pushing forward excessive demands.<\/p>\n<p>The future of the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly a particular sticking point in the talks, Tasnim said. The US has demanded the strait be opened unconditionally, while Iran wants recognition of its control over the key maritime region.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>The first two rounds of talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan have come to an end, according to Iranian state TV, with a third round expected to start either tonight or tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;According to information provided to the state TV correspondent by a person close to the negotiating team, another round of negotiations will likely be held tonight or tomorrow,&#8221; state broadcaster IRIB reported.<\/p>\n<p>The two sides have been exchanging texts to reach a common framework, according to semi-official news agency Tasnim, with the Iranian side accusing the US delegation of pushing forward excessive demands.<\/p>\n<p>The future of the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly a particular sticking point in the talks, Tasnim said. The US has demanded the strait be opened unconditionally, while Iran wants recognition of its control over the key maritime region.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76750068\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750068_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Pope Leo XIV touch a rosary as he lead a prayer vigil for peace at St.Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on April 11, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Pope Leo has been increasingly outspoken over the war in Iran<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Isabella Bonotto\/Anadolu\/picture alliance<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born leader of the Catholic Church, sharpened his condemnation of the US-Israeli war in Iran on Saturday after\u00a0negotiations began in Pakistan.<\/p>\n<p>He said the war had been fueled by a &#8220;delusion of omnipotence,&#8221; without mentioning the US or President Trump by name.<\/p>\n<p>His comments came during an evening prayer service in St. Peter&#8217;s Basilica.<\/p>\n<p>He called on political leaders to stop the war and negotiate a peace. The pontiff has been increasingly outspoken over the war, increasing the Vatican&#8217;s participation in political affairs.<\/p>\n<p>The White House appears to have made an enemy of the US pope, having used religion to justify the conflict.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Enough of the idolatry of self and money!&#8221; Leo demanded in a not-so-subtle attack on Trump. &#8220;Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born leader of the Catholic Church, sharpened his condemnation of the US-Israeli war in Iran on Saturday after\u00a0negotiations began in Pakistan.<\/p>\n<p>He said the war had been fueled by a &#8220;delusion of omnipotence,&#8221; without mentioning the US or President Trump by name.<\/p>\n<p>His comments came during an evening prayer service in St. Peter&#8217;s Basilica.<\/p>\n<p>He called on political leaders to stop the war and negotiate a peace. The pontiff has been increasingly outspoken over the war, increasing the Vatican&#8217;s participation in political affairs.<\/p>\n<p>The White House appears to have made an enemy of the US pope, having used religion to justify the conflict.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Enough of the idolatry of self and money!&#8221; Leo demanded in a not-so-subtle attack on Trump. &#8220;Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!&#8221;<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>US Central Command (Centcom) said on Saturday that two US warships had passed through the Strait of Hormuz to start clearing away mines laid by Iran.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will share this safe pathway with the maritime industry soon to encourage the free flow of commerce,&#8221; said Centcom commander Admiral Brad Cooper.<\/p>\n<p>Iran had earlier reported warning US warships not to enter the strait, threatening to attack the vessels. The US denied receiving such a warning.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>US Central Command (Centcom) said on Saturday that two US warships had passed through the Strait of Hormuz to start clearing away mines laid by Iran.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will share this safe pathway with the maritime industry soon to encourage the free flow of commerce,&#8221; said Centcom commander Admiral Brad Cooper.<\/p>\n<p>Iran had earlier reported warning US warships not to enter the strait, threatening to attack the vessels. The US denied receiving such a warning.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said\u00a0he has spoken with his Iranian counterpart Massoud Pezeshkian amid the ongoing US-Iran talks in Pakistan.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I stressed \u200cthe need for Iran \u200cto \u200brestore freedom of navigation and security in the \u200bStrait of Hormuz as quickly as possible, to \u2060which \u200bFrance \u200bstands ready to contribute,&#8221; Macron wrote on X.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;\u200bI insisted on \u200cthe importance of fully respecting \u200bthe \u2060ceasefire, including in Lebanon.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said\u00a0he has spoken with his Iranian counterpart Massoud Pezeshkian amid the ongoing US-Iran talks in Pakistan.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I stressed \u200cthe need for Iran \u200cto \u200brestore freedom of navigation and security in the \u200bStrait of Hormuz as quickly as possible, to \u2060which \u200bFrance \u200bstands ready to contribute,&#8221; Macron wrote on X.