The ongoing conflict in West Asia has now come to a halt through a temporary ceasefire. However, a palpable lack of trust between the two nations remains clearly evident. Following the announcement of the ceasefire, the IRGC issued a warning on Tuesday, stating that they place no faith in America's promises. Although a two-week truce agreement has been reached, their hands remain firmly on the trigger.
US President Donald Trump has made a major announcement following the agreement on a ceasefire with Iran. He stated that the United States and Iran will work together. He also claimed that a "regime change" has taken place in Iran. Furthermore, Trump spoke of removing uranium from Iran. Trump also declared that any country selling weapons to Iran would face an immediate 50 percent tariff imposed by the United States. He added that no exemptions or concessions would be granted in this regard.
A major explosion has occurred at an oil refinery located on Lavan Island in Iran. This marks the first reported explosion in Iran following the recent ceasefire. According to reports, the cause of the blast remains unknown.
Lavan Island is a strategically significant island situated in the Persian Gulf. Covering an area of 78 square kilometers, Lavan serves as one of Iran's primary crude oil export terminals. Lavan Island is located in Hormozgan Province—a region where vast quantities of oil are exported and refined—and is also situated directly atop the "Lavan Gas Field." Lavan Island lies in the eastern Persian Gulf, positioned approximately 450 to 500 kilometers west of the Strait of Hormuz.
Amid the US-Iran ceasefire, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will visit Mauritius on April 9-10, where he will participate in the 9th Indian Ocean Conference and review bilateral relations. During this, he will also give the keynote address at the conference and meet representatives of other countries. The visit reflects India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, vision and commitment towards MAHASAGAR and the Global South.
In the second leg of the tour, Jaishankar will visit the United Arab Emirates on April 11-12, where he will meet the top leadership to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.
According to Abu Dhabi Media Office, activities at the Habshan Gas Complex have been temporarily halted following a fire. A fire broke out at the facility on Wednesday morning. A statement issued on X said that the fire was caused by the debris that fell after the missile was intercepted by Abu Dhabi's air defense system.
India has welcomed the recent ceasefire between America and Iran and expressed hope that it will open the way for lasting peace in West Asia. In an official statement issued on 8 April 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, "We welcome this ceasefire and hope that it will prove to be a step towards lasting peace in the region. As we have said earlier, de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy are the only ways to end this conflict."
Statement on the recent development in West Asia ⬇️
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 8, 2026
🔗 https://t.co/WwFCi4kXHg pic.twitter.com/wmsF4YUb7j
The Lebanese army has appealed to civilians returning to southern villages and towns to stay away from areas where Israeli forces are present. The army said in a statement that despite the regional situation and reports of a ceasefire, going into these areas could be risky, as Israeli attacks could continue. Israel also clarified that the US-Iran ceasefire does not apply to Lebanon and issued a new evacuation alert for the southern city, warning of possible attacks.
Israel resumed airstrikes on southern Lebanon on Wednesday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that the ceasefire related to the Iran war does not apply to Lebanon. The Israeli military also issued a warning to evacuate a building near the southern city of Tyre. At the same time, the Lebanese armed organization Hezbollah, which entered the conflict by attacking Israel on March 2, has not claimed any new action since 1 am.
After a gap of nearly seven years, India is going to receive its first oil consignment from Iran this week. This cargo purchased by the Indian Oil Corporation is moving towards the east coast of India through a VLCC ship named 'Jaya'.
This supply has become possible after the US gave temporary relaxation on Iranian crude oil and refined products, which is aimed at reducing the global supply crisis. According to tracking data, another ship ‘Jordan’ is also heading towards India.
India, the world's third-largest oil importer and consumer, last imported oil from Iran in May 2019, when purchases had to be halted due to US pressure. India's energy needs have increased further amid the recent Strait of Hormuz tensions and supply disruptions.
Last week, India's oil ministry also confirmed that domestic refineries have purchased Iranian oil in an effort to stabilize supplies amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
After the ceasefire with Iran, Kiev has demanded America increase pressure on Russia so that the ongoing war in Ukraine can be ended. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that America's “decisive action” proves effective and now Moscow should be forced to a ceasefire with the same determination.
Ukraine has welcomed the ceasefire between the US and Iran and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that America's “decisive action” proves effective and now Washington should similarly put pressure on Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
We welcome the agreement between President Trump and the Iranian regime to unblock the Hormuz strait and cease fire, as well as Pakistan’s mediation efforts. American decisiveness works. We believe it is time for sufficient decisiveness to force Moscow to cease fire and end its…
— Andrii Sybiha 🇺🇦 (@andrii_sybiha) April 8, 2026
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has welcomed the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran. He said that in the coming days, the biggest goal should be to find a permanent solution to the war through diplomatic means. Besides, he also appreciated Pakistan's efforts to mediate this agreement.
According to reports from Kuwait City, tensions are still high in the Gulf region and incidents of attacks are being reported in different countries. Bahrain said that the civil defense team extinguished a fire in a facility after the attacks related to Iran. There were several attacks overnight in Qatar, where according to the Defense Ministry, four people were injured by debris from the interception.
Attacks were also reported in Kuwait and the UAE, while Saudi Arabia claimed to have intercepted five ballistic missiles. Recently, a fire incident occurred in Abu Dhabi's Habshan Gas Field, although its cause has not been confirmed. Earlier, alarm sirens were also sounded in UAE.
Israel's opposition leader Yair Lapid has described Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "political failure" in response to the ceasefire. “There has never been a greater political crisis in our history,” Lapid wrote on X. He said that the army fulfilled all its responsibilities and the people showed strength, but Netanyahu failed at both the political and strategic levels and could not achieve even one of his set goals. According to Lapid, “It will take Israel many years to repair the damage caused by arrogance, negligence and lack of strategic planning.”
Oman's Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued on social media platform X that it welcomes the ceasefire announcement and appreciates the efforts of all parties, including Pakistan, towards ending the war. The ministry stressed that it is now necessary to intensify efforts to find solutions to the root causes of the crisis so that war and conflict in the region can be permanently ended.
⚠️ Advisory as on 08 April 2026. pic.twitter.com/pusFQIAKKI
— India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) April 8, 2026
Indonesian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Yvonne Mewengkang appealed to all parties to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity and diplomacy. At the same time, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara described the two-week ceasefire as a "positive step" and expressed hope for a final agreement.
Bahrain's Interior Ministry reported that civil defense teams have brought the fire, which broke out after the "Iranian attack," under control. According to the ministry, no injuries were reported in the incident. The fire is reported to have affected a "facility," though no further details were shared. Alarm sirens were also sounded in the country about an hour earlier.
Donald Trump describes the ceasefire with Iran as a “complete and decisive victory” for America and termed it a 100% success. He said that under the agreement, Iran's uranium reserves would be controlled and the talks were possible due to China's role.
Trump said that this is a big day for the world and now the situation is expected to get better. He indicated that America will continue to play an active role in the entire region so that everything moves forward in the right way.
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has instructed all military units to stop firing while observing the ceasefire. This statement was issued through government broadcasting medium. He said this is not the end of the war, but all forces will have to follow orders and stop firing.
Yassamin Ansari expressed relief over the ceasefire but continued to describe Donald Trump as dangerous and unfit for office. She stated that this pause brings relief to ordinary Iranian citizens, while many Democratic leaders are simultaneously calling for Trump's removal.
I am momentarily relieved for the 90 million Iranians who just spent the worst 24 hours of their lives thinking they were about to face nothing short of a nuclear catastrophe—not the regime, but innocent civilians who have nothing to do with their government, and long for…
— Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (@RepYassAnsari) April 8, 2026
Praising Iran, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi stated that the world is now watching everything and realizing that the veil of the West's so-called morality is lifting. She asserted that this is the time to recognize the truth and stand on the side of justice. She further added that hatred, anger, violence, and injustice have never been able to achieve lasting victory.
Iranian men and women formed human chains around their country’s resources while western powers spoke in a despicable language, heralding the “end of a civilization”.
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) April 8, 2026
The world is watching and understanding as the veil of morality falls from across the face of the west.…
The Bahrain Ministry of Interior announced that alarm sirens have been activated and appealed to the public to immediately proceed to the nearest safe location and remain calm.
Donald Trump states that the United States would assist in ensuring the smooth passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz and would remain present in the region to maintain stability. He indicated that economic opportunities could expand following a ceasefire, and that Iran could initiate the reconstruction process by levying fees on ships.
There is an atmosphere of celebration in Baghdad after the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, as the country was in the grip of conflict for a long time. However, many people, including children, died in the attacks just before the agreement, which also revealed the seriousness of the war.
Celebrations have erupted in Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US.
— Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) April 8, 2026
Iraq had been pulled into the war with pro-Iran armed groups and US forces carrying out attacks on each other. pic.twitter.com/nehmi8JTyC
According to Trita Parsi, this conflict was taking a heavy toll on the United States; consequently, President Donald Trump chose to seek a way out, and the coming two weeks will be crucial.