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;\u200bI insisted on \u200cthe importance of fully respecting \u200bthe \u2060ceasefire, including in Lebanon.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76748703\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76748703_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Members of the media working with a screen showing Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcoming the Iranian and US delegations on April 10, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Talks between the US and Iran begin in Islamabad on Saturday<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Asim Hafeez\/REUTERS<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A source has informed DW that <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/lebanon-gripped-by-uncertainty-over-iran-us-ceasefire\/a-76738853\">talks in Islamabad have begun on a Lebanon ceasefire<\/a>, which the Iranian side has repeatedly stressed. Iran also wants its assets unfrozen and long-standing sanctions lifted, which have hurt its economy.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Face-to-face talks are now going on between both the delegations. There is cautious optimism that the parties will extend the truce and continue negotiations toward a peaceful and lasting resolution. We hope the talks will soon lead to a meaningful and constructive outcome,&#8221;\u00a0the\u00a0source told DW.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Washington is ready to seriously consider sanctions relief, but it demands Iranian nuclear and missile concessions. The US also wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened unconditionally.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>A source has informed DW that <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/lebanon-gripped-by-uncertainty-over-iran-us-ceasefire\/a-76738853\">talks in Islamabad have begun on a Lebanon ceasefire<\/a>, which the Iranian side has repeatedly stressed. Iran also wants its assets unfrozen and long-standing sanctions lifted, which have hurt its economy.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Face-to-face talks are now going on between both the delegations. There is cautious optimism that the parties will extend the truce and continue negotiations toward a peaceful and lasting resolution. We hope the talks will soon lead to a meaningful and constructive outcome,&#8221;\u00a0the\u00a0source told DW.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Washington is ready to seriously consider sanctions relief, but it demands Iranian nuclear and missile concessions. The US also wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened unconditionally.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<figure class=\"placeholder-image master_landscape big\"><img data-format=\"MASTER_LANDSCAPE\" data-id=\"76749008\" data-url=\"https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76749008_${formatId}.jpg\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" alt=\"Protesters carrying Lebanese and Hezbollah flags, as well as a picture of Hassan Nasrallah, in Beirut on April 11, 2026\"><figcaption class=\"img-caption\">Hezbollah commands strong support among Lebanon&#8217;s Shia minority<small class=\"copyright\">Image: Hassan Ammar\/AP Photo\/dpa\/picture alliance<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Supporters of Hezbollah took to the streets of Beirut to protest planned direct talks with Israel to end the war.<\/p>\n<p>People carried Hezbollah and Iranian flags and pictures of deceased leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike\u00a0in September 2024.<\/p>\n<p>Lebanon and Israel are planning to hold direct talks in the US next week, for the first time in decades.<\/p>\n<p>Israel&#8217;s attacks on Lebanon have focused on Hezbollah positions. The most recent conflict began when Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in retaliation for the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.<\/p>\n<p>Israel has subsequently launched a ground operation and <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/displaced-in-lebanon-lives-turned-upside-down\/a-76662137\">displaced thousands of people from the south of Lebanon<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The continuation of Israeli attacks after the announcement of the ceasefire deal between Iran and the US has also jeopardized the deal.<\/p>\n<p>DPA reported, citing a source from the Lebanese parliament, that the US has assured Israeli attacks will ease over the weekend to pave the way for a possible ceasefire by Wednesday.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Supporters of Hezbollah took to the streets of Beirut to protest planned direct talks with Israel to end the war.<\/p>\n<p>People carried Hezbollah and Iranian flags and pictures of deceased leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike\u00a0in September 2024.<\/p>\n<p>Lebanon and Israel are planning to hold direct talks in the US next week, for the first time in decades.<\/p>\n<p>Israel&#8217;s attacks on Lebanon have focused on Hezbollah positions. The most recent conflict began when Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in retaliation for the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.<\/p>\n<p>Israel has subsequently launched a ground operation and <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/displaced-in-lebanon-lives-turned-upside-down\/a-76662137\">displaced thousands of people from the south of Lebanon<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The continuation of Israeli attacks after the announcement of the ceasefire deal between Iran and the US has also jeopardized the deal.