He stated that this situation could evolve into a diplomatic opportunity; however, even if negotiations were to fail, the likelihood of a large-scale war breaking out again appears slim, owing to Iran's capacity to exert pressure.
Following the ceasefire in Iran, an atmosphere of relief and joy prevails among the people; celebrations are visible on the streets, and people are gradually returning to the cities. After enduring massive devastation, this two-week period of peace is being viewed as a major relief, while the leadership is portraying it as the war having ended on its own terms.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomes the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran and appealed to all parties to adhere to international law.
He stated that an end to violence is essential for the protection of civilians and for lasting peace, while his Special Envoy, Jean Arnault, continues to advance peace efforts in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has officially clarified that Lebanon is not included in the recently announced ceasefire agreement. This statement has sparked a new debate regarding regional tension and diplomatic situation.
News of Israeli attack has come to light in South Lebanon. According to Lebanon's local channel Al Jadeed TV, the Israeli army has shelled the town of Barachit in southern Lebanon. This attack has further increased the already existing tension in the area.
This action has come at a time when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has clearly stated that the regional ceasefire agreement between the US, Israel and their allies does not apply to Lebanon. After his statement, it is indicated that military activities may continue on the Lebanon border.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that this presents a valuable opportunity for dialogue aimed at resolving the conflict.
They noted that disruptions and attacks in the Strait of Hormuz have had a severe impact on global energy supplies and oil prices. Expressing gratitude to mediating nations such as Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, Australia affirmed its hope that the ceasefire will be sustained and that a resolution will be reached swiftly.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that American journalist Shelley Kittleson has been released, days after being abducted in Iraq.
Rubio stated that he is pleased with the news of her release. This announcement came after the Iraqi armed group Kataib Hezbollah had set a condition that Kittleson must leave Iraq immediately in order to be released.
Hezbollah has not made any direct statement on the ceasefire, but it has shared an old statement by Iran's slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Along with this statement, a picture of torn flags of America and Israel was also posted. “We will force the enemy to kneel,” the message said.
According to reports, Israel has accepted the US-Iran ceasefire agreement, though an official statement from the government is still awaited. It is believed that Israel—and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in particular—is not entirely satisfied with this agreement.
Netanyahu has previously been accused of derailing Oman-mediated talks and steering the US toward conflict, and he has generally not been in favor of a ceasefire. It is reported that even during a recent conversation with Trump, Netanyahu reiterated his opposition to a ceasefire.
The White House has hailed the ceasefire as a victory for America and called it a major step towards “long-term peace." According to Press Secretary Carolyn Leavitt, Trump and the US military achieved their military objectives in 38 days, opening the way for a diplomatic solution through tough negotiations. He also said that the Strait of Hormuz has been reopened.
At the same time, Iran's National Security Council also said that it accepted the ceasefire because most of the goals of the war have been achieved and now this "victory" will be taken forward through political negotiations.
According to the report, under the two-week ceasefire agreement brokered by Pakistan, Iran and Oman may be allowed to collect fees from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran will use this amount for reconstruction, while it is not yet clear what Oman will use this money for. This information was given on condition of anonymity by a regional official who was directly involved in the negotiation process. It is noteworthy that both Iran and Oman have territorial rights over the Strait of Hormuz.
The U.S. Department of Defense has announced that it will hold a press conference following Trump's ceasefire declaration.
According to the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Kane will address the media regarding "Operation Epic Fury" on Wednesday morning at 8:00 a.m. local time.
After the announcement of a ceasefire between America and Iran, oil prices have fallen, and there has been a rise in the markets.
According to experts, it is not yet decided how durable this ceasefire will be, hence the markets are in a 'wait and watch' situation. According to Reuters, US crude oil prices fell about 16% to $94.59 per barrel, while Brent crude also fell about 15% to $92.35 per barrel.
According to officials, at least seven people—including two children—lost their lives in attacks carried out across the country prior to the announcement of a U.S.-Iran ceasefire.
Three people were killed in an airstrike on a home in the town of Khor al-Zubair in Basra, while in Baghdad, a projectile strike sparked a fire that claimed the lives of two people, including an 8-year-old child.
Supporters of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are expected to take to the streets in Iran on Wednesday, marking the completion of 40 days since his death.
Khamenei was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike in Tehran on February 28. In Iran, the 40th day following a person's death holds special religious significance. Following his passing, his son, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, was appointed as the new Supreme Leader.
This event is taking place at a time when a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran has also been announced.