<\/p>\n<p>DPA reported, citing a source from the Lebanese parliament, that the US has assured Israeli attacks will ease over the weekend to pave the way for a possible ceasefire by Wednesday.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>President Donald Trump has claimed that US warships crossed through the contested <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/strait-of-hormuz\/t-76193780\">Strait of Hormuz<\/a> on Saturday, while Iran has denied the claim and warned that any US vessel attempting to traverse the waterway will be attacked.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Trump took to social media to announce that the US had started &#8220;the process of clearing out the Strait of Hormuz,&#8221; as &#8220;a favor&#8221; to countries such as China, Japan and France, that &#8220;don&#8217;t have the courage or will to do this work themselves.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Trump has been angered that allies have not leapt at the chance to join the US-Israeli war in Iran and pry open the Strait of Hormuz \u2014 a <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/iran-us-war-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-oil\/a-76503935\">key global shipping chokepoint that Iran has maintained an iron grip on since the US and Israel launched their attacks<\/a> on the Islamic Republic on February 28.<\/p>\n<p>Trump&#8217;s claim also comes as US and Iranian negotiators meet in Islamabad, Pakistan, in hopes of hammering out a ceasefire.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Iranian media outlets have quoted navy officials who said US sailors had been warned that they will be attacked if they continue on their current course. \u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Iranian delegation in Islamabad lodged a formal complaint over the provocation and demanded the vessel turn back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>President Donald Trump has claimed that US warships crossed through the contested <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/strait-of-hormuz\/t-76193780\">Strait of Hormuz<\/a> on Saturday, while Iran has denied the claim and warned that any US vessel attempting to traverse the waterway will be attacked.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Trump took to social media to announce that the US had started &#8220;the process of clearing out the Strait of Hormuz,&#8221; as &#8220;a favor&#8221; to countries such as China, Japan and France, that &#8220;don&#8217;t have the courage or will to do this work themselves.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Trump has been angered that allies have not leapt at the chance to join the US-Israeli war in Iran and pry open the Strait of Hormuz \u2014 a <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/iran-us-war-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-oil\/a-76503935\">key global shipping chokepoint that Iran has maintained an iron grip on since the US and Israel launched their attacks<\/a> on the Islamic Republic on February 28.<\/p>\n<p>Trump&#8217;s claim also comes as US and Iranian negotiators meet in Islamabad, Pakistan, in hopes of hammering out a ceasefire.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Iranian media outlets have quoted navy officials who said US sailors had been warned that they will be attacked if they continue on their current course. \u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Iranian delegation in Islamabad lodged a formal complaint over the provocation and demanded the vessel turn back.<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>The heads of several United Nations agencies on Saturday published an open letter calling for an immediate end to all military action that violates international law in the Middle East.<\/p>\n<p>The statement, penned by UN humanitarian boss Tom Fletcher and other agency leaders, decried &#8220;sustained violations of the rules of war and international humanitarian law.&#8221;\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Blasting the current situation brought on by the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-israel-war-with-iran\/t-76168615\">US-Israeli war against Iran<\/a>, which was launched on February 28, and with the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/israel-hamas-ceasefire\/t-57547294\">nightmare of Gaza still unresolved<\/a>, UN agency heads said: &#8220;In just the last month across the Middle East, thousands of civilians have been killed and injured. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced, many multiple times.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The numbers continue to rise and essential services are increasingly difficult to access,&#8221; read the statement, with agency leaders expressing concern over the conflict&#8217;s impact on &#8220;women and children and others with specific needs&#8221; as well as on prices for food and fuel around the globe.<\/p>\n<p>The international body also pointed out that aid workers are paying an increasingly high price to help those trapped in war zones.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Fourteen aid workers have been killed or injured in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, eight in Iran and five in Lebanon&#8221; since the beginning of this year, said the statement, which called this &#8220;an alarming toll.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Finally, the statement very strongly condemned &#8220;all attacks on civilians, including humanitarian and aid workers, as well as civilian objects.&#8221;\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>While urging governments and armed non-state actors to respect the legal obligation to protect all civilians, the statement concluded by saying, &#8220;all violations must be met with accountability.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>The heads of several United Nations agencies on Saturday published an open letter calling for an immediate end to all military action that violates international law in the Middle East.<\/p>\n<p>The statement, penned by UN humanitarian boss Tom Fletcher and other agency leaders, decried &#8220;sustained violations of the rules of war and international humanitarian law.&#8221;\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Blasting the current situation brought on by the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-israel-war-with-iran\/t-76168615\">US-Israeli war against Iran<\/a>, which was launched on February 28, and with the <a class=\"internal-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/israel-hamas-ceasefire\/t-57547294\">nightmare of Gaza still unresolved<\/a>, UN agency heads said: &#8220;In just the last month across the Middle East, thousands of civilians have been killed and injured. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced, many multiple times.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The numbers continue to rise and essential services are increasingly difficult to access,&#8221; read the statement, with agency leaders expressing concern over the conflict&#8217;s impact on &#8220;women and children and others with specific needs&#8221; as well as on prices for food and fuel around the globe.<\/p>\n<p>The international body also pointed out that aid workers are paying an increasingly high price to help those trapped in war zones.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Fourteen aid workers have been killed or injured in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, eight in Iran and five in Lebanon&#8221; since the beginning of this year, said the statement, which called this &#8220;an alarming toll.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Finally, the statement very strongly condemned &#8220;all attacks on civilians, including humanitarian and aid workers, as well as civilian objects.&#8221;\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>While urging governments and armed non-state actors to respect the legal obligation to protect all civilians, the statement concluded by saying, &#8220;all violations must be met with accountability.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div data-tracking-skip=\"true\" data-tracking-name=\"rich-text\" class=\"post-rich-text c17j8gzx rc0m0op r1ebneao s198y7xq rich-text l1evdo4u blt0baw s16w0xvi rcjjkz7 w128axg5 b1fzgn0z\">\n<p>Senior US\u00a0and Iranian officials convened in Islamabad on Saturday for high-stakes talks aimed at ending their conflict in the Middle East, which has claimed thousands of lives, disrupted energy markets, and seriously strained the global economy following six weeks of fighting.<\/p>\n<p>DW has learned that the discussions are currently unfolding in two separate tracks \u2014one between the Pakistani hosts and the United States, and another between Pakistan and Iran. The delegations may transition to a trilateral format if enough progress is made on their\u00a0stated demands and conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Officials in Islamabad say they are\u00a0ready to facilitate both parties in any capacity required, although the ultimate decision on the structure and format of the talks will rest with Tehran and Washington.<\/p>\n<p>The talks are weighed down by the continued fighting in Lebanon,\u00a0even as positive signals from Islamabad suggest efforts are underway to address Tehran\u2019s concerns on the issue.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Senior US\u00a0and Iranian officials convened in Islamabad on Saturday for high-stakes talks aimed at ending their conflict in the Middle East, which has claimed thousands of lives, disrupted energy markets, and seriously strained the global economy following six weeks of fighting.<\/p>\n<p>DW has learned that the discussions are currently unfolding in two separate tracks \u2014one between the Pakistani hosts and the United States, and another between Pakistan and Iran. The delegations may transition to a trilateral format if enough progress is made on their\u00a0stated demands and conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Officials in Islamabad say they are\u00a0ready to facilitate both parties in any capacity required, although the ultimate decision on the structure and format of the talks will rest with Tehran and Washington.<\/p>\n<p>The talks are weighed down by the continued fighting in Lebanon,\u00a0even as positive signals from Islamabad suggest efforts are underway to address Tehran\u2019s concerns on the issue.<\/p>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.dw.com\/en\/us-says-warships-passed-hormuz-amid-ongoing-talks-with-iran\/live-76745065&#8243;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/static.dw.com\/image\/76750044_6.jpg&#8221;] https:\/\/p.dw.com\/p\/5C0td US VP JD Vance is representing the US in talks with Iran in IslamabadImage: Jacquelyn Martin\/AP Photo\/picture alliance Skip next section What you need to know What you need to know Two US warships have reportedly passed through the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since the war began Iran [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,74],"class_list":["post-1878333","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-dw-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1878333","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1878333"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1878333\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1878333"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1878333"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1878333"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}