🔰Blood reawakens
— Embassy of I.R. Iran in Sri Lanka (@IRANinSriLanka) April 8, 2026
On the occasion of the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei (may God sanctify his noble soul). pic.twitter.com/BtOsyjK8kO
Even amidst reports of a ceasefire, tension persists among regional nations, and they continue to bolster their air defense capabilities.
According to reports, air-raid sirens were sounded in Bahrain, while Saudi Arabia experienced multiple attacks, during which its air defense systems intercepted five missiles. In Kuwait as well, residents were advised to remain indoors and stay vigilant throughout the night.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described it as a significant opportunity for dialogue, diplomacy, and constructive engagement. It further stated that, building upon this ceasefire, it is essential to halt military operations and respect the freedom of international navigation.
Egypt also affirmed that it would continue its efforts—in collaboration with Pakistan and Turkey—to enhance security and stability in the region and emphasized that the security concerns of the Gulf nations must be taken into account during the US-Iran talks.
There are indications that Israeli attacks in Lebanon may be coming to an end, though the exact timeline remains unclear. This information has emerged in the context of an announcement made by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. One strike occurred in the city of Tyre, where an area near a hospital was targeted, while the second strike was carried out in the town of Mashghara in the Bekaa Valley.
According to local authorities, teams are currently working on-site to extinguish the blaze at the gas plant located in Habshan. Habshan is the United Arab Emirates' largest gas processing facility. The plant had sustained significant damage a few days ago as a result of a fire that broke out during an air defense interception.
Reports have emerged of people celebrating in Tehran following the announcement of a ceasefire. Verified videos show people in the Iranian capital waving Iranian flags and celebrating the ceasefire. This is the very city that had been facing intense attacks from the United States and Israel since February 28.
According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, eight people lost their lives and 22 others were injured in this attack on the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon. This information was reported citing Al Jazeera Arabic.
It remains unclear at this time exactly when the attack took place.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by the leadership of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The reactions received thus far have been limited to condemning the recent attacks. However, U.S. President Donald Trump's statement regarding the ceasefire claims that he is speaking on behalf of the Gulf nations as well. He stated that it is an honor that progress is being made toward resolving this long-standing crisis.
Trump further noted that the GCC countries have consistently emphasized a diplomatic solution throughout this process and wish to be involved in all efforts related to the ceasefire. According to his statement, during the 15-day ceasefire, Iran has agreed to fully, immediately, and safely reopen the Strait of Hormuz—a matter of critical importance to the Gulf nations.
Despite reports of a ceasefire, the Israeli military states that it has detected missiles fired from Iran. Israel claims that Iran has launched additional missiles toward the country, even as there were reports of Israel agreeing to a ceasefire.
The military reported that its defense systems are active to counter the threat and that the missiles are being intercepted.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, issuing a statement on behalf of the country's Supreme National Security Council, has stated that if attacks against Iran cease, its powerful armed forces will also immediately halt their defensive operations.
Araghchi further explained that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be possible for a period of two weeks, provided that it is conducted in coordination with Iran's armed forces and with due regard for technical limitations.
Statement on behalf of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran: pic.twitter.com/cEtBNCLnWT
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 7, 2026
The American channel CNN reported this information, citing an unnamed White House official—a report subsequently broadcast by Israel's public broadcaster, Kan.
A White House source told Israel's Channel 12 that the ceasefire would take effect once Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz. Currently, no clear directives regarding a halt to hostilities have been issued by the defense establishment.
The official White House X account has shared Donald Trump's Truth Social post regarding Iran, presenting it as an official statement.
According to Iran's National Security Council, the talks scheduled to take place with the United States in Islamabad on April 11 will be based on a 10-point plan. This plan encompasses the following key points:
This plan has been formulated with Iran's economic, military, and diplomatic priorities firmly in mind.
Donald Trump has said that he has agreed to stop the bombings and attacks on Iran for two weeks. According to him, this decision was taken following the request of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, who appealed to the US to avoid possible attacks on Iran.
Donald Trump shares Araghchi's statement on his Truth Social account, in which a ceasefire agreement with the United States was confirmed. As previously reported, Araghchi expressed "gratitude and appreciation" on behalf of Tehran for the "continuous efforts" of Pakistan and its leadership to end the conflict in the region.
In his statement, Iran's foreign minister said, "If attacks against Iran cease, our powerful armed forces will halt their defensive operations." He also added that, in coordination with the Iranian military, transit through the Strait of Hormuz would remain possible for the next two weeks.
Copyright © 2026 Top Indian News
